Thanks a lot for the information Alex, as always, your knowledge is of great benefit to us all.
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My my...that is one beautiful blade. Love the patterns and the etching. Quite a work of art. Great score :)
I was going to bid on that, but I thought for sure an actual Mason would want it, and it belongs more in their hands than in mine.
I do collect some mason items, but I treat them with respect, and often find homes for them with other masons later on.
I just acquired this particular straightrazor. My handle has some chips out of edges and I cannot tell if the handle is really old wood or bakelite. The blade is in good condition with just a few tiny rust spots. The acid etching is beautiful. Thank you to Wintchase for the historical review of what the symbols stand for. As of today I have been unable to establish a value. Will post picutres of my new baby when I can figure out how to do so.
Stay Sharp
Pretty much spot on, except that Shriners aren't necessarily 33rd Degree mason. The 33rd Degree is an honorary degree given to Scottish Rite Masons. The Shrine is another "branch" of Masonic endeavor separate from the Scottish Rite. ALL Scottish Rite Masons and Shriners must be a Master Mason in a Blue Lodge which is the foundation of the organization.
Both the Scottish Rite and The Shriners sponsor hospitals for children. Children in need are treated at no charge. The parents do not need to be Masons. All that is required is that a child needs to be treated and if the hospitals have the capability to treat the child, they will.
The round looking thing with a handle is known as a setting maul. It is a tool used in operative masonry.
Setting Maul