HAMPDEN-SYDNEY COLLEGE PHILANTHROPIC SOCIETY GOLD PIN, oval form with a non-gold pin fastener and hook clasp to back, front engraved "Philanthropic / Society 1807." around "Aude Sapere" under a group of stars, reverse engraved with "B.A.P." initials. Unmarked, of unknown gold fineness/metal content. 19th century. 7/8" x 5/8" OA.
Catalogue Note: The Philanthropic Society (also Philanthropic Literary Society) was originally formed in 1805 and then re-established in 1807 at Hampden-Sydney College in Prince Edward Co., Virginia, having the motto "Aude Sapere" or "Dare to Be Wise". It was a debating society similar to the already-established Union Literary Society, in which members could belong to both groups until 1819. Though, soon after, the two societies became rivals, and each one had a hall that was lavishly decorated in order to better the other. Each society would host inter-society debates that frequently followed the current politics of Virginia. Eventually in 1929, the two societies had to merge for mutual survival, forming the Union-Philanthropic Literary Society, which still exists today.

The important collection of H. Marshall Goodman Jr., Richmond, VA.

Excellent overall condition with minor wear and surface scratches, slight bending to pin.