Cast Iron Fire Mark Interlocking Hands No. 906, Fire Insurance Plaque, Philadelphia Contributionship, Advertising Plaque

This a Collectible Fire Insurance Cast Iron Plaque imprinted with 4 Linked interlocking arms and No. 906 painted gold. This insurance plaque that would have been put on a home or fire station to show their insurance carrier (Philadelphia Contributionship).

HISTORY
The Philadelphia Contributionship is best known for being America's Oldest Insurance Company, ounded in March 1752 by the famous Benjamin Franklin. Their fire mark was modeled after the one issued by the Amicable Contributionship of London. “Contribution” was defined as “that which is given by several hands for some common purpose” symbolized by the company’s clasped hands logo. Their mark had four hands crossed and clasped in a form commonly known as “Jacob’s Chair”. As was the case with the Amicable Contributionship, the Philadelphia Contributionship also became known in America as the Hand in Hand.

The clasped hands were of lead construction mounted on a wood shield. The first 100 were cast by John Snow, who later recast the Liberty Bell.

Dimensions: approx. 11" L x 7.5"W x 1" D

CONDITION: Very Good, minimal paint loss, limited evidence of rust. Please review pictures as they are a very important part of the description of condition.

Covid19 Exposure Reduction Measures: All inventory items are inspected, disinfected, packaged and then stored in a NO traffic clean storage area.

Please check for other unique vintage items in my Esty and Pattern shops!

Esty Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/IncVintage

Pattern Store: https://www.incvintage.com/shop