Expert: Joe Hylas - 7/4/2006

Question
"I have a Masonic one cent piece. It is copper and has a cupped edge. It is the size of a normal penny. On the face it has the Masonic symbol at about 4:00 looking straight on at the symbol on the flanged edge it says “in god we trust” at about 2:00 on the edge is “1813” there are some other small symbols struck that have no meaning to me. The back of the coin has what appears to be a leather pouch with straps flowing, obviously for carrying important papers. From 10:00 to 3:30 on the coin it says ”United states of America” from 5:30 to 8:30 in larger print it says “ONE CENT”. And at 9:00, there is another symbol that resembles a pyramid with something smaller in front of it on the right side. So for I cannot find any info on the WEB about this coin and that seems very strange. Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated."

Answer
Hi TJ

I'm sorry but I have never seen an item like this, so giving you any infor is impossible.

You do not mention if the cent has the head of Lincoln or the date of the coin, other than saying "1813".

Many organizations over the years took regular American pennies and modified them for their own promotional purposes, possibly this is such an item.

Try checking eBay for similar items that may have already sold.  Good Luck

Regards
Joe Hylas