Fire Mark, Philadelphia Contributionship Issue of 1774, RARE

The Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire is the oldest property insurance company in the United States. It was organized by Benjamin Franklin in 1752; incorporated in 1768.

Four clasped hands, thumb up, representing the community helping each other.

An old label states that this plaque was removed from 322 Delancey Street, Philadelphia.

Date: 1774

Measurement: 15.5" by 10.5" by 2"

Material: Lead casting, pine backboard

Condition: Original pine backboard, condition consistent with age and use, wood and nail losses as depicted; typical trivial chips, and repaired shrinkage cracks.

Reference: Bulau, "Footprints of Assurance", pages 26 and 27, number 8; see, "American Fire marks, The Insurance Company of North America Collection", 1933, p. 20.

SOLD