Engraving plate

Friendly societies emerged in the 19th century to provide mutual insurance for a predominantly artisan and middle class clientele. These organisations gave vital financial support to their members in the period before the advent of significant social welfare provision by the state. They were also important hubs for socialising and networking.

The Royal Standard Benefit Society was founded in 1828 by James Hunter (1799-1865) at the Black Prince public house in Chandos Street, Covent Garden. Membership was by monthly subscription which entitled members to a weekly allowance of 18s. in the event of sickness, £20 for death and £2 for a wife's lying-in period. The Society later moved to premises at 42 Great Ormond Street in 1860 and then in 1957 to 75 Wandsworth Street. The Society changed its name from the Royal Standard Benefit Society to the Royal Standard Friendly Society in 1996.

This engraving plate was used to print the Society's membership certificates which were first introduced in 1855.