Rare Edward VIII sterling silver golf trophy from the famous Lucifer Golfing Society. These distinctive trophies feature a finial to the lid of Lucifer as a golfer with his golf bag laid by his feet. The handles feature figural silver "Lions Rampant" and internally the trophy is gilded. The trophy comes complete with its original ebonised wooden plinth by Walker & Hall.
The engraving on the bowl reads:
"LUCIFER GOLFING SOCIETY 1938"
The engraving on the silver plaque attached to the ebonised wooden plinth reads:
"LUCIFER GOLFING SOCIETY 1938. WON BY (Blank)"
Sterling Silver Cup & Cover: Weight: 383.6 gm. Height (to tip of finial): 200 mm. Height (to rim): 130 mm. Diameter of rim: 95 mm. Diameter of base: 70 mm. Hall Mark: Sheffield 1936. Maker's Mark: Walker & Hall.
Ebonised Wooden Plinth: Weight: 216.8 gm. Height: 40 mm. Diameter of base: 110 mm.
Combined Height of Trophy on Plinth: 240 mm.
The Lucifer Golfing Society: Was founded in 1921 as a small club of 60 members - like minded men who would enjoy each other's company playing golf and in fine dining. The word "Lucifer" is a play on the First World War slang for a match but the Society's emblem has always reflected its other meaning - the devil.
In 1927 the Society wrote to every leading golf club in the Empire inviting participation in a tournament to be held at Sunningdale Golf Club. The letter promised "a jolly day and an evening they are not likely to forget", the intention being twofold: to reciprocate hospitality received by Lucifers when holidaying in Empire countries and to foster goodwill and friendship within the Empire through golf and accompanying hospitality.
The event took place on 27th June 1928 with 97 competitors from 18 countries within the Empire taking part. The tournament was followed that evening with dinner at the Savoy Hotel in full evening dress. This gives an idea of the prestige of the club and "Lucifer" trophies are highly sought after.
In November 2021 the Society began the celebration of its Centenary with a magnificent dinner in the Long Room at Lords for Lucifers and their wives. The Lucifer Golfing Society remains a small society, with 100 playing members enjoying a full programme of domestic golf and dinners and in every respect continue to meet the aspirations of its founding fathers.
Summary: As can be seen from the photos & history (above) this is a rare & desirable golf trophy. No serious collector of golfing memorabilia would want to be without a "Lucifer" trophy in their collection. Good luck!