A Small Pin with a Big History

A circular pin with the inscription "The Duet Club - Founded 1889, a treble clef, and the notes D and C

Ever wondered what’s behind the Duet Club logo? 

Here’s the story behind its design and what it represents.

The Duet Club President’s pin is more than jewelry – it’s a tradition passed from one President to the next.

Designed by Hamilton artist Julian Ruggles Seavey, the crest features a treble clef, the notes D and C, and “Founded 1889.” In 1929, on The Duet Club’s 40th anniversary, founder Ellen Ambrose received a gold pin created in this design, with diamond-set notes donated by the acting President.

Here’s the part that makes it even more special: the original die used to create the pin was later lost in a fire at the George H. Lees jewelry firm, making the President’s pin effectively irreplaceable.

Only a small number of additional pins were ever made, and some may still be tucked away in family jewelry boxes, their history forgotten. 

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