Material: Gilt brass (gold-tone finish)
Diameter: 10 mm (emblem)
Description: Small circular base with a raised fleur-de-lis emblem in polished gilt finish. The stylized lily features three petals bound at the base, rendered in a classic heraldic style.
Reverse: Threaded screw-post fitting designed to pass through a tie. A short chain connects the tack to a straight tie bar, preventing loss and helping stabilize the tie when worn.
Circa: 1950–1970
Notes:
The fleur-de-lis is a long-standing heraldic emblem associated with French monarchy and culture, widely used as a symbol of French-Canadian identity and appearing prominently on the flag of the Canadian province of Quebec. In the mid-twentieth century the symbol was also adopted in Scouting as part of the emblem of the Boy Scouts, representing guidance and direction, much like the north point of a compass. Small dress accessories such as tie tacks and lapel pins bearing the fleur-de-lis were commonly sold by jewellers and outfitters. The chain-and-bar attachment was a popular safety feature on tie tacks during the mid-20th century, ensuring the tack remained attached to the tie even if the screw fitting loosened.