silver medal

[Ferreter]

Hi folks
Can anybody shed any light on this medal?  My cousin and I think the initials at the top say G.H. Could be for George Harvey our Grandfather.  Round the edge it reads "The Gift of the improv'd" at the bottom says No. 80.It is solid silver and measures 3.5 inches by 2.5 inches.  George Harvey lived from 1877 to 1940.  Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Ferreter 

[Michael J]

Could be R.A.O.B. (Buffaloes), doubtfully Masonic even though there is an 'All-seeing Eye' at the top. Could be Rose Croix or Rosicrucian as there is a Cross in the centre. The number 80 is most likely a Lodge or Chapter Number.

Michael.

[Ferreter]

Thanks for your reply Michael. Why do you say doubtfully masonic?  Do you think the letters at the top are GH? It is difficult to tell.  Also do you think that there are letters D something either side of the cross.  All in all it is a rather  weird object is it not?  What purpose would such an item serve?  My cousin who lives in Africa sent the photo to me.  Apparently it was found in his Mother's house when she died.  Our mutual Grandfather died before either of us was born.  Would it be worth me contacting any of the organisations you mention?  Seems a bit of a mystery   Thanks for your input 

[Michael J]

I don't think this medal would be issued by one of the fraternal organisations in the Uk, it looks too 'hand-made' whereas theirs are usually die-cast.

It's interesting you mentioned Africa, the engraving round the outside and the overall shape do seem 'African' to me.

You could try sending the photo with a request for identification to the Freemason's museum:

http://www.ugle.org.uk/library-and-museum/

Michael.