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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Phi Beta Kappa Key Worn by Franklin Roosevelt
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Phi Beta Kappa Key Worn by Franklin Roosevelt

Object numberMO 1941.39.18
Name Key, Commemorative
Maker
Date1929
MediumMetal (gold)
Dimensionsoverall H 2 in x W 7/8 in x D 1/4 in (5.1 cm x 2.2 cm x 0.6 cm )
DescriptionA gold Phi Beta Kappa fraternity key with a loop at the top for hanging.

OBVERSE: Engraved at the center of the key are the Greek letters: ΦBK. In the upper left corner are three stars symbolizing friendship, morality, and learning. In the lower right corner is the image of a pointing hand symbolizing aspiration.

REVERSE: An engraved inscription reads: FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT / ALPHA OF MASS. 1929 / SP [Societas Philosophiae] / December 5, 1776.

Label TextFranklin Roosevelt was proud of his Phi Beta Kappa key which he received in June 1929 when he went to Harvard University for Commencement Week. The visit marked the 25th anniversary of his own graduation. FDR often wore the key suspended from his lapel or watch chain.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteDonated as a bequest of Franklin D. Roosevelt to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in 1947.
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPersonal Possessions of the Roosevelt Family (National Archives Identifier 782689)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - PossiblyCopyrightCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
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