The Cross and Crown
The emblem of the Masonic Knights Templar: a cross passing through a crown, often with the motto In Hoc Signo Vinces, "in this sign you will conquer".
Also called: Knights Templar emblem · In Hoc Signo Vinces · Templar cross
What it means
The Commandery of Knights Templar is the last body of the American York Rite, and the cross and crown is its emblem. The motto comes from the vision attributed to the Emperor Constantine. The crown is usually read as the reward that follows the cross: no cross, no crown.
In the United States the Commandery is a Christian order, and membership generally requires being a Royal Arch Mason (some jurisdictions also require the Cryptic degrees) and professing the Christian faith. The Grand Encampment and each state Grand Commandery set the exact requirements.
Masonic Templary takes its imagery from the medieval Knights Templar. It does not claim direct descent from them, and neither should anyone selling its jewelry.
In context: The York Rite Explained: Chapter, Council, Commandery
Frequently asked questions
What does the Cross and Crown mean in Freemasonry?
The emblem of the Masonic Knights Templar: a cross passing through a crown, often with the motto In Hoc Signo Vinces, "in this sign you will conquer".
Who can wear the Cross and Crown?
The cross and crown is worn by Sir Knights, members of a Commandery. It is not a general Christian or Masonic symbol to give a brother who has not been knighted.
Sources
Drawn from the published monitors and from what the bodies concerned publish about themselves. Nothing here comes from, or goes beyond, any obligated material.
- Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the U.S.A.
- Albert G. Mackey, An Encyclopædia of Freemasonry (1873)