This medal with the Maltese cross (or similar four-armed cross) base, topped by a classical helmet (Spartan/Greek style with plumes), crossed swords (or axes) flanking it, a prominent enamel maple leaf in the center on a blue field, ornate gold scrollwork/swirls around it, and now crucially the initials “M W A” (or “MWA”) right in the center—is from the Modern Woodmen of America (MWA).
This is a major American fraternal benefit society (founded in 1883 in Illinois, still active today as a life insurance and community organization). The “MWA” directly stands for Modern Woodmen of America, and it’s a common marking on their membership badges, officer jewels, service awards, and presentation pieces.
• Maple leaf: A core symbol for MWA (representing growth, strength, and Canadian/American heritage—though primarily US-based, maple leaf imagery was popular in their early regalia).
• “M W A” initials: Explicitly their abbreviation, appearing in the center of many vintage enamel pieces (lapel pins, watch fobs, breast jewels, trustee/officer badges).
• Helmet + crossed swords/axes: Symbolic of vigilance, protection, and defense of members/family (the “woodmen” theme ties to axes as tools of labor/industry; helmets evoke guardianship). Crossed axes are especially common in Woodmen symbolism.
• Maltese cross shape with enamel: Typical for higher-degree or lodge officer jewels from the late 19th/early 20th century—often gold-plated or solid gold, suspended from ribbons for wear during
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