Mast Stepping

[CeesH]

When you stepping your mast do you put a coin under it???

CeesH

[Jim Cate]

Just did this, and the answer is yes: one Australian, one Canadian, one Yank and one New Caledonian... cover all bets, 'cause ya never know where you will need neptune's grace!

Jim

[Nicholson58]

It can't hurt. I like the sea/boat themed coins. Try these. I cast a group in clear casting epoxy. They hang near the mast step. If you read up on the tradition and its source it is not required to be under the mast.

[GaryMayo]

Mizzen, 2 coins?

[Jim Cate]

Originally Posted by Nicholson58

They hang near the mast step. If you read up on the tradition and its source it is not required to be under the mast.

Heresy!!!

Of course it should be under the foot of the mast, and it should be gold and pretty big, too. That way should you be dismasted, the down payment for the new spar is at hand. If it is just hanging there in plain view the Admiral or other miscreant will appropriate it to buy shoes or such things... possibly rum.

Flaunting well established rules will lead to a bad end!

Cheers,

Jim

[Nicholson58]

Mast Stepping - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mast-Step Coins among the Romans - Carlson - 2007 - International Journal of Nautical Archaeology - Wiley Online Library
Academia.edu | Mast-step coins among the Romans | Deborah Carlson

Some sources say gold is bad luck; Silver preferred. I can't find the article I once read that stated that Charon doesn't recognize denomination so the lowest value coin is OK. The tradition has morphed to include coins of sentimental value, year of mint = year of launch, and other reasons. In modern US and other nation's vessels the practice persists. Coins and/or other articles are placed in a box welded to the base of the radar mast. In many casses, the coins are commemorated with a plaque and the coins may be placed in a way so as to be displayed.

[Vasco]

A nice silver dime with "Bluenose" on it, set in epoxy under the mast.

[Danosimp3]

Next week I'll be stepping the mast for the first time after her 14 month refit. I've never sailed her. I'll be fixing a coin under the mast on launch day. I think this is a great tradition, and am glad I just learned of it. thanks!