Ireland

Silver gilt, marble, wood, velvet

10 1/8 x 7 1/2 x 5 1/2 in.

The casket is a rectangular box with hinged lid and tapered sides, mounted on Connemara  marble and wood base.  The lid has a Gaelic inscription on one side and an English inscription on the other.  The lid handle bears the coat of arms for the City of Cork: a ship between two watch towers and "Statio Bene Fide Carinis" meaning a "safe harbor for ships."  The front of the box bears the presidential seal flanked by incised shamrocks.  Each end of the box bears a harp, the coat of arms of Ireland.  The box interior contains a  key.  The custom of awarding the "Freedom of the City" whereby persons distinguished for public service become Honorary Burgesses of a City dates from the 14th century. 

Presented to President Kennedy by Lord Mayor of Cork, Ireland Sean Casey during the President's state visit to Ireland on June 28, 1963.