Recognising the importance of such a symbol for an esteemed institution like the Faculty, Sir Spencer took the opportunity to present a mace to the Faculty as a gift. This mace was to be used for ceremonial occasions as well as during the Faculty’s regular meetings, adding a significant touch of tradition and prestige to these events.

The staff of the mace itself is quite unique – a spirally twisted straight horn, crafted from the tusk of a narwhal. This unusual material gives the staff a distinctive and elegant appearance, further enhanced by a beautifully designed silver headpiece. 

The headpiece is decorated with the Royal Faculty’s Arms, which incorporate the symbols of St Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow. These symbols (a bird, a fish, a tree, and a bell) each has its own specific meaning – reflecting not only St Mungo’s legacy but also mirroring the crest of Glasgow itself. The design serves as a reminder of the Faculty’s long-standing history and its significant role in Glasgow’s development, marking it as one of the city’s oldest and most respected institutions.

Additionally, the narwhal tusk, with its spiral shape, is not just a striking aesthetic choice; it also carries symbolic weight. The narwhal, often referred to as the “unicorn of the sea”, creates an elegant connection to the unicorn, Scotland’s national animal. This subtle reference reinforces the Faculty’s deep ties to Scotland’s cultural and historical heritage, reminding all who view the mace of the institution’s enduring legacy and its integral place within the nation’s story.