On the tracing board of the third degree (Master Mason). What does the cipher represent?

The cipher found on Master Masons' tracing boards represents a geometric alphabet traditionally attributed to Hiram Abif for secret communications with King Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre 1. According to an explanation in the Oliver Ritual, this system allowed a Master Mason to construct the entire alphabet using two squares and a mallet, enabling brethren to convey ideas silently 1.

On some lodge tracing boards, these characters are written to be read backwards, a design reversal that developed around the year 1825 1. While ciphers eventually fell out of practical use for secrecy due to advances in cryptanalysis, the characters preserved on the board remain as a symbol of this traditional geometric system of communication 1.