Punch Coomaraswamy was a respected lawyer and diplomat. Starting his career as a successful advocate and teacher, Coomaraswamy went on to serve as the Speaker of Parliament from 1966-1970. He then served as High Commissioner to India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Australia and Fiji and as Ambassador to the US and Brazil. In 1984, he was appointed as judge to the Supreme Court of Singapore. This ceremonial key would have been presented to Justice Coomaraswamy during his tenure as Ambassador to the United States of America.
