Beggars' badges were identifying insignia worn by beggars beginning in the early fifteenth century in Great Britain and Ireland. They were physical badges or other markers, and they served two purpose
Old Aberdeen Beggar's Badge
Scottish beggar's badge from the nineteenth century issued to a William Bain in 1847. Notice the "Pass & Re-Pass inscription.
A Beggar's badge issued in Keith
Portion of A Peg-legged Beggar, with Donkey and Children by David Allan
Bedesman, or beadsman, was generally a pensioner or almsman whose duty was to pray for his benefactor.
A bedesman carved on the tomb of Ralph Fitzherbert who died in 1483