On Promissories by Donna Serena da Riva
When I entered the SCA I frequently heard some scrolls referred to as promissories, being inquisitive I set about trying to understand exactly what said promissories were. I asked all of the heralds that I could make stand still long enough. I posted the question to the Meridian Herald's List. I was determined to get to the bottom of the issue. The following reflects what I found.
In the olden days, when the populace was smaller, Award of Arms were frequently given out to individuals who had not yet registered their devices. In such a circumstance the good gentle was given a promissory scroll. It was usually a simple text scroll bearing the pertinent information and signatures, but the true scroll, illuminated to incorporate the gentle's registered arms, would come later.

With this system came a backlog. As more awards were created and distributed, the backlog grew. Eventually the current system came into place, with excellent artists creating scrolls for all to paint.

This is not to say that original scrolls are no longer given. For awards of peerage level they are frequently commissioned. At times the artist in unable to complete their work by the time the award is to be presented. In this case a promissory may be presented.
Other than these fairly rare occurences, the promissory system has been discontinued. The scroll that you are presented by the Crown is your "permanant" scroll.
If, for any reason, you would like to have a different scroll from the one you were presented I encourage you to commission a replacement for yourself. This is one way that you yourself can encourage the growth of Scribal Arts in your local area. If you have a particular talent, such as sewing etc..., barter for your new work. Once you have received the completed piece, you need to have it signed by the Crowns that presented it to you. If that is impossible, it is possible to have the current Crowns sign your scroll; simply show them the original with signatures. Sitting Crowns are very busy so, as with most things, it is best to work through their Chancellor to accomplish this task.

Please note: if it is necessary to mail your scroll, never ever fold it. Send it in a well padded envelope with stiff pieces of cardboard or other stiff board. Cover the piece well with tissue paper or glassine to prevent any rubbing.
If you have any questions, or need help finding a local scribe to accept a commission, do not hesitate to speak with your local herald or contact the Parchment Pursuivant.