Bidspirit auction | Civil War Veteran Medals &

Civil War Veteran Medals & Medallions, One Named - These fascinating pieces represent the legacy of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) and the service of Ohio veterans. The collection includes a ”Long and Faithful Service” medal featuring a 112th regiment designation, an intricate ”Delegate from Pennsylvania to National Encampment” keystone-shaped medal, and a personalized star-shaped badge belonging to Simeon Mick of the 73rd Ohio Voluntary Infantry, Co. I. Simeon Mick was a private in Company I of the 73rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He enlisted on October 28, 1861, at the age of 21, and served nearly the entire duration of the war. His regiment was a ”hard-fighting” unit that saw action in major campaigns, including Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, and Sherman's March to the Sea. Records indicate he was mustered out as a CPL with his company on July 20, 1865, signifying a full and honorable term of service during the nation's most trying era. Also included is a bronze ”Let Us Have Peace” commemorative medallion featuring the 1897 dedication of Ulysses S. Grant’s tomb. The obverse of the medal features the distinctive domed mausoleum with the words ”Let Us Have Peace”—Grant’s famous campaign slogan which is also prominently carved above the entrance of the actual tomb. The reverse depicts the ”Father, Saviour, Defender” profiles of Washington, Lincoln, and Grant. These were issued to the thousands of spectators who attended the massive dedication ceremony on April 27, 1897 (Grant's 75th birthday), which featured a parade of over 60,000 marchers and a naval review on the Hudson River. The 112th New York Volunteer Infantry (known as the ”Chautauqua Regiment”) had a distinguished record, but this specific medal type was more commonly issued to members of the New York National Guard (which inherited the lineage of the volunteer regiments). The ”Long and Faithful Service” decoration was established in 1894 to recognize extended, honorable service—usually in 10, 15, or 20-year increments. The keystone-shaped medal is a particularly nice find for a collector of Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) memorabilia. The keystone is the symbol of Pennsylvania, and the inscription indicates it was for a Delegate to the National Encampment. Given the style and the mix of other items in this lot, this likely dates to the 28th National Encampment held in Pittsburgh in 1894 or the 41st held in Saratoga Springs in 1907, where Pennsylvania delegations were notoriously large and well-organized. Crafted primarily from brass and bronze, these items showcase late 19th-century commemorative craftsmanship. The pieces exhibit a natural aged patina, with some surface oxidation, minor scratches, and expected wear to the metal finishes consistent with their age; the star badge shows significant darkening of the metal. Largest: H 2.75”, W 1.75”, D 0.25”. Please see photos.