US Post Civil War, GAR Membership Medal, Edge Numbered, W19511
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $95.00

Original era manufacture. A very clean example with lots of original finish left on the star and suspension bar, sound original ribbon showing some scattered fraying and wear. Numbered on the edge, W 19511.In my opinion, this is the most representative medal for the Union Civil War soldier. Official recognition by the US Government didn't occur until over 40 years had elapsed since the surrender of Robert E. Lee and the Army of Northern Virginia. By that time, many of these old soldiers had moved onto the last bivouac, never receiving the well-deserved recognition by the government they sacrificed to protect. These great old GAR medals, represent that sacrifice, and bond of unity and comradeship those soldiers formed on the many battlefields of 1861-1865. The veterans wore them with well deserved pride, as they represent a visual testament to their loyal service in time of war. If the key to the numbering on the edges of these medals can ever be discovered, what a treasure trove of research they will become.