Outstanding Soldier's Masonic Medal Dated 1863 and Forage Cap. ... (Total: 2 Items)

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Outstanding Soldier's Masonic Medal Dated 1863 and Forage Cap. Masonic and fraternal badges known to have been worn by soldiers in the Civil War are extremely scarce. This example belonged to Pvt. Nathanial H. Talbot, Co. D, 43rd Mass. Vol. Infantry and is a beautiful example of such a rarity. Reflecting the highest level of the jeweler's art, the silver top bar has a typical t-bar pin on the back and is etched with flourishes. In the center is affixed a small silver tiger's head reflecting the unit's nickname as the "Tiger Regiment." Suspended from it is a dark blue ribbon on which is a narrow silver clasp that is engraved "N. H. Talbot. Co. D." Hanging by links from the ribbon is a beautiful solid silver disk having on one side a relief patriotic design consisting of a shield surrounded by flags on either side, a panoply of weapons at the bottom and a scroll at the top in which is the wording "43d Regt M.V.M." In the center of the shield is a raised Masonic emblem. The name of the maker, "Edler," appears in tiny letters at the bottom. In relief on the reverse in bold and decorative lettering of varied styles is "New Berne / North Carolina / McClellan Lodge / Under Dispensation From / M.W.Grand Lodge / of / Massachusetts / 1863." Apparently Masons who were part of this well-heeled regiment established a lodge at New Berne, N.C. during its nine month term of service and commissioned these beautiful medals for its members. The unit was stationed there at Camp Rogers for most of its service. Talbot served as a private from enlistment in August 1862 until muster out in July 1863. He later became an officer in the 58th Mass. With the medal is Talbot's commercially produced forage cap. The headwear shows heavy use and is missing the chin strap and side buttons. There is also some moderate moth damage and significant wear to the visor. Inside about a third of the sweatband is missing, but most of the black silk quilted lining remains. Despite its wear, the cap displays very well and has the allure of a true piece of history. A rare medal and historic cap.