December 14-17, 2021 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2021
Nice example of a 1932 Bailey Banks & Biddle split wrap brooch Purple Heart Medal. These medals are constructed of an enamel heart and are numbered between 1-60,000. This example is numbered "3293" and is engraved to Rocco Nisivoccio for wounds that were inflicted during World War I. Nisivoccio was born on February 22, 1898 in Essex, New Jersey and enlisted in the US Army on March 29, 1917. He was a member of Company C, 113th Infantry Regiment, of the 29th Infantry Division. After arriving overseas, the 29th Division took part in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive where it accumulated 21 days of combat. The division distinguished itself during this offensive and received thirty percent casualties with 170 officers and 5,691 enlisted men being killed or wounded. The 29th Division returned to the United States in May of 1919, and Private First Class Nisivoccio was discharged shortly after on May 27, 1919. After the War, Mr. Nisivoccio returned to New Jersey where he resided until his death on July 30, 1964 at the age of 66. The lot includes Nisivoccio's 1930's hand engraved style split brooch Purple Heart Medal that is contained in a small plastic case. The medal is accompanied by research including a letter from The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor and a copy of his headstone application with his Purple Heart and Division listed. CONDITION: The enamel heart exhibits fading and the ribbon exhibits scattered blemishes. Overall very good. JLD
Item Dimensions: 5" X 5"