September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/7/2023
An excellent example of a Spanish American War Sampson Medal with its original case. The act of March 3rd, 1901, authorized the striking of bronze medals commemorating the naval engagements in the waters of the West Indies and on the shores of Cuba during the War with Spain. These medals were distributed to the officers and men of the Navy and Marine Corps who participated in West Indies naval operations from 27 April-14 August 1898.
The obverse was designed by Charles E. Barber and shows a bust of Admiral William Sampson. The reverse was designed by George T. Morgan. At the top of the ribbon is a brooch pin with the name of the recipient's ship, USS Indiana. The medal was issued for 47 engagements and some were awarded with six or seven engagement bars. This example features the "B" engraver mark on the obverse engraved on the rim to recipient "JOHN BENTLYEY 1 SEA." The Indiana had a distinguished service record during the Spanish American War and was at Key West with the rest of the North Atlantic Squadron, commanded by the man on the medal, Rear Admiral William T. Sampson. She played a distinct role during the Battle of Santiago, firing at the cruisers Infanta Maria Teresa and Almirante Oquendo as they left the harbor. Indiana served throughout the beginning of the 20th century before being decommissioned in 1919. The medal features a pleasing patina with excellent intact ribbon. Functioning clasp with crisp engraving. Case is very good with a few surface scuffs and functioning enclosure. Purple lining is excellent. CONDITION: Very good.
ADDENDUM: Photo of rim added.
Item Dimensions: 6" x 5"