5th Corps Badge

Description

Wartime Silver Drop – XVIII Corps Badge, Attributed to 4th Massachusetts Cavalry

 

A scarce and highly desirable wartime silver drop from an XVIII Corps badge, attributed to service with the 4th Massachusetts Cavalry. Executed in solid silver, the drop takes the form of the distinctive corps cross, finely cut with open interior angles and suspended from its original attachment rings.

 

The reverse retains its period suspension hardware, though now lacking the original top bar, a not uncommon loss given field use and age. The silver surface exhibits an untouched, mellow patina with scattered oxidation consistent with genuine wartime wear.

 

The 4th Massachusetts Cavalry served extensively with forces operating in the Department of the South and later Virginia, often attached to elements of the XVIII Corps during operations against Confederate defenses, including the Petersburg Campaign. Cavalry troopers wearing corps insignia—particularly in silver officer-style construction—represent a refined and less frequently encountered subset of these badges.

 

An honest and attractive wartime survivor, offering strong eye appeal.

 

Inventory Number: INS 448