Incredible 14 Karat Gold Badge – Killed in Action 

Description

Incredible 14 Karat Gold Badge – Killed in Action 

An extraordinary and deeply personal Civil War mourning badge commemorating George Hale of the 27th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, killed in action at the Battle of Roanoke Island, February 7–8, 1862. 

The badge is crafted in 14 karat gold with a profusely hand-engraved face displaying rich, flowing scrollwork typical of fine mid-19th century jewelry. Prominently applied to the surface are a raised cross, a Federal shield, and a five-pointed star—symbols blending Christian faith, Union patriotism, and sacrifice. The combination of these motifs reflects both the personal grief of the family and the national cause for which Hale gave his life. 

The body of the badge is constructed of hardwood, creating a subtle contrast between the warm gold face and dark backing. The reverse retains its original gold clasp assembly and engraved presentation plaque reading, “Hale – Roanoke Feb 7th, 8th 1862,” directly tying the piece to the Union victory at Roanoke Island during Burnside’s North Carolina Expedition. The elegant script and period engraving style are entirely consistent with wartime memorial jewelry. 

George Hale served with the 27th Massachusetts Infantry, a regiment organized in late 1861 and quickly assigned to operations along the North Carolina coast. At Roanoke Island, Union forces launched a combined naval and ground assault against Confederate defenses guarding the approaches to the Albemarle Sound. The fighting on February 7–8, 1862, resulted in a decisive Federal victory but came at the cost of numerous casualties, including Hale. 

Gold mourning badges of this quality and direct battlefield attribution are exceptionally rare. Unlike standard black crepe mourning ribbons or simple memorial pins, this is a custom, high-grade commemorative piece—almost certainly privately commissioned by family or close associates to honor a fallen soldier. Its craftsmanship, precious metal construction, and precise battle inscription elevate it beyond typical mourning relics, placing it among the most personal and evocative forms of Civil War remembrance. 

Inventory Number: IDE 317