1864 Medal Butler, Julian MI-30 Copper Colored Troops Before Richmond

Coin Details

Auction Record

$13,200 MS64BN 11-30-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This copper medal (Julian MI-30) is one of only 11 copper specimens struck of the Butler Medal for United States Colored Troops before Richmond. Major General Benjamin Butler personally commissioned and funded the medal to honor Black soldiers who distinguished themselves at the Battle of New Market Heights (Chaffin's Farm) on September 29, 1864, where approximately 3,800 USCT soldiers of Brigadier General Charles Paine's Third Division attacked entrenched Confederate positions. The dies were engraved by Anthony C. Paquet, Assistant Engraver at the Philadelphia Mint, and the 41mm medals were struck at the Mint in spring 1865. The obverse depicts two Black soldiers charging a fortification with fixed bayonets, with the Latin inscription "FERRO IIS LIBERTAS PERVENIET" ("Freedom will come to them by the sword"). The reverse bears "DISTINGUISHED FOR COURAGE" and "CAMPAIGN BEFORE RICHMOND 1864" within an oak wreath. The 11 copper pieces were retained by Butler for private distribution — the 197 silver medals went to enlisted men who distinguished themselves. This is the first U.S. military decoration specifically designed for African American troops. Fourteen USCT soldiers also received the Medal of Honor at New Market Heights, the majority of all Medals of Honor awarded to Black soldiers during the entire Civil War.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Only 11 copper specimens struck (total mintage 208: 197 silver, 11 copper). Copper pieces were retained by Butler for private distribution, possibly to military or political leaders. Heritage Auctions: copper examples realized $4,900-$6,900 (January 2009).

Cross References

Julian MI-30; PCGS #541797; Anthony C. Paquet engraver; Butler Medal; Army of the James; New Market Heights; Chaffin's Farm; USCT