1865 Bronze Medal F&H-J-MI-32 New York State Volunteers

Coin Details

Description

The 1865 bronze military medal cataloged under the combined designation of Fuld & Haynes and Julian MI-32 honors the New York State Volunteers for their collective service during the Civil War. This medal is unusual in the Julian military series as it recognizes an entire body of troops rather than an individual commander, reflecting the scale of New York's contribution to the Union war effort — more than 400,000 New Yorkers served in the Union Army, more than any other state. The obverse features patriotic or military imagery appropriate to the New York volunteers. The reverse carries commemorative inscriptions honoring the state's soldiers. The Fuld & Haynes catalog reference provides additional documentation within the Civil War token and medal literature. New York regiments served in virtually every major engagement of the Civil War, from First Bull Run to Appomattox. The state's Irish Brigade, composed largely of immigrant soldiers from New York City, suffered devastating casualties at Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, and other battles. This bronze medal represents a collective honor acknowledging the sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of citizen soldiers who preserved the Union.

Rarity Notes

Bronze examples produced in moderate quantities for distribution and sale. New York's large population and extensive Civil War participation created significant demand.

Cross References

Fuld & Haynes; Julian MI-32; PCGS #517812