1868 Medal DeWitt USG-1868-7 White Metal General U.S. Grant Campaign

Coin Details

Auction Record

$336 MS63 09-21-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal campaign medal for General U.S. Grant from the 1868 election is cataloged as DeWitt USG-1868-7. Grant's 1868 campaign material consistently emphasized his military rank and war record, as these were his most potent political credentials. Unlike previous military hero candidates like Harrison, Taylor, and Scott, Grant had actually won a major war — his acceptance of Lee's surrender at Appomattox on April 9, 1865 was the defining moment of the Civil War and one of the most significant events in American history. Campaign medals like this white metal piece bearing Grant's military title connected voters to that historic achievement. The DeWitt USG-1868-7 designation places this among the earlier-numbered varieties in the 1868 Grant series, suggesting moderate availability. Grant's campaign was also notable for the support of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), the veterans' organization that became a powerful Republican political force in the postwar decades. Veterans who had served under Grant were among his most enthusiastic supporters, and campaign medals served as connecting points between their military service and their political allegiance.

Rarity Notes

White metal campaign medal from 1868. DeWitt USG-1868-7. Grant military-themed piece. The Grant 1868 series is substantial and well-collected.

Cross References

PCGS #887488; DeWitt USG-1868-7; 1868 Presidential Election; U.S. Grant