I like to collect items associated with the US Civil War. One item I have read about is the use of privately minted ID discs resembling coins or tokens of the period and about the size of a quarter. There was usually a patriotic side, often similar to a US coin, and the reverse was kept blank until the soldier had his name and regiment engraved onto it. The US Government did not issue dog tags at the time and these medals were to ensure that if killed the soldier would not be anonymously buried (it didn't seem to work as more than half the dead were listed as "unknowns"). At an antiques show this past weekend I saw a few but they seemed so simple to make that they also seem simple to counterfeit today. Also they are not cheap. Of course the dealers assured me that they were genuine, but... What I am looking for is a person who tell me more about these medals and from where I can purchase one with the expectation that it will be authentic. Thanks for any help.
I think real ones are pretty rare. @BRandM has a couple and has researched them fairly well. Search the forum for Civil War dog tag or something like that. There are a couple informative posts on these.
Thanks for the heads up, Jack. As Jack says, they're relatively rare, but not unobtainable. Many auction houses will carry a few examples, but they're fairly expensive. Be aware of pristine tags, as they may not be genuine, or may be "ceremonial" pieces produced after the war. One dealer who often has a few is Steve Hayden. Very reputable and respected in the token field (including by myself). Have dealt with him many times over the years at shows and in person. I can't think of his web address off hand, but if you Google "Steve Hayden" + tokens or something similar you'll find him. There is also a wonderful book available dealing on the subject of Civil War dog tags. I can't think of the title off the top of my head, but I'll find it for you and post it here. Good luck, Kevin. Bruce
Here's some information that might help you, Kevin. Steve Hayden's web address is www.civilwartokens.com Another excellent site that would help with identifying legitimate tags can be found at www.realorrepro.com The book I mentioned above is Identification Discs of Union Soldiers in the Civil War, by Larry B. Maier and Joseph W. Stahl. You should be able to get a copy on Amazon for about $30 / $40. I spoke with Mr Maier several times a number of years ago while researching dog tags. Very helpful and accomodating. Bruce
Another place to watch is Stack-Bowers and Heritage, Heritage has auctions that are straight civil war related , though as one would imagine the prices + buyers fees will most likely be stiff. After abit of google searching you may want to check here http://www.civilwardealers.com/dealers.htm and a pdf book of upcoming shows and dealers http://issuu.com/civilwardealerscollectorsdirectory/docs/cwdd/13?e=18535407/32084196
