1850 Palmetto Regiment Medal. Silver. 48.5 mm. 41.4 grams. Fine-Very Fine. The state of South Carolina authorized gold and silver medals to be presented to the officers and men of the Palmetto Regiment for their participation in the Mexican-American War battles of Vera Cruz, Contreras, Churubusco, Chapultepec and Carita de Belen. This classic American medal, struck in Charleston in 1850, is the result. It is believed that 882 specimens were awarded, 68 in gold for the officers and 814 in silver for the non-commissioned offers and enlisted men. The original recipient of this silver example is unknown, the name having been tooled off of the ribbon below the Palmetto tree on the reverse. Wispy marks and a few edge nicks are noted, a slight bend also suggests that this medal may have been carried as a pocket piece for a not inconsiderable period of time. Generally silver gray in appearance, wisps of iridescent olive and reddish-russet are evident at the borders. This is a scarce and popular type that enjoys strong demand at all levels of preservation. Collector envelope included.
