1846-1847 (1850) Palmetto Regiment Medal. Silver. About Uncirculated, Cleaned.48.5 mm. 41.74 grams. Ribbon at lower reverse inscribed to the recipient ALEXANDER TUNNISON. 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 noncommissioned offers and enlisted men. This is an above average example with sharp to full detail remaining throughout the intricate and attractive design. Light hairlining explains our qualifier, but the surfaces have retoned nicely in iridescent steel-olive. A couple of nicks in the upper obverse field are noted, but there are few sizeable marks to either side. This is a scarce and popular type that enjoys strong demand at all levels of preservation, the typical survivor well worn if not also significantly impaired (many were carried as pocket pieces). The present example, again well above average, is sure to catch the eye of advanced collectors.
