iGavel Auctions: Order of the Spanish American War Bar and Pin, c. 1898, Charles A. Coolidge (1844-1926) CAC1

Estimate
$100-300

Description
The Naval and Military Order of the Spanish-American War (NMOSAW) was founded on February 2, 1899 in New York City by Lieutenant Walter J. Sears, USN. There were 98 charter members. Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, then Governor of New York, was elected as the Order s first president. By 1908 the Order had over 1,200 members and was active in the era prior to World War I. It seems to have ceased to exist prior to 1936, as the last National Bulletin of the Order was published in 1935. Unlike similar organizations such as the Society of the Cincinnati, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States and the Military Order of Foreign Wars it was unable to attract the descendants of its original members in order to perpetuate its existence. This was probably due to the relatively few individuals eligible to join the organization and, thus, to hold this member badge.

Provenance
Property from the Collection of Brigadier General Charles A. Coolidge

Measurements
1 1/2 inches width

Weight
1 ounce

Condition
ribbon with stains and splits, enamel chip on an arm