Civil War US Navy Service Medal Boxed – Rim Marked 350

Product Description: This Civil War US Navy Service Medal, rim-marked 350, is an outstanding example of an early U.S. military service medal, complete with its original presentation box. Crafted by the prestigious Bailey, Banks & Biddle Co., this medal was issued to Francis A. Dran, who served with distinction in the U.S. Navy during and after the Civil War. The rim engraving, “350,” and its impeccable condition further enhance its desirability.

The medal is struck in bronze, with exceptional detail. The obverse prominently features an engraved depiction of three Civil War naval vessels: the Union ironclad USS Monitor, the Confederate ironclad CSS Virginia (formerly USS Merrimack), and a third vessel representing a traditional wooden-hulled warship, commemorating the Battle of Hampton Roads (March 8-9, 1862). This battle marked the first-ever clash of ironclad warships, revolutionizing naval warfare. The intricate design captures the fierce engagement between the Monitor and Virginia, while the background ship represents the transition from wooden sailing ships to steam-powered ironclads. The inscription “THE CIVIL WAR 1861-1865” encircles the top edge, emphasizing the Navy’s vital role in the conflict.

The reverse showcases a laurel wreath encircling the inscription “UNITED STATES NAVY FOR SERVICE,” with the maker’s hallmark stamped near the lower edge. The original ribbon remains intact, featuring vertical blue and graystripes, symbolizing the Union and Confederate forces.

The medal is housed in its original Bailey, Banks & Biddle presentation box, which remains in excellent condition, with the maker’s name embossed on the interior silk lining. This set presents as a pristine, all-original artifact with immense historical significance, suitable for the most discerning collectors.

Historical Description: The Civil War US Navy Service Medal was authorized in 1907 to recognize the service of U.S. Navy personnel who participated in the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865. Unlike the Army’s campaign medals, this Navy version was specifically designed to commemorate naval operations and the vital role of the Union Navy in securing victory. It was issued retroactively to honorably discharged sailors who served during the war.

This particular medal, numbered 350, was issued to Francis A. Dran, a career Navy serviceman whose distinguished service spanned several decades. Dran enlisted as a Mate on December 13, 1864, during the final months of the Civil War, and was honorably discharged in May 1867. He later re-enlisted and rose through the ranks, ultimately achieving the position of Chief Boatswain on March 3, 1899. His long and meritorious service exemplifies the dedication and professionalism of the U.S. Navy during a transformative era in American history.

The medal itself was designed by the Philadelphia Mint and produced by Bailey, Banks & Biddle Co., a renowned firm specializing in high-quality medals and awards. The obverse design of the USS Kearsarge was chosen to symbolize the Union Navy’s key role in blockade operations, riverine warfare, and its victories over Confederate raiders, such as the famous battle between the Kearsarge and the CSS Alabama.

This numbered medal, complete with its original presentation box, is a rare and valuable piece of U.S. military history. Its connection to Francis A. Dran and its excellent preservation make it a superb artifact for collectors and historians alike, offering a tangible link to the heroic naval service of the Civil War era.

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