33rd G.A.R. National Encampment Souvenir Medal: Philadelphia, dated 1899 (SOLD)

This is another great veteran’s piece being offered, it is an 1899 33rd G.A.R. [Grand Army of the Republic] National Encampment Souvenir Medal: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The encampment was held from September 4th thru 9th. It depicts the Liberty Bell overlaid with the emblem of the G.A.R. and Independence Hall. It measures 2 ¾” x 1 ½” and appears to be made of copper.

The top bar has the Eagle Design with “1899” and “OFFICIAL SOUVENIR – NATIONAL 33^rd ENCAMPMENT”. On the top of the Liberty Bell is “SEP 4 – 9”, the GAR emblem and at the bottom “PHILADELPHIA”. The maker's information is embossed on the backside of the souvenir medal: "Schwaab S. & S. Co. Milwaukee”.

This was a huge encampment with thousands of veterans attending. Children formed the GAR symbol in the stands (see pictures). There was a variety of souvenir items sold at this encampment, but this is the rarest and marked as the “Official Souvenir”. It is in excellent condition, and you will not find a nicer example.