Not a furniture piece; identified as a United States Military Third Army Maneuvers Medal or Badge.
Other: Military Memorabilia / Numismatics (Medallic Art) · Mid-20th Century / World War II Era (c. 1941) · Likely a government-contracted jeweler such as Robbins Co., Bastian Bros., or Meyer.
Type
Other: Military Memorabilia / Numismatics (Medallic Art)
Style Period
Mid-20th Century / World War II Era (c. 1941)
Material
Likely silver-toned base metal (nickel or pot metal) with a gold-toned brass or gilt center insert; resting on a dark wood surface (possibly mahogany or walnut veneer).
Age Estimate
Circa 1940–1941.
Dimensions
The background wood surface appears to be a tabletop; the medal is approximately 2 to 2.5 inches in height and 1.5 inches in width.
Origin
United States; specifically associated with the 'Louisiana Maneuvers' or Third Army training exercises prior to US entry into WWII.
Designer/Maker
Likely a government-contracted jeweler such as Robbins Co., Bastian Bros., or Meyer.
Value Estimate
Collector value typically ranges from $35 to $75 depending on the buyer and rarity of the specific maneuver year.
Description
This is a commemorative military badge for the Third Army Maneuvers. It features a top bar with an eagle over crossed arrows with the text 'MANEUVERS'. Hanging from it is a stylized cross featuring various branch insignias (infantry, artillery, cavalry) surrounding a central gold-tone seal of the United States.
Key Features
Features the number '3' for the Third Army; includes military branch symbols (cannons, pistols, rifles, sabers); central Great Seal eagle.
Color & Finish
Aged pewter/silver finish with significant oxidation (patina) and a contrasting yellow-gold central seal.
Construction Method
Die-struck or cast metal components; multi-part assembly with jump rings connecting the hanger and the pendant.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Metalwork involves industrial die-striking with symbolic relief work (crossed cannons, rifles, sabers); fine detail in the laurel wreath and central Great Seal.
Wood Grain & Species
The supporting surface shows a fine-textured, straight-grained hardwood, likely Cherry or Mahogany with a dark stain.
Surface Treatment
Tarnished metal with a matte finish; the background wood has a semi-gloss lacquer or polyurethane finish.
Upholstery Details
N/A: This is a metal object; there is no fabric or padding involved.
Hardware & Fittings
Includes a top hanger with eagle motif, jump ring connectors, and likely a pin-back clasp on the reverse (not visible).
Origin & Provenance
United States; specifically associated with the 'Louisiana Maneuvers' or Third Army training exercises prior to US entry into WWII.
Condition Notes
Good condition; showing significant surface oxidation and tarnish consistent with age. Structural jump rings appear intact.
Interesting Facts
The 1941 Third Army maneuvers involved hundreds of thousands of troops and were crucial in testing the US Army's readiness for World War II.
Cultural Significance
Represents the rapid mobilization and training of the American military in the lead-up to the Pearl Harbor attack.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Expert Qualification badges, but distinguished by the specific 'Maneuvers' text and Third Army numerical designation.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a dry, low-humidity environment; do not polish with abrasive chemicals as it may strip the original bronze/silver plating; use a soft microfiber cloth.
Value Estimate
Collector value typically ranges from $35 to $75 depending on the buyer and rarity of the specific maneuver year.
Sustainability Notes
A vintage/antique item representing reuse and historical preservation rather than modern consumption.