Preliminary identification

U.S. Army 76th Field Artillery Sterling Silver Unit Ring

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A sterling silver military unit ring featuring the insignia of the 76th Field Artillery Regiment, accented with red and blue cold enamel. The shoulders of the ring are deeply molded with patriotic American eagles, and the inner band bears the distinctive 'U' arrow hallmark of the Uncas Manufacturing Company.

Story

Activated in 1917, the 76th Field Artillery fought in both World Wars. This ring was a proud symbol of service worn by a soldier during WWII, serving as a personal talisman of survival and brotherhood.

Maker / Origin

The Uncas Manufacturing Company was founded in 1911 by Vincent Sorrentino in Providence, Rhode Island, which was then the jewelry capital of the world. Known for their 'U' with an arrow through it hallmark, Uncas became a major contractor for patriotic and military jewelry during World War II, pivoting their production to support the war effort.

Condition & Value

The ring is in very good vintage condition with a beautiful, unpolished silver patina. There is minor wear to the enamel on the face, which is typical for a piece actually worn in the field. This honest wear enhances its historical authenticity and does not detract from its value.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.