Preliminary identification

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

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a beautifully preserved, authentic sterling silver military unit ring representing the historic 76th Field Artillery Regiment of the U.S. Army. Featuring a detailed central crest with vibrant red and blue enamel work, the ring is flanked by deeply sculpted American eagles on the shoulders.

Story

Activated in 1917, the 76th Field Artillery fought in the Meuse-Argonne during WWI and landed on Utah Beach in WWII. This ring was a soldier's personal talisman, carrying the pride of a unit that helped liberate Europe.

Maker / Origin

While the specific manufacturer's mark is not visible in the photo, rings of this caliber were typically produced by prominent mid-century American jewelers such as Josten's, Balfour, or Meyer & Halpern. These companies specialized in high-quality, die-struck military insignia jewelry, providing service members with durable symbols of their unit pride.

Condition & Value

The ring is in very good vintage condition. The enamel shows minor surface wear and pocket polishing but remains remarkably intact with no major chips. The silver has developed a beautiful, deep patina in the recessed areas of the eagle feathers, which enhances the sculptural detail.

Full Research

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

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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.