Grand Army of the Republic Grave Marker Value Guide

The Grand Army of the Republic grave marker is a poignant five-pointed star cast in bronze to honor Union veterans of the American Civil War. These fraternal symbols are highly collectible due to their intricate design featuring military branch emblems and their historical connection to the largest veteran organization of the 19th century.

What affects the value of Grand Army of the Republic Grave Marker?

• Condition of the bronze, specifically the legibility of the dates and the crispness of the branch symbols.
• Presence of the original iron or bronze mounting stake, which can increase desirability for collectors.
• Authenticity of the casting, as modern reproductions lack the weight and detail of original 1880-1920 era markers.
• Historical provenance if the marker can be traced to a specific veteran's gravesite or a particular G.A.R. Post.

How to Identify Grand Army of the Republic Grave Marker?

• Look for the central 'G.A.R.' initials surrounded by the service years '1861-1865' on the face of the star.
• Verify the presence of specific military branch symbols cast into each of the five points of the star.
• Check for a heavy, weathered bronze patina consistent with outdoor exposure between 1880 and 1920.
• Examine the reverse side for original mounting lugs or evidence of a staff attachment point.

History of Grand Army of the Republic Grave Marker

The Grand Army of the Republic was a fraternal organization composed of veterans of the Union Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and the Revenue Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. Founded in 1866, these markers were placed at the gravesites of veterans to honor their service. The design incorporates symbols of various branches of military service in each point of the star.