Description In the fall of 1775, the Continental Navy was established by General George Washington in his role as Commander in Chief of all Continental Forces, before Esek Hopkins was named Commodore of the Navy. Those first ships were used to intercept incoming transport ships carrying war supplies to the British in the colonies in order to supply the Continental Army, which was desperately undersupplied in the opening years of the American Revolutionary War. The Second Continental Congress authorized the mustering of five companies of Marines to accompany the Navy on their first mission. Continental Colonel Christopher Gadsden represented his home state of South Carolina and was one of seven members of the Marine Committee outfitting the first naval mission. The first Marines enlisted in the city of Philadelphia and carried drums painted yellow and depicting a coiled rattlesnake with thirteen rattles along with the motto “Don’t Tread on Me.” In enduring metal, this striking medallion depicts the iconic Gadsden flag with snake and grass. Each medallion has a curved shape and comes with two brass nails to ensure it can be quickly and easily secured to any hiking staff. Minted in a brass alloy, this commemorative medallion is given an antique finish. This item measures 1 3/8 inch x 1 3/8 inch (34mm x 35mm) oval.
