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Antique 1899 Fire Department Parade Ribbon Badge Dover NJ Vigilant Hose Sommer
Item Description:
This is an exceptionally well-preserved, authentic 1899 Volunteer Firefighter Parade Ribbon and Badge. This historic piece commemorates a regional convention or inspection tour from October 1899, featuring host company **Vigilant Engine Co. No. 2** of Dover, New Jersey, welcoming **Lincoln Hose Co. No. 4** of Somerville, New Jersey as their honored guests.
Key Features & Collector Highlights:
100% Intact Manufacturer Tag: The reverse side features the highly coveted, original paper backing label from The Sommer Badge Co., Newark, N.J., complete with their distinct vintage windmill trademark logo.
Beautiful Graphics: The central celluloid medallion depicts a vibrant, beautifully detailed late-19th-century scene of a horse-drawn steam fire engine racing toward a house fire.
Exceptional Condition: Excellent antique condition. The red, white, and blue silk ribbons remain structurally strong and bright with minimal fraying. The silver-foil stamped lettering is crisp and perfectly readable. The bottom metallic bullion fringe is completely intact.
Condition Details:
This ribbon has been remarkably well-preserved over the last 125+ years. It shows only minor, uniform age-toning to the paper label and fabric expected of genuine turn-of-the-century textiles. No major tears, shredding, or moisture damage. Please review the high-resolution photos to verify the incredible condition.
A fantastic piece of localized New Jersey history and firefighting memorabilia. Perfect for serious collectors of firefighting ephemera, Dover/Somerville local history, or antique celluloid badges.
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