I would like some help on a very interesting Civil War collectible. This medal is a copy (I believe) of the rare Davis Guard medals issued to the 45 Confederate soldiers who defeated the Union army at Sabine Pass, Texas.

This medal was issued to "M. Powers" (Maurice Powers), one of the soldiers. The script for the soldier's name and the rest of the writing is the same. This is another reason I believe that the medal is a copy, along with the fact that it is not silver. It is very nicely engraved, and does appear to be quite old. I listed this originally on eBay (item # 380287688740) without knowing what it was. I even misread the words, and listed it with incorrect spelling! It closed for $687.88, and within an hour, I had another offer for $1000.00. At that point, I canceled the transaction, realizing that I had something quite scarce.

Is this in fact a copy? Any help or advice would certainly be appreciated!

To read the complete auction lot description, see:1863 Davis Guards Medal. EF (www.stacks.com/Lot/ItemDetail/118105)