While collectors offer differing opinions on both the date of mintage and the proper nomenclature (token/medal) of these pieces – one truth holds fast – they are both very scarce and highly sought after.

Made from the iron armor plate of the CSS Virginia, these pieces are often found with environmental damage owing to the fact that the Merrimac was scuttled May 11, 1862.

Obverse: Merrimac surrounded by, THE FIRST IRONCLAD, and date below

Reverse: MADE FROM / THE / ARMOUR PLATE / OF / THE MERRIMAC