Medallion coin silver napkin ring of military interest

unmarked but presumably Gorham, diameter 1 7/8; height 1 3/4 inches, some slight wear but fine overall condition, weight 1.34 Troy ounces, engraved "Col R H Jackson, USA"

General Richard Henry Jackson was born in Kinnegad, Westmeath County, Ireland on July 14, 1830 and educated in Dublin. He came to the U.S. as a young man and enlisted in the Army's 4th Artillery Division in 1851. His extraordinary abilities and achievements as a Civil War soldier, at Fort Sumter, Pensacola and other battle grounds enabled him to rise from Private to General over the course of fifteen years. Jackson was the only serviceman to achieve this feat in a consecutive manner (see fifth photo). He was also among the first Army officers to successfully advocate for African American soldiers to serve in active combat. Although he never had the benefit of attending this instition, Jackson is buried at the United States Military Academy, West Point.