Gorgeous sterling silver belt buckle presented to Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower by the Nevada Cub Scouts, measuring 3.25 x 2.25, featuring an inlaid Morgan Silver Dollar from 1890 (signifying Eisenhower's birth year), flanked by two gold Liberty Head Gold Dollars from 1853. The Morgan Dollar is encircled by an appealing gold chain, and the buckle plate is hand-engraved with ornate scrollwork. The reverse is engraved with a presentation inscription. "Ike and Mamie, Nevada Cub Scouts," and stamped by the maker, "The Westerner, Reno, Nevada, Sterling, 14K, 10K." In very good condition, with moderate wear from frequent use, including scratches to the inlaid coins.
Eisenhower was a staunch supporter of the scouting movement in America, having become a member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America in 1948. He visited the World Jamboree in Colorado Springs in 1960, addressing the boys gathered there: 'The Boy Scout movement merits the unstinted support of every American who wants to make his country and his world a better place in which to live. Its emphasis on community service and tolerance and world friendship promotes a speedier attainment of the enduring peace among men for which we all strive. By developing among its members both a spirit of sturdiness, self-reliance, and a realization of the need for cooperative effort in every major enterprise, the movement is a prime force in preparing tomorrow’s men for their duty to themselves, their country, and their world. Here in the United States, the Boy Scouts of America have accomplished much in its years of service. But today, more than ever before, we need expansion of its membership and influence.' As a handsome token of appreciation for Ike's support of America's young scouts, this is an impressive and exceptionally appealing piece. From the collection of Brigadier General Robert L. Schulz, longtime military aide to Dwight D. Eisenhower.
