WWI Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Grouping

Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage

Via my website, I got numerous different documents offered but this time it was an exceptional offering. The email had just this line. “Recently came across a passport and war mothers and widows official documents and many other matching medals etc. Looking to connect to a collector.” Indeed, I was interested. Got the picture and this is what the email reveals…

A complete Gold Star Mother Set Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage

I’ve come across several U.S. Pilgrimage Special passports but never managed to obtain one. At one point, a U.S. acquaintance offered me one, but they didn’t want to deal with all the customs forms. So, it ended up on eBay and sold for a very low price. That’s the cost of laziness!

Being offered a complete set is quite rare. I conducted some research and found documents in archives and museums, but never a complete set. However, the U.S. gentleman mentioned he found it at a thrift store for a bargain price. Amazing, isn’t it?

But after further research, I found a military dealer in the US who had sold a similar complete lot. I asked by email at what price it sold. Waiting for the reply…

I imagine that items like these often end up in such stores after someone passes away, and their family either doesn’t realize what they have or simply isn’t interested. It’s surprising how little many people today know about history. It’s also curious why the thrift shop owner didn’t do some research. Furthermore, it’s remarkable how historically significant things can end up in unexpected places.

And finally the medals…

The Medal Maker Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage

Bailey Banks & Biddle was a prominent American jewelry firm established in Philadelphia in 1832. Known for its high-quality craftsmanship, the company produced a range of luxury goods including jewelry, silverware, and watches. Over the years, Bailey Banks & Biddle gained a reputation for creating prestigious items such as military medals, including the Congressional Medal of Honor, and class rings for the United States Military Academy at West Point and the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis. And the Gold Star Medals. The brand became synonymous with elegance and tradition, serving distinguished clients and contributing to important historical events through its bespoke creations.

Unfortunately, the seller was unwilling to a reasonable price discussion…