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World War II charm bracelet
American
1941–45
Medium/Technique
Silver
Dimensions
Overall: 1.8 x 18.5 cm (11/16 x 7 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
GIft of Mindy Markowitz Setzen
Accession Number2011.145
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Bracelets and armlets
DescriptionThis bracelet is an example of jewelry worn on the home front during WW2. It incorporates charms acquired by a serviceman that provide a glimpse into his wartime activities. His image, along with that of his wife or sweetheart, appears in the form of a miniature photograph mounted inside a hinged photo album. It incorporates several military charms that identify the soldier as haiving served overseas. They include a pair of field glasses, a Pacific anti-aircraft artillery gun, crossed rifles, a US jeep with star, a heart with US Army insignia, a Lockheed P38 long-range fighter plane, and a helmet. Interspersed throughout are coins of US allies (England, Canada, and Australia) as well as a 1944 Philippine ten-centavo piece, suggesting that the soldier served in the Pacific. Two additional charms, a "lucky" horseshoe and a woman's boot complete the wrist ornament.
Provenance1980s, purchased at auction by Yvonne Markowitz; 2010, gift of Markowitz to her daughter, Mindy Markowitz Setzen; gift of Setzen to the MFA (Accession date: March 23, 2011)