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*** VINTAGE HAMPTON, VA MILITARY ESTATE FIND ***
TITLE:
Rare 1969 ROK Forces Vietnam Presentation Key Medal - Cased & Named to MACV Colonel
PROVENANCE & ORIGIN:
Acquired directly from a private military estate in Hampton, Virginia (home of Joint Base Langley-Eustis). This item has been stored in a private collection for decades and is fresh to the market.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
This is not a standard souvenir. It is a documented diplomatic presentation artifact officially engraved to a senior US officer.
The reverse is inscribed:
"COL. CHARLES M. NICHOLSON
PRESENTED BY LT. GEN. LEE SAE HO
COMDR. ROK FORCES, VIETNAM
28 SEPT. 1969"
THE RECIPIENT:
Colonel Charles M. Nicholson served as the Chief of the MACV (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam) Command and Control Division during this period. In this strategic role, he was a key liaison between US and Allied command structures.
THE PRESENTER:
Lt. Gen. Lee Sae Ho was the legendary Commander of the Republic of Korea Forces in Vietnam (1969–1973). He issued these keys exclusively to high-ranking Allied officers and VIPs as a symbol of the strategic partnership between the ROK and US armies.
ITEM DETAILS:
- Composition: Heavy gold-toned metal with cloisonné enamel center (Blue/Green/Gold).
- Dimensions: Approx. 8-9 inches in length.
- Box: Includes the original presentation case with red velvet lining and gold-stamped Korean Command Crest on the lid.
- Accessories: Original bi-color decorative tassels and woven metallic hanging cord are attached and intact.
CONDITION REPORT:
Excellent vintage condition. The gold finish is bright and reflective with minimal age tarnish. The enamel center is 100% intact with no chips or cracks. The engraving on the reverse is crisp and legible. The original velvet box shows minor shelf wear consistent with age but remains structurally sound with working lock.
