Bronze Plaque Commemorating the Destruction of U.S.S. Maine in 1898 Sculpted by C. Keck 1913

Less than 400 were on board on February 15, 1898 when the U.S.S. Maine exploded, killing 260. Tensions between Spain and Cuba were high, Spain's oppression was brutal and America sent the U.S.S. Maine to Havana Harbor in response to the rising tension. The explosion of the U.S.S. Maine was originally thought to be caused by a mine believed to have been set by Spaniards, but in 1976, naval historians determined the explosion was likely caused by a fire in the ammunition stocks. Nevertheless, the explosion was the eventual catalyst of the Spanish-American War, lasting three months before the Treaty of Paris was signed signaling the end of the conflict.
This bronze plaque is one of 1000 known, this example has a low serial number #244 and was sculpted for the US Government by Charles Keck in 1913 and cast by Jno. Williams, Inc. a prominent American foundry. The bronze plaque, depicts Columbia (Lady Liberty) holding a shield reading: "PATRIOTISM and DEVOTION", visible remains of the sunken vessel in the background and the text "In Memoriam USS Maine Destroyed in Havana Harbor February 15, 1898 This Tablet is Cast From Metal Recovered From the USS Maine". Inscribed lower right by sculptor "C.KECK SC 1913 - CAST BY Jno. WILLIAMS, INC., N.Y."

Circa 1913

Approximately 12.5" x 18" and weighs approximately 8lbs.

Heavy bronze.

"TABLET No. 244 CHARLES KECK SCULPTOR CAST BY Jno. WILLIAMS INC. BRONZE FOUNDRY NEW YORK 1913" on reverse.

This is from a U.S.S. Maine collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. CON-JMB-VBJJJX-50-15 LBDIEX4/15 SLBEFJX4/15 SLAIEJX9/15 RET6/16

9- (Excellent+): Plaque shows minor wear and sections of adhesive residue on reverse, overall excellent condition.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.