by Adams Gallery, Worchester, Mass., with ink salutation on verso reading, Your Friend,/ W.R. Steele/Lieut & Ordnance Officer. Steele had earlier service in the 3rd Massachusetts Rifles before joining the 15th Mass. as Quartermaster Sergeant in July 1861, promoted to 1st lieutenant in October 1862. At Gettysburg the 15th Mass. was in Harrow's Brigade of Gibbon's Division, II Corps, and suffered 35 dead and wounded, mostly in fighting on July 2nd. Steel mustered out in July 1864 and received a brevet to Major in March 1865.
Condition: Cdv is VG+ with sharp corners and slight mottling.