Union Army Cipher

• Made in the U.S.A.
• Precision laser engraved wood
• 4 1/4 inches diameter

• Product Description
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• This famous cipher was used for message encryption by the Union Army during the American Civil War (1861-1865). It was primarily a system used for flag signals where there was a line of sight, or for encrypted morse code messages.

  The letters A.J.M. on the disk are for the inventor and Chief Signal Officer of the Union Army, Albert J Myer. His system was called Flag Telegraphy or "Wigwag".

  Each disk has a unique serial number as was used in the original wheels.  Featuring National Archives branding on the back, the packaging includes instructions.

On June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army was officially established by the Continental Congress. Within a few days, George Washington received his commission as “General and Commander in chief, of the army of the United Colonies, and all the forces now raised, or to be raised, by them…” From now on, the colonies had a united fighting force that represented all 13 of the British colonies in North America.

The National Archives preserves and protects Army records, including veterans’ service records, medical records, court-martial case files, strategic maps, thousands of photographs, and correspondence related to recipients of the Medal of Honor.

Approved insignia designs and seals are also held in trust by the National Archives in the Military holdings.