1853 - Lieutenant Henry Harwood Key, USRM.
A photo of a Revenue Marine uniform as worn by Lieutenant Henry Harwood Key, Revenue Marine. One of the earliest photographs of a revenue cutter officers. This picture is dated from the mid-1850s. LT Key wears two epaulettes, authorized in 1853 for all three lieutenant grades. Note the sword. This was called the "most handsome" sword ever authorized for the service. The three buttons on the sleeve also indicated rank. Photo courtesy of the Maryland Historical Society. It was published in the USCG Historian's Office pamphlet "Uniforms" (on pg. 6).

Photo by: USCG Historian's Office |  VIRIN: 170602-G-XX000-080.JPG