Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Tuesday, October 31, 2017  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Tuesday, October 31, 2017  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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We are extremely pleased to offer a large number of important firearms, many
from renowned private collections featuring quality, rarity and diversity.

James D. Julia Inc.


(207) 453-7125
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FINE CONFEDERATE SPILLER & BURR REVOLVER, UNIQUELY SILVER PLATED

Lot # 1250 (Sale Order: 251 of 755)      

WITH MASONIC DECORATION. SN 651. Cal. 36. Spiller & Burrs were made in Atlanta and then Macon, Georgia with a total production of less than 1,500 guns. This is a standard brass framed copy of a Whitney revolver with "CS" surcharge on left side of frame, SNd cylinder showing clear twist lines. Whether or not this gun was silver plated during the war or after is unknown, but it does retain much of its plating, especially on grip strap. This gun has an unusual set of cryptics on left side of grip frame with "L" stamped 3 times. Normally only one cryptic is seen in this position near mainspring mortise. Another cryptic "G" is also seen on opposite side of grip frame at top, which this cataloger has not noticed before. A cryptic "W" is also found on bottom of right grip. This Spiller has more cryptic markings (4) than previously noted on a Spiller. Gun has matching SN "651" on bbl, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and penciled inside each grip. The loading assembly is not numbered. There is a silver saber which appears to be a Masonic emblem inset into left grip. This gun is listed by SN in the 1963 text "Confederate Handguns" by Albaugh on pg 74. Based on most recent scholarly research, based on SNd cylinder and "W" inspector on butt, this gun was most likely made in Atlanta after the CS government took over the private operations in March 1863. PROVENANCE: Listed by SN "Confederate Handguns", Bill Albaugh, 1963, pg 74; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun is matching and orig with exception of restored loading assembly and latch. Silver plating is intact on grip frame, internally and externally, and traces on frame and trigger guard in protected areas. Iron surfaces are grey/brown with staining and pitting. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina, edge wear and chip above the 1-3/4" silver scimitar inset on right grip. Mechanically functional with good discernible rifling in bore. 52430-8 JS
WITH MASONIC DECORATION. SN 651. Cal. 36. Spiller & Burrs were made in Atlanta and then Macon, Georgia with a total production of less than 1,500 guns. This is a standard...more brass framed copy of a Whitney revolver with "CS" surcharge on left side of frame, SNd cylinder showing clear twist lines. Whether or not this gun was silver plated during the war or after is unknown, but it does retain much of its plating, especially on grip strap. This gun has an unusual set of cryptics on left side of grip frame with "L" stamped 3 times. Normally only one cryptic is seen in this position near mainspring mortise. Another cryptic "G" is also seen on opposite side of grip frame at top, which this cataloger has not noticed before. A cryptic "W" is also found on bottom of right grip. This Spiller has more cryptic markings (4) than previously noted on a Spiller. Gun has matching SN "651" on bbl, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and penciled inside each grip. The loading assembly is not numbered. There is a silver saber which appears to be a Masonic emblem inset into left grip. This gun is listed by SN in the 1963 text "Confederate Handguns" by Albaugh on pg 74. Based on most recent scholarly research, based on SNd cylinder and "W" inspector on butt, this gun was most likely made in Atlanta after the CS government took over the private operations in March 1863. PROVENANCE: Listed by SN "Confederate Handguns", Bill Albaugh, 1963, pg 74; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun is matching and orig with exception of restored loading assembly and latch. Silver plating is intact on grip frame, internally and externally, and traces on frame and trigger guard in protected areas. Iron surfaces are grey/brown with staining and pitting. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina, edge wear and chip above the 1-3/4" silver scimitar inset on right grip. Mechanically functional with good discernible rifling in bore. 52430-8 JS

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RARE CONFEDERATE RIGDON & ANSLEY REVOLVER, AUGUSTA, GEORGIA.

Lot # 1251 (Sale Order: 252 of 755)      

Please Note (10/17/2017): The consecutive serial number to this revolver is lot number 1253. SN 1786. Cal. 36. All SNs on this revolver are stamped with the correct small number dies. It is also to be noted that the number "1" is a broken die which became broken at pistol #1237, continuing to be used through the small-die run to R&A pistol #1900, or thereabouts. This gun has cryptic "W" stamped on left front web of trigger bow. Gun appears all orig with matching SNs "1786" that are found on bbl housing, latch, loading arm, frame, arbor, cylinder, backstrap, trigger guard and wedge. The grips are also SNd internally in the channel and have a "WH" (Wescom Hudgins) inspector's cartouche. Top bbl flat is properly stamped "CSA". Sometime in late November or early December of 1862, the firm of Leech & Rigdon, then located in Columbus, Mississippi, contracted with the Confederate Government to manufacture percussion revolvers of the Colt patent design, though contract was not signed for 1500 guns until firm settled in Greensboro, GA. With Union troops threatening the Columbus area, Leech & Rigdon moved its operation (its third move) to Greensboro, Georgia, where they began turning out revolvers in March of 1863. Approximately 1000 revolvers were produced at Greensboro, before it was again necessary to move because of Yankee pressure in the area. The Leech & Rigdon partnership split up in January of 1864, and Rigdon took all the gun-making machinery with him, moved to Augusta, Georgia (the fourth and last move) forming a new partnership with Jesse Ansley. Rigdon & Ansley assumed the responsibility of completing the orig Leech & Rigdon contract, by manufacturing the remaining 500 revolvers of that model, then going on with a new contract to furnish 1500 Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. While the Rigdon & Ansley revolvers were practically identical in design to the Leech & Rigdons, there were some changes made which were considered improvements at the time. The most obvious change was the addition of six (6) more cylinder stops on the Rigdon & Ansley, and the omission of the locking pins on the rear shoulders of the cylinder. This was thought to be a safety improvement in that it allowed the cylinder to be locked in place with the hammer resting between the percussion nipples. An additional change was the milling-out of a groove in the recoil shield, which now came to be called a "cap release groove", which allowed spent percussion caps an easier exit from the frame, so that they were expelled via the groove at the right top side of the recoil shields as the cylinder rotated to the right in the firing and re-cocking procedure, after each round was fired. This "cap release groove" is found on this revolver along with the employment of a "Colt-type" loading lever latching assembly, rather than Leech & Rigdon ball and pin type catches. This is a pleasing example of Georgia made Rigdon & Ansley revolver with fine aesthetics, complete and orig. PROVENANCE: Ex-Clifford Young Collection, 1954; Ex-Fred Slaton Collection, 1960; Lifetime Collection of Dr. Zack Catterton. CONDITION: Very good overall, matching throughout, all major parts orig, the only discernible replacement is the wedge screw. Bbl retains tiny traces of orig blue finish with balance plum/brown with scattered nicks, dings, scratches and pinprick pitting. Frame and loading assembly have matching plum/brown color with pitting. Cylinder has rougher surface than rest of gun, grey/brown color with pitting, old cleaning and file marks, worn ratcheting and stops; SN is only partially discernible and may not actually match gun, though it does appear to be an orig Rigdon cylinder with correct partial SN dies. Front brass post sight is orig. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have yellow to dark mustard patina. Grips are sound and well fit with thin traces of orig varnish. Mechanically gun functions with well discerned rifling in bore. 51566-8
Please Note (10/17/2017): The consecutive serial number to this revolver is lot number 1253. SN 1786. Cal. 36. All SNs on this revolver are stamped with the correct small...more number dies. It is also to be noted that the number "1" is a broken die which became broken at pistol #1237, continuing to be used through the small-die run to R&A pistol #1900, or thereabouts. This gun has cryptic "W" stamped on left front web of trigger bow. Gun appears all orig with matching SNs "1786" that are found on bbl housing, latch, loading arm, frame, arbor, cylinder, backstrap, trigger guard and wedge. The grips are also SNd internally in the channel and have a "WH" (Wescom Hudgins) inspector's cartouche. Top bbl flat is properly stamped "CSA". Sometime in late November or early December of 1862, the firm of Leech & Rigdon, then located in Columbus, Mississippi, contracted with the Confederate Government to manufacture percussion revolvers of the Colt patent design, though contract was not signed for 1500 guns until firm settled in Greensboro, GA. With Union troops threatening the Columbus area, Leech & Rigdon moved its operation (its third move) to Greensboro, Georgia, where they began turning out revolvers in March of 1863. Approximately 1000 revolvers were produced at Greensboro, before it was again necessary to move because of Yankee pressure in the area. The Leech & Rigdon partnership split up in January of 1864, and Rigdon took all the gun-making machinery with him, moved to Augusta, Georgia (the fourth and last move) forming a new partnership with Jesse Ansley. Rigdon & Ansley assumed the responsibility of completing the orig Leech & Rigdon contract, by manufacturing the remaining 500 revolvers of that model, then going on with a new contract to furnish 1500 Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. While the Rigdon & Ansley revolvers were practically identical in design to the Leech & Rigdons, there were some changes made which were considered improvements at the time. The most obvious change was the addition of six (6) more cylinder stops on the Rigdon & Ansley, and the omission of the locking pins on the rear shoulders of the cylinder. This was thought to be a safety improvement in that it allowed the cylinder to be locked in place with the hammer resting between the percussion nipples. An additional change was the milling-out of a groove in the recoil shield, which now came to be called a "cap release groove", which allowed spent percussion caps an easier exit from the frame, so that they were expelled via the groove at the right top side of the recoil shields as the cylinder rotated to the right in the firing and re-cocking procedure, after each round was fired. This "cap release groove" is found on this revolver along with the employment of a "Colt-type" loading lever latching assembly, rather than Leech & Rigdon ball and pin type catches. This is a pleasing example of Georgia made Rigdon & Ansley revolver with fine aesthetics, complete and orig. PROVENANCE: Ex-Clifford Young Collection, 1954; Ex-Fred Slaton Collection, 1960; Lifetime Collection of Dr. Zack Catterton. CONDITION: Very good overall, matching throughout, all major parts orig, the only discernible replacement is the wedge screw. Bbl retains tiny traces of orig blue finish with balance plum/brown with scattered nicks, dings, scratches and pinprick pitting. Frame and loading assembly have matching plum/brown color with pitting. Cylinder has rougher surface than rest of gun, grey/brown color with pitting, old cleaning and file marks, worn ratcheting and stops; SN is only partially discernible and may not actually match gun, though it does appear to be an orig Rigdon cylinder with correct partial SN dies. Front brass post sight is orig. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have yellow to dark mustard patina. Grips are sound and well fit with thin traces of orig varnish. Mechanically gun functions with well discerned rifling in bore. 51566-8

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RARE CONFEDERATE AUGUSTA, GA CSA MARKED RIGDON & ANSLEY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1252 (Sale Order: 253 of 755)      

SN 1656. Cal. 36. There are only 18 known early model Rigdon & Ansleys with the "AUGUSTA, GA CSA" address. The highest known SN with this marking is "1689". All SNs on this revolver are stamped with the correct small number dies. It is also to be noted that the number "1" is a broken die which became broken at pistol #1237, continuing to be used through the small-die run to R&A pistol #1900, or thereabouts. This gun has cryptic "W" stamped upside down on rear left of trigger guard. Gun appears all orig with matching SNs "1656" that are found on bbl housing, latch, loading arm, frame, arbor, cylinder, backstrap, trigger guard and wedge. The grips are also SNd internally in the channel. Top bbl flat is inspected "CSA" just rear of the rare "AUGUSTA, GA" bbl marking. Sometime in late November or early December of 1862, the firm of Leech & Rigdon, then located in Columbus, Mississippi, contracted with the Confederate Government to manufacture percussion revolvers of the Colt patent design, though contract was not signed for 1500 guns until firm settled in Greensboro, GA. With Union troops threatening the Columbus area, Leech & Rigdon moved its operation (its third move) to Greensboro, Georgia, where they began turning out revolvers in March of 1863. Approximately 1000 revolvers were produced at Greensboro, before it was again necessary to move because of Yankee pressure in the area. The Leech & Rigdon partnership split up in January of 1864, and Rigdon took all the gun-making machinery with him, moved to Augusta, Georgia (the fourth and last move) forming a new partnership with Jesse Ansley. Rigdon & Ansley assumed the responsibility of completing the orig Leech & Rigdon contract, by manufacturing the remaining 500 revolvers of that model, then going on with a new contract to furnish 1500 Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. While the Rigdon & Ansley revolvers were practically identical in design to the Leech & Rigdons, there were some changes made which were considered improvements at the time. The most obvious change was the addition of six (6) more cylinder stops on the Rigdon & Ansley, and the omission of the locking pins on the rear shoulders of the cylinder. This was thought to be a safety improvement in that it allowed the cylinder to be locked in place with the hammer resting between the percussion nipples. An additional change was the milling-out of a groove in the recoil shield, which now came to be called a "cap release groove", which allowed spent percussion caps an easier exit from the frame, so that they were expelled via the groove at the right top side of the recoil shields as the cylinder rotated to the right in the firing and re-cocking procedure, after each round was fired. This "cap release groove" is found on this revolver along with the employment of a "Colt-type" loading lever latching assembly, rather than Leech & Rigdon ball and pin type catches. This is a pleasing example of Georgia made Rigdon & Ansley revolver with good aesthetics. PROVENANCE: Jackson Arms, Catalog 23, Dallas, TX, 1966; William Hozie, Crozet, VA, 1974; Herb Rosenthal, Great Guns, 1976; Ted Meredith, Boca Raton, FL, 1983; Bob Lewis Collection, Tujunga, CA; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Gun appears orig throughout, though several screws appear replaced, but are excellent restorations. The grips are SNd internally but have a slightly different profile than those typical of this manufacturer and are probably old restorations. Metal is mottled gray overall with old cleaning. Brass has light mustard patina with old cleaning. Gun appears to have been painted red at one time with traces of paint visible in protected areas. This was possibly done as a captured souvenir. Markings are mostly discernible though SN is weak on bbl housing and cylinder. "Augusta" is quite weak though several letters are discerned, "GA" and "CSA" are discernible. There is muzzle wear, loading arm is a bit loose. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina with tacking marks at butt. Mechanically gun is functional with discernible rifling in pitted bore. 51957-10 JS
SN 1656. Cal. 36. There are only 18 known early model Rigdon & Ansleys with the "AUGUSTA, GA CSA" address. The highest known SN with this marking is "1689". All SNs on th...moreis revolver are stamped with the correct small number dies. It is also to be noted that the number "1" is a broken die which became broken at pistol #1237, continuing to be used through the small-die run to R&A pistol #1900, or thereabouts. This gun has cryptic "W" stamped upside down on rear left of trigger guard. Gun appears all orig with matching SNs "1656" that are found on bbl housing, latch, loading arm, frame, arbor, cylinder, backstrap, trigger guard and wedge. The grips are also SNd internally in the channel. Top bbl flat is inspected "CSA" just rear of the rare "AUGUSTA, GA" bbl marking. Sometime in late November or early December of 1862, the firm of Leech & Rigdon, then located in Columbus, Mississippi, contracted with the Confederate Government to manufacture percussion revolvers of the Colt patent design, though contract was not signed for 1500 guns until firm settled in Greensboro, GA. With Union troops threatening the Columbus area, Leech & Rigdon moved its operation (its third move) to Greensboro, Georgia, where they began turning out revolvers in March of 1863. Approximately 1000 revolvers were produced at Greensboro, before it was again necessary to move because of Yankee pressure in the area. The Leech & Rigdon partnership split up in January of 1864, and Rigdon took all the gun-making machinery with him, moved to Augusta, Georgia (the fourth and last move) forming a new partnership with Jesse Ansley. Rigdon & Ansley assumed the responsibility of completing the orig Leech & Rigdon contract, by manufacturing the remaining 500 revolvers of that model, then going on with a new contract to furnish 1500 Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. While the Rigdon & Ansley revolvers were practically identical in design to the Leech & Rigdons, there were some changes made which were considered improvements at the time. The most obvious change was the addition of six (6) more cylinder stops on the Rigdon & Ansley, and the omission of the locking pins on the rear shoulders of the cylinder. This was thought to be a safety improvement in that it allowed the cylinder to be locked in place with the hammer resting between the percussion nipples. An additional change was the milling-out of a groove in the recoil shield, which now came to be called a "cap release groove", which allowed spent percussion caps an easier exit from the frame, so that they were expelled via the groove at the right top side of the recoil shields as the cylinder rotated to the right in the firing and re-cocking procedure, after each round was fired. This "cap release groove" is found on this revolver along with the employment of a "Colt-type" loading lever latching assembly, rather than Leech & Rigdon ball and pin type catches. This is a pleasing example of Georgia made Rigdon & Ansley revolver with good aesthetics. PROVENANCE: Jackson Arms, Catalog 23, Dallas, TX, 1966; William Hozie, Crozet, VA, 1974; Herb Rosenthal, Great Guns, 1976; Ted Meredith, Boca Raton, FL, 1983; Bob Lewis Collection, Tujunga, CA; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Gun appears orig throughout, though several screws appear replaced, but are excellent restorations. The grips are SNd internally but have a slightly different profile than those typical of this manufacturer and are probably old restorations. Metal is mottled gray overall with old cleaning. Brass has light mustard patina with old cleaning. Gun appears to have been painted red at one time with traces of paint visible in protected areas. This was possibly done as a captured souvenir. Markings are mostly discernible though SN is weak on bbl housing and cylinder. "Augusta" is quite weak though several letters are discerned, "GA" and "CSA" are discernible. There is muzzle wear, loading arm is a bit loose. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina with tacking marks at butt. Mechanically gun is functional with discernible rifling in pitted bore. 51957-10 JS

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RIGDON & ANSLEY CONFEDERATE PERCUSSION REVOLVER, SN 1785.

Lot # 1253 (Sale Order: 254 of 755)      

Please Note (10/13/2017): The consecutive serial number to this revolver is lot number 1251. SN 1785. Cal. 36. This is a consecutive number revolver to the next lot, SN 1786 from the Zack Catterton Collection. If Mr. Racker had known that gun had existed, there's little doubt he would have tried to make these two into a pair. Guns have very similar aesthetics overall though this example has a "Leech & Rigdon" cylinder with 6 stops with no safety pins, but has matching SN. This exact gun is the only example known with this variation and is pictured on pg 27 of William Gary's "Confederate Revolvers", 1987. This is an interesting variant with strong traces of original finish with sharp edges. Matching SNs are found on all parts normally numbered including bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder, loading arm, latch, arbor and wedge. This gun is somewhat of an enigma in that it has a deeper bevel cut into frame at front of trigger guard, longer flat of rammer swivel, but appears original throughout. PROVENANCE: Eric Vaule, 1963; William Albaugh; Bob Howard, 1964; Cecil Anderson, 1970; Don Bryan, 1983; pictured on pg 27 William Gary "Confederate Revolvers", 1987; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good overall. Crisp action. Well defined rifling and bore. All markings are discernible and "CSA" proof is particularly sharp as is the "W" cryptic on left front web of trigger bow. Stocks are well fit with hand worn patina. Metal overall is dark with strong traces of thin finish on bbl housing and under bbl. Muted case colors are found on protected areas of loading assembly. The cylinder has a plum, patina though SN is stamped in the same style as are the matching numbers on gun. 51957-21 JS
Please Note (10/13/2017): The consecutive serial number to this revolver is lot number 1251. SN 1785. Cal. 36. This is a consecutive number revolver to the next lot, SN 1...more786 from the Zack Catterton Collection. If Mr. Racker had known that gun had existed, there's little doubt he would have tried to make these two into a pair. Guns have very similar aesthetics overall though this example has a "Leech & Rigdon" cylinder with 6 stops with no safety pins, but has matching SN. This exact gun is the only example known with this variation and is pictured on pg 27 of William Gary's "Confederate Revolvers", 1987. This is an interesting variant with strong traces of original finish with sharp edges. Matching SNs are found on all parts normally numbered including bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder, loading arm, latch, arbor and wedge. This gun is somewhat of an enigma in that it has a deeper bevel cut into frame at front of trigger guard, longer flat of rammer swivel, but appears original throughout. PROVENANCE: Eric Vaule, 1963; William Albaugh; Bob Howard, 1964; Cecil Anderson, 1970; Don Bryan, 1983; pictured on pg 27 William Gary "Confederate Revolvers", 1987; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good overall. Crisp action. Well defined rifling and bore. All markings are discernible and "CSA" proof is particularly sharp as is the "W" cryptic on left front web of trigger bow. Stocks are well fit with hand worn patina. Metal overall is dark with strong traces of thin finish on bbl housing and under bbl. Muted case colors are found on protected areas of loading assembly. The cylinder has a plum, patina though SN is stamped in the same style as are the matching numbers on gun. 51957-21 JS

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EXTREMELY RARE AND FINEST KNOWN AUGUSTA MACHINE WORKS CONFEDERATE

Lot # 1254 (Sale Order: 255 of 755)      

REVOLVER. SN K. Cal. 36. Without doubt, this is the best known, best provenanced and highest condition Confederate revolver made at the Augusta Machine Works. Less than 10 of these guns are known in this configuration. There is little information published on this particular manufacturer other than the government factory was located at the site of the Augusta Machine Works. Well known antebellum Augusta gunsmiths E.H. Rogers and W.D. Bowen were contractors for the Machine Works according to Bowen descendants. This particular revolver was the property of Lt. Col. Roswell M. Russell of the 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry. This gun descended in the family of Charles H. Dorsey Jr who in 1959 was the managing editor of theBaltimore Sun. The gun was photographed and featured in a March 1960Gun Reportarticle as an unknown maker where several Confederate authorities recognized the gun as being Confederate. Hugh Benet from Baltimore immediately found the gun and featured it in his and William Albaugh co-authored textConfederate Handguns. Not only is the gun pictured and described in the text but it is also featured on the cover of this 1963 definitive text. As with most Augusta Machine pistols there are very few markings, some examples being marked only 2 or 3 times. However this gun is marked with SN or assembly number "K" on most parts including the unique "pinched" grips. This gun is in exemplary condition retaining vivid case colors on frame, hammer and loading assembly. PROVENANCE: Lt. Col. Roswell Moale Russell, 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry, 1863; Charles H. Dorsey, Jr. through family descent; pictured and described pg 32-33 of "Gun Report", March 1960; pictured in "Confederate Handguns" on cover and described and pictured pg 5; Listed by SN on pg 45 of "Confederate Revolvers" by Bill Gary, 1987; Burney Crooke collection, Pensacola, Florida. Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Fine overall. Gun has crisp, sharp lines retaining most of its case colors on frame and hammer. Plunger and rammer pivot also retain bright colors. The full octagonal 7-19/32" bbl retains bright finish in protected areas, though thinning, and bright overall. Cylinder retains much of its thin sky blue original finish. Grips are well fit retaining most of their varnished finish with moderate edge wear. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have a smooth, dark mustard patina. Mechanically, gun is functional with crisp, shiny rifled bore. There is an accompanying affidavit stating the gun's lineage. 51957-20 JS
REVOLVER. SN K. Cal. 36. Without doubt, this is the best known, best provenanced and highest condition Confederate revolver made at the Augusta Machine Works. Less than 1...more0 of these guns are known in this configuration. There is little information published on this particular manufacturer other than the government factory was located at the site of the Augusta Machine Works. Well known antebellum Augusta gunsmiths E.H. Rogers and W.D. Bowen were contractors for the Machine Works according to Bowen descendants. This particular revolver was the property of Lt. Col. Roswell M. Russell of the 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry. This gun descended in the family of Charles H. Dorsey Jr who in 1959 was the managing editor of theBaltimore Sun. The gun was photographed and featured in a March 1960Gun Reportarticle as an unknown maker where several Confederate authorities recognized the gun as being Confederate. Hugh Benet from Baltimore immediately found the gun and featured it in his and William Albaugh co-authored textConfederate Handguns. Not only is the gun pictured and described in the text but it is also featured on the cover of this 1963 definitive text. As with most Augusta Machine pistols there are very few markings, some examples being marked only 2 or 3 times. However this gun is marked with SN or assembly number "K" on most parts including the unique "pinched" grips. This gun is in exemplary condition retaining vivid case colors on frame, hammer and loading assembly. PROVENANCE: Lt. Col. Roswell Moale Russell, 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry, 1863; Charles H. Dorsey, Jr. through family descent; pictured and described pg 32-33 of "Gun Report", March 1960; pictured in "Confederate Handguns" on cover and described and pictured pg 5; Listed by SN on pg 45 of "Confederate Revolvers" by Bill Gary, 1987; Burney Crooke collection, Pensacola, Florida. Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Fine overall. Gun has crisp, sharp lines retaining most of its case colors on frame and hammer. Plunger and rammer pivot also retain bright colors. The full octagonal 7-19/32" bbl retains bright finish in protected areas, though thinning, and bright overall. Cylinder retains much of its thin sky blue original finish. Grips are well fit retaining most of their varnished finish with moderate edge wear. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have a smooth, dark mustard patina. Mechanically, gun is functional with crisp, shiny rifled bore. There is an accompanying affidavit stating the gun's lineage. 51957-20 JS

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VERY RARE EARLY CONFEDERATE COLUMBUS MISSISSIPPI MADE LEECH &

Lot # 1255 (Sale Order: 256 of 755)      

RIGDON REVOLVER SN 59. SN 59. Cal. 36. This rare Confederate revolver with small die variation stamped "LEECH & RIGDON" only is first noted on the earliest production. These earliest guns probably total only 75 revolvers made in Columbus, Mississippi (per document cited in text by Bill Gary,Confederate Revolvers) due to the factory being forced to move their manufacturing operation in December 1862 due to Union threat. A great detail of production notes and opinion concerning these rare pistols can be found in William GaryConfederate Revolversand American Society of Arms Collectors articles published by Ted Meredith and Kent Wall. (Kent Wall & the late Bruce Kusrow, leading Leech scholars opine and reason in these articles that possibly all 375 "small die" guns were made in Columbus). Regardless, there are only 10 known Columbus, Mississippi surviving guns SN under 75 that show the dramatic physical changes as the company improved their product. This is among the best provenanced and well known of Columbus, Mississippi produced revolvers by Leech & Rigdon and this is a fine complete example being originally in the famous Ted Meredith collection. The consecutive numbered gun SN 60 which is being sold in the following lot has equally fine condition and provenance. This gun in additional to having matching SNs found on the normal places Leeches are numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch and wedge is also numbered on the lever screw. This is only noted on four other early Leechs SN 15, 26 (though it is mismatched 36), 52 and 60. PROVENANCE: H.D. Steward, Miami, FL, Gun Report, Nov-Dec 1975; Ted Meredith Collection, Boca Raton, FL, 1986; ASAC Bulletin #72 May 1995 p 23; Burney Crooke collection, Pensacola, FL, 2000; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2006. CONDITION: Very good overall. Iron is overall a mottled gray/brown with staining and pitting. Markings very good and discernible. Tiny traces of finish are found in protected areas. Brass has a mustard patina. Grips are fairly well fit with some shrinkage and tacking marks at butt. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. 51957-7 JS
RIGDON REVOLVER SN 59. SN 59. Cal. 36. This rare Confederate revolver with small die variation stamped "LEECH & RIGDON" only is first noted on the earliest production. Th...moreese earliest guns probably total only 75 revolvers made in Columbus, Mississippi (per document cited in text by Bill Gary,Confederate Revolvers) due to the factory being forced to move their manufacturing operation in December 1862 due to Union threat. A great detail of production notes and opinion concerning these rare pistols can be found in William GaryConfederate Revolversand American Society of Arms Collectors articles published by Ted Meredith and Kent Wall. (Kent Wall & the late Bruce Kusrow, leading Leech scholars opine and reason in these articles that possibly all 375 "small die" guns were made in Columbus). Regardless, there are only 10 known Columbus, Mississippi surviving guns SN under 75 that show the dramatic physical changes as the company improved their product. This is among the best provenanced and well known of Columbus, Mississippi produced revolvers by Leech & Rigdon and this is a fine complete example being originally in the famous Ted Meredith collection. The consecutive numbered gun SN 60 which is being sold in the following lot has equally fine condition and provenance. This gun in additional to having matching SNs found on the normal places Leeches are numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch and wedge is also numbered on the lever screw. This is only noted on four other early Leechs SN 15, 26 (though it is mismatched 36), 52 and 60. PROVENANCE: H.D. Steward, Miami, FL, Gun Report, Nov-Dec 1975; Ted Meredith Collection, Boca Raton, FL, 1986; ASAC Bulletin #72 May 1995 p 23; Burney Crooke collection, Pensacola, FL, 2000; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2006. CONDITION: Very good overall. Iron is overall a mottled gray/brown with staining and pitting. Markings very good and discernible. Tiny traces of finish are found in protected areas. Brass has a mustard patina. Grips are fairly well fit with some shrinkage and tacking marks at butt. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. 51957-7 JS

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VERY RARE CONFEDERATE COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI MADE LEECH & RIGDON

Lot # 1256 (Sale Order: 257 of 755)      

REVOLVER, SN 60. SN 60. Cal. 36. This particular revolver from the famous Dr. Robert Moore Collection is consecutively numbered to the previous lot in comparable if not slightly better condition. What an opportunity to have the rarest consecutive pair of Confederate revolvers that Mr. Racker spent years putting together. This rare Confederate revolver with small die stamped "LEECH & RIGDON" only is first noted on the earliest production. These earliest guns probably total only 75 revolvers made in Columbus, Mississippi (per document cited in text by Bill Gary,Confederate Revolvers) due to the factory being forced to move their manufacturing operation in December 1862 due to Union threat. A great detail of production notes and opinion concerning these rare pistols can be found in William GaryConfederate Revolversand American Society of Arms Collectors articles published by Ted Meredith and Kent Wall. (Kent Wall & the late Bruce Kusrow, leading Leech scholars opine and reason in these articles that possibly all 375 "small die" guns were made in Columbus). Regardless, there are only 10 known Columbus, Mississippi surviving guns SN under 75 that show the dramatic physical changes as the company improved their product. This is among the best provenanced and well known of Columbus, Mississippi produced guns by Leech & Rigdon and this is a fine complete example being originally in the famous Ted Meredith collection. The consecutive numbered gun SN 59 which was sold in the previous lot has equally fine condition and provenance. This gun in additional to having matching SNs found on the normal places Leeches are numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch and wedge is also numbered on the lever screw. This is only noted on four other early Leechs SN 15, 26 (though it is mismatched 36), 52 and 59. PROVENANCE: Billingslea Collection 1930's; Wm. Locke Collection 1973; Pictured ASAC Bulletin #30, Fall 1974 p. 121; Pictured "Confederate Revolvers" by Wm. Gary pp 12 & 16, 1989; ASAC Bulletin #72, May 1995, p. 25; Collection of Dr. Robert L. Moore, Philadelphia, MS; Conestoga Auctions, June 2000, Lot 174; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2000. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching and complete. This is one of the first Leech and Rigdons to show inset braised repair to frame which is seen on several later Leech products. This gun has the crispest "LEECH & RIGDON" marking of this style known. Mechanically functional with crisp fine bore. Tiny traces of finish in protected areas. Well discerned SNs. Stocks are sound and well fit with hand worn patina. Brass has a light mustard patina. 51957-8 JS
REVOLVER, SN 60. SN 60. Cal. 36. This particular revolver from the famous Dr. Robert Moore Collection is consecutively numbered to the previous lot in comparable if not s...morelightly better condition. What an opportunity to have the rarest consecutive pair of Confederate revolvers that Mr. Racker spent years putting together. This rare Confederate revolver with small die stamped "LEECH & RIGDON" only is first noted on the earliest production. These earliest guns probably total only 75 revolvers made in Columbus, Mississippi (per document cited in text by Bill Gary,Confederate Revolvers) due to the factory being forced to move their manufacturing operation in December 1862 due to Union threat. A great detail of production notes and opinion concerning these rare pistols can be found in William GaryConfederate Revolversand American Society of Arms Collectors articles published by Ted Meredith and Kent Wall. (Kent Wall & the late Bruce Kusrow, leading Leech scholars opine and reason in these articles that possibly all 375 "small die" guns were made in Columbus). Regardless, there are only 10 known Columbus, Mississippi surviving guns SN under 75 that show the dramatic physical changes as the company improved their product. This is among the best provenanced and well known of Columbus, Mississippi produced guns by Leech & Rigdon and this is a fine complete example being originally in the famous Ted Meredith collection. The consecutive numbered gun SN 59 which was sold in the previous lot has equally fine condition and provenance. This gun in additional to having matching SNs found on the normal places Leeches are numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch and wedge is also numbered on the lever screw. This is only noted on four other early Leechs SN 15, 26 (though it is mismatched 36), 52 and 59. PROVENANCE: Billingslea Collection 1930's; Wm. Locke Collection 1973; Pictured ASAC Bulletin #30, Fall 1974 p. 121; Pictured "Confederate Revolvers" by Wm. Gary pp 12 & 16, 1989; ASAC Bulletin #72, May 1995, p. 25; Collection of Dr. Robert L. Moore, Philadelphia, MS; Conestoga Auctions, June 2000, Lot 174; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2000. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching and complete. This is one of the first Leech and Rigdons to show inset braised repair to frame which is seen on several later Leech products. This gun has the crispest "LEECH & RIGDON" marking of this style known. Mechanically functional with crisp fine bore. Tiny traces of finish in protected areas. Well discerned SNs. Stocks are sound and well fit with hand worn patina. Brass has a light mustard patina. 51957-8 JS

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UNIQUE LEECH & CO - CSA MARKED CONFEDERATE REVOLVER, SN 125.

Lot # 1257 (Sale Order: 258 of 755)      

SN 125. Cal. 36. This is the only specimen known of this particular Leech product that has a long, distinguished collection history. This gun conforms somewhat to other Leech products being round barreled copy of Colt Percussion Navy except for unique bbl marking and Colt-style latch. Gun is SNd on bbl, frame, face of cyl, wedge, hammer, arbor and partial inked number is found on grip. Backstrap is unmarked and trigger guard has a small "6" stamped internally. Gun is well worn but is the only known example. Accompanied by orig "Sam Smith Collection" card stating history back to 1950 by Bernie Crooke who sold this gun in 2002 to Mr. Racker. PROVENANCE: Joseph Desserich Collection, 1950; Sam Smith Collection; Charles Foster Collection, 1983; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2002. CONDITION: Fair to good. Appears orig and complete except wedge screw which appears replaced. Markings appear crudely stamped with dies not normally associated on Georgia made revolvers. Gun overall is cleaned with numerous small dings, dents and scratches. Cleaned to a mottled silver/grey with pitting. Stocks are well fit with light edge wear. Brass has heavy dark patina in protected areas where not cleaned; balance overall a light mustard. 51957-3 JS
SN 125. Cal. 36. This is the only specimen known of this particular Leech product that has a long, distinguished collection history. This gun conforms somewhat to other L...moreeech products being round barreled copy of Colt Percussion Navy except for unique bbl marking and Colt-style latch. Gun is SNd on bbl, frame, face of cyl, wedge, hammer, arbor and partial inked number is found on grip. Backstrap is unmarked and trigger guard has a small "6" stamped internally. Gun is well worn but is the only known example. Accompanied by orig "Sam Smith Collection" card stating history back to 1950 by Bernie Crooke who sold this gun in 2002 to Mr. Racker. PROVENANCE: Joseph Desserich Collection, 1950; Sam Smith Collection; Charles Foster Collection, 1983; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 2002. CONDITION: Fair to good. Appears orig and complete except wedge screw which appears replaced. Markings appear crudely stamped with dies not normally associated on Georgia made revolvers. Gun overall is cleaned with numerous small dings, dents and scratches. Cleaned to a mottled silver/grey with pitting. Stocks are well fit with light edge wear. Brass has heavy dark patina in protected areas where not cleaned; balance overall a light mustard. 51957-3 JS

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FINE ORIGINAL CONFEDERATE LEECH & RIGDON REVOLVER.

Lot # 1258 (Sale Order: 259 of 755)      

SN 597. Cal. 36. This revolver was made under contract from the Confederate States government in Greensboro, GA in 1863. It conforms to other Leech & Rigdon's with 7-1/2" rnd bbl with oct bbl housing, marked on top flat "LEECH & RIGDON CSA". By NRA standards, this revolver would grade very good, but is quite fine for a Confederate revolver. PROVENANCE: Ex-Ted Meredith Collection, 1980; Pictured on pg 24 "ASAC Bulletin", #72, May 1995; Lifetime Collection of Dr. Zack Catterton. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching. Everything normally SNd is numbered and numbers all discernible. Numbers are found on bbl, arbor, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch, wedge, cylinder and penciled inside grips. Maker' mark is especially crisp and discernible. Metal is grey/plum, smooth overall with traces of orig finish in protected areas and scattered areas of staining and pitting. Grips are sound and well fit with light edge wear, hand worn patina, small chip on inside left toe. Good mechanics, clean, crisp bore with light pitting. This revolver has had several professional conserved screws and the latch is an apparent restoration though properly numbered. 51566-7 JS
SN 597. Cal. 36. This revolver was made under contract from the Confederate States government in Greensboro, GA in 1863. It conforms to other Leech & Rigdon's with 7-1/2"...more rnd bbl with oct bbl housing, marked on top flat "LEECH & RIGDON CSA". By NRA standards, this revolver would grade very good, but is quite fine for a Confederate revolver. PROVENANCE: Ex-Ted Meredith Collection, 1980; Pictured on pg 24 "ASAC Bulletin", #72, May 1995; Lifetime Collection of Dr. Zack Catterton. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching. Everything normally SNd is numbered and numbers all discernible. Numbers are found on bbl, arbor, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch, wedge, cylinder and penciled inside grips. Maker' mark is especially crisp and discernible. Metal is grey/plum, smooth overall with traces of orig finish in protected areas and scattered areas of staining and pitting. Grips are sound and well fit with light edge wear, hand worn patina, small chip on inside left toe. Good mechanics, clean, crisp bore with light pitting. This revolver has had several professional conserved screws and the latch is an apparent restoration though properly numbered. 51566-7 JS

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FINE ORIGINAL RECENT DISCOVERY CONFEDERATE LEECH & RIGDON REVOLVER,

Lot # 1259 (Sale Order: 260 of 755)      

SERIAL NUMBER 820 WITH ORIGINAL HOLSTER. SN 820. Cal. 36. This is newly discovered revolver from a Western estate that has not been seen in collectors market before. Family knows gun has always been in family and dates back to a great-great-uncle on mother's side who came from battlefield to Nevada during the Gold Rush and it has been retained in the family ever since. There are 2 sets of initials on this gun which probably would identify the man who carried it 'JSE" on butt and "HWE" inside grip strap. This revolver was made under contract from the Confederate States government in Greensboro, GA. in 1863. By NRA standards this revolver would grade good+ but is quite fine for a Confederate revolver. This example shows honest use, as does its fine orig holster. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching. Everything normally SNd is numbered and numbers all discernible. Numbers are found on bbl, arbor, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch, wedge, cylinder and penciled inside grips. Makers mark is especially crisp and discernible with a light rebound in "Rigdon" which is not uncommon. Metal is grey and smooth overall with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Stocks are sound and well fit with moderate edge wear, hand worn patina, " chip on left side. Good mechanics, clean, crisp bore with light pitting. 100% orig with exception of 4 properly conserved screws. Accompanying holster is a rare find and is in relatively fine condition overall, though missing closure tab and belt loop is resewn with rawhide as is top 2" of closure, which truly appears to be alternations made when this gun was brought out west after the Civil War. 51029-1 JS
SERIAL NUMBER 820 WITH ORIGINAL HOLSTER. SN 820. Cal. 36. This is newly discovered revolver from a Western estate that has not been seen in collectors market before. Fami...morely knows gun has always been in family and dates back to a great-great-uncle on mother's side who came from battlefield to Nevada during the Gold Rush and it has been retained in the family ever since. There are 2 sets of initials on this gun which probably would identify the man who carried it 'JSE" on butt and "HWE" inside grip strap. This revolver was made under contract from the Confederate States government in Greensboro, GA. in 1863. By NRA standards this revolver would grade good+ but is quite fine for a Confederate revolver. This example shows honest use, as does its fine orig holster. CONDITION: Very good overall, all matching. Everything normally SNd is numbered and numbers all discernible. Numbers are found on bbl, arbor, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, loading arm, latch, wedge, cylinder and penciled inside grips. Makers mark is especially crisp and discernible with a light rebound in "Rigdon" which is not uncommon. Metal is grey and smooth overall with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Stocks are sound and well fit with moderate edge wear, hand worn patina, " chip on left side. Good mechanics, clean, crisp bore with light pitting. 100% orig with exception of 4 properly conserved screws. Accompanying holster is a rare find and is in relatively fine condition overall, though missing closure tab and belt loop is resewn with rawhide as is top 2" of closure, which truly appears to be alternations made when this gun was brought out west after the Civil War. 51029-1 JS

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LEECH & RIGDON CONFEDERATE REVOLVER, IDENTIFIED TO SOUTH CAROLINA

Lot # 1260 (Sale Order: 261 of 755)      

CAVALRYMAN. SN 1174. Cal. 36. This is a nice example of an orig and authentic Leech & Rigdon maker marked revolver in standard configuration. This gun appears "as found" orig and complete in every regard having a much better and discernible than average bbl marking. The firm of Leech & Rigdon started business in Memphis, TN and being chased by advancing Union forces, moved their operations to Columbus, Miss. where pistol production began, and then to Greensboro, Georgia where this gun was made. This gun is marked "LEECH & RIGDON CSA" on top flat of half-oct bbl housing. Matching SNs are found on bbl, loading arm, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, wedge, arbor, backstrap and penciled into backstrap channel of grips. This gun has all features consistent with this model including a cryptic mark found on the front right web of trigger bow and in this example cryptic is 4-dots in a square. Gun was made with no safety pins, solid hammer face with no slots, ball and pin loading arm type. There is no cap release groove in recoil shield. These features are typical and consistent to these Georgia made Confederate revolvers. The "CSA" marking on bbl is consistent with this gun being part of Confederate Government order that ends in the 1500 serial range. Stamped on bottom of right grip is partial "SC" marking seen on other guns in this serial range. There is also a set of initials "JBC" scratched into butt which Mr. Donaldson had identified to cavalryman James B. Cureton. Holcombe's Legion, 7th SC Cavalry. Pvt. Cureton was killed in action May 30, 1864 on the James River. We are not sure where Mr. Donaldson obtained this gun, but the initials do match his proposed ID. Mr. Donaldson was the first purported owner of this gun and bought it "out of the woods". Regardless of who carried this gun, it is a fine, honest, complete example with the rarely seen "SC" inspector mark. There are two wonderful articles detailing the history of Leech & Rigdon revolvers published bythe American Society of Arms Collectorsin their bulletins by Ted Meredith originally and updated by Kent Wall. Copies of these articles will be included. These articles add to the primary research published by William Albaugh and William Gary in their texts on Confederate handguns. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is grey overall with tiny traces of finish in protected areas. Markings are all crisp and well discerned. Gun appears orig with exception of two restored screws and loading arm latch which could be contemporary but is not numbered. There are numerous small dings, dents and bruises to surfaces of this gun with pitting. Brass has light mustard patina. Grips are sound, well fit, only the "S" in the "SC" inspector mark is visible, moderate edge wear, tacking marks at front toes with chipping, hand worn patina. Mechanically functional with discernible rifling in bore. 52430-15 JS
CAVALRYMAN. SN 1174. Cal. 36. This is a nice example of an orig and authentic Leech & Rigdon maker marked revolver in standard configuration. This gun appears "as found" ...moreorig and complete in every regard having a much better and discernible than average bbl marking. The firm of Leech & Rigdon started business in Memphis, TN and being chased by advancing Union forces, moved their operations to Columbus, Miss. where pistol production began, and then to Greensboro, Georgia where this gun was made. This gun is marked "LEECH & RIGDON CSA" on top flat of half-oct bbl housing. Matching SNs are found on bbl, loading arm, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, wedge, arbor, backstrap and penciled into backstrap channel of grips. This gun has all features consistent with this model including a cryptic mark found on the front right web of trigger bow and in this example cryptic is 4-dots in a square. Gun was made with no safety pins, solid hammer face with no slots, ball and pin loading arm type. There is no cap release groove in recoil shield. These features are typical and consistent to these Georgia made Confederate revolvers. The "CSA" marking on bbl is consistent with this gun being part of Confederate Government order that ends in the 1500 serial range. Stamped on bottom of right grip is partial "SC" marking seen on other guns in this serial range. There is also a set of initials "JBC" scratched into butt which Mr. Donaldson had identified to cavalryman James B. Cureton. Holcombe's Legion, 7th SC Cavalry. Pvt. Cureton was killed in action May 30, 1864 on the James River. We are not sure where Mr. Donaldson obtained this gun, but the initials do match his proposed ID. Mr. Donaldson was the first purported owner of this gun and bought it "out of the woods". Regardless of who carried this gun, it is a fine, honest, complete example with the rarely seen "SC" inspector mark. There are two wonderful articles detailing the history of Leech & Rigdon revolvers published bythe American Society of Arms Collectorsin their bulletins by Ted Meredith originally and updated by Kent Wall. Copies of these articles will be included. These articles add to the primary research published by William Albaugh and William Gary in their texts on Confederate handguns. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is grey overall with tiny traces of finish in protected areas. Markings are all crisp and well discerned. Gun appears orig with exception of two restored screws and loading arm latch which could be contemporary but is not numbered. There are numerous small dings, dents and bruises to surfaces of this gun with pitting. Brass has light mustard patina. Grips are sound, well fit, only the "S" in the "SC" inspector mark is visible, moderate edge wear, tacking marks at front toes with chipping, hand worn patina. Mechanically functional with discernible rifling in bore. 52430-15 JS

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UNIQUE CONFEDERATE C.H. RIGDON 5? BARRELED REVOLVER.

Lot # 1261 (Sale Order: 262 of 755)      

NSN. Cal. 36. For the Confederate handgun collector who wants every model, this is the only "Pocket Sized" revolver known. There are only 6 C.H. Rigdon marked pistols known and the other 5 are all standard Navy models with 7-1/2" bbls. This gun is pictured in William Albaugh's textConfederate Arms,1957. Albaugh comments that in his opinion, "This is the arm from which the Rigdon-Ansley were modeled." In Frank Seller's and Sam Smith's bookAmerican Percussion RevolversSam Smith states that he believed this gun to have been Charles Rigdon's personal gun. This gun has remained in the same collection for all these years until 2013. Regardless of the thoughts of these respected early authors on Confederate arms, studying the other Rigdon revolvers known, I have little doubt that this gun was made near the end of production. There is no doubt this gun was made as a 5" barreled revolver and is not simply a "cut-down" Navy revolver. The cylinder is over 5% shorter than standard production Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. The back of frame and arbor are correspondingly milled to accept this shorter cylinder. In the opinion of this cataloger, this gun, like a few late Griswold's and Spiller & Burr's, were privately purchased and had non-military features such as special finishes and higher grade grips, such as the burled and varnished grips seen on this unique gun. The loading assembly latch, bbl catch and front sight are identically made to those seen on late production Rigdon & Ansley's, further substantiating the originality and authenticity of this unique revolver. There is only one other identically marked "CH RIGDON" revolver and it is among the highest SN of standard Rigdon & Ansley production, 2316. One other "CH RIGDON" gun is known, also marked "AUGUSTA GA", that being SN 1490, which is among the earliest 12 stop revolvers (1482 is lowest SN known, no maker's mark). Three other "CSA" marked and inspected "CH RIGDON, AUGUSTA GA" standard Navy revolvers are known (SN 2154, 2180 and 2182). Two features that stand out substantiating this gun as late production are the "milled cap release channel" and wedge is "non-spring" type (first seen approximately SN 2150). When Herman Stumpf sold his gun collection in the 1950's he only retained this unique 5" "pocket sized" revolver he felt was Charles Rigdon's personal gun. This gun is in wonderful condition for a Confederate revolver. PROVENANCE: Herman Stumpf collection; pictured pg 13 Albaugh "Confederate Arms', 1957; pictured and described in Sellers & Smith "American Percussion Revolvers", 1971; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Appears all orig and authentic with exception of lap welded repair to mainspring and missing screw in backstrap. Metal overall is gray with tiny traces of blue finish in protected areas with scattered staining and pitting. Brass backstrap and trigger guard have mustard colored patina. Stocks retain 40-50% of their orig varnish. Rifling in bbl is well defined, though pitted overall. Gun functions mechanically though mainspring is weak. There are discernible tool marks on frame, bbl and cyl, typical of other late production guns. Maker's mark on bbl is easily discerned, as can be seen in photos. A rebound of die can be seen in a ghost of some letters, this is noted also on other examples as marking identical on all. There are no other external marks but internally there are a pair of punch marks on wedge and backstrap. There is a large punch mark on left side of trigger guard that possibly removed "cryptic" often seen stamped on standard production Augusta made revolvers. 51957-2 JS
NSN. Cal. 36. For the Confederate handgun collector who wants every model, this is the only "Pocket Sized" revolver known. There are only 6 C.H. Rigdon marked pistols kno...morewn and the other 5 are all standard Navy models with 7-1/2" bbls. This gun is pictured in William Albaugh's textConfederate Arms,1957. Albaugh comments that in his opinion, "This is the arm from which the Rigdon-Ansley were modeled." In Frank Seller's and Sam Smith's bookAmerican Percussion RevolversSam Smith states that he believed this gun to have been Charles Rigdon's personal gun. This gun has remained in the same collection for all these years until 2013. Regardless of the thoughts of these respected early authors on Confederate arms, studying the other Rigdon revolvers known, I have little doubt that this gun was made near the end of production. There is no doubt this gun was made as a 5" barreled revolver and is not simply a "cut-down" Navy revolver. The cylinder is over 5% shorter than standard production Rigdon & Ansley revolvers. The back of frame and arbor are correspondingly milled to accept this shorter cylinder. In the opinion of this cataloger, this gun, like a few late Griswold's and Spiller & Burr's, were privately purchased and had non-military features such as special finishes and higher grade grips, such as the burled and varnished grips seen on this unique gun. The loading assembly latch, bbl catch and front sight are identically made to those seen on late production Rigdon & Ansley's, further substantiating the originality and authenticity of this unique revolver. There is only one other identically marked "CH RIGDON" revolver and it is among the highest SN of standard Rigdon & Ansley production, 2316. One other "CH RIGDON" gun is known, also marked "AUGUSTA GA", that being SN 1490, which is among the earliest 12 stop revolvers (1482 is lowest SN known, no maker's mark). Three other "CSA" marked and inspected "CH RIGDON, AUGUSTA GA" standard Navy revolvers are known (SN 2154, 2180 and 2182). Two features that stand out substantiating this gun as late production are the "milled cap release channel" and wedge is "non-spring" type (first seen approximately SN 2150). When Herman Stumpf sold his gun collection in the 1950's he only retained this unique 5" "pocket sized" revolver he felt was Charles Rigdon's personal gun. This gun is in wonderful condition for a Confederate revolver. PROVENANCE: Herman Stumpf collection; pictured pg 13 Albaugh "Confederate Arms', 1957; pictured and described in Sellers & Smith "American Percussion Revolvers", 1971; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Appears all orig and authentic with exception of lap welded repair to mainspring and missing screw in backstrap. Metal overall is gray with tiny traces of blue finish in protected areas with scattered staining and pitting. Brass backstrap and trigger guard have mustard colored patina. Stocks retain 40-50% of their orig varnish. Rifling in bbl is well defined, though pitted overall. Gun functions mechanically though mainspring is weak. There are discernible tool marks on frame, bbl and cyl, typical of other late production guns. Maker's mark on bbl is easily discerned, as can be seen in photos. A rebound of die can be seen in a ghost of some letters, this is noted also on other examples as marking identical on all. There are no other external marks but internally there are a pair of punch marks on wedge and backstrap. There is a large punch mark on left side of trigger guard that possibly removed "cryptic" often seen stamped on standard production Augusta made revolvers. 51957-2 JS

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FINE 1ST MODEL GRISWOLD REVOLVER FROM ESTATE OF CAPTAIN

Lot # 1262 (Sale Order: 263 of 755)      

Please Note (10/13/2017): Associated scrimshawed items are lot 1337, not the next lot as stated in the description. JOHN MORTON, N.B. FORREST'S CHIEF OF ARTILLERY. SN 974. Cal. 36. This is an honest, well used Confederate 1st model Griswold that came from John W. Morton's estate. John Watson Morton (1842-1914) Chief of Forrest's Artillery, CSA. In 1861 John Morton was a student at the Western Military Institute in Nashville. After a short stint in the infantry, Morton joined the artillery. He was captured at Fort Donelson in 1862 and was held as a POW for several months before being exchanged. He joined Forrest's command at Columbia, Tennessee and took command of his artillery. He was wounded at Parker's Crossroads and at Thompson's Station, Chickamauga, Brice's Crossroads, Johnsonville and numerous other engagements he led his command with distinction. He was paroled at Gainesville, Alabama on May 10, 1865. After the war he returned to school to study medicine and was valedictorian of his class at the University of Tennessee. His postwar career included medicine, farming, journalism and politics, 1901-1909 was secretary of state for the State of Tennessee. He had the honor of being the first President of the Tennessee Division, United Confederate Veterans and was very involved with Confederate veteran organizations. His memoirs, "The Artillery of Nathan Bedford Forrest's Cavalry" were published in 1909. In the last years of his life Capt. Morton lived with his daughter in Memphis and when he passed away was escorted by many prominent Memphis Confederate Veterans to his final resting place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, TN where so many other prominent Confederates are buried. When Morton's estate was sold in the house sale of Anne Morton Stout in 1982, many associated items were sold and dispersed with the late Mike Miner assembling most of his material, including sword, uniform and battery flag along with many photographs and reunion memorabilia. Miner always tried to buy this revolver and the gold portrait lockets being sold in the next lot. Revolver comes with notarized letter stating provenance from estate and a copy of March-April 1992North South Trader's Civil Wartelling the story of the Morton estate. PROVENANCE: John W. Morton; Morton family descendants; Anne Morton Stout Estate; David H. Wilson, 1982; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson, 1998. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Gun appears all matching and orig with exception of 3 replaced screws. Iron is overall dark with pitting. Brass has been cleaned and now exhibits a medium mustard patina. Grips are sound with small putty repair where abutting frame. Grips have gap at backstrap, but are orig though no discernible penciled number can be seen, hand worn patina with tacking marks. Bbl has added brass blade front sight which appears contemporary to time of use. SN "974" found on bbl, cylinder and frame, secondary number "74" found on loading arm, hammer, trigger, backstrap and trigger guard. Roman numeral "IIIV" found on backstrap and trigger guard. Cryptic "U" is found on back of cylinder, bottom of bbl near latch, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Mainspring is replaced, but mainspring screw appears orig. The wedge is unusual in that it appears orig, though originally a spring type (note orig spring wedges have been excavated at Griswoldville). The wedge is numbered "647", the "6" is actually an upside down Griswold "9". Normally wedges only had a secondary number, this is an anomaly which could be original. Mechanically gun functions, although sloppy with well defined rifled bore. 52430-6 JS
Please Note (10/13/2017): Associated scrimshawed items are lot 1337, not the next lot as stated in the description. JOHN MORTON, N.B. FORREST'S CHIEF OF ARTILLERY. SN 974...more. Cal. 36. This is an honest, well used Confederate 1st model Griswold that came from John W. Morton's estate. John Watson Morton (1842-1914) Chief of Forrest's Artillery, CSA. In 1861 John Morton was a student at the Western Military Institute in Nashville. After a short stint in the infantry, Morton joined the artillery. He was captured at Fort Donelson in 1862 and was held as a POW for several months before being exchanged. He joined Forrest's command at Columbia, Tennessee and took command of his artillery. He was wounded at Parker's Crossroads and at Thompson's Station, Chickamauga, Brice's Crossroads, Johnsonville and numerous other engagements he led his command with distinction. He was paroled at Gainesville, Alabama on May 10, 1865. After the war he returned to school to study medicine and was valedictorian of his class at the University of Tennessee. His postwar career included medicine, farming, journalism and politics, 1901-1909 was secretary of state for the State of Tennessee. He had the honor of being the first President of the Tennessee Division, United Confederate Veterans and was very involved with Confederate veteran organizations. His memoirs, "The Artillery of Nathan Bedford Forrest's Cavalry" were published in 1909. In the last years of his life Capt. Morton lived with his daughter in Memphis and when he passed away was escorted by many prominent Memphis Confederate Veterans to his final resting place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Nashville, TN where so many other prominent Confederates are buried. When Morton's estate was sold in the house sale of Anne Morton Stout in 1982, many associated items were sold and dispersed with the late Mike Miner assembling most of his material, including sword, uniform and battery flag along with many photographs and reunion memorabilia. Miner always tried to buy this revolver and the gold portrait lockets being sold in the next lot. Revolver comes with notarized letter stating provenance from estate and a copy of March-April 1992North South Trader's Civil Wartelling the story of the Morton estate. PROVENANCE: John W. Morton; Morton family descendants; Anne Morton Stout Estate; David H. Wilson, 1982; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson, 1998. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Gun appears all matching and orig with exception of 3 replaced screws. Iron is overall dark with pitting. Brass has been cleaned and now exhibits a medium mustard patina. Grips are sound with small putty repair where abutting frame. Grips have gap at backstrap, but are orig though no discernible penciled number can be seen, hand worn patina with tacking marks. Bbl has added brass blade front sight which appears contemporary to time of use. SN "974" found on bbl, cylinder and frame, secondary number "74" found on loading arm, hammer, trigger, backstrap and trigger guard. Roman numeral "IIIV" found on backstrap and trigger guard. Cryptic "U" is found on back of cylinder, bottom of bbl near latch, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Mainspring is replaced, but mainspring screw appears orig. The wedge is unusual in that it appears orig, though originally a spring type (note orig spring wedges have been excavated at Griswoldville). The wedge is numbered "647", the "6" is actually an upside down Griswold "9". Normally wedges only had a secondary number, this is an anomaly which could be original. Mechanically gun functions, although sloppy with well defined rifled bore. 52430-6 JS

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UNIQUE AND FINE IRON FRAME CONFEDERATE GRISWOLD REVOLVER.

Lot # 1263 (Sale Order: 264 of 755)      

SN 1941. Cal. 36. This is the only known iron frame Griswold. This gun is original and complete and has well known collecting history. At the factory site a good many iron frames have been excavated, though incomplete. Why there are no other iron frame guns is a mystery as obviously these frames were more substantial and wouldn't crack like their brass counterparts. The iron frame shows the same striations externally as other Griswold iron. There is also an "H" stamped on the right side of the bbl housing which early Griswold scholar Cecil Anderson believed denoted guns that had gone back for repair and that might be the case as the arbor has a slightly different profile than normally seen with a few less grease grooves. Regardless, this is a nice example of the only known iron frame Griswold revolver. For anyone who wanted every Georgia Confederate revolver variant, this is an important one. PROVENANCE: Dr. Conrad Smith, Augusta, GA, 1969; Burney Crooke, Pensacola, FL, 1995; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good overall for a Confederate revolver. All components appear original with possibly exception of a couple screws and internal parts which were frozen and repaired in 1969 by Red Hayden. The frame is unserialized, but is no doubt original. Full SN "1941" is found on left side of bbl and cylinder. Secondary number "21" is found on loading arm, wedge, hammer, trigger guard, backstrap and penciled into channel of grips. Cryptic backwards "S" is found on bottom of bbl, backstrap and trigger guard. Roman numeral "III" is found on backstrap and trigger guard. Metal on gun overall is a mottled gray/brown with a distinct twist seen in cylinder. Grips are slightly shrunk with edge wear and hand worn patina. Mechanically gun functions, though sloppily with well discerned rifling and pitted bore. 51957-13 JS
SN 1941. Cal. 36. This is the only known iron frame Griswold. This gun is original and complete and has well known collecting history. At the factory site a good many iro...moren frames have been excavated, though incomplete. Why there are no other iron frame guns is a mystery as obviously these frames were more substantial and wouldn't crack like their brass counterparts. The iron frame shows the same striations externally as other Griswold iron. There is also an "H" stamped on the right side of the bbl housing which early Griswold scholar Cecil Anderson believed denoted guns that had gone back for repair and that might be the case as the arbor has a slightly different profile than normally seen with a few less grease grooves. Regardless, this is a nice example of the only known iron frame Griswold revolver. For anyone who wanted every Georgia Confederate revolver variant, this is an important one. PROVENANCE: Dr. Conrad Smith, Augusta, GA, 1969; Burney Crooke, Pensacola, FL, 1995; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good overall for a Confederate revolver. All components appear original with possibly exception of a couple screws and internal parts which were frozen and repaired in 1969 by Red Hayden. The frame is unserialized, but is no doubt original. Full SN "1941" is found on left side of bbl and cylinder. Secondary number "21" is found on loading arm, wedge, hammer, trigger guard, backstrap and penciled into channel of grips. Cryptic backwards "S" is found on bottom of bbl, backstrap and trigger guard. Roman numeral "III" is found on backstrap and trigger guard. Metal on gun overall is a mottled gray/brown with a distinct twist seen in cylinder. Grips are slightly shrunk with edge wear and hand worn patina. Mechanically gun functions, though sloppily with well discerned rifling and pitted bore. 51957-13 JS

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RARE INSCRIBED CONFEDERATE 2ND MODEL GRISWOLD REVOLVER OF CAPT.

Lot # 1264 (Sale Order: 265 of 755)      

BEZALIEL BROWN, 7TH VIRGINIA INFANTRY, WHO WAS CAPTURED AFTER BEING WOUNDED DURING PICKETT'S CHARGE AT THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. SN 2198. Cal. 36. This particular Griswold revolver was the first one identified as inscribed and was originally in the William Albaugh Collection pictured and described in his 1955 textThe Confederate Brass-Framed Colt & Whitney, pgs 16-21 (an orig copy of this book is included in this lot). Pistol is commemoratively inscribed on backstrap "MAJOR B.G. BROWN COMPANY I, 7TH VA. REGt, C.S.A.". Brown was a member of the immortal 600 wounded and captured after Pickett's Charge. This gun has been in some of the most illustrious Confederate collections dating back to the 1940's. The most popular brass frame Griswold Revolver was made by Samuel Griswold from converted cotton gin factory near Macon, Georgia. Confederate soldiers lucky enough to be issued a Confederate made "Colt" often wrote of their pride in ownership of such high Southern quality. Rare are these revolvers in high condition. This is a standard 2nd model Griswold revolver having half oct bbl housing being among the finest examples, 100% orig, all matching, retaining strong traces of bright orig blue and case colors. Overall, this gun is in very good condition by NRA standards, but is extremely fine and among the best for Confederate revolvers. Brass has a smooth mustard patina and iron is smooth with silver/grey patina overall, with bright blue in protected areas. This gun is SN'd 2198 on right side of bbl housing, frame, and cyl. Secondary number "8" found stamped on wedge, hammer, loading arm, bottom of backstrap and bottom of trigger guard. Cryptic "A" is found on bottom of bbl near latch, back of frame, right side of trigger guard, right side of backstrap, and back of cyl. A Roman numeral "XI" is found on backstrap and trigger guard. This extremely fine Griswold revolver retaining strong orig finish ranks it in the top 2-3% of all surviving Confederate brass framed revolvers as to originality and finish. I know of few better examples, though none are inscribed. PROVENANCE: Richard Steuart Collection, Baltimore, MD, author of 1944 text "Firearms of the Confederacy"; William Albaugh Collection; Lewis Leigh, Jr., Leesburg, VA, 1968; pictured on pg 16 "Confederate Brass Framed Colt & Whitney", 1955; S. L. Hutchinson Collection; pictured and described, pgs 142-143 "Confederate Presentation & Inscribed Swords & Revolvers", Dan Hartzler, 1988; Bill Turner Collection, 1982; Cliff Serbin Collection, Williamsburg, VA; Don Bryan Collection; pictured and described on pg 106, "Arming the Glorious Cause", Whisker & Yantz, 1998; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1998. CONDITION: Overall very good-fine, well fit and matching. Gun appears 100% orig including screws. Metal is overall smooth and cleaned. Iron is a silver/grey and brass is a light mustard with scattered small dings and dents and holster wear. Cyl shows good twist lines, slight battering to a couple of cones and safety pins are intact. Action is crisp with bright, clean bore. 51957-17 JS
BEZALIEL BROWN, 7TH VIRGINIA INFANTRY, WHO WAS CAPTURED AFTER BEING WOUNDED DURING PICKETT'S CHARGE AT THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. SN 2198. Cal. 36. This particular Griswol...mored revolver was the first one identified as inscribed and was originally in the William Albaugh Collection pictured and described in his 1955 textThe Confederate Brass-Framed Colt & Whitney, pgs 16-21 (an orig copy of this book is included in this lot). Pistol is commemoratively inscribed on backstrap "MAJOR B.G. BROWN COMPANY I, 7TH VA. REGt, C.S.A.". Brown was a member of the immortal 600 wounded and captured after Pickett's Charge. This gun has been in some of the most illustrious Confederate collections dating back to the 1940's. The most popular brass frame Griswold Revolver was made by Samuel Griswold from converted cotton gin factory near Macon, Georgia. Confederate soldiers lucky enough to be issued a Confederate made "Colt" often wrote of their pride in ownership of such high Southern quality. Rare are these revolvers in high condition. This is a standard 2nd model Griswold revolver having half oct bbl housing being among the finest examples, 100% orig, all matching, retaining strong traces of bright orig blue and case colors. Overall, this gun is in very good condition by NRA standards, but is extremely fine and among the best for Confederate revolvers. Brass has a smooth mustard patina and iron is smooth with silver/grey patina overall, with bright blue in protected areas. This gun is SN'd 2198 on right side of bbl housing, frame, and cyl. Secondary number "8" found stamped on wedge, hammer, loading arm, bottom of backstrap and bottom of trigger guard. Cryptic "A" is found on bottom of bbl near latch, back of frame, right side of trigger guard, right side of backstrap, and back of cyl. A Roman numeral "XI" is found on backstrap and trigger guard. This extremely fine Griswold revolver retaining strong orig finish ranks it in the top 2-3% of all surviving Confederate brass framed revolvers as to originality and finish. I know of few better examples, though none are inscribed. PROVENANCE: Richard Steuart Collection, Baltimore, MD, author of 1944 text "Firearms of the Confederacy"; William Albaugh Collection; Lewis Leigh, Jr., Leesburg, VA, 1968; pictured on pg 16 "Confederate Brass Framed Colt & Whitney", 1955; S. L. Hutchinson Collection; pictured and described, pgs 142-143 "Confederate Presentation & Inscribed Swords & Revolvers", Dan Hartzler, 1988; Bill Turner Collection, 1982; Cliff Serbin Collection, Williamsburg, VA; Don Bryan Collection; pictured and described on pg 106, "Arming the Glorious Cause", Whisker & Yantz, 1998; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1998. CONDITION: Overall very good-fine, well fit and matching. Gun appears 100% orig including screws. Metal is overall smooth and cleaned. Iron is a silver/grey and brass is a light mustard with scattered small dings and dents and holster wear. Cyl shows good twist lines, slight battering to a couple of cones and safety pins are intact. Action is crisp with bright, clean bore. 51957-17 JS

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INTERESTING CONFEDERATE COMPOSITE GRISWOLD REVOLVER.

Lot # 1265 (Sale Order: 266 of 755)      

SN 3300/1360. Cal. 36. There are a handful of Griswold revolvers that have had parts utilized on Colt's. This is the only "marriage" of a Confederate Griswold and Manhattan I have noted. Bbl, loading arm and cylinder are Griswold and serial numbered "3300". Bbl has cryptic "AA" stamped on bottom and "AA" over "C" stamped on back of cylinder. This is the only example I have noted with 2 cryptics on back of cylinder and they are quite clear. Bbl & cylinder both show traces of orig finish and bbl has large casting flaw in bottom. Loading arm has secondary "0" and casting flaw. The remainder of gun is Manhattan Navy SN "1360" with exception of arbor which appears made especially for these combined parts so they could be used. The wedge appears to be from a Colt and is SN "4706". Frame housing was filed to fit the bbl and cylinder and bbl has a small fitted silver blade sight instead of the orig post. Bbl measures 7-7/16" and gun is 13" overall. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson, 1985. CONDITION: Good overall though loose and wobbly and bbl over hangs frame, but locking pins still mate. Loading lever screw has been smashed flat. Metal is a mottled gray overall with tiny traces of finish. Butt screw is replaced, otherwise gun appears orig with hand worn patina to well fit stocks with rounded corners at toes. Mechanics are very sloppy and cylinder only turns intermittently, clear crisp rifled bore. 52430-12 JS
SN 3300/1360. Cal. 36. There are a handful of Griswold revolvers that have had parts utilized on Colt's. This is the only "marriage" of a Confederate Griswold and Manhatt...morean I have noted. Bbl, loading arm and cylinder are Griswold and serial numbered "3300". Bbl has cryptic "AA" stamped on bottom and "AA" over "C" stamped on back of cylinder. This is the only example I have noted with 2 cryptics on back of cylinder and they are quite clear. Bbl & cylinder both show traces of orig finish and bbl has large casting flaw in bottom. Loading arm has secondary "0" and casting flaw. The remainder of gun is Manhattan Navy SN "1360" with exception of arbor which appears made especially for these combined parts so they could be used. The wedge appears to be from a Colt and is SN "4706". Frame housing was filed to fit the bbl and cylinder and bbl has a small fitted silver blade sight instead of the orig post. Bbl measures 7-7/16" and gun is 13" overall. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson, 1985. CONDITION: Good overall though loose and wobbly and bbl over hangs frame, but locking pins still mate. Loading lever screw has been smashed flat. Metal is a mottled gray overall with tiny traces of finish. Butt screw is replaced, otherwise gun appears orig with hand worn patina to well fit stocks with rounded corners at toes. Mechanics are very sloppy and cylinder only turns intermittently, clear crisp rifled bore. 52430-12 JS

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INSCRIBED COLT BREVETTE NAVY REVOLVER OF CONFEDERATE BRIGADIER GENERAL

Lot # 1266 (Sale Order: 267 of 755)      

WILLIAM Y. SLACK OF MISSOURI, KILLED IN ACTION AT BATTLE OF PEA RIDGE, ARK. NSN. Cal. 34. Brigadier General William Y. Slack (1816-1862) of the Missouri State Guard at the Battle of Wilson's Creek, August 10, 1861, his command was the first to attack Union General Lyon's troops and suffered severely. 36 were killed and 76 wounded, General Slack himself fell with a dangerous wound at the head of column. After Slack recuperated he was back in action and commanding troops in the spring campaign of 1862 in Northeast Arkansas which resulted in the fierce battle at Elkhorn Tavern (Battle of Pea Ridge). At the opening of the fight on March 7, while maintaining a successful attack, he was shot through the body, a wound which proved mortal. "I hope his distinguished services will be restored to his country," wrote General van Dorn. General Sterling Price also alluded to him as "one of his best and bravest officers". In this fatal battle, in which so many brilliant officers lost their lives he was one of the costliest sacrifices of Missouri. (Quotes taken from Confederate military history.) This brevette of unknown manufacture is original and has great collection history. It is pictured and described inConfederate Presentation & Inscribed Swords & Revolversby Dan Hartzler, 1988 and has a large file of correspondence starting in 1974. This gun has been in several fine Confederate collections and was studied by early Confederate authority Henry Stewart. The inscription on backstrap reads "BRIG. GEN'L WM.Y.SLACK IV Mo.S.G." The gun is beautifully made emulating Colt Navy with 7-3/4" octagonal bbl, iron frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The metal of bbl and frame show striations not seen on American or European brevettes and Henry Stewart and Russ Pritchard commented in a 1984 letter that the gun is quite a mystery as to maker. Engraved under loading arm on bottom of bbl "GEO. S. POLLEYS ARKADELPHIA 1862". Captain George S. Polleys was in charge of the Confederate Ordnance Works at Arkadelphia, AR and when this establishment moved to Tyler, TX he was placed in charge of the armory there. Polleys also served with Arkansas regiment and was captured in 1865. The connection between the Polleys and Slack is unknown. Accompanying revolver is a rare signature on legal document signed by Slack in 1841. Regardless, this is an interesting revolver with good collection history. PROVENANCE: Collection of Fred Slayton, Nebo, KY; Don Bryan collection; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun is crisp with traces of finish. Markings are excellent as can be seen in photos. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. Hand worn checkered wood stocks. Cylinder retains crisp safety pins and unique knurling on surface. 51957-16 JS
WILLIAM Y. SLACK OF MISSOURI, KILLED IN ACTION AT BATTLE OF PEA RIDGE, ARK. NSN. Cal. 34. Brigadier General William Y. Slack (1816-1862) of the Missouri State Guard at th...moree Battle of Wilson's Creek, August 10, 1861, his command was the first to attack Union General Lyon's troops and suffered severely. 36 were killed and 76 wounded, General Slack himself fell with a dangerous wound at the head of column. After Slack recuperated he was back in action and commanding troops in the spring campaign of 1862 in Northeast Arkansas which resulted in the fierce battle at Elkhorn Tavern (Battle of Pea Ridge). At the opening of the fight on March 7, while maintaining a successful attack, he was shot through the body, a wound which proved mortal. "I hope his distinguished services will be restored to his country," wrote General van Dorn. General Sterling Price also alluded to him as "one of his best and bravest officers". In this fatal battle, in which so many brilliant officers lost their lives he was one of the costliest sacrifices of Missouri. (Quotes taken from Confederate military history.) This brevette of unknown manufacture is original and has great collection history. It is pictured and described inConfederate Presentation & Inscribed Swords & Revolversby Dan Hartzler, 1988 and has a large file of correspondence starting in 1974. This gun has been in several fine Confederate collections and was studied by early Confederate authority Henry Stewart. The inscription on backstrap reads "BRIG. GEN'L WM.Y.SLACK IV Mo.S.G." The gun is beautifully made emulating Colt Navy with 7-3/4" octagonal bbl, iron frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The metal of bbl and frame show striations not seen on American or European brevettes and Henry Stewart and Russ Pritchard commented in a 1984 letter that the gun is quite a mystery as to maker. Engraved under loading arm on bottom of bbl "GEO. S. POLLEYS ARKADELPHIA 1862". Captain George S. Polleys was in charge of the Confederate Ordnance Works at Arkadelphia, AR and when this establishment moved to Tyler, TX he was placed in charge of the armory there. Polleys also served with Arkansas regiment and was captured in 1865. The connection between the Polleys and Slack is unknown. Accompanying revolver is a rare signature on legal document signed by Slack in 1841. Regardless, this is an interesting revolver with good collection history. PROVENANCE: Collection of Fred Slayton, Nebo, KY; Don Bryan collection; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun is crisp with traces of finish. Markings are excellent as can be seen in photos. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. Hand worn checkered wood stocks. Cylinder retains crisp safety pins and unique knurling on surface. 51957-16 JS

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RARE CONFEDERATE INSCRIBED COLT ARMY REVOLVER, CAPTURED BY GEORGE

Lot # 1267 (Sale Order: 268 of 755)      

HILBERT, COMPANY B 12TH VIRGINIA CAVALRY WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 95849. Cal.44. This is a standard Model 1860 US issued Colt Army revolver shipped to the Frankfort Arsenal, February 17, 1863. This gun would have been issued immediately to US Cavalry and could have been captured by the 12th Virginia Cavalry at the Battle of Brandy Station June 10, 1863 where Col. A. W. Harman of the 12th VA reports capturing 68 Colt Army pistols along with some rifles, sabers and horses. The 12th Virginia was hard fought at that battle, having 55 casualties killed, wounded and/or captured including George's brother John Hilbert killed. Both brothers enlisted in 1862 in Harrisburg, VA. Hilberts's records, which are included, are sketchy but he was captured late in the war and was sent to Elmira Prison and not released until June 27, 1865. Gun is honest and dark and well used. Left stock is impeccably carved "G. Hilbert / Co. B 12 V". PROVENANCE: Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1986. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter. CONDITION: Fair to good overall. Metal is a mottled grey/brown. Appears all orig and matching with exception of replaced wedge and wedge screw. Gun is functional with discernible rifling in bore. Stocks are well fit with carved inscription as noted with hand worn patina, with much edge wear and rounded wear at toes. Lot includes a framed 25" x 20" limited edition print by Don Troiani of the "12th VA Cavalry CSA". 51957-30 JS
HILBERT, COMPANY B 12TH VIRGINIA CAVALRY WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 95849. Cal.44. This is a standard Model 1860 US issued Colt Army revolver shipped to the Frankfort Arsena...morel, February 17, 1863. This gun would have been issued immediately to US Cavalry and could have been captured by the 12th Virginia Cavalry at the Battle of Brandy Station June 10, 1863 where Col. A. W. Harman of the 12th VA reports capturing 68 Colt Army pistols along with some rifles, sabers and horses. The 12th Virginia was hard fought at that battle, having 55 casualties killed, wounded and/or captured including George's brother John Hilbert killed. Both brothers enlisted in 1862 in Harrisburg, VA. Hilberts's records, which are included, are sketchy but he was captured late in the war and was sent to Elmira Prison and not released until June 27, 1865. Gun is honest and dark and well used. Left stock is impeccably carved "G. Hilbert / Co. B 12 V". PROVENANCE: Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1986. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter. CONDITION: Fair to good overall. Metal is a mottled grey/brown. Appears all orig and matching with exception of replaced wedge and wedge screw. Gun is functional with discernible rifling in bore. Stocks are well fit with carved inscription as noted with hand worn patina, with much edge wear and rounded wear at toes. Lot includes a framed 25" x 20" limited edition print by Don Troiani of the "12th VA Cavalry CSA". 51957-30 JS

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CONFEDERATE, POSSIBLY LOUIS HAIMAN COPY OF COLT NAVY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1268 (Sale Order: 269 of 755)      

SN 16. Cal. 36. 13" overall, 7-7/16" oct-rnd bbl. Comparing the SN dies of this gun and three known complete Columbus Firearms revolvers and the one composite gun with makers marks, numbers on this gun are very similar. This gun was thought to be a product of Columbus, GA by Mr. Racker and he could be correct. SN "46" with oct bbl housing in the Hayes Otoupalik Collection is also unmarked but with an oct bbl, made by same maker as subject gun. We can not state that this indeed is a product of the Columbus Firearms Company, but it indeed closely emulates their product with lack of markings. Subject gun and SN "46" both originated in Georgia, further adding to the speculation. PROVENANCE: Unknown private collection; Don Bryan, Roanoake, VA, 1992; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1992. CONDITION: Good to very good overall for a Confederate arm, with traces of finish found in protected areas. Gun appears orig with exception of possibly restored latch, one cone and possibly a couple of screws. SN "16" found on bbl, frame, trigger guard and cylinder. Wedge is SNd "8". Metal overall is a mottled dark grey patina with staining and pitting; brass has a medium mustard color. 51957-19 JS
SN 16. Cal. 36. 13" overall, 7-7/16" oct-rnd bbl. Comparing the SN dies of this gun and three known complete Columbus Firearms revolvers and the one composite gun with ma...morekers marks, numbers on this gun are very similar. This gun was thought to be a product of Columbus, GA by Mr. Racker and he could be correct. SN "46" with oct bbl housing in the Hayes Otoupalik Collection is also unmarked but with an oct bbl, made by same maker as subject gun. We can not state that this indeed is a product of the Columbus Firearms Company, but it indeed closely emulates their product with lack of markings. Subject gun and SN "46" both originated in Georgia, further adding to the speculation. PROVENANCE: Unknown private collection; Don Bryan, Roanoake, VA, 1992; Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1992. CONDITION: Good to very good overall for a Confederate arm, with traces of finish found in protected areas. Gun appears orig with exception of possibly restored latch, one cone and possibly a couple of screws. SN "16" found on bbl, frame, trigger guard and cylinder. Wedge is SNd "8". Metal overall is a mottled dark grey patina with staining and pitting; brass has a medium mustard color. 51957-19 JS

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INSCRIBED COLT NAVY, CHARLES G. PEARSON 9TH FLORIDA INFANTRY

Lot # 1269 (Sale Order: 270 of 755)      

IN ORIGINAL HOLSTER. SN 54359. Cal. 36. This was one of Mr. Donaldson's most recent purchases and was found in North Florida in 2010 in fine orig brown leather holster. The gun is standard 3rd model Colt Navy with small trigger guard, all orig and matching with a contemporary inscription on backstrap "C.G. PEARSON". Though we cannot state unequivocally that this is Charles G. Pearson's gun (it could be another C. G. Pearson), it sure has the look and feel of a Confederate used revolver in a well made Confederate style military flap holster. Sgt. Major Charles G. Pearson was the son of John Pearson of the Oklawaha Rangers who outfitted his men personally while on a trip to Charleston prior to the war. He bought 125 smooth bore muskets and 100 Colt revolvers. It makes sense that Pearson could have easily bought older revolvers as it is noted in text attached in provenance that after the war began his obsolete smooth bore muskets were returned to his machine shop in Orange Springs for rifling. Charles G. Pearson enlisted with his fathers independent company of Florida volunteers at 18 years old on May 14, 1862. He was promoted to Sgt in Oct. 1863 and listed as Sgt Major in May 1864. Charles was wounded and changed to staff and field duties, surrendering at Appomattox April 9, 1865. Charles died August 1870 at the age of 27 at Newnansville (where he was born) and is buried at Orange Springs, FL. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Good to very good overall with mottled gray patina with pitting, especially on left side of bbl and loading arm. Gun appears orig and all matching, all SN parts normally numbered are numbered including wedge. Markings are crisp and discernible including 1-line New York address and SN's. Cylinder retains 60-70% discernible rolled Naval battle scene. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina and rounded corners at rear toes with no SN. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 20% of their orig silver plating with clear discernible description on backstrap. Mechanically functional with well defined rifling in bore. Accompanying holster fits gun well, is sound and fairly supple with crazing and resewn belt loop from time of use. 52430-13 JS
IN ORIGINAL HOLSTER. SN 54359. Cal. 36. This was one of Mr. Donaldson's most recent purchases and was found in North Florida in 2010 in fine orig brown leather holster. T...morehe gun is standard 3rd model Colt Navy with small trigger guard, all orig and matching with a contemporary inscription on backstrap "C.G. PEARSON". Though we cannot state unequivocally that this is Charles G. Pearson's gun (it could be another C. G. Pearson), it sure has the look and feel of a Confederate used revolver in a well made Confederate style military flap holster. Sgt. Major Charles G. Pearson was the son of John Pearson of the Oklawaha Rangers who outfitted his men personally while on a trip to Charleston prior to the war. He bought 125 smooth bore muskets and 100 Colt revolvers. It makes sense that Pearson could have easily bought older revolvers as it is noted in text attached in provenance that after the war began his obsolete smooth bore muskets were returned to his machine shop in Orange Springs for rifling. Charles G. Pearson enlisted with his fathers independent company of Florida volunteers at 18 years old on May 14, 1862. He was promoted to Sgt in Oct. 1863 and listed as Sgt Major in May 1864. Charles was wounded and changed to staff and field duties, surrendering at Appomattox April 9, 1865. Charles died August 1870 at the age of 27 at Newnansville (where he was born) and is buried at Orange Springs, FL. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Good to very good overall with mottled gray patina with pitting, especially on left side of bbl and loading arm. Gun appears orig and all matching, all SN parts normally numbered are numbered including wedge. Markings are crisp and discernible including 1-line New York address and SN's. Cylinder retains 60-70% discernible rolled Naval battle scene. Grips are well fit with hand worn patina and rounded corners at rear toes with no SN. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 20% of their orig silver plating with clear discernible description on backstrap. Mechanically functional with well defined rifling in bore. Accompanying holster fits gun well, is sound and fairly supple with crazing and resewn belt loop from time of use. 52430-13 JS

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EXTREMELY RARE, UNIQUE AND IMPORTANT ARCHIVE OF PATENT PAPERS

Lot # 1270 (Sale Order: 271 of 755)      

ALONG WITH PGT BEAUREGARD LETTER OF INTRODUCTION OF COL. LEMAT FOR PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING HIS PATENT. Included in this archive is the original 20" x 12-1/2" hand drawn patent illustration along with printed United States patent letter and similar drawing printed by U.S. Patent Office. The original drawing has the bold signature of Dr. LeMat and is well known in the literature having been published in at least 3 important texts. The highly detailed LeMat drawing has inscription in upper right corner translated from French "To my excellent friend, Mr. Robert Benguerel" signed boldly "A. LeMat". Though LeMat's full name was Jean Alexandre Francois LeMat he was always simply known as Dr. Alexandre LeMat. After 1859 he was always known as "Colonel Alexandre LeMat". The accompanying letter from LeMat's business partner at the time in April 1859, PGT Beauregard, introduces Col. A. LeMat."Permit me to introduce to you my friend Col. A. LeMat who is on a visit to Washington for the purpose of submitting to the government his 'grapeshot revolving pistol' which is a great improvement on Colt's revolver..."This is a spectacular archive that was originally put together by prominent Confederate revolver collector, Don Bryan. PROVENANCE: Original drawing: Dr. Alexandre LeMat 1856; Robert Benguerel (Col. LeMat's friend and attorney); John W. Boyle; pictured on page 481 in "The Powder Flask Book" by Ray Riling 1953; pictured on page 85 of "Confederate Handguns" by Albaugh, Benet & Simmons 1963. Printed patent paper: pictured on page 16 of "Colonel Francois A. LeMat" by Marie and Alain Serpette 1995; pictured on page 26 of "LeMat The Man, The Gun" by Forgett and Serpette 1996; pictured on frontispiece and page 17 of "The Confederate LeMat Revolver" by Doug Adams 2005. Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1998. CONDITION: Documents are all mounted in 4 frames. None were removed. The two printed patent documents both show cracks and folds and the printed document has several reductions and that particular piece of paper appears yellow and brittle as can be seen in photographs. The hand drawn document shows several repaired cracks but drawing does not appear affected. The ink inscription and signature are discernible. The Beauregard letter of introduction appears very good-fine also. 51957-29 JS
ALONG WITH PGT BEAUREGARD LETTER OF INTRODUCTION OF COL. LEMAT FOR PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING HIS PATENT. Included in this archive is the original 20" x 12-1/2" hand drawn pat...moreent illustration along with printed United States patent letter and similar drawing printed by U.S. Patent Office. The original drawing has the bold signature of Dr. LeMat and is well known in the literature having been published in at least 3 important texts. The highly detailed LeMat drawing has inscription in upper right corner translated from French "To my excellent friend, Mr. Robert Benguerel" signed boldly "A. LeMat". Though LeMat's full name was Jean Alexandre Francois LeMat he was always simply known as Dr. Alexandre LeMat. After 1859 he was always known as "Colonel Alexandre LeMat". The accompanying letter from LeMat's business partner at the time in April 1859, PGT Beauregard, introduces Col. A. LeMat."Permit me to introduce to you my friend Col. A. LeMat who is on a visit to Washington for the purpose of submitting to the government his 'grapeshot revolving pistol' which is a great improvement on Colt's revolver..."This is a spectacular archive that was originally put together by prominent Confederate revolver collector, Don Bryan. PROVENANCE: Original drawing: Dr. Alexandre LeMat 1856; Robert Benguerel (Col. LeMat's friend and attorney); John W. Boyle; pictured on page 481 in "The Powder Flask Book" by Ray Riling 1953; pictured on page 85 of "Confederate Handguns" by Albaugh, Benet & Simmons 1963. Printed patent paper: pictured on page 16 of "Colonel Francois A. LeMat" by Marie and Alain Serpette 1995; pictured on page 26 of "LeMat The Man, The Gun" by Forgett and Serpette 1996; pictured on frontispiece and page 17 of "The Confederate LeMat Revolver" by Doug Adams 2005. Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker, 1998. CONDITION: Documents are all mounted in 4 frames. None were removed. The two printed patent documents both show cracks and folds and the printed document has several reductions and that particular piece of paper appears yellow and brittle as can be seen in photographs. The hand drawn document shows several repaired cracks but drawing does not appear affected. The ink inscription and signature are discernible. The Beauregard letter of introduction appears very good-fine also. 51957-29 JS

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EXTREMELY RARE INSCRIBED CASED EARLY 1ST MODEL LEMAT GRAPESHOT

Lot # 1271 (Sale Order: 272 of 755)      

REVOLVER BELONGING TO CONFEDERATE SURGEON THOMAS B. MEMMINGER SON OF CONFEDERATE SEC. OF TREASURY CHRISTOPHER G. MEMMINGER. SN 25. Cal. 42/18ga. This is an extremely fine and complete orig example of a rarely offered 1st Model LeMat carried by Thomas. B. Memminger, a Confederate surgeon and son of the Confederate Secretary of the Treasury. SN "25" has all the rare 1st Model features, including earliest bbl markings of "COL. LeMAT'S PATENT", loading assembly attached to bbl on right side of gun, spur trigger guard and pinned lanyard ring stud, and reciprocating pin cylinder rotation system. The 2-pc walnut grips with escutcheons are in excellent condition and stamped "Baquet" internally as are the few other surviving very early LeMats. Another early feature in LeMat #25 is the rabbetted slip-fit joint between the grapeshot barrel and the regular barrel; later models were held together by a series of threads and were screwed off in disassembly. The piece at hand is an excellent example of perhaps the most intriguing firearm used in the American Civil War identified to prominent SC family, all original, complete, functional and preserved in beautiful condition in "Paris" Confederate South Carolina marked casing with accessories. The brass plaque in top of lid "T. B. Memminger". Thomas B. Memminger (1838-1918) was a Confederate surgeon during the Civil War in South Carolina and the son of Confederate Secretary of the Treasury Christopher Memminger (1803-1888). His wartime papers along with his fathers are deposited in the University of South Carolina and University of South Carolina archives. A large file of copied papers accompanies this rare and historical firearm. PROVENANCE: Edward Simmons collection: pictured and described in Wm. Albaugh's "Confederate Handguns" 1963; pictured and described Doug Adams "The Confederate Lemat Revolver", 2005: Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good. Fine overall, gun retains traces of finish in protected areas with good markings, complete and original. Fully functional with crisp bright bore. The accompanying casing retains an original LeMat mold marked 18 on sprue cutter and 19 on brass body. There is a pewter oiler, tin of Ely caps, bag flask, several loose balls and buckshot, and a well patinaed brass compass. Partitions are potentially relined with remnants of the original blue velvet on sides of box. Lock escutcheon has been replaced by a French coin. Latches have French makers mark as does lock. 51957-14 JS
REVOLVER BELONGING TO CONFEDERATE SURGEON THOMAS B. MEMMINGER SON OF CONFEDERATE SEC. OF TREASURY CHRISTOPHER G. MEMMINGER. SN 25. Cal. 42/18ga. This is an extremely fine...more and complete orig example of a rarely offered 1st Model LeMat carried by Thomas. B. Memminger, a Confederate surgeon and son of the Confederate Secretary of the Treasury. SN "25" has all the rare 1st Model features, including earliest bbl markings of "COL. LeMAT'S PATENT", loading assembly attached to bbl on right side of gun, spur trigger guard and pinned lanyard ring stud, and reciprocating pin cylinder rotation system. The 2-pc walnut grips with escutcheons are in excellent condition and stamped "Baquet" internally as are the few other surviving very early LeMats. Another early feature in LeMat #25 is the rabbetted slip-fit joint between the grapeshot barrel and the regular barrel; later models were held together by a series of threads and were screwed off in disassembly. The piece at hand is an excellent example of perhaps the most intriguing firearm used in the American Civil War identified to prominent SC family, all original, complete, functional and preserved in beautiful condition in "Paris" Confederate South Carolina marked casing with accessories. The brass plaque in top of lid "T. B. Memminger". Thomas B. Memminger (1838-1918) was a Confederate surgeon during the Civil War in South Carolina and the son of Confederate Secretary of the Treasury Christopher Memminger (1803-1888). His wartime papers along with his fathers are deposited in the University of South Carolina and University of South Carolina archives. A large file of copied papers accompanies this rare and historical firearm. PROVENANCE: Edward Simmons collection: pictured and described in Wm. Albaugh's "Confederate Handguns" 1963; pictured and described Doug Adams "The Confederate Lemat Revolver", 2005: Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good. Fine overall, gun retains traces of finish in protected areas with good markings, complete and original. Fully functional with crisp bright bore. The accompanying casing retains an original LeMat mold marked 18 on sprue cutter and 19 on brass body. There is a pewter oiler, tin of Ely caps, bag flask, several loose balls and buckshot, and a well patinaed brass compass. Partitions are potentially relined with remnants of the original blue velvet on sides of box. Lock escutcheon has been replaced by a French coin. Latches have French makers mark as does lock. 51957-14 JS

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RARE CONFEDERATE 1ST MODEL LEMAT GRAPESHOT REVOLVER FOUND AFTER

Lot # 1272 (Sale Order: 273 of 755)      

BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA, SN 105. SN 105. Cal. 42/18. Standard configuration 7-1/4" oct to rnd bbl, 5-1/8" shotgun bbl, 9 shot cylinder with central shotgun cylinder which is operated by latch on hammer. This is a fine orig example of a rarely offered 1st Model LeMat that Mr. Donaldson purchased from an Ocala, FL family that related the story that their grandfather who as a boy found it on the Chickamauga battlefield. The gun was missing the loading assembly and latch which Mr. Donaldson had restored. This gun has all the rare 1st Model features, including earliest bbl markings of "COL. LeMAT'S PATENT", loading assembly attached to bbl on right side of gun, spur trigger guard and pinned lanyard ring stud, reciprocating pin cylinder rotation system. This gun is all orig with exception of well restored latch and loading arm, now complete and functional. SN "105" is found on every other part where SN's are normally found including shotgun bbl, frame and cylinder. 1st Model LeMat's are rarely found today with such honest aesthetics and crisp discernible markings showing honest use. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gray/plum color overall. Crisp markings, edgewear, staining and pitting. Gun was not disassembled, but appears orig and matching with exception of restored loading arm and latch. Stocks are well fit with diamond point wear, hand worn patina. Mechanically sound with good rifled bore. 52430-10 JS
BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA, SN 105. SN 105. Cal. 42/18. Standard configuration 7-1/4" oct to rnd bbl, 5-1/8" shotgun bbl, 9 shot cylinder with central shotgun cylinder which i...mores operated by latch on hammer. This is a fine orig example of a rarely offered 1st Model LeMat that Mr. Donaldson purchased from an Ocala, FL family that related the story that their grandfather who as a boy found it on the Chickamauga battlefield. The gun was missing the loading assembly and latch which Mr. Donaldson had restored. This gun has all the rare 1st Model features, including earliest bbl markings of "COL. LeMAT'S PATENT", loading assembly attached to bbl on right side of gun, spur trigger guard and pinned lanyard ring stud, reciprocating pin cylinder rotation system. This gun is all orig with exception of well restored latch and loading arm, now complete and functional. SN "105" is found on every other part where SN's are normally found including shotgun bbl, frame and cylinder. 1st Model LeMat's are rarely found today with such honest aesthetics and crisp discernible markings showing honest use. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gray/plum color overall. Crisp markings, edgewear, staining and pitting. Gun was not disassembled, but appears orig and matching with exception of restored loading arm and latch. Stocks are well fit with diamond point wear, hand worn patina. Mechanically sound with good rifled bore. 52430-10 JS

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RARE CONFEDERATE TRANSITIONAL LEMAT GRAPESHOT REVOLVER.

Lot # 1273 (Sale Order: 274 of 755)      

SN 732. Cal. 42/18. This is an orig example of a transitional LeMat with mostly 1st Model features including most notably swivel lanyard loop on butt and spur on trigger guard. Other than that placement of the loading assembly on the frame and not bbl and bbl address, this gun appears as a 1st Model. No doubt most all 1st Models and transitional models with these features saw hard Confederate use. All parts observed on this gun are SNd 732. This gun has full oct breech and bbl with bbl address reading "COL. LEMAT Bte s.g.d.g. PARIS". This gun appears orig and authentic, however, the loading assembly which is so often missing on actually used LeMat revolvers is professionally restored on this specimen. Some estimates on 1st and transitional Models surviving with orig loading assemblies may be only 10-20%. This gun conforms to other known examples with spur trigger guard and reciprocating pin mechanism and 1st Model style lever latch. This is an honest and orig example of a functional transitional LeMat that most likely saw Confederate service during the Civil War. PROVENANCE: This gun has been in the family collection and has not been on the market for over 50 years. CONDITION: Metal overall is grey/brown with pitting. SNs and bbl address are all well marked and discernible as can be seen in photographs. Lanyard stud retains orig ring. Dove-tailed front sight is orig. Hammer is complete, retaining orig shotgun selector with the early side projections. Gun appears all orig with exception of restored loading assembly which has excellent matching color to rest of gun. Grips are well fit, sound and solid with heavily worn checkering, numerous dings, dents, scratches and other minor blemishes consistent with the gun overall, hand worn patina. Mechanically, gun functions fairly well with well defined rifling. Overall, this is a very honest early Confederate LeMat that no doubt saw use with good markings and aesthetics from muzzle to butt. 52250-1 JS
SN 732. Cal. 42/18. This is an orig example of a transitional LeMat with mostly 1st Model features including most notably swivel lanyard loop on butt and spur on trigger ...moreguard. Other than that placement of the loading assembly on the frame and not bbl and bbl address, this gun appears as a 1st Model. No doubt most all 1st Models and transitional models with these features saw hard Confederate use. All parts observed on this gun are SNd 732. This gun has full oct breech and bbl with bbl address reading "COL. LEMAT Bte s.g.d.g. PARIS". This gun appears orig and authentic, however, the loading assembly which is so often missing on actually used LeMat revolvers is professionally restored on this specimen. Some estimates on 1st and transitional Models surviving with orig loading assemblies may be only 10-20%. This gun conforms to other known examples with spur trigger guard and reciprocating pin mechanism and 1st Model style lever latch. This is an honest and orig example of a functional transitional LeMat that most likely saw Confederate service during the Civil War. PROVENANCE: This gun has been in the family collection and has not been on the market for over 50 years. CONDITION: Metal overall is grey/brown with pitting. SNs and bbl address are all well marked and discernible as can be seen in photographs. Lanyard stud retains orig ring. Dove-tailed front sight is orig. Hammer is complete, retaining orig shotgun selector with the early side projections. Gun appears all orig with exception of restored loading assembly which has excellent matching color to rest of gun. Grips are well fit, sound and solid with heavily worn checkering, numerous dings, dents, scratches and other minor blemishes consistent with the gun overall, hand worn patina. Mechanically, gun functions fairly well with well defined rifling. Overall, this is a very honest early Confederate LeMat that no doubt saw use with good markings and aesthetics from muzzle to butt. 52250-1 JS

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RARE TRANSITIONAL LEMAT REVOLVER WITH ORIGINAL HOLSTER OF JAMES

Lot # 1274 (Sale Order: 275 of 755)      

M. LOUDON, 7TH LOUISIANA. SN 1093. Cal. 42/18. Mr. Donaldson purchased this gun about 1977 in Jackson, LA and family provenance stated that it had been owned by James Mortimer Loudon (1824-1919). Loudon served originally as a private in Co. B 7th LA Infantry, later under Capt. Ambrose's 18th Battalion LA Cavalry and was paroled Gainesville, AL May 12, 1865. Revolver is an early 2nd model with several transitional features showing hard honest use. The gun appears all orig with minor restoration and crisp markings. The accompanying orig LeMat holster is extremely well made utilizing waterproof interior lining. Belt loop has iron buckle for attachment for over the shoulder strap, not seen on any other LeMat holsters. PROVENANCE: Loudon family, Jackson, La; Bill Moore collection, Baton Rouge; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson (1977). CONDITION: Gun appears orig, complete and authentic with a most unusual original transitional latch. SN's are found on all major parts normally numbered with exception of loading arm pivot, which is orig but has welded repair over area where SN would be found, the rammer, detachable rod and loading arm screw are all properly numbered. The 2 ears to hammer have also been restored, otherwise this is totally orig and "as found" gun with its unique orig LeMat holster which has reductions and tearing at folded flap which still retains orig tarred linen liner and most unusual brass locking finial. Mechanically sound with well defined rifled bore. 52430-11 JS
M. LOUDON, 7TH LOUISIANA. SN 1093. Cal. 42/18. Mr. Donaldson purchased this gun about 1977 in Jackson, LA and family provenance stated that it had been owned by James Mor...moretimer Loudon (1824-1919). Loudon served originally as a private in Co. B 7th LA Infantry, later under Capt. Ambrose's 18th Battalion LA Cavalry and was paroled Gainesville, AL May 12, 1865. Revolver is an early 2nd model with several transitional features showing hard honest use. The gun appears all orig with minor restoration and crisp markings. The accompanying orig LeMat holster is extremely well made utilizing waterproof interior lining. Belt loop has iron buckle for attachment for over the shoulder strap, not seen on any other LeMat holsters. PROVENANCE: Loudon family, Jackson, La; Bill Moore collection, Baton Rouge; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson (1977). CONDITION: Gun appears orig, complete and authentic with a most unusual original transitional latch. SN's are found on all major parts normally numbered with exception of loading arm pivot, which is orig but has welded repair over area where SN would be found, the rammer, detachable rod and loading arm screw are all properly numbered. The 2 ears to hammer have also been restored, otherwise this is totally orig and "as found" gun with its unique orig LeMat holster which has reductions and tearing at folded flap which still retains orig tarred linen liner and most unusual brass locking finial. Mechanically sound with well defined rifled bore. 52430-11 JS

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1.178.0.1824.76f8675.11.91