Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day One

Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day One

Sunday, March 15, 2015  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day One

Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day One

Sunday, March 15, 2015  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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Description

An Event for the Ages, this highly anticipated fresh to the market offering will be the focus of those passionate about firearms history.12 prestigious collections will be featured.

James D. Julia Inc.


(207) 453-7125
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Pg : 17 of 23

RARE AND FINE CONFEDERATE NAVAL OFFICER'S SWORD.

Lot # 1405 (Sale Order: 401 of 563)      

This is among the very finest examples of a very rare Confederate regulation pattern sword with probably less than 20 examples known by both manufacturers. This sword retains almost all of its orig gilt and luster. The 30-1/4" blade exhibits 18-1/2" etched panels showing cotton plants and patriotic naval motifs such as crossed cannons superimposed over a fluted anchor and a Confederate first national flag superimposed over a fluted anchor. This sword also has etched maker's mark "FIRMIN & SONS, 153 STRAND & 13 CONDUIT ST, LONDON". The correct scabbard has decoration of naval knots attaching sword rings and the drag has intertwined snakes, which is unique to this pattern. The hilt on this sword is decorated in the basket with cotton and tobacco surrounding an oval medallion with a fluted anchor superimposed over crossed cannons. Shark skin grip is wrapped with triple wire protected by a backstrap representing a sea serpent or dolphin with a scaled back. Very rarely are these swords ever seen in such high condition and this is no doubt the finest specimen we have ever offered; though a very fine example made by Mole with South Carolina agents marking was sold on these floors in the Fall of 2012. CONDITION: Blade exhibits most all of its orig luster, etched panels are bright and clear, as can be seen in photos, with small scattered areas of staining and pinprick pitting. Brass hilt and backstrap retain about 90% of their orig gilt with scattered areas of staining, as can be seen in photos. Shark skin grip is complete, showing light wear at the high spots. Copper wire is complete and tight. Scabbard is sound and solid retaining most of its original black dyed surface, there is a weak area with crazing and scuffing at junction of scabbard body and drag. Scabbard mounts retain about 60-70% orig gilt with scattered storage scratches. 8-76403

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JAMES CONNING CONFEDERATE OFFICER'S SWORD OF LIEUTENANT R.M. ROGERS OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES REVENU

Lot # 1406 (Sale Order: 402 of 563)      

Not only is this among the finest James Conning, Mobile, Alabama, made foot officer's sword but it is also the only known presentation to a Confederate in the Revenue Marines. Lt. Rogers came from a long line of naval officers and Marines; his father William Rogers had served with Stephen Decatur on the "Enterprise" and the "Intrepid" during the War of 1812 and had been at Tripoli during the Barbary Coast War in 1804. His younger brother William F. Rogers was a U.S. Revenue Marine and later Confederate Revenue Marine. 3rd Lt Robert M. Rogers received his commission in the Confederate States Revenue Marines May 4, 1861 by order of Stephen Mallory, Secretary of the Confederate Navy. Lt. Rogers was immediately ordered to the CSS Revenue Cutter "Morgan", then stationed at Mobile, Alabama. Rogers performed his duty with efficiency, protecting Confederate assets in Mobile Bay. In December of 1861 Lt. Rogers took command of the Schooner "Clair". He transversed the Union blockade and on Feb 13, 1862 he arrived back in Mobile with a cargo of gun powder and other valuable ordnance. Within a month after his daring blockade run, Rogers was given command of the CSS gunboat "Bradford" in Pensacola, Florida and again ran the blockade from Pensacola back to Mobile. In July 1862 Rogers was ordered to Choctow Bluff, Alabama to train the men of the 36th Alabama in the use of coastal artillery guns. On August 19, 1862 Rogers was assigned to the staff of General Frank Gardner, then located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, preparing for the imminent invasion of Kentucky with Braxton Bragg. Here Rogers was in charge of ordnance. It was in this capacity that he saw active service throughout the ill fated Kentucky campaign, where according to General Gardner he served with "zeal and energy" On October 1st, in recognition for his outstanding performance and attention to duty, General Gardner recommended that Rogers be promoted to 1st Lt. of Artillery. General Gardner, in April 1863, requested Lt. Rogers be made Captain of Artillery. "Interesting note on the history of this sword is that it did not descend in the family of Lt. Rogers but in the family of Confederate Major James W. Spratley of Mobile. An examination of Major Spratley's military career and background show a close relationship to that of Captain Rogers. Rogers first met Spratley on August 19 when he was transferred to General Gardner's staff where Spratley was also on the staff. In April 1863 Rogers was ordered to Richmond, Virginia for a meeting with the War Department and perhaps visit the family of his friend Major Spratley who lived in nearby Smithfield, Virginia. In anticipation of the long, tiresome and rather difficult journey laying ahead and his inevitable return, Rogers took only the absolute essentials to make traveling as light as possible, leaving the major portion of his baggage, including his sword, with Spratley, his friend and compatriot in arms. History, of course, took a fateful hand in the sequence of events that follow and Rogers was never to see Spratley and his sword again". Spratley lived in Mobile until his death in 1912. Rogers post war residence and career remains a mystery as his life is not known after his parole on May 22, 1865 as Captain and Assistance Ordnance Officer for the State of Alabama. This most historical sword is described in detail on page 32 in William Albaugh's "Confederate Edged Weapons". Albaugh states: "This weapon was once owned by Major J. W. Spratley...on the staff of General Gardner, CSA and used at the siege of Ft. Hudson after the original owner Rogers had been killed." There are several hundreds pages of correspondence and notes concerning the history and provenance on this sword, but we cannot find any mention of Rogers' death. Rogers is also mentioned in the 1978 publication by Ralph W. Donnelly "History of the Confederate States Marine Corps". PROVENANCE: Captain Robert M. Rogers; Major James Walter Spratley; Walter W. Stephen (great-grandson); William Albaugh; James C. Harris; Southern collection. CONDITION: 29-3/4" blade is gray/bright with scattered areas of staining and pitting. The leather grip wrap is complete. The twisted brass wire is complete and tight though there is an apparent (war time?) repair and replacement of a finer twisted brass wire. Patina to brass hilt, pommel and scabbard mounts is present with scattered scratches, small dings and dents, especially in the drag. Small traces of orig gold wash is visible on hilt, pommel and top mount and also present on snap ring from sword belt still attached to top notch. SN "204" are well struck and discernible on all 3 scabbard mounts and hilt. Leather scabbard body is sound and solid with scattered cracks, scuffs and scrapes. 8-76338

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VERY FINE & RARE CONFEDERATE DANCE REVOLVER.

Lot # 1407 (Sale Order: 403 of 563)      

SN 165. Cal. 44. SN 165. Of the approximate 100 Dance pistols that survive, about 85 are 44 Cal. Of these 85 guns, this gun probably falls in the top 10% for condition, making this one of the top five or ten 44 Cal. Dances known. SN 165 is found on all major parts including bbl, latch, loading arm, wedge, cylinder, frame, hammer, trigger-guard, and backstrap. Overall edges are sharp. Action is tight and very good. This gun by NRA standards grades very good. By Confederate standards this gun is excellent with crisp edges, traces of finish and bright bore. Dance revolvers saw hard Confederate use, mostly in the Western and Trans-Mississippi theaters of the way. Any Texas Confederate soldier would be proud to carry a Texas made revolver of the highest quality. Gun appears to be 100% orig and authentic in every regard and is much above average of most encountered specimens. All screws, cones, sight and internal parts appear orig, even the wedge screw which is often lost or restored is orig. This gun has exemplary collection history and was one of the finest Confederate pistols in the William Locke Collection, and is pictured in his collection book. This is the finest Dance revolver we have ever offered and it would be difficult to find a better provenanced or high condition example. PROVENANCE: William Locke Collection, Tom Wibberly, Ron Bridges, H.C. Alexander, pictured in the Jan-Feb 1974 North South Trader magazine, pictured in Dance & Brothers Texas Gunmakers of the Confederacy by Gary Wiggins 1986, Gary Bizacky Collection. CONDITION: Iron surfaces overall are smooth & grey/brown with some staining & pitting, especially near muzzle. SNs are all crisp & well-defined. Cylinder is especially crisp showing crisp well-defined safety pins. Crisp, well-defined perimeter line at front edge of cylinder. Mechanically gun has crisp action & shiny bore with crisp rifling. Grips are fine & well fit retaining about 90% of their orig varnish with edge wear & small chip to left inside toe. 8-76392

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VERY RARE CONFEDERATE OCTAGON BARREL DANCE DRAGOON REVOLVER.

Lot # 1408 (Sale Order: 404 of 563)      

SN 121. Cal. 44. Of the approximate 100 Dance pistols that survive, about 85 are 44 Cal. Of these 85 guns, only five other substantiated guns have full oct bbls. These oct bbl guns (SN's 164, 172 and 247, <> <> <> <> (4 diamonds)) like this example here have fancier burl stocks and is a very fine example. SN 121 is found on all major parts including bbl, loading arm, cylinder, frame, hammer, trigger-guard, and backstrap. Overall edges are sharp. Action is tight and very good. This gun by NRA standards grades good to very good. By Confederate standards this gun is very fine. Dance revolvers saw hard Confederate use, and the men who carried these knew where they were made and were proud to carry one. Gun appears to be orig and authentic in every regard and is much above average of most encountered specimens. All screws, cones, sight and internal parts appear orig, though the wedge is not numbered and appears to be a contemporary replacement still retaining the orig wedge screw, though 1/2 of its head is missing. This gun was originally found by a charter member of the Texas Gun Collector's Association Vic Frederick. According to Mr. Frederick's collection card he purchased the gun from an elderly negro woman living near Webberville Texas (East of Austin). He traded a .410 shotgun and a box of cartridges valued at $5.65. This gun is pictured in an early Texas gun collector's newsletter and remained in the family until his grandchildren sold the gun in 2012. This is a rare Dance revolver that would be difficult to find a better example. PROVENANCE: Vic Frederick, about 1945. Pictured in Dance & Brothers Texas Gunmakers of the Confederacy by Gary Wiggins, 1986. Crockett Keller, 2012. Joseph Murphy Collection, 2012. CONDITION: SNs are all well struck and fully discernible. SN appears on left side of loading arm. Brass backstrap & trigger guard have dark mustard colored patina. Iron surfaces of gun are dark grey/brown with scattered pitting overall. Edge of cylinder shows two fine cut lines which is unusual for Dance revolvers as they normally show one cut line which is a unique Dance feature but oct barreled guns do show deluxe features including a silver front blade sight that have only muted on oct. bbl SN172. Grips show some shrinkage but are well fit to gun retaining strong traces of orig varnish and nice walnut figuring. 8-76401

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VERY RARE CONFEDERATE LEECH & RIGDON "NOVELTY WORKS" REVOLVER, SN 15.

Lot # 1409 (Sale Order: 405 of 563)      

SN 15. Cal. .36. This rare Confederate revolver is one of 3 known with bbl marking "LEECH & RIGDON NOVELTY WORKS CSA". The stamping is made from two separate dies "LEECH & RIGDON" and" NOVELTY WORKS CSA". This gun SN 15 and an unserialized gun which was sold on these floors March 2012 are the only two complete specimens known at this time among the Confederate collecting community. SN 11 also exists but is in poor condition with original parts being frame, bbl and trigger guard and not positive after these parts. The earliest Leech & Rigdons made prior to SN 52, including known guns: 11, 15, 25, 26, 39, 41, 47 and unserialized Novelty Works show similar characteristics of manufacture & finish (though different markings). These earliest guns are not "refined" in finish, showing tool marks and nonconsistent bbl lengths not seen after SN 52. Kent Wall in recent ASAC 2011 article states opinion that these earliest guns were possibly commercial production as after government contracts, guns including SN 59 through end of production have consistent "polished" metal surfaces no longer showing tool marks (lathe, file, etc). Bbls are also 7-1/2" with no real deviation. In these early eight revolvers, guns are characterized as shorter and longer bbls, varying 1/8" to 1/4" with lengths varying from 7-1/4" to 7-5/8". Other characteristics not seen on standard production are a larger serial stamping on stocks seen on subject gun, 39, 41 and 52 & not noted later. This gun has SNs present on barrel housing, frame, cylinder (on back adjacent to safety pin), trigger guard, back strap, loading arm, arbor and stocks. SNs are not present on latch or wedge, though in earlier notes of collectors, both parts are thought to be possibly original. There is also a SN noted on loading lever screw, this is only seen on two other Leech revolvers which are SN 26 (though it is unmatched 36) and on 52. Numbered screws are not noted on any other Leech revolvers known to me. Subject gun is NRA Good+ condition, good edges, crisp markings, solid stocks with chipped toes being better than average for Confederate handguns but probably the most desirable of the 2 known complete "Novelty Works" Columbus, Mississippi made pistols. The accompanying ASAC articles by Ted Meredith and Kent Wall detail rarity and configurations. PROVENANCE: Lawrence Austin, Bloomington IL 1953; Gene Howard 1991; Bruce Kusrow; Bernie Crook Collection; Gene Mathis Collection; Joseph Murphy Collection 2012. CONDITION: Gun overall is grey with staining & pitting. All matching as noted in description. Brass has been cleaned with yellow patina. Mechanically gun functions with discernible rifling in pitted bore. Stocks are fairly well fit with gaps at frame with hand-worn patina. Markings all discernible as can be seen in photos. Hints of orig finish are seen in the lever well. 8-76399

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NEWLY DISCOVERED "HIGHEST SERIAL NUMBER KNOWN" FOR CONFEDERATE GRISWOLD REVOLVER 3607.

Lot # 1410 (Sale Order: 406 of 563)      

SN 3607. In all the published Confederate reference books from the most recent to the earliest William Albaugh titles from the 1950s, SN 3606 was the highest known number. It is also noted that the handful of late SN guns have odd variations and assembly and this gun follows the trend of other noted guns including 3606. This gun 3607, however, unlike other guns of the genre is fully serial numbered on frame, cylinder and bbl where the other examples show no more than one fully serial numbered part. According to a monograph by Fred Edmunds, these Griswolds are amongst the rarest of the rare, in his opinion, having been assembled from parts and finished by ex-Griswold workers after the factory was fired by Union cavalry. There were only 2 other such guns known though there are now three with this discovery. The highest known serial number for the Griswold revolver as stated was 3606, and there are some slight variations which occur near the end of production, such as the gun at hand, and several others which will be described. The previously highest known SNs 3544, 3581 and 3606 had white metal "plated" appearance to backstrap & trigger guards, not present here. These other guns were more highly polished and hammers were made without slots for safety pins. This gun is made like a standard second model gun with normal features though Roman Numerals and cryptics do not fully match, typical of these other three examples. Markings observed are as follows. Cylinder, bbl housing and frame are marked on right side with full SN 3607. The cryptic "JJ" is found on top of cylinder, right side of frame internally and right side of trigger guard, a cryptic "11" is found on right side of backstrap. Roman Numeral "XXXV" is found on right side of trigger guard and Roman Numeral "V" is found on right side of backstrap. The wedge is SN 1827 and appears orig to gun's time of use, though most likely Colt in origin. In his fine reference work, "CONFEDERATE REVOLVERS", author William Gary observes that after the Griswold pistol factory was destroyed by Union cavalry in November of 1864, work ceased at that site; but as deliveries to the Confederacy continued to April of 1865, production could have resumed elsewhere, with uncompleted guns and parts being removed, taken elsewhere and finished. This observation may be further enhanced by the fact that gun #3581 has no further serial number stampings than on the cylinder. We firmly believes that Mr. Gary is correct in his observation, and that it just might be possible that these four high numbered Griswolds are among those which were completed after the pistol factory was destroyed! An excellent topic for further research! This is a fine Samuel Griswold revolver made just outside Macon, GA representing most likely the last brass framed Confederate revolver made in the Confederacy, and just recently discovered though early author and Confederate scholar Sam Smith knew of its existence over 50 years ago, though it did not surface until now. PROVENANCE: Gary Bizacky Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is grey with sharp edges with old cleaning, staining and pitting. Brass has old cleaning with mustard colored patina. Stocks are fairly well fit, though they appear slightly small at waist, they are typical and appear orig to their manufacture. There is a glued crack repair on right side. Revolver is mechanically sound with very strong spring with good discernible rifling & bore. 8-76393

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FINE, RARE AND NEWLY DISCOVERED RIGDON & ANSLEY CONFEDERATE REVOLVER.

Lot # 1411 (Sale Order: 407 of 563)      

SN 1764. 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 the rear left side of trigger guard above the trigger bow. All parts are serial numbered #1764, that are normally serial numbered including bbl housing, latch, wedge, frame, arbor, cylinder, backstrap and trigger guard. Loading arm is not numbered. The stocks are also serial numbered internally in channel. Stocks also have a script "WH" cartouche for Confederate Inspector Wescom Hudgins. Rigdon & Ansley #1764, with its "CSA" barrel marking is in fine condition, retaining much of its original blue finish and muted case colors. 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 original 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 in 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 R&A #1764, along with the employment of a "Colt-type" loading lever latching assembly, rather than Leech & Rigdon ball and pin type catches. This gun just recently surfaced and is a beautiful example of an early 12-stop Augusta, Georgia made Rigdon & Ansley revolver purchased by the Confederate government and finely inspected. PROVENANCE: Gary Bizacky Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall, matching throughout. Bbl retains about 20% bright blue with balance plum/grey with scattered nicks, dings and scratches. Cylinder retains traces of bright blue with balance plum. There is a scratched spiral line that circles around cylinder four times which appears original from time of use. The frame is overall silver/grey. Hammer is dark and smooth, loading assembly is smooth with muted case colors and has no SN though latch does. Front site has been converted from brass post to small brass blade and appear original from time of use. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have yellow patina with one area of dents on back bottom of backstrap as can been seen in photos. Grips are sound and well fit with thin traces of original varnish over about 50% of their surface. "W H" cartouche is discernible as can be seen in photos. 8-76395

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FINE AND EXTREMELY RARE CONFEDERATE "C.L.DRAGOONS" COLT NAVY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1412 (Sale Order: 408 of 563)      

SN 94814. The only Colts that were actually sold to a Confederate unit were a group of model 1851 navies and 3rd model dragoons which were sold to John J. Crocheron; therefore the name "CROCHERON LIGHT DRAGOONS". These guns are engraved on the bbls "C.L.DRAGOONS". There are only three known "C L Dragoon" Colt navy revolvers all in similar serial range and this example is no doubt the finest retaining strong traces of finish, crisp markings and all matching. There is an excellent article by Walter Anderson published in the January 1991 Gun Report which gives a detailed history of this unit, which became a part of the 3rd Alabama Calvary which most of its command was utilized to protect commanding generals as escorts. The C L Dragoons were the personal escorts of Gen. Braxton Bragg early in 1862 en route to his command in Corinth, Mississippi just prior to the Battle of Shiloh; where this unit saw action and Capt. Robert W. Smith as commander was cited for "personal gallantry and intelligent execution of orders, frequently under the heaviest fire". This unit continued as escorts and couriers for Bragg in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga. When Gen. Joseph Johnston replaced Bragg as Commander of the Army of Tennessee, this unit continued as his personal escort. Late in 1864 when Confederate President Jefferson Davis impatient with Johnston's actions he placed Gen. John Bell Hood in charge of the Army, again the "C. L. Dragoons" remained as Hood's personal escort. It is thought by the author of the Gun Report article that since so few Navy revolvers are extant and more than a dozen 3rd model dragoons are known that the Navy revolvers were most likely given to officers. It's of note that Samuel Colt presented an inscribed Colt Navy revolver to Alabama Gov. Andrew Moore (SN 95844) which is only thirty numbers different than this gun. Mr. Anderson in his article also notes that he can document 25 Alabama officers receiving Colt Navy's from Gov. Moore. It's of interest that "C.L. Dragoon" marked dragoon revolvers are engraved in block letters where officer's Navies are engraved in italics. If you are interested in the finest Confederate purchased Colt revolver, this may be your only chance. PROVENANCE: Damon Mills Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is brown/grey with traces of blue finish in protected areas and areas of thin plum over much of bbl. Iron surfaces overall are crisp with edge wear and small dings and scratches, especially on right side around wedge slot. Brass post front site appears complete but has been smashed flat. Cylinder has crisp and discernible patent markings and SN with about half of cylinder scene still visible, top edge of cylinder has wear and "naval engagement" legend is only partially discernible. Markings are very good and discernible, including a one line Hartford address, matching SNs are found on loading arm, bbl, frame, arbor, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Stocks also match with last four digits found in grip channel. Wedge is not numbered, though it appears correct. Lever attaching screw and wedge screw are replaced as is bbl latch. Other than these minor restorations gun appears all original. Stocks are well fit with good patina, retaining about 70% of their original varnish with edge wear. There is an indiscernible name scratched on bottom of buttstrap that is partially scratched away as can be seen in photos. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 50% of their original silver with balance a light mustard colored patina. Gun functions well with good, discernible rifling. 4-54459

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FINE CONFEDERATE RIGDON & ANSLEY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1413 (Sale Order: 409 of 563)      

SN 2248. This Confederate revolver made in Augusta, GA is among the last few hundred made with large style serial numbers. Top of bbl flat is properly marked and inspected "CSA". This gun represents the final refinements to Confederate navy revolvers originally made by Leech & Rigdon and finally by Rigdon & Ansley with 12 stops, Navy style latch and cap release groove. The earliest range of these large SN guns start about SN 1920 with the highest known number 2373. All parts are serial numbered including bbl, bbl latch, loading arm, wedge, arbor, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Grips are also internally SN in pencil. A cryptic "W" is found on trigger guard on left side rear. This example is particularly crisp with traces of finish and better than average "CSA" markings. PROVENANCE: Fred Slaton Collection; Steve Slaton 2000; Ed Koske Collection 2000; Reagan Auctions, Seaford DE 2007; Joseph Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. All matching. Iron is mix of grey/brown with grey/blue color to cylinder with pitting, scattered staining, brass trigger guard & backstrap have mustard color patina. Gun functions well with good crisp rifling with pitting. Stocks are well fit with about 30% of their orig varnish finish. 8-76400

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FINE AND EARLY CONFEDERATE SPILLER & BURR REVOLVER.

Lot # 1414 (Sale Order: 410 of 563)      

SN 105. SN 105. Cal. 36. This is a fine example of a scarce brass-framed Confederate revolver made in Georgia during the Civil War. This gun conforms to the standard configuration of other Spiller revolvers and has a 6-7/8" octagonal bbl. Spiller & Burr revolvers were a Confederate brass-framed copy of Whitney's Navy Revolver. This gun shows Confederate Government probable acceptance with a large "CS" stamped on right side of frame. SN appears on the bottom of the bbl, cylinder pin, buttstrap, right side of frame beneath grip, again on frame under trigger guard, trigger guard, loading arbor, and in pencil inside right grip. There are traces of finish in protected areas on this gun. Cylinder and loading arm are not serial numbered, but both appear original. This gun is pictured in Col. Burton's Spiller & Burr Revolver by Matthew Norman, 1996. This is a very fine example with good patina and a crisp "CS" that would make a great addition to the most discriminating collection. PROVENANCE: Col. Robert Howard prior to 1967, William Albaugh 1967, Bruce Kusrow, Ted Meredith 1977, Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: This gun is overall in very good to fine condition and all matching. Gun has crisp edges and functions well. Bore is crisp with well discerned rifling though pitted near muzzle end. Stocks are fine and fit gun well with minor scrapes and scratches. There is a small chip to the inside toe of the left grip. Bbl and cylinder are overall brown with scattered areas of rust and pitting. Tiny traces of blue can be seen in protected areas of bbl. Loading arm has old cleaning on left side and is overall mottled with staining and pitting different than other metal parts of gun, though color is very close. Brass has a pleasing yellow-mustard color. 8-76398

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CONFEDERATE ARKADELPHIA RIFLE.

Lot # 1414A (Sale Order: 411 of 563)      

SN 5. Cal 577. 32-1/2" bbl. This is without doubt the rarest Confederate production longarm to ever be sold. This is the only complete specimen of this gun known. We have been able to find a lockplate SN 8 in an Arkansas Museum mounted in a sporting rifle. An excavated lock is also known. John Murphy and Howard Madaus in their definitive text on Confederate longarms, Confederate Rifles and Muskets, state "Rifles were made in Arkadelphia, Arkansas for a short time, and then the equipment and workers moved to Tyler, Texas where the rare Tyler (Texas) ordinance works rifles were produced." Murphy & Madaus did not know of this recent "find". From the Spring 2003 Texas Gun Collector Magazine article which chronicles the "finding" of this rarity by Rick Steed and Jamie Deason: "The rifle is 47-3/4 inches overall with a barrel length of 32-1/2 inches, the first six inches, at the breech, are hex shaped. The sights contist of a simple V notch at the rear located seven inches forward of the tang, and a very simple wedge shaped blade .577 caliber with three lands and grooves. The lock is marked CS 1863/ARKADELPHIA,ARK (as seen in photo); the percussion hammer stamped 5 on the right side, and is affixed by two bolts that screw into the plate. To prevent the lock bolts from compressing the left side of the stock, each has an iron washer, with a single "wing" on the left side, between the bolt head and the stock. The barrel is secured in its channel by a crudely made "Enfield style" iron band that is marked 5 on top and a tang, which along with its screw, is also marked 6. The barrel is marked 5 on the top barrel flat. I suppose this, then, must be rifle serial No. 5. With the exception of one small brass plate at the base of the ramrod channel, all furniture is iron and crudely manufactured. There is no provision for a sling but the trigger guard has one hole (not visible in photograph) that could have supported a swivel. The nose cap is sheet iron. Possibly the strangest component of the rifle is the stock, which has no comb at all. It is very crude and shows several cracks and checks that seem to indicate the wood was not properly cured, probably the result of hurried manufacturing. A local collector has a copy of the record book from the arsenal that lists all workers including three slaves listed as carpenters; perhaps these men carved the stocks for the arsenal. Despite the overall crudeness of the stock it shoulders very well. There are two period repairs to the stock in front and behind the lock on the right side. In both cases small chips broke off and were reattached with small square nails. The history of arms production in Arkadelphia is one of necessity. After initial military setbacks in the Trans-Mississippi, most Arkansas Confederate troops and arms were sent east of the Mississippi. This move forced Trans-Mississippi Confederate authorities to operate almost entirely independently of Richmond. In an attempt to arm and equip an army, weapons, cartridges, percussion caps etc were manufactured in Arkadelphia Arkansas. Production figures and other records are not known at this time, so the exact number of weapons produced is not available. Although very little information exists regarding rifles produced in Arkadelphia, we do know that the advance of Federal forces to Little Rock Arkansas forced authorities to move machinery and personnel to Marshall and Tyler Texas. The records of the Tyler Ordnance Works are more complete and these show that the Tyler works repaired a number of Arkadelphia Rifles. These records help establish the connections between the Arkansas operations and those in Marshall and Tyler Texas." For the person who wants the single rarest Confederate longarm ever sold, they will have to buy this one because another one is likely never to turn up. CONDITION: This gun is in "as found" condition. Metal is dark and brown/black. Markings are discernible and easy to read on lock, as are scattered serial numbers on other parts. Stock is sound, dark with scattered cracks, scratches, paint splatters. Trigger guard is missing one screw. Stock is missing one band. A brass ramrod pipe has been added to back of ramrod channel for probable continued use after the war. A 5" x 1/4" sliver of wood is missing from forestock from bolster forward. 8-76244

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HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT ANTEBELLUM RIFLE MADE BY LOUIS HOFFMAN VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI FOR J. CULBERTS

Lot # 1415 (Sale Order: 412 of 563)      

Please note(3/3/15): Article about gun maker featuring similar rifle will accompany the gun. Cal. 50. 49-3/4" overall. 4-3/4" x 1-1/4" buttplate. 33-1/2" full oct rifle bbl marked "LOUIS HOFFMAN VICKSBURG MISS." Rifle has six engraved silver inlays, one of which is "running deer" cheekpiece inlay. In addition, two inlays missing, one a shield inlay behind the bbl tang & a 2nd one at bottom of forestock. The two ramrod pipes are silver as are the engraved nosecap, trigger guard, toeplate & buttplate. Elegant silver capbox finely engraved, features the name "J. CULBERTSON". Stock checkered at wrist & percussion lockplate is profusely engraved & includes date 1859. Rifle has double set triggers & bbl tang extends 5-1/2" into the wrist. (Genealogy of the Culbertson and Culberson Families Louis R. Culbertson, 1923) "Jacob Culbertson graduated as #7 in his class from West Point, serving as a cadet from 1 July 1846 to 1 July 1850. He served in Key West, Florida, in 1850 & became Second Lieutenant of 4th Artillery 11 December 1850. From 1850-51 he served at Ft. Columbus, New York; from 1851-1852 at Ft. Mackinac, Michigan; from 1852-53, 1853-56 at West Point, New York, being assigned as Assistant Professor of Natural and Experimental Philosophy in the Military Academy. He was First Lieutenant, 4th Artillery, 14 February 1856, & resigned 10 January 1857. Culbertson served with Confederate forces from 1861-1866. He served as a Lieutenant at Bowling Green, Warren County, Kentucky, during the Civil War. He served in the defense of Fort Henry and in the absence of a superior officer, commanded the batteries which engaged the federal gunboats at the siege of Fort Donaldson, where he was captured and held prisoner at Camp Chase and Johnson's Island until exchanged. A commission as Major was issued to him early in the war, but did not reach him until near the close of the war. Capt. Culbertson fired the first shots in defense of the small village of Coffeeville, Mississippi. According to Tilghman's report, "The first shot fired from the Parrott guns of Captain Heddon's battery, under the direction of Capt. Culbertson, chief of artillery of my division, wounded Colonel Mizner and killed his orderly and three men, ..." He then was a farmer and school teacher near Jackson, Mississippi, 1866-1884. Jacob and Caroline were farming in Rankin County, Mississippi, in 1870 and in Livingston, Madison County, Mississippi, in 1880. Their farm in south Jackson, Hinds County, Mississippi, was known as "Strawberry Hill"". Louis Hoffman, the maker of this rare Civil War era rifle, was a well known gun maker in antebellum Vicksburg and after. Doug Eberhart and R L Wilson in their text The Deringer in America, Volume 1 state "The son of a Prussian Army officer, Louis Ferdinand Alexander Hoffman was born in Stettin, Germany on November 23, 1823. He emigrated to New York in 1852, settling first in Paterson, New Jersey, moving on to St. Louis, and arriving finally in Vicksburg in 1853. He worked initially at the machine shops and foundry of Cimmerman and Reading, but as soon as he had saved enough money, opened his own gun shop. In the Vicksburg Weekly Whig of October 7, 1857 Hoffman advertised "He will make new rifles to order; stock guns and pistols in a superior manner; and do all the repairing in the shortest notice." Four years later the Vicksburg Daily Evening Citizen of May 2, 1861 carried an ad listing Hoffman as a "Wholesale dealer in guns, pistols, revolvers, gun materials, sporting apparatus, fishing tackle, & all kinds of repairing in this line done by the best workmen at the most reasonable rates". The Civil War saw Hoffman repairing guns for the Confederacy until the fall of Vicksburg, when he became a Master Armorer for the Union Army. However, his considerable fortune had been lost & he was deeply in debt when the War ended. Unwilling to renege on his debts, he once again built up his guns and hardware business & proved an astute real estate entrepreneur as well. By 1868, he had expanded his business to include farm implements & household appliances as well as "every variety of pistols, including single barrel, double barrel, four barrel, five barrel, six barrel, Derringer, Allen, Colt, Smith & Wesson, Remington, pepper box & guns of every price & style, single barrel shot guns, muskets, double barrel guns with one barrel rifle & the other smooth bore..." Pre-Civil War era Mississippi made rifles are quite rare & this is a honest silver mounted example identified to a prominent Confederate artillery officer. CONDITION: 4 plugged holes on muzzle end of bbl suggests that rifle at one time had false muzzle or bullet starter. There is sliver of wood missing above lock & a small sliver behind the nosecap on right hand side. Silver spur on rear of trigger guard has been badly bent & poorly restored. Silver 7/8" rectangle inlet into top bbl flat forward of rear sight. Middle screw in the bbl tang may be in place of an orig post sight.

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EXCEPTIONAL CONFEDERATE RICHMOND SHARPS.

Lot # 1416 (Sale Order: 413 of 563)      

SN 3749. This is among the finest examples of Confederate government produced Sharps Carbines extant. This gun retains good orig finish and a crisp "RICHMOND VA" marking behind rear sight on bbl. Total production on these guns was thought to be about 3500 and most all saw very hard use. This example found in Michigan was thought to be a Union souvenir captured not long after it was issued. This gun conforms with other models with exception of most unusual elongated hammer with no knurling, no doubt orig to manufacture this gun. SN 3749 is found on lock, breech and bbl. No further disassembly was attempted or necessary as this gun is in fine "as found" condition. CONDITION: Fine overall, all matching. Metal is mostly smooth and grey with thin orig brown finish found over much of exposed bbl, bright brown in sheltered areas. Brass band and buttplate have good, smooth mustard colored patina. There is a small dent in toe of buttplate where once dropped and a sliver of wood 1-1/2" x 1/2" is missing, otherwise stocks are sound and solid with an old varnish with scattered small dings, dents and scratches and 1-1/2" hairline crack on left side of forestock. Mechanically gun is fine and bore exhibits crisp, well discerned rifling with pitting. 4-54474

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CONFEDERATE COOK ARTILLERY CARBINE.

Lot # 1417 (Sale Order: 414 of 563)      

SN 5058. This may be the finest example of a Cook 21" artillery carbine we have ever seen. The metal & wood are untouched and as found. The ram rod, which is rarely seen, is original. Rifling in bore is crisp & fine. Markings are excellent. Gun retains both original swing swivels. This gun has never previously been offered and has descended in the family of William H. Doliber, who was given this gun on his 16th birthday in 1874, and his name & date are boldly engraved on trigger guard tang. Even though Cook made over 5,000 rifles and carbines, few survive as many were destroyed at War's end by conquering Union troops. Mechanically gun functions, though will not hold on full cock. Bore exhibits crisp, well defined rifling. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall, "as found". Lock markings are mostly discernible, but several letters in address are light as can be seen in photos. Metal is mostly smooth, damascus twist in bbl is easily seen, front sight has been filed away, however fixed rear sight is present. Bbl has matching SN 5058 as do lock screws, rear band, & nose cap. "58" is also stamped on hammer screw. Gun was not disassembled as it is so pure. Wood is very good to fine with one stress crack on right side between lock and rear band, & another starting about 1" l behind lock. Ramrod has bend and front sling swivel is also bent. Stock has fine hand worn patina with the normal small nicks, dings, scratches & small blemishes associated with 150 years. 4-54463

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RARE CIVIL WAR PERRY CARBINE.

Lot # 1418 (Sale Order: 415 of 563)      

SN 397. Cal. .54, 21" rnd bbl brass blade front sight, dovetailed fixed V-notch rear sight. Top flat of breech is marked "A D PERRY/PATENTED" and "PERRY PATENT ARM/NEWARK, NJ". The unique pivoting breech receiver was copied by Confederates who made a brass framed version in Virginia which is actually more common than this very rare US version. Mounted with slightly burled walnut, uncheckered straight grip, steel carbine buttplate, center with a spring-loaded removable tube, iron patchbox on right side with release for the spring-loaded tube. 10-1/4" tapered forend with single retaining band. These rare percussion breech-loading single shots were made by "PERRY PATENT ARMS CO" of Newark, New Jersey. Recent research maintains none believed ever made for the orig government contract. This is a rare survivor in fine condition of a rarely offered US Civil War carbine. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains an even, plum/brown patina. Receiver retains a fairly even, gray/brown patina with scattered areas of staining and light pitting at breech. Stocks are sound and solid with a polished oil finish with small blemishes expected with storage. finish. Mechanics are crisp with a crisp, well defined bore. 4-53998

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CONFEDERATE 1863 DATED FAYETTEVILLE RIFLE.

Lot # 1419 (Sale Order: 416 of 563)      

This is a nice example of the classic CS rifle made at Fayetteville, North Carolina from captured machinery from the US Harper's Ferry Armory. This model conforms to other early to mid 1863 models with saber bayonet lug attached to 33" bbl which originally was 58 Cal. Lock markings are crisp and discernible as can be seen in photos. Stock exhibits good red color often seen in Richmond and Fayetteville stocks. Gun is complete as are all brass mounts including the CSA surcharge butt plate. Correct style VP/Eagle head proofs are seen on bbl as correct "U" stamped on each bbl band. Correct oval "JB" cartouche is found opposite the lock stamped vertically. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Metal overall brown with pitting and staining. Brass is cleaned with a light mustard patina. Both bands have been beaten and flattened on top. Sights are correctly restored as is bayonet lug. Ramrod is replacement. Bore has been reemed to about 62 Cal. and there is no discernible rifling and pitting overall. Several letters on lock appear to have been "freshened". Stock has about a 2" x 1" restored inset between lock and tang. There are several hairline cracks around trigger guard and lock, and numerous small scratches, dents and dings though stock is sound and solid otherwise. 4-54461

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UNIQUE STATE OF VIRGINIA BETHEL BURTON "BROKEN-THREAD PATENT" BREECH-LOADING PERCUSSION TRIALS CARBI

Lot # 1420 (Sale Order: 417 of 563)      

This fine, functioning example of the Bethel Burton patent rifle was most likely one of the few submitted for testing just prior to the Civil War. Burton's design patented December 20, 1859 did not attract US attention, however, the State of Virginia wanted 50,000 firearms made. The start of the Civil War ended this contract and Burton was actually arrested in New York for treason continuing to pursue it. This gun, never previously offered, originated by direct descent from Archibald Witham who was in business with Bethel Burton in the 1860's. Correspondence between current descendent and curator at the Springfield Armory relate this history and story. The Bethel Burton patent number 26476 utilized a rear bolt action with locking threads, later utilized in the Burton-Ward military rifles made in the 1870's. This extremely well made rifle has 24", 54 Cal. bbl with 7 lands and grooves, fixed sights, retained by one iron band. Gun is totally iron mounted, including butt plate, trigger guard and saddle ring bar. His unique 2-piece sliding "Broken-Thread Patent" breech with forward section, with percussion fixed and rotating rear section works perfectly and no doubt fared well in the trials as a contract for 50,000 guns were ordered, though never made due to hostilities. We know of no other examples of this trial gun and a better example would be difficult to find. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall, totally devoid of external markings. But internally many parts numbered "3" which is thought to be SN. Metal is grey/brown overall with scattered staining and pitting.  Mechanically, gun is fine and exhibits crisp, well-defined rifling. Stock retains raised grain with some minor storage blemishes with two chips at right rear toe. Fixed rear sight appears a later edition. Hammer still retains some muted case colors. 4-54036

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FINE CONFEDERATE D-GUARD BOWIE KNIFE WITH RARE ORIGINAL WOOD AND TIN MOUNTED SCABBARD.

Lot # 1421 (Sale Order: 418 of 563)      

This classic Confederate D-Guard Bowie has several rare features including brass guard and still retains its original tin mounted, fitted, wood scabbard. Due to the lack of adequate leather supplies in the South, Confederate cutlers occasionally made wooden scabbards for swords and knives. Fine surviving examples are quite rare. In the text Confederate Bowie Knives by Melton, Phillips and Sexton where several hundred knives are presented, not one is shown with an original Confederate wood scabbard like this rare example here. This knife was probably a souvenir collected by a Union solider early in the war and brought home as a trophy which is the likely reason this example is so well preserved. This knife, like so many Confederate knives utilized a large file for the blade, the blade is very well honed to a near razor edge which is still retained. The soldier who carried this knife "G W Stewart" unfortunately did not put his unit as there are about 25 G W Stewart's found in Confederate database representing every Confederate state. Regardless of which Confederate carried this knife, it is a wonderful example of Southern ingenuity in as fine condition as Southern Bowies are found. PROVENANCE: George Lower, Gary Bizacky Collection 1977. CONDITION: Knife is very good to fine overall. Measuring about 20" overall, with a 14-3/4" double-edged blade, 1-1/2" wide and point 2.1" thick at ricasso. Thin brass guard is 3-4" wide and brass ferrule is 5-8" high, slightly bulbous wooden handle has a larger 1-1/4 x 1/4" wooden knob, cut as a single piece of wood with a hand worn patina. Carved and fitted wooden scabbard body shows numerous small nicks, scratches and blemishes with a well worn patina. There are some initials or markings that appear removed contemporarily under Mr. Stewart's name. Scabbard at one time had an attached belt loop which is missing. 8-76396

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FINE CONFEDERATE NAVAL CUTLASS IN ORIGINAL SCABBARD.

Lot # 1422 (Sale Order: 419 of 563)      

Classic Confederate naval cutlass with "CSN" and fluted anchor cast into pommel. These cutlasses are thought to be made in Richmond, Virginia with feathered grip and cast basket, somewhat on the pattern of the US model 1841. Rarely are these weapons found in high condition with fine blades and even rarer are orig scabbards with the unique integrally sewn frog button in equally fine condition. PROVENANCE: Gary Bizacky Collection. CONDITION: Cutlass 27" overall with 21-1/4" grey/bright blade with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Orig polish marks still present. Hilt and frog button have mustard colored brass patina. Extreme tip of blade is bent. Scabbard body sound and solid including seam. Scattered areas of cracking and mottling and scuffs at high areas. Area around frog button where frog was orig attached is lighter, worn and scuffed. 8-76394

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CONFEDERATE TYLER, TEXAS MADE IRON HILTED SABER BAYONET IN ORIGINAL SCABBARD.

Lot # 1423 (Sale Order: 420 of 563)      

There is no doubt this is the finest example of the iron handled, flat bladed saber bayonets made at the Tyler, Texas Confederate gun works. This unique pattern is totally smooth with a birds head shaped pommel with 16 grooves cut into curved portion of handle. Over the years relic bayonets of this pattern have surfaced but this recent find January 2015 at OGCA produced the first known scabbard. The flat vertical loop on throat of scabbard mount is reminiscent of other Confederate western theater swords and edged weapons. This style attachment is not typical of any other manufacturer we know of. This example is in "fine as found" condition and would be difficult to upgrade. Several thousand rifles of various configurations were made at Tyler and it would be interesting to see which variant of the "Hill" or "Texas" rifle this bayonet was made to fit as inside diameter of muzzle ring measures just less then .90". Very few rifles survive and none are known with bayonet lugs. Albert Hardin in his early 1964 text, The American Bayonet, notes the existence of this Confederate pattern but not knowing maker (p. 134, plate 113) and also notes the fact that the Confederate States were notoriously short of iron and this particular pattern was extremely well-made. Surviving records note that there may have been as many as 300 bayonets were delivered between November of 1863 through May of 1864. Tyler Texas CSA by William A. Albaugh, III, 1958.. Confederate Rifles & Muskets by John Murphy and Howard Madaus, 1996. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. 20" blade is grey overall with scattered areas of staining and pitting with some original luster and tool marks. Hilt retains functioning locking mechanism and has dark iron patina. Scabbard is sound and solid and slightly shrunk. Brass drag is missing its pins. Brass mounts have mottled patina with staining. Scabbard body is scuffed and crazed. 4-54469

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CONFEDERATE D-GUARD BOWIE ONCE OWNED BY ICONIC CONFEDERATE HISTORIAN DOUGLAS SOUTHALL FREEMAN.

Lot # 1424 (Sale Order: 421 of 563)      

This classic Confederate D Guard Bowie knife measures 17-3/8" overall with a massive 12-1/2" clip point blade. This knife has a beautiful "as found" patina to wood and metal. There is an affidavit from Freeman's grandson stating this knife was the property of Douglas Southall Freeman (1886-1953) best known for his Pulitzer Prize winning biographies of Robert E. Lee and George Washington. Freeman, a native Virginian, authored the classic command study of the army of Northern Virginia Lee's Lieutenants. Regardless if this knife belonged to one of Freeman's ancestors or how he obtained it is unknown; it is a wonderful classic knife. Knife features an "arrowhead" cut quillon. This arrowhead shape is only seen occasionally on Confederate knives and generally of higher quality and finish. PROVENANCE: Douglas Southall Freeman 1886-1953, James Douglas Freeman, Jr., Rusty Hicks Collection. CONDITION: Blade and guard are brown/grey overall with rust and pitting. Blade has two bends near tip and about a dozen nicks in cutting edge where knifes saw use as a weapon or as a tool. Wood grip has 3" age crack with good hand worn patina with numerous small dings and dents. The 1/4" brass ferrule has deep chocolate brown patina with areas of dark staining. 8-76397

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RARE AND UNIQUE CONFEDERATE AMBROTYPE SHOWING CRYSTAL CLEAR "COLT WALKER".

Lot # 1425 (Sale Order: 422 of 563)      

Please Note (3/13/15): It has always been thought and believed that this is a Walker Colt pistol he is holding. The image is published in 2002 as Walker and we agree. Some viewers have proposed that it might be a Colt Dragoon. Because this is an ambrotype and the image is not perfect, and because Civil War era images are always a reverse image, we cannot guarantee this is a Walker. This is no doubt the finest photograph to ever surface showing a soldier with such a well defined Colt Walker revolver brandished across his chest. This exact photograph was pictured in the 2002 Confederate Calendar where a copy is included stating the potential ID of the brothers and the units they served. This image originated in North Georgia and the Williams brothers appear ready for war. One brother holds a Colt M-1849 pocket model in Confederate uniform with rare forked-tongue buckle and cap box where brother with Walker appears to have lieutenants insignia on collar with sword belt plate. You can see in photographs that the Walker is crystal clear showing details of its unique loading assembly, rnd bbl and oct bbl housing. Mr. Williams is holding the Colt in half-cock position with finger on trigger with a determined look that he was ready to face the enemy. Fine images of Confederates holding identified handguns, even common ones are quite scarce. Of the few images known of earlier vintage with Colt Walkers; none compare with the clarity of this Confederate sixth plate ambrotype. PROVENANCE: Williams Family, Catoosa County, GA, Peggy Dillard Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine with excellent clarity and contrast. Some scratching on emulsion that do no affect esthetics overall. This is a superior conditioned ambrotype by any standards for content and clarity. Complete with its original protector in contemporary paper veneered casing. 4-54476

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FINE, RARE & UNIQUE CONFEDERATE CEDARWOOD CANTEEN CAPTURED BY A BLACK SOLDIER IN THE 54TH MASSACHUSE

Lot # 1426 (Sale Order: 423 of 563)      

This fine painted canteen has inscription in gold paint "Rebel canteen captured in the late attack on Fort Wagner Morris Island by a soldier of the 54th M. Vols". The inscription is no doubt contemporary to the period as is the Centennial painting of a Revolutionary War soldier on the opposite side. Painted souvenirs of similar genre are seen from the 1876 Centennial Era and this is a unique relic of the most famous black Civil War Regiment. Just recently auctioned from these same floors were the letters and diaries of Luis Emilio, a Captain in the 54th who survived the Ft. Wagner attack. The 54th Mass. fought at Fort Wagner in the summer of 1863 led by Robert Gould Shaw who was made recently famous again by Matthew Broderick in the movie Glory. Emilio tells the history of the 54th later occupying Fort Wagner when it was abandoned by Confederate forces when this souvenir was probably obtained. This canteen is in beautiful condition exhibiting fine surface & patina. Canteen is painted & varnished like other similar painted objects of the era. Canteen still retains the carved initials of the Confederate soldier who carried it above the painted inscription. Canteen retains an orig carved wood stopper with cork plug. Canteen was once in the renowned Confederate canteen collection of William A. Turner. PROVENANCE: William A. Turner Collection, Joseph Murphy Collection 2002. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Painting of Revolutionary War soldier has crazing & one small chip on trousers as can be seen in photos. Opposite side with 54th Mass. inscription intact with minor reductions. Gold paint is covered by a thin contemporary varnish layer as are other wood surfaces. Wooden spoutpiece is loose but is still present as a vast majority are missing from similar canteens. Canteen has typical measurements of 7-1/4" dia x 2-1/4" thick with about 1/4" bands retained by three tin brackets. Brackets & bands are decorated in gold paint. There are remnants of tar from possibly a tarred linen sling which covers small portions of canteen face with inscription which further substantiates inscription being original. 8-76402

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RARE GOLD AND ENAMEL MOLLUS MEDAL BELONGING AND ISSUED TO GENERAL GEORGE ARMSTRONG CUSTER.

Lot # 1427 (Sale Order: 424 of 563)      

Please Note (3/13/15): The medal here is General Custer's M.O.L.L.U.S. medal. As we have stated, it is the only George Armstrong Custer medal to our knowledge left in private hands. The image in our catalog associated with the medal in some of the advertisements depict Custer decked out in his regale wearing a medal on his breast. We did not indicate in the catalog or in writing that he was wearing this actual M.O.L.L.U.S. medal because it is not the M.O.L.L.U.S. medal. It is another medal known as "Military Society of the Army of the Potomac". Despite the fact that we never stated that this was the M.O.L.L.U.S., we do not want anyone to be confused or to think otherwise. To conclude with, there is nothing wrong with the image. There is nothing wrong with the description. The lot is as we purported it to be and a truly historic, fabulous and exciting lot. This badge, well provenanced, descended in Libbie Custer's Estate. SN 1641 is documented in Union Blue by Carroon & Shoaf as being membership number of Custer. The Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States (MOLLUS) was organized April 15, 1865, as word of President Abraham Lincoln's death spread throughout the country, three Union Army officer friends met in Philadelphia to discuss the tragic news. Rumors from Washington of a conspiracy to destroy the Federal government by assassination of its leaders prompted the three officers to form an organization that could help thwart future threats to the national government. A mass meeting of Philadelphia veterans was held on April 20, 1865 top leaders renewed allegiance to the Union and to plan for participation in the funeral arrangements for the President. The Philadelphia officers, who served as an honor guard for President Lincoln's funeral cortege, met again after the funeral was over to establish a permanent organization of officers and former officers patterned after the Society of Cincinnati established after the Revolutionary War. The name they chose, the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, first appeared in a notice calling a meeting on May 31, 1865 at Independence Hall. Since its inception, the MOLLUS membership has included nearly 12,000 Civil War officers. At its zenith, the MOLLUS counted practically every prominent officer among its ranks. Among them were Generals Ulysses S. Grant, William T. Sherman; Lt. Generals Philip H. Sheridan, Nelson A. Miles and John M. Schofield; Major General Winfield Scott Hancock, George B. McClellan, Rutherford B. Hayes, George Armstrong Custer, Grenville M. Dodge; Admiral David G. Farragut; Rear Admirals Bancroft Gherardi and George W.Melville. In addition to Ulysses S. Grant and Rutherford B. Hayes, original Companions Chester A. Arthur, Benjamin Harrison and William McKinley served as Presidents of the United States. Very few items can be traced so closely to Custer's personal ownership. This is no doubt the rarest personal object of the iconic Custer privately owned. PROVENANCE: George Armstrong Custer, Libbie Custer, Margaret Flood, 1933, Spinks, Lot No. 1072, August 23, 2012. CONDITION: 5.5 grams, gold and enamel, 31mm x 31mm x 4mm. Obverse American eagle with olive branch and arrows in talons. Surrounded by motto "LEX REGIT" (Law Rules)/"ARMA TUENTUR" (Arms Defend). The reverse has device of crossed swords over faces inside wreath surrounded "M. O. LOYAL LEGION U. S."/"MDCCCLXV". Loop is engraved "1641". Tri-colored red, white and blue silk ribbon. Fine overall as seen in photos. 4-54478

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RARE AND UNIQUE MEDALS OF CAPTAIN MYLES KEOGH FROM CUSTER BATTLEFIELD.

Lot # 1428 (Sale Order: 425 of 563)      

The "Pro Petri Sede Medaglia" was taken from the body of Myles Keogh when found June 27, 1876 on the east side of the battle ridge at the Little Big Horn. Myles Keogh is seen wearing these two medals in Civil War photography and during the Indian War. The "Medaglia di Pro Petri Sede" (Pro Petri Medal) was presented to Keogh after the Papal War by Pope Pius IX 1860, he was also awarded the "Ordine di San Gregorio" (St. Gregory Medal). Vatican records confirm these two medals both given to Keogh. The Papal War of 1860 ended with the fall of Ancona where as many as 100 Irish soldiers in the Battalion of St. Patrick were killed or wounded during those few weeks in September. For their service, each officer and enlisted man was awarded the Medal for Gallantry "Pro Petri Sede Medaglia" by Pope Pius IX. The medal is a circular, silvered nickel-silver medal with hollow center with inverted Latin cross. With a circular ring in the form of a scaled mythical creature swallowing it's own tail, on ornate swivel suspension with ribbon bar; the face circumscribed 'PRO PETRI SEDE' (literally 'for the seat of Peter', meaning for the Vatican) above and 'PIO*IX*P*M*A*XV' (= Pius IX Pontifex Maximus 15th year, for the 15th year of the reign of Pope Pius IX = 1860); the reverse circumscribed 'VICTORIA OVAE VINCIT MUNDUM FIDES NOSTRA' (The victory of our flock conquers the world with our faith). These medals were of great importance to Keogh when he lost both in a fire at the famous Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky in 1865. In 1867 Keogh obtained replacement medals. Keogh affirmed he didn't want to take leave for home in Ireland unless he had both medals with him. The last known photograph of Keogh taken in 1872 shows both medals prominently displayed on his left breast. These two medals of Myles Keogh are extremely well provenanced from direct family descent and lastly, one of the largest historians and authorities of Custer memorabilia, Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence. There are few personal mementos documented from the Custer battlefield that have a more interesting history than Keogh's Medal for Gallantry "Medaglia di Pro Petri Sede" given him by Pope Pius IX in 1860 while he was fighting with other Irish Catholics in the Battalion of St. Patrick in the Papal Army. There are numerous accounts concerning Keogh's body being not mutilated due to the fact he was wearing this medal. One of the most comprehensive texts on the Custer battle is Evan Connell's 1984 Son of the Morning Star where he summarizes several accounts of Keogh's body and this medal "Captain Myles Keogh had not been disfigured. He lay naked except for his socks, with a Catholic medal around his neck which usually is identified as an Agnus Dei, perhaps because Agnus Dei is a familiar phrase. Romantics describe it as a cross hanging from a golden chain. Almost certainly this medal was kept in a small leather purse or sheath and Keogh most likely wore it suspended by a leather thong or length of cord. It was the Medaglia di Pro Petri Sede awarded to him by Pope Pius IX for service with the Papal Army." In the most important biography of Keogh, written in 1939 by Edward Luce Keogh, Comanche and Custer. Luce was positive it was "the Pro Petri" medal that he wore and further claimed it was in "... a leather case attached to a cord around his neck..."". Accompanying these medals is a file of correspondence from descendants and Dr. Lawrence concerning medal. It is interesting to note that in a copy of Keogh's will written just three days prior to his death states his $10,000 life insurance policy and all his personal affects would be given to his sister Margaret Keogh in Ireland. In an article posted online, PROVENANCE: Myles Keogh 7th US Cavalry 1860, Margaret Keogh (sister) Kil Kenny, Ireland 1876, Dr. Desmond Blanchfield Keogh,Carlow, Ireland 1947, Garret Keogh Dublin, Ireland 1988, Dr. Elizabeth Atwood Lawrence 1988, Dr. Robert P. Lawrence 2003. CONDITION: Very good overall. Minor chipping in red enamel on St. Gregory Medal. Suspension ring opened on St. Gregory cross to green enameled wreath which is chipped, missing about 60% of enamel overall. Pro Petri still exhibits some luster, however plating is worn and scratched over much of its surface with small reductions of silver plating on cross as can be seen in photographs. 4-54477

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1.178.0.1875.f3727f4.9.78