Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day Two

Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day Two

Monday, March 16, 2015  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day Two

Iconic Firearms Collections at Auction, Day Two

Monday, March 16, 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 : 4 of 26

FRENCH & INDIAN WAR ERA ENGLISH BRONZE 1/2-POUNDER SWIVEL CANNON.

Lot # 2075 (Sale Order: 76 of 639)      

NSN. This beautiful English bronze cannon was made around 1760 at the Royal Brass Foundry in Woolwich, England, With fine patina, mounted on a polished wood display stand. This rare cannon was orig in the Frank Bivens Collection as cataloged by Theodore Dexter in 1947. This cannon has chiseled weight markings "0-3-10". A very similar cannon with weight of "0-3-18" identified in the Tower of London Collection number 49. Tower of London gun has raised seal of Board of Ordnance and is numbered "1". Our example is marked "No. 6" on right trunnion and does not have ordnance seal, however otherwise very similar model. Bbl measures 33" overall with a bore diameter of 1-9/16". This cannon, like the identified cannon in the Tower of London Collection, has the same small vent pan shaped like a scallop shell with same prominent moldings. Tower of London records unfortunately do not go back this far for records of proofing. This is a beautiful British gun that was made prior to American independence. PROVENANCE: Frank E. Bivins, Jr. Collection; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Exhibiting a smooth green/blue almost turquoise colored patina, with some areas a chocolate brown. Wooden base is well fitted to display this cannon. Sound and solid. 4-54202 JS165

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BLUNDERBUSS SWIVEL GUN ON ORIGINAL POST MOUNT.

Lot # 2076 (Sale Order: 77 of 639)      

This unusual little gun has bbl measuring 21" overall with about a 3/4" bore flaring to 2". It retains its original cast iron yoke and its 7" square post mount. This is the only surviving example known to us, of this type of swivel gun complete with original ship's post mounting. PROVENANCE: Mark McConnell; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good overall with iron patina, black paint & pitting. Bore is clear, though rusted & pitted. The integral rest cast on yoke is broken with only a few inches of this extension remaining. 4-54223

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RARE PAIR OF LARGE BRONZE PETER SEEST DUTCH SWIVEL CANNON DATED 1755.

Lot # 2077 (Sale Order: 78 of 639)      

NSN. Peter Seest was a well known founder in Amsterdam but few of his marked cannon survived though we are offering three fine examples in this auction. This pair of cannon are numbered "1" & "2" on either trunnion. Left trunnion on SN 1 also has the Seal of Amsterdam. Base rings are both marked "PETER SEEST" and SN 1 is marked "ANNO 1755". Our consignor describes these guns in his collection catalog, "Their design is similar to larger cannon of the mid 18th century. Muzzles are flared. The naturalistic dolphins have many small scales, and are different from the earlier Dutch dolphins. The trunnions have rim bases. Vents are in diamond-shaped fields. The cascabels are undecorated and relatively flat, as opposed to the earlier ball profile. The "flat" cascabels clearly identify the pair as swivel guns, because the design was thus readily-adapted to the addition of wrought-iron "tillers" which allowed guns to be pointed easily and quickly by the gunner with one hand while his other hand held the linstock used to ignite the gun's powder charge. There is no floral decoration on these pieces at all. The cannon are mounted on finely crafted walnut Naval type carriages manufactured earlier in the last century. PROVENANCE: Hampton P. Howell, Jr. Collection; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Very even, dark-green patina, carriages are sound & solid, later additions for display. Tubes measure just over 29" with 26" bbl lengths, about 6-1/2" trunnion to trunnion, about 17" h on carriage, carriage about 14" w. 4-54201 JS164

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BRITISH 24-POUNDER CARRONADE, CIRCA 1800.

Lot # 2078 (Sale Order: 79 of 639)      

There is an identical example on display in the City Museum of Alexandria, VA that was found in the Potomac River with War of 1812 history. Our example was found in Sandwich, MA, no doubt left by an unknown British ship. Carronades are differentiated from other cannon by the use of a cast loop for carriage attachment as opposed to trunnions. This design originally produced in Carron, Scotland about 1775 allowed for more maneuverability with limited deck space on ships. Few military carronades ever come to market. This example still retains the British broad arrow proof on top of bbl and is a rare survivor of the War of 1812 era. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon measures 55" overall; breech is about 13" dia & bbl length is about 40". Gun is good overall. Black painted with pitting and iron patina, broad arrow proof is barely discernible near center of top of bbl. Bore is rusted and flaking. 4-54187

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FINE PAIR OF 1761 DATED DUTCH CANNON BY PIETER SEEST ON ORIGINAL CARRIAGES.

Lot # 2079 (Sale Order: 80 of 639)      

NSN. This is a beautiful pair of small Dutch cannon mounted on split trail carriages which appear contemporary to manufacture. Dutch Family cannons from this era are well known, but this pair could possibly be sales samples from the offices of the Dutch East India Company. This idea is based on the fact that Pieter Seest made many cannons for this company that bear their markings and the "OH' monogram on the breech possibly stands for "Ostindische Huis" which, from Dutch, translates to "East India House" which was the name of the building in Amsterdam headquartering Dutch East India Company. Regardless of origin, this is a beautiful pair of 18th century cannon on very old carriages. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Bbls have bronze patina and crisp fine markings as seen in photographs. Carriages are sound and solid and fit tubes fairly well. Quality of bronze cast ornamentation appears of similar quality and vintage with a darker patination. Wood carriage and wheels are not of great quality in comparison to casting on bronze, but are sound & functional. Carriages are totally brass mounted, even the bolts and treads on wheels are cast bronze instead of iron. There are several cracks in cheek pieces, which each is made in several sections. Trunnion caps which are also bronze and intact other than one missing and one trunnion clasp. These are not an exact pair with slightly different muzzles, cascabels and banding, however both cannon are about 20" long and weigh about 20 lbs. Though maker marks are cut almost identically, one has the city emblem for Amsterdam as seen in photos and the other does not. These carriages are difficult to date and could be a later addition, but no doubt they are quite old and the correct form for the period with good patina. 4-54084

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BELGIAN SEACOAST GUN.

Lot # 2080 (Sale Order: 81 of 639)      

NSN. This gun was originally found on the site of a French seacoast fortification and weighs close to 3 tons, has a 6.25" bore which translates to about a 30-pounder. This cannon would made a great display in front of someone's home that you don't have to worry about thieves grabbing it and sticking it in the back of a pickup truck. This cannon was made most likely at the State Ordnance Works at Liege in the mid 19th century. This ordnance works was established by Napoleon for manufacture of his large siege guns but continued to operate well into the founding of the independent country of Belgium. These type cannon were found at French forts for harbor defense. *SPECIAL NOTE* This cannon is not at our facilities. It currently resides on the front lawn of John Morris' home in Springfield, VA, 703-309-0228. It is illustrated and described here and can only be viewed at the above address. If you wish to view it, please call John Morris to set up a mutually convenient appointment to examine. Mr. Morris also has an extraordinary depth of knowledge of cannons in general and in addition to viewing the cannon in person, it will provide you an opportunity to speak with him and access any information that may be helpful to you regarding the cannon. This cannon will stay on Mr. Morris' lawn until such time the winning bidder has paid for his purchase and made arrangements for the pickup of the cannon. Mr. Morris is experienced in moving heavy cannons and will advise and assist buyer or buyer's carrier in loading them on vehicles for highway transportation. To repeat, this cannon cannot be previewed at the auction site. PROVENANCE: Mark McConnell. Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Pitted overall but with good discernible classic lines of continental siege guns. 4-54191 JS280

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FINE 1764 DATED PETER SEEST MADE DUTCH EAST INDIA COMPANY BRONZE SWIVEL GUN.

Lot # 2081 (Sale Order: 82 of 639)      

NSN. This is a fine cannon made for the world's first multi-national corporation. The Dutch East India Company who were headquartered in Amsterdam eclipsed all their rivals in the lucrative trade between Asia and the West. Between 1602 and 1796 almost a million Europeans had worked with this company with almost 5,000 ships and over 2-1/2 million tons of goods imported. The British East India Company by comparison imported a mere 20% of the tonnage even though they had 2,700 ships. The Dutch East India Company even had its own territories known as the Dutch East Indies which would eventually become, in the 20th century, the Republic of Indonesia. At its peak there were many cannon aboard their vessels and cannon that they would use for trade though they are quite scarce today and this is a wonderful example with great markings and patina. Pieter Seest was the preeminent Dutch cannon founder of mid to late 18th century. The Dutch East India Company's logo which is large "A" surmounting "VOC" logo (Amsterdam, Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie). He made many guns for the Dutch East India Company, though fine survivors like this are rare. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Bbl length is 26", 32" overall with cascabel with a 1.8" bore. Trunnion to trunnion about 8". Very good to fine overall with mostly chocolate brown patina, and with numerous small dings & dents that do not affect aesthetics, typical after 250 years. Markings are mostly fairly crisp & easily discerned. Vent has a cast raised circular border & punched circle decoration. Trunnions are skewed very slightly forward. Bore is fairly smooth & clear, as is vent. 4-54203

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PAIR OF MID 19th CENTURY AFGHAN 4-POUNDER STEEL MOUNTAIN RIFLES.

Lot # 2082 (Sale Order: 83 of 639)      

This rare pair of well marked British style mountain rifles have Afghani crests and makers marks on top of bbls forward of vents. The presentation in the large shield engraved on bbl translates from Pashto "Presenting Kahn Laeis Abdur Rahman" Laeis is a title similar to emir or excellency. Abdur Rahaman Kahn (1840-1901) ruled Afghanistan from May 31, 1880 til his death. He was a pivotal leader following the second Anglo-Afghan war where these cannon were most likely used. Kahn negotiated with Russia, England and India to minimize their influence in Afghanistan, instituted programs of modernization and uniting or at least suppressing the many tribes. However, he was brutal in his dealings with internal opposition, as well as a forceful proponent of Islam against the non-Islamic peoples of the country and was known as "The Iron Emir". These rifled cast-steel cannon appear as well made as their British counterparts. The crescent shape marking on the presentation shield on bbl translate "Kabul Engraving and Machinery House". This company may not have been the manufacturers of the cannon but just the engravers of the presentation. Abdur Rahman was a military leader and governor in the 1860's of the northern province when political turmoil caused his exile to Russian Turkestan in 1869. He remained in exile until 1880, when he was recognized by the Russians and the British as new emir. Kahn was adept at keeping the British and Russians appeased and not on his soil. These guns employed the French-originated "La Hitte" system of rifling in which the iron shells had projecting zinc studs which rode in the spiral grooves of the barrel to give the projectiles the required spinning motion. These wonderful survivors were rescued by a former American Special Forces Officer who purchased them in Kabul during the early phases of our recent war on terror in Afghanistan. A cast-zinc reproduction projectile is included. This impressive pair of cannons would look great in the foyer of your home or on the ramparts of your castle. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Tubes measure about 44" overall and 11" wide at trunnions. Bores measure about 2-1/4", markings are discernible as can be seen in photographs. Surfaces are pitted though overall smooth where cleaned & painted as can be seen in photographs. Bores have discernible rifling though pitted. Vents & bores are clear. 4-54206

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RARE MASSIVE JAN VERBRUGGEN 18th CENTURY 15" BRONZE STONE MORTAR.

Lot # 2083 (Sale Order: 84 of 639)      

This massive 35" h x 15" dia bore mortar was salvaged from a Dutch East India cargo ship off the west coast of Africa. Jan Verbruggen was the patriarch of the Verbruggen family of bronze founders of Holland. Guns by Peter Verbruggen are rare and guns by his father are even rarer. This massive bronze mortar was used to shoot specially constructed baskets of small projectiles. Often, these were smaller exploding shells or grenades. The first use of such mortars in siege operations utilized baskets of stones - sent over city walls, thus the name "STONE MORTAR" as these large guns were known. As tactics changed, "STONE MORTARS" became obsolete by the mid 18th century and most have been smelted over the centuries. This is an excellent survivor with good patina that would be difficult to duplicate by a rarely seen founder. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Bronze patina with pitting. Lifting handle in form of stylized dolphins is smooth & lacks anatomical detail. 4-54222

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FINE AND RARE PAIR OF SCOTTISH BRONZE 6-POUNDER CANNON.

Lot # 2084 (Sale Order: 85 of 639)      

This beautiful pair of small 6-pounders are purported to have come from a castle in Ireland. The makers mark "FEATHERSTON & STOB'Y ELDER" is found on one trunnion and is thought to be a Scottish foundry of the mid-19th century. Stob'y most likely is abbreviated for D.S. Stoberry who was known to have been a cannon maker circa 1800. This is the only example known by "FEATHERSTON & STOB'Y, ELDER". Regardless of maker this is a beautiful pair of 19th century matching 6-pound cannon in fine condition. PROVENANCE: Unknown castle in Ireland; Green Family of Naples, Florida; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon measure 38" overall with 32" bbl length & are about 12-1/2" trunnion to trunnion. The only markings found is a makers mark on one trunnion of the pair & a chip in that trunnion, partially obscuring the last two letters in "ELDER" which it appears to read. Carriages have some age but are for display only. Patina to bronze is mostly green mixed with chocolate colors turning darker on bottoms. Vents are clear & bores smooth. 4-54235

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1784 DATED SPANISH 10" SIEGE MORTAR FROM MORRO CASTLE, HAVANA.

Lot # 2085 (Sale Order: 86 of 639)      

This cannon was Spanish regulation after 1756 as a result of the reforms as a result of Gribeauval designs. French Cannon started major reform in 1756 with guidance by Gen. John Baptists Vaquette de Gribeauval. Gribeauval's contribution came from his study of the Prussian system where all cannon were to be mounted on a carriage of a new design with elevation screw and iron axles making the French a more modern artillery and superior. This fact was seen quickly by the Spanish who introduced greater quantity of bronze field cannon of the Gribeauval type including this mortar. These Spanish tubes were produced at Royal Arsenals in the new world, Barcelona, and Seville where this tube was made. Base ring is marked "No 1370 SEVILLA 12 DE AGOSTODE 1784". Right trunnion shows the weight "P° 1260". Left trunnion is marked "COBRES / YNGLESY / MEXICO". This tube has a large Coat of Arms of King Carlos III (who reigned 1759-1788). Mortar is mounted on a correct, orig Spanish mortar bed cast in Havana in 1849. The heavy bronze sideplates have their own set of manufacturing markings "REFs HABa / P° 500 Ls / 1849" which are found engraved on each plate below trunnions. This mortar from the famous old Spanish fort in Havana Harbor known as "Morro Castle", was sold with other obsolete bronze cannon in 1898 to Benjamin Lissberger of NYC. In the 1925 Francis Bannerman catalog (p. 151) describes the purchase of 500 cannon "Spain holds the record for placing the greatest obstacles in the way of bona fide bidders purchasing at Government auction sales. Just before the evacuation of Cuba in 1898, the Spanish Government by its officers in Havana, offered at Auction hundreds of tons of old Bronze Cannons. The hour at which the bid was to be opened was TWELVE O'CLOCK MIDNIGHT. Bidders were required at this unseemly hour to deposit the sum of $25,000. IN GOLD. It was an American who took the risk, and outbid the Spanish favorite, and was awarded the prize, on which he made a large profit". This is a fabulous & historic rare bronze cannon of Colonial America. PROVENANCE: Morro Castle, Havana. Benjamin Lissberger, NYC 1898. Morris Family, NYC. Morris Mansion "Malbone", Newport, RI. Newport Artillery Co., 1980. Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection 1998. CONDITION: Bronze tube & carriage very good to fine with heavy bronze patina, markings are very good & easily discerned as seen in photos. The bed has been restored utilizing new walnut transom to replace the deteriorating original. Total weight of cannon & carriage is about 2300 lbs. 4-54236

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HISTORICAL FRENCH MODEL 1786 BRONZE ONE-POUNDER CANNON INSCRIBED "EGALITE, LIBERTE" (EQUALITY & LIBE

Lot # 2086 (Sale Order: 87 of 639)      

NSN. This wonderful bronze three stage cannon inscribed "Egalite, Liberte" within a cartouche at breech, signed and dated by maker "Ramus Au Creusot" in 1794. M. Ramus was director of the foundry named Creusot. Le Creusot (Saone-et-Loire) originally set up as "Fonderie Royal" in 1781 was an important maker of cannon, especially for the Navy, and became one of the most important industrial manufacturers by the early 19th century; their cannon are rarely found. This cannon was recovered from the French ship "HOCHE"; a 74 gun French "ship of the line" which was captured by the English squadron in the Irish sea on October 12, 1798 according to a 1981 receipt from Holland & Holland, London. The HOCHE was on its way to assist the United Irishman and Irish volunteers against the British. This vessel's 74 large cannon were retained & reused by capturing British forces. Wolfe Tone, the leading figure in the "Society of United Irishmen" was captured on this vessel, which was the "coup de grace" for the Irish Rebellion. The British renamed this vessel HMS Donegal in honor of County Donegal where the French attempted to land to support the Irish in the 1798 Rebellion. HOCHE was the flagship of the French Fleet. HMS Donegal being totally refit had an illustrious naval career capturing both French and Spanish vessels including the capture of the AMFITRITE in November 1804 and the RAYO which had escaped Trafalgar October 1801; she served until 1845. Model "1786 Pierrier" is the official name for this popular swivel mounted cannon used world wide in the late 18th century. In 1786 the French formalized the first known 'model' of swivel cannon, a brass gun that followed exactly the 1767 pattern then in use for larger guns, except the little 2.0" caliber Pierrier did away with the vent astragal. Otherwise it is just half-size duplicate of the contemporary French 6-pounder gun." This particular gun is beautifully marked as can be seen in photos as well as having a great history. PROVENANCE: Holland & Holland 1981, Val Forgett, Jr. Collection, Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Tube is about 40" overall, with 38" bbl length and smooth 2" bore. Trunnion to trunnion distance is about 9". Cannon is very good to fine overall with rich dark, smooth green patina & discernible markings as can be seen in photos. Cannon is mounted on an old naval style step carriage with wood wheel which is sound, solid and very good overall. 4-54092 JS128

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FINE AND RARE BRONZE 1786 FRENCH 1-POUNDER CANNON MADE IN THE 3RD YEAR OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC, 1795.

Lot # 2087 (Sale Order: 88 of 639)      

NSN. This bronze cannon is very well marked and translation reads it was made by Lecourant Foundry in Rennes on the 3rd anniversary of the French Republic which is 1795. There are also a pair of fancy initials "AN" in script on top of bbl near muzzle for "armée nationale". This is an early cannon made during the beginning years of the French Republic, prior to Napoleon and it appears to have seen some use. Surviving examples of 1st French Republic cannon are very rare by Lecourant Foundry, indeed only a handful of bronze bells & cannon by them still exist. In provenance are found copies of official government contracts for cannon from Lecourant. Local records list one Etienne Lecourant, bell and cannon founder, to have worked 1775-1832. The carriage it is mounted on also appears quite old and possibly of same era. Model 1786 cannon were quite popular in the late 18th century. William Gilkerson in his text on naval weapons of the American Revolution through the War of 1812 Boarders Away II describes this 40" cannon quite accurately as "In all sizes, iron guns has almost entirely replaced brass guns by the mid-1700's in most of the Western navies, but in a limited way brass remained a favored material for small swivel guns, their expense notwithstanding". Indeed, by the end of the century small brass guns experienced a resurgence of favor that outlasted the age of fighting sail. Refinements in alloying and casting enabled the production of stronger-than-ever brass barrels. These enjoyed not only the customary advantages of their non-ferrous material, but could be made lighter, with relatively thinner walls yet bigger bore. Most were handsome guns though not so ornate as their predecessors, having shed some of the detailing lavished on artillery during the Baroque period in imitations of the larger guns of their own day, the later brass swivels followed the tradition set by their forbearers. Some were more imaginatively designed. In 1786 the French formalized the first known 'model' of swivel cannon, a brass gun that followed exactly the 1767 pattern then in use for larger guns, except the smaller size and caliber. This is as fine a marked example as you will find on an original but fragile stepped naval-style carriage of the era. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon is in very good condition overall with excellent, well defined markings on breech "Lecourant a. Rennes en Ventose" as can be seen in photos. Right trunnion is marked "No. 80" and left trunnion states weight of "167" lbs. Cannon measures 39-1/2" overall with a 2.25" bore with 34.5" bbl length, and measures approx 9" trunnion to trunnion. Carriage wood is dry and cracking in areas, wrought iron hardware exhibits iron patina with pitting. Two wood wheels are missing and the third has about 1/4 missing. 4-54103

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FRENCH BRONZE MODEL 1828 12-CM MOUNTAIN HOWITZER.

Lot # 2088 (Sale Order: 89 of 639)      

This French pattern cannon is what the Americans copied in 1835. This particular tube is beautifully marked with cypher on top of bbl. Foundry markings (Douai Arsenal, France) and date of manufacture 1843 on base ring. Like so many French military cannon, this cannon was given a name, in this case "LE RAPP" which is inscribed in a banner on top of bbl near muzzle. The howitzer was named after famous French General Jean Rapp (1773-1821) who distinguished himself many times during the war of 1812 in Europe. The cursive initial "T" stands for French Army Colonel Guillame Tournaire, who was the "chef d'esquadron" at Douai when the piece was cast. The beautifully engraved Royal cypher on top of the breech is "LP" for King Louis Philippe (ruled 1830-1848). Per Encyclopedia Britannica: "In 1830 Charles X's attempt to enforce repressive ordinances touched off a rebellion (July 27–30) that gave Louis-Philippe his long-awaited opportunity to gain power. He was elected lieutenant general of the kingdom by the legislature on July 31, two days before Charles abdicated the throne. On August 9 Louis-Philippe accepted the crown." He abdicated during an insurrection of the lower classes in 1848. These beautiful small bronze tubes rarely come to market. Weighing just over 200 pounds and about 37" in length, 122mm bore (4-82"), and is easily mounted. It is interesting to note that this initial design of mountain howitzer has "low line" trunnions, like many 18th Century weapons, yet the U.S., Spain, and certainly other countries, copied the basic French tube design but put the trunnions on the axis of the bore in order to reduce downward forces on the carriage upon firing. This cannon originally owned by George E. Albee, a member of Berdan's Sharpshooters during the Civil War, later won Congressional Medal of Honor at fight with Indians on the Brazos River, Texas on October 29, 1869. Albee went on to work for Winchester and had a sizable gun collection which was donated to Washington College upon his death in 1918. Julia's sold a very fine Volcanic Navy from the same collection Fall 2012 as lot 1220. This is a fine cannon that will mount on pack carriage and fit into any gun room. PROVENANCE: George E. Albee Collection. Washington College, Chestertown, MD. Richard Brunckhorst. Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Tube is very good to fine overall with numerous small blemishes as expected in 150 years. The patina is a mottled mix of brown & green, as can be seen in photos. Markings are crisp & well discerned. 4-54110 JS142

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LARGE BRONZE MODEL OF FAMOUS CAPTURED BARBARY COAST CANNON FROM ALGIERS IN 1830.

Lot # 2089 (Sale Order: 90 of 639)      

One of the largest bronze cannon ever made, was "BABA MARZUG" (Lucky Father) and was made in Venice for the Algerian fortifications of their harbor. This massive gun measuring 23 feet long and weighing over 26,000lbs was the most powerful cannon in the Mediterranean and could fire a projectile 3 miles. Algiers was among the most powerful Barbary States, making much of their revenue by charging "tribute" to non-Muslim merchants from Europe. These "tribute" or bribes culminated in the Barbary Coast Wars 200 years later. This cannon had an infamous reputation as when diplomacy was not working well on two separate instances in the late 18th century. French consuls were tied to the muzzle of this cannon and blown to pieces as were other Frenchmen held as slaves who would not convert. In June of 1830, the French landed a large army with the intent of conquering Algiers, which they did on July 5th. Algiers would become the capital of the French colony and later country of Algeria. This massive cannon was renamed "LE CONSULAIRE" in remembrance of the French consuls killed. This cannon was taken as a trophy and became a monument at the French Arsenal at Brest, France where it is still displayed, though Algeria has requested its return. I don't think France is giving it back any time soon. This model has French inscriptions of base ring and breech stating its capture, dimensions and name as can been seen in photos "Echell 3 d'un pouce pour pied" (Scale of 1 inch to the foot) "Elle pese" (She weighs)11,926 k..mes". 11,926 kilograms (26,292 pounds). The only other known model is in the National Naval Museum in Paris. This model once in the collection of Hampton P. Howell, Jr. was on display at Ft. Ticonderoga. PROVENANCE: Hampton P. Howell, Jr.; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon measures about 22", 2-5/8" breech, and weighs 20 lbs. Model is very good with old polish, markings all clear and discernible, and accompanying 4-wheeled wood carriage with brass fittings for trunnions is sound and solid. 4-54176

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RARE 18th CENTURY FRENCH BRONZE 6-POUNDER HOWITZER.

Lot # 2090 (Sale Order: 91 of 639)      

This most unusual 18th century bronze Howitzer, almost certainly intended for naval swivel mounting, exhibits 4" knobbed tiller in place of cascabel. Tiller appears integrally secured when bbl was cast. Howitzer has barely discernible French markings and its history is unfortunately unknown other than it was obtained in New England Estate, still a beautiful & rare example. PROVENANCE: Hyland-Granby; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Bbl 27" overall with 21-1/2 bbl length; trunnion to trunnion distance about 12"; bore about 3.75". Bbl very good overall with bronze patina with some erosion noted on breech as can be seen in photos. Tiller has iron patina and pitting. 4-54219

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RARE BRONZE FRENCH MODEL 1756 NAVAL 1-POUNDER GUN.

Lot # 2091 (Sale Order: 92 of 639)      

This regulation French Naval 1756 swivel gun is numbered "89" on right trunnion and weight of "142" lbs on left trunnion. Other than trunnion markings, there are no discernible marks. The orig tiller projection at breech has been partially trimmed for use on Naval carriage such as the fine restoration cannon is resting on today, along with fine restored removable quoin for elevation. This is a beautiful gun with fine lines, typical of 18th century design. This may be one of the few survivors of this model known as so many pre-French Revolution cannons were melted down. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: About 45" overall; cannon 37-1/2" with bbl length of 34" and 2-1/4" bore. Orig vent has been plugged and a newer vent drilled just above for continued use. Naval style carriage is very good, sound & solid with metal hardware painted black and wood wheels & body are grey. 4-54224

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BEAUTIFUL FRENCH 1786 1-POUND BRONZE CANNON ON CARRIAGE.

Lot # 2092 (Sale Order: 93 of 639)      

This tube has one of the best, slick dark green patinas that you can find on antique bronze. Other than minor blemishes expected in over 200 years; it is quite stunning. It's mounted on a very old step naval carriage with wrought iron hardware and four wooden wheels. This model cannon was quite popular in the late 18th and early-19th century for naval warfare and this is among the nicest condition specimens you will find. PROVENANCE: Jack Malloy Collection; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon measures 39" overall with 34" bbl length, 2" bore and 9" trunnion to trunnion distance. Breech has an integral 4" x 1-1/4" iron vent area which has wrought iron patina with pitting much like iron mountings on carriage. Orig 1785 dated French archives drawing of this model show this iron vent area which is a rare & early feature. Naval style step carriage has several cracks through wood but is fairly sound, complete with four wooden wheels that are also fairly sound, though with cracks and one rear wheel is about to separate, still a very nice display on carriage. 4-54227

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18th CENTURY 3/4-POUND BRONZE FRENCH MODEL 1756 SWIVEL GUN.

Lot # 2093 (Sale Order: 94 of 639)      

This fine little French swivel gun originally had a tiller attached by the projection on back of breech instead of cascabel. No maker marks are discernible, however tube is numbered "84" on left trunnion. Right trunnion has the weight marked "89" lbs. Gun is displayed on a Naval style stepped carriage. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon & carriage measure 36" l x about 19" w x 24" h overall; bore 40mm (1.7"); cannon 33" with 27-1/2" bbl length; about 7-1/2" trunnion to trunnion. Cannon exhibits bronze patina & is very good to fine overall with typical small blemishes, scrapes, nicks and dings. Vent is wallowed out to about 1/2". Later carriage made for display is sound & solid, painted blue, with front wheels being iron banded, missing trunnion caps. 4-54229

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PAIR OF MID-19th CENTURY GERMAN EPROUVETTE "POWDER TESTING MORTARS".

Lot # 2094 (Sale Order: 95 of 639)      

This unique pair of 7-1/4" eprouvettes are hard metal plated which has obscured any markings that were present other than one small proof which is thought to be Germanic and fits with the history that these were taken from a German monument at base of a flagpole and sold as scrap bronze. Eprouvettes are an interesting and obsolete artillery form. They were made, set at a fixed angle, to measure strength of a particular gun powder supply being tested by measuring the distance, a fixed weight ball would be shot. This was an early form of powder efficiency measuring that was proved by American military experiments in the 1850s not to be accurate. Surviving eprouvettes are fascinating and unique form of artillery. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: On bases which measure about 19" x 11-1/2"; 7-1/4" bores; height of 15". Hard metal plating 95% intact with balance mostly a chocolate brown patina from exposed bronze. Very good to fine overall. 4-54114

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RARE 1826 DATED SPANISH BRONZE 7-1/2" EPROUVETTE MORTAR WITH ORIGINAL 7-1/2” COPPER SHOT.

Lot # 2095 (Sale Order: 96 of 639)      

SN 7663. This beautiful bronze mortar has emerald green patina and fine markings as can be seen in photos. Monogram of King Ferdinand VII is engraved over vent and cannon's name "OEBOAS" in a banner of unknown translation. Baseplate is engraved around border "No. 7663", "SEVILLA IDE DICIEMBRE DE 1826" manufactured at Seville, December 1, 1826. Base is also marked in Spanish with the origin of the copper and a weight of "190" lbs, "BRONCES NUEVOS DE COBRE DE LIMA". Eprouvettes historically were used to measure quality of gun powder by shooting a projectile and measuring the distance fired as the Eprouvette has a fixed angle and the projectile is of an exact weight. In this case the projectile has a cavity that would be closed by a threaded fuse-like cap that could be filled with cast lead. Genuine Eprouvettes are quite rare and this may be the only example ever offered with its orig bronze globe projectile with a matching engraved arrow to align positioning to arrow on top of cannon. This cannon is thought to have been a souvenir taken home as a trophy from the Spanish-American War, as there is an almost identical pair photographed as captured weapons in Manila in 1898 in a book by Karl Irving Faust on p.105 (published 1899) Campaigning in the Philippines. PROVENANCE: Estate near Louisville, KY. Joe Ley Antiques, Louisville, KY. Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Overall very good to fine. Markings are all discernible. Four 1" holes in baseplate are filled where originally they would have had bolts attaching them to large heavy wooden plank. Baseplate or "sole" of mortar measures 17" X 9-1/2" and is 1-1/2" thick. Height overall is about 16" and bore is 7-1/2" and projectile measures to a very close tolerance with only a few hundredths of an inch to spare. Patina on mortar and ball are mostly a mottled emerald green. Projectile "globe" is missing its threaded plug but engraved 5" feathered arrow (matching arrow on muzzle face) is quite discernible as can be seen in photos. 4-54135 JS249

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BRONZE OTTOMAN COEHORN MORTAR.

Lot # 2096 (Sale Order: 97 of 639)      

NSN. This mortar is very typical in design of other mid-19th century mortars used in Europe, however weight of 184 lbs is a bit heavier than other Cohorns of this Caliber which generally would weight about 160 lbs. Right trunnion is dated 1263 in Islamic characters (1846 Gregorian calendar), left trunnion has Islamic characters as seen in photos. Bbl is marked with the cypher of most likely Sultan Abdul Hamid II, though plaque states "Sultan Abdul Mejid". This gun has a bore of 5-3/4" and is 15-3/4" long. This gun originally acquired in London was thought to be a war trophy brought home by a British soldier from Gallipoli in WWI. Regardless of capture history, this is a beautiful well patinaed cannon that would fit into most gun rooms quite nicely. Mortar is mounted on an attractive painted wood carriage with very nice markings as can be seen in photos. PROVENANCE: Kenneth Smith Collection, NY; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Bronze patina typical small bruises & blemishes expected as can be seen in photographs. Bore is quite smooth & almost appears unfired. Markings are crisp & discernible as can be seen in photographs. On old wooden trophy display mounting is found small metal plaque engraved "Six inch mortar cast in 1846 for Sultan Abdul Mejid". Mortar on carriage measures 27" l x 14" w x 18" h. 4-54132 JS148

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RARE AND POSSIBLY UNIQUE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR DYNAMITE SHELL.

Lot # 2097 (Sale Order: 98 of 639)      

NSN. This shell is pictured in an early Bannerman catalog and is thought to be the only surviving specimen and we can find no others in any museum or institutional collection, though several of "Sims-Dudley" dynamite cannon are found. These special pneumatic guns saw actual use in the Spanish-American War with Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders who had a special "Dynamite Gun" battery. One of the guns was present at San Juan Hill, but it was not used since the ammunition had been misplaced, and was later found in a medical aid station. The guns did see use in the siege of Santiago. Theodore Roosevelt was not in love with these guns as he thought they had poor range and had to be reset after each shot; other officers did write glowing reports, however. The US government purchased 16 dynamite guns and 100 rounds of ammunition in 1897 intending to send all sixteen of its dynamite guns to Cuba, but the plans were never put into effect. Some were, however, sent to Puerto Rico. The 4th Ohio Volunteer Infantry's Dynamite Gun Detachment, used the guns near the town of Guayama. Five shots were fired, with the desired effect of quieting the Spanish gunfire realized. The parallel development of high explosives and the inherent problems of the dynamite guns lead to the demise of the dynamite guns. By 1900, the dynamite guns were deemed "not acceptable" by the U.S. Army and all of the Sims-Dudley guns were out of operation. The guns were considered obsolete and sold as surplus. Dynamite guns had shown themselves impractical. One of the guns ended up in the possession of arms dealer Francis Bannerman of New York. During a parade while on a visit to New York after his African expedition, Theodore Roosevelt spotted the gun in a display. As the parade passed the gun, Roosevelt's eyes were fixed on the gun, and he led his Rough Riders in a cheer for the weapon, perhaps forgetting some of his earlier comments in his nostalgia. One of the Dynamite guns remains today, on San Juan Hill in Cuba. Another is in a museum in Havana. The information cited here came from an excellent article written by Patrick McSherry on this particular gun and much more research and actual reports can be found on "The Spanish-American War Centennial" website, including original ordnance drawings of this shell and its gun stating its specifications including that this shell originally contained 5 lbs of nitroglycerine. The complex fuse for this projectile was armed in flight when an impeller turned inflight and freed a steel ball that could now move freely to strike percussion caps when the projectile hit its target. The percussion primers had a fuse delay of 5 or 6 seconds which would be quite unnerving to the enemy as this projectile hit and possibly bounced around for seconds before the high explosives would cause their damage. There is a safety wire in the nose which would be pulled prior to firing to free the impeller. Only 100 of these sophisticated shells produced and documented shows why surviving cannons are much more common then this unique, surviving projectile. PROVENANCE: Bannerman's, Dr. J. Nomolos Collection; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. 36" overall, including tail made from hollow, brass capped iron tube with spirally twisted zinc vanes (to provide rotation in flight). The body of the shell, including fuse and 3/8" lead sabot, measure about 23" with diameter of 2.5", the bursting chamber about 18" and the screwed on combination fuse 3-1/2". The safety wire in the fuze is still present though broken flush with shell body now. 4-54182

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ORIGINAL BRASS CARTRIDGE CASE FROM WORLD WAR I "BIG BERTHA" CANNON.

Lot # 2098 (Sale Order: 99 of 639)      

Only one dozen massive "42cm Kurze Marinekanone 14 L/12 in Raderlafette" (42cm short naval cannon on wheeled carriage) were manufactured. The gun was nicknamed "Dicke Bertha" (Big Bertha) by German soldiers in World War I. The gun was designed under great secrecy by Krupp. At the time of construction, the Big Bertha's were the largest and most powerful, movable artillery pieces by use of any army in the world. The gun could fire projectiles weighing close to one ton, almost six miles. Shells could penetrate close to 50 ft of concrete and soil. The crew to service one "Big Bertha" was 125 men. Cartridge casing has height of almost 17", bottom diameter of 16.8", a base diameter of 18.3" and weighs over 80 lbs. Casing is marked on base with various proofs and date of April 1915 and maker "KARLSRUH PATRONENFABRIK". Cartridge casing was not physically attached to the projectile. In operation of this massive gun, the projectile was loaded first then cartridge with propellant charge was taken from a wicker basket designed to hold each cartridge, which included several hundred pounds of propellant charge. This massive casing is a rare survivor of "The War to End All Wars" as 80 lbs of brass had many other purposes. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. Markings discernible as can be seen in photos. 4-54200

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GROUP OF 5 LATE 19th CENTURY SALUTE CANNONS.

Lot # 2099 (Sale Order: 100 of 639)      

This grouping includes: an 1898 dated salute cannon commemorating Admiral Dewey; three cast iron carriages, two have bronze bbls, one with iron bbl; and a small brass barreled gun on a Naval style step carriage. PROVENANCE: Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Dewey commemorative cannon measures 16" overall with 11-1/2" bbl and is quite simply mounted on a shaped solid block of wood with iron wheels attached with a U-bolt; solid cast iron salute gun is 12" overall with a solid cast 9" bbl and weighs 12.5 lbs; other three cannons measure between 12" & 9" overall. 4-54144

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1.178.0.1875.f3727f4.25.105