SESSION 3 - 2023 Fall Premier Firearms Auction

SESSION 3 - 2023 Fall Premier Firearms Auction

Sunday, November 5, 2023  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
SESSION 3 - 2023 Fall Premier Firearms Auction

SESSION 3 - 2023 Fall Premier Firearms Auction

Sunday, November 5, 2023  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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Description

Fantastic selection! Antique, Modern, Military & Sporting firearms! Edged weapons, shooting accessories, accoutrements & ammo. From Revolutionary weapons & firearms to modern Class III machine guns!
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RARE & “AS FOUND” REPUBLIC OF TEXAS TRYON CONTRACT

Lot # 3001 (Sale Order: 1 of 692)      

FLINTLOCK MUSKET. Cal. 69. NSN. 57.5” overall, 42” barrel. Only a few original complete unadulterated Tryon Texas contract muskets exist. They are prized by the few insti...moretutions who own them. 1500 muskets were contracted in 1839, only 860 were delivered and paid in 1840. George Flegal civilian inspector who had earlier inspected arms for the Springfield armory stated these were of equal quality of US arms. This example has clear “GF” George Flegal inspection on barrel though stock marking is very worn. These rare muskets are mentioned in several early texts on Texas arms with a mystique as rarity and history is so sparce. For this reason, this particular arm has been highly counterfeited over the years and it is nice to see a really nice untouched example here. The lockplate is corrected stamped 'TRYON' and 'PHILADa' in two vertical lines behind the cock. Forward of the cock is a large five-pointed star with an asterisk in the middle, over “TEXAS” in block letters. The barrel's breech is inspected “P” over “GF”. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: signed letter from Nacogdoches, Texas consignor stating that it has remained in Texas for over 175 years. Copies of some news concerning other survivors. CONDITION: very good overall, dark iron patina, good markings in metal. Stock is sound and solid, weathered, scuffed & dinged, inspector cartouche is visible only in outline. Mainspring weak, otherwise functionable, clear smooth dark bore. (01-23975/JS). ANTIQUE. $20,000-30,000.

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DICKSON NELSON RIFLE.

Lot # 3002 (Sale Order: 2 of 692)      

Last ditch rifle made in Dawson, Georgia during last 3 months of war, but saw service & survived in “attic condition”, missing parts now professionally restored. This is ...morewell above average for other examples and Confederate longarms in general. Excellent lock markings and dated 1865 make it among the last 150-200 guns made. IMPORTANT ADDITION: It was noted in the catalog that the front barrel band was restored but at the time of photography, the barrel band was not in place. Here is a photograph of the exact same gun with the restored front barrel band in place. It was expertly made by a noted restorer of Civil War weapons. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: copy of Doug Jones, excellent ASAC article is found online catalog and tells the story of these rare arms. Receipt from professional restorer Larry Smith detailing restoration performed. CONDITION: very good overall, restored front band, rear sight, the ramrod is added. The stock is sound and solid with burnout rear of bolster, and putty repair on right side of barrel channel between bands. Brass mounts have smooth olive/mustard patina. lock and barrel have dark iron patina with pitting. Bore is strong and pitted with good discernible rifling. Lock will not hold on full cock, otherwise mechanically functional. (01-22811/JS). ANTIQUE. $14,000-18,000.

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1864 DATED CONFEDERATE FAYETTEVILLE RIFLE.

Lot # 3003 (Sale Order: 3 of 692)      

Cal. 61. smoothbore. NSN. Standard configuration of the popular brass mounted Confederate rifle made in Fayetteville, NC from captured Harper’s Ferry machinery, 33" barre...morel proved with captured Harper’s Ferry eagle font proof, “V” (viewed) & “P” (proved). The lockplate is marked forward of the hammer w/ eagle over “CSA” & “Fayetteville” & stamped behind the hammer “1864.” Buttplate has “CSA” surcharge; both barrel bands marked “U” (up). Inspectors’ cartouche “PB” stamped on flat opposite lock. This example still has original Confederate canvas and leather sling. Rifle has been reamed out to smooth bore with small brass front and fixed rear sights. No other alterations made and firearm presents beautifully. CONDITION: good overall. Dark iron patina, pitting at breech. Brass buttplate, trigger guard, barrel bands, lock escutcheons, & nosecap have smooth dark spotted brass patina. Ramrod serial numbered 2137 in old font but not original to this rifle. Stock is sound, worn rounded edges, cartouche visible in outline. Mechanically fine with smooth dark bore. Sling is sound, complete, soiled. PROVENANCE: Fred Edmunds, Ed Holliday estate collection. (01-24032/JS). ANTIQUE. $6,000-8,000.

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1863 DATED CONFEDERATE FAYETTEVILLE RIFLE.

Lot # 3004 (Sale Order: 4 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Standard configuration of the popular brass mounted Confederate rifle made in Fayetteville, NC from captured Harper's Ferry machinery, with 33” barrel with ...morebayonet lug. The lockplate is marked forward of the hammer w/ eagle over “CSA” & “Fayetteville” & marked behind the hammer “1863.” eaglehead proof, “V” (viewed) & “P” (proved) stamped on breech. Buttplate has proper “CSA” surcharge; barrel bands have the usual “U” (up) stamped. CONDITION: fair to good overall. Brass mounts cleaned & toned patina. Barrel has been reworked & recolored, missing rear sight. Lock is worn and pitted with the eagle and CSA only slightly discernible, FAYETTEVILLE & date are well discerned. Stock is sound with large gouge on the left side. “U” On rear barrel band is only partially discernible, sling swivel post on front band has been filed off, attachment post on bayonet lug is missing. Ramrod is shortened replacement. Mechanically good with discernible rifled bore. Regardless, this is an attractive CS gun overall. (01-24050/JS). ANTIQUE.$3,000-5,000.

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GOOD 1863 DATED RICHMOND RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3005 (Sale Order: 5 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. This is a very good original complete example of the standard production Richmond Armory rifle musket that saw lots of use but has survived in original comp...morelete condition with dark uncleaned patina. Standard configuration made from Richmond Armory parts made with captured Harpers Ferry machinery late 1862-1864. 56” Overall. 40” barrel, correct original rear leaf sight, correct fixed front sight, brass butt plate, brass nose cap, original straight non tapered ramrod appears to be replacement. “VP” & eagle head proof at breech are discernible including broken “P” characteristic of Richmond manufacture. Barrel date is not visible due to pitting from hard use. The lock is dated “1863” at tail & “C.S. / RICHMOND, VA” forward of hammer. All components appear of Richmond manufacture except for the rear band which appears Harpers Ferry. Captured Harpers Ferry finished parts were generally utilized on earliest production muskets, this example probably early 1863. This is among the most difficult Confederate arms to find unmolested. CONDITION: good overall. Complete & original, rich dark patina, light pitting. Brass has smooth mixed mustard patina. Stock well fit, sound, several hairlines, 2” crack forward of lock-but sliver still attached. Broken lower leaf of rear sight. Mechanically functional. Bore worn from shooting but still has discernible rifling. Ramrod protrudes about 1”. PROVENANCE: Fred Edmunds Ed Holliday estate collection, 2000. (01-24033/JS). ANTIQUE. $7,000-9,000.

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1863 DATED RICHMOND RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3006 (Sale Order: 6 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Standard configuration made from captured Harpers Ferry machinery. 56” overall, 40” barrel, proper Richmond adjustable rear sight, brass buttplate, brass no...morese cap, original tapered ramrod. Longitudinal forging flaws are observed which are characteristic of Richmond manufacture. The lock is dated “1863” vertically at tail & “C.S. / RICHMOND, VA” forward of hammer. This is a pleasing example with crisp lock markings. CONDITION: good overall, appears complete & original, old cleaning, mottled gray/bright patina, barrel proofs not visible. Ramrod is not Richmond made but top section appears of era with modern welded extension to fit gun. Rear sight is a restoration. Stock is sound and well fit was scattered dings, dents, and few hairline cracks. Mechanically functional. Bore heavily worn with traces of rifling. (01-24054/JS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.

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1862 DATED COMPOSITE RICHMOND RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3007 (Sale Order: 7 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Unusual configuration made from inspected iron mounted Harpers Ferry model 1855 rifle musket with tool box, an early Richmond 1862 dated transitional lock m...morearked “C.S. / RICHMOND, VA” forward of hammer is only Confederate manufactured component. CONDITION: good to very good overall, appears complete & original as configured, broken front sling swivel, missing hammer screw, front sight altered, heavy iron patina with pitting. Mechanically functional, the hammer does not drop completely onto nipple. Bore reamed to about .60” smoothbore with areas of pitting. (01-24046/JS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.

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RARE RICHMOND ARMORY 2 BAND RIFLE.

Lot # 3008 (Sale Order: 8 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Richmond rifles with 33” barrels had a very small production made only late 1863 and 1864. Often parts gleaned from battlefield, shortened damaged musket ba...morerrels, a lot of variety is seen in survivors. This example has 1863 dated Richmond lock, Richmond brass buttplate and nose cap. 31” braised repaired threaded ramrod is quite possibly Confederate made. Stock has attached brass saddle shield decoration, undiscernible name scratched on opposite side. CONDITION: good. Originally rifled made in 58 caliber, barrel has been reamed to about 61 caliber smooth bore removing rear sight and probable restored front pinch site in style seen on Richmond rifles. Stock is sound with old sanding missing large chunk rear of lock, weathered & worn overall. Lock markings weak and “RICHMOND” not discernible. Iron has mixed patinas with more pitting on trigger guard and barrel bands than barrel & lock. VP/eagle head proofs on breech have discernible Richmond broken “P”. Mechanics are fine with smooth clear bore. (01-24057/JS). ANTIQUE. $2,000-4,000.

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1863 DATED CS RICHMOND ARMORY RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3009 (Sale Order: 9 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Standard configuration, 40” barrel, VP / eagle head proofs at breech, brass buttplate, other furniture is iron including nose cap. Barrel bands have offset ...more“U”s of Richmond manufacturer. All-in-all musket has a good overall aesthetic and good representative Confederate Richmond rifled musket that saw the war. CONDITION: good overall, dark iron patina, complete and original other than missing rear sight, rear sling swivel, restored front swivel, and added contemporary 38.5” ramrod, heavy pitting at breech, good VP proof visible with “broken P” unique to Richmond. Stock is sound with three large hairlines, dings and dents, hand worn patina, pair of soldier’s initials carved on right buttstock “JM”. Mechanically fine, discernible rifled bore. (01-24065/JS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-5,000.

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1863 DATED CS RICHMOND ARMORY RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3010 (Sale Order: 10 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. Standard configuration, 40” barrel, VP / eaglehead proofs at breech, brass buttplate & nose cap, rear sight has an apparent contemporary alteration to a fix...moreed notch. Rear barrel band has offset “U” of Richmond manufacturer. Lock marked “C.S. / RICHMOND” and dated “1863” at tail. CONDITION: good overall, dark iron patina, heavy pitting at breech. ”P” proof has discernible die break characteristic of Richmond manufacturer. Middle & front bands are probably of US manufacturer, swelled model 1861 ramrod has matching patina and fits well. Stock is sound with numerous small dents and dings with added varnish. Mechanically functional, good discernible dark rifled bore. (01-24042/JS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-5,000.

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GOOD 1863 DATED RICHMOND RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3011 (Sale Order: 11 of 692)      

Cal. 58. NSN. This is the best example of several Richmond muskets from old North Carolina collection being offered in this sale. Musket has very good appearance with dar...morek uncleaned iron patina. Standard configuration made from all Richmond Armory parts with exception of barrel bands. The lock is marked “C.S. / RICHMOND, VA” & “1863” at tail. 56” Overall. 40” barrel, correct original style rear leaf sight, correct fixed front sight, brass butt plate, brass nose cap, original Richmond straight tapered ramrod. Inspection proofs at breech are not discernible due to pitting from hard use. All components appear of Richmond manufacture except for the barrel bands which two appear to be Harpers Ferry. Captured Harpers Ferry finished parts were utilized when on hand. This is an attractive Richmond rifle musket that saw service, but was not abused in complete original condition. A soldier carved his initials “HW” lightly into the left butt stock, a feature so often seen on Confederate long arms. CONDITION: good overall. Complete & original, rich dark uncleaned patina to brass butt plate and nose cap. Barrel, lock, bands, and ramrod have uncleaned matching heavy iron patina with pitting. Stock is sound, lightly refinished and varnished, well patinaed chip forward of lock, small gap in fit of lock at base which is characteristic of Richmonds when hammer sear falls below the plane of the lock and gouges mortise. Mechanically very good, dirty pitted bore with good rifling. (01-24045/JS). ANTIQUE. $5,000-7,000.

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CONFEDERATE PERCUSSION ALTERATION OF RARE EARLY

Lot # 3012 (Sale Order: 12 of 692)      

1804 DATED VIRGINIA MANUFACTORY MUSKET. Cal. 70. NSN. Classic Confederate 1861-1862 “braised bolster” conversion from flint to percussion of 1804 dated Virginia Manufacto...morery Musket, 1804 was only 3rd year of production. Lockplate marked at tail “RICHMOND/1804” & "VIRGINIA / MANUFACTORY” forward of hammer. Matching assembly “11” found externally on all 3 barrel bands, sideplate, trigger guard, floorplate & buttplate. The percussion alteration was contracted by Virginia by S.C. Robinson and Union Car Works of Richmond, VA. See other examples described & pictured in Murphy & Madaus’ "Confederate Rifles and Muskets" on pages 617-636. This is a rare Confederate used survivor which presents beautifully & personalized by soldier with carved initials in stock. CONDITION: good to very good overall, appears all original and complete, metal cleaned, lock markings especially crisp, especially for this early date, county regimental markings on top of barrel are not discernible. The only noted restoration is to the stock with several insets and repairs around the lock. Mechanically functional, mainspring is weak, clean clear bore. (01-24053/JS). ANTIQUE. $3,000-5,000.

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CALISHER & TERRY'S 1860 PATTERN BREECHLOADING

Lot # 3013 (Sale Order: 13 of 692)      

SADDLE RING CARBINE. Cal. 30 Bore. S# 2023. 37.5" overall length. There has always been speculation of the use of these carbines during the Civil War, it is known that JE...moreB Stuart carried one & a presentation example was given to Jefferson Davis. Most examples however saw service in the constabulary in Canada & New Zealand, though no constabulary marking present on this example. Engraved serial number on trigger guard tail, all furniture is iron, barrel attached to stock by single key, 4” saddle ring bar. “Terry’s Patent” hinged rotating lever for breech loading 20” barrel, 4” breech. No British government proof marks; a single commercial proof at the breech. CONDITION: very good as refinished, complete and original. Metal is pitted and refinished, reblued, with only partially discernible markings on lock, & no markings visible on barrel, engraved serial number on lower tang only partially discerned. Stock is sound, sharp checkering, old varnish, scattered scuffs and scratches. Ramrod polished bright with partially discernible maker's name. Cleaning jag still present in buttstock cavity. Mechanically fine, good rifled bore with pitting. (01-23162/JS). ANTIQUE. $2,500-3,000.

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P1856 BRITISH 2-BAND RIFLE.

Lot # 3014 (Sale Order: 14 of 692)      

Cal. .577. NSN. Bbl. 33”. Round barrel with a rectangular bladed front sight 1” from the muzzle, and a bayonet lug 4 1/2" back from the muzzle to accommodate the saber ba...moreyonet used with this rifle. Approx 9” from the breech is a folding 1100-yd. rear sight. The lock has a crown behind the hammer and “1860” under the nipple. Iron trigger guard, butt plate, barrel bands, nose cap, & sling swivels. There is a visually attractive, but incorrect, sling attached to the swivels. Correct iron ramrod. Stock is stamped “T / 29” in back of the trigger guard tail. CONDITION: barrel & lock have a dark finish. Markings on the lock are clear, and it holds both full & half cock. All other iron has a dark finish with the exception of the ramrod, which has a light gray patina. Wood has expected dents & dings, but no notable damage. Very good bore. (01-24051/BF). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,000.

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FINE 1862 DATED “LAC” ENFIELD RIFLE MUSKET.

Lot # 3015 (Sale Order: 15 of 692)      

Cal. .577. NSN. Standard configuration of British Army proofed Pattern 1853 rifle musket with 39” barrel, London military proofs at breech. This is a very nice example of...more “London Armory Company” contract with “VR/crown” cypher and broad arrow proofed lock. LAC provided many arms for the Confederacy for the Civil War though this gun was British army proofed. Stock has maker’s cartouche dated "1863". This well-made gun has brass buttplate, trigger guard & nosecap, iron clamping bands, adjustable long range rear sight. CONDITION: very good overall, good crisp markings. Iron has smooth mottled gray patina, stock is sound and well fit what's scattered storage dings and dents. Complete, matching and original with exception of ramrod which is scarce original 32” rod for a rifle. Mechanically fine, crisp dirty rifled bore. (01-24047/JS). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,000.

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CONFEDERATE USED SHOTGUN, “THOMAS S. MORGAN”

Lot # 3016 (Sale Order: 16 of 692)      

MORGAN’S CAVALRY. 12 ga. NSN. Carved in stock “Tho. S. Morgan”, “C.S.” & Ky”. The carving appears impeccable with some red wax inset still visible. This relic was found a...morebout 40 years ago in Youngstown OH antique shop sticking out of an umbrella stand. Shotgun was missing hammers and stock cracked through at locks. Mike Hilber, well known Ohio Civil War collector who consigned this gun had stock and hammers restored. He would never sell it till now. I have been cataloging Confederate arms for many years and this is the first time I have seen an original shotgun shortened and altered using musket nipples, there are plenty of fakes though. John Hunt Morgan and his cavalry raided Ohio in June 1864, and were strongly resisted losing many men in several actions. His brother Thomas was killed July 5th 1863. Capt. Thomas S. Morgan also in the 2nd Kentucky Calvary under Morgan was in raid and was captured & imprisoned in Ohio with John Hunt Morgan. This wonderful relic most likely belonged to Capt. Thomas S. Morgan of Morgan's Men. Even though restored, this is a very rare inscribed Confederate used shotgun so common to Confederate cavalry, but almost no documented survivors. Shotgun is standard 1850-1860 vintage back action import, iron mounted with German silver escutcheons. Locks have Philadelphia agent marks and barrel rib has indiscernible quality mark, barrels shortened during to 23.5”. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: small file of research compiled by consignor. Copies of service records of both Thomas Morgans of the 2nd KY cavalry. CONDITION: fair to good as restored, the carving is very good, buttstock retains much of its original factory varnish especially on the carved side, the reverse side of buttstock varnish is worn with vertical scratch marks that are consistent with saddle wear so often seen on cavalry carbines. (01-23965/JS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.

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CIVIL WAR PERIOD “CONFEDERATE” SHOTGUN BY F.H.

Lot # 3017 (Sale Order: 17 of 692)      

CLARK OF MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. Cal. 12 Ga. NSN. Bbls. 33 1/4". This extraordinary double barrel, 12 Ga. shotgun was retailed by F.H. Clark & Co. of Memphis, Tennessee. It l...moreikely saw extensive use during the Civil War, likely by Confederate mounted troops. This exact gun is pictured on pages 206 through 209 of the book, “Confederate and Southern Agent Marked Shotguns” by Pritchard & Ashworth. Round barrels with a large bridge that has been inlaid with gold letters that reads “IMPORTED & WARRANTED BY F.H. CLARK & CO MEMPHIS TENN:”. There is a bead sight near the muzzle and gold inlaid lines at the breech. On the underside of each barrel, covered by the forestock, are 3 Birmingham proofs, 2 stamped “12” marks, “Laminated Steel”, and “H & S”. The “H & S” likely represents the firm of Hollis & Sheath of Birmingham, England. The front action locks are engraved with dogs, grouse, woodcock, and foliate motifs. The locks are marked “JOSEPH MANTON & SON PATENTEES”. The hammers are engraved in a complimentary motif to the locks. Engraved iron trigger guard, engraved buttplate, engraved barrel tang, engraved barrel pin escutcheons, and plain ramrod thimbles. There is a small gold shield escutcheon at the base of the butt. The walnut stock has crosshatching at the wrist. Wooden ramrod is likely an early replacement. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: a book titled "Confederate and Southern Agent Marked Shotguns" by Pritchard & Ashworth. CONDITION: barrel has a dark overall patina, as do the locks and other iron parts. Gold inlays are virtually complete. Locks hold both full and half cock. There has been a break at the wrist that has been skillfully repaired with two 4 1/2" brass straps with 7 countersunk screws on each side. There are several gouges & small missing pieces of wood in the forestock, likely due to heavy use during the war. Good bores. (01-24219/BF). ANTIQUE. $3,500-4,500.

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RARE & IMPORTANT CONFEDERATE COFER PERCUSSION

Lot # 3018 (Sale Order: 18 of 692)      

REVOLVER, IDENTIFIED TO CONFEDERATE JOSHUA P. MELTON, OF THE PETERSBURG ARTILLERY. Cal. 36. S# 13. One of the true rarities and among the most coveted revolvers and the m...moreost expensive in Confederate collecting is the brass framed percussion revolver made in Portsmouth, Virginia by Thomas W. Cofer. There are 13 known military percussion survivors of 82 originally contracted by Capt. Edgar Burrough’s Chesapeake Light Cavalry, Co. “I”, 5th VA Cavalry. Revolvers all saw hard service early in the war as they were received in 2 deliveries, January 1862 (17 revolvers) and May 1862 (65 revolvers). This revolver is from the first shipment of 17 revolvers, as those 17 revolvers were serial numbered 1-17. There are three serial numbered survivors of the first shipment known to us; 1, 11 & 13. These earliest revolvers seem more refined with better markings. They are also numbered on more parts than later issues including screws. Cofers were not serial numbered after these first 17. The 65 revolvers delivered 4 months later in May are lettered or unmarked. This wonderful revolver is identified to Confederate Joshua Melton and we have a direct chain of ownership. This Cofer revolver is only the second Confederate identified Cofer revolver we are currently aware of. We sold the other Confederate identified Cofer revolver in our November 2022 auction, but at the time it was the only Confederate identified Cofer revolver we were aware of, until we discovered this example. It has a long history in the 1940s after Confederate veteran Joshua P. Melton’s death in 1940 and later his daughter’s death in 1948. Bill Albaugh purchased it for $10,000! At the time it was probably the highest price ever paid for an American made gun, but shortly after he sold it to Bill Locke for an astounding $25,000 in 1950!! Esteemed Confederate collector Dr. Robert Moore treasured this gun till it was sold in his estate auction June 2000. This was the first Confederate revolver to ever sell for over $100,000 in auction but at the time, some but not all of the documents we currently have were not available with the gun. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: large file of correspondence from Bill Albaugh, Tom Smith (early Cofer researcher who knew the Bichard/Melton family where gun originated), Tom Wibberley, Leon "Red" Jackson, Cliff Young, Bill Bond, Giles Cromwell and more. Most of the letters are attempting to discover what unit "Joshua P. Melton" served. Joshua P. Melton (1847-1940) had service in Petersburg Artillery as a 17 year old in 1864. His older brother Nathan J. Melton (1837-1862) had service in Fluvanna Artillery dying at Chimborazo Hospital in 1862 from Typhoid Fever. Joshua outlived all his siblings living 97 years till his passing in 1940. He died at home of his granddaughter Etta where gun remained till after her death in 1948, Albaugh purchased the gun from the family after Etta’s death. This revolver was mistakenly thought to have been sold on Theodore Dexter’s dealer list in 1943 but with no identity. It was from the collection of Tulsa oilman F. R. Billingslea. However, we now know the Billingslea gun is in a museum and is not serialized with the number 13. But instead, is a serial lettered gun (from the second shipment of 65 guns in May 1862). In March of 2023, we discovered this gun and the valuable group of documents which prove and ID this gun to the Melton family. The Melton family documentation identifies this gun to 17 year old Joshua P. Melton, who served in the Petersburg artillery in 1864. However, Joshua had an older brother who served early in the war in the Viriginia artillery, but died in 1862. While Joshua’s grandson, Arthur Birchard states it was carried by his grandfather, it is of course possible Joshua’s older brother Nathan originally carried the gun in 1862 until his death, then the gun passed down to young Joshua. The proof is that certainly that one or both of the Melton sons carried this very gun in the Civil War. It was a prized relic by Joshua until his death in 1940. Then revered and prized by his daughter Etta until her death in 1948. The gun was obviously also treasured by the grandchildren, which probably accounts why Albaugh had to pay a record price to acquire it. This is a great rarity and is now one of only two Cofer revolvers known to be identified to a Confederate soldier. Three Cofers are identified as captured with Union soldier’s names. All existing percussion Cofers are either uniquely numbered or lettered. Existing authentic examples are 1, 11, 13, F, L, M, N, T, V and four examples which are unmarked. 4 of 13 examples are in museums. Which means there are only a total of 9 known examples in private hands. Most of the few extant examples are heavily restored or poor condition, this is one of the top few known. It is 100% original and authentic. For a Confederate revolver, this is an outstanding example with crisp markings, smooth uncleaned patina, all matching serial numbers and additional number "3"

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FINE & RARE SOUTH CAROLINA INSPECTED CONFEDERATE

Lot # 3019 (Sale Order: 19 of 692)      

LEECH & RIGDON REVOLVER. Cal. 36. S# 1031. Manufactured in late 1863, one of 1000 revolvers made at Greensboro GA under Confederate contract and one of 300 with South Car...moreolina inspection stamped “S. C.”. SC marked revolvers are only known in serial range 1000-1300 (lowest survivor 1007 and highest 1290). Revolver is in standard configuration 7.5" half octagonal to round barrel with brass pin front sight “LEECH & RIGDON CSA” on top flat. “N” inspector stamped both sides front trigger bow. S# observed on every part normally numbered including latch, wedge, arbor, factory mis-transcribed S# 3031 on frame and barrel. Penciled S# observed on grip backstrap channel. This is only example in database with a factory mis-transcribed serial number. Revolver is especially sharp, showing little wear, superior “LEECH & RIGDON” and “CSA” barrel markings. Grips have 5 cut slashes on left side, possible kills in battle? This is a very crisp revolver that probably saw service in the South Carolina Cavalry that has survived in beautiful condition. CONDITION: very good overall, complete and original including screws, matching serial numbers found throughout with the noted transposed “3” for “1” for 1st number on barrel and frame, metal cleaned & polished with scattered staining, brass grip frame has toned patina. Tacking marks on butt of gun, but the SC inspection is still easily discerned. Mechanically fine with crisp rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Buddy Bass collection (when he found revolver, it was cold blued which he removed), Penn Templeman collection, Kerry Elliott collection. (01-24190/JS). ANTIQUE. $25,000-35,000.

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“AS FOUND” ALL ORIGINAL CONFEDERATE GRISWOLD BRASS

Lot # 3020 (Sale Order: 20 of 692)      

FRAME REVOLVER. Cal. 36. S# 2110. This revolver has been known since the 1970s when in the famous Confederate collection of Fred Slaton of Nebo Kentucky. Revolver is fine...more survivor, uncleaned, authentic & matching throughout, numbered and marked on every part that can be marked. Samuel Griswold made about half of all approximate 7500 Confederate revolvers made in the Confederacy at his converted cotton gin factory near Macon in Griswoldville, GA. This is a standard 2nd Model configuration with half octagonal barrel housing and 7.5" round barrel. Serial number “2110” is found stamped on the left side of frame, cylinder and barrel housing. Secondary number “10” is found on loading arm, wedge, hammer, trigger guard, and penciled on one piece walnut grips. Cryptic “X” is observed: barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Matching assembly “XIIII” is cut into the trigger guard, backstrap and frame. This pistol is a fine survivor, original in every regard. CONDITION: good and complete, all matching, only 2 screws appear to be old replacements. Mottled brass patina, iron patina with pitting. Mechanically cocks but cylinder only turns sporadically, pitted well defined rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Fred Slaton collection 1970s, Cecil Anderson collection, private collection. (01-23444/JS). ANTIQUE. $20,000-25,000.

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CONFEDERATE 2ND MODEL GRISWOLD REVOLVER.

Lot # 3021 (Sale Order: 21 of 692)      

Cal. 36. S# 2093. . (01-22606/JS).The most popular and iconic of Confederate revolvers are the brass frame copies of Colt 1851 navy revolvers made by Samuel Griswold in G...moreriswoldville Georgia. This is good looking example with superior condition frame, barrel and cylinder. Serial Number "2093" stamped on left side of frame, barrel and cylinder. Cryptic "I" over "I" is observed on bottom of barrel near latch and back of cylinder with functional safety pins, good twist in iron is seen in cylinder. Traces of original blue finish found on bottom of barrel. This revolver has long collection history and is listed by serial number in Bill Albaugh's 1955 text "The Brass Framed Colt and Whitney". CONDITION: all parts which were full serial numbered are original and better than average on other Confederate revolvers. Parts that would have had secondary numbers, loading arm, backstrap, trigger guard, wedge and hammer are all replaced along with grips which still have partial Colt serial number. Mechanically functional with good dirty rifled bore. Regardless of replaced parts, this revolver presents better than most examples. (01-22606/JS). ANTIQUE. $15,000-18,000.

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SCARCE CONFEDERATE NAVY CONTRACT LONDON LEMAT

Lot # 3022 (Sale Order: 22 of 692)      

“GRAPESHOT” REVOLVER. Cal. 42/18ga. S# 8784. This revolver represents the final evolution of LeMat percussion grape shot revolvers purchased by the Confederacy in late 18...more64. These revolvers were manufactured under Confederate naval contract by the English firm of Tipping and Lawden. Doug Adams in his excellent 2005 text "The Confederate LeMat Revolver" explains the technical changes to the “cog cylinder rotation system” from the earlier problem plagued reciprocating pin system. These Navy contracted pistols, 1000 in total, are found in a special serial range 8000-9000. Though 1000 were made, survival is much lower than the earlier Paris addressed examples. Only 60 "LEMAT & GIRARD'S PATENT LONDON" marked survivors are in database, which is only 6% of production. Paris examples have 20% survival rate. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: copy of chapter on 1864 London CS Navy contract LeMats from cited Doug Adams 2005 text. CONDITION: very good overall, original, complete, and matching with exception of restored/replaced hammer with earlier style shotgun barrel selector at nose. Serial numbers observed externally, all matching on barrel, frame, cylinder, and loading assembly. Revolver exhibits strong traces of bright blue finish in protected areas. Mechanically fine with crisp rifled bore. (01-24250/JS). ANTIQUE. $12,000-18,000.

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“AS FOUND” CONFEDERATE TRANSITIONAL LEMAT REVOLVER

Lot # 3023 (Sale Order: 23 of 692)      

WITH RARE LEMAT HOLSTER. Cal. 42. 18 ga. S#693.This “as found” “grapeshot” revolver made in 1862 still retains 1st model features, including spring loaded latch to attach...moreing frame to barrel, spur trigger guard, pinned lanyard ring stud, & reciprocating pin rotation system noted by series of holes on back of cylinder. Early engraved barrel address “COL. LeMAT Bte SGDC PARIS”. Flap holster is of style associated with Confederate manufacture with sewn loop for flap. CONDITION. good overall, all matching, no original finish but sharp markings, especially good barrel address. Missing loading assembly as are a majority of “as found” survivors. Hammer face has been altered with pivoting block that has to be set in one position for cylinder and another position for shotgun: this alteration is clumsy but appears contemporary to its use. Grips well fit, nicks & dings and worn checkering. Revolver cocks, but cylinder does not advance, needs attention. Good rifled bore. Accompanying holster fits well, hole in toe, belt loop restored, crazed overall, but sound & supple. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of James B. Taylor. (01-23859/JS). ANTIQUE. $8,000-12,000.

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CONFEDERATE 2ND MODEL LEMAT REVOLVER.

Lot # 3024 (Sale Order: 24 of 692)      

Cal. 42. 18 ga. S#1576. Standard 2nd model grapeshot revolver manufactured 1863, one of about 2000 Paris 2nd models made for the Confederacy. Barrel address: “Col. LeMat ...moreBte sgdc Paris”. Standard configuration, 9-shot cylinder, underlying shotgun barrel, reciprocating pin cylinder rotation system, hinged selector on hammer face for choice of shotgun or cylinder. Checkered wood grips, loading assembly attached to frame on left side. CONDITION: good overall, gray cleaned pitted metal. Restored loading assembly, frame pin, and hammer screw. Mechanically functional, pitted rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Little John’s 2008. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of James B. Taylor. (01-23860/JS). ANTIQUE. $6,000-9,000.

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SOUTH CAROLINA PALMETTO ARMORY M1842, CONFEDERATE

Lot # 3025 (Sale Order: 25 of 692)      

SINGLE SHOT MARTIAL PISTOL. Cal. 54. S# J5. This Model 1842 cavalry pistol with 8.5" barrel was assembled by William Glaze in Columbia, SC in 1852-1853 for the state of S...moreouth Carolina. Glaze made & delivered 1,000 of these cavalry horse pistols in 1853. Later, during the war for Southern Independence, these pistols served South Carolina cavalry units in Confederate service. Most survivors of the war saw Confederate service as this example most likely did. This survivor has light but discernible “PALMETTO ARMORY” markings on lock surrounding Palmetto tree, tail marked vertically “COULMBIA / S C. 1852. The barrel has good clear markings “Wm. GLAZE & CO” On the left breech flat, “P” over “V” over Palmetto tree proof. The tang is dated 1853. Dr. Fred Novy has changed the way we look at Palmetto Armory model 1842 pistols and other Palmetto Armory arms with years of examining museum and private owned examples. No one realized that there is a unique combination of a letter and a number on the barrels internally of every Palmetto pistol. Dr. Novy as of this date has chronicled 116 different original examples, this was #115 in survey and breech assembly (serial) markings are “J” and “5” (sideways). Though Palmetto pistols are often seen on market, not all are original. This is a very nice complete and original example with good markings throughout from the collection of Dr. Novy. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Dr. Novy's detailed data sheet is included in this lot. CONDITION: good-very good overall, all original, correct and matching, mechanically fine with dark smooth bore. Pistol was cleaned & polished overall, barrel and lock have mottled iron patina, brass with toned patina, stock is sound & well fit with light varnish coat added. Barrel internally still retains traces of unique “Palmetto Armory brown” finish. PROVENANCE: Collection Dr. Fred Novy. (01-24249/JS). ANTIQUE. $5,000-6,000.

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