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HISTORIC ARMS & MILITARIA
P.O. BOX 2446  FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33303
Phone: (954) 761-8855 (Monday through Friday 10am-6pm)    email: flayderman@aol.com

Had we been in business back in 1864, this undoubtedly would have been our store...
but we have been in business 60 years and we have had just as great a selection over those decades as you see here.

New Updates Here and Ongoing!!

Latest Update 4/30/13

Much more to come !

A RARE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE COLLECTOR AND DEALER

In this day and age the buyer has to be wary of all the so-called "bargains" so often advertised and the much abused word "SALE". Those of you who have been our customers (or received our 118 catalogs in the years we issued them before changing to the website) will readily sense that this is indeed a rare offering of ours. In our 60 years we have had only 3 prior sales; the last one being with our catalog No. 108 in 1984!     I do believe that the prices of these items listed will "speak for themselves"!

A little bit about... N. FLAYDERMAN & CO., INC.

Established in 1952, we have been widely recognized as one of the best known names in the antique firearms and militaria fields. Our slogan "YOU CAN ORDER WITH CONFIDENCE ...OUR REPUTATION IS OUR GUARANTEE" has truly been our watchword for the half century that we've been in business, dealing with collectors, museums and historic societies all over the world.

The 118 consecutive editions (from 1954 to 1998) of our widely cited catalogs were the longest run of antique arms and militaria catalogs issued anywhere......anytime! (Our business has always been entirely mail order conducted). In 1998 we computerized our sales operation as you now view it, and continue to list and describe via these web pages, the broad and interesting selection of rare antique collectables that we have been noted for handling for well over half a century.

Let us assure you, as we have all our mail order customers these past 60 years, that each of the items offered here is a one-of-a-kind, authentic antique.....with NO modern reproductions. That's why we go to such great lengths to describe each individual piece. Just as our catalogs always offered the most remarkable, intriguing and fascinating a collection to be found and made available in any store or catalog in the world, so, too, will we try to make these web pages as inviting! Also, please remember, all our antique firearms are sold as collectors' items only and are not guaranteed (nor recommended) for shooting reliability or safety. Sorry, no firearms sold to minors.

N. FLAYDERMAN & CO., INC. GUARANTEE: Our sound, unqualified guarantee stands firmly in back of every item you purchase from us. Your purchase price will be refunded in full if for any reason you are not fully satisfied. The item must be returned within five days after receipt in same condition as sent. No need for concern, a reasonable shipping time while en route to you (or back to us) is not counted!

Payment options:
We do accept Visa & Mastercard as well as Checks & Money Orders.
We also offer for your convenience layaway plan: 20% down payment and remaining balance within 3 months for order under $200; balance within 4 months for orders over $200. Please keep accounts active with partial payments. No charge to you for this service.

OUR  ONLINE  CATALOG

OUR  SALES  LISTINGS  ARE  ARRANGED  BY  CATEGORIES
You can easily scroll down through them all or go directly
 to your preferred grouping by clicking on the heading links below:

EDGED WEAPONS                                                 FIREARMS                                            MISCELLANEOUS

ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS

R389      THE MOST FASCINATING AND ABSOLUTELY UNIQUE HISTORIC INSCRIBED CIVIL WAR FIREARM WE HAVE EVER COME ACROSS!  AN EXCEPTIONALLY (IF NOT ASTONISHINGLY!) ENGRAVED HISTORICAL U.S. MODEL 1861 CIVIL WAR UNION ARMY .58 CALIBER PERCUSSION RIFLED MUSKET DISPLAYING AWESOME ARTISTIC QUALITIES WHILE REFLECTING ITS HISTORIC BACKGROUND HISTORY OF USAGE!  Originally owned and carried during the Civil War by a Union soldier who had retained it as a personal memento and in early post-war years sent it to a custom engraver to have the commemorative inscriptions and motifs added on all parts.  THE WORKMANSHIP AND QUALITY OF THAT ENGRAVING IS OF THE ULTIMATE, HIGHEST PROFESSIONAL CALIBER AND IS UNMISTAKABLY AUTHENTIC TO THE ERA OF IMMEDIATE POST-WAR YEARS AND HIGHLY SUGGESTIVE OF THE WORK OF AMES MANUFACTURING COMPANY OF CHICOPEE, MASS. AND VERY SIMILAR, IF NOT IDENTICAL TO THAT OFTEN VIEWED ON THEIR FAMOUS SWORD BLADES!  The engraving style of all engraving throughout this rifle is decidedly typical of that found on all Civil War and early post-Civil War arms and definitely original to that era.

It is quite fascinating to view the superb quality engraving and designs THAT FILL THE ENTIRE 40 INCHES OF THE FULL LENGTH OF THE BARREL FROM THE BREECH  AND NIPPLE TO THE MUZZLE WITH EXQUISITE “old English” STYLE WORDING ACCOMPANIED BY DESIGNS AND ELEGANT ENGRAVED PANELS OF ALL TYPES AND INSCRIPTIONS IN THE VERY HIGHEST PROFESSIONAL MANNER.  Descriptions along length of barrel are divided into 5 large elegant  panels;  each one neatly lettered:  Panel One: “Sergt. H. W. Toole, Co. D 169’th Rgt. N.Y. Vol. 1862-5”…The other 4 panels are each wonderfully labeled with a different phrase of his Regiments impressive 1862-1865 battle history. The panel borders and spaces between them are all filled with decorative edging and scroll engraved motifs.  EACH OF THE THREE BARREL BANDS ALSO HAVE ENGRAVED PANELS WITH THE NAMES OF THE THREE COLONELS WHO COMMANDED THE REGIMENT DURING THOSE WAR YEARS.  THE TRIGGER GUARD AND THE TRIGGER PLATE ARE ALSO ENTIRELY ENGRAVED WITH PROFUSE MILITARY TROPHY PANOPLY OF FLAGS, FLORAL AND SCROLL MOTIFS WITH SIMILAR ENGRAVING FILLING THE BUTT PLATE ALSO (an oval portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the heel of the butt of the musket while its underside bears a cluster of stars an etched design of the Civil War Veterans Society “G.A.R.” medal and name of the post to which Sgt. Toole belonged!).  All metal parts, including the mountings and lock, have the thin original nickel plated finish obviously applied by the company that contracted the engraving (quite likely Ames Co. circa 1870’s); that nickel finish clearly exhibiting its almost 150 years of aging and is in exc.+ condition having acquired a nicely aged patina allowing the engraving and designs a fine contrast in appearance.  The lock was purposefully not engraved in order not to obscure its original markings which are all clear, showing normal wear; “U.S./PROVIDENCE TOOL Co./PROVIDENCE R.I./1864.”  Lock and hammer both have that same light nickel finish matching the rest of the gun; markings exc.  That “1864” date merely indicates this was the last musket that Sgt. Toole had been issued and carried in service and then brought home with him upon discharge.  As indicated by his service records, earlier wounds and sickness contracted in the field caused him various “down-times” in the hospital, necessitating issuance of a replacement musket each time he returned to the regiment.  The stock is very sound and complete, showing normal, smooth aging and about exc.  Few small bruises and minor nicks only.  Stock has not been refinished, but left in its original condition.

Musket is accompanied with a large amount of documentary material acquired from the National Archives about the regiment and Sgt. Toole.  The 169’th N.Y. Reg’t raised in 1862 saw much service through to the war’s end in many major campaigns and actions.  Sgt. Toole served from beginning to end and records indicate he was badly injured by the explosion of a rebel shell and on various occasions spent recovery time from injury in the hospital, returning to the regiment each time.  THIS MUSKET IS MAGNIFICENT IN APPEARANCE…AND FASCINATING TO VIEW…AND IS AN UNQUESTIONED “SHOW-STOPPER”!!  Originally listed at $27,500.... and for this special sale a great buy at $18,500.

 R383 CASED, EXC. TO MINT CONDITION, ELABORATELY ENGRAVED ENGLISH PERCUSSION, BAR HAMMER 6 SHOT PEPPERBOX.  A choice example of the popular, earliest form of this British Model circa 1835-1840.  The entire frame, bar hammer breech end of barrel, butt cap and underside triggerguard are exquisitely engraved in the very ultimate of quality (meticulous,  profuse floral-scroll work of fine artistic features) with a fancy panel in center of left side bearing name of make "EDWIN LADMORE / HEREFORD."  A very deep fluted, case hardened rib divides each one of the boldly hand engraved, serial numbered ("1" to "6") barrels.  Each of those flutes even bears a deep sunken proofmark.  Case hardening colors very visible in many areas, particularly the wide barrel ribs. All metal is exc.+ mixing with a smooth, even, light age brown patina with metal showing only the lightest  of wear.  Mechanically exc.+.  The single piece walnut grips are entirely and most delicately checkered top to bottom and are exc. +.  The very fancy, profusely and delicately engraved iron and silver butt cap is of exceptional quality as well.  Markings exc. +. Pepperbox is still with its original classic British style walnut case (7in. by 10 in.) with fancy brass inlay on cover and brass keyhole escutcheon.  Original green felt lining.  Compartments all intact showing normal aging and some fading but very sound and exc.  ACCOMPANIED WITH ALL ORIGINAL ACCESSORIES INCLUDING:  rare exceptionally small (but perfectly fitting the compartment made for it ) copper powder flask  (exc.+) with brass  screw-off base for percussion caps and swivel compartment on brass top for bullets; also original single cavity, scissor typeiron bullet  mold with bottom of handle tapered to use as screwdriver while the much longer round side of handle is used as a ramrod; also a matching black ebony handled pair of gun tools, which include a nipple wrench and a delicate screwdriver; plus a classic style oil canister.  The case in exc. condition.... A choice outfit at just $4,450.

R352      One of the few surviving specimens of a musket long considered among the most rare of all U.S. primary martial long arms!  U.S. MODEL 1841 PERCUSSION CADET MUSKET.  Just 450 made at Springfield Armory circa 1844-1845 for use of West Point cadets.  .57 caliber; 40 inch barrel (3 band fastened); showing smooth wear with deep, even, age brown metal; some very minor light pitting and a few small patches of rust blemishes; metal will clean about exc.  Lock markings “U.S.” with eagle and “SPRINGFIELD/1844” are vg to exc. (and with minor cleaning of the storage light surface rusting all will clean even better).  Gun is in untouched original condition.  Mechanically exc.+  Full stock with smooth wear consistent with the metal is vg to exc.  Very small die-stamped, neat markings of name “C.D. Buck” on the lower butt of the stock and in wood right next to the side plate (a very well respected, early 20’th century arms collector).  Complete with original trumpet-head steel ramrod.  But a handful of surviving specimens of this rarity; a real prize for the collector!  (F#9A-290) ……. and at this price that will be found hard to beat !  $7,500.

R378  RARE, FINE CONDITION "LIPFIRE"  ALLEN & WHEELOCK .44 CALIBER 6 SHOT, ROUND CYLINDER REVOLVER WITH A CIVIL WAR HISTORY.  Early 1860's single action handgun 7½ in. half round, half octagon barrel; notches for cartridge lips at rear wall of cylinder;  a loading gate for the cartridges hinged at its bottom.  It  is important to realize that this large "Army" sized single action revolver although often confused as a conversion of a percussion model, was actually made earlier than the percussion models (much, much more about these large "Army" lipfire Allens are to be found in the "A & W Book" by Paul Henry).  It's a fine rarity, this one has matched serial # 175 and is in fine condition.  Metal is all exc. + with traces on barrel of blue finish still remaining and 10-20% of that blue is even visible on the cylinder !  Markings all exc.+.  Matched serial #175.  Mechanically exc.+, walnut grips with a classic evenly tapered "narrow" style grips are exc.+ and those grips have on their underside, CARVED in very fine quality old English lettering, superb quality carving, (that is absolutely original to the gun of the Civil War period) the name of an officer (a Lieut.) whose first name and initial is "John H."  of the "48th Mass. Reg't" his last name is partially scratched and damaged but with a little research can be easily located / identified.  (We will guarantee the authenticity of that carving ). ( Identical 5A-063).  The only specimen of this rarity we ever had available, a fine Allen and Civil War Rarity.... and on sale at just $2,250. SOLD 

R345      ARMED WARFARE IN LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS IN 1874!  Known as the “BROOKS-BAXTER WAR” it was an armed conflict 1874 between factions of the Republican Party over the disputed 1872 election for governor and came at the end of a long and violent struggle between white Republicans of the state before the Civil War, known as the “scalawags” and in later arrivals called the “carpetbaggers,” over power in the state gov’t during Reconstruction after the Civil War.  There is of course much more to it and all of it easily available on your computer “Wikipedia,” etc.  Ultimately things came to a head and Gov. Baxter declared martial law and in April, 1874, assembled a militia outfit, then being referred to as the “HALLIE RIFLES” which escorted the governor back to his headquarters to try to continue the state business and armed warfare commenced.  THIS CASED PAIR OF PISTOLS WAS PRESENTED TO THE CAPTAIN OF THAT “HALLIE RIFLES” AT SOME DATE QUITE LIKELY VERY CLOSE TO SETTLEMENT OF THAT “WAR” WHICH WAS COMPLETED BY SUMMER OF THAT SAME YEAR, 1874.

CASED PAIR OF SMITH & WESSON MODEL  1½ "SECOND ISSUE" .32 CALIBER RIMFIRE, 5 SHOT REVOLVERS. (a.k.a. “New Model 1 ½”).  Serial nos. 96717 and 96974.  Each revolver inscribed in bold script on the sideplate on left side, in 4 lines “Presented to Cap’t J. A. Welch by the Hallie Rifles.”  Both guns in good, sound working order.  One a bit better condition than the other showing lesser wear as he probably carried the single gun more often while on duty.  Original nickelfinish on both.  98%+ orig. nickel on one gun with few tiny blemishes (mostly on flutes of cylinder or barrel from storage, but metal exc.+ and better. The other gun shows just a bit of wear, mostly with nickel worn sides of frame, otherwise it’s all intact and metal is exc. (just a few tiny blemishes on the top strap near the hinge; all minor).  Both guns mechanically exc.+ and both have very handsome pearl grips which are exc.+  Each beautifully inscribed in large fancy 4 lines of script on side plate “PRESENTED TO CAPT. J. A. WELCH BY THE HALLIE RIFLES.”  The pair are cased in their original nicely grained, dark walnut double casing (normal aging, but exc. condition); fancy brass inlay in center of cover.  Red velvet, recessed, contour shaped, compartment lining and matching red velvet lining inside cover all intact showing normal aging and light fading typical of the period, but no tears, etc.  A center compartment dividing the two guns has spaces for approximately 50 cartridges (just 3 empty cases remain).

Accompanied with quite a bit of research including letter from S & W and very important information about Brooks-Baxter war and specific information (from books and newspaper of the period) about Capt. Welch  fighting and leading his outfit the “Hallie Rifles” in action and even saving Governor Baxter!  A great group of data to accompany the pair!  A RARE PAIR OF SMITH & WESSONS…AND EQUALLY RARE PIECE OF AMERICAN…AND ARKANSAS HISTORY! ........... AND PRICED FOR THIS SPECIAL SALE AT $19,500.

R375  "ALLEN THURBER & CO. WORCESTER" ARE THE MARKINGS ON ONE OF THE 3 INCH BARRELS OF THIS 6 SHOT, SMALL "POCKET SIZE" PERCUSSION .31 CALIBER PEPPERBOX. Also has deep hammer markings "ALLEN'S PATENT 1845".  Early model with separate affixed, engraved nipple shield with fancy scroll designs.  Bold, very fancy original engraving filling both sides and backstrap of the frame.  Gun shows smooth aging and  wear.  It is very sound, some minor patches of very light surface pitting but would rate metal VG+ and will clean even much, much better.  Mechanically exc., markings exc. smooth even aging on grips VG. to Exc..  Identical to 5A-039..... a real "buy" at only $475.  SOLD 

R374  EARLY (and rare !) COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION .31 CALIBER 5 SHOT REVOLVER.  "This was Colt's first pocket model revolver" !  An early specimen: all matched serial numbers 8118.  Octagon 4 inch barrel and with left hand "Colt" barrel markings.  In fine condition throughout showing lightest of wear.  Metal is exc.+ with faint traces original blue and case hardening colors; mostly light even age brown patina to metal, a few tiniest of spots rust blemishes, but pitting is negligible to non-existent.  Will clean exc.+ and even better !  Has the earliest engraved cylinder scene (which is exc. +) of the TEXAS RANGER AND INDIAN FIGHT SCENE !  80% original finish still remaining on the brass backstrap and square back triggerguard.   Markings and  mechanically exc.+.  Has earliest type round cylinder stops.  Grips exc.+, slightest wear on extreme edges on bottom of butt and few nicks on edges of right side of butt.  A fine specimen of a rare Colt.... now available at $12,500.

R372  Choice condition U.S. MODEL 1836 ORIGINAL FLINTLOCK MARTIAL PISTOL showing almost no use!  It was likely stored away when it was last carried or fired in the early 19th century (Mexican War) and never used since then !  Metal, a deep age brown, shows only the faintest of use, needs just a slight surface cleaning and if any pitting appears it will be but the very faintest, in tiny areas on the very smallest areas of the extreme surface.  All markings and mechanically exc.+.  "A. WATERS / MILBURY.MS. / 1841".  Stock exc. to mint.  Of the 2 inspector marks, one is sharp and clear the other is partly sharp and half of it weak.  This was the standard issue American military firearm of the Mexican War. Specimen requires just a good, thorough cleaning (F#6A-030)  ... a fine value at just $2,450.

R367      Conceived and crafted by one of New England’s finest gunsmiths circa 1850-1860:  UNIQUE SIDE-BY-SIDE, DOUBLE BARREL PERCUSSIONRIFLE-SHOTGUN WITH DISTINCTIVE,  DOUBLE UNDER-HAMMERS!  Barrels are 31 inches, part octagon and part round; rifle weight nine pounds.  Rifle barrel is .38 caliber with deep rifled bore (exc. and will scour even finer).  Shotgun barrel is 16 gauge.  Small, but deep stamped original markings “D.H.H.” on underside of barrel of the famous Cornish, New Hampshire gunmaker DAVID HALL HILLIARD.  Metal showing just smooth aging and wear with a deep, even, overall age brown patina rates exc. to exc.+.  Very beautifully made maple stock is exc. + with a deep age patina and lightest of smooth wear, consistent with the metal.  German silver mountings with a handsome large patchbox having long pointed finials on front and bottom sides.  Left side of buttstock has a long, narrow, very fancy, smaller, inlaid, hinged cover cap box for percussion caps.  Mechanically exc.+.  Quality of the workmanship of the rifle is particularly noticeable for it's“perfectionist” work on the distinctive, rear decimal, barrel peep sight, which extends midway over the wrist of the stock.  Rifle displays a number of notable features seen on Hilliard’s pistols and rifles; particularly noted are the shape of the hammers and  wide, deep well-like enclosures around each nipple to prevent flashback from percussion caps.  Quality of the workmanship speaks for itself.  Hilliard was recognized for the quality of his firearms of all types especially single and double barrel rifles.  These double rifles of his are well illustrated and discussed in “UNDERHAMMER GUNS” by H. Logan (1960) where it is particularly mentioned that Hilliard rifles are “highly prized among collectors” and he was “one of the really fine gunsmiths of his time”  with a number of specimens of his work shown  Fine American rarity that was originally offered at $3,450. and now for this special sale is available for just $2,450. !

Go directly to your preferred grouping by clicking on the headings below

1. [ ANTIQUE & HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]  2. [COLLECTANEA, MISCELLANY & CURIOSA]  3.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]  

ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS
Swords, bayonets, Bowie knives, naval dirks, & misc. edged weapons

E844      It may be one of the very earliest uses of a Sheffield maker of the American motto “ARKANSAS TOOTHPICK” on a English Bowie knife!  CIRCA LATE 1830’s-1849 (approx.).  A large (16 ½ inches overall) and extremely sturdy (ruggedly) professionally made Bowie knife measuring 16 ½ inches overall weighing almost 2 lbs.  11 ½ inch double edged straight, spear point blade with the wide ricasso marked on both sides in very small, but neat, professional 3 line stamped lettering “JOSEPH HOLMES. / No. 5 SMITHFIELD SHEFFIELD / ARKANSAS TOOTHPICK.”  (NOTE:  very unusual not only to find that “ARKANSAS TOOTHPICK” marking, but to find the entire maker name marking on both sides of the ricasso!)  Condition of the blade very, very sound, age brown; overall some very small surface rust blemishes, few small spots of light pitting, but all minor; will clean generally vg to exc.  Note on the center of blade where there is the usual high median ridge,  a former early owner has added a long series on both sides of small parallel groves for most of the length of blade (for some personal use of the knife).  Original wide, large oval iron cross guard very sound; deep age patina, will clean exc.;  just some surface rusting easily removable.  Original 2 piece stag grips with very deep mellow age patina show just normal wear and use, but very sound and exc.    The iron tang through which grips have been fastened has been covered originally by the maker with a narrow brass edgings on both sides of top and bottom with very nicely fitted brass edgings which are all intact showing aging and wear consistent with the grips and the overall knife handle.  ACCOMPANIED WITH original very sturdy and well made (and good looking) heavy leather scabbard.  Showing normal aging and wear, and about exc.  Just some very minor surface scuffing, but extremely sound because of its solid construction.  Entire outer surface very nicely and deeply embossed with branch and leaf designs its length on front side.  Fancy edged original brass top and bottom of mounts all intact; lacks just the frog stud..............  A fascinating Bowie rarity ! …$4,750. SOLD

E843      IT’S UNIQUE AS A DOUBLE ANTIQUE BOWIE KNIFE RARITY! (A) MADE BY A FAMOUS AMERICAN FIREARMS AND SWORD COMPANY DURING CIVIL WAR YEARS (B) HISTORICALLY INSCRIBED TO A AMERICAN CIVIL WAR SOLDIER.  This fascinating brass hilt Civil War period American Bowie knife although unmarked has been quite definitely identified as a product of the AMES MANUFACTURING COMPANY OF CHICOPEE, MASS. (very likely the most famous of all 19’th century American firearms and sword makers).  Less than a handful of this particular model of Bowie knives have been identified and of those most were apparently presented to soldiers from regiments of the Chicopee, Mass. area (and possibly even Ames Company) for their Civil War service!  A few known specimens are all about identical and there is even a known photograph taken just two years after the Civil War (in 1867) of a civilian hunter in Chicopee, Mass. in 1867! with an identical Bowie knife in his belt!  The 10 inch single edge, clip point blade has a 3 inch sharpened “false” edge.  A very neatly shaped panel near the center of the blade has a 2 line etched inscription very professionally and neatly etched “M. ELLIOT / 27’th REG. MASS. VOL.”  Panel and etching showing its aging and some wear is all very clear and exc.  Blade showing its age, wear and use has number of blotches of surface rusting and will clean vg+ and probably much better.  Pitting at most will be very light.  BRASS HILT IS ABSOLUTELY UNIQUE TO THIS AMES BOWIE.  The cross guard is not seen on any other American or English or foreign Bowie.  Only the handful of Ames Bowies are known with this “signature” guard having each quillon of that crossguard in the full model different shape of a dogs head while the relief center panel of that guard on the obverse side is the relief design of a boar’s head and the panel on the reverse center side of the crossguard is that of a stag’s head.  The single piece dark wood grips show their ag; smooth even wear and are exc. quality.  Neatly and nicely fluted brass cap pommel is exc.  ACCOMPANIED WITH its original dark leather sheath in exc. sound condition (just some light surface flaking on lower section, but leather is very sound) with original wide brass tip and top mount with frog stud.  Original leather belt loops still affixed.  M.M. ELLIOTT served with that 27’th Mass. Infantry rising to Sgt. On September, 1861 to honorable discharge Feb., 1863 at which time he re-enlisted in 2’nd Reg’t Mass. Heavy Art’y serving with it until taken PRISONER-OF-WAR, remaining in a Confederate prison, until war’s end.  There is of course much more to the story and regimental histories of both units.  This Bowie is the identical one illustrated and discussed page 156-157 “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  The serious collector is urged to also check the following books regarding this extremely rare and important American Bowie:  “CLASSIC BOWIE KNIVES” by Robert Ables pub. 1967 on page 66 item no. 119 the Ames knife…also “THE AMES SWORD COMPANY 1829-1935” by John D. Hamilton (pub. 1983) page 170 “unmarked Ames-made Bowie knife); and also “THE ANTIQUE BOWIE KNIFE BOOK” by Adams, Voyles & Moss (pub. 1990) pages 86-87.  Fine detailed photo of an identical “Ames” Bowie (and also that 1867 photo with huntsman wearing one on his belt). 

The Bowie offered here today was purchased by its current owner in 1959 and has never been offered on the collector’s market previously! 

Here it is for the very first time at this special sale price of……………..$22,500.

E842      “DEATH TO TRAITORS” is the bold, large, defiant call to arms conspicuously etched in large letters and a fancy panel running half the length of the double edged spear point 7 inch blade of this antique Bowie knife of the American Civil War era..  Entire obverse of blade with full etched panel around that motto etched with fancy floral and scroll design and in just about mint condition blade has original sharpening on full length of both edges right to the very point!  Few tiniest minor blemishes, but blade is just about mint.  Only markings are the Sheffield maker's trademark on the ricasso “AKXLM”; reverse side of blade is plain, in mint condition.  German silver very solidly built, neat crossguard.  Two piece stag grips (fastened with 4 small brass pins) have acquired lovely deep mellow age patina and are exc.+.  Original black leather sheath shows its age with surface scuffing, but very sound.  Gold embossed design in center obverse side; original german silver top mount with frog stud.  Just the bottom mount is lacking, but the leather at that point still intact.  This Bowie is the identical specimen illustrated and described on  page 408 (on right side)“The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”   A fine example and a fine value at this sale price of $1,950.

SOLD

E841      A RARE EARLY SHEFFIELD BOWIE MADE SPECIFICALLY FOR THE AMERICAN MARKET BY ONE OF THE COMPANY OWNERS WHO ALSO ACTED AS ITS AGENT AND LIVED IN BROOKLYN!  “A REAL MISSISSIPPIAN.”  Is the large etched motto filling almost half the length of the 9 inch single edge, straight, spear point blade of this circa 1845-1853 Bowie knife by rare maker.  Has 5 inch sharpened “false” edge also.  The motto is surrounded for its full length, right to the very tip with an etched panel of scroll and broad leaf designs as well.  The etching shows aging and light wear but all visible and vg.  Very deeply marked (and exc.+) on the ricasso “IBBOTSON PEACE & Co / SHEFFIELD” and also marked horizontally on blade (deeply stamped in a narrow panel above the etched motto in small letters) “OF THE BEST QUALITY.”  Blade showing light wear and aging with a gray patina and some light rust patches which when cleaned might leave some very very minor light patches of pitting only.  Overall Bowie is 13 ½ inches.  Very handsome handle with german silver mounts.  Fancy, delicate high relief engraved floral motifs on the ferrule (silver ring at the bottom of the beautifully checkered black ebony grips; deeply fluted pommel).  ACCOMPANIED WITH original red leather covered sheath showing usual age and wear; minor single spot along one edge where worn through, other than that, very sound.  Gilt embossing along all edges showing wear as well, but sound.  Fancy gilt design in center both sides; original brass tip and upper mount with frog stud intact.  This Bowie and sheath the exact specimens illustrated (page 35) in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.” .....$12,500.

E840      EAGLEHEAD U.S. NAVAL OFFICERS CIRCA 1810-1830 DIRK AND SHEATH.  All brass hilt with considerable traces of original gilt finish still visible.  Just the small gilt chain linking end of cross guard to eagle’s beak lacking the tiny circular holes, for the chain are still intact at beak and the cross guard.  Ivory grips with lovely mellow age patina are exc.;  few vertical age cracks, but no breaks and are very sound and exc. ( Tiny surface sliver/chip at extreme top under eagle’s beak very  minor).  Very curved, flat 14 inch single edge blade, overall age brown patches, surface rust blemishing overall and bottom half with patches of light pitting; blade needs a good cleaning, but easily about vg+ probably better with care.  Original sheath all intact; leather shows its great age;  very fancy wide brass mounts all intact, just need a good cleaning.  Leather under the tip mount is broken will require some repair…………………………………………………………………………………..$595. SOLD

E839      IT CONTINUES TO EVADE ACCURATE DESCRIPTION AND IDENTICIATION OTHER THAN THE FACT THAT IT IS DEFINITELY AN ANTIQUE GENUINE BOWIE KNIFE AND DECIDEDLY AMERICAN!  Rare double ring guard Bowie-bayonet type continues to be an anomaly!  Circa 1840-65.  Fine condition and certainly professionally cutler made specimen with sturdy, beautifully shaped 12 inch single edge blade with “clip point” having sharpened edge.  One of the key features of both those double ringed mountings is the fact that they are unfinished on the inside of each of  2 circular rings which strongly suggest they were never intended to fit over the muzzle of a rifle barrel and neither is there provision to fit over the front  sight or lock onto the muzzle of a rifle.  There’s a key feature on not only on this specimen, but on all known specimens which immediately gives cause to believe that there is a possibility that this type of unique “Bowie-bayonet” was of Confederate manufacture and made for dual use as a Bowie knife and as a  fitting on the end of a wooden battle pike shaft.  The brass mounts appear the same on the few known specimens and are identical.  The wood grips are identical on all models.  These grips on this specimen are exc. condition with a nice deep, mellow age patina.  Condition of the blade is also exc. with deep age patina, needs just light surface cleaning; at most there may be some minor rust surface blemishes.   It is about the best condition of one of these we’ve run across in a long while.  It’s identical to the two specimens shown on page 215 of the book “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  The accompanying text in that book (in the caption also gives significant information about that Bowie)   A real Bowie rarity with but few specimens in collection!  And on sale at just $2,900.

SOLD

E837  Extremely strongly built American made large Bowie knife and sheath by well-known Boston maker circa 1856-1860.  "KINGMAN & HASSAM" fine 2 line markings on ricasso of the very sturdy wide 10 in. single edge clip point sharpened "false" edge.  (Bowie measures 16 in. overall).  Blade shows its normal aging and just light normal wear and use and  is exc..  A few very tiny minor spots, the very finest light pitting, mostly near the tip, but very trivial.  Very soundly / ruggedly made iron crossguard of fine quality work with round, ball type finials.  Tall single piece stag antler handle with smooth, even, normal aging and wear and lovely mellow age patina is exc.; small german silver inset at top into which the tang of blade is peened (ie. fastened).  Bowie is 16 in. overall and weights 1½ lbs..  ACCOMPANIED WITH ORIGINAL LEATHER SHEATH in very very sound condition, some scuffing on the surface but exc. with wide german silver tip and top mount with frog stud intact.  This Bowie is the identical one illus. on pg. 139 "The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend".  A fine example of a very soundly built American Bowie intended for rough duty !  Although Frederick Hassam was a well-known Boston cutler and in business 1849 to 1893 he and "KINGMAN" were partners only those 4 years 1856-1860.  Most other years he was partnered with his brother.

A very rare American Bowie knife at a special sale price of $12,500.

E836  A DOUBLE ANTIQUE ARMS RARITY !  A unique Colt accessory and an extreme American socket bayonet rarity !  Believe it was designed and made specifically for the experimental military model Colt revolving rifle musket circa 1850's (of which but very few were made).  The only illus. of this identical bayonet (that we are aware of) appears in the classic work "The Book of Colt Firearms" by Sutherland & Wilson pg. 195 top photo (illus. C).  22 inches overall, with  17½ inch triple edged blade. Handle has 99% original bright blue finish still remaining, very tiny spot of rust at the top (minor), blade shows no appearance of ever having a blue finish even though the caption in the Colt book mentions their specimen "was finished in bright blue", seemingly indicating it was all finished in blue !  The blade has overall surface patches of rust blemishes from a century and a half of storage but will easily clean to exc. and better.  Any pitting will be very minor.  The structure and general appearance of the bayonet is quite different from others of this type "and is said to be unique" as is its appearance ... and especially, as is its standout price of $1,595.

E835   "FOR THE GOLD SEARCHERS PROTECTION" is the large 3 line motto etched in  a very fancy panel in the center of the entirely, fully, fancy etched 7 in. clip point single edge blade of this just about mint condition antique Bowie knife and sheath made specifically to sell to the California gold miner trade circa 1860-70's. Very fancy decorative scroll engraving fills just about the entire length of that obverse side of the blade around that bold motto.  Marked "BEST ENGLISH CUTLERY"  on the ricasso.  Blade is just about 99%+ mint condition; a few tiny, minor spots, but all negligible.    Reverse of blade exc. to mint, there are just a few small rust blotches, but no pitting.  Fancy german silver cutlery style handle and  crossguard.  Overall length 12 in.   Accompanied with leather sheath showing just normal aging, but exc. +. Narrow gold embossed edges, embossed figure of upper body of U.S. officer wearing wide chapeau and lettering below "OLD ZACK".  Bothgerman silver mounts and frogstud intact.  Scabbard is exc. also.  Bowie and sheath are identical ones illus. on pg. 101 (in center) in the "The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend".

A classic example of the Sheffield knife industry taking advantage of current American events ofthe times!  And a chance to take advantage of our current sale price for only $1,750.

SOLD

E832   Very few of this rare variant are known or have ever reached the collectors' market !  VARIANT U.S. MODEL 1832 "ROMAN PATTERN" FOOT ARTILLARY SHORTSWORD BY NOTED AMERICAN MAKER.  About identical to standard pattern as that made by "N.P. Ames" with large solid brass, cast hilt with the integral, cast brass grips.  Basic difference on this variant, is this flattened  ovoid pommel does not bear the eagle design (as seen on the Ames); otherwise about identical.  The 19 inch double edged (slight wasp-waist shaped) blade is identical to the Ames style, with the double short fullers near base and single long  fuller running to tip and marked "HORSTMANN & SONS / PHILADELPHIA"  in three lines small block letters on obverse side of blade at ricasso  (markings showing  normal aging and wear  and are lightly stamped but vg.+ to exc.); reverse side of ricasso has very small stamped marking of a tiny, crowned head, which would seem to indicate it was a imported blade !  (That marking also showing its aging and light wear).   Blade has deep age brown patina and will clean exc., some patches of very light surface pitting.  Leather sheath identical to the "AMES" style, lacks the brass tip and the section of leather at the bottom which holds that brass tip;  leather flaked and crackled at surface but very sound.  Has original wide brass throat with frogstud.  An illus. of this identical sword is known in the Original Horstmann factory / showroom pattern book (copies of which are occasionally available on the collectors' market).  Originally priced at $2,250. (previously on our website) and now for this special sale just.... $1,250.

E830  "COOK & BROTHER" are the small, deep stamped markings on the upper side of the counterguard on the all brass hilt of this very rare CONFEDERATE NAVAL CUTLASS patterned generally after the U.S. Naval model of 1841 and displaying many notable differences in design (particularly in workmanship).   MADE IN EXTREMELY LIMITED QUANTITY WITH FEW SURVIVING SPECIMENS.  The all brass grips with the (course grained) fish-scale brass grips  cast integral with the flattened brass ball type pommel .  Hilt shows its age and use but is in excellent condition with a few small, minor dents just ahead of the grips.  21 inch straight, double-edged, spearpoint blade with a high center ridge on both sides.  Blade showing age and  wear, needs good cleaning overall.  Storage surface rusting and blemishes from over a century of storage.  Just a decent cleaning and it will easily be VG. and probably better.  Pitting will be, at most very light, and if seriously cleaned I believe it will be much better !  Identical to that illustrated and described "Confederate Edged Weapons" by Wm.  Albaugh and also "A Photographic Supplement of Confederate Swords"  by Albaugh and  "Swords of the American Civil War" by R. H. Bezdek.  "COOK & BROTHER" started their business in New Orleans in 1861, escaping from the city in 1862 when it was taken over by the Union Army and eventually reestablishing in Athens, Ga. where their primary product was manf. of firearms for the Federal government.  But a handful of known specimens of this great rarity... Originally valued at $12,500. and for this special sale a wonderful value at $6,450.

E824      SILVER HILTED U.S. NAVAL OFFICER’s DIRK CIRCA 1820 WITH MATCHING ALL SILVER SHEATH.  A very handsomely crafted edged weapon 4 ¾ inch double edge, tapered, straight blade with pointed tip with large leaf and branch etched design panels on blade (light and fading from age and wear, but mostly all visible) some small patches rust blemishes, but pitting minor (mostly on reverse side of blade).  Some minor small dents on the silverwork, but minor and not distracting; condition otherwise silver is exc.  Very handsome one piece ivory grips in center with very, very delicate checkered panels on all sides; ivory exc. nice patina.  ORIGINAL ALL SILVER SHEATH INTACT AND EXC.+ with two wide, fancy engraved panels on obverse and silver frog stud is still intact on front.  This dirk is the identical one illustrated in well known work “Small Arms of the Sea Services” by Col. R. Rankin (page 61, bottom dirk)………Just $1,750. SOLD

M763  THEY WERE MAKING A HUGE  VARIETY OF MUZZLE-LOADING "ANTIQUE" PERCUSSION FIREARMS IN 1897 AND EARLIER !  Original 1897 catalog of Belgian firm making a vast selection of reproduction antique firearms in that  early year for export.   58 page very profusely illustrated  6 ½ in. by 10 in. catalog of "MANUFACTURE LIEGEOISE D'ARMS A FEU, LIEGE" (of Belgium).  First 50 pages are all of repro. longarms, almost entirely a fabulous selection of percussion single and double barrel (full stock and half-stock types) percussion sporting arms of  various types and qualities;  many with fancy patchboxes etc. and varying type mountings and fancy and plain stocks etc. and also  few images with large single and double barrel (percussion) holster pistols of varying types; a few military repro flintlock and military percussion longarms also included and just 2 pages of modern military bolt action Mauser and other military longarms.  Each page of illustrations accompanied with details and prices of the weapons (in French language) additional catalog pages with information regarding ammunitions and other accessories available. Catalog shows use; most pages loose, but all are intact have had added information (all neatly inscribed in pen).  A real "EYE-OPENER", especially for the arms student to realize all these fine specimens of reproductions were being made that late in 1897 (or that early !!).... $125.

M762  COLORED MEN TO BE DRAFTED FOR DUTY IN U.S. LABOR BATTALIONS IN WWI IF ENOUGH COLORED VOLUNTEERS NOT OBTAINED.  Official printed "War Dept. Washington, Sept. 22, 1917" "General Order" .  Three pages.  4½  x 7.   Two pages devoted to " ENROLLING CONSCRIPTED COLORED MEN AFTER THEIR MOBILIZATION, OR IF SUFFICIENT MEN NOT OBTAINED BY VOLUNTARY ENLISTMENT OF COLORED MEN 24 COMPANIES (TO BE FORMED)".  Also lists 3 "white" commissioned officers for each company plus authorized "ENLISTED COLORED" non-coms for each.  First page of the "General Orders" also has directions for shipment of  "Sick or unserviceable animals overseas" and "issue of blue denim clothing to troops" .  Excellent condition and just $69.50.

M761  HAND CARVED WORLD WAR I AMERICAN SOLDIERS TOBACCO SMOKING PIPE Circa 1917-18.  Both the pipe,  the lettering and the designs on it are entirely hand carved and obviously by the American soldier that made it and smoked it!  The light colored wood has acquired a lovely, deep, mellowed patina showing both its considerable age with deep darkening at top of its bowl from smoking use.  Overall almost three inches;  maximum height of bowl 1¾ in., front of bowl neatly carved, large "US / 55."   Left side of bowl with neatly carved crossed artillery cannon barrels with a circular design in its center surrounding a large singular artillery shell.  The right side of  bowl with  large 2 line, very neatly hand carved name of the two major WW1 battles in which the US soldier obviously had fought "MARNE / ARGONNE" and on the top of the pipe, just behind the bowl in very tiny, simple letters "HAND MADE" plus 2 initials.  The soldier who carved this obviously had served in the U.S.  55th Artillery outfit.   When acquired the stem was lacking, the stem now with it is a genuine antique one of proper type and aging.  It just needs the slightest fitting at it's very bottom.  Sale price just $225.

M760  EARLIEST RECRUITING OF A HISTORIC MICHIGAN CIVIL WAR FIGHTING INFANTRY REGIMENT!"  Original CIVIL WAR RECRUITING POSTER (circa August 1862 or earlier!)  for the 17th Michigan Regiment that within a month of its organization at Detroit left the state and saw its very first action in the Maryland Campaign in September, 1862 at the Battle of South Mountain, for which it was afterward designated "THE STONEWALL REG'T" through all its service to the end of the Civil War in 1865!  Undated (as almost every recruiting poster is) obvious this poster dates circa  early  1862!  Size 12 x 18. Wonderful, large illustration of an open-winged American eagle under the  bold headline of "HEAR YE! HEAR YE!!".  Under that eagle another headline "WHY WAIT LONGER" and then a bit smaller "YOUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU!".  All of the following lines of text are equally in very bold (varying size) urging recruits to "COME FORWARD AT ONCE AND ENLIST IN THE 17TH MICHIGAN REG"T"...  "In a company that now numbers 65 men and a draw your thirty-eight dollars bounty within 10 days ..."  (Also mentioning a month's advance pay and advance bounty and "for further information inquire of Lieut. H. B. Andros, Recruiting Officer."  Poster shows normal aging, only a few minor brown spots, margins mostly all intact and fine.  Has had some damage where once folded and there is a large section torn and missing in the center and a small section at the lower margin and the top margin, all 3 areas can be seen in the photo.  The poster has been very neatly mounted on a slightly larger, very sound backing of paperboard; and the damaged (missing) letters in those three areas (in the center) have been very professionally replaced so that they match identically to the text that they have replaced!  (Of all the paper and documents we have ever encountered, we have never,  ever, encountered anything quite the quality of this repaired lettering!)  The 17th Michigan saw a tremendousamount of action in many major battles right through to the end of the Civil War.  Poster is accompanied with some good photostats of regimental histories, etc. that add lots more to the story!....An important piece of Michigan Civil War history with lots of eye appeal.  Never Previously Offered For Sale And Now At Special Sale Price Of $375.

SOLD

M757  "WE WANT 1,000 SUBSTITUTES TO WHOM THE HIGHEST CASH PRICE WILL BE PAID"  Is the bold message on this 2⅛  by 3¼   Civil War c. 1861-1865 business card of a Boston, Mass.  company whose very name "SUBSTITUTE AGENCY / HANOVER STREET" clearly states it's business.  Illustration with soldier holding musket on side of card,  which shows it's normal aging and some use but is in very sound, excellent condition and for our special sale only $54.50

  SOLD

M756  A CIVILIAN AGENCY MAKES IT'S LIVING RECRUITING SOLDIERS FOR THE UNION ARMY DURING THE CIVIL WAR!  Fancy printed business card (2½  by 3½ )  of that New Hampshire agency.  Multi-style typeface: "GRANITE STATE / UNION VOLUNTEER COMPANY / PORTSMOUTH, N.H. / MARKET ST. / RECRUITS and substitutes furnished Individuals and town Authorities upon the most favorable terms.  Best of references given in all cases / GEORGE LEACH & CO."  Few small, gray round spots on lower section of card mostly (not obscuring any wording).  An interesting but seldom examined phase of Civil War military history...... Sale price $74.50

M755  CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS GIVEN EXTRA BOUNTIES FOR ENLISTING!   Civil War or immediate post war era, Boston agent's advertising business card (3in. x 5½ in.) seeking clients.  "SOLDIERS BOUNTIES NOW PAYABLE" (headline); card advises that "Congress just passed an Act giving additional Bounties to all soldiers and the heirs of those who have died.  We have made arrangements by which we can collect the bounty for those entitled in the shortest time and at least expense. The money will be paid shortly after the claim is completed if filed at once.  Fees $3 to $10... Please write immediately and provide discharge which will be promptly returned with Bounty." Dealer's name:   Stillman B. Allen, 20 Court Street, Boston Mass..   It's possible it was a scam?  First we have come across that extra Bounty ! ....and just $29.50

M754 CIVIL WAR POSTER OVERLOADED WITH RAGE AND HATRED FOR THE "COPPERHEADS" ! (Section of Northern Democrats who opposed the American Civil War and wanted peace settlement with the South)  Circa mid 1863-1864, denouncing in the most provoking, fuming, enraged quotations from many noted Northern Copperheads "to show the spirit of the Traitors who are now attempting to gain ascendency in New Hampshire for the encouragement of the Rebels in their attempt to subvert our noble and beneficent government".   The poster: 12 by 17 huge 1½ inch headlines "COPPERHEADS IN COUNCIL"and sub headline "DECLARATIONS OF THE LEADERS. /   READ AND PONDER WHAT THEY SAY!"   With illustration below of very large den of rattlesnakes captioned "KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN CIRCLE IN SECRET SESSION" (The secret society formed for the overthrow of the U.S. Gov't). Almost all lower section of poster followed with 3 columns of text, actual quotes from numerous national and local N.H. politicians reflecting "COPPERHEAD"  sentiments include former President "Franklin Pierce"; all  are anti-Union and anti-Republican, many quite fascinating and  all traitorous such as Wm. A. Richardson, the Senator from Illinois who is quoted:  "The Republicans must be put down at the point of the bayonet ! " Very bold (headline sized typeface)at bottom of poster urging "MEN OF NEW HAMPSHIRE / WILL YOU THE VOTE THE TICKET MADE UP OF SUCH MEN ? / PLEASE PASTE UP IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE".  Poster shows a normal aging, some very light brown spotting, (and it is fading) on the upper section of poster, but minor, and does not affect the sharpness of any printing.  Paper and margins all intact (just a few small nicks on the extreme edges of the bottom blank margin only (negligible).   Rare political Americana.  HAS ONLY BEEN ADVERTISED FOR SALE ONCE IN 2007 AT $1,950.... AND NOW FOR OUR SALE A WONDERFUL VALUE AT JUST.... $875. 

M753  CIVIL WAR RECRUITING POSTER FOR FAMOUS ILLINOIS  REGIMENT . "TO ARMS ! TO ARMS, YE BRAVE !" "The Clerks of the Chicago Post Office have contributed a in huge print LARGE FUND TO RAISE A COMPANY FOR THE WAR".  Followed by paragraphs giving amounts to volunteers enlisting both by the Government and by Cook County, Ill. and how much of it will be paid immediately in cash and how much will be paid additionally at  end of  year, etc.. Also, :"THIS COMPANY WILL ALSO BE IN THE BOARD OF TRADE REGIMENT..." further inducements are mentioned about the special advantages offered by joining that are "...not given by any other company in the Union (...and urges joining ) within 2 or 3 days as the company will probably be full by the end of the week." (and that was no false claim for according to the regimental history the entire regiment was completed in full before the end of August) The 72nd Ill. saw much service throughout Kentucky and Tennessee Campaigns including the siege and the assaults on Vicksburg and Nashville, the Battle of Franklin, Assault and Capture of Mobile and much much, more.   Poster (size 12½  x 18in.) shows normal aging with a few minor faint brown spots mostly on edge of blank margin, a few minor on centerfold (a few very minor nicks on margins)  but condition is VG+ to exc..  A wonderful display in any Civil War exhibit and certainly worthy of framing.  Accompanied by regimental history.  Only offered once for sale on our website back in 2007 at $3,250.) and since then used numerous times in many Civil War displays only.  SUPER VALUE AND CLOSEOUT PRICE AT JUST ... $1,795.

M751     1795 DATED FRENCH REVOLUTIONARY POSTER IN DUAL LANGUAGE (FRENCH-GERMAN) DIRECTED TOWARDS THE “PEOPLE [SERVED] BY THE ARMY OF THE SAMBRE AND MEUSE.”  13” x 16” (blank on reverse) divided in two sections French entirely on left side; German entirely on the right side with a bold headline on each side (in their respective languages) “LIBERTY, EQUALITY, FRATERNITY.”  Top few lines of subtitles also in bold reduced sizes by 16 numbered paragraphs (on each side) regarding the French government's intentions of reducing the contributions they imposed upon their citizens of those specific individual areas and specifically discussing “…the absence of a great number of capitalists and rich freeholders who made off with their money.”  Also offers people proof of justice and moderate character of the new French gov’t; payment in-kind may be made for taxes.  And much more.  Wide margins; blank on reverse.  Just some normal aging, but generally exc.+.  Right margin only has a 4 inch clipped section out on its top edge only (not affecting any text) otherwise all intact.  A very historic piece and undoubtedly much more of interest in the text if fully translated.  Most historic document and a fine value at just…………..$69.50

M750     AS POIGNANTLY WORDED AS IT IS EXTREMELY RARE!  CONFEDERATE POSTER WITH BOLD HEADLINE:  “TO THE PEOPLE OF WESTERN VIRGINIA.”  Issued from the “Head Quarters, Department Of Western Virginia / Charleston Sept. 14, 1862…By COMMAND MAJ. GEN. LORING / H. Fitzhugh, Chief Of Staff.”  This 6½ by 13" poster becomes all the more fascinating (and rare) to read when it is understood that at the date it was issued West Virginia, although occupied by Confederate forces, had only a few months earlier in May, requested admission to the U.S. and congress approved the bill, hence there was considerable turmoil in the state at the time!

First paragraph of poster in bolder print style, opens:  “The Army of the Confederate States has come among you to expel the enemy, to rescue the people from the despotism of the counterfeit State Government imposed on you by Northern bayonets and to restore the country once more to its natural allegiance to the State.  We fight for peace and the possession of our own territory.  We do not intend to punish those who remain at home as quiet citizens in obedience to the laws of the land, and to all such clemency and amnesty are declared; but those who persist in adhering to the cause of the public enemy, and the pretended State Government he has erected at Wheeling, will be dealt with as their obstinate treachery deserves.” 

The following 4 paragraphs continue in much the same tone and language and use of very disparaging terminology on speaking of the United States (i.e. the North); just a few excerpts are quoted here:  “When the liberal policy of the Confederate Gov’t [is] introduced…to the people who have so long experienced the wanton misrule of the invader [i.e. the U.S.] the Gen’l expects the people heartily to sustain it not only as a duty but as deliverance from their taskmasters and usurpers…the General appeals to all good citizens to aid him in these objects and to all able-bodied men to join his Army to defend the sanctities are religion and virtue [etc.] which are invaded and violated by an unscrupulous enemy whom an indignant people are now about to chastise on his own soil.  …Your country has been reclaimed for you from the enemy by soldiers many of whom are from distant parts of the State and the Confederacy; and you will prove unworthy to possess so beautiful a land if you do not now rise to defend it.  The oaths which the invader imposed upon you are void.  They are immoral attempts to restrain you from your duty…they do not exempt you from obligation to support your Government and to serve in the Army and if…taken as prisoners of war the Confederate Gov’t guarantees them human treatment [etc.]…by Command of Maj. Gen. Loring / H. Fitzhugh, Chief of Staff.”

At the bottom of the poster General Loring has included a short paragraph of “congratulations” to his Army on their “brilliant march from the Southwest to this place in one week and on its successive victories over the enemy at Fayette C. H., Cotton Hill and Charleston.  …Overcoming the enemy in one week you have established the laws and carried the flag of the country to the outer borders of the Confederacy.  Instances of gallantry and patriotic devotion are too numerous to be specifically designated…but the General makes grateful acknowledgement for services to which our brilliant success is due…[etc.].”

Confederate General William M. Loring (“Old Blizzards”) upon his capture of Charleston, West Virginia had this very rare broadside published under his orders when his men took over the local printing plant on his drive down the Kanawha Valley. It shows its normal light overall aging and somewhat hurried printing, with off-center margins (much wider on left side); original untrimmed margins (just very slightly rough edged borders and actually issued this way) just the right edge of the blank margin very slightly tattered (and easily trimmed if believed necessary); slight light damp staining along outer edge of that same right margin; a small dark damp stain in the extreme upper left blank corner margin only. Blank on reverse side. This historic poster is a confirmed authentic 1862 Confederate imprint!  (Should further details be required, we will be pleased answer same for interested buyers.)  The opportunity to acquire Civil War collectibles not only  extremely rare, but as fascinating are few and far between!  This poster will likely cause as much comment among viewers today (collectors and non-collectors) as it did when it was issued and placed before its public in those early years of the Civil War!.........$2,250.

M749     U.S. NAVY WAIST BELT PLATE CIRCA 1910-1930.  Non-regulation type.  Exc.-mint condition.  Gilt finish; all brass; two piece.  Very handsome style closely similar plate no. 1025 in “American Military Belt Plates” size 45 x 75mm; center wreath ht. 40mm.  The high relief center design of eagle and anchor very similar to that of Navy button, but is die-struck as one piece with the leaf and branch border.  A handsome plate; nice detail.  Just about mint condition.  Only……….$57.50  SOLD

 M748     THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS MUTINY!  This hand carved pipe rack is directly related to the famous British ship HMS “BOUNTY,” Pitcairn Island in the South Pacific, and all the colorful characters that go with the story.  Made by a direct descendant of Fletcher Christian, its dark wood 8 inches wide by 4 ½ inches high and 1 inch in thickness (with the wooden cup at top and the turned wood base at bottom; overall height is 8 inches).  Marked deeply (in unskilled manner) in 12 lines filling the front is a  lengthy and fascinating 12 line story with the background of the rack and its maker (abbreviated here) “A PIPE RACK MADE AS A SOUVENIR FROM PITCAIRN ISLAND…THE HOMES OF THE MUTINEERS OF H.M.S. BOUNTY WHO LANDED JAN. 23…1790…WHEN BEACHED AND BURNED THE MUTINEERS HAD TO MAKE CANVAS HUTS TO LIVE IN.  THE MAKER OF THIS PIPE RACK MR. WARREN CLIVE CHRISTIAN IS A DIRECT DESCENDANT OF FLETCHER CHRISTIAN.”  On the reverse side of that same block in larger, deep stamped letters 3 lines “MADE BY WARREN CLIVE CHRISTIAN.”  Research (easily available on your website and a copy of which will accompany the rack) proves Warren Clive (born August, 1914) to have “served twice as magistrate of the territory of Pitcairn Island.  A direct descendant of famous Fletcher Christian and numerous other of the islands leaders.  On either side of that large cup at the top of the rack, there are two openings for total of four more pipes to fit into the rack.  The bottom of the rack obviously at one time had a flat base attached to it which no longer accompanies it.  Condition is very sound and excellent …………………..$195.

 M744     ALTHOUGH HE WAS ACCLAIMED AS A GENUINE HERO FOR HIS PART IN THE EARLY CIVIL WAR FAMOUS (later infamous) “TRENT AFFAIR” (a.k.a. “Mason-Slidell Affair”) IN NOVEMBER, 1861, U.S. NAVY CAPT. CHARLES WILKES WAS EVENTUALLY COURT-MARTIALED IN APRIL, 1864 FOR EVENTS RESULTING FROM THAT Trent Affair earlier.  The court-martial and its sentence made a major change in his career and life.  President Lincoln reduced his term of suspension from service to just one year and following his retirement from the Navy he was even promoted to rear admiral in 1866 on the retired list.  A most interesting thing is how the affair and the legal case and sentence has been treated in all the various biographies of him are seen, most of which make no mention of it whatsoever (and for good reason!).  HERE IS THE ORIGINAL U.S. NAVY MAY 3, 1864 ISSUED NOTIFICATION OF THE COURT MARTIAL FINDINGS IN THEIR “NAVY DEPARTMENT GENERAL ORDERS NO. 33 MAY 3, 1864.”  Total 4 pages of which just the 2 pages are printed the other 2 pages are blank.  Size 5½ x 8½.  Entirely concerning the Naval court martial findings of “Commodore Charles Wilkes” and the five charges against him all of which were “guilty” findings and the sentence to be “suspended from duty for the term of three years” as well as that he be “publicly reprimanded” and it specifically mentions that the Navy Department would have been “gladly spared the unpleasant duty…but the appeal made to the public by the accused…was pronounced to be of an insubordinate and disrespectful character containing remarks and statements not warranted [that] rendered it necessary for the [Navy] Department [not to tolerate it].”  Condition exc.  Very unusual piece of Civil War history…………………..$135.

 M743     HIS REGIMENT IS BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN THE MOST HEAVILY ENGAGED IN ACTIVE COMBAT OF ANY UNION OUTFIT!  Extremely high relief carved in classic American “folk art" style, wooden cane. BY A CIVIL WAR OFFICER OF A VERMONT REGIMENT THAT DURING  ITS ACTIVE YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE CIVIL WAR FROM 1862 TO 1865 ENGAGED IN 76 COMBAT ACTIONS WITH THE CONFEDERATE ARMY AND TOOK MORE PRISONERS THEN IT HAD MEN IN ITS REGIMENT, A RECORD WHICH IS BELIEVED WAS NOT EXCELLED BY ANY OTHER REGIMENT IN THE UNION SERVICE!  Wood cane is 35 inches overall and carved in classic folk art style, in extremely high relief with a spiral-like  encircling design with broad leaves and smaller branches and large bunches of grape-like fruits.  It apparently had an original blackened (or darkened) finish with much of that finish which has worn smooth on the high relief edging of some of the carving from many years of age and wear and its in its original untouched condition, but very, very sound.  At the top of the carving (just below the handle) is a wide german silver band, very handsomely and professionally engraved with the famous Masonic symbol of a square and compass on one side and on the front, facing side a large, very professional two line inscription “J. R. RICE / Co. K 1’st Vt. CAV.”  There is a matching wide german silver tapered tip at the bottom of the cane.  The plain, nicely shaped wood handle is perfectly fitted, does not show as much wear as the balance of the cane does and is very possibly a replacement (only a guess because of the better condition).  JONAS R. RICE enlisted with that 1’st Vermont Cavalry in September, 1861 as a sergeant in Company K rising to first lieutenant.  He was wounded in action following the Battle of Gettysburg, but continued with the 1’st Calvary until war's end in 1865.  Accompanied with copies of the First Vermont Cavalry's spectacular history and Lieut. Rice.  (much more undoubtedly to be found about him with some research.)  An interesting and unique piece with a fascinating story!.........................................................................................................................................$450.  SOLD

 M742     BRITISH MARINES AND SOLDIERS REPEL ATTEMPTS TO “throw the country into confusion" and "subvert order and discipline” which was rampant at the time.  Original May, 1797 dated British military poster (9 x 14) with large bold title “AN ANSWER TO THE INFAMOUS HAND-BILL WHICH WAS READ BY LIEUT. GEN. ROOKE / ON MONDAY THE 22’d OF MAY, 1797 TO THE TROOPS UNDER HIS COMMAND AT BRISTOL.”  Then follows a large and one small paragraph, all in very bold print, explaining how the General personally read to the troops “…an infamous hand-bill…the production of some designing villains…and having heard the answer of the Marines at Chatham to a similar hand-bill that we approve of” that our own regiment of militia will do the utmost to find out who those villains are” (etc. etc. etc.).  “Solemnly promise our fellow citizens and soldiers that we will use our utmost to find those villains who under pretence of espousing our endeavor to draw us from our allegiance…and to throw the Country into Confusion…should we meet with any such wicked wretches we will deliver them over to the magistrates [etc. etc.].”  The poster is filled with vigorous language and the swearing of allegiance to the country and to their General.  A three column listing of the names of all sergeants and corporals of the regiment supporting this "Answer to the Infamous Hand-Bill" is at the bottom of the poster.  It is very indicative of what was happening to all of the British home regiments at that time.  Condition is exc.  Just the blank edges of the top and bottom margins have been trimmed but none of the wording has been affected and the poster itself was mounted many years ago on a blank sheet of similar type paper which has not damaged it in any way.  Makes very fascinating reading!  Very nicely valued at just…………………………………………………………………$145.

 M740     THE FIRST UNION HEROES OF THE CIVIL WAR!  Printed and sold very soon after the killing of Col. ElmerEllsworth took place on May 24, 1861 these three photographs were assembled, printed and mounted on a special gold printed card, all by the very noted photographer of the era and obviously marketed for sale.  It is believed they are extremely rare.  This is the first example we have encountered in our 60 years of business and collecting!  All three photos are on their original 9 ½ x 14 heavy paperboard mount with very fancy, bright, gold printed lettering. At top center large “ELLSWORTH MEMORIAL” above the circular photo (6 inch diameter) of the “MARSHALL HOUSE” showing that infamous 3 story building and its attached buildings where Col. Ellsworth was killed on May 24, 1861;  shown with a group of Union soldiers standing loosely about on the sidewalk in front while a smaller group of civilians are on front doorsteps.  Large gold lettered below that photo "MARSHALL HOUSE ALEXANDRIA, VA." and below that “PUBLISHED BY E. ANTHONY, 501 BROADWAY, N.Y.”  On the left side is a fine 2 by 3¼  inch photograph of Col. Ellsworth in dress uniform standing “at ease,” with hand resting on hilt of his sword; and his name gold lettered plus the words “THE PATRIOT MARTYR.”  On the right side is a fine 2 by 3¼  photograph of the Union private of the 13th N.Y. Fire Zovaves  standing “at ease” in full uniform, with musket resting by his right arm and left hand resting on hilt of bayonet suspended at waist;  gold lettered below “FRANCIS E. BROWNELL / THE AVENGER OF ELLSWORTH.”  All three photographs are in exc. condition.  Condition of gold print is exc.; and some light damp staining on right margin only and 2 tiny (modern) red ink spots easily removed!) An important and historical Civil War remembrance……………$795.SOLD

M738     ANTI-DEMOCRATIC PARTY POSTER / BROADSIDE CIRCA SEPT.-OCT., 1864 ISSUED/SOLD PRIOR TO THE RE-ELECTION OF REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN!  Very colorfully worded, comparing the arch-traitor of revolutionary times Benedict Arnold to Horatio Seymour (who, at that exact time as the Gov. of N.Y. also presided over the Democratic convention had also REFUSED TO BE THE CANDIDATE FOR THE PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. AGAINST LINCOLN!).  This handsomely printed original broadside is 10 x 13 (blank on reverse) with large, bold, fancy headlines “BENEDICT ARNOLD & HORATIO SEYMOUR! / THEIR IDENTITY OF VIEWS / AND WHO IS TO BE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES?” and below that, in smaller print, mention that the information was just taken “from the NEW YORK TIMES Sept. 19, 1864.”  The center of poster compares (side by side) words of Benedict Arnold with those of Horatio Seymour’s with similarity in actions.  Bottom sections of broadside further compares and castigates Seymour to Arnold’s treason: “…as long as there is malice in human blood, no government can be without its renegades and malcontents…these are always ready, Judas-like to seize upon every occasion.  No matter what the conduct of government…spite will assail it…political leaders [who cause dissention and intrigue] when the country is in danger, never have been forgiven and never will be forgiven by the American people.  The Copperhead Chiefs of these times should understand that the sequel to this is endless disgrace.”  It all makes very fascinating reading, especially when realizing what was happening at that time.  Document has very fancy bordering on all 4 margins.  Shows just normal aging and is in exc.+ condition.  Along bottom margin "Published and Sold by D.S. Holmes; Brooklyn and also the American News Company, New York City." A most unusual Civil War political tirade and rare  Civil War and political Americana!....originally priced at $750., now just ........$375.

 M737     HISTORIC CANE.  Antique handmade gold mounted wooden cane 37 inches overall; 30 inch slender wood shaft in its natural “knotted” uneven shape with a 3 inch tapered german silver tip at bottom and a small 1 ½ x ½ wide solid gold plaque inlaid near its top,  beautifully engraved in 4 lines “From a Locust Tree Planted at Mount Vernon by General Washington.”  Attached above the shaft is the original one piece horn handle made in the shape of a curved horses hoof.  Still affixed is a matching solid gold narrow band inscribed with the name of the owner in same fancy style engraving “John A. Brown.”  Handle is in exc. condition.  At the bottom of that handle, just where it meets the wood, there likely was a second narrow band, which is now lacking.  The wood shaft itself is very sound and in good condition.  A few spots along the bark of the wood, have dried and are chipped off, but other than that, it’s all intact.  The piece is completely authentic and genuine antique ……and very, very modestly sale priced at only $375.SOLD

M734     THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT RE-ASSURING ITS CITIZENS THE UPSET TIMES OF THE FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR ARE STARTING TO COOL DOWN!  Circa 1871 poster believed official French government issue with very large, bold headline “REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE” and entirely printed in the French language.  Size 16 x 22 (blank on reverse). Massive 1 inch headlines (in French) “TELEGRAPHIC DISPATCHES.”  Then follows for the entire poster separate listings for 12 cities and provinces of France, individually, and with  dates between December 2^nd and 5^th the current status of each, with such reports as “city at rest, everything calm”…“there has been no order but no trouble”… “tranquility continues to reign”…“some municipal officers protest but presence of police quells it”… (and much more).  Bottom bears name of printer and address.  Some very, very minor damp staining at edges; very slight tear and a few margin chips.  Much of print in very bold size made to capture public attention.  Very displayable and only ...$94.50 ..and now our close-out at just $47.50

A BARGAIN PRICE HARD TO BEAT! We published this book in just a single, limited edition in 1972 (38 years ago!) and assumed we had just about sold out of them quite some time ago and only recently found a small group of them lurking in an obscure corner of our warehouse. Here are absolutely original, 1972 published copies, complete with their original dust jackets of the first and only work published on all these three branches of American nautical service: “SMALL ARMS OF THE SEA SERVICES: A History of the Firearms and Edged Weapons of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard From the Revolution to the Present” by Col. Robert H. Rankin, USMC (ret’d). This book is unique as the only one of its type to ever have been honored with three “Forewords” by the Commandants of each of those three services!!

Large 8 ½” x 10 ½” format. 260 pages with over 350 detailed photo illustrations. Hard covers and in mint, unread condition, some minor shelf wear on dust cover only. Covers in detail, the regulation and non-regulation broad range of firearms, swords, cutlasses, dirks, fighting and utility knives, boarding axes, pikes, signal guns, blunderbusses and shotguns of those three services. Sections on the use and wearing of the great variety of those arms includes a substantial number of variants. Book was sponsored by the Company of Military Historians and honored with their highest endorsement as a ‘Standard Reference Work”. An encyclopedic reference.

We again find it expedient to mention that this very limited number of “Small Arms of the Sea Services” offered here are all of that original (and only) 1972 printing and are fully guaranteed exactly as that!

(As further proof of their current value, it is suggested that interested parties verify values by searching websites on their computer where they will quickly see used editions priced between 40 and 80 dollars with a few copies even in excess of that amount). While they last… mint, unread condition…$22.50

ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR NEWSPAPERS
Authentic wartime issues of famous newspapers for sale

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THE BOWIE KNIFE
Unsheathing an American Legend
             by Norm Flayderman

"The first reliable history of the Bowie knife from it's origin to present day."
 

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