Selling ANTIQUE FIREARMS, militaria, ANTIQUE GUNS, deringer, pepperbox, longarms, musket, blunderbuss, Spencer carbine, Sharps, Civil War, Colt, Americana, antique edged weapons, antique swords, antique Bowie knives, firearm price guide, broadsides, beltplates, powderhorns, Remington, Confederate items for over 50 years
HISTORIC ARMS & MILITARIA
P.O. BOX 2446  FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33303
Phone: (954) 761-8855 (Mon -  Fri 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 57 years and we have had just as great a selection over those decades as you see here.

A little bit about N. FLAYDERMAN & CO., INC.
"ANTIQUE FIREARMS", "ANTIQUE GUNS", "OLD GUNS"
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 1997) of our widely cited catalogs were the longest run of antique arms and militaria catalogs issued anywhere......anytime! Although we no longer issue catalogs, we are remaining active and, as the time and inclination allow, continue to list and describe interesting and rare items via these web pages.

Let us assure you, as we have all our mail order customers these past 57 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 interesting. Also, please remember, all our antique firearms are sold as collectors' items only and are not guaranteed or 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 and Mastercard as well as Checks and 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.

THE GREATEST YET!
THE NEW, ENLARGED 9th EDITION!

FLAYDERMAN’S GUIDE TO ANTIQUE
AMERICAN FIREARMS...and their values
  Phone: (954) 761-8855 
email: flayderman@aol.com

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

WELCOME TO OUR ONLINE CATALOG

We have re-arranged our sales listings by categories.
You can easily scroll down through them all or go directly
 to your preferred grouping by clicking on the heading links below:

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New arrivals will be constantly listed as they come in

ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS

~HANDGUNS~

Q385 - Dual purpose antique firearms curiosa!  COMBINATION SINGLE SHOT PERCUSSION PISTOL MADE WITH A TWO BLADE FOLDING POCKET KNIFE.  Handsome all german silver 3 ½ inch octagon barrel (.31 caliber) mounted atop and made integral with a sturdy and quite handsome folding knife.  English proofs deep marked at breech of barrel.  Very well made, sturdy folding knife has all german silver mounts.  It’s larger double edged blade 3 ½ inches with this model pen knife single edge blade 2 ¼ inches.  Both blades marked on ricasso full name “JAMES RODGERS / SHEFFIELD.”  With blade open it’s 10 inches overall; with blade folded 6 ½ inches o/a.  Folding trigger concealed into the brass fitting on the underside when not in use.  Mechanically exc.+.  Metal exc. blade shows some light wear, cleaning and probably sharpening; a few faint blemishes and smallest spots of minor fine pitting, but are exc.  Markings exc.  Handsome stag grips exc.  There’s a folding german silver cap box fitted on the bottom of the butt and both original removable gun tools are still fitted in their special ??? compartments in the butt (on either side of the cap box) they include a beautifully made tiny all german silver scissor type bullet mold and a delicate iron combination tweezer and the loading tool.  Mechanically exc.+  This is very likely the earliest of this type of combination weapon; bearing only the name “JAMES RODGERS” it is likely the predecessor of the soon to be formed “Unwin & Rodgers Company” that followed and made similar pieces and percussion.  It is noted that the later ones almost identical to this cartridge contain only the Unwin & Rodgers marks and none are seen with merely “James Rodgers.”  There does exist today an enigma about that “JAMES RODGERS” name; and all research performed to date by myself and authorities in this field “James” is yet to be pinned down on his background…and his not to be confused with the better known firm of “Joseph Rodgers / Joseph Rodgers & Sons; and he was not one of those sons, either!”  Bowie knives are also known marked only “JAMES RODGERS” yet he is still somewhat of a mystery.  Should any of you collectors out there have significant information about him, you would be adding substantially to the collector’s knowledge by sharing it with others and I’ll be pleased to hear from you about him.  For this exc. example of this distinctive specimen of genuine arms curiosa…$2,250.

(Q434) - A SUPERB ANTIQUE AMERICAN ARMS RARITY. AN UNDENIABLY BONA FIDE, MATCHED PAIR OF PERCUSSION GAMBLER’S DERINGER’S…TOGETHER WITH THEIR ORIGINAL, UNIQUE, SPECIAL FITTED AND DESIGNED GAMBLER’S LEATHER HOLSTERS WITH ITS ORIGINAL LINEN, GIRDLE-LIKE BELT MADE TO BE WORN CONCEALED IN THE SMALL OF THE BACK UNDERNEATH VEST OR SHIRT!  This is the exact outfit (guns and holsters) illustrated in the classic reference to the subject “The Deringer in America” (Volume 1, 1985).  The outfit also illustrated (and demonstrated actually being worn!) in latest, 9’th edition of “Flayderman’s Guide;” (page 404).THE DERINGERS:  ALL BRASS 4 INCH OCTAGON BARRELS EACH WITH LARGE MARKINGS:  “DREPPERD / LANCASTER.” A noted family of “Kentucky Rifle” gunmakers of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Caliber .36.  Nicely made, tiny open type iron rear sights with silver blade type, mortised front sights.  Pistols overall each 8 inches.  Nicely made side locks still retain much of their original case hardened colors (darkening and mixing with age brown, but all metal is exc.+) with fancy engraving as well as on hammers).  All exc.+.  Locks also marked “DREPPERD / LANCASTER”; mechanically exc.+.  Walnut full stocks exc.+ just the slightest wear with back of each handle having two small oval (varied size) inlays the upper one on each engraved with owner’s initials “M.B.S.”  Engraved brass triggerguards and ramrod thimbles.  Both derringers in choice condition. THE HOLSTERS ESPECIALLY DESIGNED AND FABRICATED CONTEMPORANEOUS TO THE PERIOD OF THE PISTOLS (CIRCA 1840’s) AND PERFECTLY FITTED FOR THESE EXACT PISTOLS.  Russet brown leather (lacking the flap on one; the other flap complete but has two small tears, repairable at top).  Leather shows normal age, wear and use (and some fancy embossing full length front of each).  Very sound, showing just normal age and wear; they are affixed just two inches apart to their wide, matching leather backing, which, in turn, is affixed to the original beige linen, girdle-like waist belt with its small, frame-type buckle…all intended to be worn beneath the gamblers frock coat, vest or shirt so as to remain concealed…until circumstances required its immediate use!  This is an outfit that commands attention in an antique arms or Western frontier exhibit.  Not merely a rare pair of deringers, but overflowing with American folklore!.......$27,500.

(Q428) - RARE AMERICAN FLINTLOCK MARTIAL PISTOL CIRCA 1830’s.  The initial reaction by many knowledgeable collectors and dealers alike on viewing this rare variant, early handgun perceived it to be merely a standard U.S. Model 1836 flintlock pistol on which someone, for reasons unknown had replaced the original lock with one from a U.S. Navy Model 1826 “EVANS” pistol, (both very similar in appearance and size).  HOWEVER, A CLOSE ANALYSIS CLEARLY INDICATES THAT WAS NOT THE CASE, AT ALL!  The lock fits perfectly in place and is merely marked in center “EVANS” (which are not the markings to be found on the Navy Model 1826) which are stamped in two lines “W. L. EVANS / V. FORGE” with a date and “USN” at its rear). Hence the lock is not merely an inspected or re-used lock from a U.S. contract pistol (i.e. USN Model 1826). The balance of the pistol resembles it is classic M1836 style; however, the only markings on the barrel are inspector markings (deeply stamped) in small letters “N.W.P.” (of U.S. inspector Nahun? W. Patch) with no other armory proof marks or “U.S.” markings.  Wm L. Evans to fabricate this specimen for AMERICAN MILITIA USE.  For further substantiation and support of this conclusion the collector is urged to refer to “Historic Pistols:  The American Martial Flintlock 1760-1845” (by Smith & Bitter) page 292-3 showing an Evans FL Militia pistol with a military lock (lightly varied style than this) marked only almost identically “EVANS.”  SEE ALSO “American Military Shoulder Arms; Vol. 2” by Moller pages 329-330 with discussion of W. L. Evans use of military pistol locks on militia muskets.  CONDITION:  overall would rate as about exc. Metal with just smooth wear has overall very very light pitting on barrel (will clean much better) and even lighter on lock (mostly on a few patches) both the lock markings “EVANS” and those three inspector markings on barrel are exc.+.  Mechanically exc. (appears only that possibly the main spring and the sear spring were replaced in more recent years).  The stock is exc. just light even wear markings. Complete with ramrod and swivels…and it is definitely original flintlock…$2,750.

(Q396) - RARE, CASED, ENGRAVED ENGLISH “JOSEPH LANG TYPE” SINGLE ACTION PERCUSSION 6 SHOT REVOLVER CALIBER .48…IN EXC.+ (EXC. TO MINT) CONDITION. Large, heavyweight, yet tastefully proportioned (near the size and weight of a Colt Dragoon!).  13 ½ inches overall with 6 inch octagon barrel and weighing almost 3 pounds.  Barrel retains about 98 percent original bright blue finish; the very delicately and beautifully engraved frame profusely filled with scroll and floral motifs retains considerable traces (few spots even still bright) of original casehardened finish, mixing with even age brown. Faint traces of casehardening on cylinder, also mostly even age brown.  Metal is exc.+ and in some places exc. to mint.  A revolver noted for its appearance, it was made without a hinged loading lever and has vertical percussion nipples (unseparated by partitions) at back of its cylinder.  In choice condition.  All markings and mechanically exc.+; its lengthy, deep marked, fancy barrel markings almost filling the length of that barrel:  “WITTON DAW & Co. IMPROVED 57 THREADNEEDLE ST. LONDON” will date it to years 1851 to 1855 when that firm operated under that exact name at that address (and may even have been the manufacturer of it).  Extremely delicate checkering full length of the long walnut handle; exc.+.  Fancy engraved iron butt plate has hinged compartment for percussion caps.  Matching engraving on triggerguard retains much original blue finish; silver inlay plaque at back of the handle. FITTED IN ITS ORIGINAL LARGE WALNUT CASE (normal aging, but exc.) with green base compartment lining displaying just normal aging and fading, but exc.+  still contains small packet of spare nipples; original very fancy wooden handle screwdriver (exc. to mint) and oil can; lacking a bullet mold and loading rod but easily replaced.  Original paper label on inner lid indicates the outfit was sold by “WILKINSON & SON OF LONDON” and most importantly a very large, fancy, brass plaque affixed to center of the outside lid engraved in fancy large script “R. PURBRICK, ESQ.:  M. P.” (“Member of Parliament”).  NOTE:  Considerable information about this gun (with an illustration of an about identical specimen with the same markings) will be found in the classic work  “THE REVOLVER 1818-1865” (Vol. I) by Taylerson, Andrews & Frith with much textual information in the two chapters devoted entirely to the “Lang” and the “George Henry Daw and Daw’s Revolver.” (Will be pleased to supply photostats to purchaser of those chapters and illustration.)  Rare outfit and the only specimen of this fine, large, early English revolver we have encountered….$5,950

(Q322) - “MULE EAR”-HAMMER, PERCUSSION TARGET PISTOL WITH ORIGINAL DETACHABLE SHOULDER STOCK (a.k.a. “pocket rifle” or “pistol-carbine”). Although unmarked it is distinctly American made by a very competent, professional gunmaker.  Medium weight  10-1/2” octagon barrel.  .31 caliber deep rifled bore will clean VG+ or better. Light age brown metal with only minor wear will clean exc.+ and better.  Some very minor rust blemishes, but pitting negligible, only slightly around the nipple.  Mechanically exc.+. Very handsomely shaped and beautifully fashioned one piece walnut handle with distinctive “saw-handle” form is exc.+; few minor bruises; fancy, wide pewter inlays at top and where it joins breech of barrel, including a fancy 6 point pewter star inlay on left side below forend tip and a large 8 point silver star inlay on underside of butt, filling it almost full length.  Small very clean, thin crack high near top of handle, stock otherwise exc.+ and better. Note the very fancy wide brass inlay filling much of the back of the handle that is there not to merely reinforce that crack, but is actually special fitting into which the detachable round heavy iron rod, skeleton type detachable stock fits (that inlay specially shaped to accept the side stud/guide on the rod stock, which with a half twist locks it in place once stock is inserted). Overall length of specially fitted rod 12”. Pistol weighs (without stock) 2 ½ pounds. Original adjustable open type rear sight.  A well designed, distinctively fashioned American handgun circa 1830’s-40’s…$1,450

(Q386) - Fine condition SMITH & WESSON “MODEL 2 ARMY” .32 CALIBER RIMFIRE REVOLVER, A HANDGUN THAT PROVED EXTREMELY POPULAR AS A PERSONAL SIDE ARM WITH MANY OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN DURING THE CIVIL WAR YEARS.  Six inch barrel; six shot; serial no. 46480 indicating it was made before the end of 1865; likely just Following the treaty at Appamattox.  Showing very little wear or use with 80 percent original overall bright blue finish!  Where finish is lacking (mostly on the right side of the barrel and a few tiny spots on frame) it  is mixed and turned age brown. Metal  exc.+ and better.  The blue is really choice, showing no use or wear and the rosewood grips are almost mint (just the slightest minor finish wear from storage, but not use).  All markings and mechanically exc.+.  This popular handgun is getting extremely hard to find in this gem condition. An important American early cartridge firearm.  (F#. 5G-036)…$3,250.

(Q326) - FINE CONDITION BLUNT & SYMS, NEW YORK, RING TRIGGER, UNDERHAMMER, SIX SHOT, MEDIUM FRAME PERCUSSION PEPPERBOX.  .31 caliber. Approx 95% original bright blue finish on 4” ribbed barrel cluster (minor spots of slight fading mixing with age brown; few tiniest rust blemishes, no pitting). Beautifully & profusely engraved iron frame with few traces bright blue mostly even age brown; metal is exc+. Bright traces blue on engraved backstrap. Mechanically exc+. Unmarked as typical of almost all Blunt & Syms, has classic deep stamped “RC” marks at muzzle of barrels. Bag shape handle; walnut grips exc. about mint; few tiny bruises. (F# 7B 003)…$2,750.

(Q380) - THIS EXTREMELY RARE, EARLIEST MODEL COLT “OPEN TOP POCKET MODEL” REVOLVER CALIBER .22 RF WITH EXCEPTIONALLY LOW, 2 DIGIT (MATCHING) SERIAL NUMBER 67. Distinctive features of these earliest types are the circular, tapered firing pin and matching circular hole at  the top of the frame through which that pin fits to strike the cartridge.  (NOTE:  all other models have top of frame slotted for entry of the usual firing pin. This frame, at that point, is solid at top.  Less than 100 of these considered to have been made.  2 7/8 inch barrel with side rod ejector. In fine condition, barrel retains 50% and more original blue (still quite bright and most of the finish on the right side of the barrel & ejector housing; balance of metal smooth even age brown patina with traces of blue. Cylinder age brown; all metal is exc.  Markings (early type) &  mechanically exc+. Nice patina to brass frame. 70%+ original bright blue on hammer. Walnut grips exc.+ just lightest wear. Does not show hard wear or use.  Fine specimen of this great rarity & the only one example we have handled in decades!…$3,950.

(Q179) - A SCARCE VARIANT PEPPERBOX WITH RARE MARKINGS.  Five shot, ring trigger percussion underhammer pepperbox marked on top of the profusely engraved iron frame “MARIETTE BREVETE”…with dual engraved markings on the narrow iron recoil shield at front of the frame (just behind the nipples) “F’ni PAR LE PAGE MOUTIER ARQ’e DU ROI” (“Fabricated by Le Page-Moutier Gun Makers to the King”) noted makers of Paris.  Lovely and profuse scroll, floral and leaf type engraved designs fill the rounded iron frame and upper section of backstrap. Five separately mounted screw-off round 2 ½ inch barrels; 7 ½ inches overall . .41 caliber. Gray metal with some wear will clean vg to exc.; some blemishes in few spots, very light pitting. Markings and mechanically exc. +. Long arched handle with black ebony grips (exc.).…$1,150.

(Q382) - MADE TO COMMEMORATE AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY. MARKED “1776” ON TOP OF ITS 2 INCH ROUND BARREL AND “PAT APR. 22, 73” ON SIDE. BRASS FRAME BOSS single shot deringer made to fire .22 rf BLANK cartridges circa 1870’s; a.k.a. “Fourth of July pistol.” Simplest of mechanisms with hammer & trigger cast as single piece & made without trigger guard. Brass frame has nice patina & exc. The round iron barrel deep age brown; patches overall light pitting & some patches medium; on right side of barrel; few patches deep pitting. Markings weak, but mostly visible (a numeral & few letters faint, all can be made out). Walnut grips exc. (F# 8A-030.6). Scarce; estimated a few hundred made. Interesting oddity..…$450.

(Q320) - THE ULTRA “SUICIDE SPECIAL” (a.k.a. “Trade Name”) SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. The very top of the line! Five shot .32 rimfire. ORIGINAL HANDSOME, (SILVER-LIKE) TWO PIECE ALL METAL GRIPS, RELIEF DECORATED EACH SIDE WITH LARGE STANDING STAG AND TREE MOTIFS.  2-1/2” octagon barrel marked “NORWICH ARMS CO. 32” on top &  “PAT’D APR 23, 1878” on side.  Profuse, original factory engraving fills entire frame and cylinder (less profuse) on sides of barrel and backstrap (designs are clumsy but original). 98% original, overall, nickel finish; showing just slightest wear; few tiny blemishes; metal exc.+. Markings & mechanically exc+. The unique feature are the all metal grips (not iron or silver) tarnished to a light grayish color (but easily cleaned bright). Distinctive feature of this particular handgun is the cylinder center pin which is removed by a small, blade-like device in front of trigger within the front of the frame which pulls forward to release pin. Widely believed to have been made by HOOD FIREARMS COMPANY of Norwich, Conn. who reportedly owned Norwich Arms Co. & makers of a wide range of spur trigger “Trade Name” revolvers…$595.

(Q309) - SUPERB CONDITION ALLEN & WHEELOCK SINGLE SHOT, CENTER HAMMER PERCUSSION TARGET PISTOL WITH LONG 8” PART OCTAGON/PART ROUND BARREL RETAINING 95% OF ITS ORIGINAL BLUE FINISH (EXTREMELY RARE TO FIND THIS TYPE HANDGUN WITH ANY FINISH INTACT!). Traces blue on frame, but metal is exc. to mint throughout. Markings & mechanically perfect. Serial no. 80. Caliber .36; deeply rifled bore exc+. F# 5A-008. A great “FIND” for the Allen collector!...$2,250.

(Q307) - SCARCE ALLEN & WHEELOCK .36 CALIBER LIPFIRE NAVY REVOLVER. Center hammer. Six shot; 5” octagon barrel. Only approx 500 of these made circa early 1860’s. (Believed they actually pre-dated production of the percussion Navy revolver.) Low serial No. 209. Fine condition specimen, showing very little wear. Strong traces of orig. bright blue finish on frame, cylinder & barrel; metal mostly smooth, even age brown with few minor rust blemishes, but will clean exc+ & better. Markings light, but distinctly stamped that way and they do not show wear; mechanically exc+. Grips have most original varnish finish and exc+ just the slightest wear at extreme edges of butt; some very light surface scratches to varnish finish only, but very fine. Complete with loading gate intact. (F# 5A-067)…$2,250.

(Q314) - AN INTERESTING VARIANT (AN EXTRA FANCY ONE, AT THAT!) OF THE WELL KNOWN “MARIETTE” RING TRIGGER PERCUSSION PEPPERBOX.  Four barrels; .41 caliber percussion.  Extra handsomely and profusely engraved frame (much deeper and more outstanding than usual) with very delicate (fine quality floral, scroll, leaf and branch motifs filling the round iron frame and very profuse along the full length of back strap). Just light wear would rate metal as exc.+ (with small patch light pitting left side of frame only). Almost 100 percent very fancy Damascus twist and scroll-like finish visible on the four individual (and numbered) round 3-1/2” barrels.  Markings and mechanically exc.+ “MARIETTE BREVETE” with “LEG” proof mark.  Low serial no. 197.  Note the very sharply angled “drop” to the unusually extra-long original handle. Handsome ivory grips with lovely mellow patina are exc.+.  Especially attractive variation of this well known and well-made European pepperbox circa 1840’s-1850’s…$1,950.

(Q319) - VERY SCARCE PINFIRE SIX SHOT, RING TRIGGER, UNDERHAMMER EUROPEAN PEPPERBOX CIRCA 1860’s.  Fine condition.  .30 caliber.  Cluster of 3” full fluted barrels (easily removable with the large cylindrical knob at the muzzle end; the center pin although it stays rigid intact is then used as the ejector rod to remove spent cartridges).  Nicely hand engraved, rounded iron frame and backstrap with bold scroll and floral motifs.  All metal is exc.+  Just the lightest of wear; few tiniest rust blemishes, but very minor.  Markings (exc.+) “MARIETTE B’TE” on the backstrap near butt (as usual on all their products) also “L.E.G.” proof mark on barrels.  Black ebony grips just about mint.  7” overall.  Nice, crisp, clean specimen…..$2,250.

(Q318) - FINE CONDITIONED, SCARCE, EARLY REMINGTON-RIDER DOUBLE ACTION .31 CALIBER PERCUSSION FIVE SHOT REVOLVER; WITH DISTINCTIVE “MUSHROOM-SHAPED” CYLINDER. This is one of the very first double action revolvers made in the U.S. Both the 3” octagon barrel and the cylinder retain 95 - 98% original blue finish & almost all of it is bright!  (Just some minor fading, but blue distinct) on the sides of the barrel only (bottom and top still very bright); metal is exc+. Gray metal frame is exc+ few tiniest blemishes, pitting, if any, negligible. Rate all metal as exc.+.  Markings & mechanically perfect. Checkered hard rubber grips just about mint. One of the nicest of these we’ve handled in a long while. (F# 5E-004)…$2,250.

(Q315) - THE VERY FIRST PRODUCTION HANDGUN BY JOHN MARLIN / MARLIN FIREARMS COMPANY...AND IN VERY FINE CONDITION. HIS “FIRST MODEL DERINGER SINGLE SHOT PISTOL” ALSO KNOWN AS THE “BABY 22.” Made circa 1863.  Brass frame, spur trigger; bird’s head butt. Caliber .22 rimfire.  2-1/6” octagon/round barrel.  Just 4 1/8” overall. 99% original overall nickel finish; shows some light wear; few spots nickel flaked, worn extreme edges of breech of barrel; few spots mid-section of barrel; a few scratches elsewhere, but is exc.+. Markings & mechanically exc.+; rosewood grips exc.+.  (F# 5D-001). Examples of this earliest Marlin rarely seen…& seldom found in this condition nice...$1,950.

(Q312) - EARLIEST PRODUCTION OF THE REMINGTON-SMOOT “NEW MODEL NO. 1 REVOLVER” WITH THE REVOLVING RECOIL SHIELD. Only 650 estimated mfd (circa 1875); this one serial no. 562. Extremely fine condition with 98 percent+ original bright nickel finish; showing no wear or use. Tiny flaking of nickel only at extreme muzzle on right side & tiniest spot on rear of cylinder & another small spot at tip of the spur trigger. Choice exc.- almost mint condition; perfect markings. Mechanically perfect. Almost all casehardening colors visible on hammer (brighter on right side; fading on left). Walnut grips exc. to mint. (F# 5E-048). An extremely scarce Remington in any condition, with few specimens ever turning up on the collectors’ market. This superb condition example a great rarity…$2,950.

(Q306)  - UNIQUE AMERICAN FOUR BARREL MANUALLY REVOLVED, SINGLE ACTION PERCUSSION PEPPERBOX CIRCA 1840.  Although general classification as a “primitive” form, it displays professional craftsmanship. 7 ½” overall with cluster of four 3” barrels; .46 caliber.  Ruggedly constructed; weight about 2 pounds; uniquely fashioned, yet well constructed round iron frame with the wide nipple shield having a circular opening at top for hammer to strike through to the nipple. Metal with just light, normal wear; vg to exc; minor small patch of very fine pitting, Unmarked. Ingenious single action mechanical operation: the front of the rounded iron trigger guard has an oval plate affixed to it (at the point where it joins frame); when depressed upwards it acts as a cylinder release, allowing the cylinder to be manually revolved (and automatically locks the next barrel in position). Mechanically exc. Well-made walnut handle exc. with just minor wear consistent with metal. (Identical 7B-019.4). Pepperbox displays very competent workmanship...$1,950.

(Q299) - EXPERIMENTAL, COMBINATION BOWIE KNIFE-PERCUSSION PISTOL (aka “CUTLASS PISTOL”) BY RENOWNED ENGLISH MAKERS NOTED FOR BOWIE-KNIVES AND AN EXTENSIVE LINE OF SMALL PERCUSSION, POCKET SIZE COMBINATION KNIFE-PISTOLS. The startling resemblance of this extremely well made and marked knife-pistol and the rare American counterpart, the “ELGIN CUTLASS PISTOLS” made circa 1837 BY C. B. ALLEN IN SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS” and Morrill, Mosman & Blair  (see F# 7C-014)… is obvious.  This fine quality, experimental British dual purpose arm was made in that same era, circa late 1830’s. Whether it was the original pattern from which the Elgin was later fashioned, or vice versa, will likely always remain a mystery; however, there is no doubting its rarity. This large-sized specimen more closely resembles the U.S. Naval contract Elgin Cutlass pistol made by Allen (F # 6A-038). Its huge .60 caliber is larger than any of the American counterparts.  Overall 15” with a 10-1/2” well made, broad, single edge Bowie blade with 5” “false edge” and 2” wide at its broadest point.  The 4-1/2” octagon barrel retains almost all of its original Damascus spiral twist finish (wearing thin and mixing with age brown, but spiral pattern all visible) Barrel bears authentic fine markings almost its full length:  “UNWIN & RODGERS.  SHEFFIELD.  EXP’L CUTLASS No. 4.” Delicately and profusely engraved iron frame and at extreme edge of muzzle; matching engraving on the hammer and iron butt cap (which is fitted with an engraved, hinged cap box). All metal exc. (and better); overall even age brown patina, showing just very slight wear. All markings and mechanically exc.+.  Finely checkered walnut handle with light wear, consistent with the metal; exc.  Two very narrow, short grooved lines (or deep scratches) on right near butt and a small gouge left side; oval silver inlay on back of handle. Lacks only the narrow iron belt hook that affixed to left side of frame; a simple matter to replace (the base of that minor part is intact, fastened by two tiny screws).  Unwin & Rodgers established themselves in business in 1833; by the end of the 1830’s their broad product line had expanded greatly with emphasis on “Self-Defence Knives.” 1839 they were advertising their most distinctive product, a small combination dual purpose pocket-sized folding knife and single shot percussion pistol (later evolving to a breech-loading ctg. pistol) which became the mainstay of their product line for many years.  Hence this extremely rare experimentally designed “cutlass pistol” decidedly  contemporary to the Elgin and may possibly even preceded it! A superb piece of “arms curiosa!”...$12,500.

(Q245) - CASED “MARIETTE” RING TRIGGER FOUR BARREL UNDERHAMMER PERCUSSION PEPPERBOX CIRCA 1835-1845. ORIGINAL SUPERB QUALITY, ELABORATE AND PROFUSE ENGRAVING IN FLORAL AND SCROLL DESIGNS ENTIRELY FILL THE ROUND IRON FRAME AND BACK STRAP.  Cluster of four individual screw-off 2 ½ inch round barrels (numbered 1 to 4 to match numbers on recoil shield).  Gray metal with light, even aging and wear; few patches of very fine, minor pitting; metal will clean exc.  Two piece black ebony bag shaped grips exc.+.  Mechanically exc.+  “MARIETTE BREVETE” markings of the noted Belgin maker on inner backtrap and “LEG” proof on recoil shield.  ENCASED IN ORIGINAL RARE STYLE, FORM-FITTED “PIPE-TYPE” BLACK LEATHER COVERED WOODEN CASE WITH HINGED LID. Some minor outer scuffing and wear, but exc.  Original red baize lining in both the lid and bottom section with matching age; fading and usual wear marks especially on area where the gun rested; lining all intact and very sound.  This type casing rarely encountered with pepperboxes; it was normally reserved for single barrel percussion deringer type small handguns, occasionally an early small cartridge revolver  (authenticity and originality of the case are fully assured)….$4,450.

(Q248) - DELUXE CASED AND IN EXC. TO ALMOST MINT CONDITION SMITH & WESSON MODEL 2 “ARMY” WITH 98% ORIGINAL BRIGHT BLUE FINISH (some spots along  underside of barrel with blue worn or mixed with blemish of age brown, but no pitting) few slight spots where blue worn underside of frame and along back strap, but gun shows no wear or use. Case hardened colors on hammer still quite bright. All markings and mechanically exc.+. Rosewood grips about mint. 6 inch barrel; .32 rimfire.  Serial No. 38774.  In its original extra fancy grained rosewood case (much more handsome than the usual walnut type) with a fancy shaped brass inlay (identical in shape to the inlay viewed on other S&W rosewood cases) in center of outer cover; case with just slightest wear is exc.+ and better!  Original deep red color velvet (baize) compartment-type lining. Just minor light aging; exc.+ Original brass cleaning rod still fitted inside along edge in its special narrow compartment.…$7,450.

(Q302) - EXC. TO MINT CONDITION ALLEN & THURBER PERCUSSION, FIVE SHOT PEPPERBOX.  .31 caliber.  2-3/4” fluted barrel cluster with 99 percent+ original blue finish still bright and intact; gun shows no wear.  Engraved frame with nipple shield made integral. Frame retains 40 to 50 percent orig. blue (where intact it’s bright and where lacking has turned and mixed with age brown; metal does not show any wear at all). Original scroll/floral engraving on frame and backstrap. All metal just about mint; markings and mechanically perfect. Walnut grips mint. “ALLEN & THURBER WORCESTER” on barrel flutes and “ALLEN’S PATENT 1845” on the bar hammer. (F No. 5A-040)…$3,250.

(Q294) - “BACON & CO. / NORWICH, CT” (marked) underhammer, percussion, single shot belt size pistol with long, rare length six inch oct/round barrel.  .36 caliber.  Fancy bold leaf and scroll engraved frame and back strap. Age brown metal with smooth wear and use, but will clean exc.  Some very faint small patches of minor pitting (mostly blemishes).  Bag-shaped handle with walnut grips; smooth wear consistent with metal; few narrow short bruises mostly on right side are minor.  Markings and mechanically exc.  Just needs some elbow grease and minor cleaning to “dress up” considerably from its century and a half of storage. (F No. 7E-006)….$675.

(Q286) - ELABORATELY FACTORY ENGRAVED REMINGTON “NO. 4 NEW MODEL REVOLVER” Caliber .38 rimfire. 2 ½" round barrel. Beautiful, profuse original factory engraving in tight scroll & floral designs from butt to the muzzle of barrel, including cylinder. 95-98% orig. nickel finish, very slight  wear, few spots with nickel worn, few tiny surface rust spots on flutes of cylinder but all will clean exc. and even better. Pitting if any negligible. Markings & all engraving very sharp & distinct, not showing any wear. Checkered black hard rubber grips exc+. slight wear few high spots near butt. Circa 1877-1888 not serial numbered as correct for some specimens (F# 5E-053); rare this ornate…$2,750.

(Q246) - U.S. MODEL 1842 PERCUSSION MARTIAL PISTOL.  .54 caliber.  8 ½ inch barrel; 14 ½ inches overall.  Standard issue U.S. Cavalry handgun widely carried and used during the Mexican War and early years of the Civil War. Light age brown metal with normal wear and use; patches very light, minor pitting and rust blemishes; lighter patch of pitting only at the breech end around the nipple area and extreme front end of the lock; metal should clean vg+ and even better.  Markings and mechanically exc. “U.S. / H. ASTON” in center of lock and “MIDD’TN / CONN / 1847” at rear with matching date “1847” on bbl tang.  Stock with light wear consistent with metal and is about exc. if not better; exc. inspector marks (just lightly worn, but quite sharp);  small nicks and bruises on wood at the extreme rounded edge behind rear of lock (can be dressed up).  Brass mountings; original swivel ramrod.  (F #6A-040)…$1,495.

(Q293) - Semi-miniature BLUNT & SYMS, NEW YORK ring trigger underhammer percussion five shot pepperbox; .25 caliber. In superb condition; just 5-1/8” overall with barrel cluster of 1-5/8” round/fluted rib barrels retaining 80 to 90% original blue finish (blue quite bright in the fluted ribs; the blue very distinct with some fading mixing with age brown on the rounded sides of the barrels; metal is exc+. Few tiniest minor blemishes. Very handsome, profusely scroll & floral engraved frame & backstrap Markings (as typical on most Blunt & Syms) are the deep stamped “RC” at the face of the muzzles along with the serial number “54.” Walnut grips with bag-shaped handle exc. (Note: This rare size B&S identical to that shown & described as figure 19 (page 74) in the basic guide “Pepperbox Firearms” by Dunlap in which it is specifically noted that it is the “smallest encountered” by that maker…the only specimen of this size we have encountered in many years. (F #7B-002)…$3,750.

(Q298) -  “ROBBINS & LAWRENCE,” WINDSOR, VERMONT, 5 SHOT, RING TRIGGER PERCUSSION .28 CALIBER PEPPERBOX (WITH CONCEALED HAMMER) IN SUPERB CONDITION. The 3-1/2” barrel cluster (entire unit with nipples hinged and tips downward for capping) retain 98%+ of their original browned finish; is wearing just a little bit thin in some spots, but its distinctly all there and very visible; the iron frame & handle retain approximately 40% of original blued finish (most on the right side of the frame) metal otherwise exc. to just about mint; shows no wear or use.  100% orig bright blue finish still on ring trigger & the flat bar barrel latch on top of frame. Both the frame & breech end of barrels beautifully original scroll and floral engraved. Markings & mechanically perfect; black walnut grips about mint. One of the best specimens of this fine quality American pepperbox we’ve catalogued in a long while. Seldom seen with this great amount of finish.  (F No. 7B-015)…$3,750.

(Q292) - ALMOST MINIATURE IN SIZE! THE TINIEST, MOST DELICATE, ORIGINAL PERCUSSION UNDERHAMMER, RING TRIGGER PEPPERBOX WE HAVE YET TO ENCOUNTER. A REAL PRIZE IN ANY PEPPERBOX OR ANTIQUE ARMS COLLECTION. 
Overall just 5-3/4”, but that dimension does not truly indicate its very tiny, minute size. The handle and frame exceptionally small and beautifully made. Four individual 2 ½” round, screw-off barrels, each with 100 percent of an original very pronounced, spiral striped, fancy Damascus finish is exceptionally distinct and sharp. Metal exc+.  A tiny .23 (or .24) caliber.  Beautifully scroll and floral engraved frame and full length of backstrap.  Showing but lightest wear, the metal exc. +.  Markings and mechanically exc.+. “MARIETTE BREVETE” marked on the lower front side of handle; Liege proof at breech end of barrel cluster. Handsome, tiger-striped walnut grips exc. A truly elegant antique pepperbox of a size rarely encountered!.....$3,950.

(Q291) - ROGERS & SPENCER PERCUSSION .44 CALIBER “ARMY MODEL, 6 SHOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER.” 7-1/2” octagon barrel. Fine quality large Civil War handgun of which 5,000 were made under contract for the U.S. Army. In exc+ condition showing very little wear or use approximately 90% & more original blue finish frame, cylinder & barrel. Small spots where blue fading mixing with even age brown (mostly left side of barrel & a few tiny, very minor rust blemishes from storage, but metal would be rated as exc+ and better). Casehardening colors still visible (darkening / aging) on hammer & faintly visible on loading lever. Rifled bore exc. Grips show almost no wear or use with exc+ government inspector marks. One very small, thin surface chip on edge only right butt; slightest wear edge of butt, choice condition…$3,250.

(Q285) - THE SMALLEST AND METICULOUSLY DAINTY "MARIETTE BREVETE" MARKED PERCUSSION, RING TRIGGER, UNDERHAMMER PEPPERBOX WE HAVE YET COME ACROSS. EXC+ CONDITION THROUGHOUT AND WITH FEATURES NEVER PREVIOUSLY ENCOUNTERED. Just 5 1/2" overall with cluster of five round, two inch barrels in small .28 caliber. Unusual, if not unique, characteristic of the barrels are the fluted ribs which fit between each barrel and run all the way to the very back of the barrel cluster on a line with the tops of the nipples (normally those ribs are shorter & end flush with the breech end of the barrels (at point where nipples screw in). Beautifully, fully engraved, rounded iron frame profusely covered with scroll & floral designs. Note the very slim, gracefully curved shape of handle; black ebony grips exc+. Even the uniquely shaped iron butt cap, the trigger & the narrow iron backstrap engraved with scroll designs. Metal is exc+, barrels still retain 30-40% orig. blue finish (mostly in the fluted rib areas but with some on barrels themselves). Show little wear or use. Typical breech proof mark. A prize for the pepperbox collector!...$3,250.

(Q241) - EXTRA FANCY FACTORY ENGRAVED REMINGTON-SMOOT “NEW MODEL NO. 2” SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. .32 R.F.; five shot. Profuse, overall, fancy scroll floral engraving filling entire frame, the cylinder & both sides of the 2 ¾ inch octagon, ribbed barrel & the extreme bottom of the handle. 99% original nickel finish; showing very little wear or use. Metal markings & mechanically all exc+. This model has the side rod ejector. Fully & finely checkered hard rubber grips show some slightest wear (only on high points near bottom of handle) & are exc.+. Serial No.1002.  (F #5E-050)…$2,750.

(Q96) - FINE CONDITION SHARPS FOUR BARREL (MODEL 4B) PEPPERBOX CALIBER .32 RIMFIRE.  The 2 ½” barrel cluster retains 80% and more of its original blue finish and almost all of it still quite bright.  Few small blemishes along sides of barrel; one very small round blemish on top near breech, but would rate condition and metal as exc. +.  Rarely seen with any finish.  Frame gray metal, but all metal is exc. + showing very little wear or use.  Markings and mechanically perfect.  Birds head butt with dark walnut (or rosewood) grips exc. to almost mint.  (F #5F-088)…$2,250
 

(Q72) - “J. P. LOWER” are the very fine, deep markings of the man who would, within a decade, become one of the most famous western American firearms dealers (of Denver, Colorado). At the time that “LOWER” name was marked here (circa 1861-1865) he was an employee of a large Philadelphia arms dealer (J. P. Grubb) and his name was used on this iron frame six shot .32 rimfire revolver to avoid detection by Smith & Wesson (as the revolver was an infringement on the Rollin White patent)…whereas the gun itself was made by WILLIAM P. UHLINGER of Philadelphia.  Large heavy spur trigger revolver in very fine condition. Original 4 ½ inch octagon barrel retains 35 to 40 percent or more original blue finish; bright in spots mixing with an even age brown in others; faint traces blue on frame mostly light even age brown; and much blue on cylinder, fading in areas, but 90 percent of it visible. Metal is exc+. Just the slightest minor wear markings mechanically all exc +. Lacks just the small, simply shaped swivel loading gate (on right side of frame behind cylinder); however, the special fitting on the frame into which the loading attaches, is intact. Handsomely grained rosewood grips exc. to almost mint with all original varnish finish. Extra nice specimen of this scarce Uhlinger revolver with those “LOWER” markings especially desirable. (F No. 8A-184)…$850.

(Q15) - A BRUTE OF A PEPPERBOX!  Superb quality massive size, choice condition English six shot .38 caliber percussion pepperbox; weighing 3 lbs and measuring 10 ½ inches overall!  Six inch ribbed barrels retain much (70 to 80 percent at least) original casehardened finish (it’s fading and light, but distinctly visible).  Almost 95 percent original case hardening much of it still quite bright clearly noticeable on the beautifully engraved frame, bar hammer and nipple shield.  Metal exc. +.  Markings and mechanically perfect with lengthy four line, delicately engraved markings on left frame “J. R. COOPER’S IMPROVED SELF ACTING REVOLVING PISTOL.”  Engraving on both sides of frame very delicate and beautifully executed in the manner of a highly accomplished artisan.  Similar engraving on the triggerguard, hammer and butt plate (which is fitted with a hinged cap box.  Delicately and completely checkered handle also displays superb quality and is equally exc+.<- (Illustrated here along with the following two pepperboxes to show its enormous proportions)…$3,450.

(Q17) - THE VERY TINIEST PERCUSSION PEPPERBOX WE HAVE YET ENCOUNTERED! Completely original and extremely rare! Circa 1840, tiny ring trigger 4 shot, underhammer percussion pepperbox; approx .22 caliber. Just 4 ½ inches overall. Four individual 1 ½ inch barrels. Marked by noted European maker on the backstrap “MARIETTE BREVETE.” Beautifully and profusely scroll and floral engraved iron frame as well as full length of backstrap.  Barrels individually numbered “1” through “4.”  Just light wear; age brown on barrels (with traces of the original twist / damascus finish visible) all metal would rate as exc. and better.  Markings and mechanically +. Very delicate bag shaped handle with black ebony grips (or very dark walnut) exc. +.  An ultimate rarity for the pepperbox collector and certainly a gem to behold! (NOTE: This is an authentic antique “Mariette” and NOT a modern made miniature)…$3,450.

(Q38) -  “POCKET RIFLE / CAST STEEL” ARE THE MARKINGS on the 5 inch octagon / round (with fancy ring turning in the center and at the muzzle) of this scarce American under hammer pistol with all steel, saw-handle shaped frame and bag shaped handle. .36 caliber. Gray metal with patches very light pitting and rust blemishes, but will clean vg + maybe better. Markings light, but clear. The left and right side of the octagon section of the barrel (only the left flat and the right flat) have had series of cross-hatch lines amateurishly engraved on them (during the period of its use) possibly to act as an abrasive when kept in an open holster or jammed in a waist belt they show aging contemporary with the gun). Mechanically exc. just needs minor adjustment to stay at full cock.  .36 caliber. Walnut grips about exc. This is the so-called “Anderson” pistol and very similar in style to those of Blunt & Syms of New York.  (F #7E-001.5)…$750.

~LONGARMS~

(Q425) - PROBABLY UNISSUED, JUST ABOUT MINT COLT MODEL 1861 PERCUSSION .58 CAL. “SPECIAL MUSKET.” STANDARD CONTRACT TYPE SHOWING NO USE OR ISSUANCE. Stock just about mint with perfect inspector markings (few tiniest, minor bruises all negligible) the metal shows no wear or use; few tiny blemishes from storage, but all very minor; metal exc. to about mint. All markings perfect with deep eagles marking on bolster & perfect lock markings “U.S. / COLT’s PT.” F.A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD CT” dated “1863” at rear. Marked &  mechanically perfect; bore exc. 100% original blue on two leaf rear barrel site. Complete (F#5B-255)…$3,950.

(Q441) - CONFEDERATE RICHMOND ARSENAL “SHORT MUSKET” BROUGHT HOME AS A WAR SOUVENIR BY A UNION ARMY SOLDIER. An interesting & completely authentic specimen utilizing a Union Army .58 caliber Model 1861 percussion musket barrel, stock and triggerguard with Confederate made brass butt plate and iron barrel bands and nose cap on forend. Barrel shortened to 34 inches with an iron front sight / bayonet stud correctly replaced and a crude, open type large brass rear sight (which was obviously affixed to it during its time of use and with its originally equipped, classic Confederate Richmond Arsenal “high hump” lock plate with authentic markings “C.S. / RICHMOND, VA.” dated “1863”. Markings exc. (original barrel marks at breech only faintly visible). Normal aging and wear to metal; overall brown patina; pitting very minor, mostly blemishes of very faint patches on lock and barrel; a tiny bit heavier at nipple area.  Mechanically exc+. Full stock is 3 band fastened (not the usual 2 band as seen on most arsenal shortened C.S. muskets). Stock obviously from Model 1861 U.S. musket and C.S. Arsenal / Contractor shortened during its period of use (observable only when removing mid-barrel band & it is perfectly matched in wear and patina. Shows smooth aging and wear consistent with the metal is vg+; just a small very narrow chip (about an inch) out ahead of the trigger guard & a small one on the underside of the forend just below the lower barrel band. A few key features which attest to its original Confederate manufacture and assembly are the authentic perfectly fitted brass butt plate (unmarked) and the noticeably, very off-center marking “U” on the upper barrel band, the lack of any “U” marking on the mid-band (both typical Confederate assembled features) and the iron tip of the forend is screw fastened (instead of rivet-fastening as on U.S. models; see page 604 of the classic guide to these altered C.S. muskets in “Confederate Rifles and Muskets” by Murphy & Madaus). Last, but not least: Handsomely inletted on the right side, center of butt stock, is a large brass plate (with some of its original nickel finish remaining, but showing much aging and wear) handsomely and professionally inscribed in large initials “F.C.P.” Although no documentation accompanies this, the musket was actually acquired in the 1950’s in Massachusetts from descendants of Ferdinand C. Poree who fought with the 30’th Regiment of Mass. Vol. Infantry. He enlisted Nov., 1861 rose quickly to Sgt. & commissioned 2’nd Lieut. Nov., 1862, serving the entire war as lieutenant. Outfit saw much active service and action in Louisiana; Port Hudson; Sabine Pass Expedition and much more. The large engraved brass plate in the stock undoubtedly put on when the piece was loaned to a G.A.R. post for lengthy display or other post-war exhibit in which Lieut. Poree later participated. Authentic & not a modern “creation” from spare parts!...4,750.

(Q430) - Extremely rare U.S. MODEL 1841 PERCUSSION CADET MUSKET.  Only 450 of these were made specifically for the use of cadets at West Point Academy.  .57 caliber; 40 inch barrel (3 band fastened) showing smooth wear with deep, even, age brown metal, some very minor light pitting and very small patches of rust blemishes, will clean about exc. Lock markings vg+ to exc. “U.S.” with eagle and “SPRINGFIELD/1844” (with cleaning of the (storage) surface rusting all will clean even better).  In untouched original condition.  Mechanically exc.+.  Full stock with smooth wear consistent with the metal vg to exc.  Small die-stamped neat markings of name “C.D. BUCK” in stock by side plate and another left side of butt.  Complete with original trumpet head ramrod.  Very few surviving examples of this musket, long considered among the most rare of all U.S. primary martial longarms. A real prize for the American martial and/or “Springfield” collector! (F#9A-290)…..12,500.

(Q426) - HANDSOME ORIGINAL FLINTLOCK “KENTUCKY” FULL-STOCK (RAISED CARVED) RIFLE BY PROMINENT YORK COUNTY, PENNA. RIFLESMITH.  Fine original condition.  A very graceful, long (59 inches overall) specimen of this famed indigenous early American rifle.  Long 43 ½ inch octagon barrel marked in script along top of barrel “A. ALTLAND” of the notable family of York County riflemakers  .50 caliber deeply rifled bore.  Metal shows only very light normal wear with an even overall age brown patina.  Just the most minor patches of very fine pitting (most of it around breech end of barrel at touchhole area).  Metal markings and mechanically exc. (especially for a Kentucky rifle!).  Very handsome, full slender tiger striped/curly maple stock showing just smooth, light wear consistent with metal (and for a Kentucky rifle, exc+.!  Very delicate, typical Altman family style, relief carving around barrel tang and also wrist right side of stock with a  large matching, fancy panel on left butt stock.  All in a delicate scroll and floral type patterns very similar to the three examples shown in Kindig’s “Thoughts on the Kentucky Rifle.”  Brass mountings with very fancy and engraved large patch box with leaf vine and scroll designs (matching engraved brass toe plate as well).  Patch box identical to that illus. in Kindig’s book Fig. No. 136 with fancy engraved sideplate about identical (with fancier engraving) to Kindig No. 135.  Oval silver inlay at wrist.  Weight 11 pounds.  The Altman family very well known and respected makers of the early 19’th century of York County.  In describing and illustrating rifles by that family, it’s significant to recall that in Kindig’s classic work on the rifle he specifically mentions with his illustration of a rifle by Andrew Altman that is about identical to the example offered here, that it was a particularly “…very fine rifle”…as is this handsome specimen…22,500.

(Q423) - RARE CIRCA EARLY 1860’s JAPANESE DUPLICATION OF STANDARD BRITISH (2 BAND) PERCUSSION ARTILLERY RIFLE. Not merely an antique arms (& collectible) rarity, but truly represents a significant era in Japanese history, testifying to the quickly advancing state of modernization achieved by Japan barely a decade after its opening to the West by Commodore Matthew Perry, U.S. Navy in 1854. This well made rifle shows exc. quality workmanship (surprisingly so for those early years emerging from relatively undeveloped, if not rudimentary mfg. facilities of the country).  It follows quite closely to the British pattern; the most obvious difference is the barrel fastened with just a single (Enfield type) top barrel band (with swivel). In place of a lower band, the stock is original pin fastened. Original 33" round barrel (octagon 7" at breech) & its original front and rear sights are identical to those observed on the common Japanese match lock musket! .67 caliber original smoothbore (the art of rifling had yet to be introduced to Japan). Shows very little wear or use, displaying just build-up of a century & a half of storage & needing a good cleaning. Consistent, unvarying, age brown metal has a number of rust spots when cleaned will leave some very light pitting & rust blemishes minor; should clean exc. & even better... showing no wear! The full walnut stock about mint condition with some very minor small storage bruises. Brass triggerguard, butt plate & forend tip of Enfield style. Metal bears no markings, but profuse Japanese markings in center areas of both sides of butt stock. Mechanically exc+. Fine specimen requiring just gentle, proficient surface cleaning.

This rifle was made in Japan during their late so-called “Edo” leading to their destructive, internal civil conflict known as the “BOSHIN WAR” 1867-68.  During those years leading to the war itself, several Japanese Gov’ts experimented with the manufacture of “modern” guns and cannons, while simultaneously importing large numbers of Western weapons, British Enfields among them.  It is interesting to note that Japan’s Boshin Civil War employed what were some of the most modern armaments of the time (including one of the earlier recorded uses of the GATLING GUN)…$1,695.

(Q415) - SWIVEL BREECH, ORIGINAL FLINTLOCK KENTUCKY RIFLE! One of the great rarities in Kentucky rifles…and the only specimen we have had available (or even viewed) in many years! In untouched condition.  Circa 1815-1830 (possibly earlier). 50" overall with two full octagon (over/under) barrels one of which is deep rifled .50 caliber bore; while the other .50 caliber smoothbore either buckshot or ball. Both barrels have original brass front and rear sights. Depressing large lever on left side of stock allows barrels to be manually swiveled to position for firing.  Each barrel fitted with individual flash pan, frizzen, etc.  Large, deeply fluted, wide brass “foreend” is mounted between the two barrels on each side…running full length right to muzzles.  Rifle barrel marked in script “THOMAS HESS”; smoothbore barrel bears panel of fancy scroll engraving in lieu of markings at the identical area. The lock, hammer and both front sections of the lock plate (i.e. those holding flash pans and frizzens) are nicely engraved with scroll designs. Lock deeply marked “T. HESS / WARRANTED.” Age brown metal with smooth wear and use; very fine rust blemishes; some minor patches very light pitting; metal will clean vg to exc. likely better.  Markings and mechanically exc.; needs few drops of penetrating oil to loosen barrels to swivel easily. Handsome, closely grained tiger stripe curly maple stock with smooth, even aging and wear is exc. and better; handsome patina. Engraved brass inlay runs full length of the comb of stock; handsome engraved, large brass patchbox has five delicate shaped piercings; large brass inlay with five piercings full length on underside of buttstock; large fancy scroll shaped engraved inlay lower section of left butt and on the underside of cheekrest; upper section of cheekrest and both sides of wrist with fancy german silver inlays.  Classic style Kentucky type brass trigger guard and butt plate.  Weight 10 ½ pounds. The rarity of these swivel breech rifles is well mentioned in almost all important works on Kentucky rifles; Kindig in his famous “Thoughts on the Kentucky Rifle in its Golden Age” specifically mentions  them (page 36) “…as flintlocks, they are extremely rare.”…22,500.

(Q377) - SMITH PATENT CIVIL WAR PERCUSSION BREECH LOADING .50 CALIBER U.S. CAVALRY CARBINE. A popular, widely issued cavalry arm rated by some regiments as the best for simplicity, accuracy and range and others as (such as the 10’th New York) “the best cavalry weapon” because it was easy to clean and more durable then the Sharps and also ranked high in accuracy and range. Normal aging & wear. Much (if not most) original blue still on barrel is turning, fading & mixing with even age brown, but it is distinctly visible & metal is exc.+.  Minor patches of rust blemishes, but pitting negligible. Faint traces casehardening colors visible on frame turning & mixing with deep overall even age brown. Will clean exc. throughout; the bore is exc.+. Markings & mechanically exc.+. Markings indicate manufacture by “American Machine Works” at Springfield.  Stock with smooth, light wear consistent with the metal; has an added varnish finish (easily removed) & is exc. Inspector marks vg to exc. Complete with saddle ring and swivel bar.  (F# 9B-085)…$2,450.

(Q28) - “RARITY OF RARITIES!”  U.S. MODEL 1807 FLINTLOCK SPRINGFIELD CARBINE; also known as the “INDIAN CARBINE.” This firearm is of dual importance as the very first official U.S. arsenal made carbine and the only gun made in a National Armory under orders of the Indian Department; intended as gifts for friendly Indians.  In our many years of business as dealers and collectors we’ve owned but two of these.  Not only are they rarely if ever offered for sale on the collectors market, but they are seldom seen in even the finest U.S. martial longarms collections.  The piece has been very expertly restored to its original flintlock condition (it had been converted to percussion during its era of use) and for this early type is in exc. condition.  Light age brown patina; metal with just normal smooth aging and wear.  Some rust blemishes; few patches (mostly around the breech and touch hole area of very light pitting only) may be rated as exc.  All markings both barrel and lock are exc. + with a deep U.S. at top breech of barrel as well as the eagle head and “VP” proofs.  Fine lock markings as well of large script “US” over eagle and “SPRINGFIELD” in center and dated 1808 at rear.  Mechanically exc. +.  Full pin fastened stock (this gun was never made with barrel bands) with smooth wear consistent with the metal.  Few nicks; minor bruises but may be rated also as exc.  Just the slightest splinter along side of foreend and possibly a very very narrow replaced strip (or re-glued strip at extreme top of foreend); one small area which seems to have held a sling swivel by the mid-ramrod pipe only has gouge around it on both sides, but if the swivel is replaced it will cover that up.  All brass mountings and ramrod pipes.  As the first of the production run of these was not made until 1809, those few would date it “1808” (as this one is) are rarer, yet!.....$14,500.

(Q14) - BANGOR, MAINE GUNSMITH NOTED FOR HIS FINE QUALITY FIREARMS!  Superb condition and quality, percussion halfstock target rifle marked on both the medium weight 26 inch octagon barrel and the side lock “J. GRAVES / BANGOR, Me.”  Muzzle of barrel turned round to accept a bullet starter (typical of this type target rifle).  .40 caliber rifled bore exc..  Metal is exc. +, shows very little wear or use; much if not most of original brown finish still remaining, wearing a bit thin, but all distinctly visible and no pitting.  Casehardening colors mixing with age brown visible on the lock.  Markings and mechanically perfect; double set triggers.  Very well made walnut halfstock exc. + and even better, matching the condition of metal; finely checkered wrist.  Very well made and designed german silver mountings with the rounded german silver patchbox having a fancy tall finial; matching small, but fancy, side plate under the single lock screw and another fancy inlay center of left butt.  Weight 10 lbs.  Original hooded front sight and adjustable tang rear peep sight…$3,750

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1. [ ANTIQUE & HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]   2.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]   3. [ BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS ] 
4. [YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE]   5. [ MISCELLANEOUS ]   6. [ NOSTALGIA ]

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

(Q334) - CONFEDERATE MADE LARGE BOWIE KNIFE WITH AN INSCRIBED HISTORY OF WHERE IT WAS FOUND FOLLOWING THE 2’ND BATTLE OF BULL RUN (“MANASSAS”).  Classic Confederate features and workmanship; 19-1/2” overall with nicely proportioned,  single edged 15” clip point blade (with 5” false edge). Deep age brown patina; some very small nicks along its edge; patches of very light pitting and rust blemishes; tiniest chip (an eighth of an inch or less) at extreme tip of point.  In original untouched, uncleaned condition.  Simple, yet sturdy, one piece, oval shaped wood grips tapering wider towards top; a single clean line crack near edge not affecting soundness.  Wood has acquired deep mellow patina and about exc.  Elliptical shaped, narrow iron crossguard and matching flat pommel cap (through which tang of blade is fastened).  Narrow pewter ferule at base of grips.  Accompanied with its original all leather sheath (lacking a small piece at tip). The original wide, tin throat mounting intact.  Reverse side of leather has small piece out near top where the leather belt loop had been affixed. Inscribed simply and primitively by the Yankee soldier that captured it, in two large lines of neat script running almost full length of obverse side of sheath: “SOME OF THE FAMOUS COLD STEEL / THAT WE YANKEES DIDN’T FEEL (and in matching carved script on reverse side):  FOUND IN A DESERTED REBEL CAMP / NEAR MANASSAS.”  The inscription is authentic; almost entirely readable and showing genuine aging from the ravages of time. Note:  This is the exact knife and sheath illustrated in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” (page 204)……$18,500.

(Q392) - “J. HINCHLIFF’S CELEBRATED / BOWIE KNIFE” are the markings (horizontally) near ricasso of the 17 ½ inch, single edge, straight spear point blade (with 8 inch false edge) on this very skillfully, if not gracefully made Bowie knife and sheath circa 1840-1850. Highly unusual, rare length (23 inches overall) and exceptional for its delicate proportions and unique for having those “BOWIE KNIFE” markings on its blade. Blade has few tiniest nicks along edge (but many can be flattened out; some rust blemishes and a few patches overall very light pitting, but cleaning will easily upgrade vg to exc. and better.  Markings exc.+.  Tall one piece, round stag antler handle tapering wider towards its flat pommel fitted with fluted, german silver cap. Very fancy, high relief scroll design on german silver crossguard with matching ferule at base of grips.  Lovely patina to the stag handle; exc.+.  Original matching delicately embossed black leather covered sheath with scroll designs very sound.  Small spots of scuffing and wear, but all intact and not torn; nicely shaped german silver mounts and frog stud.  This is the identical knife illustrated (page 427; left side) “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  A Bowie deserving of a prominent place in a well assembled and balanced antique Bowie knife collection……19,500.

(Q338) - ASTONISHING FOR ITS ENORMOUS SIZE, ITS ELABORATE ORNAMENTATION AND THE QUALITY OF THAT WORKMANSHIP!  Magnificently solid silver mounted, huge, antique Indo-Persian ceremonial knife and sheath.  Weighing 9 pounds total and measuring 36” overall (curved), it was obviously intended as ritual embellishment for temple use and display. The workmanship throughout, especially on the magnificent silver work is clearly indicative of the extraordinary artistic talents of a highly skilled professional silversmith…far and above the very best of silver work of other weapons of those Asian countries.  (1) THE DAGGER:  23 INCHES OVERALL; WEIGHT 2 ½ POUNDS.  Solid one piece, tapered dark buffalo horn handle; its pommel cap of elegantly relief decorated silver with a matching very wide, heavy, oval counterguard also relief decorated and engraved; matching silver ferule at  base of the grip. Those three silver mounts exquisitely overlaid with numerous tear-shaped green, blue, orange, turquoise and red coral.  Wide (2”) tapered, very curved single edge 16” blade with narrow fuller each side; normal aging, and exc.+ (2) THE SHEATH: Weight 6 ½ lbs. Undeniably handsome as it is unparalleled for superb craftsmanship!  The large, curved, polished, black buffalo horn sheath is exquisitely mounted top, bottom and center with solid silver, all of which is embellished elaborately in detailed, extremely high relief, decorative scroll and floral motifs; both the top and bottom mounts ornamented with large vari-shaped red coral and turquoise semi-precious stones. Particularly notable are the top sections of those embellishments which hold the round carrying rings which are each affixed to a large, fully modeled figure of a crawling dragon. The extreme tip of the wide bottom mount is modeled in the shape of a large dragon’s head (also profusely mounted with semi-precious stones).  In center of the sheath there’s a matching massive silver plaque extremely high relief decorated with coiled dragon and floral motifs.  It is especially noted that even the reverse side of this sheath bears almost identical relief silver mountings and multi-color stone inlays and dragon motifs in silver. All in exc+. condition. Of the vast numbers of semi-precious stones inlaid throughout, it appears that two or three tiny ones may be missing from the edge of the pommel, but not noticeable except on close scrutiny (and a very few other tiny ones on sheath mountings). Condition throughout is exc+. Just a little cleaning and silver polish is apt to further enhance the already imposing appearance of this unique, venerable edged weapon……..3,950.

(Q336) - “THE TEXAS RANGER” (in a streaming riband) and “ROUGH & READY” are the two illustrious & widely renowned mottos marked on the large 6” single edge, spear point folding blade of this huge folding knife circa 1840-1850…along with the ciphered marks of six running hounds chasing a stag (markings are all exc. just a bit weak on last 3 letters of  word “Ranger” & only the stag’s antlers & partial head yet visible). Smaller 3” folding pen knife blade also. Both blades marked on ricasso “SAMUEL ROBINSON / SHEFFIELD.” Overall with large blade open 13”. Although showing normal aging, wear and use, it’s in very sound condition. Very light rust blemishes, but pitting minor on blades. Partially cleaned, will clean even better. Large heavy weight handle with two piece stag antler grips has acquired a deep, mellow age patina & is exc. with fancy edged german silver escutcheon plate in center. Solidly made, heavy, large folding Bowie with an especially desirable (& seldom seen) TEXAN motif. This is the exact knife illustrated & described in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” (page 58; center.)…8,500.

(Q333) - FINE CONDITION, PROFESSIONALLY MADE CIVIL WAR PERIOD BOWIE KNIFE AND SHEATH.  Although at first glance this large Bowie might be assumed to be of Confederate origins (because of its simplicity) it has been reasonably determined that it is decidedly of “Yankee” (i.e. Northern / Union) manufacture (two other identical Bowies are known one, of which is beautifully carved on its handle clearly indicating its Union / Yankee background).  This fine condition specimen is 17” overall with an unmistakable, professionally made 12” single edge, clip point blade (with 5” false edge).  Blade is exc.+ clearly showing its aging; it has had a very light surface cleaning, but not ground down, distressed or altered in any way.  Nicely shaped and expertly fashioned one piece wooden handle with tang of the blade fastened at top of pommel with a large, round, convex copper cap.  One piece sturdy, straight crossguard; all exc.+.  Accompanied with original black leather sheath; typical surface crackling; minor scuffing, but extremely sound condition.  Not fitted with brass mountings (made and used just this way) just a narrow fastened strap still affixed to the top (where there once was a leather belt loop above it no longer there).  (Note:  This Bowie is the exact one illustrated (on left) on page 140 of “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” shown alongside the other identical Bowie with same, carved handle.)  Although unmarked (as are all known specimens) there’s a strong likelihood this was made by Ames or another New England cutlery firm, especially as the other known specimen positively identified to ownership by a Civil War Massachusetts soldier of 53^rd Mass. Inf’y.…17,500.

(Q389) - THE SEAL OF LOUISIANA ON BOTH SIDES OF ITS COFFIN SHAPED GERMAN SILVER POMMEL!  A rare & highly desirable motif on this fine quality Sheffield Bowie knife made for the Southern trade circa 1850-1865 with a very substantial likelihood that with the cluster of seven stars just above the relief design of the seal of Louisiana (open winged pelican standing on its nest while feeding its young) that will date it to 1861 being the year that first seven Southern states (Louisiana among them) seceded from the Union to form the provisional government of the Southern Confederacy that will specifically date it (and first C.S. flag had just seven stars). German silver mounts and crossguard. 11" overall. 6" single edge, clip point blade marked “JOHN LINGARD’S CELEBRATED BOWIE KNIFE / PEACROFT / SHEFFIELD.” Blade shows its age and use; patches of very light pitting and rust blemishes; about vg but with light cleaning, can be brought up considerably. The markings on the ricasso are deep and exc.+. The hilt shows some wear; with the reverse side at top of pommel with a small nick and some light damp staining along its outer edge. A few very light surface dents on the obverse side at top edge only. Dark horn grips exc. with three round mother of pearl inlays on obverse.  Accompanied with original red leather sheath, gilt embossed along border and scroll design in center; some scuffing and wear mostly along edges, but very sound; slight tear to leather only on upper edge near tip. Original german silver mounts; lacks frog stud only. This is the exact Bowie illustrated (second from bottom) on page 194 “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”…$11,500.

(Q393) - “DEATH TO TRAITORS” in large, bold, deep-stamped markings filling much of the full length of the obverse side of the 9 inch single edge clip point blade of this AMERICAN MADE BOWIE KNIFE BY FAMOUS NEW YORK CUTLER WHOSE DEEP MARKINGS “J. D. CHEVALIER / BROADWAY / NEW YORK” appear in three lines on the wide ricasso of the reverse side. That same reverse side of that blade bears huge deep markings also (filling much of the blade) “CHEVALIER UNION KNIFE”.  Ever since the earliest days of Bowie knife and Civil War collecting this “CHEVALIER” Bowie was always considered one of the great prizes eagerly sought by American collectors. It is one of the very few American made Bowies which is actually marked with a Civil War patriotic motto! Just light cleaning on the blade; showing normal aging and wear and patch of very fine pitting near the tip and some minor light blemishes, but all negligible.  Brass crossguard with the two distinguishing projections on its underside (at each side of ricasso).  The brass handle cast integral with pommel; four piece (two each side) checkered dark wood grips (showing wear consistent with the metal, but exc.); a very minor short, partial line crack on edge of one piece (does not necessitate repair).  Accompanied by original black leather sheath (rarely found intact) in very sound condition; flaky on surface, but no breaks or tears.  Both original wide brass mounts and frog stud. This identical “DEATH TO TRAITORS” knife was actually advertised by John Chevalier in the N.Y. TIMES during the Civil War as his “UNION Army knife.” This specimen is the exact one illustrated (page 155; on right) in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  As an example of an American made Bowie knife by a very highly rated American cutler…and one bearing an illustrious patriotic motto, they just don’t come much better!.…$34,500.

(Q290) - “A REAL SHOW-STOPPER!  SWEDISH MODEL 1865” DOUBLE BARRELED PERCUSSION, COMBINATION KNIFE-PISTOL (also termed “cutlass-pistol”).  A solidly made, sturdy, combination weapon made under contract for the Swedish government and officially known as a “HANGER-PISTOL FOR PRISON PERSONNEL” (or in more apt English terms a “Prison Warder’s Cutlass-Pistol”).  20” overall weighing 2 ½ pounds.  The 14” single edged, broad blade (2” at widest) with a 4 inch round barrel mounted on each side of the blade (each .41 caliber with rifled bores).  The double hammers also act (and are formed in the shape of) the crossguard of the handle and may be cocked and fired separately; concealed triggers for each on the underside of the wooden handle snap open when hammers are cocked.  Barrels, crossguards, each hammer and blade with all matching serial numbers “11” (eleven).  Maker’s name well marked on back of blade near hilt “C. G. GRANBERG”; inspectors initials and markings at breech of barrel and blade.  Tall pistol grip shaped handle. Overall condition exc.+; just some lightest wear; metal is exc.; some tiniest blemishes of fine spots of most minor pitting, but is exc.  Markings exc.+.  Light, smooth wear to wood grips; etc.+.  Mechanically exc.+.  Accompanied with its original black leather sheath (exc.) with wide, fancy edged, brass mounts and frog stud. In correspondence with the Royal Armory of Sweden and a private collector/arms researcher in Sweden we were informed  that 500 of these were made under contract circa mid-1860’s for the Swedish government by Carl Gustaf of Granberg of Eskilstuna, Sweden, a well known, established gunmaker.  It’s the first of this rarity that we have had the opportunity to encounter or catalog…7,450.

(Q332) - EXC. TO NEAR MINT CONDITION (CIRCA 1840-1850’s) GERMAN MADE BOWIE KNIFE SPECIFICALLY FOR THE AMERICAN TRADE. Displays exc. craftsmanship. 14-1/2” overall with a broad 9” single edge, clip point blade; its 3-1/2” “false edge” with original factory sharpening.  Blade is near mint condition, just a few very tiny rust blemishes on reverse side near ricasso.  Profusely etched almost its full length on both sides with two very large fancy panels (each side). Top panel on obverse depicts a hunter with rifle held to shoulder and two racing hounds…while the reverse side of blade upper panel depicts the continuation of that same scene with one of the hounds chasing a large running stag. The lower panels each side with two completely different scenes of crossed hunting weapons, firearm, sword. All designs and panels on both sides are surrounded with fancy scroll work; all etching is mint condition. Makers name and city “P. KNECHT” and “SOLINGEN” in delicate script engraved on each side of ricasso. Brass mounted handle with deep fluted shell motif on pommel; the crossguard terminating each end in a large acorn motif. Very handsomely grained (contrasting light and dark) wood one piece grip exc. to mint. Accompanied with original leather sheath (scuffed; flaky only on surface, but leather is exc. and sound) with very wide brass mounts and frog stud. This Bowie and  sheath is the exact one illustrated and described in the “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” (page 62)….$14,500.

(Q335) - GAMBLER’S PUSH DAGGER CIRCA EARLY 1860’s BY FAMED SHEFFIELD CUTLER AND MAKER OF BOWIE KNIVES!  7” overall with 4-1/2” double edged, spear point blade; will clean exc+ and better.  Does not show wear, just normal aging and few tiny, faint rust blemishes; pitting very minor. Almost 100% of the original bold etched markings fill a large section of the obverse side of blade and are completely intact (a bit weak from the rust blemishes only on the first few words), and are exc+:  “G. WOSTENHOLM & SONS / CELEBRATED I*XL CUTLERY”. Dark rosewood handle is exc+.  (Not accompanied with sheath.). 
This is the identical push dagger illustrated in The Bowie; Unsheathing an American Legend". Extremely rare; less than a handful of known specimens…$11,500.

(Q159) - THE ASSASSIN JOHN WILKES BOOTH CARRIED AN IDENTICAL KNIFE ON THE NIGHT HE SHOT PRESIDENT LINCOLN!  (he dropped the knife on the stage at Ford’s Theater as he jumped from the Lincoln box after the dastardly deed in haste to escape).  Large (15 inches overall) finely made Sheffield Bowie and sheath with broad, heavy 10 inch single edge, spear point blade with fine markings near center “RIO GRANDE CAMP KNIFE.”  Maker markings “WM. JACKSON & CO. / SHEAF ISLAND WORKS / SHEFFIELD” on ricasso.  Blade just about mint with few tiny blemishes and finest spot of light pitting at extreme tip and one other spot near ricasso.  Thick german silver, oval crossguard.  Two piece stag grips with lovely patina exc. to mint with long, narrow, german silver plaque in center.  Original deep crimson color leather sheath with delicate gilt embossing along both edges and decorative gilt floral design in center; german silver tip and throat piece with frog stud.  Some scuffing to leather surface mostly around edges and near bottom, but very sound and about exc. will clean even better.  This is the identical knife used to illustrate page 158 in “THE BOWIE KNIFE; Unsheathing an American Legend.”…$19,500.

(Q257) - CONFEDERATE BRASS HILT ARTILLERY SHORT SWORD. A classic style with heavy, all brass hilt; the round, ribbed brass grips cast integral with the cross guard and pommel.  Brass has a deep, rich patina; does not show hard wear, use or abuse and would rate it exc.+ and unusually fine for a Confederate made piece.  19 inch “wasp waist” double edge, spear point blade also quite fine for a Confederate sword and with the lightest cleaning will be exc.+.  It’s about the best conditioned example of this classic style we’ve come across.  It is still accompanied with original all wooden sheath (in exc. condition showing its age with original blackened finish and wide brass top mount with frog stud).  Just the brass tip is lacking, but should not present a great difficulty in replacing (the wood in that bottom section is still intact and undamaged).  Sword is identical to that shown (figure 99) in the first and still most classic work on the subject “Confederate Edged Weapons” by Albaugh and also identical (even with the scabbard) to that illustrated in “Photograph of Supplement of Confederate Swords” page 200 (Fig 31-W) and in the “Addendum” to that same book page 52.  Conditionwise it’s the best specimen of this very scarce Confederate made sword we have encountered…$3,950.

(Q255) - BRASS HILT SABER-BAYONET FOR U.S. NAVY SPENCER REPEATING RIFLE.  28 ¾ inches overall with straight 24 inch single edge blade marked “S & K” on ricasso and with the typical (and correct) tiny anchor trademark on reverse of ricasso (all identical to that described in “The American Bayonet 1776-1964” by Hardin No. 98; type II).  Heavy brass hilt with ribbed brass grips.  Iron blade and crossguard both with smooth, deep even age brown; normal aging and wear and minor dry rust blemishes, but pitting is negligible; will clean exc+.  (Scabbard not present.) Scarce...$595.

(Q133) - MEASURING A HUGE 16 ½ INCHES OVERALL WITH ITS BLADE OPEN!  Solidly made heavy antique folding Bowie knife (weight almost 2 lbs.!) by noted Sheffield maker c. 1840’s-1850’s.  The wide, thick 11 inch single edge blade noticeably widens towards its tip (which is provided with a sharpened 3 ½ inch false edge).  Marked on ricasso “R. BUNTING & SONS / CAST STEEL CUTLERY / SUPERIOR TEMPER.”  Blade has few very minor blemishes, but only one very small spot of light pitting on reverse side near ricasso and shows little wear or use; would rate it as exc. +.  When blade is folded into the handle 6 ½ inches of its lower half (with the clip point) still protrudes and it then resembles merely a shorter bladed Bowie knife.  …And thus maybe used as a weapon in either position with blade open or folded!  Note the unusually designed (ruggedly made heavyweight handle) which has german silver bolsters and cross guards at both top and bottom end of the handle for use either way!  (with the long full blade or the shortened form).  Stag grips with nice old patina exc. +.  Blade is the “lock-back” type with the latch embedded along top edge of handle and merely depressed to release.  All in exc. + condition.  Still accompanied with its uniquely designed, original, heavy black leather sheath (just some minor scuffing on surface, but exc.; extremely sound with very wide, fancy edged German silver mounts); frog stud intact.  Note that the special designed sheath is extremely wide at top and has very thick opening to accept the width and thickness of the crossguard when inserted.  (This is the exact knife illustrated (page 399) in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend”).  Rare form; especially desirable with both the maker’s name and accompanying sheath…$17,500.

(Q195) - It yet remains an enigma as to its Yankee or Confederate origins…but it is decidedly American made and it does represent a rarity in Bowie knives. The type is well illustrated in numerous works on both bayonets and Bowie knives.  DISTINCTIVE RING GUARD BOWIE KNIFE.  Although most often considered “Confederate manufactured” and most often termed “Bowie knife-bayonet” there is every indication that it was not meant to fit on the end of a rifle or musket barrel, but rather was to be used as a hand held Bowie knife and when the situation demanded it, to be fitted on the end of a long wood pole and USED AS A PIKE (i.e. POLEARM) THE VERY TYPE OF WEAPON WITH WHICH THE CONFEDERATE GOVERNMENT ARMED SOME REGIMENTS AND COMPANIES DUE TO THE SHORTAGE OF FIREARMS!  This exact model of Bowie knife displays professional workmanship and is the exact type of which a number of other identical specimens are known.  This particular specimen is the exact one illustrated and described in detail in “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” on pages 214 and 215 (specimen on left with sheath).  Extremely fine condition for this rarity.  17 ½ inches overall with the very well fashioned and proportioned 12 ½ inch clip point, single edge blade (with 4 inch false edge); some light blemishes; pitting very minor (a few small extremely light patches mostly near tip and a few near ricasso). Blade is exc., if not better.  Crossguards (top and bottom with the upper section of each being a large open ring of brass intended to fit over the wood shaft) are both exc. Fine quality, well made, nicely grained dark walnut (possibly rosewood) grips exc. +.  ACCOMPANIED WITH THE ORIGINAL BLACK LEATHER SHEATH; flaky on surface and some scuffing, but very sound and all intact with original brass mounts.  Sheath has probably shrunk slightly and is about an inch short of the top (allowing the ricasso of the blade to show through, but it would clearly be considered the original sheath for this rare blade and it has definitely been with it ever since it came to the world of collecting many years ago and is otherwise perfectly fitted to it).  For information on this rare form see also “American Knives” by Peterson (1958); “The American Bayonet 1776-1864” by Hardin (1964) page 73; “Classic Bowie Knives” by Abels (1967) page 66; “Confederate Edged Weapons” by Albaugh (1960) page 165…$9,500.

(Q198) - CONFEDERATE MADE, HEAVYWEIGHT, BRASS HILT, FOOT ARTILLERYMAN’S SHORT SWORD & SCABBARD. A well known type. Nothing more poignantly bespeaks the hurried manufacture and crude workmanship of many Confederate weapons than this classic style. The ponderous brass hilt is cast integral with the cross guard; brass grips and pommel; all displaying the crude casting workmanship characteristic of many Confederate swords. High relief, crude letters “CS” cast on the center of the crossguard on both sides with an extremely deep (and equally crude) five point star design deeply grooved into each side of the rounded brass pommel. Displays the ultimate of coarse craftsmanship! Hilt shows age, wear and use, but is in exc. condition and usual for the type. 18 ½ inch double edged “wasp waist” blade with shallow, unstopped fuller both sides. Blade shows much age, wear and use; rusted patches overall and light pitting (a bit heavier in some sections, especially near tip) but sound and well-reflects its Confederate craftsmanship. An authentic specimen accompanied by its original black leather sheath; sound with just a partial seam opening on reverse and although the leather is just about full length, it lacks the brass tip covering for the bottom of sheath. The brass top mount intact with integral belt loop. About identical (even to the imperfections in the star and “CS” markings) on the specimen illustrated in detail page 199 “Photo Supplement of CS Swords” by Albaugh……$4,750.

(Q134) - “FOR THE GOLD REGION” is the slogan boldly emblazoned in the fancy center panel of the 9 ¾ inch clip point blade of this c. 1850’s and Bowie knife obviously made to sell to those stricken with gold fever responding to the great California Gold Rush of ’49…and heading west to the “diggins!”  The blade has 80 to 90% of its original very fancy scroll and floral etching (running almost full to the tip) and although showing wear and considerable sharpening along its edge, that etched design is still very sharp and clear (showing normal age of course).  Light age patina and fine surface blemishes to blade with few small patches of very light pitting. Deep markings on ricasso “WRAGG & SONS / XLNT / FURNACE HILL / SHEFFIELD.”  Wide classic german silver mounts with coffin shaped pommel having very high relief, full reclining lion motif both sides; two piece pearl grips (exc. +); oval german silver cross guard.  Lacks sheath only.  Highly desirable blade legend has a distinct American Western association to that historic era…$22,500.

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

1. [ ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]   2.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]   3. [ BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS ]
4. [YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE]   5. [ MISCELLANEOUS ]   6. [ NOSTALGIA ]

BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS
Various & sundry loose parts for antique arms of all types; arms in need of serious repairs, sword parts & loose blades, etc. Over the 54 years we have been in business we have purchased hundreds of collections. Almost all of the them included a "parts bin" of some sort. No self-respecting collector ever threw away a loose part... or passed up buying one that he thought he might need someday. Hence, we wound up with a substantial parts bin ourselves which we're now cleaning out!

1. [ ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]   2.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]   3. [ BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS ] 
4. [YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE]   5. [ MISCELLANEOUS ]   6. [ NOSTALGIA ]

YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE
Rare and out-of-print books dealing with a diversity of subjects
 including firearms and weapon collecting, militaria of all types, nautical, etc.

(SA1) - "SMALL ARMS OF THE SEA SERVICE; 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 Robert H. Rankin, Colonel, U.S.M.C. [1972]. A lavishly illustrated, comprehensive reference to the regulation as well as non-regulation firearms, swords, cutlasses, dirks, boarding axes, pikes, signal guns and blunderbusses of those three services. Large 8 1/2 x 10 1/2 format; 260 pages; over 350 detailed photo illustrations. Hard covers; mint condition (some minor storage scratches on outer wrap / dust cover only). One of the very few books ever honored with three concurrent "Forewords" by the Chief of Naval Operations... the Commandant of the Marine Corps... and the Commandant of the Coast Guard.  We have available just a few remaining copies of the original 1972 first (and only!) Edition....34.50

 

1. [ ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]   2.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]   3. [ BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS ] 
 4. [YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE]   5. [ MISCELLANEOUS ]   6. [ NOSTALGIA ]

MISCELLANEOUS
A broad cross-section of militaria insignia, belt plates, headgear, broadsides & posters, letters, documents, Indian & Western collectibles, saddlery, leather and other accoutrements, powderhorns & flasks, political campaign material...  along with a broad and varied assortment of associated collectanea.

(Q124) - FOR THE WINCHESTER AND THE AMERICAN POCKET KNIFE COLLECTOR:  An original 1933 dated:  “WINCHESTER POCKET KNIFE SALES MANUAL” specifically intended for factory salesmen on the road.  8 ½ x 11; heavy, tan, flexible paper covers with “Winchester” imprint & bold title; staple fastened with five June 29, 1933 dated pages of typed and mimeographed pages of instructions, plus 8 pages of blueprints showing all the various type Winchester knives of that era and components and breakdown of parts, etc. A vast wealth of details for the collector especially of blade shapes. Manual specifically says how knife should look when it reaches a customer and that “…to the best of our knowledge the branding of these low-priced knives with our name is the first time that a manufacturer of our high standing has used his trademark on knives of this price”…& much more including even: “YOUR PRINCIPAL COMPETITION WILL BE THAT OF THE IMPERIAL CUTLERY COMPANY…CAMILLUS CUTLERY…” (& more of the competition and their methods of doing business). Intriguing “inside information” not only about the knives, but about the business. Just lightest aging; exc. +……195.

(Q457) - DISOBEYING THIS U.S. ARMY “GENERAL ORDER” WAS PUNISHABLE BY DEATH!  Original “General Orders” published by the “Hdqtrs., DEPT. OF THE GULF / Grand Ecore, LA April 11, 1864… “by command of Major General Banks.” Single sheet 5 x 8; blank reverse; very short four paragraph instructions that “The irregular discharge of firearms within the lines of this Army is prohibited.  Such practices in the face of an enemy tend to create false alarms.”  Also instructs that firearms to be fired “only in the performance of duty and for cleaning” only at 12:00p.m. each day; also that guards are to be immediately turned out under arms to ascertain cause of firing if on other times and ends with decidedly the order that “OFFENDERS…OF THIS ORDER WILL BE PUNISHED BY DEATH.” Some light aging, mostly at extreme edges at top and bottom margins otherwise exc. Very unusual punishment! Possibly even unique....$175.

(Q451) - URGENT ORDERS TO DEFEND THE UNION LINE AND SECURE A SAFE RETREAT!  Original, hastily penned single page letter 8 x 9 ½ from Headquarters 18’th Army Corps May 23, 1863 from General I. N. Palmer, Comd’g. to Col. Codman, Comd’g. 45’th Reg’t Mass. Volunteer Militia ordering him to “…proceed at once with seven companies of his Reg’t…to Bachelers [sic] Creek [No. Carolina].  Assume command.  Defend the line of Bachelors [sic] Creek as long as practicable to secure a safe retreat there,…if the attack [word not clear] meant for him, our fighting ground is here.  Col. Claffin 132’nd N.Y. and Col. 3’rd Mass. are on Washington Roads and should you retire must be notified of it.”  Very boldly (and obviously hurriedly!) penned.  All clear; letterhead acquired some light damp staining (some of it light tan and other light bluish color), but not obscuring any writing (with care much of it can probably be lightened or removed)…$250.

(Q455) - Famed Philadelphia gun makers and arms dealers 100^th anniversary company history (not a catalog) strictly a commemorative chronicle in celebration of that major milestone!  Fine quality imprint of 48 pages (8 x 10) of the E. K. TRYON CO.; ISSUED 1911 IN THEIR 100^th YEAR IN BUSINESS.  Profuse fine photo and other illustrations with two plates depicting four different Phila. locations and buildings (as shown in our illustration here).  Quite a few pages from their earlier catalogs and from their own collections of guns they sold and made are illustrated (including lots of percussion and a few flintlock) sporting guns, guns for the Indian trade and many for the civilian trade.  A fine company history; includes numerous illustrations of famous labels and broadsides and wonderful photo portraits of important company officers.  Original gilt imprinted, deep purple paper covers.  Just about mint condition.  Lots of good material in this for an arms student to produce a good article for one of our publications!....$125.

(Q469) - “TO THE PATRIOTIC CITIZEN SOLDIERY OF MAINE” bold headline on this July 9, 1862 dated poster announcing in no uncertain terms to the young men of military age of that state that the Federal gov’t not only has the right to activate for immediate duty the Maine state militia…but is actually doing so with authority of the president…and further announcing that those that do not answer that call will be punished or drafted…in which case they will not receive any bounty or premiums.  Also by not answering the government’s call, it:  “…will deprive them of the honor of volunteering in this hour of the nation’s peril, for its defence…no richer legacy than this honor can any man transmit to his children…delays are dangerous…you must be drafted or detached if you will not enlist.”  Issued and dated at the state capitol “AUGUSTA” SIZE 8 ½ x 23; wide margins; blank reverse.  That announcement headlines and warning described above appears on the lower half of this poster while the upper half bears five official orders (four of them with imprinted seal of the state of Maine as heading); all five issued and dated within one week preceding this July 9, 1862 dated poster.  Two of those orders by the governor of Maine; three by the commanding general of Maine militia.  All five pertaining to activation of Maine militia for Federal service.  All clearly express the immediacy of that tense moment and critical situation.  Light aging overall; few very minor, faint damp spots and just one very narrow, wavy darker damp stain near bottom (but not obscuring any print).  Few public notices such as this offer as broad a perception of the urgency and dire necessity of those early days of the Civil War (and in such detail) as does this notable example…$2,250.


 

(Q456) - Famous American statesman and officer killed in a duel.  “DISCOURSE ON THE DEATH OF GEN. ALEXANDER HAMILTON; DELIVERED IN THE NORTH DUTCH CHURCH OF ALBANY JULY 29, 1804” by Eliphalet Nott, President of Union College, Schenectady, NY.  (4’th edition) published Boston 1805.  24 pages; 5 x 8 ½.  Considerable discussion about the evils of dueling also included in the story of his “murder.”  Light aging, but generally exc.+.  Very small piece out in the upper right blank margin of title page only, not affecting any type; lacks just the paper covers.  Very displayable; interesting reading…64.50

 

(Q473) - Unusual triangular shaped, brass pistol size powder flask…very plain design, but yet well made and sturdy with original matching removable brass cover for its spout.  Overall 2 ¼ x 3 ⅝.  Very light wear; brass will clean exc.+.  Shallow dent near top, minor.  Similar (but looks like better quality) than No. 1262 “Powder Flask Books.”…67.50


 

(Q474) - ANCIENT WOODEN PRIMING FLASK (for the flashpan of a flintlock or earlier firearm). Possibly Middle Eastern or European circa late 17^th or very early 18^th century.  2 ¾ inch round diameter; overall height with brass fittings 4 ¼ inches.  Well made and the brass fittings are nicely mounted and fashioned. Showing its great age will clean exc.+.  The original removable cover for the brass base (for filling the flask) intact; lacks just the removable cover for the top of the spout.  Wood very sound, showing its great age also very well made.  Just the seam in center each side is open (possibly was glued together originally), but everything intact and nothing broken……125.

(Q460) - From sheer joy to bitter anguish…and all eloquently / lucidly / memorably expressed by this noted Boston minister’s three sermons just prior to and immediately following Lincoln’s assassination. Unusual 61 page (5 ½ x 9) pamphlet quite likely published within the two weeks following that tragedy:  “MEMORIAL SERMONS.  THE CAPTURE OF RICHMOND.  …SOME OF THE RESULTS OF THE WAR.  …THE ASSASSINATION OF THE PRESIDENT” by Edwin B. Webb, Pastor of Shawmut Church of Boston; pub. Boston:  Press of G. C. Rand and Avery, 1865.  Those three sermons were respectively April 9^th, 13^th & 16^th. Prefatory page reprints letters of April 19, 1865 by committee of prominent Boston citizens seeking permission to print the three sermons “…believing them adapted to perpetuate the memory of those momentous events which followed…” & Webb’s response to the committee of Boston April 20, 1865 granting such permission, etc. This pamphlet obviously followed immediately after that request was granted. They do make interesting reading today and are decidedly fine Lincolnia, unequivocally reflecting the changing public passions of that two week period! Lightest aging; exc.+ condition. Just the original front paper cover lighter brown shade has fading damp stain in the upper blank area. Had a recent era heavier paperboard cover added to preserve it (easily removed)...175.

 

(Q458) -  The only official agent of the Sharps Rifle Co. orders an engraved rifle!  Original Sept. 17, 1880 boldly penned, fancy printed “POSTAL CARD” with printed stamp also addressed to “SHARPS RIFLE COMPANY OF BRIDGEPORT.” Entirely in the neat, bold hand of E. S. Harris of “The Sportsman’s Warehouse” of Broadway, N.Y. City who writes:  “I tryed [sic] to send up the Rifle to be Engraved before, but my man was very busy doing some fine pistols for the King of Sweden and if you don’t think this one is a nice job, you can call me a Garfield man.”  Exc.+ with N.Y. & Bridgeport, Ct postal surcharges. Harris became Sharps official agent in 1876 and was especially noted for his sale of the famous M1874 Sharps sporting models. (much mention of him in “SHARPS FIREARMS” by Frank Sellers.)…135.

(Q459) -  “SHARPS RIFLE CO. PER E. G. WESTCOTT, V.P.” is the boldly penned signature on this original Nov. 18, 1879 fancy printed check on the “Connecticut National Bank, Bridgeport, made payable to ‘THE LEE ARMS CO.’” in amount of $24.  …And endorsed on the reverse “For deposit [by] the Lee Arms Company by E. G. Westcott, Sec’y” (yes the same fellow who signed the check).  Normal aging, but exc.+; very showy.  After three years of negotiations, Sharps finally acquired Lee Arms in May, 1879.  It is quite possible this check was an internal transfer of money to pay Lee back for the government issuance of the patent for the magazine rifle which had only been assigned to them by U.S. two weeks earlier on Nov. 4^th.  Very displayable.  Much about the company and association of the two firms is to be found in “SHARPS RIFLE” by Frank Sellers…97.50

(Q476) - CIVIL WAR U.S. SOLDIER’S POCKET WATCH; KEY-WOUND TYPE.  Lovely all silver case with hinged front cover fully engraved with scene in fancy center panel of two soldiers holding muskets & camp tents in background. Reverse hinged cover with engraved soldier holding musket with bayonet; fortress in background.  The rare and fascinating feature is the enameled face of the watch with its Roman numerals for hours & in its center an elegant, full color, enameled painted scene of standing Union soldier with American flag behind him; a second, seated Union soldier & both talking with a young, pretty girl. In exc. condition as is the face. Mechanically appears all intact, but cannot vouch for actual operation. Inner silver cover beautifully engraved “PATENT LEVER / FULL JEWELLED / M. F. TOBIAS / LIVERPOOL” (the maker or more likely exporter)…$1,950.

(Q348) - IT’S IDENTICAL IN APPEARANCE AND SIZE TO AN 18’TH CENTURY “TINDER LIGHTER,” THE DEVICE THAT CLOSELY RESEMBLED A FLINTLOCK PISTOL OF THAT PERIOD AND WAS USED BEFORE THE INVENTION OF MATCHES TO LIGHT A FIRE IN THE FIREPLACE!  This very scarce little device, as handsome as it is intriguing in appearance, made by the famous firm of ALFRED DUNHILL (headquartered in London) is probably their earliest manufacture of this device, prior even to their acquiring a patent for it.  Entirely brass construction with the original wooden pistol grip handle. Overall length 6; height 3 ½”.  Original large markings of underside “DUNHILL / TINDER PISTOL / MADE IN USA / PAT. APPLIED FOR” (which clearly indicates its earlier, circa mid-1930’s manufacture) before the usual later markings of the patent and registry number which are found on almost all specimens. Brass has acquired a deep mellow patina but easily cleaned bright. It might need a bit of cleaning and internal oiling to operate correctly, but everything appears to be there.  Dunhill, of course, is noted for its very long, popular series of cigarette lighters of all types.  This is undoubtedly among the earliest and certainly the most novel they ever issued; its appearance is enough to fool even the most experienced antique arms collector when first viewing it!  For the collector cigarette lighters it’s a real find and for the antique gun collector it might even be rated “arms curiosa!”…475.

(Q372) - WORLD WAR I WAS JUST 4 MONTHS OLD WHEN THESE TWO CIVIL WAR VETS COMPARED AND CONTRASTED IT TO THEIR EARLIER DAYS OF COMBAT IN THE CIVIL WAR! Single page typed letter on printed letterhead “Lieut.- Col. J. A. Watrous, U.S. Army Ret’d…Milwaukee Dec. 29, 1914” to old Army buddy George Albee (served during Civil War with famous Berdan’s Sharpshooters; later during Indian Wars won the Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism in an Indian attack at the Brazos River, Texas). Watrous writes: “…Watching the great war with intense interest. What a war it is! Full of horrors. I often think what Grant and Lee and other C. W. commanders would think if they had to command such Armies now smashing each other…while they have more destructive weapons then they had in [our Civil War] they are not doing harder fighting or showing greater courage and fortitude than our boys did in our great war.” Some fading, but all easily read; autograph signature fine. Watrous served gallantly during C.W…$47.50

(Q373) - HE ATTEMPTS TO PROTECT HIS COMMANDING GENERAL FROM ANONYMOUS SLANDER & save his promotion to Maj. Gen’l. Letter by Col. Theo Bingham, U.S. Army; on printed letterhead “Office of Public Buildings and Grounds / War Dept. / Washington” March 31, 1900. 2 page typed letter to Major George Albee (retired) in New Haven advising that it was discovered that an unsigned letter was circulating privately among members of Congress about “…one of most dastardly & cruel attacks on General R. Corbin [then Adj. Gen’l of the Army and Albee’s lifelong friend] & on the Army at large…accused the general of having been disgraced by cheating at cards, of being a brutal & unkind husband [and] blackballed by respectable clubs in N.Y. & Washington.” Corbin then being proposed for promotion to Maj. General. Colonel, Bingham asks Albee, who was a close friend of Corbin to write “…as strong a letter as you can” giving evidence in opposition to the charges…the general almost powerless to meet it…duty of every officer to do what he can to break up this conspiracy…have your local press take up the subject.” Exc...$44.50
 

(Q350) - A UNIQUE ACCESSORY FOR A WELL-HEELED CIVIL WAR UNION OFFICER!  Original Civil War period circa 1862-65 advertising broadside with very fancy multi-style bold typeface “STRONG’S PATENT ARMY TRUNK AND PORTABLE BEDSTEAD COMBINED” accompanied with fine, large illustration of the trunk in its CLOSED POSITION (with mattress neatly folded and attached along top outside)…and the “TRUNK OPENED” with mattress unfolded and ready for use!.  Single sheet (blank reverse) 7 x 10. Trunk dimensions given as well as advising the equipment… “…Can be seen at W. B. Strong’s Salesroom…Corner of Broadway…New York City” with mention of an agent in Washington D.C. Further details of trunk and mattress at bottom describe how it opens to form a “good bed 6 feet long with mosquito net attached.  The mattress made of Best Curled Hair”… and its $25 price;  and that it “…Can be put up or taken down in two minutes with ease.” Normal very lightest aging.  Exc.+. It’s an accessory that certainly must have caused a few snickers and some scorn by some of the boys in the ranks!  (The trunk was for real; we had a wonderful example with a known history to an officer in a Maine regiment listed and sold in one of our earlier catalogs.)…425.
 

(Q358) - “MADE FROM TIMBER TAKEN FROM H.M.S. BRITANNIA” ENGRAVED ON CURVED BRASS PLAQUES AFFIXED TO EACH BASE ON THIS MATCHED PAIR OF ATTRACTIVELY MADE, ANTIQUE WOODEN CANDLESTICKS. Each stands 12 inches high.  The spiral-like carved wood sticks taper from broad at bottom to narrower at top; attractively shaped 7 inch diameter matching wood bases. Wooden candle cups at top of each. Wood has acquired lovely mellow age patina. The inscription on one brass plaque is exc.+ (smooth wear from cleaning but engraving distinct); engraving on other plaque very weak but visible. There were nine British Royal Navy vessels bearing same name commencing 1682. These candlesticks are presumed made either from the “BRITANNIA” a “First Rate” 120 gun warship built 1820; subsequently refitted as a “training ship” 1859 in service until 1869…or possibly the battleship of same name built 1904 & sunk off Cape Trafalgar 1918. In exc+ condition. Unusual historic relics. The pair…$450.
 

(Q281) - COMPLETE SET OF 10 CIVIL WAR PRINTER’S PROOF SETS FOR A SERIES OF PATRIOTIC ENVELOPES OR LETTERHEADS FOR STATIONERY THAT PROVED INCREDIBLY POPULAR WITH UNION SOLDIERS WRITING HOME OR THEIR FAMILIES WRITING TO SOLDIERS! Each bears the identical, bold, multi-style type, motto in center: “THIS IS THE HOUSE THAT UNCLE SAM BUILT” But each has an entirely different purple ink square design in its upper left corner with the illustration of an American patriotic motif or one making mockery of the Confederate cause (such as illus. of a running rat boldly captioned on its side “Secession” and they all have varying length captions  below the illus. in similar ultra patriotic or mocking nature. Individually numbered 1-10 and each is printed (in tiny typeface) with the urging to see/read the next numbered motif which would seem to further indicate their printer’s proof status. All exc+ condition. Unique to find an original set intact. Fine Civil War, American patriotic collection…$375.

(Q150) - AMERICAN NAUTICAL SONG SHEET C. 1840. Bold and fancy printed broadside of the type sold in the streets of New York for a few pennies. 6 x 9 ½; blank reverse. Extremely fancy, wide scroll design borders and bold titles of two songs / verses: “THE MINUTE GUN AT SEA” and “THE ANCHOR’S WEIGH’D” [sic]. Signature at bottom “Andrews, Printer, N.Y.” Light aging. Few very minor brown spots mostly on margins; few tiny edge nicks. Showy. Exc… Lyrics: THE MINUTE GUN AT SEA ...Let him who sighs in sadness hear, Rejoice to know a friend is near! What heavenly sounds are those I hear? What being comes the gloom to cheer? When in the storm on Columbia's coast, The night-watch guards his weary post, From thoughts of danger free! To mark some vessel's dusky form, And hears amid the howling storm, The minute gun at sea! Swift on the shore a hardy few, The life boat man with a gallant crew, And dare the dangerous wave! Though the wild surf they cleave their way, Lost in the foam; nor know dismay, For they go the crew to save. But oh! What rapture fills each breast, Of the hapless crew of the ship distressed, When landed safe what joys to tell, Of all the dangers that befell, Then is heard no more By the watch on the shore The minute gun at sea... THE ANCHOR'S WEIGHED...The tear fell gently from her eye, When last we parted on the shore, My bosom heav'd with many a sigh, To think I never should see her more. Dear youth she cried and can thou haste away, My heart will break a little longer stay, Alas I cannot I must part from thee The anchor's weighed, farewell, remember me. Weep not my love I trembling said Doubt not a constant heart like mine I never shall meet another maid whose charms can fix a heart like thine. Go then she cried but let thy constant mind oft think of her you leave in tears behind. Dear maid this last embrace my pledge shall be, the Anchor's weighed farewell remember me. Wonderfully displayable if framed....$74.50

(Q444) - Threatened mutiny in the British Army 1797. Rare original single sheet broadside poster (blank reverse) dated DURHAM MAY 31, 1797. Size 6 ½ x 8 ½. Very bold print style single paragraph in which the ...Non-commissioned Officers and Privates of the Lothin Regiment Fencible Cavalry beg leave to express our gratitude to His Majesty for his paternal care in rendering our situation so comfortable by an increase of our Pay… and assure His Majesty that our love and attachment to our King and country stand firm and unshaken… We hear with indignation that there are people in the country so abandoned (in) league with our enemies… who endeavor to seduce the Army from its allegiance to His Majesty. We repell with contempt such scandalous attempts and exert ourselves in exposing and bringing to punishment those who… seek to ruin our country and happy constitution…etc. and swear further allegiance to their King and Regimental Col. Printed signatures of six sergeants of that regiment. Fine condition. Rare and historic...$135.

(Q269) - CIVIL WAR RECRUITING POSTER FOR FAMOUS ILLINOIS REGIMENT. A popular, easily displayable size 12 x 18 inches with very bold, multi-style and size typefaces and headline “TO ARMS! TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!....”followed with a smaller second line that “The Clerks of the Chicago Post Office have contributed a LARGE FUND TO RAISE A COMPANY FOR THE WAR.” This colorfully worded inducement to enlist in the famous “BOARD OF TRADE REGIMENT” as offered to new…. “Volunteers Enlisting in this Company… each will receive 100 dollars from the government, two dollar premium, one month’s pay in advance and $60 from the County of Cook… 100 dollars will be paid in cash on the mustering in of the Company… and in order to secure the right kind of men (none but picked ones are accepted) two dollars a month additional pay for one year will be paid… this Company will also be part of the BOARD OF TRADE REGIMENT, which will have a Battery attached…” There is a further inducement mentioned of the special advantages offered by joining that are “…not given by any other company in the Union”… and urges joining “…within two or three days as the company will probably be full by the end of the week.” Advises that enlisting can be made at the “Galesburg House” and name of the “Recruiting Officer.” The 72^nd Illinois Regiment saw considerable service throughout Kentucky and Tennessee campaigns, including the siege and assaults on Vicksburg and Nashville, the Battle of Franklin, the Assault and Capture of Mobile, Alabama and much, much more. Just normal aging with a few minor, faint brown spots (mostly on edge of one blank margin and very few on centerfold); few very nicks on edge of blank margin; condition is exc. and better. Historic; wonderful display for any Civil War exhibit….$3,450.

(Q266) - They actually publicized him on this poster as “THE GREAT GUN FROM THE WEST!”  Original Feb. 26, 1863 dated poster (19 x 25) announcing a patriotic speech during the Civil War by a former long-term resident of Massachusetts (from a New England family that was one of the state’s earliest settlers) who moved west, became a three term U.S. Congressman from Detroit (and a strong opponent of slavery) and who later became the Governor of Dakota Territory:  “WILLIAM A. HOWARD OF MICHIGAN WILL ADDRESS THE CITIZENS OF MARLBOROUGH [Mass] THURSDAY EVENING FEB. 26, 1863.” All in huge bold letters filling the poster with the equally bold printed (not as large) headline along the bottom urging citizens to turn out for the speech:  “FRIENDS OF THE UNION AND THE GOVERNMENT! TURN OUT TO HEAR THE GREAT GUN FROM THE WEST!” Wm. Howard played an important role in national politics as well.  A strong supporter of Abraham Lincoln he became chairman of the Michigan Republican party from 1862-1871.  Normal aging with a water stain in the center section; tears on two of the centerfolds and small deterioration in one letter only of the word “Marlborough” only and a very minor chip on the letter “G.” A few nicks and very small piece out on the extreme edges of blank margins; all quite minor and easily trimmed…$350.

(Q263) - NOTHING BETTER CAPTURES AND EVOKES THE FEELINGS AND SENTIMENTS OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC IN THE LATTER YEARS OF THE THAN-ENSUING CIVIL WAR AND THE POLITICAL STIRRINGS OF THE 1864 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN, THAN THIS AUTHENTIC POSTER.  Almost certainly issued by the “RADICAL REPUBLICANS” (the extremist faction of the Republican party) and a prelude to the 1864 second term election of Lincoln.  (In which that Republican faction nominated Gen’l Freemont for President; he soon deferred to Lincoln.)  Circa 1864 poster 16 x 23 with huge headline:  “A TRAITOR’S PEACE…THAT THE NORTHERN COPPERHEAD LEADERS WOULD FORCE UPON THE COUNTRY.”  Large illustration of a proud, cocky Confederate officer (labeled below “SOUTH”) shaking the hand of a wounded, one-legged Union soldier, with a young lady kneeling by his side over the grave of another Union soldier with gravestone:  “In memory of the Union heroes who fell in a “USELESS WAR.”  American flag flying upside down on left and defiantly flying the Confederate flag on the right, indicating the Union’s “COMPROMISE WITH THE SOUTH.”  Printed below are the “REBEL TERMS OF PEACE!” as taken “…from official organ of the Rebel Government, the Richmond Enquirer.”  …Followed by the suspected stringent terms the Confederacy would demand from the Union were they to be victorious, concluding with the boast:  “SO SURELY SHALL WE MAKE [the Union] PAY OUR WAR DEBT, THOUGH WE WRING IT OUT OF THEIR HEARTS.”  Lower poster with an appeal to:  “CITIZENS OF THE U.S.!...these are the terms of peace to which you are invited by the Copperhead politicians…the destruction of the Union…giving up Maryland, Kentucky and Missouri…the surrender of a large part of our Navy…the loss of more than half our territory in payment of the debt of the accursed rebellion of traitors…“PEOPLE OF THE U.S. WILL YOU GIVE YOUR ASSENT TO SUCH A BASE SURRENDER…if not, repeal the ‘Peace Organizations’ and rally with those who keep step to the music of the Union…stand by our brave soldiers…”  Bold headline at bottom urges:  “PLEASE POST THIS UP…PRINTED FOR THE CONGRESSIONAL UNION COMMITTEE, WASHINGTON, D.C.”  With printer’s signature of “McGill and Witherow, Washington.”  Condition a bit distressed; 99% intact.  Three of the wide blank margins are tattered on outer edges (easily trimmed).  A tear on centerfold to mid-point, but all lettering intact (slightest damage on two extreme edges only); minor small light damp stain lower section and a small (approx 2 x 4) piece is out on lower corner of central illustration (as seen in photo here).  Most worthy of restoration.  Very rare and very important for its subject matter and reflecting the heated emotions of the American public…$2,250.

(Q271) - IN SECRET SYMPATHY WITH THE SOUTH is the way this Northern political party, the “COPPERHEADS” was perceived by most of the Northern public (and the Republican Party) during the Civil War. This circa 1864 provoking, acrimonious, fuming, enraged political poster (12x17) denouncing that party. Although not saying it outright, it obviously urges voters in this New England state to cast their ballots for solid Republicans! Very bold headlines “COPPERHEADS IN COUNCIL!... DECLARATIONS OF THE LEADERS. … READ AND PONDER WHAT THEY SAY!” With illustration below of large den of rattlesnakes, captioned “Knights of the Golden Circle in Secret Session.” (A secret society banded together for the overthrow of the U.S. Gov’t). The three columns of text offer actual quotes from numerous national and (local) New Hampshire politicians which strongly reflect their “Copperhead” sentiments, including former President “FRANKLIN PIERCE”; also quotes from various Northern and Southern newspapers … all anti-Union and anti-Republican; all traitorously by the Copperhead Richardson of Illinois who is quoted: “The Republicans must be put down at the point of the bayonet.”… which follows anti-Emancipation Proclamation remarks! Poster concludes with bold urgings at bottom: “MEN OF NEW HAMPSHIRE! WILL YOU VOTE THE TICKET MADE UP BY SUCH MEN?” and concludes with the prod: “Please Paste Up [this poster] in a Conspicuous Place” Normal aging; light brown damp staining patch in center; spots on upper section and on the center column, but very sound; margins fine; crisp; all easily readable. Very little in the way of posters that better reflect the temper of the times in the North. Superb and rare political Americana…$1,950.

(Q272) - “THE WAR WILL UNDOUBTEDLY END IN 1865…” …predicts the text of this circa 1864 poster as LINCOLN’S REPUBLICAN PARTY FIRES AN OPENING GUN TO THE 1864 CAMPAIGN FOR HIS RE-ELECTION! Original (9x16) poster / broadside circa 1864 with bold headline “HAS THE WAR RUINED THE COUNTRY?...” Followed by two lines “The Copperheads assert that the War has ruined the country; that we can never pay our debt; and that the war has proved a failure.”… followed by 3 diagrams that purport to illustrate “What we have done” (i.e. “The Republicans”) in which they compare the loyal “Union” states to the “rebel” states financially and proposing what the Republicans can do to be financially successful. Graphs compares the U.S. to the British over the era 1790 through the Civil War years, projecting it to 1880… illustrating the greater advances for the U.S. Text below compares the “Loyal” Union to the “Rebels” clearly indicating the war is not a failure, describing the “Territory still in Rebel hands” and thus proving that the Union has already accomplished much by the war: “Our prosperity has continued to increase in spite of the War. And the moment [War] ended we shall go ahead in Wealth and power hitherto unknown to any nation on the face of the globe…” Printed at bottom margin “Published by the National Union Executive Committee [the Republican Party itself] Astor House, New York.” Light, normal aging. Exc+. condition. Historic political Americana and Lincolnia……$950.

(Q260) - “THE NEWSPAPERS LIE AWFULLY.  They don’t seem to give our reg’t much credit, or even mention.  All the correspondents are in the pay of officers to ‘write them up’”…gripes Major Wm. MacArthur from his hospital bed, recovering from wounds received in battle.  Penned somewhat irregularly, (but easily readable) from “Chesapeake Hospital, Fortress Monroe, Va June 23, 1864” to his father in Maine.  Single sheet; both sides; lengthy.  Letter continues:  “Grant is doing well.  The rebel losses equal ours…Have to write lying down in bed and it is not easy work.”  He reassures his father, asks him not to worry… “my wound is doing nicely…try to get about a little [but] was carried up…under surgeon’s advice [was told] my wound will heal…wound not dangerous but severe on account of its locality.”  Adds postscript:  “Shall send the sword home that I took from a Rebel officer.”  Signed with his usual “William” but father (as was his habit) docketed letter on reverse with MacArthur’s full name, date letter received and even captioned its contents.  Normal aging; exc.+.  MacArthur had lengthy service with 8’th Maine Infantry eventually becoming colonel of it……$225.

(Q992) - "GENERAL GODFREY TALKS ON LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLE" Original neatly penned letter written entirely in his hand with full autograph signature. Single sheet 8x10 "Cookstown , NJ) Feb.12, 1918 to George Albee. "...I have yours inviting me to deliver my lecture on CUSTER'S LAST BATTLE for the benefit of the Women's Civic Club... would be glad to aid in my poor way...... really have no puss notions... how long should I talk... sorry I have no lantern slides that would be of help with a Civil War audience... have a large map to give idea of the land." Also mentions going to Washington for the meeting of the of the Order of Indian Wars later in the month and other personal notes. Fine condition; great content...$595.

 

(Q215) - “FIFTY DOLLARS REWARD…ARREST FOR HIGHWAY ROBBERY WILLIAM ROESLER…POLICE DEPT., LOS ANGELES, CAL., DEC. 9, 1907” bold headlines filling top of original “WANTED” poster. 8 x 11 (blank reverse) with profile and full face photo “mug shots” printed in center.  Includes identification details and fact that when arrested for highway robbery he had confessed and later escaped from the L.A. City Jail (etc.) Printed signature of Chief of Police.  Lightest aging; exc. +…$160.
 

(T31) - He joined the great California Gold Rush and became enamored with the Far West !  Neatly penned 2 ½ page letter datelined “CALIFORNIA, NOV. 10, 1855” to his father back East from “DRY CREEK, YUBA COUNTY.”  Miner D. P. Walter is ecstatic of his surroundings:  “I have given up the idea of returning next spring.  The longer I remain here the more I experience the beauties of this Pacific Garden, this Eden of the world.  This is the most productive country in the world…never seen [anything] its equal [and describes different crops, their quality and market prices] within the reach of all.  There appears a spirit of rivalry among fruit growers…in few years we will be blessed with all varieties of luscious fruit and our climate [which he describes] in its loveliness and beauty.”  Walter describes in glowing terms the landscape and its views “…this extensive valley would be settled and improved were it not for Mexican grants [up to now, gold mining being the great center].” Writes of the fall of Sevastopol in the then-ensuing Crimean War:  “…Have taken a warm interest in it and sympathized with the Russians…great demonstration here by the English and French [which concluded] in a grand ball.  I think our minister to France… should be recalled…President Pierce has been very lame in his appointments Walker and Kinney are winding up the business in Nicaragua [a free booting invasion of that country by Walker].  They are likely to come out victors opening another great country for young America…”  Displays an interesting insight to popular American opinions of that period as well as fascinating early California material.  Just normal aging, but exc…$195.

(Q163) -  “ASSE’S MILK” for the king and queen and the princess, too!  (How about that?)  Yeah they thought it was good for their health…and maybe it was but it sure sounds pretty evil!  Original 1865 dated invoice for seven individually listed “half pints” of the inelegant stuff on an extremely fancy printed invoice (filling almost half the sheet) with the royal crest imprinted and fancy lettering “MARTHA HEMSON PURVEYOR OF ASSES MILK…BY SPECIAL APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY AND THE PRINCESS ROYAL” with the London address. Name of the customer to whom it was being sold inscribed at top; dated October 1865 “LADY IRENA” of a member of the nobility no less!  On pale blue paper 4 ½ x 6 ½; exc. +.  One short tear on side of centerfold (minor).  Sure makes a nice conversation piece and offers a potential for some very snide remarks!  Unusual. (Note:  Milk from an ass was believed to have therapeutic and medicinal properties (but whose?)……$125.

(Q274) -  SEEMS A CURIOUS AND CERTAINLY UNIQUE, NAME FOR A CIVIL WAR, UNION ARMY REGIMENT! (Especially with England’s pro-Confederate leanings). Issued immediately pursuant to Lincoln’s first call for Army volunteers following the attack on Fort Sumter, April, 1861 is this rare Massachusetts military recruiting poster.  10 x 14 inches. Very bold headlines: “VOLUNTEERS ATTENTION… BOSTON BRITISH VOLUNTEER COMPANY!!” Three detailed woodcut illustrations in center depicting British royal crest (the crowned, rampant lion and unicorn supporting the British royal shield)… with illustrations at each side of clasped hands (representing England and U.S.) and eagle in center holding riband “IN UNION THERE IS STRENGTH.” Poster seeks: “Fifty Able Bodied Men Wanted… to Fill up the Company….Apply at the Rooms of the BOSTON BRITISH DRILL CLUB… Revere house, Boston from 8am til 9pm.” Printer’s signature “DAVIS AND FARMER, BOSTON” at bottom. That outfit became “Co. H” of the 17th Mass. Infantry Regiment. Accompanied with Photostats of its military history and unique background as taken from the regimental history (1911). Immediately following Lincoln’s first call for volunteers, 20 young men (almost all of British background) formed a military drill club in Boston; the drillmaster, a former Sgt. In the British Army and the two officers had also been non-coms in the British Army in earlier years. Most of the outfit’s volunteers were of British birth, but eventually they recruited other U.S. citizens to join them. The 17th Mass. Regiment saw action in numerous expeditions and campaigns in North Carolina with the loss of 172 men. Normal aging but very fine condition. Completely authentic…$2,250.

(Q276) - THE U.S. SANITARY COMMISSION [i.e. The Red Cross of its day] DEFENDS ACCUSATIONS THAT IT DID NOT SPEND ALL DONATIONS RECEIVED FOR USE OF CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS. “Louisville, KY., Dec. 1, 1864” datelined broadside. 5 x 8 inches; blank reverse. Multi-styled, bold headines “CIRCULAR FROM THE SANITARY REPORTER… A MISTAKE CORRECTED.” Issued by the “Western Dept. of the U.S. Sanitary Commission; J.S. Newberry, Sec’y.” Defends the society from false accusations that: “…have been widely circulated through the West… by persons unfriendly… for the past 3 years [with] conclusions grossly untrue and could not, if believed, fail to affect unfavorably [those] who have been friends and patrons of the Sanitary Comm…. [We] thought it desirable to publish a true statement with the request it be widely circulated.” Then follows two separate sections individually headlined: “THE FALSE” and “THE TRUE” [claims] describing false accusation of their receipt of $321,000 of which they only spent $93,000 for the soldiers’ supplies, the balance being… paid in salaries to [their] agents.” The “TRUE” facts justify the money, all of which spent for soldier’s relief with only 3% for cost of distribution. Typical aging; few tiny nicks extreme edges of blank margins (all minor); excellent condition. Classic example of how history repeats itself to this very day! …and a rare insight to the machinations of rumor-mongers….$375.
 

(Q141) - He was the man who captured Geronimo in the Apache Campaign… GENERAL HENRY V. LAWTON; a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism in the Civil War and at the exact moment he wrote this letter he was the commanding general of all American forces in the Philippines in the Spanish-American War!  Lengthy 3 page letter entirely in his bold hand from “Manila, Philippine Islands, Sept. 12, 1899” (and just three months before he was killed-in-action there). Three separate sheets (8 x 10; each blank on reverse) to his close, long time friend and fellow Medal of Honor recipient George Albee, chiding Albee for not having heard from him recently:  “…You are about my last support &  if you go back on me I shall feel like closing out & quitting the business…Have had a few unimportant skirmishes, but nothing worth remembering…have lost hope that the end was in sight.  The opportunity slipped from us & when we commence again it will have to be from the beginning.  [I have been informed] that New York papers published an interview from me severely criticizing the situation here…presume you have [thought me] as a blithering idiot & ass…I have not given an interview to anyone & have stated nothing to anyone for publication …rest assured that anything that has, or may be published, purporting to be interviews with me is a fake. Reporters have made war on [Gen’l] Otis…[I] have persistently refused to be drawn in, but I cannot help their accusing me of talking, although what they say may be the God’s truth & what I think & try earnestly to help Gen’l Otis bring this war to a successful termination &  believe it can be speedily done…you are the only correspondent I have…I wish no one else.  I want you to know I am not a damned fool & am not shooting my mouth off indiscreetly. If Otis will [quit] his damned office work & go into the field & command the troops he will do well enough.” Signed with his usual signature when writing to Albee: “Yours, LAWTON.”  Adds “P.S.” that the Chief of Staff had wired his superior that he [Lawton] had given out no interviews & would not talk for publication. Also that he did not approve of Gen’l Otis’ policy!...and made as much criticism as he [Lawton] felt was proper & just as “I do not wish to sail under false colors &  must be permitted a mind of my own.”  Just light normal aging, but exc. +; ACCOMPANIED with original stamped envelope & postal surcharge from the Philippines with his full autograph signature & rank for return address.  A most remarkable and extremely historic, behind-the-scenes inside look at the personalities conducting that fiercely contested war…written during the very moments it was being waged by the intrepid battle commander…one who obviously “pulled no punches” in his assessment of the political and military perspectives. It is just such very rare letters as this that allow historians to analyze how history is shaped & accurately defined…$2,250.

(Q142) - He was killed in action but two weeks earlier while leading American troops in battle!  General Henry V. Lawton hero of the Civil War & the man who captured Geronimo in the Apache Campaign. Letter from his long time friend Henry C. Corbin who was then the Adj. General of the U.S. Army to their mutual lifelong friend George Albee. 2 pages (blank on reverse) on official letterhead “War Department / Adj. General Office / Washington, Jan. 9” [1900] entirely in his bold, easily read penned hand signed “H. C. C.”  General Lawton had been killed Dec. 19, 1899.  Corbin writes:  “I wish I had a whole train to give you to go to San Francisco, but I have not, so you will have to be content to meet Mrs. Lawton here [i.e. Washington].  I am going to arrange for a very dignified, imposing funeral.  [Gen’l] Shafter will bring the remains home from the Pacific Coast. The fund [for the burial] will reach $85,000 thanks to you & some other good fellows who have helped. This money will not bring him to life but will let his spirit rest in peace.”  Exc. +…$185.

(Q143) - He was one of the U.S. Army’s most distinguished officers; GENERAL LEONARD WOOD.  As an Army surgeon he won the Medal of Honor while serving under General Lawton in the Apache Campaign in 1886.  He went on to serve as a regular cavalry officer; eventually was Colonel commanding the famous “ROUGH RIDERS” (First U.S. Volunteer Calvary) of the Spanish-American War (Lieut. Col. Teddy Roosevelt was his second in command) and ultimately Commanding General of U.S. Army. A notable penned letter entirely in his hand with extremely bold signature “WOOD.”  Two sheets; each blank on reverse; from his family home in Pocassett, Mass., May 9, 1888 to his long time friend Henry Lawton:  “Arrived here…on three month leave…will try to see you before I go back…heard you had a good time on your leave…Saw account of [our] regt’s reunion in Los Angeles.”  Both the signature and writing fully verified and guaranteed authentic Leonard Wood.  Light aging; exc. +……$135.

(Q162) - THIS NORTHERN “COPPERHEAD” WAS STILL RANTING AND RAGING EVEN THOUGH THE CIVIL WAR HAD ENDED A FEW YEARS EARLIER AND HE WAS TRYING TO RUB YANKEE VETERAN’S NOSES IN IT!  Unique and rare authentic c. late 1860’s broadside / poster (6 x 9; blank reverse) with huge headlines “ATTENTION SOLDIERS!” followed by:  “Here is what Henry Clay Dean says of you and your cause:  How Do You Like It!...If I could have my way, I would place Jeff Davis in Congress where he rightfully belongs…then I would go to Concord, take all those miserable battle flags from the state house and make a bonfire of them…then I would go all through the North and destroy all the Monuments and Grave-Stones erected to the memory of soldiers…in short I would put out of sight everything which reminds us that we ever had a war with our Southern brethren.  I do not know as I would hang one-legged and one-armed soldiers, but I would pray to God go get them out of the way as soon as possible!”  It  appears Clay was a bit of a fruit-cake; a copperhead anti-war activist from northern Missouri, he opposed the emancipation of the slaves and considered the war an illegal aggression.  In an article he had published “The Bloodmarket of the Rich” he argued the entire war was conceived by an international conspiracy of bankers and “stock gamblers.”  It appears also that he was a Methodist Clergyman and had in 1855 been actually appointed a United States Senate Chaplain. In 1868 he published the book “Crimes of the Civil War and Curse of the Funding System.”  It also appears that he was put in the guardhouse during the Civil War in St. Louis and the Provost Marshal suggested he be sent through the lines to the South as “…he is a very disloyal man and dangerous influence…”  Aged browning typical of the type of paper used at the period.  Just some very tiny edge nicks on right margin in corner; one very small hole in center affecting two letters of a word; otherwise exc…........$425.

(Q79) - Handsome U.S. artillery enlisted man’s, oval brass shoulder belt plate circa 1814-1830.  Identical to plate 102 (page 71) of “American Military Belt Plates” (by O’Donnell and Campbell).  An interesting specimen; possibly a battlefield recovery.  The 2 ½ x 3 ¼ oval brass face plate is fine condition; just normal aging;  a very nice raised, detailed design of American eagle standing astride a profile cannon with pyramid of cannonballs, etc.  Showing normal aging, but exc.  Still accompanying it, although loose and separate, is the original tinned iron back plate which has come loose and is relic condition (few spots tinned eroded through), but even the wire belt hooks are still intact (and heavily rusted) on reverse; could be reaffixed to the front plate, but this is just the way we acquired it years ago and best leave it “as is.”  Very scarce piece of American military insignia; exceptionally showy...$1,250.

(Q280) - "CHAUCHAT MACHINE RIFLE” … Model 1915….caliber 8mm…. Infantry School of Arms / Automatic Rifle Section.” Titling of this scarce Dec. 1917 dated 29 page pamphlet (4 ½ X 6) for that French machinegun that was widely used by U.S. forces in WWI. Pub. By “Headqtrs. 28th Division, Camp Hancock, Georgia” No illus. Orig. heavy paper covers. Excellent……$47.50

(Q230) - URGENT APPEAL BY A UNION GENERAL FOR CIVILIANS IN TENNESSEE TO ERECT ROADBLOCKS TO PREVENT CONFEDERATE MARAUDERS AND RAIDING PARTIES BY C.S. GENERAL FORREST’S CAVALRY IN THE MONTHS PRECEDING THE HISTORIC NASHVILLE CAMPAIGN.  Bold printed date of issue “AUG. 5, 1864, BEDFORD” (40 miles south of Nashville). Issued over names of two leading citizens of that county.  7 ½ x 18 (blank reverse); huge headline “IMPORTANT NOTICE!” followed by three bold-faced lines:  “GEN. COUCH has requested the undersigned to call on the citizens of the county, to obstruct the mountain passes on such roads as might be used by raiding parties.  [We] do not act in official capacity in making this call, but hope the people will at once respond and organize.”  General Couch had earlier led his men to important Union victories.  This poster superbly displays his actions attempting to halt C.S. Gen’l Hood’s invasion of Tennessee after losing Atlanta and preceding the build up to the Battle of Nashville in December.  It was also those very same months that this exact poster was issued attempting to halt Forrest’s cavalry in those very same “…mountain passes.” Normal light aging; three very small holes center in blank areas only; small piece out extreme upper corner of margin and few very small pieces out extreme edges of blank right margin, but exc. condition.  A significant and rare Civil War artifact…$1,750.

(Q221) - HE HAD 20 TONS OF ENGLISH MUZZLE LOADING CANNONS AVAILABLE! Neatly penned single page (8 x 10) letter in the hand of Henry N. Slipper, New York Sept. 28, 1831 to “Lazell, Perkins & Co.” Letter opens: “Understanding that you are in the habit of purchasing heavy castings, I write to inform you that I have on hand twenty tons of English Cannon, 12 pounders, the iron of which seems to be first rate. They are marked GR and with the crown…price I want is 25 [dollars] per Ton.” He also asks their price for “rolls & stands and if you have pattern for small roller stands…” Typical aging; exc. +...$79.50
 

(Q214) -  “$50 REWARD…FOR THE ARREST AND DETENTION OF CONVICT NO. 1292…who violated parole from the Idaho State Penitentiary at Boise…June, 1909” are the headlines and information about a handsome young criminal Albert Jungclaus (a native of Germany) who did not look very becoming in his wide prison stripes in the original photograph “mug shots” (full face and profile) actually affixed to this poster. 8 x 11 (blank reverse); each photo 2 x 3. Itemizes physical details, marks, scars, “Speaks with German accent,” etc. all separately entered in a bright purple colored typewriter style. Also mentions that he “…is a good dresser and sporty.” Highly displayable……$185.

 

(Q212) - SETTLING FINAL ACCOUNTS FOR AMERICAN SOLDIERS WHO SERVED ABOARD U.S. VESSELS IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.  “1788” dated, bold printed and ink completed 8 x 13 legal form by which three former crewmen make bond to the probate court in Philadelphia to settle a shipmate’s estate “…late on board the ships Providence, West Florida, ship Saratoga” (those seamen obviously K-I-A).  Aged brown; very brittle and have been torn horizontally through now in four sections with only a very small piece of the top four lines (about a third of the beginning of margins and those lines lacking) especially on left side very chipped.  The “SARATOGA” was, of course, an important American warship with a gallant history; the “West Florida” had been captured earlier from the British and then operated against them in the Gulf of Mexico.  Original signatures of the three crewmen making bond and the Clerk of Courts who witnessed it.  Worthy restoring and assembling as the complete document….$74.50

(Q218) - You can almost feel the boat pitching and rolling just by reading the change in his handwriting!  Neatly penned 2 ½ page letter by Captain Wm. MacArthur of 8’th Maine Infantry to his father.  Datelined “On Board Ship Arego Feb. 1, 1863.”  He commenced writing just after boarding the ship and during earliest days of the voyage:  “…I was ordered by Gen. Brown to assume command…of 33 men, some in arrest, being sent to Port Royal”…describes fine accommodations on board however “…ship not a very fast sailer.”  He mentions “…two iron clads reached Port Royal…troops going from North Carolina [for] the advance from there…having pleasant voyage WE CAN SCARCELY FEEL THE MOTION OF THE BOAT.” Ending the letter mid-page 3 he continues that page and page 4 in an extremely bold very hurried scrawl datelining that section immediately after docking: “It has been very stormy the whole voyage and I could not write…we are just about to land.  20,000 just arrived…something will be done…have been quite seasick and am not well, though weak…in haste…William.” Merely viewing the writing attests to his queasiness!  Docketed in pen by father on reverse when received and with son’s full name and date as well as “on board Arego.” *ACCOMPANIED BY TWO other single page letters by Capt. MacArthur to father; both from Hilton Head; Oct. 5 & April 30, 1863. Complains about his lack of personal funds “…not as much as when I was in command” and also about advising the close relative about a vacancy in the 8’th Maine Reg’t. All 3 exc. All with the authentic docketing by father with Captain’s full name, date and subject matter on reverse. All three…$87.50

(Q227) - SEC’Y OF WAR EDWIN STANTON ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT FEB. 1864 OF A MEDAL AND THANKS A FAMOUS ORGANIZATION FOR ITS PATRIOTISM DURING THE CIVIL WAR.  Single sheet broadside on heavyweight paper. Although printed, it is made to resemble Stanton’s personal handwriting with his facsimile signature. Obvious that it was printed during same period letter was written; made to send to every member of the prestigious and influential organization to which it was addressed.  It has standard (fancy style) letterhead “WAR DEPARTMENT WASHINGTON CITY…FEB. 6, 1864” addressed to George H. Baker / “Secretary of the Union League of Philadelphia.” 9 x 11 ½.  “On my return from the West I received the silver medal and testimonial of your appreciation…I express my grateful thanks…in this great contest of a free republican government against slave holding treason and rebellion, your league has borne a distinguished part…your labors contributed no small share. In the most perilous hours of the struggle…your faith remains unshaken…patriotic fire still burn brightly upon your altar and the heart of the nation was quickened by the unflinching courage of the Union League…[etc.]  Light aging; minor tear on fold; exc. condition…$89.50

(Q203) - THE FRENCH CONQUERORS AND OCCUPIERS OF DEFEATED GERMANY GRANT CERTAIN RIGHTS TO THE SUBJUGATED POPULATION OF GERMANY AND OTHER OCCUPIED COUNTRIES.  Poster / broadside 13 x 15 (blank on reverse).  Dual language; French on left side; German on right. Bold headline on each “LIBERTY…EQUALITY…FRATERNITY.” Sets for the public, the edicts from the French government that were issued on Jan. 20, 1795 (“3’rd year of the Republic”).  All bold typeface.  Announces the neighboring countries conquered by the New French Republic and decrees that the administration of Meuse / Rheine, in the spirit of fraternity, that indigent Defenders of Republic residing in conquered lands now have the same benefits as French citizens and provisions are made for all possible eventualities (i.e. death; loss of papers, etc.).  Boldly ends with “LONG LIVE THE REPUBLIC” and issued over the printed signature of “DORSCH, PRESIDENT” (just normal aging; original untrimmed borders, condition is exc. + and completely authentic).  Accompanied with some fascinating information taken off computer search about Anton Dorsch who was a college professor and a Catholic priest who subsequently renounced his priesthood; had earlier founded a “Society of the friends of liberty and equality” in support of the French occupation and when it occurred became its spokesman. Rare historical Poster…...$175.

(Q219) - “ENLISTED FOR THE WAR! or, The Home Guard” was the Civil War play advertised on this original broadside / playbill for the “DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT AND PROMENADE CONCERT…FEB. 2, 1876” to be presented in Marlborough, New Hampshire.  Single sheet; 5 x 10 (blank reverse); bold typeface.  Announces two other comic dramas… “The Old and the New; or 1776 and 1876” and “MRS. WHIMPER’S FAILURE.” Exc+.  Displayable & eye catching…$54.50




 

(Q122) - FAMOUS AMERICAN GENERAL WILLIAM SHAFTER TAKES DELIGHT IN GETTING EVEN WITH U.S. NAVY ADMIRALS WHO HAD ACCUSED HIM OF A FOUL UP AT THE BATTLE OF SANTIAGO THAT ENDED THE CUBAN CAMPAIGN IN THE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR.  Two page (blank reverse) typed letter with full, bold, original autograph signature of Shafter as “Major General U.S. Volunteers” on printed letterhead “Headquarters Department of California / Office of the Commanding General / San Francisco, March 18, 1901” to his lifelong friend Captain George Albee (ret’d) who had also won the Medal of Honor for heroism in Texas in 1869.  With the war over but a year Shafter writes from his new station as commanding general on the west coast supervising troops on their way to quell the Philippine Insurrection:  “I DOUBT IF [ADMIRALS] SAMPSON AND SCHLEY GET THROUGH THE END OF THIS CONTROVERSY WITH ANYTHING MORE THAN THEY HAVE.  THEY ARE MAKING A DISGUSTING EXHIBITION OF THEMSELVES BEFORE THE PUBLIC AND IT IS NOT AN INTERESTING SPECTACLE…I feel I have been fully vindicated by the action of Congress in giving me advanced rank…and assure you that I am well satisfied, though my friends think I ought to have more.”  Also mentions his coming retirement:  “General Young left Manila and will relieve me…I can’t say as I care very much one way or the other…getting affairs in shape to go down to the ranch and enjoy myself…”  Exc. +.  Normal lightest aging.  Shafter was obviously savoring his success for vindication from the controversy with the Navy brass over the Santiago engagement and the discomfort Sampson and Schley were obviously experiencing.  Superb closure…and insight to that notorious, behind-the-scenes incident of that “Splendid Little War.” Rare content…$425.

(Q261) - LEARNING TO BE A TELEGRAPH OPERATOR DURING THE CIVIL WAR. Series of four neatly penciled letters by a young man to his family.  Each from Syracuse, N.Y.; dated from Nov., 1864 to Feb., 1865.  Each three or four pages; with original envelopes.  Attending a civilian school, the fellow discusses how well he is doing; hopes for good employment during war and afterwards:  “…I am getting along first rate with telegraphing…can write 16 or 17 words a minute and receive 7 or 8.  Learning to receive is hard work…requires a great amount of practice…I practice writing and receiving 8 or 9 hours a day.”  Also discusses lectures, teachers, a young lady student and another young lady that he sends and receives telegraphs with. Normal aging; exc.  All four just………$87.50

(Q262) - His regiment famous for building bridges under fire, allowing the Union Army to cross the Potomac River in their pursuit of LEE.  Lengthy, handsomely penned 8 page letter by Lt. Charles Snyder. Fancy letterhead printed “50’th REG’T NEW YORK VOL. ENGINEERS…Co. C” (with Corps of Engineers insignia) From “Camp of 50’th Regiment / Washington, D.C. Jan. 22, 1864” to his wife.  “Last Friday I attended lecture at Smithsonian by Prof. Agassiz [about] glaciers.”  Disappointed not to get leave home; cold in D.C. “we kept our stoves going.”  Jokes about wife’s feeling that he was “noble;” is keeping a diary which he will later allow her to read; writes of their opinion of the Co. captain and reminisces:  “I am sustained by a strong hope of seeing the end of this unfortunate struggle when our country shall pass from beneath the dark cloud of Civil War [and into] the bright beams of Peace…demonstrate to the world that man is capable of self-gov’t and principles of liberty that would afford asylum for the oppressed of all nations…then to return home.”  He daydreams about civilian life and sharing joys with his wife at that time.  Also writes of routine matters in camp and “the President [has a reception] next Tuesday and we boys think of going if we can get a pass…we have a right to go since we are Uncle Sam’s Soldiers…”  Although signed only “Charles” letter guaranteed to be by Charles Snyder (accompanied with photostat of earlier letter of Snyder to his wife which he signed his full name as verification and with photostats of regiment and Snyder’s records reflecting service with the 50’th Engineers).  ALSO ACCOMPANIED WITH LENGTHY, BEAUTIFULLY PENNED 7 ½ PAGE LETTER by his wife to him of Sept. 27, 1862.  Writes how much she misses him and about church meetings and sermons at home:  “One row of pews filled with soldiers; they behaved well and looked so nice…”  Describes her visit to nearby camp and the demeanor of soldiers there.  Also comments:  “…THE PRESIDENT HAS PROCLAIMED EMANCIPATION TO ALL THE SLAVES IN THE U.S. BUT, THERE ARE VARIOUS OPINIONS EXPRESSED ABOUT IT, AND WE WILL LEAVE IT TO THE JUDGE OF ALL THE EARTH WHO WILL DO IT RIGHT.”  Also writes:  “…When you first spoke of enlisting I could not bear to think of your going and determined to say nothing for or against it.  But when I saw you felt it your duty to go, I was willing it should be so…”  She rationalizes about the great sacrifice he might be making with his life.  Few very minor spots of fading, but all is clear and exc.  Both letters just……$225.

(Q115) - SEEKING THEIR FORTUNES IN THE GOLD MINES OF CALIFORNIA…AND AMONG THE EARLY 49’ers.  Brothers from Ohio write home from the “DOUGLASS’ MINES, SEPT. 22, 1850” to their sister.  Four page lengthy penned (8 x 10) letter.  The first 2 ½ pages from the elder brother who writes he has “…been constantly engaged in hard labor ever since my arrival in this country and the monotanous [sic] life I lead affords me little news to relate…last Spring I left Scorpion Gulch where we spent the winter…settled here…brother Jake here already…we live together, enjoyed ourselves working hard but not making money fast…will probably do better when rain commences which will furnish us with plentiful water for washing gold…today I washed out $48 but we do not always do so well.  Have no doubt we shall make a little more than a living, which father always said was ‘enough in all conscience; takes more money here to satisfy the cravings of hunger than in Ohio” (itemizes all costs of their various provisions).  Wistfully writes about his love for family hoping they will not blame his lack of writing “…as evidence I am forgetting you.  Shall never for a single day forget the home of my boyhood…constantly longing for time I may direct my course homeward again…”  Ends with:  “Brother Jake will finish this.”  The last 1 ½ pages (by Jake) comments on their father’s trip from Ohio to N.Y. and “…if he had taken the steamer from California he might have made it profitable [and suggests] he send a committee out here to look after [the boys] and perhaps they might dig gold enough to finish the boarding school…as for me, you must consider me either strayed or stolen until you see me.  I am studying Spanish by conversing with those who speak it.  If we had no bad luck mixed with good luck since here we might have been home earlier…”  Some normal light aging, but all very clear and easily read.  Few light brown faded spots on the folds, but not obscuring any writing.  Few spots on back page from ink smears….$375.

(Q364) - Original antique CALIFORNIA GOLD MINER'S SCALE with completely original black painted finish (which is dulled and shows its aging). The lettering "MINER'S IMPROVED GOLD SCALE / Manufactured Expressely for California" in gold is absolutely authentic. It is very tarnished and faded but very clear and all readable. The gilt finish is still there although darkened. Condition: shows its age and some wear, only some very minor chipping on extreme edges; will clean better. Internally, the brass crossarm and both round brass weighing pans are still intact. Still intact on each pan are their three miniature brass chains which affix them to the crossarm above. The case inside has a small hinged lid compartment and although the miniature weights are not intact, there still is with it, a series of small, round brass weights that are fitted one inside the other as shown in photo. (Crossarm and pans are in exc+ condition; normal aging and tarnishing but not dented or abused)…..$975.

(Q139) - Against his better judgment, the Colonel of the 8’th Maine Infantry Reg’t promotes a man to corporal because his father asked him to do it!  Hurriedly penned four page letter by Col. Wm. McArthur to his father from Hilton Head, S.C. June 28, 1863. He writes:  “Burnell arrived here last week [after visit to you in Maine while on furlough].  I have appointed him corporal;…He is a faithful fellow but not prompt [which] is the reason I never made the appointment before.  Allowing him to go home on furlough [was] a tribute to his faithfulness, but as you requested it, I have appointed him corporal against my own judgment.  It’s only time I have ever done such a thing, but in this way our Army is officered and promotions made and this has lengthened the war a year.  I would not have him or anyone know that I would make an appointment at the request of anyone. …[Although the newspapers say] that no operations are to be begun this summer, it isn’t so. Gen’l Gillmore doesn’t set out by bragging what will be accomplished.  I believe he will take Charleston by siege this summer.  I visited the rebel ram ‘ATLANTA’ the other day.  One of our Monitors could sink fleets of such craft although the Confederates put great expectations on her.”  Writes that he’s worried about his young son failing in school and even dreamed about it.  Although signed only “William,” the father docketed the letter on reverse with date he received it and the date that he answered it and with his son, the Colonel’s, full name. Thus, promotions not always based on a soldiers abilities as witnessed by this inside admission! Exc.+...$145.

 

(Q138) - Was he unhappy with Army chow? printed poster issued by the “Adj. General of the Army / Washington, D.C.”  9 x 12; blank reverse.  Bold, multi-style typefaces:  “$50 REWARD FOR ARREST AND DELIVERY OF MARPLE ALLEN…Co. A First [U.S.] Infantry…deserted at Vancouver Barracks, Wash. October 9, 1911” with photo “mug shots” of him;  full face and profile.  He had re-enlisted just four months earlier, but obviously was not too happy the second time.  Other details of his background, description (a Canadian citizen) also stated with a $50 REWARD “…payable for his apprehension and delivery to military authorities anytime within five years…to the nearest Army post.”  Normal light aging; exc. + condition.  Few minor short tears on blank margins only not necessitating repairs or affecting wording.  Dated Oct. 13, 1911 (just four days after he deserted)….$94.50

(Q2001) - CIVIL WAR BROADSIDE advertising a unique "ORIGINAL PATENT CAMP OR TRAVELING BED-TRUNK" many of which were sold to officers and are often seen advertised in Civil War periodicals. 5 x 7 1/2". Fancy bold multi-style typeface "TO THE ARMY AND TRAVELING PUBLIC GENERALLY!' The manufacturer seeks attention of all possible users "...especially officers in the Army, pioneers in their exploring expeditions, persons who attend Religious Camp Meetings or are constructing railroads or putting up telegraph wires.... [this trunk] the most convenient and useful article of modern invention... a most admirable contrivance... impossible to imagine anything more simple and convenient... serves all purposes of a traveling trunk  and bed... can be coverted in less than a minute... call and see ANDREWS ORIGINAL PATENT CAMP OR TRAVELING BED-TRUNK...MFR. W.A. ANDREWS... PHILADELPHIA."(with other agents names listed). Issued by Andrews / Phila. The blank margins only have been trimmed close and mounted on heavier paper for preservation. Light aging. Generally exc. Just one small worn (or waterstained) spot had obsured three letters in the word "Traveling" in headline and now neatly filled-in. A unique piece of equipment, positively purchased and carried by many officers during the Civil War...$195.

(Q172) - A unique gift to Abraham Lincoln as well as a unique photograph by Mathew Brady.  Original 1864 dated carte-de-visite photograph on original cabinet card 2 ½ x 4 depicting an exceptionally fancy, and certainly unique, chair entirely made of the antlers of elks (all of which was shot by a famous western hunter) the chair is shown sitting on top of a typical fancy Victorian marble top table.  Printed on bottom of card  “ELKHORN CHAIR…Presented to President Lincoln Nov. 26, 1864 by Seth Kinman, the California Hunter and Trapper.”  With copyright date also 1864 below that and at bottom of card in gilt lettering “BRADY-WASHINGTON.”  Reverse of card has fancy, lengthy imprint “BRADY’S NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT GALLERIES…WASHINGTON AND NEW YORK” (etc.). Normal aging and few spots in the blank areas only, but not obscuring any of the photograph.  Few tiny nicks only at extreme corners of card……$175.

(Q168) - “LIBERTY…EQUALITY…FRATERNITY” are the dual headlines of this 1795 dated French Revolution era two language (French…German) broadside. Intended for posting in a public place.  13 x 15 ½; blank on reverse.  Sympathizes with the sorrow suffered by the citizens living in war zones; Discusses “…the absence of a great number of capitalists and rich freeholders who absconded with their money.”  Reduces the imposed contributions that were levied; offers proof of justice for citizens of moderate character by the new government; payment-in-kind may be made for taxes.  Typical 18’th century paper and aging; exc. +.  One small piece out of the blank margin only (upper right corner) otherwise exc.  (The actual dating printed on it is “Third Year of the Republic” (at top) which is same as 1795) and regards the petition of the central administration of the country between Meuse and Rhine rivers (accompanied with a partial translation with more details).  Historic.  Modestly valued at…..$135.

(Q170) - ALL OF FRANCE IN AN UPROAR…AND STARTING TO COOL DOWN!  Nothing better indicates the tempo of the times then this Franco-Prussian war era c. 1870-1871  large 16 x 22 poster (blank on reverse) with huge  headlines (in French):  “TELEGRAPHIC DISPATCHES…REPUBLIC OF FRANCE.”  Although without the year date, it does bear next to each of the listings of the 12 cities and / or provinces of France a date between 2 and 5 of December (and even the hour of the dispatch) that they are reporting on this poster.  With listing of each it describes the conditions in that city / province at the time such as:  “City at rest, everything calmed…there has been no order but no trouble [either]…tranquility continues to reign…some municipal officers protest, but the presence of police quells it” (etc. etc.).  Very showy; minor damp staining at edges; slight tear and few margin chips, but highly displayable.  Superbly illustrates the emotions of French citizenry at that unsettled era.  (All French text, but easily translatable.) French printer’s signature at bottom…$135.

 

(Q171) - “$100 U.S. BOUNTY!! NOW DUE MANY SOLDIERS” are the very bold headlines on this original c. 1870’s broadside issued by a Boston bounty claim agent seeking to help Civil War veterans claim monies due to them for earlier war service.  On bright, colorful, light red paper 6 x 8 (blank reverse).  Bold typeface advises soldiers who had been discharged for injuries “…or damage from violence such as rupture, frostbite, sunstroke” who did not receive their bounty that they were now entitled to $100 from the government…and, “…I believe there are many soldiers scattered over the U.S. who come under this provision.  If you do, please let me hear from you.”  Exc. +.  Notation also at the top margin “PLEASE READ THIS TO YOUR POST.”  Exc. +.  Authentic……$84.50

(Q81) - RESTORING THE KING TO THE THRONE OF FRANCE JUST ONE MONTH AFTER NAPOLEON’S DEFEAT AT WATERLOO.  Rare large “JULY 27, 1815” dated poster / broadside (actually intended for posting in a public place) 17 x 21 with bold, one inch high headlines (in French) “PREFECTURE OF DEPT. OF L’OISE…OFFICIAL NOTICE…EXTRACT OF OFFICIAL GAZETTE OF 26 JULY, 1815, PARIS”; printed signatures of Metternich and three other French notables in which they assure that notable French statesman “TALLEYRAND” of their high “consideration” of him! Sets forth the aims of the new administration to restore the King and the fact that the Allied Armies are then occupying France & the authority that those occupying Armies might assert and establish…and how those occupiers were to be treated by the French publics.  The state of affairs in France at that unique moment is readily characterized and reflected in this historic poster.  Metternich ends his “official notice” with “…Ministers of the King have sincere desire to contribute to re-establishing the Royal authority…they have the honor to assure Prince Talleyrand of their high regard.” The lower quarter of poster directed to the citizens of L’Oise advising of the authority &  treatment of the occupying Ally troops at that time. Few small tears (all easily repairable) on the folds; very minor damp staining in areas (light). Wide margins; blank reverse. It was only three days later on July 30, 1815 that the British government announced that Napoleon was not going back to Elba & would not be allowed to sail for America (as he had intended to do). Britain announced that day that the Island of St. Helena was chosen for his banishment...  to which he set sail within a few days later.  A rare & most historic…and significant Napoleonic war artifact. Signature at bottom of official French government imprint at that time…$395.

(Q156) - PROCLAIMING GENERAL GRANT THEIR CHOICE FOR PRESIDENT!” “1867” dated presidential campaign poster.  15 x 20 (blank reverse).  Bold headlines:  “TRUE REPUBLICAN DOCTRINE…READ, REFLECT, CIRCULATE AND POST.”  Pub. Concord, New Hampshire.  Republicans of that state announce that Grant is their first choice for next President of U.S.  Wide three column print announcing that “Lincoln’s policies are to be continued.”  Broadside virulently anti-President Johnson who had just finished impeachment hearings “…after breathing threatenings and slaughter against Southern people, declaring a policy of hanging, confiscation and negro suffrage which alarmed even the most radical Republicans.”  Includes “GEN’L GRANT’S LETTERS” (headline) to Andrew Johnson protesting Johnson’s removal of Gen’l Sheridan and others:  “with a presidential campaign before us…under the lead of Grant if we do our duty the last hope of treason will be crushed…as the Army’s under his command sent their bullet straight to the heart of treason.”  Light aging; few tiny tears on folds all minor.  Fine.  Important political Americana….$395.
 

(Q117) - COLORFULLY WORDED CIVIL WAR POLITICAL POSTER FOR THE 1864 CAMPAIGN COMPARING THE ARCH-TRAITOR BENEDICT ARNOLD TO HORATIO SEYMOUR, THE MAN THE DEMOCRATS TRIED TO RUN AS PRESIDENT AGAINST LINCOLN BUT INSTEAD HE BECAME A CANDIDATE AGAIN FOR GOVERNOR OF NEW YORK.  Fancy printed broadside intended to be publicly posted.  10 x 13 (blank on reverse) very bold headlines “BENEDICT ARNOLD & HORATIO SEYMOUR!...THEIR IDENTITY OF VIEWS.  WHO IS TO BE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES?”  Much of the material obviously taken (and mentioned) from the “N.Y. Times of Sept.19, 1864” newspaper.  Commences by printing a 1780 letter of Arnold’s, who, at the time had fled to Britain and was addressing his former American countrymen on why they should settle the Rev. War quickly.  Center section of broadside compares words of Arnold with those of Seymour; bottom text castigates Seymour and further compares him 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 of offence.  No matter what the conduct of the government…spite will assail it…political leaders [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 who draw heavily on fallacies of 1780 [should] understand that the sequel to this is endless disgrace.”  Seymour at this time (1864) was presiding at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago; although nominated he refused to accept and ran immediately after for re-election as governor of New York (he lost!). Printed signature on bottom margin “Published & sold by D. S. Holmes, Brooklyn.” Lightest normal aging; very fine exc. + condition.  Completely original and rare Civil War and political Americana…$750.

(Q123) - HE ASSASSINATED PRESIDENT GARFIELD! Original boldly penned, short single sheet  letter (4 ½ x 7) entirely in hand of & fully signed by the egocentric murderer CHARLES GUITEAU written from jail just two weeks after being found guilty for the murder of the President and awaiting his execution by hanging only a few months later. Addressed to one of the most popular American periodicals of the era, sending them his photograph and permission to use it! Letter reads:  “FRANK LESLIE’S NEWSPAPER.  SHOULD YOU DESIRE TO USE THIS PHOTOGRAPH WHICH IS THE BEST EVER TAKEN OF ME YOU CAN DO SO…YOURS TRULY…CHARLES GUITEAU…U.S. JAIL, WASHINGTON, D.C. FEB. 15, 1882.”  Exc+ Normal aging. Accompanied with original envelope (not stamped), but fully addressed in his hand “Frank Leslie’s / New York” (photograph not with it). An absolutely unique look inside the weird & outlandish mind of the assassin of that popular American president. Extremely rare & absolutely 100% authentic…$1,250.

(Q204) - CIRCA 1790-1810 ENGLISH FOUNDRY FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BRONZE WORKS OF ART.  Elegantly printed, unique 6 x 9 broadside (blank on reverse) advertising the “Edward Thomason’s Manufactory of Birmingham.”  Fancy printed script style message:  “This manufactory embraces greater variety of finer class articles than any other…skilled [workman] modeling, casting, sculpturing, chasing, engraving works of art in gold, silver, plated, brass and bronzery [sic] from the greatest magnitude to the smallest size…also metallic figures, busts, vases, architectural ornaments” [etc.].  Notices caution that visitors to factories are not to “tip” or bribe workman (but put donations in a box provided) “…for the relief of the sick and impaired workman” (etc.).  Some minor tattering along outer edges of blank margins; light aging and very minor spotting, but exc.  Rare…$135.

(Q211) - A little known or recorded piece of U.S. Army history.  “HISTORY OF SECTION 625 U.S. ARMY AMBULANCE SERVICE WITH THE FRENCH ARMY.”  Published by Walters Print Co. 1919; 46 pages on quality, coated paper stock.  Outfit started out as full volunteer unit of Americans in France in 1914 who drove their own personal automobiles onto the battlefield to remove the wounded; taken over as war progressed by the American Field Service and in 1917 taken into U.S. Army Service and then fully manned by enlisted soldiers and officers…its service still remaining with the French Army. The paperboard covers only are loose, but intact.  Exc…$32.50

(Q161) - SPIES TO BE ARRESTED AND SHOT…BY OFFICIAL ARMY ORDER DURING CIVIL WAR!  Original “General Order No. 12” issued from “HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL MISSOURI / JEFFERSON CITY APRIL 11, 1862” (titled at top first page).  Two page printed order (5 ½ x 8 ½):  “…all persons found in disguise as pretended loyal citizens or other false pretenses within our lines giving information to the enemy will be arrested, TRIED, CONDEMNED & SHOT AS SPIES…no distinction of sex; all liable to the same penalty…persons in service of the so-called Confederate States who commit acts of hostility will NOT be treated as prisoners of war, but will be punished as criminals…if guilty of murder, robbery, pillaging WILL EITHER BE SHOT OR LESS SEVERELY PUNISHED.”  Other sections describe “…when marauders, guerrillas, murderers, robbers, pillages, thieves are taken alive with arms in their hands actively engaged in opposition to the laws, such outlaws must be held as prisoners in close confinement…” and much more about such violations.  Some very light damp staining, mostly on margins in corners.  Pages 3 and 4 of the folder blank.  Two small docket holes on left blank margin.  Issued in a state where much guerrilla activity was taking place and creating havoc.  Rare subject and leaflet……$150.

(Q69) - “THE ELECTION OF LINCOLN AND JOHNSON IS THE DEATH KNELL OF THE REBELLION” is the urgent appeal to the American public at the bottom of this scarce broadside issued in 1864 for Lincoln’s second presidential campaign.  Original single sheet broadside 10 x 12 (blank reverse) “Published by the National Union Committee, New York.”  Very bold headlines at top:  “THE TWO ROADS TO PEACE…HOW SHALL WE END THE REBELLION…SHALL WE COAX IT OR CRUSH IT?”  Two wide columns of text fill the upper two thirds strongly worded in support of “THE BALTIMORE PLATFORM” of the Republican party urging strong support for Lincoln campaign and the “FORCE OF ARMS” versus the “CHICAGO PLATFORM” of the Democratic party; appropriate details and verbiage for each!  The lower third (one very wide column) mostly an itemized listing of what’s wrong with the “Chicago platform” of the Democratic party regardless of the fact that it ends with appeal to the citizens that “…this is not a party contest.  Political distinctions have nothing to do with it.  It is a contest for the life of the nation!  If we surrender to the rebellion the union is gone forever.  If we fight the rebels a little longer it is safe forever.”  Ending with that appeal for the necessity to elect Lincoln and Johnson.  Wording quite colorful and superbly reflects the passions of America during that heated campaign year.  Narrow damp stain across center, but not obscuring any wording; light aging.  Authentic Civil War political and Americana and Lincolnia.  Rare…..$750.

(Q205) - “TO’NIGHT!  SOLDIERS BENEFIT” in bold headlines on this bright yellow 5 x 10 broadside (blank on reverse) advertising the social affair held May 22, 1884 at the Town Hall in Marlboro, New Hampshire “To Aid in the expense of Memorial day…Entertainment will consist of Recitations, War Songs play…Followed by a Grand Promenade.  COME ONE, COME ALL AND AID THE SOLDIERS.”  Exc. + condition….$47.50


 

(Q132) - HE FOUGHT BESIDE HIS FATHER, THE FIREBRAND ABOLITIONIST “OLD JOHN BROWN OF OSAWATOMIE” IN THE HEAVILY CONTESTED TERRITORY OF “BLEEDING KANSAS” IN THE 1850’S…AND WAS HIS RIGHT-HAND MAN… JOHN BROWN, Jr… He remained in Kansas when his father went east (and was ultimately captured and imprisoned for his raid at Harpers Ferry arsenal).  At the outbreak of the Civil War, John Brown, Jr. accepted a commission in the First Kansas Cavalry Brigade. OFFERED HERE are two items directly related to John Brown, Jr.’s service in that Kansas Regiment:  (1) PRESENTATION INSCRIBED, classic example of a “Farrier’s (horseman’s) folding knife; the exact type carried by almost every cavalryman during the war; with multi-blades made for specific use with cavalry gear and special blade for removing stones and other objects that may have been caught in horseshoes.  4 inches when folded; with largest blade opened, 7 inches overall.  Includes, folding, single edged 3 inch knife blade; a 3 inch (thicker) saw blade; smaller penknife blade (which was broken).  Reverse side of handle has large iron, folding stone-hook and smaller corkscrew and pick devices…and two small, removable tools inset at top of the handle.  All showing normal wear and aging.  Stag grips have acquired a nice deep mellow patina.  Blades bear markings “L. P. Rhodes Celebrated” (likely an agent or dealer for well-known Sheffield firm that made the knife).  Professionally engraved on the outer side of the wide, flat surface of the iron stone hook, three lines “CAPT. JOHN BROWN, JR. / 1’ST KANSAS BRIGADE / 1861.”  Engraved on the small matching iron plaque on the stag handle “PRESENTED BY G. W. LOOMIS.”  (Note: the inscription is absolutely authentic and fully guaranteed as such.)  This exact knife is illustrated (along with other historical John Brown artifacts) in book “THE BOWIE KNIFE; UNSHEATHING AN AMERICAN LEGEND,” page 111.  (2) HISTORIC LETTER entirely penned in the neat, easily read hand and fully signed by “JOHN BROWN, Jr.” written to GERRIT SMITH of Peterboro, New York, the man who played the major role in supporting John Brown (Sr.) and raising the funds for the Abolitionist movement in Kansas.  Dated December 15, 1861; written from Grand Rapids, Michigan and thanking Smith for $60 sent “…extra to help meet the expense I have been put to in raising my Company…you know how much toil and difficulty I have had since I began to raise [it]…I knew you would understand my silence…I feel deepest gratitude for your continued friendship.  My Company constitutes part of Col. Jennison’s Reg’t of Kansas Brigade…[have] 70 men already mustered in service besides the recruits I got and am still getting in this State.” [Brown had obviously gone back to the state with which he was familiar to raise those new recruits in Michigan]. His letter continues: “…the Proclamations of various State Governors forbidding the enlisting of citizens into Regiments not raised in the states to which they belong [presents] great difficulty.  Greatest of all is the fact that none but anti-slavery men and these, too, of fighting class of anti-slavery men would enlist with me.  The proportion of these to the whole class of anti-slavery men is small…the greater portion are the talking sort, who in the present ‘impending crisis’ finding their occupations gone, instinctively take themselves to mangers and growl…Filling my company is slow and very disheartening.  In spite of all these [there is] much to encourage.  I have a company of men worthy to stand before kings and not before mean men…a company worth more than a Regiment of ordinary men in doing work for the war…Now have a number of likely men as recruits.  Tomorrow I go again on foot…north into the pine country among hunters and lumbermen…I intend to visit a large settlement of Indians where I am told there are many who would be glad to enlist, but the kid-gloves, thin-skinned recruiting officers of the Army would give them no chance…There are some fine men in Canada whom I hope to get.  Mustering officers of the Kansas Brigade do not stop to count every drop of Indian or African blood a recruit may possess when he offers to put his life in jeopardy in support of the gov’t in its hour of trial…this letter is a token of my appreciation my dear friend in evidence that I do not forget you nor anyone of your family…must not rest until my work is done…will write often.” Light normal aging; docketed with a personal note on the reverse by Gerrit Smith.  The two items…among the most significant John Brown “Bleeding Kansas” to be publicly offered for sale. Would be pleased to supply details to purchaser of how this exact knife was personally acquired over 50 years ago!......$8,900.

(Q208) - Just one year (almost to the day) before Fort Sumter and the outbreak beginning of the Civil War.  An official U.S. gov’t imprint April 2, 1860 of “REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR [by] COL. B. S. ROBERTS RELATING TO A REORGANIZATION OF THE MILITIA OF THE U.S.” made to War Dept. and presented to the U.S. Senate.  13 pages; pamphlet (6 x 9) outlining the urgent necessity for revised militia laws and reorganization of all the states. Includes interesting background and fact that then-current laws “dated back to the last century.”  Warns of dangers inherent if laws were not changed!  Light aging, but exc…$39.50
 

(Q209) - “DISCONTINUANCE OF ENLISTMENTS FOR COLORED CAVALRY IN THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS.”  Headline on single sheet (5 ½ x 9); typed announcement: “WAR DEPT. / WASHINGTON MAY 23, 1919…CIRCULAR No. 271.” Short single paragraph advising: “Enlistments of colored men for cavalry will be discontinued at once.  Qualified applicants already accepted at recruiting stations may be enlisted…by order of Sec’y of War; Peyton C. March, Gen’l, Chief of Staff.  Lightest aging; exc.  (2 small docketing holes blank margin.)…$34.50


 

(Q210) - Bursting with patriotism and inspiring loyalty.  1863 dated, 16 page pamphlet with graphic title “A SAVOURY DISH FOR LOYAL MEN” with woodcut illus of seated female “Liberty” draped in flag with “UNION” shield. Labeled at bottom “PRINTED FOR GRATUITOUS DISTRIBUTION / PHILADELPHIA 1863.” First page offers a “CAUTIONARY NOTE:…a true patriot who prefers liberty to bondage [etc. etc.]”…will relish and grow strong from what is served up to him on this dish [i.e. the text in this pamphlet]…to those suffering under the rabid influence of disloyalty or from the venomous bite of the copperhead, such fair is too rich [and will] disagree with their stomachs.”  Text is filled with patriotic letters from Union Generals, the Gov of Delaware; a Sgt. in the 149’th Penn. Vols and others.  Very stirring.  Title page loose; light aging, but exc.  Itsuperbly imparts the tenor of the times!....$97.50

(Q152) - “U.S. ARMY CAPTAIN CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY OF RUNAWAY BLACK CHILDREN.”  Neatly penned two page letter from Capt. A. Nickels of “25’th U.S. Colored Troops / Supt. of Freedmen, Refugees & Abandoned Lands / West Florida” from his FLORIDA hdqtrs. to the Captain “Commanding the Port of Milton, Florida” (near St. Petersburg).  Letter opens:  “The two children apprenticed to Mr. Quigley by the Agent of the Freedmen’s Bureau ran away…yesterday…they do not want to stay [with him] and I do not think he is a proper person to apprentice such children…[he] does not treat them kindly and is a man who is opposed to the education of the colored race…the duty of apprenticing colored children devolves upon me.”  He names two colored people to whom he will apprentice those two children and their qualifications and specifies “…that Quigley does not interfere with the boys in any way.”  Minor aging. Exc.  Letter countersigned by the commanding officer:  “I hereby approve the above arrangement.” Exc…$125.

(Q128) - In defense of establishing a colony in Africa of former American slaves!  …and not recommending abolition of slavery in America, allowing it to continue to exist.  Scarce 1833 dated and published 24 page pamphlet (5 ½ x 8 ½):  “REVIEW OF PAMPHLETS ON SLAVERY AND COLONIZATION” published and sold by Maltby, New Haven / printed by Baldwin & Ellis 1833 (also mentions that this was “first published in the quarterly Christian Spectator March, 1832”…and it is the “second separate edition”).  Makes fascinating reading.  Strong support about the American Colonization Society then just getting off the ground; much about the abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison.  Light aging.  Few tiny brown spots.  Few pages loose.  Lacks covers, but believe it was probably issued this way.  Very small piece out in the upper blank corner margin of title page.  Contains very strong wording and support of the Society’s goals......$54.50

(Q129) - “FREE COLORED SEAMEN…MAJORITY AND MINORITY REPORTS JAN. 20, 1843.”  Report of Commerce of U.S. House of Reps to President.  58 page pamphlet (6 x 9).  Investigation into “…the ports of Charleston, Savannah, Mobile and New Orleans where it is frequently necessary to employ free persons of color…it frequently happens that such crews are taken from vessels, thrown into prison and detained at their own expense [and necessary to grant them relief]”…and much more about such dire happenings.  Exc.  Just the front and back pages some light browning and few minor spots.  Lacks covers.  Normal aging…$54.50
 

(Q140) -  “…SHOOT THEM ON THE SPOT” were the immortal words of JOHN A. DIX, who as Sec’y of the Treasury under President Buchanan fired off his famous telegram to the U.S. Treasury Dept. Official in New Orleans at the very first appearance of hostilities at the opening of the Civil War:  “If anyone attempts to haul down the American flag, shoot him on the spot.”  Undoubtedly among the most famous utterances of the Civil War.  Soon after appointed major general by Abraham Lincoln in 1861, he outranked all other volunteer officers until the end of the war.”  Here’s a wonderful, single page, boldly and beautifully penned letter entirely in his hand with fine autograph signature from New York March 4, 1864.  To Mrs. Ames Binney, Chairwoman of the Committee for the Special Maryland State Fair held to benefit the U.S. Sanitary and Christian Commission to aid Union soldiers.  One page (7 ½ x 9 ½).  Dix states his pleasure helping her:  “…beg you to believe it would gratify me to contribute in any manner to the success of the effort of the Union Ladies of Baltimore…to relieve our suffering soldiers…of the hardships they are encountering to indicate the authority of the Government to uphold the honor of the Country.  Much as we all desire Peace, no one can hope for an adjustment of our difficulties through a compromise with the authors of the Rebellion…When they are expelled from the country I am confident there will be no obstacle to an honorable settlement with the Southern mothers whom they have deceived and betrayed.”  Exc. +; just lightest normal aging.  Dix had served at age 15 in the War of 1812 at the Battle of Lundy’s Lane; held many important later political posts and was senator for New York in 1845.  Superb example of his writing and his patriotism…..$295.

(Q65) - HISTORIC FRENCH BOLD PRINTED BROADSIDE ISSUED THE VERY DAY NAPOLEON SAID HIS FINAL FAREWELL TO HIS “OLD GUARD” GATHERED IN THE COURTYARD OF HIS HOME (AFTER UNSUCCESSFULLY TRYING TO POISON HIMSELF) and just one week after he had officially abdicated.   He started that very next morning for his banishment to the Isle of Elba.  Very large printed headlines (in French) “MINISTERE DE LA GUERRE…PROCLAMATION…Paris 20 Avril, 1814.”  Single sheet (8 x 12) both sides.  Large typeface; French text; boldly addressed to the “SOLDIERS” of France.  Proclaims joy for the restoration of the monarchy:  “…after this spectacular, joyous Revolution you participated in [we] bless the return of the legitimate dynasty which alone can bring peace and happiness…the King’s brother is touched by your devotion…the faith of each soldier is the concern of the Gov’t…honor your flag…you will be returning the love of a Prince whose presence has taken France from a state of oppression and humiliation into prosperous order.”  The ruling Bourbons returned for only a very short period until Napoleon soon escaped from Elba and reformed his Army (only to again lose it a year later in 1815 at the battle of Waterloo).  Printed signature of “GENERAL COMTE DUPONT” who had earlier served under Napoleon and was disgraced by his earlier surrender to the Spanish in 1808.  Dupont returned as Minister of War and later fled when Napoleon returned.  Exc. +.  Absolutely 100% genuine. Historic…$350.

(Q164) - RARE AND UNUSUAL SUBJECT EARLY MILITARY MANUAL DATED 1801:  “REGULATION RESPECTING DESERTERS:  [and their] APPREHENSION, INSPECTION, ESCORT AND INCIDENTAL EXPENCES” issued by British War Office Sept., 1801; London by the official Gov’t Printer.  23 pages (4 ½ x 7).  All bold print size; detail of actions to be taken; how to send to prison; transport and “…undergo strict medical examine for fitness…how expenses to be allocated for various actions on behalf of the prisoner and as military escort to jail and other places of confinement…” (also about hiring horses and carriages) directs military escorts on the way to prison “…to endeavor to march in such a manner as to lie in towns or villages having public places of confinement…as they must be responsible for the security of the deserters.” Other interesting material and details. Paper covers.  Shows lightest aging; exc+…$89.50

(Q167) - TOUGH TIMES FOR EMPLOYEES OF U.S. NAVY DEPARTMENT; 33 YEARS WITHOUT A RAISE!  Bold printed broadside with fancy headlines:  “Navy Yard 1868…to Gideon Welles, Sec’y of the Navy.”  8 ½ x 14 (blank reverse).  Openly complains that their pay is and has been the same since 1835…while every other pay grade increased but theirs; while their duties increased “…pay is less than the lowest of any steerage officer.”  Light aging; centerfold torn through, but very easily repaired (nothing lacking).  Sure were tough times for those Navy clerks……$59.50

 

(Q119) - “CADOGAN” bold original penned autograph of this famous English Lieut. General who at the time of this 1722 dated document was then “Commander-in-Chief and Master-General of the Ordnance” of Great Britain.  An antagonist to the Duke of Marlborough, Cadogan, the big burley Irishman, the bigsaw much important combat against the Spanish and French and rates an extensive biography in all British military histories.  Original 1722 British Ordnance Department Contract employing a “Labourer in Ordinary” for one year.  9 x 14; fancy impressed Royal Arms / Ord. Dept. seal (blank on reverse).  Superbly penned in a flowery hand.  Also signature of “Semett / “Master Gen’l of Ordnance.”  Some minor light brown spotting and normal aging; very minor tears on blank folds only; a bit dusty, but easily cleaned.  William Cadogan (1675-1726) was also appointed the first Earl Cadogan……$135.

(Q126) - THE U.S. ARMY SEEKING TO BUY CAVALRY PACK HORSES AND MULES DURING THE CIVIL WAR. Original 1862 dated, very bold printed 8 x 11 poster (blank on reverse). Huge, 2 inch headlines: “WANTED!...HORSES AND MULES FOR THE UNITED STATES SERVICE…any person having horses or mules to sell will find a market by calling at J. H. Aurentz & Company.” Also bears bold printed “1862” date (leaving space to be filled in by hand) for the day and month. Just normal light aging; few tiny nicks at edges of outer margins. Condition is exc. and better. Slightest damp stain barely visible in corner. Guaranteed completely authentic. Rare… $495.



 

(Q64) - Superintendent of WELLS FARGO COMPANY gives advice for success in life!  Single sheet, entirely hand penned (neat) 8 x 10 letter on fancy printed letterhead:  “WELLS FARGO & CO. / San Francisco, Dec. 1, 1887.” Entirely in the hand of and fully signed by the famous “John J. Valentine, Gen. Supt.”  (It is his name that appears on almost all the famous Wells Fargo “REWARD” posters.)  Marked “Personal;” written to a man he has just given the job of Route Agent, Eugene Shelby:  “…a word of advice.  Continue to be industrious, watchful and polite and tempered.  Don’t attempt to be a ‘good fellow’ or ‘hail fellow well-met.’  That wrecks and degrades many men…attend your business soberly, seriously but amiably.”  Light aging; few minor chips on blank margins; exc.  Accompanied by an original business card of Shelby as “Supt. W. F. & Co.”  Superb content fine Western Americana…..$495.

(Q125) - THIS UNION OFFICER WANTED TO HUSH UP THE FACT THAT THE OTHER MAINE REGIMENT HAD TURNED TAIL AND RAN DURING THE BATTLE! Lengthy penned 4 page letter from Capt. Wm. MacArthur, 8’th Maine Infantry July 12, 1863 from “Office of Provost Marshal, Hilton Head, SC” to his father:  “…yesterday [the 9’th Maine Inf’y] landed on Morris Island and there taking the batteries at Fort Wagner in an attack on which we were checked.  The 9’th did not behave well but broke and ran…don’t say anything about it, but see what is in the papers.  I know that my regiment would not have done so. Gen. Gillmore does not permit the mails to go but I may get this through some way.” He writes of new appointment “…by Gen’l Terry who made me Judge Advocate…a more laborious position than Colonel of a regiment …should be satisfied but we are kept back from the attack on Charleston now going on.”  Interesting to note that the history of the 9’th Maine (published 1865) makes no mention of that outfit breaking & running but rather, paints a very heroic picture of them at Morris Island, although it does say:  “The regiment never had the credit due it in the capture of Morris Island” & more. Letter also mentions the three prisons & various P.O.W.’s under sentence or awaiting trial & his responsibilities over sutlers & tradesmen. He concludes:  “Our Colonel’s trial is over. Don’t know the decision…sure in my own mind that he is to be dismissed from service.  He ought to be and I have worked very hard for it.” He speculates on officers to be trusted. Although signing only with first name “William,” his father had docketed the letter on reverse with full name and the date received as well as its source.  Exc…$150.
 

(Q116) - EARLY NEW HAMPSHIRE MILITIA COMMISSIONS.  Collection of five fancy printed, ink completed commissions dated 1837-1845 appointing Michael P. Merrill through various ranks from Captain to Brig. Gen’l in New Hampshire Militia.  Each 7 ½ x 12.  Each with fancy paper seals affixed.  Normal aging; all about exc. and very showy.  PLUS two earlier N. H. appointments for same fellow in 1825 and 1836 as a “Sergeant” in N. H. Militia (each 7 ½ x 12) PLUS fancy printed and ink completed oath of office by the same fellow when made “Captain, 4’th Regiment” in N. H. Militia…PLUS beautifully penned, lengthy 6 page document penned in a neat, easily read hand by Merrill, being his circa 1845 speech to his “FELLOW SOLDIERS” seeking their assistance to have the people of N. H. vote against the new militia bill then submitted to the State legislature.  Makes fascinating… (very patriotic) reading…PLUS 2 large 11 x 17 printed and ink completed, fancy commissions from the state of Mass. appointing him “Justice of the Peace;” 1870 dated.  Both exc. + (The earlier documents normal aging, but all vg+ and exc.).  PLUS 2 original handwritten multi page “Last Will and Testaments” of the Merrill brothers…$350.

(Q121) - HIGHLY UNUSUAL (if not unique) CIVIL WAR MINIATURE TINTYPE PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT OF UNION SOLDIER.  Possibly the very smallest of official studio portraits ever made.  Only ½ inch by 1 inch in size inset in its original specially made carte-de-visite type paperboard folder (2 ½ x 4) with original fancy printed label on reverse:  “NEW FERROTYPE / CARTE-DE-VISITE GALLERY…D. H. COLE PROPRIETOR” (including the details of how this portrait is “…finished in 15 minutes from time of sitting and taken in cloudy as well as fair weather” with the “Penn’a Avenue” address (apparently Washington, D.C.).  Portrait is of a bearded young Union soldier’s head and shoulders.  Original penned inscription by the fellow himself on reverse.  Normal aging, but exc.  “Serg’t Peter Miller / Co ‘C’ 9’th N.Y. Heavy Art’y” and below that a large inscription in his own hand “VICTORY … CAYUGA CO / N.Y.”  Normal aging; exc. +.  Intriguing photograph; the label especially interesting…$175.

(Q62) - Taken in the Dakota Territory circa 1870’s-1880’s.  Original 4 x 7 photograph of a large group of 19 farmhands.  Depicted seated and standing; all in rough clothing; one holding a horse; large early steam vehicle behind them.  Original photographer’s cabinet card with fancy printed label  “J. R. HAMLIN, PHOTOGRAPHER … CASSELTON, DAKOTA.”  Fine, sharp image; just some normal sepia toning, very minor fading….$49.50

(Q59) - “OUTLAWS INFESTING THE DISTRICT ARE TO BE EXTERMINATED…PUNISHED ON THE SPOT…NO MERCY SHOWN” are the orders on this original April 22, 1862 dated broadsheet issued from “Hdqtrs…District of Central Missouri / Jefferson City / by Order of General Todent, Cmdg.” (General Order No. 17).  Extremely rare subject matter and wordage.  Two pages (5 ½ x 8 ½).  A no holds barred military order.  The opening lines:  “…With feelings of unfeigned horror at the hellish crimes…and profound loathing and disgust for the fiendish outlaws…the General calls attention of U.S. Troops and Missouri Militia [for] increased vigilance that terrible outrages be put to an end and outlaws infesting the districts be exterminated.”  Much more stated in that same vein with almost every line a quotable statement:  “…the country infested with murderers, robbers, outlaws…these wretches disguised in the uniform of our Army…these bloodthirsty beasts in human form must be dealt with…the cries of mercy of innocent victims in agonies of death [go] unheeded…no mercy [to be shown] to the brutal, lawless tormentors…punish on the spot when found…bands of guerrillas, jayhawkers, marauders are to be shot down when caught…exterminated at all hazards.”  Normal aging; dust stains on outer blank margins; minor short tear on blank edge of centerfold.  THIS UNIQUELY WORDED BROADSIDE WILL RATE AMONG THE MOST EXTREME U.S. ARMY GENERAL ORDERS EVER ISSUED BY THE UNION ARMY DURING THE CIVIL WAR.  A most remarkable document……$395.

(Q80) - HE WAS THE LEADER OF THE INFAMOUS “WHISKEY REBELLION” IN PENNSYLVANIA IN 1794 AND THE MAN WHO ESCAPED WITH A PRICE ON HIS HEAD!  Very rare U.S. postal marks on each of these two neatly penned, lengthy letters entirely in the hand of and fully signed “DAVID BRADFORD.”  Written from “Bayou Sarah” (then in Spanish-owned Louisiana).  Each bears the postmark “FT. ADAMS” (now known as St. Francisville, Mississippi) and the date.  It was then an obscure U.S. outpost in West Florida.  Both letters addressed to “David Redick, Attorney, Washington County, PA” who represented the rebelling farmers during the Whiskey Rebellion.  Letter of Jan. 24, 1804 is large 8 ½ x 12 size, extremely lengthy, 3 full pages with back sheet acting as cover with address and postmark.  Letter of Nov. 29, 1805, 2 ½ pages also lengthy (size 7 x 9).  As attorney, Redick was representing his friend Bradford in many personal matters regarding property, debts, business matters, etc.  Letters filled with personal, financial and other business matters.  (Accompanying each are modern typescripts making for ease in reading).  Bradford discusses prosecuting and defending various legal matters and cases, some of which undoubtedly are concerned with that earlier rebellion…and his personal affairs.  Accompanying these is considerable modern detail about Bradford’s story and his famous home (now owned by the Penna Historical Museum Commission) as a showplace in Washington, PA; also information about Bradford’s key role in leading the Whiskey Rebellion and his necessity to leave the country!  Normal aging to letters, but exc.  The rare “FT. ADAMS” postmarks although not perfectly stamped and weak (on one letter) are visible.  They are very rare philatelic collectors items as well as association items of that important historic event in Pennsylvania.  Those postmarks alone list much more than we are asking for both letters…..$575.

(T531) - Famous American author noted especially for his books on the history of the Civil War and the Revolutionary War, FRANK MOORE (1828-1904).Single page; neatly penned letter entirely in his hand with autograph signature from N.Y. Jan. 26, 1867 to “Maria.” A letter of consolation, but written on the reverse side of a broadside advertising (in multi style print with large headlines) one of his famous books “FRANK MOORE’S GREAT WORK…Anecdotes, Poetry and Incidents of the War, North and South”…beautifully illus with elegant steel portraits of Lincoln…Grant…Sherman [and other generals]. With a fine testimonial as to the worthiness of the book by the famous Horace Greely. One of the very noted, earliest of post-CW popular books. (Exc. +.) ACCOMPANIED BY two large (11 x 17) very fancy printed and ink completed documents (each different style and form) for deeds for land acquired by Frank Moore and his wife Laura. Both with fine autograph signature of the Moores’. Excellent condition.....$49.50

(T459) - THE FAMOUS CIRCLE OF CARBINES.  In the early 1960’s we acquired the original printing plate for this famous photographic image of 44 American U.S. Army issue, and experimental and trial carbines.  Through the 1960’s and early 1970’s we sold them in our catalogs.  Awhile back when clearing out the warehouse we ran across a small group of them (the printing plate long ago destroyed).  Printed on fine glossy stock; 20" x 25".  The fancy panel in center titled “BREECH-LOADING SMALLARMS FOR METALLIC CARTRIDGES.”  Faintly lettered on the outer border is the name of each of the Civil War and immediate post-CW experimental and trial pieces. The photo itself was originally used in the 1933 edition of “The Breech Loader in the Service” by Claude Fuller.  Very attractive when framed and deserving of inclusion in any U.S. Martial carbine collection.  While they last; just a few, each…………$24.50
 

(T301) - ENTERTAINMENT FOR CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS. Boldly printed original broadside "A PROMENADE CONCERT WILL BE GIVEN AT THE MASONIC HALL THURSDAY EVENING MAY 12TH FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE SOLDIERS UNION FAIR... BY THE LADIES OF THE MAY FLOWER ASSOCIATION ...there will be a table of just such delicacies as will be needed. Rolley's band has been engaged for the evening... tickets of admission 25 cents... for sale here." Likely Philadelphia. Signature "Johnson, printer 7 North Tenth Street" 6 1/2 x 8 1/2. Light aging. Lower half with damp staining but very displayable. The "U.S.O." of its day....$250.

 

(E369) - A unique grouping for pocket folding knife collectors !  All original circa 1920s material advertising by SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND'S  most famous cutler, WOSTENHOLM & COMPANY, for their newly introduced “FARMERS KNIFE.” Includes 4 pages (large 9½ x 13½) from the factory’s own office scrapbook / album on which are affixed the following:
(1) Original single page, large typed letter from the Managing Director on fancy letterhead of “Wostenholm & Son” April 30, 1927 dated, sent to their retail outlets advising they are sending under separate cover “…a knife that has been specially designed and created to meet the needs of British farmers…the direct result of consultation with farmers in different parts of the country and the practical experience gained in mfg similar knives for Canadian farmers…” with lengthy details on its manufacture, sales, prices, etc.  (2) Large 11 x 16 single sheet broadside (blank reverse) with lifesize illustration of that four blade folding knife and huge headlines “NO FARMER SHOULD BE WITHOUT ONE…WOSTENHOLM’S I-XL FARMERS KNIFE WHICH EMBODIES EVERY BLADE THE FARMER NEEDS” with details of them and list of all the “ironmongers” in England that will have the first samples available for sale (exc. +).  (3) Printed in bright red and blue single sheet broadside 10 x 15 with life size color illustration of that same “Farmers Knife” and huge “WE STOCK THE WOSTENHOLM I*XL FARMERS KNIFE…STEP INSIDE AND LET US SHOW YOU ONE OF THESE KNIVES…” with that message proclaiming the knife’s quality (exc. +.).  (4) Smaller black and white single sheet broadside 5½ x 9 (blank reverse) with large illustration of the folder and ad message by Wostenholm with details and price and “Call and Ask for Free Demonstration…note the wide range of its usefulness.”  Exc. + with a clean tear on section of one fold (easily repaired from reverse).  (5) Blue paperboard card 5 x 8 intended as a window display to bring customers in to look at the knife with a short ad message.  Accompanying it is the original large Wostenholm letter describing this exact “window display of our Farmers Knife” with an illustration of it and promotional text.  Both are in mint condition.  (6) Small 3 x 5 printed card (not pictured) intended for dealers to return to the factory asking the company to “include our name and address in your ad for the Farmers Knife” which was to be inserted in the next issue of “Scottish Farmer” magazine. (7) Printed memorandum on letterhead of Wostenholm dated May 2, 1927 advising their dealers they were glad to see their respective names used for advertisement and that copy being sent to dealers in South Africa to be aware of how they were promoting it.  These items are all glued to those four pages of the factory record album and with care can be “steamed” (or some other method) and be removed carefully.  A fabulous wealth of display material and unique to find all of it still intact !  The collection…$250.

(E1196) - ISSUED WITH THE COMPLIMENTS OF GEORGE WOSTENHOLM & SON…I*XL CUTLERY, SHEFFIELD” is the legend printed on the cover of this circa 1935 small 16 page pamphlet “THE HISTORY OF A WELL KNOWN SHEFFIELD CUTLERY HOUSE AND SOME NOTES ON THE CARE OF CUTLERY AND SCISSORS” by A. Hahn, Sheffield representative of “the Iron Monger” (famous trade newspaper of Sheffield).  3½ x 5½ .  Illustrated.  Interesting history of the company; sections on “Care of cutlery” and “Methods of keeping knives in good condition” etc.  Exc. to almost mint.  Light blue covers.  Back cover only has a small section of white blank paper affixed to it which needs to be steamed off.  Otherwise exc. +……$74.50
 

(E322) - “JOHN KRIDER GUN MAKER…SPORTSMENS DEPOT, ESTAB. 1826…Dealer in Fishing Tackle, Sporting Apparatus…Walnut St, Philadelphia” are the fancy lettered headlines on this elegant broadside by one of early America’s famed sporting goods, dealers and makers.  12 x 14; blank reverse.  Surrounded with exceptional quality, detailed vignettes of sporting scenes and delicate scroll designs.  This is a hand printed copy made specifically for us in the early 1960’s from the ORIGINAL, CIRCA 1840’S HAND ENGRAVED COPPER PLATE THAT WE HAD ACQUIRED, THAT ACTUALLY PRINTED THEM FOR KRIDER IN THE 1840’S.  We had them printed on an ancient press by a firm that specialized in making diplomas and were still printing them in the same involved process of hand inking and hand rolling each single sheet !  They were expensive to print.  We had a very limited edition made and sold them through our catalogs over 30 years ago; eventually selling the original copperplate engraving in our catalog no. 115 in 1989.  Rummaging through our warehouse we came across a very small group of these circa 1960’s printings.  THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY IDENTICAL TO THE ORIGINALS (which whenever available or offered today will fetch well over $1,000). As fine examples of the copperplate printing art it is tops; as an antique firearms and collectible item example of Americana they are equally superb.  On nice quality, heavyweight paper.  Superb for framing.  Again realize these are not mere copies, but made from the original printing plate and in the same hand-fed method on the press.  Just a very few available.  Each......$79.50

(E406) - FOR THE COLT SCHOLAR; genealogical information.  On the original Colt factory fancy letterhead; typed one page letter  June 14, 1935 to Albert Foster Jr. New York City (for 30 years he was their factory representative in New York and was also a colt collector and student).  From secretary of the company, answering Foster’s letter “…will say the name Elisha Colt…believe can be found in an old directory…am looking it up…name Peter H. Colt I cannot locate…we have the family tree of Samuel which only gives the direct line from John Colt, 1636. As this Colt family had from 5 to 11 children each, would be difficult to trace all lines…” (Blank reverse) exc.+.....$32.50

(E407) - Published within weeks of the fall of Richmond and assassination of Lincoln.  61 page pamphlet 6 x 9:  “THE CAPTURE OF RICHMOND.  SOME OF THE RESULTS OF THE WAR.  THE ASSASSINATION OF THE PRESIDENT… MEMORIAL SERMONS” by Edwin B. Webb Pastor of Shawmut Church Boston, pub Boston 1865.  First 41 pages entirely about the end of the war.  Very colorfully worded “…it means no more massacres at Fort Pillow; no more Union soldiers in Libby Prison nor starved, emaciated dying skeletons at….Andersonville…” etc. and much more.  The latter 20 pages.  About the pall that had fallen over the nation with Lincoln’s passing and describing the manner in which the dastardly deed was performed.  Exc. +.  Just light damp stain at the very top of the original paper cover and title page; minor.  Has later, modern paperboard covers to protect, but easily changed if desired.  Fine Lincolnia.…$115.

(E131) - GERMAN INVADERS THREATEN TO SHOOT FRENCH CITIZENS OF PARIS FOR ANTI-GERMAN ACTS DURING THEIR OCCUPATION. Rare, frightening, original, large 29” x 43” bright yellow poster dated “Paris 10 July 1942” printed in dual language French and German over the printed signature of the Nazi S.S. Chief Officer and Police Commissioner. Huge two inch high headlines “WARNING” advises that although “the majority of French population in the occupied zone” goes about its business peacefully “… we disapprove of the assassinations, sabotages and other violent incidents against the occupying army dreamed up by the English and Soviets. French civilians will suffer from such acts… I noted that mostly close relatives provide shelter to the perpetrators both before and after [such violent acts]. Therefore not only will we punish the criminals… but will directly punish their families… consequently I announce: (1) All direct male ancestors and descendants as well as brother-in-laws and male cousins over age eighteen will be shot… (2) Sisters, wives, and female cousins will be condemned to hard labor… (3)  All children of the above men and women… will be placed under surveillance in boarding schools… I urge you… to prevent assassinations and acts of sabotage and provide information to the French or German authorities to aid the apprehension of evil-doers.” Shows just normal aging; few brown spots, but generally excellent+ condition. Has been mounted many years ago on a hard beaverboard, preserving it and keeping it flat. Completely original; extremely rare and nothing more grim could bring home the realities of such an evil occupying army. (Overall 33” x 47”)......$1,250.

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

These two competing N.Y. papers were among the most widely read during those turbulent war years. As sole media for keeping the public informed, newspapers wielded great influence, reporting in graphic style unfolding events on the battlefield as well as political, war effort and important national news. Each issue of the TIMES and TRIBUNE is 8 pages, large 16"x20", loaded with war news, military events, political machinations, many interesting ads and much other news and local events.
All with fantastic, bold, front page headlines and sub-headlines, most often in stirring phrasing; filled with plenty of war news. To capture the very feelings of those war years there is little else that does it better than these papers… not only for the content, but for displayability and appearance as well.  All are EXCELLENT CONDITION showing just most minor aging; and on a few some most minor light brown spotting.

THE NEW YORK TIMES... 8 pages each…no 2 alike... Dates from January through early June, 1863. Excellent condition.... Our selection, promise to pick out nice ones for you. (Regret, but cannot service orders for specific dates).
Each......$25.00

A great variety of antique arms,
militaria and miscellany on its way!

www.flayderman.com

To go directly to your preferred grouping click on the headings below

1. [ ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS ]    2.  [ ANTIQUE EDGED WEAPONS]   3. [ BASEMENT GUNSMITH SPECIALS ]  
4. [YE OLDE BOOK SHOPPE]   5. [ MISCELLANEOUS ]   6. [ NOSTALGIA ]

NOSTALGIA DEPT.
Bits and pieces: a miscellany of rare, unusual, interesting or humorous collectibles from some of the 118 back issues of catalogs of nf&co issued over the years 1954-1997.

(Ah! Nostalgia, it just ain't what it used to be!)

From our catalog No. 75 of November 1966 (item#96) and a few of the following catalogs...

THE CLASSIC PRUSSIAN / GERMAN HELMET of WWI.
Black patent leather, German enlistedman's "PICKELHAUBE" in excellent condition throughout... minor wear... grey metal spike top & "line" eagle frontplate... a remarkable offering and each only.....34.50 (and indeed it was a most remarkable offering and certainly an even more remarkable find for us. We purchased over 500 of them in one huge cache in a remote corner of France.)

Here's Norm gloating over part of the massive lot of them he stumbled across in his first European jaunt in those good ol' days of the 1960's
 

And from that same catalog No. 75 in Dec. 1966 here's another "fun" item. A "Gay-Ninties" era hi-wheeler bicycle at only 165.





 

And not to be overshadowed was this wonderful original "1872" dated U.S. navy "Dahlgren" (mkd) "Boat Howitzer" on its original 2 wheel field type mount.


 

FROM OUR CATALOG NO. 81…ISSUED AUGUST, 1968 where it was listed at item 715 with the following description (slightly abbreviated here):

Undoubtedly one of the greatest rarities in antique firearms.  Certainly, one of the most historic and important pieces we have ever handled… 30 BARREL FLINTLOCK “FIRE CARRIAGE” of early 18’th century and obviously one of the very first forms of machineguns.  A superb documented background…it was owned by the British Royal Family and part of their personal collection until it was personally presented by His Majesty King Edward VII in the 1890’s to the famous British “Royal United Service Museum” in whose collection it remained until recently.  To purchaser copy of the original museum catalog listing and describing this exact gun and mentioning the presentation by King Edward [and more documentation supporting its background]…also mentions that a patent for a “similar weapon was granted to William Drummond in 1626.”  This “fire carriage” likely dates around 1740-1760.  Barrel unit consists of 30 individual 31 inch part octagon / part round barrels, each with deep British proof marks at breech…frame and mounting plates for barrels are brass.  Top row of 15 barrels with large brass housing for the musket sized, specially fitted flintlock mounted on the right side which may be manually or lanyard released and fires, in succession, top 15 barrels.  An identical lock mounted on left side bottom row [works similarly]…all vents are interconnected; barrels are slightly splayed to give a wide angle of fire…only the trail piece and cross axle of the mount have been expertly reconstructed.  Overall length 6 feet; with 4 feet 3 inches; height 28 inches; overall weight approx 350 pounds.  According to original museum catalog the gun was worked by two men and that after firing could be recharged in about 4 minutes…a piece of unparalleled importance…………............12,500.

 From the cover of our catalog no. 30 June of 1958 (we were then headquartered at Kennebunk Maine). Item No. 334 described as:  “EXCEPTIONAL MATCHED PAIR OF DOUBLE BARREL PERCUSSION PISTOLS TAKING SUPERPOSED LOADS (ONE CHARGE ON TOP OF THE OTHER) IN EACH BARREL. THUS EACH PISTOL HOLDS FOUR SHOTS! 7 ½ INCH BARRELS WITH 100% ORIGINAL DAMASCUS FINISH.  GOLD INLAID WITH MAKERS NAME: “DEWALLE FRERES BREVETES a LIGE.”  Engraved locks, hammers and furniture. Mechanically exc+. The precession lock mechanism allows front hammers to be fired first after cocking all hammers simultaneously. Stocks exc+. Believed the only known pair of such arms superb quality and condition…1,250

BACK ISSUES.... N. FLAYDERMAN & CO. CATALOGS
The 118 consecutive editions of our widely cited catalogs were the longest run of antique arms and militaria catalogs issued anywhere......anytime!

Catalogs issued Greenwich, Connecticut 1959-1963 (43, 49, 57, 58, 61)...7.95 each

Catalogs issued New Milford, Connecticut 1963-1986 (62, 64, 65, 67, 68, 71, 72, 74, 75, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111)......6.50 each

Catalogs issued Fort Lauderdale, FL 1987-present (112, 114, 116, 117, 118)....5.00 each

 

THE GREATEST YET!
THE NEW, ENLARGED 9th EDITION FOR 2008 !

        FLAYDERMAN’S GUIDE TO ANTIQUE
AMERICAN FIREARMS...and their values.
  Phone:  (954) 761-8855 
email: flayderman@aol.com

THIS NEW 9^th EDITION for 2008 IS NOW AVAILABLE at only... $39.99. Free shipping within continental limits of the U.S ….and Norm will be pleased to autograph (no charge, of course!) your copy for you upon request.

Increased over 20% in size, it now numbers over 800 pages... with over 1200 revisions, up-dates, new models and variations... and even more illustrations!

It’s the one book about antique arms collecting that the dealer, trader, collector or merely casually interested cannot do without. Includes all the basic tools for identifying, valuing & collecting antique American firearms…

Celebrating its 30^th year as the acknowledged "Bible" for antique arms collectors and with over one million copies already in circulation this new 9^th Edition tops them all!
 

With values for over 4,000 individual antique firearms (c. 1750-1914) and 1900 photographs, the collector is certain to find this latest issue the best yet and one that lives up to its long-established reputation as "...quite simply the best and most important study of antique American arms ever written" (Man-at-Arms Magazine) and "Indispensable" (The Gun Report).

Unanimously acclaimed by the critics and reviewers as among the most complete and thorough arms books extant, it ranks as the most comprehensive book on antique gun collecting ever produced!

Included are individual chapters on every major American arms maker… all lesser makers are listed by type, such as: American Percussion Pistols (Classified by: “Revolvers”… “Pepperboxes”… “Single Shots”… “Deringers”… “Underhammers”.). Separate chapters on “American Metallic Cartridge Handguns” (one of largest in the book) Confederate Arms; Kentucky Rifles; Single Shot Rifles… (Muzzle Loading and Breech Loading) Colonial and Rev. War Arms…Repeating Rifles. The chapters on “U.S. Military Longarms” and “Military Single Shot Pistols” alone are worth the cost of the book. The “American Shotguns”  chapter is the first in-depth coverage of them, while Chapter 18 individually covers (and values) 8 categories of antique American arms seldom mentioned or discussed in any guide: American Whaling Guns; Indian Trade Guns and Indian used guns; Alarm Guns; American Blunderbusses; early American Spring and Air Guns; and even Salute and Yacht Cannons.

For the American historian, folklorist and general antique arms collector, the new chapter on “DUELING AND DUELING PISTOLS” is certain to raise some eyebrows with its “Incursions On Virgin Territory” in which the author has actually thrown down the gauntlet and fired the very first salvo to question and provide a logical rationale for understanding the fascinating subjects of “dueling” in early America and the pistols said to have been specifically designed for that “gentlemanly practice.”

AND THAT’S NOT ALL… new inroads are made to recognize the very history of American arms collecting itself. Other relevant discussions new to this edition assess the increasing influence of antique firearms auctions to this hobby; a new section on the history of antique arms periodicals and publications and their impact on the hobby; and for the first time anywhere, a history of the very first American antique firearms collection and catalog (1899) of the famous  “A.E. Brooks Collection of Hartford, Conn.” and its subsequent exhibition in 1906 by the Smithsonian Institution and its later adversities.

Perhaps the words of Mike Carrick, Staff Editor of the "Questions and Answers" columns  of the “Gun Report” magazine said it best. Fielding a heavy volume of inquiries about antique arms on a daily basis he wrote: “I have over 2500 books on guns and edged weapons, but I have only [Flayderman’s Guide] on my desk for constant daily use in answering my column’s inquiries… it is the most useful book in my library."

THE BOWIE KNIFE
Unsheathing an American Legend
            by Norm Flayderman

Foreword by James S. Hutchins, Historian Emeritus,       
        National Museum of American History
                     Smithsonian Institution
Large 9" x 12" format …… 512 pages

245 OUTSTANDING COLOR ILLUSTRATIONS DEPICTING HUNDREDS OF BOWIE KNIVES… (along with a wide host of fascinating associated artifacts of the same eras).
 
Plus 120 black and white illustrations of Civil War and other nineteenth century photographic images of soldiers and civilians with their Bowie knives…
                                                                                                                               
"A MASTERPIECE OF RESEARCH AND BOOKMAKING!" ("Military Images" Magazine.) ....................................AND IT'S ONLY $79.95!
                                                   (plus 4.50 shipping within USA)

HERE’S THE IDEAL GIFT FOR THE AMERICAN HISTORIAN AND FOLKLORIST AS WELL AS ARMS COLLECTOR!... you might be interested in reading what the “AMERICAN FOLKLORE SOCIETY” has to say about this ground-breaking study!  Here are a few excerpts from their recent review of The Bowie Knife: Unsheathing an American Legend that appeared in the Summer 2007 Journal of the AMERICAN FOLKLORE SOCIETY:

“…At first glance [this book] may be deceptive… photography is so lush it gives the appearance of a coffee table   picture book. However, it is [the author’s] historic overview and well-informed discussion that instantly make this  book the authoritative text on the subject… [he] goes to great length to document the growth of the Bowie legend [and] its many embellishments and distortions over time. The interplay of popular print culture and development of a body of common folklore that developed into a great American legend is detailed through research… to reveal a strong pattern of misrepresented historical accounts, re-written material and even newly written material represented as authentic history or oral tradition. Flayderman demonstrates how various supposedly valid writings influenced others… and [how] numerous exciting and entertaining popular accounts grow to become generally accepted and persuasive American legends…

I recommend [the book] highly to scholars interested in the folklore and history of American legends. This is the Bowie… book that has been needed for a very long time [and] has the potential to stimulate additional research among academics as well as further the antiquarian concerns of devoted collectors.”
(We will be pleased to send copies of the complete, lengthier review on request).

 Here are just a few excerpts from the reviews the book has already received (many more in the illus. brochure we'll be pleased to send you on request). They say it more eloquently and with more authority than anything we might write:

The Town Talk. Alexandria, Louisiana (Dec. 26, 2004). The city where the Bowie knife story  began): "…incredible detail… the photographs and text are presented in breathtaking scope and detail… even the most casual of readers will enjoy reading the accounts and details featured within these pages."

The Civil War Courier. (May, 2005). "...the definitive guide to the Bowie knife - the indispensible tool for historian, students of the Old West and knife collectors."

Military Images Magazine (Jan., 2005): "…an instant classic... Strips away the common misconceptions surrounding the Bowie’s history, use and fabrication… in admirable style… chronicles the entire history of the Bowie in a colorful layout so lavish as to put most other books to shame… a masterpiece of research, presentation and bookmaking."

North-South Civil War Trader (Jan., 2005): "… extremely well-researched and wonderfully written text… reads like a good novel, fueled with enthusiasm and spiced with wit while maintaining the integrity of reference-book form..."

Man at Arms Magazine (Dec., 2004): "...astounding and overwhelming… [in] its textual content… the wealth of supporting images will astonish even jaded readers… will appeal to a far broader audience than just edged weapons enthusiasts… the volume of information is incalculable… the author’s ability to separate reality from fantasy is fascinating… a rare treat."

Knife World Magazine (Dec., 2004): "… this is the book that Bowie lovers have been waiting for lo these many years!… photography is outstanding… the research outstanding… the standard reference on Bowies for the next fifty years."

Wild West Magazine. (June, 2005): "…a weapon that has a unique place in American history... a book as large, as sharp and as awe-inspiring as one of those legendary knives... unbeatable."

True West Magazine. (July 2005): "...[the author] has slashed through the reams of fiction and presents a meticulously researched accounting... the ultimate guide."

The Gun Report (Dec. 2004): "…Outstanding… subject examined in great depth… knowledge and source of each [Bowie] story skillfully and often dramatically brought to light for the first time… wealth of information on manufacture, sale and use of Bowie knives… a monumental work… which will remain as a standard reference for decades to come."

Modern Knives Video Magazine (Feb. 2005): "An awesome resource book! ...masterfully presented... totally accurate... dispels the nonsense about knife duels - the major reference on Bowie knife lore."

"[the author] approaches every imaginable aspect of the knife’s tangled history with an enviable understanding of his subject… uncovers the bare truth… [and] the irrepressible legend that made the Bowie ‘America’s Knife.’ … the best researched – and most readable – studies the knife field has ever seen."
                                                                                             Mark D. Zalesky, Editor   KNIFE WORLD magazine
 
With the general acceptance of the Bowie knife as a national icon, it is surprising that so very little has been written about it... until now. The weapon's complex mix of history, hardware and tangle of deceptive folklore has at last been put in clear, accurate and logical perspective. Sorting out truth from myth offers the first reliable history of the Bowie knife from it's origin to present day.


 

IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
(Norm will be pleased to autograph it for you on request).

And if you would like to know even more about the book an illustrated 4-page brochure is available on request... with our compliments!

Return to your preferred grouping by clicking on the headings below

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

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