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Selling ANTIQUE FIREARMS, antique handguns, antique longarms, militaria, antique guns, deringer, Lincolnia, Abraham Lincoln, Civil War relic, pepperbox, longarms, musket, blunderbuss, carbine, Burnside, Spencer, 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 (Monday through Friday 10am-6pm)    email: flayderman@aol.com

Had we been in business back in 1864, this undoubtedly would have been our store...
but we have been in business 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.

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

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

Let us assure you, as we have all our mail order customers these past 58 years, that each of the items offered here is a one-of-a-kind, authentic antique.....with NO modern reproductions. That's why we go to such great lengths to describe each individual piece. Just as our catalogs always offered the most remarkable, intriguing and fascinating a collection to be found and made available in any store or catalog in the world, so, too, will we try to make these web pages as inviting! Also, please remember, all our antique firearms are sold as collectors' items only and are not guaranteed (nor recommended) for shooting reliability or safety. Sorry, no firearms sold to minors.

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

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

THE GREATEST YET!
THE CURRENT, 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

OUR  ONLINE  CATALOG

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

New arrivals will be constantly listed as they come in...

ANTIQUE AND HISTORICAL FIREARMS

(R248) - HERE COMES THE JUDGE… AND HE’S PACKING A PAIR OF REVOLVERS! For the collector of Western Americana particularly, this MATCHED PAIR OF SMITH AND WESSON MODEL 2 “ARMY” .32 CALIBER REVOLVERS OWNED AND CARRIED BY (AND INSCRIBED TO) AN EARLY GOLD RUSH ERA DENVER, COLORADO POLICE JUDGE REPRESENTS THAT HISTORIC ERA.

THE REVOLVERS: SERIAL NOs. 40241 and 40587.(Both manufactured 1865 in close proximity to each other). Each with 6” barrel. Each engraved with original inscription on left sideplate “JUDGE ORSON BROOKS / DENVER COLO” engraving showing wear consistent with the revolver. One gun with original die-stamped markings on barrel of the noted Cincinnati official S&W dealer “B. KITTREDGE & CO.” Both revolvers show wear and use; metal age brown; each has an old repair at its barrel hinge and one of them has a repair on the underside of the frame where barrel latch is fitted. Both are untouched and in original, uncleaned condition with some patches very light pitting and overall blemishes. Barrel markings are excellent with just normal wear. One of them with small chip at extreme tip of its hammer spur and lacking the ejector rod (under its barrel). Both revolvers were altered during their period of use on one side of their recoil shields, which is notched to allow for loading from the rear (i.e. without the necessity of removing the cylinder). Mechanically both are exc. Grips on both are about exc.; showing wear consistent with the guns and are very sound; slight rounding only at butts.

JUDGE ORSON BROOKS AND EARLY DENVER IN THE GOLD RUSH YEARS DURING WHICH TIME HE OBVIOUSLY CARRIED THESE S&W REVOLVERS!

Denver was a wild and wooly town in the 1860’s of the Territory (which did not achieve stateho`od until the 1876). Orson Brooks was an early settler; elected as police Judge of that Gold Rush town of Denver in the mid 1860’s (in later years he became U.S. Commissioner for the Colorado Land and Mineral Association). We have turned up quite a bit of fascinating data about him from research (all will go to purchaser) and there undoubtedly is much more to be brought to light with careful research.

THE FIRST LYNCHING IN DENVER’S HISTORY (DEC. 1868) RESULTED DIRECTLY FROM (AND WAS INFLAMED BY) THE HOLD-UP AND ROBBERY OF JUDGE BROOKS BY A COUPLE OF WELL-KNOWN CRIMINALS WHO WERE UNAWARE HE WAS A POLICE MAGISTRATE!...The story is well told in a number of Denver histories (photostats of the account accompanies guns). The Judge survived the incident which caused a Vigilante Committee to be immediately formed and chased them down, ending in a shootout in a saloon, killing one; the remaining crook still alive (Sam Duggan) was dragged out of jail and immediately strung up. (A full page photo of him suspended from the tree on Dec. 1^st, 1860 may be seen in of the recent published “GOLD RUSHES AND MINING CAMPS OF THE EARLY AMERICAN WEST” by Fisher and Holmes). A historic pair of American revolvers with a direct tie-in to an exciting era in American frontier history… $3,950.

(R249) - UHLINGER, PHILADELPHIA, LARGE, HEAVY WEIGHT, IRON FRAME, SPUR TRIGGER 6 SHOT .32 RIMFIRE CIVIL WAR ERA REVOLVER; MADE CIRCA 1861-1865.  4 ½ inch octagon barrel (absolutely authentic and guaranteed original length!). Very fine condition throughout; showing little if any wear; just normal aging (about 30 to 40% original blue finish still remaining and although wearing thin, it is quite visible on barrel), with some spotting of rust blemishes, but no pitting.  Frame exc.+; some very light minor rust blemishes (most will clean off easily) pitting if any would be negligible; would rate all metal exc.+.  Considerable traces blue overall on cylinder wearing thin, mixing with smooth age brown.  Mechanically exc.+; markings perfect with deep “F. J. P. LOWER” on barrel (later in the 1870’s to be located in Denver, Colorado he was to become one of the most famous of all western American firearms dealers).  Very handsomely grained rosewood grips are exc. to just about mint condition.  Gun is choice condition; lacking just the small, very simply shaped, thin swivel loading gate (on right side of frame behind cylinder; the small special fitting on the frame into which it attaches is still intact) F#8A-184. ONLY…$595.

(R250) - WITH 80% ORIGINAL BRIGHT BLUE FINISH STILL ON ITS BARRELS. SHARPS 4 BARREL PEPPERBOX.  .32 rimfire.  (Model 4B).  That blue finish still bright on barrel and where lacking mixed with a nice even age brown.  Few minor rust blemishes on those spots, but pitting negligible.  Many traces faint blue on frame mixing with an overall smooth even age brown; metal is exc.+.  Markings and mechanically exc.+.  Gun shows very little use.  Dark walnut grips exc. to almost mint.  (F#5F-088). Only……$1,450.
 

(R251) - HE WAS SEVERELY WOUNDED AT THE BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURG ON DEC. 13, 1862 IN FIERCE COMBAT ALONGSIDE HIS REGIMENT, THE 12’TH MASS INFANTRY.  “LIEUT. F. B. PRATT” IS HANDSOMELY SCRIPT ENGRAVED NAME CARVED FULL LENGTH OF THE IVORY GRIP OF THIS SCARCE ALLEN & WHEELOCK side hammer percussion .28 caliber 5 shot revolver. (F# 5A-057).  The fact that the gun overall still retains 75 to 80% and more of its original overall silver finish clearly indicates it was intended as a presentation fancy piece and equipped with these original ivory grips. Revolver shows only light wear and that silver finish is a bit “bubbled” (or very tiny “blistery”) in few spots and only very minor light rust blemishes in spots where worn; would rate it as exc.  The cylinder full engraved forest scene (of feeding deer and ducks) is exc.+; mechanically and markings exc.+ (markings on front section of bbl. just a bit light, but believe they were stamped that way). Lovely patina to grips.  Inscription on grips exc. with normal very light wear.  Unable to recover from serious combat wounds received at Fredericksburg, Pratt, (who had been prompted to Capt. Just before the battle)  was eventually discharged the following year Dec. of 1863.  Accompanying this historical revolver are documents from official service records regarding wounding, convalescence, discharge; plus reg’t history…$3,450.

(R238) - EXTREMELY RARE, MATCHED PAIR, AMERICAN MADE, PRE-REVOLUTIONARY SILVER MOUNTED FLINTLOCK “POCKET” PISTOLS CIRCA 1750’s – 1780.  Fashioned identically after the classic British “Queen Anne” style of the mid-18’th century with distinct American features and of course completely lacking any British proof marks or silver hallmarks with distinct American workmanship evident.  These will very likely rank among the earliest signed and matched pair of the handful known of the Colonial era.  Distinctive details in the engraved motifs and various aspects of the workmanship quickly testify to their American workmanship.

THE PARTICULARS:  Overall length 7 ¼ inch; screw-off tapered cannon turned 2 inch barrels; .46 caliber; (actual bore length including breech and touchhole 3 inches overall).  Markings and engraving style decidedly testify to its American manufacture, completely lack the usual British barrel and frame proof marks and each side of breech bears large flowing riband with inverted (i.e. upside down) bold engraved markings of the American maker “PERKIN, Fecit, N. YORK”.  Another prominent American feature is the quaint engraved flying dove holding olive branch in beak engraved on the underside of the breech area just ahead of the trigger guard with a second winged dove about to fly off above a large blossoming flower just above the touchhole at the base of the breech on top of the barrel.  The metal shows just normal aging and wear and has been cleaned bright many years ago and may be rated as exc.  Mechanically both are exc.+.  A feature would certainly will testify to its American manufacture and which had it been a firearm of British origin that had undergone proof testing) might act to its detriment is an ancient “of the period” brass-braze repair that can be seen on very close inspection to each of the barrels, cracks along side of each barrel (likely from a heavier charge of powder as the barrels look quite a bit thinner than usual for this type of handgun).  Also interesting to note that one of the cracks was horizontal running almost full length fancy very small fading out towards the muzzle (and not full length whereas the other crack was only at the breech and very indiscernible).  THE WALNUT HANDLES are exc.; profusely silver wire inlaid in decorative patterns large open work solid silver side plates and on back of each handle, a smaller fancy inlaid small silver crossed flag / cannon / helmet motif and the full width of each butt covered with a very large, all silver inlay of a massive high relief silver, grotesque scowling human face, its mouth wide open.  It is again significant to note that neither the silver work nor the metal work of the gun bear British hallmarks nor proof marks and that the engraving and the silver work would clearly appear to indicate also as early American craftsmanship. This exact pair of “Perkin / N. York”  silver mounted pistols are illustrated in the well-known, popular work “STEEL CANVAS; THE ART OF AMERICAN ARMS” by R. L. Wilson.

BACKGROUND AND DOCUMENTATION:  When we first acquired and handled this rare pair of American pistols in 1980 (30 years ago!) we had considerable correspondence with Samuel E. Dyke the leading collector of early American flintlock pistols and noted author of the singularly most important (and to this day still the basic work on early American non-military pistols) “THOUGHTS ON THE AMERICAN FLINTLOCK PISTOL” (1959 and 1974 printings) about these pistols in which he wholly and emphatically agreed as to their American origins.  Copies of all that correspondence of course will accompany pistols to the buyer.  As for gunmaker “Perkin in N. York” there is so little yet to be known about early American makers that it remains an enigma as to his exact location, but we have quite a bit about the fellow it is quite possible that his actual name was “Perkins” as another gunsmith by that name is known to have used both spellings with and without the “s” in advertisements.  (Actual copies on those ads accompany the documents.)  Although there is good cause to believe that the maker may very well have been James Perkin of Philadelphia (originally of Perkin & Coutty Gunsmiths), definitive proof of that fact has yet to appear; however, a number of other Perkins may easily qualify all and details will accompany documents.  Will be most pleased to discuss any of these with interested parties by phone should they be of interest.  (Random House Books 1995).  For the collector of early Americana they truly represent an ultimate rarity and a great find!......$35,000.

(R241) - UNIQUE BRASS FRAME, EXPERIMENTAL, COMBINATION PERCUSSION AND RIMFIRE (!!) DUAL IGNITION AMERICAN RIFLE  U.S. PATENTED 1883 BY ST. LOUIS INVENTOR MARTIN V. KACER.  Fine quality craftsmanship with a unique single shot, breech-loading rolling block type action with provision for dual systems (both percussion and rimfire) for firing cartridges (with an exposed percussion nipple on top of the block and an inside-mounted rimfire firing pin on the lower section of that same block).  Well marked on the wide handsomely made brass frame “M.V. KACER / PAT’D.”  Breech accepts a .32 rimfire cartridge or a paper cartridge for percussion use.  24 inch octagon barrel with most original blue finish remaining (fading and turning / mixing with deep age brown); metal is exc.+.  Bore VG+ will clean better.  Markings and mechanically exc.  Has very handsomely grained walnut butt stock exc.+; just slightest short chip at side of tang; fitted with a handsome, fancy shape and beautifully engraved brass patch box (for perc. caps) and brass butt plate.  Condition of foreend matches that of butt, although wood grain differs; underside of barrel lightly marked “Belgium” indicating the maker / Kacer utilized imported barrel.  The piece decidedly American and is purely experimental undoubtedly made under his patent no. 273288 of March, 1883 is quite intriguing in its appearance and its system particularly notable in its appearance with the brass frame and handsome stock with patchbox.  Extremely moderately valued at…….$1,595.

(R242) - EXTRA FANCY QUALITY, COMPLETELY ORIGINAL FACTORY ENGRAVING ENTIRELY FILLS BOTH SIDES OF THE FRAME OF THIS REMINGTON “VEST POCKET” SINGLE SHOT “SAW HANDLE DERINGER.”  Caliber .22 rimfire.  Single shot with the hammer also serving as the breechblock.  Matched serial no. 7192.  Profuse, completely original factory, extra fancy scroll & floral engraving fills the entire frame on both sides (right up to their edges) original plain unengraved barrel (serial number matches) showing normal aging, smooth wear and use.  Metal light age brown and exc.; few very light rust blemishes; pitting negligible.  All markings and mechanically exc.  Dark walnut grips with smooth, even consistent wear in accord with the metal; about exc. (F#5E-038)  Just…$1,795.

(R245) - THE DISTINGUISHED U.S. CIVIL WAR GENERAL BENJAMIN S. ROBERTS improved & up-graded his earlier 1869 patent which converted muzzle loading .58 caliber percussion muskets to breech loaders (adapted for military service by the Providence Tool Co. of Rhode Island; see F #9A-351) & had this experimental Roberts patent submitted for the U.S. gov’t trials of 1872.  Not a conversion, but made entirely as a breech-loading CARBINE (with centrally located hammer) & almost certainly produced by the U.S. Arsenal at Springfield. This is the only known specimen and may be seen illustrated on plate no. 24 (page 321) and described (page 325) of the basic guide to the subject “The Breech-Loader in the Service 1816-1917” by Claud Fuller.  Although incorporating many of the earlier features of the 1869 musket conversion & its entirely different appearance and of course a cavalry carbine!  20 inch barrel; bore exc.+. Very light age brown metal with grayish patina. Shows very little wear or use; will clean exc.+ with some very minor tiny blemishes or patches of lightest pitting. Mechanically exc+  Lifting the odd serpentine lever at top of the wrist causes breech-block to drop & eject (or load) cartridge original large “U.S.” markings on heel of butt plate typical carbine walnut stock also showing very little use is exc. (consistent with the metal); few minor very light bruises.  General Roberts led a lengthy, distinguished career: graduated West Point 1835; served gallantly in many heated Mexican War campaigns; frontier service in Texas & the West in 1850’s; brevetted twice during Civil War for gallantry (Brig Gen’l July, 1862; Major-Gen’l March, 1865). Accompanied with photostats of three fine biographies of his 30 year career…$3,950...SOLD

(R212) - 5th MODEL BURNSIDE CIVIL WAR .54 CALIBER PERCUSSION BREECH-LOADING U.S. CAVALRY CARBINE.  A popular and widely issued Cavalry weapon for Union Army Forces.  A sturdy specimen displaying normal aging and wear.  Matching serial numbers.  Overall deep, even, age brown patina; metal will clean VG to exc. if not better; pitting only very light at most.  Markings are just normal aging and wear all clear and visible about exc. or better.  Bore will clean VG to exc. and better.  Walnut stock in foreend show wear consistent with the metal VG to exc. just minor bruises or a few small nicks both inspector markings light, but distinctly visible.  Sling swivel and bar on left frame all intact.  Mechanically exc.+  (F#9B-046). Known as the “Fifth Model” sold to the U.S. Gov’t  1863-1865 and most widely issued. Recognized by the guide screw in center of right side of frame that allows smoother operation ……$1,695.

(R220) - In original flintlock condition and showing no wear!  U.S. MODEL 1816 MARTIAL PISTOL BY SIMEON NORTH OF MIDDLETOWN CONNECTICUT.  Completely untouched original condition, requiring just minor cleaning and attention.  Metal overall even age brown.  Has light, dry surface rust from a century or more of storage, but will clean handsomely with nice mellow patina and only minor rust blemishes; pitting very minor, if at all.  Markings and .(and do not show wear).  Reader will note that even in the description of this model in our “GUIDE Item (F#6A-017) it is specifically noted that “markings are often weak on this model.”  Has earlier type markings “S. NORTH” (and downward curve) over American eagle with “U” and “S” at each side (etc.).  Hammer lacks only the screw for top jaw (original top jaw is, however, still intact with it; also needs repair for a new frizzen spring).  STOCK IS EXC.+ AND BETTER!  Extremely sharp, exc.+ inspector markings.  Lacks wooden ramrod only.  Well worth spending a little energy and time to spruce up!  Only…$3,450.

(R224) - FIRST TYPE MERRILL .54 CALIBER PERCUSSION BREECH-LOADING CIVIL WAR UNION CAVALRY CARBINE. (Also known as the “OLD MODEL”) Type known issued to a number of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Delaware cavalry outfits among others. Showing normal aging, wear and use, but very sound condition all brass mountings and good looking brass patch box. Deep overall even age brown patina to the metal which shows wear with just very light overall pitting a bit heavier in some spots mostly around the breech and nipple areas. The metal is VG+. Markings are exc.  Mechanically exc+. Stock shows smooth aging and wear consistent with metal.  Inspector marks weak, visible; faint hairline crack at left side of wrist only, not affecting soundness of stock, one small angular shaped notch or deep bruise on stock just right side by tang. Few small bruises elsewhere, generally VG+ or about exc.  Complete with saddle ring. (F#9B-075) Very modestly valued at…$1,475.

(R225) - WITH ORIGINAL LABELED FACTORY BOX:  “EAGLE ARMS CO. NEW YORK” .30 caliber, front-loading, cup-primed, 6 shot spur trigger, brass frame revolver with low serial no. 335 actually made by PLANT’S MFG CO. of New Haven circa mid-1860’s (F #8A-113).  Approx. 85 to 90% original silver finish on frame; about 15% orig. blue (mixing with a smooth even age brown) on the 3 ½ inch octagon / ribbed barrel; cylinder retains faint traces blue, mostly smooth age brown.  Gun shows just light wear and use; metal is exc.+; few tiny specks of rust blemishes on barrel (but pitting negligible).  Walnut grips exc.  Markings and mechanically exc.+.  ACCOMPANIED WITH original factory pasteboard box with a full green and black label filling the cover with detailed illustration of this revolver and fancy lettering “MFD BY THE EAGLES ARMS COMPANY NEW YORK…THE BEST METALLIC CTDG REVOLVER” (label all intact); scuffed and worn mostly around edges, few small specks of wear on the cover and a bit dingy from age, but all intact.  Inside the cover are full “DIRECTIONS FOR USING EAGLE ARMS CO’S PATENT CARTRIDGE REVOLVER…FOR SALE BY MERWIN & BRAY, BROADWAY, NEW YORK.”  Outside corners outer box do show wear but they are all intact (just weak on edge of one corner of cover, but all there)……$1,250.


 

(R228) - GALLAGER CIVIL WAR ISSUE PERCUSSION, BREECH-LOADING U.S. CAVALRY CARBINE.  .50 caliber.  22 inch round barrel.  (Bore VG to exc. will clean even better.)  Mostly age brown metal (considerable traces orig. blue still on lock) showing just normal light wear will clean about exc. only minor very light pitting on surface; markings are mechanically exc.+. Stock showing smooth wear consistent with the metal about exc. with some small bruises and nicks on left side only; inspector marks are not visible.  Complete with saddle ring and patch box.  Just the folding leaf on the rear sight possibly a replacement, appears loose & a bit undersized (the base okay). Gallager saw extensive service in major theaters of operation during the Civil War.  This is the “standard production model” (F#9B-051) just…$1,495.

(R230) - THE ONLY KNOWN “1853 / TOWER” MARKED AND DATED EXAMPLE OF THE VERY RARE 1847 BRITISH GOVERNMENT CONTRACT 500 SO-CALLED “IRISH CONSTABULARY” SINGLE SHOT, MASSIVE, OVERSIZED PERCUSSION POCKET PISTOLS OF WHICH THE ENTIRE CONTRACT OF 500 PISTOLS BORE THE DATE “1848” ALONG WITH IRISH REGISTRATION MARKS.  This unique example with authentic date “1853” also marked “TOWER” and with large engraved crown encipher of “VR” (Queen Victoria) does not bear those Irish marks either.  Huge 9 ½ inches overall with massive .65 caliber bore in its 4 ½ inch round barrel.  (Shown here with an average size pocket pistol of similar style to illustrate its king sized proportions). Very heavy boxlock iron frame with central mounted hammer.  Original steel ramrod and swivels mounted on underside rib.  Gun does not show hard wear; age brown metal with just normal rust blemishes will clean exc.+; few tiny spots negligible pitting.  Markings and mechanically exc.+.  One piece large walnut handle with few minor nicks; exc. condition; original large British Board of Ordnance “BO” marking with broad arrow government marking on right side of grip (minor wear, but exc.).  Pistol weighs 1 ½ pounds.  Specific note was made by author Blackmore in his classic work “British Military Firearms 1650-1850” (page 213) that the 500 piece contract were made for special issuance to the Irish constabulary “…when serving in plain clothes on special duty.”  Blackmore also notes that “all known examples were dated “1848’” only one contract ever recorded.  We personally acquired this rarity in Australia many many years ago and wrote to the Tower of London (a copy of their reply to purchaser) who confirmed that only 500 were made and all were dated “1848” and that they had but one example in their own collections.  It is almost a certainty that this unique British government rarity was made for the jailers (or possibly detectives) stationed at the Australian prison colony at Port Arthur!  An unparalleled rarity for an official British government issue handgun!  Illustrated here with a normal size small boxlock flintlock pocket pistol attests to its formidable size and appearance (particularly so for this style of pistol)!.......$2,950.

(R234) - IN UNISSUED, ABOUT MINT CONDITION, EXTREMELY LOW NUMBER, CIVIL WAR ISSUE SMITH PATENT PERCUSSION BREECH-LOADING U.S. CAVALRY .50 CALIBER CARBINE. It’s the earliest, lowest numbered specimen we have seen available; matched serial numbers 405. 100% original blue finish and 100% original case hardening colors filling the frame and breech (some darkening and mixing with age brown on the case colors, but all there and very very visible. Metal is mint. Markings & mechanically perfect; bore perfect.  Stock unissued just about mint with perfect deep inspector markings. Few very tiny small nicks butt side of foreend and a few small bruises on underside of butt. Choice specimen especially desirable with these low numbers bears also the markings “manufactured by AMERICAN MACHINE WORKS AM’N. M’ch’n WKS/SPRINGFIELD” as well as the agent “POULTNEY & TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE” on left side of frame. Few patches very light minor pitting on iron butt plate. Has original sling ring and bar on left frame. (F#9B-085)...$3,750.

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

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

A  BROAD  MEDLEY  OF  COLLECTANEA

Although antique firearms and edged weapons have always been, and continue to be, our primary specialties, we have always handled a very wide and diverse range of antique and collectable MILITARIA (particularly American),  CIVIL WAR ARTIFACTS AND HI-STORICAL OBJECTS (for which we have been particularly noted over the years in national publications); including antique nautical artifacts; American western and frontier memorabilia; recruiting and political posters of the 19’th century (Civil War eras particularly); powder flasks and carved powder horns… and a very impressive and broad cross section of historic letters and documents, diaries, journals and log books (etc.) both military and nautical of the 18’th and 19’th century and much, much more… all of which are to be found in the 120 mail order catalogs we issued between 1954 and 1998. We never ceased to find it always fascinating to assemble the items and describe them for this following “COLLECTANEA” section and trust the reader will be equally absorbed when reading it!

(M538) - COMPLETE, NEAR MINT CONDITION AND LIKELY UNISSUED,  U.S. RIFLEMAN’S “ACCOUTREMENT SET” AS ISSUED FOR (AND WITH) THE U.S. MODEL 1841 “MISSISSIPPI” PERCUSSION RIFLE!” It’s an extreme rarity in any condition. CONSISTS OF:  Large copper powder flask (10 inches overall) popularly known as the “PEACE FLASK” top marked “BATTY / 1849” and inspector initials “ADK.” High relief, detailed design fills both sides of American eagle and shield over oval panel of stars with clasped hands motif (in center); over panoply of arms and shield with a large relief “US.” Exc.+ and even better condition with 50% of original lacquer finish still remaining on one side and about 70% original finish on the other side. THE FLASK IS STILL AFFIXED TO ITS ORIGINAL WIDE, WHITE BUFF, CROSS SHOULDER CARRYING STRAP.  THE WHITE BUFF IN SUPERB EXC.+ CONDITION just showing its age and mostly minor storage dust, but no wear and would rate it EXC. TO ALMOST MINT. Phenomenal condition!  Even the narrow straps (which are the ends of the wider straps) are in superb condition as are the small brass hooks and matching white buff slides that affix them, all intact and showing no wear or use. Affixed to those same straps at the end of the cross shoulder belt, is the ORIGINAL 6 x 7 ½ LEATHER POUCH WITH FLAP COVER AND FASTENING STRAP (strap and even the leather “button” fastener completely intact).  Shows absolutely no wear or use just some aging from one and a half centuries of storage. Outfits of this type were issued as late as the Civil War to those units still equipped with the Model 1841 rifle.  A rare accessory in remarkable condition. This is not merely the best specimen of this rare outfit issued for use with the famous Model 1841 “Mississippi” Rifle… it’s the only example we have ever had available!...$4,450.

(M571) - A UNIQUE SERIES OF THREE AMERICAN CLIPPER SHIP, PORT PAINTINGS OF THE SAME VESSEL, WITH TWO OF ITS LOG BOOKS!  Extremely rare to find these all yet intact. In the days of sail most major ports in the world had marine artists who made their living painting views and portraits of the newly arrived vessels for the ship’s officers or men (for modest fees) to take home with them. Major Chinese, French, Italian and European ports are especially noted; the artists invariably supplied oil or watercolor paintings on canvas or paper. However, a few famous ports were noted for specialized uncustomary material as the basis for their paintings; for instance: port artists in Hamburg, Germany were noted for the use of ceramic-ware, especially cups/saucers, etc. while Copenhagen, Denmark artists were noted for the use of large porcelain bowls for their ship portraits!  Of them all, the most unusual material was undoubtedly at TABLE BAY, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA whose artists most often utilized the uniquely shaped leaves of the wild growing, native plant known locally as “SOW'S EARS” because of their peculiar shape, unique to that remote part of the world. 

HERE ARE FOUR OF THOSE "SOW'S EARS," ALL MATCHED, ALL PAINTED BY THE SAME HAND; THREE OF THEM WITH PORTRAITS OF THE VESSEL ITSELF.  ALL ARE BEAUTIFULLY HAND PAINTED IN FULL COLOR AND OBVIOUSLY PROFESSIONALLY EXECUTED.  The three with the ship's portraits are each nicely lettered with the American vessel’s name “BENJAMIN DICKERMAN.” (1) Large view of that three masted ship under full sail; five square rigged sails on each of the front two masts and two sails on after-mast; a large American flag at stern.  (2) Same vessel sailing in rougher seas under lesser sails (three square sails on the two forward masts and just one on the after-mast; a large American flag at stern); (3) At anchor off port with sails reefed / furled and very large American flag at stern. (4) This fourth full painted "Sow's Ear" has very large American flag flying with a banner flying alongside it almost full length of the leaf, boldly lettered “ARRIVED SAFE IN TABLE BAY.”  All four leaves showing normal aging; all in exc. condition and very displayable. Size of each leaf approx. 1 ½ x 5 (just slightly varying).  The four paintings have been preserved and kept in their fine condition (in a nice quality frame).  ACCOMPANYING THIS SET OF AMERICAN CLIPPER SHIP PORT PAINTINGS AND MEMENTOS FROM TABLE BAY, SOUTH AFRICA ARE TWO ORIGINAL LOG BOOKS OF THAT SAME VESSEL:  (1)  With a fancy printed label on its marbled board cover “LOG BOOK” and neatly penned “…OF THE BENJAMIN DICKERMAN OF BOSTON.” 9" x 16" approx. 200 pages; pre-printed ship’s log; entirely filled out with daily entries of their “course,” weather conditions, dates, and “REMARKS.”  Neatly kept in pen, July, 1878 to Aug., 1879 with entire voyage from New York to Brunswick, Georgia to Rio de Janiero; back to Florida, Baltimore, Boston.  Among the more interesting remarks is that of 25 Nov., 1878 “…93 days out…steward and one man got fighting…[he] drew a knife and stabbed the steward in left side and cut about 2 inches; steward laid up; captain tending on him” [etc.].  Cover and binding loose, but everything is intact and condition of pages is exc. and all very readable.  …

(2) JOURNAL OF THE VOYAGE ON THE SHIP “BENJAMIN DICKERMAN” kept by the wife of the ship's captain while on the vessel from Dec. 10, 1884 to March 12, 1885. Beautifully penned with daily entries commencing with first entry at “Rosario [Buenos Aires] Argentina, then to Pernambuco Brazil, then on their way to Halifax, Canada. Her journal covers 15 closely penned, large 8x14 pages preceded by 35 front pages of various accounts for the ship “Benjamin Dickerman” for crew’s pay; entries for various voyages for that vessel.  Her journal particularly intriguing.  Her handwriting superb, small and easily read and in exc.+ condition.  The entries wonderful and are particularly intriguing; just a few excerpts:  “…Capt. works harder than anybody…nobody to do the work he does…I have been sewing all day”… “He works like a horse…2’nd mate no good, he don’t know anything…Capt. hurt his leg again, right to the bone, he sat down and sewed it up himself and went to work again…am almost crazy to see my children…” All entries are during sailing from one So. American port to another; mentions carrying sheep aboard to supply fresh meat and difficulty trying to corner them during which “…a man butted and sent end over end.”  They meet a stupid pilot in a So. American port who grounds them five times in one day bringing them into port…she comments on the stupidity of the 2’nd mate numerous times, while the 1’st mate is “…a cruel man, an awful bother to the captain, a real pest and big bully, he beat the 2’nd mate frightfully.”  Her journal ends at sea in terrible weather.  Much more fascinating detail.  Heavy marble board covers scuffed and worn; pages are exc.+.

VERY FEW OF THESE “SOW’S EARS” AND CAPE TOWN PORTRAITS HAVE SURVIVED DUE TO THEIR FRAGILE NATURE…to find a set of four intact is indeed a great rarity.  To add interest for buyer of this intriguing set, in recent days we came across an artifact that was merely a souvenir from Cape Town circa early 1900’s: a unique greeting card “souvenir” beautifully made around four specially mounted and lettered original “SOW’S EARS” skillfully fitted inside the card with its cover labeled “EVERLASTING SILVER LEAVES FROM TABLE MOUNTAIN CAPETOWN, SOUTH AFRICA”;  further adding to the interest and uniqueness surrounding those oddities of nature and “TABLE BAY!”…and this fascinating group of ship portraits, quite likely the finest set of Table Bay ship portraits that will ever be encountered... and for the collector of nautical Americana, the very "top-of-the-line," unmatched!!…$1,950.

(M567) - ANTIQUE ALL COPPER SAILING SHIP’S KEROSENE LANTERN. Very solidly constructed.  9 inches high (hinged bracket handle at top brings height to another 2 ½ inches). Flat back with hinged door allowing entry to remove the kerosene lantern inside.  Brass label affixed to outer door with large relief markings “WILLIAM McGEOCH & CO. LTD MAKERS/GLASGOW AND LONDON.” Heavy smoked, three tiered glass paneling on full rounded front. Fancy brass panel above left side with relief word “PORT” and similar but larger panel on right side with word “STARBOARD.” Although showing normal aging and light wear and use, it is in exc. condition and will polish and clean beautifully. All complete with the lamp still inside. Weight 4 lbs…$150.....SOLD





 

(M568) - COPPER LANTERN FOR SAILING SHIP.  This one not an antique; has seen some usage, but in exc.+ condition. All copper construction.  9 inches high with hinged brass handle on top brings height up another 2 inches.  4 x 6; flat back.  Entire top is hinged (in order to remove the small kerosene lamp on inside) clear glass globe-type covering for the lamp all intact.  Two brass brackets each side of lamp (for mounting on mast); large oval brass label affixed at top center with relief lettering “MASTHEAD” with a smaller copper label of a “HONG KONG” manufacturer and his trademark. Needing just a light cleaning.  Weight just 1 ½ lbs.  Decorative as well as usable…….$79.50

(M555) - IMMENSE SIZE AND CERTAINLY AS EYE-CATCHING TO PORE OVER AS IT IS FASCINATING TO READ IS THIS HUGE COLLECTION OF OVER 200 “REWARD” POSTERS AND BROADSIDES FOR CRIMINALS AND ESCAPED CONVICTS OF ALL TYPES (DATED BETWEEN 1907 TO 1910).  The collection was assembled in those years by a resident (most likely a police officer) of western Idaho (living close to the border of Washington State) preserving all of them in a fabulous, massive 12” x 18” album (weight 15 pounds!) with an elegant condition (exc.+) very fancy top quality leather binding elegantly gold embossed “ROGUE’S GALLERY” on its spine and the name of the western Idaho county where the owner lived.  Gold embossed at the bottom of spine “KOOTENAI COUNTY.”  Delicate gold embossing around the edges of the covers and spine as well with just some minor shelf wear, leather is superb.  The counted 216 POSTERS, CIRCULARS, PHOTOS, ETC. IN THIS MASSIVE GROUP!; comprised of:  120 VARYING LARGE SIZE POSTERS (from 8 x 12 up to12 x 14;…43 POSTERS (from 5 ½ x 6 to approx. 6 x 10);…15 SMALLER REWARD CARDS AND CIRCULARS (from 2 ½ x 4 ½ to 3 ½ x 5);…25 SINGLE PAGE LETTERS, CIRCULARS AND FORMS (ALL ON POLICE AND/OR VARIOUS LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY LETTERHEADS, MANY OF WHICH INCLUDED ORIGINAL “MUG SHOT” PHOTOGRAPHS AS WELL); PLUS 9 ORIGINAL PRISONER PHOTOGRAPHS ACCOMPANIED WITH NEWS CLIPPINGS.  (NOTE:  our total count could be off by just a mere handful at most).  All posters are blank on reverse and all are very displayable.  Almost all include either a “mug shot” photograph (usually full face and profile) actually printed on the poster or the actual “mug shot” separately affixed to that respective poster.  This vast assemblage was issued by many varied police departments, including a few Canadian and U.S. Gov’t departments (as well as a small group of U.S. Army posts offering rewards for “DESERTERS”).  Criminals “WANTED” posters include a wide variety and broad spectrum of crimes and rewards.  (Approximately 35 posters; each 8 ½ x 11) offer rewards for “ESCAPED CONVICT” from the Washington State Penitentiary, each with huge headlines and original “Rogue’s Gallery” photos of that escaped convict attached (all in exc.+ condition; see illustration).  ALMOST ALL POSTERS, CIRCULARS, FLYERS, PHOTOS, ETC. ARE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION AND BETTER (just a handful with some tears or ragged margins, some with age stains, but not many).  About 50 to 60 posters are loose and never mounted in the album; others are partially attached only at the uppermost section of their reverse side to the album pages and are definitely removable by merely steaming off carefully.  The collection offers a potential for great “REWARDS” to the collector who splits them up and offers them for sale individually (quite a large potential as a matter of fact!). Very, very modestly valued for this entire fascinating collection……..$3,250.

(M576) - It was one of eight experimental “Vangard” class of British warships designed with a different hull shape aimed to optimize speed for an experimental British naval squadron. Launched in 1842; the H.M.S. SUPERB a two-deck, 80 gun ship-of-the-line.  Here’s a beautifully and professionally made, two piece, round (5 ½ dia) wooden box made from that vessel’s timbers after she was broken up when decommissioned in 1869.  Very nicely grained, the box shows highly competent workmanship.  Comes apart in the middle; likely intended to hold tobacco or possibly sweets, etc.  (Approx. 1 ¼ inch thick) wood beautifully turned on sides and edges. Accompanying box and obviously specifically made for it (and requires only to be refitted to the recessed center section of the cover made specially to fit it, is the original heavy paperboard label beautifully hand lettered and inscribed along with a beautifully drawn illustration of the full length hull of the two deck vessel with five very large flags flying from tall masts and ten professionally penned lines: “This box is a piece of Her Majesty’s Ship Superb. 80 Guns launched 6’th of Sept. 1842 at Pembroke Dock Yard [followed by all the many dimensions and tonnage etc. of the vessel]” surrounded with fancy margins.  Label has come loose (but easily reglued) from its original position in the center of that carved wooden cover, which clearly accounts for its very fine condition (showing just typical aging) and is easily reglued and is completely authentic to this carved box. Accompanied with a brief history and details of the vessel which did see action in the Portuguese “Little Civil War” in 1847.  Condition exc+…$350...

(M566) - Rare Confederate printing with a fabulous wealth of details for the present-day collector and historian!  “GENERAL ORDERS FROM ADJ. AND INSPECTOR-GENERAL’S OFFICE, CONFEDERATE STATES ARMY, FROM JAN., 1862 TO DEC., 1863…IN TWO SERIES…PREPARED FROM FILES OF HEADQUARTERS, DEPT. OF S.C., GA., AND FLA. WITH FULL INDEXES.”  Published by Evans & Cogswell, 1864, Columbia, So. Car.; both full years 1862/1863 published as a single volume; total 541 pages; each year individually indexed.  Size 5 x 7 ½.  Includes all phases of C.S. Army life.  Excellent. condition; typical age browning of a C.S. imprint due to low quality of paper then used; just very minor spotting.  Still retains original thin, light tan paper covers; only slightly tattered on edges of blank margin; covers still attached and partially loose only. A classic/highly important reference. (Entry No. 2424 in classic “Confederate Imprints” by Parrish and Willingham)…$350.

(M581) - British gunmakers and “merchants” supply barrels to Sharps Rifle Company and seek to represent them in Europe!  Two intriguing original letters each addressed to “SHARPS RIFLE COMPANY/BRIDGEPORT, CONN.;” each on a fancy and (different style) letterhead of “WALTER SCOTT & CO./MERCHANTS / BIRMINGHAM” (England).  Each with bold signature of Walter Scott (Letter 1) May 20, 1877.  Scott asks “…how you liked the 50 sample barrels I sent you February?”…and mentions the conversation he had with the Sharps company representative Charles Pond in London “…I should be very glad to represent [Sharps] in England with headquarters in London if you can make it worth my while, and give up the Remington agency as it has brought me nothing but loss.”  ...(Letter 2) July 10, 1877, Scott acknowledges receipt of payment of the barrels ordered by Sharps and again says “…I should like to have the representation of your House here if you propose having a rep in England…”  Both exc.  (Note:  specific mention that “…the barrel blanks for the Model 1877 Sharps were obtained in England from Walter Scott” is made (page 248) in book “Sharps Firearms”.)……$145...SOLD

(M582) - U.S. Gov’t arsenal ordered to sell Confederate shotgun to Yankee officer!  Single page boldly penned letter entirely in the hand of and fully signed by famous Union officer “A.B. DYER / BRIG GEN’L / CHIEF OF ORD'NE [sic].” On fancy printed stationery “ORDNANCE OFFICE/WAR DEPT./WASHINGTON.”  July 10, 1865, ordering:  “The Commanding Officer of Washington Arsenal will sell Major Thomas G. Wells one of the captured shot guns at a fair price to be determined by him…” (with full Dyer signature and rank of Dyer as quoted).  Very light aging to paper with a light ink staining along the right edge, (not obscuring any writing).  Research will likely reveal a good story behind the grant of this special commission granted.  Believe the officer was Thomas Welles (sic) of the 1’st Connecticut Cavalry.  Gen’l Dyer a most important officer; grad. of Westpoint 1837; although a native Virginian he chose loyalty to the Union; put in charge of Springfield Armory 1861; appointed Chief of Ordnance by Lincoln 1864…$135...SOLD

(M583) - HE SURVIVED THE MASSACRE AT THE LITTLE BIG HORN WITH CUSTER!  On that fateful day in 1876 FREDERICK W. BENTEEN was Senior Captain of the U.S. 7’th Cavalry.  His service continued with a long, distinguished Army career.  Original 2 page, boldly and neatly penned letter entirely in his hand; written from Nogales, Arizona Jan. 6, 1915 to his longtime friend Geo. Albee (winner of Congressional Medal of Honor for Indian Wars October, 1869).  Thanks him for Christmas greetings; “…how in Sam Hill did you ever think of poor Freddie Benteen?  Must be 30 years since we were together…I followed my first calling the U.S. Army and here we are waiting for the cat to jump…let me hear how the world has used you…”  Minor aging, but exc.+.  Fine signature.…$84.50... SOLD

(M584) - COLONEL OF 8’th MAINE INFANTRY WRITES FATHER HE WOULD BE EMBARRASSED TO ACCEPT BOUNTY MONEY FOR RECRUITING.  Two original neatly penned letters entirely in hand of Col. Wm. McArthur to his father:  (1) Single sheet; both sides; from “Chapins Farm; Va. Oct. 17, 1864” all about recruiting quotas and bounties for new enlistments for reg’ts and how the town quotas are credited and the reg’t officers can choose which town to credit them to:  “…I am not in the substitute business.  I still have doubts whether I would accept a bounty.  …Would not like to spread the knowledge that I accepted one.” (2) From “Office of Provost Marshal/Manchester, Va. Oct. 8, 1865”  Two pages:  “…uncertain as to being mustered out…men quite discontented being retained so long.  …They enlisted only to serve for the war which they now regard as over.  …I do think it hard for the boys and hope the order will soon be issued…”  Describes details about the special reg’tal flag the governor is having made and inscribed with battle names for the 8’th Maine Inf’y and that he has in detail to serve on court martial for an officer charged with murder. Signed with full name, rank and regiment.  Both letters are fully docketed on reverse by father after their receipt with McArthur’s name as well as the date received by father.  Accompanied with stats of McArthur’s and 8’th Maine’s history.  Both just….$59.50... SOLD

(M562) - IN EXCEPTIONAL EXC.+ CONDITION!  A SUPERB U.S. PATTERN 1813 LEATHER SHAKO / HELMET AS WORN CIRCA 1813-1821.  A rare form seldom seen in any condition.  Leather body 6 ½ inches high with front rising to another 1 ½ inches higher.  Original brass edged leather visor all intact.  Leather truly remarkable condition and would rate exc.+; showing only normal aging. Just mild hardening and mishapening on round top, but no flaking; the entire sides are exceptional, exc.+ and a slight “crazing” on the visor, but no flaking and for this early period of manufacture the leather is truly remarkable.  Four short horizontal piercings on front for mounting a front plate (not with it).  Still affixed at top each side are a small round silvered brass ball (plain design and truly an ornament, but original) with another small round plain disc-type silver brass button affixed at the bottom each side (ornamental also).  INTERNALLY:  Front half of the sweatband 2 ¼ inches wide and is stitched in place (stitching partly loose); entire rear half of the sweatband is 3 inches wide, heavier softer leather and was made to be folded open and used as a neck protector when needed and designed to be unfolded outward.  It is fully intact just a bit stiff, but all there and may still be opened up!  Not merely a rarity for early military head gear, but a true prize  for condition!....$3,750.

(M563) - CONFEDERATE SURGEON HAD URGENT NEED FOR FOOD FOR HIS PATIENTS OR THEY WOULD DIE!  Lengthy, neatly penned letter, entirely in the hand of and fully signed by C. S. Surgeon Alexander Hunter as “Surgeon in Charge” Sept. 7, 1863 from the “Office, Surgeon in Charge; Hospitals/Cassville, Georgia.”  Single sheet; 8 x 10 (blank reverse) written in a small, easily read hand, filling the page.  Although addressee not given, it was obviously his superior officer and most likely Dr. Samuel H. Stout, chief C.S. medical officer.  The Confederate military hospital at Cassville, Georgia had only been relocated to that town 30 days earlier from a smaller “Reception Hospital” in Tennessee and was still very much disorganized, as is evident from these excerpts from his despairing / anguished / exasperated letter! … “There are empty houses here sufficient for another hospital of 250 patients.  We have only to take possession of them and go to work.  I find it difficult to transact business with the Kingston [Ga.] officials…every obstacle thrown in the way which their ingenuity can devise…spent all day trying to get rations for the sick.  The commissioner absent…his clerk in the billiard room.  …Gave my requisitions regularly [and] approved by the post commander [but] the clerk refused to issue because the Commissary absent…I WAS OBLIGED TO HAVE THE RATIONS OR LET THE SICK MEN STARVE.  Finally obtained them by getting the commander to issue a special order…q.m. promised me two mule teams…but could not get them…[doing] the work on my own responsibility…will soon be ready for a large number of patients.”  All very clear and readable.  Just small piece out upper right blank corner of margin, not obscuring text; a few tiny chips on blank margin.  Original docketing with name and date on reverse.  Interesting information about that Cassville hospital, its move and Dr. Hunter is to be found in “Confederate Hospital is on the Move” by G. R. Schroeder, 1994; Univ. of So. Carolina Press 1994 where it is also mentioned that Dr. Hunter was later selected in his C.S. career as one of Dr. Stout’s “most efficient medical officers.”…$295.

(M564) - IT WAS A TIME OF WIDESPREAD DISSATISFACTION AND IMPENDING MUTINY AMONG ENGLAND’S MILITARY IN THAT ERA OF A THREATENED INVASION BY NAPOLEON!  In reading this unique June 5, 1797 dated printed broadside it appears as if the King and the British government were buying the public’s patriotism!  Single sheet; 7 ½ x 13; blank reverse.  Broadside opens by:  “…We, the non-commissioned Officers and Privates of the Two Troops of Norfolk Fencible Cavalry [thanking the King] with true hartfelt [sic] gratitude to our KING and Country for our late unexpected increase of Pay…and assure His Majesty of our sincere attachment to the best of Kings and our glorious constitution, in Defence of which we shall ever be ready to shed the Last drop of our Blood.”  Broadside was issued by the non-coms and privates of the NORFOLK FENCIBLE CAVALRY and addressed to their commanding officer and publically posted at their own as well as other militia company barracks throughout England.  It is poignantly an ultra-patriotically phrased:  “…There have been persons wicked enough to distribute infamous HAND-BILLS and other SEDITIOUS WRITINGS amongst our brother soldiers in various parts of the kingdom…exciting a misunderstanding between them and their officers to wean them from their affections to their King and Country…we feel just indignation…all such villainous attempts to seduce us from our attachment to our beloved King and Country [we hold in] greatest abhorrence…to prevent such insults we OFFER A REWARD OF THREE DAYS PAY to any soldier who gives information about any person who makes such wicked attempts in seditious writings or persuasive language to excite disturbance [among] the troops.”  …Broadside further asks their commander to make the King aware of their gratefulness for his “…goodness towards us and their unshaken support for him…while any spark of life remains.”  Exc.+ condition.  Just some slight normal aging.  Completely authentic with the printed names of the various sergeants and corporals who prepared the document below.  Very little, if anything, in a collectible item would ever be available to better impart the unrest and dire threat facing the throne of King George III and the military at that critical moment of English history than this outstanding historical broadside. Only…$350.

(M578) - CIVIL WAR DIARY OF A U.S. NAVY SAILOR FOR ENTIRE YEAR 1862.  Small pocket type with wallet style original folding leather cover gold embossed “DIARY/1862.”  2 ½ x 3 ¾.  Title page (16 pages) printed almanac for the year 1862; published by “Brooks & Bro./Salem, Mass. 1862;” each page bearing bold, dated headings for entire year 1862 allowing for three daily entries per page.  Entirely filled out day by day from January 1 to December 30 by a young sailor (name unknown) but obviously from northeastern Massachusetts (near N.H.). Dec. through April for civilian life describes doing some chores; visiting friends; worked for father (ploughing, etc.).  MAY 1 went to PORTSMOUTH, N.H. where he joined the U.S. Navy and shipped aboard the “U.S. SIDE WHEEL STEAMER MAHASKA.”  All entries after following May 1 are naval related and some are quite good!  USS Mahaska was a brand new vessel built at the Portsmouth Navy Yard and only launched Dec. 10’th and commissioned May 5’th.  Entry for May 9, “the Mahaska gave out on her trial trip” (May 13) “still in Portsmouth; getting ready for sea”…(May 15) “I thus begin my life on the ocean wave.”  The Mahaska after sailing from Portsmouth, reported shortly for duty in the rivers flowing into Chesapeake Bay and on June engaged the Confederate batteries along the Appomattox River and on Nov. 1 destroyed the C.S.  entrenchments at Westpoint, VA continuing her patrols into the next year.  There are a number of interesting entries throughout (many worthy of quoting).  Majority are in pencil, some entered hurriedly; a few (in Nov. & Dec. entered in ink).  Unusually sound condition for this type of diary; just some light wear on the outer covers.  With short official history of U.S.S. MAHASKA from Navy Dept. reference…$295.00...SOLD

(M580) - “WM. READ & SONS…BOSTON” circa 1904 profusely illus. large catalog loaded with guns and sportsmen’s equipment of all types.  Read & Sons among the largest, most noted dealers of their type in the U.S. at the time.  104 pages; 9 x 12.  Full line Winchesters, Marlins, Stevens, Colts and many many other American plus fine imported arms (especially double shotguns) plus accessories, loading tools and fabulous amount of accessories.  Includes page at end of Civil War surplus U.S. Model 1841 perc. rifles at only $3.50 each.  Showing some use, but full orig. front covers intact; lacks only back paper cover.  Fascinating reading and a great reference.  Just……64.50

(M539) - IN UNISSUED... JUST ABOUT MINT CONDITION ORIGINAL WHITE BUFF LEATHER SLING FOR THE U.S. MODEL 1841 “MISSISSIPPI” RIFLE. A superb rarity in remarkable condition with just some very minor storage dust and aging. Completely intact with the original brass fastening hook and matching white buff adjusting loops. Shows absolutely no wear or use. Deep stamped New Jersey makers markings exc.+ alongside large oval stamped U.S. government inspector markings both fully intact at one end. Leather in fine condition and very soft and supple. A true rarity in any condition… and we’ve never had one or come across one this fine!.... $875.


 

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

(E703) - A GENUINE PIECE OF AMERICAN WESTERN HISTORY!  INTENDED SPECIFICALLY FOR SALE IN THE 1850’s FOR EASTERNERS HEADING WEST WITH HOPES OF STRIKING IT RICH IN THE GOLD FIELDS OF CALIFORNIA AND REGIONS.  Classic cutlery handled Bowie knife and sheath with wonderful, large, bold etched motto in center of extremely fancy etched 7 inch clip point blade “GOLD FINDER.” That large motto is surrounded an etched the full length of obverse blade with fancy scroll etching and almost 80% of orig. gilt background still remaining.  Markings on ricasso of maker “JOHN NICHOLSON & SONS / SHEFFIELD.” Blade shows normal aging; minor sharpening only along edge; few small spots mostly near tip of faint pitting, but would rate as exc. The german silver handle with relief fancy fluted shell and floral motifs with normal wear and use, but exc.+ of oval german silver crossguard. Accompanied with original leather sheath narrow gold embossed edges and diamond shaped gold embossed fancy design in center. Some scuffing along edges, but very sound with just normal wear and use; wide german silver mounts and frog stud. This is the exact knife and sheath illustrated (page 103) in classic work “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend”…….$2,450.  SOLD

(E704) - Were these noted English cutlers deliberately disloyal to England by marking a Bowie knife of theirs designed specifically for the American Western market (circa 1850) with a decidedly anti-British motto?  Classic Sheffield made cutlery handle Bowie knife circa 1850.  Clip point 8 ½ inch single edge blade with profuse, die-struck, ciphered type markings which include three scroll-like ribands along top with mottos in each:  “54-40 NO COMPROMISE”… “THE WESTERN SPORTING KNIFE”… “49 WILL DO”.  The “54-40” directly refers to historic clash between U.S. and England on the Oregon and Canadian boundary dispute of 1846 that proposed to adjust the boundary on the “49’th parallel.”  The reader will note that the actual Democratic Party slogan for the presidential election for James Polk of 1846 was “54-40 for FIGHT!”.  Lower section of blade almost its full length has profuse “cipher” stampings of hunter on horse following a pack of hounds who are chasing a wild stag whose body is marked “I’m Off.”  Markings under ricasso of the noted makers “EDWARD BARNES & SONS/226 SOLLY ST,/SHEFFIELD.”  Just lightest wear to blade; markings are exc.  Some light wear to only front and back lower markings, otherwise all are exc.  Shows some light polishing marks to blade, but all minor would rate blade as exc.  German silver cutlery style handle exc. with fancy edged german silver crossguard.  Accompanied by original gold embossed black leather sheath; some small patches of scuffing and minor wear spots, but very sound and intact.  A very interesting embossed design in center of a flying open winged dove holding what appears to be an olive branch in beak; german silver mounts and frog stud. This is the identical knife and sheath illustrated page 417 “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” page 417.  NOTE:  The “54-40” motto is not merely seldom mentioned in literature but extremely few other known specimens bearing that same slogan. Its direct association with American history and particularly that of Oregon and the west adds significantly to its fascination and allure by that direct connection to an important little known piece of American history…and one which is truly unique to be seen affixed to a Bowie knife!.......$22,500.

(E705) - AN ANTIQUE BOWIE KNIFE MEANT FOR ACTION!  A generous size 17 inches overall this antique, very well made classic style Bowie is fitted with a broad 12 inch clip point, single edge blade well marked by the famous “JAMES RODGERS & CO.” of Sheffield on its ricasso.  Blade exc. with no grinding or sharpening signs; few small spots near lower section only very minor blemishes, but pitting negligible.  Reverse of blade has a number of smaller spots throughout the blade also all extremely minor polishing will probably get rid of the all.  Markings are fine.  Die stamped coin silver (possibly sterling silver) pommel and crossguard ornamented with scroll, grape motifs all exc.  Two piece dark horn grips fastened with three pins; hairline crack on grip on reverse side (not affecting soundness) only.  Exc.+  Accompanied with original black leather sheath very sound (a number of small scuff marks and scratches, but all intact; little cleaning will dress it up considerably); original german silver mounts and frog stud.  Identical knife and sheath illustrated page 114 (right side) of book “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  Nice solidly made knife of good weight.  Circa 1850’s……$2,250.... SOLD

(E706) - UNMISTAKABLY MADE BY N. P. AMES OF CHICOPEE, MASS. THE FAMED AMERICAN SWORD MAKERS AND ALMOST IDENTICAL TO THE FOUR OTHER KNOWN SPECIMENS BY AMES WELL PICTURED AND DESCRIBED IN “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend” (page 156) is this large, heavy, solidly built BOWIE KNIFE of the Civil War period with 12 inch single edge blade (slightly clipped point); 18 inches overall; the thick heavy blade slightly over 1 ½ inches wide. Brass hilt with the crossguard absolutely identical to the four illustrated on page 156 of the “The Bowie Knife” book each quillon terminating in a distinctively different style of full modeled dogs head; the center panel of crossguard being a relief boar’s head on one side & a relief stag head on the other (identical to those on page 156). Although there are some variances (especially in blade shape and grip and pommel shape to those four in the book there is no mistaking that this Bowie is of Ames manufacture). Note even the ring (ferrule) at base of the variant shape grip matches that of one of the grips of the four shown in the illustration. Blade shows aging & wear overall patches both sides of rust blemishes & very light pitting; cleaning & polishing will bring it to VG+ probably better. Pitting not heavy or deep. A powerfully & solidly made bowie; weighs 2 lbs. But a handful known & a rarity of an American made Civil War period knife…$950. SOLD

(E707) - ALTHOUGH THE SIZE AND LENGTH OF AN ARTILLERYMAN’S SHORT SWORD BUT IT’S ACTUALLY A TRUE BOWIE KNIFE!  They don’t often come much longer, either!  Well made rugged circa 1850-1860 HUGE 24 INCHES OVERALL BOWIE KNIFE and sheath by noted British maker.  “WM. JACKSON & CO. / SHEAF ISLAND WORKS / SHEFFIELD” marked on the ricasso of the wide, straight 18 ½ inch spear point wide single edge blade (just normal light wear and use although some blemishes from storage, does not show hard wear or grinding and will clean exc.+).  Two tiniest nicks one edge only near extreme point very minor.  Thick wide oval german silver crossguard.  Two piece stag antler grips (exc.+) Weighs 2 ¼ lbs.  With original brown leather sheath; sound leather scuffed on surface; few spots where worn through near the lower section and tip and lacks german silver covering for tip (but scabbard and leather intact at that point) does have top mount lacking frog stud only.  Exact knife illustrated (far right) page 375 “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend”…SOLD

(E708) - CONFEDERATE BRASS HILT FOOT ARTILLERYMAN’S SHORT SWORD.  Heavy, all brass hilt of the so-called “Roman” pattern.  Classic and typical crude Confederate construction completely authentic and guaranteed Confederate manufacture.  Identical to other known specimens and to the example illustrated in the classic and basic reference “Photographic Supplement of Confederate Swords” by W. A. Albaugh, page 203 (left side).  The entire hilt cast as one piece and is typical crude CS work with the all brass grip of scaled pattern.  The most distinguishing feature of this specimen (and as identical to that shown in the illustration on page 203) are the very deep grooved indentations on the thick disk shaped ends of the crossguard on both sides (see close up photo).  Hilt shows its normal age, wear and use as in absolute untouched condition, will clean very nicely, would rate it as exc. 19 inch double edged spear point blade with shallow crude fuller running down its center to within 3 inches of the point in a slight “wasp waist” shape near the top where it joins hilt.  Blade also showing normal aging and wear; some few small nicks on one side will clean VG+ and even better.  Some small patches of light pitting only.  An absolutely genuine Confederate made weapon. Fine example of a classic type and style…………$2,950.

(E710) - UNIQUE DUAL PURPOSE WEAPON DESIGNED TO FOIL THUGS AND ROBBERS WHO HAD TAKEN TO PRACTICING (CIRCA 1860-1870’s) A PARTICULARLY  VILE, VIOLENT (AND POPULAR ) DEPRAVED CRIME AT THE TIME IN MAJOR AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN CITIES AND SEAPORTS OF THE “GARROTTE” A SILENT WEAPON MADE OF ROPE OR WIRE WITH HANDLES ATTACHED USED TO STRANGLE A VICTIM PRIOR TO A ROBBERY!  This uniquely designed double bladed pocketknife was intended for use to foil those “muggers” and assailants harboring such evil intentions was designed and manufactured by famous Sheffield England cutlers actually marked on one of its folding, double edged 4 ½ inch blades “ANTI-GAROTTE KNIFE” and on the other folding 4 ½” blade “UNWIN & RODGERS / SHEFFIELD.”  That very word “GARROTTE” was common terminology during the era to indicate the form of mugging whereby the victim was attacked from behind and strangled; particularly common in Britain.  Closed, the folding knife 5 inches overall.  Wide german silver bolsters and double crossguards at each end.  Each blade 4 ½ inches.  One of the blades single edged, the other, double edged (14 inches overall opened) dark horn handles exc. Normal aging to blades, but both VG.  Showing some light scratches or sharpening marks and few minor patches very light pitting.  Blades are “lock back” style with “rocker bar / locking springs” at each end of handle (one of the locking buttons frozen solid, needs repair) that blade not locking properly in place.  The exact knife illus page 394 “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”  An identical example of this “Anti-Garrote” knife and a fine description of their background, usage and rarity is discussed in the recent work “The Heritage of English Knives” by Hayden-Wright (2008) on page 238 including an engrossing story of the necessity for an usage of “Anti-garrotte” weapon and its usage.  A rare knife and weapon with an intriguing background…$1,950.

(E712) - “RIO GRANDE CAMP KNIFE” is only one of the many mottos appearing on numerous “ciphered” markings filling the full length of the obverse side of the 7 ½ inch clip point single edge blade of this handsome antique Bowie knife circa 1840 to 1850 (with a 4 inch sharpened false edge). Very handsome one piece, round stag antler handle, its pommel carved in the full modeled shape of a horse head, its eyes elaborately & delicately inlaid with white enamel (handle exc.+).  The deep struck “cipher type” markings filling full length of the blade include figures of a horse with human-like head and body bearing words “TRY ME”; hounds chasing a buffalo whose body marked “FOR USE”; a mermaid with nude breasts and large “TRY ME” stamped on body; figure of King Neptune holding trident with body stamped “I SURPASS ALL” & other smaller figures, etc.  Ricasso marked “S. C. WRAGG / FURNACE HILL / SHEFFIELD.” Just very light wear; some small rust blemishes very few small patches of very light pitting, but is exc. (will clean even better). Long, thick rectangular german silver crossguard.  13 inches overall. Accompanied with original deep red, fancy gold embossed red leather sheath (exc.+) with wide german silver top mount (lacks just the frog stud). Sheath is intact its full length; lacks only the german silver covering for tip (the leather end of the tip is intact). This is the identical Bowie knife illus page 430 (on left) “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing and American Legend.”…$1,950... SOLD

(E715) - THE WORLD’S LARGEST, LONGEST, HEAVIEST, MEANEST ANTIQUE SWORD!  It weighs 6 lbs…and in its original scabbard a bit over 9 lbs…and is over 4 ½ feet in length!  The infantryman that carried this remarkable weapon was said to have been over 7 ½ feet tall!!  We’re just kiddin, but couldn’t resist this one!  It is genuine antique and would date it somewhere in mid-19’th century about 1860 to ‘70 at latest and of European possibly French or German manufacture; distinctly made as a trade sign likely for an international exhibition of a sword manufacturer a military arms dealer. Decidedly a unique item and professionally made.  THE SWORD:  54 ½ inches (4 ½ feet) overall with a wide (2 ¼ inch), straight 46 inch spear point blade; some patches very, very minor, fine rust blemishes; metal is exc. and better.  Tall iron hilt and crossguard with reverse type disk shaped quillons. Thick one piece, handsomely grained, one piece wood grip, overall checkered in fine, close pattern and exc.+.  Shows very competent quality workmanship.

THE SCABBARD:  Original full length wooden sheath completely original leather covered with all leather intact; showing its genuine aging.  Just few small spots along edge and on back (all minor) where leather flaked or worn, but very sound and intact with handsome, wide, german silver mounts completely and two large german silver carry rings.  Although unmarked, the sword and sheath are obviously made by professional sword makers…and very effectively perform the task for which they were designed:  they attract much attention!...A really unique offering….$950... SOLD






 

(E716) - “LINGARD’S CELEBRATED BOWIE KNIFE / PEACROFT / SHEFFIELD” markings on deeply stamped on the ricasso of the 8 inch clip point blade of this large (13" overall) circa 1850-60’s Bowie knife and sheath. The particularly handsome blade is etched its full length right to its tip and in ex. to mint condition. almost exc. to mint (just some tiny small spots of rust blemishes and few tiny specks of fine pitting). Center panel has large flying eagle in center holding long flowing riband with bold motto “DRAW ME NOT IN HASTE.”  Below that towards area with very lengthy 5 lines of large lettered, etched motto “WE ASK FOR NOTHING BUT WHAT IS RIGHT AND SUBMIT TO NOTHING THAT IS WRONG.”  (One tiny blemish obscures just one part of one word in that legend). A few tiny blemishes, on reverse side of blade.  German silver thick elliptical shape crossguard; german silver pommel with relief leaf and vertical fluted designs.  Two piece stag grips with nice patina exc+. Original red leather sheath (exc.) gold embossed at edges and with decorative design in center; german silver mounts and frog stud.  This the exact knife illus (page 149, lower) “The Bowie Knife; Unsheathing an American Legend.”...$4,450... SOLD

(E717) - “VIRGINIAN KNIFE” are the two line markings in a riband along with wider riband markings of noted maker “GEORGE WOSTENHOLM” and their “IXL” trademark in the center of the 4 inch single edge folding blade on this circa 1840-1850 pocketknife.  Ricasso of blade also bear “WOSTENHOLM” and “IXL” trademarks.  Blade showing use and wear, has been cleaned, but is exc.  Markings exc. (ricasso markings only light showing bit more wear).  Stag antler grips with smooth wear; nice deep rich mellow patina and exc.  The “VIRGINIAN” markings quite rare…and highly desirable……$750.



 

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."
 

    [CLICK HERE TO READ FULL DETAILS BELOW]
 

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

www.flayderman.com

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

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

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 ENLARGED 9th EDITION!

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

THIS CURRENT 9^th EDITION 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 current 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."

BACK ISSUES of FLAYDERMAN'S GUIDE to ANTIQUE AMERICAN FIREARMS!

1st EDITION... $49.50
 2nd EDITION... $34.50
 3rd EDITION... $24.50
4th EDITION...$19.50
5th EDITION...$14.50
7th EDITION...$12.50

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

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

HISTORIC ANTIQUE ARMS & MILITARIA
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