This "Excelsior" hand grenade was the invention of W. W. Hanes of Kentucky. The grenade was composed of two hemispheres which would screw together. One side has stamped into the metal in a circle 'W. W. Hane's Pat. Aug. 26, 62'. The other sphere is stamped with "EXCELSIOR" in a straight line.

Inside was a 2.36" sphere covered with fourteen brass nipples. These nipples would hold the percussion caps used to ignited the gun powder inside. At the top is a small, 3/8" hole used to load the powder.

It would only take one cap to trigger the explosion. With fourteen caps, soldiers found out very quickly how easily it was to accidentally set one off. The inherent danger of handling this grenade seems to have limited its use.

Perfect untouched condition with a deep, chocolate brown patina. All fourteen nipples still in perfect condition. Only about four or five of the "Excelsior" models are known to exist. This is the first one we've ever owned.

(R17460) $10,000.00

Presented here is a remarkable and very rare pocket kit of solid-silver, English-made artillery instruments circa 1750. This extraordinary grouping of eleven, high-quality 'gunner's mathematical instruments' are in very excellent condition and come housed in their original wooden and leather-wrapped hinged case. Still in 100% complete original condition, this stunningly attractive gunner's set of instruments was the product of Benjamin Scott, one of England's premier instrument makers of the 1740s and 1750s. Cursory records reveal that Scott was the scientific instrument maker for the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences, as well as the official compass maker for the Russian Navy Ministry from 1733 to 1747.

This set of gunner's tools consist of eleven, extremely well-made, solid silver calculating (drafting) instruments that appear to have been little used and are in excellent plus condition. The instruments, all executed in solid silver with ornate engraved numerics and decorations include a large folding 'gunner's caliper' with a integral protractor and two silver extenders; a military folding 'proportional compass' or sector; a folding 5" long 'parallel rule'; one 5" long 'calibrated measuring scale'; a thin, hollow, 'tubular shaft' with slide-in cap; one 'drawing pen' with an ink point; one set of 'dividers' or compass with two attachable brass bows and attachable steel point. Most of the individual instruments are engraved with the maker "B:Scott fecit" along with numerals and notations. One such notation is found on the gunner's caliper and reads "The Weight in the / Decimal parts of / a Pound Aueroupa (?) / of a Globe whose / Diameter is one / Inch English & / of a Cube / whose side / is one Inch." Other inscriptions on the caliper read "Names of Guns" / "Weight of Shot" / Powder of Service".

Instruments all fit into their original, black leather, veneer covered, single-hinged, tapered wooden carrying case which measures 2¾" wide at the top, 2¼" wide at the base and stands 5½" tall. The two-section case opens via a spring-loaded push button opener that releases the hinged upper portion of the case. The case top has a silver hinge with a tooled silver border edge. Bottom of the case interior holds a wooden block that has been drilled and hollowed out to conform to and receive lengthwise the various shapes of the silver instruments. When closed, deep narrow slits, holes and indentations safely and snuggly accommodate the multitude of measuring instruments within the case. One hole remains empty, most likely for a missing brass divider bow. The instrument case body is strong and tight with a fine leather exterior wrap. Lid portion of the case exhibits a faded piece of red velvet glued to the top interior.

This spectacular French and Indian War-era English-made gunner's instrument set is in original condition and would make a truly impressive focus to any early heavy artillery display theme or military collection.

(30-1447) $18,000.00

The rarest of artillery artifacts of the American Civil War. From the estate of William Foskit of Monson, MA, Company G, 46th Massachusetts Infantry. Foskit's estate contained three examples of this rare artillery artifact. Only three Whitworth cartridge cases wre know to exist before these were purchased - one in a museum in Georgia, one in a museum in Virginia, and an excavated example in private hands, found many years ago by Stanley Phillips.

The Whitworth cannon cartridges were loaded with rifle powder and sealed with beeswax lubricating wads. The cartridge case was inserted into the breech behind the hexagonal projectile and provided an effective gas seal. Made of sheet iron, the catridge was shaped to fit the hexagonal bore. After firing it was extricated with a special tool. If used as a muzzle-loader, the case was enclosed in a cloth bag.

The cartridge was handmade on an anvil with the hammer marks visible. Measures 9 1/4" tall, and 2 7/8" in diameter at the base. Excellent condition. Comes with a small container of the original rifle powder.

(M18439) $5,500.00

Here is a very nice Artillery Gunner's level. With provenance to the Mack Mason collection of Civil War items, this level is an artilleryman's implement and one was used with up to six guns. It is made of heavy brass plate and was used to determine the high point of the gun's base ring. That high point was then marked on the gun with chalk for use in aiming the gun with a breech sight or tangent scale. This level measures approximately 6-inches high and 6-inches across. It has a vertical sliding steel pointer, which easily moves up and down in the keepers. The horizontal spirit level is firmly attached with four old screws and is defect free; the leveling bubble shows plainly in the glass viewer. There are two firmly attached steel rollers, one on each end of the resting arch. This level is plainly marked on the reverse with an eagle similar to that found on Springfield products centered above the heavily stamped words "U.S. / WATERVLIET / ARSENAL / 1856". It is damage free, has an attractive green patina, and has never been cleaned. This gunner's level is very attractive and would make an outstanding addition and excellent display item for an artillery or Civil War collection.

(M17265) $3,500.00

Blade measures 19.75" in length, 1 1/16" wide and 5/16" thick. Unstopped fuller measuring 13.5". 4.875" brass hilt of flat bird's head pommel pattern. No markings. [See Hardin, AMERICAN BAYONET, p. 97, variation 3] Bayonet adapter, designed to fit over front sight of 1841 "Mississippi" & "Fayetteville" rifles, measuring 1" in diameter, w/ following side marking: "BG & M/ Richmond, VA/ Sept. 2, 1861" [See Hardin, p. 95]. Leather scabbard cut from naval cutlass scabbard, measuring 21", fitted w/brass stud and drag. Leather belt frog, w/buckled lea. strap, fitted to scabbard stud.

Bayonet blade exhibits a splotchy dark gray blade w/medium pitting, & traces of grime. Brass hilt displays a dark coppery patina, as does bayonet "adapter", which exhibits numerous nicks on the spring-release side of the bird's head pommel. Scabbard is intact, though fragile, displaying much cracking and some flaking, along w/one "struck" spot four inches from drag. The stud and drag exhibit medium coppery patina, with the latter somewhat dinged. Else VG.

With its B, G & M-marked adapter, this is one scarce, highly desirable Confederate bayonet.

(169-111) $8,500.00

By William Gilham, Colonel of Volunteers, Intructor of Tactics, and Commandant of Cadets, Virginia Military Institute. Richmond, VA: West & Johnson; Printed by Evans & Cogswell, No. 3 Broad Street, Charleston, S.C., 1861. 12mo. Decorative Cloth. Good. 559pp; 5 folding plates. Age-toned and scattered spotting; spine frayed at head and foot; edges worn through; gilt lettering on spine and front cover worn and faded; still, a very presentable example of this work. Preface dateliness "December, 1860." At pp. 534-559 is "Articles of War/An Act for Establishing Rules and Articles for the Government of the Armies of the confederate States." With contemp. Ms. Signature inside front cover, "Jas. H. Tompkins/Co. E 2nd Tenn'e." Harwell, Confederate Hundred, 36. Crandall 2418. Parrish & Willingham 4836.

(337-104) Originally $2,450.00

This is a smith made 17-inch bowie knife with an 11.5" single-edged clipped-end blade with 1.5" choil. Stamped on the left ricasso is the maker, D. A. Scott. It has a forged steel S-form quillon guard. The octagonal slightly tapered rosewood grip has a rectangular German silver escutcheon on left side, engraved S.N. Coe. It also has a German silver front collar and an oval German silver pommel plate attached with hand-made hexagonal brass capstan nut.

The scabbard is black leather sewn over a forged sheet copper interior. Some copper is exposed near the tip and the belt loop is missing.

(30-1489) $12,500.00

Although the precise history of these rare Confederate carbines remains a bit murky, existing records validate that 183 guns were delivered against an original contract for 1000. The strong similarity of these guns to the J. P. Murray carbine, and the belief that John D. Gray, the proprietor of the Columbus Armory, was the brother of William C. Gray, one of the partners in J. P. Murray, would certainly indicate a strong association between these two firms. Only two of these exist that are actually marked.

The 24" barrel is marked with a P at the top left of the breech and a Maltese cross on the underside. The M1841 style lock is unmarked with the exception of a dot 6 on the inside of the lockplate and on the hammer. The barrel tang screw bears this same mark. Both lock screws are marked with the Roman numeral VII and the number 17 are stamped in the wood by the barrel tang. The brass trigger guard, butt plate, side plate and bands, including the double strap front band, exhibit a nice dark untouched patina. It is probable the front band spring is a replacement. All other metal smooth with a very nice dark untouched patina, just some light cleaning at the breech, apparently to expose the markings, minor. The walnut stock shows honest use with a dark untouched patina. A letter W is carved on the left side of the butt and there is a very old 2½" crack that extends from the front lock screw along the fore end. V-notch rear sight, small brass blade front sight. The ramrod, while possibly not original, is unquestionably period and probably a field expedient replacement. Retains both original sling swivels. Mechanically the main spring is a bit weak but functioning, very good bore. A very nice, generally untouched example of this extremely rare Confederate carbine with but a handful of known specimens.

In 2006 a marked example sold at Julia's for $86,250 and in 2007 an unmarked example sold for $21,600.

(G2617) $18,500.00

Lock surface is mostly smooth with mixed light and dark gray color. A few small patches of very fine pitting are present. Markings "Eagle with U.S. in shield" and "Harpers/Ferry/1815" are clear. Good mechanics. Barrel surface is semi-bright with scattered light peppery pitting and some tool marks visible along flats at rear. "Oval U.S." and "Oval Eagle/P" proof marks are sharp and clear. Bore is strong and bright. Brass mountings have a light patina with some spots showing bright. The patchbox door has some very minor denting to the surface though it does not detract. The number "16" is inscribed near the foward mounting screw. The stock surface is mostly smooth with very few light handling marks. A few tight age cracks are present along with a small old repair at the forward edge of the lockplate area and along barrel channel approx. 4" forward of breech. Both are old and very minor and hardly visible. Some typical chipping is visible at the right side of forend at barrel tennon wedge. For the most part, the stock is sound and smooth with good edges, attractive grain and the classic reddish black walnut color. The proper Harpers Ferry cartouches and sub-inspector marks are clear. This is one of the are early versions of the second production (1814-1820) that retained the under 36" barrel length of the pre-1814 production M1803 arms. This piece has a 33 1/4" barrel. This is a good example of a rear early American military flintlock rifle.

(406-05) $17,500.00

Offered is one of the rarest LeMat pistols known to exist. On page 71 of the book LeMat The Man, The Gun by Valmore J. Forgett and Alain F. & Marie-Antoinette Serpette, it states that the Confederate Navy ordered 2,000 small LeMat revolvers from Girard & Cie. In June 1864, they sent Naval Lieutenant William H. Murdaugh to London to inspect all Arms for the Confederate Navy. His specific assignment was to receive these pistols from Girard & Cie. One hundred of the baby LeMats were delivered to Lt. Murdaugh in 1865, too late get to the Confederacy. Since this is number 20 it may easily be one of that contract that was never delivered.

The gun itself has been beautifully decorated and engraved. The pistol is marked with the number 20 on the barrel, right side of the frame under the cylinder and the cylinder. The cylinder has a stamp "B" and the barrel has the star-over-LM. Also the barrel is marked with the last Paris marking, "Ststeme LeMat Bte s.g.d.g. Paris" in Old English script. According to the Valmore J. Forgett and Alain F. & Marie-Antoinette Serpette book, this is the same marking as the ten known specimens.

The barrel is 4 inches long and the cylinder holds 9 shots. It is for a 9-mm cartridge with an 11 mm shot barrel. The frame has been silver-plated and the barrel and cylinder are blued. Almost all of the original finish is present. The walnut grips have been decorated with hundreds of very small silver tacks. Almost every surface on this pistol has been covered with a decorative broad scroll engraving. This revolver also has the short tube on the knob in the butt. In his patent, Colonel LeMat describes the function of the short tube. It clearly explains that the tube fits over the rod, making it long enough to load the shot barrel.

One would have to look hard to find another LeMat of this quality and condition.
Truly an exceptional beauty among extra quality firearms.

(30-1472) $135,000.00

This sword was given to a captain who was mortally wounded at Gettysburg July 3, 1863 after participating in the repulse of Pickett's Charge. Weer was shot in the knee by a Confederate sharpshooter concealed in McAllister's Mill, and died of his wound on July 26 at Camp Letterman Hospital in Gettysburg.

The sword is 38" overall with a 32" blade which is etched for 2/3 its length with arms panoplies, patriotic and scroll motifs on the obverse and similar motifs on the reverse with large US and "Tiffany & Co. New York" just above the ricasso on the reverse. All etching extensively highlighted with hand engraved details. Blade excellent with just some staining and one area of very light pitting near the tip. Regulation style hilt with superb detail. Sharkskin grip with twisted brass wire, all about perfect with traces of gilt mixing with nice patina. Inscribed on the top of the reverse counterguard, "Captain Norman F. Weer 123rd regt. N. Y. S. V./Presented by the members of his company."

Leather scabbard excellent with brass mounts displaying elaborate floral and scroll engraving with US at the throat, American shield on the middle mount and both motifs on the lower mount. Similar extensive engraving on the reverse of the mounts including Weer's initials "N. F. W." in old English script at the throat just below the "Tiffany & Co. riband. The very heavy ring mounts are composed of acanthus leaves with ribbons where the rings join the scabbard. All mounts about perfect retaining traces of the original gilt and leather scabbard excellent with just a few 'wrinkles', no crazing or flaking and very sound.

The black patent leather officer's sword belt with very nice quality M1851 sword belt plate with medium width tongue and nice patina. Retains the sword hangers and over the shoulder sling, the short sword hanger showing wear, otherwise excellent. Three eagle I coat size buttons and four cuffs from his uniform nicely mounted in a gilt frame.

Norman Fox Weer was 26 years of age when he as a Captain at Hartford, NY on August 19, 1862. On September 10, 1862 he was commissioned into Co. E, 123rd New York Infantry. He was wounded at Chancellorsville on May 3, 1863, and while still recovering from those wounds, was fatally struck at Gettysburg.

Accompanied by a full set of records and a copy photograph of Weer in uniform. A great Civil War presentation sword for both visual and historic impact.

This sword was the centerpiece of the John Henry Kurtz collection.

(E2053) $22,500.00

One of only three complete albums known to be in existence, this album of salt prints includes images of college faculty, staff & students (with each individual's signature below their photo) taken by photographer Charles Tyson in the Spring of 1862. Also includes the earliest known outdoor photograph recorded in Gettysburg, a campus view taken from a roof of a warehouse. Buildings in the image include the President's House, Linnaean Hall, & Pennsylvania Hall. The album measures 8"x9.75", & is 1.5" thick. The cloth & leather cover shows moderate staining, & little of the binding over the spine remains. The front cover is separated from the rest of the album. Ornate gold latches still work to fasten the book together. There are 12 gold gilt edged pages inside containing 24 identified images, which along w/the outdoor image of the college makes a total of 25 images. Each page measures 7.5"x9.5", w/oval images measuring 3.5"x4.5".

Individuals included in the album are: 1. Claudius Galen Treicher, student, 1840-1912, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School. This album most likely belonged to Treicher, as it contains a clipping of his obituary along with his photo; also, next to each signature in period pencil is "dec", for those who died before Treicher; none are marked which post-date his death in 1912. 2. H.L. Baugher, President of the College from 1850-68; 3. Michael Jacobs, math & science professor, who during the battle of Gettysburg guided Union officers to the cupola of Pennsylvania Hall, & his meteorological notes have provided us w/the weather conditions which existed at the time of the battle; 4. John Hopkins, an African American who was a popular college janitor from 1847 to 1868; 5. Student Frank Echols Baltzhoover, 1841-1923, lawyer & politician. His copy of this album had previously been one of two known complete copies; 6. Frederick Klinefelter, also a student, who enlisted in the 26th PA Emergency Volunteers, serving as Captain of Co. A.; 7. Rufus Weaver (1841-1936), student & Gettysburg native, who became a medical doctor & taught at Hahnemann Medical College. During the summers of 1871-73, he returned to Gettysburg to disinter Confederate dead from unmarked graves on the battlefield, shipping their bodies south for re-burial. Other individuals in the album are professors Martin L. Stoever, Frederick A. Muhlenburg, Charles F. Schaeffer; as well as students John W. Croll, Martin L. Culler, Albert Ebling, Samuel A.K. Francis, Henry Eyster Jacobs, Henry W. Keedy, Jacob B. Keller, Duncan M. Kermerer, Charles Van Swearingen Levey, Alexander M. Miller, Johnathan Sahm, Johnathon Sarver, Augustus D. Schaeffer, & Mason Weidman. This item is a rare & fascinating piece of Gettysburg history.

ORIGINALLY (P10926) $3,500.00

Presented here is a most extraordinary and identified Civil War grouping that consists of an original Federal uniform, wartime letters and journals that were brought home after the war by Lieutenant Robert Newton Martin. Included in this fresh Civil War multi-item grouping are Martin's colorful French-inspired uniform tunic complete with its original baggy uniform trousers, black leather shako and leather gaiters. A batch of Martin's wartime letters, including one epistle written on the field at Gettysburg in line of battle plus Martin' wartime journal.

Robert Martin was a twenty-one year old resident of Blair County, PA when he enlisted in Harrisburg on April 20, 1861 with Co "A", 3rd PA Infantry, a three-months unit. He mustered out on July 29, 1861 and a week later mustered into "M" Company, 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry regiment. The 62nd PA initially spent time in Washington DC and then crossed the Potomac to Fort Corcoran, VA being assigned to the Army of the Potomac's 5th Corps, 1st Division, 2nd Brigade. What followed were combat operations in the battles at Yorktown, Hanover Court House, Mechanicsville, Gaines' Mill, Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, the Mine Run Campaign, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, North Anna River and Petersburg. Three years later in July 1864, this hard fighting Pennsylvania infantry regiment mustered out at Pittsburgh after losing a total of 258 officers and men. Martin survived the service and mustered out as a 1st Lieutenant on August 15, 1864.

Included with this grouping is Sgt. Martin's original, single-breasted, French Zouave-style imported uniform, a noteworthy example of the colorful infantry uniform purchased in quantity from France at the outbreak of the Civil War. The set consists of a short-skirted, dark blue woolen broadcloth tunic with yellow piping along the collar, outer seam and cuffs to which is fastened the original yellow and green cloth epaulets. The front closes with nine pewter buttons decorated with an eagle/shield/stars design specially manufactured for these America-bound uniforms. Eight of the original buttons remain on the front, with two smaller ones at each cuff and another smaller one holding a belt loop at the left side. Four large buttons, more piping and two small yellow wool "bugles" ornament the coat tails. The quilted white canvas interior is soiled but otherwise perfect with the name "R N Martin" inscribed in ink, along with some miscellaneous French manufacturer's markings. Trousers are medium-blue wool with voluminous legs, pleated around the waistband and gathered at the cuffs, which are closed by a simple tin button. There are two hip pockets in the outer seam and a watch pocket at the waist. A narrow belt adjusts the trousers at the back and the interior is unmarked except for the vestiges of a French manufacturer's inspector stamp.

Added to the set is a French Model 1860 infantry shako as imported with these uniforms. The stiff black leather headgear stands approximately six inches tall and has a large gold-washed ornamental plate featuring a spread-winged eagle, oak and laurel leaves and other devices stamped in relief. Above the plate is a round metal red/white/blue rosette. The chinstrap, which extends from the interior of the cap, is also in place. Included with this uniform is a pair of light brown leather leggings.

In 1861 the U.S. Government contracted with the Godillot firm in Paris for 10,000 sets of infantry clothing based on that of the French light rifleman. Delivery was made in December and the sets were first issued to the 62nd PA, the 83rd PA and the 18th Mass. infantry regiments.

Sgt. Martin fought with his distinguished unit from his enlistment in August 1861 to his discharge in August 1864. Featured among the soldier's ensemble of Civil War artifacts is an outstanding battle letter signed, "R N Martin" in two pages measuring 5" x 8" on patriotic stationery depicting Pennsylvania Brigadier George A. McCall. Martin's handwritten letter from the battlefield at Gettysburg starts with being "In line of Battle Near Gettysburg Pa", July 2, 1863 (not stated) and sent to "Auntie & Mollie". Sergeant Martin was likely writing from the Wheatfield prior to the day's first Confederate assault. The letter reads:

"This day finds me sitting against a stonewall momently (sis) expecting the fight to commence; the 11th 12th & 1st Corps fought yesterday holding their position, But lost Genl Reynolds Comd of the 1st Corps, Killed. We arrived here this morning marching over 100 miles in 6 days. We are very much fatigued We heard last night little Mac was in comd just as we started. The corps marched 9 miles after night cheering for little Mac all the way. Laid down half after 12 got up and started at 4 so you can imagine how we feel. The enemy occupys (sic)part of the town. Firing of artillery is now going on. Either this evening or tomorrow we will have to fight...there is too much excitement to write much now. If I am spared I will give you the particulars of our last marches. Troops are pouring in very fast. I think the most of our army is here now. I pray God will favor us with a victory".

The following year he was promoted to first lieutenant, surviving the war and living until 1912. One of the most remarkable Gettysburg letters we've ever seen.

In addition to the above items is Martin's multi-page diary 65 pages, unbound, sheet sizes range 5" x 7" to 8" x 12", variously written in pen and pencil, Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania locations, 1862-1863. Although the diary is war date, some of it is written after the fact. Martin joined Co. "A" 3rd Pennsylvania Volunteers on April 20, 1861, re-enlisting in Co. "M", 62nd Pennsylvania Infantry on August 9, 1861. During the period described in his diary, Martin's regiment belonged to the First Division of the Fifth Corps, Army of the Potomac. Robert Martin survived to muster out a first lieutenant on August 15, 1864. A keen observer and competent writer, Martin's diary is a compelling account of life as an infantry soldier.

Excerpts include: "(Camp Winfield Scott, Virginia, April 24, 1862)...in front of the Rebel fort we have a good view of one of our masked batteries mounting five 32 pounders...we had an excellent view of the Rebels & their works...(Sharpsburg, Maryland, September 17, 1862)...at daybreak we heard the artillery at their work while we were getting our coffee...the engagement soon became general...their round shot flew in our neighborhood but did no damage...(Chancellorsville, Virginia, May 1, 1863)...a little farther we see the balloons. At the same time heavy firing on our Right & countless shells explode...My company was thrown in the woods as flankers relieving L company...we reached a point 2 miles distant from our original line when a furious cannonading commenced accompanied with terrific volleys of musketry. The Rebs cheering loudly they are making a desperate attempt to break our lines...night set in the moon shone brilliant giving the Rebs the opportunity of continuing his attack. From where I stood I could see the flash of each piece of artillery that showered the grape & canister in to the Rebel Ranks...it sounds dreadful in daylight but how unnatural it seemed at night...".

All paper very good condition with just light toning. No foxing and some marginal creases with a few edge chips.

If one seeks a unique and identified grouping of Civil War items complete with an original uniform together with an outstanding personal battle letter from Gettysburg and other documents written by a Pennsylvania combat-veteran, look no more - you have found it here.

(M20077) $45,000.00

"Lyman E. Stowe, son of Judge Lyman Stow/ In the Civil War/ In 1861-1865/ Lyman E. Stowe in battle lost his belt by a bullet striking his revolver & glancing off. He requested an injured man on the ground at his feet the use of his belt. A dying soldier said take mine, I'll never use it again. Stow did not notice until later that it was the belt of a southern soldier. / [Reverse side] Lyman E. Stowe/ 2nd Michigan Inf. Vol." - Text of the card retained by the Stowe family

Presented here is a remarkable five-piece grouping of original Confederate Civil War accoutrements with a fantastic but sad story affiliated with the belt plate. This ensemble includes a very rare, solid cast brass "CS" waist belt plate known as a 'spun hooks" style belt plate, its original leather waist belt, a tin, black-japanned hinged container with its period slip of paper with a handwritten note that tells of the gifting of the plate. A second, and more detailed story is also handwritten on a 2½" x 4" flower-embossed, pasteboard card. The superb CS belt plate and its leather belt were gifted to Private Lyman E. Stowe of the 2nd Michigan Infantry regiment by a wounded rebel soldier on an unknown battlefield.

Normally affiliated to use in the Western Theater with the Confederate Army of Tennessee, this handsome sand cast device is very well made and features a plate face with two letters "C S" surrounded with a finished border around the entire edge. Plate face background still shows the remains of the original, gloss black enamel paint surrounding the letters. Plate measures 46mm high x 72mm long and retains all three of its hooks on the reverse side. All the brass belt hooks are strong but unfortunately, one of the hooks has lost a small portion of the tip broken off. It does not in the least diminish the pleasing appearance of the plate. Device has acquired a mellow and pleasing, dark bronze / ochre patina along with highlights of rust-red color scattered on its face. The cast letters C and S are evenly centered on the plate and are smooth and shiny. Plate is free of casting blemishes but does exhibits its share of minor dings and light scratches. The fantastic waist belt plate was acquired by Private Lyman E. Stowe, Co "F", 2nd Michigan Infantry during the war and kept in his family down through the generations. The tin's handwritten note that accompanies the plate reads "This belt a Confederate / soldier dying on the / Battle field gave to / Lyman E. Stowe of / Vol. 2nd Reg. Mich. Union Soldier / from Flint Mich."

The matching black leather waist belt measures 35" long x 1¾" wide and is in very strong, yet flexible condition. Belt is unmarked save for three horizontal knife slits (3" long) for along the body of the belt, which were used for holding a side knife. Leather surface of the belt exhibits moderate cracking, crazing and scuffing but no flaking is visible. Waist belt also displays a number of hand-made belt adjustment holes. Reverse side is smooth and has acquired a mellow, dark sheen.

The Stow family was among the first settlers arriving in the State of Michigan, settling the vicinity of Flint around 1830. Soldier Lyman E. Stowe was the son of Judge Lyman Stow, and at the time of his enlistment was described as being 18 years of age, 6 feet in height, 182 pounds in weight, with dark complexion, dark eyes, and a robust constitution. He was mustered in as a private in Co. "F", 2nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry, in Detroit on April 23, 1861-mustered out at the expiration of his three year term of service on May 25, 1864.

Twenty two years later, in 1886, Stowe applied for an invalid pension on the grounds that his health had been fatally undermined by a case chronic diarrhea contracted while stationed at Camp Scott in Washington, D.C. in July 1861. His weight had then dropped to 90 pounds, and he never completely regained his health, or ever after weighed over 150 pounds. In explaining why he had never applied for a pension prior to 1886, Stowe stated that "in my regiment it was considered almost a disgrace to go to a hospital as long as a man could stand up. Although told that I would have to accept my discharge, I insisted on remaining, determined to serve out my term of enlistment." Fortunately, with the assistance of testimony numerous regimental comrades (officers as well as enlisted), Lyman Stowe was able to establish his claim, and receive a veteran's invalid pension in the early 1890s. He lived on until 1919, dying at the robust age of 76.

The Second Michigan Infantry was the first three-year regiment organized in Detroit, MI, in late May 1861. The regiment was present at the Battle of Bull Run, and participated in the 1862 Peninsula Campaign, as well as the Battles of Antietam and Fredericksburg. Serving with Burnside's 9th Corps during 1863, the 2nd Michigan was transferred to the western theater, where it partook of the Siege of Vicksburg. Serving in Tennessee in early 1864, the unit was then transferred with the 9th Corps back to the Virginia Theater to participate in Grant's 1864 Overland Campaign, which included the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor and the Siege of Petersburg. [Lyman Stowe and mates discharged after three years, left the army following Spottysylvania]. After Appomattox and the Grand Review, the veteran volunteer 2nd Michigan was mustered out in Detroit on August 1, 1865. During service the unit lost 225 men killed and mortally wounded and 147 by disease, for a total of 372.

The grouping comes with Private Stowe's military and pension records from the National Archives in Washington DC. This very handsome, highly desirable, Confederate government issue waist belt plate is in fine condition and would highlight any Confederate collection or American military plate display.

(172-1776) $12,500.00

Regulation Civil War 6th Corps brigade flag of General Emory Upton's brigade as used at the Battles of The Wilderness and Spotsylvania, May 1864. Wool bunting pennant, truncated at the tip, 56" on the hoist and 53" on the fly. Reclining red Greek cross with appropriate colors to indicate Upton's corps, division and brigade.

The brigade figured prominently in these two actions, storming the Confederate lines and engaging in ferocious hand to hand combat. This style of corps flag first appeared in the spring campaign of 1864 and, unlike most extant corps flags, which were fabricated for use in the Grand Review in 1865, this flag was actually carried in the field and into combat. Emory Upton was only 23 in 1864.

Excellent condition, some scattered small holes, with a couple of slightly larger ones, ½" - 1", on the cross, along with a couple of stains. Small tear and fraying at one corner on the hoist where it was attached to the staff. Somewhat darkened with age but very sound and loaded with character.

Includes letter of authenticity from Fonda Thomsen. A very rare and historically important Civil War regulation flag from the John Henry Kurtz collection.

(M20072) $22,500.00

This 36 star flag, which had one star added post-war, is identified to Sgt. Charles Hunter, a resident of Spencer, MA and a boot maker by occupation, who enlisted on 6/19/62 as a Private. On 7/31/62 he mustered into Co. E, 34th Mass. Infantry. Promoted to Corporal; to Sgt. on 4/30/65; and to 2nd Lt. on 6/18/65 (not mustered). He mustered out on 6/16/85. Hunter died on 12/31/1912 & is buried in Pine Grove Cemetery in Spencer, MA.

Hunter was awarded the Medal of Honor for action on 4/2/65 at Fort Gregg, VA, the citation reading that he bore the regimental flag bravely and was among the foremost to enter the work.

The 34th Massachusetts was a 3 year regiment organized at Camp Wool in Worcester, MA. It served in the defenses of Washington until July 1863, when it was sent to Harper's Ferry. Saw action at Ripon, New Market, Piedmont, Lynchburg, & Snicker's Gap. Participated in Sheridan's Valley campaign, being in action at Fisher's Hill, Stickley's Hill, & Cedar Creek. After spending the winter of 1864-65 at Petersburg, the regiment was engaged at Hatcher's Run, March 31, and at Fort Gregg near Petersburg, with heavy loss, April 2, 1865.

Simultaneously with the battle at Five Forks, there was a bombardment of the enemy's fortifications around Petersburg, followed by a general assault the next day, April 2. The works were a strong line of rifle pits with deep ditches and abatis & fraise, interspersed with forts & batteries. The Confederates yielded the entire line after a brief but sharp conflict. The 24th Corps carried Fort Gregg, and Sgt. Hunter reported that the men fought for 27 minutes before the enemy surrendered. Hunter was the first color-bearer to enter Fort Gregg and plant his flag there. His exceptionally brave conduct throughout the campaign and at Fort Gregg in particular earned him the Medal of Honor in June 1865.

This 36 star US National flag is constructed of one layer of silk. The canton measures 31" on the hoist & 32" on the fly. It is decorated on both sides with 36 5-pointed gold colored stars arranged in 6 rows of 6, each measuring 2 ¾" from point to point. There are 13 red & white stripes which measure 4 ¾" to 5" in width. The flag is intact except for areas of damage along the fold lines caused by prolonged folding. The materials & construction of the flag support an 1864-65 date indicated by the star pattern. A 37th star was added to the flag post-war to represent the addition of Nebraska to state hood on March 1, 1867, which became official on July 4, 1867. The additional star is in an awkward position and of identical material composition of the other stars, suggesting that the 37th star was likely added by the same maker using the same materials.

The flag has now been archivally framed, as can be seen at right.

Accompanied by Analysis Report and Addendum from a leading textile conservator.

(M15859) $7,950.00

Sg.t Henry Y. Ball was killed in action near Pine Knob, Ga. June 16, 1864. Ball enlisted in the 109th PV on December 20, 1861. He is listed as being detailed for a company of sharpshooters June 23, 1862, and was wounded at Gettysburg July 2, having participated with the regiment in heavy fighting at Chancellorsville. The regiment was heavily engaged at Pine Knob, Ga. on June 15, 1864 and Ball was killed while acting as a skirmisher in advance of the regiment. Although the regiment suffered four additional wounded, Ball was the only soldier in the regiment killed in action that day.

Included with the group is the following: Ball's exquisite silver corps / ID badge, 3 3/8" overall. Scroll-like pin bar at the top inscribed "Cedar Mtn" with T-bar pinback, pin itself missing, retaining base and clasp. The silver star is suspended from a chain and pierced in the center with 109, which is intricately scroll engraved. "Harry Y. Ball Co. F 109 P. V. V." engraved in block letters on the riband around the piercing. The five-pointed star displays linear engraving and is presumably representative of the 20th Corps. The longer arms of the star are engraved with the following battles, "Sulphur Springs, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wauhatchie, Lookout Mt. " The entire badge is of heavy 1 mm thick silver.

Also, there is a four page ink script letter reading, in part: "June 17, 1864 In the field near Pine Nob, Mr. Ball, It is with great sorrow I have to announce to you the Death of your son Hanry Y. Ball. Poor fellow was killed about 8 oclock yesterday morning while a Skirmishing with the eneme he was shot thru the hart the ball entered the left brest killing him instantly.....he was two brave to live he advanced beyond our Skirmish lines so far that no one could get near him when he fell.....when I went to get him I had to walk on my hands and neas and drag him for 20 feet when 2 others of our company picked him up and run for our lives. I have buried him as best I could...I feel as tho I had lost the only friend in the world the hole company mourns his loss....I have no tent companion now....I have his account book letters and everything he had with him." The letter is filled with further touching sentiments and memories of Ball, absolutely remarkable. Ball had just been promoted to sergeant on June 1.

Measureing 8" X 12" and ½" thick is a wood plank with two reinforcing strips screwed on the back, actually appears to be a crate lid, obviously Ball's temporary grave marker. Deeply and skillfully carved in large block letters, "Killed in Action June 16th/1864/Sergt. Henry Ball/Comp. F. 109th PVV/Aged 21" deep dark weathered patina with just one small age crack and perfectly sound.

A truly incredible Civil War grouping which conveys the tragedy and heart breaking impact of the death of one young Federal infantryman. From the John Henry Kurtz collection.

(L13290) $18,000.00

Engraved on the folding counter guard, "I Carried This Sword Through The/ Civil, Indian & Spanish American Wars/ Presented To Col. Henry H. Adams/ As a Mark Of My Esteem/ Nelson A. Miles Comm'd Of The Army/ January 6th 1900".

Few American swords in existence have borne witness to more of the tragedy and triumph of American military history over a 40 year period, than this example. Nelson Appleton Miles was commissioned a lieutenant in the 22d Massachusetts Infantry on September 9, 1861, doubtless when he acquired this sword. He was commissioned colonel of the 61st new York on September 30, 1862, having seen fierce action on the peninsula and at Antietam. Brevetted brigadier general for his gallantry at Chancellorsville, and major general on 25 August 1864 for his service at the Wilderness, Spotsylvania and Ream's Station. Miles was wounded four times during the Civil War and awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at Chancellorsville, all with this sword by his side. On 28 July 1866 Miles was appointed colonel of the 40th US Infantry in the regular army, transferring to the 5th infantry in 1869. He subdued the Cheyenne, Kiowa and Comanches on the plains and led the campaign against Sitting Bull and the Sioux after the Custer massacre in 1876. Miles is further credited with the subjugation of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce and the capture of Geronimo, all with this sword by his side. He was named commanding general of the United States Army in 1895, ably leading American forces to victory in the Spanish American War, finally retiring in 1903.

The sword is a classic M1860 Civil War period staff and field, the diamond shaped blade etched for half its length with leaves, arms panoplies and a spread wing eagle and block US. Blade excellent, clean and gray with just some minor staining, totally untouched. The exterior of the sword, while clearly showing use, is also completely untouched with dark smooth patina overall, including the folding counter guard which bears the inscription. The release/locking button is missing. The entire sword exhibits absolutely no dents, rust or pitting.

Col. Henry Herschel Adams was nominated for the Medal of Honor for his conspicuous gallantry at Chickamauga by General O. O. Howard. He returned to civilian life after the war and via a successful business career became one of the richest men in American by the end of the 19th century. Adams was the commander of Miles' GAR post and, at his own expense, raised a brigade of infantry for service under Miles in the Spanish American War. Clearly Adams was the perfect candidate to become the caretaker of this most important memento of Miles' incredible military career.

The sword is accompanied by an extensive file of records, newspaper accounts etc. for both Miles and Adams. A remarkable American historic sword, having seen some of the most ferocious fighting of the Civil War, the blood and tragedy of the Indian Wars and the consummate triumph of the forces under Miles' command in the Spanish American War. Truly a rare opportunity, this sword was featured in Heritage Auction Galleries 2008 June Signature Civil War Auction #6002.

(557-10) $28,500.00

Made in its entirety by famed Baltimore cutler and Bowie knife maker Samuel Jackson. Superb condition and impeccably provenanced. A unique American presentation sword, not only for its form but also for the sturdy workmanship it exhibits, clearly implying its origins in the shop of a knife maker.

Daniel H. McPhail was born in Baltimore in 1813 and was appointed a second lieutenant in the 5th U. S. infantry by Andrew Jackson in 1837. On July 10, 1846, he was promoted to captain and commanded a company of this regiment throughout the Mexican War. McPhail was brevetted to major for action at Churubusco where he was also wounded, "his uniform being pierced with bullet holes in the front and across the shoulders. By Resolution No. 17, Acts of 1849, the Maryland legislature tendered its gratitude to McPhail for "his bravery and gallantry in eleven battles during the recent conflict of arms with the Republic of Mexico...".

At the outbreak of the Civil War General Scott offered McPhail a commission and he served for a time on the staff of General Rosecrans, along with Garfield and Hayes. In the later stages of the war he served as paymaster at Wheeling, West Virginia, receiving a brevet to lieutenant colonel for faithful and meritorious service. After the war McPhail was stationed in New Orleans and Charleston and died in Baltimore in 1884.

A remarkable piece of provenance which accompanies the sword is an article from the Baltimore American and Commercial Advertiser dated February 23, 1849 (ironically the day after the presentation on the sword is actually dated) which states in part, "We examined yesterday at the cutlery and surgical instrument manufactory of Mr. Samuel Jackson, on Baltimore Street above St. Paul's Street, a splendid sword, every part of which has been manufactured in Mr. J's own establishment, and after a unique pattern of his own designing. The hilt is octagon shaped, made of silver, and surmounted by a well executed head of Washington, also of silver. The guard represents two dolphins, the engraving and chasing of which has been finished in a style of unsurpassed beauty. The blade, which is of the straight, cut and thrust order, is of the truest and finest steel, polished in the most exquisite manner; the upper half of it being elegantly marked. A more beautiful specimen of workmanship that this blade represents has never come under our inspection. The scabbard is of steel, finely polished, and elegantly mounted with silver. The whole appearance of the sword is that of a chaste and rich neatness, which will recommend it to the taste of all".

In addition to the details described in the article there is a narrow band of silver inlaid in the blade at the ricasso, on both sides, just below Jackson's logo. The blade utilizes a single narrow central fuller and is decorated with lightly engraved parallel lines on either side of the fuller. The blade is held in place at the pommel with a spanner nut. The chain guard is made of decoratively cut and pierced interlocking silver links, attached at the pommel and the guard with braided silver suspensory loops. The steel body of the scabbard, in addition to being polished, is blued. The battles listed on the back of the silver top mount are "Monterey, Vera Cruz, San Antonio, Churubusco, Molino Del Ray, Chapultepec, Garita de Belen, Garita de San Cosine, City of Mexico". Below this is a later inscription, "Col. D. H. McPhail / to/ G. H. Coutts/ January 30th, 1884" (the exact date of McPhail's death). The original oak casing is compartmented and fitted to the sword with green and red wool felt lining and retains the original key. The sword also retains the original buff chamois storage case. A portrait of McPhail in uniform, ca. 1840, is held by the Maryland Historical Society. A remarkable sword, by a most desirable maker, presented to a gallant American officer.

Condition: Aside from one very small (¼" X 1½") patch of light pitting on the blade, 12" from the tip, the sword is mint. The casing has some light exterior scratches, otherwise perfect with nice patina. The lining is perfect as is the chamois storage case.

Provenance: Medicus, Flayderman, & The Donald R.Tharpe Collection of American Military History

(541-11) ORIGINALLY $85,000.00
REDUCED TO $75,000.00

Inscribed to John Blackford of Ferry Hill Plantation, Maryland. Exceptional not only for their superb quality and extreme rarity but also their exquisite condition. John Blackford (1780 - 1839) was the proprietor of the prosperous Ferry Hill Plantation on the Maryland side of the Potomac opposite Shepherdstown. Blackford was a wealthy and astute businessman owning the plantation and the ferry, while holding stock in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, the Baltimore Insurance Company and numerous other commercial ventures. Blackford served in the War of 1812 and commanded a company that, because of its less than exemplary conduct at the disastrous Battle of Bladensburg, was dubbed "The Bladensburg Racers". Despite the poor performance of his troops, Blackford's reputation did not suffer, and he was promoted to a Colonelcy, doubtless using these pistols in his later military exploits.

The Sheetz family of gunsmiths had their origins in Shepherdstown with Phillip Sheetz in 1768, who made muskets for the state of Virginia both before and during the Revolution. William Sheetz was Phillip's grandson and continued the family's gunsmithing tradition in the early 19th century, producing this beautiful pair of pistols, commensurate with the elevated status of John Blackford, ca. 1815 - 20.

The 8" octagonal barrels are 13/16" across the flats with deeply rifled approximately .40 caliber bores. The faces of the muzzles are punch decorated with stars and circles. Beautifully figured American walnut stocks. All mountings are coin silver including the wedges. The iron rear sight and German silver front sight are decorated with line engraving as is the face of the wedge. The scroll shaped silver side plates are engraved "John Blackford - Maryland" respectively. Each gun also utilizes an oval silver wrist escutcheon. The guns are signed in hand engraved manuscript "W. M. Sheetz" on the top flat of the barrel behind the rear sight. High quality roller frizzen locks marked "T. Ketland & Co.". Wide triggers with scroll cut decoration. The original hickory ramrods incorporate a hand fashioned iron worm. Although silver mounted American holster pistols from this period do occasionally surface, the emergence of a matched pair, in this superb untouched condition, identified as to both maker and owner, is indeed a rare occurrence in the field of American arms collecting.

The condition of the pistols is exceptional. All silver perfect with nice light patina. Barrels and locks sharp and crisp with absolutely no rust or pitting and smooth even patina. The signatures are as sharp as the day they were cut. Stocks retain much of the original varnish with a pleasing rich patina on the grips. Just some very light, really negligible, hairline scratches, otherwise perfect. Mechanically crisp.

(541-12) $85,000.00

Without question one of the most important pieces of eyewitness battlefield art to emerge from the American Civil War. Major General George E. Pickett, "Awaiting the Signal," signed and dated at Gettysburg, July 3, 1863 by Col. A. R. Boteler, executed within hours, or moments, of Pickett issuing the fateful order, "Up men and to your posts! Don't forget that you are from old Virginia!", that would result in one of the greatest and most tragic clashes in American military history, forever to be known as "Pickett's Charge."

Alexander Robinson Boteler was elected to the First Confederate Congress, but alternated his legislative work with military service. A descendant of Charles Wilson Peale, Boteler was, among other things, an accomplished artist. He was instrumental in the design of the Great Seal of the Confederacy and illustrated several books before and after the war. A large collection of his Civil War portrait work was purchased by the Military Historical Society of Boston in 1887. Boteler's Confederate military career began with his appointment, with the rank of Colonel, to the staff of Gen. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson, who was a personal friend. Subsequent to Jackson's death at Chancellorsville he was, for an interim period, including at Gettysburg, on Lee's staff, and served through 1864 on the staff of JEB Stuart. From November 1864 to the end of the war he was a member of the Military Court Department and was with Lee's army at Appomattox.

His penchant for sketching battlefield scenes is well documented and there is a well known incident of Jackson querying Boteler about the subjects of his work. Pickett is depicted in this 5.75" x 8.75" gouache leaning against a tree with his arms folded in front, in the midst of a grove of trees. A number of dismounted officers in various uniforms are visible in the background with their horses. Pickett wears a double breasted frock coat with general's insignia clearly visible on the collar. His sword is suspended from a belt with an unidentified rectangular buckle, and his boots, with spurs, extend well above his knees. The characteristic curls of his hair roll down to the collar of his coat. Most significantly he wears a wide brim slouch hat with a small unidentified insignia on the front, whereas tradition has previously held that he was wearing a general grade officer's kepi at Gettysburg. Additionally, unlike the traditional description of Pickett being "filled with excitement" at the prospect of beginning the assault, his demeanor is clearly that of a man steeped in thought, doubtless contemplating the importance of the drama that is about to unfold. "Awaiting the Signal Gettysburg July 3, 1863" in ink script at the bottom. Boteler's signature with A. R. inside the two loops of the letter B is at the lower right. Doubtless executed in the field by Boteler as a pencil sketch and subsequently finished by him as a gouache. The image is on an old archival mount with a further pencil script ID at the bottom of the mount, "No. 21 Gen. Pickett, by Col. A. R. Boteler, of Gen. Lee's staff."

An incredible piece of Civil War battlefield art.

(541-10) $50,000.00

This scale is truly one of the rarest Civil War items you will ever see. This is the only one we have ever offered.

It is a platform type scale designed to give body weight of soldiers at locations such as hospitals and recruiting stations and then be easily packed for moving to the next location. A platform scale has a system of levers, below the platform, which transfer the load to the weighing resistance, no matter where the load is placed on the platform.

The chief advantage of the HOWE scale rests in the placing of chilled iron balls between the platform and the bearings, which contribute to the accuracy of the scale. The principal effect of these balls is to relieve the knife-edges, upon the preservation of which depends the wear of the scale and its continued accuracy. No other scale uses this feature, which is covered by patents. This scale ranges from one pound to 50 pounds on the scale and has two additional weights that allow it to measure up to 350 pounds.

The scale when folded for transporting measures 34 inches in length by 18 inches wide and 9 ½ inches high. It is made of 7/8-inch thick wood and covered on the top and bottom with a thin layer of steel. On one side is a cast iron hinge with raised lettering that says HOWE'S ARMY SCALE. Each end has a folding steel handle. When folded open the bottom becomes your platform and the top is your scale. The 16-inch by 24-inch platform is made of steel with a 10 1/2-inch by 18 1/2-inch wooden center. On the top in raised letters is STRONG & ROSS PATENT / JAN 15, 1856 and on the other end is JOHN HOWE JR / BRANDON VT. N09.

The invention of the Howe scale dates from the year 1855, when F. M. STRONG and Thomas ROSS, two young men of energy and mechanical genius, began studying the problem of how to make a perfect weighing device. Their success was ample and in 1856 their first patent was secured. In the fall of the same year they put up their first scale in Vernon, N. Y. About the same time they finished and exhibited specimens of their hay scales and other smaller styles at the fair of the American Institute, in New York, where they attracted favorable attention. In the spring of 1857 John Howe, jr., then of Brandon, Vt. became impressed with the value of the invention, purchased the patent of the inventors and began their manufacture at Brandon.

Inside the scale attached to the wood are instructions on how to pack and unpack the scale. The instructions themselves are very hard to read but the part that reads: HOWE'S ARMY SCALES / Patented May 20 and October 24, 1862 / Directions for unpacking and packing is still very clear.

The scale does not function due to one piece of iron that is broken and a steel rod that needs straightened but it can easily be repaired. Truly a unique item that you will probably never see another.

(M18479) $3,500.00

The essential part of any Union soldier's outfit was his India rubber blanket. Used as a tent, ground cover or any number of other things, this highly serviceable item was greatly prized and an omnipresent part of soldier life. Because of its usefulness, after the war surplus pieces continued to be issued to the military and sold to the civilian market until government stocks were used up. Existing specimens are very rare today, particularly in this superb condition.

Made of rubberized cotton, this example measures 46" x 68" and retains all its reinforced brass grommets. The material is amazingly pliable and shows no splits or missing pieces. The interior is unmarked, with some age spotting and discoloration, but overall this rarity is in outstanding, near perfect condition. An indispensable part of a Northern soldier's gear that seldom becomes available on the market today. Ex - John Henry Kurtz collection.

(548-93) $10,000.00

Leather CDV album of students & professors of Middlebury College in Vermont, several of whom served in the Civil War. Binding has split but all pages are present. Leather cover is in good condition, showing just minor wear. Decorative metal clasps with small busts of George Washington, still firmly attached & hold the album closed.

Period ink ID inside front cover, "George H. Sweet". Album contains 39 images, including one tintype in CDV mount. 18 images are identified in period ink, with 8 having served in the Civil War. Middlebury College was founded in 1800 by Timothy White, then president of Yale. Its original purpose was to train young men for the ministry and other learned professions. In 1883, it became one of the first formerly all-male schools in New England to admit women.

Images include:

1. William R. Shipman. Drafted, paid $300 commutation, did not serve.

2. John R. Converse. Class of 1862. Enlisted as private 9/16/62; 10/21/62 mustered into Co. I 14th VT Infantry. Promoted 2nd Lt. 7/3/63. Mustered out 7/30/63 at Brattleboro, VT. Re-enlisted 5/19/64 as 2nd Lt. in Co. H, 17th VT Infantry. Killed in action 7/30/64 at Petersburg, VA.

3. Park Davis. Drafted, paid $300 commutation, did not serve.

4. Henry A. Eaton. Class of 1862. Enlisted 8/26/62 as Captain; mustered in to Co. A, 16th VT 10/12/62. Wounded 7/3/63 at Gettysburg. Mustered out 8/10/63 at Brattleboro. Re-enlisted 8/12/64 as a Major; on 9/27/64 commissioned into 17th VT. Killed in action 9/30/64 at Poplar Springs Church, VA.

5. John A. Fitch. Class of 1862. Enlisted 9/1/62 as a Sgt. On 10/4/62 mustered into Co. E, 12th VT Infantry. Mustered out 7/14/63 at Brattleboro.

6. Eli H. Gale. Class of 1862. Enlisted 5/17/64 as Asst. Surgeon. Mustered in to Field & Staff, 186th PA. Mustered out 8/15/65 at Philadelphia.

7. Edward H. Hobbs. Class of 1862. Enlisted 12/17/61 as a 1st Lt. On 2/22/62 commissioned into Field & Staff 98th NY Infantry. Promoted 12/18/61 1st Lt. & Adjutant. Mustered out 6/2/63.

8. Aldace F. Walker. Class of 1862. Enlisted 8/13/62 as 1st Lt.; mustered in to Co. B, 1st VT Heavy Artillery (11th VT Infantry). Promoted to Capt., Co. C, 11/30/62; Major 6/28/64; Lt. Col. 10/19/64 by Brevet; Lt. Col. 5/23/65. Mustered out 6/24/65. In 1869 he authored The Vermont Brigade in the Shenandoah Valley 1864.

Other identified images include: Prof. H.M. Seely, Prof. Brainerd Kellogg, I. Albee, E.A. Haseltine, A.F. Rider, Wm. A. Robinson, L.A. Scott, Charles C. Harris.

(75-538) $1,500.00

Presented here is an original, extraordinarily scarce Civil War era or earlier, U.S. Army artillery musician's frock coat in excellent condition that recently surfaced from an estate in Vermont. During the mid-nineteenth century and after, many town bands attached themselves to their local militia groups and performed at military reviews and musters. Bands were so valued by the militia as effective recruiting tools that when the Civil War commenced, musical bands were in high demand. Some unit commanders paid large stipends to the bands in order to secure them in their regiments when those organizations went off to war. The U.S. government at times overlooked regulations and allowed the regimental band uniforms to retain their distinct and colorful trim as long as the government didn't have to pay for those costs. We feel that this coat is a militia or pre-war musician frock coat that could easily date to the time of the Civil War. Maker-marked and government inspected, this type of musician's regimental frock coat is a very rare commodity. 'The Horse Soldier' has handled only two other such musician frock coats in over thirty years of business.

Interestingly, this frock coat features a set of officer's cloth shoulder straps handsewn to each shoulder. Garment is a just-above-the-knee length, close-fitting, triple-breasted frock coat with a vent and two tail pockets. Well-constructed of dark indigo-blue flannel wool, the uniform frock specimen exhibits a six-piece upper body, consisting of two front sections with two side and two back pieces. A wrap around skirt and sleeves of the same material finish the coat. Coat bears a short, two-piece standing collar of smooth red wool facing, chevron-style red-wool cuffs and features a padded or quilted chest. Each shoulder strap exhibits a red wool cloth field with a single, gold-braid rank device of a 1st lieutenant sewn to it. Entire strap is bordered with a ¼" wide gold braid. The coat's back interior section and skirts remain unlined. Front of coat is eye-catching as it features three vertical columns of brass coat-size buttons flanked with nine horizontal rows or bars of ½" wide red wool piping placed on a line with each button. When coat front is buttoned up, the bar at the waist measures 7" across and the upper-most bar at the neck measures 13½" across. Sleeves are two piece construction and measure 7" wide across the elbow, 5" at the cuffs. Cuffs are non-functional and each displays two, small size, Eagle "Shield" brass buttons on the seam. Buttons are in very good condition and are unmarked. The triple-breasted uniform coat features twenty-seven, coat-size, Eagle "Shield" brass buttons arranged in three columns down the front of the coat. Buttons exhibit much of their original gold gilt and bear various backmarks including "EXTRA QUALITY, D. EVANS, WATERBURY BUTTON CO.

The front body panel of the coat interior is lightly padded and lined with dark greenish brown cotton cloth. Both sleeves are lined with a light-colored cotton material. Stamped on the left inner sleeve's armpit is a strong maker's stamp in black ink that reads "A. ROSE / NEW YORK" along with the numeral "2" indicating the size. Alvin Rose was a New York City businessman in 1864 who provided flannel shirts, flannel sack coats and drawers to the government under contract. Left sleeve interior also bears an inspector's mark of "WM. SCOTT JR / U.S. INSP / CIN'TI. O" in black ink. Remainder of the coat body, as well as the skirts, is unlined. Rear of coat is cut with a center split, a.k.a. vent, and has folded tails that have a pocket flap worked into each tail. The coat tails have a total of four, large size, Eagle "Shield" buttons in place as each tail flap has one button at the outside split and a button at each inner pocket flap. One over-size breast pocket bag (6½" wide x 9"high), made of dark-brown polished cotton, has been sewn into the coat left side interior. This addition probably added by the musician-soldier himself to accommodate his sheet music. This seldom seen musician's frock coat, in such outstanding condition, exhibits just a few scattered light moth nips with them most prevalent on the red cotton trim facings.

The musician's kepi is constructed in the French 'chasseur pattern' style that was prevalent prior to and during the American Civil War. This private purchase kepi bears a small paper tag with the name "Chase" handwritten in black ink. Similar to the French uniform caps of that period, the kepi bears a lower profile, exhibits a slight slope at the crown, and displays a straight, flat brim. The cap specimen here measures 4" high from base to top of crown and is approximately a size 7". The exterior body is constructed of high quality, deep blue indigo, wool flannel cloth that is in excellent condition. It shows almost no wear or mothing at all save one tiny moth nip on the left side near the juncture with the flat pasteboard disc. Top of the circular crown features a 5" diameter pasteboard disc covered in a dark blue wool cloth that is free of any nips or blemishes. Crown is void of any piping or rank design. The blue color is rich and vibrant, not faded or worn. In addition, kepi features a single, 1/8" wide horizontal line of red cloth piping or braiding that encircles the entire exterior of the kepi. Another single row of red cloth braid runs along the exterior edge brim from visor tip to visor tip. The original flat leather, tarred visor is in very good condition and is tightly sewn to the brim with no repairs evident. A number of small scuffmarks are exhibited on the bottom of the visor. Two, brass, cuff-size, eagle "Shield" buttons backmarked "WATERBURY BUTTON CO" are tightly sewn to each side of the cap. The reddish brown-colored Moroccan leather sweatband measures 1 5/8" high and rings the entire inner brim area of the cap. The thin, black bridle leather is in excellent condition with tight original stitching to the brim. Some slight edge scuffing visible on the band from age and use. Inside crown is lined with a dark brown, polished twill cloth material that is un-padded. Kepi's inner crown disc is covered with a darker brown leather material. Though the crown surface bears slight rubbing and sweat marks, a small, light-colored paper tag is visible and glued to the front edge. Tag bears the soldier's name "Chase" in handwritten black ink.

With the frock coat & kepi is a snare drum with drumsticks. The drum is 13 ¾ inches high and 16 ¾ inches in diameter and made of maple. The drum has been shortened approximately 2 inches probably around the late 1880's. The heads, leather "ears" and the ropes have also been replaced. Inside is a label but the printing is faded and not legible. The top head is marked in faded ink July 4th / R.W.C./ B.P./"05". The bottom has the initials LW. The drumsticks are made of a light colored unstained wood and are tapered to a ball end. One is 17 ¼ inches long and the other is 17 inches in length. One ball is slightly larger than the other one. Also, one has a series of three lines near the bottom and two in the middle carved around the stick.

This fantastic looking, pre-Civil War militia musician's kepi in great original condition is a uniform specimen worthy of any military display or Civil War era headgear collection.

(14-1212) $25,000.00

This rare and unusual woolen uniform item is an original pair of Federal Army Civil War 'mounted' uniform pants or trousers, sometimes referred to as 'saddled' trousers. Worn by enlisted Union cavalrymen or light artillerymen, these trouser specimens are seldom seen today in the collecting fraternity. Made of sky-blue wool kersey, these trousers are in good strong condition overall with no visible stampings or markings. They feature a 33" waist with an inseam of 28" and measure 9" wide across the widest portion of the trouser leg. Pants are cut full and are not lined but feature a second layer of the heavy wool cloth sewn to the outside of the seat / thigh area of the trousers. This 'saddled' layer was used to help extend the life of the cloth due to the hard use the trousers received from being worn against the saddle leather. The unlined trousers exhibit a 2" wide, white linen inner waistband (now turned a beige-color) that is in remarkably good condition. Waistband supports a slit pocket on each side of trousers. Other features are a button-down fly that retains its four original, 15mm, tin, 4-hole garment buttons tightly sewn to the opening and a pocket watch slit in the right front of the waistband. No provision for a wool belt adjuster band. All trouser seam stitching appears to be original and is in strong tight condition save for a 3" long portion of the "V" re-enforcing band on the inner rear waistband that has separated. Trouser waist and upper leg areas, in front and in back, exhibit numerous scattered tiny / small moth nips and holes from insect damage overall. The largest hole measures 1½" long x ½" wide on the backside with five additional holes approximately ½" in diameter scattered about. Trousers still retain all seven tin waist buttons as well as the eight 12mm tin buttons sewn to each of the inner trouser cuffs, four buttons per cuff. No cloth cuff straps included. This Civil War cavalry / light artillery pair of rare mounted trousers a wonderful woolen artifact of the Union army and would make a superlative addition to any collection of period military cloth.

(M18574) $20,000.00

Here, in fantastic original condition, is a handsome, unidentified militia officer's kepi manufactured by a Union County, Pennsylvania merchant named John M. Taylor of Lewisburg. A clear and strong maker's mark printed in gold gilt reads "J. M. TAYLOR / LEWISBURG / PA." and is found on the inside cloth of the kepi's crown. Records are scarce on John M. Taylor and he is not listed in B. Bazelon's and McGuinn's "Directory of American Military Goods Dealers and Makers 1785-1915." Taylor is listed as a merchant on the Lewisburg Borough property lists for Union County, PA in October 1864 according to the Mifflinburg tax assessor. John M. Taylor was a businessman of some means as he was taxed on a number of Union County holdings that included acreage, town lots, buildings, cattle, horses, and carriages. One entry in the Mifflinburg Telegraph Weekly Newspaper in late 1852 reported that the old County jail was sold to John M. Taylor who 'converted it into a dwelling'. In 1864, Taylor was taxed on personal property valued at $2,400.00, a hefty sum of money for the time. Taylor was instrumental in the manufacturing of military uniform-style kepis in Lewisburg, PA as attested to by this fine kepi specimen that bears his name but no records of his manufacturing facility have been found as yet.

Constructed in the French 'chasseur pattern' style that was prevalent prior to and during the American Civil War, this private purchase kepi was manufactured by Taylor's clothing firm in Lewisburg to serve the many and varied pre-Civil War militia companies that were common in both the North and the South. Similar to the French uniform caps of that period, the kepi had a lower profile, exhibited a less pronounced slope at the crown, and displayed a straight, flat visor or brim. This type of kepi was worn usually by officers who had some freedom of dress in their uniform choice.

The officer cap specimen here measures 4" high from base to top of crown and is approximately a size 7". The exterior body is constructed of high quality, deep blue indigo, wool satinet cloth that is absolutely in choice condition. It shows almost no wear or mothing at all save one tiny moth nip on the right side near the juncture with the visor. Top of the circular crown features a 5" diameter pasteboard disc covered in a red wool cloth that is free of any nips or blemishes. Crown is void of any piping or rank design. The colors of both the blue and the red wool cloth are rich and vibrant, not faded or worn. In addition, kepi features single, 1/8" wide vertical lines of gold piping or braiding that emanate from the crown's 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions and traverse downward at an angle on the cloth sides. Piping terminates at a single horizontal band of gold piping that encircles the entire exterior of the kepi. Another single row of gold braid runs along the exterior edge brim from visor tip to visor tip.

The original flat, thick leather, tarred visor is in excellent, strong condition and tightly sewn to the brim with no repairs evident. The reddish brown-colored Moroccan leather sweatband measures 1 3/8" high and rings the entire inner brim area of the cap. The thin leather is in excellent condition with tight original stitching to the brim. One small area of sweatband brim stitching has separated from the body at the right visor tip. Some slight edge scuffing visible on the band from age and use. Inside crown is lined with a dark brown, unpolished, twill cloth material that is lightly padded, while the kepi's inner crown disc is covered with a slightly darker brown, quilted cotton cloth. Though its surface bears slight rubbing and sweat marks, the maker's name "J. M. TAYLOR / LEWISBURG / PA." is strongly stamped in faded gold gilt on the disc's center with ¼" high block letters. Kepi is complete with its thick, unbroken, tarred leather visor or brim tightly stitched to the body. Also the kepi appears never to have had a chinstrap, cloth brim band, or any brass, cuff-size buttons on either side of the cap.

This fantastic looking, pre-Civil War militia officer's kepi in such great original condition is a uniform specimen worthy of any Pennsylvania military display or of any Civil War era headgear collection.

(72-16) ORIGINALLY $5,500.00
REDUCED TO $3,950.00