This item is a Civil War ear plate chain - thirteen chain links and end bar. It was recovered in relic condition at an unknown non-Gettysburg location. Lightly pitted, the "O" ring's outside diameter measures 4 inches and is made of an iron/steel 5/8 inches thick. There are twelve links of chain each link measuring 3-inches long by 2-1/8 inches across. They are made of 5/8-inch thick iron/steel. The non-"O" ring end has a large chain link and heavy bar. This chain link is oval and measuring 5 1/8 inches long by 2 ½ inches across; the end bar is 7-¼ inches long by 1 inch across and attaches to the chain by a center hole. All components are solidly attached and have not been cleaned or otherwise fussed with. This piece weighs 11 pounds, is identified in John Geiselman's collection by a contemporary inscribed label, and would make an inexpensive display item for an Artillery or Civil War collection. Previously sold as item R12387.

The Horse Soldier is pleased to offer a number of items from the John P. Geiselman collection, a collection that was on display for many years at the Geiselman Country Store Museum on Barlow - Two Taverns Road. Geiselman began his collecting as a child in the early 1920s, and during the pre-World II period had access to artifacts that had been purchased earlier at the estate sales of the Trostle, Rogers, Rose, Weikert, and Wentz farms - local properties that figured prominently in the battle and its aftermath. During this period he had access as well to the Hill , Plank, and Stewart collections, and was able to acquire other items that had been sold from turn-of-the-century relics establishments such as the Danner, Ziegler, and Oak Ridge Museums. Furthermore, Geiselman carefully documented most artifacts, and collectors perusing the list will be able to note, in many instances, not only the source of the relic and the date of its recovery, but also the part of the battlefield from which it came. In other words, his collection is the last major grouping of Gettysburg artifacts assembled and documented by a local resident.

This item is not eligible for the 10% discount.