Firearms

RARE M1861 Remington "Old Model Army" .44 Revolver

Only about 6,000 EVER MADE !!!

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

OH YEAH!   You know I like 'em RARE!!!  This little beauty is not only your ICONIC firearm of the Civil War and mid-19th Century firearm from the still ever-famous Remington Firearms Company, but this baby is an ULTRA-RARE Remington Model 1861 "Old Model Army" .44 Caliber specimen---being only made for one year (1862) and only around 6,000 ever made.  Flayderman's Guide to American Antique Firearms explains how the weapon's serial numbering commenced at the end of the Beals Army production, and thus you find the some 6,000 of these rare beauties going between 9000 and 15000 in serial numbering.  This specimen is serial # 11866, so an early production piece in early 1862.  Flayderman's also describes that these were almost entirely shipped to fulfill government contracts to be immediately sent into service in the field, and notes that, because of their rarity in terms of small production run, coupled with their HEAVY USAGE from 1862 until the very end of the war, that "better condition specimens are scarce...".  When Flayderman's even uses the word "scarce"--it's like the old "E. F Hutton" slogan: PEOPLE LISTEN!!!  This is INDEED ONE OF THOSE VERY GOOD ++ CONDITION SCARCE SPECIMENS!!!  The weapon is actually quite beautiful, being 100% complete, 100% original, 100% fully-functional, having the most wonderful, intact walnut grips with NO CRACKING or CHIPPING whatsoever.  The metal has the classic toned-down blued/frosty hue to all the metal surfaces.  Only the most minor and expected combat and in-the-field service wear to be found anywhere on this one, and even the Remington patent mark and address-- "PATENTED DEC. 17, 1861 / MANUFACTURED BY REMINGTON'S, ILION, N.Y." are still visible.  NO DAMAGE...NO REPAIRS....and NO APOLOGIES for this rare/scarce beauty. 

Bet you don't have one of these elusive beauties in your collection!  And you'll only get maybe one or two chances a year to SEE ONE FOR SALE...and good luck finding one in better condition, if you do find one!

$1350  LAYAWAY

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Stunning ID'ed Texas Soldier's Complete Rig & Image

Private D. W. Adams of the 32nd Texas Cavalry (Crump's Battalion, Mounted Volunteers)

Was Assigned to Lt. General Theophilus Holmes' PERSONAL BODY GUARD (See Records Below)

His M1860 Colt Army Revolver (all-matching serial numbers), CS/Local-Made HOLSTER & CS/Local-Made Roller Buckle Belt, His Crudely-Made from a file Fighting Knife with Crude Leather Sheath Intact, His Carbine/Pistol Cartridge Box, Possible CS-Made Cap Box, and his 6th-Plate Ambrotype of Adams in Uniform

His Name is Hand-Carved Into Both the Grip of His Colt, & On His Roller-Buckle Lip, as well as Upon the Back of His Image Case (cursive signature)

FRESH TO THE MARKET SINCE THE 1950's!!

Acquired in the late 1950's from my Texas attorney friend, comes this incredible complete ID'ed heirloom grouping of Private D. W. Adams, of Company C, 32nd Texas Cavalry, Crump's Battalion, Mounted Volunteers, who was ASSIGNED to Lt. Gen'l T. Holmes' PERSONAL BODYGUARD as shown in the National Archives Muster Roll Records!  This spectacular collection has got it all!!!!  From his SUPER-FINE, all-original, fully-functional, all-matching serial numbered Colt Army .44 caliber revolver (a captured piece with cartouche on grip, serial number 52172--an 1862 production), his crudely-made from a file-blade 12" total length (7.75" blade length) fighting knife with equally crude leather sheath, his classic Confederate roller-buckle belt rig (!!!), his CS/LOCAL-MADE holster for his Colt, possible CS-made cap box (more on that in a moment), his cartridge box (technically the style for a carbine), and the coup-de-main....his fully-cased 6th-plate ambrotype image of him in his Confederate Cavalryman's uniform (and VERY unusual pants--striped!)  His name "D. W. Adams" is hand-carved in large BLOCK letters upon both the tongue of the leather protector on his roller-buckle belt rig, and into the left-side grip of his Colt Army.   Behind his ambrotype image, upon the back of the case, is a cursive signature "D. W. Adams" as well. 

EVERYTHING on Private Adam's rig is 100% AUTHENTIC and ORIGINAL, 100% Fully-Functional, with NO REPAIRS or DAMAGE.  Only the most minor wear from actual service as bodyguard to Lt. General Holmes in the Western/Trans-Mississippi Theater.  The classic Confederate and often simple civilian-style roller-buckle belt rig is simply FANTASTIC, being the archetypical example of what was really among the most mass-issued and used belts used by Confederate soldiers...though SO VERY FEW SPECIMENS EXIST TODAY.  This one is entirely intact, with no tears or damage, supple leather, and typical confederate "tooled" lined edging.  The crude file-blade converted fighting knife is so impressive, being 12" in total length, and 7.75" blade length, having the file remnants near the base of the blade on both sides where the blacksmith didn't finish the sharpening/finishing process.  It has a simple wooden 2-piece handle with two crude square-nail type fasteners tacked to hold the handle together.  The equally crude and utilitarian leather sheath is also complete, undamaged, supple, no tears or separations in the seem, and a copper rivet used kind-of like a hooking mechanism to the belt.  The mid-1862 production FINE condition, all-original, complete, fully-functional, and unpitted Colt Army .44 caliber revolver with visible US inspector's cartouche has EXCELLENT, CRISP all-matching serial number stampings everywhere (except wedge, which is original replacement wedge--so very common--NOT a modern reproduction wedge!!!  Wedges were the easiest and first thing to lose off a Colt!!!).  The unpitted metal has a wonderfully eye-appealing faded blued hue, with beautifully intact, uncracked and unchipped grips, with his name "D. W. ADAMS" carved into the left-side handle.  The Colt maker's address atop the barrel is still completely visible, of course.  This Colt is FINE.  The only thing finer (in terms of rarity) is the Confederate-made HOLSTER for this Colt!!!  Classic crude, simple cut, simple form, lesser leather quality, and TINY BELT LOOP INTACT on the back that can ONLY FIT A TINY CS ROLLER-BUCKLE BELT!!!  You can see where it had originally had an earlier belt loop, but an in-the-field repair of russet leather and crude copper rivets were utilized to keep the holster in service for Private Adams.  The oh-so classically Johnny Reb flap attachment device is a simple copper utility rivet!  The leather by the rivet hole in the flap has long since torn from all the wear, but that's the only facet of this holster that isn't absolutely wonderful, intact, supple, and "perfect" for a well-used Confederate-made and used holster!  His typical (and probably pre-war Federal or captured) carbine cartridge box also has both loops firmly intact, with nice maker's cartouche upon the inner flap, but is missing the attachment leather strip--again, typical from field and combat service wear.  The cap box...now this one is VERY interesting....I've had several "experts" in CS leather look at it, and all have given a "hmmm...interesting....maybe..." to this one being a CS-made specimen!  It's got a more sloping front flap style going down into the flap to attach to the tiny brass finial--a form in design and cut seen in known CS-made arsenal specimens-- two VERY THIN intact attachment loops on the back, and NO FEDERAL MARKINGS/SUB-INSPECTOR MARKINGS (the small "flower" or "starburst" stampings you find on all exclusively Federal-made leather accouterments).  If it isn't a CS-made cap box, it is certainly pre-war.

And saving the best for last...the fully-cased 6th-plate ambrotype image is Private Adams, with him wearing his local-tailored/commutation (CS government reimbursed) cavalryman's tunic, with fine piping on the sleeves, collar, and up both sides of where his many small vest/"dragoon"-sized buttons and button holes are on the sides.  What's really cool is that you can see his CLASSIC JOHNNY REB (classic "TEXAS" FLAIR!) striped pants!!!!  Certainly not "regulation"....but those Texas boys fighting in the Deep South and Trans-Mississippi Theater wore what they could--and always had their own flair and style!  Behind the image is his name "D. W. Adams" penciled in period cursive style and form.  He was 24 years old per his records (see the many records of his Muster Rolls and service data from the National Archives, Civil War Data.com, etc), and his face certainly shows it in the image.  Private Adams would be within the personal bodyguard for Lt General Theophilus Holmes, who would command men early in the war in Virginia (fighting in such blood-baths as Malvern Hill) but later promoted and assigned as Commander of the entire Trans-Mississippi Department by order of Jefferson Davis himself.  His career and performance as Department Commander, however, were NOT "stellar"....in fact, far from.  He refused to send relief to the beleaguered Army of Mississippi, stuck besieged within Vicksburg, thus allowing the Mississippi River to be forever cut in twain--which was the primary task Davis ordered Holmes to do.  He would later be relieved of his post, relegated to smaller commands, and even transfered into North Carolina--all coinciding with his deteriorating health.  (See below for the great biography of General Holmes--the man Private Adams was assigned to personally protect!)

Bought directly from the family descendents back in the late 1950's, this grouping is FRESH TO THE MARKET!  If you simply add-up the value/price of the the individual pieces together--REGARDLESS of the provenance of being attributed to Adams of the 32nd Texas/Holmes' Bodyguard--you'll see that this price is cheaper than what you'd pay to buy them individually...and that's without ALL THE KILLER HISTORY!!!

Only the finest from Champion Hill Relics to you...and at prices that won't cost you a new car to own in your collection!

$4550 LAYAWAY

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Stunning CS ID'ed Model 1819 Hall Rifle

Outstanding, FINE CONDITION, 100% Complete, Original, Fully-Functional Conversion Specimen

Directly From the Family of George W. Prout Back in the 1950's, Pvt. in Company E, 2nd Alabama Infantry

CLEAR & LEGIBLE "G. W. Prout" Name Carved Into Botton Rear Flat of Stock

100% VIVID Breech Markings "J. H. Hall/ H. Ferry/ US/ 1832" (2nd Production Type)

Excellent Percussion Conversion, Attributed as a Mt. Vernon US Arsenal Specimen Taken Once Alabama Seceded (Arsenal Located Just North of Mobile)

Oh yeah...ANOTHER Confederate beauty!!!  Heck, the M1819 Hall Rifle ALONE is worth the price it's being offered at--let alone the provenance attributing the weapon to George W. Prout, Private in Company E of the 2nd Alabama Infantry Regiment.  This is another jaw-dropping beauty, dripping with history, from my old attorney friend from Texas (now in his early 80's), who acquired this piece from the Prout family descendents in the EARLY 1950's!!!   Back when people considered this stuff "junk"--or at least not important enough to keep or charge a fortune for like today!!!

The US M1819 BREECH-LOADING Rifle was indeed REVOLUTIONARY, being the FIRST US military produced and used breech-loading weapon.  Only a meager 19,680 were ever produced between 1819 and 1840 by the famous Harpers Ferry Arsenal.  This specimen offered here is a FINE, 100% original, complete, un-damaged, fully-functional, VIVIDLY marked specimen in EVERY facet.  From the original case-hardened (great case-hardened patina intact!) breech itself, the excellent percussion conversion, the "J. H. Hall/ H. Ferry/ US/ 1832" markings on the breech, to the uncracked, undamaged walnut stock, down to the original full-length, fully-threaded ramrod, and even BOTH original sling swivels, this is a F-I-N-E M1819.  No repairs....no apologies...no monkey-business.  No structural damage, cracking, or chipping.  Oh no.  This one is a BEAUTY!  And what's even cooler is that it has the CLASSIC, can't be faked, wear against the side of the backstock only on the LEFT SIDE....why is this important, you ask???  If you are a reenactor, you already know the answer!  The PRIMARY position in the "Manual of Arms" for the Civil War soldier North and South, based on ALL tactical manuals (Hardee's Manual being the most prolifically-used), was the position of "Shoulder Arms".  This is when the soldier had the weapon in his right hand--his hand holding his longarm in the vertical position against the right side of his body, being held at the trigger guard/hammer with his fingers.  From the "Should Arms" position, all manual of arms positions are executed from.  Thus, you clearly see only and SOLELY  in this area the rubbing where Pvt. Prout drilled with this weapon!!!  ABSOLUTELY KILLER!!!  As I said--YOU CAN'T FAKE THAT!!! 

As noted in so many reference books (Murphy/Madaus, Flayderman's, etc) many of these were in Southern arsenals when the war broke-out, and were GLEEFULLY issued to the eager recruits pouring in to enlist--seeing as the South had VERY FEW rifled weapons, let alone "military-grade" weapons within their arsenals and stockpiles to issue the flood of volunteers, so a both RIFLED and BREECH-LOADING weapon was a true luxury!!  The massive US Arsenal at Mt. Vernon (just north of Mobile, Alabama) had hundreds of these Hall's--both carbine and rifle--in their racks, though exact quantities are not known.  I've personally had now 4 Hall Rifles or Carbines ID'ed to Alabama soldiers in the past year and a half.  Seeing that George Prout enlisted in Mobile at the outset of secession--enlisting April 1st, 1861 in Mobile with the 2nd Alabama Infantry Regiment, it's easy to understand how and why he received one of the Mt. Vernon Arsenal specimens.  Mt. Vernon was well-noted for it's cannon production before the war (and obviously a repository for Federal weapons for the Department in the Deep South) and the Confederacy would continue to utilize Mt. Vernon, especially for producing and storing the Archer shell Percussion Fuzes (the largest cache of CS Archer percussion fuzes, as the fleeing Confederates in early 1865 dumped them into the creek by the Mt. Vernon Arsenal).  The conversion from it's original flintlock state to percussion-firing system is CLEARLY a professional arsenal job--not the cruder, local CS conversions (like the Jackson, Mississippi local conversion of a Hall Carbine my good friend Tim Prince has an example of).  Whether this conversion was done AT Mt. Vernon, or was done prior to being sent to Mount Vernon is NOT known.  But again, it is a 100% top-quality arsenal conversion, without question--my guess, given that the ID'ed specimens I've seen all coming out of southern Alabama units were both flintlock and percussion examples, my guess is that it IS a Mt. Vernon conversion.  But again, only my theory.

Regardless, we DO KNOW that this was the weapon carried by Private George W. Prout, of Company E, 2nd Alabama Infantry Regiment.  Formed in April 1861 in Mobile, they would be sent out into the harbor to Fort Morgan, some even being utilized as artillerymen, but all being drilled daily in the manual of arms and evolutions of the company and Battalion (moving in company and full regimental battalion formation for fighting in the field) from morning until night.  Each recruit in the 2nd Alabama signed up for a mandatory 12-month stint of service.  They were transferred into Tennessee in early 1862 to garrison Fort Pillow (later to become so "infamous" thanks to General Forrest!), and when the soldier's of the 2nd Alabama's 12-month service was up, many re-enlisted...but nowhere do we find Private Prout as re-enlisting.  It appears he simply did his duty--and CAME HOME with his rifle!  My old attorney friend in Texas plucked this one from George's descendents back in the early 1950's, and has obviously kept this treasure well cared for.  Prout's hand-carved name of "G. W. Prout" is seen clearly--with only minor fading--upon the flat of the bottom-rear of the stock.  Below are copies of Prout's records from the National Archives, and regimental history. 

No, this beauty never saw combat....just a lot of drilling inside the walls of forts....but a Confederate ID'ed M1819 Hall Rifle could ONLY be in this FINE of condition because it didn't get "rode hard and put home wet" through the hell of 4 years of combat.  Just look at the many fine photo's below...they'll do all the talking for me.

Again...the WEAPON ALONE is worth this price!  All the history and provenance is basically free!  That's the beauty when the collector who got it back in the early 1950's got it for next to NOTHING!!!!

$2950  Sale Pending

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SWEET M1858 Starr Army Revolver

100% Complete, Original, & Fully-Functional

ALL-MATCHING Serial #'s 6557

With Original STARR .44 CAL. BULLET MOLD!!!

Not only is this a truly FINE condition, FULLY-FUNCTIONAL Double Action specimen of the famous Pre-War Starr Model 1858 Army .44 caliber revolver with ALL-MATCHING low serial numbers 6557....but it comes with the extremely rare-to-find original BULLET MOLD!!!!  I've never even owned one of these molds before.  I've seen a few around....but not bloody often!  The weapon is absolutely GORGEOUS with slick metal, having the most pleasing dark plum patina--that mix between faded case-coloring and natural softening of the patina with age.  NO DAMAGE--NO REPAIRS--NOT EVEN A CHIP OR CRACK on the luscious intact walnut grips.  No dents, dings, or scratches on the metal, either, with 100% VIVID and CRISP Starr patent stamping on one side of the frame, and Starr maker's mark on the other side.  Just look at the many photographs below.....the pictures will do the telling and selling for me!!!  What's great is that it is still FULLY-FUNCTIONAL on both the single action AND double action setting--which is done with the moving of the small "toggle" switch on the backside of the trigger itself.  This feature of the M1858 Starr Army was a most unique feature of design--but often did not work properly in the field (much to the dismay of their users!), and eventually is the reason why when Starr designed the Model 1863 as it's successor, they dripped the dual-action ability, and made it a simple single action.  So, it's hard to find a M1858 Starr Army today that still isn't functional or "finiky" as they were notorious to be even back then--let alone 140+ years later today!  And the bullet mold....JUST THE ICING ON THE CAKE!!!

You won't find a nicer specimen AND bullet mold anywhere near this price....go look and see for yourself!!!!

$1798 FOR BOTH !

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Most Exquisite British Single-Shot Pistol

Excellent Quality .36 caliber RIFLED Pocket Pistol

Made by the Famous Lewis & Tomes of London Gunmakers

This supurb example of the British's exquisite and high standard quality craftsmanship, beauty, and functionality is exhibited in this fine, 100% original, complete, and fully-functional .36 caliber rifled pocket pistol made by the famous Lewis & Tomes Company of London.  The Maker's marking is VIVIDLY clear and crisp, seen atop the barrel, as well as the British proofs, the plethora of fine engraving adorning the entire piece--including the "serpent's head" hammer, having the eyes and features of a serpent's head on the hammer.  The piece is in FINE condition in every facet, being completely original, complete, and fully-functional.  The fold-down trigger deploys once cocked (as design), and the action is perfect.  The handle is nearly perfect in every respect--nary a scratch nor dent--no cracks of chips at all.  A beautiful silver inlay is within the backstrap part of the wooden grip, with initials carved into it.  So fine is the condition that the barrel screws in and out with EASE to this very day.  Under the grip is a small functional cap to a silvered inlayed compartment to hold one's nipples for the piece--still intact and fully-functional.  Total length of the pistol is exactly 7", with barrel length of about 3.5" long.  Exported here to the States, these were highly-prized, extremely expensive weapons compared to their domestically-made simplistic cousins.  They were intended for the "upper class" of society--a status symbol of one's wealth and standing, given that owning the finest European items (just like today) was all about status symbols to one's personal wealth and standing in society.

An excellent addition to any serious firearm or handgun collector of any kind.

$450

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Gorgeous 8th Indiana Cavalry Spencer Rifle

Clear Serial Range Match, Serial Number 8073

100% Original, Untouched, Complete , Fully-Functional

Flayderman's/NRA Lower-End "FINE" Condition

Truly one of the most revolutionary weapons ever designed and produced during the Civil War was the Spencer repeating Rifle and Carbine.  Being personally tested by President Lincoln on the front lawn of the White House, it was clear to all that this weapon was a "war-changer".  The Confederates quickly learned this reality--in very bloody ways--by 1863, when mass-production and issuance of the weapons were hitting the field of combat.  They found that theYankee's had a new gun that, "they could load on Sunday and shoot all week..." as one poor Johnny Reb said at the 1863 early Battle of Hoover's Gap.  This absolutely beautiful, FINE condition example of the Model 1860 Spencer rifle is a true beauty, as well as revolutionary piece of the war's history--but it's also a dead serial range match for issuance to the 8th Indiana Cavalry, who fought EXTENSIVELY here in the Western Theater.  These weapons were issued by 1863, and well in time for the 98 day continual fighting and action of the Atlanta Campaign of 1864.  The 8th would even then participate in the late 1864 Tennessee thrust by Hood.  This weapon has the most beautiful, untouched wood and metal--completely unmessed with since the war.  Much of the metal still retains good potions of the original blued/case-coloring, especially on the lockplate, areas of the barrel and the barrel bands (meeting the minimum 30% requirement by NRA/Flayderman's for "fine" condition).  No pitting to speak of, or detracting factors whatsoever to the faded and otherwise still great remaining case-coloring on the metal parts.  Even both original sling swivels are present with the piece!  The long range sight is missing, however, but you can buy an original to slap on there easily if you so desire.  Not expensive or hard to find.  The 1860 Spencer patent stamping atop the barrel is 100% legible, as is that low serial number 8073 behind the breech.  The action works FLAWLESSLY, and with a good bore, this one is a real "shooter"!  The walnut stock has NO structural damage, chips missing, or detracting factors whatsoever, with great amounts of the original luster of the original finish.  Only the most minor and expected field and combat service wear to be found anywhere--and it's VERY FEW and far between, as you will see in the many close-up pictures of this fine weapon below.  I'd truly rate it at the lower-end of the "FINE" scale--and the pictures will do the talking for me!  The original 7-shot loading tube is present, of course, complete and intact, and functions wonderfully.  The trooper even added a little "flair" with the addition of a small silver rectangle inlay--though what was inscribed on it is illegible today (too bad!!!)

A fantastic, representative example of one of the most revolutionary, deadly, and indeed, "war-changing" weapons of the Civil War, in such beautiful complete and original condition, and ID'ed range match to the 8th Indiana Cavalry to boot!  Check this price out!  No sticker shock here!!!

$3250

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Frankford Arsenal Maynard Primer Conversion Musket

Performed by the Remington Firearms Company

20,000 M1816's Converted, Rifled, and Given Long-Range Sights and Ramrods between 1856-1858

New Jersey "NJ" Marked Specimen (though some went South before the War)

100% Complete, 100% Original, "FINE" Condition, Fully-Functional Specimen w/ Visible Cartouche

In the hopes of acquiring more "modernized" military weapons for the US Arsenals and armies in the 1850's, the Government ordered numerous contractors to convert older .69 caliber smoothbore muskets into what was then believed as the most technologically advanced firing system--the Maynard Primer firing system (as well as a few other mechanical or auto-priming systems).  Like the US Model 1855, the Frankford Arsenal was charged with converting some 20,000 M1816's into Maynard Tape Priming systems, which were performed by the famous Remington Firearms Company between 1856-1858.  Many specimens appeared to have been purchased by New Jersey, as most specimens today bear the "NJ" marking, as this one does.  However, under the 1808 Militia Act, many others were purchased by other states--including Southern states (I've had one CS ID'ed specimen before, and another one yet to list!)  This is a 100% original, complete, untouched, FINE condition, fully-functional specimen with excellent mechanics, great bore, and very clear markings.  This piece bears the legible "Remington's Illion, NY 1858 US" on the back of the lockplate, with the "1857" barrel date on the tang (typical, that the barrel was re-bored for rifling in 1857, and the weapon re-fitted/assembled with the new lockplate firing system in 1858).  There is NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, NO REPLACEMENT parts upon this beauty, and both the metal and wood are in so very good condition.  The metal has an untouched faded "steely" grey patina and softened hue and has NO PITTING whatsoever, NOR HAS EVER BEEN CLEANED.  The "NJ" mark is seen where the barrel proofs would be found (and only the "NJ" mark should be here-not any US arsenal proofs since NJ bought it.)  The somewhat "coned-nose" original Remington conversion ramrod for fitting and ramming a conical rifled minnie' ball is perfectly splendid, and full length and threaded.  The standard Remington conversion long-range flip-up sight and elevator are perfect--graduated out to 800 yards.  The martial inspector's cartouche is present upon the backstock.  NO CHIPPING or wood loss ANYWHERE.  NO DETRACTING FACTORS whatsoever.  Even both original sling swivels are PRESENT!!!  Gorgeous original walnut finish to the stock--just look at the many fine pictures below, and they'll do all the selling for me.

A truly rare conversion musket, heavily employed during the war by both sides, as the few rifled military-grade weapons available at the outbreak of the war in 1861 made rifled weapons the most highly sought-after weapons, both north and south.  You'll be hard-pressed to "upgrade" from this fine specimen....far rarer than a M1855, and FAR CHEAPER, TOO!

$1598

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SWEET Original Underhammer .50 Cal. Pistol

Massive 7.25" Brass Barrel, 11.5" Overall Length

All-Original, Fully-Functional, Complete, Ornate, Very Beautiful

Classic "Jacksonian-era" (1820's-1840) "Underhammer" single-shot pistol...but this one is a American made MONSTER!  It's not like 99% of those made in that time that were .31 to .36 caliber--or even .44 caliber, with a 3" to 5" barrel....this one is a WHOPPING 7.25" brass barrel, with a massive .50 caliber bore!  This one wouldn't just make you bleed--it would knock you off your FEET!  This one was made for real "self-defense"!  It's the classic US make in every way, shape, and form, having the brass barrel, brass-tacked lining to the backstrap of the grip, and absolutely GORGEOUS burled walnut for the grips.  The action is still fully-functional, and all parts--right down to the nipple--are 100% complete and original.  Truly beautiful displaying gun, and such an old beauty at that (being over 180 years old--surprising to find it in such great condition!)  No cracks, chips, damage, or repairs...she's all 100% "righteous".

This gorgeous monster--at a whopping 11.5" total length--will be a eye-catcher in your collection!  Priced well below Flayderman evaluations...

$498

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COOL CS Dickson & Nelson Rifle Stock "Blank"

For the Ultra-Rare Dickson & Nelson Carbine

Hundreds of These Blanks Were Still Owned by the Lumber Company that Bought Dickson & Nelson after the war, Kept, and then sold in the Late 1940's! 

(William Albaugh III documents this well)

Sure....I'd rather have a complete, all-original Dickson & Nelson CS Carbine....but I'd rather keep my $25,000+ and just have a piece of that Dickson and Nelson carbine history for a mere few hundreds!  The Dickson, Nelson, & Company was originally of Tuscumbia, Alabama, and with a local Dr. Lewis Sadler, formed the Shakanoosa Arms Company in Dickson, ALABAMA, in 1861.  As the war progressed, and Yankee's came way too close to threatening their plant operations, they would move their plant to Rome, Georgia, where the State of Alabama contracted them to produce "Mississippi Rifle" style rifles for them.  Only after a few months, the plant burned, and they eventually made their move--to DAWSON, GEORGIA!  In operated on 22 acres of land near the Central GA Rail Road, and began operations in March, 1864, as Sherman entered into his Atlanta campaign (far enough west of Dawson, Georgia).  Exact quantities known to have been produced are not fully known, other than the 645 Mississippi Rifles supplied to the State of Alabama by November, 1864.  They made short rifles and carbines, brass-mounted, and it is generally believed by many in the collecting community that they produced the best weapon of all the manufacturers, quality-wise.  Once the war ended, a lumber company purchased the land and operations, and was still operating in the 1940's, which had oddly kept these unfinished stock "blanks" for those many years--when pioneer relic authority and collector, William Albaugh III, was purchasing them at $1 a piece!

Here's a super-cool way to own a truly ultra-rare piece of Confederate weapon history for pennies on the dollar!

$398

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Sweet M1863 Starr Army .44 Cal. Revolver

Double Cartouched--All-Original--Fully-Functional & Complete

One of the more advanced designed, and very loved by their troopers, were these wonderful Starr Model 1863 Army .44 caliber revolvers.  They, and their both Navy and Army previous models, saw extensive service throughout the war, and was one the the chief rivals to Colt and Remington.  This one is in extremely good condition in every way, shape, and form.  not only is it 100% complete, 100% original, and 100% fully-functional, bearing ALL-MATCHING serial numbers 24694, but both the metal and wood grips are in such great condition.  ALL of the markings--from the patent date on one side, to the maker's mark on the other--to the multitude of martial sub-inspector markings and serial numbers....ALL are crystal clear.  Each side of the beautiful original walnut grips bear martial cartouches, obviously worn from handling and holster wear, but still quite legible.  No cracks or bug chips missing on this beauty...and the trooper took the time to carve a very beautiful large "L" into the bottom of the grip!

Truly an fine, representative specimen, given the prices I've seen out there for ones in the same--or WORSE condition!

$1698

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Spectacular Civil War (or Pre-War) Cadet Enfield-Style Musket, Bayonet, & Belt Rig

From North Carolina Estate -- Out of the Bill Beard Collection

Complete with belt, cap box with ornamental brass oval attachment, original cadet belt buckle and keeper, bayonet scabbard and bayonet for the Enfield-style .44 caliber Cadet Musket.  This phenomenal collection of pre-war or wartime Cadet gear came out of North Carolina, and was within the famous Bill Beard collection for years.  The fantastic Enfield-style copied .44 caliber fully-functional, all-original, and complete musket is in very good + condition.  It is still fully-functional in both positions, having all the original parts and pieces complete, right down to the ramrod, and a nice cloth and leather-ribbed sling.  Being a Belgian-made miniature copy of the Enfield Rifle, you can see the clear and vivid Liege proof on the top of the barrel.  No repairs or damage.  The original bayonet fits well, and has it's own metal scabbard upon the original cadets belt rig.  A cap box with ornamental brass oval attachment on the flap are with the rig.  No ID, unfortunately, but if it came out of North Carolina, and BILL BEARD HIMSELF liked it enough to put it in his collection, you know it's gotta be good.  So many Southern states had a plethora of military school across the South, who would give up her young sons to defend her soil to the bitter end.  The boys would trade-in these small cadet muskets for the real death-wielding weapons, and employ them, and all their training, upon a thousand battlefields dotted across the Southland.  The honing of their fighting skills would be executed in full fury from Virginia to Texas.  No more parade-ground drills and inspections.

Really cool, rare to see grouping.  It would make for a great conversation piece.  I've got a copy of the letter of authenticity from Will Gorges and it's provenance through Bill Beard.

$1698

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Very Nice Smith & Wesson Model #1, 2nd Issue Revolver

All-Original, Complete, Fully-Functional, Great Original Nickel Plating

Among the world's pantheon of most admired and recognized manufacturers of firearms ever include the American gunmakers of Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson.  Offered here is a classic Civil War-era 1st Model, 2nd Issue specimen, being the ,22 caliber 7-shot rimfire revolver.  Beginning production in 1860, these weapons would be made by the thousands, and used by both soldiers and civilian alike for years to come.  This particular specimen is a very pretty, all-original, complete, and entirely functional specimen, with legible patent markings on the cylinder, and clear maker's marking atop the rib of the barrel.  The original rosewood grips are splendid, with no cracks, chips, or blemishes.  Given that over 90% of the original Smith & Wesson nickel finish is gorgeously present, this weapon classifies into the "FIINE" condition criteria.  The serial number 122945 is fully legible upon the bottom of the grip frame.

No real need to upgrade on this one, especially considering the price....

$450

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Super Fine!  Georgia CS ID'ed!

Early 1861 Colt Navy & Confederate Russet Leather Holster

ID'ed to "Prigeon" Family - "Prigeon" Carved on Bottom of Grip

All-Original, Fully-Functional, Crisp Markings EVERYWHERE, Complete

Matching March 1861 Production Serial Numbers 102664 -- Range Still Sold SOUTH Before Fort Sumter!!!!

Excellent Original CS-Made Russet Leather Holster

The Prigeon Family Served Within the 59th GA Infantry, and Later within the Georgia State Guard

Boy, do I have a KILLER Georgia historical combo for YOU!  Straight from the family, acquired this past December in Atlanta by the legendary, long-time firearms collector and authority, Mr. Doug Heiser of Orlando , Florida, this ID'ed Confederate PRE-WAR Colt Navy revolver, being in truly FINE Flayderman's/NRA condition, having crisp markings EVERYWHERE, with all-matching serial numbers 102664 (made in the March, 1861 time-frame before Fort Sumter when the Southern states and retailers were still legally able to buy weapons from up north!!!), being 100% original, complete, and fully-functional in every way.  The most gorgeous "ATTIC FINE" untouched dark chocolate-brown patina with absolutely NO PITTING WHATSOEVER.  No damage...no repairs....no missing parts or pieces.  ALL 100% GORGEOUS and BEAUTIFUL.  Better yet, we know the family history of the "Prigeon's" (also they spelled it "Priggen" in some records, and "Pridgeon"...you know how those poor not-so-well-educated farmers in central Georgia didn't always spell their name the same twice--mostly phonetically!  Robert E Prigeon was 23 years old living on his family farm in Taylor County, Georgia in 1861, and enlisted on May 8th, 1862 into Company C of the 59th Georgia Infantry at Camp Brown (named after their beloved wartime Governor Joseph Brown) in Macon.  Sadly, young Robert immediately fell ill, as so many poor boys did exposed to so many other men (with their germs, diseases, viruses, bad camp conditions, etc), and literally died at home (since Camp Brown was only a county away from his home) on August 11, 1862.  Both his father Robert Sr, and his Uncle James R Prigeon would serve in the Georgia State Troops/Militia (compulsory service by Sherman's march into Georgia in 1864), and this piece was carried supposedly by his father Robert Sr., after his son died with it.  The records of young Robert Prigeon from the National Archives are shown below, as well as the 1860 census records for the Prigeon/Pridgeon family.

One thing is for sure--this is a spectacular Georgia ID'ed pre-war FINE Colt Navy, with a spectacular Confederate-made, intact russet leather holster.  You can see how this Navy revolver has been in this holster since 1865.  The small belt attachment loop is long-gone, as usual, but the leather is in superb condition, being untorn, extremely supple, and the most classic, crude, and simplistic cut, form, and manufacture--all the archetypical Confederate-made traits.

No, none of them rode with Forrest or were in Pickett's Charge...but they all served and did their duty, nonetheless.  And we have their precious Confederate family heirlooms left to admire and preserve for the ages.  You get a MOST FINE, most early-war collectable/desirable serial number manufacture ranged Colt Army, THEN the incredible ID'ed Confederate history WITH a Confederate-made holster, for the price you see other dealers at shows and websites selling just a regular Colt for!?!?

$2698  HOLD

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SUPER-FINE, RARE 6" Barrel Colt Pocket Revolver

Loads of Original Case-Coloring/Bluing, 100% Original, Fully-Functional, & Complete

Undamaged, Wartime-Production, All-Matching Serial #'s (Including Wedge) 273449

EXCELLENT, CRISP MARKINGS, Including VIVID CYLINDER SCENE!!!

Without question, my personal favorite sidearm of the Civil War is the Colt Pocket revolver--and with good reason: the M1849 Pocket Revolver by Colt was THE REVOLVER produced in the largest quantities before the Civil War (and another 100,000 more during the War), such that they saw extensive use on BOTH SIDES during the war right from the start.  This is particularly true for the Confederates, as you see a PLETHORA of wartime ID'ed specimens and photographs of Rebels with Colt Pocket revolvers.  To me, it is THE ICONIC CIVIL WAR MODEL REVOLVER--even more so (by sheer numbers made) than the Colt Navy or Army models.  This specimen is a wartime-production, EXTREMELY FINE condition, RARE 6" long barrel version of the Colt Pocket Revolver.  And the condition is so fine, it's almost into the NRA/Flayderman's "EXCELLENT" range.  Yeah...it's that good.  All original.  100% complete.  Fully-functional.  vast amounts of original case-coloring--including a lot of that original opaque-hue from the "skin" of the blued application.  All-matching serial numbers stamped knee-deep, including the wedge, or 273449.  The Colt New York address atop the barrel is still legible--with only one small area where it has faded just a little.  But every single other marking/stamping, and especially the "stagecoach robbery" cylinder scene, is very crisp and more vividly clear than you typically see on such surviving specimens.  Just look at the many fine photographs below, and you'll see!  No pitting...no damage or repairs...GORGEOUS dark original walnut grips with NO CRACKING or big chips missing.  Oh no.  She's just right!

I love 'em rare ad minty!  The 6" barrel version is the RAREST-made specimen of all the barrel sizes!  And with all that case-coloring and cylinder scene, it'll be awfully hard to upgrade from this one.  It's truly "collector's grade" in my opinion!

Priced like it YESTER-YEAR!

$1098  Sale Pending

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MINTY, RARE British Webley "Wedge-Frame" Revolver

Superb Condition in EVERY FACET

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional w/CRISP Markings & Excellent Remaining Bluing

RARE and HIGHLY PRIZED Confederate-Imported Revolver

I like my weapons RARE, "MINTY" CONDITION, and ones that speak with a "SOUTHERN ACCENT"!  Offered here is the stunningly beautiful, rare Civil War imported British-made Webley "Wedge-Frame" 5-chamber larger .38 caliber (roughly--the Brits did their bore sizing in metric units different that our US standard inches) revolver.  Once you peruse all of the pics below, you will come to the same conclusion...my God, IS THIS GUN GORGEOUS!!!  And boy, is it ever!!!  Being 100% original, complete, unrepaired, undamaged, fully-functional in every way, with well over the minimum NRA/Flayderman's requirement of 30% original bluing for "FINE" condition assessment, this weapon is in jaw-dropping condition and eye-appeal.  The brothers Philip and James Webley were responsible for a number of differing revolver patents and production models in England during the mid 1800's.  Both brothers basically operated independently of each other, and marketed/sold their weapons independently as well.  In 1859, the son of Phillip--Thomas Webley--joined his father's firm.  In 1861, they began production and marketing for this new-style "wedge-frame" revolver, that was to copy the style of the US Colt's "wedge" to affix the barrel frame to the rest of the weapon's frame, and the Colt-style loading lever.  Previous barrel attachments and loading levers were more like the traditional British styles of the Adam's, Kerr's, and Tranter's.  This is what makes this weapon so EASY to spot, even though the frame, handle, and general weapon styling appears so similar to the Tranter's, Adam's, and Kerr's.  This spectacular specimen has absolutely NO PITTING WHATSOEVER, and the crisp plethora of Birmingham proof marks not only on the barrel, but with each individual chamber cylinder on the outside.  They also did a really cool thing that was awfully helpful to a shooter in combat, which was to also have each chamber NUMBERED on the outside, so the shooter could be in the middle of a fire-fight, and see what chamber he was coming up on--thus knowing how many shots he had already fired, and how many were left!!!  Pretty handy info to know in the heat of battle!!!  It's a double-action weapon, of course (like the vast majority of British revolvers), and the action is PERFECT.  The barrel has great rifling still all the way down.  The original checkered grips with fanciful single-screw attachment and inlay are PERFECT--not a SCRATCH, not a BLEMISH, not a CHIP.....just  PERFECT!  The Webley Patent number is seen clearly in full upon the side of the frame, being Patent Number 5,253---a very low serial/patent number, and clearly an early-war production specimen.  This particular specimen does NOT have the P Webley & Son maker's marking on the top frame flat, as it was obviously marketed or ordered as a gun to be exported, or to sold to another retailer (as was common in England with British-made weapons--the retailer who ordered them would have the weapon maker leave it blank so the retailer could put their own stamping on it if they wanted, or just not have the buyers know to go directly to the maker to get them at wholesale lower prices!)

We know for a fact that these weapons were imported specifically by the South and Southerners during the war and used in combat, as they appear on official inventorying records surviving today (the 2nd Virginia Cavalry has recorded patent numbered specimens that were accounted for), and there are existing photographs of Southern soldiers with them, as well as ID'ed Southern specimens proving their usage for the South in the War.  Though obviously in small numbers, this clearly makes them a highly-prized and rare weapon today for the collecting community--just as they were certainly a highly-prized weapon back during the war, being considered amongst the finest revolvers made in the world at that time (as most British weapons and their quality were considered the BEST in the world) for a Southern Officer or cavalryman to carry.

It'll be HARD to upgrade upon the quality of this specimen.  I've seen better, yes--and some with their original cases--but you'll pay THOUSANDS to get them. 

But not here at Champion Hill Relics!  All the beauty and history...for so little...

$998  LAYAWAY

Young CS Cavalryman with Webley Tucked Into His Belt

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Stunning MINT Manhattan Navy Revolver

Exceptional Wartime Production 3rd Type Specimen

THE MOST VIVIDLY CRISP CYLINDER SCENE!!!!

Loads of Original Case-Coloring, 100% Original, Complete, & Fully Functional

All-Matching Serial Numbers (Including Wedge) 24571

All Markings are 100% FULLY LEGIBLE and CRUSTAL CLEAR

This is--without question or hesitation--the FINEST Manhattan wartime-produced and used 5-shot .36 caliber (3rd type) Navy Revolver I have ever had.  And that's because it has EVERYTHING going for it's SUPERB status....100% original and complete, being fully-functional in every manner, having well over the NRA/Flayderman's minimum requirement of 30% original case-coloring to be considered in "FINE" condition, which gives the weapon the most beautiful blackish/gray hue in appearance.  NO PITTING WHATSOEVER.  EXCELLENT SHARP EDGES.  It bears all original parts, with the ALL-MATCHING serial numbers 24571--a clear mid-war production specimen--including the wedge.  ALL MARKINGS UPON THIS PIECE, from the Patent Date on the Cylinder, to the Maker's marking atop the barrel, to the serial numbers are 100% visible and crystal clear.  The action on the piece is 100% fully-functional, of course, with a great bore of nice rifling.  The original walnut grips are essentially free of any blemishes or damage, and have a beautiful, dark patina.  But what really puts this particular piece "over-the-top," making it the best specimen I've yet had to offer, is the incredibly still vividly visible cylinder scene panels.  It's almost unbelievable.  The 5-panels of action scenes, surrounded by exquisite floral motifs, are essentially as CLEAR, VIVID, and VISIBLE as the DAY IT WAS MADE!!!  The first scene depicts that of a Naval scene, where the fine entire detail of a dual side-wheeler steamer and sailing vessel has part of her crew in the foreground rowing in their landing row-boat.  The second scene is that of a Battle scene, where the defenders are all firing with their clearly drawn pistols against their attacking foe (who all have their bayonets fixed upon their muskets for the charge).  The third scene is cavalry battle scene, where the horsemen are charging into the defending infantry--crisp in full detail, from the rearing stead of one of the charging cavalryman with sword raised ready to strike its blow against pistol and musket-carrying defenders.  The fourth scene an amphibious landing assault, where the attackers in their row boat are heading straight toward their foe awaiting on the shore.  The 5th and last scene is yet another cavalry action battle scene, with the grand cavalry charge (the riders with pistols and swords) against the awaiting infantry defenders, who all have their muskets with bayonets attached, and in the "guard against cavalry" bayonet/rifle position to defend themselves.  THIS IS HOW VIVIDLY CLEAR THE DETAIL IS WITHIN ALL OF THESE SCENES.  THIS IS HOW FINE THIS WEAPON IS.  Just look at the many fine photo's below, and you too shall see and understand precisely what I mean!

It's the best condition specimen I've personally had to offer yet to date....NEVER have I seen such crisp cylinder scenes, markings, and overall condition.  If this were a Colt Navy, the price would LITERALLY be THREE TIMES AS MUCH or MORE....but for the same Civil War produced and used .36 caliber revolver--which is far rarer than a Colt Navy--you get all this beauty and finery for a fraction of the cost!

$1098  Sale Pending

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Ultra-Rare BARNETT LONDON, Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company CS Import-Marked British Enfield Rifle

"Attic Fine" Condition -- 100% Original, Complete, and Fully-Functional

VIVID Markings EVERYWHERE, From "BARNETT LONDON", the Victoria's Crown Over "TOWER", the London Barrel Proofs, to the Exclusive CS Importer's Marking of the Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company of "Crown/SH/C/Arrow" on the Stock--EVEN the Roman Numerals In The Ramrod Channel!!!

Being one of the most COLLECTABLE and DESIRABLE of ALL British-made Enfield Rifles, this Barnett of London-made Pattern 1853 Rifle has EVERYTHING going for it...it's 100% original, complete (right down to nipple, sling swivels, full-length ramrod, rear long-range flip-up sight, etc), and fully functional...but most of all, it bears the 100% exclusively Confederate importation marking of the CS importer's firm of the Sinclair, Hamilton & Company--the "Crown/SH/C/Arrow" mark seen clearly upon the stock just behind the trigger guard.  NO DAMAGE....NO REPAIRS...NO REPLACEMENT PARTS...COMPLETELY UNTOUCHED in what can easily be described as "attic fine" condition--meaning it was put away after being brought home by Johnny Reb, and undisturbed, allowing for the weapon to "age" with a unmolested dark patina over the entire weapon.  ALL of the markings are vividly clear and crisp, from the "BARNETT LONDON" marking on the lockplate from the most famous, desirable, and collectable gunmaker, the Victoria's Crown over "TOWER" on the backside of the lockplate, to the London barrel proof, and even the clearly legible Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company CS Importer's mark.  There is CLEAR evidence by the bolster wear that this Confederate Enfield saw true battlefield fighting--and not just one battle, but MANY.  You can NOT FAKE that kind of bolster wear....only firing thousands of rounds in the heat of intense combat does that bolster wear appear.  Yet the weapon is still so beautiful, with no structural damage, only the expected minor combat/service dings and scratches here and there....but not many, and not detracting at all.  Just enough to confirm it's war veteran status.  The plethora of pictures below will show precisely what I mean, and do all the selling for me!  And the fact it still retains all the original parts and pieces with no damage and repairs--having both original sling swivels, rear long-range flip-up sight, original full-length threaded ramrod--is astounding for a "war horse" like this beauty.  There are even the Roman Numerals WITHIN THE RAMROD CHANNEL that are vividly clear and present!  The ramrod does stick-out slightly from the barrel--typical scenario where mud, gunk, etc, from battle and field use has gotten into the bottom of the ramrod channel, but you can "worm" that out clean, if you really want to.  But I prefer it JUST THE WAY IT IS...just the way a stalwart, but defeated Confederate soldier brought his prized rifle home after the end of the bloodbath of 4 years of war.

Given the rarity, quality, CS-importation, and Barnett collectability and desirability of the ENTIRE piece...I don't think it gets much better than this for the price (unless it was ID'ed....which sadly, we shall never know what Southern Patriot carried and fired this musket through so many battles against his hated foe in blue...)

$2598  Sale Pending

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RAREST US MODEL CIVIL WAR RIFLE MADE!!!

The Model 1863 Lindsey Double Rifle Musket

Only About 1,000 Ever Made (1863-4)

Double-Triggers to Fire Double Loads out of One Barrel

Indeed, this is officially the RAREST US Government official Model Rifle EVER PRODUCED during the war!  Sure, there were other privately-made weapons, prototypes, etc, made by private firms during the war years...but they were never adopted as an official US Model weapon like this one was!  And a rather "oddball" weapon at that.  This is the M1863 Double Rifle Musket, made by J. P. Lindsey of New York.  Only about 1,000 of these weapons were ever produced for the US Government between 1863 and 1864.  It is a most novel design concept, in that it utilized the same US Model 1861/63 stock--but utilize TWO triggers/nipples, in which it was designed that the soldier load two complete rounds down the single .58 caliber barrel.  Each round was intended to be fired separately--the first front round but the first trigger/nipple, and the second by the 2nd hammer/nipple.  Now, you and I obviously can think right away..."this doesn't sound like a great idea that's going to work...".  And We would be right!  For though officially given the confidence to produce the weapon and issue into service, the weapons and this odd firing arrangement did NOT work well in the field, given that many times, both rounds would ignite and fire!  Thus, only around 1,000 were made--and most were pitched by their frustrated and angry soldiers in the field!  This is why--even per Flayderman's Guide (latest 11th edition) these are noted as being such a highly desirable and collectable weapon...not many exist to be seen at all today!  This is ONE RARE RIFLE, my friends! 

Thankfully, this weapon is 100% original, complete (even with both sling swivels and rear flip-up sight, and nipples) AND still FULLY-FUNCTIONAL!!!!  Originally a 3-band rifle, with a 41" barrel, this was actually slightly cut-down to a more convenient two-banded version with a 32" barrel.  The shortening is NOT a modern alteration at all, and NO dealer/collector would EVER dream of shortening it, as it would decrease it's monetary value.  Upon showing this to several of my close dealer/firearm collector friends, we believe this weapon may actually have been cut-down during the War for artilleryman's or cavalryman's use...and Billy Yank NEVER did anything like that!!!  No, I'd bet when the disgusted Billy Yank who tossed this weapon in utter frustration at it's funky firing system, some Johnny Reb was more than happy to have a fancy, unique, rifled weapon, and cut her down for use!  Sure, I can't prove it...but why else would they have shortened it?  And again, Billy Yank didn't do those kinds of alterations.  At any rate, the metal and wood are both in very beautiful condition, showing clear "honest wear" of a few nicks, dings, hairline cracks, and scratches...but not many AT ALL.  Just enough to prove "it was there".  Look at the MANY FINE PHOTO'S BELOW and you will see what I mean!  She's still very beautiful.  All of the pieces are original, including the cut-down original ramrod.  Everything is fully-functional, and the bore--though dirty--still has rifling.  No maker's markings or inspector markings to be seen, but there is no bolster wear or damage to speak of whatsoever--there's even some great original case-coloring around the breech.  Each barrel band crisply displays their "U" markings, and "US" on the buttplate tang.

Heck...this is THE RAREST US MODEL RIFLE of the ENTIRE CIVIL WAR!  And she displays like a true beauty.  Just look at the Flayderman's evaluation for pricing (shown below)....you can have the rarest--with possibly a cool history behind who and why they shortened it to a 2-bander for service--for a fraction of what it's worth!  After all...HOW MANY OF THESE DO YOU EVER SEE ?!?!  World's rarest--AND CHEAPEST--US Model 1863 Double Rifle!!!

$1298  Sale Pending

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MINTY, RARE 6" Barrel Bacon Revolver!

Essentially FLAWLESS Specimen, w/Rarest, Longest Barrel

Crystal-Clear Maker's Marking, and All-Matching Serial Numbers 822

100% Complete, 100% Original, 100% Fully-Functional...100% SUPERB!

Only About 1400 Bacon-Marked & Manufactured Revolvers EVER MADE!

Most excellent condition, 100% original, complete, fully-functional, pre-war (low matching serial number) production, 2nd model fluted-cylinder Bacon .31 caliber revolver.  Bacon began production of these revolvers in 1857, and would only produce a total of about 1400 themselves--1900 others would be sub-contracted out for production during the war years to fill production--so it is rare to find a true Bacon marked/made specimen.  And it gets better--this one has the RAREST encountered, longest barrel of 6" long!  (Most were 4" or some 5".)  But the REAL "icing on the cake" with this specimen is that it is NEARLY FLAWLESS!!!  No...I'm quite serious.  With well over 30% of the original case-coloring (the Flayderman's minimum threshold for "FINE" condition), having NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, NO MISSING PIECES, NO PITTING, and nary a scratch nor dent anywhere on the metal or wood, this is truly a fine, rare beauty, indeed!  Crisp and fully-legible Bacon maker's mark atop the barrel...great rifling in the barrel...fully-functional, with excellent original nipples...this one could operate and fire as well today as the day it was made!  The gorgeous walnut grips are superb, with no hairline cracks and nary a scratch or dent.  You can see the matching serial numbers "822" underneath the barrel, as well as in front of the loading lever latch.

It's so good, I can shut-up now and let the pictures do the selling for me!  These were classic revolvers used by both sides...got many pictures of Johnny Rebs and Billy Yanks holding these in their hands...

$975  Sale Pending

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"Minty" Massive 11mm French Pinfire Revolver

Clear Civil War Import Serial # Range (in the 30,000's)

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

The EXACT Model (M1853) carried by so many CS Generals, Cavalrymen, and Other Officers, such as General Stonewall Jackson, J.E.B. Stuart, etc.

A most GORGEOUS, and truly NRA/Flayderman's FINE+ condition example of the classic and revolutionary Model 1853 11mm Pinfire revolver, made famous by their importation and use by such Confederate Generals as "Stonewall" Jackson, J.E.B. Stuart, and other officers and cavalrymen.  It has the classic "spur" trigger guard, and is 100% original, 100% complete (usually the lanyard ring or ejector rod is missing--not with this beauty!), and fully-functional.  It is NOT a double-action, but rather a single action (meaning you have to cock the hammer manually), and boy, does it have a HAIR TRIGGER on this one!!!  So much original case-coloring remains upon this piece, giving it a most beautiful, eye-appealing dark-metal patina, with NO PITTING whatsoever.  The French maker's marking is faintly visible upon the left-hand side of the frame (the marking is a very small oval), but on the other side of the frame the Civil War importation ranged serial number of 38128 is seen CRYSTAL CLEAR--"knee-deep" like the day it was made and stamped.  The pinfire ammunition--being a brass, self-encased cartridge with unique "teat" on top for the hammer to strike and fire the cartridge--was truly revolutionary in the mid-19th Century, and the Pinfire was the most widely produced self-encased firing cartridge revolver of it's day, and up to the beginning--and into--the Civil War.  As qouted in the "Civil War Firearms From Europe," these were extremely popular not only in Europe, but here as well--exhibited by the many that are ID'ed to soldiers both North and South, the dug specimens from camps and battlefields, and the Southern Officers of fame who had them.  Shown below is also a great pic of a southern cavalryman carrying this M1853 Pinfire, so it wasn't only exclusive to the officer class!  The original grips are SPLENDID, bearing to repairs, no damage, no cracking whatsoever, and with it's beautiful original finish!  Measuring just under 13" in total length, and with 6.5" barrel,  it fired an 11mm (roughly .44 caliber) lead minnie at it's foe.  And what an ADVANTAGE to be able to quickly eject the spent, fired casings and reload with brass cartridge ammo--while you're opponent with the percussion-cap, hand-loading revolver was busy fumbling to load black powder, ram the lead ball in, and put percussion caps on the nipples of his Colt, Remington, or whatever!  The Pinfire shooter would have at least 4 times the firing rate as your standard percussion-cap firing revolver owner! 

Gonna be hard to upgrade from this specimen in your collection...and price RIGHT!

$998  LAYAWAY

This Confederate Cavalryman is fully-armed and ready to fight...especially with his M1853 Pinfire like this on above, he's proudly showing off to the camera!!

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Ultra Rare & "MINTY+", CS Caleb Huse Import-Marked

British P1853 Enfield Rifle, Dated 1861

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

Incredible MINTY/FINE+ Condition, w/CLEAR "CH/1" Caleb Huse Exclusive CS Importation Marking

This is, without question, the FINEST CS import-marked Enfield I've personally had, and given the ultra-rare Caleb Huse--Confederate CHIEF of CS Ordnance Importation--marking of the encircled "CH/1", it's among the finest specimens I've personally even SEEN with my own two eyes.  Indeed, it is THAT KIND OF FINE.  The piece is 100% original (NO replacement parts), 100% complete--from the nipple, sling swivels, rear sight, full-length threaded ramrod, etc--and is fully-functional in every way.  As you will see in the photo's below, the condition of the piece is stunning.  The gorgeous original finish to the stock is absolutely beautiful in color and hue, and there are NO CHIPS, NO REPAIRS....NOT EVEN A HAIRLINE CRACK can I find on this one!  And nary a ding or scratch to find here or there--nothing detracting at all.  The metal is a softened gun-metal grey in appearance with absolutely NO PITTING or damage whatsoever.  ALL of the markings are 100% CRYSTAL CLEAR, from the very rare early date of "1861" and "Tower" with the Victoria's crown on the lockplate, to the Birmingham proof *25*25* on the breech of the barrel, of course that rarest of all CS importation markings (the Caleb Huse himself "CH/1"), and even the "Kind & Phillips" British stock-maker's mark found underneath the stock.  The rifling is vividly clear all the way down the virtually unpitted barrel.  And NO BOLSTER BURNOUT, or batted/smashed nipple....no, this one is SPLENDID!

I really can't say much more....it's truly just about "end-of-the-road" fine for such a rare early-dated (1861) Confederate import, AND to have the rarest of all the CS importation markings--coming from Richmond's/Jeff Davis' Chief of ALL Foreign Ordnance acquisition himself, Mr. Caleb Huse--I'll just let the pictures do the selling for me.  Don't think you'll ever be able to "upgrade" from this one.  Absolutely a highly "collector's-grade" piece.  And I doubt you'll find one anywhere near this nice near this price...just look around for yourself and see (if you can even find any for sale!!!!)

$2798  Sale Pending

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"ATTIC" Mint Condition 1862 Springfield Rifle & Bayonet

Beautiful, Untouched M1861 Rifle

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

Clear "US SPRINGFIELD 1862" & Eagle Motif on Lockplate

"Attic Mint Condition" is truly the best way to describe this weapon and bayonet!!!  It is literally untouched, uncleaned, and with absolutely NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, NO REPLACEMENT PARTS...not a single CHIP or even CRACK anywhere!  And barely a scratch or ding to be seen!!!  The walnut stock--just like the metal--is untouched with the original finish, being very dark and smooth in appearance over the entire area.  NO bolster burnout or wear whatsoever.  Being 100% complete, original, and fully-functional--right down to the sling swivels, rear flip-up sight, full-length and threaded ramrod, nipple...you name it--this is a real beauty.  The metal has that classic "attic" untouched patina--a darker "smokey" patina over all the metal surfaces.  Just GORGEOUS!!!  View the many fine pictures below, and you'll know exactly what I mean.  The "US  SPRINGFIELD", "1862" production date, and Eagle motif are still fully legible and visible, as are the typical sub-inspector markings on the stock, barrel bands, and trigger guard.  CRISP RIFLING all the way down the unpitted barrell...just splendid. The bayonet clearly has been with the weapon since it came home from the war--same exact "attic mint" patina, and PERFECTLY FITTING, with crisp "US" marking on it.

You know me....all beauty, all the time...and at the most affordable prices!  You won't regret adding this one to your collection...not at this price!!!  The rifle alone is worth more than this price...you get to save hundreds on the rifle, and the bayonet for FREE!!!

$1398  Layaway

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Iconic Smith & Wesson .32 Cal. "Army" Revolver

Wartime-Production Specimen (Early Serial # 22478)

100% Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

Even today, Smith & Wesson is truly an American iconic firearm producer, right up there with Colt and Remington.  Just prior to the war, and all during the War, Smith & Wesson mass-produced a variety of these self-encased "rimfire" cartridge firing revolvers, that were revolutionary and highly desirable to the men fighting in the field, as it sure as heck was a LOT fast to load an encased cartridge than it was to pour black powder into the chamber, stick a lead ball on top, and ram it down with a loading lever!  A soldier with one of these had at least three to four times the firing rate as the standard percussion-cap firing handguns!  Alas, the Smith & Wesson revolvers were highly prized by the men in the field--and thus so today by collectors.  This specimen here is the largest of the models they produced during the war, being the Model Number 2 "Old Model" or "Army" revolver, being a 6-shot, .32 caliber rimfiring cartridge revolver.  It has the standard 6" long octagonal barrel, with the Smith & Wesson maker's mark/address still legible.  The metal has the most eye-pleasing, dark and faded case-coloring to the entire weapon, and the original rosewood grips are spectacular--not even a chip or scratch to be found on them WHATSOEVER.  NO REPAIRS....NO REPLACEMENT PARTS...just all-original Civil War beauty here.  The action is still fully-functional, and with no active oxidation or damage anywhere to this piece, it's a really great representative specimen of its class.  You can open the lever to unfold the barrel and take the cylinder in and out at will, just as well as the day it was made.

Great, revolutionary Civil War sidearm from a truly American iconic gunmaker....for the cheapest price you'll find around in this condition!

$598  HOLD

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Phenomenal, Historic, & RARE  CS ID'ed, CS Import-Marked, 1861-Dated P1853 Enfield Rifle

Soldier's Name "T. W. Barnett" and "Vicksburg 1863" Carved Into Stock

Sgt. Tandy W. Barnett Was in Company G, 31st Alabama Infantry, in Brig. Gen'l S. D. Lee's Alabama Brigade

Fought throughout the Vicksburg Campaign, Only to Surrender on July 4, 1863 When Capitulated

CLEAR Exclusive CS-Importer's Mark of the Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company Mark "Crown/SH/C/Arrow"

BUT IT GETS BETTER--Federal Capture and Re-Issued After Surrender, with Federal Marking "B  45" on Brass Buttplate!!!

Well, well...where do I begin this one!?!?  I've got a lot to cover with this phenomenally historic and rare CS-imported and soldier ID'ed British Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle....so I might as well just dive in and start describing it!  First, the weapon is a beautiful, VERY GOOD condition, 100% complete (including long-range rear sight, sling swivels, bayonet & scabbard, leather sling, and even nipple protector on chain!), in fully-functional condition with NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, NO CHIPPING or CRACKING (I mean, I can't even find any hairline cracking ANYWHERE!).  The metal has the expected steely-grey appearance and patina from clear battlefield service and usage (by both Johnny Reb & Billy Yank--but more on that in a moment!), and the gorgeous stock still displays wonderfully--again, NO DAMAGE, CRACKING, OR REPAIRS--but has the expected dings and scratches from it's combat service.  The markings on this piece--from the British markings, CS-import markings, Sgt. Barnett's hand-carved markings, and the Federal stamping on the back of the buttplate--are all crisp, clear, and legible.  The lockplate bears that so rare and desirable early production/importation "1861" date with "TOWER", and the Crown at the rear of the lockplate.  The Birmingham *25*25* proof so vividly clear on the barrel breech.  The exclusively Confederate import agency of Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company marking of "Crown/SH/C/Arrow" is easily found under the stock behind the brass trigger guard.  All of the parts are present and 100% ORIGINAL.  No repairs or apologies ANYWHERE on this historic, rare piece.  The nice and tight fitting bayonet comes with it, as does the original British Enfield Bayonet scabbard and frog, though the scabbard and frog were NOT original to this piece--the owner/consignor bought it just to round-out the display of the piece for looks.  The leather sling looks like a typical "Johnny-job"--it's tied and riveted to attach it to the weapon...who knows. 

Now let us discuss Sgt. Tandy W. Barnett of Company G, 31st Alabama.  He was born in 1843, and though his enlistment date is not known through surviving records, he must have been an early volunteer--after all, he was a SERGEANT, and attaining that rank just doesn't happen easy or quickly!  Sgt. Barnett would survive the war, and die in 1893, being buried within Rocky Mount Cemetery, Talladega County, Alabama.  The 31st Alabama served within Pemberton's Army of Mississippi/Vicksburg, heavily engaged through the Vicksburg Campaign.  Their original brigade commander--General Tracey--was killed on May 1st, 1863 at the outset of Grant's famous landing and launching of the overland Vicksburg Campaign at the Battle of Port Gibson.  Gen'l S. D. Lee would assume command the brigade then, and fight ferociously at Champion's Hill (right over the acreage I own!!!), but following the disastrous defeats at Champion's Hill, and the Big Black River the following day, they and Pemberton's Army of Vicksburg retired into their siege works around Vicksburg...and hope beyond all hopes that a relief army under J. E. Johnston could be mustered to come and relieve the siege.  But it was not to be.  After 48 days of continual fighting, bombardment, sniper-firing, hunger, starvation, sweating under the Mississippi summer heat in their trenches, Pemberton finally surrendered Vicksburg and his army to Grant on July 4th, 1864--a date and holiday that the city of Vicksburg would not celebrate officially and legally until WWII (yes, WE SOUTHERNERS CAN HOLD A GRUDGE!!!)  As seen below is a copy of Sgt. Barnett's Prisoner of War/Surrender document from the surrender at Vicksburg (from the National Archives).  I have also provided his service record and pension record (see below).  Obviously, not only did Sgt. Barnett carve his name "T. W. Barnett" on the backstock of the weapon, but in the doldrums of sitting in the "ditches" sweating, starving, and surviving, he carved "VICKSBURG 1863" in the stock as well.

Now, this is where it REALLY gets astounding!  As you Vicksburg historians already know, once the 33,000 Confederate soldiers of Pemberton's army surrendered, the Federals were SHOCKED at the weaponry their foe was armed with.  General Sherman most poignantly and sharply wrote to Grant that, "...our enemy is equipped with some of the finest imported rifled weapons....while our men still carry antiquated and 3rd-class longarms..."  (Official Records, War of the Rebellion).  Immediately, Grant and Sherman had their men glean through all the CS weapons to take all the truly finest rifled weapons they had surrendered.  You have to keep in mind that Grant's men were truly equipped with some of the poorest and oldest weapons--nearly 30% or more were armed with Model 1809 Pottsdam smoothbores alone!!!  (I've got one that my buddy dug at Champion Hill sitting behind me to underscore that truth!) This is where the "B 45" stamping on the brass buttplate tang comes into play!  Obviously NOT a CS marking, and NOT a British marking (the Brits never stamped their buttplates--they carved them).  I've shown this around the the true "guru's" of European import firearms (Mr. Tim Prince, Mr. Corky Huey, etc), and it is indeed a 100% Federal stamping.  As Corky explained to me when I put the weapon in his hand at the Mansfield Show, "Yep--seen this before, both on non-dug buttplates, and many battlefield dug buttplates...".   It's a Federal stamping.  And obviously, given that this--the British Enfield Rifle, considered the FINEST RIFLE in the entire world at that time--was taken from the stacks of surrendered weapons, and re-issued for continued combat service, the stamping makes sense.  Now Billy Yank got to sling the well-aimed, accurate lead back at it's original owners!

This piece belongs to my very dear and close personal friend, Mr. Gary Robinson---longtime collector and dealer (he's in his latter 70's)--and has had this in his personal collection for so long (heck, I saw his place of honor he had it on the wall in his war room!)...but it's time to go.  He will happily sign and notarize any documentation you'd like, if it makes you happy.

You can buy this so incredibly rare and historic piece of history with confidence....so much history, beauty, and rarity...

LAYAWAY

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Fantastic COLT "Special Musket" M1861 Rifle

Rare & Desirable Hartford Colt Production Model for Military Service

CRYSTAL-CLEAR Markings, Including "NJ" New Jersey State Purchase Mark

Matching 1863 Production Dates, All-Original, Complete, & Fully-Functional

This ain't your "run-of-the-mill" Model 1861 or 1863 made by the millions....oh no!  It's a beautiful COLT-produced Model 1861 "Special Musket" (see Flayderman's Guide), being 100% complete (including the rear long-range flip-up sight and both sling swivels), 100% original, fully-functional, having NO damage nor repairs, 100% CRYSTAL CLEAR markings EVERYWHERE, and still in very good condition.  It bears the sharp "NJ" state of New Jersey state contract purchase marking upon the side of the barrel, with the equally sharp barrel proof and matching "1863" production date on the breech.  All of the barrel bands bear vividly clear "U" markings, and the "US" is seen stamped into the buttplate.  The lockplate markings couldn't be any better, from the "US/COLT'S PT F.A. MFG CO./HARTFORD CT" and the "1863" date at the rear of the lockplate.  Even the Eagle motif stamped into the nipple bolster is still quite visible.  There is no massive burnout, or smashed nipple, or bolster chipping--no, this one was well taken care of!  But given the expected combat/service nicks and dings in the beautiful walnut stock, this weapon didn't sit around in an arsenal in New Jersey.  No, this one "saw the elephant" and fired hot lead at it's hated foe in butternut grey.  The metal still retains its "armory bright" finish, as produced by regulation, with no modern cleaning whatsoever, though the metal obviously shows the gently softened patina from it's natural aging.  It is completely UNTOUCHED.  As you see in the many photo's below, she's still a beauty after her service in the war and the 147 years since.  The Walnut stock is still so pretty with its original finish, and has no structural damage, no repairs, no chips missing--just "honest wear" from real combat usage....just enough to prove its "veteran status".  What's best of all is the the 40" regulation Colt barrel has STRONG and CRISP rifling all the way down the barrel!!!  Only around 75,000 were ever made.

Ahhh....everyone LOVES those "magical letters".....C-O-L-T!!!  Why settle for some old Springfield or nobody sub-contractor-made specimen, when you can have one made by the MOST ICONIC and HISTORIC American firearms producer in the world!?!?!

$1898  Sale Pending

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Gorgeous & Ultra-Rare Imported Austrian Lorenz M1854 "Jagerstutzen" Rifle

Truly One of the Rarest Imported Longarms EVER in the Entire Civil War

100% Wartime Imported and Used Piece (Thanks To The Ramrod Channeling--Read Below)

All-Original, Fully-Functional, Complete (Including Original Austrian Jagerstutzen Ramrod)

One of only a HANDFUL to have the ORIGINAL Jagerstutzen Ramrod

You are looking at one of the absolute rarest known imported longarms of the entire Civil War, North or South.  The Austrian "Jagerstutzen" is actually what would be called a "sergeant's rifle," and was solely intended by the Austrian Empire's forces for their sergeant's to carry--more on all that in a moment.  It is a Model 1854 Lorenz Jagerstutzen Rifle, being all-original, fully-functional, and in gorgeous untouched condition.  Given it's intended design and use by the Austrian army for their line sergeants, it is a shorter weapon (28" barrel), making for ease of carrying while shouldered or slung behind the back of the sergeant (a sergeant's position in a battleline was behind the rank and file of men, keeping order, echoing commands, keeping the rate of fire, steadying the men, preventing fear or desertion, etc.), so a sergeant was not "on the line" firing.  However, he was still required to have a longarm, and in case of closer combat, would wield a rifle (or give his to a private who had a malfunctioning weapon).  All of these Jagerstutzen's were made WITHOUT a ramrod channel--again, WITHOUT a ramrod channel--since the sergeant's ramrod for this weapon was held within a ramrod sling on his BACK.  This is critical in knowing that this specimen offered for sale to you is indeed a Civil War imported specimen: all M1854 Jagerstutzen's imported North or South were altered with ramrod channels.  And this one is an original ramrod channel alteration for use in our War.  Though exact quantities of Southern importation specimens is not known, we do know the documented Federal purchase orders through the Hermann Boker Company of New York, Liege, and Birmingham for the North.  In order/sample #22 accounted at the time of purchase, there were 5,232 of these Jagerstutzen's bought by Boker for Federal forces.  It was noted that these were all altered with the stocks bored for receiving a ramrod (again, the Austrian's did NOT have them ever altered for ramrod usage).  Below is the full information about Boker and the purchase of these weapons by the North, thanks to the incredible "Firearms from Europe" reference book (if you don't have this book, YOU SHOULD!)  Boker specifically noted these would make fine pieces (given their shorter stature) for arming both artillerymen or cavalrymen with these fine rifles.  The South, through existing Caleb Huse connections and heavy purchases of Austrian weapons, had to have purchased at least as many as Boker, if not more, given their desperation for first-class rifled weapons--and even more so for rifled first-class weapons suitable for arming their mounted forces.  But regardless of the quantity, the Jagerstutzen is among the very exclusively rare imported firearms, North or South. 

This specimen displays absolutely gorgeously, having the most beautiful original stock finish, no repairs, no heavy field or service wear, and comes with the original Austrian Jagerstutzen ramrod.  The ramrod is full-length, having the Austrian brass-sleeved ramrod head design, and full original threading at the base.  The action is splendid on this one, with excellent spring and mechanics, and the bore is good, though clearly it was fired "in anger" during it's experience.  The original long-range rear adjustable sight is missing, as is typical to all Austrian longarms.  All of the metal has the most pleasing uncleaned and untouched dark patina.  Only the most minor field or service wear to be found--but enough to once again only conclusively substantiate it's real combat service in the war.  No structural cracks or bolster-burnout.  Everything on this weapon is 100% original CW-period, right down to the screws and nipple (the Jagerstutzen nipple, that is, since it is quite unique!) The full-length barrel is a unique design, being that it is almost all an octagonal, thick barrel, excepting for the very end where it is turned-down for a socket bayonet.  The very heavy octagonal barrel is to compensate for the shorter length, giving it as much or greater range and accuracy as the standard M1854 Lorenz.  Even the original sling swivels are intact on this one!  What's really cool is that we already had our "clues" about Belgium acting as a selling "broker" for Austrian arms, and this one bears the Belgian "Liege" cartouche.  Federal purchaser Boker had an office in Belgium, thus also verifying this Austrian rifle went through Belgium, and it is believed it was there in Belgium that the boring for the ramrod channel was performed.  So that little Liege Belgian proof only substantiates what was already believed.

It is a most beautiful displaying, untouched, all-original and truly complete examples of one of the rarest imported firearms into the Civil War.  Best of all, it is 100% complete and original from its importation into the Civil War.  Even the specimen pictured in the "Firearms from Europe" book doesn't even HAVE A RAMROD!  What a bargain it is compared to Springfields and Enfields!  A typical M1861 or M1863 Springfield (or subcontracted) rifle in this condition would cost you more than this ultra-rare Austrian.  They made well over a MILLION of those.  Same is true in regards to an Enfield being more expensive.  But you'll never have to guess whether this rifle here was really used in the War.  Being so rare, and 100% exclusively imported for service in the War, this is a fine addition to any collection.  

One day, once people finally wake-up to the rarity of this and other unworldly rare imported firearms, their value will shoot through the roof.

$1298  Sale Pending

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Phenomenal, Stunning M1854 Austrian Lorenz Rifle

Nearly Flawless, Untouched, All-Matching Sub-Assembly/Inspector Marked Specimen

100% Complete, 100% Original, 100% Fully-Functional

Finest Specimen I've Ever Had to Offer, Let Alone Ever See

Oh my....this is a show-stopper and jaw-dropper!  I've personally NEVER had a finer specimen to offer for sale, let alone ever see with my own two eyes!  It is truly nearly FLAWLESS.  It is 100% COMPLETE, 100% ORIGINAL, and 100% FULLY-FUNCTIONAL with all markings being 100% CRISP and CRYSTAL CLEAR as the day it was made!  It has all-matching assembly/inspector marks lf "20" all over the weapon.  The original ramrod is full-length and fully-threaded, of course.  The beechwood stock is spectacular in original, untouched condition--essentially free of any nicks, dings, NO REPAIRS, and hardly a hairline scratch or blemish to be found....you'll have to look VERY HARD to find anything wrong with this gorgeous beauty!  The metal is entirely PIT-FREE, and the original "armory bright finish" to the metal is SPECTACULAR.  No, this has NOT been modern scratch-brush cleaned...oh no.  The Austrian Imperial Eagle's stamp, as well as the date "860" (standing for 1860) are as clear and crisp as the day it was made--just like all the "20" and other markings.  NO REPAIRS....NO MONKEY-BUSINESS.  And the .577/.58 caliber bore is no disappointment, either--sharp rifling all the way down!  All stunning beauty in all its glory.  And my great friend and Lorenz "Guru" and expert, Tim Prince of College Hill Arsenal, noticed at the Mansfield Show that there is the tell-tale wear under the stock...underneath the bottom (below the rear long-range original flip-up sight)--as he pointed out, "That looks like classic saddle pommel wear--this one looks like it was used [despite the condition] by a cavalryman..."  And when I saw it, by God, he's RIGHT!  And we all know that the Confederate cavalry--especially Forrest's cavalry--preferred these shorter rifled weapons (and the 2-banded Enfield) for their mounted infantry fighting tactics.

I LOVE THIS LORENZ!!!!  And you will too, whether for the aesthetics for your collection, or as a shooter (it would operate and fire as well and accurately today as the day it was made!)

LAYAWAY

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GORGEOUS CS-Import Marked, 1861-Dated, "Barnett London" British Enfield

Bears the Exclusive CS Import Agent's Mark of Sinclair, Hamilton, & Company

The "Crown/S/HC/Arrow" Import Mark, and Legible "Barnett London" Mark

100% Original, 100% Fully-Functional, Even Both Sling Swivels

Extremely Rare & Early 1861 Date, & MOST DESIRABLE "Barnett London" Specimen

This Confederate purchased and imported Enfield has just about everything going for it (except a soldier's ID/provenance, though there is a soldier's marking of some kind carved into the left-side of the stock toward the rear.)  It is 100% original, fully-functional, complete (right down to original full-length threaded ramrod, nipple, and both sling swivels!), but it gets much better: not only is it a truly CS-imported marked specimen, bearing the exclusive CS import company's mark of the Sinclair, Hamilton, and Company (the "Crown/SH/C/Arrow" mark seen fully behind the trigger guard) thus proving THIS was a REAL Confederate purchased, issued and used weapon, but it is an EXTREMELY EARLY DATED SPECIMEN of 1861!  And to top it all off, it is a Barnett London specimen, as the backstock bears the "BARNETT LONDON" marking of the famous London gunmaker.  The "TOWER 1861" and Crown marking on the lockplate are entirely visible.  This weapon has absolutely NO STRUCTURAL DAMAGE/CRACKING, bearing only the expected 4 years of combat and service wear of a few nicks, dings, and scratches, etc, and the tell-tale combat bolster wear that CAN NOT BE FAKED--ONLY PROVING that it had seen its great share of firing thousands of rounds against its hated foe in blue.  The stock retains its most gorgeous appearance and original finish, and the iron shows much of the original case-coloring--though obviously with the expected field and combat wear of a true "war veteran".  Just see the many FINE photo's below of this gorgeous beauty!  The old collector who had this beauty wiped a little tiny bit of wood filler in some of the very small few dings (ex: by the "BARNETT LONDON" mark), but there are NO DETRACTING FACTORS or FACETS to this extremely rare Confederate Enfield whatsoever.  It bears the London proofs upon the barrel breech--again, obvious to the Barnett London Company.  The Barnett's have become among the most desirable Enfields (maybe outside of a "K" Kerr marked specimen) in the Enfield Confederate collecting community.  As is typical with the vast majority of CS Enfields, the rear long-range flip-up sight is missing--and as I've pointed out in the past, we have CONCLUSIVE written documentation and evidence where they were ordered to remove the long-range rear sight.  Below is an extensive detailed account as to why and the rationale rear sights were removed by some CS troops:

Below is a summary of a documented instance of Wm. Watson's 3rd Louisiana regiment intentionally removing the rear sights from captured Yankee Enfields, and the rationale of the men in this regiment for doing so.  In "Life in the Confederate Army -- Being the Observations and Experiences of an Alien in the South During the American Civil War" by William Watson c 1887, (pages 342-343), the fact the some C.S. soldiers of the 3rd Louisiana Infantry intentionally removed the rear sights from captured Enfield rifles and Belgian rifles (page 301) at the Battle of Pea Ridge, and their reasons for doing so, are described in detail.  In summary, according to Wm. Watson who himself was a member of the 3rd Louisiana and relates the information, some Confederates who after the battle retrieved Yankee Enfield rifles, Belgian rifles and Colt repeating rifles from the field (the former two equipped with raised sights) noticed that all of the sights had been set for 200 yards. Watson states this accounted for the Yankees shooting high as the Confederates closed the distance to 40 to 80 yards to be effective with their own smoothbore muskets. Watson continues this was "one of the chief reasons why we were not cut to pieces while fighting so long against a superior force and under such a tremendous fire as we had done on the 7th.  This led to raised sight being condemned by us, and they were taken off, and the line of sight set to range with the line of fire at about 70 yards -- it being considered simpler and better when the distance was uncertain and constantly changing, for men acting on their own spur of the moment to learn how to aim, high or low, according to distance as they were now in the habit of doing, than to stop and calculate the distance and alter the sight for every shot.  Raised sights, it was considered, might do very well for sharpshooters, or in circumstances where the object was single and continued fixed, and time could be taken to calculate the distance, and set the sight to suit it; but in the hurry-skurry of the battle, in front of an enemy rushing to and fro, was not a very good place for making nice calculations, and movable sights were there quite useless and in the way."  There is no doubt that many an Enfield rear sight was unintentionally knocked off in the field when the rifle musket or rifle was jostled or bumped up against something hard. Many others were probably removed postwar when farmers and other subsequent owners turned them into shotguns. In the instance of the 3rd Louisiana Infantry after Pea Ridge, however, the rear sights of many captured Enfield and Belgian rifles appear to have been deliberately removed by the Confederate infantrymen, according to Wm. Watson.  Based on the experience of Watson and his 3rd Louisiana comrades and the unnecessarily high firing of the Federal troops aiming at them, one can understand their inclination to ditch the rear sights. Incidentally, according to Watson, 9 companies of the 3rd Louisiana were originally armed with smoothbore muskets of the latest pattern (presumably M 1842s), and Watson's company was armed with Springfield rifles and sabre bayonets (presumably M 1855 rifles). So one company of the regiment at least had prior experience with graduated rear sights, while the bulk of the regiment being armed with smoothbores had little if any prior experience with elevating rear sights before retrieving the Federal longarms from the Pea Ridge battlefield.

All the Confederate history...all the beauty....all the rarity...all wrapped-up in this 100% Confederate Enfield...and at a price you can afford!  It won't cost you $3000+ for a Sinclair, Hamilton & Company CS-import marked, 1861-dated, Barnett London marked Confederate Enfield, all original and fully-functional here at Champion Hill!  Don't buy just any old Enfield and hope and pretend it was Confederate....you can have this gorgeous beauty and KNOW that an ardent Southern warrior carried it and went through many battles and campaigns (evidenced by the bolster and service wear) to defend his Rights, his Cause, and his home...

$2298  Sale Pending

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Gorgeous M1851 Colt .36 Cal. Navy Revolver

All-Matching Serial Numbers, Fully-Functional, Complete

DOUBLE MARTIAL CARTOUCHES on Grips, w/ Multiple Martial Sub-Inspector Marks

Being truly an "iconic" gun not only of the Civil War, but out of all American-made antique firearms, the Model 1851 "Navy" .36 caliber revolver has a permanent place in the pantheon of classic American antique historic firearms.  Won't see a single Civil War or "Western" movie or show without one!  Being so heavily used in the Civil War, they--and their famous maker, Colt--have always made them one of the most desirable and collectable firearms, antique or modern.  This original beauty here is just that--a beautiful, representative example, being 100% complete, crisply fully-functional, all-legible and matching serial numbers of 195929 (except wedge, which is a classic ORIGINAL replacement wedge--typical, since the wedge was so easily lost in the field of service!), and crisp Colt's address atop the barrel.  It has the most pleasing gun-metal grey patina, with some "smokey" remnants of the original case-coloring here and there, and NO PITTING.  The grips show the classic holster wear from real field service, but NO CRACKS, NO REPAIRS, and NO DAMAGE whatsoever.  Best of all, they bear the faded, but clear martial cartouches on BOTH SIDES of the grips!  And then a large sub-inspector's "C" mark on the frame, and the numbering "26 127" on the brass trigger guard.

Go find a Colt navy in this condition with double martial cartouches and sub-inspector marks ANYWHERE near this price...

$1398  LAYAWAY

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FINE Pre-War Bacon Pocket Revolver

Made Under Contract By Western Arms Company

All-Matching Low Serial Number 259 (only 700 made)

100% All-Original, 100% Complete, 100% Fully-Functional

This is a FINE example of the Bacon .31 caliber revolver that was sub-contracted-out for production by the Western Arm Company of New York.  Production of the Bacon Pocket revolver began in 1858, trying to compete with Colt's .31 caliber Pocket Revolver.  Bacon sub-contracted several other producers (given their small production capacity), and this one bears the crystal-clear mark's mark of "Western Arms Co NY" atop the barrel.  It has both internally and externally all-matching VERY LOW production serial numbers of "259" seen vividly and clear.  The piece has the classic Bacon style and shape, with fluted cylinders, fine frame engraving as crisp and pretty as ever, and the metal has the most beautiful just-toned-down original blued/case-coloring patina over the entire weapon.  Everything is complete, undamaged, unrepaired, and in FINE condition, being fully-functional in every way with a good bore.  It's as ready to operate and fire today as the day it was made!  These were CLASSIC weapons toted-off by soldiers in 1861, as seen by the plethora of photographs of soldiers holding them, especially the weapons-depraved South.  Beautiful original finish to the wonderful walnut grips with no chipping or cracking.

Just another fine, representative example of a classic wartime-used revolver that won't cost you double because it's a COLT!  And far rarer, since only 700 were EVER MADE!

$850  Sale Pending

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EXCELLENT Pre-War Whitney Pocket Revolver

FINE Flayderman's/NRA Grade Condition

All-Matching Serial Numbers 3233, 100% Original, Complete, & Fully-Functional

Very sweet, "minty" example of the classic Whitney-made Pocket Revolver, produced starting in the latter 1850's to compete against the Colt Pocket revolver, and stopped production by the early 1860's.  This one is a VERY early production specimen, and a pre-war one at that (only 30,000 ever made, compared to over 300,000 Colt Pockets made!  So quite a rare piece compared to it's competitor the Colt!).  This stunningly gorgeous .31 caliber revolver is 100% complete, 100% original, 100% fully-functional, and with having more than the minimum 30% original bluing upon the metal (the threshold for "fine" condition) with no damage, no repairs, and no apologies whatsoever.  The metal has a faded blued-hue on most of the areas, with great original case-coloring in patches, especially the entire loading lever.  The beautiful original walnut grips are SUPERB, having great original finish to them with no big cracks or damage.  The action is CRISP, and with a good bore, this one a truly a "collector's-grade" specimen.  

These were a classic among the pre-war Southerners who owned them and carried them off to War.  And compared to the price of a Colt Pocket revolver, this weapon is far rarer and far cheaper to put in your collection!  An identical Colt Pocket in same condition would cost you double!

$798  Sale Pending

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Spectacularly Rare & Superb Condition

CS Import-Marked .577 Enfield Rifle

ALSO Post-War Louisiana State Militia Rifle

Clear Sinclair, Hamilton & Company Exclusive CS Importer's Mark of "Crown/SH/C/Arrow"

Then Brass Trigger Guard Stamped "LSM" for Louisiana State Militia (Post-War, Almost Exclusively Colored Troops)

Fantastic Condition, 100% Original, Complete, Fully-Functional

If you love Enfields...and if you love 100% real/legit Confederate-imported Enfields....then this one even goes ABOVE AND BEYOND all that!  This Enfield is literally dripping with history, rarity, and truly SUPERB untouched condition.  To begin, the condition and 100% original completeness of this weapon is fantastic.  Clearly untouched, and left in what many would call "attic FINE" condition, given the metal has the most perfectly even and smooth browning to the metal.  Both sling swivels are present, as well as the rear flip-up long-range sight.  There is NO damage, NO repairs, and absolutely beautiful in every regard.  Not a missing part or piece anywhere.  No chips or cracking.  I dare say, it appears to have never fired a shot in combat or seen extensive field service at all.  The exclusively Confederate importation company, Sinclair, Hamilton, and Company, has their classic "Crown/SH/C/Arrow" mark seen VIVIDLY clear upon the underside of the stock by the trigger guard.  And that's the the beginning to the rarity of this piece: this weapon is a Belgian-contract made specimen--which the English utilized the Belgians for subcontracting Enfields specifically starting for their 1850's Crimean War (they even had the US under contract to make the Windsor Enfield for british service, as the British needed all the weapons they could for the war, and sub-contracted production to whomever they could, especially at a lower, cheaper price!  In fact, historically speaking, the British utilized the Belgians for subcontracting weapon-making work since the latter 1700's beginning with Brown Besses!)  The barrel bears the clear Birmingham *25*25* proof, but being a Belgian-made subcontracted piece, the stock bears Belgian proofs, as does the trigger guard, and the lockplate bears no markings--this is always found with Belgian subcontracted specimens as they would leave them blank for the British private gunmakers or retailers to mark if they so chose to.  This weapon was clearly purchased by Sinclair, Hamilton, and Company through a Birmingham maker/retailer---who that retailer had subcontracted from the Belgians for a cheap price, and then sold directly to the Confederacy, as it is NOT a British martially-marked weapon, nor ever was intended to be.  And the Brits LOVED to gouge the Confederacy by selling them cheaper guns (and often lesser quality ones, at that, and saved their best weapons for their service) at exorbitant prices for big profits!  The action is perfectly crisp, and the bore good.  Excellent full-length, fully-threaded ramrod.  The most GORGEOUS original stock finish still remaining.  Simply spectacular beauty in condition.

But the Confederate history and British/Belgian rarity behind the weapon doesn't end there...this weapon was a CAPTURED piece (either from an intercepted CS blockade runner, or captured from CS soldier or stockpile), and was utilized in the immediate post-war Louisiana State Militia!!!  This militia was almost exclusively composed of newly-freed colored men as their troops, and had to quell multiple riots, uprisings, and violent protests (especially in late 1865 and 1866 in New Orleans and Baton Rouge).  Ex-Confederate officers, soldiers, and politicians were trying to retain political and social control in their state, cities, and parishes, and this unrest continued for several years as the old Southern/Confederate Democrats fought to retain their political, social, and economic control in the post-war South, where blacks now had voting rights and were electing politicians and forming businesses.  The LSM Militia rack number in the arsenal of "39" is clearly stamped upon the back of the buttplate on the stock, and that crisp "LSM" marking looms vivid and large in the brass trigger guard.  All Louisiana State Militia weapons were marked with the "LSM" marking....and there are but few remaining examples surviving today....rare piece to find, my friends.

SO...where else are you going to find such a GORGEOUS, FINE Enfield rifle, exclusively and conclusively Confederate purchased and imported with the Sinclair, Hamilton, and Company marking, with the cool British/Belgian rarity....and topped off with the fact it was a captured weapon employed by black soldiers in the tumultuous post-war years by the Louisiana State Militia?  A simple LSM-marked Enfield is worth $2000 alone.  You get this ultra-rare Confederate import-purchased and marked specimen on top of all the great condition, rarity, and LSM history for this measly price!

$2498  SOLD

Click On Thumbnails Below For More Pictures

BEAUTIFUL Pre-War Colt M1855 Cal. "Root" Revolver

100% Complete, All-Original, Fully-Functional .28 Cal.

Flayderman's/NRA FINE Condition, Crystal-Clear Markings, Matching Serial Numbers 4657, & Good Cylinder Scene Still Visible

Over the past decade, the Model 1855 Colt "Root" revolver has become extremely desirable, collectable, and risen tremendously in price and value--especially these .28 caliber Models made before the Civil War that saw extensive service in the War, especially within the South.  [Note: Colt produced a new model of the Root Revolver in 1861, made in .31 caliber, and replaced the original .28 caliber models, so only about 30,000 of the .28 caliber model were ever made before they stopped production of them in 1861.]  This 1st Model is a GORGEOUS, all-original, 100% complete, all-matching early-made beauty (made in the latter 1850's), being in Flayderman's/NRA graded "FINE" condition.  The weapon retains over 30% of the original case-coloring/bluing (the minimum threshold for "FINE" condition), with the all the original "skin" bluing along the metal, and the other metal surfaces having a rich, just-toned-down blued hue appearance.  No damage, repairs, or apologies to be made on this one.  The cylinder even has good portions of the cylinder scene quite visible (see pics below)--which is a real rarity and treat!  The original walnut grips are fabulous, having virtually no wear, nicks, no cracking, or big chips missing, and gorgeous original finish to them.  All of the markings from all the matching serial numbers 4657 and the maker's marking atop the barrel are CRISP and CLEAR--including the pointing hand and Maltese cross motif with the Colt maker's marking atop the barrel.  Good sharp edges to the metal, and CRISP rifling!  The action if 100% fully-functional, and given the total FINE condition of the weapon, it could operate and fire as well today as the day it was made!  This one is clearly a "collector's-grade" specimen.

And this one won't cost you several thousand dollars+ to put in your collection--I've seen the prices that others have on theirs at the shows and websites!  You can have this gorgeous, FINE beauty, and save all your hard-earned money!  A real treasure, and one that almost certainly saw action in the war--a real favorite of the Southern soldier.

$1698  SOLD

A well-equipped Johnny ready to "kill 20 Yankee's" with with Bowie and his Root Revolver!

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ID'ed Lt. Melchi E. Grove's Grouping

86th Illinois, Company E, Volunteer Infantry Regiment

His Foot Officer's Sword, FINE Colt Revolver & Holster

Reams of Historical Documentation (Pension records, etc)

Came Directly from Granddaughter's Attic in Late 1980's

Outstanding Illinois Officer's ID'ed grouping, coming directly from the granddaughter's attic in the 1980's (acquired and originally sold through Mr. Larry Hicklen in 1992),  this grouping has been in my great friend (and on of the BEST adult Oncologists in this country) collection for many years now.  But it is now available again to the open market.  Lt. Melchi Grove enlisted into Company E of the 86th Illinois Infantry Regiment on August 14th, 1862 as 1st Lt of the Company.  He would fight at Perryville, Kentucky later that fall, and would succumb to chronic diarrhea (as is listed on an original Department of the Interior Pension Office Document included with this collection, as well as many other papers) from the October 9th battle.  This chronic problem was so bad that he had to be discharged from active duty on the 13th of January in 1863.  Included amongst the many papers is even the hand-written testimony of his personal physician in 1863 back home in Illinois, describing his clear chronic diarrhea, he being "much reduced in flesh and strength, and appeared to be suffering also from over-medication..." (hand-written affidavit submitted in 1875 to Pension Department).  He lived in Peoria County, but was originally from Ohio, marrying Amelia Clemmer on February 8th, 1842, who bore him 8 children (all listed in other documentation included).  All of this documentation and affidavit work was for an increase of his service pension for his disability, to which he did receive.  Though I do not have his date of death, I know he died before his beloved wife Amelia, as we have the January 29th, 1915 Department of the Interior Bureau of Pensions record of her death on November 3, 1914, and thus the pension she had collected from him was terminated.  There is a wonderful post-war, late-life sketch-image of Lt. Grove and his wife Amelia that accompany this collection as well.

The items are in splendid condition, ESPECIALLY the FINE condition Colt M1849 Pocket Revolver, and exquisitely etched and gorgeous Klingenthal-imported Foot Officer M1850 Sword and original leather scabbard.   Everything is 100% COMPLETE, 100% ORIGINAL, 100% UNTOUCHED, and 100% gorgeous.  The Colt is a Flayderman's/NRA "FINE" rated condition specimen, bearing all original parts, all-matching serial numbers 105702 ( a pre-war 1855 production specimen), with KNEE-DEEP markings everywhere--ESPECIALLY the crisp and vivid cylinder scene that will knock your socks off  (just look at the MANY fine close-up picture below of the entire cylinder scene!)  Fully-functional, of course, and not missing any parts, no replacement pieces, no damage nor repairs.  Excellent weapon.  The fantastic 100% complete, original wire and sharkskin-wrapped M1850 Klingenthal FINE imported Foot Officer's sword with it's  INTACT original leather scabbard with brass mounts is truly beautiful.  The fine etching is about as vivid and clear today as the day it was made (look at all the crystal-clear close-up pics I took of the etching on both sides of the blade below).  NO DAMAGE---NO REPAIRS--NO WEAR or worn-out spots on the grip--just perfect, just like the nick-free blade.  The Klingenthal maker's marking is crystal-clear upon the spine of the blade--even the original throat washer is present!  The original holster still has solid stitching on the sides, with supple, beautiful black leather.  The original brass finial is present, though is coming slightly loose, and there is a tear where the finial attachment hole was--but no biggie at all.

Simply SPECTACULAR!  True, he only fought in one battle--that of Perryville, Kentucky, October 8th, 1862, the 86th Illinois was in the thick of the fight, near the Bottom House and "Bloody Sink Hole".  And Lt. Grove was there...with these armaments of war for his service...

$2498  LAYAWAY

PHENOMENAL Battlefield Pick-Up,

Ultra-Rare DOUBLE "SC" South Carolina-Marked,  JS/Anchor-Marked Enfield Rifle

Taken From The Battle of the Wilderness -- Showing Slight Fire/Smoke Damage & Clearly Projectile Struck

Crisp Double "SC" Marks & JS/Anchor Mark, Diamond "C" CS Import Mark within Birmingham Proof on Barrel

Museum Quality, Once-In-A-Lifetime Rarity & History Rolled Into A Battlefield Pick-Up CS Weapon

This is about the "Holy Grail" of Confederate battlefield pick-ups weapons...there is so much to describe in this piece, and you can obviously tell I'm gushing to explain it all!  You know how I love battlefield dug and pick-up pieces, and this is the ultimate--bar-none.  Let me first start with describing the perfectly crisp JS/Anchor marking underneath the stock behind the trigger guard--thus informing us it was indeed a Confederate purchased and imported Enfield from England, ran through the blockade to equip our armies.  The original ramrod is with the piece, and you can see where there is the typical Confederate import numbering on the ramrod that would match with that engraved on the buttplate.  The aging from sitting outside upon the Wilderness battlefield obscures what that number is, but as you can see in the photo's below, the hints are there.  The buttplate would have shown us that matching CS importation number....except it was FORCIBLY removed by projectile impact upon the rear-bottom of the stock--a minnie' is the far-most likely cause of what struck the stock, breaking a chunk off (along the grain) and stripping the buttplate out.  The diamond "C" CS importation stamp within the Birmingham proof (seen repeatedly on some surviving CS-import JS/anchor specimens) is also visibly seen on the barrel.  Last, and certainly not least, most key Confederate marking upon this weapon are the ultra-rare DOUBLE "SC" South Carolina state purchase/ownership stamps upon the stock.  One large "SC" is rare enough, as you know.  Only a handful of double "SC" marked specimens survive today...that last one sold at auction in the past year and a half for just over $25,000.

The piece surfaced recently from a Massachusetts estate, clearly where an old Union veteran had purchased this war trophy from the burgeoning relic souvenir business that was happy to provide these relics and memento's to the aging war survivors in the late 1800's and early 1900's.  Per the provenance with the piece, it was taken from the Battle of the Wilderness, and the fire/smoke singes on the stock certainly attest to that.  This weapon was obviously outside for a few years, as the elements of hot and cold, moisture and dryness, and exposure to sunlight have given it that "perfect" battlefield pick-up patina on both the wood and metal.  The beetles and worms enjoyed munching on the wood, of course, as those little buggers like to do!  I have liberally applied "Kramer's Antique Improver" to the entire piece, as it only moisturizes, beautifies, and protects the piece for ages to come.  What's great is that this beauty still does look so nice, despite battle-damage, fire/smoke, rain/snow, hot/cold.  The 1862 date is still legible, as is the crown marking on the lockplate.  The hammer is forever froze at full-cock to fire at it's hated foe in blue.  The original nipple protector is solidly affixed.  The lockplate goes in and out with ease, making it nice to see inside and behind the lockplate.  Even the long-range flip-up sight is present, as are both sling swivels.  The obvious projectile impact, combined probably with many soldier's running over the battlefield (or being knocked over a Yankee's head!), caused a structural crack in the piece as you can see on the backstock.  But, she still displays beautifully, and the myriad of possibilities and outcomes one can ponder over the final hours and days of the brave South Carolinian who shouldered this weapon are yours to ruminate forever if you purchase it.  A Bonnie Blue Flag-singing, fire-eating patriot from South Carolina slung many pounds of lead out of this rifle. We know well of the famous wild-fire that erupted within Saunder's Field at the Battle of the Wilderness, as well as in pockets elsewhere along the lines.  Only three South Carolina Brigades were engaged at the Wilderness with Lee's famous Army of Northern Virginia, so if your South Carolina ancestor was there, there's about a 1 in 7000 chance this was his (that's the approximate number of South Carolinians in those 3 brigades). 

The finest of the fine, rarest of the rare.  Without question, the finest battlefield pick-up "trophy" you could ever wish to find.  More like the "Holy Grail", actually. I shall be firm with the price of this one: I don't think I'll be finding any double "SC" marked CS-imported Enfields like this at this price anytime again...

SOLD

Click On The Thumbnails Below For More Pictures

FINE Original Colt M1862 "Police" .36 Cal. Revolver

Over 30% Original Case Coloring Present, CRYSTAL-CLEAR MARKINGS EVERYWHERE,

Complete & Fully-Functional in Every Way, All-Matching Serial Numbers 12218

In order to "beef up" the firepower of the Colt M1849 "Pocket" revolver, yet maintaining a weapon of smaller, lighter frame and stature, Colt designed and produced this Model 1862 aka "Police" Model .36 caliber revolver.  Though the moniker as a "Police" weapon is more from old collector lore and legend (though Police did use them--as well as every other kind of revolver made!) these were a staple weapon used in combat in the War.  Even stranger is that though it is called a "model 1862", they began production in 1861!  (Go figure!)  This is in truly Flayderman's/NRA "FINE" condition, being complete, fully-functional in every way, with CRISP mechanics, CRYSTAL-CLEAR markings (from the Colt address atop the barrel, all the matching serial numbers 12218 (an 1862 production piece), the "36 caliber" and "Colt's Patent" on the side of the frame, AND most of all, the Colt's Patent within the fluted cylinder (see all below!)  Over 30% of the ORIGINAL case-coloring exists on the piece (the minimum threshold for "fine condition" rating) on the main frame, cylinder, hammer, and much of the loading lever, with fading case-coloring on the barrel.  NO chips or cracks WHATSOEVER on the beautiful walnut grips.  Splendid in every way.  The wedge is a old replacement--though I don't know if it is Civil War-era replacement or slightly later.  Can't tell, so I'll price is accordingly.  Regardless...any way you look at it, for this price, you shall NOT find one finer any cheaper!!!

$1198  LAYAWAY

Click On Thumbnails Below For More Pictures

FINE "Slanting Breech / John Brown" Sharps Carbine

Wonderful Pre-War, Highly Desirable Sharps, Made Famous (Infamous?) by John Brown / "Beecher's Bibles"

Gorgeous, ALL-Original, Complete, Fully-Functional Condition

CRYSTAL-CLEAR MARKINGS EVERYWHERE, from multiple Sharps Patent Dates, Maker's Mark, and Serial Number 21847

The desirability and collectability within the Civil War (and general 19th Century antique firearms community) always has a VERY soft spot for the M1853 Sharps .52 caliber "Slanting Breech" carbine...because they would become so famous by the tumultuous events that lead up to the Civil War, and their extensive service (especially for the Confederacy) during the War itself.  The 1850's inevitable collision of ideologies of America were coming to their very head--with abolitionists such as John Brown and Henry War Beecher, who Beecher himself was quoted in the NY Tribune as saying that "there was more moral power in one Sharps than in 100 bibles..." as the blood-bath bushwhacking in the disputed Kansas and other territories were being exacted by these abolitionists against slave-owning citizens.  And there is evidence that both pro-slavery/anti-abolitionists themselves were purchasing these most technologically advanced carbines for their raiders to fight-off the abolitionists.  Of course, it would be the climactic events of John Brown's uprising and taking-over of the US Harper's Ferry Arsenal (the uprising then quelled by none-other than an already war veteran, ranking US officer, Col. Robert E. Lee) that would make these "slant breech" carbines reach "legendary" status.  When war broke out, this was THE most sought-after weapon (outside of the "Georgia Sharps" procured by Governor Joe Brown of Georgia) for Confederate mounted service.  Thousands would be employed by southern saddlemen to fight throughout the entire war--even Robert E. Lee would ONLY choose one cavalry weapon as the "regulation" weapon (a hope, as so few were available, and so few produced in copy by Southern armories)...the Sharps Carbine. 

This specimen offered is a truly FINE condition specimen in every facet.  It has the most beautiful original walnut finish to the stock, bearing little wear or use at all, and the metal is entirely UNPITTTED and UNTCOUHED--having a some of the original case-coloring remaining, and the rest has mellowed into a gorgeous faded grey/brown patina.  All of the markings are 100% crisp and sharp--as good as the day it was made--literally.  The action is superb, and the bore very good.  A real "shooter" to this very day, as it would operate and fire today as well as the day it was made.  The original sling bar and ring are PRESENT!  Something you often find missing on these!  The furniture-brass buttplate and patch-box are absolutely splendid.  NO structural damage, NO repairs, and NO detracting factors, outside of the hairline non-structural crack under the stock by the fore-end grip screw (clearly from the use of being in the field bumping along aside a rider!)  Even the original Sharps long-range sight, WITH original elevator, crisp range markings, AND the original Sharps Patent-dated sight base are PRESENT!!!!  This one has it ALL, my friends!!!!  I acquired this one from a central Tennessee man....and boy, does this one "whistle Dixie"!  Johnny was so desperate throughout the entire war for ANY serviceable military-grade longarm for mounted service that all of these available were quickly pressed into service. 

Just look at all of the many FINE pictures below of this FINE piece...and it'll do all the selling for me.  Yeah...it's that kind of nice.  And for a price you won't find ANYWHERE else...

$3200  SOLD

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EXCELLENT ID'ed M1860 Spencer Carbine

Carbine of Private Bryon Colegrove, Company E, 6th Illinois Cavalry -- Bought Directly from the Family -- SRS Serial Range 6th Illinois Confimation to Oral History

100% Complete, Fully-Functional, "VERY GOOD" to "FINE" Condition Specimen, Matching Serial Numbers 56,556

Here's a spectacular wartime issued and ID'ed cavalryman's Spencer carbine!  This one comes from the family, with the oral history as belonging to their ancestor, Private Bryon Colegrove of Company E, 6th Illinois Cavalry.  Upon doing the Springfield Research System research with the serial number, it is indeed a 6th Illinois range match--that little added "weight" to the provenance (since only us secretive dealers and collectors have access to serial number issue info!)  Upon further research into Pvt. Colegrove's history, he spent 2 months in the "guard house"--LITERALLY!-in April 1865!  Must have really "celebrated" a little too much about the ending of the war to get a penalty such as this!!!  The weapon is your classic later-war specimen with matching serial numbers 56, 556--typically issued in early to mid-1864 into the field for service.  As you can see in the many photo's, it is very beautiful, 100% original and complete, with crisp mechanics and a good bore, bearing VERY legible markings EVERYWHERE.  Only the most minor "in-the-field" wear to be found, but expected and thus again a solid "proof" that it was indeed a weapon that saw field service.  No repairs, no detracting damage or wear, gorgeous walnut finish remaining on the stock, and nice faded blued hue to all the metal.  From the Spencer maker's markings, serial number, down to the original and complete loading tube and long-range flip-up, sight, this ID'ed beauty shall make for an EXCELLENT addition to anyone's collection.

$3898

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Truly Gorgeous, THE "Holy Grail" Of All Confederate Officer Handguns of the Entire War

Phenomenal CS ID'ed, Exclusively CS Import-Marked "CH1" P56 British 2-Band Rifle

Bears the Classic, 100% Caleb Huse (Chief CS Importer for European Arms for the Entire Confederacy) Importation Mark of the Encircled "CH/1"

Attributed to Cpl. William H. Wade, of the Famed 53rd Virginia Infantry

His Initials "WHW" and "53" Carved Into the Stock

He was WOUNDED in the Fateful Pickett's Charge (the 53rd was in Armistead's Brigade at Gettysburg, Making it over the Wall and "Clump of Trees!")

20+ Page Archive of Cpl. Wade's History (Original Copies of Muster Rolls, Pay Vouchers, Clothing Issue, Pension, etc)

Extremely Rare British-Made P56, Made By John Swinfen of Maidstone, England

100% All-Original, Fully-Functional, GORGEOUS Condition

We are merely "caretakers" of such pieces of our bloody, yet beloved past--"relics" of immeasurable value, and irreplaceable at any cost.  They are the remnants of that horrific time of our nation's most terrible period where we literally tried to kill and tear each other apart--American against American.  And here is a piece of that history, with not only the exclusive beauty, ultra-rare Confederate importation marking proving it's Confederate importation and usage, but that it also comes with the provenance attributing it to a soldier in Lee's famed Army of Northern Virginia: a soldier who, on record, was WOUNDED in the most fateful, climactic moment in the entire War's history of momentous events....Pickett's Charge.  There is literally VOLUMES to be spoken and explained here, as this piece has (quite literally) EVERYTHING "going for it," so we'll begin with the weapon itself:

This is not a "martial" British rifle--meaning it wasn't produced by the government for military purchase or use.  It is a PRIVATELY-made weapon by a famous, but small arms manufacturer by the name of John Swinfen of Meadstone, England.  As found within DeWitt Bailey's English Gunmakers p104 it shows that Swinfen, John of Maidstone, Kent, was a Gun, Rifle & Pistol Maker between 1831-1870.  From Nigel Brown's British Gunmakers - Vol II Birmingham & The Regions p343, it lists that he was located at 73 Bank Street during the Civil War years.  These privately-made British longarms are referred to by the moniker of being "Volunteer" Rifles--being that they were sold commercially to anyone for target shooting, shooting clubs, local British Militia groups, hunters, and obviously, for EXPORT!  Which is precisely what happened here, as it bears the 100% exclusive, and quite rare-to-be-found mark of the CHIEF CS IMPORT AGENT for the ENTIRE CONFEDERACY, that of Mr. Caleb Huse himself.  The mark is an encircled "CH/1", to which the "CH" obviously stands for Caleb Huse.  Clearly, being that the 2-banded, "short" Enfield rifle was the most popular and sought-after rifle of the entire Confederacy (bemoaned for their importation and issuance to cavalrymen and infantrymen alike), Cpl. Wade got himself a good rifle!  The weapon is 100% original, right down to the original, full-length threaded ramrod, the original long-range flip-up sight (a rarity to find on CS-used rifles!), and even the nipple.  The walnut stock is still GORGEOUS, having the most deep, dark, untouched finish to the wood.  Given it's Confederate usage, it is in STUNNING CONDITION!  You usually find "Johnny guns" that are literally beat to death, with massive cracks, dings, chips, bolster-burnout, etc--not so with this beauty!  With only the most minor service wear to be seen at all, and having no structural damage whatsoever, no cracks, missing big chips off the stock, no repairs, and NO bolster-burnout or smashed nipple, it is my assertion and belief that given the fact that Cpl. Wade was wounded at Pickett's Charge, and later healed and sent on furlough (copy of original furlough document shown below), that Cpl. Wade must have been issued this weapon after his return to service by late 1863.  No question that when he was wounded that he dropped his weapon (since he had to be literally hospitalized), so he certainly didn't keep his original weapon with him at the hospital!  That would logically explain why his beautiful rifle is still in such good condition--it only got to see a year (at most) of fighting left.  The metal has the most appealing, softened blued-hue to the weapon, with hints of what appears to be the opaque British bluing that they did use on their pistols and civilian weapons.  It's faded to a "smokey" and "steely" opaque patina, with only minor pitting, but no mottling.  The Birmingham "25" gauge proofs are vividly clear on the breach of the bore.  The original saber bayonet lug is solidly present.  The action is completely crisp and fully-functional in every way, and still retains a MAGNIFICENTLY CRISP rifled bore!!  You could fire and operate this weapon today as well as the day it was made!  The maker's mark of "J Swinfen / Maidstone" can be fully read upon the lockplate.  The "CH/1" mark is found where they always are--right in front of the buttplate tang on the top of the stock.  Still rather clear and visible despite the many years of service and time since the war until now.  On the backstock is the carving of "WHW" and "53", to which is the markings of William H. Wade of the 53rd Virginia.  This piece comes from a dear friend in Virginia, who sadly--with these economic times--must let this historic and beautiful Confederate piece go.  Acquired decades ago locally in Virginia, it is now coming to market for the very first time!

Mr. William H. Wade enlisted into Company E of the 53rd Virginia Infantry on July the 8th, 1861, at West Point, Virginia.  He would become ill (as most soldiers did during the early part of the war) and was hospitalized in April of 1862, but appears again on the Muster Rolls in August of that year, present for duty.  He was briefly detailed as a teamster on October 1st of that year (1862), though how long that detail lasted is not in the records.  But we do know one thing for sure--he was back in the ranks as an infantrymen by the Gettysburg Campaign, as he was wounded on that fateful July 3, 1863 day.  He would be officially furloughed on August 15, 1863 (see the copy of the original furlough below), to go home and recuperate.  He would return by October of 1863, present for duty.  He would serve throughout 1864, fighting against Grant's men and ever tightening grip around and toward Richmond.  He has clothing receipts for December of 1864 (being in the Petersburg line), but after that, no further records exist.  He is NOT on US Rolls of prisoners from the end of the War, NOR did he sign an "Oath of Allegiance"!  He obviously drifted away from the Army starving and freezing in Petersburg, and returned home at some point before the bitter end at Appomattox--bringing this irreplaceable piece of history home with him!

So much rarity...so much Confederate history...so much documentation...and for so little?  What price can one truly place upon such priceless Confederate and Civil War history???

$2299  SOLD

Famous Mort Kunstler Print shown above (my wife bought for me as a Honeymoon Present) where Brig. Gen'l Armistead turns to his men--including Cpl. Wade of the 53rd Virginia--and says, "Follow me!"  The Regimental Colors of the 53rd (as shown here with other Regimental Colors of the Brigade) were Captured here at the wall....

Click On The Many Thumbnails Below For All Pictures

Archive of Cpl. Wade's Muster Roles, Soldier History, Pension Record, Pay and Clothing Receipts, etc...Click Below...

STUNNING National Arms .41 Cal Derringer

Comes w/Beautiful Oak Display Case, & Two Original .41 Cal. Cartridges

So beautiful, and already encased for display, WITH two original rounds of .41 caliber Derringer cartridges...what more could you ask for?!?!  This "minty" displaying National Arms manufactured, model #2,  .41 caliber Derringer was produced from 1865 through 1870, and was a very popular and desirable weapon, given their small size, large "PUNCH" (.41 caliber!), and affordability.  Simple single-shot design, cock and fire operation.  Crisp mechanics.  Crystal-clear serial number 364 under the barrel.  Beautiful metal, given the great original plated finish.  Nice exquisite flora motifs found throughout, and the original walnut grips are splendid.  No damage, cracks, chips, repairs, nor any real detracting facets to the piece at all.  Coming with the excellent oak display case, two original brass-encased .41 caliber cartridges, and the interpretive tag, all you have to do is send your money, and you'll receive an instant display centerpiece that you can easily hand on your wall within your office or war room!

$750

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Phenomenal CS ID'ed Double Barrel Shotgun

Belonging to John H. Belch, of Capt. Smith's Company, Marianna Florida Dragoons

Excellent NRA/Flayderman's "FINE" Condition, Complete, Gorgeous, Untouched

His Full Name "J.H.Belch" Carved Beautfully Into the Stock -- Just Acquired in Northern Florida Estate

Have Entire Historical Archive of Information on Private J. H. Belch (Original Copies of Service Muster Rolls, 1860 Census, Pension Record, etc.)

Enlisted May 27th, 1863 in Marianna, Florida, was 5' 7" Tall, Fair Complexion, Blue Eyes, Light Hair, & was "Overseer" of Slaves at Local Plantation as "Occupation" on Census

Though every piece of that long ago history has it's own story to tell--it's own uniqueness and appeal that speaks from a time over 140 years ago to us today--nothing can be more compelling that an identified weapon.  The provenance behind any piece instantly unleashes a flood of personal information regarding the individual, his life, his endeavors and hardships, what battles he fought in, where he'd roam and camp and fight, who his enemies facing him were--you name it.  Coming fresh to the market from a north Florida estate, this absolutely "FINE" Flayderman's/NRA condition double-barrel English shotgun has got everything going for it.  Just for starters, the shotgun is fabulously adorned with the abundant hand engraving, silver inlay, "serpent's head" double hammers, and even silver-tipped original ramrod.  The beautiful walnut stock is gorgeously displaying, with no cracking chipping, structural damage, or repairs WHATSOEVER.  Completely and 100% untouched and "righteous".  Only the most minor service wear to be seen anywhere, given we know it saw at least 2 years of combat service.  The action on both locks and hammers are splendid, cocking and holding firm, with good condition original nipples (not batted or boogered to death, but still firable!)  And the bores still clear and good.  No bolster burnout or ANY detracting facets to the mere condition to the weapon.

And NOW we get to the provenance and this piece's Confederate service history!  When I acquired it, there were that beautiful original carved name "J. H. Belch" carved into the left-hand side of the stock.  Coming out of a Florida estate, I was crossing every finger and toe hoping I'd get a "hit" on precisely who this man was.  And it couldn't be more simple: only one man in the United States in the 1860 census AND in the Civil War records had the name of John H Belch--and he lived in Marianna county Florida (western panhandle swamplands), had the states occupation of "overseer" for a plantation of slaves in 1860, and was 28 years old in 1860.  Born originally in the Carolina's, he would answer the call for duty to protect and serve his native state in 1863, enlisting in the local cavalry/dragoon unit of Captain Smith's Company, Marianna Dragoons.  They would operate against the Yankee invaders and raiders who made forays into the panhandle region of the Flora-Bama area.  Given that the Federals still held the fortress in Pensacola, and many of the outer bank islands, and occupation of some inlets, Union raiders would constantly be probing, burning, pillaging, freeing slaves, doing all they could to wreak havoc upon the local population.  At the age of 31, John Belch enlisted into the local "Dragoons" under Captain Smith, and obviously--given their poor access to equipage and supply by "regular" Confederate Government logistics there in the backwood swampland--John brought his trusty shotgun to enlist to "kill 20 Yankees".  Though never engaged in any of this big-name, large-scale battles of blood and glory, they would continually scout, counter-raid, and ambush any and all Yankee forays into their lands, clashing in many "bushwackings" until the very end of the war.  Several of John's friends were reported as captured in 1864, and held on Ship Island (Union Fortress turned CS prison), so their fighting was "up close and personal" every time.  Which is why a double barrel shotgun made for a great weapon for mounted/dismounted "Dragoon" style fighting.   Having both the ability to fire wads of pellet shot for close-range killing, and well as single large shotgun slugs effective up to a couple hundred yards, shotguns were a stable weapon of all Confederate cavalry everywhere (which I was pleased to help with the article concerning such printed last year in the North South Trader's Magazine").  John survived the war, and received a pension, as shown in the pension record listed below. ALL of the information shall be provided to the future owner to keep and treasure with this fantastic piece of Confederate Florida history.

And priced less than a Colt Pocket Revolver?!?!  I must be out of my  mind...

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