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2009 Spicer Christmas/New Year's Update!!!!
I apologize for obviously being a slight bit tardy for not updating sooner. It's been the usual around here--the holidays only making things even more hectic and time-pressed than "normal"! And boy, did we have the BEST CHRISTMAS EVER! Of course, every Christmas now is a blessing, knowing our Heavenly Father and Almighty Healer has indeed permanently healed our son from his cancer. We shall spend all the days of our life together as a family--as all family's should be. And we decided to "get away from it all" this year for a special treat for ourselves--we took a trip over Christmas to Atlanta, Georgia (where we had lived for many years) and spent DAYS at Stone Mountain Park (of course! The "mecca" of the Confederacy! Gee....Davis Lee is only named after TWO of the three men carved into the granite face of the mountain!) We arrived Christmas eve day, brought our portable fiber optic 3' Christmas tree, put it up in the room, enjoyed the most FABULOUS Christmas Eve dinner as the famous Marietta Diner (if you ain't ever eaten there--you ain't lived yet!) At the Country Inns & Suits we stay at, they have a fireplace--to which Davis asked, "Daddy--is that fireplace where Santa will come down and bring my presents?" "Oh yes, son---he will...he most certainly will". Davis awoke the next morning to his great delight that Santa indeed made it down the chimney of the hotel's fireplace! He told me he "dreamed of my toys I wanted all night...".
We then proceeded to spend the next two days after Christmas at Stone Mountain--which actually gets turned into "Snow Mountain" starting December 26th of every year! The huge lawn declining from the main hall, down the sitting area to the base of the mountain gets 10' of artificial snow (takes weeks to do, obviously), and lanes are set-up for going all the way down the hillside on tubes! You can go alone in a a one-man tube, or two-man tube--Davis and I, and Momma and Davis, all took our turns going down together in our two-man tubes! Of course, there's an area for building snowmen, throwing snowballs, etc, etc, the train ride, the "Great Locomotive Chase" putt-putt golf course...Davis was in pure delight. And our little baby girl was such an ANGEL! She's daddy's girl, for sure. She was so quiet and cute the entire trip. Just loved to be held, kissed, and strolled around the park!
I thank God that I have lived to see these days of peace, love, health, and joy with my beloved family.
I do pray all of you had an equally fine and blessed holiday. And as always--THANK YOU...by the THOUSANDS--for your continued prayers for our Davis and our family. We are eternally grateful, and always pray that the Lord will bless all of you for your infinite love and kindness you have shown toward our son and family
God Bless You All!
Outstanding ID'ed Image of Pvt. Edgar Colby & His Wife
Killed-In-Action on 12/7/1864 at Cedar Mills, Tennessee in the 16th Illinois Cavalry
Clear & Undamaged CDV, Writing/Identification on Back of CDV
I used to never be an "image guy", per-se....but the more I see them and handle them, the more I "see" the allure, desirability, and allure behind them. They are truly "ghostly" reminders, in a sense, of that brutal past and history. To see these black and white images of faces so long ago--to see what the REAL men and woman--that endured that cataclysmic time in our country's history, now enraptured me. Especially when it comes to identified images, where you can truly put "names to faces", and thus get their "story" of who they were, where they were from, what did they see and endure. In this case, it is a most sad and tragic tale. Offered here is the identified CDV image of Private Edgar Colby and his most beautiful young wife, Mrs. L. Colby, as he is wearing his finest dress cavalrymen's uniform--obviously taken upon his enlistment around February 17th, 1863 into Company H of the 11th Illinois Cavalry. He would immediately go straight into almost (literally) continual action, as the unit was stationed on constant patrolling, skirmishing, raiding, and fighting within the Mississippi district in 1863 (go to the NPS Soldier's and Sailor's System database here http://www.itd.nps.gov/cwss/regiments.cfm and you can see for yourself just how completely active in service they were from the start. He was wounded in January of 1864, but would most tragically lose his life fighting with Grierson's Raid against the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, fighting against General Nathan Bedford Forrest, on December 7, 1864, at Cedar Mills, Tennessee. This so very young and beautiful couple would forever be separated in this world--as a bullet from one of Forrest's trooper sent him to his earthly grave.
THAT is precisely the "power" and allure behind images/photo's of the War that I have grown to love, respect, and have an eerie--ghostly--feeling looking into the faces from so long ago. Excellent piece of tragic and most sad history--a true reminder of the human cost to our most horrific War.
$398
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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
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FLAWLESS CS McElroy-Made Artillery Short Sword
Gorgeous, Untouched Example of the Classic W. J. McElroy of Macon, Georgia Made Specimens
Originally sold through Rick Burton back in 1998, I had the opportunity to acquire this truly stunning example of the W. J. McElroy of Macon, Georgia made Confederate Short Artillery Swords, and sold it to a dear friend of mine in Georgia at the time. Back then, these beauties were commanding prices of well over $3000---and some sites still have them priced and selling over $3000! Sadly, as the the economy has hit hard for many folks, they have been forced to let go of these once treasured centerpieces of their collections....and for a LOT LESS than they paid for them! This is the classic McElroy "ringed" style of handle, style of pommel cap, and the machined inset of the "T" guard that are solely attributed to McElroy-made specimens. There has been NO CLEANING, NO SHARPENING, and NO DAMAGE to the blade, nor the brass handle WHATSOEVER. The blade metal has the smoothest, unpitted, softened grey untouched patina you could ever hope to find--NO oxidation whatsoever. The brass handle is the most pleasing and gorgeous mellowed brass patina you could ever wish to find on a Confederate specimen--and clearly an early-made piece, as the zinc content was still very high (later specimens would have far lesss zinc, and thus the high copper content of the brass would make them "red" in patina appearance). It is truly an outstanding example, museum-quality in my opinion, and certainly would not require any need for someone to "upgrade" at a later date, at least in my humble opinion. W. J. McElroy was a tinsmith prior to the War in Macon, Georgia, and quickly began sword production as war broke-out in 1861. At his highest point, he was producing 20 infantry swords, Bowie knives, vanal cutlasses, Sergeant's swords, sword belts, straps, belt clasps and mountings per week. He even produced up to 50 cavalry spurs made of brass per week, and an unknown quantity of canteens and bayonets (per "Confederate Arms" by William Albaugh and Edward Simmons.)
None finer out there...and certainly NONE CHEAPER!
$2599
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Sweet US 24# Bormann Shell
Slick, Virtually Free of Ground Action/Pitting, Good Legible Bormann Fuze
No, I didn't dig this one...sorry! But it comes from a massive shell collection, and clearly is another Vicksburg-area, early-found specimen, given the phenomenal iron quality of the piece. The Bormann fuze is intact, and still bears legible hash-timing marks and seconds, with only a little minor "pushing" upon the fuze itself. A distinct slight mold seam is present on the shell (again--identical to the US specimen I dug above Vicksburg at Satartia--so "mold seams" alone don't always make a projectile Confederate!) And this one is beautiful WITHOUT any coating on it--try a nice wax-job on it, and it'll be slick as glass, and absolutely gorgeous.
$425
"MINTY" Savage .36 Cal. Navy Revolver
100% Complete, Original, Fully-Functional, GORGEOUSLY FINE Condition
Double Martial Cartouches on Beautiful Original Grips
Multiple Martial Sub-Inspector Marks as Well
One of the prettiest, so fine and beautiful in appearance, this abundantly US martially-marked .36 caliber Savage Navy Revolver is sooooo fine! Not is it 100% complete, with NO REPAIRS or broken/missing pieces, is 100% CRISPLY and FULLY functional, but it has the most appealing "attic-fine" brown patina all over the entire weapon. NO PITTING WHATSOEVER....NONE--all the edges crisp and sharp. The beautiful original varnish on the grips remains quite beautifully, and on both sides you can see the martial cartouches, as well as the martial sub-markings upon the cylinder and frame, too. The maker's markings atop the frame are extremely feint--barely visible--but that would be the only thing anyone could point to as a "detraction" to this otherwise really spectacular "minty" piece. The action is perfectly crisp with the cocking function, with great spring strength, and release. Even all the nipple are FINE. It's all there, and it's all BEAUTIFUL.
You could pay well over $2000 for the ones just like this elsewhere....but you don't have to! Save your HARD-EARNED MONEY!
$1698 Sale Pending
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STUNNING CS "North Carolina" Conversion/Altered .54 caliber Austrian Lorenz Rifle
Spectacular FINE Condition, 100% Complete, Original, and Fully-Functional
SUPERBLY CRISP MARKINGS EVERYWHERE, from the Imperial Austrian Eagle's Head to the "860" 1860 Manufacture Date
Has Enormous Period Carving of "PLYMOUTH" on Stock
Purchased Directly from European Firearms "Guru" Joe Howard of Milwaukee
As He Describes, This Style of Alteration is Seen and Attributed by he and other "Euro experts" as a "North Carolina" or even "Plymouth (NC)" Alteration
Barrel Was Shortened from the Original 37.5" Barrel Length to 32.5" Long, & Added Rear Sling Swivel and upper (missing) Sling Swivel
Clearly Altered for Potential Cavalry or Artillery Use (for being shorter and lighter, but still a good rifled piece)
This is indeed a rare beauty--one I acquired personally from one of the most recognized authorities within the Civil War European firearms knowledge collecting community, Mr. Joe Howard of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I bought this form him at the Dalton Show...and for some very unique and obvious reasons, to which we are about to discuss! Not only is it a 100% complete, original, and absolutely "minty" condition original .54 caliber Lorenz Austrian M1854 Rifle that was imported into the Confederacy, but this piece, as explained to me by the old "guru" himself, is what is believed to be strictly a North Carolina--even possibly as specific--as a Plymouth, North Carolina altered imported weapon. As the overwhelming majority of blockade-ran import were coming into the many harbors and inlets along the entire North Carolina coasts, they were being received and distributed throughout the Confederacy as needed. Those of you who know me and my website well, know how I have continuously chronicled how the South was at a complete want of "proper" cavalry long arms for use, outside of old shotguns, smoothbores, and the very few true carbines that were either pre-war US specimen, the even fewer captured specimens, or worse of all, the Confederate-made carbines--to which Robert E. Lee would write that the Confederate-made carbines were "essentially worthless and never worked properly...". This M1854 Austrian Rifle was indeed a full barrel length of 37.5 inches to begin with--but clearly was shorted by a professional workshop and/or arsenal there in North Carolina, such that it would be a more proper length for cavalry/mounted service (32.5" long). And they went one step further for the mounted rider to carry this weapon by installing an original sling swivel at the rear of the stock behind the lockplate, and a simple Austrian "U"-shaped sling swivel at the stop of the forestock (which is missing, sadly, certainly from wear over the years). The clear period carving of "PLYMOUTH" is absolutely gorgeous, and so large and crisply engraved--the owner was almost certainly someone from Plymouth, North Carolina, and VERY PROUD OF IT! Given that the weapon has all original parts, and is in truly "minty" condition, it is only logical that this weapon was probably issued to a local Plymouth Cavalry or artillery unit stationed to guard the area, and continue to allow such precious foreign cargo to safely make it to Southern Shores. There is NO PITTING WHATSOEVER. It retains the most gorgeous "regulation scratch-brush-bright" finish to ALL of the metal. The stock is 100% untouched, with incredible and vibrant color and original finish, with no damage, no repairs, and no detracting factors whatsoever. An original, full-length and fully-threaded Plymouth Rifle or CS copy thereof ramrod with brass tip is with this weapon, as it measures the exact lenth of what a Plymouth Rifle would have and is identical in appearance--but this one looks cruder, and has more of a "southern" feel to it. Regardless, it is ORIGINAL! The action is PERFECT. The rifling is SHARP and CRISP all the way down the barrel. And the markings....the FINEST and clearest I've seen yet. The imperial Austrian eagle at the end of the lockplate, and the "860" manufacture date (standing for "1860) are as crystal clear and sharp as the day it was made!!! When they altered the weapon to shorten it for mounted service, they made a nice front sight aperture, and it still retains a great "tombstone" original dove-tailed rear sight aperture.
Just look at all of the incredible, beautiful, and fine pictures below of this Confederate beauty, and tell me it isn't F-I-N-E! Excellent addition to any Confederate collection or anyone wanting a most beautiful and rather unique .54 caliber "Johnny" Lorenz!
$1598 Sale Pending
Click On Thumbnails Below For More Pictures
Gorgeous, ULTRA-RARE "New Hampshire" Alteration M1841 Mississippi Rifle
Exclusively Issued to the 9th New Hampshire Infantry Regiment
One of Only 961 of these "New Hampshire" Altered/9th New Hampshire Infantry Mississippi Rifles
Complete, All-Original, Fully-Functional, Flayderman's "Very Good+" Condition
Crystal Clear Robbins & Lawrence, US, WINDSOR VT, 1849 & all other markings
The 9th NH Infantry Holds a Very Rare Distinction of Having both served HEAVILY in Combat in Both the Eastern & Western Theaters!!! (Participated in Vicksburg and subsequent Jackson, MS Siege, but fought during Antietam/Maryland Campaign Battles, then after their duty bleeding here in my "backyard", were sent back East in time for the BLOOD-BATH campaigns with Grant in 1864, Including the Battle of the Crater!
The potential buyer BACKED-OUT....HERE'S YOUR CHANCE! Don't say you didn't get your 2nd shot at it!
Oh my, my, my....SOOOO MUCH to discuss and describe with this one! You can probably tell by the photo's that they are NOT the typical "Champion Hill Relics" photo's--and that of my great and true friend Tim Prince of College Hill Arsenal! Well, that's because I purchased the piece through him--because once I saw this piece--learned it's history and rarity--and beheld it's beauty--I HAD TO HAVE IT!!! And he takes such perfect pictures, and has such amazing and accurate historical detail, that I asked if I could use his pictures and information--after all, how can one improve upon "perfection"!?!?!
To begin with a simple description of the weapon alone, it is a VERY GOOD ( lean more toward VG+!) condition all-original, complete, fully-functional, crisp marked, undamaged, untouched Robbins & Lawrence-made contract M1841 "Mississippi" Rifle--made famous and given the moniker of such by Jefferson Davis and his Mississippi regiment equipped with these rifles fighting and gaining victory in the Mexican War. The Robbins & Lawrence, US, WINDSOR VT, 1849 are ALL vividly clear, as are all other barrel proofs, etc. Excellent mechanics, good rifling all the way down the bore, matching 1849 date on the barrel breech, and even another really spectacular stock marking of "EDWARD B LEE ARCHITECT"--more on THAT a little later on! Both original sling swivels present, as is the full-length threaded ramrod. NO replacement parts--NO damage or repairs--NO monkey-business. Nice "armory-bright" uncleaned finish to the metal, and superbly beautiful walnut stock. Only the most minor wear to be seen ANYWHERE whatsoever--no BOLSTER BURN-OUT and no SMASHED nipple--all clean, crisp, and clear. Original .54 caliber 7-groove fantastic rifles bore. Just splendid. Two inspector cartouches remain visible on the backstock, of course, and even a spare cone (nipple) is left within the beautiful brass patchbox! Gorgeous mellowed brass, uncleaned patina!
NOW to the REALLY cool stuff about the "New Hampshire" alterations and 9th NH Infantry history for this weapon!!! This weapon bears the the dovetail and slot from the saber bayonet modification, although the bayonet lug is long gone. The barrel was purposely cut during the "New Hampshire" alteration phase for a 1/2" dovetailed saber stud with a 7/8" key, and was attached with two screws to the side of the barrel--which you plainly see today! This is what is specifically known and simply referred to as the "New Hampshire" alteration, and was typified by the keyed bayonet stud attached with two screws--unlike ALL other Mississippi Rifle bayonet attachment configurations. The guns were left by New Hampshire alterers/arsenal in their original .54 caliber state (not bored-out to .58 like other states did for the Civil War) with original front sight remaining, and the bayonet alteration was done to configure for the use of a semi-yataghan saber bayonet that were believed to have been made by the Collins & Company of Connecticut. It is according to author and researcher George Moller in his book "Massachusetts Military Shoulder Arms", the state of Massachusetts sold precisely 961 WINDSOR M1841's to the state of New Hampshire in 1861, where it is documented fully that they performed this alteration to these weapons purchased from Massachusetts in 1861 for their forming infantry regiments, desperate for quality, military-grade rifled weapons. By surviving records, we know that only the 9th New Hampshire were issued all "Mississippi" rifles in 1861--thus, it's exclusive provenance to the regiment assured.
Now it gets even MORE COOL! On the toe of the stock, there is a clear stamping of "EDWARD B LEE ARCHITECT". Hmmm...Tim Prince--the ever-wise and diligent researcher and man he is--went to work finding out what THIS was all about. And he did! Edward B. Lee was a prominent architect in the Pittsburgh area around the turn of the century, being born in 1876. Through researching his past, we find that he was one of the original "grand-daddy's" of Civil War collecting! He collected all his life, and his father Edward Payson Lee fought in the Civil War with the 11th Vermont (later 1st VT Heavy Artillery). So great was Lee's collecting passion, that a Pittsburgh Press article dated September 30, 1934 by Ruth Ayers refers to Lee's office in the Chamber of Commerce building in Pittsburg as "the Old Curiosity Shop," and notes that he is surrounded by "old clocks, bottles blown in the early days of the glass industry, and muskets and weapons dating as far back as two centuries...". The original collection ID tag from Lee--metal tag stamped "453"--is included with the gun, and is within the patchbox.
And time now for the GRAND FINALE! Let us discuss this most amazing Federal unit. Y'all know "I'm a good old rebel"....but I give all honor and respect to any soldier in blue. Billy Yank fought for what he thought was right--and I had a lot of my kinfolk fighting literally "brother-against-brother" from the hills and "hollers" of SE Kentucky. Most of my direct ancestors wore blue, and I'm not ashamed to admit it (well, maybe a little! Ha, ha!) And let me tell you, when it comes to the 9th Hew Hampshire, these boys HAVE MY TRUE RESPECT. Not only did they fight and serve at South Mountain, bloody Antietam, and the disaster at Fredericksburg--but they were to be completely transferred FAR WEST into Grant's army for the 1863 spring/summer Vicksburg Campaign--literally marching past my HOUSE!!! They would partake in the overland fighting and siege, and after the July 4th Vicksburg capitulation, also participate in Sherman's 2nd siege of the capitol city of Jackson, Mississippi! After such a "pleasant summer" sweating, fighting, bleeding, and dying in the Deep South, they were sent back...oh...JUST IN TIME for Grant's final enstranglement and blood-bath fighting of the 1864 push toward Richmond, and ending within the Petersburg siege. And they didn't just sit in the trenches there in Petersburg...by God, they were apart of the massacre/nightmare Battle of the Crater!
Find me a Federal weapon with as much history, rarity, beauty, literally BLOOD, sacrifice, and service....THIS RELIC TELLS AND INCREDIBLE STORY...that is, to anyone who cares to listen to it.
It AIN'T just your "run-of-the-mill" M1841 Mississippi Rifle!!!
$2599 Sale pending
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Excellent WWII US Officer ID'ed "War Trophies" Brought Back From Germany
All From Bronze Star Awarded Officer, 1st Lt. Paul E. Choate
Coming Straight on Consignment from His Son, Lee Choate, of Nashville, Tennessee
Offered here are the last remaining items that were brought back home by my good friend's father, 1st Lt. Paul E. Choate, Bronze Star awarded officer with Patton in the European Theater of Operations. There are a myriad of large and small items, so I'll get right down to business explaining what's in the group: first and foremost, one notices the classic Nazi "Industrial/Worker's" swastika flag--the swastika inside of a gear--except Lt. Choate decided to cut-out the red bunting, and keep the geared swastika and all the beautiful silver braided edging. And they kept the enormous flag-pole top--again, the geared swastika that was the top of the flag pole for this flag. As well are several original photo's, taken of German houses where Lt. Choate wrote upon the back of them. One of the pictures of the large estate Lt. Choate writes to explain how the barns in the back were secretly being used for making grenades! And this house is obviously where he took this German manufacturing/industrial flag from! There are a myriad of German Post cards, a 1943-dated German military issue "spork" (knife, fork, spoon) set, some EXCELLENT original pictures of Lt. Choate next to German Luftwaffe airplanes (one is clearly the tail of a fighter--probably an ME-109, the other larger, maybe a JU-88), an original nazi party arm-band, and the very large district flag patches "Drohlshagen" that were probably on the original industrial flag. Pretty cool grouping...and the last of the last. For some history and information regarding Lt. Choate, I give you the words from his son--my friend--Lee Choate:
"My father, 1st Lt. Paul E. Choate, was on French soil very shortly after D-Day, and they were in heavy fighting in towns and he said the hedgerow country was horrible. They were a good bit ahead of the main forces and did a good bit of advanced open-field running & scouting in advance of Gen. Patton's famous open-field running. Then, the Bulge, the Hurtgen Forest (which was hellacious, he said worse than Bulge and lasted all winter) and then going into Germany; and, most of the time, spearheading with his outfit's recon unit. All this and he never got a purple heart. He did get a Bronze Star, something that wasn't handed out in WWII as it has been in later conflicts. He was in an armored car one time and I can't remember it it hit a mine or was hit by mortar, but it was blown to hell and he didn't get a scratch; he went over to it and took his knife and dug shrapnel out of one of the tires and kept it as his Good Luck Piece; I guess it helped. I have it today."
So much history...so many pieces of that history...and not for a lot of money...
$898
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Rarest of the Rare...Finest of the Fine...
The 11mm French-Made Raphael Revolver
Made in France, but Sold Through the George Raphael & Company
Truly Flayderman's "EXCELLENT+" Condition -- THIS PIECE is Recognized as the Finest Condition Specimen Known to Exist on this Continent
Only 106 Purchased by US Government for Issuance, and Unknown Equally Small Quantity Purchased Through Louisiana for Her Cajun/French Southern Soldiers
100% Complete, Crisp Full Mechanics, 100% Original, Matching Serial Number 270
Two things are absolutely certain about this revolver: it IS indeed the rarest handgun/revolver imported (or made domestically, for just about that matter) of the entire Civil War...and it is also the FINEST CONDITION specimen known to exist at this present time! Now if those two facets don't get you excited, nothing will! I have just acquired this piece from none-other than my great friend (and future "Flayderman's"/19th century firearms expert) Mr. Tim Prince of College Hill Arsenal...and it wasn't a hard sell on me! This is the 3rd Raphael he's had the privilege to offer for sell--and all three of them were within a tight serial range of 270 (this specimen), 274, and 283. Obviously, these were imported in the same lot, whether they went North to the US Government in their purchase, or South to New Orleans (probably through Hyde & Goodrich). All imported specimens will NOT bear the George Raphael & Company maker's mark, or any other proofs or markings since they were being exclusively sold/exported into our War--thus proving this IS indeed a Civil War imported and issued weapon. The Raphael revolver fired an early version of a center-fire cartridge that was 11mm. The back plate of this cylinder has six holes through which the firing pin on the hammer would contact with the primer in the cartridge. There is also an additional "blind" hole between the two firing pin holes, which allowed the firing pin to rest in it--a kind of primitive form of "safety" mechanism. This specimen--as clearly exhibited in the many high resolution, large photo's below--is indeed not only 100% complete, original, crisp matching serial numbers "270", but simply a true Flayderman's/NRA "EXCELLENT +" condition. It is LOADED with over 85% of the original bluing. The original varnish on the grips are quite gorgeous, and NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, and NO MISSING PARTS anywhere. The action and mechanics of the entire piece are 100% crisp and fully-functional in every way. And given the superb rifled 11mm bore, this beauty could fire and operate today as well as the day it was made. Even the original lanyard ring is present. No cracks...no chips...no detracting facets whatsoever. Simply THE BEST--and THE RAREST! If this were a mere COLT Army or Navy in this condition, you'd pay $5000+++++. How ridiculous, and over-priced is THAT for a revolver made by the hundreds of thousands?!?! Not so at Champion Hill Relics.
I love my job....
Now $2999 ! HOLD
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MINTY CS 8" Columbiad Shell
Almost Flawless & Pit-Less, From Vicksburg
Though No Distinct "CS" Mold Seam, Has CLEAR & CLASSIC Confederate Mold Sprue Anomaly on the side
Possibly an A. B. Reading Vicksburg Foundry Specimen
Yet another nearly FLAWLESS Confederate beauty, coming from the beleaguered besieged town of Vicksburg (where the Loess soil is oh-so-kind to the metal on projectiles, allowing them to remain in such phenomenal condition!) This specimen is also NOT pictured in Bell's reference book of Civil War Heavy Artillery ordnance--and I've seen a couple specimens just like this--all from Vicksburg--that display the same mold anomaly as this, where the sprue-vent (for allowing the gasses to escape in the metal-pouring process of the molten iron into the wet sand-cast mold) leaves a weird "void" and/or flaw just like this. Which has lead some collectors--myself especially--to believe that since this anomaly is only seen on 8" shells from Vicksburg, that perhaps they may be from the A. B. Reading Foundry in downtown Vicksburg. They produced 6-pound cannon and ammunition as war broke-out, and would quickly adapt to produce any ammunition that was needed for the siege. There is a "class" of 6-pounder solid shot cannonballs only found here in Vicksburg which exhibit the most similar mold anomaly--even deeper and wider in some cases....again, leading us to think that these might be "made-in-haste" specimens within the only working foundry in town, the A. B. Reading Foundry.
Regardless, it is a REALLY GORGEOUS and BIG piece of Confederate and Vicksburg history!
$499
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Absolutely Wonderful Bacon .31 Cal. Revolver
Contract-Made Specimen by the Western Arms Company
Only 400 Made By This Sub-Contractor!
All-Original, Complete, 100% Fully-Functional, Matching "259" Serial Numbers
Man, I think I've actually started liking Bacon revolvers more than Colt Pocket revolvers....not sure why....even though both fired the same .31 caliber lead bullet, maybe the their sleek form, design, and the extra fine engraving and "flair" that the Bacon has to them is the reason. When War broke-out, Bacon did not have the manufacturing capacity to produce all the weapons being ordered, so they sub-contracted various makers (6 in total) to produce the Bacon revolver with and for them. This specimen offered here is a Western Arms Company-made and clearly-marked specimen, being one of only 400 ever made! [See Flayderman's Guide, latest 11th edition.] The weapon is 100% complete, 100% original, 100% fully-functional, having NO DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, and NO MISSING PIECES. Everything is in very good condition, from the nice darkened case-coloring/browned patina on the metal, to the nice intact, uncracked walnut grips. The matching "259" serial numbers are VIVIDLY clear, as is the Western Union maker's mark atop the barrel. Even all of the original nipples are there, and are NOT boogered or battted.
Just a very nice example of a VERY SCARCE sub-contractor-made Bacon Revolver for the Civil War...
$898 Sale Pending
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London Company "Bacon" Pocket Revolver Copy Import
STUNNING CONDITION! Flayderman's "FINE" to...dare I say it..."EXCELLENT" Grade Condition!
All-Original, Complete, Fully-Functional
Classic Pre-War English Copy of our Famous Bacon Revolver
Many Specimens retailed throughout the South (Mobile, Charleston, New Orleans, etc)
Not only is it extremely rare--it is....dare I say...in what could be classified as Flayderman's "EXCELLENT" condition?!?! I've had the pleasure of having several of these rare beauties that were ID'ed to southern cavalrymen--and I've got a London Company-marked Colt copy ID'ed to a NC cavalrymen I'll be listing for sale sale with his entire rig and image--so we know darn-well that these pre-war ad wartime copies of our weapons made it straight into the hands of our Southern fighting men. And I have no doubt that some Northerner's got some, too. But this came straight out of Winchester, Virginia, so the pedigree is definitely "Johnny Reb"! I have had several that were "London Company" marked on the top of the barrel, and seen those (like this one) with no marking--which is a common practice amongst English gunmaker's who would produce weapons for other retailers/export, and allow THEM to place THEIR OWN BRAND NAME or retailer's name to them. Extremely common. The London Company seems to have excelled at making "copies" of our American handguns, as I've seen no copies/versions of their English designed weapons (Kerr's, Webley's, Tranter's, etc). And being a firm in another country, they never worried about patent infringement issues legally, as a US company trying to copy another US patented weapon. The London Company appears to have LOVED to copy the Bacon (like this one here) and the Colt Pocket revolver (like the ID'ed specimen I've got with NC cavalryman's complete rig and image yet to list for sale).
This example offered here is--quite simply--STUNNING in condition and quality. 100% original, 100% untouched case-coloring (well over 90% original case-coloring!!!!), 100% complete, 100% fully-functional and crisp, and thus, I can only say that it is worthy of being deemed as "EXCELLENT" condition per Flayderman's Guidelines. It certainly is FINE +++++!!!! All-matching serial production numbers 35 place this as a clear pre-war specimen--obviously amongst the first ever made and they began no later than 1860. They copied their own version of oval-paneled hunting and military scenes (bear's face, dog's face, drums, etc), and still quite crisp and clear, obviously.
Far rarer than the real US-made Bacon, and by God, THE PRETTIEST BACON or LONDON COMPANY COPY of one!!!
CHEAP, CHEAP!!!
Now Only $799
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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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Superb & Extremely Rare "200#" Read/Parrott Shell
Found in Charleston -- Excellent, Slick, Solid Condition
How many of these have you seen?!?! Not found in any reference book I've got on my many shelves! It's what collectors refer to as the "200-pounder" Read/Parrott Shell. Found (to my knowledge) exclusively in the Charleston area alone, this big, fat monster is a rare beauty indeed. Measuring under 8", and 17" tall, it is in extremely complete, stable condition, having NO massive chunks missing, and a slick, solid coated surface, as you see in the pictures. Whether a CS shell or US shell, I haven't a clue! It bears the rabetted edging around the entire intact base where the sabot once was. The fuse is long gone--and looks like it was meant for a simple wood-plug fuze (again, CS???) Got me!
Regardless, it's a beautiful piece of some serious HEAVY METAL! Where are my "Iron Maidens" out there for this one???
Sale Pending
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Supremely Scarce Original CS 1st Edition
Confederate States Army Ordnance Manual
Printed in 1863 under Direction of Chief of Ordnance, Josiah Gorgas, by West & Johnston of Richmond
Printed by Evans & Cogswell of Charleston, S.C.
How many of these babies do you get to see??? No bloody many! So few were printed, and so few, of course, sadly survive today. The Confederate Chief of Ordnance, Josiah Gorgas, knew the scattered and rather disorganized/spread-out Confederate forces needed a guide by which their officers could utilize for some "standardization", teaching some basic "how-to's", ranging from what horse equipment is necessary for mounting, arranging batteries, both field and heavy siege guns, how to pack ammunition, pack crates of rifles, gunpowder, loading of ammunition and care thereof, types of weapons for each branch of service--you name it! As Gorgas simply prefaces in his preface that it is merely an adapted and slightly altered copy of the US 1861 official Ordnance Manual.
All factors considered, I'd say this book is in quite good condition. It has a gorgeous black cloth hard-binding cover with the Ordnance Dept, emblem embossed upon the front AND back covers. Again, for any paper/book materials--ESPECIALLY CONFEDERATE--to survive today is nearly miraculous! Not withstanding such a large and important field manual for officers as this. All of the pages are present and intact--NO TEARS OR FLAKING. And there is a NAME written in pencil on the front blank sheet--really unable to read who it is--so could be anyone. It's 546 pages in total, with 33 plates. It has the usual and expected water staining in some areas, and yellowing in others, no page is "messed-up" at all where you can not read it fully. There are NO LOOSE PAGES WHATSOEVER--the binding is TIGHT and sound.
The consignor of this piece spoke with an expert in this arena of historic books, Mr. Tom Broadfoot, who (with his permission to relay and quote him), that this specimen is particularly more desirable, and still in such good "field-used" condition--which is precisely WHY it is more desirable, because you can tell it was actually issued and used in the field, and didn't sit in a warehouse or on a bookshelf collecting dust.
I only know of one other out there for sale right now. You RARELY if ever get a chance to get your hands on these! A really cool and "different" item that would spice-up your collection, and would be HIGHLY EDUCATIONAL to read the manual and their regulations, etc, etc (I was personally fascinated with how they show how to pack and crate rifles!)
Priced below appraised value...
$1498 HOLD
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Beautiful & Rare 8" CS Water-Cap Unfired Naval Shell
GORGEOUS Unmarked and Rare Water-Cap CS Fuze
So Rare, Not Even Pictured In Mr. Jack Bell's Heavy Artillery Ordnance book!
Recovered from Vicksburg Ammo Dump
I am an "iron maiden" as all of you know...and the rarer...the Confederate...and from Vicksburg....THE BETTER! This monster is completely unfired, and shows where the pitting occurred around the base of the cannonball where the wooden sabot rotted away long ago, leaving that impression of pitting. This 8" ultra-rare CS water-cap fuzed naval ordnance is so rare, it's not even pictured in any reference book--especially the wonderful reference book on heavy ordnance in the Civil War by Mr. Jack Bell. Cleaned and coated, she is solid and stable, professionally disarmed, and a dark beauty for display. A whole lot of Confederate iron and scarce rarity for so little...shipping will obviously cost some $$$!
$525
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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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GORGEOUS & HISTORIC CS "Egg Oval" Belt Plate
FULL Historical Provenance, and Digger's Information
EXCLUSIVELY a Plate from one of Brig. General Green's Arkansas Brigade Soldiers
From the Fateful Battle of Port Gibson (MS) May 1st, 1861
Recovered by my friend Don Lackey in 1976
FULL Battle Maps, USGS Topo Maps, and Photographs of where precisely found
NO REPAIRS, Cracking, or Damage (unlike 99.8% of all Egg Ovals you see for sale) Majority of Telegraph Wire Hooks Intact!
This is more than just merely a most gorgeous example of the classic, crude, and simplistic "CS" marked belt buckles....it has an incredible history to tell. Not only does it have the most perfectly beautiful, untouched, rich original "fluorescent forest green" patina that you DROOL over to see, on both the front and back, but it has NOT ONE CRACK...NOT ONE REPAIR...HAS NOT BEEN TO ROBERT McDANIAL for any "alteration" or fixing whatsoever...and has most of the original telegraph wire hooks intact. And it gets better: my very good local friend from Raymond, Mississippi has the FULL documentation of the provenance of this plate he dug--one of many he dug upon the Battle of Port Gibson, Mississippi bloody forests and ravines. Like Champion Hill is to me, so is Port Gibson is to my buddy Don. It is his most sacred and favorite spot in the world (and my 2nd most sacred spot in the world!) Only the VERY ASTUTE historians know about the Battle of Port Gibson--because it was indeed the "beginning of the end" of the South for the entire War. Over the previous months, Grant had tried 6 different operations to either take, bypass altogether, or force the Confederate abandonment of Vicksburg from the protection across the rivers of the mighty Mississippi River, and from the Yazoo River running into the Mississippi. The mighty "Gibraltar of the West"--Vicksburg--bristled with heavy guns...heavy enough to sink and damage enough of Grant's navy and transport ships. His attempt at sending Sherman at the end of 1862 in the Chickasaw Bayou attacks were disastrous, to say the least. Other expeditions up tributaries of the Yazoo were equally for naught, as was the debacle of trying to build a canal cutting across land in the low, Louisiana swampy flat-lands west of Vicksburg. Lincoln made very simple and clear regarding the war and how important Vicksburg was to it's victory or defeat: "Vicksburg is the key...with the key in our pocket, we can open the door to [total] victory...". Grant failed miserably at the previous 6 attempts...but as we all know--his greatest strength was his tenacity despite ALL COSTS of lives or failures. He decided to make an extremely risky run past the deadly guns of Vicksburg, and lower Warrenton, and THEN the bristling fortress at Grand Gulf further south of Vicksburg on the Mississippi River. But after successfully having his navy and transports run the gauntlets, AND his entire army march overland on the western bank of the river on the Louisiana side, by the last days of April 1863, Grant was ready to make THE LARGEST AMPHIBIOUS LANDING OF US ARMED FORCES until D-Day in 1944. Crossing at a small, sleepy town of Bruinsburg, Mississippi, Grant's landings were unopposed...but Pemberton knew that Grant had at least 36,000 men that were crossing somewhere below Grand Gulf, and assumed correctly that Port Gibson would be the perfect place he would head inland to, in order to follow the Natchez Trace/Jackson Road further inland to make his encirclement of Vicksburg. Under a clear and full moon-lit night, just after midnight of May 1st, 1863, the scouts and skirmishers of CS Brig. General Green's Arkansas Brigade made first contact and exchange of gunfire around the Shaifer house on the lower Bruinsburg road. Grant's 36,000 men ran into the tiny "roadblock" of this single brigade of stalwart Arkansans under the moonlight, and both sides began an immediate night attack--both sides bringing up artillery and volley fire against each other for several hours, until the moon had set, and it was too dark (one of the VERY FEW TRUE NIGHT ENGAGEMENTS of the ENTIRE WAR.)
In the soft glow of the rising sun, Grant sent TWO entire DIVISIONS against the 2,000 strong Brigade of Arkansans waiting in battleline long the Magnolia church and ridge, and only 6 cannon (later reduced to 4). Another US Division was sent on a plantation road to the north and ran into CS Brig. Gen'l Tracy's Alabama single Brigade guarding that approach to the upper Bruinsburg Road. What ensued in the cane-choked, knife-like cut ridges, ravines, and rivulets was a nightmarish fight--with the some 4,000 Confederates fending-off 30,000+ Yankees under Grant. After staunch fighting both by Green's Arkansans, and Tracy's Alabamians (Tracy being killed himself), both sides held their ground for HOURS against overwhelming odds against them. Finally, though, the sheer weight, might, and numbers of Yankees broke-through Green's line at Magnolia Church, capturing 2 cannon and many men (most from the 15th and 19th Arkansas). During the fighting, just behind the Magnolia Church ridge, was a small hollow--protected from all gun and cannon fire, where the wounded were being tended to in a make-shift hospital area. THIS IS WHERE THIS PLATE (and other fine relics) WERE FOUND (shown on the many maps and photographs below, by Don Lackey in the latter 1970's). Even a dead Confederate was recovered on the backside of this area, which is THE SOLDIER'S REMAINS that are within the "TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN CONFEDERATE SOLDIER" in Beauvoir--Jeff Davis' home and National museum in Biloxi, MS! Green's men fled back to yet another position to the rear behind a creek, atop a high ridge, and continued to fend-off the relentless Federal assaults. Earlier in the morning, word was quickly sent to Cockrell's Missouri Brigade stationed some 15 miles away and above within Grand Gulf to EVACUATE Grand Gulf, and come at once to stem the Yankee invasion. Cockrell's grand Missourians arrived late in the afternoon--split their forces and battery to both the Arkansans and Alabamians, and thus at most, finally had around 6,000 men to try to stave-off the now 36,000 Yankees under Grant. In the waning light of sunset, the clear and only choice for the profusely outnumbered Confederates was to retreat through the town of Port Gibson, head north toward Vicksburg, and guard the river crossings and await further reinforcement from Pemberton's Army of Mississippi stationed all around the Vicksburg general vicinity.
Now THAT, my friends, is the REAL HISTORY of the Battle of Port Gibson...LARGEST AMPHIBIOUS LANDING of US FORCES until D-Day (Port Gibson is often referred to as the "D-Day of the Civil War"), the valor, determination, and courage of so few Confederates to wholly withstand and clog Grant's advance for 24 hours, despite outnumbered 6-to1.
And left in the quiet hollow used as a hospital station behind the Magnolia Church ridge, some Arkansas wounded, dying soldier from Green's Brigade left this untouched, gorgeous beauty upon the soft sandy soil of Mississippi...in the vain attempt to stop the oncoming horde of Grant's grand invading army overland. The battle of Port Gibson is amongst the truly most PRISTINE--UNTOUCHED battlefields in existence. Go there yourself, and you'll know precisely what I mean. It is today exactly as it was then--and with the Shaifer house still standing. It is one of the most beautiful battlefields--heck, most beautiful natural setting, for that matter--I have ever beheld. When I first came to Mississippi in 2000, I was at Port Gibson on the anniversary date--May 1st--at dusk at the Shaifer house. I turned to my wife and said, "We are going to live in Mississippi...". That is how POWERFUL and BEAUTIFUL the history around here is--and I hadn't even seen my "mecca"--the "holiest of holies" (Champion Hill) yet!
This isn't just "another CS Egg Oval" belt plate....if you have read what I wrote above, then you understand precisely what I mean. You get all the incredible history, documentation, provenance from the digger himself (including pics of him digging there in the 1970's, and modern pics showing precisely where found today, and the many precise maps) with a truly untouched, gorgeous example of this classic Confederate "CS" marked belt plate.
No....it is NOT just "another" CS egg oval belt plate. It is a magnificent, precious, and irreplaceable piece of that history described above...
$2498
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Beautiful 1863 Ames M1860 Cavalry Sword & Scabbard
100% Complete, Original, Tight Original Wire & Wrap
Vividly Clear Ricasso Ames Maker's Markings, as well as "US", Inspector Mark, and "1863" Date
Tired of seeing swords that have been re-wrapped, re-wired, and "monkeyed" with? Tired of 1864 and 1865 swords at high prices? Then rest your eyes on this most excellent, untouched, 100% original and complete Ames beauty! From arguably the most collectable (in today's market), and considered "cutting-edge" high quality manufacturers of their time, The Ames Manufacturing Company produced, as well as was on the technological "edge" of design of swords for the United States armed forces, well before the Civil War. This one is a classic beauty--being 100% complete, with NO REPAIRS, NO DAMAGE, NO REPLACEMENT PARTS, and NO APOLOGIES. It is a clearly issued and used specimen, having the typical "anti-rattle" dings in the scabbard that the troopers would put on the scabbard (to hold the sword snug, and keep from rattling his ears off!) Even the original throat leather washer is fully present! The metal all over has the classic "attic fine" and 100% UNCLEANED and UNTOUCHED patina of that steely-grey. No sharpened or damaged edge whatsoever. The original leather wire and wrap are complete, tight, and as you see i the photo's, just SPLENDID. I think the really coolest facet to this sword is the very high copper content in the brass--something you expect to find in CS swords (higher copper/less zinc, thus a redder patina to the brass was normal for the South, given zinc was so very rare to acquire), but this Ames beauty bears that beautiful reddish, mellowed brass hue that you typically see on all your Johnny blades. Gorgeous. ALL of the markings on the ricasso are clear, from the Ames maker's mark on one side, to the "US", inspector's initials, and that large, ever-looming "1863" date on the other side! You see a ton of 1864's and 1865's...but as you know...the lower the date, the rarer, the fewer, the more collectable, and more desirable.
And here she is! Priced like other people price M1840 Wristbreaker's, you can have this beauty and save hundreds...
$898
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