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Our precious little boy, Davis Lee, does indeed--sadly so--have "late-term"/"occult" testicular Leukemia relapse. So if I seem a little "out of it" or not the usual "happy" John, you will know why.

The GOOD NEWS: though statistically this late-term relapse of cancer (here we were literally to END ALL TREATMENT ONCE AND FOR ALL this Thursday) only happens in about 5% of boys under the age of 18, the survival rate to date is 85% +/-. A child first diagnosed with Leukemia from the START in his testicles has a startling mere 40% +/- survival rate, so we know with just a "mustard seed" of faith, Davis will make it just fine. Just as Davis had his relapse in his Central Nervous System several years ago (because the CNS has the blood/brain barrier to help protect "bad" cells from getting in, but if they do get in, it's hard to get them OUT), so too is it ALSO TRUE with the testicles (boys only, obviously). So, his CNS is FREE AND CLEAR, as tests showed today and have always shown for 2 years now. And his bone marrow in his body in general is FREE and CLEAR. Davis simply has--in military terms--a "pocket of enemy resistance" that had dug-in and hid in his testicles. Now, we must fight this last battle to totally annihilate this LAST STAND of the ENEMY hiding-out in his testicles. We basically press the "RE-START" button, and re-start chemo, steroid regimen, with radiation to the penis/scrotum area, then the "Maintenance Chemo" afterward, yet again. I'll provide more details as to the timing, etc, once we've devised the appropriate "battle-plan" for Davis' treatment and ultimate victory.

We've FOUGHT LONG AND HARD, as so many of you--our faithful friends and customers who have been "with us" through this war for Davis fighting his cancer--but we've got one long, last, hard battle ahead for complete VICTORY OVER THE ENEMY. THIS IS OUR "FINEST HOUR," ladies and gentlemen. Many over history have faced FAR WORSE. I believe a few appropriate words from Sir Winston Churchill, addressed to the British people in 1941, are most appropriate:

"We shall go on to the end....we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight in the air, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender!"

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR DAVIS--and our FAMILY. Pray for the PERMANENT HEALING not only from the cancer, but healing for all the ancillary side-effects that these past 4 years of taking POISON and radiation can do. By FAITH, "all things are possible through God," and thus it is time to flood His very ears with supplications, such that it becomes (yet again) an uproar that can not be ignored. PLEASE PRAY that his parents will "trust in the Lord" at all times, and not let fear and doubt allow the Devil to MAKE the worse things happen.

Please remember Jesus' teachings for the "Answered Prayer" John 14:12-14 AND with the "Lesson of the Withered Fig Tree" in Matthew 21:22....."Most assuredly, I say unto you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will also do; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And WHATEVER YOU ASK IN MY NAME, that I will do, that the Father be glorified...." and form Mathew 21:22 "And whatever things you pray, believing, you will receive."

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.

Original Letter of Sale from Wes Small/Horse Soldier To Accompany This Rare Beauty!

There weren't but several Confederate 20-pounder Parrott Rifles at the Battle of Getysburg, as any astute historian of the battle will attest to....so CS 20-pounder shells/ordnance is FEW and FAR BETWEEN to be seen coming out of Gettysburg!!!! This 3.67" C.S. 20 pounder has the copper/brass paper time fuse adaptor intact, as well as the completely INTACT iron sabot around the base, and is clearly a fired specimen. This is the one I was going to have cleaned up, but decided to let the new owner decide. The "41" was put there by the digger - I imagine for cataloging, and has the note from the digger (as seen in the Horse Soldier Letter of Sale shown below). It sure is sweet and I'll bet it would clean up very nicely. A RARE piece of Gettysburg iron FOR SURE!!! Go find another one! Good luck....

Purchased Through the Horse Soldier When they Acquired and Sold the Remainder of the World-Famous Geiselman Collection in the past several years

More from the WORLD-RENOWN GEISELMAN GETTYSBURG COLLECTION!!!! Indeed.....REAL MUSEUM QUALITY AND RARITY Gettysburg antiquities! This being a complete and fired U.S. 3" Hotchkiss shell found in Zeigler's Grove (where the old Cyclorama was located) on the Gettysburg field and is from the famous Geiselman collection. An early battlefield recovery that is untouched, uncleaned, and uncoated - simply beautiful in EVER FACET. Brass fuse holder is UNDAMAGED and its SOLID and GORGEOUS in every way. The Hotchkiss and patent info is clearly visible on the bottom of the base. The number on the base is from the consignor/current owner's sticker for cataloging. Bought through the Horse Soldier when they acquired and sold the VAST remaining Geiselman Collection (which you can still see on the Horse Soldier's website!) With this shell comes the Horse Soldier's official Letter of Sale/Authenticity, describing the shell in great detail, the Geiselman collection, history, et al.

Oh yeah...you know how I like my "heavy metal"....RARE, MINTY CONDITION, and HISTORIC in the EXTREME! The fact that it's form the world-famous Geiselman collection just puts it "over-the-top"!!!!

Well, this one didn't "make the cut" into O'Donnell's "Relics of Gettysburg" book....BECAUSE YOU CAN'T LITERALLY PICTURE EVERYTHING!!!! But this baby is yet another Geiselman, world-renown, pioneer Gettysburg battlefield pick-up collector. This 3" BEAUTY was found almost next to where the famous Virginia Monument is located today. Although no-one can ever say for sure, it was ALMOST CERTAINLY fired during the famous cannonade on July 3, 1863 proceeding Pickett's Charge / Longstreet's Assault. It is the wider version Schenkl-nose, that allowed a maximum load of case shot--which would AGAIN further the CASE that this was during the infamous cannonade before Pickett's Charge. Never cleaned or coated in any way. Only remnants of the fuse remain and the inner cavity is fully visible.

And this one is even a little cheaper! NOTARIZED Letter of Sale/Authenticity from the current collector/owner for the future owner.

THIS WAS PURCHASED THROUGH THE "HORSE SOLDIER" IN GETTYSBURG, when THEY ACQUIRED AND SOLD THE REMAINDER OF THE GEILSELMAN COLLECTION. Below is their Letter of Sale/Authenticity....you can go onto the Horse Soldier's website and see it for YOURSELF!

U.S. 3" Schenkl shell that was once a part of the world famous Geiselman Collection. This shell was an early battlefield recovery found in The Valley of Death between the Roundtops and Devil's Den at Gettysburg. It is now published on page 149 of Mike O'Donnell's new book Gettysburg Relics (I think that's the title). It's Schenkl brass percussion fuse is dated Oct. 16, 1861. In original, as found early pickup condition - never cleaned or coated in any way. Drilled on one side to disarm. They just don't come any better than this--straight from the truly WORLD-FAMOUS, PIONEER Gettysburg Collector. And yes...you have to pay PREMIUM for PREMIUM, PREMIERE Gettysburg authentic, published artifacts from such a world-famous collection...

Bottom of Grip has ENORMOUS Hand-Carved Texas Star, Within Which is a carved "9th" (obviously standing for his regiment, the 9th Texas Cavalry of Ross' Famous Texas Cavalry Brigade), and his Name Hand-Carved Around The Texas Star Carving of "Capt. Thos. Gwin"

This is Captain Thomas Gwin's M1858 double martial-cartouched, pre-war Starr Army .44 cal. revolver with ALL-matching serial numbers, 100% complete, 100% original, 100% fully-functional, and on the bottom of the grip is a BEAUTIFUL hand-carved STAR, inside of which is "9th" (obviously for his unit's designation), and his hand-carved rank and name "Capt. Thos. Gwin" in a semi-circle around the side of the star/outer edge of the handle. He volunteered and was a 1st Sgt in 1861, but elected quickly to Captaincy. He was SEVERELY WOUNDED at the Battle of Davis' Bridge (also known as Metamora, or Hatchie Bridge), and lost the use of his arm, and was later officially discharged with his disability in late 1863 as he healed in a Jackson, MS hospital. All of his historical National Archive information is show below, including his discharge. The weapon is in NRA/FLAYDERMAN'S "FINE" to "EXCELLENT" stunning condition, having all-matching serial #'s 7041 EVERYWHERE, and is a late 1850's-produced specimen (making sense why Gwin had the weapon available to him from the start of the War.) CRISP markings, excellent ORIGINAL blued finish remaining (well above the meager 30% minimum for "FINE" threshold condition set-forth for by the NRA/Flayderman's). The weapon alone (with any history/provenance/ID) is valued according to Flayderman's Guide to American Antique Firearms , says "martially-marked specimens on the grip", to which this has DOUBLE martial cartouches on the grips!--in "FINE" condition as worth $4500.

Crisp Markings, Belgian Marked (so either a Contract-Produced Piece, or made byt hte French & SOLD through the Belgians), 100% Compete, Fully-Functional, GORGEOUS Condition!!!

Unknown Quantity Purchased by Confederates--USED by Brig. Gen'l Cockrell's Missourian's (CS) and Brig. Gen'l Green's Arkansans (CS), as well as Morgan's CS Cavalymen & Marmaduke's CS Cavalrymen

Boy, if you've been looking for a real representative Civil War-used musket--one used both North & South--and don't want to pay a MORTGAGE PAYMENT to buy it, then YOU'VE FOUND YOUR MUSKET! It's so pretty, it's even got TIGER-STRIPING in the stock in places! This beautiful, classic, CS and US imported original French Model 1842 LARGE CALIBERED (.70/.71 cal.+) smooth bore musket was made OR either SOLD under contract through the Belgian Government, as the crisp Liege Belgian marking atop the barrel attests to [Note: Belgium was used by both the North & South to "funnel" weapons from original countries of purchase/production, as the Europeans tried to remain as "neutral" and "off the radar screen" politically with both the North & South--"walk the line" between both, and REAP-IN ALL THE MONEY THEY COULD FROM BOTH SIDES! Thus, many imported French, Austrian, etc, weapons made in those countries are found bearing Belgian marks--only proving their Civil War purchase and usage with all the "subterfuge" and "sneakiness" going on with the countries trying to appear "neutral" and not make either the North or South mad by doing business with BOTH at the same time!] This weapon is the PERFECT re-enactor's weapon, especially for those wanting to portray a "Western Theater" or "Trans-Mississippi" impression, as we KNOW EMPIRICALLY by dug specimens, accounts, bullets and bullet molds, and surviving ID'ed specimens, that Confederates in Brig. Gen'l Cockrell's famous CS Missouri Brigade, Brig. Gen'l Green's Arkansas brigade (both here in the Vicksburg Campaign--and I've DUG their French stuff!), as well as John Hunt Morgan's cavalrymen (who usually cut them down for carbine usage), Marmaduke's CS Cavalrymen, and various other local units (I've got an ID'ed CUT-DOWN TEXAS CAVALRYMAN'S SPECIMEN RIGHT NOW!!!) We also know that with the US Chief Purchasing Agent for imported weapons, Herman Boker, that over 100,000 of these were purchased for use and issue for Federal Forces. Which is why I, as an AUTHENTIC living historian, have used this musket in doing school speeches, tours, etc (BUT NEVER FIRED IT...ONLY DISPLAY PURPOSES). The weapon is 100% complete and fully-functional, with crisp maker's-markings on the lockplate, the vividly clear Belgian proof atop the barrel, with ABSOLUTELY NO STRUCTURAL DAMAGE, NO REPAIRS, and NO "MONKEY-BUSINESS". Good bore, and with an authentic replacement nipple, would be a great "shooter" and/or re-enactor's musket. NO BOLSTER/NIPPLE burn-out or chipping. Very little but the extremely light expected field and service wear (ding or scratch here or there). Even the original SLING SWIVELS and RAMROD are present! Does have old European rack-numbering and marking seen clearly in large numbers and "X" letter upon the stock.

Just a perfect, representative example of a Civil War-used musket b BOTH Billy Yank and Johnny Reb that you can save your hard-earned money on over a Springfield, Lorenz, or Enfield!!

Beautiful Displaying, All-Original Example of the Classic W. J. McElroy of Macon, Georgia Made Specimens

This is the classic W. J. McElroy of Macon, Georgia, exclusively Confederate wartime produced short Artilleryman's Sword, modeled after the US Model 1832 Artillery Short Sword--which was a direct copy of the French Model 1831! Clearly, the French (and then we) based this sword's design on a very sound, tried, and true-tested fighting sword--the Roman "Gladiator" sword. But what both the French, US, and CS soldiers all found-out alike is that they proved to be far more useful as cutting/utilitarian tools in camp than they ever would be in actual combat! The French nick-named them "cabbage-cutters," since that was all they were about good for! They were heavy at the sides of the gunners, and again, rarely did the gunners worry about standing at the wheels to fight-off cavalrymen or infantrymen with much more deadly and longer weapons! Thus, both the US and CS would quickly stop producing them, and often are found by relic hunters discarded in campsites, or altered into shorter fighting knives, and even tools. The McElroy-made Artillery Short Sword specimens all bear the same classic traits of the "ringed" style of handle, style of pommel cap, and the machined inset of the "T" guard that are solely attributed to McElroy-made specimens. The brass is absolutely GORGEOUS, with NO DAMAGE to the ringing. The classically-crude machined-out "T" guard is ever-present, and "whistles Dixie" and a "Rebel Yell" every time you look at it (ha, ha!) The also cruder-finished classic southern quality of finish to the 17.5" full-length blade is present on the entirely unpitted, undamaged, and unrepaired blade. Only a couple expected in-the-field, actual usage nicks on the blade, and THAT IS IT! The "T" handle only proves that this short sword came in quite handy as a tool, as the "T" ends are slightly bent backward. It doesn't take too much to make soft metal--in this case, the brass handle--to move. Clearly, the artilleryman found a much more useful purpose for the sword as a tool than to thrust it at Yankee's!

Stern-Faced, Red-Legged Confederate Artilleryman, Proudly Brandishing His CS-MADE Artillery Short Sword

Offered here is indeed what many consider THE most iconic Confederate-manufactured longarm produced during the war, the Richmond Rifle, given that these were the finest longarms that the Confederacy ever produced themselves. And for good reason: once secession of Virginia was finalized, all of the remaining manufacturing and arsenal stock and equipment (that wasn't burnt or damaged after the John Brown Raid and Federals forced-out) of the Harpers Ferry US Arsenal was transferred to the new Capitol of the Confederacy....Richmond. Given that Harpers Ferry possessed the finest arms manufacturing equipment outside of the Springfield Armoury, this gave the Confederacy their finest manufacturing equipment to produce their finest-made rifled longarm. Though they could never produce the quantity they so hoped and desired for, they at least produced the quality they needed. In terms of collectability, the earlier the date of production of a Richmond, the more valuable and rare--which is precisely what you are offered here! This is the Type I, 1861-dated, earliest-of-the-early produced specimens. Just by looking through your Flayderman's Guide to American Antique Firearms, you can see that a mere "FAIR" condition specimen is valued at $7000! (See the valuation and evaluation pages from Flayderman's copied below). And this sweetie offered here is definitely a Flayderman's/NRA "GOOD+" condition. It is 100% complete, right down to the original sling swivels, ramrod, and rear long-range flip-up sight. The markings upon the very distinct "high-hump" lockplate of "RICHMOND, VA" and at the rear, the vertically-stamped "1861" are CRYSTAL CLEAR. Of course, the reason for the "high-hump" is that these were all parts and pieces from the machinery at Harpers Ferry Arsenal to produced the US Model 1855 Maynard Primer firing-system rifle, but the Confederates needed these fine rifled weapons as fast as possible, and the Maynard Primer firing system proved to be quite inferior, and thus the lockplate blanks were never finished to house the Maynard Primer firing system. Everything you see appears to be 100% original--even coming through the inspection through two full-time dealers--WITH the following caveats (well, YEAH, there's a "catch" at this price for a gorgeous Richmond!): The stock has indeed been truly PROFESSIONALLY "stretched" from the rear barrel band forward, but upon inspection, not only can you NOT tell physically with the naked eye (which is how well of a job they did), but the replacement fore-stock they used appears to be obviously original, with matching grain pattern, wear, color, fit, etc. The rear sight is 100% original, though not a M1855 rear sight--but this has been seen on existing Richmond Rifles--again, early-war desperation forced them to put on, or later in the war when the original fell-off, to put whatever sight on there that was available. The brass nose-cap is your CLASSIC Richmond/CS-made very crudely casted and finished nose-cap--you can see the mold imperfections/voids from the gas bubbling in the poorer craftsmanship of the foundry workers who were so hurriedly being pushed to get weapons made and out the door to the Army of Northern Virginia. The barrel is your classic .58 caliber M1855 barrel, with good rifling, legible "V/P/Eagle" typical barrel proof that you expect on an 1861 Richmond, and the action is CRISP and FULLY-FUNCTIONAL in every way. The iron buttplate bears no US stamping, as is also common. The original ramrod is 100% full-length and fully-threaded. The metal has a beautiful, mellowed grey patina, and the walnut stock the most gorgeous dark/reddish finish with VERY LITTLE WEAR, SCARS, BUMPS, BRUISES....NO STRUCTURAL CRACKING and NO DAMAGE. Again, VERY LITTLE bolster and/or field and combat wear, so we got VERY lucky with this one. Outside of the "stretched-stock"--which, by looking at the many fine photo's below, you'd NEVER NOTICE if I DID NOT TELL YOU--this original, sweet, iconic Confederate-made rifle is priced WAY, WAY, WAY below it's current market value.

All the beauty, history, and Confederate class....for so little....go find one any better any cheaper somewhere else?

Clearly Pre-War or Early-War Specimen, thanks to the KNOWN CS Issued Tranter Patent/Serial Numbers from the Famous "Pratt List" of Co H, 18th VA Cavalry

Oh so pretty...oh so historic...and amongst the finest-made and rarest Confederate-imported and used handguns of the War....the British Tranter revolver--along with the Kerr, Adams, and Webley--were the most highly-prized and sought-after sidearms of not just the Confederacy....but the entire world. These revolvers were considered the finest-made, highest quality, combined with the most elegant style and beauty, handguns in existence in the mid-19th Century. Offered here is a stunningly gorgeous specimen of the approx. .36 caliber (80 Bore in English measurement) 3rd Model double-trigger Tranter revolver, being a pre-war or early-war production specimen, bearing the Patent Number of 11,847, which is well before the known CS issue and usage range as evidenced by the famous "Pratt List" of the type and patent numbered sidearms of Company H, 18th Virginia Cavalry in early 1864 (Pratt's troopers had Tranter's in the 15,XXX Range in early 1864--see portion of the Pratt List below). It is a well known fact, thanks to the Pratt List from the 18th Virginia, ID'ed specimens in existence surviving today (such as the 45th Alabama Captain's Tranter shown in the "Civil War Firearms from Europe" reference book), even by DUG specimens from battlefields and camps, and by existing surviving advertisements in Southern n wartime ewspapers advertising them for sale, such as the March 10th, 1863 "Richmond Times Dispatch" listing of , "FINE ENGLISH REVOLVERS...Just Received from England...Six Tranter's Fine Revolving Pistols, 80 and 120 Bore. Price $220 each. H. E. Nichols, Columbia S.C." We also have specifically Southern retailer purchased and marked specimens, such as ones marked by the famous Hyde & Goodrich and A.B. Griswold firms--both in New Orleans--and even T. W. Radcliffe of Columbia, South Carolina. [NOTE: if you don't own your own copy of the "Civil War Firearms From Europe" reference book yet.....LET ME KNOW and I'LL SELL YOU ONE!!! ]

This FINE original specimen bears no retailer's name or maker's marking atop the flat--indicative typically that it was manufactured for sale to a private retailer so they can stamp it, if they so chose to, OR to be specifically exported here into the War for the South, as has been seen on exported pieces here to the South on Confederate ID'ed specimens. Both the metal and wood are in BEAUTIFUL condition in about every facet--from the exquisite, fine hand-engraving and scrollwork upon the frame (sides, top, bottom, backstrap), to the superb checkered grips. Everything you see is 100% original and in EXCELLENT mechanical functional order, with the advanced safety design of the spur trigger to cock the "neckless" hammer, and the trigger to release it. As well is the original safety pin system--all technologically advanced for their day and age when designed and produced. All of the checkering on the wood....all of the exquisite engraving upon the metal....all the multiple Birmingham proofs upon the cylinder....are ALL crisp, undamaged, and with LOADS of case-coloring all over the metal surfaces. Even much of the opaque, blued "skin" to be found in spots on the metal. All of the original nipples are present, and in excellent shape, with the deeply-grooved and sharp rifled bore. This beauty could operate and fire as well today as the day it was made! The only drawback is that the loading lever is missing--but that is it! You can get a replacement if you so choose, but you don't need to, as the cylinder pin would act as a rammer to load (and was done so in combat--one makes do with what one has to "adapt and overcome" when facing life and death in the heat of a battle!)

Try finding one of these historic, iconic, rare, and Southern-spiced beauties somewhere else for anywhere near this price!

THE Classic Confederate-Made Foot Officer's Sword from the Famous Richmond, Virginia Manufacturer

There isn't a real "collector" alive out there that doesn't have a very soft and warm spot in his heart when it comes to a Confederate-made Foot Officer's sword. Some "on-the-line" and "in-the-field" Confederate officer bore this steely blade into battle--extolling his men forward into whirlwinds of death and chaos while raising this sword high in the glimmering sunlight of smoke-choked fields across many a bloody plain. This version of Foot Officer's sword isn't the "fancy", ornate, "hoity-toity" and frilly kind that staff officers--well behind the buzzing bullets and exploding hail of iron from cannon--were issued. No, this is the the elegantly simple 3-tine basket guard version that your real FIGHTING officers were issued and used....until the very bitter end. Unlike the plethora of other CS blades out there that you will always have to wonder whether it's been "monkeyed" with or not, it is not so with this one. It is 100% original, intact, full-length, original wire and wrap, with the most pleasing mellowed CS brass (higher copper content) patina to the handle, and steely-grey appearance to the untouched metal. The full-length, un-sharpened blade measures exactly 30", with NO damage or nicks, and that almost indescribable BEAUTIFUL untouched dark-gray patina evenly across the entire blade. Totally UNTOUCHED. The blade is 100% tight with the grip/handle. The original leather wrap is present, though obviously shows only the MINOR true battlefield and campaign wear and thinning that can only come from a real "war vet" out on the line. Can't fake that. And don't want it "perfect," or you'd know it was never drawn in anger and defense of our beloved Southland. The original wire is firmly intact at both ends, totally "righteous" in every aspect. I've used professional museum leather wax, enricher, and preserver on the wrap to make sure we keep this baby preserved for generations to come. After all, we really don't "own" these irreplaceable pieces of history. After we die, they will literally "live on"--outliving us, so-to-speak, and going to another generation for it's story to be told and it's meaning understood and endeared. We are but mere temporary "caretakers" of these historically priceless relics.

Here's your best shot to own a truly intact, all-original, and classic Boyle, Gamble, & Macfee of Richmond, Virginia Confederate-made Foot Officer's saber---Confederate steel for a "steal!"

"US N. STARR" in Sunburst Motif, "MIDDTN / CONN / 1835", and "NWP / P" Barrel Proof

OH YEAH! Got to LOVE a FINE flintlock! Every red-blooded American alive has an attraction--some guttural affinity--for what is an iconic American weapon....the flintlock musket. Whether from our days of securing our Independence as a Nation, or our great pioneers like Lewis and Clark, Daniel Boone, Davy Crocket--everyone is attracted to the mere appearance of a real flintlock musket. Even women (who would normally turn their head and nose in disgust) will openly (if not secretly) admit they are beautiful pieces that display wonderfully. Offered here is a truly FINE and rather MINTY all-original, complete, and fully-functional Nathan Starr contract-made M1816 Musket, dated 1835, and with ALL MARKINGS 100% CRYSTAL CLEAR and KNEE-DEEP as the day it was made! It is a Type III Model 1816 configuration, and was among the 15,530 made under contract by Nathan Starr between the years of 1829 through 1840. Absolutely NO DAMAGE...NO REPAIRS....NO MISSING PARTS....she's all "righteous" and in stunningly beautiful condition given that it is precisely 175 years old! Only the most minor bump, bruise, or ding to be found anywhere. No structural cracking or any detracting facets whatsoever. The walnut stock with its original finish is simple gorgeous, and the metal is essentially pit-free, and has it's wonderful "armory-bright" original finish to it. Lock, stock, and barrel, this is simply a collector's-grade example of a supremely beautiful and iconic American weapon.

Here's a HONEY OF A DEAL for a HONEY of a Starr Army .44 cal. revolver! This truly "minty" beauty is in such eye-appealing FINE+ condition, being 100% complete, unrepaired, original, fully-functional in every way, and with LOADS of original case-coloring/bluing left upon the unpitted metal. And the walnut grips are about as equally as fine in condition, having no damage, repairs, cracks, or big chunks or splinters---she's ALL GOOD! There is well beyond the 30% Flayderman's minimum requirement of original case-coloring/bluing to meet the "FINE" condition requirement. All of the markings are fully legible, from the Starr's Patent stamping on one side, to the Starr Address on the other side--even the martial sub-inspector's "B" marking on the trigger guard. The all-matching serial numbers of 55809 are also easily found. The rifling is still good, and with the excellent mechanical crisp action, this weapon could operate and fire as well today as the day it was made! Just look at all the pictures below for this beauty, and you'll know exactly why it's indeed " a keeper!"

This is a SUPER-COOL original 19th century Pike, coming from one of the largest and most noted collectors of 19th century warfare militaria, the late Mr. Thomas F. Adlon collection. As you will quickly realize in the photo's below, this a a 100% original, crudely-forged and fashioned MASSIVE pike, that was blacksmith altered/produced by utilizing an old bayonet (appears to be an British Enfield-style or even Brown Bess style bayonet, based on shape, blood groove, etc), with crude "T" bar, and cruder-still attachment base. These bear ALL THE CLASSIC, ARCHETYPICAL CONFEDERATE TRAITS...and we certainly KNOW that the Confederates utilized Pikes! (i.e. Governor of Georgia Joe Brown Pikes, etc.) The age of this pike is clearly of the mid-19th century, and may possibly be even earlier--no one knows, as it is truly "one-of-a-kind"! But it is 100% original, coming form Mr. Adlon's collection, and I personally having bought it through Mr. Raphael Eledge of Shiloh Relics. I can't see who else on the American continent was making and using Pikes--making them so crudely--other than the Confederates, so common sense and deduction by logic certainly leans me to believe this is a Johnny Reb, classically crude and "made out of desperation" Pike...whether for Infantry use or Naval use. The Yankee's didn't make this....the Indians didn't make this....so once again, logic deduces the highest probability of being a "Johnny" weapon, given it bears all the traits and facets of Southern desperation and crudeness, and actual use of Pikes!

Regardless, it is a phenomenal piece of history, coming from a most historic collection, and would be an incredible addition to any Civil War or earlier American militaria collection!

I like my "heavy metal" to be big, beautiful, rare, Confederate, and from Vicksburg! AND THIS IS IT! This beauty was excavated decades ago (probably from a creek where the water protected the wooden sabot to survive intact as it has). It is a clear 24-Pounder, Confederate "high-lip" flat/straight-channel Bormann-fuzed shell. Obviously unfired--tin strap remnants seen CLEARLY on all sides, with ball firmly stcuk to it's wooden sabot, and Bormann fuze unpunched. Gorgeous white CS soft-metal/pewter patina to the fuze, though given the poorer quality of CS metal, the numbers are totally illegible (their metal was poorer quality, and thus "softer" metal, and the ground/water action just caused the facial impartations of the seconds and hash-marks to fade with time). It has been professionally cleaned and coated with wax to preserve this remarkable, rare beauty for generations to come. The Confederates employed a LOT of 24-pounders in their siege works, and this must have been dumped in a creek to keep from the Yankees after surrendering, or who knows. All I know is--HOW OFTEN DO YOU GET A SHOT AT BUYING A CS 24-POUNDER BORMANN-FUZED INTACT SHELL ON WOODEN SABOT!?!?

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!!!

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

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!

Inside Showing Original Luftwaffe Blue Paint--But Outside Clearly Painted-Over Feld Grau ("Field Green")

Obvious a Luftwaffe Soldier Who Had To Switch Over Into A Luft Feld Infantry Unit for Ground Combat

Really nice example of a local vet "war trophy" brought back home from 1945, this pretty M35/40 Luftwaffe single decal helmet, with beautiful original Luftwaffe blue paint on the inside--but clear field green overpainted on the outside, as the so meager and diminished German air force had plenty of personnel--but few pilots, and even fewer and fewer plains to fly, so all the ground support and logistical personnel were quickly put into Luft-Feld fighting units to try and stem the overwhelming tide of Allied forces storming from both the east and west in the final year of the war. The decal is still quite visible, and obviously the 2nd version decal. No, no liner inside, but for the price, it's a fantastic display piece to sit out in anyone's war room!

Sadly, Charles died of disease on 8/14/1863 --His Wife's Pension Application Accompanies the Image

There's always something so "haunting" about Civil War images--regardless of whether we know who they are of or not. "Ghostly" faces from so long ago is all we have to see the REAL soldiers (and in this case, his beloved wife) that had to face and endure those cataclysmic 4 years of our most terrible American war. And here, we have a most pristine, vividly clear and crisp image of a loving husband and his betrothed--thankfully, identified by the signings both front and back. This is the image of drummer Charles M Colby, of Company F, 11th New Hampshire Infantry, who enlisted at the age of 23 on August 7th, 1862. Sadly....he would barely live another year--dying from disease at military hospital in Covington, Kentucky on August 29th, 1863....leaving his wife Lucy forever from this world. Show below are his military records, as well as the widow's pension of Miss Lucy, notarized for the US Pension Office on January 29th, 1902. The front of the image has the clear hand-written names of " C M & L A Colby", and the back says "Mrs. D. M. Wright...love from (illegible) A Colby". He is clothed in his finest Musician's uniform in the image, and she in her classic period finer dress gown.

This is the real "face" of that war...and the sadness and tragedy that hundreds of thousands faced...

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!!!!

Dug Recently By Fellow Relic Hunters and Relic Dealers Dwayne Davis and Nick Peruit

NICE Georgia State Seal Coat Button and Classic CS Droop-Wing Eagle Officer's Button

Well, if you've watched Nick's or Dwayne's websites, you already know about the discovery and all the RECOVERY of great relics from the exclusive 37th Georgia Infantry Camp they found in middle Tennessee last fall! They proudly posted some of the killer finds--entire coat of GA State Seal Coat-Sized buttons, Droop-Wing Eagle CS officer buttons, bullets galore, even the handle/hilt to a CS Sword, and much more! Offered below are just two of the many buttons they unearthed from the camp--and take a look at the pictures and information below that Dwayne and Nick posted to really make you DROOL! Some really cool, and really affordable Confederate coat buttons, and exclusively ID'ed to the GA regiment encamped there!

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.

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.)

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