Swords & Blades

Very Pretty French M1831 Artillery Short Sword & SCABBARD!

Guess where our US M1832 Artillery Short Sword came from?  You got it--direct copy of the French M1831 Artillery Short Sword!  And not that the French were very original in the design themselves, as you quickly notice it is a direct copy of the "old school" 2000+ year old Roman short fighting sword!  Hey, as the old saying goes, "...if it ain't broke..."  The design was a solid one tested over hundreds of years of combat use by the Romans, so the French and Americans picked a good model to copy!  What's really great about these French Artillery Short Swords is that they were indeed imported and used here in the South for the Civil War.  Not only is there an original image of a Louisiana (Pointe Coupee Artillery Battery) artilleryman with one of these over his shoulder, but an original diary excerpt from another Pointe Coupee batteryman describing how they were equipped at the beginning of the war with, "the finest French blades...".  But best of all, we have present-day proof of their importation and utilization by these Cajuns, in the example of several dug specimens (one from Manassas in particular), and the one offered for sale right now by my friend Jay Collier of Blue Grey Relics, which has the "Hyde & Goodrich   New Orleans" retailer's marking upon the ricasso.  Thus, we KNOW these were imported and used at least through New Orleans to Cajun artilleryman, even if it was a small number imported (probably only several hundred).  But best of all is the fact that an original French M1831 sword WITH the original scabbard costs HALF the price a US M1832 and scabbard costs!  This specimen offered here has the "June 1832" date etched into the ricasso, with the corresponding French maker's mark on the other.  The original scabbard is complete and intact, though the stitching down the seam has parted.  Rack numbers are stamped into the throat of the scabbard, as well as into the handle of the sword (as always is the case with French pieces).

Here you get an early 1832 production example, with scabbard, for a ridiculously low price!  Save many hundreds of dollars with a weapon that was a Cajun classic!

LAYAWAY  

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Classic, Untouched 8.5" Sheffield (Joseph Allen & Son) Fighting Knife

THE Archetypical Civil War Fighting Knife -- Excellent & Crisp Maker's Mark, Uncleaned Blade

You will see a lot of "fighting knives," Bowie's, and blades out there, but none will surpass the Civil War usage and availability of the world-famous Sheffield-made series of fighting knives that were so popular in the Civil War and well before the War.  You will also see a lot of "fantasy" blades out there, 20th century "buck" knives, monkeyed-blades, and other total junk out there--just stroll a gunshow, and you'll see for yourself!  But what is so nice about your classic Sheffield fighting knives is that you KNOW they were widely used during the Civil War-era or before, and with their great maker's marking, these are the real deal.  This specimen in particular measures over 8.5" long total, and has a fantastic, untouched 5" clip-point blade, with crisp "Joseph Allen & Son  Sheffield  England" maker's marking you can see across the room.  There is also the classic "NON XL" marking upon the blade as well.  The grip is nearly perfect, having no damage, cracking, or any detracting issues--just a beautiful deep and rich tone and finish.  Look at just about any Confederate armed image, as well as quite a few Federal images, and you'll find a Sheffield stuck in their belt.  And those that aren't a Sheffield are knock-off copies, since the Sheffield cutlery was indeed the world-famous leader in production and quality in the early to mid-1800's.  Rarely do you see big Bowie's and other unique blades in those images or in ID'ed collections--though they are awfully cool and scarce when you find them!  Best of all, you can buy with both confidence AND save a wad of cash for a truly classic fighting knife!

SOLD

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Stunning James Conning of Mobile, Alabama Confederate "CS" Staff Officer's Sword

All-Original, Complete, Untouched, Original Wire & Wrap, Originally Sold By Shannon Pritchard in 2004

Included With Sword are Original Sword Knot & Officer's Sash

Being one of the rarest and highest quality Confederate-made swords in the entire Civil War, the James Conning, "CS" (cast in the guard) Staff Officer's Sword is among the hardest specimens to find--especially in the condition that this one is in.  One quickly realizes that the Conning-made sword is essentially a copy of the US Staff Officer's Sword, and for good reason: James Conning was a pre-war sword maker who did extensive production for the US military, as well as State and local militia forces.  James was actually a native New York-born silversmith, being listed  as a silversmith in New York as early as 1840.  He would marry into a wealthy Mobile family some 15 years before the War, and thus had a thriving business before 1861 in the Deep South.  When war broke-out, Conning eagerly utilized his skills as a master sword craftsman to equip his new Southern nation.  Conning was noted for importing some of the finest sword blades from France before the war, and doing the assembling/hilting work himself in Mobile.  He quickly copied the Staff Officer's Sword floral and "US" casting hilt design, and simply put a "CS" into the guard instead.  When the blockade prevented him from further importing French merchandise, he contracted the local Parker Foundry in Mobile for blades and other supplies he used to get from France.  He produced other models of swords, such as the regulation artillery saber with 28" curved blade, that was within the Battle Abbey collection in Richmond.  His quality brass hilts for his highly-prized CS Staff Officer Swords were produced throughout the war, only ceasing when Mobile finally fell into Federal hands.  At least one example of this CS Staff Officer exists with a floral and old English script "CS" etching within the blade (also in the Battle Abbey old collection). 

This specimen here was originally sold to my friend and compatriot in Florida back in 2004 from Shannon Pritchard.  Listed below is a copy of the original listing, and Shannon's letter of authenticity shall accompany the piece.  According to several sword aficionados, this is one of the finest all-original, untouched specimens on the "open market" (not in a museum).  The full-length blade has a fabulous smoky/grey patina, having some bright finish remaining, with no nicks or damage of any note to the blade's edge.  No modern cleaning or sharpening whatsoever.  Archetypical unstopped CS-style fuller, of course, and the blade finish becoming less refined and finished toward the rather rounded, more abrupt blade point (than most sword blade designs).  The original leather wrap is intact and still tight, with virtually no wear at all.  Barely any crazing or drying to be found at all (only near the pommel cap end), and only one or two hairline splits in the wrap.  The original 2-twine twisted wire is solidly attached, with only the most minimal, ever-so-slight looseness--but only again substantiates that it is indeed original (re-wrap jobs are tight as a drum and rub too tightly, or are far too spongy against fresh, faked leather!)  The brass hilt is absolutely spectacular, and basically blemish-free in every sense.  It's THAT GOOD!  The magic "CS" letters show perfectly, and the brass appearance is fabulous.  The classic cruder CS sand-casting traits abound, where you can even see the inclusions of sand particulates within the basket design.  But being one of the finer craftsman of Southern blades, it shows the least amount of crude, unskilled casting flaws and traits, unlike his many counterparts.  The floral design continued upon the pommel is the typical faded casted appearance (again, the poorer CS casting trait).  There is also a beautiful "starburst" motif engraved into the top of the pommel cap, which has not been noted as found on any other Conning or other sword, and it is believed by all to be original to the piece.  So whether Conning did this himself, or the officer had it done after he received it, will never be truly known.  But it is clearly a period engraving.  The blade is solidly tight--no play whatsoever.  Both the basket and the blade have the matching "160" production number, as matching production numbers should be seen on these specimens.

Just a a "bonus" to sweeten the deal, my friend will include the original presentation-grade officer's sword know and officer's maroon dress sash, which only adds the perfect "spice" and "flair" to the entire display!

An excellent addition to any hardcore Confederate or sword collector.

SOLD

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Excellent & Untouched Early-War CS "D-Guard" Bowie Knife

Classic Early-War/Pre-War Style (Blade Spine/Handle Top-Centered) & CS Crude Blacksmith Traits

Massive Full 18.5" Total Length, 13" Clip-Point Blade

Arguably one of the most iconic Confederate-made or used weapon of the entire War, the massive "D-Guard" styled Bowie fighting knife has captivated the collecting world's imagination and desire literally since the War itself!  So many of these were taken by Federal soldiers a literal "trophies" back home, since their scarily impressive appearance will always get someone's attention and interest!  Many an eager Johnny Reb has been seen in the plethora of surviving wartime images, showing them bearing such fearsome blades--though despite their willingness to "kill 20 Yankee's" with their D-Guards and fighting knives in romanticized beliefs of what combat in the war would be like--their true utilization in the field would rarely be used for their original purpose of sticking a Yank.  Typically, they were merely good for the mundane typical camplife purposes, such as cutting salt pork or potatoes!  Thus, the manufacture and use of D-Guards and fighting knives of such proportion were phased-out through the War, as scarce southern resources (both craftsmen to build them, and the materials to make them) were desperately needed for rifles and accouterments--not "cabbage cutters in camp"!

This specimen offered here is rather unique unto itself in several cool facets.  Not only is it entirely complete and original, but truly "untouched"--no one has monkeyed with the patina, sharpening or cleaning the blade, not tightening of the blade, no loose grip or blade, etc.  It's untouched and completely righteous, unlike many you will find for sale out there!  What's really cool is that it is clearly a classic early-war and very crude Confederate specimen. the design and construction of the blade is such that the spine of the blade going into the handle/guard/grip is a top-centered configuration.  This is actually much more akin to the original 1840's styled specimens, so it's "old school" in design!  The reason for having the blade spine and handle at the top is really simple--if you know anything about the "physics" of fighting with a large, long knife!  By having a long (13") blade, being simple cast and blacksmith iron that is hammered to a rather thick dimension (1/4" thick blade), then clearly the blade handle placement at the top of the blade itself ensures it is "top-heavy"--weighted more heavily for the blade's tip.  Why do you want the blade to be heavy?  Simple physics.  Put the knife in your hand, and with a split-second's reaction (as you would have to do in a knife-fight at close-quarters), you grab and thrust as fast as adrenaline will allow you!  And when you instinctively thrust quickly, the blade's weight naturally (by gravity) wants the blade point to point downward/horizontally.  Fake blades today are made from modern alloys, which are much, much lighter, and typical fake ones are never 1/4" thick (like this one offered here).  After you hold enough legit blades versus fake ones, you can literally tell--almost blindfolded--which one "whistles Dixie", or originally came from the Atlanta Cutlery Works catalogue!

The crude finish of the blade on this specimen is so ever-present upon viewing, as you can see (looking down the spine of the blade) that it was very quickly, and so crudely hammered into shape.  Waviness of the blade is so vividly seen, showing that the craftsman who made it was either in a real big hurry, or really a poor blacksmith!  Only toward the cutting edge was any finishing work performed, where crude filing marks from the finisher can be seen.  Some minor nicks from people playing with the piece over the years (or was Johnny Reb hacking Yankee's!  Ha, ha!)  The original applewood handle is intact and tight, as is the solid blade and D-guard itself.  A simple, quick, and cheap twist-nut was used to secure the blade to the handle, so yet another clue that this was made as quickly and cheaply as possible.

But it's all those traits that really make them so Confederate!  I purchased this one from Rick Burton, and it has been seen by all the guru's of blades (Lee Hadaway, John Sexton, etc).  This ain't no Philippino or Mexicano D-Guard...or one that was put together and patina'ed last week.  If you take the learned advice from Lee Hadaway, noted author of the new, must-have reference book on CS Bowie's (entitled "The Updated Confederate Bowie Knife Guide"), on page 17, he goes through some of the attributes of "desirability" of CS Bowie knives....and the last facet he describes is that the Bowie must simply "whistle Dixie".  If you hold enough real Confederate Bowies, and then hold enough fake ones, you will know the difference between "the good, the bad, and the ugly."  [Note: if you'd like to purchase a copy of his book, I'll be listing some autographed copies for sale on the website shortly.]

Shhhh....I hear something...off in the distance....is that....is that....is that Dixie playing...softly and prayerfully?  (Ha! Ha!)

LAYAWAY

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Wonderful Haiman Brothers CS Cavalry Sword w/ID'ed Provenance to Pvt. William C. Howard, 5th NC Cavalry

Comes With Binder of Pvt. Howard's (Copies) Soldier Records, Roster, 1860 Census, Regimental History, and Copy of Original 6th Plate Image

Offered here is a beautiful and wonderful piece of Confederate history, coming complete with specific provenance of being from the state sale for Private William C. Howard of the 5th North Carolina Cavalry (later re-designated the 63rd NC State Troops), and a binder of information, copies of his roster reports, service record, unit history, 1860 census copy, AND an original copy of his 6th plate image.  This piece was originally acquired at the estate auction by Brent Smith of Brent's Militaria of Greensboro, North Carolina, and comes with the original letter of authenticity from Brent Smith in 2005.  Though Brent sold the image separately, we do at least have a copy of his image that he provided with his letter of authenticity.  The sword, though originally designated as a "Dog River," appears by all attributes to actually be that of Louis and Elijah Haiman of Columbus, Georgia.  They were a noted producer of Confederate cavalry swords during the entire war, making them until almost the very end of the war.  The piece exhibits the classic "Haiman traits" of having the oilcloth wrap, sharply-curved handle, and deformation/tang-forging anomaly by the ricasso, as well as the classic blade style, shape, contour, 3-tine design, unstopped fuller, and measurement of your archetypical Haiman product.  The blade is a wonderful uncleaned, deep, and rich patina, having that smooth dark "attic" tone you love to see on your truly Confederate weapons!  The blade is absolutely TIGHT with the handle/grip, so no apologies there.  No sharpening, either.  No damage to the piece whatsoever, and for the sake of restoration and protection of the oilcloth wrap, a period-correct wire has been professionally added to the grip by the top sword restorationist around--again, to ensure that the oilcloth will be handled easier, and adhere longer with the wiring.  And it also looks great!  If I didn't tell you, you probably would never have known!  But at Champion Hill Relics, we don't pull any "monkey-business" like that.  Instead, you get a true Confederate piece with excellent provenance and history that you can proudly own for a modest price!  I've seen junky Colt revolvers sell for more than THIS!  Yet another fine Confederate, yet affordable piece of irreplaceable history to entice you.  This relic can really talk.   Private Howard enlisted July 18, 1862, and fought until the "bitter end".  The 5th NC and Howard would fight in essentially every major (and minor) cavalry engagement in the Army of Northern Virginia, surrendering at Appomattox.

Sold

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Classic, Untouched 10" Sheffield (Cambridge Cutlery Works) Fighting Knife

THE Archetypical Civil War Fighting Knife -- Excellent & Crisp Maker's Mark, Uncleaned Blade

You will see a lot of "fighting knives," Bowie's, and blades out there, but none will surpass the Civil War usage and availability of the world-famous Sheffield-made series of fighting knives that were so popular in the Civil War and well before the War.  You will also see a lot of "fantasy" blades out there, 20th century "buck" knives, monkeyed-blades, and other total junk out there--just stroll a gunshow, and you'll see for yourself!  But what is so nice about your classic Sheffield fighting knives is that you KNOW they were widely used during the Civil War-era or before, and with their great maker's marking, these are the real deal.  This specimen in particular measures precisely 10" long total, and has a fantastic, untouched 6" clip-point blade, with excellently crisp "Cambridge Cutlery Works  Sheffield" maker's marking you can see across the room.  The grip is nearly perfect, having no damage, cracking, or any detracting issues--just a beautiful deep and rich tone and finish.  Look at just about any Confederate armed image, as well as quite a few Federal images, and you'll find a Sheffield stuck in their belt.  And those that aren't a Sheffield are knock-off copies, since the Sheffield cutlery was indeed the world-famous leader in production and quality in the early to mid-1800's.  Rarely do you see big Bowie's and other unique blades in those images or in ID'ed collections--though they are awfully cool and scarce when you find them!

Best of all, you can buy with both confidence AND save a wad of cash for a real fighting knife!

Layaway

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Exquisite & Rare 1820's-1840's US Officer's Imported Fine Eagle-Head Sword & Leather Scabbard

"BERGER  PARIS" Maker-Marked -- Fine Gold Etching -- Blued Steel Blade -- Beautiful Eagle-Head Pommel -- Ivory or Polished Bone Grip

All-Original, Untouched Condition, Complete and "Tight"

The Consignor Says "It's Time To Go!"  Price Reduced!

Once you see the exquisite splendor and design of these much earlier US Officer Swords than the Model 1850, you won't want another one!  It was during this Jacksonian age from the mid-1820's through the Mexican War that American military swords really came into their finer design and elegance.  This one is a fine imported piece, made by Berger out of Paris, France.  Much like today, it was even more of a "status symbol" in regards to having anything made from Paris, France, after such Napoleonic military grandeur.  It has that classic French/Napoleonic largely-curved blade, which was designed for mounted service (cavalry, dragoon, or exclusively mounted officer of any branch).  This was NEVER intended for your "average" line/infantry officer--especially not such a splendid privately-purchased imported piece from Paris.  The blade has much of the original bluing (though thin in some areas, splotchy and mottled in some other areas toward the tip), and the excellent gold gilted, fine hand-engraved vine, leaf, and US patriotic cannon/gun motifs are still quite crisp.  Blade length is right at 29".  The Federal-style eagle-head pommel is our archetypical US design motif, as is the accompanying eagle shield on both sides of the guard over the ricasso.  The "BERGER PARIS" maker's mark is seen on the blade's ricasso behind these shielded eagle.  The handle is either ivory or some polished bone (possibly whale's tooth)--it doesn't have the marrow-like cavities exposed in the small chip missing near the pommel (which usually proves to be bone), so it really looks to be ivory.  But the patina looks more like polished bone/tooth.  The guard is solid and tight--no wobble or play at all.  Entirely untouched and unrepaired sword.  The leather scabbard with brass mounts are 100% intact and in very good condition.  Only the ever-typical crease in the leather scabbard near the brass drag mount, but the leather is not torn-off or loose.  The blade edge has several nicks (again, so common for a piece well over 160 years old), but as you can see, this is an exquisite displaying, extra-fine imported US Officer's sword in it's day.  They were so popular through the Mexican War, and still extensively used through the Civil War--though this would prove to be the last "cavalier" styled war sword.  They would just get plainer and uglier from then on!

Stick this over your mantle or display, and watch it draw everyone's eye.  Priced well below others for sale on the market, it is a local Mississippi consignment piece.  I put a lot of LARGE close-up photo's for you to enjoy...you don't get just a couple of dark, dinky, and distant shots with something this pretty (like you do elsewhere.)  You'll save your hard-earned money with this one...

Sold

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Exceptionally Rare & Gorgeous CS College Hill Arsenal Cavalry Officer's Sword

Without question, being one of the rarest and most desirable Confederate-made swords, any College Hill Arsenal/Nashville Plow Works sword carries a special place in every Confederate collector's heart.  I rarely get so enthralled with any item--especially Confederate swords.  Not that I don't like them, because I'm as true-blue Johnny Reb as the next Southern collector!  But few items really take sway over me.  This one (as my friends with me at the show can attest to) REALLY put me "under the spell".  Any piece that can cause that effect upon me--such that I "fall in-love with it"--obviously has a lot going for it!  This is the Cavalry Officer's version of the "College Hill Arsenal" sword.  I put that name in parenthesis, as there is a modern divergence of opinion and belief by some "experts" in the field of Confederate swords, as to whether this is truly a College Hill Arsenal made piece, or actually a Nashville Plow Works piece made FOR College Hill Arsenal to retail for sale.  This specimen, for example, has the iron back-strap and the Nashville Plow Works style basket--but not having the Nashville Plow Works name--so it is clearly a product that was at the very least, made FOR the College Hill Arsenal.  Whether it was originally made by L. T. Cunningham (owner of College Hill Arsenal), or through Sharp & Hamilton (Nashville Plow Works), is what is debated today.  We know historically that Nashville Plow Works ran into some legal/operating "issues," and would later have some production for College Hill Arsenal, so that these are universally accepted that these specific specimens were definitely at the very least retailed/sold through the College Hill Arsenal by L. T. Cunningham.  Cunningham of College Hill Arsenal would later use the Plow Works counter guard with his later products.  Therefore, as such collectors, authorities, and aficionados as Shannon Pritchard describe at length (in his masterful "Collecting the Confederacy" book), this sword may more accurately be described as a "Plow Works College Hill contract sword."  (Page 243).

What is so special about this specimen in particular is that it is among the rarest of any of the Nashville-area made swords, regardless of being "College Hill" or "Plow Works"!  You'll find at least 8 to 10 true "Nashville Plow Works" swords for every "College Hill" specimen--and as you know, ANY of these swords produced in the city of Nashville are so infinitely rare!  Sword production in Nashville area for the Confederacy only lasted not even a YEAR, as Nashville would fall to the Federals after the fall of Fort Donelson in February, 1862.  This specimen offered for sale here is also a very late production piece, given a couple of traits.  Being that the back strap is not brass (as earlier-made specimens, when brass was more plentiful) and that the blade is not affixed with the more commonly seen screw-on cap, but simply "peened," it's obviously among the later/last production specimens.  The brass guard with those beautiful, magical "CSA" letters raised upon the outer face of the guard are seen so beautifully clear.  The abundant and ever-present crude sand-casting flaws are everywhere--no wax-molded fake crap here, my friends.  You can see the rough wet sand casting flaws clear as day everywhere, including specs of some of the sand from the mold still stuck into that higher copper-content Confederate brass!  Just splendid.  This piece was personally inspected by Rafael Eledge at great length (hours, actually, back in our hotel room), and went through every significant collector's/dealer's hands at the show.  To a man, it is acknowledged for the beautiful, all-original College Hill Cavalry Officer's saber that it is.  No damage.  No repairs.  No "monkey-business".  As usual, the extraordinarily thin twisted copper wire is missing (being so thin and rather "chincy," you rarely see any wiring intact, since they came off so very easily), and no wrap remaining (again, so very common and expected).  You can see a few of the thin copper wires peeking from under the iron backstrap.  The polished grip is beautifully present, and really displays magnificently.  One could EASILY have a professional sword restorationists re-wrap and re-wire the piece--and even make a perfect reproduction scabbard, if you choose.  I simply did not want to "mess with" this piece--I love it the way it is, being a purist at heart.  All it really needs is a good cleaning to get the old coats of grime and linseed oil off of it, and she's as beautiful as you'll ever hope to find.  The blade is full-length, and TIGHT with the handle.  Only one tiny nick in the blade--that is IT!  It has the coolest looking crude light filing marks barely seen on a couple small areas, and clearly appear to be original finishing filing marks in just a couple of small areas.  It has NOT been sharpened, cleaned, or touched in any way.  The curved blade measures 33.5" long (along the top spine and curvature), being 100% full-length.

No more needs to be said of this piece.  Some Confederate cavalry officer carried this beauty from Nashville into the war.  If only it could talk and tell us the tales of war, fighting, killing, and suffering.  I guess that's why Rebel steel is so valuable!  Just go ahead and try to find another College Hill (or Plow Works, for that matter) any cheaper, and in such fine, beautiful condition as this.  And here at Champion Hill Relics, you don't get a few, small, dark-shaded, fuzzy pictures to really peruse and judge our pieces.  Enjoy the many pics!

Sold

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Exquisitely Beautiful & Ultra-Rare 10" Excavated NUDE/EROTIC Fighting Knife

Dug By Donnie Denton At The 2006 North/South Hunt in Fort Powhatan, Virginia

Published in the "American Digger" Magazine, Vol. 2, Issue 4, July/August 2006

I certainly don't want to get Champion Hill Relics tagged as a "pornographic" website, but come on....THIS IS GORGEOUS!  Being 100% untouched, original piece of Civil War erotic "art" AND non-withstanding the fact that it is a whopping 10" fighting knife, it is one of the most intriguing, beautiful, and "enticing" dug relics I have ever seen.  Sure, erotic art, statues, and other ephemera have been around since essentially the dawn of mankind, we do tend to get a little wrapped-up in the "Victorian" idealism of the mid-19th Century and the Civil War.  It reminds me of the History Channel series "Sex in the Civil War"--helping to shed the all-to-humanistic and real facet to the inevitable truth: "boys will be boys...".  She stands just over 4" tall, in a full nude pose, in all brass with a lovely green excavated patina, and is complete.  The base is an ornate ringed design around her knees--as if she's just taken her gown off.  Despite her rather risqué appearance, she does rather appropriately cross her hands with a somewhat modest charm.  Both front and back, she's very well figured, and shown in exquisite detail.  You can still see her facial expressions clearly and vividly, down to her sly grin, eyes, hair, and even her fingers--simply beautiful.  The 6" metal blade is also intact, and the piece is barely cleaned from being unearthed within the massive encampments of both Union and Confederate soldiers at Fort Powhatan, Virginia during the 2006 North South Hunt.  It was found by Donnie Denton, and was published within the "American Digger" Magazine in Volume 2, Issue 4 (July/August) of 2006.  This piece comes with a color informational display large tag with Donnie's picture at the hunt where he found this, a picture of the Fort Powhatan site, and the appropriate provenance information.

It's just such a "killer" piece of Civil War history all around, with so many facets artistically and historically, AND being such a wonderful excavated weapon, to boot!  I've never seen anything like this before--and you probably never will again.  I won't let her go too cheap OR easy!  (My wife just slapped me!)

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Quality Rating 10 (out of 10) & Published Excavated Bridle Cutter CS Pike

From the Famous CS Train Wreck Cache Along the Wilmington & Manchester Railroad Bridge Disaster in SC

This Specimen Pictured in the "Civil War Relics of South Carolina" Authored by Celeste Topper (1988)

Massive 18.75" of Confederate Steel (12"Blade Length)

More excellent quality and provenance Confederate pieces for you to enjoy!  This specimen being one of the several pictured in the "Civil War Relics of South Carolina" book by Celeste Topper.  Yeah--it's THAT good.  Stunning, actually--the finest excavated specimen you shall find (not an embellishment).  When speaking face-to-face with John Sexton regarding this piece, he explained that--out of the large cache that relic hunters recovered from the site--that he rated all of the specimens upon a quality rating scale (1 being the poorest quality, and 10 obviously the best): this was one of the few rated as the highest quality "10" rating, and thus was among the few to be photographed and published.  This is one of the many recovered from the Confederate supply train wreck upon a bridge along the old Wilmington & Manchester Railroad.  I still am amazed at these unique and antiquated lancer pikes, made famous by wartime Georgia Governor Joe Brown.  What an amazing condition specimen, measuring 18.75" total length, having a slick and smooth 12" blade length with the curved bridle cutter blade to the side.  The iron is 100% stable, rock-solid, and in phenomenal state of preservation.  Obviously, the ground and water action was essentially nil, being preserved in this incredible state.  Equally impressive is the rather ingenious (and wishful-thinking) notion on the part of Governor Joe Brown that unarmed soldiers (without firearms) would be equipped with such "medieval" weaponry as a viable armament!

It's 18.75" of historic Confederate Georgia steel, excavated from South Carolina, and published.  A whole lot for very little...

LAYAWAY

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Spectacular ID'ed New Jersey Complete Cavalryman's Belt Rig w/ Weapons

ID'ed to Private George Schaefer of Company K, 3rd New Jersey Cavalry

His NJ-Marked M1863 Remington Revolver & Holster, 1861-Dated & NJ-Marked M1860 Ames Sword & Scabbard

M1851 Eagle Sword Plate & Rig w/Straps, Cap Box, & Pistol Cartridge Box

I've been enjoying this phenomenal ID'ed New Jersey grouping for over 2 months now (I acquired it from at the Dalton Show)...but it's time to let it on the market, finally!  And since my buddy sent all his neat reproduction cavalry gear that I could use as a backdrop, I had to share it all with the world.  This grouping comes with the oral family history from Schaefer family descendents as being that of their ancestor, Private George Schaefer, who enlisted on December 23rd, 1863 within Company K of the 3rd New Jersey Cavalry Regiment.  He would fight with the 3rd NJ for all of the seemingly non-stop campaigning and fighting in Virginia during 1864--from the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, North Anna, Totopotomy, Cold Harbor....you name it...through to Petersburg and the mine explosion and the Weldon Railroad.  Though the family oral history never even hinted at the following fact, I did some research of my own and found that poor Private George had been on furlough in early 1865--and was registered as DESERTED on February 10th, 1865!  I can see how and why that little bit of information doesn't get touted too much in family history, so I can understand that!  But he sure enough did go listed as "deserted" on that date, and apparently had enough of the War!  No wonder he had all of his stuff to survive until today for us to have and enjoy!  Copies of his record and the regimental history shall accompany this rig to the future owner.

There's so much to cover with this entire rig, so lets get down to business: what I love the most about this rig are the two "NJ" state of New Jersey purchased and marked weapons of Pvt. Schaefer.  Both his New Model Remington Army .44 cal. Revolver and his 1861-dated Ames sword are "NJ" marked as crisp, deep, and clearly as the day they were stamped.  The New Model Remington Army revolver is in extremely good to fine condition--being about the finest Remington I've ever personally owned.  It has no oxidation or pitting whatsoever--only crisp metal, edges, and fantastically crisp markings EVERYWHERE.  Best Remington maker's mark and patent info on top of the barrel as you could ever find anywhere.  Even some feint original bluing on the piece.  The action of the piece is as crisp as can be.  Fantastic rifling down the bore to match the rest of the weapon.  Entirely untouched, uncleaned, and unrepaired.  Virtually no wear, dings, or marks anywhere.  THAT GOOD.  Serial number 71582.  Better yet, we still have his REMINGTON holster--no arsenal-made piece of junk issued to every Yank out there, but a true Remington holster.  Shows the perfectly mated fit and wear to this piece--clearly for this beautiful Remington, and stayed in there forever.  The leather is supple, intact, and with intact stitching.  Finial is long-gone, as usual.  Old George did take care of his weapons and gear!  The NJ-marked 1861-dated Ames cavalry sword is also very nice, having no nicks or dings in the blade, an untouched soft-metal gray patina (uncleaned, of course) with tight blade-to-grip fit, all-original wire and wrap still tight and firm, visible Ames maker's mark as well as inspector marks with the "NJ" marking on the ricasso.  Only minor wear to the handle--barely enough to prove that it truly was used by George.  The eagle sword belt plate is a beautiful pre-war or early-war small-tongued specimen, having matching "24" numbers to both the plate and keeper, so you know for certain these have always been together, and they fit perfectly.  The wreath is a gorgeous applied German silver wreath.  There is the classic mold anomaly on the back of the plate which is typical of Ames production plates (which would make sense with the Ames sword).   The leather sword belt is very nice, supple, and sturdy, having the original sword hanger strap with sword hook and sword clip, and the original intact shoulder strap!  The other sword strap is missing, which is common.  The cap box is equally nice and in solid, untouched condition, as is the pistol cartridge box.  NO REPAIRS, NO CLEANING, and NO ALTERATIONS WHATSOEVER.  All-original, and very nice.  All belt loops are solidly attached and tight.

Any way you look at it, you are getting a bargain.  How?  The fine Remington NJ-marked piece and the extremely early 1861-dated Ames sword & scabbard (NJ-marked) are worth over $3000 alone.  You can have them, and all of his leather accouterments for just under $4000...and all the Schaefer history for free...

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Phenomenal "War Trophy" Confederate-Made Artillery Short Sword & Scabbard

Brought Home As A Souvenir By Captain John V. Whitbeck, 128th New York Infantry, from Port Hudson Siege

Comes w/Letter of Authenticity from Shannon Pritchard (Who Originally Acquired This Piece) from

Captain Whitbeck's G-Grandson, w/Notarized Letter from the G-Grandson (William Greene)

Only if this had come from Champion Hill or Vicksburg would I be more ecstatic over the history, provenance, and "over-the-top" display appeal of this fine piece.  (Of course, if it were from Champion Hill--I'd NEVER sell it!  Lucky YOU!)  When I laid eyes on this from Shannon Pritchard earlier this year, it was love at first sight.  Shannon had acquired this directly from the great-grandson, William Greene, of Captain John V. Whitbeck, 128th New York Infantry.  Captain Whitbeck led a company of stalwart New Yorker's through the Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, during mid-1863, which coincided with the Vicksburg Campaign.  Given that both Port Hudson and Vicksburg were the two last remaining Southern strongholds on the Mississippi River, both garrisons fought nobly to the last with their meager rations, ammunition, supplies, and being hopelessly outnumbered and surrounded.  Though Vicksburg withstood continual besiegement for 48 days, Port Hudson held-out longer!  Only until they heard Vicksburg had fallen did the Confederate commander, General Gardner, knew all was lost and finally capitulated.  The Yanks did try to storm Port Hudson several different times, but even though they outnumbered the Confederate defenders 7-to-1, the Johnnies held on.  On May 27th in particular, the Union forces attempted a mass assault upon Port Hudson, which climaxed around the Confederate works as the 128th New York came within mere feet of the position.  Colonel Cowles of the 128th New York was literally bayonetted as he tried to force his way into the rebel works--dying a half-hour later in terrible agony.  One of the few, and true instances of being bayonetted in fighting, I might add.  The Confederates would hold, breaking the many waves of attacks, until the Federals fled for the safety of their entrenchments.  Captain Whitbeck survived the attack, and indeed the War, bringing home this 100% untouched Confederate-made artillery short sword & scabbard as a trophy of their eventual triumph at Port Hudson.  Though Whitbeck would later be assigned as a Staff Officer on Bank's Staff for the Red River Campaign in 1864, and see fighting until the end, it is clear that Port Hudson was the most memorable and bloodiest fighting he endured throughout the War.  Worthy of a souvenir...especially one as fine as this one.  It is an untouched example of an original Confederate-made artilleryman's short sword, having the classic blade shape and roughly-milled quillion of McElroy specimens, but the "feathered" or "scaled" grips are the more common style of the USM1832 artillery sword design--not the typical McElroy ringed handle.  Both the sword & scabbard are untouched and unrepaired.  The throat is missing, but thankfully, the brass toe is present.  Not only does the letter of authenticity from Shannon Pritchard accompany this sword, but the notarized letter from William Greene, Whitbeck's g-grandson, come with this piece.  William describes the direct genealogy of his lineage to Captain Whitbeck, which only validates the story (you can run it through any genealogy website yourself.)  Just as Shannon describes in his letter of authenticity, the scabbard may not be "perfect," but the sword & scabbard has a history and provenance that truly makes this piece "what it is".

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Beautiful & Exquisite US M1850 Field & Staff Officer's Sword w/Leather Scabbard

Complete, Unrepaired, Undamaged, w/Original Wire & Sharkskin Wrap, Nice Blade Etching

Fine Klingenthal-Made Import w/Crisp Maker's Marking & Proofs

I don't know anyone alive who doesn't find the aesthetically beautiful M1850 US Field & Staff Officer's Sword unappealing.  They have such an exquisite floral basket design, with fine blade etching, and that beautiful grey sharkskin wrapping--they truly reflect the stature and respect do to ranking officer's of the age.  This one has the fine distinction of being a French Klingenthal-made import, to which anything French in the 19th Century (much like today) had an air of far more sophistication, status, and class.  Just as true for Northern officers as it was for Southern officers.  What's really intriguing is that this French import has no "US" marking or etching, very well could have been for Southern importation (Johnny wouldn't want to spend so much money on a French piece, running through the blockade, just to see "US" on it!)  Given that their quality and reflective higher pricing displayed the status and wealth of the owner, these fine Klingenthal pieces were very desirable then as with now.  This one has the original and intact leather scabbard with gold-gilted brass mountings, being solidly intact, unrepaired, and undamaged.  The entire seam stitching is intact--can't say that on a lot of them!  The blade is virtually nick-free, and entirely uncleaned and untouched, showing the fine floral/vine etching.  The Klingenthal maker's mark is on the spine of the blade by the base, and is as clear as the day it was made.  Same is true with the Klingenthal proofs.  The blade is tight--no wobble or play.  As well, the original sharkskin wrap and tight brass wire are intact, though obviously this one shows the expected "in-the-field" service wear on the wrap that proves this one was used in the War.  Beautiful brass floral-design guard, with all the brass having a gorgeous mellowed and uncleaned patina.  The sword fit's perfect and snug within it's original scabbard.  Original washer also present.

It's just a beautiful & true Field & Staff Officer's sword and scabbard--100% original, intact, complete, and untouched (no monkey-business like most you get your hands on these days).  Best of all, being devoid of ANY US casting in the guard or etching on the blade, this one may very well have been a sword for a Southern officer.  Clearly an issued and used piece, it is still beautiful....and more affordable than you think...

SOLD

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Museum-Quality Excavated CS Sword & Scabbard

"Dog River" Cavalry Saber with Brass-Mounted Scabbard Rings, Vividly Clear Crude CS Lap-Seam

This is bar-none the finest Confederate dug sword and scabbard I have ever personally beheld.  It is hard to describe this seemingly unprecedented and unmatched quality for a truly dug specimen.  I've seen a couple dug Confederate swords alone (without scabbard), and another sword and scabbard dug together, but even they weren't the quality of this.  Indeed, you can still take the sword in and out of the scabbard easily.  Obviously a very early dug specimen (and in very "friendly" ground without a lot of mineralization!).  The brass mounted scabbard rings as well as the brass 3-branch guard have the most beautiful mellowed dug plum/green patina, classic to early-dug brass and copper items.  The pommel, guard, and blade are still quite well attached, and as you can see, only the most minute ground action anywhere.  It comes from the award-winning dug weapons and belt buckle display of my local friend, Claude Maley.  He has set-up his massive display for years at many shows, and as you probably already know, has won so many awards thanks to the quality of showcase items like this.  Now, it can be in your collection.  Bet you won't see one like this for sale anytime soon...

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Wonderful Displaying M1840 "Wristbreaker" Heavy Cavalry Sword & Scabbard

No collection or Civil War-themed display can go without the truly archetypical and most widely-used sword in the War, North or South...the US Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Sword, nicknames the "wristbreaker" sword.  Aptly nicknamed, it was a large, long, and heavy-framed cavalry sword of the mid-19th century, and was a favorite of cavalrymen on both sides throughout the War.  As always noted, it was the personal choice of "that Devil" General Forrest himself, as it's sheer size was optimal for his large stature and nature for hand-to-hand combat.  This one is probably a foreign-made and imported specimen, having no maker's markings visible at all.  The original scabbard fits perfectly, and obviously the original scabbard to this blade.  The metal on both the blade and scabbard are in nice untouched condition--no cleaning or polishing.  The brass is a pretty mellow-mustard patina.  Typical anti-rattling dents are in the scabbard near the bottom, as expected, and a small thin spot in the metal near the drag.  The handle has been re-wrapped and re-wired, obviously.  It is an excellent and inexpensive way to put a real Civil War sword on the wall, and it displays as well as one double the price.

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Exceptionally Rare Leech & Rigdon-Made Fighting Knife

Outstanding Battlefield Pick-Up Find from the Historic Battle of Nashville

Here's an item you will rarely see ever, and to be an actual battlefield picked-up relic from the Battle of Nashville, it is one-of-a-kind, indeed.  This is an exceptionally rare side-knife/fighting knife, being made of all cast-iron construction, and attributed to the famous Confederate manufacturing company of Leech & Rigdon.  Starting their company as Memphis Novelty Works within Memphis, Tennessee, they quickly had to move their operations elsewhere during the early stages of the war, as Memphis and other localities they would relocate to, were threatened by the oncoming Yankee armies.  It is a classic example of Southern simplicity of design and manufacture.  Utilizing merely all cast iron to produce, and having a very utilitarian form of design, it is an archetypical specimen of Confederate craftsmanship.  Only a handful like this are known to exist.  The handle measures 5.25" long, and the blade itself measures 6.25" long.  Total length is 11.5" long.  The iron on the blade is clearly in original condition, with no pitting whatsoever, as you can see in the photo's below.  It must have been within a scabbard/sheath when it was lost upon the wreckage-strewn Nashville battlefield, and thus protected the iron perfectly.  The exposed handle has only the most minor ground action from being exposed to the elements for some years on the ground, but in still in very good "pick-up" condition.  The very small point at the tip has broken off--only about an 1/8" of that very tip is missing.  This piece was within the personal collection of the world-renown Civil War collector Mr. Bill Beard for many years, who was an ardent collector of all things made by Leech & Rigdon/Memphis Novelty Works.  His very old tag is still on the piece.  A copy of the recent appraisal by top Civil War dealer Will Gorges shall accompany this piece to its new owner. 

$1250

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Beautiful & All-Original British M1853 "Enfield" Cavalry Sword & Scabbard

Classic Early-Style Sword & Scabbard Imported Into the Confederacy

Among the many crates full of rifles being ran through the blockade, the South's other weapon in great demand on any runner into port was the long blade.  The myriad of existing blockade runner and CS government receipt logs, as well as the pleas made by the CS government to her purchasing agents abroad, show the demand for swords om foverseas to be second only to firearms.  The most staple British imported sword at the time was their M1853 "Enfield" Cavalry Sword.  Believing it to be a far more advanced design for the age, the British adopted this sword into Her Majesty's service as their standard cavalry sword.  Being a little smaller in length and a straighter blade (as apposed to the long and largely curved cutting blades of centuries past), it was reflective of the recognized more modern role of cavalry upon the battlefield of rifled cannon and muskets.  The days of large-scale grand attack by mounted forces against infantry were becoming obsolete, and thus the sword was evolving into more of a wieldy thrusting weapon--lighter and straighter.  No more brass basket guards as iron metal was just as good, and was just as sturdy and reliable as ever.  The South would import many shipments of these, and some examples even bear Confederate importation markings (Georgia "G" stampings on some, others with Isaac & Company maker's markings).  This specimen offered here is a fantastic representative example with the early-style sword-hanger mounts--the kind imported into the War.  It is entirely original and complete in every way, right down to the original washer present and intact.  The blade has no nicks or dings on the sharpened edge whatsoever.  Very pretty metal throughout, with the blade still being a quite nice "armory bright".  The scabbard is solidly intact--no worn spots or oxidation eating through anywhere.  The metal basket and original grips look great.  The blade is tight--no wiggle or looseness at all.  It truly is a fine representative example of the English cavalry sword that we eagerly unloaded off a vessel any time they could slip into port...

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Gorgeous ID'ed Fighting Knife/Dirk, Complete w/Scabbard, Finely Engraved, Etched, & Damascus Shading, Silver Mounts

ID'ed to James Berres of the 2nd Tennessee Cavalry (US) Murfreesboro, Tennessee

"J Berres" Finely Engraved Upon Sheath Throat, and Hand-Carved Into Handle

Spectacular soldier ID'ed fighting knife/dirk, in beautiful condition, having the most exquisite and crystal clear engraving, complete with original leather and brass adorned sheath.  Best of all, the soldier's name of "J Berres" is hand-engraved upon the wooden handle, and finely engraved into the scabbard throat.  This piece is 100% complete, intact, and untouched!  No repairs, and no "monkey business".  It is almost certainly a foreign-made/imported piece, being most likely English, but possibly French or German.  It has the quality and feel of a Scheffield.  The blade measures just over 5", and the entire length is 10".  The coin silver scabbard tip, throat, and handle attachment all stand-out gorgeously with the dark (appears to be rosewood) handle and the superb metal condition.  Absolutely no pitting or damage to the blade whatsoever.  The engraving, etching, and Damascus shading upon both sides of the blade are simply spectacular.  The only possible areas that aren't absolutely "perfect" is the usual weak leather by the scabbard tip (from years of service), and one hairline crack in the handle (which is so imperceptible, it doesn't even show in the pictures.)  This blade originally came from the family of James Berres, who was a cavalryman in the 2nd Tennessee Cavalry (US).  The regiment was formed in Murfreesboro, Tennessee in July 1862, and saw almost endless fighting and operations from their formation until the very end of the war.  They participated against Bragg's Kentucky 1862 Campaign in the Cumberland Gap area, then back home to fight at Stones River, through the Tullahoma Campaign, on to Chickamauga, spending most of 1864 against Forrest and other raids, returning to defend Nashville, and actually spending much of 1865 in Mississippi in Louisiana.  A copy of James Berres service record is photographed below, and shall accompany this piece to the future owner.  This piece was just recently acquired from a large auction, and is now "in the open" for the collecting community.

Excellent ID'ed Tennessee fighting knife, from a soldier that saw years of bloody service.  Good luck finding an ID'ed fighting knife with it's original and intact sheath this fine anywhere near this price...

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Nice Original US M1860 Imported Light Cavalry Saber & Scabbard--Original Wire & Wrap

A really good, representative example US Model 1860 Light Cavalry Saber with original scabbard, made in Europe and imported into the War.  This one has the original wire and wrap present--no "re-wrap" job here.  Only a couple small spots of wear seen anywhere on the grip.  The wire is tight.  Good metal blade quality, having a nice dull metal-gray original uncleaned patina.  The original scabbard is a good patina as well, having the cursory anti-rattle "dings" in the scabbard (to keep the blade tight while riding on a horse with it, to keep it from rattling all over creation--troopers commonly did this to their scabbards.)  The brass guard/basket is very pretty, and has the rack/production alpha-numeric stamping on it.  An nice displaying US Model 1860 sword & scabbard, imported by the thousands into the War, and for a very affordable cost...

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