The Picket Post

The Picket Post
(540) 371-7703 1016 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Pickpost@aol.com
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FEATURED ITEMS
On this page we feature a bit of everything from the Civil War era and earlier.

US NAVY MODEL 1861 COLSTON FLARE PISTOL
About 9.5" in overall length cast brass with iron trigger, hammer and flare securing lever and a "barrel" receptacle to accept Colston patent flare. The left side of frame marked in three lines: U.S. N. Y. W / W.N.J. / 1864, indicating manufacture at the US Navy Ordnance Yard facility in Washington, inspected by WNJ (US Navy inspector of Ordnance W.N. Jeffers) and dated 1864. The signal "pistol" was not a conventional flare gun that projected a flare into the air, but rather a flare lighter and holder that ignited one of the various Coston patent colored flares, which were held in the "pistol" while it burned. Red was 0, green was 1, green/red was 2, white/white was 3, green/white was 4, red/white/green was 5, white/red/white was 6, white/green was 7, red/white/red was 8 and red/white was 9. The letter "P" (prepare for signal) was white, "A" (affirm) for answering or ready to receive was white/red/green. "Int" (interrogatory) for questioning was white/green/white, "N" for numbers following was green/red, "B" which requested information, was blue/blue and "Geo", meaning not understood, was green/white/green. Approximately 1,000 of these signal pistols were produced circa 1861 through the early 1870s, and Civil War dated examples are extremely rare! This is a water find from the City Point, Virginia area.
Reduced Price!!  $ 895.00

SHALER 3-PIECE BULLET, M&M # 520
Dug together in a camp in Stafford County, Virginia occupied by New York troops!It's a little blackened (fire pit?) and the top two pieces are stuck together, though we didn't try too hard to separate them!
$ 100.00

Rare!! EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE NAVY "SHIP BUTTON" CS-68

Backmark: E.M. Lewis & Co./ Richmond 24mm Coat size. Note that while the shank appears to be gone, there is something rattling around inside the button and could very well be the original shank that fell in when the solder failed.

This super rare and desirable button was found on April 11th 2020 in a small Georgia camp in Fredericksburg (photos of recovery are posted). The camp only has 4 or 5 huts that can be seen today. As far as we know the buttons came off a coat of a naval officer who likely served aboard a CSN ship. Once a ship sank or was captured any survivors were reassigned to other units, some in the Navy and others into land units. Many were sent to units from their home state. As of this writing new houses are being built on top of this camp & before next spring the camp will be underneath the yards of new houses. Sad but true ...

Reduced price!! $ 3295.00

BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED EARLY HORN CUP
This horn cup features an incredible scrimshaw scene of a horse drawn carriage being driven by a man with a lady at his side. The carriage is marked "G R" (George Rex) below the drivers seat and there is a person looking out from inside as well as a carriage attendant standing on the back. It is being pulled by four horses down a street with houses and trees in the background. The name "W. Carter" is at the top. The cup stands about 4" tall and is a2" wide at the bottom and about 3" at the top. There is a bit of chipping to one area on the rim, but is very nice overall!
$ 350.00

EXCAVATED WAR OF 1812 ERA BRITISH 7th REGIMENT OF FOOT ROYAL FUSILIERS BUTTON
Beautiful condition, 27mm coat size, 1-piece stamped brass button with VII on cross within garter and eight pointed star on the face and backmarked "Eginton / Birmingham" on the back. The shank is missing, but other than that, this one is a beauty!
$ 150.00

EXCAVATED REVOLUTIONARY WAR ERA BRITISH INSIGNIA
These were found this year at a site in King George County, Virginia. The cast brass crown is approximately 1-7/8" wide by 1-38" tall and is double sided. It looks like part of a cross belt plate, or perhaps a cartridge box plate.   We could not find an exact match, but see pages 10, 11 & 159 of Insignia of Independence by Don Troiani and James Kochan for similar pieces.

The other cast brass piece is about 2-1/2" tall and 1-5/8" wide, with a piece missing at the top. It has one finished side and we don't know exactly what it is except early and cool!

Both pieces $ 450.00

NORTH CAROLINA MILITARY INSTITUTE BUTTON; SU-272
Backmark: Scovill / Mfg. Co. Cuff size 14mm.
Perfect, with upright shank.
Another beautiful button!
Reduced price!! $ 750.00

NORTH CAROLINA "SUNBURST" BUTTON; NC-14
Confederate local blank back. Coat size 22mm.
Perfect 5 point star with stippled background that still retains gilt! Perfect shank as well.
Just a beautiful button!
Reduced price!! $ 850.00

SANITARY COMMISSION BUTTON, FD-71A
B/M: Scovill Mf'g. Co / Waterbury.   22mm coat size. Perfect face with no wear.
The shank is a little loose, but still intact.The United States Sanitary Commission was a private relief agency created by federal legislation on June 18, 1861, to support sick and wounded soldiers of the United States Army during the American Civil War. It raised an estimated $25 million in Civil War era revenue to support the cause, and enlisted thousands of volunteers.
$ 695.00

DISCOVERING VIRGINIA'S COLONIAL ARTIFACTS, by Bill Dancy Back in Print!!
This wonderful new 393 page hardbound book is filled with information on finding, researching, recovering, identifying and documenting colonial artifacts, and while most of it is focused on Virginia sites and relics, it would certainly apply to any area!   It is filled with wonderful, all color photography of artifacts, including military as well as everyday items from house sites, and even includes some Civil War and other items found in the same areas. If you've read any of the author's articles in historic publications, you know that he has the experience, expertise and writing skills to make this a must have!
$ 59.00

EARLY BATTLEFIELD PICK-UP CONFEDERATE SNAKE BUCKLE
The old typed tag says it was picked up at Gettysburg in 1932 "between the Wheatfield and Devil's Den". The snake is pretty plain, with almost no detail at all, but it's a nice large size, being 65mm x 89mm" with an almost non-dug patina except for some heavier corrosion on one belt loop. .
$ 850.00

EXCAVATED CS-130Av CONFEDERATE CAVALRY BUTTON Rare Cuff Size!
B/M: S. Isaacs Campbell & Co / London (Hard to read, but it is there!)
13mm cuff size. Nice, chocolate brown with no damage at all!
Dug at Petersburg, Virginia.
$ 895.00

UNIFORM BUTTONS OF THE UNITED STATES, 1776 - 1865 Warren K. Tice.
A very lightly used copy. 519 pages 8-1/2" X 11" full of pictures and descriptions of buttons! This book has become one of the "must haves" as it contains many buttons not covered in Albert's, and also lists every known backmark for each button. It includes buttons all the way back to the American Revolution, and a section covering the complete period of Confederate manufacture, so as a Civil War button reference, this is great!

These are very hard to find and this one is in excellent condition!
We have one copy! $ 350.00

18th or 19th CENTURY SIGNAL CANNON
This is a cast iron cannon barrel, about 9" long and about 3" across the trunnions.
It's approximately .60 caliber (a 3-ring Minie Ball fits nicely!) and the touch hole is open
so it's meant to be fired. Displays nicely as is, but would look great if you mounted it on a carriage!
Reduced Price!  $ 395.00    (rm)

BANNERMAN America's Mogul of Militaria, Documentary DVD

After the American Civil War, Francis Bannerman saw an unprecedented opportunity to purchase enormous quantities of surplus military equipment at Federal auctions. He went on to sell guns, swords, cannon, uniforms and accoutrements at his store in New York City and in his well known catalogs. This success led to him opening an Emporium on Broadway and the construction of "Bannerman's Castle on an island in the Hudson River, all while preserving artifacts and information for generations to come. This is a full length documentary and it is fascinating. If you've been collecting for any time at all, you will see some familiar faces and names mentioned and even interviewed!

$ 20.00

CIVIL WAR ERA SIDE KNIFE
Wonderful condition, about 14" long with a 9-1/2" blade and a great stag handle
Leather scabbard is nice with a German silver throat, but the matching scabbard tip is missing.
Reduced Price! $ 395.00    (rm) On Hold!!!

THOMAS GRISWOLD & C0. CONFEDERATE NAVAL CUTLASS

26″ overall, 21″ wasp-waist blade. Brass guard and fish scale handle. The blade is a smooth grey to silver and all of the brass parts have a wonderful, dark antique brass patina. This is the scarcest of the normally encountered Confederate naval cutlasses and Henry Thomas and Arthur Breese Griswold of New Orleans were arguably the finest CS sword makers of the war. The blade is marked with the desirable full manufacturer's name: "Thomas Griswold & Co. / New Orleans". We also know that this sword was manufactured early in the war as New Orleans had fallen to Union control by May of1862.

$ 6595.00

Civil War Cavalry & Artillery Sabers: A Study of United States Cavalry and Artillery Sabers, 1833 - 1865 by John H. Thillmann

Out of print and highly sought after, this is the ultimate guide to sabers of the Civil War. This is easily the most important sword book written in decades, and is illustrated with 1,400 photographs, 60 of them in color. It also includes all sabers from the pre-war period, back to 1833. Every make and every known variation is covered with full history, tables and illustrations. Photographs include hundreds of close-ups showing the small features that tell one saber apart from the others. Published in 2001 it quickly disappeared from shelves!. This one is an unused hard cover with original dust jacket; 520 pages including appendices, bibliography, and index. Cover measures approximately 11 � by 9 inches.

This copy is signed by the author and comes with a book card that is also signed!

$ 350.00

BEAUTIFUL CONFEDERATE PAINTED CANTEEN
This is one of the several raised center type militia canteens that are often associated with Confederate troops.
The raised face has been painted with a camp scene, surrounded by a nice yellow border.
Note that the sling straps are all slightly different sizes!
$ 1295.00

BEAUTIFUL PAINTED AND ID'd CANTEEN
This is your standard Union "Bullseye" canteen that has been painted to reflect its owner's service.
Henry Wesner enlisted as a Private on 9/2/1864 in the 205th Pennsylvania Infantry.
The 205th PA was heavily engaged at Petersburg, suffering losses of 125 men killed and wounded.
Some of the red background has flaked off, but the center portion with all the important details is solid!
This piece is stunning! $ 1295.00

WHITWORTH BULLETS, McKee & Mason # 250
The Whitworth rifle was an English made single-shot muzzleloader with excellent long-range accuracy for its era, that saw extensive use with the Confederate sharpshooters in the American Civil War, even claiming the lives of several Union generals, including John Sedgwick, one of the highest-ranking Union officers killed during the Civil War, shot on May 9, 1864, at Spotsylvania. The Whitworth rifle was widely regarded as the world's first sniper rifle. These rounds are both .45 caliber with A being 1.32" long, while B is 1.42" in length. Bullet A also shows a hint of the hexagonal rifling.

Your choice $ 250.00 each.    A is On Hold!!! B is still available!

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE FRAME BUCKLE
Measuring 76mm x 65mm, this is one of the larger sizes of the frame style buckle, and this one is beautiful,
with a gorgeous patina, and perfectly formed teeth.
See plate 173 on page 99 of Steve Mullinax's Confederate Belt Buckles & Plates, Expanded Edition for an similar example of this style of plate.
$ 575.00   On Hold!!

CORPORATION OF FREDERICKSBURG $2 BANKNOTE, Dated 1861
Approximately 6-3/4" X 2-7/8" in circulated, but solid condition.
This was printed by the firm of Hoyer & Ludwig in Richmond, Virginia and is hand signed and dated November 2, 1861.
$ 75.00

DUG COMPANY LETTER "M"
This is the regulation size, approximately 1-1/16" X 1-3/8" stamped brass hat letter "M" which is the hardest one to find!
Perfect condition, but the attachment wires have rusted away.
$ 395.00

Out of print, but we have one copy:

EXCAVATED ARTIFACTS FROM BATTLEFIELDS AND CAMPSITES OF THE CIVIL WAR 1861 - 1854 SUPPLEMENT 1 by Stanley Phillips.
This is the 1980,1st and ONLY printing of this book, which was a supplement to the earlier version. 200+ pages with pictures and
descriptions of artifacts recovered from Civil War sites. Plates, buckles, buttons, corps badges, bottles, canteens, spurs, stirrups,
ID tags, weapons..... you name it, he's got some pictured.
The dust cover only has a few tears and edge chips, and the book is in excellent condition!
$ 95.00

THIRD MODEL VIRGINIA MANUFACTORY SWORD, 3rd Virginia Regiment
Second Models were originally made 1808 - 1821 with a blade less curved than the second model and a 36" length. This blade has been shortened to approximately 33 �� in length at some point. The blade is stamped "3 Va Regt" on the spine and features the typical narrow and wide fuller on each side and edge has no real nicks. The blade is fairly smooth with a mixture of gray to brown. A number �5� is stamped on the bottom flat of blade on one side of the ricasso, and a "3" is stamped on the other side.  Grooved wooden grip is cracked and has a piece missing under the pommel. There is no leather cover or brass wire wrap remaining, but the wood has a pleasing smooth dark patina.

Reduced Price! $ 2195.00

CONFEDERATE Non-Excavated "CS over A" BUTTON CS-88
Extremely rare, and usually found with weak letters and/or dings in the face due to the high convex and low quality brass. This one is very sharp and is in excellent condition! 17mm (which is the only size they come in).
Reduced Price! $ 5795.00

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE STAFF OFFICER'S BUTTON, CS-44 (Tice CS296)
B/M: local. Coat Size, 22mm
Another extremely difficult to find from the Confederate Staff group. Note the unique eagle with a series of stars on the shield.
This rare button is seldom seen with any gilt, but on this one it surrounds the eagle. The shank is bent over, but intact.
Reduced Price! $ 995.00

WREATH FROM CONFEDERATE TWO PIECE BUCKLE
This is for the "CS" buckle and is approximately 51mm tall at the belt loop and the wreath itself
is about 50mm. Dug at Monroe Bridge, Virginia.
Reduced Price! $ 695.00

MILITIA RIFLEMAN'S CAP PLATE, Circa 1830
This stamped brass plate, approximately 6-1/4" tall x 4-3/4" wide, features an eagle holding a hunting horn in its beak and two wire attaching loops and a plume holder on the back
See American Military Headgear Insignia by Campbell & O'Donnell, page 267 for similar examples.

Reduced Price!   $ 595.00

NON-EXCAVATED MILITIA PLATE, circa 1818 - 1835
Approximately 70mm x 70mm" stamped brass plate in wonderful, condition with belt bar and tongue.
This is just a beautiful example of American military accouterments!
See page 103 of American Military Belt Plates by Michael J. O'Donnell and J. Duncan Campbell.
$ 795.00

"CHEESE BOX" CANTEEN, MAKER MARKED "27" circa 1820-1830

Wonderful painted wood canteen, typical of New England militias. One side has the unit number "27" and the other
has a red oval where perhaps the units initials would have gone. Approximately 6-1/2" diameter and 2-1/2"deep.
The three leather straps that held the sling in place are all there and show signs of use, but are still solid.
The spout hole is no longer perfectly round, but is somewhat elongated.
This one is absolutely gorgeous!

$ 895.00

NON-EXCAVATED CAP PLATE, VOLUNTEER MILITIA INFANTRY, circa 1817 - 1830
Approximately 5-1/4" x 3-3/4" die struck white metal plate with attachment holes on each side.
This is just a beautiful example of American military accouterments, and the silver color is striking!
See page 232 of American Military Headgear Insignia by J. Duncan Campbell and Michael J. O'Donnell.

$ 1200.00

EXCAVATED PORTION OF NAVAL BUCKLE
Approximately 2-3/8" x 1-7/8" silvered cast brass with applied clasps. The other half would be identical, but without the clasps.
See page 45 of Relics of the Coastal Empire: The Civil War Years for a photo of the other half.
Dug in Caroline County, Virginia.
$ 250.00

EXCAVATED HAT LETTER "M"
Approximately 1-1/8" x 1-1/4" stamped brass. No attachment wires, but the letter is perfect!|
This is the hardest hat letter to find!
$ 395.00

COLONIAL CURRENCY, North Carolina
Issue of December, 1771
5 Shillings
Creased down the center.
$ 135.00 (K1)

COLONIAL CURRENCY, North Carolina
Issue of December, 1771
5 Shillings
Creased down the center.
$ 135.00 (2)

EXCAVATED SADDLE SHIELD
About 2" tall by 1-5/8" wide.
Nice greenish-brown with only a small area of chipping on one corner.
$ 35.00

LEAD FILLED SWORD BELT PLATE ON BELT
Near perfect example of a rare plate. Not much is known of these stamped brass, lead filled sword belt plates, but they apparently were too fragile for field use and so are relatively uncommon. This one came on this belt and fits nicely, but we can't say for a fact whether it's original to it or not, as these plates and keepers are not numbered.
Nice rare plate on the belt!
$ 750.00 On Hold!!!

EXCAVATED CIVIL WAR BULLET MOLD
Nice, complete iron bullet mold for Colt or other similar revolvers.
4-7/8" overall length.
$ 85.00

EXCAVATED CIVIL WAR "BULLSEYE" ROSETTE
From an old collection dug in the 1980's, this stamped brass, lead filled rosette has a smooth, dark, chocolate brown patina.
No attachment wires remain, but no dents or damage!
$ 40.00

FOREIGN SINGLE SHOT PISTOL
This is a small pistol (about 9-3/4" long overall with a 5" barrel) but it will fire a large (approximately .58 caliber) round!
Solid condition and mechanically fine. Would have been a great back-up piece for a soldier with a .58 caliber musket.
$ 395.00 (53-1)

EXCAVATED CAPE PIN
Cast brass star & crescent (7th Corps) cape pin in perfect condition.
Nice, smooth dark (darker than photo) chocolate brown.
$ 195.00

EXCAVATED PATRIOTIC EAGLE HAT PIN
Stamped brass pin with no dents, cracks or dings.
It laid with some iron piece against it in the ground, so it has a rusty discoloration on the front.
$ 110.00

EXCAVATED PAIR OF EPAULETTES
Nice pair of dug, stamped brass shoulder scales.
$ 100.00 for the pair

EXCAVATED "HR" or "RH" HAT PINS
These are large (35mm 0r 1-3/8" tall) stamped brass, lead filled hat letters.
We have a complete "R" and half of an "H" both dug together.
$ 110.00 for the pair

EXCAVATED NORTH CAROLINA "SUNBURST" BUTTON, NC-16
23mm Coat size. Backmark: blank Confederate local.
The shank is missing as usual... the spot soldered shank was the weak feature of these buttons.
$ 125.00  On Hold!!!

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE STAFF BUTTON, CS 26
21mm Coat size. Backmark: blank Confederate local. Real attractive Confederate Local with chocolate brown patina and nice gold surrounding the eagle. There's even a bit of gold in the channel on the back and the iron hook survives, though it is bent a bit. Overall a very attractive Confederate Officer's button.
$ 395.00

EXCAVATED CAMP CANDLE SPIKE
These utilitarian devices are often dug in Civil War camps. Just drive the spike into a block of wood,
or the branch of a tree, insert the candle and light up the night!
Dug near Lake Anna in Spotsylvania County, Virginia.
$ 50.00

PAIR OF BRASS SPURS
Excellent condition, complete with leather straps and buckles!
These most likely date from the 19th century, though they have some 18th century features.
These are beautiful and have their original rowels.
$ 395.00      (49-25)

US HEAVY ARTILLERY BELT RIG WITH "U.S." ARTILLERY BUCKLE

Excellent condition! Beautiful Ames sword with a minty scabbard marked "United States" over the inspection date of "1835" on one side, and an eagle over "N.P> Ames / Springfield" on the other. The blade does have some minor edge roughness. The buff leather belt is maker marked on the back: "Manufactured by J. Pittman / NY". The buckle is the "US" two piece artillery style. This is a great rig in super condition!

$ 2395.00   (52-2)

EXCAVATED RHODE ISLAND ID DISC
The dug and cleaned brass disc is hand engraved with a name at the top that is unreadable due to corrosion. Under that is a large "1" and "6th RI Vol(s)" over "1861".A quick internet search shows that the 6th Rhode Island " failed to complete organization", so maybe this guy started out with the 6th and went into the 1st RI which would explain the big "1". If we could read his name it would answer a lot of questions, and maybe further research could reveal more.
$ 495.00

IMAGE OF NEW YORK SOLDIER WITH "SNY" BUCKLE
Nice 1/6th plate tintype of a seated soldier in a frock coat proudly displaying his "SNY" (State of New York) belt buckle. The buckle is worn upside down because the soldier knew that the photography methods of the day resulted in the reversal of the finished image. By inverting the buckle, he at least kept the "S" on the left in the final picture. The backdrop is a camp scene with a US flag as well as tents and a cannon. His right eye is interesting as it appears to be discolored and off center. Perhaps a wound?

The case is also outstanding, being a molded thermoplastic, or gutta percha with a label that reads: "Genuine / Union Case label / Improved / Fine Gilt and Burnished / Hinge / Scovill Mf'g Co." The case is also a more uncommon brown color and features a patriotic scene on both sides with crossed cannon, shields, a liberty cap, pennants and flags. It's a beauty!
$ 695.00

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE WHITWORTH BULLET M&M #250
The English-made Whitworth rifle-musket possessed excellent long range accuracy and was used extensively by Confederate sharpshooters, even claiming the lives of several Union generals including John F. Reynolds (Gettysburg) and John Sedgwick (Spotsylvania Courthouse).
This is the .45 caliber cylindrical bullet used in the Whitworth. The overall condition is very good with a great patina. These Confederate Whitworth Sharpshooter Bullet are very desirable and highly collectible.
$ 250.00

U.S. CAVALRY OFFICERS SWORD!
Blade measures 35� in length and is heavy, in the 1840 style, with a flat back etched with �IRON.PROOF� at the base. On its flat sides the blade and etched, frosted foliage at base, and high quality etched eagle with �E Pluribus Unum� in a ribbon, and �U.S.�. The blade is bright and ding free with only slight signs of wear. It is not maker marked, but is undoubtedly a product of Clauberg /Solingen [See Thillman, Cavalry Sabers, pages 142 & 143.]. The leather washer is present. Gilt guard is decorated with leaf sections top, bottom and branches with a peacock flower spread on the guard. The grip is shark skin and has the 1860 model characteristic of a contoured center swelled grip. Scabbard mounts and throat are brass, with the hanger hardware and the drag being nicely engraved.

Cavalry officer's swords are hard to find!

$ 1895.00   (dj-1)

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE "GUTTER BACK" FRAME BUCKLE
And this may be the most sensible and serviceable style of buckle produced by either side! About 63mm X 70mm
This is the style with the depressed "gutter" on one side and is in excellent condition. Dug in the Fredericksburg, Virginia area.
See plate 171 on page 98 of Steve Mullinax's Confederate Belt Buckles & Plates, Expanded Edition for an example of this style of plate.
$ 550.00      On Hold!!!

EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE "GEORGIA FRAME" BUCKLE
A most sensible and serviceable style of buckle produced by either side! About 63mm X 72mm
This one is in excellent condition. Dug in the Fredericksburg, Virginia area.
See plate 173 on page 99 of Steve Mullinax's Confederate Belt Buckles & Plates, Expanded Edition for an example of this style of plate.
$ 550.00

EXCAVATED ALLEGHENY ARSENAL STYLE SPUR
Nice dug patina. Not marked, but in the style of Allegheny Arsenal products.
Good shape with a bend in the area of one of the strap slots. Not a real sharp bend, and no cracks.
$ 95.00

1915 UCV REUNION BADGE, Richmond, Virginia

This is a classic piece that is about 3-1/2" in overall length and 1-3/4" in overall width. All of the metal parts are nice with no damage, except that the enameled Battle Flag has a bit of wear, with some of the enamel flaking. The suspension pin reads "Richmond Virginia / 1915" and the badge has "25th Annual Reunion / UCV" with an image of Robert E. Lee set into an enameled Battle Flag. The badge is maker marked "The Whitehead & Hoag Co / Newark, NT" in a tiny circle on the back.

$ 395.00

"HOME FOR CONFEDERATE WOMEN" DONATION PINS
Approximately 7/8" in diameter, this 1920s "Home for Confederate Women" celluloid donation pin.
The home was set up in Richmond, Virginia by the Robert E. Lee Camp Confederate veterans.
They are solid, but have discolored a bit.
SOLD!!! (41-26)

SMALL ENGLISH FLINTLOCK PISTOL

These little flintlocks weren't much use at a distance, but sure are cool looking! This one is approximately .40 caliber and has an 1-1/2" barrel, so you'd better be close to whatever you're shooting at! Super attractive brass frame with engraved panoply of flags on each side surrounding an oval panel the encloses the makers name "Jno. Jones & Son" on one side, and "London" on the other.

The gun itself is about 5-3/4" long overall. Everything looks to be original and it is complete and in good working order, except that it doesn't firmly catch in the full cocked position, though the half cock holds well.

Great little display piece!

SOLD!!! (38-11)

SHARPS 4-SHOT PEPPERBOX PISTOL
These are some seriously cool weapons that Sharps began making in 1859 with four .22 caliber barrels and a firing pin in the hammer that rotates each time the hammer is pulled back, so as to fire a different barrel each time the trigger is pulled. This one is still functional with the pin rotating properly and a strong main spring. The brass frame is marked "C. Sharps / Patent 1859" in a circle on one side and "C. Sharps / Philada. PA" in a circle on the other. The frame was originally plated and some of the silver remains in protected areas. The original wood grips are also in good shape. Low serial number 2245 is on both the barrel and butt strap.
A nice gun overall!
$ 595.00 (42-8) On Hold!!!

EXCAVATED NEW YORK militia BUTTON, Albert AY-79 or Tice AY215
Coat size (23mm) Backmark: Extra Quality.
Nice smooth brown background with beautiful gold surrounding the eagle! Shank is bent, but intact.
$ 65.00

CONFEDERATE & SOUTHERN AGENT MARKED SHOTGUNS by Russ A. Pritchard, Jr. and John W. Ashworth, Jr.
This wonderful new 384 page hardbound book is filled with new information on Southern shotguns and the contents are astounding! Studies of southern state archives uncovered state participation in organized acquisition of large numbers of shotguns to arm their soldiers and that the use of shotguns was far more prevalent than previously believed. This book is full of color photos of these guns with and their markings, including those of Southern Agents and Retailers!
$ 95.00

THE ENGLISH CONNECTION by C.A. Huey & R. Pritchard with M. Nichols, Tim Prince & Dean Thomas.

Close to 600 pages full of great information and color photographs detailing the British trade with Americans during the Civil War. Detailed information on Enfields, Handguns such as Kerr, Beaumont-Adams, LeMat, Tranter and more, Ammunition (cartridges, caps, molds and more) Swords, Accoutrements, Artillery, Uniforms and all with great detailed color photos! What do all those mysterious markings on Enfield muskets mean? Finally, some answers! This book is truly a "must have"!

$ 95.00

MINIATURE PAINTING OF LORD HORATIO NELSON
Nelson was noted for his inspirational leadership, grasp of strategy, and unconventional tactics, which together resulted in a number of decisive British naval victories, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. He was wounded several times in combat, losing the sight in one eye in Corsica and most of one arm in the unsuccessful attempt to conquer Santa Cruz de Tenerife. He was shot and killed during his final victory at the Battle of Trafalgar near the port city of C�diz in 1805.
The beautiful frame is about 5-1/2" x 4-1/2" and the painting is about 3-1/2" x 2-3/4"and is protected by a slightly convex cover glass.
$ 550.00

8 SECOND
1863 8 SECOND
1864 10 SECOND
1863 10 SECOND
1864 12 SECOND
1863
SOLD!! 15 SECOND
1863 15 SECOND
1864

FRANKFORD ARSENAL PAPER TIME FUZE PACKAGES
Complete and in excellent condition, these packages contain the time fuses for artillery rounds.
These would have been inserted just before firing, with the time selected to ensure that the round
exploded in the right location for maximum effect. Times are printed on the color coded package
along with instructions for removing the fuze from the pack.
Reduced Price! $ 75.00 each, Your Choice

20 Second
1864

25 Second
1864

30 Second
1863
FRANKFORD ARSENAL LONG RANGE PAPER TIME FUZE PACKAGES
Complete and in excellent condition, these packages contain the time fuses
for artillery rounds.

These are much harder to find than the shorter timed varieties!

Reduced Price! $ 150.00 each, Your Choice

CS-1-A CONFEDERATE STAFF OFFICER'S BUTTON
B\M: S. Isaacs Campbell & Co / London / St. James St 26mm coat size, loaded with gold and absolutely beautiful!
This is the classic Confederate officer's button with the drooped wing eagle and "CSA" in the shield!
Reduced Price! $ 1395.00

CONFEDERATE Non-Excavated "MANUSCRIPT E" ENGINEERS BUTTON CS-152
B/M: Rivet'd & Solder'd under a coat of arms. Coat size: 26mm. This is a rare button in excellent condition!
On Hold!!!

EXCAVATED S. ISAACS & CAMPBELL KNAPSACK HOOK
Nice, greenish patina dug at the Battle of Chancellorsville in Virginia.
$ 65.00

i EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE SADDLE SHIELD
Nice, brownish patina.
$ 65.00

i EXCAVATED CONFEDERATE SADDLE SHIELD
Nice, brownish patina.
$ 65.00

CONFEDERATE RIFLEMAN BUTTON CS-201-A
B/M: HT & B / Manchester. Coat size: 25mm.
Perfect condition! Great price!
SOLD!!!

i UNION DRAGOON OFFICER'S BUTTON
23mm Coat size. Backmark: Horstmann & Allien / NY
Pretty much perfect!
$ 75.00

i EXCAVATED UNION CAVALRY OFFICER'S BUTTON
23mm Coat size. Backmark: Extra/ Quality
Tons of gold gilt surrounding the eagle and the "I". Dug at Chancellorsville in Virginia.
$ 60.00 On Hold!

INDIAN WARS CAVALRY CROSSED SABER INSIGNIA
These are just like their Civil War counterparts, except they are a bit smaller at about 2-3/4" wide x 1-3/8" overall.
Perfect, unused condition!
$ 25.00

CONFEDERATE 1/6th PLATE RUBY AMBROTYPE

Nice image of a CS enlisted man seated, and wearing what looks like a Richmond Depot shell jacket
with cloth epaulettes. May or may not be the original gutta-percha case with a deteriorated
image of a lady on the other side.

$ 595.00     (D-6)

MARYLAND STATE SEAL BUTTON, MD-11B or Tice MD-200B1
Backmark: Waterbury Button Co. / Extra. 23mm coat size.
Perfect condition with nice gilt.
$ 225.00   (am)

"CHEESE BOX" CANTEEN, MAKER MARKED "E. BARRETT" circa 1825-1835
Wonderful red painted wood canteen, typical of New England militias. Branded on both side "E. Barrett"
but we don't know who he was. Approximately 7" diameter and 2-1/2"deep. The three leather straps
that held the sling in place are gone.
Reduced Price! $ 595.00

"CHEESE BOX" CANTEEN, MAKER MARKED "E. BARRETT" circa 1825-1835
Wonderful blue painted wood canteen, typical of New England militias. Branded on both side "E. Barrett"
but we don't know who he was. Approximately 6-3/4" diameter and 2-5/8"deep. The three leather straps
that held the sling in place are gone.
Reduced Price! $ 595.00

"CHEESE BOX" CANTEEN, MAKER MARKED "H. Hoyt" circa 1825-1835
Wonderful blue painted wood canteen, typical of New England militias. Branded on both side "H. Hoyt"
but we don't know who he was. Approximately 6-1/4" diameter and 2"deep. The three iron wire straps
that held the sling in place are even intact on this one!
Reduced Price! $ 595.00

7-1/4" tall four sided cathedral pickle bottle in a nice aqua/green color with a partial label.

Perfect condition

$ 75.00    (cat14)

9" tall in perfect condition
nice aqua color with no damage!

$ 85.00   (cat6)

8-1/2" tall in perfect condition
nice aqua color with ivy drape design. A slight haze, but no
real damage!

$ 85.00   (cat7)

CONFEDERATE COAT SIZE STAFF OFFICER'S BUTTON, CS-7
Backmark: W. Dowler / Superior Quality
Nice condition with lots of gold!
$ 550.00

CONFEDERATE COAT SIZE ARTILLERY BUTTON, CS-101
Backmark: HT&B Manchester
Perfect condition!
$ 395.00

CONFEDERATE COAT SIZE ARTILLERY BUTTON, CS-117
Tin Back, Confederate Local!
Really nice condition with some of the tinning on the iron back still showing!
$ 350.00

CONFEDERATE COAT SIZE INFANTRY BUTTON, CS-171
Perfect condition face with two little manufacturing defects on the back rim.
$ 250.00

CS-26-B CONFEDERATE COAT SIZE STAFF OFFICER'S BUTTON
B\M: Local. Perfect with some gold!
All of the details like the chest feathers on the eagle are very very distinct compared to what we usually see on this button.
This was probably an early strike, before the dies wore down.
$ 895.00

CS-26-B CONFEDERATE CUFF or KEPI SIZE STAFF OFFICER'S BUTTON
B\M:Blank
This is a 14 mm size as you might see on the sides of a kepi.
$ 95.00 On Hold!!!

SHEFFIELD SIDE KNIFE, Identified!
Wonderful condition, about 8-1/4" long with a 4-1/4" blade and a beautiful silver cutlery handle
Leather scabbard is nice with a German silver throat and tip.
Lightly scratched into the throat is what looks like "A. Miller / Richmond / Ind."
$ 475.00    (36-32)

CIVIL WAR WOOD DRIVE LONG RANGE MORTAR FUSE, Dated 1865
9-12" long. Designed to be driven into the fuse hole of a mortar ball after being set to the right time.
The body is scored with heavy rings at every inch with 9 lighter rings between, indicating tenths of an inch.
Prior to firing the gunner would cut the fuse for the appropriate burn time and remove the paper cover
from the top. Every inch removed made the shell explode 5 seconds sooner.

18th CENTURY FIREBACK or STOVE PLATE, circa 1790
About 18" x 25", this is an 18th century, puddle cast stove plate with a raised depiction of a crane. Made at the Pine Grove Furnace in Pennsylvania,
which is now a state park. Stove plates were often used as firebacks, placed against the rear wall of a fireplace to protect the wall at the back of the
fireplace with a secondary function is as a radiator of stored heat..
No cracks or repairs!
$ 795.00

SILK BOOKMARK RIBBON "Star Spangled Banner"

Here's an Antique silk bookmark, woven silk, "The Star Spangled Banner," Warner Manufacturing Co, Paterson, NJ."  Very Attractive and Patriotic!

This antique woven silk "Star Spangled Banner" bookmark was made by the Warner Manufacturing Co, of Paterson, NJ in the Victorian era, possibly around 1860- 1876. These gorgeously detailed bookmarks are sometimes called Stevengraphs, made in the style of Thomas Stevens, who popularized woven pictorial bookmarks and illuminated ribbons made on a Jacquard loom. It bears the lyrics above musical bars with notes of Francis Scott Key's "The Star Spangled Banner," all below the American flag!
Machine woven, approximately 10" x 2," including red tassel, with a small bit of loss at the bottom.

$ 125.00

CIVIL WAR POSTAL COVERS WITH CIVIL WAR VIEW OF FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA
About 5-1/2" x 3-1/8", these are two of a set of six that when laid together form a birds eye view of Fredericksburg.
These were printed by Charles Magus, a printing entrepreneur, whose business was based in New York, NY. Magnus is known for his color lithographs
of city views, song sheets, maps and patriotic illustrations for stationery and covers during the American Civil War. These are known to exist in a couple
of different shades of monochrome, but hand colored like these are the most desirable.
$ 65.00 your choice or $ 100.00 for the pair!

CIVIL WAR "BULLSEYE" CANTEEN
Production of these corrugated canteens began in the summer of 1862, with the rings added to
increase the strength of the sides and prevent denting.  This one is very nice tin with very little
surface rust. The pewter spout is lightly marked, but pretty sure it's Rohrman of Philadelphia.
At some point, someone added a small hole in the side of the spout.
The classic Union canteen!
$ 250.00

RARE UNCUT SHEET OF CONTINENTAL CURRENCY, September 27, 1778
An uncut sheet of eight notes authorized by the Continental Congress on September 27th, 1778.
In pristine condition, without folds or creases. Included is the blue Counterfiet Detection Note for
the $5.00 of this issue. In excellent condition and archivally framed to display both front and back!
The frame is approximately 11-3/4 X 19-1/2" overall.
~~$ 3295.00~~ Reduced Price!   $ 2995.00   (H2)

BRONZE BELL Dated 1811
About 9" tall and 9" in diameter bronze bell with elaborate detail cast throughout the body.
Details include a cross, a Madonna type figure and lots of floral type motifs.
The date of 1811 is cast into the top on two sides. The clapper is intact and
it still works very well!
$ 395.00    (31-34)

MINIATURE PAINTING ON IVORY
Well executed painting of a young gentleman. The painting itself, circa 1800, is about 2" wide x 2-1/2" tall
and is mounted in a wood panel that measures about 3-3/4" wide x 4-1/2" tall, not counting the brass loop hanger.
It is marked R Brian" on the back in ink.
$ 495.00   (32-18)

UNION .69 CALIBER CARTRIDGE BOX FOR RIFLED MUSKET
This throwback to pre-war caliber ammunition was made in response to Lincoln's call for an additional
500,000 troops in July of 1864, which created a shortage of arms and equipment. The Ordnance Department brought out from storage some .69 caliber rifled muskets that had been replaced by the .58 caliber guns. New, larger cartridge boxes were required for these guns. This one was made by Rueben Nece & Company in Philadelphia, and has U.S. inspector's marks.
$ 595.00

19TH CENTURY CASED SET OF THUMB LANCETS, OR FLEAMS, Dated 1837 and ID'd to "J. D. Ward"

Small (about 2-1/2" tall) flip-top container made of paper mache' with a cool built up hard painted surface. The interior is divided to hold four folding lancets (knives) with tortise shell handles that when unfolded are about 2-1/2" long. While many of the larger fleams that we see were sometimes used for veterinary work, the "thumb lancet" as seen here was definitely intended for the purpose of medical bloodletting on humans! This was done when your doctor determined that your illness resulted from an imbalance of the fluids in your body, and the remedy was to reduce the amount of your blood! Lancets like these were also used by some doctors for vaccinations. The blades here are marked "W&H / Hutchinson / Sheffield" who was a Surgical Instrument Maker to the Royal Navy based in Sheffield, England, and also sold surgical instruments to the Union and Confederate Armies during the US Civil War. A silver plaque on the top is engraved with the owners name: "J.D. Ward" and dated "1837".
This is a cool medical artifact in pretty much mint condition!

$ 495.00     (35-32)

19TH CENTURY MONAURAL STETHOSCOPE
Dr. Rene Laennec invented this type of stethoscope in 1816 and it was the state of the art until the invention of the binaural stethoscope (the two earpiece type that we still use today) in 1852.
This one is about 7" long with a 2-1/2" ear piece and a 1" chest bell. The wood is beautiful (it is a bit darker in person than it appears in the photo) and has no cracks or chips.
A nice addition to any medical display!
$ 325.00      (10-10)

UNION MODEL 1864 .58 CALIBER CARTRIDGE BOX
Marked "R. Nece / Philad" and with the inspector's mark of F.A. Sniffen / U.S / Ord Dept / Sub Inspector".
Rueben Nece & Company of Philadelphia contracted from 1863 to 1865 for 53,000 sets of accoutrments.
This box is in very, very nice condition!
$ 595.00

UNION NAVY FUSE BOX, US.N.Y Boston
Marked "US.N.Y" over "Boston".
Approximately 4-3/8" wide overall x 3-1/2" tall and 2-3/8 deep.
This box is in nice condition.
Reduced Price! $ 350.00

UNION NAVY FUSE BOX, US.N.Y Boston
Marked "US.N.Y" over "Boston".
Approximately 4-1/2" wide overall x 3-1/2" tall and 2-3/8 deep.
This box is in near mint condition!

Reduced Price! $ 350.00 (mg-23)

1852 WATERCOLOR BOOKPLATE
"Maria Horner" with flowers in a vase and dated 1852.
Nice colors, probably Pennsylvania. Approximately 4-1/4" x 7".
$ 195.00

			EXCAVATED REVOLUTIONARY WAR ERA BRITISH INSIGNIA These were found this year at a site in King George County, Virginia. The cast brass crown is approximately 1-7/8" wide by 1-38" tall and is double sided. It looks like part of a cross belt plate, or perhaps a cartridge box plate. We could not find an exact match, but see pages 10, 11 & 159 of Insignia of Independence by Don Troiani and James Kochan for similar pieces. The other cast brass piece is about 2-1/2" tall and 1-5/8" wide, with a piece missing at the top. It has one finished side and we don't know exactly what it is except early and cool! Both pieces $ 450.00

		DISCOVERING VIRGINIA'S COLONIAL ARTIFACTS, by Bill Dancy *Back in Print!!* This wonderful new 393 page hardbound book is filled with information on finding, researching, recovering, identifying and documenting colonial artifacts, and while most of it is focused on Virginia sites and relics, it would certainly apply to any area! It is filled with wonderful, all color photography of artifacts, including military as well as everyday items from house sites, and even includes some Civil War and other items found in the same areas. If you've read any of the author's articles in historic publications, you know that he has the experience, expertise and writing skills to make this a must have! $ 59.00

		THIRD MODEL VIRGINIA MANUFACTORY SWORD, 3rd Virginia Regiment Second Models were originally made 1808 - 1821 with a blade less curved than the second model and a 36" length. This blade has been shortened to approximately 33 �� in length at some point. The blade is stamped "3 Va Regt" on the spine and features the typical narrow and wide fuller on each side and edge has no real nicks. The blade is fairly smooth with a mixture of gray to brown. A number �5� is stamped on the bottom flat of blade on one side of the ricasso, and a "3" is stamped on the other side. Grooved wooden grip is cracked and has a piece missing under the pommel. There is no leather cover or brass wire wrap remaining, but the wood has a pleasing smooth dark patina. *Reduced Price!* $ 2195.00

		"CHEESE BOX" CANTEEN, MAKER MARKED "27" circa 1820-1830 Wonderful painted wood canteen, typical of New England militias. One side has the unit number "27" and the other has a red oval where perhaps the units initials would have gone. Approximately 6-1/2" diameter and 2-1/2"deep. The three leather straps that held the sling in place are all there and show signs of use, but are still solid. The spout hole is no longer perfectly round, but is somewhat elongated. This one is absolutely gorgeous! $ 895.00

			SMALL ENGLISH FLINTLOCK PISTOL These little flintlocks weren't much use at a distance, but sure are cool looking! This one is approximately .40 caliber and has an 1-1/2" barrel, so you'd better be close to whatever you're shooting at! Super attractive brass frame with engraved panoply of flags on each side surrounding an oval panel the encloses the makers name "Jno. Jones & Son" on one side, and "London" on the other. The gun itself is about 5-3/4" long overall. Everything looks to be original and it is complete and in good working order, except that it doesn't firmly catch in the full cocked position, though the half cock holds well. Great little display piece! SOLD!!! (38-11)

			SHARPS 4-SHOT PEPPERBOX PISTOL These are some seriously cool weapons that Sharps began making in 1859 with four .22 caliber barrels and a firing pin in the hammer that rotates each time the hammer is pulled back, so as to fire a different barrel each time the trigger is pulled. This one is still functional with the pin rotating properly and a strong main spring. The brass frame is marked "C. Sharps / Patent 1859" in a circle on one side and "C. Sharps / Philada. PA" in a circle on the other. The frame was originally plated and some of the silver remains in protected areas. The original wood grips are also in good shape. Low serial number 2245 is on both the barrel and butt strap. A nice gun overall! $ 595.00 (42-8) On Hold!!!

		CONFEDERATE 1/6th PLATE RUBY AMBROTYPE Nice image of a CS enlisted man seated, and wearing what looks like a Richmond Depot shell jacket with cloth epaulettes. May or may not be the original gutta-percha case with a deteriorated image of a lady on the other side. $ 595.00 (D-6)

			SHEFFIELD SIDE KNIFE, Identified! Wonderful condition, about 8-1/4" long with a 4-1/4" blade and a beautiful silver cutlery handle Leather scabbard is nice with a German silver throat and tip. Lightly scratched into the throat is what looks like "A. Miller / Richmond / Ind." $ 475.00 (36-32)

			RARE UNCUT SHEET OF CONTINENTAL CURRENCY, September 27, 1778 An uncut sheet of eight notes authorized by the Continental Congress on September 27th, 1778. In pristine condition, without folds or creases. Included is the blue Counterfiet Detection Note for the $5.00 of this issue. In excellent condition and archivally framed to display both front and back! The frame is approximately 11-3/4 X 19-1/2" overall. ~~$ 3295.00~~ Reduced Price! $ 2995.00 (H2)

			19TH CENTURY CASED SET OF THUMB LANCETS, OR FLEAMS, Dated 1837 and ID'd to "J. D. Ward" Small (about 2-1/2" tall) flip-top container made of paper mache' with a cool built up hard painted surface. The interior is divided to hold four folding lancets (knives) with tortise shell handles that when unfolded are about 2-1/2" long. While many of the larger fleams that we see were sometimes used for veterinary work, the "thumb lancet" as seen here was definitely intended for the purpose of medical bloodletting on humans! This was done when your doctor determined that your illness resulted from an imbalance of the fluids in your body, and the remedy was to reduce the amount of your blood! Lancets like these were also used by some doctors for vaccinations. The blades here are marked "W&H / Hutchinson / Sheffield" who was a Surgical Instrument Maker to the Royal Navy based in Sheffield, England, and also sold surgical instruments to the Union and Confederate Armies during the US Civil War. A silver plaque on the top is engraved with the owners name: "J.D. Ward" and dated "1837". This is a cool medical artifact in pretty much mint condition! $ 495.00 (35-32)