INDIAN WARS - SPANISH AMERICAN WAR ERA 1866-1908

Last Updated  07/28/2010

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Indian Wars Period (SAW follows below)

 

1 IWP (A, B, E, F below)  -  INDIAN WAR  SHOULDER STRAPS   The straps listed below came from an old collection we acquired years ago. (Photo colors are as close as we could get them, with slight variation).

  Click on each thumbnail for larger view    (A) -  INDIAN WAR STAFF CAPTAIN’S SHOULDER STRAPS.  1 5/8 x 3 15/16”.  Wide gold bullion borders with light tarnish.  Edged with spun brass wire.  Silver bullion captain’s bars with minor dulling.  Black wool facings.  No snags.  Excellent condition.  Backs covered with black fabric, possibly silk.  This is professionally hand sewn in place.  $375

  Click on each thumbnail for larger view   (B) -  INDIAN WAR CAPTAIN OF INFANTRY SHOULDER STRAPS. Possibly Civil War.  Some of these are very difficult to date precisely.  1 9/16 x 4”. Gold bullion borders narrow enough for early date.  Moderate tarnish.  Edged with quite narrow spun brass wire.  Dulled silver bullion captain’s bars at each end.  Sky blue wool facing.  Black fabric backing hand sewn in place. Very good.  No snags.  $425

  Click on each thumbnail for larger view    (E) - VERY NICE EARLY INDIAN WAR STAFF CAPTAIN’S SHOULDER STRAPS.  1 9/16 x 4”.  Gold bullion borders with spun brass wire edging.  Gold tarnished to bronzy tone on top with more gilt showing along the lower edges.  Silver bullion captain’s bars embroidered on each end.  Tarnished on top.  Fine black wool facing.  No snags or holes.  Backs faced with navy blue/black (can’t tell) wool hand sewn in place.  $395

  Click on each thumbnail for larger view   (F) -  INDIAN WAR MEDICAL CORPS CAPTAIN’S SHOULDER STRAPS.  Super rare!  1 5/8 x 3 15/16”.  Wide borders in gold bullion, dulled by tarnish giving bronzy tones, with gold tones showing through. Spun brass wire edging.  Silver bullion captain’s bars on each end.  Some silvery grey tarnish.  Emerald green wool facing, with some light wear to nap.  Black wool backing hand sewn in place.  No snags or holes.  Don’t remember seeing another set.  $695

2 IWP - FANTASTIC ANTIQUE INDIAN BEADED NECK YOKE OR BIB    More Photos, Click Here  Possibly a very small apron, but more likely for the neck area. I believe there is about a full pound of beads here, and all you see are the beads, making up a complex fretwork which is the apron.  Am unable to specify the tribal origin.  Markings on the rear of the waistband are typical museum accession numbers which is almost certainly where it came from.  My feeling on the date is well pre-1900.  Made for formal or ceremonial wear, it being too elaborate, and valuable, and of a fairly fragile nature (even when new) that any other wear would be illogical.  A little over 13” wide at top, splaying wider toward the bottom.  All the fretwork hangs from a slim band of bed ticking fabric, tightly beaded on the front. A very worn fabric tie hangs from one side, originally worn around the back.  Mostly sound.  Extremely artistic.  Has some parting, hopefully well shown in the photos, but essentially intact.  Worthy of full restoration, a small matter compared to the labor, skill, artistic talent and costly amount of beads in it.  $295

3 IWP - PATRIOTICALLY FLAG DECORATED STRAIGHT RAZOR   More Photos, Click Here  Could be Indian War through Spanish American War.  One face of the black horn handle has raised crossed American flags at center, 1 3/8” long.  Blade is undecorated.  Some very pale beginnings of scattered grey.  Such razors were favored by soldiers of the period.  $50

4 IWP  -  FOUR CUSTER PHOTOGRAPHS  More Photos, Click Here  These are reprints that were once framed and displayed in my office, pre-1985, alongside my Custer collection.  When we sold the collection in 1985 (catalogs of that sale still show up for sale), I retained these photographs, and they just recently came out of storage.  These are exact reprints done in precise original tones, and done in extremely limited numbers back then.  These are all famous views of Custer, and would be great once again framed and hung in your den or office.  From top left, the sizes are: 11 x 13 ¾”; 8 x 10”; 5 x 7”; 5 x 7”.  Back sides of the two smaller have a little tape residue, otherwise, these are all excellent.  $50

5 IWP  -  SUPER RARE CROSSED MUSKET CUFF LINKS  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  Because the motif employs the crossed muskets rather than crossed rifles as found on late 19th Century insignia and jewelry, I am inclined to date these early rather than late.  In either case, cuff links are very seldom encountered with an obvious military theme.  These are 9/16” square, oriented diamond-wise, with white fired enamel backing, gold line borders, and applied brass crossed muskets.  Reverse has screw post and round nut.  One could be used as a lapel pin.  From our personal collection.  $65

PioneerBrassard.jpg (109313 bytes) 6 IWP - INDIAN WAR INFANTRY PIONEER BRASSARD (SPECIALTY PATCH)  Click on each thumbnail photo for larger view  Worn during the 1880's up through the Spanish American War.  Large crossed axes cut out of center of 5 x 10" dark navy blue wool, backed with white wool. Mint originals. Each ... $8

7 IWP - TINTYPE OF TWO MILITARY BAND MEMBERS C.1870  Click on thumbnail photo for larger view   Rare image.  Among the very few encountered during our 50 year career dealing in militaria.  Crisp and clear.  2 3/8 x 3 1/4".  Studio pose, full length.  They wear tall kepi's, dress coat with tails, epaulets and three rows of buttons on front.  One holds a 3 valve trombone and the other holds a 3 valve cornet.  Each wears a white enameled leather belt with tongue and wreath buckle, not clear enough to identify...likely a state seal.  Tiny patch of bubbling which does not affect the image.   $125

8 IWP  -  NEAT ANTIQUE MEDICAL QUACK DEVICE  Click on thumbnail photo for larger view  An excellent example of a device which saw popularity from the very earliest days of our country - and employing a principle still being sold as an effective, therapeutic measure.  Known by several names over its history of use because the devices were widely copied.  This one dates from the 1880's, but is basically identical to specimens we've seen and owned which were from the Colonial period.  This is a disc 1 5/8" in diameter, and a bit over 1/16" thick.  It is made from concentric circles of different metals juxtaposed to each other, either in thin bands or small discs.  The information printed on both sides is hard to read, but one side lists "RICHARDSON'S GALVANIC MAGNETO BATTERY".  On the other side, you can read some of the text, "PAT. IN U.S." and possibly something about CANADA, and I think a date of FEB 8 or 9, possibly 1881.  The principle behind the design was to create a small electrical current, called a galvanic battery which was supposed to provide beneficial results to the wearer.  Fascinating design.  We've seen very few over the years.   $75

9 IWP  -  RARE M1874 “SHOEMAKER” U.S. CAVALRY HORSE BIT – ADOPTED BY ARTILLERY IN 1889 AS WELL   More Photos, Click Here  Adopted as the best of suggested designs to replace the Civil War pattern bits, universally considered as too heavy. This specimen is excellent and complete. Fairly dark, thinned and patinated nickel plate finish. Has original "US" studs on each side. The only marking we see is a stamped number "870".  $295  Reduced to Cost

12 IWP - EXTREMELY FINE ORIGINAL ANTIQUE CAST IRON "TAMMANY" MECHANICAL BANK  Click on thumbnail photo for larger views Clearly marked along the top back "PAT'd DEC 23, 1873".  The most under-priced of all the designs once produced, and one of the more attractive, intriguing, and nicely done.  Unquestionably original.  (Believe me, I know.  I specialized in these fantastic collectible banks some years ago).  This one retains 90-95% original paint!  Never retouched, or cleaned.  Perfect patina.  Complete with trap.  Colors only muted.  Edges show handling wear.  Tiny little dings scattered.  Hairline crack in back at lower left corner.  Fine face.  Arm which takes coin in hand rotates on a rod which was once peaned on the end, which held the arm on the rod.  This bit of "bulge" at the end of the rod is worn, so the arm can slip off.  Displays fine.  Operates (needs coin bit bigger than penny).  Can leave as is or professional bank restorer can fix with little trouble.  Nothing visible.  Should be priced at $850 with this fine paint. $550  Reduced to Cost

13 IWP  -  RARE INDIAN WAR INFANTRY PATTERN 1874 CLOTHING BAG.  More Photos, Click Here  Originally designed to go with the Palmer Brace system which was rejected by the men.  This left these bags to serve their lives as haversacks for infantry.  This is a RARE-RARE transitional bag between the Type 1 & Type 2, made 1875-60.  Made for only a few months, issued to recruits for their few personal items, and carried by them to their duty stations.  Supposed then to be turned in and sent back to the recruit depots but because of their obvious utility, the units kept them.  This caused the depots to mark all the bags with large “RECRUIT” markings on the front flap, in hopes this would induce the units to return the bags.  It didn’t work. See McChristian’s book “The U.S. Army in the West 1870-1880”, pg. 187 & 206-7-8 for this story. So rare, I haven’t had an example in 10, perhaps 15 years.  Heavy khaki canvas bag prox. 13 x 14”, with LEATHER BELTS, BUCKLE BILLETS, and upper edging to bag opening.  Face of bag at top has second pocket 5 ¼ x 6 ¼”, closed with large Civil War brass EAGLE BUTTON and leather strap.  So rare, I didn’t think I’d ever see another.  Face of closing flap has large US stenciled on as well as “RECRUIT” marking.  Shows good use and damp staining.  Leather good.  We found 4 of these, each with different personalized markings (soldier name or initials). 3 are marked Watervliet Arsenal and 1 is marked Rock Island Arsenal (this one sold).  Lacks the shoulder strap.  Super find.  The leather and eagle buttons were retained for only a few months and then disappeared, replaced with canvas entirely.  You will likely never see another one of these, after ours are gone.  Only one W.A. left...$195

15 IWP  -  THREE BUFFALO BILL BOOKS.  Although these date C.1917, we put them in this section due to their subject matter. 

PHOTOS  A.  "BUFFALO BILL - THE BOYS’ FRIEND" 1917 hardbound edition with color cover plate of Bill and Indian about to bring down a buffalo.  5 1/2 x 8 1/8”, 246 pages.  By Elmer Sherwood.  Whitman Publishing Co./Racine…Chicago.  Total adventure package, 37 chapters.  Clean text.  Cover lightly faded.  Some wear at a few extreme edges.  Great cover graphics.  Little corner off at top right.  Front hinge shaken on inside.  Interior spine has come unglued from spine covering, and needs to be re-glued.  $10

PHOTOS   B.  "BUFFALO BILL AND THE PONY EXPRESS" Dates 1917 or very close.  Undated fly leaf.  Inexpensive pseudo-hardbound, out of heavy cardstock covers with paper covering simulating cloth.  Color plate on cover of Bill being pursued by Indians.  4 5/8 x 6 7/8”, 125 pages.  Clean text, on light grey paper.  Cover nearly loose at spine – I believe easily repaired inside.  Exterior has wear at extreme corners and very edges of spine at bend.  Classic early Western thriller; one step up from the Dime Novels.  By the prolific Elmer Sherwood of Whitman Publishing.  $10

PHOTOS  C.  "BUFFALO BILL’S BOYHOOD" Well written adventure novel, based considerably on fact.  Dates 1917 or very close.  Undated fly leaf.  By the prolific Elmer Sherwood of Whitman Publishing Co.  4 ½ x 7”, 121 pages.  Clean text on light grey paper.  Pseudo-hard covers, out of heavy cardstock with printed paper facing.  Color plate on cover of Indians attacking Bill, firing from behind a downed horse.  Covers show good deal of surface wear.  Front cover parted from hinge (just paper).  Rear cover and spine about loose.  Needs a bit of glue.  One step up from Dime Novels.  Well done adventures.  $10

18 IWP  -  ANTIQUE PATRIOTIC FLAG FOR DENMARK.  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  Came with numerous antique U.S. patriotic flags of the 1870’s period.  A patriotic flag on a stick, with design stenciled on heavy polished cotton like all historic patriotic US flags.  For waving at parades and decorating convention halls, businesses and houses.  Could well have been used at the 1876 Centennial Fair in Philadelphia.  Flags came from that area.  Design is white cross on red background. Nearly new condition.  Measures 20 ½ x 35”.  On its original 50” stick.  Can be shipped without for less cost.  $10

19 IWP  -  IMPORTANT AMERICAN INDIAN BEADWORK MITTENS-GAUNTLETS WITH SPREAD EAGLE EMBLEM ACROSS THE CUFFS!!  C.1880.  More Photos, Click Here  Specimens of American Indian artwork rarely seen, employing a patriotic motif.  In a collection or sale, these would be one of the highlights.  The reason is that each cuff has full width beadwork of the AMERICAN SPREAD EAGLE EMBLEM, interpreted and presented as only a NATIVE ARTIST could.  Such a motif is among the most highly desired of all types of Indian beadwork.  Mittens are puffy tan elk-skin (I believe), sinew sewn.  Tip to tip they measure almost 14”, with a 6” long cuff, 8 ½” wide.  The beaded spread eagle/shield/arrows/olive branch designs are 7 ½” wide, beaded with twine.  Beads are primarily transparent, with pale shades in various colors, except for sky blue used on top of the American shield.  Head is transparent with cobalt eye and blue beads; rest of body/wings are wine red, clear and pale orange.  Arrows and olive branches alternating wine red and clear with sky blue claws.  Tail clear and green.  Superb character in the presentation.  Condition shows some use.  Leather still flexible and strong.  Just a bit of greying to the face of the hands due to dust/dirt, one more than the other.  Rear edges and a narrow belt around the middle once had a narrow band of fur, long gone due to mothing. Displays fine as is or should be fairly easy to restore.  Lined with coarse, age toned red/white/blue material.  This is worn, and frayed in spots along the rear edge.  Beading is tight and fine with no apparent bead loss.  I can say that I’ve never encountered an Indian beaded patriotic design I liked better or which had, in my opinion, more character and display appeal.  $395  Reduced to Cost

Spanish American War Period

Be sure to check out the other sections for SAW material, particularly the Pins/Stickpins, Pinback Buttons and Glassware

1 SAW  -  SPANISH AMERICAN WAR PATRIOTIC RAZOR & CASE  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  Sale Pending  Called the "Uncle Sam Razor" although no image of Sam appears on razor or box.  However, the off-white celluloid handle has handsome decoration...spread eagle at center (pale blue) and stars, stripes at each end.  Ricasso has title "UNCLE SAM". Bright blade, German made.  Box has worn surface.   $115

2 SAW  -  IMPORTANT ORIGINAL SPANISH AMERICAN WAR U.S. ARMY 5th CORPS FLAG  More Photos, Click Here  An exceptional rarity, and among the most important objects a Spanish American War collection can contain.  From our personal collection and the only legitimate, original Corps flag I was able to obtain in over 40 years of collecting, and as an active militaria dealer.  Made of standard wool flag bunting.  Pennant shaped with thick hoist binding, providing a channel for the flagstaff.  Sewn from four pieces.  From the hoist end, vertical bands of white, red, and blue make the flag, with a 12" blue pentagonal form (like a fortress) sewn at the center of the red band.  The flag measures 47" high on the hoist and 51" on the fly.  Condition is excellent with unfaded colors, some dulling of the white, and some small scattered moth or bullet holes.  A rare and valuable find.  $2,750

3 SAW  -  HIGH SPANISH NAVAL OFFICER'S UNIFORM COAT - WORN DURING THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR IN THE PHILIPPINES & OBTAINED AS A WAR SOUVENIR BY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER IN 1898-1899  More Photos, Click Here  (Keep in mind, it is rather dark these days in Alaska, so the red shots are a bit washed out).  A fabulous piece with excellent provenance.  Superb Navy blue wool body with gold lace edgings, red turned back collar and full red lining, including the tails.  I place the rank above Captain in the Spanish Navy based on comparison with two period photos of the highest Naval officers in Manila during the Spanish American War.  Rank is judged, according to my references, by the number of gold lace bands that face the cuffs, and the number of stars.  The Spanish Minister of Marine, Ramon Aunon y Villalon is shown with the two lace bands and two stars.  Admiral Mantojo, Commander of the Spanish Asiatic Squadron destroyed at Manila Bay wears three bands and three stars (plus some extra embellishment).  This coat is either for a rank between Captain and Admiral, or logic says it is for an Admiral (3 stars).  We have signed provenance showing ownership from me back through one other owner, to the man, whose father, a member of Co. I, 51st Iowa Vol. Infantry (Philippine Service) left the impression that he, the soldier, got the uniform (confiscated, purchased or traded) from the Royal Palace in Manila.  The prior owner said the uniform has been on public display at a few important events and solicited to be in others. Included in the written provenance provided is a photo of the uniform in a public display, plus a magazine also showing a display. Judging by the high rank of the uniform, finding the identity of the original owner seems feasible.  Coat is heavy, and strikingly beautiful.  It is double breasted with four, almost gem quality gold plated buttons with crown over anchor, on each side of the chest. There is one small button on one cuff, missing on the other cuff (the only button missing).  The gold lace is excellent in general, with some surface wear in the neck area, facings and waist.  There are 12 (complete set) of buttons across the back and down the vent.  There are pockets in the tails.  Shoulders have loops to hold epaulets.  Definitely a key piece in our collection.  Names of prior owners and soldier identity provided to buyer.   $3,750

4 SAW  -  MARVELOUS U.S.S. MAINE FIGURAL HARD RUBBER PIPE  More Photos, Click Here  Extremely rare and desirable, original Spanish American War collectible.  All but the bowl and the end of the stem is in the three-dimensional form of the U.S.S. Maine.  Bowl sits on the bow of the ship.  Overall length is 5 1/2".  Pipe is black hard rubber, over which someone painted gold, which shows great age and some wear.  Likely done during the War.  From my personal collection, which took over 30 years to build.  Over this period I have not encountered more than three of these pipes, two of which I purchased.  The third was offered in a catalog and was sold before I could contact the company.  If you collect SAW memorabilia, you definitely will want this.  Offered at cost.  $325

5 SAW  -  SPANISH AMERICAN WAR CUBAN PATRIOT (INSURECTO) HAT INSIGNIA  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view   This is an original 3 x 1 11/16” ribbon in full color of the Cuban flag.  Worn on the fan of the hat – on the face of the upturned brim.  Considerable photo evidence exists of this.  Mint example.  It is likely that few survived.   $75

6 SAW  -  ARTILLERY WATCH FOB  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  Original, from the Spanish American War period.  Like new, still mounted on the paper and cardstock display backing.  Fob body is 1 1/4" wide, ribbed black silk ribbon, in two layers.  Bottom layer is backing with swallowtail end.  Top layer is shorter and supports a gilt brass pendant with crossed cannon with wreath around it.  Top of fob has chain link to small clasp.  Paper backing will show some storage dust.  Fob is about mint.  Have only one left, comparable condition to the one pictured.  $40

7SAW  -  EARLY CABINET PHOTO OF CHILD WITH KEPI AND WAGON  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  A very cute child, who looks like a girl, but we suspect is a boy.  Particularly charming image.  Clear, crisp.  Original.  3 1/4 x 4 3/4" print on grey mat.  Excellent condition.  He wears a kepi, and is holding the wagon handle and some other stick in his other hand.  The wagon has ABC alphabet blocks in it.  $35

8 SAW  -  BEAUTIFUL SERVICE MEMORIAL OF NEW YORK SOLDIER C.1896-190 More Photos, Click Here  Encompasses the Spanish American War and the Philippine Insurrection.  We know most everything about him except his name, unfortunately.  He wears the New York National Guard Dress Uniform, which has enough insignia to know he was from the 9th New York Infantry, Co. K.  This is beautifully done, but possibly homemade, unless the unit got together and had several made.  6½ x 10”, heavy cardstock with glass face. Entire face under the glass is a silk 45 star flag, with a 5” tall oval opened in the strip end, enclosing a crisp waist up photo of the soldier.  He wears white cross belts, dress epaulets with 9th insignia, breast plate with “9”, service medals and three rows of New York buttons.  Edge of display has red paper tape, showing some wear.  Backside has two loops for wall hanging, and brass wire stand for table top.  Wonderful patriotic display.  During the Civil War, the 9th spawned the famous Hawkins Zouaves.  During the Spanish American War, they were federalized and trained at Chickamauga, but the War ended before they went into combat.  $65

10 SAW  -  SPANISH AMERICAN WAR ADMIRAL DEWEY STRAIGHT RAZOR  Click on thumbnail photo for larger view  Bright blade has etched on one face, starting at the end, is a spread eagle, then text, "ADMIRAL DEWEY", over bust of Dewey, over "DEFEATED SPANISH FLEET OFF MANILA", ending in floral spray.  Nicely lustrous handle, I believe dark brown/black hard rubber.  $150

14 SAW - UNCLE SAM WHITE CLAY PIPE  More Photos, Click Here  Spanish American War icon.  At no time before or since has the image of Uncle Sam been seen in such profusion.  Fine collectible.  One piece pipe, made to use, but this one is like new with red-white-blue bands around his top hat.  6” long.  Neat display item.  $45

16 SAW  -  THE FINEST BEADED LADIES PURSE YOU'LL PROBABLY EVER SEE AND DONE IN A PATRIOTIC MOTIF  More Photos, Click Here  This is one of the finest beaded bags you’ll probably ever see, and done in a patriotic motif.  Absolutely outstanding condition.  Top is crocheted and cinches closed with a flat ribbon drawstring (it is probably a replacement for the original, but does show some age).  Top of bag is encircled with an unbroken band of American flags 2” wide (remember, this entire purse below the crocheted top is beaded).  The central area of the purse is done in clear beads with green leaves and burgundy/light pink flower design.  The base is a circular panel with alternating red and white rings, encircled by a wider blue band with clear beads for the stars.  I see no damage or wear.  Lying flat, it is 7½” wide, and 10” tall.  Frankly, we haven’t seen something this fine in all the years we have been collecting patriotic Americana.  A meticulous examination revealed no more than the possibility of three missing beads; there could be more, but I have not found them.  A wonderful display specimen for the purse collector as well as for collectors of patriotic Americana.  We estimate the age to be around C.1898 – 1918 period.  $495

17 SAW  -  ANTIQUE LEATHER DRIVING or AVIATOR GAUNTLETS C.1900  More Photos, Click Here  Exactly as worn by the earliest pilots, motorcyclists, and autoists.  For a collector or enthusiast of any of these early areas of motivation, these gauntlets provide considerable display value.  16 ½” long.  Heavy black leather.  Hands show light use.  Huge black leather gauntlet cuffs simply needing some black polish to replace the color lost over time.  Cuffs have two snap tabs each to tighten the accordion end; each button marked “J. P. LUTHER/BERLIN WIS/GLOVE CO”.  Snap heads in place but the male halves popped out.  Second best pair of early driving/flying gauntlets I recall ever seeing.  Makes a very noticeable addition to a display – has a way of bringing that early time alive. (Left glove in photos has a brown tinge, but this is only brighter light shining in when the photos were taken).  $65

18 SAW  -  NEAT SPANISH AMERICAN WAR ADVERTISING PIECE  More Photos, Click Here  From the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company.  Cardstock 4 1/4 x 9", folded in thirds.  One side has 3 color panels; one shows the battleship Olympia; another shows the Brooklyn at Santiago; the third has three color portraits of officers...Schley, Dewey, and Sampson.  When folded up, the other side becomes a knapsack in color, with blanket roll at top, shown both sides.  One face has unit information and has canteen draped on one side.  Excellent.  $28

19 SAW  -  MARVELOUS & RARE TEDDY ROOSEVELT BEER TRAY   More Photos, Click Here  Original, and one of the most eagerly sought items of Spanish American War memorabilia…from our personal collection of well over 30 years.  13¼ x 16½” chromolithograph on tin, with back side a dark blue green, and the face showcasing a dramatic image of “Teddy Roosevelt” in uniform on a galloping horse, saber held high.  The raised border is backed with blue with white stars, and four panels with U.S. and Cavalry unit flags, and at bottom, the famous “crossed sabers/1/USV” insignia of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry.  Condition of the scene of TR on his charging horse is the best we have ever found.  Sharp with no rubs/scrapes.  There is some rubbing and light, scattered wear, mostly at the extreme edge and underside.  The back has scattered wear.  We had another, not as fine as this, which we sold at auction recently, and it brought over $1500.  This being the best specimen of this famous tray we’ve ever encountered, provides you a chance to get one even better, without searching for years as we did.  $1,395

23 SAW  -  MASSIVE ADMIRAL DEWEY BRASS BADGE   More Photos, Click Here  6" tall and 5" wide.  I know of only one other badge this massive.  It is the one variation of the badge which has, instead of Dewey's bust, McKinley's.  Made from very thin sheet brass stamped with the portrait and wording.  This is backed with heavy cardstock with considerable wording.  Some of it reads "American Citizens! Wear this BADGE in HONOR of ADMIRAL GEORGE DEWEY, THE HERO OF MANILA.  Let the glory of his Victory be an inspiration to the AMERICAN PEOPLE" and more.  Disc badge hangs from spread eagle pin back at top.  After collecting SAW material for nearly 50 years, this is the only example of this badge I've come across.  Overall a bit uneven from wear and being very thin metal.  Priced at our cost.  $350

25 SAW  -  THREE CABINET PHOTOS OF SPANISH AMERICAN WAR FAME  More Photos, Click Here  3 7/8 x 6 1/4”; standard card stock.  Includes Major General William R. Shafter, Lt. Richmond Pearson Hobson, and ex-Confederate, Major General Joseph C. Wheeler.  Photo print detail and clarity.  Actually a half tone printing press copy (from the period) of an original photo print.  Made to be given to people as an advertising premium.  Entire back of the cards is devoted to advertising “Fairy Soap”.  These cards were extremely popular with the public, who used them to fill their cabinet photo albums, which also frequently had a military motif on decorative covers.  Excellent condition.  One has little damp stain for 1” on bottom margin.  All three.   $45

26 SAW  -  SPANISH AMERICAN WAR UNCLE SAM PIPE  More Photos, Click Here  Carved and painted wood.  Top hat, head and neck.  Great character.  Has glass eyes which brings the thing alive.  While mostly professionally hand carved, this is a commercial product which was offered in two sizes…this, and larger.  Makes a neat display item.  Lacks the stem which was a long, curved reed, typical of numerous pipes of the time.  Most old antique shops have a supply of cheap old pipes, from which you can get a suitable stem if desired.  I’ve had this and the larger size displayed on a little wire stand – no stem needed.  From our personal collection.  3½” high.  Very good condition.  Shows a nice mellow age patina and minor paint loss, mostly the blue on the upper hat band.  Handsome and an icon of the War.  Uncle Sam’s image was everywhere.  $75

27 SAW  -  THE CLASSIC ADMIRAL DEWEY BULLET LAMP   More Photos, Click Here  One of the most eagerly sought Spanish American War collectible.  Consists of a horizontal sheet copper cylinder made to look like a large cartridge case, with a bullet-shaped nose with darkened brass finish.  The "cartridge" is supported by two pair of black cast iron crossed cannon.  The top surface of the "cartridge" (which is the oil reservoir), has an oil burner.  One side of the lamp has the raised image of the "MAINE", surrounded by the words "ADMIRAL DEWEY'S LAMP".  On the opposite side are crossed U.S. and Admiral Flags, with the motto "REMEMBER THE MAINE".  The lamp is almost 9" long, and 3 1/2" in diameter.  Condition: About as fine as can be found.  Copper has small, mild impression on top, forward of the burner, not affecting any of the image or words. Copper has nice color.  Lacks glass chimney.  Nose has some wear to color.  A marvelous, ornate piece which truly represents the feeling and taste of the period.  Absolutely original.  Will also include a decorative lamp shade, that sits on top of a glass chimney (not included).  It is approximately 3 3/8" tall by 5 1/2" across at the bottom.  Top opening is approximately 2" across.  $775

28 SAW  -  THE CLASSIC ADMIRAL DEWEY BULLET LAMP  More Photos, Click Here  One of the most eagerly sought Spanish American War collectible.  Consists of a sheet copper cylinder made to look like a large cartridge case, with bullet shaped nose of a darker color.  The "cartridge" is supported by a pair of cast iron crossed cannon.  The top surface of the "cartridge" has a threaded base for a small oil burner, which should not be difficult to replace, there being so many sources of restoration parts.  One side of the lamp has the raised image of the "MAINE", surrounded by the words "ADMIRAL DEWEY'S LAMP".  On the opposite side, are crossed U.S. and Admiral Flags, with the motto "REMEMBER THE MAINE".  The lamp is almost 9" long, and 3 1/2" in diameter.  Condition:  Very good.  Copper finish darkening from age/patina.  Nose, once bright, is now darkly tarnished.  Overall nice mellow look of age.  No dents.  Lacks burner and glass chimney.  A marvelous, ornate piece which truly represents the feeling and taste of the period.  Absolutely original.  Will also include a decorative lamp shade, that sits on top of a glass chimney (not included).  It is approximately 3 3/8" tall by 5 1/2" across at the bottom.  Top opening is approximately 2" across.  $475

29 SAW  -  UNBELIEVABLY RARE VISITING CARDS FROM THE MEMBERS OF THE 1st SOUTH DAKOTA U.S. VOLUNTEERS, CO K    More Photos, Click Here  All or nearly all of the members of this Spanish American War combat outfit ordered visiting cards, or what today call business cards.  This is the only unit I know to have done this, making these exceedingly rare, not to mention really neat items because of their design.  Judging from what I've observed, the soldiers would swap and collect cards from all their friends in the regiment...not knowing what to expect once they got into combat.  (I'm confident that these cards were ordered while the unit was still assembling and training, all from the same printer, probably local.  There are two forms of cards ordered.  Most soldiers ordered the obviously cheaper card.  These have billowing full color American flag on staff, with a small picture of a ship, or soldiers, the soldier's name in lovely script, where the soldier was from (hometown), and full unit designation, to include company.  A few soldiers ordered the "deluxe" version of the card.  It has the same information, but is much more artistic, with full color panoply of war trophies with Dewey's portrait on front.  Also, there is a small picture of the Maine at the upper right corner.  These cards are small works of art.  We have a few of each, all from one soldier in the unit who collected them from friends.  Price for Card A...Each...$35  Price for Card B...Each...$65

30 SAW  -  PATRIOTIC MILITARY MOTIF POCKET COIN PURSE  More Photos, Click Here  Spanish American War memorabilia – one of the infinite number of useful items sold during and shortly after the War which carried some form of patriotic or military decoration, intended to show support for the War.  This item is really neat.  Consists of a disc shaped top, opening like a compact, made of nickel plated sheet metal.  Center of the top is the Navy insignia…spread eagle on anchor, in ring of stars.  All this is surrounded by a wreath.  The underside of the lid is dated Dec. 15, ’03.  Affixed to this compact top, is a finely knit short black bag, to hold coins.  The base of the bag has a five petal, floral type motif, done in iron beads, sewn to fabric.  Metal bright, with light wear to plating on high spots/edges.  Small dent in middle of eagle insignia.  Bag excellent.  Some tarnish to beads.  Really neat item.  $75

30 SAW - ANOTHER POCKET COIN PURSE   More Photos, Click Here  Made up of a high relief, silvered, circular metal frame which has on its face the entire insignia found on U.S. Naval officers sword belt buckles.  A latch flips the lid open.  Attached behind the metal frame is a lightly knit pouch in pale grey faced with an 8-pointed star formed by tiny silvery black faceted beads of Hematite.  The decorative top of the purse features an oak leaf wreath around a precise and accurate rendering of a naval officer’s insignia…spread winged eagle on horizontal anchor over stacked cannon balls, all ringed with stars and rope.  Condition is near new.  Has the patent date of Dec. 15, '03 on inside of lid.  A gem.  Measures 2¾” across when laid flat.  $85

34 SAW  -  PATRIOTIC PENDANT DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF THE SAILORS LOST ON THE U.S.S. MAINE  Click on each thumbnail for larger view  Sale Pending   To be worn on a neck chain or as a watch fob.  A 1 1/2" diameter disc with a color rendering of the burning Morro Castle with U.S. flags flying overhead.  Reverse has this poignant dedication..."LET US HOIST THE AMERICAN FLAG UPON THE RUINS OF MORRO CASTLE AND SAY TO THE BRAVE SAILORS OF THE BATTLE-SHIP MAINE: THERE IS YOUR MONUMENT". Glass faces front and back.   Metal rim.  Metal loop and ring on top.  Mint condition.  Offered at cost...$65

35 SAW - "MAINE AVENGED" – SPANISH AMERICAN WAR SILK SCARF  More Photos, Click Here  Sale Pending  Approximately 18” square, off white thin silk, with 6” high decorative panel printed in dark blue on one quadrant.  Top has bust of Admiral Dewey within a laurel wreath, flanked by a small inscription “THE HERO OF MANILA/WE DIDN’T (DEWEY) A THING TO THEM”.  Below this is a scene of a U.S. Battleship destroying other ships (Spanish), all surrounded by a laurel wreath, over the title “MAINE AVENGED”.  Fine condition, just needs ironing. Offered at our cost.  $75

36 SAW  -  "REMEMBER THE MAINE" SPANISH AMERICAN WAR CHOROMOLITHOGRAPH BEER TRAY  More Photos, Click Here   12" in diameter, with the central portion filled with a color view of the U.S.S. Maine at sea, over the motto "Remember the Maine".  A wonderful patriotic scene and dramatic display specimen, bordered with a raised rim profusely decorated with panoplies of U.S. flags and shields, and crossed cannon, in repeating sequences all the way around.  And bordering this at the extreme edge is twisted rope.  A very scarce and decorative tray.  Condition is bright and excellent and likely as fine as could ever be found.  Border about new condition, with some small chips scattered.  Central scene fine with some small nicks and scratches in the upper quadrant.  $465

37 SAW  -  "REMEMBER THE MAINE" SPANISH AMERICAN WAR CHOROMOLITHOGRAPH BEER TRAY  More Photos, Click Here  12" in diameter, with the central portion filled with a color view of the U.S.S. Maine at sea, over the motto "Remember the Maine".  A wonderful patriotic scene and dramatic display specimen, bordered with a raised rim profusely decorated with panoplies of U.S. flags and shields, and crossed cannon, in repeating sequences all the way around.  And bordering this at the extreme edge is twisted rope.  A very scarce and decorative tray.  Condition is good with bright colors.  The upper quadrant has numerous light brown speckles. Small scattered chips overall.  $265

40 SAW  -  THE MAGNIFICENT ADMIRAL DEWEY PORTRAIT CABINET PHOTO ALBUM  More Photos, Click Here  This was one of the most showy items created to appeal to the vast souvenir/memorabilia/collecting audience during the Spanish American War.  Out of the thousands of items created with Admiral Dewey's bust or name, this one became a classic, having centerpiece stature.  And what sold it then and sells it now, whether one actually needed a photo album, is the incredible front cover.  All else is extraneous.  This is a big book, with thick covers and thick pages.  8 3/8" wide, 10 1/2" high.  The front cover is a masterpiece in celluloid.  At center is a full color, life-like portrait of Admiral Dewey, surrounded by a wreath, behind which we see draped American flags, and above and below these, a sea scene, and cameos of ships in Dewey's fleet.  The color and the artistry are outstanding.  They almost glow.  The spine and back cover are faced with a green patterned velvet, almost universally worn off, whenever one finds one of these old albums.  While lightly worn, it is unexpectedly good.  The cover lacks the rear half of the latch. Inside are 15 thick pages, gilt edged.  Normally the pages are worn, torn and generally a mess.  These are clean and almost free from small tears.  Has about 2/3 of the pages filled with people from the turn of the century.  This is a splendid display.  Face is very fine.  $325

42 SAW  -  COLORFULLY PATRIOTIC ARMY & NAVY BOOK OF NEEDLES    Click on each thumbnail for larger view Classic Spanish American War themes made this a real showpiece of SAW memorabilia.  Comes in its original grey envelope, 3 ¼ x 5 ¾” with the printed title on its face “The Army and Navy/Needle Book/Contains a full variety of/LARGE EYED NEEDLES, etc. etc.”.  Inside is a stiff card stock folder which hinges open to 2 ¾ x 9 ½”.  The outside faces of this folder have colorful, full face spread eagle on shield, with arrows and olive branch, all sitting on the top edge of the globe.  The entire background is blue sky with stars.  An amazing display.  The other face has a color picture of one of the S.A.W. war ships, the IOWA at sea, all framed with rococo scroll work.  Everything is like new.  $35

43 SAW  -  ANTIQUE DRUM CANVAS CARRYING CASE C.1890-1900   More Photos, Click Here  A tannish canvas with half loop carrying strap and snap fasteners.  Sound.  Dusty from storage with some water stains.  Dim owner's name and town on one side (Portland Maine), very faded.  Case will probably improve quite a bit if washed (by hand, in cold water, at your own risk).  Takes a drum up to 17" in diameter, and 14" high.  Snaps work.   $25

44 SAW  -  NEAT SPANISH AMERICAN WAR TIN TRAY WITH PATRIOTIC MOTIFS.   Click on each thumbnail for larger view  3 3/8” in diameter with raised rim done in gold tone.  Central theme revolves around picture of the U.S.S. Maine under crossed US and Cuban flags, over motto “Remember the Maine”.  Decoration is color litho.  Probably intended as a coaster or small tip tray.  Shows minor wear.  $35

45 SAW  -  45 STAR PATRIOTIC AMERICAN FLAG  Click on each thumbnail for larger view  Made for waving at parades and decorating homes, businesses, banquet halls, and during the period of this flag’s life, there were plenty of each.  This flag’s life was from 4 January 1896 to November 16, 1907. William McKinley and Teddy Roosevelt were presidents, and we fought the Spanish American War changing radically the world’s geography.  4 3/8 x 7 ½”.  White polished cotton with red stripes and blue canton stenciled-on.  Design strong and clean both sides.  Have 3, all on original sticks.  All are excellent with few little holes, or small edge tears.  Each…$35

46 SAW  -  45 STAR FLAG PATRIOTIC SPANISH AMERICAN WAR ENVELOPE    Click on each thumbnail for larger view   3 5/8 x 6 1/2".  Entire face of envelope is a bright red, white and blue American flag with 45 star canton…star pattern 8-7-8-7-8-7.  Unused.  For the period 1896-1907, including Spanish American War, Philippine Insurrection and the Boxer Rebellion.  Very unusual.  Shows minor handling, and the flap has glued shut.  Have three.  Each...$15

47 SAW  -  HANDSOME HAND CARVED WOOD SPOON WITH CUBAN FLAG carefully cut into the surface of the handle, with color and shadowing added to deepened contours.  Shown flying from a staff.  Spoon is perfectly shaped with lustrous surface.  Done in a medium brown wood.  Fine condition.  Flag has artistic character.  Souvenir of Spanish American War period occupation.  C.1899.  $25  Click on each thumbnail for a larger view

48 SAW  -  COLLAPSIBLE PATRIOTIC FAN  Click on each thumbnail for a larger view   Spanish American War.  Has a pair of 9 1/2" long handles with clip at bottom to hold their position - open or closed.  To open, spread the handles in a circular fashion, the upper end being a hinge.  This opens and spreads the accordion fan portion which becomes a circle, with a colored US flag covering about a quarter of the fan surface.  Handles have lightly worn print paper covering.  Condition is very good showing use.  From our personal collection.  $45

50 SAW  -  MECHANICAL DEVICE - PROGRAM FOR ADMIRAL DEWEY'S GRAND NEW YORK RECEPTION   More Photos, Click Here   This is a mechanical program for Admiral Dewey’s Grand New York reception which informs the user of every important event of the two day celebration and its time and place.  Consists of a 2” diameter disc, celluloid covered on both sides.  Face has Admiral Dewey bust at top between U.S. and Admiral flags in color, over picture of Olympia at sea.  Wording at edge is “New York Celebration to America’s Hero, September 29 & 30, 1899”.  Opposite side has movable top layer with slot on one side.  Moving this top layer, or more properly said, rotating it, reveals through the slot, information about the celebration.  About every 3/8” of rotation reveals yet another banquet, parade, meeting, Naval display, etc., and gives time and place.  Printed on the top, movable layer is “Friday Sept. 29th/Reception & Naval Parade, See 1…Saturday Sept. 30/Military Parade See 2”.  Center says NEW YORK/1899”.  Time of day of events are shown on the extreme edge of the pocket programmer. Excellent used condition. Movable layer rotates fine. Minor crinkling of the front covering over Dewey and ship, and the rim has very light overall haze of stable rust which just makes it look dark. The Whitehead & Hoag Co., Newark, NJ is stamped on the side rim. Offered at cost.  $125

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