MEXICAN WAR - CIVIL WAR ERA (1841-1865)

Everything we offer from the Mexican War and Civil War periods not listed in the preceding main sections, is listed here. We offer an extensive selection of period antiques.

THIS IS A HUGE SECTION, over 100 ITEMS...GREAT VARIETY...PLEASE SCROLL ALL THE WAY TO THE BOTTOM

GAR Veteran Souvenir Canteens, Framed Lincoln Portrait, Civil War Sword Sash, South Carolina Housewife, Tobacco twists, Dug & Non-dug Clay Pipes, Magneto, Civil War Eagle Painted Drum, Civil War Drum, Rosewood Fife, George Washington Mourning Ribbon, U.S. Army Camel Bell, Confederate Bonds, newspapers, Harper's Weekly, Frank Leslie's news magazine, The Army Navy Journal, portfire staves, knives, forks & spoons, ammunition, cartridges, fuzes, mechanical pencils, Cavalry spurs, inkwells, tinware, whiskey flasks, signal lanterns, Capitol Building 1865 Photo, stencil ink, tear bottle, sheet music, much more...check through these listings

1MCW  -  CIVIL WAR DRUM.  More Photos, Click Here  Most collectors would like a drum for their display, but find the eagle drum too expensive.  Actually, most Civil War drums were undecorated, which makes owning a true, representative drum very economical…that is if you get it from us.  Everyone else offering this drum would have the price $300 higher.  Brass body, once tin plated.  Now aged nearly black, with bright tin at the upper and lower edges, next to the dark blue rims. 12" high, 16 1/2" in diameter. Original heads.  Top one has a 2” tear at the edge.  Bottom has 9” tear near edge.  Rope and leather tugs are accurate restoration replacements.  Attractive drum in better condition than most – and at an extremely low, low price.  $545

2MCW  -  MISCELLANEOUS GETTYSBURG BATTLE PUBLICATIONS

A.  RARE TWO VOLUME SET OF "PENNSYLVANIA AT GETTYSBURG".  Photos, Click Here  Copyright 1893.  Provided to important persons by state representatives.  These important volumes contain a superb collection of portrait-quality photos of all Pennsylvania monuments, along with a full description of the dedication ceremonies plus the speech given at each – and this is the best of the books, because the speaker often witnessed the action and relates the details of the events which brought forth the monuments being dedicated.  Clean, excellent text and photos. Hard covers, all loose from the text.  Spine coverings are gone. 6 ¾ x 10”. 1080 pages!  As a repository of fact and story, these official volumes would be difficult to better.  $45

B.  EARLY GETTYSBURG BATTLEFIELD EXPLANATION & GUIDE.  Photos, Click Here  Copyright 1892; reprinted 1913.  Soft cover.  6 x 9 ¼”.  150 pages.  Believe put out by Tipton & Blocher – two of the most prominent names in old Gettysburg. In fact, the Blocher family owned our battlefield home in Gettysburg (Shultz House) in the late 1890’s-early 1900’s.  Grey green paper covers.  Tattered at spine and worn at corners.  Title “Gettysburg, What They Did Here”, by Luther Minnich.  Detailed description of the land, the action, the Armies and numerous personal accounts.  Early book sellers pencil notations on fly-leaf and price of $18 (at least 20 years old). Has fold-out map, once glued in book, now detached and has 6” corner out. 1912 copyright.  Clean text and map.  $15

3MCW  -  TINTYPE OF A WINTER LOG CABIN HOME, POSSIBLY SHAKER C.1860.  More Photos, Click Here  Sale Pending  Wonderful early tintype from around 1860, 4¼ x 5½”.  This image shows a homestead with outbuildings, one obviously an outhouse, and the other probably a barn.  A picket fence extends from each side of the front of the house.  There even appears to be a white cat sitting on a tool in front of the fence, in the area of the outhouse.  We believe this may be a Shaker religious home for the following reason:  There are two main doors, two main windows, and would make sense that that this was a house where the men and women lived separately, with a main chimney to heat each side.  This is most likely somewhere in the New England states or New York.  Condition is crisp and clear, with a few little breaks in the emulsion, having allowed moisture to cause erosion, but very lightly. There are some minor horizontal scratches, the only one really seen is at the bottom of the image, and some other scattered very minor scratches not affecting the image.  The bottom right corner has a few crimps, not affecting the image.  The photo was mounted, showing remnants of masking tape on the back, again not affecting the front image.  Very excellent image, of an interesting subject.  No mat, no case. NOTE: Some of the photos seem stretched, and this is only due to how close and at an angle we had to get to take the shots.  The real color is closest to the first photo.    $75

5MCW  -  LOT OF THREE G.A.R. FORMS.  More Photos, Click Here  These came from Post 87 in Springville, New York.  Consists of form A, B & G.  First two are filled in.  Form A is Quarterly Report (1885) for adjutant, showing number of members, names, etc. of new members, names of newly elected officers and adjust number of members by one death. Form B is Quartermaster Report, showing the payment of 99 cents in membership taxes, and general financial status.  Form G is Mortuary Report (not filled in) for reporting member deaths during a year.  Forms are 3 ¾ and 8 ¾” when folded closed.  They open 3 or 4 folds. Comes with original envelope, with “Commander P Rassel/Springville” written on front.  Nice accessories to G.A.R. collection/display.  $15

6MCW  -  ORIGINAL 1865 PHOTOGRAPH OF THE U.S. CAPITOL BUILDING  More Photos, Click Here  I believe this was taken in April or May 1865.  I say this because it would memorialize not only the completion of the Capitol construction, but the end of the Civil War.  Such a picture would not be the result of routine photography, but was likely commissioned by the government to commemorate the great day of completion..  It was too extensive and elaborate an undertaking to essentially sweep clean the entire view of human traffic, which under any other circumstance, would have flooded the scene.  Only two small conveyances broke the cordon, and snuck into the scene; one is a horse drawn street car at the extreme right and the other a small horse drawn wagon at the base of the steps (which could be the photographer’s wagon).  Both are seen only as a faint shadow because they moved during the exposure.  There’s not a leaf or a stone out of place.  Temporary wood fences protect newly seeded lawn and shrubs. The entire structure gleams.  A  albumen print measuring 10 x 16” in original walnut finished oak frame 14 x 20 ½”, with glass. (There is a slight variation in the color of the photos shown, due to difficulty taking them through glass).  $495

7MCW  -  PAIR OF UNION CAVALRY BRASS SPURS.  More Photos, Click Here  About good as new.  First set I’ve had in years.  Iron rowels aren’t even rusted.  Brass has nice light tarnish.  Type with groove on the inside curve.  Prime set.  $295 

9MCW  -  NICE CIVIL WAR ROSEWOOD FIFE.  More Photos, Click Here  Before the bugle was adopted as the method of signaling the day’s activities in camp. the fife was used.  Also, it was often the only source for music, and the sound of the fife was familiar in all camps.  This one is 16” long, with brass end caps, and is in very fine condition.  Has very light to very dark variegated grain.  $95

10MCW  -  AMAZING - A CIVIL WAR U.S. SENATE PAGE SILVER BADGE. Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  This very badge stood as witness to more profound Civil War turmoil, debate and historic events than almost anything one could own. Jeweler made in solid sheet silver, hand engraved in the shape of a ribband, with the words "SENATE PAGE" in shadowed lettering, sunk and filled with black fired enamel. T-bar pin back with wire "C" clasp. 2 1/4" wide. This exact badge form was used by other governmental and civilian agencies as well, which dealt directly with the military, such as the "Christian Commission", a soldier relief agency. Extremely rare, and I doubt I've seen more than 5 examples of all types in about 42 years. Very excellent with minor patina, mostly on back.    $350

11MCW  -  G.A.R. "GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC" VETERAN'S SOUVENIR GLASS CANTEEN.  More Photos, Click Here   From the 33^rd National Encampment of 1899, in Philadelphia, PA.  Face of clear glass canteen has beautiful, full color G.A.R. membership badge backed by lush green wreath and large crossed flags, all applied as a single label under glass, bonded to the face, in a slightly depressed, convex circle.  The event text is found at the top of this decorative face.  This “label-under-glass” technique is very fragile, and few survive.  There are no cracks in the face.  The reverse side has raised letters U.S. at center.  Has a screw spout with original pewter stopper.  There are small depressions where wire sling guides once were.  One goes all the way through the glass body.  These glass canteens are rare, especially in fine condition.  It took me years to acquire one this fine.  Measures 4 3/8” diameter.  From our collection.  $450

12MCW  -  CIVIL WAR HAND PAINTED EAGLE DRUM.  More Photos, Click Here  The all time classic of Civil War collecting.  An object which has transcended its basic use to become a symbol of the War, The Union, and an icon of patriotic Americana.  Collectors of folk art are our most enthusiastic, affluent, and frequently successful competitors for this drum.  Just seeing it evokes images across the spectrum of the people, symbols and events surrounding the War, and the times.  16 3/8" high, 16 1/2" in diameter.  Shell appears to be oak, finished in light mahogany.  Rims are red.  One side of the shell has a 16" wide painted panel, its design familiar to all, and featuring a fierce spread eagle, shield and ribband with national motto "E Pluribus Unum".  Paint is in wonderful shape and color is strong.  About 90% original; a minor amount of paint flaked off in typical fashion leaving narrow horizontal bare spots.  All of this has been professionally restored by the preeminent experts at Cooperman Drum & Fife Company in Connecticut.  Over-painting was NOT employed. Next to the painted panel is an original 7" wide panel of brass tacks added in decorative fashion to enhance the vent area.  Heads, ropes (to include the drag) and tugs are professionally restored.  Condition of drum is beautiful.  Rims have a wonderful old looking red, with overall light surface wear.  A rim crack has period tin reinforcement.  Judging from the clean shadow inside from where the label was, I believe the person who recently discovered the drum in an attic had no appreciation for the label's value, allowed it to fall out, and didn't pick it up. I consulted the drum restorer who identified the maker as J. ASHTON.  Because of the scarcity and demand for these drums, we've not had one to offer for several years.  Here's an opportunity which seldom occurs, to own a classic .  $6,500 postpaid, via priority insured

13MCW  -  CIVIL WAR SWORD SASH.  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  Try to find these today!  Here's a nice one.  Crimson. Sash part prox. 7'4" long, each end with a standard knot and tassel 6" long.  Sash is 4" wide, relaxed, and is a heavy net-like material which appears to be a blend of wool and silk - doesn't seem totally one or the other.  No holes.  Few scattered little snags.  Couple small stains of darker tone.  General aspect is excellent. No problem at tassels - a little wear.  $795

14MCW  -  FAMOUS CIVIL WAR QUACK ELECTRIC HEALING MACHINE.  More Photos, Click Here  A classic medical marvel of the period, which when I was last at the Smithsonian, showed up as a centerpiece in three separate medical exhibits.  Quite a quality machine making a marvelous display.  Called “DAVIS & KIDDER’S PATENT MAGNETO ELECTRIC MACHINE FOR NERVOUS DISEASES”, prominently displayed on the large and ornate label inside the lid, which also shows vignettes of the machine in use, plus listing full directions for its use. The machine was patented April 15, 1854, though this one is not dated.  I know the date because others I have had over the past 45 years, were dated. The machine comes in a fine solid mahogany case 10” long, 4 ¾” high and 4 ½” deep.  Has hinged lid.  Inside case is a brass framework which supports brass gears and pulleys which, when the crank on front is turned, it rotates a double coil on front of a large U-shaped magnet.  Two electrodes attach to wires which come out of each end of the machine, and these were put in contact with any part of the body thought troubled. When the machine was cranked, a pulsing electric current went to the hand held electrodes.  I’ve tested the machine, and it works!  The “fan belt” is replaced and should be tighter.  At times, should these machines refuse to work, the problem is usually a bad contact with the probe wires, or slight adjustment of the coils which must not touch the magnet. Totally complete and very good.  Full label, just toned from age.  Nice finish to wood, and handsome with brass reinforced edges.  This machine was pirated by numerous different companies, and we’ve even had specimens from Europe which stole the technology.  About as fine as these machines come.  Wires are very old, but probably replacements.  All else original.  $395

15MCW  -  ABRAHAM LINCOLN MOURNING BROADSIDE.  Click on thumbnail photo for larger  Very rare due to their originally fragile nature (thin newsprint) and the fact that most were pasted up, making it impossible to remove.  This one had to be a treasured memento, probably saved by a member of the original printer’s staff or family.  Measures 17 ½ x 23”.  Off-white thin paper stock, black bordered, with the words “WE MOURN/OUR LOVED AND MARTYRED GUIDE!” around large drawn portrait of the president, over a ribband with “LINCOLN”.  Shows it was folded in quarters, with lighter folds in eighths.  Some fractures along center folds and up center from middle. Some tiny slivers out.  Small piece out of extreme left edge at center.  Barely touches the border.  Some nearly invisible archival tape was applied to the reverse.   $850

16MCW  -  ORIGINAL 1866 DOVER ENGLAND BRITISH SOLDIER LETTER.  More Photos, Click Here  This is an original 1866 letter, handwritten by Corporal David Moore, Western Heights, Dover, England, 1866.  7 ¼ x 9” open, with four pages of writing. Folds in the middle. Overall quite legible.  A few splits at various folds.  Some browning on the section that while folded for some time, was exposed to light.  I will try to translate it as best as I can, expecting there may be some mistakes in my interpretation. He didn’t use much punctuation, so it runs on a bit:  “Western Heights Dover, 8^th March 1866/My beloved Sisters, I am most longingly waiting for a letter from you for it is now a long time to me a century since I had your last and only letter and believe me there is nothing more pleasant than getting letters from you for you both flatter & encourage me and I must own I am susceptible to the finest and (Equines?) the latter for I am not at all satisfied with my (?) position in life.  I am daily longing for a change which thanks to my Mother and dear Sisters.  I expect to hear before long.  I had a letter from home lately stating that in the coarse of a month the would be able to forward what would be required to purchase my discharge and believe me dear dear sisters that I feel as deeply thankful to you for your kind promise as if it had been put into execution and I doubt not but that I shall require your assistance yet for I am sorry to have to tell you that Father is acting very far from wisely. I am told that he has thrown of all restraint which religion enforces giving himself up to intemperate habits and careless of all worldly matters it is a sad tale for a child to hear to tell of a Father but nevertheless true to beloved sisters it became as to us to be the (?) will.  Susan sais that my Father sais that if I come home and goes to America he will not stop behind me and that is (?) what the want for if we were all there it would be much better than stopping at home.  (It goes on some more on the same topic, then) We have had a very mild winter in England.  You can see that our Regiment has left Aldenshot for Dover. We left on the 20^th Feb. I like this town very well. I have go no mail from Australia yet. You will be surprised to hear that Mr. Cavins whole family is about to leave Ireland for America.  The home already auctioned out all belonging to them.  I have not heard what part of America the intend going to but I suppose you will hear all about that from home.  They have established martial law through the most of the South of Ireland on account of the Fenians and are (?) prisoners of all suspicious clothing characters.  I think it will soon come to an end all this disturbance.  The cattle plaque is causing great disaster in this country. I hope by this time that the severity of your winter is over my love to James & Mrs. And all your friends except of y kindest love yourselves and I believe me your loving brother to death.  David Moore/Address To Corpl. David Moore/C Company 74^th Highlanders Western Heights Dover England.”  $15

17MCW  -  RARE GEORGE WASHINGTON MOURNING RIBBON.  More Photos, Click Here With 9/16” diameter Ferrotype portrait button at center of the white & black 3” diameter silk cockade.  There is a 4” black and white silk ribbon drop from the cockade.  Condition is excellent, with the exception of a few little holes (most 1/16”) in the white of the cockade.  The button has a nice Ferrotype of a Washington portrait (head/neck) and has brass border and back, with button shank.  Two events probably inspired its creation – either the 50^th Anniversary of his death or the Civil War, during which the “Father of His Country” was often referred to, in relation to preserving the country “HE” created.  Only one noted.  Quite rare.  $575

18MCW  -  NINE ORIGINAL PORTRAITS OF CIVIL WAR OFFICERS.  More Photos, Click Here  Superb quality lithographs from photo-quality engravings.  Some dated Civil War; others of the same source and format are not dated.  Appears to have been sold in packets, with many notable officers to choose from.  The following people are pictured: Maj Robert Anderson (Ft. Sumpter); Maj Gen Logan; J. C. Freemont; Col. E. Baker; Gen. Rosecrans; Gen. Dix, J. C. Fremont (2^nd view); Gen. F. Sigel; Col. Corcoran.  Generally 10 x 12”, printed on heavy white stock.  All original Civil War.  The highest quality.  Show some light handling and edge war.  $25

19MCW  -  CIVIL WAR CANTEEN CORK & CHAIN.  More Photos, Click Here  Representative sample shown  So many canteens out there are missing the stopper.  Here’s a chance to fill that hole!  Stopper is a reproduction; chain is original.  Been in storage so long, that it has aged nicely and about impossible to tell this from an original.  Every detail is exact.  Ring has rust patina.  Base nut has whitish patina. Chain shows good grey/white patina.  Have a few from very old inventory stash.  Each...$10

20MCW  -  UNIQUE ELECTION PIECE OF 1864 FEATURING GENERAL McCLELLAN.   More Photos, Click Here  A Heroic Tableau.  Finally relieved of his command, McClellan was free to openly oppose Lincoln in the presidential election of 1864.  That he wouldn’t or couldn’t engineer a victory while in command of the Army of the Potomac, seems to be explained by his having joined the Peace Party.  What this is, is a very dignified tableau of McClellan on a horse in a most heroic pose, as if he were already immortalized in statue.  It is a three-dimensional figure about 12” high, with a handsome bronze finish, probably of a stamped sheet brass or bronze.  Beautifully framed with shadow box effect against an olive green paper textured like velvet.  Very excellent original walnut frame with gilt inner border.  The most expensively created electioneering piece we’ve seen in nearly 50 years in the militaria business.  Frame is nearly 22” high.  The figure’s base is well signed, as well as patent dated June 1864.  Condition very excellent.  Paper backing probably an early replacement.  This paper has a slightly noticeable crack along the statue base.  What the tableau’s exact purpose was, can’t be said for sure, but it was almost surely to present his image to the public as one of strength and leadership – as the enlisted soldiers saw him, and not as his superiors knew him.  Extremely rare election piece. (Lots of reflections in the photos)  $750

21MCW  -  RARE U.S. ARMY CAMEL BELL.  More Photos, Click Here   Originally made for U.S. Army Camel Corps introduced by Secretary of War Jefferson Davis in the 1850's.  During the Civil War, the Army apparently used these bells with Cavalry horses (see Lord's "Civil War Collector's Encyclopedia"), and then, after the Civil War, the Army apparently used them on mule pack trains which followed expeditions against the Indians, as evidenced by one being dug at Ft. Apache Arizona.  Made in at least three sizes, the largest definitely for the camels.  These are really hard to find.  This is the mid-sized, 3 3/4" in diameter and 3 5/8" high.  Case in silvery brass and with the Army Coat of Arms in raised design in three places on the sides, separated by sunbursts under stars.  Sand cast, so detail is not great, but still very handsome, and has a remarkably brilliant and beautiful tone.  Top has wide, rectangular belt loop for strap around neck.  Fine condition.  Just a super find.  $375

22MCW  -  SOUTH CAROLINA CONFEDERATE SOLDIER’S HOUSEWIFE.  More Photos, Click Here   Virtually never found in the public market, due to its great utility and common status – they were simply used up and not saved. Yet, to the soldier in the field, this was one of his most important personal possessions.  In the form of commercially made housewives purchased by thousands of soldiers North & South, for their great utility in carrying buttons, thread, needles, pins and more – but this one is entirely hand made.  When unrolled flat, it is 13” long, and 5 ¼” wide. Exterior or backside is dark brown wool, probably homespun, edged with faded yellow wool ribbon.  Inside has 4 panels, top to bottom, red, white, red, and faded light blue.  Bottom two are pockets.  Top white panel has several crescent flaps for holding pins and needles (several still there).  The entire interior is decorated (all hand sewn and unequivocally ORIGINAL) and it is unmistakably SOUTH CAROLINA IN ORIGIN.  Top panel has crescent moon (S.C. symbol since the Revolution), middle red panel has star, and bottom faded blue panel has Palmetto tree flanked by S.C. (all pieces individually cut and sewn in place in layers).  Entire inside has the same yellow edging on backside.  Importantly, there is even a possibility that the original owner can be identified, as the top flap of the needle holders has the initials “J J” embroidered on.  Condition is very good, but because it is all wool, it has some scattered moth holes.  The ribbon which wrapped it shut is mostly there but frayed and has some stains. Examination under dual spectrum ultra-violet confirmed that no modern materials or thread exist in the housewife.  For a genuine Confederate soldier’s personal item, this is a great rarity and an important find.  $875

23MCW  -  ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR CLAY PIPES.   Click on thumbnail photos for larger view   When I purchased these 30+ years ago, I was told they were excavated from the remains of a pipe factory in the Maryland/Virginia vicinity, which had burned down during the Civil War.  These are the exact type I've personally dug in Civil War camps.  Plain red clay which took a bamboo stem (not included).  Fine condition.  Each...$25...Buy three or more, pay $22 each

23MCW (CONT).  -  ORIGINAL DUG CIVIL WAR CLAY PIPES.  Have only three with more decorative reeded sides, which are dug.  See photos above.  Each...$30  Buy all 3 for $80

24MCW  -  ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR RED CLAY PIPES WITH ORIGINAL BAMBOO STEM.  More Photos, Click Here  Photos show representative examples  Just pulled these out of long term storage.  Really nice.  New condition; never used.  Absolutely original.  Exactly what sutlers sold and exactly what I've excavated at camps and battlefields.  Red clay head with reeded sides (parallel grooved).  Stem is a straight piece of bamboo drilled out and tapered on the end going into the clay head.  Each...$35...Buy three or more, pay $30 each

25MCW  -  CIVIL WAR SOLDIER’S TIN MESS CUPS.  More Photos, Click Here  These two cups are classic representations of what was found in field mess chests and smaller mess kits everywhere during the War.  The last two of a grouping we recently found.  Makes a nice addition to any display of what a soldier carried, if he could pilfer one, or was lucky enough to be issued one.

Type 1:   Shape between coffee cup and mug.  Heavyweight.  2 ½” high.  4 ½” mouth.  Heavy sheet iron loop handle riveted and soldered at top only.  Fairly bright with some dark grey. $30

Type 2:   4 5/8” mouth with straight, tapered sides.  2” high.  Sheet metal loop handle riveted at top only.  Mostly bright.  $25

26MCW  -  CIVIL WAR NEWSPAPER – RARE “WAR SUPPLEMENT” to “Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper”.  New York, March 15, 1862.  16 pages, 11 x 16”.  Has a couple pages filled with War scenes and an unprecedented picture, 4 pages wide!  Because of the peculiarities of the printing/folding used, the large picture has to be taken from different parts of the paper and laid together.  This is of the Union forces occupying Fort Donelson.  Includes other War news, fiction, humor, etc.  Clean.  Shows light handling and spine is a little frayed at the edge.  Neat issue.  $15

27MCW  -  A TRULY EXCEPTIONAL LINCOLN MEMORIAL.  More Photos, Click Here   A superb engraved portrait surrounded by patriotic vignettes, within a unique Civil War era patriotic oval metal frame with domed glass.  We paid $960 for it at least 15 years ago, when we collected Lincoln material.  Frame is 21" tall, is of gilded brass with brass finished sheet iron backing plate, and cast brass spread eagle on shield with flowing ribband standing on top of the frame.  Surrounding Lincoln's portrait are four complex scenes and at top is a scene of people with a covered wagon and a group of ex-slaves walking (I assume homeless due to the War).  At the bottom is a figure with sword and flag standing on a dragon labeled "Rebellion" and one with a female figure next to an eagle on shield...figure gestures to scene symbolizing prosperity.  At bottom center are clasped hands over "UNION".  Has an 1864 copyright referring to basic art.  And has line "Assassinated April 14, 1865", this indicating about when this memorial was published.  Frame has some tarnish and wear to gilt.  Print excellent with some subtle damp stain.  You couldn't find a more handsome formal portrait of Lincoln, especially this early (1865).  Domed glass will present a challenge for shipping, and we will have to calculate the charges based on your zip code. For obvious reasons, the photos show lots of reflections.  $895

28MCW  -  PRIME CIVIL WAR TOBACCO TWISTS.  Click on thumbnail for larger view  Familiar to most Civil War soldiers and the common form of buying it.  Shown in Lord's "Civil War Collector's Encyclopedia", except his is missing a good deal of the narrow end.  We have a few fine specimens in the best shape we've ever had. Not much flaking.  Have basic size, with a bit of variation within each (all were hand made), around 5 1/2" to 6" long. Essential for a display of soldiers' effects.  Many have been found with their gear from the War. Only a few left.  Each...$50  Photo shows representative samples

29MCW  -  ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR KNAPSACK HOOKS.  Click on thumbnail for larger view   Representative sample shown  Brass. Came in left and right orientation.  Sold in pairs.  Consists of a disc shaped stud on one end of a heavy brass hook.  Prox. 1 3/4" long.  About good as new.  Minor tarnish. Have a few pair from very old inventory stash. Each pair...$14

30MCW  -  BEAUTIFUL ANTIQUE MECHANICAL PENCILS - Click Below for Photos

A.  Extravagant Civil War Pocket Mechanical Pencil.  Click Here for Photos  Has retractable point to protect it during movement. Made to be used with a pocket notepad and some have little tube pockets to carry these pencils.  3” long with point retracted.  Extended, it’s 3 7/8”.  Made in extreme quality, and with considerable artistic merit.  Extremely thin, prox. 1/8”, with flats and grooves lengthwise…the flats given a texture.  Point responds to the movement of a ringed collar which moves up and down the shaft.  The rear terminates in a decorative urn with carved rococo scrolls around the exterior and a ruby mounted on its top (obviously it could be red glass), and this screws off for lead storage.  Just below the rear termination is a collar and ring for cord or chain.  Beautiful condition.  $95

C.  High Grade Civil War Mechanical Field Pencil.  Sale Pending  Click Here for Photos  Made of thin, decoratively embossed, gilded brass.  5” long when open.  By pushing in the rear end of the pen, both the rear of the handle and the point retract into the center body.  This protects the pencil from damage when moving. The opposite end screws off for lead storage.  It reduces to a mere 2 ¾” in length.  Appears made for field service by its complex ability to retract, yet it is quite decorative, as seen on the field pens.  $75

D.  Civil War-Indian War Period Mechanical Pencil.  Click Here for Photos  I would call this the economy model.  Serviceable – made with the same materials as the field pen; just has less decoration and metal appears a bit thinner.  Quite thin.  3 ¾” long when the point is extended.  Twist the rear half and the point retracts. Rear end has cap that screws off for lead storage. Fairly bright brass with minor texturing to surface.  Closes to 2 ¾”.  $45

E.  Civil War-Indian War Period Little Pocket Mechanical Pencil.  Click Here for Photos  3/16” in diameter, 2 ¾” long.  Brass with fine decorative embossed surface design.  Rear has little ring to attach to cord or chain.  Typical of pencils carried for little pocket notepads.  Some even came with little tube pockets for such pencils.  Very good.  $25

31MCW  -  IMPORTANT ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR NEWS MAGAZINES.  More Photos, Click Here  (representative sample shown)  A weekly, profusely illustrated publication, and the second most popular national periodical during the War.  “Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper”.  We acquired a good number of these from 1862 to 1864, and will sell them, as they come for $18 each.  These are roughly 11 x 16”, and 14-16 pages (7-8 sheets).  Filled with War news and pictures, as well as great advertising, from medicines, corps badges, I.D. tags, gun, and mess kits.  Papers are all used showing handling…they were probably read by several family members, then saved.  Folded edge will have some generalized shallow fraying as they were once bound.  See what the people saw in the way of their most trusted news coverage.  Offered at half our price several years ago.      Each…$18   Buy 3 or more…$15 each

SEE THE WAR OF 1812 SECTION FOR 1810 AND 1812 NEWSPAPERS

32MCW  -  THE MOST IMPORTANT CIVIL WAR NEWS MAGAZINE.  More Photos, Click Here  (representative samples shown)  “Harper’s Weekly - A Journal of Civilization”, 16 pages (8 sheets), 11 x 16”, profusely illustrated, always filled with War news, as well as fiction, small anecdotes, and fascinating and useful advertising of many soldier related items, for instance tobacco pouches, binoculars, mess kits, stationary, I.D. and corps badges, guns and more.  Center usually has full 2-page picture of latest action of interesting event.  Very good condition.  Spines will show some wear and possibly shallow fraying from having once been bound in a book.  No Civil War collection can convey the essence of the War and the times, without some of these…they held the images through which the population saw the War. This lot was actually subscribed to and collected by a Massachusetts soldier, Lt. George A. Reed, Mass Minuteman (6^th) and the 26^th, who served 1861-65 and who survived passing through the Baltimore Riots which decimated his regiment.  These date 1862-1865.  They are all equally excellent and interesting.                                                                     As they come…Each $25   Buy 3 or more…$20 Each

33MCW  -  ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR SHEET MUSIC, ELLSWORTH FUNERAL, 1861.  More Photos, Click Here   “COL. ELLSWORTH’S FUNERAL MARCH”, dated 1861.  The classic of the War.  First Federal officer killed.  Friend and associate of Lincoln.  A superb color cover.  Col. Ellsworth is shown full length in uniform of officer of Zouaves…red kepi, blue coat, red trousers.  Music originally sold with or without this premium cover.  3 sheets inside cover. 10 1/8 x 12 1/2". Excellent.   $225

34MCW  -  HONORABLE CHARLES SUMNER CABINET PHOTO.  More Photos, Click Here   1880 period photo.  Listed in this section because of his importance during the Civil War era.  Superb pose by Warren's of Boston, Mass (back mark).  Came from an exquisite album of top period governmental, military and celebrity photos of the period.  Excellent crisp image.  Slight foxing on card.  Comes with Xerox of biography.  Senator with uncompromising position against slavery.  In 1856 he was beaten severely in chambers by Preston S. Brooks of S.C., a member of Congress.  Candidate for presidency in 1972.  Important image.  The accompanying handwritten name was clipped from the page in the album.  $150

35MCW  -  CIVIL WAR NEWSPAPER “THE NEW YORK HERALD”...BUY ALL FOUR FOR $80, or individually priced below

1. February 2, 1865.  Highly important issue heavily covering the Peace Mission at Ft. Monroe where Confederate Vice President, etc. met Secretary Seward’s party.  Much of first page quotes Richmond newspapers.  Also report of Cabinet changes at Richmond. Inner pages enlarge on the coverage and editorialize.  Also report of Passage of the Constitutional Amendment outlawing slavery with related activity.  Back page has war news from Sherman, Wilmington, Conley, and on the Draft.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 22”. Clean.  Shows some use and has some parting on the spine.  Unusually important content.  $25
2. February 7, 1865.  Reports the results of the Peace Mission at Ft. Monroe, as well as including long quotes from Richmond newspapers which give their reaction.  Also has short report from Sherman.  Inside has long summary and analysis of the current war situation, plus considerable reporting from the various theaters.  Short pieces on the draft and the unsuccessful attack at Petersburg crater explosion. 8 pages, 15 ½ x 22”.  Clean.  Some parting on spine.  $25
3. February 21, 1865.  Main front page headlines and coverage…Sherman…ground climax of the Campaign in South Carolina…Charleston evacuated by the Rebels…the birthplace of Treason in our hands…Sherman marching in Charlotte…evacuation of Richmond…Progress.  Grant…exchange of prisoners on the James (with reports of their treatment).  Center pages include summary of situation, reports from other theaters and pieces on the South to include that Virginia decided to arm Negroes.  Reconstruction matters already being considered in Congress, before War ends.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 22”.  Clean.  Little parting on spine.  $25
4. February 24, 1865.  The South crumbles and the reporting covers the many fronts which have or will soon be overrun.  “Sherman…has massed columns Still Marching On.”.  “The South…North Carolina overrun”.  “The Last and Grandest Campaign Now in Progress”.  Many small pieces from varied places.  Richmond papers quoted.  General news gives sense that events already going into post-War mode.  Clean.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 22”.  Paper very slightly toned.  $20

36MCW  -  CIVIL WAR NEWSPAPER “THE NEW YORK TIMES”...BUY BOTH FOR $30 or individually priced below

1. October 3, 1861.  Front page filled with War news from all points – Rebels at Harpers Ferry, Federal prisoners of War at Charleston, Campaign in Kentucky…in Missouri, Defense of Fremont – About 2 more inner pages of news and commentary – more on Price & Freemont and prisoners.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 21 ½”.  Clean, excellent.  Just shows handling.  $25
2. February 15, 1869.  “General Grant and Mr. Colfax Formally Notified of their Election” is the headline on this New York Times edition.  Further headlines…”Important & Highly Significant Speech by General Grant”, and more related…some pieces on reconstruction, exceptional report on how a news process works whereby printing plates can be made off photographs, allowing for the first time, mechanical reproduction – local – international.  8 pages, 17 ½ x 23 ¾”.  Clean.  Some frayed edges.  Neat, pertinent post-War paper.  Puts you back in time.  $15

37MCW  -  VERY IMPORTANT ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR MILITARY NEWSPAPER – “THE ARMY NAVY JOURNAL – GAZETTE OF THE REGULAR AND VOLUNTEER FORCES”.  This paper features all War news, all of the time.  Nothing could be more pertinent to the Civil War collector.  These papers were eagerly awaited and read by all armed forces in the North, and more so, in the South, to learn the latest on all campaigns throughout the country…the big picture.  We have a very few copies we’ve been hoarding for years.  Fine, clean copies.  9 ¾ x 14 ¼”, 16 pages.  Spine shows signs of having once been bound.  Gorgeous eagle/shield masthead.  BUY ALL THREE FOR $120, or individually priced below

1. Saturday August 6, 1864.  Superb and detailed report of Grant’s moves at Deep Bottom and vicinity; one of the best reports in the Petersburg Mine, its construction, explosion, and the disastrous fight after.  Then there is Sherman’s Operations – plus analysis of mines, Monitors, breech loaders, more. Also has personnel matters, editorials, and too much more to list.  Last page is filled with fascinating military goods advertising.  Clean.  Excellent.  Spine worn at edge.  $40
2. Saturday April 30, 1864.  Action in North Carolina - Forts about Roanoke were assaulted as were the Federal gunboats, which were defeated – a report on fighting Navajos in New Mexico – a very long and detailed analysis of Ironclad design and use to date – more than a page of recommendations for inexperienced officers, on how to perform their duties – list of Court Martials with several to be shot or hanged – more – good advertising.  Spine has some fraying along edge from having been removed from bound book of issues.  Clean text.  $25
3. Important Double Issue “Army-Navy Journal Supplement”.  February 20 & February 27, 1864.  Issued in addition to the usual weekly issue, and as large as them, for the purpose of publishing in full, General McClellan’s report on the organization of the Army of the Potomac, and its campaign in Virginia and Maryland, July 26, 1861 to November 7, 1862.  This was published in book form, available for public purchase and copies sell for over $700.  This was the public’s opportunity to secure the same information at a fraction of the book’s original price.  Each of these supplements are 16 pages, the same size as the regular A-N Journal.  Unfortunately, the bulk of the text ran very slightly longer than the 32 pages of the double issue supplement, and so the closing words were printed in the next regular issue.  This we do not have.  However, these two contain virtually the entire record of all correspondence between McClellan, the President and the Secretary of War.  Believe Custer had a large part in assembling this report. Excellent clean condition.  Spine worn at edge.  $75

38MCW  -  CIVIL WAR PORTFIRE STAVES.  Click on thumbnail photos for larger view  These were a type of flare, used to fire cannon of the type not using friction primers.  It was a cardboard tube roughly 18” long and ¾” in diameter, filled with a solid, even burning powder.  Many years ago we acquired a few of these, and put them away for the future.  We’ve uncovered them recently during our move.  Because these break easily, some are a bit shorter than the full 18”, having a bit broken off.  Also, due to their great age and relatively fragile nature, some of the surface of the cardboard has become a bit flaky, on some.  Yet, these are still valuable and rare artillery tools, virtually non-existent in the market today.  Buy a few to ship together for one charge.                 Full Length Each…$25 (3 or more $20 each)  Almost Full Length Each…$20 (3 or more $15 each)

39MCW  -  CIVIL WAR HAND BLOWN GLASS INKWELLS.  Click on the thumbnail photos next to each letter below  Excavated in a camp in Virginia about 40 years ago.  We’ve had these in storage nearly as long and only pulled them out when preparing to move.  Several styles were found, most quite rare, due to their fragile nature.  Guaranteed original, and illustrations of the fact that at least in this camp, the umbrella style inkwell was seen far less than many other shapes.  Price guides rate these in the $50-100 range.  Due to the rarity of most of our forms, I believe they rate a price near the higher amount.  However, as we’re retiring and closing out our collections, we’ll price them at bargain levels.  Some of these still have the original $35-40 price tag from at least 30 years ago.

1. We call this one the School House Design.  Prox. 1 ½ x 2” rectangular base with roof and chimney – the latter being the spout, which is sharp edged being the pontil.  The roof has two lengthwise gutters, one each side of the chimney, on which the pen could rest.  Pale greenish clear glass.  Should be $75.  Now…$50
2. 8-Sided Glass Inkwell.  Prox. 2 ¼” high (including spout).  Bottom 1 ½” is 8-sided, prox. 1 5/8” in diameter.  Lip of spout is sharp being the pontil.  Pale greenish clear glass.  A few have a bluish-green tint to the clear glass.  Should be $45   Now…$35
3. As in B. above.  Have 3 a bit heavier and a darker, clear green.  Somewhat better looking.  Now…$40 Each

NOTE:  MOST OF THE FOLLOWING ARE ONE OF-A-KIND, or perhaps two.  Several are extremely rare.  The listing as a whole is most illustrative of the variety used by the soldiers and sold by the sutlers.

4. 8-sided, pale greenish clear glass.  Much larger than above.  2 1/8” wide.  2 ¾” high including spout (sharp edged being the pontil).  Only one.  Should be $65.  Now…$45
5. 8-sided, pale greenish clear glass.  Taller than D. above.  Prox. 2” wide and 3 1/8” high, including spout (sharp edged).  Have two.  Should be $65.  Now…$45 Each
6. Round Bottom with center spout on top.  Have three with minor variation between each.  Prox. 1 3/4" to 2” in diameter and 2 1/2" to 2 3/4” high, including spout.  Pale greenish clear glass.  Unexpectedly rare.  Few were found.  Should be $50.  Now…$35 Each
7. Square Bottom.  Perfect size for lap desk.  1 ½” wide and 2” tall, including spout with sharp pontil lip.  One side has raised letters “J. FIELD”.  Nearly clear, palest green glass.  Only one.  Should be $55.  Now…$40
8. Bell Shaped.  Rarest of the rare.  Only one ever seen.  2” in diameter at base.  Hand blown, full bell shape including spout, with sharp pontil lip.  2 3/8” high.  Pale green clear glass with some thin whitish ground stain.  Should be $125.  Now…$85
9. Miniature Decanter Shape.  Rarest of the rare.  Only one ever seen.  Base is wide and squat and rounded, much like a brandy decanter.  2 ½” in diameter, 2 ¼” high, including spout with sharp lip.  Pale greenish clear glass.  Should be $125.  Only…$85
10. Bee Hive Shape.  Only one.  Couldn’t think of a better way of describing it.  Dome-shaped with spout on one side.  Rarest of the rare – only one noted.  2” diameter base.  Prox. 1 7/8” tall, including spout with sharp lip.  Pale greenish clear glass.  Some thin whitish ground stain inside.  Should be $125.  Only…$75
11. Clay Civil War Ink Bottles.  Excavated along with above glass inks.  Cylindrical, 3 3/8” tall, 1 3/8” in diameter.  Tan-brown glazed clay.  Excellent.  Have only three.  Two are fine.  One has thin flake out of side, at bottom.  Two best each…$40     Chipped one…$25
12. Civil War Medicine Bottle.  Came with lot of dug inks.  3 7/8” tall.  Flat sided, chamfered edges.  Pale bluish green clear glass with some whitish ground stain. Neat little relic.  $15

40MCW  -  G.A.R. "GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC" VETERAN'S SOUVENIR CANTEEN.  More Photos, Click Here  Sold at G.A.R. reunions such as the National Encampments.  Very scarce G.A.R. memorabilia, especially this form, the miniature white china canteen with full color G.A.R. membership badge on one side.  The reverse side has color portraits of three presidents – Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley…all assassinated.  Canteen is 4 ¾” in diameter, and has three sling loops like the real Civil War canteen.  Also a functional spout.  Loops and lip of spout have worn gold finish.  Information which came from the seller decades ago in that the original soldier owner was R. A. HANNA OR HANRA, Captain from New Jersey.  Have nothing more to go on.  Fine condition.  The last time I remember seeing any of these for sale, the price was over $500.  From our collection.  $375

41MCW  -  CIVIL WAR NEWSPAPERS “NEW YORK TRIBUNE”...BUY BOTH FOR $30

1. May 21, 1861.  Just about 5 weeks after the War started.  War news is not even front page, though inside are some fascinating pieces – one an exceptional editorial on Union/Slavery and whether they will or must travel together as ultimate objections.  Marvelous piece, made remarkable for its prescient insight so early in the evolution of the conflict.  Inside pages do have extensive news.  Ft. Monroe, Harpers Ferry, Williamsport, all the early action and intrigue.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 20 ½”.  Shop worn.  Spine is parted.  Excellent content, just less condition then the other two below.  $14
2. January 7, 1863.  Very considerable War related news, including some quotes from the Richmond paper regarding the Emancipation Proclamation.  Main news on Murfreesboro battle.  Much miscellaneous from other theaters.  Clean.  8 pages, 15 ½ x 20 ½”.  Parted at spine.  $20