Swords with Incredible Stories

With all the incredible swords in this auction, writing an article to highlight them all is almost a fallacy in itself. Multiple swords discussed below would have easily earned their own article were time not an issue. Alas, with the auction a mere two weeks away, brevity becomes one's ally. That said, let's get down to business and inspect some of these historic and fabulously ornate swords.

Lot 181: Historic Diamond Monogrammed Honor Sword with Case and Extra Scabbard, Attributed as the Property of Henry Humphrey, Maine Colonel and American Consul to Alexandria, Formerly of the Notable Collections of Philip Medicus and Norm Flayderman

Even as recently as our 2015 December Premiere Auction we've seen some amazing swords here at RIAC. However, a sword with diamonds mounted on the scabbard certainly sets a new benchmark in elaborate craftsmanship. This jaw-dropping sword will grab your eye from across the room and not let go until you take a closer look.  Fittingly placed in an elegant case lined with navy velvet, the sword comes with two scabbards. One is a brown, "everyday" scabbard with a body of brown lacquered steel, finely crafted gilt brass upper and lower hooks, and a wonderfully engraved tip protector and throat, both also of gilt brass. It is a supremely handsome piece.

The other scabbard is undoubtedly for formal occasions or ceremonies. All furniture on the scabbard is elaborately sculpted and the whole of its body is gilt brass. Most notable is the center suspension band featuring a large sculpted wreath with "US" at its center, the letters of which are accentuated with 27 diamonds. With the copious engraving and sculpted figures, one could write an article on the embellishments of the scabbard and sword alone! Speaking of the sword, let's not give it short shrift. As one can see in the first photo of this article, the guard is incredibly elaborate gilt bronze web of figures, bands, sculpted "US" letters, and accented gems. The grips are a scale-carved mother of pearl with golden star accents.

The sword was purchased by one Henry B. Humphrey, allegedly from Tiffany & Co., for $270. Little is known of Humphrey other than he was a Maine militia officer and there are records of him being assigned by the president as the American Consul in Alexandira, Egypt in 1846. Some deeper investigation awaits the lucky collector who adds this to their collection. The name of the article may be "Swords with A Story," but this blade's tale has yet to be fully revealed. However, as you read on to see the finely adorned swords and learn of the brave, intelligent, and successful men they were created for, think of this: if those incredible men earned those swords for their heroic deeds, what must have Humphrey accomplished to receive this piece, arguably the most lavish of the sale. I urge you all to view the item listing for this magnificent sword, it truly proves that a picture is worth a thousand words.

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Lot 1068: Historic Cased Civil War Era Ball, Tompkins & Black Sword, Presented by the Governor of Illinois to General John Cook for Gallant Action at the Siege of Fort Donelson

Our next sword is another beauty, but thankfully more history is known about its origins than the previous lot. This Ball, Tompkins & Black blade is a Civil War era treasure and was presented by Governor of Illinois Rich Yates to General John Cook. Cook is the son of Daniel P. Cook, the namesake of Cook County, IL, which holds the city of Chicago. The presentation placard on the scabbard indicates that this sword was presented to Cook for "gallant conduct at Fort Donelson." By 1863 then-Colonel Cook's forces were attached to those of General Ulysses S. Grant as the future president's star was beginning to rise. They had participated in several battles together, including Shiloh, when in February of 1863, the Union forces began the Siege of Fort Donelson, a Confederate fortification near the Tennessee-Kentucky border that limited access to the Cumberland River.



Union gunboats had been driven back by the fort's batteries, yet troops surrounded the Confederates. Often times Union troops would go without campfire during the cold February nights for fear of giving up their position to the Rebel guns. However, after 2 full days of siege, the Confederates attempted to break free via a surprise attack. Cook and his men held an important flank, exposed themselves to incredible amounts of fire, and Cook himself had three horses shot out from under him. The Confederates were remarkably close to their goal, but pulled back to the fort. That night, Confederate commander Brigadier General John B. Floyd and his second in command, Brig. Gen. Gideon J. Pillow, each made their excuses, relinquished command, and fled across the river. Brig. Gen. Simon Bolivar Buckner would eventually agree to the Grant's terms of unconditional surrender, giving the Union and important victory. Courtesy of this incredible provenance, the sword has been displayed at several museums, and is accompanied by much research on General Cook, his military service, and personal life.

Gold and engraving abound on the blade and are highlighted by brilliant nitre blue fields. The use of bright and satin grays expands the palette even further while providing a contrast in backdrop for the luxurious embellishments. The grip is sculpted from a single piece of metal and shaped to be a mustachioed Roman legionnaire with his horse hair plumed helmet and uniform.

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Lot 1124: Historic Horstmann & Son/Weyersberg Etched Damascus American Officers Sword with Silver Grip, Sculpted Furniture and Scabbard Inscribed to Medal of Honor Winner Henry W. Lawton, Veteran of the Civil War, Indian Campaigns, Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War

Nearly three years to the day after Cook engaged in the battle at Ft. Donelson, another presentation sword in this auction was being presented to Lt. Col Henry Ware Lawton. If that name sounds familiar, it's because he is often credited with the capture of the Apache leader Geronimo. The Winchester 1886, serial no. 1 presented to Lawton for this achievement is also appearing in this sale. If you've read our previous article on Lawton, you know he was an accomplished career military man and Medal of Honor recipient.

This sword is further proof of his military successes. Besides the fact that they didn't present swords to poor military performers (who were also often dead), the scabbard's suspension bands and tip are all inscribed with Lawton's extensive battle record. They also state that the sword was presented to Lawton "From the Officers and Men of the 30th Indiana Infantry Regt. Vol." The opposite sides are adorned with sculpted brass figures; from hilt to point they depict Columbia, a patriotic motif, and an American soldier carrying a flag. The guard also enjoys many sculpted figures such as an eagle head and laurel branches, which all protect the German silver grip that has been wrapped with brass wire.

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Right side

Lot 3139: Historic Ball, Thompson & Black Presentation Grade Sword with Gilt Silver Figural Hilt and Scabbard Inscribed to William H. Bissell, Colonel in the Mexican-American War, Veteran of the Battle of Buena Vista, and Governor of the State of Illinois

The blade you see above belonged to a man who did it all in terms of serving his country. William H. Bissell began his career as a school teacher and doctor, but was persuaded to go into politics. He began by first practicing law and had achieved the office of a prosecutor in St. Clair County, IL by 1844, but two short years later he joined the 2nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry as a private at the start of the Mexican-American War. He would quickly become colonel of the regiment and engage Santa Anna's forces in February 1847 at the Battle of Buena Vista where his actions, even in a highly disciplined retreat, earned him praise from top military men. After the short war, Bissell returned home, resumed his law practice and was soon elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Once there his anti-slavery leanings caused him to butt heads with his fellow Democrats, even to the point of accepting a duel from fellow Buena Vista veteran Jefferson Davis.

This sword would have been presented to Bissell after the Mexican-American War.

Long story short, Bissell was upset at remarks made by a Virginia Democrat. He proceded to give an hour long speech to the delight of his allies, but that particularly incensed the future President of the Confederacy. Davis challenged Bissell to a duel, knowing that Northerners often refused duels and frequently took oaths to not participate in them (Bissell was one of these). To Davis' surprise, Bissell not only accepted, but as the challenged party exercised his right to choose the weapons. He selected military muskets, loaded with ball and buckshot at point blank range. In other words, "I don't care if I die, but you're definitely going to die." Several parties received wind of the challenge and attempted to intervene between Davis's and Bissell's seconds, and eventually the duel was cancelled. One legend says that President Zachary Taylor, another Buena Vista veteran, had to personally intervene, while other sources say that Davis wisely "accepted further explanation" of the offending remark and backed down. In any case, given Taylor's brief presidency, we can reason that the said interaction took place between March 4, 1849 and July 9, 1850.

Bissell would hold several more Congressional offices as both an Independent and a Republican (despite previously serving as a Democrat), and even as the Governor of Illinois before dying of pneumonia in 1860. This blade is a fitting tribute to the former Colonel, congressman, and governor. The gilt and etched blade is covered in decorative panels of weapons, scrollwork, patriotic motifs, Greek mythology, symbols of the Mexican-American War, and even a scene over 7-inches long portraying infantry and cavalry marching outside a walled city. The grip and pommel are made from a single piece of engraved & gold-washed silver, with the pommel featuring two faces back-to-back. Read our official description in the auction listing for more details about this wonderful sword.

Each side of the pommel shows its own face.

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Lot 3133: Historic John Bailey Revolutionary War Era Silver-Mounted Officer's Lion Pommel Sword with "ANDREA FARARA" Marked Blade and Presentation Inscribed Scabbard Plate

After some of the luxurious dress swords that have been featured in this article, one might find this sword to be relatively plain. That would be partially correct as this is not dress sword, but one intended for actual combat. It is typical of those carried by American and British officers in the American Revolution and the French and Indian War. What makes it atypical is its superior quality, embellishments, and high condition.

This is a sword crafted by John Bailey who was a well-known cutler (sword/knife maker) in the Revolutionary War era and even had the distinct honor of forging a silver-hilted hunting sword for George Washington, referred to since as his "War Sword." The markings of "ANDREA FARARA" on the blade at one time indicated a superior quality of blade.  Farara was an Italian bladesmith that lived in Scotland whose excellence was known far and wide. Unfortunately, he lived in the 16th & 17th centuries, not the late 1700s. The presence of his name on this blade can likely be attributed to that renowned quality and the prestige that would have come from possessing one of his swords, even decades after his death.

Even though it was meant for battle, the sword still has finer features rare to swords of the period. The sword uses silver for its guard, counterguard, and pommel which is in the shape of a lion's head. This use of silver in combination with the antique ivory grip show that this sword did not belong to just any soldier, but was the property of a field grade officer. One might think the blade to be in "lesser" condition than others shown here, but make no mistake, historical context is everything. In a similar vein, Colt Walker revolvers always saw hard use, and those that exist today are far from one would call "Excellent" condition. Likewise, swords intended for use would have seen incredibly harsh conditions and so to see one survive today in as fine a condition such as this, let alone with embellishments befitting an officer, is an incredible opportunity.

According to the plate mounted to the remaining 6-inches of the leather scabbard, the sword was once the property of Captain Thomas Buchanan of the 1st Regiment of the Pennsylvania line. He took part in numerous battles in the Revolutionary War including the Siege of Boston, the New York Campaign, the Battle of Trenton, the Second Battle of Trenton, the Battle of Princeton, the Battle of Barleywine, and others. After his military service he became the sheriff of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. According to the plate on the other side of the scabbard, this very sword was later presented in 1850 to a presumed descendant of General (formerly Captain) Buchanan, Robert Buchanan.

This sword in its fine condition, with its officer-grade embellishments, and links to a documented soldier of the Revolutionary War combine to make it a incredible piece of American history and an amazing collector's item.

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Honorable Mentions

Lot 137: Historic and Identified Emerson & Silver Staff and Field Officer Sword with Scabbard Inscribed to Captain Richard Foster of the First Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers, Fatality of the "Bloody Angle" at Spotsylvania Courthouse, with Display Case and Research

Lot 1419: Rare Historic Presentation Royal Navy Officer' Sword to Admiral Fredrick Seymour for his Service in the Anglo-Egyptian War

Lot 1418: Exceptional Weyersberg & Stamm Solingen Production Gold Washed and Etched Damascus Sword, with Presentation Markings, Case and Medals

Lot 3152: Unique N.P. Ames Gilt Officers Sword with Republic of Mexico and American Navy Markings

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I hope seeing some of the outstanding history that is available in this auction lights a fire in you to find out what else is contained in this endlessly educational sale. The best part is, Rock Island Auction Company specializes in firearms, so if we have this much history in swords, imagine what you'll find when it comes to guns! If swords and knives are your area of interest, please click here to see all the lots in the auction containing those items. If history is more your passion, head over to our YouTube Channel or read some of our previous blog posts for more in-depth analysis on a wide variety of items. We can't wait to share what's in store.

George Washington's Telescope

To claim an item as George Washington's is nearly as American as the Pater Patriae himself. As was shown in our story about the Thompson submachine gun that was thought to be John Dillinger's, in a surprisingly short time myth and rumor can take the place of fact and documentation. So many items and places are associated with George Washington that the cliché has even entered the popular realm with a comedy stage play entitled "George Washington Slept Here," that was also adapted into a 1942 movie starring Jack Benny.

Granted, in George Washington's younger days he would've undoubtedly slept in a number of beds.  He was a surveyor in the 1750s and a colonial officer, both jobs that required frequent travel. From 1775 and on, he rarely found himself at his Mount Vernon estate, instead spending time in either Philadelphia for business with the Continental Congress or in Massachusetts to satisfy duties as the head of the Continental Army.  Even after the American Revolution, Washington was far from sedentary. Just four short years later, he would be elected president and would feel an obligation to tour the nation as a way to introduce himself to his constituents. With this kind of travel, any number of locations can rightly state that "George Washington Slept Here," used their dinner set, or gave a new found importance to any number of what would otherwise be mundane, everyday objects.

Lot 3084: Historic Dolland Brass Spyglass Inscribed "G. Washington, Mt. Vernon" with Notarized Letter of Family Provenance from William Lanier Washington with Case

This unfortunately, and as with nearly every object of value, gave rise to a counterfeit market of items all claiming provenance to George Washington. Collectors of Washington artifacts have every right to be skeptical of any item claiming a first-hand interaction with the first president, especially important ones such as pistols, swords, uniform pieces, silverware, or other items of value. With both the importance of Washingtonian artifacts and the wariness of spurious memorabilia in mind, Rock Island Auction Company is proud to present an item of significant historical significance: a brass spyglass of President George Washington.

It is a humble looking treasure of Americana. While its brass bears a pleasant patina, dings and scratches fleck its surface, the optics themselves need work, and several parts bear over 200 years of honest age.  However, this field telescope is the product of one of the finest optics manufacturers of the era.  It was made by The Dollond (later spelled Dolland) family, who built their superior instruments from the mid-1700s until the last decade when they have become the subject of several corporate acquisitions. Named as "Optician to the King" in 1761, the Dolland family also made several important contributions to the telescope. For these reasons and others, early Dolland telescopes remain in high demand by collectors.  Examples are currently housed at Monticello as well as a model at the National Museum of American History that was used by Washington during the American Revolution. Telescopes have been highly valued historically - the wealthy and social elite of Washington's day drove their popularity and, in turn, their technological development. Both a invaluable tool to the military man and a hobby of the wealthy, Washington fit squarely into both groups and unavoidably found himself in possession of a telescope.  In fact, Washington's will lists "11 Spye glasses" (sic) in his estate's inventory at the time of his death. The social and mechanical significance of the telescope are sure to entice some, but the historic importance of this telescope cannot be overstated.

George Washington holding a brass-colored spyglass in "George Washington Before
the Battle of Trenton" painted by John Trumbull

This artifact of President Washington's had been passed down through family generations for over 120 years. We know this because the spyglass was previously sold by the first auction house in the United States, the now defunct American Art Association (AAA), in February, 1920. The sale was billed as "William Lanier Washington's Collection of Relics and memorabilia of George Washington."

Accompanying this spyglass is a notarized 1920 affidavit from William L. Washington, the great-great-great grandson of George Washington's brother Colonel John Augustine Washington. It states that the spyglass was given by George Washington to his nephew Col. William Augustine Washington (son of the aforementioned Col. John Augustine Washington) while George was still alive. This nephew must have held a place of importance in Washington's life as he is also listed in George's will as the Executor of his estate after his wife, Martha.

From there it was passed on to the nephew's son, Colonel George Corbin Washington (William's great grandfather), who in turn passed it to his son, Colonel Lewis William Washington.  The affidavit then states that "His widow gave it to their son, William d'Hertburn Washington, who, during his lifetime, sold it to my younger brother, Lewis William Washington... from whom I inherited it."

Furthermore, in the investigation of this article, I was able to track down a digital copy of the original auction catalog with some assistance from the helpful Chief of Archives and Records Management at the Frick Art Reference Library, an institution that houses the records of the former AAA. Beginning this catalog is a lengthy and detailed five page letter written by William Lanier Washington describing special items in the collection and listing "several direct family sources" that at one time point inherited or bequeathed many of the items in the sale. It is strikingly thorough. The section discussing the Washington heritage reads nearly like the first verses in the Gospel of Matthew, giving detailed lineage all the way back to George Washington. Thankfully, William also takes the time, at nearly every level of the family tree, to quote extracts from that person's last Will & Testament detailing to whom these historic artifacts should go, and specifically mentioning many of the items. It is astounding that the provenance of these items should be detailed so thoroughly and even more so that such information is available to collectors and investors today!

As shown in last week's article, Rock Island Auction Company regularly offers astounding pieces of history from America, Europe, Japan, and of firearms development. Many of these items would not be out of place in the world's top museums for history or art, and we are proud to do our part in finding new stewards for these remarkable pieces. If you would like to get more up close and personal with this important spyglass, or any of the items in our auction, you are cordially invited to attend our Preview Day. Held the Thursday before every auction, Preview Day is your opportunity to hold, inspect, touch, or shoulder any item in the auction. It's been called "the Museum You Can Touch," by many collectors, but it improves on a museum in two distinct ways.  First, our inventory revolves a lot more frequently than any museum.  That happens when you sell over 22,000 guns annually.  Second, you can actually own the items you see! It would be our pleasure to have you as our guest at this or any of the industry leading auctions at Rock Island Auction Company, and when you see the care we take in presenting these phenomenal specimens, we promise you'll want to come back.




-Written by Joel R. Kolander





SOURCES:


http://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101072313230;view=1up;seq=17


http://www.rockislandauction.com/viewitem/aid/66/lid/3084

The First Truly American Firearm: The Kentucky Rifle

Exceptional, Unusual, and Documented Abias B. Smith Pennsylvania Long Rifle with Rare Belted Rifling

In the Pennsylvania countryside in the early 18th century, a uniquely American firearm was born that helped thirteen separate colonies defeat the greatest empire on Earth, form one nation, and span a continent. It is fitting that this new weapon was a conglomerate of ideas and built initially by German immigrants in the north and famously used by Anglo woodsmen in the south who became symbols of American ingenuity, self-sufficiency, and determination. In the years following the Revolutionary War until the wide spread adoption of the percussion system, the long rifle reached its pinnacle in small shops in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. Many are outstanding testaments to their skill and true pieces of Americana. It is in this period that they earned their famous nickname from the men who famously used them: the long hunters who explored the Virginia backcountry known as Kentucky. Though they are more properly known as American long rifles, prior to the War of 1812, Andrew Jackson’s astounding victory over a superior force of British soldiers at New Orleans in 1815 solidified their nickname in our national memory. The song “The Hunters of Kentucky” about the battle contained the famous lines: “But Jackson he was wide awake, and wasn’t scared at trifles, For well he knew what aim we take with our Kentucky rifles.”

Those of you who attended or followed the last RIAC Premiere Auction undoubtedly noticed the wide array of beautiful early American rifles. Many of these rifles came from the extensive Piedmont Collection. Our December Premiere contains another installment from this collection as well as rifles from other collectors. Many of these rifles were built by some of the most talented American artisans of the early republic. Their names are immediately recognizable by those who collect these pieces of art: John Armstrong, Jacob Dickert, Simon Lauck, John Moll, John Noll, John Rupp, George Schreyer, Frederick and Jacob Sell, Peter White, and many more. Each of these pieces is truly a masterpiece and several contain incredibly rare attributes.

 The Kentucky’s roots came from two other firearms in the early 18th century: the shorter, larger caliber German Jaeger rifles brought from the Old World to the New by German immigrants and the long smoothbore fowling pieces and trade guns manufactured primarily in England and Western Europe and imported in large numbers for the fur trade. Why exactly these two forms were married has continually been debated. What is clear is that fowling pieces and muskets were not well suited for taking game at considerable distances, and their larger bores meant they used a greater amount of lead and powder, which were more destructive to pelts and meat. This also meant that a hunter, be they Native or Euro-American, had to carry more weight in ammunition and had to get closer to their targets. The Kentucky not only improved on those issues, but its long, rifled barrel also offered other advantages: the extended barrel combined with blade and notch sights provided a long sighting plane which allowed hunters to more fully utilize their rifle’s potential accuracy and also had the added benefit of providing more time for the slow burning black powder to combust and thus maximized power even while firing smaller, lighter balls. An experienced rifleman could hit a man or deer sized target reliably at 200 yards or more.

By the time unrest was growing in the colonies in the latter part of the 18th century, gunsmiths were producing a firearm that was found nowhere else in the world. Once the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord, the American woodsman and his long rifle rose to the challenge. Many fought in local militias, but the Continental Congress also approved ten rifle units during the war including Daniel Morgan’s famous riflemen. They harassed British soldiers and targeted officers from outside effective musket range to remove key leaders from the battlefield and damage enemy morale. Morgan’s men later defeated the infamous Banastre Tarleton at the Battle of the Cowpens. In 1780, the “over the mountain men bested a Loyalist militia armed with smoothbore muskets by picking them off at range at the Battle of Kings Mountain and turned the tide of the southern campaign against Lord Cornwallis. George Rogers Clark led a group of Kentucky militia and seized the isolated settlements in Illinois justifying the American’s claim to the vast swath of territory between the Appalachians and the Mississippi River. At this stage, long rifles were still fairly plain and typically had wooden patch boxes, but his younger brother William carried a Golden Age rifle during his famous exploration of the Louisiana Purchase with Meriwether Lewis and the Corps of Discovery. Thus, while the majority of American soldiers during the Revolution were armed with smoothbore long arms, small groups of riflemen used their advanced weapons and prowess to make considerable contributions to the cause.

Silver Inlaid Golden Age Flintlock Long Rifle by Former Revolutionary War Rifleman Simon Lauck

Among the wide array of beautiful long rifles in our upcoming auction is a fine, silver inlaid rifle built by Simon Lauck. He and his brother Peter both fought with Morgan’s Provisional Rifle Corps and were gunsmiths in Winchester, Virginia after the war. It is a classic example of a rifle built during the Kentucky rifle’s Golden Age. Rifles from this era are favored by collectors due to the unique nature of each rifle and the variety of regional variations. Aside from a few makers who preferred to focus on perfecting the nuances of their designs like John Armstrong, most used many variations of styles taught to them while apprenticed to a master. They in turn passed on their own variations on to the next generation of apprentices. This led to what we now think of as the “schools” based roughly in Lehigh Valley, Lancaster, York, Lebanon, Chambersburg, and may other locales based on shared attributes and lineages.

Gunmakers were influenced by one another especially in specific areas but also adapted art forms from Europe. The carving and patch boxes, for instance, follow European trends in terms of rococo and baroque scrolls. Note the incredible variety in patch box designs on these rifles and all the little details in carving, inlays, and little components. While there were tremendous variations, also note the consistencies such as the fixed blade and notch sights and the beautiful, full length, curly maple stocks.

One area of variation among individual rifles is the variety of inlays. Many included patriotic motifs such as eagles and some contain important, but largely long forgotten, revolutionary era symbols. Such is the case with the rare rattlesnake designs on the Jacob Dickert and George Schreyer rifles. Like the long rifle itself, the use of the rattlesnake as a symbol of the American ethos well pre-dates the idea of a separate American nation. In fact, one of the first known uses of the symbol was in Benjamin Franklin’s famous “Join or Die” cartoon from 1754 calling upon the colonies to unite, with the support of Great Britain, to defeat the French in the Seven Years War (French and Indian War), a conflict started in part by a young British officer by the name of George Washington. Franklin’s cartoon came to represent the need for unity among the colonies in the American Revolution as well.

Rattlesnake engraving appearing on the patchbox of a scarce Jacob Dickert Lancaster flintlock long rifle

Another rattlesnake on the patchbox.  This time on a documented Golden Age flintlock by George Schreyer.
The other side of the stock features handsome raised carving.
Formerly of the Joe Kindig, Jr. Collection.

Rattlesnakes are only found in the Americas and were numerous in many parts of the colonies. Though they do not attack unprovoked, rattlesnakes defend themselves with deadly force when they need to defend themselves. This was the image the Founding Fathers wanted to present to the world in Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence. Americans were not breaking from England needlessly; they were defending themselves against attacks on their lives and freedoms. Rattlesnakes also had another attribute that 18th century Americans knew well. As “American Guesser” wrote in 1775:

'Tis curious and amazing to observe how distinct and independent of each other the rattles of this animal are, and yet how firmly they are united together, so as never to be separated but by breaking them to pieces. One of those rattles singly, is incapable of producing sound, but the ringing of thirteen together, is sufficient to alarm the boldest man living.”

Though this symbol was very important in the colonial era and for the young American republic, very few rifles have been found that incorporate the design, especially as boldly as these two examples by Dickert and Schreyer. The snake patch box designs of course relate to the Gadsden Flag and First Navy Jack used during the war, and Dickert’s is also similar to the design utilized on early Virginia Manufactory rifles.

Desirable Silver Inlaid Flintlock Kentucky Long Rifle Signed by Golden Age Master Craftsman Frederick Sell
of the Littletown School with Raised Carved Stock

                The Frederick Sell rifle is another good example of the paradox of both unity in overall design through the use of consistent motifs and basic configurations and yet the individuality of the combination of carving and engraving on each rifle. Sell was considered by influential Kentucky rifle scholar Joe Kindig, Jr. as “one of the great masters of Kentucky rifle making” and was part of one of the most influential gunsmithing families during the Golden Age. His greatness comes from the fact that he developed his tremendous skill set while working underneath at least three earlier accomplished masters: George Eister, John Lechner, and Adam Ernst. His presumed father, Jacob Sell, was among the most talented makers of the prior generation, and Frederick’s brother who was also named Jacob (often referred to as Jacob the Younger) was also a gifted maker in his own right.  Sell adopted the best aspects of the designs of each of the men under whom he worked. Thus, he created his own style and his own variations while keeping his designs tied to the past and reflected the American ideal of balancing community with individualism.

Jacob Sell the Elder Signed Early Golden Age Flintlock Long Rifle with Silver Inlaid Stock

Peter White is also a great example of someone that was part of a family line of gunmakers that pre-dates the United States and continued well after our independence was secured by victory in the War of 1812. He is the son of either Nicholas or John White who were both gunsmiths during the fight for independence, and at least one of his sons continued to build rifles after his death in 1834. One of the interesting aspects of White’s rifle is that the lock appears to have been built by him. Most gunmakers used locks imported from Europe or produced by dedicated lockmakers in the cities. This rifle is also noticeably slender relative to others of the style and era.

By the time of White’s death, the long rifle and the flintlock system had peaked and were beginning to be replaced by shorter, larger bore rifles. The percussion system and the spread of industry also helped shift firearms production away from individually built masterpieces. The Hawken brothers’ “Plains” or “Mountain” rifle style relatively quickly became the preferred design as the frontier pushed ever further past the Mississippi. Nonetheless, the long rifle persisted, and its legacy continued to influence American firearms for generations. In fact, long rifles have been in essentially continuous production by American gunmakers from the early 18th century into the present day. One look at the Contemporary Long Rifle Association is all it takes to attest the fact that the art of building the first truly American firearm by hand is still alive and will be for generations to come.

Desirable Peter White Golden Age Flintlock Long Rifle with Raised Carved Wood

This discussion has hardly scratched the surface of all of the beautiful rifles in our upcoming auction. For more information see AmericanLongrifles.org, KentuckyRifleAssociation.org, KentuckyRifleFoundation.org, or the many detailed books including Joe Kindig, Jr.’s classic Thoughts on The Kentucky Rifle in It’s Golden Age and Merrill Lindsay’s The Kentucky Rifle both of which contain pictures and discussions of several of the rifles in the upcoming auction. Do not miss your opportunity to see these rifles first hand and please join us for our Premiere Firearms Auction December 4th, 5th, and 6th.

-Written by Seth Isaacson

A Cutting Edge Collection

Rock Island Auction Company is fortunate enough to be entrusted with prized firearms collections at each and every auction.  The December 2014 Premiere Firearms auction being no exception, there are no fewer than five outstanding and accomplished collections containing Volcanic rifles, Lugers, experimental and prototype Colts, Lightning & Thunderer revolvers, and one additional collection.  In an exciting twist, this collection is not about firearms at all, but about swords.  It is the Collection of Major General Theodore Paulson and it is spectacular.

View all items in this collection by clicking here

Centering around both U.S. military and German military swords from various eras, the collection is staggering in its breadth and the craftsmanship of its items.  There are extravagant presentation pieces, naval swords, gilded sabers, high quality daggers, boot knives, gravity knives, officer's swords, and several lots containing historical documentation, medals, research, and other militaria on specific servicemen.  Here are just a few of the highlights.

Lot 1454: Extraordinary Documented Eickhorn Second Model Luftwaffe General Officer's Sword, with Attribution and Documents to Luftwaffe Generalleutnant Erich Stein

This stunning sword was discovered  by American combat engineer PVT Cecil Brown in a freshly-vacated Nazi officers quarters.  Brown took the sword as a trophy along with many other documents belonging to Luftwaffe Generalluetnant Erich Stein - the top commander of the German Air Force!  Some of the documents accompanying this stately sword are rather day-to-day, even a 'late notice' from Stein's insurance provider, but the documents, along with the photos also recovered, provide a strong link to the German officer.

The text above reads "In dankbarer Anerkennung" which translates to "In Grateful Appreciation"

The left side of the blade reads "Der Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe" (The Supreme Commander of the Luftwaffe) followed by a facsimile of Herman Goering's signature.

I'd say finding this sword, its scabbard, and its felt lined case made for a pretty good day for Private Brown.  The sword is beautifully etched in a geometric scroll pattern on both sides of the blade and a foot long vine along its spine, interrupted only by the fire blued portion of the blade.  Gold highlighted text stands out brilliantly against its royal blue backdrop and complements the gilt brass hilt wonderfully.  Shown below, it has been finely engraved with scrolls, floral vines, checkerboards, punch dots, and a silver Luftwaffe eagle on the guard.  Gilt wire even binds the cream-colored celluloid grip.  Usually, one can only speculate as to whom a sword belonged, and if high quality, postulate that it belonged to someone important.  With this sword, no such guess work is required.  It was made for someone important and the accompanying documents paint a pretty clear picture for whom.

Lot 1242: Gold Accented American Naval Officer's Sword with 1841 Regulation Hilt and Scabbard

This sword, while containing designs from different Navy sword regulations, certainly did not suffer its craftsmanship for it.  Our catalog description states,

"Produced by an unknown smith, the hilt and scabbard conform to the 1841 regulations, the first U.S. Navy sword design to come with an illustration of what the sword was supposed to look like, while the blade appears to be an item from the looser 1813 regulations, which merely called for a vaguely defined "cut and thrust sword, yellow mounted"; possibly from a veteran officer who chose to have his original sword remounted in the 1840's instead of discarding the weapon."

And with a sword as finely designed as this, one could hardly blame him! Nearly a yard in length, 17 1/2 inches of the blade are niter blued with golden washed vines, fouled anchor on one side, and American eagle on the other.  It is a gilt brass hilt decorated with oak leaves, floral themes, and the feathers from the eagle's head that serves as the pommel.  The grip is antique ivory as has been carved in a similar feather pattern as the rest of the grip, some of the "feathers" on the ivory even finishing those that began in metal.  Such attention to detail!

The black leather scabbard was also carefully crafted with brass hardware that has been engraved with themes similar to that on the sword.  Twelve stars surround the frog stud, another fouled anchor appears next to the lower hook, and the scabbard tip enjoys more of the acorns and leaves.

Together, they are a piece that makes quite a striking impression and would be an excellent addition to any accomplished edged weapons collection.

Lot 3348: Attractive Nazi-Era E. & F. Hoerster "Grosse Degen" Style Shooting Prize Honor Sword with Damascus Pattern Blade, Gilt Accented Presentation Etching with Name, Date and Unit, Engraved Hilt and Included Research

Similar in design to the German "gross degen" (great sword), this presentation sword is inscribed to one "Hptm. Friedrich Wupper" as an "Eherenpreis/fur hervorragende Schiessleistungen 1937" (Honor Prize for excellent shooting performance 1937).  It is quite the prize!  A hilt of gilt brass, gilt wire wrapping a black celluoid grip, extensive acorn and oak leaf engraving, and a dove's head pommel are only the beginning.  The blade itself is a beautiful, flowing shape, the first 13 1/2 inches of which have been covered with a Damascus pattern, gold accented etching, flowering vines, and ornate text that lists Hptm. Wupper's name, unit, and the date of the presentation.

More about Wupper is known thanks to tireless work on the part of a previous owner, who corresponded at length with numerous sources in American and Germany.  Hauptmann Friedrich Wupper of Rifle Regiment 2 is one Friedrich Carl Wupper born on July 30, 1897.  Our official description notes,

"Conflicting records of his date of death are due to destruction of Wehrmacht records towards the end of the war, but records point to the Eastern Front, either June 29, 1941, during Operation Barbarossa or December 6, 1942, during the Battle of Stalingrad."

This is a beautiful presentation pre-War Nazi sword to be prized among edged weapon and German military collectors alike!

Other notable swords

This auction has many edged weapons and they're not all just from one collection.  While they do not belong to the Collection of Major General Theodore Paulson, the following swords are certainly worthy of an "honorable mention" in this article on high quality, wonderfully aesthetic swords.

Lot 1148: Peter Knecht Solingen Production Gold and Niter Blue Accented French Presentation Sword with Scabbard Inscribed from the National Guard of France to the Marquis de Lafayette, Hero of the American Revolution

Yes, it is inscribed from the National Guard of France to the Marquis de Lafayette,
Hero of the American Revolution.

Lot 1149: :Presentation Quality Engraved Blue and Gold Washed Blade 1824-Dated Russian 1809 Pattern Cavalry Officer's Sword with Maker Markings

An absolutely beautiful sword!

Lot 1196: Fine American Silver Plated Hilted Eagle Head Infantry Officer Sword with Scabbard

Classic European style with distinctly American themes.

As you can see, there is no shortage of stunning, artistic, superb condition blades in the December 2014 Premiere Firearms Auction.  The collections that have come to Rock Island Auction Company are impressive for the quality of their contents as well as their breadth and sheer size.  If you would like to see more of these extraordinary edged weapons, please click on either of the links below and prepare to be impressed.

Click here to view our "Edged Weapons" category

Click here to view items from the Collection of Major General Theodore Paulson

-Written by Joel Kolander