Like us on FacebookSOLD

NEW ITEMS

 Click on any thumbnail for a large image

  1. It is with humble, and broken heart that I announce the passing of DAVID CASPER of Hamilton, OHIO.  Dave was someone that loved everything outdoors, and collecting Civil War Relics.  We first met through a mutual friend - Russ Wunker, about 25 years ago, and there has hardly been a week go by in all those years that we haven't been in touch.  Dave and I thoroughly enjoyed dissecting every relic top to bottom and sideways !!  Several years ago Nita and myself  went to visit Dave and Nancy Casper, and Russ and Dottie Wunker at a family resort called "Miner's Bay" that they had interest in located just North of Toronto, Canada, and quite near the Algonquian State Forest.  What A Fun Time We Had !!  A few years later this same group came to visit Nita and I, and we did The Battle of Franklin, The Battle of Stones River, and The State Museum In Nashville.  Dave was well read, sharp as a tack, and was a real pleasure to tour with.  Rest in Peace My Friend, and go ahead and scout out the BEST Bar B Q Places, so that we'll know where to go eat when Russ and I get there to join you !!!  We Love You, Man !!!

  2. It is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of yet another of our life long Civil War collecting community.  At the age of 89, Richard (Archie) Arbutine passed.  Archie was originally from Richmond, Virginia, and moved to Florida for the past several years.  Archie was a collector - dealer for most of his life and for many years was at all the major Civil War Shows.  Archie had a magnetic personality and will be greatly missed by all his old Civil War Show buddies.  Rest in Peacc our friend - Archie Arbutine.

  3. It is with saddest heart that I announce the passing of Bill (William) McMahan of Sheffield, Alabama at the age of 80 years.  For many years the three "Relic Hunting Musketeers" (Roy Hensley, Don Odom, and Bill McMahan) traveled all over North Alabama, North Mississippi, and Southern Tennessee Civil War relic hunting.  These three guys together have recovered some of the rarest artifacts of the entire Civil War world.  Bill will be remembered by many of us in the Civil War circle for his wit, humor, and especially his vast knowledge.  Rest in Peace Bill McMahan.

  4. It is with disbelief and broken heart that I pass along the death of a lifetime dedicated fellow collector.  Don Adler of central Georgia has been a friend for many years.  Don has experienced several medical issues in the past several years, and on Sunday, November 3rd, Don sat down in his favorite chair, went to sleep, and never awoke, likely due to a massive heart attack.  Don loved Civil War collecting like few I have ever known.  For quite a long time, Don would drive up from Georgia to the shop.  We would trade Civil War relics back and forth and always went to "Buster's" (a local bar and grill).  Don would get ribs, and I would get a classic Buster Burger.  The girls at Buster's knew us well enough that they just brought our drinks and food without even asking.  This is really tough.  I have lost two of my lifetime Civil War collecting buddies in two weeks.  Not many could take my cat "Tigger" jumping on their shoulders, but Don accepted that as well as I do.  Rest In Peace, my old friend!

  6. It is with saddest heart that I announce the passing of another relic hunting and collecting buddy of over 50 years.  Bedford Forrest (Forresty) Maxwell passed on October 28 at the age of 84.  From Forrest's name it is very appropriate that he was a lifelong relic hunter, collector, antique dealer, and antique furniture refinisher.  Forresty was without question one of the kindest and most honest, nearly to a fault, people that I have ever known.  Many years ago, Forrest and I walked and relic hunted many, many miles together.  There are lots of memories, but a couple have well endured the years.  About 35 years ago, Forresty and I were both set up at the Nashville Civil War Show; Forrest was set up directly across the aisle from me.  That year I had a good customer and friend visiting to attend the show.  Her name was Jane Challman, and Jane happened to be an FBI agent.  At this particular show, I had Jane go to Forrest's table and pretend to be interested in purchasing an item.  Jane asked Forrest if she purchased the item, would she have to pay sales tax, and Forrest said, "not if it's cash".  Jane then said, "You probably want to see some ID", and she gave him her FBI card (that very card pictured above).  I was close by and watching as Forrest's mouth dropped open, he turned red, then white, then red.  At that point I walked up and asked Jane if Forrest was giving her trouble.  Forrest instantly knew he had been set up, and calmly said, "That's okay."  Several weeks passed, and Forrest and I were near Sparta, Tennessee, relic hunting General Dibrell's Confederate Cavalry camp there.  We had just started hunting, and my machine sounded like a space alien.  For about ten minutes, I tried to adjust it and had just sat down and was getting my tools out to go into it.  Forrest came by just before I started dissecting my detector and said, "You might want to check the bottom of your coil."  I did, and there was a piece of masking tape with the letters "FBI" on it taping a dime to the bottom of my coil.  Those are the kind of priceless memories that relic hunting buddies have.  Rest In Peace my friend.

  7. Fall is running just a little late here in Tennessee, but the Red Maple in my side yard almost looks like it is on fire - SO PRETTY!!!  The scaly bark

  8. GREAT NEWS!!!  I was just able to purchase back a beautiful condition, rare pattern (No Inner Buckle Border Rim), large size US oval waist belt plate that I dug back in 1982.  The reason "this buckle" is special to me is that I got three ribs broken by a HUGE bull the day I dug it.  The bull was actually a "semi-pet" and would follow me around the pasture while digging.  The only thing that you had to definitely bear in mind was no "dirt throwing" while digging.  If you threw dirt, the bull took it personally.  On this particular day, I had already dug this buckle and had another really good signal.  I was being a little too excited and careless.  I was bent over the hole moving the dirt around trying to get a glimpse of the edge of the relic.  I was apparently moving the dirt around to vigorously.  "Knobby" (the big bull) had one complete horn and one "knob" consisting of about 1/2 a horn.  Thus the name "Knobby".  I felt Knobby's head and the good horn go under me as I was bent over, and it literally felt like the Space Shuttle launching.  I felt the three ribs in quick succession go pop, pop, pop.  And then, as I was launched over ten feet in the air, I was snatched right out of my head phones and saw the sky, and then the ground for three revolutions.  Then I came crashing back to the ground landing right in front of Knobby's head.  He did nothing whatsoever but expected to have his head rubbed.  That was it for me for that day.  "Foresty Maxwell" was hunting with me that day, and he made the wise decision to stay out of the pasture with the bull.  I remember him saying, "You wanted that buckle way worse than I did."  Knobby the bull made the fatal mistake of launching the owner, Mr. Owens, into orbit a few weeks later.  Knobby then became "hamburger".  So, I am very happy that Randy Burnham gave me the opportunity to bring it home.  The following two weeks were without a doubt the sorest that I have ever been !!!!!!!  Breathing was hard, but don't even think about caughing, laughing, or heaven forbid "sneezing" !!!

  9. As many of you know, our big Civil War Show at Franklin, Tennessee, was held this past weekend (DEC. 7 and DEC. 8, 2024).  I was walking down an aisle - scanning as I walked, and right in the middle of a display containing 60 - 80 plates, I spotted a "rope-border" CS Oval that I recovered back in 1986.  I immediately stopped and looked closer, and the tag said "Wayne Jenkins, 1986".  I absolutely knew that was the plate, because I sold the buckle to Wayne the following day after digging it in "1986".  I sold the buckle for $500 in 1986, which at that point in time was a pretty good amount of money.  I bought the buckle back this past Friday afternoon for $1,700 and was happy as a clam!!  After an absence of nearly 40 years, it is headed back upstairs to go into the display with its brothers and cousins.  I had a whale of a good time at the Civil War Show buying and selling several pieces, but I would have been thrilled if getting my buckle back was the only thing I accomplished at the show!  (These are some fun memories from 38 years ago of one GREAT day digging at a newly found "Polk's Corp" Army Of Tennessee 1862 - 1863 winter camp located along the Duck River near Shelbyville, TN.  The day's finds include 2 nice arrow hook "U.S." oval waist belt plates - one C.S. manufacture plain face pewter waist belt plate - one very rare "Rope Border" style C.S. oval waist belt plate - A beautiful Leech and Rigdon style "CS" marked Confederate Cavalry Officer's spur - and over 100 bullets and buttons.  Now those are some priceless memories !!)

  10. It isn't really winter until you see the "FROST FLOWERS" !!  Well, as you can see - It is definitely "WINTER" !!!!

  11. IF ANY OF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO HAVE ANY OLDER BACK ISSUES OF "PROGRESSIVE FARMER OR ANY TYPE COUNTRY LIVING" MAGAZINES THAT YOU DON'T NEED - I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE HAVING THEM !!  MY 93 YEAR OLD DAD IS EXPERIENCING A LEVEL OF OLD AGE DEMENTIA.  THE OLDER "FARMING/COUNTRY LIFE" MAGAZINES HELP TO BRING HIM BACK TO PLANET EARTH AND CALM HIM DOWN.  PLEASE JUST SEND THEM OVER IF YOU HAVE SOME EXTRAS.  MANY THANKS!!!  (ACTUALLY, THE OLDER THE BETTER)--- A HUGE HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO MY BUDDY - KEVIN CUMMINGS - FOR THE BOX OF OLD FARMING MAGAZINES !!!  I'M GOING TO HAVE TO LET HIM HAVE THEM A COUPLE AT A TIME.  I FEAR IF I GIVE THEM TO HIM ALL AT ONCE, HE'LL TRY TO GO TO THE BARN, AND GET BACK ON THE TRACTOR !!!!  IT IS TOO BAD THAT WE CANNOT TRANSPLANT MY OLD DAD'S WORK ETHIC INTO SOME OF TODAY'S YOUTH !!  HIS IDEA OF A DAY'S WORK WAS FROM THE TIME YOU COULD FIRST SEE UNTIL IT WAS BLACK DARK !!!  THE 4 AM START TIME IS A LARGE PART OF WHY I MAKE MY LIVING SELLING CIVIL WAR RELICS !!!

  12. It is hard to believe, but it is, once again, time for our annual MIDDLE TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SHOW AND SALE which will be held NEXT WEEKEND (DEC. 7 and DEC. 8, 2024) at the WILLIAMSON COUNTY AG. CENTER located just south of Franklin, TN. at the "GOOSE CREEK EXIT" just off "Interstate - 65".  The show will be open Sat. (Dec. 7) 9AM until 5PM, and Sun. (Dec. 8) 9AM until 3 PM.  There will be hundreds and hundreds of tables containing some of the rarest artifacts remaining in existance today, both "For Sale" and "On Display".  There will be experts on hand to help with IDing and appraising any artifacts that you might have, and want additional information on.  Be Sure And Come By My Tables And Say "HELLO" !!!  SEE YOU THERE !!!  WOW -- HOW WONDERFUL IT WAS TO GET TO SEE EVERYONE AGAIN, AND ENJOY A GREAT SHOW !!!  YOU WAIT - WAIT - WAIT, AND THEN IT COMES, AND IS GONE IN (WHAT FEELS LIKE)THE BLINK OF AN EYE !!!

  13. Here is the next generation of Civil War enthusiasts and collectors in our local area.  This is Bailey, Hagen, and Finley Willis with their Dad.  They live near Hillsboro at the base of the Cumberland Plateau, and there are numerous Civil War camps all around them there.  We are doing everything we can to encourage these type young people.  Our buddy, Wayne Bryan, lives just down the road from them and is helping them get their Civil War collection underway.  We wish there were many, many more just like them!

  14. We were up at the cabin located near Sewanee, TN on the Cumberland Plateau a couple days ago, and ran into this quite unusual bird.  It is an American Woodcock and is a game bird kin to Quail and Snipe.  They like low, damp areas where they use their long beaks to get insects and earthworms.  Definitely not something you see here every day.  In growing up, I am very acquainted with Quail, Dove, etc., but I had never encountered a "Woodcock".  I see that they are a game bird and edible.  I have found the various methods of preparing them most interesting.  Most go roughly along the line of - put the Woodcock in a leather shoe along with cinnamon, thyme, etc. and grill.  Once finished, throw the Woodcock away and eat the shoe.  That pretty much tells me all that I need to know about what they taste like !!!

  15. Every once in a while we still find a cool relic up at the Sewanee mountain cabin.  Our buddy, Joe, who helps take care of the mountain property, and also likes to detect recovered it.  This nice little item along with one bullet was lying a little deeper in the woods along the old mountain road.  We are going to put it on display at the cabin.  This item was lost the first week of August, 1863!!!

  16. Fall is running just a little late here in Tennessee, but the Red Maple in my side yard almost looks like it is on fire - SO PRETTY!!!  The scaly bark Hickorys on the plateau at the cabin are beautiful and golden, and the Red Oaks, Black Gum, and Sugar Maples are all beautifully colored as well.

  17. I am very fortunate to have three individuals in my family that are interested in and collect Civil War artifacts.  What is a bit unusual is that I am the only "guy" interested.  The other two are female cousins.  One of my cousins, Marcia Hicklin, is the owner and curator of "Hicklin Hearthstone", a museum and working farm dating the Civil War Era.  A couple of years back, I disarmed a family hand-me-down Parrott artillery shell from the plantation home.  We today received an order from Marcia adding a powder flask to the museum collection.  I am very proud that our family is doing what we can to honor our heritage.  (Marcia stopped by for a short visit a few days ago, and it was such a treat to get to see her !!!  I really do want to get out to visit her, and be able to meet the Missouri side of our family !!)

  18. IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, BECOMING A VEGITARIAN IS DEFINITELY JUST A BIG "MISSED STEAK" !!!

  19. I just had a Good Buddy invite me up today for some fishing for "3 EYED CARP" in the Susquehanna River.  Word has it that you mostly catch them just below the old "3-Mile-Island" plant, and they are about to fire that Baby up again !!!!!   I Think That I Will Pass - I Really Do Like Fish With Only Two Eyes, And THAT "DO NOT" Glow In The Dark Better !!!!  Thank You Kindly For The Invite, Terry !!!

  20. I recently read some - what I consider - really good advice.  Our world today has a way of wanting to go faster - faster - faster !!!  Try setting aside a "dedicated" 30 minutes at some time each day to SLOW DOWN, and think about things that you enjoy, and about people who are dear, and important to you.  It is like allowing your body and soul to just pause and take a deep breath !!!  JUST TRY IT - IT'S FREE, AND IT WORKS !!!!

  21. Coy Kitchens, our good friend in Civil War collecting over the last 30 - 40 years, has just put up his own website.  It's name is "BAMA RELICS" and has some very rare Confederate items as well as plenty of entry level relics.  Coy has been an active Civil War collector pretty much his entire life.  He also has looked for and collected Native American artifacts, and his website has plenty of each.  You have my word that Coy is a "straight-up" good person to deal with.  He will treat you right, and you can depend that he will tell you the whole story as best he knows it.  Go take a visit!!!  www.bamarelics.com --- (I HEARD THAT IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE A "VANDY COMMODORE" -- YOU MIGHT VERY WELL GET AN "EXTRA SPECIAL" DEAL !!!) HA !! ---(2024 - THE YEAR VANDY GOT REVENGE ON THE ENTIRE STATE OF ALABAMA !!!  AND WHO CURRENTLY HAVE THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE - KNOXVILLE "SERIOUSLY WORRIED" !!!!)  It really is kind of cool to see a school that gets kicked around every year have some success -- Congrats to the Smart Kids !!!!

  22. When you are at a Civil War show anywhere around Nashville or Franklin, you never know who you might run into!!!  I think "I hear that train a comin', rollin' round the bend."  What a talent this man was and a devoted Civil War collector!!!

  23. James Claiborne Johnson was the great-great grandfather of my friend Jim Johnson.  James C. Johnson was in several engagements, and one was the Battle of Stones River where he was bayoneted in the mouth during the Confederate charge on December 31, 1862.  This occurred almost within sight of where we are currently sitting.  He was with the 5th Arkansas Infantry.  I cannot imagine getting bayoneted in the mouth!!!

  24. Our good friend, Wayne Bryan, each year on Memorial Day remembers his Confederate ancestors and neighbors by placing a Confederate Flag on each Confederate Soldier's grave.  He has worked his way up to placing the Confederate Flag on about 30 soldier's graves in and around Grundy, Marion, and Franklin counties.  I salute Wayne and hope that we all continue to remember our ancestry.

  25. Take a good look at these.  We do not relic hunt much during the summer months.  Can you guess why??

  26. Here are an interesting series of pictures following our Relic Shop all the way back to 1929 when it was a little country grocery store servicing visitors to the Stones River Park and Cemetery.  The older pictures are the old store around 1930, and the pictures with the red arrows are showing various things that can be seen in the current pictures.  The sign pole out in front of the store I dug up and moved to the edge of the parking area, but it is the same pole.  The front of the store originally extended out further allowing vehicles to drive underneath it.  I cut it back to "porch size" which allowed room for parking in front of it.  Notice in one of the old pictures you can see an awning that could be raised up and provide an open counter toward the park.  I have been told that they made sandwiches and lunches for park visitors.  Originally, there was a train platform that unloaded visitors beside the cemetery stone wall, and they walked down the wall to the cemetery entrance which brought them right to the front of the store.  Over the years, I have been told and read many interesting accounts relating to the park and cemetery.  One story that I have been repeatedly told is that for a number of years, people travelled a good distance to avoid coming through the park area in July and August.  It is estimated that 8,000 - 10,000 mules and horses were killed in the battle, and to a great degree with the help of vultures, decayed on the field.  It is sobering all the history that remains here surrounding us.  The first picture is the current shop which incorporates the old original general store.

  27. If some of you have never visited the Carter House at the Battle of Franklin, Tennessee, AT NIGHT, you are missing a jaw-dropping experience.  The "farm office building" which sits on the south side of the Carter House lawn from the main house took the brunt of fire power from the afternoon of November 30, 1864, when the Confederate Army of Tennessee made a desperate charge (actually according to some accounts - six separate charges) on the Federal line just south of the Carter House.  The farm office building is one of the most battle scarred standing structures in the United States.  There are over 1,000 holes.  I was privileged one afternoon to be in the office farm house when rays of light came through the bullet holes.  It was unbelievable, and there was practically no place you would not have gotten hit.  For me, this is somewhat like seeing the great Redwood trees in California.  Until you stand there and see it in person, it is impossible to grasp the magnitude.

  28. I took the grandbabies, Lila Magnolia and Isabella Rose, relic hunting yesterday.  Even though it was a little cool and misty, they hung tough.  We were able to recover one bullet each for them.  We found one dropped .54 cal. 3-ring Confederate Minie ball for the Mississippi rifle and one .69 cal. musket ball for the old smooth bore muskets the Confederates were forced to use.  Then, wouldn't you know it, we ran into another relic hunter in the woods - Old Big Foot!!!

  29. After almost 50 years, I am now semi-retired, EXCEPT when an eight-year-old boy that is super interested in the Civil War and Civil War artifacts shows up at the door.  At that point all bets are off, and the important thing is to help stimulate the young person's interest in Civil War heritage, history, and artifacts.  Will Wilde is the young man, and I hope that he indeed does "always remember his visit".  If there were very many like Will, I would probably have to consider opening back up again!!!

  30. Here is a set of four of the very rarest buckles ever recovered here at Stones River and the camps just south of here.  I recovered the oval Alabama Map on Tree from the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry located just south of Murfreesboro, near Midland, Tennessee.  The cast brass "Map on Tree" sword belt plate was recovered by Bobby Moon at a hospital site here at Stones River.  The small oval AVC cartridge box plate was recovered by Richard Bodenhammer among the limestone out-croppings on private property actually here at the battlefield of Stones River.  And the large oval AVC was recovered from the same 1st Alabama Cavalry camp where I recovered the large oval Map on Tree.  It is a super rarity to see these four plates together!!!

  31. We started our water garden project back in June of 2022.  It has been a fun and challenging project that is at last coming into final focus.  Here are some pictures that follow us along the way.  We enjoy sitting by the water garden sipping wine, watching the fish and birds, and listening to the wind chimes.  Calms the soul!!!

  32. Soon to be married "74 years" (TOMORROW - NOW PASSED) - DEC. 8) - Dad is 93 and Mom is 92.  The secret to such longevity begins with a love for life and love for each other as well as dogged perseverance in the face of every challenge life brings.  Instead of "growing old gracefully", they are fighting it each step of the way!

  33. Exactly 50 years ago this year (make that 51 now !!), I began mailing out my first "mail order" Civil War relic catalogues.  The year was 1973, and the catalogues largely consisted of relics that I had personally recovered, or items my relic hunting buddies found and sold me.  An early local Civil War mail order dealer - Mr. John Heflin - helped me get going, and sold me large groupings of Civil War letters that I poured over, and sold them "one at a time" to those interested in specific content and units.  In ways that seems centuries ago, and in other ways it seems like just yesterday.  In 1976 we bought the Relic Shop, and had it open by 1977, and from then to now has literally been a blurr.  Here I sit - right where it all started 50 years ago, and I'm still writing descriptions of cool Civil War Relics  !!!!  Back in 1976 my Dad came over and helped me remodel the old 1920s grocery store into a Civil War Relic Store.  He came and helped me even though he had grave reservations about me giving up my chemistry job with Textron to "sell Civil War bullets" !!!  It has worked out OK though !!!!

  34. After over 50 years of relic hunting, this display case contains some of my favorite finds.  I have been fortunate to recover 69 Confederate buckles over that 50-year time span.  This case contains one of the nicest Western Theater CS Round Corner Sardine type plates that you could hope to see.  It has all three hooks intact.  Next is a "coin type" CS Tongue & Wreath buckle and top row to the right is a really nice Breckenridge style CS oval.  In the center on the left is a cast-brass Army of Tennessee "Round Corner CS", and on the right in the center row is a beautiful, thick, Atlanta Arsenal CSA rectangle.  On the bottom row left is a cast pewter, Noble Brothers CSA rectangle, and center bottom row is a super nice CS Rope Border with all three hooks intact.  And, on the bottom right is an Alabama Map on Tree oval.  There are some really sweet buttons in this case as well.  You can only imagine the relic hunting memories this case holds.

  35. Our buddy, Ralph Abbruzzese, is visiting us for a few days, and he brought along some super nice Civil War artifacts.  The Ohio State Seal breast plate is one of the most beautiful plates of the Civil War Era, and this one is top notch.  You can't help but enjoy a case of artifacts of this quality!!

  36. This beautiful case of excavated buckles and buttons belongs to Mike Hunt and daughter Beth.  This case of artifacts represents some of the nicest finds from 30 plus years walking and relic hunting.  We have been friends since Beth was tiny!!

  37. Our colors this year "2024" seem to be running a couple of weeks behind, but they are in full splendor now.  Too bad they only last for a few days and then cold weather follows.  On the bright side, goodbye ticks and snakes until next year!!!

  38. Here is an excellent display of Confederate Central Government plates from the collection of Ronnie Webb, a relic-hunting buddy since we were ten years old.  You won't find a prettier display case of artifacts than this one!!!  (As a result of this picture my buddy, Ronnie, is no longer the owner of this beautiful collection !!!!  (But, he now owns a whale of a nice antique "NOVA SS" !!!!!!  We do keep life interesting around here !!!)

  39. Here is an absolutely incredible collection of New Orleans patterned, round loop, Confederate local, two-piece tongue and wreath sword belt buckles.  This collection belongs to Wayne Bryan and features the three classic style round loop buckles being 1) Die Struck Star on disc concentric ring wreath, 2) Die Struck "CS" on disc with concentric ring wreath, and 3) Die Struck Louisiana Pelican disc with concentric ring wreath.  And, added to these basic types are assorted, very rare, solid cast brass variants.  This is no doubt the most complete grouping of the assorted, super rare buckles with the rounded belt loop there is around.  I think you guys will enjoy seeing this grouping as much as I did.  Wayne has for a good many years pursued these type plates and putting this display together, and it is certainly a display anyone would be proud of.  Congratulations to Wayne on methodically running down all these super hard to get plates.

  40. It is time for our first Youth Civil War artifact Give-Away Display of 2023 - "OUR 9TH CONTEST"- and our winner is "BRIELLE PREBECK" !!! This is a beautiful white oak, custom display case with a colorful $5 Civil War Era note in the center, portions of a Spencer and a Burnside cartridge and seven other projectiles, a Confederate "I" (Infantry) uniform button, three Federal Eagle buttons, a brass Cavalry spur part, a portion of a US cartridge box plate, a Kepi chin strap buckle, and numerous other genuine Civil War artifacts including a soldier's pipe bowl.  There are a total of 28 artifacts in a custom-made oak frame.  We plan to have the drawing for this display on June 1, 2023.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson - Ken Fleming, and Justin Simpson.  We sincerely thank you !!!  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  41. HAVE YOU NOTICED - That almost everything works better if once in a while you just unplug it and let it sit for a little while, and this includes us !!!

  42. A couple of days ago, we got a visit from someone very special to us.  Lorenzo Grover-Rizzo and his twin brother Iniko apprenticed in the relic shop here for several years.  Lorenzo took a deep interest in Civil War history and military in general.  After reaching 18, Lorenzo joined the military, and to this point is really enjoying the experience.  He was recently home for a few days on Christmas leave and came by to visit.  What a treat it was to get to see Lorenzo and a great opportunity to let him know how proud of him we are.  Salute!!  Lorenzo's twin brother, Iniko, has been on a mission in Georgia (country, not state) and has learned it's language fluently.  We have not seen him recently, but hopefully in the near future, he can return to share his experiences as well.  My two young buddies came back to visit during Christmas 2024, and we went to our favorite (all you can eat) retaurant.  I used to be able to "out-eat them" - BUT NO - MORE !!!  WE LOVE THESE GUYS !!!

  43. This past weekend (several months/years ago now !!) -12-3&4-2022, was our annual Civil War Show at Franklin, Tennessee.  Much to my surprise, I received a "Lifetime Achievement" award.  I was pretty much speechless as this award comes from my fellow collectors and dealers.  I truly love what I do and am privileged to get to make a living all the while honoring my heritage.  Love of ones Southern Heritage is taking a beating these days, but as long as I'm alive, I, as well as all of you, will be proud of both our Southern and Northern Civil War Heritage.  I am very proud of my award.

  44. It is throw-back relic time again.  About 40 years ago, we recovered these two buckles from the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry that was destroyed in March of 1863 by General David Stanley’s Federal Cavalry out of Murfreesboro, TN.  The 1st Alabama Cavalry CSA was camped near Midland, Tennessee, and in March of 1863, General David Stanley’s Federal Cavalry struck the Confederate Cavalry camp at the break of dawn.  If you’d like to read about this event, you can find it in Volume 23, Part 1 of the Official Records under the heading, “Expedition to Middleton, Tennessee, March 1863”.  The Federal Cavalry surprised and overran the Confederate Cavalry camp and captured or destroyed most of the contents.  These are two of the nearly 20 Confederate buckles that our group found at this site.  I recovered the Alabama “Map on Tree” State Seal buckle, and one of my early hunting buddies found the large oval “AVC”.  In addition to these buckles, we recovered several “egg-shaped” CS oval waist belt plates, several solid-cast Army of Tennessee CS round-corner buckles, one rectangular pewter CSA, and several frame-style buckles.  Those are some WONDERFUL relic hunting memories.

  45. It is time to congratulate our 8th Youth Relic Display winner.  The winner of this display is Delaney Hickox of Arlington, Virginia.  We hope this Civil War artifact display encourages Delaney's interest in heritage and history.  This is an especially nice display including an original, excavated Federal breast plate, an original Confederate $20 note, a nice excavated North Carolina Confederate uniform button, and numerous other genuine Civil War artifacts.  This is a display that even a seasoned adult Civil War collector would be excited to receive.  The collection would have a retail value of somewhere in the neighborhood of $400.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  We will draw the winner on August 1, 2022, and best of luck to everyone.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson - Ken Fleming, and Justin Simpson.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  46. DID YOU KNOW - "TO THIS DAY, ROBERT E. LEE YET REMAINS THE ONLY MAN TO GRADUATE FROM WEST POINT MILITARY ACADEMY WITHOUT ONE SINGLE DEMERIT."

  47. Here is a picture sent to us by our buddy, Bob Ward, taken 52 years ago here at the Cemetery at the Battle of Stones River.  The Boy Scouts are still active on Memorial Day here at the Battlefield.  We have taken a current picture in basically the same location as it appears today.  The stone walls around the cemetery remain visible in both images.  We believe this to be especially meaningful now with Memorial Day coming up.  Our thanks to Bob Ward for the photograph.  The last picture is "Decoration Day" in Columbus, Mississippi, many many years ago.

  48. This is a very special "Throwback" relic digging memory.  This was my very first cast brass rectangular "CSA" to recover, and it was a thick, Atlanta style.  I dug this buckle exactly 50 years ago this year.  I dug the buckle on private property literally about 20 steps from Columbia Pike along the route that the Army of Tennessee charged over on November 30, 1864, at the famous Battle of Franklin, Tennessee.  This buckle has never even been under a water faucet and to this day, 50 years later, I could go back to within one foot of the dig hole !!!  What an exciting day !!!

  49. About 40 years ago, my hunting buddy, Claiborne Lytle, and myself were able to find the line of Confederate sharp shooters along the Brentwood hills at the 2nd day Battle of Nashville fighting.  Over a period of a couple of years, I was able to recover 136 dropped Whitworth bullets, and Claiborne recovered a similar number.  There was a point in time that I could spell out "Whitworth Rifle" with dropped Whitworth bullets.  During that era, I had two little girls at home as well as house and shop payment - insurance payment - and lots of other payments.  Every so often "lean months" came along, and I would need to sell a few Whitworth bullets to make that month's payments.  I don't have 136 Whitworths anymore, but I do still have a few and some very exciting memories.  I had one "12 Whitworth" day where they were all dropped in close proximity to each other.  Both Claiborne and myself always wondered why there were over 200 Whitworths lying on the ground rather than fired at the Yankees??  The area now has million dollar homes and electronic gates.

  50. Throw-Back DIGGING Time !!!!  I dug this beauty 42 years ago almost to the day !!!  They sure don't come out of the ground looking like this anymore !!!  I almost needed sunglasses !!!

  51. Here is another "throw-back" relic.  I recovered this WESTERN THEATER type CS "sardine style" waist belt plate at a Confederate hospital site on private property here at Stones River over 40 years ago.  It is absolutely perfect and has all three original hooks remaining intact.  This jewel will rank VERY high on being one of my "Lifetime Best Finds", and was beyond exciting to recover !!!

  52. Here is another "throw-back relic digging" memory.  Back in the fall of 1975, (47 years ago) my buddy Bob Ward and his hunting partner Wayne Read hit this "battlefield clean-up" glory hole.  This was here at Stones River and, at the time, was in a private property rock glade thicket.  The site is unfortunately now under a motorcycle dealership.  This find included seven Union plates, four musket barrels, four bayonets, two canteens, one smashed brass bugle, thirteen artillery shells, and a boatload of bullets.  Finds like this are memories worth their weight in gold !!!  (Second picture is current.)

  53. We first want to send a huge thank you to Robert Hooven of Madison, Alabama, for his hard work and prompt attention to my Great Grandfather's grave stone.  My Great Grandfather is buried in the very old cemetery at the Madison Crossroads Presbyterian Church located near Huntsville, Alabama, near the Tennessee Alabama line.  A while back, one of the pieces of maintenance equipment at the cemetery hit our Great Grandfather's head stone and broke it loose from the base it was anchored to.  Robert was kind of enough to, the very next day, go and find the damaged stone, thoroughly clean and reseat it.  Our entire family send our heartfelt gratitude to Robert for taking care of this for us.  We could sure use more folks like Robert!!!

  54. Huge congratulations go out to 11-year-old Madison Brewer.  Madison is the lucky winner of our 7th Youth Giveaway - A Garrett Ground Hog metal detector.  We hope that it is the beginning of a very enjoyable hobby and that Madison has lots of fun looking for Civil War relics with her Grandfather who has done it for many years.  (This really makes us happy!!!)  Madison is ready to go Civil War relic hunting with her Granddad -- Charlie Adams.  VERY IMPORTANT:  What time is it - what time is it???  It is Youth Relic Giveaway time again.  And this time, we are stepping up our game.  We are giving away a used Garrett Groundhog VLF/TR metal detector complete with a new high fidelity set of headphones and also a new Whites Bullseye pinpointer for locating your target.  This detector is several years old but still works perfectly and even comes with experience as this detector has already recovered a US belt buckle and a Confederate belt buckle.  The "Groundhog" takes some practice in getting used to, but even though it's a few years old, will still dig relics perfectly well.  Several years back, this detector was cutting-edge technology, but today there have been numerous improvements.  It is our hope that this detector will help inspire some young person toward many years of coin and/or relic recovery.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  We will draw the winner on October 2, 2021, (my 70th birthday) and best of luck to everyone.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson, and Justin Simpson.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  55. Congratulations to the winner of our 6th Youth Civil War Relic Contest, "Tennessee Smith", of Mineral, Virginia.  This display is in a beautiful walnut display case and consists of an excavated Federal Eagle breast plate, four original Civil War uniform buttons, an original excavated Civil War domino, five different types of Civil War bullets, and an original $100 Bank of Louisiana Civil War note.  We hope this display helps to encourage Tennessee's interest in Civil War artifacts, history, and heritage.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Jeff Anderson - Gary Strobel - Justin Simpson - and Gerard Simoneaux.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  56. WINNER, WINNER - chicken dinner - We have just had our drawing for the FIFTH Youth Civil War Relic Display Giveaway, and our winner is LILLY HICKOX from Arlington, Virginia.  We send our congratulations to Lilly and we will carry forward all our Youth entries for the next relic display giveaway which will begin soon.  Once again, Congratulations to Lilly !!!  ------  It is once again Youth Relic Display Contest time in Tennessee.  This relic display is, in my opinion, one of the most attractive to this point.  The display consists of a Droop Wing Eagle Confederate Officer's button, a camp site recovered soldier's Crucifix, a very attractive excavated lead-filled Eagle breast plate from here at Stones River, a stamped brass Cavalry rosette with the raised heart, an original pair of soldier's reading glasses, an original 1862 Wilmington, North Carolina, Confederate note, an original Civil War era domino, several bullets, a musket gun tool, a canteen stopper pull, and a coat size Federal Eagle button all displayed in a professionally made oak display case.  This collection is easily worth over $400.  So, young folks, get busy and let me hear from you.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Jeff Anderson - Gary Strobel - and Gerard Simoneaux.  We will carry forward all entries from the first, second, third, and fourth giveaways.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  This contest has ended October 31, 2020.

  57. AND THE WINNER OF OUR FOURTH YOUTH RELIC DISPLAY CONTEST IS JAX BLEVINS (WHO CAN BE SEEN ABOVE WORKING ON HIS LETTER).  We will soon have our fifth Civil War display put together and a new contest underway.  All entries will be carried forward to the next contest, so if you haven't won so far -- Keep the faith - You might very well win the next one !!!  CONGRATULATIONS JAX !!!  IT IS TIME FOR OUR FOURTH YOUTH RELIC GIVEAWAY.  This display contains a genuine, excavated, lead-filled, Federal Eagle breast plate, a brass bayonet scabbard tip, a $15 coupon from a Confederate Loan Bond, an original Civil War domino, a .54 cal., ring tail Sharps Cavalry bullet, a coat size Federal Infantry Officer button, and a gilted cuff size New York State Seal button.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic displays possible: Eric Lawson Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - and Charlie Williams.  We will carry forward all entries from the first, second, and third giveaways.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  This contest will end July 31, 2020

  58. AND WE HAVE A WINNER - OUR FIRST YOUNG LADY - MS. CASTIBELLE SCHWEINFURTH !!!  EVEN AT HER TENDER YOUNG AGE CASTIBELLE IS A FAMILIAR FACE AROUND THE CIVIL WAR LIVING HISTORY COMMUNITY, AND THAT IS THANKS TO THE DELIGENT EFFORTS OF HER MOM AND DAD - (BRET AND KELLY).  MY CONGRATULATIONS TO A VERY DESERVING YOUNG LADY !!!  IT IS YOUTH RELIC DISPLAY GIVEAWAY CONTEST TIME AGAIN !!!  This is our THIRD youth relic display give-away, and this beautiful display consists of an original VIRGINIA Confederate note - several bullets - one beautiful gilted Federal Infantry officer button - one bayonet scabbard tip - one sword belt length adjuster - a right and a left Civil War knapsack J-hook - a baggage trunk key - and a harmonica board.  I would like to thank Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - and Charlie Williams who along with Nita and myself made this display possible.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  THIS CONTEST WILL END MARCH 31, 2020.  If any of you old time relic hunter/collectors would like to help support these youth relic give-aways, please just send over any relics to help us out.  Your help will certainly be appreciated and go for a good endeavor !!  TRIVIA QUESTION -- CAN ANYONE GUESS WHY CASTIBELLE IS HOLDING THE CANNON !!!  (HINT -- THE ANSWER IS IN THE QUESTION !!) - (ANOTHER HINT - WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PART OF THE CANNON THAT CASTIBELLE IS HOLDING !!!)

  59. We just received the most current issue of "North South Trader", and, low and behold, there is Adian on page 19 - Youth Division.  Apparently, when you're hot, you're hot!!!   CONGRATULATIONS!!!  We have just held our drawing for our SECOND Youth Relic Giveaway, and our winner is - ADIAN HARWICK - from Lititz, PA.  Soon after the Thanksgiving holiday, we will begin our third Youth Relic Giveaway, and we will carry forward all entries from the first and second giveaways.  This is a fantastic display, and we congratulate Adian on his win!!!  We appreciate all of the youths who entered the first and second drawings.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger)  who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  ADIAN - YOUR PRIZE IS ON THE WAY TO YOU !!!

  60. ATTENTION - OUR "FIRST" YOUTH RELIC GIVE AWAY !!! - I was asked by a friend (MR. DICK TIMPANO) to give away this nice starter Civil War Bullet collection to a deserving young collector.  If you are 14 years old or younger and are really interested in Civil War history - please send me a letter as to why you would like to have this collection, and in a couple weeks we are going to have a drawing from all the names of young folks that sent me a letter wanting this collection.  We will show pictures of the drawing and post the WINNER on the page here !!!  GOOD LUCK !!!  SEND LETTER TO:  Larry Hicklen -- 3511 Old Nashville Hwy. - Murfreesboro, TN. -- 37129  (WE ARE GOING TO ACCEPT ENTRIES ARRIVING IN PERSON OR THROUGH MAIL DELIVERY ON OR BEFORE SEP. 30, 2019 !!!)  IF YOU ARE AN OLD SCHOOL CIVIL WAR COLLECTOR AND WOULD LIKE TO DONATE RELICS IN SUPPORT OF THESE RELIC GIVE-AWAYS TO YOUNG FOLKS -- PLEASE LET ME HEAR FROM YOU !!  THIS CONTEST IS NOW OVER AND WE WILL VERY SOON HAVE THE DRAWING.  BUT --- WE WILL SOON ANNOUNCE THE NEXT CONTEST, AND EVERYONE THAT ENTERED INTO THIS CONTEST WILL BE CARRIED OVER, -- SO YOU ARE ALREADY REGISTERED !!  MANY THANKS TO MR. DICK TIMPANO FOR THE ARTIFACTS !!!  AND OUR WINNER IS - JONATHAN PRIOR - 5TH GRADE, AGE 10!!!  CONGRATULATIONS, JONATHAN.

  61. A little while earlier today (7-12-19), I had a couple of fellows in the shop from near Perryville, Kentucky.  In the course of looking at relics and discussing various battlefields, one of the gentlemen said, "I visit your nature area at the Battlefield of Perryville quite often."  I had absolutely no idea what he was talking about.  A good many years ago (25 to 30 I'd say), I purchased a 54-acre farm on the Battlefield of Perryville, Kentucky, that was in danger of being developed.  I held the farm for several years until the Civil War Preservation Trust was in a position to acquire it.  Little did I know that in appreciation for saving that part of the Battlefield, I have a pond and nature area marked with our family name.  How cool is that!!!

  62. Here is an interesting set of 4 photographs contrasting the panther and the bobcat.  These four photographs were taken by the same game cam at the same location a few days apart.  Notice aside from the obvious (the panther has a long tail and the bobcat has virtually no tail), that they are structurally different as well.  The panther is overall larger, more muscular, especially in the front shoulders, than the bobcat.  The bobcat has a more slender profile with his back legs almost appearing longer than his front legs.  Also, the two cats make very different screams.  On the bright side, one would think that we shouldn't have a mouse problem on the mountain!!!

  63. We are headed to the mountain today, and hopefully there will be some cool new trail cam pictures to share !!  For the past couple of months, our neighbors and ourselves have been hearing the cry of an unusual animal.  About a month ago, I caught sight of what appeared to be a large cat moving through the woods.  Several weeks ago we installed a game cam to be able to see what type animals were passing.  One of the locations of the game camera was where several roads and paths came together.  At this location, we saw more different type animals than any other location of the camera.  We have been scattering corn and cut the Halloween pumpkins into and placed them in front of the camera.  We have seen many different type mountain animals including deer, armadillos, red fox, coyote, and raccoons.  A couple of nights ago, we captured a couple photographs of this huge Mountain Bobcat - (We at first thought Panther, but markings suggest a LARGE male Bobcat rather than Panther.)  As you guys can now clearly see - WE DEFINITELY HAVE A PANTHER (aka Eastern Mountain Lion) - (as well as a Bobcat) !!!  We have no doubt that he was drawn to this location by the smell of the presence of all the other wild animals that had been there eating.  To give a size reference, the pumpkin halves beside the cat are ten inches in diameter.  Notice the power and muscle mass of this big cat.  We will likely think twice now about taking night walks through the woods!!!  A few nights ago our next door neighbor found a deer slain, and litereally shreded - I wonder who might have done THAT !!!  Outside "MAN WITH GUN" - This guy really is "King Of The Woods" !!!

  64. Absolutely perfect beautiful condition, excavated Confederate "fork-tongue frame" CS waist buckle.  It was recovered from Confederate 1862 - 1863 Polk's Corp winter camps along Duck River near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  I have an identical one in my own collection that I recovered in the same camp.--$950.

  65. Extremely rare, excavated, Model 1851, cast brass, Federal Cavalry sword belt plate.  This buckle was recovered here at Stones River from a Federal Cavalry camp south of Murfreesboro.  The buckle has the extremely rare "U. S. - Allegheny Arsenal" stamp on the reverse of the plate.  In 50 years, I have recovered many Union and Confederate waist belt plates and have only recovered ONE Federal sword belt plate with these markings.  This is quite a rarity to recover.  It has a smooth, chocolate brown patina, and both main hook and keeper loop are intact on the plate.--$475.

  66. Very attractive, Model 1858, "Hardee" hat.  This was the regulation dress hat for enlistedmen in the Union Army during the American Civil War.  Union soldiers of the Federal "Iron Brigade" wore these hats and were known as the "Black Hats".  This particular example was worn by Corporal William Kellow.  It was purchased directly from the family about 10 years ago by the Union Drummer Boy of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.  The hat has excellent presentation but is cracking a bit in several spots, especially sharp corner areas.  The hat has its original blue Infantry hat cord, stamped brass bugle Infantry hat pin, Co. C - 6th Regiment.  Corporal Kellow was a Corporal in Co. C of the 6th PA Reserves and served until mustered out in 1864.  I have recently seen flawless examples of the Model 1858 Hardee hat actually sell for $6,500.  This example is not "mint" but is a dang nice ID'd representative example that was actually worn in the Civil War and at a smoking good price.--$3,450.

  67. Very attractive, Model 1860, .44 cal., Colt 6-shot percussion revolver.  This revolver has an all-matching serial number of 30672 which is quite early Colt production "1862".  It is a very sought after "4-screw" which is cut for taking a shoulder stock.  The revolver has a smooth, gray, aging patina overall, and the action still works well.  It came out of a local Middle Tennessee estate and quite likely saw Confederate service.--$2,650.

  68. Very attractive, Model 1865, Spencer 7-shot repeating carbine.  The Model 1865 Spencer was issued to the military at the very end of the Civil War, and more importantly, during the Indian Wars Era.  This example has crisp action, nice deep rifling, and is marked on the barrel, "Model 1865 - Spencer Repeating Rifle - Manuf'd by Burnside Rifle Co. - etc."  The carbine remains in very nice condition and completely functional but does show honest wear from actual use.  This carbine is serial number 3629 which is quite early production.--$2,250.

  69. Pair of beautiful condition, white deerskin gauntlets with white enamel finish.  These were worn by Brigadier General Charles Cleveland Dodge.  It is extremely rare to find Civil War deerskin gauntlets in this beautiful condition, and especially ID'd.--$650.SOLD

  70. Beautiful condition, original Civil War 1st Lieutenant Infantry shoulder straps.  Both straps remain in very nice condition.--$475.

  71. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, LA8 Louisiana State Seal - Confederate Local.  This button has literally near 90% bright gold gilt without any defect whatsoever.  It has a depressed channel Confederate Local back with shank intact.  This is a super nice button worthy to be in any collection.--$475.

  72. 12 lb. solid shot cannon ball recovered many years ago here at Stones River from what used to be the Homer Gannon Farm.  There is a MONSTER size Baptist church located there now.  It is cleaned and coated ready for display.  I once dug 6 shells out of "one hole" on this farm - They had dug a DEEP hole and did battlefield clean-up, and tossed the live shells into the hole in an attempt to keep them from hurting anyone !!--$225.SOLD

  73. Excavated, 12 pound size, Confederate copper time-fused Artillery projectile.  This cannonball was recovered many years ago on private property near Chickamauga, Georgia, and has been disarmed, cleaned, coated, and is ready for display.--$325.SOLD

  74. Really pretty excavated THICK cast brass Atlanta style rectangle "C.S.A." Confederate waist belt plate.  This beautiful buckle was recovered about 20 years ago from a house site near Corinth, Miss.It is very likely that the buckle was issued near Dalton, GA. in 1863/1864, and was worn through the Atlanta campaign, and on to Franklin, and Nashville.  It was then worn home, and ended up at Corinth, Miss.  This is a very nice Confederate plate.--$3,650.SOLD

  75. Very attractive and "bad-to-the-bone", .71 cal., Model 1842, Austrian carbine.  This carbine is out of a local family near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  It clearly shows lots of actual service, still functions perfectly, and is ready to go back to the battle line today.  This carbine shows full indications of having been on many horseback campaigns.  It has a smooth, attic brown patina and nice wear showing lots of service on the European walnut stock and all the metal surfaces.  It is dated 1851 on the lockplate and is a very nice example of a typical, local, Confederate Cavalry weapon.--$1,250.

  76. Absolutely beautiful, non-excavated, 1840 - 1850, Eagle Militia panel plate.  Almost every one of these that I have seen recovered has been from early war Confederate sites.  The Model 1851 sword belt plate had pretty much replaced these in the Union Army.  It is quite rare to encounter a perfect condition, non-excavated example.  This buckle has a rich, aged patina, a crisp beautiful strike, and all attachment hooks remaining intact.  You couldn't ask for nicer.--$650.SOLD

  77. Quite rare, excavated, matching pair of "flying Eagle silhouette" style, cast brass, Cavalry spurs.  This pair of spurs was recovered together in an 1863 Starne's Confederate Cavalry camp located on the Cumberland Plateau.  Both spurs had a leather strap holder broken when found.  The spurs have been expertly repaired by our buddy, Robert McDaniel.  In almost 50 years, I cannot remember ever having a matching set of this style spur before.--$425. for the pair.

  78. Excavated stamped brass lead filled "shield with star" device that was worn on the leather chest pad of a cavalry horse in much the same way as a "martingale".  This lead filled "shield with star" was recovered from the"spring of 1863" Wharton Texas Cavalry camp located a couple miles South of Unionville, TN.  (8th Texas Cavalry)  It remains uncleaned - just as recovered, and is as pretty as you are going to see !!--$295.SOLD

  79. Smoking beautiful complete excavated cast brass James Artillery Shell ANVIL CAP and cast brass PLUNGER.  These were recovered on private property near Shiloh, and haven't even been washed off !!!--$250.

  80. Extremely rare, 1862 date, "RICHMOND" CS Musketoon.  These were made at the Richmond Armory in Richmond, Virginia, from August 1861 forward to January 1865.  There is thought to have been only a few thousand Musketoons ever produced.  This is an early example dated 1862 and utilizes captured Harpers Ferry wood with a Confederate made Richmond barrel, lockplate, etc.  The weapon shows clear evidence of considerable use but remains in very nice condition.  The lockplate is marked, "1862 - C.S. - Richmond VA".  There is decent rifling remaining, and the mainspring still remains strong with the hammer locking firmly into both half-cock and full-cock.  The rear site is not present which enables a person to clearly see the distinctive Confederate milled out area for the site to rest.  This Musketoon is totally museum worthy and will be a fine addition to any Confederate weapons collection.--$7,850.

  81. Extremely rare, Confederate manufactured, Roman style short Artillery sword with “CS” in the center of the cross guard and a star on the pommel.  These swords are thought to have been made at the Selma Arsenal in Alabama, as a couple of partially cast guards have been found in the river there.  This example has a brown/black, aged patina blade with scattered pitting.  The high copper content, heavy cast brass guard has spiraling ribs and a “CS” and star cast into each side.  This style Confederate sword is known for its crudity of manufacture (which is one of the factors that makes Confederate collectors love it).--$3,250.

  82. Just brought in by a local family, and is 100% untouched.  This is a very nice hand-me-down Confederate local made "CS DOG RIVER" Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a pretty gently greying aged patina, and the brass guard has a thick - never touched - brown patina.  The grip is down to the wood with only a few fragments of the leather and single strands of iron wire.  The scabbard is a classic lap seamed - brass mounted CS made scabbard.  This is a very nice, straight out of the Southern estate and untouched for the last 150 years, Confederate manufactured, "Dog River" CS Cavalry saber and scabbard.--$3,850.

  83. Absolutely "Smoking Nice" .36 cal. "Savage" Navy Model Percussion Revolver.  This revolver still has excellent crisp action, and retains some case colors down in the recessed areas.  The serial number (18192) is stamped into the frame (under the grips), and is written in pencil on the back of the grips.  These revolvers were produced between 1860 and 1863.  The revolver has deep, crisp manufacturer marks on the frame directly over the cylinder, and a deep, sharp inspector cartouche on the left grip.  The Savage has a complicated action with the "Figure 8" triggers, and often give trouble and get out of time.  This weapon remains very tight and operates perfectly.--$2,650.

  84. Very pretty condition, Model 1861, Federal contract, rifled musket.  This musket has a lockplate marked, "1863 - E. Robinson - New York".  The metal overall has a gently aging gray patina with some flash around the nipple area.  The barrel retains deep, sharp rifling, and both sling swivels and ramrod remain intact.  The main spring remains about as strong as it was in 1863, and the hammer locks firmly in both half-cock and full-cock.  The wood remains very pretty with an old age crack running straight back from the wrist but does not go all the way through.  This musket clearly shows Civil War usage but is not terribly burnt out behind the nipple.  This would be an excellent first Civil War musket.--$1,650.

  85. Absolutely beautiful condition, quite rare, "accentuated serif" style Richmond Arsenal CS tongue and wreath sword belt plate.  This buckle was recovered many years ago near Brandy Station, Virginia.  Both pieces were dug together and have not even been washed off.  You will not find a more beautiful, perfect CS two piece tongue and wreath.--$3,250.

  86. Excellent condition, excavated, solid cast brass, "Army of Tennessee" round-corner CS waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered many years ago from a Confederate Cavalry camp located at Tullahoma, Tennessee.  It has all three hooks perfectly intact and traces of black enamel still visible in the buckle background.  This is a super nice example of a very rare Confederate waist belt plate.--$4,500.

  87. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, large size, Confederate fork tongue waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered from an Army of Tennessee winter camp located along the banks of Duck River near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  This particular buckle was recovered near where I recovered a sword throat marked 16th Alabama Infantry.  You couldn't ask for a prettier example with a reflective, emerald green patina.--$950.

  88. Very scarce to find, Model 1850 "ROBY" Foot Officer's sword and scabbard with bright, crisp, sharp engraving from top to bottom.  It has a beautiful gilted guard with original sharkskin and wire 100% intact.  The original leather scabbard remains with the sword, and is in nice condion as well.  This is grade 8 to 9, and totally museum worthy!!--$1,195.

  89. Beautiful condition, Civil War Era, gilted Officer's sword knot.  This would be a museum grade addition to your Civil War Foot Officer sword and scabbard.  It remains in near perfect condition.--$295.

  90. Very nice condition, .69 cal., smooth bore, Harpers Ferry musket originally produced in flintlock and converted to percussion for Civil War use.  This musket is out of a north Georgia estate and was almost certainly Confederate carried.  We are including a set of .69 cal. buck and ball with the musket that we recovered here at Stones River which was a favorite ammunition for this type weapon.  The musket has a smooth, aging, gray/brown patina overall with lockplate markings of, "Harpers Ferry - 1831 - US - and the Eagle".  Although the musket remains in nice condition, it shows clear evidence of lots of use.  If you are wanting a classic "Early War" Confederate weapon in your collection, here is your chance to get one.--$1,450.

  91. Super, Super rare, non-excavated, CS26B, coat size Confederate Staff Officer button.  This is a Confederate local with 100% gilt front and back with shank intact.  To give you an idea how rare this button is in a non-dug state, in 50 years, I could count on my fingers how many of these I have had.  Interestingly, here in the Western Theater spring of 1863, Army of Tennessee Confederate winter camps, I have excavated probably 30 or 40.  Finding one NON-EXCAVATED is a whole different story.--$1,250.

  92. Very nice condition, excavated, "CS and Star" marked Leech and Ligdon Confederate Cavalry Officer's spur.  This rare spur was recovered from an N. B. Forrest camp located in north Mississippi.  It has a beautiful brown/green patina and was discarded because of missing one side of the rowel holder.  This is a beautiful relic.--$2,250.

  93. Very nice condition PAIR of Smith & Wesson, Model #2 "Old Model Army revolvers".  These revolvers remain in very nice condition with traces of bluing still visible.  Both are the more desirable "6 inch" octagonal "long barrel" model.  This model Smith & Wesson was a very popular side arm with many Civil War Officers and Enlistedmen during the Civil War on both sides.  One of the revolvers is serial number 30151 which places it firmly as Civil War production.  The second Smith and Wesson revolver is serial number 31475.  Civil War production of the Smith and Wesson went to 35731.  Both revolvers came out of Middle Tennessee and could very well have been Southern carried.  The very top of the hammer on 31475 is broken, but could be easily repaired.  The example in the published magazine picture above was being carried by Amos V. Going.  He was a member of the 12th Louisiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment.  The standing soldier in the first picture is a North Carolina Infantry Volunteer.  Revolver 30151 functions perfectly, has some case colors remaining, and has excellent original walnut grips.  Revolver 31475 has a smooth, chocolate brown patina and original walnut grips.  The action on 31475 advances the cylinder properly sometimes and sometimes not.  The two revolvers display very nicely together as a set.--$1,650. for the set

  94. Very rare, excavated, DROP, 3.8 inch James solid shot projectile.  This projectile was recovered many years ago on private property near Shiloh.  It still has 100% tin-covered lead sabot intact covering the bird cage.  The projectile has been cleaned and coated and is ready for display.  It has about average pitting on the iron surfaces.--$975.SOLD

  95. Original 2-part set of the 1889 US Government printing of Volume XXV, Part I & II, of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion.  This is the complete black cover set covering the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia.  I can guarantee there are relics to be found in this set of OR's.--$75. for the set.

  96. Perfect like new condition, rare, out of print, Plates and Buckles of the American Military 1795 - 1874, by Sydney C. Kerksis.  This is one of the best and most sought after of all reference books.--$95.

  97. Very pretty framed grouping of six Confederate issue stamps.  They are 5 cent and 10 cent and half are postmarked, and half are not.  This will be a quality addition to any Confederate display.--$195.

  98. Small Civil War Era, non-excavated tin containing several original pistol percussion caps.  This will display very nicely with your Civil War revolver.--$45.SOLD

  99. Excavated, 1851 date large cent.  This was recovered from Breckinridge's Confederate camp located near Readyville, Tennessee, occupied in November/December 1862.  It appears the soldier started work putting a hole in it to wear as a necklace but gave up before completing and lost or discarded the coin.--$35.SOLD

  100. Excavated "ground burst" 3 inch Read Confederate Artillery shell.  This projectile was fired by Morton's Battery of Forrest Artillery at Sulphur Branch Trestle near Athens, Alabama.  The projectile plunged into the ground near the railroad trestle and burst underground.  I have re-attached one major break line so that the shell displays as a complete projectile with one side blown out.  It comes with a custom-made wooden display stand.--$425.

  101. Excavated large size lead filled U. S. oval waist belt plate with early pattern "Puppy Paw" hooks.  This buckle was recovered many years ago from near Fredericksburg, VA.  It has a little soldier carving in the back.  The buckle has full lead, all three hooks, and has a smooth brown patina.--$275.

  102. Excavated, coat size, Confederate block "A" (Artillery) uniform button.  This is the brass face and iron reverse variety and was recovered from the Confederate 1863 Artillery Park located on Lewisburg Pike near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  It has a very nice face with a pretty, uncleaned, brown/green patina.--$175.

  103. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Confederate cast "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered along Lewisburg Pike at the Battle of Franklin.--$165.

  104. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Confederate cast "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered along Columbia Pike at the Battle of Franklin.--$165.

  105. Excavated large size (2 inch) Civil War cast iron "calthrop".  These were scattered in roads during the Civil War to "slow down" fast moving Cavalry charges.  It would make horses that ran over them lame, and would also slow down a cavalry charge "looking for them".  I have personally only recovered these at one site here in Middle Tennessee, and that was at the Harpeth River Bridge near Franklin, Tennessee.  Quite a few extensive collections do not have a single example.--$75.

  106. Drop-dead beautiful, excavated, large size, lead-filled, US oval cartridge box plate.  This plate was recovered in January, 1973, by Mr. Mac Mason at Fussell's Mill, Virginia.  (That means this plate was dug 52 years ago, which is why it is so beautiful!)  It has Mr. Mac Mason's distinctive white paint lettering as to when and where he found the plate.  There literally is a group of folks that only collect relics with Mr. Mason's white lettering!!  You could not hope to recover a more perfect plate than this one.$350.

  107. Excavated, cast brass, Confederate solid cast block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This was recovered on the west side of Columbia Pike at a hospital site near the base of Winstead Hill.  It is in excellent condition and has never even been washed off.--$165.

  108. Excavated fuse portion with side-loader plug of a Confederate 12-pound, copper time fused case shot ball.  This super neat artifact was recovered many years ago on private property at Petersburg, Virginia.--$125.

  109. Excavated group of 22 case shot - cannister - grape shot, all recovered from the battlefield here at Stones River.  Most have not even been washed off and consist of about half a dozen different sizes and varieties.--$195. for the entire group.  That is less than $10 per ball.

  110. Very nice condition, excavated, early pattern, puppy-paw hook style US oval waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered by Mr. Mac Mason and has his beautifully done PAINTED white letters describing when and where the buckle was recovered.  This buckle was recovered in November, 1968, from Federal camps near Ft. Darling, Virginia.  It has full lead, all three hooks, and is W.H. Smith backmarked.--$395.

  111. Excellent condition, excavated, large size, US oval cartridge box plate.  This beautiful plate was recovered by Harry Visger April 10, 1981, from Centerville, Virginia.  The plate has literally never even been washed off.--$250.SOLD

  112. Quite rare to come by, original 1888 printing of Series 1, Volume XXI of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion.  This is the volume that covers the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia.  It is all in one giant volume containing 1,280 pages.  The Official Records of the War of the Rebellion has ALWAYS been one of relic hunters primary research sources.  I can 100% guarantee that there are still some fantastic relic hunting spots hidden within these pages.  Considering this book is 137 years old, it remains in fantastic condition.  If you live and relic hunt in the Fredericksburg area, this book is a gold mine.--$45.

  113. Nice condition, "tin" of Civil War musket percussion caps.  The tin is labeled, "United States Army Caps", and makes an excellent display compliment for any Civil War percussion musket or carbine.--$95.SOLD

  114. Very pretty condition, excavated, large size, lead-filled US oval cartridge box plate.  This plate was recovered from near Fredericksburg, Virginia, almost 50 years ago.  That is why the patina is slick as a baby's butt (unlike the acid rain decayed plates we recover now).  It has full lead and one and a portion of the other iron loops intact on the reverse.--$225.

  115. Absolutely smoking beautiful, excavated, circular Eagle breast plate with full lead and both attachment loops remaining intact.  The face of this plate has incredible detail and a smooth, chocolate brown patina.  It was recovered almost 50 years ago from near Fredericksburg, Virginia.--$250.

  116. Excavated, coat size, Confederate local manufacture, North Carolina State Seal.  This button was recovered many years ago from a North Carolina camp located near Fredericksburg, Virginia.--$150.

  117. Excavated, coat size, solid cast brass, Confederate block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered near the stone wall on Lealand Lane where the Confederate battle line was located during the 2nd day's fighting at the Battle of Nashville.  This button remains in perfect condition and has never even been washed off.--$165.

  118. Very pretty condition, excavated, coat size, die struck brass, North Carolina "sunburst" uniform button.  This button was recovered from the 1863 - 1864 Army of Tennessee winter camps around Dalton, Georgia.  These coats were purchased from the state of North Carolina by the Confederate Government for issue to Army of Tennessee troops encamped around Dalton, Georgia.  When we first started finding these many years ago, we couldn't understand where all the North Carolina troops came from, but that mystery eventually got solved.  This button has nice detail and a slick brown patina.  It is missing the soldered on shank as they most always are.--$95.

  119. Very nice condition, Federal GAR Reunion ribbon and celluloid, dated September 12, 1906, held at Mayville, New York, for the 112th New York Volunteer Infantry.  This particular Reunion ribbon pictures Col. John F. Smith who was commander of the unit for a time.  This unit was involved in many famous campaigns, including Yorktown, Virginia, Bermuda Hundred, and Cold Harbor, and was present at the famous Crater Explosion near Petersburg.  This is a ribbon you do not see in nice condition very often.--$95.

  120. Very pretty display containing five Confederate Veteran medals and badges all containing the Confederate Battle Flag.  All five for only -- $95.

  121. Very pretty cased display containing 4 total buttons including two large coat size, non-excavated, gilted Eagle "I" (Infantry) Federal Infantry Officer uniform buttons, and additionally, two excavated, cuff size Eagle "I" (Infantry) uniform buttons.  All are in very nice condition with shanks intact.--$95. for entire display.

  122. Super nice, excavated, early pattern, large size, lead filled, US oval waist belt plate with "puppy-paw" hooks and a nice size hunk of the leather belt still intact around the hooks.  This is a "super choice" excavated US buckle.--$375.

  123. Beautiful condition, lead filled, non-excavated, "arrow-hook" pattern, large size US oval waist belt plate.  This buckle is nice enough to wear today and would be perfect to go back on an original Civil War belt.--$350.

  124. Really pretty, excavated, coat size, Mississippi "I" uniform button.  This button was recovered many years ago from Camp Withers which was located near Estill Springs, Tennessee, and was occupied in 1862.  The button remains slick as can be with a chocolate brown patina and gold in the "I" and gold outlining the star and some around the Mississippi letters.  The reverse has shank intact and is backmarked, "Hyde & Goodrich NO".  They just are not found this pretty anymore.--$525.

  125. Excavated, coat size, two-piece, Confederate "Tennessee puff-rim", block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered from the camp of the 2nd Tennessee Infantry located near Tullahoma, Tennessee.--$125.

  126. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, Confederate local, two piece, brass back, block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered from General Breckinridge's camp located near Readyville, Tennessee.--$150.

  127. Quite rare "DELEGATE" ribbon and celluloid for the 35th Annual Reunion of the 44th Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry held at a Avilla, Indiana, September 10, 1914.  This is a Delegate ribbon you do not often see for sale.  This unit was a Western Theater unit seeing action at Ft. Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, MS, Stones River, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Missionary Ridge, and many others.--$95.

  128. Excavated, iron portable candle holder recovered over 40 years ago by Russ Wunker from a Confederate camp near Fredericksburg, Virginia.  We have displayed it just like it was used 160 years ago.--$75.SOLD

  129. Excavated socket portion to a Confederate used, four side, Austrian bayonet.  This was recovered on private property along the Confederate Battle line here at Stones River.  There has to be an interesting story as to what caused this bayonet to be broken.--$65.

  130. Excavated iron spur of the style often found associated with Texas Cavalry troops.  I actually recovered one of these identical to this one in the 1863 camp of the 8th Texas Cavalry located just south of Unionville, Tennessee.  I am unsure where this one was recovered.--$195.

  131. Extremely rare and in excellent condition, "MILITARY ISSUE", .36 cal., Colt Navy Model revolver.  The revolver retains some case colors in recessed areas and is marked on the frame, "Colts Ptnt - U. S."  The barrel marking is the very desirable "Address Saml Colt Hartford CT".  The serial number is 90938 and is all matching, even the wedge.  This is extremely desirable 1860 - 1861 production of which many went to the South.  You will likely wait a long time before you see another early date, beautiful condition, Military Issue Colt Navy Model revolver for sale.--$2,850.SOLD

  132. Absolutely incredibly beautiful, and "extremely rare and ornate" Federal PRESENTATION officer's sword with original maroon officer's sash.  This AMAZING sword was "Presented To Capt. S. E. Thomason as a Token of Esteem by Co. "H" 176th N. Y. Vols" at the beginning of the Civil War.  Capt. Thomason carried this sword, and served with distinction in the Civil War, but was eventually wounded and captured at Brasher City, Louisiana on June 23, 1863. His sword was surrendered to Lieutenant Ira North of the 15th Texas Cavalry who carried this sword through the remainder of the Civil War.  This incredible sword comes with a "direct letter" from Lieutenant Ira North's daughter documenting the sword along with an unbelievable 5 inch thick, 350 page, binder of research documenting Lieutenant Ira North's amazing military career.  This includes not only his Civil War career, but also his career as a "Texas Ranger" following the Civil War.  Lieutenant North was a mammoth man (for Civil War standards) standing 6 feet 3 inches tall, and weighing 235 lbs.  During Lieutenant North's post Civil War "Texas Ranger days", he is credited (and witnessed by several) as killing an Indian Chief in a furious brawl on the ground after both were dismounted during battle.  This sword is not only a BEAUTIFUL work of art, but also an absolutely incredible historic treasure !!--$4,850.

  133. Very attractive, excavated, cast brass, wreath portion of a Richmond Arsenal Enlistedman's CS tongue and wreath.  The wreath had a small casing flaw on the neck area between the loop and wreath itself, and that has been filled.  The wreath needs a tongue with a loop with an outside measurement of "1 7/8" inches, and the disc needs to measure "1 1/8" inches or "close to that".--$850.

  134. Absolutely drop-dead beautiful, excavated, lead-filled, large size, US cartridge box plate.  This plate was recovered by Harry Viscar in Central Virginia in April of 1980.  The iron attachment loops are 2 3/4 inches apart and 100% intact.  This is how relics looked 45 years ago before acid rain.  This plate is so nice, it could literally go back on a cartridge box.--$250.SOLD

  135. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Confederate manufactured, block "A" (Artillery) uniform button.  This button was recovered from a Confederate Artillery camp located on Lewisburg Pike near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  It has a perfect face with full reverse and shank intact.--$175.

  136. Extremely rare, and beautiful condition, uncirculated $5. TEXAS TREASURY WARRANT.  This note was issued Aug. 12, 1864 out of Austin, Texas.  It is serial number 22134, and has never even been folded.  You won't find a nicer example of a War date Texas note.--$125.

  137. Excavated 12 mm French Pinfire cartridge recovered from the camp of the 1st Ala. Cavalry located near Midland, Tenn.  Rebel Cavalry used lots of imported Pinfire revolvers--$25.

  138. Excavated, brass case, .50 cal., Gallagher carbine cartridge.  The cartridge remains very stable but does have a couple of old age cracks.  It will still display nicely.--$48.

  139. Original roll of Maynard tape primer percussion caps.  These were for use in the Model 1855 rifled musket with the Maynard primer system.  This example still has the paper wrap around the roll of caps.--$45.

  140. Beautiful condition, excavated, cream colored glazed clay soldier's smoking pipe.  This was recovered from a Confederate trash pit near Shelbyville, Tennessee.--$75.

  141. Drop-dead beautiful condition, excavated, circular, Federal Eagle breast plate recovered near Fredericksburg, Virginia, about 45 years ago.  This is how plates looked before "acid rain" etc.  It is now virtually impossible to dig a plate this slick and with as much detail.--$225.

  142. Really "BIG", cast brass sabot from a 30 pound size Parrott shell.  This was fired from one of the gun boats at Eastport and recovered on private property there.  It has a beautiful, slick, green patina and has not even been washed.--$35.

  143. Very nice condition, excavated, coat size, quite rare Tennessee "puff rim".  The "I" stands out boldly, and the tin/iron reverse is perfect with depressed channel and shank intact.--$175.

  144. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Confederate lined "C" uniform button.  This button was recovered about 40 years ago and has a slick (near reflective) chocolate brown patina and super nice detail.  It is a blank back with the shank intact and straight.--$395.

  145. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, solid cast-brass, Confederate "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered near Florence, Alabama, where the Army of Tennessee crossed the Tennessee River.--$165.

  146. Very nice condition, excavated, iron ram rod correct for the Model 1855, Model 1861, and all the contracts.  The ram rod remains very strong and stable and has the distinctive "swell" about 5 inches back from the tulip top end of the ram rod.  It is extremely difficult to find a nice, complete, excavated ram rod to complete an excavated musket.  Excavated muskets are almost always missing the ram rod.--$95.

  147. Excellent condition, non-excavated, Civil War Era curry comb.  The original wood handle remains intact, and the curry comb could easily be still used today.  We have excavated many curry combs like this one from Civil War Cavalry camp sites.--$75.

  148. Beautiful condition, excavated, lead-filled, circular, "bulls eye" artillery rosette.  This was dug from a Union Artillery camp on private property in General James Wilson's Union camps located near Gravelly Springs, Alabama.--$65.

  149. Really pretty condition, Colt .318 caliber Pocket Model, 6-shot revolver.  This revolver has an all-matching (even the wedge) serial number of 275262 which is most desirable Civil War date 1863 - 1864 production.  The revolver still functions perfectly and has the original walnut grips with original varnish still on them.  With the revolver comes an original factory "Colt marked" bullet mold.  This is a museum condition Colt revolver and mold.--$1,650.SOLD

  150. Nice condition, Confederate issue, tin drum canteen.  This canteen is a rare type with a screw-on top.  It shows clear signs of actual service and has a leather harness strap that was used as the sling.--$695.

  151. Beautiful condition, excavated, 4-piece, cast brass, "Rifleman's" buckle.  This buckle was recovered by Mike Morrow at the Battle of Davis Bridge (Hatchie River - Southern Tennessee).  Mike recovered the buckle altogether many years ago.  They just do not come nicer than this one and DUG TOGETHER - not put together.--$395.

  152. This ranks as one of the absolute rarest and most sought after Confederate Officer's sword of the American Civil War.  It is a superb Firmin & Sons "Dolphin Head" Confederate Naval Officer's sword and is THE VERY ONE pictured in Albaugh's book, Photograph Supplement of Confederate Swords.  It is pictured on pages 78 - 80 and is attributed to John McIntosh Kell, Executive Officer of the CSS Alabama.  This sword is in excellent overall condition with amazing, fine etching including a Confederate Flag and crossed cannons.  The grip is shark skin and remains completely intact.  This sword comes with a professionally made contemporary replacement scabbard that is perfect in every detail.  With this sword comes a framed family albumin photograph of John McIntosh Kell.  Civil War relics just do not get much better than this.  It has been in a local collection for many years.--$32,500.

  153. Super rare, identified College Hill Arsenal Confederate Foot Officer’s sword and scabbard.  This sword and scabbard is the product of College Hill Arsenal in Nashville, Tennessee.  The sword was carried by Capt. Samuel A. Matthews, Co. E, 16th Regiment Mississippi Volunteer Infantry.  Capt. Matthews served for one year and was with his regiment encamped at Manassas, Virginia, when his term expired.  The sword remains in very nice condition with visible Confederate engraving virtually half the length of the blade and a large engraved “CSA” clearly engraved down the blade.  The sword’s scabbard is complete with all three original College Hill manufactured brass mounts.  On the top mount is engraved “Matt – Co. E 16th Miss”.  This is an extremely rare, firmly ID’d, Confederate Officer’s sword in original scabbard.  It originally came directly out of Capt. Matthew’s family estate.  A 50-page notebook comes with the sword detailing the history of the Regiment and Capt. Matthews.--$14,500.

  154. Nicely engraved, 8mm, Belgian produced, 6-shot pepperbox revolver.  This small size revolver was made to be able to be carried in a vest pocket or behind the belt.  It has a folding trigger and a checkered walnut grip.--$595.

  155. Super rare, original die - counter die - and cut out die for the scarcest Sheridan Cavalry Corps badge.  These items have been in an old New England collection for many, many years.  They were originally purchased from Bannermann's Island, and I was able to purchase them as part of settling the estate.  I really don't have a clue how to price this, as in over 50 years - I have never seen one of these offered for sale.  SO -- I am just going to take a guess, and this price very well may be less than 50% of this group's actual value.--$1,500.

  156. This was brought in by a local family that had an ancestor that served in the Confederate Cavalry.  The weapon is an import single shot horse pistol with a Southern conversion hammer like you have NEVER seen before.  The horse pistol has a hand crafted Southern lanyard ring to boot.  Hold this jewel up to your ear and all you hear is "Dixie" playing.--$895.

  157. Very nice condition, Model 1851, Federal Cavalry belt rig with original buff belt and original cast-brass, Model 1851, Eagle sword belt plate with applied silver wreath.  The buff, leather belt is complete and remains soft and pliable with no breaks or repairs.  The cast-brass Eagle sword belt plate has a rich, aged patina with the silver wreath remaining 100% intact.  This is a nicer than usual Federal Cavalry belt rig.--$695.

  158. Extremely rare, 100% gold gilted, Confederate Staff Officer CS36A1.  I don't see how this button could possibly be any nicer.  The face is flawless with 100% bright gold gilt, and the reverse remains perfect as well and is marked, "H. T. & B. Manchester".  This is a Confederate button that you will NEVER, EVER need to upgrade.--$1,150.

  159. Absolutely beautiful condition, uncirculated, 10 cent Bank of Tennessee note.  This note was issued out of Nashville, Tennessee, on December 1, 1861.  It remains crisp as can be and has never even been folded.--$95.

  160. Absolutely beautiful condition, uncirculated, 25 cent Bank of Tennessee note.  This note was issued out of Nashville, Tennessee, on December 1, 1861.  It remains crisp as can be and has never even been folded.--$95.

  161. Just brought in, and really nice .69 cal. Model 1816 "P. & E. W. BLAKE" musket originally produced in flintlock, and converted to percussion for Civil War use.  This is out of a local family that had 100% Confederate ancestry.  During the Civil War it would have fired "Buck and Ball" as well as a standard musket ball.  It has a pretty attic brown patina tip to tip, and has lockplate markings of "P. & E. W. BLAKE-1830-NEW HAVEN".  The action remains as tight and strong as during the Civil War.  There is still a clearly visible inspector cartouche in the wood opposite the lockplate and hammer.  If you have always wanted to own a really nice Confederate carried musket from the Civil War - here is your chance !!--$1,450.

  162. Very pretty condition, fresh off Look-Out Mountain, Tennessee, .69 cal., Model 1816 Springfield musket originally produced in flintlock and converted to percussion for Civil War use.  This musket was almost certainly a Confederate used weapon.  The metal has a smooth darkened patina with lockplate markings of, "Springfield - 1823 - US - and the Eagle".  The action is tight, and the mainspring is as strong as during the Civil War.  It has both sling swivels intact as well as the original ram rod.  The oval inspector cartouche opposite the hammer is easily visible.  This musket is nice enough to be in any museum and will be a nice compliment to any private collection.--$1,450.

  163. Very pretty condition, .69 cal., Enfield/Tower British 3-side triangular socket bayonet.  This bayonet is correct for the Model 1842 British Tower musket (that fired the .69 cal. Towers projectile).  Perfect if you need a bayonet to complete your .69 Towers musket display.--$250.

  164. Beautiful condition, uncirculated, State of North Carolina $1 note.  This note is serial number 2598 and was printed in 1863 at Raleigh, North Carolina.--$85.

  165. Beautiful condition, uncirculated, State of North Carolina $2 note.  This note is serial number 2474 and was printed in 1863 at Raleigh, North Carolina.--$85.

  166. Absolutely beautiful, very ornate, 9 inch, floral pattern, brass powder flask.  This flask measures 9 inches and is maker marked, "G. & J.W. Hawksley - Sheffield".  This is the exact type power flask many young Confederates left home carrying along with the family fowling rifle.  Every collection needs a splash of the ornate beauty this style powder flask has.--$225.

  167. Very pretty, Model 1840, Federal Non-Commissioned Officer's sword.  This sword has a gently darkening aged patina and a clean blade marked, "US - 1863 - C. Roby W. Chelmsford Mass".  This would be an ideal young person's first Civil War sword.--$425.

  168. Beautiful condition, excavated, cast brass, Model 1851, "Officer pattern" Federal sword belt plate with the integrally cast wreaths.  This buckle was recovered from an 1863 Federal Cavalry camp located near Triune, Tennessee.  It has a slick, chocolate brown patina with original body curve and could literally be put on and worn today.  They don't get much prettier than this one.--$375.

  169. Very rare and in beautiful condition, $100 Texas Treasury Warrant.  This note was issued out of Austin, Texas, on June 27, 1864.  This is a note you don't often run into.--$150.

  170. Very pretty condition fully cased 1/6th plate WELL EQUIPTED Federal Infantryman literally ready to head to the front.  This image is out of an Ohio estate and the young man has his "US" waist belt rig complete with US buckle, cartridge box, over the shoulder sling, and cap box, and is "at attention" with his musket with bayonet at his side.  This is very close to being your absolute classic Federal soldier of the Civil War "ready to go".  It is housed in a super nice thermoplastic hard case made by "Littlefield, Parsins, and Co. - UNION CASES - 1857".  This is a "SMOKING NICE" little image.--$450.

  171. Excavated, very rare, CONFEDERATE Cavalry picket pin.  This picket pin was recovered about 40 years ago from the camp of the 1st ALA. CAVALRY.  (C.S.A.)  It differs greatly from Union Picket Pins.--$275.

  172. Really pretty Artillery display consisting of the leather "carriage" for a Model 1832 Short Artillery sword and scabbard.  With this leather carriage is a set of red Militia Artillery epaulets dating the same era.  This set will display beautifully with your Model 1832 Short Artillery sword and scabbard.--$395.

  173. Excavated, "Eagle claw" pipe bowl.  This was recovered from a Confederate trash pit along Duck River near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  The claw itself is complete, but the stem is broken about 1/4th inch from the pipe bowl.  It displays very nicely with the "Eagle claw" very visible.--$95.

  174. Very attractive, Model 1860, light Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The saber has a nice, clean blade gently graying with age, and marked, "US - 1864 - AGM", and on the reverse, "C. Roby - W. Chelmsford Mass".  The grip has original leather and wire and remains in very nice condition.  The scabbard has a smooth, chocolate brown, aging patina and is without a single dent.  This saber and scabbard still has the original leather sword knot with it.--$895.

  175. Excavated, Model 1858, Federal bullseye canteen that was recovered here at Stones River about 30 years ago.  It has been run over by cannons or wagons or both and is flat as a pancake.  It was recovered from private property and was literally lying almost on top of the ground on a flat limestone rock.  This is a very cool battlefield artifact and priced very reasonably.--$65.

  176. Excellent condition, non-excavated, cast brass, Model 1851 Eagle sword belt plate.  This plate is cast brass with the applied silver wreaths completely intact.  This style buckle was regulation issue for Federal Cavalry during the Civil War.  On the reverse, the buckle has the bench mark "631" stamped into the upper left corner of the plate.  It has a beautiful, rich, aged patina.--$395.

  177. Very pretty condition, excavated, cast brass, Model 1851 Eagle sword belt plate.  This plate retains about 30% of the applied silver wreaths.  It was recovered near Roper's Knob, Franklin, Tennessee, and still even has the brass keeper attached to the buckle.  This is a beauty.--$425.

  178. Absolutely beautiful, 8 1/2 inch, extremely intricately die stamped, brass powder flask with a floral scene and the exact pattern often taken from Southern plantations as young Confederate soldiers left home for the Civil War in 1861.  Many time with this flask, they would also have the family fowling rifle.  The flask is maker marked, "G. & J. W. Hawksley - Sheffield".--$225.

  179. Original non-excavated Civil War Artillery Flame Concentrator.  These were used to channel the flame and hot gases from being fired toward the paper time fuzes that were filled with fulminate.  These were intended to reduce the number of time fuze shells that the paper time fuze didn't light and were duds.--$48.

  180. Very rare excavated pewter "Eagle device" marked die holder for stamping your name in ink on items that belonged to you.  I have over the years recovered several of the small individual pewter letter dies that goes to this set.  I will include a couple of the letter dies if I can find them !!--$85.

  181. Excavated cast brass nose cap to a Model 1855 Maynard primed musket.  Excellent dug condition.--$48.

  182. Quite rare Civil War "B. F. Joslyn" breach loading rifle.  This rifle was, after the Civil War, converted to use as a shotgun.  Many Civil War weapons, both Union and Confederate, were converted to use in helping feed the family back home.  It has been converted to take a 12-guage shotgun shell, but I would not recommend doing it.--$425.

  183. Extremely rare, Model 1860, AMES light Cavalry saber and scabbard "DATED 1860".  This saber is out of a Southern estate, and it is very likely that it was Confederate carried.  The saber has original wrap and wire and a nice, clean blade marked, "Ames Mfg. Co." and dated 1860.  The blade has a smooth, gently aging patina, and the scabbard is in very nice condition with a smooth, chocolate brown, aged patina.  The "1860" dated Ames Cavalry sabers are among the most sought after Civil War sabers.  This is one you will not see very often.--$1,250.

  184. Very nice condition, excavated, 3 inch, percussion fused J. P. Shenkl projectile.  This shell was recovered in rear of the stone wall at the Battle of Nashville.  It has been disarmed, cleaned, coated, and is ready for display.--$450.

  185. Absolutely beautiful condition, "Flying Eagle" brass powder flask that was likely originally with a cased .32 cal. pocket model Colt.  This flask has a deep, rich, bronze, aged patina and intricate detail on the Flying Eagle.--$350.

  186. Here we have a beautiful "Hi-Grade" Model 1850 Federal Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard that was purchased in 1975 directly from the family.  The information that came with the sword indicated that the sword was carried by an ancestor by the name of Lt. Jacob Probst.  He was a member of the 21st New Jersey Infantry.  The sword has an ornate brass guard with "US" cast into the guard.  The engraving on the blade is really something having US, a drum, a shield, stacked arms, a flag, crossed cannons, a camp scene with tents, and a soldier on picket.  The leather scabbard is ornately tooled, and patterned, but does have an old repair just above the drag.  This sword has been carried A LOT as the drag has "TONS OF WEAR".  He served in the Fredericksburg campaign, as well as Salem Heights.  Lt. Probst was born in Bremen, Germany, April 20, 1841, and died February 13, 1901, at age 59 years.  He was very active in Veteran and community activities.--$2,150.

  187. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, Richmond Arsenal pattern "CS" tongue and wreath sword belt plate.  The two pieces were dug together by Jerry Headley approximately 40 years ago.  The buckle was recovered from a Confederate Cavalry camp located near Brock Road at the Battle of the Wilderness.  This buckle is a beauty and remains just as dug with no repairs whatsoever.  They just aren't being dug this nice anymore.--$3,250.

  188. Very attractive, arrow hook pattern, large size, US oval on original black leather waist belt and with original percussion cap box still intact on the belt.  This will be an excellent addition to any Civil War display.--$595.

  189. Very pretty condition, Model 1858, smooth type, regulation Federal issue canteen.  The canteen remains complete with butternut cover and stopper with chain.  Every Civil War collection should have a nice canteen in it.--$275.

  190. Relic condition, Model 1855, .58 cal., leather cartridge box found in an old home here at Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and was likely left over from the battle.  The box has lots of age cracks but does remain reasonably pliable and is maker marked, "E. Gaylord - Chicopee Mass", on the inside flap.  Every relic collection must have an original cartridge box.--$250.

  191. Very pretty condition, regulation issue, Federal leather cap pouch.  This cap box remains soft and pliable with a makers mark, "Made By J. I. Pittman", on the inside flap.  The box has brass finial, leather closure tab, and both belt loops all remaining intact.--$175.

  192. Beautiful condition, excavated, 19 MM, CS173A, lined "Roman I" uniform button.  This button has a "P. Tait & Co./Limerick" backmark.  It has a slick, chocolate patina with shank intact on the reverse.--$225.

  193. Excavated, coat size, 2-piece Confederate block “I” (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered from the camp of the 2nd Tennessee Infantry located near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  The button has an uncleaned, brown/green patina on the face.--$89.

  194. Really neat artillery artifact from here at the Battle of Stones River.  This is a section of 12 pound case shot that exploded, but six to eight of the lead case shot balls remained attached to the inner wall of the cannonball.--$45.

  195. Excavated top section containing the fuse hole of a 12 pound Confederate polygonal cavity cannonball.  This was recovered just in rear of where Mendenhall's battery here at Stones River was in line of battle (near McFadden's Ford).--$45.

  196. Excellent condition, unopened packet of 10-second Civil War Artillery time fuses.--$75.

  197. Excavated, glazed clay pipe bowl recovered from a Confederate trash pit along Duck River near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  All you need is a stem, and you're ready to light-her-up!--$25.

  198. Original, .58 cal., Minie ball cartridge in its original paper wrapper along with an x-ray of the cartridge.--$95.

  199. Excavated silver quarter dated 1858 and has a small hole where it was worn around a soldier's neck.  This was a common practice so that a soldier always had enough money to buy a meal.--$75.

  200. Excavated "large cent" with crisp detail dated 1847 and with full "Liberty" visible.  This coin was recovered from a Confederate camp site located on private property near Tullahoma, Tennessee.--$38.

  201. Extremely rare, cuff size, non-excavated, Federal Topographical Engineer button with 100% bright gold gilt on the face and shank intact on the reverse.  This button is backmarked, "Robinsons/Extra".  In 40 years, I have only had three non-excavated, cuff size, Topographical Engineer buttons.--$350.

  202. On a 1 - 10 condition, this is a 12.  This gorgeous Hardee hatpin was recovered on private property here at Stones River over 40 years ago.  There is really nothing I can say except, you could not hope to dig a nicer one.--$195.

  203. Non-excavated, .69 cal., "bullet worm".  These are sometimes called "extractors" and were used for removing a projectile after a misfire.  They were screwed onto the back end of the ram rod which was threaded.  This extractor is in like new, as issued condition.--$48.

  204. Beautiful condition, excavated, cast brass, Enfield rifle nose cap.  This nose cap is still filled with original wood from the musket stock.  It was recovered from the Confederate Battle Line on private property near the Battle of Stones River.--$48.

  205. Extremely rare, excavated, cuff size, Confederate local LA12AV.  This is the Confederate local cuff size Louisiana with the "PUFF BACK".  This is one that you hardly ever see.--$275.

  206. Very nice condition, Model 1840, "Heavy Cavalry Saber".  Model 1840 sabers were carried by both Union and Confederate Cavalry.  The famous Southern Cavalry leader, General Nathan Bedford Forrest, carried one as did many of his men.  This example remains in very nice condition with a pretty, aged, bronze patina on the cast brass guard, and the saber has original wrap and wire on the grip.  The blade is unmarked and just beginning to darken with age.  This is out of the local area and was most likely Confederate carried during the Civil War.  Both the saber and scabbard remain in first class condition.--$850.

  207. Extremely rare, coat size, Confederate local, small script "I" letter uniform button.  This button appears to be a rare variant of CS1258A1 in Uniform Buttons of the United States by Warren K. Tice.  This button usually has an iron back, but this one has a depressed channel and Confederate local brass back with shank.  This is a very rare button you hardly ever see.--$395.

  208. Quite rare, Model 1816, .69 cal., flintlock smoothbore musket.  This musket remains in "flint" as it was originally produced, but could possibly have at one time been converted to percussion and reconverted back to flint.  The walnut stock has an old repair that is so well done, that it appears to be factory done.  The lockplate is marked, "Springfield 1839", and the musket has a Model 1861 ram rod that appears to have been with it a long time.  This musket is a classic example of what the South had to make do with to fight the Civil War.  It will be a beautiful addition to any Civil War collection.--$1,650.

  209. Beautiful non-excavated Coat size Confederate CS-5 Staff Officer's button.  It has near 100% bright gold gilt - shank intact - and is backmarked "Treble Gilt - Extra Rich".  You just won't see a more beautiful - highly gilted -  example.--$275.

  210. Excavated, coat size, Confederate local droop-wing Eagle Staff Officer button.  This button was recovered many years ago from a lawn along Manson Pike in the rear of Stones River Battlefield.  This is a CS22 coat size with a blank Confederate local back.  It has remnants of the iron shank remaining intact.  The button remains very solid with a smooth, chocolate patina.--$195.

  211. Super nice, framed shadow boxed relic display consisting of a soldier's folding fork from Gettysburg, a very pretty excavated circular lead-filled breast plate from Culpepper, Virginia, a Confederate buck and ball from City Point, Virginia, a gilted coat size Eagle button from Second Manassas, a UCV Confederate Reunion pin flag from Mobile, 1905, a non-excavated Union Artillery hat insignia (crossed cannons), and an excavated 1863 Indian Head Cent.  All nicely shadow-box framed.--$250.

  212. Very pretty, Model 1850, Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard.  The sword itself has a bright, clean blade with engraving faintly remaining.  The brass guard remains in excellent condition with the large cut-out "US".  The grip has original shark skin and wire and has one old age crack running longways of the grip.  The metal scabbard has brass mounts with the top mount marked, "Ames Mfg. Co. Chicopee Mass".  The metal scabbard does have some rusting but almost all could be sanded out.  This is a very nice grade, Federal Officer's sword and quite rare to come by, complete with scabbard.  We are going to offer the sword both with and without a gilted Officer's sword knot.--$1,250 with the sword knot.--$1,150 without the sword knot.

  213. Beautiful excavated large size oval "VMM" (Volunteer Maine Militia) cartridge boxplate.  This plate was recovered about 40 years ago on private property near Port Hudson, LA.  The face has a slick chocolate brown patina and sharp, crisp letters and the plate has literally never even been rinsed off.  The plate is the pattern ""VMM" with very little lead in the back - Actually just barely enough to keep the wire loops in place.  Rusty residue of the wire loops still remains.  This is one of the prettiest "VMM"s from that area that I have seen.--$1,150.

  214. Very attractive, excavated, large oval, lead-filled, "SNY" (State of New York) waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered over 30 years ago from private property near Cold Harbor, Virginia.  It has a smooth, chocolate brown patina on the face with full lead and all three hooks present on the reverse.  This plate would make an excellent addition to any collection.--$895.

  215. Very pretty, full length, Officer's maroon sash.  This one came out of the Chattanooga, Tennessee, area and could have very well been Confederate worn.  Although there is some fading in some areas, its color remains vivid overall.  There are a few mothing spots here and there, but nothing severe.  If you happen to have a nice frock coat, this sash would be perfect to make a museum quality display.--$695.

  216. Smokingly beautiful, non-excavated, Richmond Arsenal pattern, CS two-piece sword belt plate with a portion of the original "bullet stitch", brown leather, Confederate belt.  This CS buckle and partial belt is part of a display that also consists of (6)six excellent condition, coat size, Civil War issue, Superior Quality, "C.S.A." uniform buttons and (2) two coat size Federal Staff Officer buttons of the type frequently worn by Confederate Officers.  Also in the display is a $50 Confederate note also from Richmond, Virginia.  This display is in a very nice quality, hand made, 12" by 18" walnut display case.  This would be a beautiful addition to even a museum display.--$6,495.

  217. Absolutely beautiful condition, non-excavated, large size, floral type powder flask measuring 10 inches.  The powder release button remains perfectly intact and works properly.  It is maker marked, "American Flask & Cap Co.".  If you have a mid-1800's era fowling rifle, this is just the compliment you need to complete it.  It has a beautiful, deep bronze, never cleaned patina.--$150.

  218. Super pretty non-excavated small size "Baby US" Model 1839 lead filled U.S. cartridge boxplate.  You couldn't ask for a prettier face, and the plate has a deep, sharp "W. H. SMITH - Brooklyn" maker's stamp.  These little plates usually turn up on "PreWar" .69 cal. cartridge boxes.  Over the past 50 years I have recovered about a dozen of these including my VERY FIRST Civil War waist belt plate !!!!  I could TODAY, 50 years later, go back to within a foot or two of where I dug my first Civil War Plate !!!!  Over the years I have recovered several of these, and by far most were from Confederate sites !!!!  This example is a literal BEAUTY !!!--$395.

  219. Just brought in - regulation large size arrow hook pattern lead filled "U.S." oval Federal waist belt plate on its original black leather waist belt.  The belt still has the original "leather" waist belt length adjuster loop.  The loop being leather rather than brass suggests "1863 - 1864" issue.  The U.S. buckle has a BEAUTIFUL deep rich - never cleaned - aged patina that we all wish for !!  Literally - EVERY collection MUST HAVE a nice regulation "U.S. Belt Rig" !!!--$550.

  220. 1/6th plate tintype of a young Federal Infantry soldier carrying what appears to be a double barrel shotgun.  He is wearing a frock coat with his US buckle and breast plate visible.  He is ,in addition, wearing a "Hardee" hat with a bugle Infantry hat pin.  It is a reasonably common thing to encounter Confederates carrying a shotgun, but not that often Union Soldiers.  The image is just slightly darker than what would be optimum.--$275.

  221. Very attractive fully cased 1/9th plate tintype of a standing Federal Infatryman wearing his 9-button Federal Enlistedman's frock coat, and his belt rig with the cross belt strap.  The waist belt plate is gilted, but I would sure like to see it.  This is an early war image, and is out of Ohio.  I could just see that as being a large "O.V.M." !!  Just a good solid image with belt and buckle, cross belt, cap box, frock coat, kepi, and musket with bayonet.  He is ready to head for the front !!--$325.

  222. Nice seated pose of Captain Chris A. Morgan of Co. "D" 39th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  This is a seated pose with his Federal Foot Officer sword standing along side and has his maroon officer sash draped over his shoulder with the tassles lying in his lap.  Captain Morgan appears to have served the entire War, and was present for Island #10, Corinth, Iuka, Parker's Cross Roads, Resaca, Atlanta, Jonesboro, and finally Bentonville.  His officer sword belt plate can be clearly seen in the image.  It is housed in a 1/2 hard case.--$395.

  223. This is one of the most iconic and sought after of all Confederate Field and Staff Officer Swords.  It is the Boyle and Gamble "C.S." Field and Staff out of Richmond, VA., and has the distinctive  "C.S. and Star" motif cast into the brass guard.  The number "22" is stamped into the underside of the brass guard.  This sword has one of the most beautiful, never cleaned, rich aged bronze/brown patinas that you will ever see.  Some of the Confederate blade engraving can be seen through the aged, brown blade patina, and I'm sure that with a little cleaning a good deal more could be seen, but I just can't bring myself to touch that beautiful aged patina.  The distinctive Boyle and Gamble "Blade Fault Line" can be seen from across the room.  The leather of the scabbard had dried out and was crumbling, and has been replaced by a local professional about 30 years ago.  The sword knot is an original, and in beautiful condition.  This is a Confederate sword that any museum or serious collector would be really proud to have in their display.--$8,950.

  224. Very nice condition and one of the most sought after of Civil War Cavalry sabers.  This is the "1861 date", Model 1860, Ames produced, light Cavalry saber and scabbard.  It has a nice clean blade with virtually no nicks at all and is marked, "US - 1861 - Ames - Chicopee".  The saber has the original wrap and wire but does show that it has seen actual service.  The scabbard has a smooth, chocolate patina and is without even a single dent.  This is the saber most often identified with the American Civil War - the 1861 date Ames Cavalry saber.--$975.

  225. Absolutely drop-dead beautiful condition, 10 1/2 inch "basket weave" powder flask.  This rare style flask has a rich, aged, never cleaned patina and is marked, "Ames Dixon & Sons - Sheffield".  Many young Confederates left home carrying the family percussion fowling rifle and the accompanying powder flask.  This powder flask is for sure "museum quality".--$225.

  226. Absolutely beautiful set of 1840 - 1850 era gilted officer epaulets in their original sordered seam tin storage/travel container.  This is the exact type epaulets worn by many Civil War officers including Gen. Nathanial Lyon. Both epaulets and container remain in super nice condition.--$475.

  227. Very attractive condition, Model 1840 German import, heavy Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a smooth, clean patina and is maker marked, "K & C".  Model 1840 Cavalry sabers were extensively carried by Confederate Cavalry throughout the Civil War.  Even General Nathan Bedford Forrest carried one early in the Civil War, and a good portion of his Cavalry command was armed with 1840 heavy Cavalry sabers throughout the war.  This is without question the most commonly carried Cavalry saber among Southern Cavalry.  This example has a smooth, chocolate brown scabbard without even a single dent.  The leather grip was restored about 30 years ago and remains in very nice condition.  This saber would be a nice addition to any Civil War display.--$895.

  228. Beautiful condition and super rare, "Kraft, Goldsmith, & Kraft", Columbia, South Carolina, Confederate Cavalry saber with distinctive wooden scabbard, iron mounts and brass hardware.  This saber has an original Civil War Era, brown ink presentation on the wooden scabbard.  It reads, "Presented to Commodore John H. Sta??? by his friend, General George B. Dand???".  It is very rare to find a K G & K Cavalry saber with a nice original scabbard, and this one is a beauty.  The blade has a smooth, gently aging, gray/brown patina.  The original grip and wire remain intact and in nice condition.  This saber came into the shop about 40 years ago and has been in the collection of Dr. Joe Boyd ever since.  I have no doubt this is one of the nicest condition K G & K Confederate manufactured Cavalry sabers remaining in existence today.--$8,950.

  229. Very attractive display containing six different kinds of projectiles including a complete Spencer cartridge, a Confederate .58 cal. Gardner projectile, a .69 cal. dropped Minie ball, a cleaner projectile, a .58 cal. Minie ball with a raised star in the base, and a .69 cal. Confederate buck and ball.--$65. for the entire case.

  230. Very attractive condition, Model 1851, Eagle sword belt rig complete with cast brass Eagle sword plate with applied silver wreaths.  The belt remains complete and pliable with the brass sword hanger still intact.  This is a very nice belt rig that shows just honest wear.--$650.

  231. Really pretty "Officer's Grade" Model 1851 cast brass Federal Eagle Sword Belt Plate.  This is the style cast brass eagle plate with integrally cast wreaths, and was an officer's Model.  A good portion of the original belt along with the brass adjuster buckle remains intact.  This is out of central Virginia, and could have very easily been CONFEDERATE used !!!--$525.

  232. Very pretty condition Civil War era Belgian 7mm Pinfire 6 shot revolver.  Small Pinfire revolvers were very popular as a last resort weapon among Confederate officers.  It is difficult to find one of these that is all complete and functions properly.  This is a beauty with folding trigger - ejector rod - and cartridge door all remaining intact, and everything works perfectly.  The revolver has ornate gutta percha grips that are without a single chip.  This is a museum quality example.--$695.

  233. We have assembled several 8 inch by 10 inch artifact displays containing 12 - 14 Civil War artifacts and a colorful Civil War scene in a glass Riker case.  These make excellent gifts to anyone interested in the Civil War Era.--$38. each case

  234. Model 1840, Federal Light Artillery saber marked, "Ames Mfg Co." and dated "1863".  The blade has a pleasing, aged, gray patina, and the cast brass Artillery D-guard remains in excellent condition.  This would make an excellent first Civil War sword for a young collector.--$595.

  235. Very pretty condition, "medium size" Confederate fork-tongue frame buckle.  This buckle was recovered near Fredericksburg, Virginia, about 30 years ago and remains perfect enough to still be worn.--$950.

  236. Very attractive, .69 cal., 1841 Harpers Ferry musket originally flintlock but converted to percussion using the Butterfield Conversion System.  The musket has a smooth, brown, aged patina tip to tip with lockplate markings of, "Harpers Ferry - 1841 - US - and the Eagle".  These muskets were considered somewhat obsolete, and many were stored in the Harpers Ferry Arsenal.  They were, of course, captured and distributed to Confederate Infantry.  This example shows extensive service with dings, marks, and wear in the wood and a crack running just behind the tang of the barrel.  Southern Infantry fought much of the war with this exact type musket using buck and ball.  We are including a buck and ball round that we recovered here at Stones River with the musket.  You might not be able to afford a $12,000 Richmond musket, but here is a weapon extensively used by the South at a very realistic price of--$1,295.

  237. Rare, rare Richmond Arsenal pattern CS Enlistedman's Cavalry sword belt rig.  This belt rig was a part of the nationally known Steve Mullinax collection for many years.  The CS two-piece sword belt plate buckle is a regulation Richmond Arsenal product and has a rich, never cleaned, aged bronze patina.  The belt itself is an original "bullet stitch" Confederate Richmond Arsenal belt but was in an attic for many years and gradually became hard as a rock.  We have used Picard (lots of Picard) to get the belt in a state to display.  The belt displays nicely but has numerous cracks and a couple of breaks.  You will likely never see an original Richmond Arsenal CS belt plate on an original "Bullet Stitch" Confederate belt at a price like this again.  We are pricing it at pretty much the value of the non-excavated CS two-piece buckle alone.--$4,500.

  238. Quite rare and in very nice condition, .58 cal., Model 1855, rifle musket leather cartridge box.  This box has the stamped brass lead-filled US box plate on the outside flap and has a huge "Boyd & Sons Boston" maker mark on the inside flap (measures 2 x 3 inches) and reads, "Boyd & Sons - Boston - Manufacturers of Army Accoutrements".  The box remains quite pliable with very little surface flaking.--$650.

  239. Quite rare, non-excavated, small size, Model 1839, maker marked, U. S. waist belt plate.  The buckle has an excellent face with full lead in the reverse.  The arrow-hook remains intact, and the single elongated front hook was broken and has been glued back in place.  The buckle is maker marked "J. I.  PITTMAN", and that is one you don't see every day.--$325.

  240. Model 1850, Ames Federal Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard.  This sword has one of the most beautifully engraved blades that I have seen in ages.  It literally has 98% engraving and frosting as bright and vivid as when it was produced over 150 years ago.  The brass guard and scabbard mounts all retain near 100% gold gilting.  The top mount of the scabbard is stamped, "Ames Mfg. Co.", and Ames Manufacturing Company is actually part of the blade engraving.  This sword would without question be a $3,000 plus sword if it were not for a couple of factors.  The first factor is that there is some pitting on the metal scabbard due to the high humidity in Florida where this sword has been stored for a good number of years.  The second factor is also due to Florida heat and humidity, and it is the fact that some pieces of the shark skin sword handle grip have flaked off.  In spite of these couple of issues, this is still quite a stunning Civil War Officer's sword and scabbard.--$1,495.

  241. Extremely rare, Leech & Rigdon, Memphis, Tennessee, Confederate manufactured Foot Officer's sword.  This is the Confederate sword along with a partial leather scabbard.  The blade remains clean, just beginning to darken with age.  It has the typical Confederate unstopped fuller.  The cast brass guard is 100% Memphis Novelty Works all the way with the distinctive Leech & Rigdon Officer's sword motif on both top and bottom.  This is a super rare Confederate Officer's sword, and in nearly 50 years, I could count the number of these that I have had in my two hands.  Better not let this one get away, because it could be many years before you see another one.--$5,950.

  242. Really pretty, Confederate manufacture, Foot Officer's sword with gray/brown patina and unstopped fuller Confederate blade.  I believe this sword could be a product of E. J. Johnson of Macon, Georgia, but am not 100% certain which maker it is.  This sword displays beautifully.--$2,850.

  243. REALLY PRETTY excavated drop 3-inch Confederate Read-Broun.  This shell was recovered many years ago near Five Forks, Virginia.  These are only recovered at relatively late war sites.--$650.

  244. Quite rare and in very nice condition, Model 1860 light Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a gently aging, gray/brown patina and is marked, "US - 1861 - Mansfield & Lamb".  The grip and wire remain 100% intact, and the scabbard ring mounts are deeply worn, indicating lots of time in the saddle.  This saber came out of a central Kentucky estate and stands an equal probability to have been either Union or Confederate carried.  Lots of John Hunt Morgan's Cavalry are known to have carried swords of this nature.  This saber will be a museum quality addition to any Civil War collection.--$975.

  245. Just brought into the shop out of the local area, very attractive, Model 1860, light Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a smooth, dark, attic patina and is marked, "Ames Mfg Co. - Chicopee Mass".  The date is not visible, but I suspect that it is under the leather boot at the top of the blade.  The scabbard is missing the two ring mounts but is full length and nice otherwise.  This will make someone a great "first saber" from the American Civil War.--$595.

  246. Very pretty condition, French manufactured, 9 mm pinfire revolver.  The revolver is serial number 568.  The action still works nicely, and the ejector rod and loading door both remain intact.  Many Confederate Officers carried imported French and Belgian pinfire revolvers.--$595.

  247. Excavated Confederate State Seal wreath with the decorated inner belt loop.  This wreath is correct for several Confederate states such as "Georgia, Virginia, South Carolina, etc.", but this one probably had a "Georgia" in that it was recovered near the camp of the 1st GA. Cavalry.  BUT - If you have any of the states that take this wreath, here is your chance to finish your buckle.  The wreath has a really pretty brown-green patina.--$895.

  248. Very pretty condition, Model 1840, Light Artillery saber and scabbard.  The saber has a nice, clean blade marked, "US - 1862 - Ames Mfc. Co. - Chicopee Mass".  The sword has original leather and wire 100% intact, and the brass guard is perfect with a gently aging patina.  The original scabbard remains in excellent condition with an aging, gray patina and a "JE" inspector mark on the drag.  This is a quality artillery saber nice enough to be in any museum.--$975.

  249. Very nice condition, Model 1860, Federal Naval Cutlass with a nice clean blade marked, "Ames - USN - 1862".  This Naval sword has a large brass hand guard and is just beginning to patina with age.  The leather scabbard is complete and original with brass rivets completely down the side.  It is only missing the very tip where there was a large brass rivet.--$850.

    250. Very interesting Confederate saber and scabbard out of a local estate.  The South is famous for always having a lack of suitable weapons for the entire Civil War.  This saber and scabbard was blacksmith created by using parts from three separate Cavalry sabers.  The saber has a guard and pommel cap from a 2nd Model Kenansville, NC, Cavalry saber.  The blade has the pen knife style trait common to Tennessee produced "College Hill Arsenal" sabers.  The scabbard which was with the sword when it came out of the family here is an iron import style saber scabbard.  The saber is an excellent example of how the South was forced to create weapons from what they had, because throughout the entire Civil War, the Confederacy had a difficult time keeping their forces armed.  On this particular saber, the outside branch of the guard is bent forward, indicating at some point, the horse went down and sandwiched the saber between the horse and the ground.  I am sure this saber could tell many war stories.  I have a fair guess as to who likely carried this saber.--$2,650.

  250. Extremely rare, Confederate manufacture, "Dog River" Confederate Cavalry saber and scabbard picked up on the battlefield and taken home as a war trophy.  The saber has original, single strand iron wire on the grip and some of the original leather.  The cast high copper content brass guard has a rich, never cleaned patina.  The saber has the original unstopped fuller Confederate blade, and it is snapped into about ten inches up from the tip.  The Confederate lap seam "Dog River scabbard" could not be more perfect and has an excellent soldered lap seam with brass mounts.  This is a beautiful, museum quality artifact.--$2,850.

  251. Absolutely beautiful condition, Model 1839, "baby US" on original white buff waist belt being worn upside down so as to read "Southern Nation".  This belt rig is out of a north Alabama family and has a very nice condition CONFEDERATE MANUFACTURE cap box on the belt rig.  You will not get more solid Confederate than this rig, and it remains in first-class, museum grade condition.--$1,450.

  254. Excavated, EXTREMELY RARE, wreath portion of a Confederate State Seal, two-piece buckle.  This buckle was recovered from an 1863 Alabama Cavalry camp and very likely had a tongue like the Alabama tongue and wreath on page 107 in Steve Mullinax's Confederate Buckle book.  This "oak leaf" pattern wreath is correct for a number of different Confederate State Seals.  I have seen Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia all with wreaths of this type.  The center disc can be up to 1 1/4 inches in diameter.  The belt loop is 2 inches outside to outside and takes a 1 5/8 inch to 1 3/4 inch belt.  It has a pretty pea-green patina and could finish out one whale of a nice Confederate State Seal two-piece.  When recovered, this wreath had a break in the belt loop.  It has been expertly restored, and you 100% cannot find where the break was.  It has been many years since I last saw a loose wreath like this for sale.--$975.

  255. Very nice condition, complete Federal waist belt rig including original waist belt, original .58 cal. cartridge box, and the original percussion cap box.  The belt itself remains complete and pliable with a beautiful arrow-hook pattern US oval waist belt buckle, and the brass length adjustor remains perfectly intact.  The cartridge box is a Model 1864 with embossed “US” and both cartridge tins remaining intact on the inside.  The leather percussion cap box has both belt loops and closure tab intact and has an embossed “US” mark on the outside flap.  There are quite a number of original percussion caps remaining inside.  This belt rig was on display in an Arkansas museum for a number of years and would be an excellent addition to any Civil War collection.--$1,250.

  256. Very nice condition, Model 1864, Federal belt rig complete with belt, US buckle and brass keeper, US marked percussion cap box with percussion caps still inside, and very nice condition, Model 1864, .58 cal. cartridge box with embossed US oval, "Oliver - PA." makers mark, and original tins inside.  It is rare now to find a Federal belt rig complete with both boxes.--$1,250.

  257. Model 1860 Federal light Cavalry saber that was just brought in out of the local area and was believed to have been Confederate carried.  The saber is maker marked "Mansfield & Lamb" and is dated "1864".  The saber's brass guard  is clearly bent in a manner definately indicating that the horse went down On The Brass Saber Guard at least once.  The saber is a Model 1860, but the scabbard is a Model 1840 likely because the scabbard was damaged when the horse went down.  Here is your saber if you are looking for one that saw action, and has a story to tell !!--$895.

  258. A few days ago - April 10th, 2017 - was one of life's very best days.  My 3rd granddaughter (Isabella Rose) was born to my younger daughter Savannah Cynthia and her husband Luke.  Isabella Rose was born at 1:10 p.m. weighing 7 lbs. 11 oz. and was 19 1/4" long.  She appears very healthy and has a head full of dark brown hair.  To me, she looks like a near exact duplicate of her older sister, Lila Magnolia.  The birth went perfectly, and we hope to have both coming home soon.  Lila is very proud of her new baby sister, and we hope that sentiment lasts.

  259. lilapic1.JPG (83855 bytes)lila2poppy.JPG (18033 bytes)lila3asleep.JPG (20264 bytes)lila5profpic.png (771077 bytes)lila5wrapped.jpeg (262144 bytes)lila4andmomhosp.JPG (141046 bytes)lila6reaction.JPG (23590 bytes)lila7goodmorning.jpg (65573 bytes)lila8happytues.jpg (59827 bytes)lili10pinksocks.JPG (26317 bytes)lila11withana.JPG (27622 bytes)lili12cheerldr.JPG (93658 bytes)savannahcheer.JPG (36520 bytes)lila13easterbunny.JPG (118941 bytes)lilasheep.JPG (27660 bytes)lilasthrnbell.JPG (28647 bytes)lilakitchen.jpg (37664 bytes)lilainstrawberries.JPG (702058 bytes) volcheerleader.JPG (647692 bytes)Meet "Lila Magnolia Blackwelder" !!!  She is my younger daughter - Savannah Cynthia and her husband - Luke Blackwelder's first child.  She was born December 4, 2013 at 3:25 pm weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces and was 19 3/4 inches long.  She was born with a head full of dark brown hair and a fine set of lungs.  She has a wonderful disposition, and loves to smile and giggle.  I plan to do my best to spoil her beyond belief !!!!

  260. annasoccer.JPG (39064 bytes)poppyana&rachJPG.JPG (253237 bytes)anastasiaschool.JPG (25834 bytes)larrya.jpg (610641 bytes)NEW PICTURE !!!  Guess who is celebrating 1 year old today ??  Yep -- "Lady A - Anastasia" .  I  just got back from Houston, TX. visiting my first "Grandchild - Lady-A" {Anastasia}.  She is an absolute little doll and has everyone wrapped around her tiny, little finger.  She has arrived at the conclusion - "If I'm awake, somebody best be holding me if you know what's good for you" -- {otherwise I'll give you the business} !!!  She and I have a lot in common -- Two of our favorite things on earth to do is "Eat and Sleep" !!!!  Jonathan {the pup} is a wonderful "Big Brother" -- As a matter of fact - He has a little sweater that has "Only Child" crossed out and "Big Brother" written beneath it.  She is something like 11 months old and already weighs 23 lbs. -- Texas thing I'm told !!!   {Make that "5 YEARS" old now !!!!}  WOW --- Time sure gets away !!!!  And now ANOTHER year !!!!   I'm getting SOOO old, but beats the alternative !!!

  261. forrestprint.JPG (71374 bytes)Beautiful and tough to come by 1973 print of General Nathan Bedford Forrest that was done by the Sons of Confederate Veterans over 30 years ago.  The print is BIG measuring 24 inches by 30 inches before framing and is absolutely breathtaking once it's matted and framed.  I seldom get these in anymore.--$89.
11  
   

Middle Tennessee Relics
Larry Hicklen
Shop:  (615) 893-3470
Email: larryhicklen@comcast.net