5. NAVY, USLHS, USLSS & Military
Prices in U.S. Dollars are in GREEN
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3.14/5.46 U.S. NAVY CLINOMETER. Authentic World War II fighting ship's pilot house inclinometer made for the Navy by the John L. Chaney Instrument Company. The face of the Bakelite body is engraved: CLINOMETER
U.S. NAVY BU-SHIPS MK IV 1943 JOHN L. CHANEY INSTR. CO. LAKE GENEVA WISC., U.S.A. This precision device is calibrated in single degrees of heel port and starboard up to 70 marked by 10's. The reading is made by a small black ball within a curved glass tube containing fluid. The fluid acts to dampen (slow) the ball as the ship rolls. This is exactly the same principle used in an aircraft's turn and bank indicator. The instrument measures 12 ½ inches wide by 6 ¼ inches high. It is in excellent original condition. The action of the ball is perfect. 395 |
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5.30 FAMOUS WWII SHIP’s PLAQUE. Authentic World War II Royal Navy Ship’s plaque commemorating the HMS NUBIAN (F-36). This very unusual ship’s commemorative features a cast aluminum shield bearing the likeness of a black African surrounded by a gold painted “rope” border surmounted by the Admiralty’s distinctive crown and the banner “NUBIAN.” The hand-painted plaque is mounted to a lovely solid mahogany shield backboard backed by “baize” cloth. The plaque is 4 2/4 inches in diameter. The backboard measures 5 ¾ inches wide by 6 ¾ inches tall. Outstanding original condition in all respects. Very rare! 195 HMS NUBIAN (F-36) was a Tribal Class destroyer of the Royal Navy launched on December 21, 1937. She had a length of 377 feet and displaced 1891 tons. This war hardened ship had an illustrious career in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean during World War II. Only two other ships, the ORION and JERVIS, also serving in the Mediterranean with NUBIAN, matched her battle record. In British Naval history these records were exceeded only by the Battleship WARSPITE in World War I! |
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5.22 U.S.N. BELL PATTERN. Rare, possibly unique shaped wooden pattern for casting a small bell for use on the ship’s quarterdeck or pilot house. This handsome World War II relic is composed of scores of individual wooden blocks laminated together to form the contour of the bell. The interior of the lip is stamped “BROGAN” and ”USN.” Besides rendering a beautiful exterior, the reason this pattern was so meticulously-made was to keep the wood from splitting or deforming, which it would have done had it been made from a solid block. 7 ¼ inches in diameter and 6 ½ inches high. Outstanding original condition with a nice patina. Most unusual! SOLD |
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5.28 EARLY SAILOR PHOTOGRAPH. Authentic sepia tone portrait of an early 1900’s American sailor in full uniform. The handsome seaman’s flat hat is clearly marked “U.S. NAVY” and he wears the standard neckerchief over his woolen sweater. This original photograph is mounted under old wavy glass in an exceptional cast bronze frame! It depicts a spread winged American eagle at the top with a colorful cloisonné Union Shield. The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left. The bottom of the frame depicts crossed draped American flags. The periphery of the frame is decorated with recurring 5-pointed stars. The back of this high quality frame is lined in felt and the photo is sealed within by square nails. 3 5/8 by 5 inches sight. The frame measures 5 by 8 inches. Outstanding original condition in all respects. A very scarce 110 year old U.S. Navy relic from the Great White Fleet era! SOLD |
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5.29 U.S.L.H.S. LIGHTSHIP BELL. Extremely rare, authentic quarterdeck/pilot house bell taken from a Lightship in the United States Lighthouse Service. This quality bell is made of solid bell bronze and produces a sonorous tone of long duration when struck with its original internal clapper. Of great significance and value is the fact this bell is marked in two places “USLHS” indicating U.S. Lighthouse Service. The bell is complete with its original mounting yoke capped with a large acorn nut. Indicative of its shipboard use it is complete with its original quarter deck mounting “shoe” which allowed it to be secured underway. The inside rim of the bell shows good signs of actual use where the clapper has impacted leaving a circular indentation in the surround. 7 ¾ inches in diameter. It stands 6 ½ inches tall and extends 9 inches from the bulkhead when mounted. Circa 1920. Outstanding original condition in all respects. The first of its kind we have had the pleasure of offering in 40+ years! SOLD |
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5.21/13.01 IMPORTANT CLOCK from U.S. NAVY MONITOR. Extremely rare, identified engineroom clock from the American Naval monitor the U.S.S. TERROR. This imposing timekeeper is made of heavy solid bronze. The early form pressed copper dial is silvered with bold Roman numerals and a minute chapter ring. The ship's name USS TERROR is prominently engraved just below the center arbor. The case maker's name "ASHCROFT MFG CO. New York" is just below. At the top, below XII is the Fast/Slow adjustment and below it is the subsidiary seconds bit indicating single seconds marked by 15's. The dial is swept by large blued steel Breguet style "moon" hands. The silvered dial shows some authentic wear. The word "ENGINE ROOM" is stenciled on the dial -- faint but still visible. Importantly the dial is original and has not been retouched or modified. The classic flared ship's clock case is hinged on the left, opening to the right, closing on a skeleton key lock which retains its original key. The mechanism is the best ship's clock ever made in America by the Howard Clock Company of Boston. It features a bi-metallic balance, 11 jewels, 8-day spring barrel and lovely damascened nickel plates. It is signed "E. Howard & Co. Boston" and is serial numbered "17." The very low number indicates it was one of the first ship's clocks ever produced by Howard, soon after the Civil War. The massive solid bronze case, produced by the Ashcroft Steam Gauge & Valve Co. has an 8 1/4 inch dial and a case flange of 10 ¾ inches, It measures 4 inches deep and weighs an impressive 15 pounds! It is in excellent original condition and is a strong runner after 150 years! USS TERROR (BM-4) TERROR was an AMPHITRITE class monitor with twin screws and double turrets. She displaced 3,990 tons with a length overall of 263 feet, a beam of 55 ½ feet and a draft of 14 feet 8 inches. In 1874, nine years after the Civil War, President Ulysses S. Grant ordered it built. The contract was awarded to the William Cramp & Sons Shipyard in Philadelphia, a major builder of U.S. Navy ships at that time. Work halted in 1877, but began again 6 years later. The reasons for the delay were two fold. Firstly, there was no foundry in the United States capable of producing the heavy armament specified in the ship's plans. Secondly, advancements in Naval architecture were progressing so rapidly that innovations in design were overtaking the original obsolete specifications. Still unfinished, the massive warship was towed to the New York Naval Yard for completion. On April 15, 1896 USS TERROR was finally commissioned. Assigned to the North Atlantic Squadron, TERROR operated up and down the East Coast. When the Battleship MAINE exploded in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898 TERROR was dispatched to Key West, Florida, arriving on April 2nd. On April 25th the United States declared war on Spain. On the very first day of hostilities TERROR captured the Cuban vessel ALMANSAS. In the following 2 days the monitor captured the Spanish ships AMROSIA BOLIVAR and GUIDO. On May 12th Admiral Sampson's squadron began bombarding the Spanish batteries at San Juan, Puerto Rico. TERROR, the fifth ship in the column, fired 31 ten inch shells in 3 salvos, scoring a direct hit on the shore battery. For the remainder of the war TERROR cruised the West Indies and the waters off Puerto Rico. Into the early 1900's TERROR served as a training ship for midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy. She was ultimately decommissioned on May 8, 1906 and scrapped sometime in early 1930. Edward Howard (1813-1904), apprenticed to the famous early American clock maker Aaron Willard, Jr., began his own manufacturing in Boston in 1840. His firm was known as the E. Howard Co. until 1881. The first clocks known as "marine clocks" made their appearance around 1860. All of Howard's movements were very well made. The Howard model 69 marine/locomotive clock had 11-jewels with plates of heavy brass, nickel plated and highly damascened. (Marvin Whitney, "Military Timepieces," 1992, AWI Press). Interestingly, the back of the dial of this clock is etched "U.S.S. Santee Feb 14, 1902." SANTEE was a sailing frigate of 44 guns commissioned on June 9, 1861. After active service in the Civil War SANTEE became the major training ship at the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland for decades. On April 2, 1912 SANTEE sank at her mooring. The relationship between TERROR and SANTEE is unclear. More fascinating research will prove valuable. |
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5.19 USS CONSTITUTION CANNON. Charming near-scale model of a 32 pounder gun as carried on the famous USS CONSITITUTION, affectionately known as OLD IRONSIDES. This beautifully fashioned Naval gun features a turned solid brass barrel mounted on a realistic cast iron carriage. On the port side is affixed the embossed brass tag finely embossed "USS CONSTITUTION." The entire presentation measures a mere 3 inches long and 1 ¼ inches wide. Excellent original condition. The 3/15 inch bore goes through to the touch hole, indicating that the cannon was originally intended to fire. 95 |
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1.84/5.15 SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR GROUPING. Three genuine historically important items directly pertaining to the war fought between the United States and Spain in 1898. They are:
The explosion and sinking of the Battleship MAINE (ACR-1) in Havana Harbor on February 15th, with the loss of 260 American lives, led to America declaring war on Spain. On April 23rd, after much Yellow Journalism and political wrangling, Congress declared that a state of war had existed between the U.S. and Spain since April 21, the day the U.S. began to blockade Cuba. In the ensuing 10 weeks U.S. Naval and land forces thoroughly decimated the Spanish. |
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5.17/22.56 U.S. COAST GUARD BAROMETER. Rare, highly sought after by collectors, authentic World War II Coast Guard Cutter barometer. This precision weather instrument was made by the premier American instrument makers "Taylor Rochester. NY. USA" as signed on the bottom of the silvered brass dial. Above it is very boldly marked "U.S. COAST GUARD" The lovely dial is calibrated in inches of mercury atmospheric pressure from 25 to 31 in 2/100th increments marked by tenths of inches. The standard weather indications "RAIN, CHANGE and FAIR" are prominently displayed above the word "COMPENSATED" indicating this barometer is corrected for variations in temperatures. The blackened steel "arrow" indicator needle points to the correct reading while the brass set needle attached to the knurled knob allows for setting of a previous reading. Extremely accurate! Of special desirability is the fact that this is the larger bulkhead barometer, not one of the smaller pendant types held by a loop on a hook. Noting this feature then, this barometer was certainly used on a World War II Coast Guard cutter! The dial measures 5 inches in diameter. The entire unit with bulkhead flange measure 6 ¾ inches in diameter and 2 ¼ inches deep. Virtually pristine original condition. It is hard to believe this unit is over 75 years old! 695 |
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5.20 NAVY COLLAR DEVICES. Matched pair of collar insignias for a 1st Class Midshipman in the United States Navy. They consist of right and left facing eagles perched on a fouled kedge anchor. The back of each is marked "HP 1/20 10KT GF." ¾ inch tall by ¾ inch wide. Perfect original condition. Approximately 50 years old. 19.95/pr |
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5.16/13.02 RARE AMERICAN CHRONOMETER. A scarce surviving example from a very limited production of full-sized ships' chronometers produced for the U.S Navy by the most prestigious American clock & watch company during World War II. This amazing relic is Elgin's Model 600. The silvered enameled dial is serial numbered (N) 610 dated 1943 within the seconds bit over the "6." It has bold Arabic numerals swept by blackened spade hands over a minute chapter ring. The 56 hour Up/Down is below "12" marked in 8 hour increments. The dial is signed "ELGIN U.S.A." just above the center arbor. It is surrounded by the silvered reflector ring under a beveled glass crystal set in its knurled brass bezel. Built to exacting Navy specifications the brass bowl with gimbal lock is mounted in its gimbals slung in a rich brass-bound mahogany box of classic 3-tier construction. The magnificent nickeled brass movement has 14 jewels with a large bi-metallic balance wheel, 6 timing weights and the state-of-the-art Guillimane hairspring. The unusual two-part balance bridge has a diamond end stone. The top plate is beautifully engine turned and is engraved "ELGIN 600 U.S. 14 JEWELS U.S. NAVY BU-SHIPS (N) 610, 1943." This machine is fitted with Elgin's fusee drive and innovative detachable escapement – a first in chronometer manufacturing. The handsome fully brass-bound mahogany box is equipped with 2 sliding button latches and bears the unique Elgin corking instructions on the brass plaque in the middle tier. The bottom section has folding brass drop handles for carrying. The chronometer itself measures almost 5 inches in diameter. The box measures 7 ½ inches square by 8 inches high. Condition is nothing short of remarkable in ALL respects. This chronometer shows no signs of being used since it was manufactured 79 years ago! Perfectly preserved, factory MINT original condition! ATTENTION COLLECTORS! You will not see this type of offering again! Elgin's number 1 chronometer is in the Smithsonian Institution.Price Request Marvin Whitney in his monumental reference book, "Military Time Pieces." 1992, American Watch Makers Institute, devotes an entire chapter to "Ship's Chronometer Elgin." In it he writes, "Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Elgin National Watch Company devoted their entire production facilities to the war effort. When the United States entered into World War II, our source of marine chronometers from Switzerland was immediately cut off. Up until that time, the world navies depended upon Swiss and English manufacturers. The Hamilton watch Company was the first to produce a ship's chronometer that met Navy specifications. In order to prevent a recurrence of the critical shortage, Elgin was awarded a contract in 1943 for 3,000 chronometers. On February 15, 1944 Elgin delivered their prototype chronometer to the Naval Observatory. The last shipment of chronometers was received on May 31, 1945. Shortly thereafter the war ended. None of the Elgins were ever issued." In November 1956 Elgin reported it had sold approximately 250 of their model 600 marine chronometers to the public. In consideration of the fact that Hamilton made more than 12,152 Navy-type chronometers (as affirmed by serial numbers of recent sales) or a ratio of more than 50:1, this Elgin example is definitely a rarity in the realm of Navy chronometers! |
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5.23/15.42 PHOTOGRAPH U.S.S. CALIFORNIA. Historic original photograph entitled "Boat Deck U.S.S. California" showing a sailor posed on a crane next to a lifering marked USS 2 2 CALIFORNIA. Below are 2 early binnacles and 2 pelorus stands along with two wheeled ammunition limbers. The ship appears to be nested next to another capital warship with towering smokestack, huge funnels and a sailor leaning on the rail. 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches. This is an interesting identified professional photograph with very unusual subject matter. Pre-1910. 59 |
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5.11 WHITE FLEET STEREO CARDS. Two original identified stereo cards displaying actual photographs of ships from the Great White Fleet era (circa 1907). The first is entitled "A view on the Deck, Off San Diego" taken from the foc'sle of a capital warship with at least 5 ships of the Great White Fleet in the background. The second is entitled "An Officer of the Deck" showing an officer and sailor posed next to a massive early gun turret. These cards are standard size 3 3/8 by 7 inches. Excellent original condition. 69/pair |
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5.12 CAPTAIN's EAGLES. Matched pair of sterling silver collar devices for a "full bird" (4 striper) Captain in the U.S. Navy. These scarce World War II insignias are in perfect original condition. Each measures 1 inch across. Rare to find a period pair such as these, mint with an identified early maker. 99 GEMSCO was the acronym for the "General Embroidery & Military Supply Company." The GEMSCO name dates to the 19th century when the company was originally founded in New York. Their hallmark was a wreath surrounding the name, GEMSCO. That symbol continued to be used on papers and cards up until the company went out of business. Other hallmarks used were GEMSCO N.Y. and GEMSCO STERLING. These are seen on WWII period insignias. Soon after WWII GEMSCO began using GEMSCO AGO G2 as their hallmark |
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5.06 /13.98 U.S. NAVY CHRONOMETER. Genuine state-of-the-art full size World War II marine chronometer developed for the U.S. Navy by the "Hamilton Watch Co. of Lancaster, PA., U.S.A." as marked on the dial and on the box nameplate. This 85 size timepiece has a silvered brass dial with bold Arabic numerals and minute chapter swept by black enameled spade hands. The subsidiary seconds bit is over the "6" showing individual seconds marked by 10's. The 56 hour Up/Down indicator is below the "12." The serial number "(N)1356" and date "1941" are within the seconds bit. The heavy knurled brass bezel with thick beveled glass has a silvered reflector ring. It screws onto the solid brass bowl slung in gimbals. A spring loaded rotating dust cover protects the winding arbor. The pristine nickel movement is beautifully damascened bearing the signature "MODEL 21 14 JEWELS HAMILTON WATCH CO. LANCASTER, PNNA. MADE IN U.S.A. (N) 1356-1941." It features an oversize balance with 12 timing weights and innovative helical Elinvar hairspring. It has a spring détente escapement and a chain-drive fusee. The box is Hamilton's standard 3 tier type made of rich mahogany, fully brass-bound with inland corners in its original finish. The sides are equipped with folding brass handles and the top 2 tiers have brass button latches for secure closure. The entire unit is in untouched original condition. All brass surfaces are original showing good expected exposure to their marine environment. The surfaces of the wood are in excellent, unmarred finish. The chronometer measures 5 inches in diameter. The box is 7 5/8 inches cubed. Complete with original ratcheted winding key. An excellent time keeper. |
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5.07 BOOK, AMERICA's LIGHTHOUSES. John Murray, "America's Lighthouses," 2000, Publications International, Ltd. Lincolnwood, Illinois, Hard cover, 126 pages. Profusely illustrated with full color photographs and line drawings on glossy paper. A graphic catalog covering the 50 most important and picturesque lighthouses in the United States. Chapters include Colonial lights, East Coast lights, Lights of the Great Lakes, Gulf Coast Lights, West Coast Lights and those of Alaska and Hawaii. Beautifully done with in depth history and description of each light. Large format, 12 ½ by 12 ¼ inches. New condition. 14.95 |
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5.27 U.S. LIGHTHOUSE ESTABLISHMENT FLASK MEASURE. Extremely rare, highly sought after, 19th century relic of a lighthouse keeper's equipment used in the course of duties maintaining his sentinel. This authentic veteran of that noble service is made entirely of brass and bears the stamped mark on the front of the spout "U.S. LIGHTHOUSE ESTABLISHMENT." It is further marked on the bottom "U.S. LIGHTHOUSE (ESTABLISHMENT)" the latter being faintly impressed. The circular spun brass body has a rolled, reinforced handle riveted to it for pouring. The body of the measure is scribed with lines starting at the bottom, marked "1 PTS." upward to "3 QRTS" for a total of 6 graduations. The interior is tinned to resist corrosion and exhibits a dark gray patina. This large flask measures 10 3/4 inches high by 6 ¾ inches in diameter at the base and 8 ¼ inches wide overall. Condition is excellent and original with a nice age patina, noting just a few very minor dents of no consequence. A lovely, genuine lighthouse object from the 1800's. 1969 In 1910, the Board was dissolved in favor of a civilian run "Lighthouse Service." It is uncertain as to when the exact time line was drawn between the existence of the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment and the U.S. Lighthouse Service. Both terms for the agency seemed to have been used interchangeably in the second half of the 19th century. |
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5.09 WWII NAVY LIEUTENANT's EPAULETS. Matched pair of authentic shoulder boards for a commissioned officer of O-3 rank in the U.S. Navy. They consist of stiff leather backings with felt covers and gold brocade. The back of the gold buttons are signed "Rau Fastener Co." Good original condition. The gold has tarnished with age. 69 |
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5.05/13.97 LIGHTHOUSE CLOCK. Very scarce, highly sought after clock made for the United States Lighthouse Establishment by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company. The silvered early style pressed copper dial has bold Roman numerals and a minute chapter ring swept by blued steel Breguet "moon" hands. The center of the dial is marked "CHELSEA CLOCK CO. BOSTON U.S.A." below which is engraved "USLH ESTAB." The subsidiary seconds bit showing single seconds marked by 10's is below the XII and the Fast/Slow lever is adjacent to the II. This high grade clock has Chelsea's early model E movement with 7 jewel escapement. The movement bears the serial number 129XX* dating it to April 9, 1904. The handsome 4 ½ inch dial is housed in its heavy solid brass case with screw-on bezel and old wavy glass measuring 5 ½ inches in diameter. Keeps good time after 118 years! Complete with early style Chelsea "butterfly" winding key. Price Request |
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3.88/ 5.04 PATENT NAVY PARALLEL RULES. Rare 4th quarter of the 19th century navigator's parallel rulers made by John Bliss and Co., in accordance with LCDR Sigsbee's patent. This beautifully preserved set is made of ebony with brass fittings. It is uniquely constructed in such a manner so as to allow the limbs of the instrument to fold over the chart and align at a distance from the indicated course. This allowed the navigator to "hop scotch" across the chart without sliding the rules over the map's surface. The upper rule is stamped "PAT. FEB.24' 80." Remarkably, it is preserved within its original cardboard box with label reading "PATENT PARALLEL RULE U.S. NAVY PATTERN JOHN BLISS & CO., Under Patent granted Feb. 24 to Liuet-Comdr, C. D. Sigsbee U.S. NAVY." The rules are in absolutely perfect original condition measuring 15 inches long by 2 5/8 inches wide. The original box is 15 ¼ inches long by 3 inches wide and ½ inches thick. As expected the box shows considerable wear after 140 years. But the label with minor losses is still legible. 595 An identical Patent Rule sold for $850.00 from Tesseract catalog 94, item 40 spring of 2012. |
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5.02/13.90 U.S. NAVY DECK CLOCK. World War I era ship's clock made for the United States Navy by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston. The handsome brushed brass dial is flawless. It has bold Arabic numerals and a minute chapter swept by blackened Breguet moon hands. The dial is marked "U.S. NAVY Deck Clock No. 2" with the Naval Observatory's serial number (N) 2420. It is also marked at the bottom "Made In U.S.A." underneath the blackened brass reflector ring. The subsidiary seconds bit is below "12" indicating single seconds marked by 10's. The all brass 11 jewel 8-day movement is marked "CHELSEA CLOCK CO. BOSTON. U.S.A." and is serial numbered 122XXX* dating it to July 6, 1918. It is housed in its original classic ship's clock case of heavy solid brass with matching serial number and flared screw-on bezel. The bezel retains its original old wavy glass held in with plaster. 5 3/8 inches in diameter by 2 ½ inches thick. Outstanding condition in all respects. The clock is a good timekeeper and the case is in a lovely high luster finish. From America's dreadnaught Navy over 100 years ago! Complete with period winding key. 849 |
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5.01 LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER's HAT. SCARCE! Genuine late 19th century uniform hat of an official keeper in the United States Lighthouse Service. This extremely scarce Lighthouse Service relic is made of wool with an inner body of leather and a silk liner. The classic U.S.L.H. Service emblem of a stately lighthouse on the front of the hat is hand-embroidered in gold brocade. The gold chin strap above the leather bill is attached with gilt hat buttons depicting the identical lighthouse motif. The cap is about a size 7. The top measures 8 ¾ inches in diameter. Front to back with the embossed leather bill it is 9 ½ inches. Excellent, original condition exhibiting wear with real time use expected of an authentic item worn in the pursuit of daily lighthouse chores. Over 120 years old! No damage. Very presentable original condition. Truly museum quality. SOLD |
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5.26 U.S.L.H. SERVICE POURER. Genuine, 19th century oiling can used in maintenance of lighthouse equipment in the work of the United States Lighthouse Service. This oil can is hand-made of solid brass. It has a spun brass body attached to the delicate braced spout and rolled contoured handle. A wire bail handle is affixed to the top for carrying and the filler hole at the top is complete with its original brass press-on cap with retention chain. Of great importance to its desirability and authenticity is the authentic (guaranteed) stamped marking on the bottom reading "U.S. LIGHT HOUSE SERVICE." This very rare relic is in excellent original condition having acquired a very nice statuary bronze age patina. 11 ¼ inches long overall. 7 inches in diameter on the base and 6 ½ inches tall exclusive of the bail handle. 1369 |
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5.96 U.S. LIGHTHOUSE ESTABLISHMENT BUTTONS. Very scarce, matched pair of 19th century uniform buttons for an American Lighthouse Keeper. These gilded solid brass buttons are boldly embossed "U.S.L.H.E." on the front and signed "Wanamaker & Brown Phila. PA" on the back. 1 inch diameter. Outstanding original condition. 69/pr |
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5.89 HISTORIC LIFERING. Authentic sailor-made life preserver frame commemorating the famous American aircraft carrier the "U.S.S. SARATOGA" as boldly hand-painted painted on the ring. This preserver is realistically made in the manner consistent with the period having a kapok core covered in hand-stitched canvas. A cotton "grab line" encircles the ring. The center is inset with original old wavy glass held in by putty. The ring is 10 ½ inches in diameter and 2 ¼ inches thick. It is in excellent condition showing its age. Interestingly the bottom of the grab line has an old hand-sewn repair of light canvas. 795 On July 1st, 1946 SARATOGA was one of a number of target ships anchored near the Bikini Atoll for nuclear weapons testing in Operation Crossroads. She survived the first test with little damage, but was sunk during the second test on the 25th. |
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3.14/5.46 U.S. NAVY CLINOMETER. Authentic World War II fighting ship's pilot house inclinometer made for the Navy by the John L. Chaney Instrument Company. The face of the Bakelite body is engraved: CLINOMETER
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3.75/5.88 U.S. NAVY INCLINOMETER. Scarce World War II ship's pilot house clinometer from a U.S. Naval fighting ship. This "pendulum" heel and list indicator is not nearly as common as the liquid-filled tube and ball type. The Bakelite body is incised:
It features a blackened solid brass pendulum bob with indicator tip sweeping over a scale divided by single degrees marked by 10's up to 70 degrees port and starboard. 12 inches wide by 7 inches high. Excellent original condition showing good age but no damage. The pendulum swings freely and is very accurate. 395 |
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5.86 VERY, VERY RARE U.S. NAVY BATTLESHIP COFFEE POT! An amazing relic from an American Naval ship-of-the-line dating to the 4th quarter of the 19th century. These pots certainly saw service during the Spanish-American War and cruised aboard the Great White Fleet around the globe in the very early 1900's. The bottom is marked "Reed & Barton" with the letters "U.S.N." The inside of the pot contains an insulating porcelain liner which is in perfect original condition. Still usable! The bottom is signed "REED & BARTON 67627 U.S.N." with the company's Roman fasces logo. According to a noted Naval historian only 48 of these "special coffee pots" were ever produced for the Navy by Reed & Barton, Wilcox and Wallace silver plate companies from the late 1870's. All were made for captains of capital ships (battleships) and Admirals' messes. One such pot, now in the collection of the Naval History Museum at the U.S Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland, was recently appraised for $20,000. 10 ¼ inches wide at the widest. The body is 6 1/8 inches in diameter and it stands 11 inches tall. The overall condition of this coffee pot is excellent. But it is not mint. It does show some scratches and expected minor dents. Yet, these are good indicators of its actual service in the fleet. Without question, a museum-quality U.S. Navy relic of the first order from the late 1800's. Price Request |
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5.85 COMMEMORATIVE LIFERING. Very rare ship's relic in the form of an authentically-made miniature lifering. This unusual example of sailor folk art consists of a carved wooden core overlaid by sail canvas tightly stitched on the inner circumference. A laid rope "grab line" encircles the ring attached by 4 sections of interlaced coachwhipping sinnet. At the bottom is a six-bight double strand button knot with trailing fringe. The lifering is beautifully-identified in gold lettering with black "shadow" highlights U.S.S. SAVANNAH. The ring itself measures 5 ¾ inches in diameter by 8 inches wide and 11 ½ inches tall. Excellent overall condition with only minor spotting due to age. There are no losses or damage. Here is a genuine tangible piece of U.S. Navy Civil War history! Civil War relics are hot! 385 The second ship in the U.S. Navy to be named SAVANNAH was laid down in 1820 at the New York Navy Yard. But due to a lack of funding the frigate was not commissioned until 12 years later. SAVANNAH joined the Pacific Squadron as its flagship in 1844. In anticipation of the Mexican War (1846-48), the SAVANNAH and her squadron were positioned off the coast of California. On July 7, 1846 less than two months after war broke out, SAVANNAHsuccessfully captured the provincial capital Monterey, without firing a shot. |
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5.81/10.74 IMPORTANT WWII SUBMARINE PLAQUE. Original commemorative plaque from the famous U.S. Navy diesel submarine USS BLACKFIN (SS-322). This handsome historic plaque is cast in high relief from solid brass which has acquired a rich statuary bronze age patina. Charmingly, it depicts a 19th century "copper" (policeman) in uniform twirling a torpedo as if it was a nightstick. The top of the plaque displays the submarine service emblem of dolphins flanking a submarine with "USS BLACKFIN" in high relief. The plaque is mounted to a lovely, very rich, solid African mahogany backing in traditional shield form. It measures 11 by 13 ½ inches. The plaque itself is 7 ¼ high by 5 5/8 inhe4s wide. Outstanding original condition. This is a museum piece. 295 USS BLACKFIN (SS-322), a BALAO-class submarine, was the first ship of the U.S. Navy to be named for a fish from the Great Lakes. She was launched on March 12, 1944 by the Electric Boat Company of Groton, Connecticut and was commissioned on July 4th, 1944, Lieutenant Commander George Hays Laird, Jr., in command. During her career, BLACKFIN was used in two famous movies: 1963 "Move Over Darling" with Doris Day, and James Garner; then in 1968 "Ice Station Zebra" with Rock Hudson and Ernest Borgnine. The long-lived BLACKFIN was decommissioned and struck from the Naval Record on September 15, 1972. But even then her usefulness continued as a target to be sunk by a torpedo in the "SubSinkEx Project Thurber" project off San Diego, California on May 13, 1973. Her partial sinking was deliberately used to acquire acoustic data on submarine implosions. |
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5.78 /20.83 HISTORICAL SPANAM WAR PRESENTATION CANE. Very rare authentic gentleman’s walking stick dated 1898 with the rare feature of being a functional cannon! Known as a “cherrot cane” because of its likeness to a cigar of that era, this cane was a presentation piece engraved with the name “Chas W. Test” on one side and the name of the Spanish Naval ship “Reina Mercedes 1898” on the other. REINA MERCEDES was the flagship of Spanish Naval forces in Cuban waters as the station ship at Santiago de Cuba. This solid brass cannon is functional with bore and touch hole. It is mounted atop a brass orb which connects to the collar of the cane with the engraving. It connects to a lovely tiger stripe hardwood cane which tapers to its original brass and iron ferrule at the bottom. The brass surfaces are gold plated. It measures 33 ½ inches long and the shaft is 7/8 inches in diameter at the collar. The cannon is 4 inches long and has a bore of 5/16 inch diameter. This cannon is functional. The inside the barrel has gunpowder residue. The original 29 inch long hardwood shaft has never been refinished and remains in great condition with its beautiful grain pattern and deep brown tiger striping. The bottom of the shaft retains the original 2 inch long nickel silver and iron tip. This walking stick is in outstanding, untouched original condition in all respects, noting some wear to the gold plating. 1995 At the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898, the battle cruiser REINA MERCEDES was serving as a harbor defense ship at Santiago de Cuba. On June 3rd a landing party commanded by Lt. Richmond Hobson attempted to run USS MERRIMAC aground in order to block the channel in the shallow water at the harbor entrance. REINA MERCEDES commended firing with other Spanish ships and shore batteries defending the harbor. MERRIMAC was sunk and Lieutenant Hobson with his seven men were taken prisoner aboard REINA MERCEDES. During the remainder of June and into July, U.S. Navy ships continuously bombarded Spanish positions at Santiago de Cuba, damaging REINA MERCEDES on at least eight separate occasions. Following the destruction of Admiral Cervera's squadron on July 3, 1898, the Spanish scuttled the battered REINA MERCEDES in the channel to prevent U.S. ships from entering. The Spanish towed her to the mouth of the harbor late in the evening of July 3d. But her movements were discovered by the American battleships USS TEXAS and MASSACHUSETTS which took REINA MERCEDES under fire. Their fierce salvos inflicted heavy damage but did not prevent her from sinking at the intended location. Even so, a chance shot cut her mooring lines allowing her to settle in shallow water out of the main channel with her upper works still visible. U.S. Forces overtook the REINA MERCEDES on July 17, 1898 when the Spanish defenses at Santiago de Cuba were surrendered. The U.S. Navy decided to salvage REINA MERCEDES, assigning the famous salvaging company Merritt & Chapman Co. to raise her. Work was begun on January 2, 1899 and she was refloated on March 1st. After extensive repairs the old cruiser was designated as a non-self-propelled receiving ship on December 10. 1902 where she served until 1912. This piece obviously belonged to Charles W. Test, someone of importance who must have served aboard the USS TEXAS or the USS MASSACUSETTS. |
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5.57 RARE ZEPPLIN PHOTO. Extremely scare original photograph of an equally rare subject. This is a large sepia tone silverplate image of the gigantic American Navy airship the USS LOS ANGELES (ZR-3). It shows a port broadside view of the huge craft flying over pine trees in the foreground. The image is clear with good contrast and no damage. It measures 6 ½ by 10 ½ inches sight and is housed in its original stiff double mat (some corner damage only) measuring 10 ¼ by 14 ¼. 195 |
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5.70 / 15.33 FAMOUS ORIGINAL PHOTO. Genuine silver plate photograph of one of the very first “4-piper” destroyers, USS DRAYTON, conducting speed trails. DRAYTON was laid down on August 19, 1909 at the Bath Iron Works Bath, Maine. She was launched on August 22, 1910 and commissioned on October 29th. This photo is signed lower left “USS Drayton Copyright by N. L. Stebbins, Run 25 South 32.88 Knots.” Although undated it is obviously 1910 before commissioning. The sepia tone image clearly shows the sleek vessel belching coal smoke in a mighty effort to attain top speed. Scrutiny under magnification shows crewmen on the bridge and just aft on deck. It is interesting to note this photograph was taken prior to the installation of the ship’s armament. Measuring 7 ½ by 9 ¼ inches sight, it is mounted on the stiff card 9 ½ by 11 ¼ inches. There are a few light stains here and there, but in general the image is clear without faults. A good original photograph by one of New England’s premier marine photographers over 110 years old! 99 |
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5.48 U.S. NAVY GRAVY BOAT. Authentic World War II U.S Navy server as used in the Wardroom Officer’s Mess of an American capital ship. This splendid example is the nicest we have encountered in our nearly 40 years in this business. With its oval shape it is complete with built-in tray/base, cover and ladle. The exterior of the boat is embellished with the exquisite hand-engraved Navy emblem of a fouled anchor over the decorative letters “U.S.N.” This is the “fancy “ model with the “ropework” trim on the tray and cover. The cover fits the boat with a precisely and bears a decorative acorn finial on the top. The base is signed “Reed & Barton Silver Soldered.” This silverplate item is with a base metal of brass. Many lesser table service items had a base metal of iron which corroded over time. The interior of this example is perfect, still fit for actual use! It measures 8 inches long by 6 inches wide and stands 5 inches high. A better, cleaner example does not exist. 169 |
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2.52/5.45 MOST IMPORTANT BUILDER’s HULL. Original, historically very significant builder’s half block model of the famous 19th century American battleship the U.S.S. OREGON (BB-3). This large sculpted model is constructed in laminated “lifts” of mahogany mounted to its original framed and painted pine backboard. This builder’s model is known as a “hull plating model” because it depicts and identifies in specific detail the armor plating of the ship’s steel hull. As such this very model was actually used as a basis for the design and construction of the ship. On the bottom center of the backboard just below the hull is the hand-painted designation “U.S.S. OREGON” in gold. The hull has acquired a lovely age patina and variegated surface in the 125+ years since it was laid out. The backboard measures 97 inches long by 13 inches high. The hull model itself is 88 inches long, 8 ½ inches wide and 8 inches high. The entire presentation protrudes 10 inches from the bulkhead when displayed. This authentic builder’s model of one of the most famous ships in U.S. Naval history belongs in a museum. It is likely the only identified such model still in private hands. Outstanding, untouched original condition showing wonderful age. The price is more that $10,000. Serious inquires only please. Price Request Ex. Collection of the De Young Museum, San Francisco, California. Deaccessioned at public auction early 1990’s. The battleship OREGON was laid down by the Union Iron Works, San Francisco, Cal. in 1891 and commissioned in 1896. She spent the next two years conducting exercises off the Pacific coast. On February 15, 1898 news was telegraphed that the battleship MAINE had exploded in Havana Harbor. OREGON was in the Puget Sound Navy Yard, Bremerton, Washington at the time. War with Spain was becoming imminent and OREGON was dispatched to Spanish-held Cuba without delay. En route, she made a brief stop in San Francisco to load more coal for the long journey ahead, departing on March 19, 1898. Traveling around Cape Horn OREGON arrived at Jupiter Inlet 66 days later – a distance of 15,000 nautical miles! This was a remarkable achievement at the time. The record breaking voyage immediately popularized the ship with the American public. It also emphasized the need for a shorter coast to coast route, which ultimately led to construction of the Panama Canal. Upon arrival OREGON joined Admiral William T. Sampson’s squadron under the command of her Captain Charles Clark. On July 3 OREGON spearheaded the Battle of Santiago de Cuba, where she and the cruiser BROOKLYN were the only ships fast enough to chase down and capture the Spanish flagship CRISTOBAL COLON. The remainder of the Spanish fleet was decimated. It was at this time OREGON earned the nickname "Bulldog of the Navy," because of the “bone in her teeth” – a reference to her distinctive bow wave at cruising speed.. |
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3.14/5.46 U.S. NAVY CLINOMETER. Authentic World War II fighting ship’s pilot house inclinometer made for the Navy by the John L. Chaney Instrument Company. The face of the Bakelite body is engraved: CLINOMETER
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5.23 RARE PHOTOGRAPH GROUPING. Historically important group of 6 original black and white and sepia tone photographs of America’s first and arguably most famous aircraft carrier the USS LANGLEY (CV-1 and AV-3). These photographs show her in both capacities as an aircraft carrier and her later conversion into a seaplane tender. Two of the photographs are identified on the front as “USS Langley” and a third is signed “Browne.” The largest image measures 8 by 10 inches and the smallest 2 ¾ by 3 ¾ inches. All are in very good condition with only minor edge wear. Museum quality. Shipped FREE in the U.S. 249 |
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5.18 VERY IMPORTANT LIFESAVING PRESENTATION. Extremely rare, highly sought after official governmental award for conspicuous bravery in the saving of life. In this case, the efforts of an isolated lighthouse keeper in the remote area of Grindstone Island are documented in a sterling silver pocket watch. This pure silver hunter case English pocket watch is beautifully engraved on the inside back cover: PRESENTED The watch with double sunk porcelain dial has Roman numerals and minute chapter swept by gold hands. The subsidiary seconds bit is over the VI. The dial is signed “SAML BUCKELY & Co LONDON.” Opening the inner dust cover reveals the high quality, jeweled all brass movement with lever escapement and compensated bi-metallic balance with numerous timing screws. The balance cock is profusely decorated with engraved floral designs. The top plate is singed in fancy script “Sam.. Buckley & Co. LONDON.” Speaking to its quality, this watch is lever set – a feature which prevents inadvertent setting of the time when winding, which is done by the crown. The fine silver case is hallmarked with a lion, anchor and the Gothic letter “g” indicating a Birmingham case maker in 1881/1882. It is further marked with an “[RB]” which may refer to silversmith Robert Beale. The exterior of the case is beautifully engine turned and engraved with the conjoined letters “JRS.” The watch comes in a handsome hinged mahogany case with inlaid mother-of-pearl shield on the lid. The button latch opens to reveal the lavish green felt-lined interior. The watch measures 2 ¼ inches in diameter, 3 1/8 inches high inclusive of the stem wind and bow, by ½ inches thick. The custom case measures 5 ¾ inches wide by 4 1/8 inches deep and is 1 ¼ inches thick. This watch is in good running condition, having just been serviced by a certified watch maker. It is excellent cosmetic condition inside and out, with no significant flaws, just evidence of careful use. At the time, Grindstone was a small, isolated island in the mouth of Chigneto Bay on the Bay of Fundy, just north of the Saint John on the southern coast of New Brunswick, Canada. The light station was erected in 1859. Subsequently the original lighthouse was replaced in 1908. After a devastating fire, it was reconstructed. However the existing lighthouse has fallen into a state of disrepair. Further research on the lighthouse keeper’s name, John R. Stiles, and the Brig Annie Bogart will undoubtedly reveal much more fascinating information in addition to that which we have already provided here. |
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5.37 EARLY U.S. NAVY STERO CARDS. An amazing collection of turn-of-the-last-century photographic stereo viewer cards depicting a wide array of scenes pertaining to the U.S Navy. Such cards were immensely popular in the late 1800’s prior to motion pictures. Cutting edge for their time, they gave the viewer a sense of reality by producing a 3-D effect. These original cards are all hard mounted on standard 3 ½ by 7 1/8 stiff cardboard backing. Most are original albumen or silverplate photographs affixed to the card. At least 3 are images enhanced by hand-coloring. Topics include “Cruiser Brooklyn Loading Ammunition, A Pair of 13-Inch Guns, A gunner on Ohio, After Turrets of the Kentucky, Manning the Guns, Launching a Battleship, the Dynamite Cruiser Vesuvius, 13 Inch Guns and Huge Anchor Chain Forward Deck of the Battleship Connecticut,” etc. All of the cards are in remarkably well preserved, original condition. This is a great opportunity to acquire such a rare collection with a most desirable theme, dating from the Spanish-American War, at a nominal price. A total of 20 cards. 349 |
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5.32 PERIOD WWII SHIP PHOTO. Original large format black and white image of the Buckley Class Destroyer Escort USS GEORGE (DE-697) as depicted steaming off of the Customs House in the Philippines in 1945. This clear image shows good detail of the man-o-war’s deck and armament along with crew members on the foc’sle. This valiant veteran of the Pacific campaign exhibits remarkable upkeep after all she has been through! The glossy 7 1/8 by 9 inch image is in perfect original condition. 15 |
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5.24 EARLY U.S. NAVY CLINOMETER. A museum piece! A rare Naval relic which was produced immediately following the American Civil War. It is embodied in a large functional mechanical inclinometer. The scale is beautifully hand-engraved in the most handsome script “U.S. Navy Yard Washington 1871.” This impressive device is made of thick solid brass mounted onto its original solid teak backboard. The precisely calibrated scale indicates degrees of heel (or list) port and starboard from 0 – 35 in single degree increments, marked by 5’s. The ingenious construction of this instrument allows the heavily weighted brass plumb bob to pass over the scale while being damped in its motion by the secondary articulated bob above. This clever arrangement allowed a real time read-out of the ship’s stance at the moment of observation, without deflection or vibration. The instrument itself measures 20 inches high by 11 ¼ inches wide. Its backboard is 23 ½ inches tall by 11 ¾ inches wide. Excellent original condition in all respects. There is no such relic better preserved! 2979 |
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5.03 U.S. LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE BAROMETER. Genuine late 19th century aneroid barometer made for the United States Lighthouse Service by the respected early French firm of Paul Naudet, Paris as marked on the lower center of the dial “PNHB” and again stamped on the back of the case. This precision instrument contains the highest quality barometer mechanism available at that time. It registers atmospheric pressure on the enameled paper dial with a the wide range spanning 25 inches of mercury to 32 inches, marked in tenths and sub-divided to 2/100ths. The reading is indicated by a thin blued steel needle which is overlaid by a brass “set needle” connected to a knurled knob to record a prior reading. The dial is marked “MADE IN FRANCE” at the top and “U.S.L.H.S.” at the bottom along with the notation “HOLOSTERIC BAROMETER (PNHB).” The beveled glass crystal is housed in its rolled brass bezel with silvered reflector ring. The solid brass case is remarkable in that it is wall-mounted with 3 attachments versus the more typical ship application using a pivoting suspension loop – an obvious indication of its terrestrial use in a lighthouse. There is an aperture on the back for adjusting the reading. 5 ¼ inches wide overall and 2 1/8 inches thick. Outstanding original condition, very accurate, showing just enough good age. A real rarity amongst barometers!
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5.61 EARLY NAVY GUN CREW LITHOGRAPH and GENUINE BUCKET. Authentic late 19th century color print of a U.S. Navy gun crew live firing a deck gun. This genuine stone lithograph is signed lower right by J. O. Davidson, the noted marine artist from Nyack, New York. It depicts a gun crew on an early Navy battle cruiser firing a breech loaded deck gun. Four crewmen and an officer attend the gun as a gunner’s mate cautiously pulls the firing lanyard. Smoke from an earlier salvo surrounds the scene and a swab, bucket and ramrod lay on the wooden deck. This action packed scene is in lovely original condition with the colors crisp and vivid. It is additionally signed upper center Copyrighted 1892. It measures 9 by 11 inches and is matted under glass in its original gilt-lined wooden frame measuring 17 ½ b7 21 ¾ inches. A genuine 120 year old color lithograph at a bargain priced. What is awesome is that it comes with a period relic depicted in the scene. It is a leather and wood dowsing bucket, otherwise known as a “swabbing bucket,” which was used to swab the barrel of such a gun after firing, before charging it with a subsequent powder round. This early relic of Naval gunnery is of heavy leather construction with a brass reinforced rim impressed “ORD. DEPT. W. N. Y. 1889 (then the Navy inspector’s mark of an anchor) W. M. F.” The bluish green bucket with red interior has a circular-sewn leather bottom reinforced with wood. A leather handle with brass attachments is provided for carrying. 15 inches in diameter on the bottom tapering to 13 inches on the top. The bucket stands 12 inches tall exclusive of the bail handle. Original condition showing actual use. The bucket is no longer water tight, but it would make a “dynamite” waste basket! 1495/both |
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5.99 IDENTIFIED SAILOR HAT. Most scarce early 1900’s seaman's hat from the famous World War I British battleship, HMS BARHAM as indicated on the silk hat ribbon in bold gold letters. This bowler style straw hat was professionally made with the rim exhibiting a finely sewn tan cloth edge. The top bears a beautifully hand-embroidered compass rose in gold thread. The interior liner is also hand-sewn. 12 inches long by 11 inches wide. Amazing original condition for such a delicate item, considering it about 100 years old! 449 |
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5.25 EXTREMELY IMPORTANT HISTORICAL COLLECTION "USS BEAR." This is an incredible find, consisting of the original signed, dated and identified telescope used on board the USS BEAR during the Greeley Polar Relief Expedition in 1885, 2 large framed period photographs of the Brigantine BEAR and a period scratch-built model of the vessel! Also included are a number of charming original deck views with physical photographs of her last commander, Captain C. S. Cochran. Contained in the offering are several original copies of official correspondence from the BEAR dated 1921 through 1923, including a letter with Admiral Richard Byrd's name pencil signed at the top and an envelope printed "Byrd Antarctic Expedition II, S.S. Bear of Oakland" postmarked "Little America Antarctica Jan 30, 1934." There are a number of personal letters and other memorabilia from Captain Cochran including a lovely hand-engraved copper printing plate depicting the BEAR in an ice floe and reading, "Seasons Greetings, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter 'BEAR'." There is a an extensive collection of period newspaper articles from the 1920's and 30's pertaining to the BEAR. All of these genuine items have come down through the Cochran family via the late daughter of Captain Cochran, Frances Cochran Hartray. The large hand-held telescope is a high quality 4-draw instrument with leather covered main barrel and built-in sun shade measuring 44 inches fully extended and collapsing to 12 1/2 inches long closed. It has a pivoting eye-piece dust cover with sun filter and a perfect 2 1/4 inch diameter objective lens. Two brass bands encircle the main tube. The first is engraved "U.S.N. THE BEAR 1885." The second is engraved "WILKINSON & BAXTER, BOSTON MASS." This telescope is in outstanding working condition producing a large, highly magnified, clear image with its all original optics. Excellent cosmetic condition noting some abrasion to the original leather coverings and evidence of use expected from a working instrument over 130 years old. It comes complete with a custom-made shadow box display with engraved brass plaque reading "USS BEAR ARCTIC EXPEDITION 1885." There are two original photographs of the BEAR. The first is an albumen type showing BEAR anchored in pack ice and is signed and dated lower left, "J.M. Justice `95." The second photo shows BEAR in San Francisco Bay with Oakland in the background and two of its boats in the water, circa 1930. The cased model of the BEAR is of scale, museum-quality construction with even the finest details depicted. All aspects of the ship are hand-made. This is not a kit model! The hull is of solid wood construction with all other components being of wood and metal. Attesting to its quality, all of the numerous dead eyes on this model are made of ivory! Seeing is believing. This model is truly worthy of being displayed in the finest public collection! The ship itself measures 28 inches long, 17 inches high and 6 inches wide. It is housed in its original glazed oak case measuring 32 1/2 inches long by 9 inches wide and 21 1/2 inches high. A truly exceptional presentation of original items of very significant historical importance! Sold as a group. SOLD Built in Greenock, Scotland in 1874, the steam/sail whaler BEAR was engaged in the whaling and sealing trade out of Dundee, Scotland for eleven years. In 1885 this proven, staunch Arctic vessel was purchased by the U.S. Navy to aid in rescuing the famous Greeley Polar Expedition. When relief efforts were successfully completed BEAR was transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard and stationed at San Francisco. There, for over forty years she made regular annual cruises to Alaskan waters and acted as flagship for the famous explorer, Admiral Richard E. Byrd. BEAR also acted to protect the seal fisheries and extended aid to merchant ships in distress. BEAR was looked upon as "mother" by thousands of Eskimos in the Territorial Alaskan frontier who looked to her for protection from foreign exploitation. |
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5.87 FAMOUS EARLY BATTLESHIP GROUPING. Rare compilation of 3 items relating to |
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5.62 LIGHTHOUSE and LIFESAVING SERVICE STEREO CARDS. A pair of genuine antique stereo cards with desirable subject matter. The first sepia-toned double image is identified as being that of the “Life-Saving Station, near Cliff House, San Francisco, California, U.S.A.” and is signed “Underwood & Underwood, Publishers.” The second is a chromolithographed original stereoscopic photograph entitled, “The Lighthouse Station at Hong Kong China” and is signed “Copyright. 1903. Kawin . and. Co.” Both cards are in standard format and size, measuring 7 by 3 ½ inches. Condition of both is good, noting some surface soiling, but importantly, no damage or losses. Very rare subject matter. 99 /both |
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5.08 LIFESAVING SCENES. 1850 or earlier artistic depictions of various lifesaving scenes and apparatus contemporaneous to the period. A total of 11 vignettes very precisely depict the various aspects, each captioned below the image. It is entitled “APPARATUS FOR SAVING LIFE IN CASE OF SHIPWRECK.” The end of the page is marked “LIFE SAVING PLATE CVI” and was produced by “Blackie & Son London. Glasgow & Edinburgh." These engravings are of superb quality with the finest detail, bearing scrutiny under magnification printed on high quality stock. 6 ½ by 9 ¾ inches. Outstanding original condition. Very rare and highly desirable subject matter depicting the infancy of lifesaving techniques. Perfect for framing. 59 |