5. NAVY, USLHS, USLSS & Military
Prices in U.S. Dollars are listed in GREEN.
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5.72/13.71 WWII U.S. ARMY CLOCK. Scarce World War II Message Center clock made by Max Low of New York. This high grade clock contains an 11 jewel movement made to strict government specifications of the time. The Chelsea Clock Company made virtually identical clocks at the time, but the Low clocks are much rarer. This example has a black dial with white Arabic hour numerals 1-12 and subsidiary numerals 13-00 indicating military time. The outer chapter ring is divided into single minutes and seconds marked by 15’s. Two white spade hands indicate the minutes and hours with a large center sweep hand indicating seconds. A fourth hand in red indicates GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). The center of the dial is boldly marked “U.S.ARMY Clock message Center M2.” There is a micrometer Fast/Slow adjustment at the 2:30 position. The face is encompassed by its silvered brass reflector ring. The bottom of the dial is signed “M. LOW, NEW YORK” but it is covered by the reflector ring. According to Marvin Whitney in “Military Timepieces,” (1992, AWI Press) M2 refers to the Mark 2 version of this clock produced in 1943. The movement has nickeled plates and is stamped with a ship’s wheel marked, “LOW, NEW YORK.” It is contained in its original phenolic case with hinged bezel opening on the left with knurled thumbscrew closure. Telling of its age the bezel seals on the case with a cork O-ring. 7 ½ inches in diameter and 2 3/4 inches deep. Condition is absolutely perfect! Incredibly, as new. Complete with period winding key. 595 |
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3.46 /5.73 U.S. NAVY SEXTANT. Genuine World War II era ship navigator’s sextant made for the U.S. Navy by the David White Co. Engraved on the blackened brass index arm is the inscription “U.S. NAVY, BU, NAV. MARK II (N) 4253-1941 David White Co. Milwaukee, Wis.” This all brass instrument is in its original black baked enamel finish. The braced index arm terminates in a spring-loaded pinch stop attached to a geared endless tangent micrometer read-out which provides accuracy to 10 arc seconds. The large arc is marked in degrees from -5 to 145. This instrument, state-of-the-art for its time, has both index and horizon mirrors and 2 sets of adjustable polarizing filters. It is equipped with a height adjustable site tube holder. To these ends it retains the original single telescope 8 ½ inches long which provides a clear, highly magnified upright image of amazing clarity. It has a built-in focus from -5 to + 3 diopters. This sextant is housed in its mahogany box bearing the label of the U.S. Naval Observatory in the lid dated “FEB 8 – 1945.” Included is a table reading “Sun’s Declination and Equation of Time at Apparent Noon.” The box with brass hardware contains all brass accessories. The sextant measures 9 ¼ inches on the index arm by 9 ½ inches wide. The box measures 11 inches square by 5 ¼ inches thick. Excellent original condition showing good use but no abuse. 595 |
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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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5.50 U.S. NAVY SAILOR’s PALM. Extremely rare, early sailor’s sail maker’s palm dating from the War of 1812 to the Civil War. This incredibly scarce relic from the age of American sail consists of a leather strap with a 1 ¼ inch hole in one side bound together to fit over the user’s hand while the thumb protruded through the hole. Adjacent to the thumb hole is a shield-shaped brass cup stitched to the leather. The top of the circular cup contains several recesses to accommodate the head of a needle. With this the sailor was able to drive the large sail needle into the heavy canvas using the thrust of his palm. Of great interest and value is the fact that the side of the brass is cast in relief with a fouled old fashioned anchor – the early emblem of the United States Navy. This original sailor’s palm is in a remarkable state of original preservation. It measures 5 inches in diameter and 2 ¼ inches wide at the widest. Complete with an original old sail needle (not shown). A worthy addition to any Naval museum! 385 |
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5.69 LIGHTHOUSE PLAQUE. Extremely rare and highly sought after genuine U.S. Lighthouse Service sign which was affixed to the side of a lighthouse. This genuine sign is made of thick porcelainized metal and dates to the early 1900’s, typical of such signs of the period. It reads: U.S. LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE
All Persons Are Warned Not To Trespass On This Structure Or Interfere With It In Any Way. Violators Assume All Risk And Will Be Prosecuted. By Order of Commissioner of Lighthouses In rich blue, it measures 6 ½ by 9 inches and has 6 mounting points reinforced with hand-fitted brass grommets. It is in outstanding original condition with only a few minor surface scuffs, but absolutely no damage. A great rarity in Lighthouse collectibles… the first we have ever seen offered for sale! 495 In 1789 Congress passed an Act creating the United States Lighthouse Establishment (USLHE) which was operated by the Department of the Treasury. The Act also transferred ownership of all existing private American lighthouses to the U.S. government. In 1852, the United States Lighthouse Board was created. The Act dissolved the prior administration of lighthouses under the Treasury Department's Lighthouse Establishment. The board consisted of six senior Naval officers governing 12 lighthouse districts, each having a Naval inspector who was charged with building lighthouses and maintaining their good working order. The Lighthouse Board immediately set to installing state-of-the-art Freznel lenses in all newly-built lighthouses. The Board also oversaw the construction of the first lighthouses on the West Coast. By the Civil War, all U.S. lighthouses had Freznel lenses. In 1886, electricity was tested to illuminate the Statue of Liberty. Thereafter the lighting of the statue was the Lighthouse Board's responsibility. It remained such until 1902, when the “modern age in lighthouse illumination” began. In 1900, the Lighthouse Board started converting lighthouses to electric service. In 1910, the Board was changed in favor of a civilian run “Lighthouse Service.” It is uncertain as to exactly when the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment became the U.S. Lighthouse Service. Both terms for the agency appear to have been used interchangeably in the second half of the 19th century. In 1939 the U.S. Lighthouse Service itself was disbanded and merged with the U.S. Coast Guard. |
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5.44/22.35 WWII U.S. NAVY BAROMETER. Absolutely the finest quality ship’s barometer made for the U.S. Navy in the early 1940’s by the renown American scientific instrument making firm of “FRIEZ, Baltimore” as signed on the bottom of the silvered brass dial. The dial is marked “PRESSURE INCHES OF MERCURY COMPENSATED.” Just below the center arbor is the bold inscription “U.S. NAVY BuShips (N) 14809-42” indicating a manufacturing date of 1942. The dial is calibrated in inches of mercury atmospheric pressure from 27.7 to 31.3. This is a much broader range than most barometers of that era. It is subdivided in 2/100th increments marked by tenths. The reading is indicated by a thin black needle overlaid by a brass set needle connected to the knurled set knob. This barometer contains the highest grade movement of its type with a double bellows and jeweled pivots! The needle is operated by a precision rack and pinion gear systems vs. a chain and pulley common in most barometers. These features make it extremely accurate. This state-of-the-art weather instrument is housed in its sturdy Bakelite case made by the General Electric Company with its iconic “GE” logo. It is a bulkhead-mounted barometer with a thick back flange and three nickel-reinforced mounting holes. A small aperture in the rear of the case is provided for setting the reading to local conditions. 6 ½ in diameter by 2 5/8 inches deep. Outstanding original condition. Super accurate! 395 |
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5.39 DICTIONARY of AMERICAN NAVAL FIGHTING SHIPS. Amazing! Complete! A scarce all original hard bound set of the “Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.” These volumes consist of 8 beautiful books in faux leather covers issued by the Navy Department, Naval History Division, 1970, Washington, D.C. In them official Navy records document the existence and service of every named vessel which has ever served in the U.S. Navy, in addition to a large number of unnamed vessels serving in similar capacities. These extensive and exhaustive records document the history of each ship and the origin of its name, its armament, characteristics and a detailed chronological record of its service. Many entries are accompanied by actual photographs of the vessels they describe. Without question this is the most exhaustive and comprehensive compilation of information on the history of the United States Navy. The content of this set is truly exceptional. Overall the exteriors of these volumes are in excellent condition. Contents are perfect. This offering represents an invaluable, absolutely indispensable, reference for the Naval historian and for those enchanted with America’s Naval since the Revolution. A most worthy addition to ANY maritime library at a very reasonable price. The complete set weighs 35 pounds when boxed, ready for shipping. 295 |
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5.51 ADMIRAL’s TABLE SERVICE. Rare, authentic pre-World War II U.S. Navy gravy boat used in the Vice Admiral’s Mess of an American capital ship. This splendid example is oval in shape and is complete with its built-in tray/base, cover and serving spoon. The exterior of the boat is embellished with the hand-engraved emblem of three stars encircling the initials “U.S.N.” This is the “fancy” model with the “ropework” trim on the tray and cover. The cover fits the boat precisely and bears a decorative acorn finial on the top. The base is signed “R. WALLACE Silver Soldered.” This silverplate item has 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 5 3/4 inches wide and stands 5 inches high. Outstanding original condition. 229 |
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5.71 FAMOUS WWII COMBATANT ASHTRAY. Very decorative very colorful, original ashtray commemorating the World War II veteran ship USS ISHERWOOD (DD-520). This hard-fired, hand-painted porcelain ashtray bears the coat of arms in the middle depicting the ship, ancient Hero’s steam engine, the 4 winds and a clippership, all above the banner reading “SALE (sic) TO STEAM. ”It is trimmed in a gilded rope border. Above is the inscription ‘USS ISHERWOOD” and below “DD-520.” The reverse is marked “Fukagaura ARITA Handpainted, Made In Japan.”This ashtray measures 6 inches in diameter and is in perfect original condition noting wear to the gold lettering. 49 |
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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. 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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5.20 PHOTOGRAPH of FAMOUS BATTLESHIP. Original old black and white photograph of the famous American dreadnought, the USS UTAH (BB-31) taken shortly after her launching in 1909. The proud, brand spanking new battle wagon is shown at anchor with tender boats alongside, even a small sailing ketch! The distinctive early-style “cage” masts are prominent in the photo as are her massive twin turreted 12 inch guns. The image measure 6 ½ by 8 ½ inches sight and is in nearly perfect original condition. |
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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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5.33 U.S. COAST GUARD BAROMETER. Very scarce, highly sought after World War II or earlier ship’s aneroid barometer made for the “U.S. Coast Guard” by “Taylor. Rochester. NY” as boldly marked on the lower half of the silvered brass dial. It is calibrated in inches of mercury from 25.5 to 31.5 in 2/100th increments marked by tenths and shows the standard weather indications “RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR.” It is further marked “Compensated” (for temperature). The black indicator needle clearly points out the precise reading. The dial, with silvered brass reflector ring, measures 4 ½ inches across. The open face provides an interesting aspect of the high quality movement within. A small aperture on the back is provided for adjusting the reading and a pivoting brass suspension ring is attached to the top of the case for hanging. The solid brass case in its original unmodified finish, measures 5 ¼ inches in diameter and is 2 3/8 inches thick. Outstanding original condition in all respects and extremely accurate. The quality of this instrument is superb, built to wartime standards, as necessitated by the rigors for which it was intended. WAS 449 NOW! 249 |
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5.29 WWII NAVY PISTOL. Authentic World War II vintage flare pistol as carried by U.S. Navy pilots. This handsome example is made of heavy chrome-plated brass with Bakelite grips. Both grips are marked “INTERNATIONAL FLARE - SIGNAL CO., Made in U.S.A.” with patent number. They bear the Navy air logo of a winged shield embossed “DRIGGS FABER SYSTEM” and stamped “H.M. Corp. Toone, Tenn.” The bore is 1 ½ inches in diameter and the barrel is 4 3/8 inches long. The massive grip is 5 ¾ inches long to the tip of the eye for attaching a lanyard. The barrel contains a spring-loaded shell extractor on the left side. Excellent functional, virtually mint condition. 349 |
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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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5.21 U.S. COAST GUARD BULKHEAD BAROMETER. Extremely scarce, very highly sought after World War II or earlier ship’s aneroid barometer made for the “United States Coast Guard” by “Taylor Rochester. NY” as boldly marked on the face of the silvered brass dial “U.S. COAST GUARD.” This precision weather instrument is calibrated in atmospheric pressure indicating inches of mercury from 25.5 to 31.5 in 2/100th increments marked by tenths and showing the standard weather indications “RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR.” It is further marked “Compensated” (for temperature). The simple black indicator needle is overlaid by the brass set needle attached to a knurled brass knob running through the glass crystal. The dial, with silvered brass reflector ring, measures 4 ½ inches in diameter. The open face provides an interesting view of the perfect high quality movement within. Most such barometers had a spun brass case with a suspension ring at the top for hanging. But this exceptional example has a heavy solid brass flanged case, indicating it was hard-mounted to the bulkhead in the pilot house or chart room of a U.S. Coast Guard cutter. The case is in its original bright brushed brass finish and measures 6 ½ inches on the flange by 2 3/8 inches thick. The flange has three holes for mounting. A small aperture on the back is provided for adjusting the reading. Outstanding original condition in all respects and extremely accurate. The quality of this instrument is superb, built to wartime standards, as necessitated by the rigors for which it was intended. |
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5.19 WORLD WAR II PRE-INVASION CHARTS. Two authentic World War II pre-invasion charts produced in anticipation of the invasion of the Japanese mainland. The first of the two shows a wide raging topographical view of the region encompassing Tokyo. It is entitled “TOKYO BAY AREA,” dated Dec 1944 and is marked “Restricted.” The second is a very thorough and detailed map of the Tokyo area and lands to the north. This map identifies many potential targets in the legend. It is undated and untitled, identified only as “FROM H.O. AVIATION CHART V3 SERIES, REVISION “A.”” Both charts measure 12 inches square and are in virtually perfect original condition, noting only a couple of very minor age spots. 95 |
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5.41 U.S.L.H. SERVICE POURER. Genuine 19th century lamp oil can made for the U.S. LIGHTHOUSE ESTABLISHMENT” and maintained by the “U.S.L.H. DEPOT LAMP SHOP 3. DIST STATEN ISLAND NY” as stamped under the spout. This very substantial 2 gallon container is of all brass construction with a riveted stout reinforced for pouring lamp oil into the sump of a lighthouse lamp. It is equipped with a heavy bail handle with turned mahogany grip. To aid in pouring a secondary cup-shaped brass handle is attached to the base. The pourer is vented to provide a smooth flow and has a tight press-fit filler cap with retaining chain. This significant tool of an 1800’s lighthouse keeper was used before electricity. It is in original unpolished condition. 13 ½ inches tall by 14 inches wide at the widest. The base is 9 inches in diameter. The spout evidences some minor service repairs. Importantly it exhibits careful use and no abuse as expected of such an essential device used in the government’s crucial lifesaving services of the era. A rare museum piece! Back to Top |
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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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5.05 U.S. COAST GUARD BAROMETER. Very scarce, highly sought after World War II or earlier ship’s aneroid barometer made for the “United States Coast Guard” by “Taylor Rochester. NY” as marked on the bottom of the silvered brass dial. It is calibrated in inches of mercury from 25.5 to 31.5 in 2/100th increments marked by tenths and showing the standard weather indications “RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR.” It is further marked “Compensated” (for temperature). The simple black indicator needle is overlaid by the brass set needle attached to a brass knurled knob running through the glass crystal. The dial, with bright brass reflector ring, measures 4 ½ inches across. The open face provides an interesting aspect of the high quality movement within. A small aperture on the back is for adjusting the reading and a pivoting brass suspension ring is provided at the top of the case for hanging. The solid brass case is in its highly polished bright bronze finish and measures 5 ¼ inches in diameter and is 2 3/8 inches thick. Outstanding original condition in all respects and extremely accurate. The quality of this instrument is superb, built to wartime standards, as necessitated by the rigors for which it was intended. 449 |
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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 |
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5.27 U.S. LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE FLASK MEASURE. Extremely rare, highly sought after, 19th century example 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. In 1789 Congress passed an Act creating the United States Lighthouse Establishment (USLHE) which was operated by the Department of the Treasury. The Act also transferred ownership of all existing U.S. lighthouses to the government. In 1852 the United States Lighthouse Board was created, which dissolved the prior administration of lighthouses under the Treasury Department's Lighthouse Establishment. The board consisted of six senior naval officers governing 12 lighthouse districts, each having a Naval inspector who was charged with building lighthouses and maintaining their good working order. The Lighthouse Board immediately began its duties by installing Freznel lenses in all newly-built lighthouses. The Board also oversaw the construction of the first lighthouses on the West Coast. By the Civil War, all U.S. lighthouses had Freznel lenses. In 1886, electricity was tested to illuminate the Statue of Liberty. Thereafter the lighting of the statue was the Lighthouse Board's responsibility. It remained such until 1902, when the “modern age in lighthouse illumination” began. In 1900, the Lighthouse Board started converting lighthouses to electric service.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. In 1939 the U.S. Lighthouse Service itself was formally disbanded and merged with the U.S. Coast Guard. |
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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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5.12 WWII RESCUE CHARTS. Very important, and perhaps the only surviving original copies, of air rescue charts issued to American airmen in anticipation of the assault on the main islands of Japan in World War II. These precise charts depict in graphic detail the approaches to Honsu Island near Yokosuka. The first shows, Inubo Sari Light. The second Cape Iro, just south of Yokosuka. The third, Tokyo Bay itself with the center marked Suno Saki Light on the Cape of Nuoma. These classified charts were issued to then Navy LCDR Louis Domingos who was a pilot of a Navy Hellcat fighter stationed aboard the carrier USS KULA GULF (CVE-108) in 1945. Each of the three charts are in perfect condition. Of much added interest is that each is personally penned with the call signs ascribed to the mission by the pilot, including “Full Holster, Palm Reader,” and “Fleas Knees.” Each chart measures 7 ½ by 8 inches. 195 |
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5.06 CIVIL WAR SHIP CAPTAIN’s WASH BASIN. Here is an incredibly rare Civil War relic from the Union Navy. This bowl should rightfully be in a museum. But we have been fortunate enough to find it and offer it for sale. This wash basin is not porcelain or ceramic, but actually turned out of a solid piece of alabaster! On the front it bears the very early conjoined U.S. Navy mark from that era. The fact that it is natural stone and not porcelain or china is of great significance to its value. It measures 15 1/8 inches in diameter and stands 5 inches deep. It is very study and only exhibits a couple very minor hairline cracks near the center of the bowl. 975 |
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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 personal 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." |
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in the arctic |
capt cochran & hector |
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telescope |
telescope 'bear' |
telescope closed |
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telescope maker |
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in 1895 |
in the ice |
in oakland |
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focsle detail |
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5.87 FAMOUS EARLY BATTLESHIP GROUPING. Rare compilation of 3 items relating to |
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south dakota white fleet |
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South dakota & Pueblo |
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