Sold Gallery
These pages display a number of the rare items that I have had the pleasure of selling. To view more details and a larger photograph please click on the thumbnail picture.
Antique 1851 London UC Colt Pistol to \"C\" Tr
Here we offer a great opportunity to own an 1851 pattern Navy London Colt issued to the Canadian Militia in 1856. Serial number 28572. The hand gun rates a 2 on the official antique firearms scale, or a 3- on the NRA scale. This particular pistol was issued to "C" Troop Upper Canada (UC) Militia located in the Hamilton area and known as the Wentworth Troop of Cavalry. This troop was confirmed as a Troop of Active Cavalry in the 1855 Militia Act. It took part in the Fenian Raids patrolling the Niagara Frontier with these pistols and their issued 1853 sabers. The troop did not see action against the Fenian Army. In 1871 "C" Troop would join seven other troops in the "Golden Horse Shoe" region to form the 2nd Hussars, later the 2nd Dragoons. The odd feature to this piece is the carved name and unit on the right hand side of the wood grip. The name is to a Lt C.H. Cannon of the 10th Royals (10th Royal Grenadiers). This Lieutenant is listed as a member of that unit from 1865 to 1867 and he did serve as the Adjutant during the Fenian Raids. It is unclear how this came into the possession of an Infantry Officer, unless he acquired it later in life once these firearms were decommissioned in 1885. These firearms were tightly controlled and its unlikely he would have access to it in 1866 as an issued item, further, as adjutant, he probably remained in Toronto during the 1866 deployment. The pistol is in good condition with a working mechanism. The etching on the cylinder is visible and the lettering is sharp with British proof marks. There is a crown over 2 on the right grip. The wood grip is original and is well marked with C-UC-49 on the left side. The Barrel is clean with distinct rifling and suffers some pitting and little wear. All parts are with the same serial number, however the wedge has no number and does not completely secure in its port, but these are often replaced. This antique was passed down through the family and has only just come onto the market. It had been stowed in an attic and suffered neglect. It has cleaned up well and now functions with all the grease and surface corrosion removed. There are areas on the pistol that show some pitting on the barrel, the loading arm and some dents on the right side of the receiver. It looks like some one took a tool to the pin aperture causing some damage. A nice issued piece, the first issued pistols to the Canadian Army. (The holster that came with this pistol was marked to another troop and has been sold separately.) This is an antique percussion hand gun and does not require a PAL.
Antique Native Trade Flintlock Pistol by Ketland a
These attractive contract pistols were originally introduced as trade guns, but were later used by the Indian Department to gain favour with the natives as gifts in Upper and Lower Canada during the War of 1812. The Department had been supplied by the crown with these pistols, sword hangers, trade muskets and silver gorgets and arm bands to distribute in order to gain allies for the colonial defense. It is not clear that these pistols or the swords were well received by the natives, but the muskets and silver were certainly taken into use. It is thought that the swords and pistols were eventually handed off to the Militia for use by Officers and Cavalry. Some versions of these pistols have been found with modifications more conducive to Cavalry. This particular example is in its original form and stamped on the lock plate Ketland and Walker, a well known manufacturer of these guns during this period. There is also a Broad Arrow with crown stamp above the maker name. The barrel is proof marked and there is a GR over 1800 stamp in the grip behind the lock plate. The wood stock is original, in overall good condition overall with typical wear, a dent or two and its finish intact. The brass fittings and lock plate are original to the piece as well as the heavy lock, equipped with a flint. The brass fittings show some wear and the mechanical function of the gun works. The ram rod is likely a replacement, but typical of the form. The barrel is in nice condition with a nice brown patina. A nice representative flintlock pistol that was meant for service in Canada.
A HAWKER HURRICANE CONTROL COLUMN SPADE GRIP, 1940
An amazing piece of aviation history in just this single object. Cut from the cockpit of a Hawker Hurricane, this control column with its fire switch is a summary of the most important aerial battle of the second world war, the Battle of Britain. We must not forget these aircraft accompanied bombers over Berlin and strafed the battlefields around Normandy to win the war. A great piece of kit for the serious Air Force collector. If you can't own the aircraft, this certainly is an alternative and can fit in your collection room no problem. It says it all!
WWI RAF Identified Canadian Pilot Tunic, Cap and B
Offered is the standard flight uniform better known as the "maternity" tunic. The tunic has a Toronto based tailor label in the pocket, and has original rank insignia for a 2nd Lt with RAF pilot wings. The lining is in good condition, there are three tiny moth holes, 2 on the sleeve and one on the back shoulder. (The tunic has been stored in below freezing conditions to kill any remaining moths.) The breeches are standard pattern and the RFC/RAF cap is standard pattern, well marked with its original RFC badge. The light coloured breeches favored by pilots are included, and in good condition. The set comes with CEF documents and records of the owner, Lt C.G. Brenhand, RAF, who enlisted in Jan1918 and achieved Pilot status in April 1918. A fabulous original set with provenance.
WWI RFC/RAF Flight Hood Helmet
Standard pull over leather helmet used by Commonwealth pilots. Shows wear with a few tuft of fur missing, but otherwise presentable. A favorite of flight crews.
WWII RCAF/RAF Flight Helmet with Goggles
Flight helmet Type C with Mk VII goggles. Both in good condition, the goggle elastic band is stretched, but still does the job for display. The helmet has typical wear. A great set for any display.
WWII RCAF/RAF Irvin Bomber Outfit
The classic Bomber crew over suit for high altitude bombing over Germany. This outfit includes the jacket, pants and boots. The set is rough, well worn and need of some minor repair. There is a tear in the back of the jacket and the pants knee has also suffered repairs. The leather is chaffed and there are parts missing. The zipper takes some work to get going and the fur is still in place. The winter boots are also worn, the zippers work and they watch the overall look of the suit. If you want to display an affordable rough and rugged Bomber crew display, this will fit the bill. These jackets are hard to find these days and in mint condition fetch $1K on their own.
Other Ranks 1902 Universal British/Canadian Milita
Offered here is the standard saddle used by Canadian Cavalry Troops from 1902 to 1940. This particular saddle dates from WWI and has all of its parts and add on components to include: Saddle with felts in good condition overall Girth and cinch Wallets Horseshoe wallet and sword straps Rifle boot Mess tins Various straps Water bucket Peg Rope Stirrups and straps The pads are in good condition, but the right rear has a bite size chunk out of the bottom. The leather is supple and in good condition, but the stirrup straps are dry and cracked. The attachments are all together and complete. A few straps are authentic reproductions. A sound example for display or reenactment. Stand included.
38th Dufferin and Haldimand Rifles Wolseley Helmet
Here we offer an excellent example of a Wolseley helmet worn by the CO of the 38th Rifles dating to about 1939. The helmet has a unique regimental pugaree approved in 1937 with a small cap badge center to the front of the cork helmet, approved in 1939. The Pugaree was supposed to be white, but the CO convinced HQs to accept the regimental colour version. The helmet has the CO's name in pencil on the inside lining and a regimental stamp to the 38th. The condition of the helmet overall is very good, with normal wear, and includes a chin strap and storage bag. The liner and fitting band are classic construction and in good condition. There is a faint maker and size mark as well on the interior. These sun helmets were typically worn on militia summer camps and exercises for decades since their introduction in 1911. This unit was not mobilized for overseas service during World War II, but they did do service here in Canada as a recruiting and home front unit. The CO name requires more research.
Major General Rutherford Bicorn and Insignia with
Here we offer some of the belongings of MGen Robert William Rutherford who was the Commander of the 6th Canadian Division during the first World War and a regular force Artillery Captain during the Northwest Rebellion. He was also a noted artist with several well known works depicting military historical events that are note worthy. MGen RW Rutherford was born Aug 21, 1857 and attended the Royal Military School in Halifax, graduating in 1877. He was an Officer in the Canadian Regular Permanent Militia 1877 to 1885 stationed in Halfax, Kingston and Ottawa. He was in Col Otter's Column during the 1885 Rebellion. He was a Capt in "B" Battery Royal Canadian Artillery on this campaign. He was Mentioned in Dispatches for distinguished service at Cut Knife Hill and in Operations against Chief Big Bears' band. He was later promoted Major in 1896, LCol in 1905 and Col in 1907. He was Commandant of the Royal School of Artillery from No 15 1907 to Mar 31, 1908 and then appointed Master General of Ordnance and Colonial Militia Staff in Apr 1908. He was later appointed Commanding Officer of the 6th Divisional Area in 1913 and promoted Major General Dec 23, 1914 until his retirement Mar 31, 1916. He died Jan 5, 1933 at 75 and is buried in Cataraqui Cemetery. Included in the collection are a girth of documents, both official and personal correspondence, military documentation, original art work and scrap books, his General's insignia and his bicorn. Although the tin reads Colonel Rutherford, the bicorn, in mint condition, was modified with General rank braid. The General rank feathers are in good condition and come with their tin as well, but the stem is short making mounting a little difficult, but doable. Unfortunately his medals are not included, There is a photocopy of his picture included. He was most famous for his painting called "the Surrender of Poundmaker", painted in 1887, shown here, but not included.