Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2054:
Description
This exceptional collection of frontier relics, excavated from the Upper Plains territories of the Dakotas and Montana, captures the transition from the Civil War to the Indian Wars (c. 1860s–1890s). The smaller Ryker mount is a remarkable military grouping, featuring brass General Service “Eagle” buttons—some of which exhibit the characteristic raised shield of the post-1872 regulations—alongside a “US” marked plate, lead projectiles, and essential horse tack from the cavalry era. A unique highlight is the inclusion of a prehistoric lithic projectile point, a common find for soldiers and settlers in the high plains. The larger case provides a domestic counterpoint, showcasing the “civilian” side of fort life with iron cutlery, glass bottle stoppers, and a rare cast-iron toy revolver that reflects the presence of families on the frontier. The military brass shows a beautiful stable verdigris, while the iron housewares and toy pistol exhibit significant “dug” oxidation and surface loss typical of the acidic plains soil; the stone and glass elements remain largely intact with minor burial wear. H 1″, W 12″, D 16″ (large case); H 1″, W 8″, D 12″ (small case). Please see photos.
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