THE HAND THAT RULED IRAQ: SADDAM HUSSEIN BRONZE STATUE FRAGMENT FROM THE IRAQI MINISTRY OF FINANCE.

This is one of the most historically significant relics obtainable from the 2003-2011 Iraq War, a fragment of a bronze statue of Saddam Hussein cut from his statue that was proudly displayed in front of the Iraqi Ministry of Finance. The overall height of the hand is approximately 22” x 12” and weighs approximately 50 pounds. Hollow-cast bronze roughly cut at the wrist with what appears to be traces of gold paint which is often seen on Hussein's statues and other monumental works in Iraq. The hand remains in solid condition, the paint widely chipped with scratches, with a moderate patina setting in. Included with the hand is an Iraqi M80/03 helmet that features light green textured foliage and an olive green net. The helmet exhibits excellent tan paint with intact net and liner. Also included in this historic archive are two knives, one is a souvenir type with brass handle and scabbard, and the other is a kukri with Iraqi unit insignia on the scabbard that was given to the veteran by an Iraqi interpreter. Staff Sergeant Curtis McQuaid served with Bravo Company (“Wolfpack”), 3rd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, Florida Army National Guard. He recovered all of these items during Operation Iraqi Freedom during the Spring of 2003. The provenance of these artifacts is unquestionable, as McQuaid was able to provide copies of photos taken during his deployment, some of which feature his squad standing atop the toppled statue. Also included is a copy of a three page signed affidavit of events surrounding his acquisition of the statue fragment, a brief description concerning importation of the relic, information regarding its legal recovery, and preservation during and after the war. These are very rare and desirable pieces of Iraqi War history. Hussein's palace silverware and porcelain are often encountered while other relics, especially those depicting the dictator and which were involved in combat zones are seldom obtainable. CONDITION: Good-very good.

This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.

Item Dimensions: 22" x 22" x 10"