June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
Jeweler made, composed of two tones of solid gold, finely engraved with detailed spiraling scrolls with blue-enameled scroll highlights. Shield-shaped with blue "CITY/MARSHAL" enameled in center, surrounded by a relief applied wreath of leaves with a detailed eagle perched on top, head turned to the left and inlaid with a diamond eye. The back is inscribed "Presented by Li Po Tai Co/to/William Saxton(Sic)/San Jose May 1st, 1872". Solid large gold single pin runs vertically. Measuring 2-1/8" wide by 2-1/2" high. Weighs 2.25 ounces, solid gold. Eagle is slightly loose, otherwise excellent with some minor tarnishing due to soiling. Complete with an archive of provenance from Witherell's Auction, including copies of news articles that pertain to the piece and the Marshal, copies of receipts, and photographs. William Sexton is listed in the 1870 San Jose City Directory as Marshal and Collector. On May 1, 1872, The San Jose Daily Mercury reported the following: "A Golden Tribute. - William Sexton, our worthy City Marshal was taken by surprise yesterday. He was sitting in his office when a Celestial entered and, handing him a small parcel, gracefully withdrew. Sexton said, "Thank you." and opening the paper, found it to contain an elegant gold badge, beautifully ornamented and mounted. On the back, the following was engraved: "Presented to William Sexton by Le Po Tai Co." The value of the badge is estimated at $120 and it is a deserving tribute to the recipient. The badge came through the family by way of William Sexon, to great grandson Robert Ehrhardt, then to High Noon Auctions in 2003. A fine and early badge with great provenance!