GUN SPRING 2018
The live portion of this session begins on Wednesday, March 21, 2018.
FINE CIVIL WAR AMES 1863 DATED BRONZE 12-POUNDER MOUNTAIN HOWITZER.AMES183522412 POUNDERW/CARRIAGECal. 12 Pounder. This a beautiful Model 1835 mountain howitzer on correct carriage. These "petite" cannon are of ingenious design to breakdown as they could be dis-assembled and carried on three pack animals (including ammunition). It was inspected by Alexander B. Dyer and so marked "ABD" on muzzle along with weight "224" lbs, "AMCo" (Ames Manufacturing Company, Chicopee, Mass), registry "No 105". Rimbase number "96". 12-pounder mountain howitzers were used in many engagements in the Mexican War and the Civil War, especially in mountainous terrain and in the West. They saw much use in the Indian Wars. They were greatly feared by the Indians, who called them 'gun that shoots twice' apparently in recognition of the second report produced by the howitzer's exploding shell. The piece was designed to fire only anti-personnel ammunition, consisting of either explosive shell, spherical case shot, or canister. The piece is chambered, as are most muzzle-loading howitzers. This is a fine example of one of the most popular Civil War cannon with bbl weight of only 224 pounds, 500 pounds overall, and bbl length of about 37". Ames manufactured 112 mountain howitzers between June 1, 1861 and 1863. This gun was one of the last 27 proofed, in the American Army and Civil War, March 31, 1863. There are 40 known survivors of which most are publicly owned in parks or institutions. PROVENANCE: Erik Kand, Madisonville, Kentucky; Jerry Fertitta, Richmond, Virginia; Craig Bell, Richmond, Virginia, 2006; Michael Simens, Willoughby, Ohio. CONDITION: Very good overall. Good markings on muzzle and rimbase. Brass exhibits good mottled bronze patina, numerous small nicks and scratches which do not affect aesthetics. The correct carriage was made by Paulson Brothers Ordnance Company and is in excellent matching condition. 52863-4 JS (45,000-65,000)