July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Unmarked Civil War Confederate cloverleaf pike on shortened haft. Cloverleaf pikes like this unmarked example are known to have been manufactured in Georgia after the outbreak of the Civil War. Some of the notable manufacturers are Stevens, McElroy, and Griswold. During the Civil War, Georgia militia troops were armed with these pikes which could be used as lances or for cutting the bridles of enemy cavalry, although few saw combat. This example features the correct pike head that is composed of three double edged blades. The center blade is in the shape of a peach leaf, and measures approximately 10" long. Flanking the center blade on either side are two blades that measure 3" from tip to center. The pike head is secured in place by a metal ferrule with two wrought iron languets that are held in place by three rivets on each side. The languets appear to have a japanned finish, and the upper portion of the shaft was painted black. These pikes were manufactured with a 6 foot shaft, however this example was shortened at some point and the shaft measures 19" from the top of the ferrule to the bottom. CONDITION: The blade has grayed with age and in some light exhibits an attractive chocolate patina. The edges remain sharp and there is scattered pitting throughout. The shaft remains sturdy and exhibits typical wear. This pike was once part of the renowned John K. Lattimer collection. Overall good. JLD
Item Dimensions: Length: 29"