An unusual selection of pieces from the collection of a New Bedford whaling captain is to cross the block at Milestone Auctions.
It’s an unpalatable subject for many today, but whaling was a huge industry in the US in the 1800s and New Bedford was one of the largest ports to focus on the trade.
Captain AC Sherman piloted the Orca out of New Bedford
This lot consists of three rare Smith & Wesson revolvers (dating from 1868-1891), an ammunition box, an embroidered tote bag, a ginger beer bottle and a couple of photographs.
Each of the guns is in good working order and includes a letter from the factory listing the date they were bought.
The 1891 .44 double-action First Model revolver, which displays some stunning engravings, is particularly likely to draw in buyers.
The collection belonged to Captain Albert Sherman of the Orca, who hunted in the Arctic Ocean.
Whaling was a dangerous business, something Sherman knew first hand.
In 1897, the Orca was wrecked in an ice floe. The crew spent several days in these freezing conditions before being rescued.
These guns were with him.
The unique collection has passed down in his family ever since. It’s valued at $25,000-35,000 ahead of the January 27 sale.
We have a stunning piece of British naval history for sale. Intrigued? Take a look here.
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