Civil War Pair of Weapons Purchase Documents

A pair of Civil War documents circa 1863, both accompanied by COAs from The Gettysburg Museum of History / Erik L. Dorr.

1. Manuscript Document Signed, "J. B. Patterson", of the United States Treasury Department, 1p, on pale blue, lightly lined paper measuring 8" x 12.5". Entitled, "Purchase &c. of Arms for Vols. & Regs. Ord. & Ord. Stores". Order no. 977 is dated May 30, 1863 for "2000 Rifle Muskets & appendages & 3000 Holster Pistols & appendages", payment due to Colts Pat. Fire Arms Mfg. Co. in the amount of $82,945. Docketed at verso. Marked separation at folds, which are also browned and chipping. Although document is well worn, text is still legible and bright. 

2. Ordnance Department Recapitulation Certificate No. 28 for the inspection and purchase of "One 15 inch Columbiad" from Knapp, Rudd & Co. of Pittsburgh, PA for a cost of $6,500. Dated March 10, 1863 and signed by the Ordnance Inspector and Chief of Ordnance. 4pp on a bifold sheet, 8.5” x 13.875”. Folds have separation at edges and minor paper loss at intersections; uniform toning; else very good condition.

Founded in 1812, the Ordnance Branch is one of the oldest branches of the U.S. Army, although the duties and responsibilities of the profession date back to the colonial era. The department was responsible for managing the army's supply of weapons, such as cannons, muskets, swords, pistols, ammunition, and more. During the Civil War, the department was called upon to arm and equip an army of unprecedented size. To achieve this, the Ordnance Department increased its civilian staff from 1,000 to 9,000 by the end of the war.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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