Civil War Era Naval Dress Epaulets

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2006

c. 1860s, Cased Set of Fancy, Gilt U.S. Navy Dress Epaulets, By Miller & Sons, London & Southampton, Choice Fine. Includes a pair of gilt fabric and metal epaulets that once belonged to a Naval officer of the rank of Ensign, each 7" long x 5.5" at its widest point. These were most likely worn on dress occasions, as they are relatively fragile and not made for everyday use. (See p. 163 of Time-Life's "Arms and Equipment of the Union," 1996.) Constructed of golden fabric on the top, a gilt anchor and chain, a single gilt button with heraldic eagle, and gilt, coiled metal springs; the underside has velvet and leather padding and a metal hinge which would have fastened onto the shoulder. Epaulets have moderate wear and age coloration, but are housed in their original, metal box by H.V. Allien & Co., NY. Black, oval box with hinged lid exhibits some exterior wear and chipping to the painted surface. Nonetheless, the epaulets remain in remarkably nice condition and they represent one of the finest sets we've ever seen.

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