Lot 484

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Description:

RELIC OF THE U.S.S. CONSTITUTION
A fine relic of "Old Ironsides", a 4" x 3" x 2 1/2" section of very solid oak taken from the vessel in 1924 or shortly thereafter, most likely during a government authorized inspection and repair. At the time, the vessel was in imminent danger of sinking, taking on water daily with her transom and decks heavily rotted. A thin piece of paper attached to this relic bears a note of provenance in a period hand, some parts illegible: "Constitution repaired since[?]...1924. Given by...repaired at Navy Yard at the..." The USS CONSTITUTION was launched in 1797, and was one of six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794. She is most remembered for her actions during the War of 1812 when she captured numerous merchant ships and defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane and Levant. The battle with Guerriere earned her the nickname of "Old Ironsides". The vessel is now the world's oldest floating commissioned naval vessel. A fine, evocative naval relic.

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December 16, 2010 11:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000