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You are here: Experts > Shopping > Collectibles > Collectibles--General (Modern) > American Civil War GAR
Expert: Shawn Smith
Date: 5/9/2008
Subject: American Civil War GAR
Question
QUESTION: Thank you for taking the time to read this:
I have an 18x22 certificate: (4 colors)Pa. Reserve Post No. 191 Grand Army of the Republic Tend their thanks to Comrade George W. Palmer for Faithful and efficient services as Quartermaster of the past 25 years. 1909. (it is signed by the Post Adjutant and the Post Commander.
It is in poor condition.
I also have a tri folder very worn brown leather case - folded it measures 6x4 inches. Inside imprinted on the leather case is Joseph K. Davidson's Sons. Man'f'g Jewelers 718 Sansom Street Philadelphia. Inside the case is a medal of sorts it is 4.5 inches long and 2 inches wide. Starting at the top is an gold eagle with 2 cossed cannon barrels and cannon balls beneath the barrels. Hanging from that is a blue bar framed in gold with an eagle 1.5x 0.5 inches. Hanging from the center of that bar with 2 round links is a blue circle framed in gold, inside that circle is the emblem of the 5th Corps and in the center of that 5th Corps cross are three stones: red, clear, and blue. Hanging from the outer edge of the bar are two gold chain links connected to a five pointed star with a blue circle and writing on the circle: Grand Amy of the Republic 1861-1866 Veteran.
On the reverse of the circle with the 5th Corps cross is engraved: Co. A 1st regt. PRVC
On the reverse side of the 5 pointed star is engraved: Presented to George W Palmer Q.M. Penna Reserves Post No. 191 GAR 1884-1909 By his comrades Jan. 6, 1909.
I also have 33 hand written letters from Geo. W Palmer with their envelopes from the 1860's....the most important being a letter when he fought at Sharpsburg. Md.
I also have an original photo of him.
I also have done research on his brigade during the Battle of Gettysburg altho any letter from there is missing....my guess someone realized it's value along the years.
I also have several original newspaper articles about him as we was a tin smith in Philly after the war and then several photos/letters/newspaper articles of his cousin Smedley who was in WWI.
I also have info on him from the 1880 census.
I also have a 6x6 inch piece of tin he may have used as advertisement.
What should I do with all this?
What do you think it's value is?
Thank you again.
ANSWER: Deb,
All I can say is WOW!!!! Well I guess I can say more than that (smile) but you have an incredible lot of items, with a lot of history attached!
G.A.R. Items are hot sellers and it is almost hard to determine a value, however there are ways I can advise you in finding out a current auction value.
Off hand without inspection even though some of the paper items sound a little advanced aged, I would say off hand a conservative estimated value will be about 900.00 to 2,000.00.
If it is a family member and you are keeping it I would insure for 3,500.00.
That is what I would put on it if I had these items in a collection in my store, I would strongly advise not breaking up the collection, as you will have offers to buy just one item or part of the collection, the value comes from keeping it together.
Now, if you are wanting to sell it here is what I would do...
Avoid at all costs "Antique dealers" some are simply out to take you. they will offer much less than it is worth and tell you " Oh I don't know anything about this stuff" then turn around and sell it for a much higher amount. Been there done that.... Not all antique dealers are bottom dwellers but they are still out to make money and need to pay less to make a living, Those people are good and usually up front and honest.
If you have an e bay sellers account you should take a lot of pictures, set a reserve of maybe 5k, and see how far it goes. When the end of the auction comes you will have a current market value. And if you want to sell the item to the highest bidder you can do a second chance offer. The listing fees are much cheaper than a formal appraisal.
Hopefully this has helped you, and if you would like more assistance please contact me again.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank you so much.Only one more qustion I think: insurance - do I go through my home owners or do I use someone who specializes in items like these?
Thank you again.
deb
Answer
Hi Deb,
I would go through your Home owners insurance and see if they cover antiques, if they don;t I would see what they have to offer as far as reputible insurance firms.
Everything I have is covered on my home owners and being a collector and appraiser I didn't have the added cost of such, but I pay quite a bit. BUT you can;t replace these kinds of collectables.
If you need an appraisal form (official form) let me know, I accept donations :) I can provide one if you send me images, send me a private question or follow up if you need on.
Have a great Day
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