A host of historic artifacts, including firearms linked to two presidents, are being sold this weekend, giving bidders the rare opportunity to own the gun of a former president.
The Illinois-based Rock Island Auction Company (RIA) is auctioning off a trove of historic guns, swords, and other items this weekend, including a factory-engraved Smith & Wesson Model No. 3 single-action that former President Abraham Lincoln presented in 1862 to John J. Crittenden, an influential Kentucky statesman who worked to keep Kentucky in the Union during the Civil War.
The gun, which had been kept by the descendants of Crittenden until 1992, is expected to go for between $100,000 and $300,000.
Other items available at the auction include the battle and dress swords of Brigadier General John W. M. Appleton, who was one of the white officers leading the 54th Massachusetts, the second African-American regiment during the Civil War. A sword belonging to Medal of Honor recipient and Gettysburg hero General Dan Sickles, expected to go for between $30,000 and $50,000, can also be purchased.
