Raynor HCA 2013-01
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/10/2013
Italian immigrant Giovanni Martini joined Custer's 7th Cavalry in 1874 using his recently anglicized name, John Martin. He retired a sergeant some thirty years later and enjoyed the distinction of being the last Little Bighorn veteran to have seen General Custer alive. A trumpeter serving as a courier from Captain Benteen, Martin blew officer's call at Custer's request on the morning of June 25, 1876. Martin then carried the general's last message back to Benteen, with his horse being shot during the journey. Ten (10) items associated with Martin - some possibly of great historical significance - to include: Martin's brass bugle, 10", with a lovely, untouched patina, a few dings and three small cracks on the bell…plus; Fired bullet in a small change purse with a paper scrap pencil inscribed "Custer Battlefield Bullet"…plus; Privately contracted German silver ID shield stamped "John Martin / 7th Cav. / TR. H"…plus; a miniature gilt brass horseshoe, 2 ½", stamped "US 7 CAV"…plus; Masonic-style triangular "jewel" of brass, 2 ½", stamped "Sgt. John Martin / 7th Cavalry / Troop H."…plus; US medal with eagle hanger…plus; Italian marksman's medal…plus; (3) Knights of Pythias items. All very good or better.
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