RARE GROUP OF THREE DISTINGUISHED AWARDS GIVEN TO WORLD WAR I GERMAN ACE ADOLF RITTER VON TUTSCHEK HITS $28,250 AT SOLDUSA.COM

Contact: Chris Roberts
(704) 815-1500

RARE GROUP OF THREE DISTINGUISHED AWARDS GIVEN TO WORLD WAR I GERMAN ACE ADOLF RITTER VON TUTSCHEK HITS $28,250 AT SOLDUSA.COM

(MATTHEWS, N.C.) – An exceedingly rare group of three distinguished awards given to World War I German flying ace Adolf Ritter von Tutschek soared to $28,250 in an Internet and catalog auction that ended Jan. 23-24 by SoldUSA.com, the premier hunting and fishing, militaria and collectibles site. The group was the top earner of the more than 1,000 lots sold.

“Overall, this was a very positive auction,” said Chris Roberts of SoldUSA.com, “and already great consignments are pouring in for our next sale” (which will go online in early March and conclude Mar. 20-21). “On the first day of the sale, we had 1.7 million hits and had to re-start the system twice. We’ll have to tweak the software to make sure that doesn’t happen again."

Of the estimated 42,000 bidders in SoldUSA.com’s database, around 3,000 registered to bid in the recent sale. “They were participating literally from all over the world,” Mr. Roberts said. “Bids came in from Ireland, France, New Zealand, the United Kingdom. It was astounding. Collectors like the fact that we guarantee the authenticity of every single item we put up for bid.”


The von Tutschek lot consisted of his original named and engraved Pour Le Merit “Blue Max” award, a one-of-a-kind piece still in its original case and in excellent condition; his cased silver Iron Cross medal, boasting a nice silver age patina and with his name engraved on the reverse; and his engraved cut-out pilot’s badge, engraved with his name and in a leatherette box.


Von Tutschek was a soldier turned fighter pilot who began flying with Germany’s Jagstaffel 2 force in January 1917. He was later given command of the new Jagdeschwader 2 and began flying sorties in his new Fokker D-1 green tri-plane. The ace managed to rack up 27 confirmed kills before he himself was shot down and killed on Mar. 15, 1918, only 26 years old.

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium.

An H. E. Leman identified flintlock Pennsylvania rifle (circa 1835), rare and with a tin-type of the original owner holding the weapon, hit the mark for $8,661. The rifle is possibly a first-year production firearm by Leman. It had not been restored (and the original ramrod was missing). Measuring 62 inches long, it featured brass fittings, metal patch box and set triggers.

The rifle was made more remarkable by the fact that it has been in the same family – the Elliotts, who originally moved from Georgia to Oklahoma, prior to the “Trail of Tears.” It had been passed down through the Elliott family to the consignor, who can still remember the rifle hanging over the fireplace of her grandfather, Ben Elliott, who was born in 1881 and died 1945.

A Colt 3rd model shoulder stock provision Dragoon pistol (1858, Serial #17482), marked with the rare “Col. Colt London” barrel address, only a handful of which are known to exist, scored a bull’s-eye for $7,770. The gun, one of the rarest of all 3rd model Colt Dragoons made, had the Colt patented detachable stock hardware, including the two extra lug screws in the frame.

The pistol featured a 7 1/2-inch barrel with the correct two-leaf sight, which was added by Colt only for shoulder stock models. The cylinder retained over 50 percent of the original scene, with the rarer of the two cylinder markings (“Model U.S.M.R. 17482 Colt’s Patent”). Every screw and inch of this exceptional plum-finish gun was inspected and declared correct.

A Winchester “Woman in Yellow Hunting Coat” calendar poster from 1912, painted circa 1910 specifically for Winchester by an unknown artist and exhibiting rich and vibrant colors, garnered $5,085. The posters from the original artwork were lithographed around 1911. This example measured 14 5/8 inches by 30 inches and featured both the top and bottom bands.

A beautiful World War II NSDAP (1923-1933) cased blood order serial numbered 938 first strike medal, made by J. Fuess Munchen and with rich coin strike quality detail, went to a determined bidder for $4,520. The medal was mounted to its original ribbon with button-hole mounting in the ribbon center. It was housed in a leather-covered hinged case with locking front.


As stated, SoldUSA.com’s next big sale will go online in early March and conclude Mar. 20-21. Featured will be high-end ammo collectibles, advertising items, rare tin signs, die-cuts, posters, calendars and many other hunting and fishing collectibles, plus militaria. The auction after the March auction is slated for sometime in May, with start and end dates to be determined.

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the Internet and catalog auction that starts in March, log on to www.SoldUSA.com. The firm is always looking for quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item or a collection, you may call them at (704) 815-1550, or you can e-mail them at croberts@SoldUSA.com. For more information, log on to www.SoldUSA.com.

Tutschek awards:
Group of three awards given to World War I German flying ace Adolf von Tutschek ($28,250).




Winchester poster:
Winchester “Woman in Yellow Hunting Coat” calendar poster from 1912 ($5,085).


Leman rifle:
Circa-1835 H.E. Leman identified flintlock Pennsylvania rifle ($8,661).

Colt Dragoon:
Colt 3rd model shoulder stock provision Dragoon pistol, 1858, Serial #17482 ($7,770).

WWII medal:
World War II NSDAP (1923-1933) cased blood order first strike medal by Munchen ($4,520).

CONTENTS FROM HISTORIC ANNESDALE MANSION IN MEMPHIS, TENN., PLUS OTHER ESTATES AND AN ANTIQUE GUN COLLECTION, WILL BE SOLD MAR. 13

Contact: Hal Hunt
(205) 333-2517

CONTENTS FROM HISTORIC ANNESDALE MANSION IN MEMPHIS, TENN., PLUS OTHER ESTATES AND AN ANTIQUE GUN COLLECTION, WILL BE SOLD MAR. 13

Auction will be conducted by Hal Hunt Auctions at the firm’s gallery facility in Northport, Ala.

(NORTHPORT, Ala.) – Contents from the historic Annesdale mansion-villa in Memphis, Tenn., plus several other private Southern collections and a marvelous collection of antique guns, will be sold Saturday, March 13, at 10 a.m., by Hal Hunt Auctions. The sale will be conducted at Hal Hunt Auctions’ spacious gallery, located at 5925 Hwy. 43 in Northport.

Annesdsale is a beautiful structure, originally built in 1855 by Dr. Samuel Marsfield as a wedding present for his wife. In 1869, a Mr. Robert Brinkley bought the mansion as a wedding gift for his daughter, Annie Overton Brinkley. The 200-acre estate (pronounced “Annie’s Dale”) was named in her honor. The treasures of Annesdsale comprise five generations of one family.

In 1876, Annie and her husband, Col. Robert Bogardus Snowden, spent their wedding anniversary at the Philadelphia Exposition, where they purchased many fine and unique furniture items that will be included in the sale. Their purchases included a 14-foot-long banquet table with matching marble-top sideboard, and a fantastic king-size bed with matching ornate mirror.

In 1932, the Snowdens purchased four magnificent and matching Gothic bookcases (also to be sold, with the sales receipt from 1932 and photographs) from the heirs of Helen Johnstone Harris, known as the ‘Bride of Annandale.’ Annandale is another mansion estate, similar in name to Annesdale, except it was in Madison County, Miss., and burned to the ground years ago.

Ms. Harris was known as the ‘Bride of Annandale’ because, on the eve of her wedding to Henry Vick, he was tragically killed in a duel. Three years later, she married a Confederate Episcopal chaplin, George Harris, and the couple built a mansion at Mt. Helena Plantation in Rolling Fork, Miss. The bookcases and other furnishings were moved by rail to Rolling Fork.

Some of the other items that will be sold at the March 13 auction include a Regina bow-front music box changer made around 1900, playing 15 ½ inch discs and rare because it has a stained glass door, not a plain glass door; numerous pieces of Sevres and Old Paris porcelain; and a John H. Belter rosewood dressing vanity, rosewood bed and étagère in the Rosalie pattern.

Also set to cross the block will be monumental bronze clock sets with cherubs; several pieces of great Pottier & Stymus Victorian furniture; and furniture by R.J. Horner, to include a winged lady’s partner’s desk, a winged desk and dining room table; a triple-door bookcase with Atlas men; and a matched pair of winged griffin lamps tables, about 42 inches in circumference.

Clocks made by R.J. Horner will include an 8 ½-foot-tall mahogany grandfather clock with winged griffins and cherubs, and an oak grandfather clock labeled Tiffany. Also sold will be furniture by Thomas Brooks; a J. & J.W. Meeks laminated marble-top center table; and old paneled glass lamps and leaded glass lamps by makers such as Wilkinson and Chicago Mosaic.

The bed furnished by the Snowdens at the Philadelphia Exposition of 1876 is a high-back Renaissance bed, an oversized queen (almost king) at 69 inches by 82 inches and with bronze plaques. Also purchased at the Exposition was a highly carved black walnut clock, similar to a mantel clock and made by Ferdinand Lapp. The clock was so striking it won awards at the show.

Rounding out the expected top lots: an acanthus carved 4-poster bed, 10 feet tall (from Annesdale); two gold leaf, 8-foot-tall over-the mantel mirrors in original condition (also from Annesdale); a 19th-century rose medallion center bowl with bronze mounts; two walnut Victorian regulator grandfather clocks (one a Gilbert, Regulator #7; and one an Ansonia, Regulator #11); and a monumental Mitchells & Rammelsberg walnut half tester bed, 9 ½ feet tall, circa 1865.

Antique paintings and sterling silver pieces will also cross the block March 13. In all, around 400 lots will come up for bid in a sale that will have no Internet bidding or phone bidding – only an in-house crowd and absentee bids. A preview is scheduled for Friday, March 12, from 10-6. To view photos of many of the lots to be offered, you may log on to http://www.halhunt.com/.

Hal Hunt Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. The firm also purchases items and entire collections for resale at auction. To inquire about consigning or selling an item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (205) 333-2517, or you can e-mail them at halhunt@bellsouth.net. For more info, log on to www.halhunt.com.


Gothic bookcase:
One of four matching American Gothic bookcases, attributed to Crawford Riddell, Philadelphia.

Rose Medallion:
Gorgeous rose medallion porcelain bowl, 19th century.

Old Paris:
One of a pair of Old Paris porcelain figures (the other a woman), 28 inches tall, 19th century.

Horner table:
R.J. Horner round oak table, 60 inches in circumference, circa 1890s.

Renaissance bed:
Tall, high-back American Renaissance bed with bronze plaques, 69 inches by 82 inches.

Canopy bed:
Acanthus leaf carved canopy bed, mahogany, circa 1890s.

Black walnut clock:
Highly carved black walnut clock, similar to a mantel clock and made by Ferdinand Lapp.

Gold leaf mirror:
Monumental gold leaf over-the-mantel mirror, 8 feet 6 inches tall.

OVER 300 WORKS OF 20th CENTURY FINE ART AND CONTEMPORARY ART WILL BE SOLD SAT., FEB. 27th, BY BATERBYS ART AUCTION GALERY IN ORLANDO, AND FEB. 20 AT T

Contact:
www.Baterbys.com press@baterbys.com (866) 537-0265

OVER 300 WORKS OF 20th CENTURY FINE ART AND CONTEMPORARY ART WILL BE SOLD SAT., FEB. 27th, BY BATERBYS ART AUCTION GALERY IN ORLANDO, AND FEB. 20 AT THE WEST PALM GALLERY IN DELRAY BEACH; SALE WILL BENEFIT UCP OF CENTRAL FLA.

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Over 300 original and reprographic works of art by some of the greatest and most recognizable names in 20th century fine art (Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali, among others) and contemporary art (by artists like Peter Max and Nicola Simbari) will be sold at a live and Internet auction scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 27, by Baterbys Art Auction Gallery, beginning promptly at 6 p.m.

The auction will be conducted live at Baterbys’ spacious Pointe Orlando gallery, located at 9101 International Drive (Unit 1008) in Orlando, and on Feb. 20 at the West Palm Gallery, located at 13900 South Jog Road in Delray Beach. The entire auctioneers’ premium will be donated to UCP of Central Fla., an organization serving children with disabilities and developmental delays in the Orlando area.

A preview will precede the auction, from 5-6 p.m. Free cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be provided by a local Cuban restaurant, creating a festive atmosphere that bidders will enjoy as they peruse artworks spanning a range of themes, to include City Scenes, Biblical and Religious, Rural Life, Abstract and Realist. Online bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com and iCollector.com.

It is the first auction of the year for Baterbys, named Best Art Gallery in Orlando for 2009 by Orlando Style Magazine and SneakySunday.com (a website dedicated to local arts and entertainment). Bidders will have the opportunity to win free works of art and other giveaways during spontaneous raffles throughout the auction. Everyone will receive a free print valued at $100 just for attending.

Between 1951 and 1960, Salvador Dali created 101 watercolor drawings to interpret The Divine Comedy, a poem by Dante Alighieri (1265-1321). Dali’s Divine Comedy series (circa 1960) will be sold Feb. 27 and comprises six signed, framed prints. All are in excellent condition. Each is an original wood engraving in color on Rives paper (about 10 inches by 7 inches) and signed in the block by Dali. Sold will be the Paternoster Suite (est. $700-$800 ea.) and the Aaliyah Suite (est. $3,000-$4,000 ea.).

Several pieces from various suites by Pablo Picasso (Spanish/French, 1881-1973) will also be sold. Picasso, probably best known for his Cubist paintings and printmaking, singlehandedly revolutionized Western art. He was born in Spain and lived there until age 19, when he moved to Paris to study the Old Masters and Classical sculpture. Baterbys has featured his works in previous auctions.

Other names from 20th century fine art will include Joan Miro and, among others. Marc Chagall. Miro (Spanish, 1893-1893) was born in Barcelona and earned international acclaim for his abstract, curvilinear design paintings, collages and murals. Miro despised conventional painting methods and once declared an “assassination of painting.” His work has been featured in past Baterbys sales, too.

Several pieces from suites by Chagall (Russian/French, 1887-1985) are sure to get paddles wagging. The artist is best known for his village peasant theme paintings. Chagall was born Moishe Shagal and adopted the French spelling of his name when he became a member of the Ecole de Paris. He was a shrewd observer of the contemporary scene and had great sympathy for human suffering.

Original oil paintings and hand-embellished giclee prints by the supremely gifted artist Elena Bond will also be offered, as will works by Guillaume Azoulay (Calif., b. 1949) and Isaac Maimon (Israeli, b. 1951). Azoulay’s Le Lion (a 26 inch by 17 inch gicleee on canvas, 2009, #28 of 300, with the title and year in gold pen, lower left) is a wonderful display of cool colors, in excellent condition.

Isaac Maimon is renowned for his iconic paintings of Parisian café society. The work to be sold – La Vie Francais – is a surprising mix of colors, created with masterful lines and inspired strokes on a serigraph on paper (framed at 29 inches by 35 inches, and hand-signed in pencil, lower right, from an edition of just 125). The piece portrays the women of Paris as cultured, stylish, sensual and beautiful.

Peter Max’s work is a protean display of unabashed freedom. His paintings are visual time machines that transport viewers to the heydays of the Beatles, Woodstock and Jimi Hendrix. But some of his work resembles modern concepts, such as the mixed media on paper piece Liberty and Justice For All, which will be offered, along with six original mixed media interpretations of Lady Liberty.

Nicola Simbari (It., b. 1929) effortlessly launched his painting career while still in his 20s, with a one-man show in London. His brilliant, impressionistic style and vivid, dramatic interpretations of the Mediterranean have established Simbari as one of today’s most sought after artists. Several of his works will be included in the Baterbys Feb. 27 sale. All will be serigraphs, executed around 1990.

Baterbys offers its clients something that is unique in the industry: a lifetime money-back guarantee of authenticity for each work of art it sells. This is important to buyers looking to build a collection of art, since provenance is everything. It is Baterbys’ philosophy that gaining a buyer’s trust is key to ensuring they will become repeat customers. No other auction house offers such a guarantee.

Baterbys has over 25 years’ experience in the art world and auctioneering. The firm specializes in Internet and live auctions of world-class, authentic artwork, especially 20th-century masters, from Dali through Chagall, Picasso, Fini and numerous post-Impressionists. Baterbys’ main concentration is in rare graphic works. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for future fine art auctions.

Baterbys produces quarterly art review books that also serve as catalogs. They are a complete reference to all the artists Baterbys sells for dealers, collectors and new buyers. The catalogs – suitable for coffee table display – feature artist biographies, discussions of the artwork, and full museum-style descriptions of all the items. The cost is $124 hard-cover, $94.99 soft-cover (less with a subscription).

For more information on Baterbys and the company’s upcoming Feb. 27 live and Internet auction, log on to www.baterbys.com. To consign a single piece of art, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them toll-free, at (866) 537-0265. Or, you can e-mail them, at press@baterbys.com.


Dali:
Original signed color lithograph by Salvador Dali (circa 1968), titled The Land of Milk and Honey.





Picasso:
Original signed and dated lithograph by Pablo Picasso (1964), titled Pour Daniel-Henry Kahnweiler.





Chagall:
Original color lithograph by Marc Chagall (circa 1963), titled The Red Angel (13 in. by 9.5 in.).





Bond:
Original signed oil on canvas by Elena Bond, done in 2009, titled Ballerina Dream (36 in. by 36 in.).

ORIGINAL MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE ISSUED TO MICHAEL JACKSON AND LISA MARIE PRESLEY IN 1994 SELLS FOR $70,800 AT PHILIP WEISS SALE, JAN. 22-24

Contact: Philip Weiss
(516) 594-0731

ORIGINAL MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE ISSUED TO MICHAEL JACKSON AND LISA MARIE PRESLEY IN 1994 SELLS FOR $70,800 AT PHILIP WEISS SALE, JAN. 22-24

(OCEANSIDE, N.Y.) – The original marriage certificate issued to pop legend Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of rock ‘n’ roll icon Elvis Presley, on May 26, 1994 in the Dominican Republic, when the couple embarked on their brief but highly publicized life together, sold for $70,800 at a multi-estate sale held Jan. 22-24 by Philip Weiss Auctions.

The weekend extravaganza, at which around 1,300 lots changed hands from a variety of categories in a sale that grossed more than $700,000, was held in Philip Weiss Auctions’ gallery facility, located at #1 Neil Court in Oceanside. As expected, the Jackson-Presley document was the top lot of the sale (not counting a single-owner lifetime stamp collection that made $77,000).

“This was a great way to start the new year,” Philip Weiss said of the auction, the first of 2010 for the firm. “The story with this one was pretty much the same as last year’s sales. Great merchandise sparked spirited bidding, which resulted in strong prices. It’s all about the items. If you’re fortunate to attract quality, fresh-to-the-market consignments, you’ll do well every time.”

About 200 people packed the showroom over the course of the three days. In addition, there were over 1,000 registered Internet bidders, who participated online via Proxibid.com and the Philip Weiss Auctions website (www.prwauctions.com). The marriage certificate, in fact, sold to a bidder on Proxibid.com. Phone and absentee bidding was also very active all three days.

The Jackson-Presley certificate is one of the most important celebrity documents of the 20th century, right up there with Charles and Diana’s and Monroe and DiMaggio’s wedding certificates. The 8 ½ inch by 10 ¾ inch sheet was signed by both stars and was also signed by State Official Hugo F. Perez. It had been laminated to protect it from the Dominican humidity.
Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium.

Philatelists (stamp collectors) were serious and came armed with cash, making the Sunday session (the last day of the sale) a memorable one. In addition to the single-owner collection that brought $77,000, a full, post office-fresh sheet of 80 stamps from the People’s Republic of China (Scott #1586), sailed past its high estimate of $55,000 to gavel for $67,250.

A page from the 1964 Beatles USA, Ltd. tour program, beautifully signed by all four Beatles and personally inscribed to the late pianist Liberace, soared to $15,800. In their light-hearted way, the Beatles signed the 12 inch by 12 inch page “to Liber-Archie” as a play on words. The photo on the page depicts the band wearing their winter coats, standing atop a wall.

The 1967 Belmont Stakes trophy, won by the late jockey and horse racing legend Willie Shoemaker when he rode Damascus into the winner’s circle, breezed to $15,350. The trophy, comprising 59 ounces of sterling silver, has three horses on a base holding up the body and is topped by a lid with a bridled horse as a handle. It is nicely embellished with leaves and acorns.
An official American League baseball, signed in blue ink on the sweet spot by Hall of Famer Tris Speaker, brought $7,910; a rare 1913 W.B. Jarvis Sporting Goods Store advertising sign featuring Hall of Famer Ty Cobb, with a New York Times article explaining Cobb’s connection to the firm, realized $7,350; and a find of E97 Briggs baseball cards made $14,000.

A pair of original works by the German-American artist Carl Rungius (1869-1959) were sold as a single lot for $9,900. The first was an oil on paper of a cowboy on a horse with snow-capped mountains in the background, with Rungius’ initials on verso. The second was an oil on canvas of a snowy landscape, featuring Rungius’ trademark thumbtack marks on each corner.

An 1892 marble bust of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir William Hamo Thornycraft, the initiator of the “New Sculptors,” went for $4,520. It is signed and dated at the bottom of the bust. Also, an oil on canvas work by Konstantin Alexeivitch Korovin (1861-1939), titled Interior of Room with People, crossed the finish line at $15,800.

Philip Weiss Auctions’ next big sale will be dedicated to Comics, Comic Art and Animation Art. It is slated for Sunday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m. Featured will be the comic collection and original art from the estate of noted cartoonist Eldon Dedini. The comics consist of 21 key Golden Age books, all unrestored, with the owner’s name and code numbers noted on the covers.

Included in the collection are Detective Comics #’s 1, 2, 28, 34, 38, 40, 41, 42 and 48; More Fun #60 and 62; Batman #3, 4 and 5; comic art, to include a great 1962 Peanuts baseball daily and a Herriman Krazy Kat, both fresh to the market; two fresh to the market Hogarth Tarzan Sunday pages; a wonderful early Peanuts daily; and Eldon Dedini Playboy illustrations.

Then, on Saturday, Mar. 20, at 10 a.m., another auction will be held, this one dedicated to barber shop, militaria, nautical, presidential memorabilia and advertising items. Recently arrived are an original life preserver ring, café chairs and a deck lounge chair from the ill-fated ocean liner the Andrea Doria. The advertising section will feature a nice selection of Mr. Peanut items.

In April, at a time and date still to be determined, Philip Weiss Auctions will be proud to offer The Edward Ryan Toy Soldier & Military Memorabilia Collection. Mr. Ryan was a noted author on the subject of paper toy soldiers. His collection covers paper soldiers, plus Britains, composition soldiers and important French military memorabilia. It should be a good auction.

Philip Weiss Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (516) 594-0731, or e-mail them at phil@prwauctions.com. To learn more about Philip Weiss Auctions and its calendar of upcoming auctions, to include the Feb. 28 and Mar. 20 events, click on www.prwauctions.com.


Marriage license:
Original marriage license issued to Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley in 1994 ($70,800).





Beatles image:
Image of the Beatles and personally inscribed by all four to the late pianist Liberace ($15,800).





Willie Shoemaker:
1967 Belmont Stakes trophy won by the late horse racing legend Willie Shoemaker ($15,350).





Thornycraft bust:
Bust of Sherlock Holmes creator Arthur Conan Doyle by William Hamo Thornycraft ($4,520).





Ty Cobb sign:
Rare 1913 W.B. Jarvis Sporting Goods Store advertising sign featuring Ty Cobb ($7,350).





China stamps:
Full sheet of 80 stamps from the People's Republic of China, Scott #1586 ($67,250).

TWO-DAY AUCTION DEDICATED TO FARM AND CONSTRUCTION TOYS, TOY

Contact: Dan Matthews
(217) 563-8880 or (217) 259-7059

TWO-DAY AUCTION DEDICATED TO FARM AND CONSTRUCTION TOYS, TOY
TRAINS AND VINTAGE TOYS TO BE HELD FEB. 20-21 IN RAYMOND, ILLINOIS

Sale will be held jointly by Matthews Auctions, LLC, and Gavin Pope Auction Company.

(RAYMOND, Ill.) – A monstrous two-day auction dedicated to farm and construction toys, Lionel toy trains and vintage toys will be held the weekend of Feb. 20-21 at a former furniture store building in Raymond, Ill., located halfway between St. Louis and Springfield, Ill. In all, nearly 1,000 lots will cross the block. Online bidding will be facilitated by Proxibid.com.

The sale will be a collaboration of two auction houses: Matthews Auction Company, based in Nokomis, Ill., and Gavin Pope Auction Company, headquartered in Raymond. A crowd of around 80 people is expected for the two days, while pre-registration for Internet bidding has been brisk, according to Dan Matthews. “I expect many of these items will sell online,” he said.

The Saturday, Feb. 20 session, beginning promptly at 10 a.m. (CST), will comprise over 500 lots of farm toys and construction toys. Featured will be a fabulous John Deere memorabilia collection, to include oilers, pencils, pens, pocket knives, calendars and more. The Sunday, Feb. 21 session will boast over 300 lots of Lionel toy trains (mostly new in the box), circa 1950s-‘90s.

Feb. 21 will also feature more than 75 intriguing vintage toys, to include pedal cars, toy wagons and more. A partial listing of what will be offered both days may be viewed on the Matthews Auctions, LLC website, at www.MatthewsAuctions.com. A full catalog will be posted online soon. A 10 percent buyer’s premium will be charged on Sunday only (none on Saturday).

The Feb. 20 session will have four primary components: custom toys, John Deere items, International and other farm toys, and construction toys. The custom toys will feature Ertl trucks, highly coveted by collectors. Sold will be a rare IH Loadstar cement mixer (possibly with box); an IH Loadstar wrecker; an IH Loadstar equipment trucks; white cab-over box trucks; and more.

The Ertl brand will cross over into the John Deere category, too. Sold will be Ertl John Deere precision models #1-25, all new in the box (including all the hard-to-find ones); an Ertl John Deere A, with drive and arcade wheels; and an Ertl John Deere A, with two-hole flywheel. Also sold will be John Deere 2-cylinder tractors (1990-2008), all new in the box, in great shape.

Other John Deere pieces to be offered include 620, 720 and 820 industrial examples; a Plow City 1010 crawler; a 430 crawler; 4320 and 6030 examples, new in the box; 4960 and 8400 MFWD; a restored 12A and 30 augur combine; a 6600 combine with metal gear drive platform; a near-mint dirt scraper; combines (Turbo and Titan II); and disk plows and other implements.

International toys will include a 5288 farm set; three Precision F-20s; 1206 and 806 models, both repainted; a 1026 gold; a model 560; an F-20 Iowa Welcome Center; several Cubs; an MTA SE; and several other pieces. Additional farm toys will feature a Tru-Scale combine; an Oliver OC-3 Crawler, new in the box; and Ertl Texaco truck and airplanes banks (No. 1 thru 22).

The farm toys category will also feature a large selection of other Texaco toys; a Buddy L Texaco tanker; a Brown Bigelow jet fuel tanker; and pedal tractors, to include a Case CA; John Deere small 60, 20, 730 and 4430 models; a small Massey model 44; and several other examples.

Custom toys will include a Weber Case with dual elevators; an Allis WD-45, with picker; a Woods Brothers one-row picker; a Cottonwood Acres State Highway truck; a Standard tank truck; a Riecke F-20; a Freiheit International Harvester Farmall 300; a Hartz-Partz John Deere 330; a Nolt John Deere L; a custom John Deere AR; and a custom Yoder John Deere model 730.

Construction toys will be abundant and feature Revell Caterpillar scrapers, graders and bottom dumps; an Ertl Cat motor grader; an NZG or Conrad Caterpillar 1/50 scale truck, almost new in the box; a 2-944 Wheel Loader NZG; D8N and D9N, silver edition; a 797 off-highway truck; a D11R track-type tractor, gold and silver edition; and a 793D off-highway toy truck.

Other construction toys certain to get paddles wagging and online bidders juiced include a 245 excavator; a 245 shovel excavator; a P-450 Profiler; a 988B wheeler loader; a 627push-pull scraper; a D400 articulated dump truck; a 615 scraper; a 769C truck; a 416 backhoe; a 966D wheeler loader; a 215 excavator; a 224 wheeler loader; and a 416 backhoe loader, silver edition.

Matthews Auctions, LLC’s next big sale after this one will be a Spring 2010 Peotone Petroliana and Advertising Auction scheduled for Friday, Mar. 5, in Peotone, Ill., starting at 12 noon (CST). Featured will be the Gulf collection of Pat Lutz. Then, on Saturday, April 24, the firm will conduct a Petroliana and Vintage Advertising Sale in Redlands, Calif., at 2 p.m. (PST).

On Saturday, May 1, Matthews Auctions, LLC will hold a Classic Car, Petroliana, Gas Pumps and Vintage Advertising Auction in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisc. Offered will be over 20 classic cars, a great selection of gas pumps and signs, and more. Then, on May 15, an Absolute Petroliana and Automotive Advertising Auction will be held, in Loveland, Colo. Featured will be the single-owner collection of Clyde Hodge. Signs, globes and other collectibles will be offered.

Matthews Auctions, LLC is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them toll-free, at (877) 968-8880. Or, you can e-mail them at danm@matthewsauctions.com. To learn more about the firm and its calendar of upcoming sales, to include the Feb. 20-21 auction, log on to www.MatthdewsAuctions.com

To learn more about Gavin Pope Auction Company, you may call them at (217) 825-8682


Kroger truck:
Vintage toy truck for Kroger, the supermarket chain, red.








John Deere:
Many John Deere collectibles, like this toy tractor in excellent condition, will be sold.






Deere medals:
Antique medals from the John Deere Corporation, rare and prized by collectors.






Ertl trucks:
Selection of some of the Ertl toy trucks to be sold, all like-new and still in the box.






Case tractor:
Gorgeous Case tractor, red, in mint condition.






Goodyear truck:
Goodyear toy truck in fabulous condition.

CHALMERS CATAWBA WINE BITTERS BOTTLE, GRADED 9.8 AND ONE OF THE TOP FIVE WESTERN BITTERS KNOWN, SOARS TO $19,600 AT SALE HELD BY AMERICAN BOTTLE

Contact: Jeff Wichmann
(800) 806-7722

CHALMERS CATAWBA WINE BITTERS BOTTLE, GRADED 9.8 AND ONE OF THE TOP FIVE WESTERN BITTERS KNOWN, SOARS TO $19,600 AT SALE HELD BY AMERICAN BOTTLE

(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) - A Chalmers Catawba wine bitters bottle graded 9.8 for condition and considered one of the top five western bitters known, sold for $ 19,600 in an Internet and catalog auction that ended Jan. 18 by American Bottle Auctions (www.AmericanBottle.com). The bottle was the top lot in a sale that saw around 325 rare and vintage bottles sold and grossed more than $275,000.

The bottle -- trademarked Sutters Old Mill, Spruance Stanley & Co., Proprietors -- had an applied top and boasted loads of whittle, in a brilliant bluish aqua color. “This one had a solid strike and we can’t imagine a better example,” said Jeff Wichmann of American Bottle Auctions. “This very same bottle sold in one of our earlier auctions, and it set a record price. It’s the real deal, the very best.”

It was the 49th Internet and catalog auction for American Bottle Auctions, which specializes in rare and vintage bottles mostly made between 1850 and 1900, the period most desired by collectors, when superior embossing techniques were employed. Nearly 5,000 people registered to bid, but only a fraction of that total (around 300 people) actually submitted bids. Of those, 175 were winning bidders.

“The market right now is as strong as I’ve ever seen it,” remarked Mr. Wichmann. “Every sale we have seems to be better than the one before it. This auction was certainly one of our best ever. I attribute that to the tremendous variety of merchandise, and the response to that merchandise by our bidders. Historical flasks and bitters did especially well. They’re sitting atop the bottle market now.”

Following are additional highlights of the sale. All prices quoted include a 12 percent buyer’s premium.

A “For Our Country/Eagle” pint flask, over 150 years old, with sheared lip and pontil, in a color best described as tobacco green with striations of olive, soared to $14,560. The bottle was graded 9.8 and depicted a 20-star flag surrounded by six ribs. Also, a Baltimore Sunburst half-pint (circa 1840-50), graded 9.8, in a light to medium pinkish copper color and a superior high-quality example, hit $11,200.

A spectacular Bridgeton New Jersey-Washington bottle with sheared lip and jagged tubular pontil, graded 9.8 and with an outstanding medium to deep amber coloration near the base, climbed to $10,080. Also, a flawless Miller’s Extra E. Martin Old Bourbon trademark, probably the most desired of the Cutter fifths, with strong embossing and an overall beautiful patina to the glass, rose to $8,960.

A Washington/Baltimore Glassworks portrait pint flask showing the Baltimore Monument and a bust of George Washington (circa 1830-50), with rolled lip and pontil, graded 9.3, medium green and somewhat crude, with surface irregularities, breezed to $8,400; and a Corn For the World quart flask with embossed corn and the Baltimore Monument on the reverse, graded at 9.8, commanded $7,840.

A trademark Lightning quart jar, with Putnam 328 on the base and a replaced top and painted lid, boasting overall nice whittle and emerald green in color (one of only six such jars in this shade), graded 9.8, coasted to $7,280; and a J.H. Cutter Old Bourbon (E. Martin & Co., Sole Agents) banded pint flask, with a popular crown on the shoulder and a single roll top, graded 9.3, gaveled for $5,376.

A National Bitters (with Patent 1867 on the base) bottle, with an applied top and, remarkably, still with the original label, rare for its beautiful and brilliant ruby red coloration, graded 9.9, climbed to $5,152; and a Jesse Moore (Hunt & Co., Sole Agents) western whiskey fifth bottle with gorgeous pint banded flask, wonderfully embossed but with some condition issues, graded 9.7, topped out at $3,808.

A Pineapple bitters bottle, unembossed, with applied top and smooth base, green with some yellow and graded 9.8, hammered for $4,928; a Henley’s Wild Grape Root Bitters bottle with tooled top, in a highly whittled aqua-teal variant and filled with bubbles, demanded $4,256; and a Bryant’s Stomach Bitters bottle with applied top and sticky ball pontil, brilliant emerald in color, fetched $4,032.

A National Bitters (Patent 1867 on the base) bottle, with applied top and colored a brilliant yellow with a touch of green (almost transparent yellow toward the top, becoming a more vibrant hue near the base), graded 9.8, sold for $4,032; and a Harkness Fire Destroyer extinguisher (circa 1865-85), with ground lip, 6 ¼ inches, unusually colored in sapphire blue and pure oxblood puce, brought $4,032.

A trademark Lightning half-gallon jar, showing Putnam 368 on the base and with the original closure, in a stunning olive color and graded a respectable 9.8, went to a determined bidder for $3,808; and a Dr. A.W. Coleman’s Anti-Dyspeptic and Tonic Bitters bottle, 9 ¼ inches, made in Mobile, Ala., and in a beautiful green hue, graded 9.3, an example of one of the earliest bitters made, brought $3,808.

American Bottle Auctions was founded in 1990 by Jeff Wichmann, a native Californian who has been collecting antique bottles for nearly 40 years. Over time, the firm grew and underwent a name change, but the focus has remained the same: American Bottle Auctions specializes in appraising, brokering, consigning and auctioning antique bottles and glass. Bottle collecting is a burgeoning genre.

Mr. Wichmann has personally researched, appraised and estimated the values of thousands of antique bottles and related items. He is often called on to appraise antique bottles and glass for private individuals and businesses. In 1999, he wrote and published The Best of the West – Antique Western Bitters Bottles, a top research guide. He has also written many articles on the subject of antique bottles.

American Bottle Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single bottle or an entire collection, you may call them toll-free, at 1-800-806-7722; or, you can e-mail them, at info@americanbottle. The next auction is tentatively slated for late April or early May. Already, fresh groupings of bitters and historical flasks have been consigned, and marbles may be sold.

To learn more about American Bottle Auctions, please log on to www.AmericanBottle.com.


Chalmers Catawba:
Chalmer's Catawba wine bitters bottle, graded 9.8 and one of the top five western bidders ($19,600).





For Our Country:
“For Our Country/Eagle” pint flask, over 150 years old with sheared lip and pontil, 9.8 ($14,560).





Baltimore Sunburst:
Baltimore-Sunburst half-pint (circa 1840-50), graded 9.8, a superior high-quality example ($11.200).





Bridgeton NJ Wash:
Spectacular Bridgeton New Jersey-Washington bottle with sheared lip, open jagged pontil ($10,080).





Washington Balt:
Washington/Baltimore Glassworks portrait pint flask (circa 1830-50), graded 9.3 ($8,400).





Miller's Extra:
Miller's Extra E. Martin Old Bourbon trademark, the most desired of the Cutter fifths ($8,960).

HUGE TWO-DAY ANTIQUE AUCTION TO BE HELD FEB. 26-27 IN FLAT ROCK, N.C, BY RICHARD D. HATCH & ASSOCIATES; SEVERAL IMPORTANT ESTATES WILL BE SOLD

Contact: Richard D. Hatch
(828) 696-3440

HUGE TWO-DAY ANTIQUE AUCTION TO BE HELD FEB. 26-27 IN FLAT ROCK, N.C, BY RICHARD D. HATCH & ASSOCIATES; SEVERAL IMPORTANT ESTATES WILL BE SOLD

(FLAT ROCK, N.C.) – A spectacular two-day, multi-estate auction will be held the weekend of Feb. 26-27 by Richard D. Hatch & Associates, at the firm’s spacious gallery facility located at 913 Upward Road in Flat Rock. Over 1,300 lots in a variety of categories will cross the block, as several prominent local estates will all share top billing. Previews will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Included will be mostly fresh-to-the-market items from the estates of Theodore Weisse, Jr., a famous decorated World War II Hump pilot; the late Southern artist George W. Beattie, Jr., whose merchandise has been in storage since his death fifteen years ago; and Wilfred and Francis Ogg of Hendersonville, N.C., who accumulated fine New England period furniture and other antique items.

Also sold will be the contents of Sherwood, a historical mansion in Flat Rock. Offered will be a palace-size antique Farahan-Sarouk carpet, measuring 14 feet by 25 feet six inches. Other wonderful rugs will also be sold, to include Heriz, Hamadan, silk Sumac Kazak and many more. “This auction has the finest antique Oriental rugs it has ever been my privilege to offer for sale,” said Richard D. Hatch.

Mr. Hatch remarked, “This auction truly has something for everyone,” adding, “Even during the Great Depression, people bought fine and beautiful items. They represented an investment in culture and in history, something that could be passed down from generation to generation. I feel right now is a great time to buy. People can get so much more for their money than they could just a few years ago.”

Mr. Hatch said some of those great deals would be in the February auction, starting with the fine array of Tiffany, Pairpoint “Puffy,”, Handel, Duffner & Kimberly, Steuben and other rare and vintage lamps; then continuing with early Meissen figures (including a set of the “Four Seasons”); and other porcelains, such as Sevres, Old Paris, Herend, Limoges, Lenox, KPM plaques, Wedgwood and more.

The glassware selection will feature names like Tiffany Favrile, Steuben, Baccarat (to include a rare bronze and crystal centerpiece), Lalique, Loetz, Moser, Venetian and others. The array of sterling silver and silverplate offers a glimpse as to how the wealthy entertain, from sets of fine flatware to candelabra, trays to wine trolleys, Tiffany to Georg Jensen. Also sold will be a superb clock collection.

The estate jewelry is breathtaking. Items include a vintage platinum necklace with diamonds totaling 50 carats, an emerald and diamond necklace with earrings that total 70 carats, diamond and gemstone rings, diamond and gemstone bracelets and Rolex watches. Also sold will be Black Forest carved items and what Mr. Hatch called “the finest New England period furniture we’ve ever had.”

Fine artwork will cover every inch of the gallery walls. Featured will be a work by Andre Gisson (N.Y./Conn., 1929-2003), best known for his landscapes, still lifes, portraits and figural paintings. Some sources cite Mr. Gisson (real name, Gittelson) as a French painter, but in fact he only claimed to be French to more closely align himself with the Impressionist movement, born in France.

Art collectors from Charleston will be treated to three original etchings by Alfred Heber Hutty (N.Y./S.C., 1877-1954), who actually worked for Tiffany Studios in Woodstock, N.Y., before moving to Charleston to be in a warmer climate. He was a leading figure in the Charleston Renaissance group of artists, active from 1915-1940. He was best known for street landscapes, genre paintings and etchings.

Other artists of note who will have works in the sale include Robert H. Nisbet, Stephen Voorhees, Maria Gianni, Leonid P. Baikov, Charles H. Hayden, M. Garms, C. Soer and Charles J. Burdick. There will also be works by Old Masters, portraits, a collection of Surrealism by Helmut Preiss, etchings by Louis Icart and Pierre Bonnard, paintings from the Hudson River School and more.

Bronzes will range from the 19th century to Erte and feature a Bergman lamp. A nice group of Southern pottery will also be offered, to include Roseville, Rookwood, Weller and even a couple of pieces by Pablo Picasso. Also to be sold will be samplers, quilts, coins, primitives, Biltmore Industries bellows, fine china, a collection of carved ivory, Black Americana, military items, music boxes, crystal, sconces, Art Deco items, a Roycroft signed bookcase with books, and more.
Previews will be held on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 25-26, from 1-6 p.m., and on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 9:30-11 a.m. Live Internet bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com. Phone and absentee bidding will also be accepted. All sales will be subject to a 10 percent buyer’s premium (in-house and absentee bids) and 15 percent (online and live phone bids). Dealers and public are welcome.

Flat Rock, N.C., is located off exit 53 of I-26 (then go north one mile). Richard D. Hatch & Associates is always accepting quality items for future sales. To consign an item, estate or collection, you may call them, at (828) 696-3440, or you can e-mail them, at hatchauctioninfo@yahoo.com. To learn more about the firm and the upcoming Feb. 26-27 sale, click on www.richardhatchauctions.com.


Rug:
Lots of fine Persian rugs, like this wonderful early prayer rug, will be sold Feb. 25-26.





Jewelry:
Emerald and diamond necklace with earrings totaling 70 carats.






Hutty etching:
One of three etchings by the renowned Charleston artist Alfred Heber Hutty (N.Y./S.C., 1877-1954).






Meissen:
Early Meissen figural group, “The Four Seasons.”






Baccarat:
Rare bronze and cut glass Baccarat centerpiece.






Lamp:
One of many rare and vintage lamps in the sale is this example by Duffner & Kimberly.

OVER 400 LOTS OF IMPORTANT STONEWARE PIECES, VINTAGE GUNS, ESTATE JEWELRY, FURNITURE, MORE TO BE SOLD AT FEB. 6 ESTATE SALE IN IVOR, VA.

Contact: Tom Perry
(757) 539-2498

OVER 400 LOTS OF IMPORTANT STONEWARE PIECES, VINTAGE GUNS, ESTATE JEWELRY, FURNITURE, MORE TO BE SOLD AT FEB. 6 ESTATE SALE IN IVOR, VA.

Two important lifetime collections will be included in the sale, to be held by Tom’s Auctions.

(IVOR, Va.) – Over 400 lots of antiques and collectibles in a wide array of categories – important stoneware pieces, furniture items, jewelry, good used guns, decorative accessories and more – will be sold at a multi-estate sale planned for Saturday, Feb. 6, by Tom’s Auctions & Appraisals of Suffolk, Va. The sale will be held at the former Ivor High School building in Ivor.
Headlining the event will be Part 2 of the estates of the late Col. Carl Moulton and the late Anne B. Jennings, both former residents of Virginia. Part 1 of their estates was held Jan. 1, New Year’s Day, also in Ivor. The pair were dedicated collectors who amassed such large and diverse collections, their estates had to be split up into multiple sales. Up to four are planned.

Mr. Moulton was an antiques dealer and auctioneer. He owned and operated Carl’s Antiques in Chesapeake, Va., maintained booths in area malls and even owned a local pawn shop. He was a larger than life figure who was known and liked by everyone. He specialized in jewelry, coins, period American furniture, stoneware pieces, collectibles and vintage weaponry.

Mrs. Jennings (the former wife of the late renowned physician Dr. W. Stanley Jennings, known as “The Father of Chesapeake General Hospital”) loved primitives, but her estate also included stoneware, baskets, quilts and country collectibles. “Mrs. Jennings was a discriminating buyer and she had the means to buy the best,” said Tom Perry of Tom’s Auctions & Appraisals.
More than 130 pieces of stoneware will cross the block. Certain to pique bidder interest is a Washington County (Va.) incised jar, 8 inches tall, made around the 1820s and inscribed with a woman’s name. Also sold will be pieces by E.B Taylor (Richmond, Va.), J.F. Taylor (New Bern, N.C.), Paul Dryzmalla (Philadelphia), A.P. Donaho (Parkersburg, W. Va.), John Bell and artists Herman and Rinehardt (1935). Pieces from Charlestown and Edgefield will also be sold.
The stoneware category will also feature some highly collectible examples from the Catawba Valley (N.C.) region, a fertile breeding ground for some of the best Southern potters who ever turned a wheel. Sold will be a probst jug, a molasses jug and a ring jug. Also sold will be an Eastern Valley crock with blue decorations and a 2-gallon crock with blue decorations.

The guns from Mr. Moulton’s collection are mostly Colts – a name synonymous with vintage weaponry collecting. One piece in particular that will generate crowd buzz is a Colt .45 frontier pistol (circa 1875-1890), all engraved and with two handles – one mother of pearl steer head handle, plus the original sterling silver engraved handle. The gun is housed in a beautiful hand-carved, artist-signed box, highly decorated and a wonderful complement to a fine pistol.
Other lots from the militaria category include a clean set of “saloon girl” spurs, an Ames Navy Cutlet Civil War-era sword, and a framed photographic print showing Civil War soldiers.

Furniture pieces will include a marvelous Southampton County (Va.) primitive cupboard (circa 1800-1810), with original paint and nails; an antique wooden bed with red milk paint; a gorgeous primitive cupboard made in Smithfield, Va., with the original paint; a primitive stepback cupboard; an antique pie cupboard; and a vintage wood barrel with the original label. Also sold will be an old doll cradle, an antique apple butter stirrer and a North Carolina milk pan.

The jewelry category will feature a dazzling lady’s Tiffany 18kt gold and diamond watch; a .54-carat Marquise diamond ring; and a 14kt gold Tiffany gold ring with a .49-carat diamond stone.
Rounding out a partial list of some of the day’s expected top lots: a 3-section printer’s tray; a faceless black doll; a rare and unusual umbrella inscribed on the handle with the name of the original owner (Chester Dorman Hubbard, a prominent Civil War-era Virginia legislator); an early cheese press; an original advertising print for Cream of Wheat cereal; a genuine oak wall telephone; an early wood candle box; a Dobbs hat box; an early document box; a Harness Soap Dressing tin; an old goat cart; a lard paddle; a corn bread pan; and an antique wood block puzzle.
The old high school building in Ivor is located at 8430 Bell Avenue, off Route 460. The sale will begin promptly at 10 a.m. A preview is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 5, from 2-6 p.m. To learn more about the auction, and for directions to the venue, log on to www.TomsAuction.com. Many photos of the items to be sold have already been posted, and more images were being added at press time. There will be no online bidding, but phone and absentee bids will be taken.

Tom’s Auctions & Appraisals is one of the premier auction houses in the mid-Atlantic states. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them, at (757) 539-2498, or (757) 617-9647. Or, you may send them an e-mail, at tombuys@tomsauction.com. For more info, log on to tomsauction.com.


Colt pistol:
Colt .45 frontier pistol (circa 1875-1890), all engraved and with two handles (one sterling silver).





Stoneware jar 1:
Washington County (Va.) incised jar, 8 inches tall, made around the 1820s, inscribed.





Stoneware jar 2:
The Washington County (Va.) incised jar is inscribed with a woman's name (shown).





Primitive cupboard:
Southampton County (Va.) primitive cupboard (circa 1800-1810), with original paint and nails.





Lady's watch:
Dazzling lady's Tiffany 18kt gold and diamond watch.



E.B. Taylor:
The 130+ pieces of stoneware will include this 3-gallon crock by E.B. Taylor (Richmond, Va.).





Blanket chest:
Southampton County (Va.) blanket chest, with original finish.