Treasure Trove Auctions
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Day 1: War Through the Ages: Ancient Arms, Roman Antiquities & Medieval Relics

Sat, Feb 28, 2026 11:00AM EST
  2026-02-28 11:00:00 2026-02-28 11:00:00 America/New_York Treasure Trove Treasure Trove : Day 1: War Through the Ages: Ancient Arms, Roman Antiquities & Medieval Relics https://live.treasuretroveauctions.com/auctions/treasure-trove/day-1-war-through-the-ages-ancient-arms-roman-antiquities-medieval-relics-21418
Step into history with Treasure Trove’s largest Militaria auction to date, presented across two unforgettable days. Day One spans the ancient and early modern world, featuring antiquities, arms, armor, and military artifacts from Classical civilizations through the American Revolutionary War, Civil War, and into World War I. Day Two turns to the modern battlefield, showcasing an exceptional selection of World War II and post-war militaria, including uniforms, helmets, daggers, medals, field gear, and historically significant wartime relics.
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Lot 271

Antique 19th-Century Gamblers Kit with Sharps Four-Barrel Derringer Pistol, Push Knife, Playing cards, and more!

Estimate: $3,000 - $6,000
Starting Bid
$500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000

An extraordinary and remarkably complete 19th-century gambler’s traveling set, housed in its fitted wooden case and representing the romance, danger, and spectacle of high-stakes riverboat and frontier culture. At the heart of the ensemble is a C. Sharps & Co. four-barrel derringer, retaining its distinctive pepperbox-style rotating firing system and period grip panels with engraved detailing. Accompanying the pistol is a Bowie knife marked “Brookes & Crookes, Sheffield”, fitted with a silver-mounted bone grip and broad blade, along with a push dagger housed in its leather sheath decorated with stamped playing card motifs. The set further includes a metal flask, antique playing cards within a leather case, dice (including porcelain examples), betting markers, a wood bullet holder, and a small compartment containing gaming implements and a period pin featuring a nude female figure. All components are carefully recessed within the original velvet-lined case, complete with brass shield cartouche to the lid (key not present). Condition throughout reflects honest age and use consistent with 19th-century travel and handling, lending authenticity and character to this rare ensemble.

Such compact gambling kits were emblematic of the American frontier and transatlantic gaming culture, where professional gamblers traveled by steamboat, rail, and stagecoach. Combining gaming instruments, personal defense arms, and gentleman’s accessories, these sets served both practical and symbolic purposes. The presence of a Sharps derringer, favored for concealability, and a Sheffield-made Bowie knife underscores the dual realities of 19th-century gambling: elegance and ever-present risk. These curated kits were statements of preparedness and status, often custom assembled for seasoned players who lived by wit, nerve, and reputation.

Complete examples of this quality, with original fitted case and cohesive accessories, are increasingly scarce on today’s market. This is more than a collection of objects, it is a tangible portal into the world of riverboat card tables, frontier saloons, and the coded etiquette of high-stakes play. We strongly encourage bidders to examine all photographs closely to appreciate the craftsmanship, patina, and remarkable completeness of this historic gambler’s kit. An exceptional display piece and a cornerstone acquisition for advanced collectors of frontier arms, antique gambling memorabilia, and 19th-century Americana.

Provenance: From a long-held private U.S. collection assembled over six decades, focused on gambling and frontier-themed historical artifacts.

★ ★ ★ ★
Very Good/Fine – Shows light to moderate wear, may have minor imperfections. A very fine example of the collectible. May also be labelled as Collector Quality.

 

Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions' proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

 

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