Sold For $13,750
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Remarkable lock of 50+ strands of George Armstrong Custer's hair, ranging in length from about 2˝ to 3˝ per strand, displayed in a 6.25˝ x 5.25˝ Riker box. The hair originates from the collection of Glenwood Swanson, sold by Heritage Auctions on June 9, 2018. Swanson was involved in expertizing an ensemble which included Custer's Tiffany cavalry saber, uniform, and writing pouch; when those items were sold, he was permitted to take a small sample of the hair found in the writing pouch. Accompanied by Swanson's signed provenance statement, in part: "At the Battle of Trevilian Station in June 1864 Custer's camp was overrun and his uniform and presentation sword were captured by the Confederates and later recovered. His wife Elizabeth had written him previously requesting that, following his next trip to the barber, he save the hair and send it to her. Along with Custer's other effects was a leather writing pouch which contained a large envelope filled with his unmistakable blond hair."
Also includes a fantastic 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite photo of the handsome General George A. Custer in uniform, seated in a three-quarter-length pose, with his long blonde curls clearly displayed. Published by John Goldin & Co. of Washington, D.C., and identified on the reverse in an unknown hand. In overall fine condition.
The Collection of Dr. Joseph Matheu.
