Since 2012, Heritage has published twice-yearly auctions under the title “Legends of the West“. This Fall, subject matter will be included in their Dec. 3 Americana and Political auction. This is an eclectic auction of more than 900 lots, but the items likely to be of greatest interest to Western enthusiasts are lots 43434 through 43471 and lot 43475. Hand Carved American Tobacconist Cigar Store Indian. In the manner of Cigar Store Indians carved by Julius Melchers, this statue captures the great detail Melchers was known for.
Heritage Auctions Legends of the West
This tobacconist figure wearing a bear claw necklace and medallion with colorful polychrome paint exhibits Melcher’s attention to detail and appears to be mostly original. The features are so distinct that you feel you are in the presence of a great Indian chief. Current bid is $10,000.
“Texas Jack” Omohundro: An Important, Previously-unseen Tintype Photo. This important 2.25″ x 3.25″ tintype image was probably intended for use in producing a commercial carte de visite, but we have no indication that any exist today.
Heritage Auctions Legends of the West
Condition is excellent, with an area of black-out at the bottom as shown. Posed in a studio in Western attire, probably when he was in New York City in 1873 to appear with Cody and Hickok in the stage play “Scouts of the Plains.” A colorful Texas cowboy, he participated in some of the earliest cattle drives, including those along the Chisum Trail. Current bid is $1,500.
Geronimo: Iconic Signature on Card. 3.25″ x 2.5″ pencil autograph on card, written in the Apache chieftain’s unique style of capital letters with decorative elements.
Heritage Auctions Legends of the West
Matted and framed together with a 20th century color postcard-size image of him on horseback. Not examined out of frame. Current bid is $2,000.
Other interesting items include William J. Stone for Peter Force: The Declaration of Independence and Silver Tablespoon made by Silversmith & American Patriot Paul Revere, Circa 1790-1800. Current bid for both is $10,000 each.
