This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/5/2020
This rare artifact is a period broadside for the draft of volunteers for a “Select Battalion of Sharpshooters,” to serve the Union Army during the Civil War. Measuring approximately 11 X 17 in a period frame (13.5 X 19.5), this Civil War paper broadside dated Sept. 26, 1864 from Augusta, Maine makes this proclamation “Authorized by the War Department!,” for “Capt. Jacob McClure, Late Commander…U.S. Sharpshooters to raise Four Companies of Maine Sharpshooters for the U.S. Service!,” “…to volunteer and receive the Highest Bounties,…Sate Bounty, $300., U.S. Bounty, $300.” Sharpshooters were deployed throughout the Civil War with the first regiment of volunteers beginning service in November 1861. Volunteers had to adhere and fulfill a strict set of qualifications and demonstrate special shooting skills in order to serve as a sharpshooter. The mission of the sharpshooter was to kill enemy targets of importance at long range. Up until the posting of this broadside, sharpshooters fought in every Eastern Battle during the Civil War with notable service in the battles of Yorktown, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Atlanta, Spotsylvania and Petersburg.” The Civil War between the States was fought from 1861 to 1865; ending with the defeat of the Confederacy and the abolishment of slavery. No doubt the U.S. Sharpshooters contributed to the ultimate Union victory. Since then, the specialized use of sharpshooters or snipers has become an integral facet of the United States military. This scarce Sharpshooter” broadside is rarer still compared to other rare broadsides of the Civil War seeking volunteer enlistment as soldiers. A highly desirable, historical artifact from this important period in American history. Good condition with some paper loss and wear reflecting its age and display. Comes with a Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity.