\n Serial Number 1 Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle Presented to U.S. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton | Image by Rock Island Auction Company\/web <\/p>\n
The world\u2019s largest auction house specializing in military and historical firearms will host a one-night-only sale Saturday in celebration of the nation\u2019s 250th birthday, featuring rare American artifacts that could draw bids in the millions.<\/p>\n
Rock Island Auction Company<\/a> will hold The American Sale event at its facility on Harwood Road in Bedford. The public will also have an opportunity to inspect<\/a> the items during preview events scheduled for Friday and Saturday before the auction begins.<\/p>\n Collectors are expected to compete for a wide range of historical items, including firearms, flags, and military artifacts associated with significant figures and moments in American history.<\/p>\n Among the highlights is a factory-engraved Henry Rifle bearing Serial No. 1 that was presented to Edwin M. Stanton, who served as Secretary of War under President Abraham Lincoln. The rifle carries a pre-auction estimate of $1.6 million to $3.5 million.<\/p>\n Another featured item is a solid gold-hilted presentation sword honoring Brevet Lt. Col. George Armistead (presented to his family\/heir), the commander at Fort McHenry who commissioned and raised the original Star-Spangled Banner.<\/p>\n A table crafted from the carefully preserved remains of a tree that President Theodore Roosevelt planted at his home more than 100 years ago will be auctioned off to benefit the Theodore Roosevelt Association.<\/p>\n The auction will also include artifacts associated with President George Washington and other significant American figures.<\/p>\n Organizers said the sale is intended to commemorate the United States\u2019 250th anniversary by showcasing objects that reflect the nation\u2019s military, political, and cultural history.<\/p>\n