Auction Closing: March 30, 2024 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time
Lot Number: 192
Estimate Range: $2,000 - $3,000
Rare GEORGIA State Seal Twice Embossed Leather Wallet based on the Unofficial 1799 Georgia State Arms and Flag: “CONSTITUTION-JUSTICE-WIS/DOM-MODE/RATION”

Click an Image to Enlarge It
GEORGIA Civil War Era Use, Likely Unique Confederate Sates Era Wallet Embossed TWICE with the 1799 Georgia State Coat of Arms Embossed Seal, displaying an Arch Design with State Legends: “CONSTITUTION - JUSTICE - WIS/DOM - MODE/RATION” being based on the unofficial 1799 Georgia State Arms and Flag, Very Fine.

May 12, 1854-Dated (Internally by Hand), original Pre Civil War Era, Confederate States later use decorated Leather Wallet measuring 3.5” x 6.75” (closed) and 8.25” x 6.75” (open). It is in choice yet used condition, having an attractive rich patina to the still supple tan leather. The exterior of this likely uniquely styled wallet was Embossed Twice with an early version of the Georgia State Seal adopted in 1799 and used until 1914. Inside the wallet, the owner wrote his name, as follows: “Hugh Quigley his Poket (sic) Book May the 12 1854.” Also included is a Civil War Period heavily circulated 1862-Dated hand-signed Richmond, Virginia $1 Treasury note, found in this wallet.

In the Embossed Georgia Coat of Arms is clearly seen on this Museum quality wallet. The Arch symbolizes the state's Constitution, while the Pillars represent the three branches of government. The words of the State Motto: "Wisdom, Justice, and Moderation" are wrapped around the pillars, guarded by a male figure dressed in Colonial attire of the American Revolutionary War. Within these Arms, his sword is drawn to represent the defense of the state's Constitution, the design extremely similar to that Engraved by Paul Revere for the 1775 and 1776 Revolutionary War issued “Sword in Hand” Massachusetts Colonial Currency notes. A rare Pre Civil War era wallet in such nice condition, especially identified and having a tie-in of use to the Confederacy during the Civil War. (2 items)