Lot #143: Early Black Powder Horn with Collection Numbers | Historic Militaria | Circa 18th – Early 19th Century

Historical Context & Origin

Region: Europe or Colonial North America
Material: Natural animal horn with turned wooden stopper and hand-applied fittings
Period: Circa 18th – early 19th Century

Description

This authentic historic powder horn is a finely preserved example of early firearms accoutrements, traditionally used to store and dispense black powder for muskets and flintlock firearms. Crafted from a naturally curved animal horn, the vessel features a fitted wooden stopper at the spout and a domed wooden base secured at the wider end—both showing clear signs of age and hand craftsmanship.

The surface displays a rich, time-softened patina with natural striations, wear patterns, and handling marks consistent with prolonged historical use. Notably, the horn retains original museum or inventory collection numbers, including labels marked “1258” and “804”, indicating its former inclusion in an institutional, archival, or documented private collection. Such markings strongly enhance the historical integrity and traceability of the piece.

Powder horns were indispensable tools for soldiers, hunters, and frontiersmen, forming an essential part of daily life during the age of black powder firearms.

Features
- Authentic historic black powder horn
- Natural horn body with classic curved profile
- Turned wooden stopper and fitted wooden base
- Original historic collection / inventory numbers present (“1258” and “804”)
- Deep, honest patina with age-consistent wear

Cultural Significance

Powder horns are iconic artifacts of the early modern world, closely associated with military service, frontier life, hunting, and colonial expansion. Often carried by soldiers and civilians alike, they represent a pivotal period in technological and social history when firearms reshaped warfare and daily survival. 

Condition

Very fine historic condition. Expected surface wear, abrasions, and patination consistent with age and use. Wood elements remain intact and secure. No modern alterations observed. Inventory labels are original and preserved.

Age (Approximate)

200–300 years old

Provenance 

Property deaccessioned from the Old Dartmouth Historical Society, New Bedford, Massachusetts. Subsequently held in a private collection in Marion, Massachusetts, USA. Acquired by the current owner in 2025.

Dimensions: Length: 14 in

Price Estimate: CAD 450 - 650

Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.