12 Civil War Relics That Sold for Thousands
The Civil War left behind a treasure trove of artifacts, some of which have become incredibly valuable relics that offer a direct link to the past. From the blood-stained bandages of President Lincoln to a Confederate officer’s sword, these pieces tell the stories of battles, political shifts, and personal moments that shaped American history. Here are some of the most valuable items tied to the war that we could find.
1. Original Telegram Informing Ulysses Grant About Lincoln’s Assassination
Sold for: $70,000
This would be a screenshot these days, and it just wouldn’t have the same historic appeal. This telegram informing Ulysses S. Grant that Abraham Lincoln was assassinated is a Civil War relic, justifying its $70,000 price tag.
2. Button From Robert E. Lee’s Uniform
Sold for: $27,000
This brass button, belonging to Confederate General Robert E. Lee, sold for nearly $30,000 at auction. It didn’t just fall off and land on the battlefield, though. The general personally gave it to 16-year-old Fanny Crump when the war ended.
3. Abraham Lincoln Signed Document
Sold for: $23,000
This authenticated document, signed by Honest Abe himself, granted a pardon for discharge from service to a soldier during the Civil War. The note was signed in 1864 and is encased in a frame for display.
4. Confederate Officer’s Uniform
Sold for: $19,000
This Confederate junior officer’s frock coat belonged to Captain John T. Williams, a landowner and livestock dealer who raised a company for the 2nd Battalion Kentucky Mounted Rifles. At times, he even served as a scout for the infamous cavalry raider John Hunt Morgan.
5. Uniform of North Carolina Soldier
Sold for: $14,000
This Civil War jacket belonged to Private Theophilus Frank of the 48th North Carolina Infantry, a Confederate soldier. Originally discovered in 1977 at his family’s home, it was identified by curator Les Jensen as part of Frank’s wartime uniform, matching known North Carolina-issued military clothing.
6. Confederate Ironstone Burslem Pitcher
Sold for: $12,000
Not every Civil War relic is rooted in battlefields and documents. This Confederate pitcher features a blue-on-white medallion design inscribed with “C.S.N (Confederate States Navy); Aide Toi Et Dieu T’Aidera (heaven helps those who help themselves).”
7. Abraham Lincoln’s Blood-Stained Bandage
Sold for: $12,000
So, you mean to tell us that for the low price of $12,000, we could own Abe’s blood-soaked bandage? This framed relic features a blood-stained bandage fragment from President Lincoln, reportedly taken from the Petersen House where he died. Accompanied by an 1865 letter from H.J. Safford, a boarder at the house, the piece was sent to a New York acquaintance as a rare and personal memento.
8. Captured Georgia Officer’s McElroy Confederate Sword
Sold for: $10,000
This Confederate officer’s sword, taken at the Battle of Nashville on December 16, 1864, belonged to Captain Caleb P. Bowen of the 30th Georgia Infantry. Captured during battle, the sword is accompanied by extensive historical records detailing Bowen’s service, his capture as a POW, and the unit’s involvement in the Atlanta and Nashville campaigns.
9. Articles of War for the Confederate Army
Sold for: $10,000
The Articles of War laid out the rules and regulations that governed the Confederate Army, keeping soldiers in line and setting the standards for discipline. It detailed what counted as an offense, how soldiers were expected to behave, and what punishments they could face if they stepped out of line. Basically, it was the military’s rulebook, making sure order was kept throughout the war.
10. Wanted Sign
Sold for: $10,000
This 1863 recruitment broadside called for 50 men to join Company L of the 1st California Cavalry, offering a $100 bounty and $18 per month for service in Texas.
11. Stonewall Jackson Religious Letter
Sold for: $9,750
This 1863 letter from Confederate General Stonewall Jackson gives a rare look at his deep religious beliefs just weeks before he was wounded. Writing to Congressman Jabez L.M. Curry, Jackson praises the idea of stopping mail deliveries on Sundays, saying a nation that follows divine law will thrive.
12. 34-Star Civil War Era American Flag
Sold for: $9,500
This 34-star U.S. flag dates back to the early Civil War era, marking Kansas’ admission as the 34th state in 1861. Featuring a unique “globe” pattern with stars arranged in concentric circles, this hand-sewn linen flag was in use until West Virginia became a state in 1863.