Regulation U.S. Marines Eagle Drum, ca. 1859

Exceptional Condition C.1859 Regulation US Marine Corps Eagle Drum. Certainly one of the finest specimens known of the handful of specimens extant. 14 1/2" diameter, 14" high. All paint correct and original and in superb condition. Retains what appear to be the original heads with just a couple of small holes at the edges. Ivory air hole, brass tack decoration, the body appears to be of maple. Original inner hoops, some pencil markings opposite the air hole, but no label. The ropes and tighteners are clearly an old restoration but extremely well done and detracts nothing. Generically probably the rarest of all US military regulation issue drums, this being a truly remarkable example. Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000.

Source: Heritage Auctions, Lot 52096.
http://historical.ha.com/c/item.zx?saleNo=6074&lotNo=52096