Civil War historians will want to take notice on Saturday, Dec. 14, when Donley Auctions in Union, Ill., offers an extraordinary collection of Civil War artifacts. The volume and quality of artifacts, sourced primarily from a single, meticulously assembled collection, are astounding. Weapons, uniforms, personal effects, photographs, and even Civil War-era swords and battlefield ordinances are in the sale. In the firearm category, several iconic Springfield muskets will be sold, as well as a rare LeMat revolver. The array of weaponry is vast. For uniforms and gear, there are original uniforms, kepis, canteens, and more, some with documented connections to the soldiers who wore them. Tintypes and ambrotypes captured the faces of the Civil War, providing portraits of soldiers. There is a nice selection in this diverse sale. This auction is a museum-worthy collection, according to Randy Donley, owner of Donley Auctions. Its an incredible opportunity for collectors, but its also a chance for anyone interested in history to see and potentially own a piece of the past. Among the items with provenance is lot #38, a LeMat grapeshot revolver. The South Carolina Civil War 2nd model remains in excellent condition with ivory grip panels adorned with a silver five-point star with a Palmetto tree engraving (symbol of South Carolina). This particular revolver was carried by Capt. James P. Richardson. Also included is a folder of documentation of his locations and biography. LeMat revolvers were sought after by Confederate leaders and the LeMat two-barrel grapeshot ranked as one of the most unconventional wheel guns ever conceived. Invented by Frenchman Dr. Jean Alexandre LeMat of New Orleans, La., these combination guns were primarily produced in Belgium, Paris, and also England, earning fame with the Confederacy. The LeMats low production numbers, novel design, and service as a Confederate cavalry weapon have made the unique weapon popular today in antique arms collecting. Born in France in 1821, Jean Alexander Francois LeMat immigrated here in 1843 after becoming a physician. An inventor, Dr. LeMat was awarded numerous patents in the medical, maritime, and aviation fields throughout his storied career, though the LeMat revolver is considered his most famous design. Through his marriage to Justine Sophie in 1849, LeMat became cousin-in-law to P.G.T. Beauregard, a Louisiana-born military engineer who would rise to fame as the Confederate general who ordered the first shots of the Civil War at Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861. Dr. LeMat patented his grapeshot percussion revolver in 1856 and received financial assistance from Beauregard to begin production in Europe. The serial numbers on lot #38 match the firearms frame, barrel, cylinder, trigger, take down pin and loading rod. The octagon barrel is clearly engraved with Col LeMat Bte s.g.d.g. Paris & *LM and frame screws are engraved. This is just one of the interesting items in the sale. The auction will be held at Donleys gallery, located at 8512 S. Union Road, Union, Ill. A preview will be held Friday, Dec. 13, from noon to 7 p.m., with the auction commencing at 10 a.m. CST on Dec. 14. To learn more, call 815-923-7000 or visit www.donleyauctions.com.