Julius Adolphus De Langal's Cased Signet Seal Set, C. 1850 . Dubbed the "Hero of Rich Mountain," De Langal was born in New J... (Total: 3 Items)

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One of the most exquisite Civil War-related items we've ever cataloged belonging to a Confederate general from whom artifacts are nearly non-existent.

Julius Adolphus De Langal's Cased Signet Seal Set, C. 1850 . Dubbed the "Hero of Rich Mountain," De Langal was born in New Jersey and commissioned brigadier general in the provisional Confederate army. He was originally appointed Lieutenant of the second US Infantry from Virginia in 1847 and subsequently resigned his commission upon the formation of the Confederacy. He became Garnett's chief of artillery and, under the direct command of Pegram was stationed at Rich Mountain in western Virginia, where, on July 11, 1861, with only 310 men and one cannon, De Lagnal defended the position against a vastly superior force under Rosecrans. The defenders fought desperately until they were finally forced to give ground, while De Lagnal continued to fight his gun alone, until he was severely wounded. His escape from the battlefield, and eventual capture are the stuff of legend, and, upon his return from captivity, he was offered a commission as brigadier general in the Confederate army. He served out the war in the Confederate Ordnance Bureau.

The French style push button casing is covered in Moroccan leather and embossed in gilt on the cover, "Julius A. D. Lagnal". The case is lined with maroon silk and velvet. The large signet/seal device is 3¾" long, the ivory grip 1 5/16" across at the back. Inscribed on the front facet "Family Coat of Arms" and at the back "Engraved by Ed. Hulseman New York". Edward Hulseman was active 1830 - 1850 and was one of America's pre-eminent engravers and die cutters of the period. His best known work was in the realm of coin dies and his work is recognized as some of the finest ever executed. The metal signet portion appears to be silver with the coat of arms including a rampant unicorn and stars on a shield, surmounted by a crown with a Maltese cross suspended at the bottom. The grip of the small seal is made of figured onyx and is absolutely gem like. The metal signet portion also appears to be of silver. The entire set in absolutely mint condition. A remarkable presentation for both rarity and beauty.