VERY RARE – 18th century Revolutionary War Artillery Linchpin, as in books

This is a very rare piece coming out of the old Revolutionary War collection I am working on.  It is an 18^th century Cannon Linchpin (also spelled Lynchpin), measuring 5 ¾” x 1 ½” x 1”.  These iron pins were hammered into a hole at the end of the axle to hold the wheel on the gun carriage or cannon. The pin's primary function was to keep the wheel from sliding off the axle during transport and firing. This one was recovered many years ago near Westpoint, NY

During the Revolutionary War, West Point was a critical strategic fortress on the Hudson River, vital for preventing the British from splitting the colonies in two. George Washington called it “the most important Post in America” and oversaw extensive fortifications, including the "Great Chain," to block British naval ships from sailing up the river. The site is also famously known as the location of Benedict Arnold's attempted treason to surrender the fort to the British.

In the book “History Written with Pick and Shovel” by Calver & Bolton, they show linchpins recovered at Westpoint and Lake George (see pictures). They were found in the early 1900s. In the 30+ years dealing in antique military, a large portion with artillery, I have only come across 3 linchpins (or even seen any). Speaking with a long-time artillery collector, he said that for some reason they are very rare and just don’t show up.

This is a very solid piece with no flaking rust or corrosion, indicative of a very early recovery. It comes in the deep-dish glass top display case pictured. No doubt, this is a museum quality artifact.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing the increase in sales.