Cluster of many Sharps Carbine Bullets, recovered in New Kent County, VA

This is a very unusual artifact being offered, it is a clump of Sharps carbine bullets measuring approximately 3 x 4 inches. Visible in the clump are twelve bullets and also what appears to be a couple of percussion cap portions (see arrow). It was recovered from an area off Dispatch Road in New Kent County, Virginia where it was likely left behind by some of Union General Edwin Sumner's troops (see pictures).

Some of the fighting in New Kent County was the Battle of Eltham's Landing, also known as the Battle of Barhamsville (or West Point), took place on May 7, 1862. This area was located between Richmond and Williamsburg. General William B. Franklin's Union division landed at Eltham's Landing and was attacked by two brigades of General G. W. Smith's command, reacting to the threat to the Confederate army's trains on the Barhamsville Road. Franklin's movement occurred while the Confederate army was withdrawing from the Williamsburg line, but he was unable to interfere with the Confederate movement.

As is typical with 160-year-old excavated relics such as this, when handled, very small particles of debris or gunpowder might fall away, but it is very solid as is. If desired, you can apply some spray varnish, but I left it as found. It will be an excellent display in any Civil War bullet collection, and a great conversation piece.