RARE – Civil War Shaler bullet recovered at Gettysburg by Dean Thomas (SOLD)

Being offered is a rare, original Civil War Shaler pattern 3-piece bullet. This unique piece was recovered many years ago by the late Dean Thomas, an author, publisher, and historian. He recovered it many years ago from Weikert Hill, Gettysburg, behind the 1^st New Jersey Brigade monument, where the Brigade was positioned in reserve during the battle. Only lightly engaged in some skirmishing, it suffered few casualties.

Known as a hard fighting unit, it was formed before 1st Bull Run and was present at every major battle through Appomattox. Over 13,000 New Jerseyans fought with distinction in this brigade throughout the war.

Shalers are one of the most distinctive designed bullets of the Civil War. They are made up of three pieces and were supposed to split apart in flight, giving three chances to hit the target. Dean was very devoted to keeping records of his thousands of recoveries – date, location, etc. On this bullet he recorded it as #167. Shalers are rare by themselves, and being recovered at an exact location in Gettysburg, really makes it special. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.