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War-dated ALS signed “G. A. Custer, Brig. Genl,” one page, 6.25 x 8, April 6, 1864. Letter to Captain R. R. Moffatt. In full: “Having carefully examined your ‘Sabre Shield,’ and having considered its merits, as pertaining to my own branch of the service, I do not hesitate in pronouncing it a most invaluable acquisition to the cavalry arm of the service. I am firm in the belief that the possession of it by our cavalry would give confidence and increases courage to those wearing it. The trifling weight of the shield is such as to be almost unfelt by the wearer. I hope it will be adopted at once.” Several light brushes to text, and scattered light toning, otherwise fine condition.
Before making a name for himself fighting in the Indian Wars, Custer served with distinction in the Civil War following his 1861 graduation from West Point. Promoted to brigadier general just before the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, he was given command of the Michigan Brigade of cavalry, and less than five weeks after sending this letter took part in a major offensive against Confederate General J. E. B. Stuart. A private from the 5th Michigan Cavalry, part of Custer’s Michigan Brigade, shot and killed the Confederate leader. As a commanding general, Custer knew what was needed to lead his men into battle, with numerous armament developments occurring on both sides during the conflict. Ironically, before the start of the hostilities, Stuart himself had developed a quickly detachable saber attachment, which featured a spring-loaded catch for easy removal of the weapon—all of which proved no match for a revolver. Desirable war-dated correspondence pertaining to “a most invaluable acquisition to the cavalry.” Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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