U.S.S. Constitution
[Charleston Naval Yard, Charleston, SC], salvaged 1927
"U.S.S. Constitution" Wood Relic Incorporated Into Handsome Ship's Model
Relic

A wooden relic from the original hull of the "U.S.S. Constitution" laid down in a Boston shipyard in 1794. The triangular wedge of wood bears a bronze plaque with raised lettering, reading: "This material was taken from / the original hull of the / U.S. Frigate Constitution / keel laid 1794 rebuilding 1927." The relic is mounted on one end of a mahogany plinth with rounded edges which accommodates a miniature ship's model of the "U.S.S. Constitution" above. The ship's model of the early warship is hand-painted and features many realistic details, such as two diminutive anchors suspended on chains; the rudder; the captain's cabin and ship's name in the rear; and intact bowsprit, gunports, hatches, and partially open holds. The superstructure of masts and sails is missing. Discreet repairs, scattered scuffs or surface loss including paint chipping, and a diagonal check to the top deck. Else very good. The relic and plaque measure approximately 3" x .625" alone. The ship's model alone measures approximately 27.25" x 5.325" x 7.25" at its highest point, while the plinth alone measures 26" x 4.875" x 3". Overall, the display measures approximately 27.25" x 5.325" x 8.75".

**Please note: This item will require third-party shipping***

The "U.S.S. Constitution," or "Old Ironsides," is the oldest commissioned warship afloat. Originally launched in 1797, the 44-gun three-masted heavy frigate saw service in the U.S. Navy during the Barbary Wars, the War of 1812, routine surveillance cruising, and the Civil War, before being retired in 1881. The vessel was converted into a museum ship in the early 20th C., even as it continued to deteriorate due to age and heavy wear. A private fundraising campaign was launched in the 1920s to finance a much-needed overhaul of the century's-old warship. The "U.S.S. Constitution" was restored at the Charleston Naval Yard between 1927-1931.

The ship's restoration was financed by multiple drives and publicity campaigns. Funds consisted of schoolchildren's penny drives; the sale of commemorative naval paintings; and the sale of memorabilia made from scrapped wood, rope, and copper. According to the U.S.S. Constitution Museum, material salvaged from the ship was fashioned into ashtrays, bookends, blocks and gavels, miniature cannon, plaques, walking sticks, inkstands, and paperweights. Our relic was likely one of the pieces of wood, copper, and cordage that was sold for a range of prices dependent on size.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: approximately: 27.25" x 5.325" x 8.75" overall
  • Medium: Relic

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by University Archives
July 28, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
88 Danbury Road
Suite 2A
Wilton, CT, US 06897

University Archives

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