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USS Constitution Bookends made from the ship's copper - 1927

USS Constitution Bookends made from the ship's copper - 1927

Updated at 9:05 pm: These have been sold.

USS Constitution’s major restoration from 1927-1931 marked the first time souvenirs made from discarded ship materials were sold to the public. The sale of these souvenirs helped raise much needed funds for restoration work, and was also part of the campaign to reestablish “Old Ironsides” as an important historic American icon. Copper sheets removed from the ship’s hull, along with bolts, nails, and other metals, were melted down and turned into a wide variety of souvenir items, including ashtrays, bookends, and plaques.

These bookends are made from melted down copper sheathing mixed with other metals. They are shaped like ship wheels, and the hubs display a relief image of USS Constitution surrounded by text that reads:

“Old Ironsides / Launched 1797 / 1804 Tripoli / 1812 Guerriere / Java / 1815 Cyane / Levant / U.S. FRIGATE Constitution.”

Text on the base indicates that the materials were removed from USS Constitution in 1927.

Size: 6” W x 6.5” H x 3” D

Shipping: $15 each. Please allow one week for shipping.

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Your purchases support our mission to engage people with local history and to support historic sites and history organizations across the country.

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M
Mike R.
USS Constitution Bookends made from the ship's copper - 1927

These are great items that were well-priced. I received them quickly, in strong packaging, and with a nice note accompanying them. A terrific piece of history to have in my home.

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