#104 • Ketchem Civil War Hand Gernade

Part of The Ray Howser Firearms Collection, 1931-2026 (timed auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

Starting at $400.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Nov 20, 2026 10:00 AM EST

An exceptionally scarce and iconic piece of American ordnance history, this Ketchum Patent Hand Grenade represents one of the earliest successful production hand grenades utilized by the United States military. Invented by William F. Ketchum and officially patented in August 1861, these specialized weapons were primarily issued to Union forces for high-stakes siege operations, most notably proving critical during the grueling trenches of Vicksburg and Port Hudson. This lot includes a three pound Ketchum Hand Grenade, marked "Patented Aug 20, 1861". The grenade is mounted to a wooden plaque; 13.25 inches in length (grenade). Minor bend or crease to one of the cardboard fins that has the patent on it.