From Hollywood Western legends to WWII paratrooper knives and Pearl Harbor propaganda, this sale offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for collectors and history enthusiasts.
Cody, Wyo. – Lock Stock & Barrel Auctions (LSB), the largest firearms and firearms paraphernalia auction house of its kind, will showcase an extraordinary array of historic artifacts, fine art, and Americana. Making it one of the most diverse and exciting auctions of the year, the upcoming Live Firearms Auction will be held at the Cody Auditorium in Cody, Wyoming. The two-day event is set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 27 – 28, 2025, with bidding starting promptly at 9:00 AM each day.
Among the showcases in this auction is a standout piece: a Vintage 1970s Arvo Ojala Custom Paladin “Have Gun Will Travel” Double Rig. Ojala, noted as Hollywood's legendary fast-draw coach and holster maker, trained major stars including Clint Eastwood and James Arness, establishing a benchmark for authenticity in Western films. This rare, mirrored holster rig, distinctively embellished with Paladin’s iconic chess knight emblem, was crafted specifically for a private collector and comes from the esteemed collection of Rick Hacker, an accomplished firearms author. Few examples of Ojala’s Paladin rigs remain today, positioning this item as a remarkable facet of Hollywood history.
Catering to sports memorabilia enthusiasts, the auction also features the historic 1930s Cody Dogies Semi-Pro Baseball Uniform, a cherished relic linked to America’s pastime with compelling roots in the local community. The uniform, worn by Coon Lee, third baseman for the Dogies, includes its original jersey decorated with “CODY.” Coupled with matching pinstripe pants and a treasure trove of provenance, including photographs, newspaper clippings, and a signed letter from Lee’s wife, this well-preserved uniform evokes nostalgia for the semi-pro team which competed in the Midland Empire League.
For those drawn to wartime history, an abundance of artifacts awaits. This inclusive auction reaches back to the First World War with an impressive US Army M-1917 Trench Fighting Knuckle Knife, paired with its original Jewell 1918 reinforced scabbard. This piece encapsulates the harsh realities of trench warfare, embodying a critical yet brutal chapter in military history.
Moreover, bidders will have the chance to acquire a WWII D-Day Paratrooper M-3 Trench Knife, complete with a 1943 M-6 Leather Scabbard. These knives became emblematic of America’s airborne forces during the Normandy invasion, with surviving examples in such good condition seldom represented at public auction.
The emotional impact of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor sparked a fervent need for revenge among Americans, leading to the creation of patriotic propaganda. Among the auction's highlights is an original WWII propaganda poster titled “Avenge December 7.” Illustrated by Bernard Perlin in 1942, the artwork depicts a resolute U.S. Navy sailor above a backdrop of chaos at Pearl Harbor. This striking piece remains a potent emblem of American resilience and patriotism.
Additionally, the auction features a Bowie Fighting Knuckle Knife crafted shortly after the September 11th attacks in 2001. Made by Eight Dollar Mountain Foundry, this noteworthy blade serves as a testament to the surge in patriotism that characterized a generation of American service members.
“These aren’t just collectibles; they are windows into history,” expresses Spencer Hoglund, Owner of Lock Stock & Barrel Auctions. “From the fast-draw holsters of Hollywood’s golden age to Cody’s own baseball legacy, this auction offers an unparalleled opportunity to own pieces of America’s story.”
Alongside these highlighted items, the September sale includes an array of Native American artifacts, fine art, and decorative items, ensuring that there is something appealing for every kind of collector. A public preview will be hosted at the Cody Auditorium on Friday, Sept. 26, allowing potential bidders the chance to view auction lots in person.
Interested buyers are encouraged to plan their watch lists and register early to secure their participation. For complete details about the auction and registration processes, please visit www.LSBauctions.com. Witnessing history through auction encourages appreciation of the variety of collectibles on offer, further strengthening ties between past and present for collectors and history buffs alike.
The upcoming auction by Lock Stock & Barrel is a significant event not just for collectors, but as a reflection of America’s multifaceted history. The diverse offerings, from Hollywood memorabilia to poignant wartime artifacts, illustrate the evolution of American culture and values. As whispers of renewed interest in historical militaria and sports memorabilia circle, this auction may very well be a harbinger of a larger trend towards valuing and preserving our nation’s rich narrative. Keeping abreast of shifts in this collectible market could prove crucial for both seasoned auction-goers and newcomers alike. Juggling opportunity and significance, this event encapsulates the lasting impact and allure of our shared history.