USS Constitution sails into an auction sunset

A model of the United States Navy wooden-hulled three-masted heavy frigate USS Constitution will be auctioned as part of Young’s Auctions latest weekly sale from 9.30am Friday July 10 at 229 Camberwell Road, East Hawthorn.

Launched in 1798, Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat and is currently undergoing important restoration work at Charleston Navy Yard.

While an important cog at the time in the newly formed US Navy’s Quasi-War with France and its battles with Barbery pirates in the First Barbery War, Constitution is most famous for her actions during the War of 1812 against the British when she captured numerous merchant ships and defeated five British warships – HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane and Levant.

When not in dry dock, today Constitution’s stated mission is to promote understanding of the navy’s role in war and peace through educational outreach, historic demonstration and active participation in public events.

The auction contains Waterford and Stuart crystal glasses and decanters – some of it copies of the crystal used on the Titanic and bearing the shipping company’s emblem.

Other items of interest include china porcelain and carnival glass, along with fine Georgian sterling silver, several interesting clocks and a stamp collection.

There are several paintings worth considering, fine examples of Oriental furniture and Moran couches and settees.