I recall reading that the only proven artifact remaining from the Lewis and Clark expedition is a stuffed beaver in a college museum. Now, it would appear, there are two.
It's staggering to think what this gun must be worth. Just as a wild guess, I would say ten million dollars if sold at auction.
Three cheers for Dr. Beeman for his intention to donate it to a museum. The Army War College may deserve a copy, but this gun really belongs in a place of honor in the Smithsonian.
-ccm
As I recall from Unduanted Courage, Captain Clark also carved his name on a rock somewhere out west. I believe it still exists as well