I see a number of horns being auctioned as "Civil War Era" instruments.  The Civil War lasted from 1861 to 1865.  Any instrument made after the last surrender in 1865, is best described as post Civil War era.  Indeed, I would question the ethics of associating horns made in the 1870s, 1880s or 1890s with the "Civil War Era."  Unless I am misinformed, instruments with coil springs and water keys appeared quite some years after the Civil War.  But, of course, it is now impossible to message bidders directly, warning them of a possible fraud.  And, Golly Gee, Gomer.  Who benefits from that policy?

John H.