PHOENIX — Skylar Annesi has literally struck gold on his adventures in Arizona.
In his free time, the 23-year-old, who was born and raised in State 48, travels all across Arizona searching for one-of-a-kind artifacts.
"I've lived here all my life, I might as well get to know the history of Arizona," Annesi said
Arizona gold, an original American flag from 1890, and a Smith and Wesson Model one revolver are all part of his massive 2,000 piece collection he's obtained from the past 14 years. Annesi says he's traveled to a hundred different locations in Arizona searching for these unique items.
However, one of the oldest and most historic pieces in his arsenal dates back to the State's Wild West days —a grave marker he claims belonged to former Pinal County Sheriff John Peter Gabriel.
"That was the top gift for the year," he said.
It was given to him by his grandfather who said he found it while hiking near Globe back in 1971.
"He thought nothing of it at the time, and it had been sitting up in his attic for the past 50 years," Annesi said.
Sheriff Gabriel was a leading lawman known for going after stage coach robbers and murderers. His skills with a six-shooter were said to be almost legendary.
"His most infamous day was at the Tunnel Saloon Shootout," Annesi said.
Gabriel came out on top in the gunfight, but it nearly killed him. Once Gabriel retired from the law, he started working as a miner. He died in 1898, which is also inscribed on the heavy and discolored plaque now sitting in Annesi's home.
"I would love to know anything more on it," he said.
The young collector is now working to authenticate the artifact. He wants to preserve it and the hundreds of others that represent the history of his home state.
"It's also the responsibility of taking care of it and making sure that the next generation after me can enjoy it as I have."
Annesi also wants to go to where his grandfather found the grave marker to see if any other rare and historical artifacts are still there.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.