Tim:
I know about no sources for reproduction wire, but as far as identification
of different wires it's hard to believe that anyone could beat <Barbs,
Prongs, Points, Pricklers, & Stickers> by Robert T. Clifton, University of
Oklahoma Press, 1970.  There is a brief intro. dealing with the forces that
drove the fencing of the West, and an index to patents in the back.  Hope
this helps your friend...