Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Friday, September 11, 2020  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Friday, September 11, 2020  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
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Large variety of antique curio & relic, and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com
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Winchester Model 1895 Flat Side Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 1 (Sale Order: 1 of 637)      

Desirable Early Production Three Digit Serial Number Winchester Model 1895 Flat Side Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1896, the second year of production and serialized with a three digit number. This rifle is 1 of only 5,000 manufactured with the desirable flat side receiver. The rifle is equipped with German silver blade and elevation adjustable sights on a barrel marked with the two-line address and "30 U.S." on top. The upper tang is marked "WINCHESTER/MODEL 1895." Directly behind the trigger it is marked "PAT NOV. 5, 1895/-- NOV. 12, 1895 --." The serial number is marked on the lower tang. Mounted with a smooth tapered forearm with an ebony insert and straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retaining 80% original blue finish with a mix smooth plum and brown patinas on the balance. There are a couple spots of minor pitting on the left side of the receiver. 70% original case colors remain on the buttplate and hammer. The wood is also very fine showing a patch of chipping near the toe and some minor scratches. Mechanically excellent. A very fine early production flat side Model 1895 that will make a great addition to any Winchester collection.

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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket with Bayonet

Lot # 2 (Sale Order: 2 of 637)      

Excellent Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket with Bayonet

Manufactured in 1903. This high condition Model 1873 musket is a third model with the dust cover guide integral to the receiver and a dust over with rear serrations. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address/patent date information ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F" at the breech. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" flanked by decorative foliate, and the serial number is on the lower tang behind the lever latch. It is fitted with the correct inverted "V" front sight and the folding military tangent rear sight graduated to 800 yards. Mounted on a smooth full length forearm and straight grip stock. The stock is fitted with a carbine style buttplate with trapdoor. The forearm is secured by three barrel bands, and there is a sling swivel on the middle band. A second sling swivel is mounted on the underside of the buttstock. Comes with a five piece cleaning rod and socket bayonet.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Excellent, retaining 98% original blue finish showing some high edge wear on the barrel bands and very limited minor scattered dark spots of pitting on the forward lower receiver. Nearly all of the vibrant original nitre blue remains on the loading gate, and 98% original case colors remain on the hammer, lever and buttplate. The wood is very fine showing some chipping along the grain near the stock toe and some scattered minor dings. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet has mostly a bright appearance. A high condition Model 1873 musket perfect for your growing Winchester collection!

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Desirable Glass Winchester Store Display Gun Cabinet

Lot # 3 (Sale Order: 3 of 637)      

Desirable Glass Winchester Store Display Gun Cabinet

This factory store display cabinet was manufactured by the Walrus Manufacturing Co. in the early 1900s to aid Winchester dealers in displaying their Winchester long guns. The typical Walrus Manufacturing Co. plaque is present on the floor plate. The cabinet door is numbered "777" on the top edge. It is constructed of hardwood, possibly walnut, with full length glass panels and a cathedral top with glass panels. It stands approximately 73 inches in height on four legs with brass sheathed feet, and each side is approximately 18 inches wide. The inside display height is approximately 45 inches. On the inside is a four sided rack that will hold 20 long guns. All four sides are 5/8 inch thick and are marked "WINCHESTER" in white and black bordered red letters with black lettered "PATENT APPLIED FOR" on a white background below. The bottom of the case and the inner edge of the rack is lined with green felt.

Class: Other

Fine overall, with some scattered light handling/storage marks, moderate crazing/crackling of the original varnish, mildly faded labels and upper felt, and replaced floorplate felt. A must have for the proper display of a fine Winchester collection!

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Winchester First Model 1890 Rifle

Lot # 4 (Sale Order: 4 of 637)      

Exceptional Early Production Antique Winchester First Model 1890 Slide Action Solid Frame Rifle with Casehardened Receiver and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1891. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle chambered in .22 Long when received in the warehouse on September 15, 1891 and shipped the same day. German silver blade front and standard fixed notch rear sights on the earl 24 3/8 inch barrel with first style barrel inscription with the "broken D" in manufactured, "22 LONG." caliber marking on the upper flat at the breech, Winchester proofs correctly absent, first model solid frame receiver, and standard three-line maker, model, and patent marking on the upper tang. 12 groove slide handle and plain walnut straight grip stock with casehardened crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Excellent overall with 98% blue and casehardening over all, vibrant throughout. The operation slide is bright and has probably been cleaned. There are drift marks on the rear magazine tube support and barrel in that vicinity. The casehardening colors on the receiver are brilliantly bright on the butt plate. The wood is also excellent with minor dents and scratches. The action remains stiff from hardening grease. A wonderful and rare solid frame 1st model is spectacular condition. provenance: The Kidd Brother Collection, property of a gentleman.

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Winchester "Double W" Ammunition Display Bullet Board

Lot # 5 (Sale Order: 5 of 637)      

Desirable Winchester "Double W" Cartridge Display Bullet Board

The board is mounted in a wood frame measuring approximately 57 inches wide by 40 inches tall. A gold painted border is mounted around the green board which measures approximately 49 inches by 31 1/2 inches. The board displays a dark green background, red and white lettering and vignettes of game and hunting scenes (see photograph). The display consists of various cartridges and shotgun shells and nine spaces for containers of primers, each described below in white lettering. A few assorted cartridges are absent from the board as well as three cap tins (see photograph), includes two detached brass shells, one paper shell, and the remnants of a patched bullet. The lower right corner reads "FORBES CO. BOSTON." The back of the board has the original "PRESENTED WITH COMPLIMENTS OF THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. PLEASE HANG IN A PROMINENT PLACE", paper label affixed to the center and is marked "NO 1611".

Class: Other

Very good overall, showing some small spots of discolorations to the backing board, an area of separation from the backing in the lower right hand corner, nearly all of the gold painted inner frame, and some varnish loss on the frame. A few of the mounting nails have been driven through the frame over time. The original paper on the back is still intact. Overall a desirable Winchester bullet board in hard to find original condition and becoming increasingly collectable. A must have for the serious Winchester collector!

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Wilkinson Engraved & Marked Winchester Model 1873 Sporting Rifle

Lot # 6 (Sale Order: 6 of 637)      

Extraordinary Documented Wilkinson & Sons Engraved and Etched Winchester First Model 1873 Deluxe Lever Action Rifle

This Winchester First Model 1873 Sporting rifle was manufactured c. 1875 and subsequently embellished and retailed by Wilkinson & Son. This rifle has the very desirable First Model receiver with grooved dust cover guides and dust cover with oval, checkered finger grip. The rifle has the early style lever latch with visible threads. The rifle has a blued, 24-inch round barrel with full length magazine. The top of the barrel is flattened and the flat has a file cut matted finish. The barrel has a dove-tail mounted Express front sight with bright bead and Express style rear sight with three folding leaves marked "100, 200" and "500". The top barrel flat is hand-engraved: "WILKINSON & SON GUNMAKERS TO HER MAJESTY & THE PRINCE OF WALES" ahead of the rear sight reading towards the muzzle. A folding leaf peep sight with fifty minute graduations is mounted on the receiver tang. The forearm cap, receiver, dust cover, hammer and lever are nickel silver plated. The loading gate has a fire blue finish. The forearm cap, sides of the receiver, sideplates, lower tang, dust cover, sides of the hammer and bottom of the lever are acid etched with English style scroll-work on a stippled background. The etching is very similar to the etching found on high quality Wilkinson military swords of this period. The right front of the receiver is etched with the Prince of Wales feathers above a banner reading "BY APPOINTMENT". The opposite side of the receiver is etched "WILKINSON/PALL MALL" in two banners surrounded by scrollwork. The color casehardened shotgun style buttplate is checkered and decorated with delicate English style scroll engraving. The stock and forearm are deluxe highly figured walnut with checkered panels and a high polish piano finish, the right side of the stock is stamped with the collection number "58". The London "crown/VP", "crown/GP" and definitive proof marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel near the receiver and a "crown/V" inspection mark is stamped on the left side of the receiver above the chamber. The serial number is marked in script numerals on the lower tang behind the lever latch. A small number of early production Model 1873 Winchesters were imported into Great Britain by The London Armory Company and other British dealers. This rifle, identified as “Serial # 6194, Rifle ‘Prince of Wales’” is listed with the serial numbers of 33 other Model 1873 rifles and carbines with British proof marks on page 553 of "WINCHESTER NEW MODEL OF 1873, VOL. II" by James Gordon. It is not clear if this rifle was engraved and finished by Wilkinson expressly for the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) or whether the marking denotes that Wilkinson & Son were appointed as gunmaker to the Prince of Wales. In any case this is a unique deluxe special order Winchester First Model 1873 Sporting Rifle. A group of 30 Model 1873s (15 rifles and 15 carbines) were shipped from Winchester to James Kerr and the London Armoury in 1875, the same year this rifle was manufactured. These special order Model 1873s had casehardened receivers and some had deluxe walnut stocks. On several of these guns Kerr engraved a Prince of Wales presentation inscription and inlaid silver plaques featuring the Order of the Star of India. These ‘73s were presented by the Prince of Wales to Indian officials while traveling through India in 1875. On page 43 of “Winchester: An American Legend,” author R.L. Wilson lists 6 serial numbers of Prince of Wales presentation Model 1873s. These rifles included numbers 6597, 6604, and 6618 which are only a few hundred numbers away from this rifle (6194).

Class: Antique

Extremely fine. This rare rifle is all original and retains 85% of the blue and plated finish applied by Wilkinson. The barrel and magazine have 90% plus blue finish with a few minor scratches and handling marks with some finish loss at the muzzle and magazine tip. The hand engraved barrel legend is clear. The forearm cap, receiver, dust cover, hammer and lever have 90% plus plated finish. The loading gate retains 85% of the nitre blue finish. The delicate English scroll engraving and Wilkinson markings are sharp. At least 85% of the blue finish remains on the folding leaf rear sight. The shotgun buttplate shows typical handling wear; the case colors have faded to a dark patina with scattered age spotting. The fine engraving on the buttplate is clear and the checkering is sharp. The highly figured walnut stock and forearm remain in very good condition with scattered handling and storage marks. The checkering on the stock and forearm is sharp. The stock and forearm retain nearly 90% of the piano finish. This is both an attractive and stunning example of a Winchester First Model 1873 Sporting Rifle that may have been made especially for the Prince of Wales.

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New Haven Arms Henry Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 7 (Sale Order: 7 of 637)      

New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. in 1865. The barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards and is stamped with the two-line patent date/address marking ("HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS.CO. NEWHAVEN.CT"). The rifle is fitted with a sling hook loop and a sling swivel on the left side of the buttstock. The serial number is found on the barrel, left side of lower tang, stock inlet, and buttplate. The brass buttplate has a trapdoor (cleaning rod not included) and pointed heel. The left side of the buttstock has period inscribed initials hand marked in script. Most Henry Rifles manufactured during the Civil War were privately purchased by Federal soldiers from Midwestern regiments. The firepower of the Henry Rifles was valued on the frontier in the years that followed the Civil War. Most Henry Rifles were "working guns;" the surviving examples typically exhibit wear associated with years of hard use.

Class: Antique

Good. The barrel and magazine tube have a mixed artificial brown patina with minor-moderate pitting. The brass has an attractive mellow appearance, and the receiver has tight fitting side plates. The lightly sanded and reoiled stock is also good with some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.

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Jennings Breech Loading Rifle

Lot # 8 (Sale Order: 8 of 637)      

Scarce Engraved Jennings Breech Loading Smoothbore Conversion Rifle

Only a small number of the Jennings rifles were manufactured by Robbins and Lawrence in 1848-1852. The Jennings rifles mark the important second step in the evolution of what eventually became the Volcanic, Henry, and Winchester lever actions. Work on the Jennings rifles at Robbins and Lawrence is credited with bringing together B. Tyler Henry, Horace Smith, and Daniel Wesson under the same roof and thus helped lead to what became both the highly successful Winchester lever action series and the iconic Smith & Wesson partnership. Beginning in 1852, Robbins and Lawrence abandoned the underpowered rocket ball cartridge in favor of building muzzle loading variants. Many of the original breech loaders were altered by outside gunsmiths into muzzle loaders as well. It still has the round pill primer on top and a rectangular loading cut out. The ring trigger that originally pushed the breechblock into place and operated the automatic pill primer on the breech loading versions now functions simply as a trigger for the hammer. The only visible markings are "WINDSOR VT." on the left side of the receiver, "465" on the lower tang, and a scroll engraving on the receiver and buttplate. It has fixed blade and notch sights, a smooth straight wrist stock, and a rifle buttplate.

Class: Antique

Fair, showing mostly a smooth dark brown patina with some minor pitting scattered throughout and visible engraving. The wood has minor dings and scratches throughout. Mechanically fine.

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Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 2 Lever Action Pistol

Lot # 9 (Sale Order: 9 of 637)      

Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 2 Lever Action Pistol

This is a desirable example of one of the fewer than 500 No. 2 Larger Frame Lever Action Pistols S&W manufactured in 1854-55. The pistol has an 8 inch part octagon barrel in .41 caliber, integral 10-shot magazine, flat muzzle, pinched front sight, early round cartridge follower and screw fastened "L" shaped notch rear sight numbered to the gun. The lever has a finger spur. The top barrel flat is stamped "SMITH & WESSON/NORWICH CT./CAST-STEEL" followed by "PATENT." The serial number is on the left side of the grip frame. The correct last two digits of the serial number ("37") are stamped on the back of both grip panels. Factory engraved floral scroll patterns are featured on the receiver and side plates. Engraved leaf patterns are featured on top of the receiver, back of the hammer, and back strap. Comes with a rare original Volcanic rocket ball cartridge. These pistols are highly prized due to the limited production quantities and historical significance as a pioneering arm to both Smith & Wesson and Winchester collectors. Includes one original cartridge.

Class: Antique

Very good. The barrel and magazine have a smooth brown appearance. The frame has an attractive gun metal appearance. The engraving is crisp. The rosewood grips are fine with some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically fine. With fewer than 500 manufactured the No. 2 S&W Lever Action is a difficult pistol to obtain in any condition and is a must have for any antique American arms collector.

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Engraved Venditti Lever Action Pistol

Lot # 10 (Sale Order: 10 of 637)      

Extremely Scarce Engraved Venditti Lever Action Pistol

This extremely scarce lever action pistol is one of only 350 manufactured across the first and second models of Italian maker Pietro Venditti. This pistol is similar in many ways to the American Volcanic Pistols, and until recently was thought to have influenced Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson in their design. It is now surmised, that Venditti did not have his first experience with firearms design until after his release from prison in 1860, well after Smith & Wesson had patented their design. This is supported by the lack of any appearance of this mechanism in the "Catalogue of the Great Exhibition" printed in 1851 where Smith and or Wesson supposedly got the idea, as well as the fact that no documentation exists showing either man leaving the United States at that time. For more information on this subject see pages 145-148 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Edmund Lewis and Stephen Rutter. The barrel bears the second model style marking "VENDITTI E CI LANCUSI" on the top flat. This marking is flanked by factory engraved scrollwork that extends to the top of the frame, frame sides at the front, side plates, and back strap. The frame is brass with iron side plates. The pistol has fixed sights, a 10-shot tubular magazine, two piece checkered grips with escutcheons, and lanyard swivel.

Class: Antique

Fine, showing the 50% of the original blue remaining on the sideplates. The barrel, lever, and hammer have a polished bright finish and areas of light pitting. The grips are very fine with some dings and scratches and well-defined checkering. Mechanically needs work as the elevator does not properly function.Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.

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Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. No. 2 Volcanic Cartridge Tin

Lot # 11 (Sale Order: 11 of 637)      

Incredibly Rare Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. 200 Count No. 2 Volcanic Cartridge Tin with Ammunition

Volcanic pistols and carbines are among the most recognizable and collectible of all American firearms and are very scarce, and cartridges and cartridge tins that go along with them are even more rare and are certainly valuable additions to collections containing Volcanic firearms. The tin has a paper label inside that reads "200 No. 2/PISTOL CARTRIDGES,/MANUFACTURED BY/THE VOLCANIC REPEATING ARMS CO.,/NEW HAVEN, CONN.". The cartridges themselves are .41 caliber and .67 inches long and have seven grooves and brass bases. The tin is mostly full and contains approximately 180 rounds in two layers (estimated as the top layer was not removed). Very similar tins and labels are shown on pages 48 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis and Rutter. These cartridges are among the first self-contained cartridges and were integral in the evolution of firearms ammunition and of course the famous lever action firearms they were designed for.

Class: Other

Very fine, showing some areas of tarnish on the exterior of the tin. The label is complete and fully legible with a few areas of discoloration. Some of the ammunition has ruptured, however, the vast majority appear to be solid. A rare opportunity to own a nearly complete tin of this highly sought after ammunition!Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.

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S&W Lever Action Repeating Pistol-Carbine with Detachable Stock

Lot # 12 (Sale Order: 12 of 637)      

Extremely Rare Documented Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Lever Action Repeating Pistol-Carbine with Detachable Stock

This factory deluxe engraved Smith & Wesson Lever Action Pistol-Carbine was manufactured by S&W as a display piece. This is one of six pistol-carbines manufactured by S&W and one of only two pistol-carbines known to collectors. This carbine, serial number "2" is extensively illustrated and described on pages 35-36 of "VOLCANIC FIREARMS" by Edmund Lewis and Stephen Rutter. The pistol-carbine has a Type III frame which lacks the hump behind the hammer found on earlier S&W frames and 16 1/2-inch full-octagon barrel with integral magazine. The barrel has a crowned muzzle, rounded T-bar spring, full rib, small clam-shell shaped follower and dove-tail mounted front sight. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "PATENT/FEB. 14. 1854", "SMITH & WESSON/NORWICH. CT." and "CAST-STEEL" in three blocks. The receiver has a sporting style rear sight with elevation wheel, lever with finger spur and single lever spring screw. The hammer has fine hand-cut knurling on the spur. The serial number "2" is stamped on the left side of the frame beneath the grip. The two-piece, flared butt, rosewood, grips have a high polish piano finish. "2" is stamped on the inside of both grips. The detachable carbine stock is attached to the pistol by lug that fits a hole in the back strap and is secured by a thumb-wheel on the pistol butt. The stock is highly figured rosewood with a piano finish and crescent steel buttplate. The top and sides of the barrel, sides and top of the receiver, sideplates, cartridge elevator, back strap, top of the hammer, bottom of the lever, stock yoke and buttplate are engraved with detailed scroll and feather motifs. The barrel is blued and the receiver is silver-plated. The hammer, trigger, lever, stock yoke and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The description in VOLCANIC FIREARMS states this pistol-carbine was acquired from the Wesson family by sporting goods dealer Abercrombie & Fitch of New York City and were purchased by Allen S. Kelly.

Class: Antique

Very fine. This extremely rare pistol-carbine is all original and retains 80% of the blue and silver-plated finish. The barrel/magazine retains 90% of the blue finish with crisp engraving. The S&W markings on the top flat are clear. The front sight blade is broken and the barrel cap has a 2 inch crack on the left and top flats. The delicate silver-plated finish on the receiver is frosted with tarnish and scattered age discoloration but remains 70% intact. The fine scrollwork engraving on the receiver and sideplates is crisp. The rear sight has a dark patina with traces of fire blue finish. The case colors on the hammer, trigger, lever, stock yoke and buttplate have aged to a smooth, mottled, gray-brown patina. The grips retain 80% of the piano finish with some scattered flaking and shallow handling marks. The highly figured rosewood stock is in very fine condition and retains 90% of the piano finish with a few scattered and very insignificant storage marks. Typical minor bolt adjustment needed. This is an extremely rare and very well documented display grade Smith & Wesson Lever Action Repeating Pistol-Carbine with detachable stock. This unique pistol-carbine would be a standout piece in the finest collection of historic American firearms. Provenance: Wesson family, Abercrombie & Fitch, Alan S. Kelley, Calhoun Norton and Dr. Gerald Klaz.

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Antique Winchester Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

Lot # 13 (Sale Order: 13 of 637)      

Very Fine, Rare Antique Winchester Model 1887 Semi-Deluxe Lever Action Shotgun

Manufactured in 1888. Single bead sight on the barrel with a 2 5/8 inch chamber and choke measuring modified. Standard "WRACO" monogram on the left side of the casehardened receiver. The bottom of the barrel and top of the breech block have British proofs, and the lower tang is marked "722" under the highly figured checkered pistol grip stock. Smooth two-piece slab forend and checkered pistol grip stock with checkered iron buttplate and 13 inch length of pull.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 70% original blue and 60% plus vivid casehardened finishes with the balance mostly a grey patina, some light brown speckling on the receiver and some scattered light pitting. The wood is fine with minor dings and scratches throughout, a moderate chip at the toe (mainly in the buttplate), and mostly well-defined checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket

Lot # 14 (Sale Order: 14 of 637)      

Exceptional Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket

Manufactured in 1903 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edge. Front sight has a base that serves as a bayonet lug, and the rear sight is a folding ladder. The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." The model marking is on the upper tang. The straight grip stock is fitted with a trapdoor buttplate containing a five-piece cleaning rod.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Excellent, retaining 97% original blue finish with some scattered flaking turned brown and some scattered pitting. 98% original niter blue remains on the loading gate. 98% vivid original case colors remain on the hammer, lever and buttplate. 99% bright original nitre blue remaining on the loading gate. There is a series of tool-like marks at the middle barrel band, otherwise the wood is also excellent with some scattered minor dings. Mechanically excellent.

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Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Co. Henry Rifle

Lot # 15 (Sale Order: 15 of 637)      

Scarce Deluxe, First Model Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

This deluxe, factory engraved Henry rifle was manufactured in late 1862. The brass receiver and crescent buttplate are silver-plated, and the barrel and integral 15-shot magazine are blue. The stock is nicely figured walnut with a high polish piano finish. The early style receiver has the rear sight mounted in the alternate sight dovetail behind the ejection port. The folding leaf rear sight has rounded top with 900 yard center notch. The rear sight dovetail on the barrel is filled with a factory blank. The gold-plated, nickel-silver front sight blade is the early, half-moon pattern. The magazine has the early style, small diameter follower, and the receiver has the narrow, straight follower cut. The buttplate has the early style, rounded heel and is fitted with a hinged trapdoor. The serial number, "1443," is stamped on the top barrel flat, left side of the lower tang beneath the stock, in the upper receiver tang inlet of the stock and on the inside of the buttplate below the trap. The hand-fitted buttplate and tang screws are all stamped with the rifle serial number. All of the visible serial numbers match. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the first style legend: "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN. ARMS. CO. NEWHAVEN. CT." in two-lines. The early style legend utilizes seriffed letters except for the second "NEWHAVEN" which is stamped in block letters. The rifle is not fitted with the sling swivel and loop for sling hook which were special order items on early production Henry rifles. The receiver and buttplate heel are decorated in the early style of New Haven Arms Co. factory engraving. The engraving features large scrollwork with large curls with leaf and scroll terminals on a punch dot background. The early factory engraved Henry rifles did not have the large flower petal design on the forward receiver panels found on later production rifles with factory engraving. The engraving on the right side of the receiver is nearly identical to Henry rifle serial number 1441 illustrated and described on page 15 of "THE BOOK OF WINCHESTER ENGRAVING" by R.L. Wilson. The left side of the receiver has the same scroll style as the right side with the addition of a geometric pattern engraved between the side plate scrolls. Henry rifle serial number 1570 has similar engraving and is illustrated on page 19 of "THE BOOK OF WINCHESTER ENGRAVING". Most factory engraving on Henry rifles is believed to have been executed by Samuel J. Hoggson. In November 1862, the retail price for a Henry rifle was $42.00 and silver-plating and engraving were an additional $10.00. During the first year of production, the New Haven Arms Co. manufactured a significant number of deluxe factory engraved Henry rifles. Some of these deluxe rifles were intended for presentation to promote the new Henry rifle. As sales increased toward the end of 1862, the New Haven Arms Co. produced fewer deluxe engraved rifles like this example and concentrated on the production of standard Henry rifles for sale to individual Federal soldiers who recognized the firepower offered by a repeating rifle with a 15-shot magazine. Deluxe, factory engraved Henry rifles are scarce.

Class: Antique

Fine. The rifle retains nearly 60% of the original silver-plated finish on the frame. The barrel/magazine has a plum brown patina with strong traces of the bright original blue finish which is in protected areas. The surfaces of the barrel/magazine are smooth with no pitting and minimal handling marks. The barrel edges are sharp. The serial number and New Haven Arms legend are crisp. Significant amounts of the delicate silver-plated finish is present on the sides and protected areas of the receiver. Traces of silver plating remain on protected areas of the buttplate. The plating has tarnished with age and has a blue tint. The well executed factory engraving remains crisp and deep; the only significant wear is on the heel of the buttplate. The casehardened, hammer, trigger and lever have a dark brown patina. The lever was repaired/refinished during the period of usage matches the finish on the hammer and trigger very well. The nicely figured walnut stock is in very fine condition and retains most of the high polish piano finish. The stock has a few minor dents and scratches. This handling wear is located primarily on the lower left side and bottom of the stock. This is an outstanding example of a first year production Henry lever action rifle with early features and very desirable deluxe silver-plated finish and factory engraving. Provenance: The Gateway Collection.

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Presentation Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Rifle

Lot # 16 (Sale Order: 16 of 637)      

Documented Presentation Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Inscribed to a Preeminent Twin Cities Milling Engineer with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1887, this is a high condition, presentation deluxe Model 1873 rifle with a third model frame consisting of a dust cover rail integral to the receiver and dust cover featuring serrated finger grip on the rear. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with an octagon barrel in .38 caliber, casehardened receiver, plain trigger and checkered pistol grip stock when received in the warehouse on July 28, 1887 and shipped the next day. The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "38 WCF" at the breech and is fitted with a blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The left side plate has a presentation inscription which reads, "Wm de La Barre/from/T.R. Butman." The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The lower tang has the serial number. The cartridge elevator is marked "38 CAL." The barrel, magazine tube and dust cover are blue, the loading gate is nitre blue, and the remaining surfaces are casehardened. Mounted on deluxe, highly figured and checkered walnut forearm and pistol grip stock. The pistol grip has an ebony insert, and the crescent buttplate has a trapdoor (cleaning rod not included). This rifle is documented in the included March 2003 Minnesota Weapons Collectors Association Official Publication, Volume 16, Issue 1 on pages 16-19 and comes with much of noted collector Mike Stanton's research that was referenced in the MWCA article. Born in Vienna, Austria, civil engineer William de la Barre (1848/49-1936) was the fourth of twelve children, joined the Austrian Navy at age 16 but due to illness was quickly discharged after 13 months of service and emigrated to America with his father, mother and 7 siblings (4 had died) where they eventually settled in Philadelphia. De la Barre ran engines in a machine shop, brick factory, brewery and sheet iron works before being hired by Morris Trasker & Co., a manufacturer of gas, steam and water pipes and machinery for sugar refineries and gas works, where his career flourished. In 1873, he represented the City of Philadelphia at the International Exhibition held in Vienna and, upon his return from the Old Country, received a flurry of demands for his services to develop gas works machinery and plants in numerous American cities. Eventually, he channeled his talents towards the prevention of deadly flour dust mill explosions through the introduction and improvement of Behan's millstone exhaust system and the management of the milling industry in and around the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. He was instrumental in the development of hydroelectric power for the Pillsbury-Washburn Flour Mills Company, Ltd. Simply put, de la Barre revolutionized Minnesota's milling industry. At the time of his death in 1936, he was lauded as "a recognized leader in the sciences of the flour milling industry" and "the most useful figure in [the Twin Cities area] from the date of his arrival in the year 1878." Much of the technology found in today's milling industry can still trace its roots to the designs de la Barre implemented in the 1880s. Mike Stanton acquired this rifle in the summer of 1988 and unfortunately was unable to identify T.R. Butman before his death in 2002. We, however, have found a T.R. Butman (?-1909) who was the president of boiler works at Butman Engineering Co. of Chicago, Illinois, and inventor. His exact relationship to de la Barre, if any, remains unknown at the time of this writing.

Class: Antique

Very fine, with 85% original color casehardened receiver and 98% original nitre polish blue remaining on the dust cover. The loading gate retains 98% original nitre blue finish. The remaining surfaces retain 95% plus vibrant original case colors. The barrel and magazine tube retains 98% refinished blue finish. The deluxe highly figured buttstock is also very fine with minor handling marks, crisp checkering overall and most of the original finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. This Model 1873 with its presentation inscription to a distinguished civil engineer would be difficult to replace and is worthy of most advanced Winchester or antiquarian collections! A must have for the serious Winchester collector!

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New Haven Arms Company Lever Action No. 2 Navy Pistol

Lot # 17 (Sale Order: 17 of 637)      

Exceptional New Haven Arms Company Lever Action No. 2 Navy Pistol

This Lever Action No. 2 Navy pistol with eight-inch barrel was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company c. 1858 using a Volcanic Repeating Arms Company barrel. The pistol has a blued barrel with integral ten-shot magazine, brass frame, casehardened hammer and fire blue T-bar spring, rear sight, cartridge elevator, bolt and loading lever. The two piece walnut grips have a high polish piano finish. The Type I, barrel has the full rib found on earlier Volcanic Repeating Arms Company firearms. The barrel has a crowned muzzle, rounded T-bar spring and nickel-silver, cone-shaped, front sight. The magazine has an iron, clam-shell shaped follower. The distinctive brass frame has a dove-tail mounted, fixed, rear sight. The ejection port has a small circular cut-out on the front face and a larger, circular, cut-out on the rear face. The hammer has coarse knurling on the spur. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "REPEATING ARMS COMPANY/PATENT NEW HAVEN CONN FEB.14. 1854" in two lines. Traces of the earlier "THE VOLCANIC" markings are visible above the lower two lines. The serial number is stamped on the right side of the butt beneath the grips, on the inside of both grips and on the right side of the loading lever. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Class: Antique

Excellent. This pistol is all original and shows only very limited handling and storage wear. The barrel has 90% of the original blue finish. The legend on the top flat is crisp. The exceptional receiver has a beautiful, untouched patina with perfect sideplate joints with only slight handling marks. Significant amounts of the delicate fire blue finish are present on the T-bar spring, cartridge elevator, bolt, rear sight and loading lever. The trigger and hammer have 90% plus of the muted case colors. The grips are both in excellent overall condition and retain 90% plus of the original piano finish. The only significant wear is some minor scuff marks on the lower edge of the right grip. This is an exceptional example of a New Haven Arms Company Lever Action No. 2 Navy pistol. It would be difficult to find a better example of this scarce and historically significant pistol. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.

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Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. No. 2 Volcanic Cartridge Box

Lot # 18 (Sale Order: 18 of 637)      

Exceptionally Rare and Desirable Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. No. 2 Volcanic Cartridge Box

This exceptionally rare box originally contained 200 No. 2 Volcanic cartridges (no cartridges included). It is made of plain cardboard with a green label on the lid with black text which reads: "200 No. 2/PISTOL CARTRIDGES,/MANUFACTURED BY/The Volcanic Repeating Arms Co.,/NEW HAVEN Conn." followed by the standard warning message and "Patented August 8th, 1854." Similar box pictured and described on page 48 of the book "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis and Rutter. The book identifies the "very rare and possibly unique" ammo box lid as having a decorative "Henry-like" border.

Class: Other

Very fine, showing only some minor wear/storage evidence mostly around the edges and one area of repair along a bottom edge. The label is complete and legible.Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.

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Early Winchester Factory Cartridge Display

Lot # 19 (Sale Order: 19 of 637)      

Rare Early Winchester Factory Cartridge Display Bullet Board

This is an early cartridge board issued by Winchester (collectors refer to it as the Model 1884). It is the first to use what will later become the "classic" design by using green lithograph paper with the bullet information in gold print and the Winchester shells mounted directly to the board. The cartridges are in an inverted "V" with cartridges in an arch on each side, a circle of cartridges in the middle and shotgun shells and six cap tins on the lower portion. The back side of the original paper backing is correctly marked "COMPLIMENTS OF WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./NEW HAVEN, CONN" in the center. The display is mounted in a grooved wood frame with interior ornamental floral border finished in gold. The display area dimensions are approximately 38 1/4 x 26 1/2 inches and the overall dimensions are approximately 46 1/4 x 35 inches. These early boards are seldom seen in any condition and rarely offered for sale in such fine condition!

Class: Other

Fine overall, with some mild wear, mild fading, some scattered minor spotting/staining, and a small hole towards the right middle. The frame is also fine with minor handling/storage marks scattered throughout, some light wear, and retaining most of the gold on the ornamented border. Only a small piece of the cutaway paper shotgun cartridge remains, otherwise all of the cartridges are present and show mostly minimal wear. An extraordinary piece to take the display of your Winchester collection to the next level!

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Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 20 (Sale Order: 20 of 637)      

Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in .45-90

This Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle was manufactured by the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. c. 1891. This deluxe rifle has the very desirable color casehardened receiver and deluxe, highly figured, fancy grade walnut forearm and pistol grip stock with Winchester "Style H" checkering. The stock has an ebony inlay on the pistol grip and crescent steel buttplate. A special order sling swivel is mounted on the stock and an eyelet for a detachable sling swivel is mounted on the forearm cap. Left side of tang marked "373 XX", buttstock inlet marked "373", and replaced buttplate marked "252". The rifle has a 26-inch octagon barrel with full-length magazine. The barrel has a dovetail mounted sporting front sight with nickel-silver blade and buckhorn, sporting style, rear sight with serrated edges and screw-adjustable center-piece. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." ahead of the rear sight. The caliber: "45-90 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886-". The 1884/1885 patent dates are roll-stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger, and the serial number is roll-stamped in script numerals between the tang screws. The barrel and magazine tube have a blue finish. The bolt, loading gate, trigger and sling swivel are bright blue. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The fancy grade walnut stock and forearm have a high polish piano finish.

Class: Antique

Fine. The barrel retains 70% of the blue finish with sharp markings. The magazine band shows light edge wear, and the blue on the lightly scratched magazine tube has a mottled plum patina that shows dark pitting on the bottom forward portion. The bolt retains 95% of the bright blue finish. 80% of the bright blue finish is present on the loading gate. The trigger has nearly all of the blue finish. The case colors on the receiver have faded to a mottled silver-gray; the receiver has 30% of the faded case colors with stronger colors on the right side. The forearm cap retains 70% of the original case colors. Most of the case colors are present on the hammer, and the lever has 50% of the case colors. The crescent buttplate retains 30% of the silvered case colors. The fancy grade walnut stock and forearm are in excellent condition and retain most of the high gloss piano finish. Wear is limited to a few scattered and very insignificant handling marks. The checkered panels on the stock and forearm are in very fine-excellent condition; wear is limited to two small bruises and some light scratches on the left side of the stock wrist. This is a fine example of a desirable Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle with color casehardened receiver and checkered, fancy grade forearm and pistol grip stock.Provenance: The Corner Stone Collection.

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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot # 21 (Sale Order: 21 of 637)      

Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Winchester Model 1892 Carbine manufactured in 1925. The carbine has a 20-inch round barrel chambered for the .25-20 W.C.F. cartridge, full length magazine and staple mounted saddle ring on the left side of the receiver. The barrel has a blued steel front sight on a steel block base and a folding leaf rear sight graduated to 200 yards ("20"). The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The carbine has a full blue finish. The straight grain American walnut stock and forearm are oil finished. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 92-WINCHESTER- 25-20W.C.F.-/-TRADE MARK-" in two lines below the rear sight. The opposite side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "MADE IN U.S.A WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./-NEW HAVEN. CONN,-" in two lines. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: " WINCHESTER/TRADE MARK/MADE IN U.S.A." The oval Winchester "W/P" proofmark is stamped on the top of the barrel and receiver. The serial number is stamped across the bottom of the receiver.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The carbine is all original and retains 85% of the blue finish overall. 95% of the original blue is present on the barrel and magazine. The barrel band has half of the original blue finish remaining. The receiver retains 75% of the original finish with flaking of the blue visible on the bottom and edges and some scattered age discoloration. The left side of the receiver has the usual scuff marks caused by contact with the saddle ring. The hammer and trigger retain nearly all of the blue finish, and the lever has some scattered edge wear. The buttplate has the usual contact wear and retains 70% of the blue finish. The barrel and receiver markings are crisp. The stock and forearm are both excellent with minimal handling wear and retain nearly all of the original oil finish. This is a fine looking original example of a Winchester Model 1892 Saddle Ring Carbine.

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New York Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot # 22 (Sale Order: 22 of 637)      

Rare and Desirable Factory Engraved, Full Nickel Plate Special Order Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Manufactured in 1871. The lower tang is stamped with the serial number and "IC" a factory designation code for special engraving and plating . The receiver features a profuse foliate scrollwork on a punch dot background along with ornate inscription panels in the Ulrich style on both side plates and front flats, and simple border patterns. The buttplate tang is engraved to match. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line New Haven address/King's Improvement patent dates. The carbine also has the distinctive brass receiver, round barrel with full length magazine, barrel band with integral front sight, two leaf rear sight, saddle ring and staple on the left side of the frame, full nickel plating, and walnut stock with sling swivel filler and crescent brass buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included).

Class: Antique

Very good. The barrel, barrel bands and magazine tube retain 60% of the original nickel plating with the balance a mottled gray patina. The frame retains 90% of the nickel plating. The remaining surfaces retain 30% of the nickel plating. The engraving is crisp. The wood shows an old coat of applied protective varnish done some time ago with several repairs on both the forearm and stock and some scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A very rare configuration and often a hole in even the most advanced Winchester collections.

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Factory Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Carbine

Lot # 23 (Sale Order: 23 of 637)      

Extremely Rare Documented Special Order Factory Moorish Pattern Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Carbine with Extra Length Barrel and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1888 as a third model with a dust cover guide rail integral to the top of the receiver and dust cover featuring serrated finger grip on the rear. The accompanying factory letter lists this extremely rare special order carbine with a 26 inch barrel in .44 caliber, nickel plating, half magazine (7 cartridges), $25.00 engraving, "Moorish P steel scabbard" (not included), no rod in the buttstock compartment and angular bayonet (not included) when it was received in the warehouse on October 19, 1888 and shipped on October 26. A similar engraving on a Model 1873 musket is pictured and identified in George Madis' "The Winchester Book." Madis identified the engraving as the following: "This pattern of engraving is definitely Moorish, with geometric and scroll designs. One of the most intricate and involved patterns of engraving, copied from a Moorish design by the Winchester engravers" (page 138). The engraving is profusely featured on the receiver with flourishes of scrollwork on the barrel at the breech, hammer, dust cover, lever and buttplate tang. The Moorish engraving alone puts this Model 1873 in special class of Winchester rarities, but when the "very unusual pattern engraving" combines with other special order features (extra length barrel in 26 inches, full nickel plating, deluxe stock and half magazine), this carbine is in a class of its own! Any non-standard barrel length on a Winchester is considered rare, and Madis calculated that "one of each 600 [Model 1873s] had [a] barrel longer than standard." Madis continued, "Rifles in the 1873 model outnumber carbines by 20%, and only one of each 600 guns had plating. Only one of each 700 guns had engraving or inscriptions, and one of each 600 had special wood. These figures would be for all of the Model 73s produced. For carbines only, the ratios would be much higher." You are most certainly looking at an extremely rare Model 1873! The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking and is fitted with a block mounted iron front sight that serves as a lug for a socket bayonet and a folding ladder rear sight marked "1873" and graduated from 2 to 9. The cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." A saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. British proofs are present. The forearm and straight grip stock are highly figured deluxe walnut with checkering only on the stock wrist. The left side of the lower tang is marked "2245 XXX C." The assembly number "2245" is repeated on the stock inlet. The buttplate has the assembly number "3345" (possibly a factory error). Winchester's business ties to Morocco originated in 1885 when, as explained by author and Winchester family descendant Laura Trevelyan, "the Sultan of Morocco ordered 1,000 Model 1873 muskets and a million cartridges. A delegation of Moorish gunsmiths from Morocco visited New Haven to watch the manufacture of their muskets, and learn about maintenance and repair. Their visit caused much consternation among the little-traveled citizens of New Haven, who objected to the Moroccans cooking food on open fires while wearing long flowing robes." Cultural clashes aside, the factory Moorish pattern engraving on this carbine represents a time when the Winchester name was steadily becoming internationally known.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 95% of the period replated nickel finish with loss contained to the lever and buttplate. The engraving is generally crisp. The revarnished wood is very good with some minor dings and scratches and smooth checkering. Mechanically excellent. Here is your chance to acquire a true rarity in 19th century firearms collecting, a special order factory Moorish pattern engraved Winchester deluxe carbine with extra length barrel, that is surely missing from even the most advanced public or private collections!

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Roosevelt's African Safari Winchester Model 1886 Rifle

Lot # 24 (Sale Order: 24 of 637)      

Historically Significant "Africa 1909" Inscribed Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Takedown Lever Action .45-90 Rifle Reportedly Made for Theodore Roosevelt’s Famed 1909 African Safari with R. L. Wilson Letter

This is a very fine example of a Winchester Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle manufactured in 1909 in .45-90 W.C.F. caliber. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line address/patent dates ahead of the rear sight and "45-90 W.C.F." at the breech end. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1886/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK". The lower tang is marked with the 1884 and 1885 patent dates directly behind the trigger and the serial number to the rear. The upper right side of the receiver is period inscribed "Africa 1909". The barrel is equipped with a Lyman blade front sight with bead and two folding leaf Lyman rear sight. There is a Lyman peep sight mounted on the left side of the receiver. Half magazine tube, blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever, and mounted with deluxe, nicely figured checkered walnut forearm with metal end cap and pistol grip stock with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and checkered hard rubber Winchester buttplate. This rifle was carefully examined by noted firearms historian R.L. Wilson. In his accompanying letter Wilson concluded that this rifle “was manufactured by Winchester Repeating Arms Co. as a sample for testing by Theodore Roosevelt and his son Kermit in preparation for their great African safari, 1909-10. With numerous features that were of proven and known popularity with Theodore Roosevelt in his selection of Winchesters made to his order from models as early as the 1873 to the Model 1895. A few of which accompanied TR and his son Kermit on their great African safari in 1909-10.” As the author of three books on TR’s adventures in Africa, Wilson established himself as an expert on Winchesters used in TR’s African safaris. Months of preparation leading up to Roosevelt’s 1909-10 safari included testing rifles and ammunition as well as directly communicating with Winchester on the type of arms and cartridges best suited for the hunt. Wilson explained, “It was TR’s practice to add new Winchester to his battery of arms as improved models were introduced…The writer feels that the ‘African 1909’ Model 1886 was not only inspired by the quite extraordinary Roosevelt expedition, but that it was likely prepared at the gunmaker’s own expense, as an example of a special pattern of rifle which they would be willing to manufacture.” This rifle is without a doubt configured to TR’s own personal preferences. As noted by Wilson, a Model 1886 in .45-90 (serial number 9205) was TR’s primary sporting rifle from 1887 until 1894 and the half magazine, caliber, deluxe pistol grip stock and shotgun buttplate are features that are shared with this Model 1886. We also know that correspondence between then the vice president of Winchester Repeating Arms Co. Winchester Bennett, and TR’s most trusted White House Aide William Loeb documents Winchester’s extensive assistance and collaboration in the 1909-10 safari. In an August 10th dated letter, for example, Bennet referenced a .45-70 sample rifle made specifically for TR and recognized TR’s “attachment to the 1886 .45-70 rifle, and the confidence which you feel therein. Certainly for zebra, the smaller antelope, and much other African game, this arm out to be sufficient.” In the end, Roosevelt decided not to bring a .45-90 rifle to Africa, but, as Wilson noted, “the important fact is that he had certainly considered that caliber,” as confirmed by the aforementioned letter. A Model 1886 was selected for the trip but was chambered in .45-70. As Wilson finally concluded, “Having reviewed all of the research and writing of myself and others, the inescapable conclusion is that Serial No. 147840 was prepared by Winchester as a sample of a special rifle which would fit within the exacting parameters of TR’s choices for the great safari…[The rifle] represents not only the great safari of the Roosevelts, but the intense preparation that was necessary to make their 11-month expedition the enormous success father and son hand hoped and dreamed it to be. Without the cooperation of Winchester, the saga of that adventure would not have reached its potential.” The famed 1909-10 African hunting expedition was outfitted by the Smithsonian Institution and commenced shortly after the end of TR’s presidency in March 1909, returning in June 1910. The hunt also involved professional hunters such as Frederick Selous, Edward Buxton, R.J. Cuninghame and Leslie Tarlton. As one modern day commentator put it, “Essentially this was the biggest, most macho and testosterone-laden hunting junket on Earth.” About 11,400 animals, ranging from insects to elephants, were captured or killed, including 512 big game animals. It took the Smithsonian eight years to catalog the specimens.
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Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Extra Lightweight Rifle

Lot # 25 (Sale Order: 25 of 637)      

Documented Antique Winchester Model 1886 Extra Lightweight Takedown Short Rifle with Factory Letter

The included factory letter confirms the rifle was received and shipped on September 23, 1898, as part of order 6666 and confirms it shipped in the current caliber with an extra light 22 inch barrel, half magazine, plain trigger, takedown configuration, shotgun butt, and plain rubber buttplate. The rifle has a standard Lyman ramp front sight with white bead and buckhorn sporting style, rear sight with screw adjustable center insert. The barrel, magazine, forearm cap, bolt and receiver have the Winchester high polish blue finish. The hammer and loading lever are color casehardened. The loading gate is niter blue. The checkered hard rubber buttplate is embossed with the Winchester logo. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. "45-70," the Winchester oval "W/P" proofmark meaning it was returned to the factory after 1905, and "N.S" are stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The upper receiver tang is drilled and tapped for a peep sight and is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886." The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are stamped in two lines on the lower tang behind the trigger. The serial number is stamped in script behind the rear tang screw.

Class: Antique

Fine. The rifle retains 85% plus of the original blue and casehardened finish. With slightly thinning down the length of the barrel and limited circular scratches on the underside of the barrel just in front of the magazine. The takedown collar shows normal handling wear and a thinning blue finish. The bolt and receiver retain 85% of the original high polish blue finish with light high point wear and a few minor scratches. The niter blue loading gate has high point wear but retains 50% of the original nitre blue finish. The hammer retains 80% of the its case colors. Contact points on the loading lever have a silver patina. The shortened refinished buttstock is in very good condition. The forearm is fine. All of the markings are crisp. This is a solid representative example of a .45/70 Winchester Model 1886 Extra Lightweight Takedown Rifle.

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