Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2
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Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine
Lot # 1000 (Sale Order: 1 of 704)
Manufactured in 1924. The barrel is fitted with pinned blade front (replacement) and ladder rear sights and is marked with the two-line address/patent date information and "25-20 W.C.F." on the left side. A Winchester factory oval proof is stamped on the barrel and receiver at the breech, and a saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the frame. The upper tang is stamped with the three-line model/trademark information. The nicely figured straight grip stock is fitted with a carbine buttplate.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Very fine. The carbine retains 80% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The wood is excellent showing some scattered minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.
Winchester Model 94 Carbine with S.F.P.D. Police Marking
Lot # 1001 (Sale Order: 2 of 704)
Manufactured in 1931. The top of the barrel behind the rear sight is marked "S.F.P.D." (presumably the mark of the San Francisco, California Police Department). It features pinned blade and folding ladder sights, standard Winchester markings including the factory oval proof on the barrel and receiver and smooth forearm and straight grip stock with carbine buttplate.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Excellent. The carbine retains 95% plus original blue finish showing some minor scratches and some thinning to a gray. The wood is also excellent showing some minor pressure dents and scratches. Mechanically excellent.
New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic Lever Action No. 1 Pocket Pistol
Lot # 1002 (Sale Order: 3 of 704)
This is one of an estimated 850 No. 1 pocket pistols with a 3 1/2 inch barrel manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co., New Haven, Connecticut, in 1857/58. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, round finger hole in the lever and flat bottom grips. The pistol is fitted with a pinched blade front sight on the barrel and a notch rear sight at the rear of the frame. The top barrel flat is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854." The deletion of "VOLCANIC REPEATING ARMS CO." from the barrel legend occurred after Oliver Winchester assumed control of the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. and re-organized it as the New Haven Arms Company on May 1, 1857. The silver plated receiver is factory engraving with floral scrollwork on the sides and leaf pattern on top. The back strap features engraving entwining lines and scrollwork. Addition scrollwork is featured on the butt. Plating and engraving set back the customer an additional $1.50 over the standard $12.00 price. Both grip panels are numbered to the gun. Volcanic firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine introduced with Volcanic pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle and the Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles. Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company.
Class: Antique
Fine. The barrel retains 30% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. 85% plus of the original silver plating remains on the frame. The engraving is crisp. The grips are also fine with a series of dings on the bottom, high edge wear and a number of minor handling marks. Mechanically functions fine, although the breech bolt does not retract far enough back to cock the hammer.
Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. Lever Action Navy Pistol
Lot # 1003 (Sale Order: 4 of 704)
The Volcanic Repeating Arms Company manufactured an estimated 1,500 Navy style pistols with 8 inch barrels between July 1855 and April 1857 when Oliver Winchester took control of the company and re-organized it as the New Haven Arms Company. Volcanic pistols and carbines are revolutionary and historically significant firearms. The top barrel flat is stamped "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEWHAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854." These markings indicate the pistol was manufactured before Oliver Winchester reorganized the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. as the New Haven Arms Co. in 1857. Matching serial number appear on the left side of the grip frame, both grip panels, and lever. Includes as "EL GALLATIN & CO./MAKERS" marked California pattern floral tooled leather holster, circa 1860s when the company was in Denver, Colorado. Volcanic arms have a significant place in the development of American firearms. The combination of a self-contained cartridge, integral, multi-shot magazine and self-cocking lever action made Volcanic pistols and carbines the most advanced firearms of their day. The key features of the Volcanic pistols and carbines were refined and incorporated in the Henry rifle and Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles and carbines. Finally, shirt maker Oliver Winchester's investment in Volcanic Repeating Arms introduced him to the firearms business.
Class: Antique
Good. The barrel and magazine tube have a mottled gray patina with slight traces of original blue finish towards the muzzle. The frame has a dark mellow appearance. The grips are also good with cracks on both panels at the grip frame pin, small chip at the top (left panel), minor dings and scratches and high edge wear and high edge wear. The magazine spring is absent. Mechanically functions fine. The holster is very good with slight loose toe plug.
30 Bullet Holder for Volcanic or New Haven Arms Pistols
Lot # 1004 (Sale Order: 5 of 704)
Offered here is possibly a one-of-a-kind "30 Bullet Holder" for either a Volcanic Repeating Pistol of a New Haven Arms Repeating Pistol. The design appears to allow for rapid loading of .31 Volcanic cartridges via a sliding door that, when opened, would drop the cartridges down the pistol's magazine tube. It is constructed of six pewter tubes soldered together with one end closed off and the other acting as the aforementioned door. This may be the product of an ingenuitive period craftsman looking for a way to speed the reloading process of his own pistol.
Class: Other
Very good. Some oxidation present, mostly at the solder joints. The overall construction is strong with some areas of the joints less filled than others. The door is jammed shut and appears to have been repaired long ago. This would make a great addition to any Volcanic or New Haven Arms pistol collection!
Provenance: The Dr. Gerald Klaz Collection
Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle
Lot # 1005 (Sale Order: 6 of 704)
This is an exceptional example of a Winchester Model 1873 rifle with Cody Firearms Museum letter that states it was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on June 1, 1886. The letter describes the rifle's features as: "Octagon barrel" and "Plain trigger". The barrel, magazine, forearm cap and receiver are blued, and the hammer, lever, and crescent buttplate have a casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a polished oil finish. The rifle has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with serrated edges. The crescent steel buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor; the butt trap contains a four-piece jointed steel cleaning rod. The barrel is fitted with a Beach folding combination front sight and a sporting style rear sight with serrated edges. The receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped for a rear sight. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." "44 CAL" is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is stamped "44 CAL" in script letters. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "{ MODEL 1873 }" in fancy script with foliate devices at either end. The serial number "206190B" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the tang screw.
Class: Antique
Excellent. The rifle is all original and retains 95% of the original blue finish. The barrel, magazine and forearm cap have nearly all of the original blue finish with minimal wear. The receiver is excellent and retains 95% of blue finish; wear is limited to some minor areas on the edges of the side plates, receiver and a few very minor handling marks and several tiny spots of discoloration. The stock and forearm are also in excellent condition with 95% of the original polished oil finish remaining. Wear is limited to a few very minor handling marks on the stock and forearm. All of the markings are crisp. Mechanically excellent. This is an excellent example of a Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action rifle.
Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine
Lot # 1006 (Sale Order: 7 of 704)
The Model 1866 Winchester was essentially a Henry Rifle with improvements invented and patented by Winchester shop Superintendent Nelson King in 1866. The side loading gate, modified magazine and new walnut forearm eliminated the primary defects in the Henry rifle and created the lever action rifle associated with the name "Winchester". This carbine is a Fourth Model manufactured in 1883. The top of the barrel has the later barrel marking: "WINCHESTER'S - REPEATING - ARMS NEW HAVEN. CT. / KING'S- IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29 1866, OCT.16. 1860.", and the breech end and bottom of the cartridge carrier are absent of caliber markings. The 2 in the serial number is factory stamped over a number 1. The carbine features a square base blade sight integral to the barrel, folding carbine rear sight graduated to 900 yards and marked "1873" at the top, screw retained magazine cap, checkered hammer, staple and saddle ring attached to the left side of the frame, (with newer leather strap), and single screw upper tang. mounted with a smooth forearm secured with one barrel band and straight grip stock with crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included).
Class: Antique
Very fine. The barrel retains 50% plus of the original blue finish mainly in the protected areas and on the breech end, with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The hammer has vivid case colors visible on the face, the lever and buttplate have an attractive smooth dark patina. The exceptionally fine frame has a very pleasant aged patina. The loading gate retains 30% plus original nitre blue. The wood is also very fine showing some scattered minor dings and scratches. The barrel markings are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent.
ATF Exempted Winchester Model 1892 Trapper's Carbine
Lot # 1007 (Sale Order: 8 of 704)
Manufactured in 1927, this is a rare Trapper's Carbine with a 14 inch barrel. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms lists this carbine as being removed from the purview of the National Firearms Act and classified as a curio and relic and a copy of the ATF exemption letter is included. Standard markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. Fitted with pinned blade front and folding ladder rear sights, and a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Fine, retains 75% plus original blue on the receiver, half of the refinished blue on the barrel, including the replacement magazine, with the balance a smooth grey patina. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings and scratches and a hairline crack in the left of the wrist. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection
Cased Pair of Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 2 Pistols
Lot # 1008 (Sale Order: 9 of 704)
Exceptionally Rare Cased Pair of Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 2 Lever Action Pistols -A) Smith & Wesson No. 2 Lever Action Pistol
Offered here is an exceptionally rare cased pair of Smith & Wesson lever action repeating pistols (nos. 208 and 206), which are serialized only two digits apart. Fewer than 500 No. 2 large frame pistols were manufactured by S&W in 1854-55. Cased pair sets are nearly unheard of. Each pistol has an 8 inch part octagon barrel in .41 caliber, integral magazine, flat muzzle, pinched front sight, screw fastened "L" shaped "V" notch rear sight numbered to the respective gun, lever with finger spur and early round magazine follower. The top barrel flats are marked differently. Gun "A": "CAST STEEL" followed by "SMITH & WESSON/PATENT/NORWICH CT." Gun "B": "SMITH & WESSON CAST STEEL/PATENT/NORWICH CT." Each pistol has a factory scroll engraving on the sides of the receiver and leaf type patterns on top of the receiver and hammer with slight variations. On the "A" gun matching serial numbers appear on the left side of the grip frame, both grip panels (in pencil) and rear sight. On the "B" gun matching serial numbers appear on the left side of the grip frame, both grip panels (in pencil), rear sight and hammer. The partitioned case, although period, is not typical of S&W cases, houses both pistols and features two empty circular cut-outs in the center for currently absent accessories. 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.
Manufacture: Smith & Wesson
Model: Volcanic
BBL: 8 inch part octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 41 Volcanic
Finish: blue
Grips: rosewood
Serial Number: 208
Class: Antique
Condition: Very fine. The barrel and magazine retain 60% original blue finish with the balance thinning to a brown. The receiver retains 30% plus original blue with the balance between smooth brown and gray patinas. The engraving is crisp. 60% original case colors remain on the hammer. The very slightly undersized grips are fine with some scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically fine. The case is very good with minor handling/storage marks and faded lining with some stains and high spot wear. With fewer than 500 manufactured the No. 2 S&W Lever Action is a difficult pistol to obtain, let alone a cased pair, in any condition and is a must have for any antique American arms collector.
B) Smith & Wesson No. 2 Lever Action Pistol
As described in "A".
Manufacture: Smith & Wesson
Model: Volcanic
BBL: 8 inch part octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 41 Volcanic
Finish: blue
Grips: rosewood
Serial Number: 206
Class: Antique
Condition: Very fine. The barrel and magazine retain 60% original blue finish with the balance thinning to brown. The receiver retains strong amounts of original blue finish in and around the protected areas with the balance between smooth brown and gray patinas. A small patch of deep pitting is present on the left side of the receiver. The engraving is crisp. 70% original case colors remain on the hammer. The very slightly undersized grips are fine with a tiny chip near the bottom (left panel) and some minor handling marks. Mechanically fine.
Early Winchester Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine
Lot # 1009 (Sale Order: 10 of 704)
The accompanying factory letter states that this carbine was received in the warehouse on May 8, 1880 and shipped on May 11, 1880. The carbine has the Second Model receiver with dust cover guide secured by two screws, dust cover with serrated edges and exposed trigger pin. The carbine has a round barrel, full-length magazine tube and block-mounted front sight behind the barrel band. The front sight has a steel blade. The barrel has a dove-tail mounted, first pattern, two-leaf rear sight. A staple-mounted saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. The straight grain, black walnut stock and forearm have a varnish finish. The stock is fitted with a carbine style buttplate with sliding brass trap door. The forearm is secured by a single screw-fastened barrel band. The barrel, magazine, barrel bands receiver and dust cover have a blue finish and the hammer, loading lever and buttplate are color casehardened. The loading gate has a niter blue finish. London "crown/GP" and "crown/V" proof and inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel below the rear sight. A "crown/V" inspection mark is stamped on the top left side of the receiver. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped with the designation: "MODEL 1873" in fancy letters. The serial number is stamped in script numbers on the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw.
Class: Antique
Excellent. The carbine retains 90% plus of the original blue overall. Both barrel bands show moderate high point wear. The receiver has some slight contact wear present on the right side and dust cover. The side plates have some minor edge wear. The loading gate retains 98% of the bright original niter blue finish. The hammer, lever and buttplate retain 90% plus of the original casehardened finish. The barrel and receiver markings are crisp. The stock and forearm are both in very fine condition with minor handling and storage marks. Most of the original oil finish remains. This is an excellent example of a Second Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine. Early production Winchester Model 1873 Carbines were working firearms that saw hard use; examples like this carbine in excellent original condition are very hard to find!
Civil War New Haven Arms Henry Lever Action Rifle
Lot # 1010 (Sale Order: 11 of 704)
Manufactured in 1864. The barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Henry's patent date/New Haven address legend ahead of the rear sight and the serial number "6630" at the breech. The matching serial number appears on the barrel, left side of the lower tang, stock inlet, and buttplate. The rifle has the distinctive Henry brass receiver without the sight dovetail and brass buttplate. The left side of the stock has a sling swivel, and the left side of the barrel has a screw fastened ring for a sling hook. The buttstock is also fitted with a trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The Henry became very popular with Union soldiers who could get their hands on one, and experts believe that most Henry rifles manufactured between 1862 and 1865 were purchased by individual soldiers and saw some Civil War service. The Henry was particularly popular with Midwest troops, and many are believed to have been purchased with reenlistment bounties in 1864 by veterans who signed back on to see the war to its conclusion.
Class: Antique
Very good. The barrel and magazine have a mottled brown-gray patina. The receiver is also very good and has a mellow appearance. The refinished wood is very good with indentations on the right wrist, minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A solid representative example of a Civil War era New Haven Arms Henry Rifle.
Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Short Rifle
Lot # 1011 (Sale Order: 12 of 704)
Manufactured in 1891 with the standard two-line Winchester address and caliber marking on the top flat of the exceptionally scarce, special order, 21 inch barrel. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. Mounted with a smooth rifle-length forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The included copy of the factory letter confirms the current configuration including the special order barrel length when it was received at the warehouse on 22 June 1891 and shipped the next day with one other gun to order number 6042. The included copy of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center letter states that having searched their records, only five Model 1886 rifles were listed as leaving the factory with 21 inch barrels, with this example being one of the them, making this short rifle incredibly rare.
Class: Antique
Very good, showing mostly a bright grey patina overall with some scattered light surface pitting and traces of silvered case colors. The wood is also very good with some scattered minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A rare and desirable variation of the Winchester Model 1886!
British Retailer Marked Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Short Rifle
Lot # 1012 (Sale Order: 13 of 704)
The accompanying factory letter confirms the 22 inch 1/2 octagon barrel in .38 caliber, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, half magazine and shotgun buttplate. The rifle was received in the warehouse on September 23, 1880 and shipped the same day. The letter also lists an August 20, 1881 return date. The British retailer marking is stamped on the upper right and left barrel flats: "J. BURROW. 116 FISHERGATE PRESTON" on the right and "FOR 38 WINCHESTER 1873 SMOKELESS CARTRIDGES" on the left. The firm James Burrow was established in 1817. British proofs are present on the upper left barrel flat and left side of the receiver at the breech. The top barrel flat and the dust cover rail on the receiver are matted. The wavy type matting appears period non-factory as the barrel lacks the Winchester factory legend marking. ".38 CAL" is factory marked on the top barrel flat at the breech. The most of the screw heads have subsequently been embellished with floral blossom engraving. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight, a four leaf express rear sight graduated from 50 to 200 yards, and tang peep sight. The receiver is a second model with the dust cover rail secured by two screws (one screw absent) and a dust cover with serrations at the rear. The "X" deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The left side of the lower tang is marked "X" and "59."
Class: Antique
Very good. The barrel retains 40% period retailer refinished blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The receiver retains traces of silvered out original case colors in the protected areas and has some mild pitting. Touch up is present on the dust cover. Slight traces of original nitre blue remain on the loading gate. The refinished buttstock is good as it has been repaired in the grip area and has re-cut checkering. The forearm is very good with a splice repair (left side), absent chip (right side), a couple hairline cracks and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.
Special Order Antique Takedown Winchester Model 1894 Rifle
Lot # 1013 (Sale Order: 14 of 704)
This early special order Model 1894 was manufactured in 1896 and has a dizzying array of special order features making it a very rare and early Model 1894. The factory letter indicates the serial number was applied on September 23, 1896, and lists the rifle in .30 caliber in takedown configuration with a round barrel, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, Lyman combination rear and cup disk and Lyman combination front sights, casehardened finish, and matted barrel and lists the rifle as received in the warehouse on December 14, 1896, and as shipped the following day in order number 24371. The matted barrel and casehardened frame are especially rare special order features for a Model 1894. The Cody Firearms Museum based on factory records has previously indicated that there were only 155 casehardened Model 1894s, only 84 matted round barrel 1894s, and only 16 Model 1894s with both matted round barrels and casehardened finish. George Madis' "Rarity Table" for the Model 1894 prior to 1932 notes that only 1/3 of the rifles prior to serial number 700000 had round barrels, 1/3 of the Model 1894s were rifles, 1/800 had special wood, 1/725 had pistol grips, and 1/780 had carving or checkering. "Matted barrels were produced in very limited numbers" on special order Winchesters of all models per Madis. Taken all together, this rifle is clearly incredibly scarce, and the overall high condition combined with the rarity of the configuration certainly makes it an especially valuable Winchester. The takedown barrel has the very scarce early style checkered/knurled matting from the breech to the muzzle right over the factory two-line marking, a Lyman combination bead and globe front sight, three-leaf "express" rear sight with inlaid sight lines, and "30 W.C.F." marked on the left at the breech. The upper tang is equipped with a Lyman tang sight with aperture disk. The frame, hammer, lever, and buttplate are casehardened. The rifle is mounted with a highly figured walnut pistol grip stock and forearm with style H checkering and a Winchester hard rubber grip cap. The lower tang is marked with the assembly number “3354”, “XX”, “S”, “R” and “P”. The upper stock mortise, butt, and buttplate are marked with the assembly number “2484.” The variance in assembly markings plus the "XX," "S," and "R" markings suggest the rifle was originally meant to have a slightly lower grade of stock with a shotgun butt and a rubber buttplate. The buttstock was likely updated by the factory to match a new order. We have seen other Winchesters that were modified in house before being shipped, a few with multiple changes.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Very fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 95% of the original blue finish and have minor spots of wear, crisp matting, and oxidation spots visible on the takedown collar. The loading gate also retains 85% plus of the original niter blue finish. 90% of the original case colors remain. They are particularly vibrant on the sides of the frame and back of the buttplate, and the colors are darker on the hammer and lever. There are also scattered light patches of oxidation, mainly on the sides of the frame. The wood is also very fine and retains the vast majority of the original finish and crisp checkering and has beautiful flame figure, limited light scratches, and some dings concentrated on the forearm. Mechanically excellent. This is an exceptional Model 1894. The Winchester Model 1894 has been one of the most popular sporting arms in history, but early special order Model 1894s with rare features like matted barrels and casehardened frames are extremely difficult to find, particularly in very fine condition like this extraordinary rifle.
Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket in .38 W.C.F.
Lot # 1014 (Sale Order: 15 of 704)
Manufactured in 1895 as a Third Model musket with integral dust cover rail on the receiver and dust cover with serrations at the rear. This musket is incredibly scarce in that it left the factory chambered in .38 W.C.F. Out of the 196 Model 1873 muskets surveyed by Gordon for his book, "Winchester's New Model of 1873: A Tribute Volume II", this was the only one chambered in .38 W.C.F. This specific musket is listed by serial number and pictured on p. 489 of the previously mentioned book, where it is listed as "Rare 38 caliber". A survey of the approximately 163 Model 1873 muskets sold here at Rock Island Auction Company returns the same results, with this example being the only one we have ever catalogued in this caliber. Interestingly the receiver on this example does not have the normal "step-down" that is normally seen on Model 1873s chambered in .22, .32, and .38. It is possible this was done to conform more with the standard Model 1873 musket production, the vast majority of which were chambered in .44 W.C.F. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking with the scarce "38 W.C.F." caliber marking behind the rear sight at the breech and is confirmed on the bottom of the cartridge elevator, which is marked "38 CAL". The model designation and serial number are marked on the upper and lower tangs respectively. It is fitted a blade front sight on the bayonet lug and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 800 yards. It is mounted with the standard full length musket forearm with three barrel bands and a straight grip stock with a trapdoor carbine buttplate containing a five-piece cleaning rod. The included factory letter lists the musket by serial number, in .38 caliber, with an angular bayonet when received at the warehouse on 26 August 1895 and shipped the same day with two other arms to order number 17179. Includes a correct socket bayonet.
Class: Antique
Very good, retains 30% of the original blue finish and some faint case color patterns on the hammer with the balance having mostly faded to a plum-brown or grey patina. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood is also very good with a couple hairline cracks in the forearm and minor dings and scratches scattered throughout. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very good with minimal wear.
Colorado National Guard Marked Winchester Model 1895 Musket
Lot # 1015 (Sale Order: 16 of 704)
Manufactured in 1898 as one of approximately 400 with this special issue rollmark. These Model 1895 muskets were used extensively by the Colorado National Guard in suppressing miner's unions during the Colorado Labor Wars of 1903 and 1904. The right side of the receiver has the marking: "NATIONAL GUARD OF COLORADO" while the left has standard Winchester markings. The top of the receiver ring is marked "2C28". The musket lacks a caliber marking. "KSM" inspector mark is stamped on the lever, hammer, and buttplate. Pinned blade front sight, rear aperture sight graduated to 1,800 yards and marked "200," "300," "500," and "700" on the left side, bayonet lug on the front barrel band and musket stock with finger groove forearm, sling swivels and trapdoor buttplate. These Colorado National Guard Model 1895 muskets are seldom encountered in their original configuration and when found generally show hard use. Includes a Winchester marked bayonet, which is missing the scabbard, and a canvas cartridge belt. Includes a copy of a Winchester research request listing it as a Colorado National Guard musket that shipped on 2 April 1899 as well as a copy of a page from Springfield Research Service of U.S. Martial Arms Volume 4 listing the rifle by serial as in Colorado National Guard inventories in 1905.
Class: Antique
Very good, retains 40% of the original blue finish on the frame, traces of original case colors on the hammer and front band, and the barrel and front sight a smooth artificially enhanced grey patina with some scattered patches of light pitting/surface oxidation. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood is also very good with some minor dings and scratches scattered throughout. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very fine with minimal wear and the belt has mild wear and some staining.
Ulrich Exhibition Engraved Winchester Model 1873 Musket
Lot # 1016 (Sale Order: 17 of 704)
The factory letter lists this extraordinary Model 1873 as a musket with nickel and gilt finish, a fancy grade checkered stock, engraving, and angular and saber bayonet when received in the warehouse on February 20, 1885. The first shipping date is not listed until February 25, 1891, in order number 1141, and it was received again on June 16, 1891. These first dates are followed by numerous entries for shipping and receiving dates extending until December 21, 1904. A large series of entries is typical for Winchester's well-traveled factory exhibition pieces that were displayed at various World's Fairs, other international exhibitions, American exhibitions, and sometimes at important dealers. Only a limited number of notations were made indicating a few of the musket's destinations. "NY Ex 97," "NY Ex 98," "Buffalo," and "returned by W.S. Brown." The New York entries are for the American Institute Fair held annually in New York City, and the Buffalo notation almost certainly corresponds with the March 26 and November 27, 1901, receipt dates listed as those would be just before and just following the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. William Smith Brown was the president of W.S. Brown Sporting Goods Store and Gun Manufacturing Enterprise in Pittsburg, a major Winchester dealer that remained active after his death in 1928. Earlier in his life, he went looking for gold in the West and was in a fight with Native Americans alongside Buffalo Bill Cody. Brown was likely loaned the musket for a display at his store. Several of the destinations are not recorded in the records, but the dates provide strong evidence of where it went. The December 7, 1893, may be for the return of the gun from the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago from May to October 1893. The May 9 and December 29, 1898, dates closely align with the Trans-Mississippi Exposition held in Omaha from June to November 1898. The March 14, 1904, shipment and return on December 20, 1904, align with the Louisiana Purchase Exposition held in St. Louis from April to December 1904. This incredibly rare Model 1873 Musket was clearly a key display piece for the company and was likely seen by millions of potential customers between 1885 and 1904. As such, it is an important piece of Winchester Repeating Arms Co.'s colorful history. It was likely on display alongside the Deluxe Winchester Model 1886 from lot [BATD2-83] at multiple historic exhibitions in the 1890s. Both are noted as sent to the New York Expo in 1897 and to Buffalo, and they have matching received in warehouse dates for March 4, 1897, May 9, 1898, and December 29, 1898. In addition to the exciting exhibition history, the embellishment really sets it apart, especially given it is a musket, a variation rarely embellished at all let alone engraved by Master Engraver John Ulrich and finished with gold over nickel. The engraving consists of flourishes of scrollwork on the muzzle and breech sections of the barrel, on the sides of the barrel bands, the loading lever, dust cover, hammer, and buttplate tang, a detailed scene of a bull elk on the right side plate, a bear on a rocky outcrop with two birds flying above it on the left flat, and panels of scroll engraving on the balance of the action along with border designs. John Ulrich signature "J. ULRICH" in italic print is on the lower tang under the lever. John Ulrich (1850-1924) originally worked for Colt but spent the bulk of his career as an engraver for Winchester. This Model 1873 musket is pictured and described in the book "Winchester's New Model of 1873, Vol. I &II" by Gordon. The elk scene is similar to 1873 sn. 37862 shown on page 159 and 1876 sn. 45520 on page 161 of "Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson. The latter is especially significant because that rifle was owned by Theodore Roosevelt. A bear scene based on the same design is shown on Model 1886 sn. 150084 shown on page 166 and Model 1894s sn. 222901 and 308993 on page 172 of Wilson's book. The barrel has a military style "barleycorn" front sight that also serves as a bayonet lug for a socket bayonet, the two-line address and patent marking on top ahead of the musket pattern notch and folding ladder rear sight (graduated out to 900 yards), and "44/CAL" marked between the rear sight and receiver ring. The upper barrel band has a lug for mounting a saber bayonet. The upper tang has "MODEL. 1873." with foliate accents. The bottom of the cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL.," and the lower tang has the serial number and "A" between the lever latch and rear screw. The musket length forend and stock have panels of the checkering. The buttstock is a particularly high grade piece of walnut with beautiful figure. The left side
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Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1892 Takedown Rifle
Lot # 1017 (Sale Order: 18 of 704)
Manufactured in 1905 with the standard two-line address/patent date and "25-20 W.C.F." on the upper left flat to accommodate the factory matting that runs the length of the barrel on top. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model/trademark marking, and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. The left side of the lower tang has a scored out assembly number followed by "XX," and the left side of the upper tang is marked "20495 CF". The buttplate and stock under it are marked with the assembly number "12709". It is fitted with dovetailed Lyman beaded blade front, Lyman two-leaf rear, and tang mounted peep sights. Mounted with a finely figured, H-style checkered forearm and replacement pistol grip stock with a hard rubber grip cap and crescent buttplate. The included factory letter lists the serial number as applied on 24 January 1905 and that the rifle was chambered in .25-20 with a half octagon barrel, plain trigger, an oil finished checkered pistol grip stock, Lyman leaf and hunting front sights, Lyman cup disc rear sight, half magazine, takedown, matted barrel, screw eyes, and that it was sighted for smokeless powder when it was received at the warehouse on 6 February 1905 and shipped the next day to order number 260661.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Very fine, retains 85% plus original blue finish, 75% original case colors, and 95% original nitre blue on the loading gate with the balance a smooth grey patina. The wood is also very fine with some scattered light dings and scratches, crisp checkering overall, and retaining almost all the varnish. Mechanically excellent.
Winchester Model 1873 Rifle
Lot # 1019 (Sale Order: 19 of 704)
This is a fine example of a special order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle that was manufactured in 1888. The rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Records Office letter that describes the features as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 32, Barrel Type: Octagon, Barrel Length: 28 inches, Trigger: set", and "Casehardened". The letter states this rifle was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on November 30, 1888. The receiver has the "step" at the front found on .22, .32 and .38 caliber rifles. The barrel has a "Rocky Mountain" front sight with nickel silver blade and a buckhorn, sporting style rear sight with serrated edges and a screw-adjustable centerpiece. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The barrel, magazine, dust cover, loading gate and trigger are blued, and the forearm cap, receiver, hammer, lever, and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped "WINCHESTER'S REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A./-KING'S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." in two-lines ahead of the rear sight. "32 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. "32 CAL" is stamped in script letter across the brass cartridge elevator. The upper tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1873-" in fancy letters with foliate devices at either end. The serial number is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the tang screw.
Class: Antique
Fine. The rifle is all original and retains 40% of the blue and casehardened finishes. Most of the blue finish is present on the barrel with some light edge wear and scattered spots of age discoloration. The blue finish on the magazine tube has faded to a blue-gray patina. The dust cover and loading gate have about half of the nitre blue finish and significant amounts of blue remain on the trigger. There is light pitting on the upper edges of both side plates and along the upper edges of the receiver. The hammer and protected areas of the receiver and lever have strong case colors. The Winchester legend, caliber markings and model designation are sharp. The fancy grain walnut stock and forearm are in fine overall condition with a few light handling marks. The stock retains half of the original piano finish. The forearm shows more finish wear. This is an attractive example of a scarce special order Winchester Model 1873 rifle with very desirable casehardened receiver and extra length barrel.
North-West Mounted Police Winchester Model 1876 Carbine
Lot # 1020 (Sale Order: 20 of 704)
This is an interesting example of a Winchester Model 1876 carbine manufactured in 1882. It has a "N.W.M.P." banner stamped on the right side of the butt, indicating it was one of around 750 Model 1876 "Mountie" carbines purchased to arm the Canadian North-West Mounted Police in the 1880s, along with standard Winchester markings. This specific carbine is listed by serial number as ordered for the N.W.M.P. on p. 185 of "Arms & Accouterments of the Mounted Police" by Klancher. The carbine has the distinctive long forearm with a steel forearm tip and a single barrel band. It has a Second Model receiver with dust cover rail secured by screws and dust cover with serrated edges along with a stud mounted saddle ring. The barrel has a blade front sight on a stud and a folding ladder/notch rear sight graduated out to 1,000 yards. The straight grip stock has a steel carbine style buttplate. The included factory letter lists the carbine by serial number as well as "Barrel Shape: Large Shank", the special Spanish Meter sight, and that it was received at the warehouse on 16 May 1882 and shipped on 18 May 1882. The included Mounted Police Research & Consulting letter lists the carbine by serial number and shipment date, as well as being in the charge of Constable H. Powers of F Division, Prince Albert in 1887, and remained in that F Division until at least 7 April 1897.
Class: Antique
Good, showing mostly a smooth grey-brown patina with a few scattered patches of light pitting. The rear sight base is loose, with the threading worn out on the front screw. The refinished wood is also good with repaired wrist, some scattered minor dings and scratches, and a faint cartouche. Mechanically excellent.
Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle
Lot # 1021 (Sale Order: 21 of 704)
The accompanying factory letter confirms the special order 30 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock and casehardened frame. This deluxe Model 1873 was received in the warehouse on September 20, 1886 and shipped the next day. The letter also lists a March 11, 1890 return and repair date. The rifle is fitted with a blade front sight, an elevation adjustable rear sight and 62-B tang sight specifically made for the Model 1873. The top barrel flat has the two-line legend and "38 CAL." "38 CAL" is repeated on the cartridge elevator. The "XX" deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The left side of the lower tang is marked "972 XX 38." Assembly number "972" is repeated on the stock inlet.
Class: Antique
Very good, retaining streaks of original blue finish on the barrel and magazine and slight traces of original case colors on the receiver in the protected areas; otherwise the rifle has a mostly smooth dark brown patina. The lower tang has been repaired. The wood is also very good with a small chip repair on the forearm (left side), number of minor dings and scratches and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.
Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle in .22 Short
Lot # 1022 (Sale Order: 22 of 704)
Manufactured in 1885 as a Third Model, the barrel has the two-line address/King's patent marking and caliber marking at the breech and on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The receiver has the tapered takedown pin installed in the front. The upper tang is marked with the model designation, and the serial number is on the lower tang. Fitted with German silver blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Winchester manufactured approximately 19,552 Model 1873s in .22 short or .22 long between 1884 and 1904.
Class: Antique
Fine, retains 50% plus of the original blue finish and faint traces of the original case colors with the balance having thinned to mostly a plum-brown patina. The wood is very good with some scattered light dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.
Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1892 Short Rifle
Lot # 1023 (Sale Order: 23 of 704)
The accompanying factory letter confirms the 22 inch round barrel in .38 caliber, plain trigger and checkered pistol grip stock. This Model 1892 short rifle was received in the warehouse on August 20, 1900 and shipped the next day. The rifle is fitted with a gold combination Beach front sight, an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight and tang peep sight. The top of the barrel is stamped with the two-line legend ahead of the rear sight and "38 WCF" at the breech. The checkered forearm and replacement pistol grip stock (tang marked "7249,XXX) and back of buttstock marked "94" and "10212" with buttplate marked "10212") are deluxe walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and a crescent buttplate.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Fine, retaining 70% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. 30% original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. 40% original case colors remain on the hammer and lever. The replacement wood is fine with a number of minor dings and scratches and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.
London Retailer Marked Winchester Model 1873 Rifle
Lot # 1024 (Sale Order: 24 of 704)
The accompanying factory letter confirms the round barrel and plain trigger, received in warehouse on March 12, 1883, stock altered to shotgun butt on August 23, 1883 and shipped on September 24, 1883. The rifle has a third model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. The London retailer marking appears on the dust cover: "H. DICKINSON/2 UNION ROW MINORIES,/LONDON." Gunmaker Herbert Dickinson was first recorded in 1823 and ran a shop from 1872 to 1901 at 2 Union Row, Minories (see Brown's "British Gunmakers, Volume One-London," page 154). London proof marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel and receiver near the breech. Dovetail blade front sight and elevation adjustable rear sight on a barrel with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent marking. The rifle correctly lacks caliber markings. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The serial number is on the lower tang. The straight grip stock is fitted with a shotgun buttplate. The lower tang is stamped "3192 S."
Class: Antique
Fine, retaining 60% original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina and a mottled gray patina on the buttplate. There is some pitting mostly on the buttplate. 30% original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. 40% original case colors remain on the hammer and lever. The wood is also fine with a couple hairline stress cracks at the forend cap and minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.
Pre-World War II Winchester Model 94 Lever Action Rifle
Lot # 1025 (Sale Order: 25 of 704)
Manufactured in 1929. Beaded blade front sight along with both elevation adjustable notch and non- factory added fully adjustable peep rear sights. Standard Winchester markings on the receiver and barrel.
Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun
Very fine overall, retaining 90% plus original blue finish, mild handling evidence mostly on the receiver, and a few scattered small nicks and scratches in the exceptionally fine wood. Mechanically excellent.