Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2
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Description
Engraved and Relief Carved J.A. Maerckl Flintlock Sporting Rifle
Lot # 1250 (Sale Order: 251 of 581)
This fascinating rifle is signed "JA MAERCKL/A CARLSBAD" on the inside of the lock for Johan Adam Maerckl (surname also spelled in other variations such as Merckel) around 1690-1750. It was in the collection of the Grand Dukes of Saxe-Weimar at Schloss Ettersburg before being sold in 1927 (Lot 87, Plate IX, T.H. Fischer & E. Kahlert & Son, Luzern). In overall form, it is typical of the Germanic wheellock sporting rifles, but this rifle was built as a flintlock. It features a seven-groove rifled barrel with engraved muzzle, dovetailed silver blade front sight, dovetailed iron two-leaf rear sight with floral finial, waved line border engraving along the top flat, scene of a captive man and a lion near the breech, and another scene with a mounted man and lion. The bright iron tang is engraved with a classical figure in armor. The distinctive bronze lock features additional scenes of men on horseback battling lions, one being mauled by a lion. The forend cap, side nail plates, plates on the patchbox lid, cheekpiece edge plate, thumb rest, and buttplate are light horn, and the remaining mounts are brass with floral engraving and a mask on the trigger guard bow. The rifle is equipped with double set triggers. The stock features some carved scroll accents and nice molding.
Class: Antique
Fine with crisp engraving, attractive aged patina on the bronze, reinforcement on the lock plate, cracked tumbler stirrup, small repair at the trigger guard finial, and general minor overall wear. The stock is also fine and has some cracks and a splice repair at the middle ramrod pipe, crisp carving, and minor scratches and dings. Mechanically fine. Overall, a very attractive and distinctive flintlock rifle in rare wheellock form with bronze lock and barrel formerly from the famous collection of the Grand Dukes of Saxe-Weimar at Schloss Ettersburg.
Provenance: The Gewehrkammer of the Grand Dukes of Saxe-Weimar at Schloss Ettersburg; The Norman R. Blank Collection
Boxlock Flintlock Pistols with Snap Bayonets by Blake
Lot # 1251 (Sale Order: 252 of 581)
Desirable Pair Engraved and Silver Wire Inlaid Boxlock Flintlock Pistols with Snap Bayonets by Blake -A) Blake Flintlock Pistol
This very attractive pair of late 18th or early 19th century pistols features side folding "snap bayonets" on the right along with a pair of private proofs flanking a "G-B" maker's mark, "Blake London" signed on top of the barrels, floral and border engraving, a bird among the designs on the left side of each pistol, and elaborate silver wire, pin, and floral inlays on the grips. Includes a modern leather case.
Manufacture: British
Model: Boxlock
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 57
Finish: bright
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with attractive lightly aged patina on the brass, darker aged patina on the silver, gray and brown on the iron, and distinct engraving and markings. The grip is also fine with minor wear. Replacement ramrod. Mechanically fine.
B) Blake Flintlock Pistol
Manufacture: British
Model: Boxlock
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 57
Finish: bright
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with light aged patina on the brass, darker aged patina on the silver, mottled gray and brown on the iron, and distinct engraving and markings. The grip is also fine and has minor dents and scratches. Ramrod absent. Mechanically fine.
Pair of MacLeod Flintlock Scottish Highland Belt Pistols
Lot # 1252 (Sale Order: 253 of 581)
Pair of Engraved and Etched MacLeod Flintlock Scottish Highland Belt Pistols -A) MacLeod Flintlock Belt Pistol
Manufactured c. 1813-1820s. The locks are signed "MAC LEOD" and have burst, border, and scroll engraving. The multi-stage barrels and the metal stocks have scroll and foliate etching. Belt hooks are fitted on the left, and vent picks are threaded into the ramshorn butts.
Manufacture: British
Model: Flintlock Pistol
BBL: 7 3/4 inch round
Stock: metal
Gauge: 60
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Very good, with silver gray patina, worn but visible etching, distinct engraving, and generally mild wear. Mechanically fine.
B) MacLeod Flintlock Belt Pistol
Manufacture: British
Model: Flintlock Pistol
BBL: 7 3/4 inch round
Stock: metal
Gauge: 60
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Good with silver gray patina, worn but visible etching, distinct engraving, repaired and re-welded belt hook, and general mild wear. Mechanically needs work.
Pair of Engraved Richards Four-Barrel Tap-Action Boxlock Pistols
Lot # 1253 (Sale Order: 254 of 581)
Pair of Engraved Richards Four-Barrel Tap-Action Boxlock Flintlock Pistols -A) Richards Tap-Action Four-Barrel Boxlock Flintlock Pistol
Both pistols manufactured c. late 1700s to early 1800s, inscribed "RICHARDS" in an oval on the left side, with engraved floral and martial motifs, a sliding safety on top, Birmingham private proofs on the bottom, numbered barrels (1-3 on the "A" gun and 4-7 on the "B" gun), and a lever on the left for rotating between the four flash holes in relatively fast order especially compared to the single shot pistols that were most common in the era. All a shooter had to do was re-cock, close the frizzen, and switch pans to fire subsequent shots, with two shots for each firing.
Manufacture: Richards
Model: Flintlock Pistol
BBL: 3 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 36
Finish: bright
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine, with bright iron surfaces, a few small patches of minor surface freckling, and sharp markings and engraving. Grip is very fine with scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent.
B) Richards Tap-Action Four-Barrel Boxlock Flintlock Pistol
Reference "A" description.
Manufacture: Richards
Model: Flintlock Pistol
BBL: 3 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 36
Finish: bright
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine, with bright iron surfaces, a few small patches of minor surface freckling, a small patch of minor pitting visible on the left of the hammer, and sharp markings and engraving. Grip is also fine with scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent.
Pair of Wire Inlaid Flintlock Pocket Pistols
Lot # 1254 (Sale Order: 255 of 581)
Fine Pair of Unmarked Wire Inlaid Flintlock Pocket Pistols with Turn-Off Barrels -A) Flintlock Pocket Pistol
These pistols have no visible identifying markings but likely originated in France in the late 18th century to early 19th century. The smoothbore, canon-shaped barrels have studs on the bottom and turn off for reloading from the breech. The rounded locks have interesting rotating half-cock safeties. The furniture is also rounded and has some decorative work, and the pommel studs are gilded. The stocks have silver wire inlays at the breech.
Manufacture: Unknown
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 42
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with mostly silver gray patina, some hints of gilding, light pitting, and general mild wear. The refinished stock is also fine and has some small pieces of replaced wire inlay, a small chip at the nose of the lock, and light dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.
B) Flintlock Pocket Pistol
Manufacture: French
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 42
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with mostly silver gray patina, hints of gilding, light spotting and pitting, and general mild wear. The refinished stock is also fine and has some minor cracks, some wire inlay absent, and dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman
Pair of Forsyth Sliding Primer 17 Bore Officer's Pistols
Lot # 1255 (Sale Order: 256 of 581)
Scarce Engraved Pair of Forsyth Sliding Primer 17 Bore Officer's Pistols -A) Forsyth Sliding Primer Pistol
Reverend Alexander Forsyth was instrumental in the development of use of mercury fulminate as a replacement for flint and steel as an ignition source and the transition to percussion ignition. Forsyth's work was critical and innovative, but his self-priming systems were potentially dangerous since the primer reservoir could detonate. This pair of pistols is Forsyth's second design and are listed by serial numbers on page 60 of "Forsyth & Co.: Patent Gunmakers" by W. Keith Neal & D.H.L. Back as a "Pair of Single Barrel 17 Bore Pistols" owned by "N. Blank, USA." Unfortunately, some of the details listed in the book are incorrect, possibly confused with those of another pair. A letter from David Back to Norman Blank in June 1966 asking for details of "Forsyth weapons" in Blank's collection is included. The pistols use the second model of the sliding primer mechanism manufactured c. 1821-1828. Each of the smoothbore Damascus barrels has a bead front sight, "FORSYTH & CO. PATENT GUN MAKERS LONDON" signed on top, a "WF" maker's mark for William Fullerd flanked by London proof and view marks on the underside, and a casehardened breech plug with platinum inlaid band. A swivel mounted ramrod is fitted to each. The standing breeches each include a dovetailed notch rear sight and foliate engraving. The flat lock plates each are signed "FORSYTH & Co/PATENT" and have scroll and border engraving and a sliding safety. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are silver, and the remaining furniture is iron with scroll and border engraving. The stocks have checkered bag shaped butts. One pistol is numbered "3151" on the breech hook and the primer magazine and then "3150" on the inside of the lock, and the other is numbered "3150" on the breech hook and primer magazine and "3151" on the inside of the lock along with a "1" on several of the components.
Manufacture: Forsyth
Model: Sliding Primer Lock
BBL: 7 inch flat top round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 17 Bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: 3151
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with original case colors to the lock, breech, and standing breech; dark aged patina to the silver escutcheons, bright platinum band, brown patina and distinct Damascus patterns along the barrel, some minor oxidation, polished ramrod pipe and trigger guard, traces of blue finish on the inner surfaces of the trigger guard, and brown patina and a trace of original blue on the pommel cap. The engraving and markings are crisp. The stock is very good with moderate dents and scratches and otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically fine.
B) Forsyth Sliding Primer Pistol
See "A".
Manufacture: Forsyth
Model: Sliding Primer Lock
BBL: 7 inch flat top round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 17 Bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: 3150
Class: Antique
Condition: Fine with original case colors mainly on the breech plug and standing breech, mottled gray patina on the lock, dark aged patina on the silver escutcheons, bright platinum band, brown patina and distinct Damascus patterns along the barrel, some minor oxidation/pitting, polished pommel and trigger guard, and brown patina and traces of original blue on the entry pipe and inner surface of the trigger guard. The engraving and markings are crisp. The stock is very good with scattered dents and scratches and some wear to the checkering. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection
John Manton & Son Percussion Single Barrel Duck Shotgun
Lot # 1256 (Sale Order: 257 of 581)
This classic English percussion shotgun from the famous Manton family dates to c. 1840-1844 based on the serial number and is detailed on page 112 of "The Mantons: Gunmakers" by W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back where it is listed as a single barrel caplock shotgun with a 34 inch Charles Lancaster barrel (length including the breech plug, no "CL" barrel maker's mark present), and as from the Norman R. Blank Collection clearly indicating this fine sporting gun has been tucked away in Blank's collection since at least 1966. The barrel is listed as 6 bore in the book and is marked "6" by the proofs, but it is actually measures 8 bore (.83 caliber) as noted in Blank's records at the muzzle. The smoothbore Damascus barrel has a bead front sight, multiple bands at the transition point, and "John Manton & Son Dover Street London" signed on top in script with exaggerated tails on many of the first letters on the octagonal to polygonal breech section. The breech plug has scroll engraving and a pierced platinum plug. The standing breech is engraved with a flying duck and scroll and floral patterns. The lock has scroll and border engraving, a scene with a duck and foliage and the tiny and very rare engraver's signature "SHORMAN SC" just below and with the gun maker's signature "JNO. MANTON & SON PATENT" towards the front. The inside of the lock is initialed "SM" and serial numbered. The presence of an engraver's signature is extremely rare, and an engraver by the name of John W. Shorman is recorded in the Post Office London Directory from 1814 until 1847 at 6 Great Pulteney Street, Golden Square, London. The furniture also featured primarily scroll and floral engraving. The trigger guard bow displays a scene of a brace of floating ducks, and the trigger plate finial is a stylized pineapple motif. A scene with the brace of ducks is also featured on the heel tang. The barrel, stock, lock, and trigger guard all have the matching serial number. The stock has a dark horn forend cap, silver wedge and wrist escutcheons, a checkered wrist, and a 14 1/4 inch length of pull.
Class: Antique
Fine with 85% plus of the period re-browned finish and distinct twist patterns along the barrel, very light flash pitting at the breech, strong original case colors on the lock and standing breech, dark aged patina on the silver, and over half of the original blue finish remaining on the furniture with loss mainly on the buttplate. Neck of hammer cracked. The markings and engraving remain crisp. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, some bruising on the edges of the forend which is also chipped and has a repaired crack on the left side, and mild scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection
John Dickson & Son 4 Bore Percussion Dangerous Game Rifle
Lot # 1257 (Sale Order: 258 of 581)
This massive hunting rifle was sold on July 14, 1859, per p. 240 of "John Dickson & Son: The Round Action Gunmaker" by Donald Dallas and features an octagonal Damascus barrel with four-groove rifling, matted top flat, beaded blade front sight, three-leaf rear sight with gold sight lines graduated out to 200 yards, "JOHN DICKSON & SON" signed on the upper left flat, "63 PRINCES STREET EDINBURGH" on the upper right flat, scroll engraved breech plug with platinum plug, engraved standing breech, flat lock signed "JOHN DICKSON & SON" with scroll engraving and sliding safety ahead of the hammer, checkered trigger, running stag scene engraved on the trigger guard bow, standing stag scenes on the heel tang and patchbox lid, dark horn forend cap, silver reinforcement plates on the stock, silver oval wrist escutcheon, inlet for the shield shaped escutcheon on the bottom ahead of the sling stud, sling eye on the second ramrod pipe, wood ramrod with horn handle, checkered wrist and forend, oval cheekpiece, and checkered buttplate. Acquired from W. Keith Neal in February 1963.
Class: Antique
Good with fading original brown finish and Damascus patterns along the barrel mixed with smooth gray and brown patina, dark aged patina on the silver, 60% original blue on the trigger guard silver-gray patina on the lock and balance of the mounts, detached stock escutcheon, some cracks, scrapes, and stains on the wood; distinct checkering and engraving, and moderate overall wear. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: The W. Keith Neal Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection
Engraved J. Purdey Percussion Double Rifle
Lot # 1258 (Sale Order: 259 of 581)
This highly attractive, svelte percussion double rifle from the legendary maker James Purdey was manufactured in 1844. The flat, solid rib is equipped with a dovetailed beaded blade front sight, a 50 yard standing notch rear sight with a platinum sight line, and a 100 yard folding leaf with a platinum sight line and is signed "J. PURDEY. 314 1/2 OXFORD STREET. LONDON." on the breech section. The breech plugs have platinum bands and plugs. The underside of the barrels also have London proof and view marks flanking "JP". The matching serial number "3849" is marked on underside of each barrel and breech hook in addition to the trigger guard tang. The flat locks have scroll engraving and "PURDEY" signed below the sliding safeties. The standing breech and furniture also feature scroll and floral engraving. The half-length stock has checkering on the forend and wrist, a round patchbox, steel "shotgun" buttplate, and a sling stud. The corresponding sling eye is on the second ramrod ferrule.
Class: Antique
Very good with distinct Damascus patterns mixed with an older re-browned finish and gray and brown patina along the barrels, light original case colors, strong original blue finish in some of the protected areas, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, distinct engraving and markings, and mild overall wear. The refinished stock is also very good and has crisp checkering, attractive figure, glued chips at the toe, and light scratches. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman
Engraved Joseph Bourne & Son Double Barrel "Howdah Pistol"
Lot # 1259 (Sale Order: 260 of 581)
Manufactured c. 1870s by Joseph Bourne & Son of Birmingham. The rifled Damascus barrels have a flat solid rib with a brass bead front sight, "JOSEPH BOURNE & SON MAKERS" signed on top followed by a flourish of scroll engraving, and "JM" and Birmingham black powder proofs on the underside. The water table is also twice struck with the Birmingham proof. The back action locks are each signed "BOURNE & SON", and the serial number is on the trigger guard tang. Scroll and border engraved throughout. The forearm and stock are checkered, the latter has a silver oval inlay, and the former has a horn tip inlay.
Class: Antique
Very fine with nearly all of the professionally refinished brown, casehardened, and blue finish remaining and minor wear. The wood is also very fine with crisp checkering and minor edge wear. The right lock will not hold in half or full-cock. The left lock functions fine.
William Gibsen Double Barrel Percussion Pistol
Lot # 1260 (Sale Order: 261 of 581)
Manufactured c. 1840. Features smoothbore, Damascus barrels with a concave rib, small brass bead front sight, double gold bands on the rib at the breech, platinum plugs, Birmingham proofs, and a swivel mounted ramrod. The locks are each signed "WILLIAM GIBSEN" and have scroll engraving and sliding half-cock safeties. The steel furniture has scroll engraving. The wrist escutcheon is gold. The lion mask pommel cap and wedge escutcheons are silver.
Class: Antique
Very good overall with a mix of refinished brown and gray and brown patina on the barrel along with distinct twist patterns throughout and some minor pitting at the breech, traces of original case colors and blue finish remain, smooth gray and brown patina and some minor pitting on the balance, replacement right hammer, aged patina on the silver, bright gold, distinct but lightly worn checkering on the stock, small chips, and generally rather minor wear. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman
Cased Pair of Percussion Pistols Retailed by Gastinne-Renette
Lot # 1261 (Sale Order: 262 of 581)
Cased Pair of Engraved and Relief Carved Percussion Dueling/Target Pistols with Accessories Retailed and Finished by Gastinne-Renette of Paris -A) French Percussion Pistol
By the second half of the 19th century when these pistols were produced, Gastinne-Renette was the premiere source for dueling pistols in Paris and manufactured high end firearms for Napoleon III, the King of Spain, Annie Oakley, and many other notable figures. These pistols have "1" and "2" respectively in inscribed on the breech plugs and standing breeches, "FNI. P. GASTINNE RENETTE A PARIS." marked on the top of the blued barrels, dovetailed front sights, and fixed notch rear sights on the standing breeches. They scroll engraved floating island locks and furniture including spurred trigger guards with nice scroll accents. The well-figured checkered half-stocks have fluted and relief scroll carved wrists. They come in a figured hardwood case with "GASTINNE-RENETTE/PARIS" in gold lettering inside the lid, closely fitted interior with blue baize lining, and an assortment of loading and cleaning tools (mold absent).
Manufacture: Gastinne Renette
Model: Percussion
BBL: 9 5/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45
Finish: blue/gray
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Very fine with 85% plus of the lightly fading period refinished blue, smooth gray on the lock and furniture, a patch of oxidation behind the hammer, reinforced rear sight, and generally fairly minor age and storage related wear. The stock has attractive figure, crisp carving, and light scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. The case has some small pieces absent but is otherwise fine. The accessories are very good with generally minor storage wear aside from the mallet which is well-used.
B) French Percussion Pistol
Manufacture: Gastinne Renette
Model: Percussion
BBL: 9 5/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45
Finish: blue/gray
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique
Condition: Very fine with 85% plus of the lightly faded period refinished blue on the barrel, mostly smooth gray on the lock and furniture, and minor age and storage related wear. The stock is also very fine and has crisp carving, attractive figure, and minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. Overall, a very attractive cased pair from Paris' best known dealers in dueling pistols.
Two Flobert Parlor Pistols with Case
Lot # 1262 (Sale Order: 263 of 581)
Cased Pair of Two Flobert Parlor Pistols with Case -A) Belgian Flobert Parlor Pistol
These Flobert pistols date to around the early 20th century, and were made for indoor target shooting. Liege proofs on the left of the breech, adjustable beaded blade front sight and adjustable notch rear sight. Cased with the "B" gun in a hardwood case with brass shield plaque on the lid inscribed with a monogram and green felt lined fitted interior containing thirty rounds of Flobert ammunition, screwdriver, cleaning rod and key. Also includes a copy of "The Flobert Gun" by Joseph T. Vorisek.
Manufacture: Belgium
Model: Flobert
BBL: 10 1/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 5.5 mm
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Condition: Very fine, retains 98% original blue finish on the barrel, 95% vivid original case colors, and 50% plus original niter blue finish on the sights and trigger guard with flaking and smooth brown patina on the balance. Stock is also very fine with distinct edges, a hairline crack visible on the right below the breech, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.
B) Manufrance Flobert Parlor Pistol
Cased with "A" gun. "MANUFACTURE FRANCAISE D'ARMES & CYCLES ST. ETIENNE" maker marked on top of the barrel.
Manufacture: Manufrance
Model: Flobert
BBL: 9 3/4 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 5.5 mm
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Condition: Excellent, retains 95% original blue finish on the barrel, 95% vivid original case colors, and 85% plus original niter blue finish on the sights. Stock is also excellent with distinct edges, a few minor handling marks, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.
Purdey Percussion English Half-Stock Sporting Rifle
Lot # 1263 (Sale Order: 264 of 581)
The exact history of this interesting firearm is not known, but it was meant for a local authority in India under British East India Company rule. The rifle was previously confirmed by Purdey to have been completed in December 1849 for "The Nawabh His Royal Highness Odd Howlah." Portions of the latter might have been incorrectly recorded or deciphered. Howlah appears to be Howrah a significant city across from Kolkata and then a major hub for the East India Company in West Bengal. Purdey is known to have manufactured multiple guns for Indian rulers in the period. The inscription on the barrel was translated as: "To Hussein Ali Khan Bahadur. You want to go to war, You will be victorious." "Khan Bahadur" translates to brave leader. This appears to relate to Nawab Hussein Ali II Khan Bahadur of Banganapalle who ruled from 1822 to 1832 as the kiladar/governor. The region was then managed by the British governor of the Madras Presidency, and shortly before his death, he was again appointed to his prior position. His son-in-law Gholam Mohammad Ali Khan II took his place until his own death in 1868. Hussein Ali II Khan Bahadur lived in north Hyderbad after 1832. The second portion of the inscription may relate to the Second Anglo-Sikh War then ongoing in northern India and perhaps recruitment for the army of Madras Presidency. The top of the barrel has "Purdey London" in ornate script with scroll accents in gold inlay on the breech section, a three-leaf rear sight, the Arabic inscription in gold inlay ahead of the rear sight, and a bead front sight. The lock is signed "PURDEY" and has scroll engraving. The upper tang, trigger guard, cap box, and buttplate have a mix of scroll and floral pattern engraving. It is equipped with a single set trigger.
Class: Antique
Very good with dark brown patina along the barrel as well as visible Damascus patterns, dark patina on the trigger guard, mostly light gray patina on the remaining metal surfaces, distinct markings and patterns on most of the components aside from the trigger guard, and mild overall wear including light oxidation. The stock is good with a partially stabilized cracks in the forend, faint crack in the wrist, absent wrist escutcheon, attractive figure on the butt, and minor wear on the otherwise distinct checkering. Mechanically fine. Overall a very interesting and attractive English sporting rifle by one of London's finest gunmakers.
Cased Percussion Double Barrel Shotgun by John William Edge
Lot # 1264 (Sale Order: 265 of 581)
John William Edge was a gunmaker in Manchester from 1827 until 1864. The Damascus barrels have a concave rib signed "JOHN WILLIAM EDGE" and fitted with a bead front sight, and each barrel is marked with London proof marks. The casehardened patent breeches have pierced platinum plugs, and the rib divider is engraved with a pheasant. The island with stepped tail locks are signed "J.W. EDGE". Aside from the browned barrels and the vacant silver oval wrist escutcheon, the gun is casehardened and features scroll engraving along with a variety of bird scenes, and a snake and bird are also featured on the hammers. The well-figured stock has checkering to the forearm and wrist. The original brass mounted ramrod is serial numbered to the gun. The original mahogany case has a J.W. Edge trade label inside the lid, green baize lining, cap tin "MADE EXPRESSLY FOR/J.W. EDGE" with wads inside, Fabrique Gevelot cap box, brush, cleaning rod attachments, leather shot and powder flasks, nipple wrench with nipple pick, second ramrod serial numbered to the gun, and a note indicating the gun was purchased on November 22, 1959, from a Mr. Chaliat of Rue Biron, Marche aux Puce, Paris.
Class: Antique
Very fine with 85% plus original brown finish, 75% plus original case colors with some fading, small spots of oxidation staining, and generally minimal overall wear. Aside from some small chips at the edges of the forearm, the stock shows and old revarnish with crisp checkering and faint handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are good.
Provenance: Chaliat of Rue Biron, The Norman R. Blank Collection
Cased Engraved John Dickson & Son Percussion Double Carbine
Lot # 1265 (Sale Order: 266 of 581)
This short double barrel percussion rifle or "howdah rifle" is one of only two "double carbines" with 22 inch barrels listed in John Dickson & Son's records. The Damascus barrels have two-groove rifling for shooting winged bullets or patched round balls/ The matted rib is fitted with a bead style blade front sight, four leaf flat folding rear sight with gold sight lines, "JOHN DIXON & SON" signed on the left barrel and "60 PRINCES STREET EDINBURGH." on the right, the serial number on the underside of each barrel as well as on the breech hooks, and "J D & S" and London black powder proofs also on the underside of each barrel. The flat locks are signed "JOHN DIXON & SON" and have sliding half-cock safeties ahead of the hammers. There is scroll and foliate engraving throughout along with a scene of a running stag on the patchbox, a tiger on the trigger guard, and a leopard and cobra on the heel of the buttplate. The trigger guard and buttplate feature a recut engraving in a different style. The half-length stock has a checkered forend and wrist, blank initial oval on the bottom of the butt, an oval cheekpiece, and a 14 5/8 inch length of pull. The rifle comes in a double layer oak case with russet leather lining, Dickson trade label noting them as "MAKERS OF THE IMPROVED TWO GROOVED RIFLES" inside the lid, and a large array of loading and maintenance equipment, including a matching numbered winged bullet mold as well as a round ball mold, two powder flasks, a leather sling, and much more. Load data recorded in a note in the patchbox and a test target in the case indicates that the rifle shot well with 70 grains of FFFg powder under two greased felt wads with a .648 round ball and .020 pillow ticking patch at 50 yards using a dead on hold with the bead and rib.
Class: Antique
Fine with rebrowned barrels displaying distinct twist patterns, strong original case colors on the breech plugs, mostly faded colors elsewhere, much of the blue remaining on the trigger guard and buttplate, general minor wear, and distinct markings and engraving. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering and general mild scratches and bruises. Mechanically excellent. The case and other accessories are generally fine with age and storage related wear, including some separation on the smaller flask and cracks in the case. Overall, this is a very attractive and rare short John Dickson & Son double rifle. It certainly looks like it would have been a handy rifle for hunting in India.
Panel Scene Engraved W. Winters Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun
Lot # 1266 (Sale Order: 267 of 581)
Manufactured in the second half of the 19th century. Details on the gunmaker are unknown. Features a post front sight, "W. WINTERS . 45 GERRARD STT. LONDON." on top of the rib, various English and Liege proofs and the serial numbers on the bottom of the barrels, game scene and scroll engraving on the locks, a woman on horseback on the trigger guard, dog head at the breech, deer jumping a fence on the buttplate tang, dual triggers, and checkered stock.
Class: Antique
Fine with a mix of 30% fading original brown finish and brown and gray patina along the barrels, mostly distinct Damascus patterns, some minor pitting, 50% original case colors, 20% original blue finish, 80% bright blue on the trigger guard, gray patina on the balance, and minor marks and scratches. The stock is very fine and has crisp checkering, a few minor scratches and dings, and a few filled holes in the grain. Mechanically excellent.
Pre-WWII Factory Engraved Colt Woodsman Target Pistol with Box
Lot # 1267 (Sale Order: 268 of 581)
Accompanied by a factory letter which confirms this pistols configuration and states; this pistol serial number 130772 is noted as having "A" engraving coverage, 6-1/2 inch barrel and blue finish. It was listed as sold to Morley-Murphy Co. Hardware of Green Bay, Wisconsin and later shipped on March 3, 1938 to a Mr. Neal Holt of Marshfield, Wisconsin in a shipment of one pistol. The letter states that Colt selected 138 pistols for factory engraving and of those, this is the second to last to have been engraved. The pistol has the Colt commercial blue finish with checkered walnut grips. The pistol has target front and rear sights that are adjustable for elevation and windage. The pistol has factory "A" engraving and was most likely executed by the hand of master engraver Wilbur A. Glahn. The simple yet elegant scroll and vine work are a wonderful compliment to the pistol. The "A" coverage was the first grade of factory commissioned engraving which went as high as "C". In the writer's opinion, the "A" coverage is the most appealing. The coverage is not overwhelming, simple yet classic, and it lets this pistol exhibit its near new condition. The left side of the slide is marked "COLT" in bold letters followed by: "AUTOMATIC/CAL.22 LONG RIFLE" and the Rampant Colt trademark. The markings are framed by scroll and leaf engraving and have a line-engraved background. The assembler's mark and Colt "VP/triangle proof are located on the left front trigger guard bow. The two-tone magazine is marked: "CAL.22/COLT" on the bottom of the floor plate. The pistol is complete with a Colt black cardboard carton. The end of the carton has a white label with the model designation - "TARGET" and a blue and white label: "PATRIDGE SIGHTS". A black and white label glued to the top of the carton is marked "ENGRAVED". The patent label is glued to the inside of the lid and an advertisement for Colt grips is glued to the bottom of the carton. The bottom of the carton is marked in pencil with the matching serial number. The pistol is complete with: (1) a Colt instruction manual, (2) sight adjustment screw-driver, (3) and original factory testing target.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Near new in original box. The entire pistol retains 99% plus original factory blue finish with limited handling marks. All markings and engraving are crisp, clear and sharp. The grips are also like new. The original and matching factory carton is excellent showing only slight wear on the edges. The end labels are all intact. A rare opportunity to own a factory engraved like new condition Pre-War Woodsman worthy of the most advanced firearms collection.
Colt Military Model 1905 Semi-Automatic Pistol
Lot # 1268 (Sale Order: 269 of 581)
This exceptional Colt Model 1905 .45 Automatic pistol was manufactured in 1911, the final year of production for the Model 1905 pistol. This pistol is accompanied by a Colt factory letter which shows that it was part of a two-pistol shipment to William Read & Sons of Boston, Massachusetts, on August 26, 1911. The pistol has the late spur hammer with border-less knurling, half-moon shaped front sight and round-top rear sight. The two-piece walnut grips have flat top checkering. The slide, frame and barrel have a high polish commercial blue finish. The seven-shot magazine is blued. The rear sight, trigger, slide lock, ejector spring and grip screws have a fire blue finish. The hammer is color casehardened. The right side of the slide is roll stamped: "AUTOMATIC COLT/CALIBRE 45 RIMLESS SMOKELESS". The "45" portion of this unique "factory error" roll die stands out in that Colt, in their well documented frugality, modified a Model 1900-1902 .38 Auto roll die in order to complete their production run of Model 1905 due to the Model 1911 production looming. The left side of the slide has the fourth style marking which consists of "PATENTED/APR.20.1897.SEPT.9.1902.DEC.19.1905." in two lines followed by "COLT'S PT. F.A.MFG. CO./HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A." in two lines. The circled Rampant Colt trademark is roll-stamped on the left side of the frame behind the grip serrations. The left side of the slide is stamped with the serial number above the trigger guard bow. The Colt triangle/VP proofmark is stamped on the upper left side of the trigger guard bow and a "W" assembler's mark is stamped on the lower left side of the bow. This gun is pictured and described on page 48 of “The Colt Model 1905 Automatic Pistol” by John Potocki.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Excellent. The barrel and frame retain 98% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish. Nearly all of the nitre blue finish is present on the trigger, screws and pins; the rear sight has 75% of the fire blue finish. The hammer retains nearly all of the muted case colors. The slide retains nearly all of the factory refurbished blue. The grips are excellent plus with minimal wear. Nearly all of the blue finish is present on the magazine. Mechanically excellent. This is a great looking example of a very desirable Colt Military Model 1905 military semi-automatic Pistol.
Early Production Colt Sporting Model 1902 Semi-Automatic Pistol
Lot # 1269 (Sale Order: 270 of 581)
Manufactured in 1902, the first year of production. This specific pistol exhibits the early, plunge-milled, serrations on the forward portion of the slide, which was standard until serial number 8000, when the serrations were changed to a V-cut, and then at serial number 8200 were moved to the rear of the slide. It is also fitted with the rounded hammer, a feature that didn't truly become standard until mid-1904. The included factory letter addressed to Herb Glass and dated October 4, 1983, confirms the current configuration, grips and barrel length not listed, as well as shipment to M. Hartley & Co. in New York on 25 July 1902. The letter also notes that the records indicate "with strut hammer", which is likely meaning "stub hammer" as noted in other similar factory listings. The left side of the slide is marked with the two-line "BROWNING'S PATENT" marking, the two-line Colt address, and circled Rampant Colt at the rear. The right side of the slide has the standard two-line caliber marking. The left side of the frame is marked with the serial number. It is fitted with blade front and round top notch rear sights, checkered hard rubber grips with "COLT" banners at the top and Rampant Colts at the center, and a correct early pattern nickeled magazine with floorplate marked "PAT'D SEPT.9.1884".
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Excellent, retains 97% plus of the bright original, high polish blue finish, 99% of the vibrant case colors on the hammer, and 98% of the lustrous niter blue on small parts with some light edge wear, mostly near the front of the slide, and some light handling wear on the grip straps. The grips are also excellent showing an attractively aged chocolate tone, a few light handling marks, and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent. Quite possibly the finest known Colt Sporting Model 1902 semi-automatic pistol!
Provenance: Herb Glass; Property of a Gentleman
Factory Engraved Colt Official Police Revolver with Pearl Grips
Lot # 1270 (Sale Order: 271 of 581)
This is an outstanding example of a rare, factory engraved Colt Official Police double action revolver. According to Sutherland and Wilson on p. 349 of "The Book of Colt Firearms", only approximately 350 out of the total production of 400,000 of this model were factory engraved, making a documented example like this incredibly scarce. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration including the pearl grips and class "A" engraving, as well as shipment to National Sporting Goods in Cleveland, Ohio on August 29, 1952. The revolver shows masterfully executed floral scroll engraving with a stippled background and intertwining geometric motifs on 75% of the surfaces, including the barrel, frame, and cylinder. Although R.L. Wilson lists Alvin F. Herbert beginning work for Colt circa 1954, writer believes this engraving to have been executed by him in August of 1952, making this quite possibly his first work. The revolver also displays Colt's "Duotone" finish consisting of polished fame flats and barrel with a satin edge. This style of finish was only seen on Colt double actions from 1947 to 1954 before the company decided to return to fully polished frames.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Excellent, retaining 99% plus original nickel finish with limited handling marks, a cylinder drag line, a couple surface spots, and crisp engraving. Grips are very fine with a small chip on the butt of the left panel and vibrant fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. This would be a magnificent addition to any engraved Colt collection!
Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer Semi-Automatic Pistol
Lot # 1271 (Sale Order: 272 of 581)
Manufactured in 1915, this pistol exhibits the late, "grey/blue" factory finish that was implemented around serial number 36000. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, grips not listed, and shipment to George Worthington & Co. in Cleveland, Ohio on 9 June 1915. Fixed sights, the two-line/two-block patent dates and address on the left side of the slide ahead of the Rampant Colt, and the caliber markings on the right ahead of the ejector port. The trigger guard is marked "VP" and "1" on the left side, with a checkered casehardened spur hammer, smooth trigger, unmarked full blue magazine, and a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts and "COLT" banners at the top. Includes a correctly labeled factory box that is unnumbered.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Excellent, retains 99% plus of the original blue finish and vibrant case colors on the hammer with only the slightest handling/storage marks. The grips are also excellent with only the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The box is fine with some mild handling/storage wear. It would be difficult to find a higher condition example of the Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer pistol!
Colt Government Model Semi-Automatic Pistol with Box
Lot # 1272 (Sale Order: 273 of 581)
Manufactured in 1917, around the time of the United States' entry into World War I. The Model 1911, and its Government Model civilian counterpart, represented the cutting edge of self loading pistol technology at the time and were highly sought after by both military personnel and civilians alike, with many Government Models being privately purchased for use during the war leading to their unofficial nickname as "commercial issue" pistols. The included factory letter confirms the pistol's configuration, including caliber, barrel length, blue finish, and type of stock not listed, when included in a shipment of 10 to Van Camp Hardware & Iron Co. of Indianapolis, Indiana, on July 20, 1917. Features fixed round blade front and square notch rear sights, "5" marked on the underside of the blued barrel with polished chamber hood, flat mainspring housing with lanyard loop at the bottom, and checkered slide release, thumb safety, and wide hammer. The slide bears the two-line, two-block Colt address and patent markings on the left side, with the "rampant colt" behind the serrations and caliber designation on the right. The frame is marked with "VP" and "2" on the left of the trigger guard, with "GOVERNMENT MODEL" and serial number on the right side. Fitted with a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips. The two-toned magazine has a pinned base with a lanyard loop. Includes the Colt factory box with matching numbered dealer label, manual and bore brush.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Excellent, retaining 97% plus original blue finish with some light edge wear and some mild thinning and limited spotting on the grip straps. The grips are also excellent with limited blemishes in the overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Box is fine with light handling wear.
Colt Model 1905 Pistol with Holster and Factory Letter
Lot # 1273 (Sale Order: 274 of 581)
One of approximately 6,100 Model 1905 pistols manufactured by Colt between 1905 and 1911, with this example manufactured in 1907, being the first pistols chambered for the now legendary .45 Colt Automatic Pistol (ACP) cartridge. The included factory letter confirms the pistol's configuration, including caliber, barrel length, finish, and type of stocks not listed, when sent in a shipment of three pistols to Jensen King Bird Co. of Spokane, Washington, on May 13, 1907. Features fixed rounded blade front and notch rear sights, checkered round spur "stub" hammer with half-cock notch, checkered slide catch, exposed extractor, and early brass firing pin. The slide bears the two block, two line patent information and Colt address, with "AUTOMATIC COLT/CALIBRE 45 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" on the right side. With "VP" triangle and "1" sub-inspector proofs on the left of the trigger guard and serial number on the left of the frame. Fitted with a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips. Includes a leather flap holster marked "1305/45" on the back strap.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Very fine, retaining 70% original high polish blue and casehardened finishes with numerous scattered scrapes and dings focused on the left front of the frame and barrel, thinning and grey patina on the grip straps, minor pitting, and otherwise well-defined markings. The grips are very fine with minimal handling wear and otherwise crisp checkering. Holster is very good with cracking on the flap fold.
1914 Production World War I Era Colt Government Model Pistol
Lot # 1274 (Sale Order: 275 of 581)
Manufactured in 1914, early in production of the commercial Government Model and right at the start of World War I. This pistol represented the cutting edge of firearm technology and was highly sought after by military personnel and civilians alike, with many being privately purchased for use during the war. This particular example exhibits the early production lustrous high polish blue finish. The slide on this pistol bears the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side of the slide with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right of the slide has the caliber markings. "VP" and "R" are on the trigger guard, and "GOVERNMENT MODEL" is on the right side of the frame with the early four-digit serial number below it. The unmarked, later production replacement barrel is blued. The slide release, thumb safety, and wide hammer are checkered, and the smooth, flat mainspring housing has a lanyard loop at the bottom. It is fitted with a blade front and early production, rounded top notch rear sight as well as a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips. The two-toned magazine has a pinned base with a lanyard loop.
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Very fine, retains 80% plus of the original, high polish blue finish with some scattered minor scratches and dings, mostly on the left/upper left of the slide, and some light holster/handling wear. The grips are excellent with a few very light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.