Auction No. 108 - Session 1
Saturday, November 21, 2015 | 9:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Auction No. 108 - Session 1
Saturday, November 21, 2015 | 9:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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Description
This sale by Amoskeag Auction Company features over 1500 lots of rare and historic firearms. View the entire catalog here.
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Exceptional U.S. M1C Garand Sniper Rifle By Springfield Armory
Lot # 376 (Sale Order: 376 of 702)
Low Estimate: 5,000High Estimate: 6,000
serial #3372487, 30-06, 24" "3-45" dated barrel with a bright excellent bore. The triggerguard is from an earlier rifle, all component parts are Springfield and are correct. The metal surfaces retain 98% arsenal parkerized finish with some very light silvering along the edges and minor superficial nicks along the gas tube. The walnut stock and handguards rate very good plus overall with a small fingernail size dent in the right side of the rear handguard and left side of the stock along with a small group of thin horizontal dents in the left wrist and other light blemishes. The wood shows an older light cleaning with only a light circle "P" firing proof in the grip and a lightly added military oil finish. The rifle is mounted with a correct M82 Telescope sight, serial #275, with rubber eyecup, sliding sheet metal sunshade and single post reticle with clear optics. The scope retains about 95% original blue with light wear between the rings and on the adjustment covers, the components are not numbered alike. The scope is mounted in correct Griffin & Howe dual lever side-mount rings, serial #3551992 with base serial #3372487. The ring mount retains 95-98% original blue lightly toning to brown while the base is parkerized and numbered to the receiver. The rifle is further equipped with a Springfield Armory M2 flash hider, a lightly crazed and stained leather military sling and a K Line slide-on laced raised cheeckpiece having some light scuffs, separating seams and two pulled-through eyelets with light verdigris starting to form. Included with the rifle is a copy of the original military release receipt from The Center of Military History at Fort McNair in Greenleaf Point Washington D.C. to James Reece of Dalton, GA "7-9-92" and was one in a shipment of six other rifles. A great late-war M1C sniper with Military History connection now to be part of a great military collection once again. (57443-46) {C&R}
Fine U.S. M1C Garand Sniper Rifle By Springfield Armory
Lot # 377 (Sale Order: 377 of 702)
Low Estimate: 4,000High Estimate: 6,000
serial #3370626, 30-06, 24" "11-44" dated barrel with a bright excellent bore. Although some of the components are from later manufacture rifles all parts appear to be Springfield Manufactured. The metal surfaces retain 98% arsenal parkerized finish with some very light silvering along the edges. The walnut and handguards rate very good plus having been lightly cleaned and refinished most likely at the arsenal still with dents and blemishes and partially fading "S.A. / N.F.R." inspectors cartouche and small crossed cannons ordnance escutcheon; the added circle "P" firing proof remains strong with remnants of an older circle behind it. The rifle is mounted with a correct M82 Telescope sight, serial #41598, with rubber eyecup, sliding sheet metal sunshade and single post reticle with overall clear optics. The scope rates near excellent retaining most of it original blue finish, the components are not all numbered alike. The scope is mounted in correct Griffin & Howe dual lever side-mount rings, serial #3373165 with base serial #3374470. The ring mount retains 90-95% original blue lightly fading to gray and brown while the parkerized base matches the receiver. The rifle is further equipped with a Springfield Armory M2 flash hider, O.D. nylon sling and a K Line slide-on laced raised cheekpiece having some light scuffs and one torn eyelet. Included with the rifle is an M1 Rifle Research & Verification letter listing this rifle by serial confirming configuration and from original WWII contract between Springfield Armory and Griffin & Howe and once came from the renowned collection of Burt Kellerstedt and a General Joe Foss autographed pamphlet from the 2001 Garand Collectors Association Convention in Reno Nevada. A fantastic original WWII Garand Sniper awaiting its rightful place in another Garand or military rifle collection. (57241-10) {C&R} [Larry Kaufman Collection]
U.S. Model 1903A3 Rifle By Remington Belonging To "Easy Co." Ssgt. John W. Martin, “Band Of Brothers
Lot # 378 (Sale Order: 378 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 3,000
serial #3887740, 30-06, 24" "6-43" dated Remington barrel with a bright excellent bore. The metal surfaces retain 98% arsenal gray-green parkerized finish with some very light silvering along some of the edges. The straight grip walnut stock and handguard rates very good plus with numerous dents and handling marks expected with use, the handguard a bit duller than stock which may have a little added oil finish. The left side of the stock still showing a very light crossed cannons ordnance escutcheon next to a square bordered "FJA" cartouche; bottom of the stock has a circle "P" firing proof above a larger "DD" in the wrist with assembly marks in front of the triggerguard. Rifle is equipped with a crazed and flaking but intact "BOYT / -44-" leather sling. Included with the rifle is the original Letterkenny Ordnance shipping document showing sale to J. Harry Kuechler of Columbus OH dated "6/5/61" for $14.50 including shipping and handling who in turn sold the rifle to Dr. Paul H. Dillahunt also of Columbus on Dec. 5, 1972 who sold the rifle to John Martin of Columbus OH in March of 1972/ A notarized letter of authenticity is included certifying rifle by serial number as being from the personal collection of Staff Seargent John W. Martin and was sold to the consignor and signed by SSGT. Martin's son William B. Martin along with a photograph of the "506th". John W. Martin was a non-commissioned officer with Easy Co. of the 101 Airborne 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment and was one of the original 140 Toccoa men of Easy Co. and was portrayed by Dexter Fletcher in the HBO series "Band of Brothers". Ironically Dr. Dillahunt received the Battle Star for the Normandy Campaign which in turn was SSGT. Martin's first jump. A great collectible 03-A3 formerly belonging to a hero of the Battle of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. (57241-17) {C&R} [Larry Kaufman Collection]
U.S. Model 1898 Krag Carbine By Springfield Armory
Lot # 379 (Sale Order: 379 of 702)
Low Estimate: 1,800High Estimate: 2,400
serial #113859, 30-40 Krag, 22" barrel with a very good plus bore which shows evident rifling with some very fine frosting and oxidation within the grooves. The barrel retains 98% original blue with two small pin size bright spots in the left side of the barrel and light silvering around the muzzle. The band and triggerguard retain about 90% original blue toning to brown, the sling bar is toning to pewter due to light wear from the ring. The receiver is a mellowed oil quenched gray while the magazine cover is a silvery case-hardened patina. The magazine loading gate is a mottled dark gray and brown with brighter gray along the edges. The bolt body remains overall bright with much pale fire temper blue on the extractor. The stock is early 1896 style with short low profile 6 3/4" handguard. The stock shows a crisp 1898 cartouche and light dents and blemishes primarily at the toe. The carbine is equipped with the correct "C" marked sight and a nickel plated oiler and three-piece cleaning rod is in the trap beneath the buttplate. A nice correct early style Krag carbine. (57241-87) {ANTIQUE}
U.S. Model 1805 Flintlock Pistol By Harpers Ferry
Lot # 380 (Sale Order: 380 of 702)
Low Estimate: 5,000High Estimate: 7,000
serial #1319, .54 caliber (worn to .56), 10 1/4" barrel. The lock bears proper Federal eagle over "US" ahead of cock and is marked "HARPERS / FERRY / 1807" vertically behind cock. The barrel is marked "1382 / US (in sunken oval) / (eaglehead) / "P" (in sunken oval). This pistol appears to be an old excellent reconversion to flintlock with the only real indication being that the metal is more smooth in the immediate area around touchhole than it is just a bit further away. The color of the metal in this area is excellent and appears to be undisturbed patina. The main spring is a replacement and is in place without the retaining screw which leaves one vacant hole in the lock. The iron surfaces of pistol retain a pleasing silver gray patina with some scattered patches of light pitting along with some oxidation staining. All markings in metal remain clear and legible. The walnut stock rates very good with a good cartouche and lightly worn edges. Adjacent to the cartouche there is a letter "D" which was carved long ago. The stock maker's initials "TS" and the numeral "3" are clearly visible in wood on front of butt to right of triggerguard tang. The stock shows just normal wear and has a pleasing appearance. The brass furniture all bears a pleasing mellow patina. This pistol is listed in Hudak's book as one of the pistols stolen from Robert L. Harris in January of 1997. Larry Kaufman and Bob Harris were close friends and at least some of Bob's guns were recovered years after the robbery and it would make sense that the gun would end up in Larry's collection. A nice example of these early U.S. martial pistols with a colorful history being part of the brazen theft of Harris' guns; after the thieves stole the gun collection, they set Mr. Harris' home ablaze and it burned to the ground. (17241-80) {ANTIQUE} [Larry Kaufman Collection]
U.S. Model 1805 Flintlock Pistol By Harpers Ferry
Lot # 381 (Sale Order: 381 of 702)
Low Estimate: 5,000High Estimate: 7,000
serial #1186, .54 caliber (worn to .57), 10 1/16" barrel. The lock bears proper Federal eagle over "US" ahead of cock and is marked "HARPERS / FERRY / 1807" vertically behind cock. The barrel is marked "1186 / US (in sunken oval) / eaglehead (in sunken oval)". This pistol appears to be a very nicely executed reconversion to flint. The iron surfaces of pistol retain a silver gray color, more brown on barrel, with all markings remaining clear and legible. There are some tool marks present on the left side of the barrel breech. The walnut stock rates about very good with lightly worn edges and a faint but visible cartouche. There is a crack at the front of the lock which leads diagonally toward the barrel and another crack in the left side at the sideplate. The butt shows what appears to be a repaired chip to the left side of the tip of the tang. The brass furniture bears a mellow patina being lighter on the wear spots. The pistol comes with an all wooden ramrod that is likely an old replacement. This pistol is listed in Hudak's book on page 70 and is purportedly shown in a 1982 Gun Report advertisement by Floyd Everhart where the pistol is in percussion. The serial number is not listed in the advertisement but the author obviously obtained this information somehow. This is a good representative example of these most handsome, very early and much sought after U.S. Martial pistols. (17436-2) {ANTIQUE}
Exceptional Winchester Model 12 Trench Gun
Lot # 382 (Sale Order: 382 of 702)
Low Estimate: 5,000High Estimate: 7,000
serial #964560, 12 ga, 21" barrel with a bright excellent bore. This is a lovely shotgun. The barrel, handguard, and bayonet adaptor retain 98-99% original factory blue finish, having the lightest amount of loss due to scratches that are primarily on the handguard. The receiver retains 99% plus original blue finish having just a few extremely faint handling marks present; the receiver is properly marked with US flaming bomb ordnance mark on the right side of the receiver. In addition to the ordnance markings there are appropriate Winchester oval proofs and a US flaming bomb ahead of the receiver. The smooth walnut pistolgrip buttstock and grooved forend rate excellent displaying just a few very light dings, retaining 99% of their original varnish. The buttstock displays a crisp "G.H.D." acceptance cartouche and crossed cannons ordnance stamp on the left side. The buttstock wears its correct hard rubber buttplate. The action operates properly and is mechanically very crisp. Included is a light brown Boyt "44" military style sling. It would be nearly impossible to find a better example of this scarce and very desirable WWII Winchester Model 12 Trench Gun manufactured in 1943. (177241-5) {C&R} [Larry Kaufman Collection]
Winchester Model 1897 Trench Gun
Lot # 383 (Sale Order: 383 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 4,000
serial #E951416, 12 ga, 21" barrel choked cylinder with a bright about excellent bore. The barrel, handguard, and bayonet adaptor retain about 97% original blue finish having a few scratches and sparse marks on the magazine tube from operational use. The frame exhibits 98% original blue showing a couple of very light scratches on the left side; the frame is properly marked with the US flaming bomb on the left side of the receiver. In addition to the ordnance markings there are appropriate Winchester oval proofs and a mail order oval "P" proof, the barrel likely installed by U.S. ordnance. The smooth walnut pistolgrip buttstock and forend rate excellent displaying a few light dings and handling marks and having a crisp boxed "G.H.D." acceptance cartouche and crossed cannons ordnance mark below. The buttstock is fitted with its original Winchester hard rubber buttplate which remains in excellent condition. The action operates properly and is mechanically very crisp. Included is an unmarked 1 1/4" brown leather sling. This Winchester trench gun is in excellent condition overall and falls in the serial range for the 1942-43 military Trench Gun contract. (177241-6) {C&R}[Larry Kaufman Collection]
Winchester Model 1897 Slide Action Trench Gun
Lot # 384 (Sale Order: 384 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 3,000
serial #E674460, 12 ga, 20" barrel choked cylinder with a bright excellent bore. The barrel and handguard retain 94-95% original blue finish having some loss near the muzzle, edges and some light spots flaking to a mottled brown; there is also some loss on the magazine tube from operational use. The frame retains about 85% plus original blue finish having some light loss on the frames edges, light scratches and a few spots flaking to a pleasing brown patina. The right side of the frame is appropriately "U.S./(ordnance bomb)" marked. In addition to the ordnance markings there are appropriate Winchester oval proofs. The smooth walnut pistolgrip buttstock and grooved forend rate very good to near excellent displaying scattered dings and scratches. Included is a 1 1/4" leather military sling 1918 dated by W.T & CO. The action operates properly and is mechanically very crisp. A nice example of a World War I trench gun which will enhance a good military collection. (177241-7) {C&R} [Larry Kaufman Collection]
E. M. Reilly & Co. Boxlock Double Ejector Rifle
Lot # 385 (Sale Order: 385 of 702)
Low Estimate: 3,000High Estimate: 5,000
serial #30846, 450 BPE, 28” barrels with about very good bores showing strong rifling with light pitting. The barrels retain about 98% later restored blue with remnants of light pitting scattered about. The frame is an overall bright silvery gun metal with some light pitting across the top tang. It is embellished with light tight scroll in about 80% coverage, some has softened a bit due to the polishing. The bottom plate has been reblued as has the triggerguard, the bow showing very light remnants of some pinprick pitting. The buttstock rates very good showing an older very good refinish with a repaired chip at the rear of the upper tang, nicely chased checkering and some minor oil soaking around the frame. The splinter style forend is similar, showing perhaps a bit more wear, with a repair right at the iron but also with nicely chased checkering. The arm remains tight although the slightest sliver of light can be seen between the breech face and the standing breeches, the ejectors seem to function well. The arm is sighted with a simple bead front and a single standing leaf rear with white triangle index line. (37147-147){ANTIQUE}[Terry Buffum Collection]
Rare Colt Single Action Army In 450 Boxer
Lot # 386 (Sale Order: 386 of 702)
Low Estimate: 7,500High Estimate: 9,000
serial #29149, 450 Boxer 5 1/2” barrel with a bright about excellent bore which shows a small handful of light oxidation or light pits. The barrel retains about 50% original bright blue, the balance lightly flaked to brown and plum with the ejector rod housing showing strong blue in its flutes, its outer edge a plum and pewter. The cylinder remains rather nice with strong blue in the flutes and perhaps 30-40% blue on the circumference, the loss being flaking to brown. The frame retains 90-92% color case-hardening, muting slightly with the remnants of light oxidation staining on the right lower frame flat, some very light steel wool-scratching in this area, the hammer still retaining most of its original color case-hardening. The backstrap has generous trace blue adjacent to the hammer, the backstrap proper a dull gunmetal gray, as-is the butt. The frontstrap shows some light wear with the area of the triggerguard showing strong original blue, perhaps 70%. The smooth one piece walnut grip rates excellent with nearly all its original varnish and only light dings and handling marks from the years; it is numbered to the gun in antique ink pen and there is a small letter “B” incise-carved on the left lower butt flat. The numbers on the arm are all matching and the gun is mechanically crisp. A number of the screws show some slight damage but a number also show some pale fire temper blue. The revolver comes cased in a nice English oak case with likely original green lining and a Colts instruction label on the interior of the lid. The case itself rates very good plus to about excellent with an old drying split on the lid. Accessories include an oil bottle and blued steel combination screwdriver which retains some nice pale fire blue; also included are 39 rounds of Fiocchi 450 Boxer Short. Really a very nice revolver still in a very fine state of condition in this very rare caliber, manufactured in 1876, one of only 729 made. (37261-3) {ANTIQUE}
Rare Colt Single Action Army Revolver In 45 Boxer
Lot # 387 (Sale Order: 387 of 702)
Low Estimate: 7,000High Estimate: 9,000
serial #9049, 45 Boxer, 7 1/2” barrel with a bright very good plus bore with sharp rifling but with sparsely scattered light oxidation and a few pinprick pits; there are actually strong traces of original blue in the bore. The barrel is a smooth tarnished pewter and plum patina with some generous traces of original blue around the front sight. There are a few minor dings here and there and there are some tool marks adjacent to the ejector rod housing ahead of the cylinder pin, as-is often seen when an individual uses an improper tool to remove the cylinder pin. The ejector rod housing is a similar patina with strong trace original blue on its underside, retaining the bull’s-eye-head ejector. The cylinder shows some strong original blue in the flutes, the balance showing some light circumferential steel wool markings, British proofs are present on cylinder and barrel. The frame is primarily a dull pewter and plum patina with scattered light pitting in the flash areas of the frame and along its left and right side, there are traces of case colors adjacent to the hammer on the left recoil shield and the hammer exhibits some mottled color case-hardening with actual colors in the protected area normally hidden by the frame. The triggerguard retains strong trace original blue, perhaps 10%, the balance a flaky plum brown with pewter undertones, showing minor dings and handling marks. The backstrap shows a similar amount of blue with the backstrap proper showing some light pitting atop the knuckle. The one piece walnut grip rates very good, now devoid of varnish but appearing un-sanded. It has shrunken very very slightly with the years leaving the metal slightly proud but it is ink pen-numbered to the gun on its interior. The balance of all the parts including the barrel and cylinder are serial numbered alike in the gun seems to function well mechanically. The arm rides in a nice leather carry case, dual-strapped, with the initials “TBW” on the lid. The case is red felt lined with ivory or bone handles on the lidded compartments. There is a Thomas Bland & Sons makers label on the interior of the case. The case rates very good overall with some minor flaking on the corners of the lid, some ancient water stains which are very light and a light separation of the left-side of the lid, it is likely a restitch would work appropriately here. A pleasing example over all of this very rare chambering, one of only 729 made, made early the 2nd year of production and shipped with 50 other guns to Colts London Agency in March 1874; the included factory letter verifies the configuration and ship date. (37261-1) {ANTIQUE}
U.S. Colt Single Action Army Cavalry Model Revolver
Lot # 388 (Sale Order: 388 of 702)
Low Estimate: 6,000High Estimate: 8,000
serial #12759, 45 Colt, 7 1/2” barrel with a fair-poor bore which shows evident rifling but has moderate, and some heavy, pitting its full length. The metal surfaces of barrel are a pleasing fairly smooth gray-dark gray patina with light pinprick pitting and most of the barrel address still legible. The frame is a similar hue with a bit more toning to a bright pewter and some areas of pitting slightly more prominent with silvery case-hardening above the loading gate. The cylinder shows slightly more rounding to the flutes and a slight softening of the loading notches, it has scattered light pitting and is numbered 2759. The triggerguard is a gunmetal gray patina as is the backstrap, the backstrap with perhaps a bit more pitting. Numbers on frame, guard, barrel and butt all match and a capital “A” Ainsworth inspectors mark is faint but visible to the rear of the serial number on the guard. The smooth one piece walnut grip rates very good showing perhaps an old light cleaning with some remnants of varnish and a faint left-side cartouche. There is no serial number on the interior of the grip however “V. Earre” or perhaps “Farre” has scratched his name into that cut; initial research can turn nothing up on the name. The grip is slightly under around its periphery but fits well at the frame. The gun seems to time and lock up well however either trigger or hammer need some minor mechanical attention as the hammer sits slightly too far forward for the loading notch to be functional. Overall a nice U.S. Model 1873 Cavalry revolver, still in its original configuration with a nice frontier-used to look to it. (37160-3) {ANTIQUE}
Rare Colt Single Action Army Revolver In 450 Eley Short
Lot # 389 (Sale Order: 389 of 702)
Low Estimate: 6,500High Estimate: 8,000
serial #21745, 450 Eley short, 5 1/2” barrel with a good to about very good bore which shows some strong evident rifling and bright areas but with some areas of light, and some areas of moderate, pitting. This revolver remains in very attractive condition, the barrel and frame retaining perhaps 97% original nickel plate. The cylinder has toned primarily to a dull gunmetal gray with some generous traces of original nickel and with overall light oxidation staining or light pitting. The backstrap retains perhaps 40% original nickel, the bottom of the strap now a dull gunmetal gray. The frontstrap has some minor speckling but the triggerguard itself retains 70% original nickel. The varnished one piece walnut grip rates about excellent with the only appreciable wear along the flared edges at the butt, with some minor handling marks and light flaking. The grip is numbered on the interior in antique ink pen “745” and the bottom left and right of the butt show a stamping with a one-piece die, heavy along its left edge and light along its right “F.W. Mawb_” . A few of the screw heads show some minor slot damage and the head of the cylinder pin is slightly deformed but the gun times well and locks up correctly and exhibits the proper British proofs. They barrel features the Hartford address, being slightly light at its front-edge but the balance of the markings are crisp. The included factory letter shows shipment with 56 other guns to Colts London Agency in May 1877. The caliber, 45 Eley, and finish are listed, the barrel length is not, however, under “special notations”, “short barrel” is listed. The revolver comes in an English presentation case with nicely replaced lining and a facsimile instructions on interior of the lid. There is a steel wiping rod included, nickel plated brass oil bottle, combination screwdriver which retains some nice blue and 24 rounds of 450 Eley Short. The 1879 and 1880 Medical Times and Gazette lists F.W. Mawby as having passed for a fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Subsequent reports from Guys Hospital, a prominent teaching hospital in London, show him in 1883 under “Clinical Appointments” as: Assistant Surgeon Dresser; in 1884 as both a Medical Ward Clerk and Assistant Dental Surgeon Dresser; the Lancet of 1890 shows him as having passed the examination for Medical and Forensic Medicine; in 1892 we find “Frank W Mawby” of Guys Hospital having passed the Anatomy and Physiology exam and in 1893 having passed “Surgery”. 1910 finds him settled in the Littleport district in the County of Cambridge. A subsequent search of/for Dr. Frank W Mawby may turn up further interesting details of his career. There were only 110 Single Action revolver’s chambered in 450 Eley Short. A very attractive and all matching numbered Single Action Army in a very rare caliber identified to a British physician. (37261-2) {ANTIQUE}
Mauser Type B Magazine Sporting Rifle
Lot # 390 (Sale Order: 390 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,500High Estimate: 4,000
serial #59095, 30-06, 24” part octagon part round barrel with full-length integral rib and a bright excellent bore. The barreled action retains about 97% original blue, the loss is due only to some light fading and a few minor handling marks with the oddly very sparsely scattered freckle of light oxidation here or there. The bright-honed races and follower rate excellent with some hardened oil only. The bolt retains excellent original blue with a bright-polished extractor and the knob toning slightly to plum. The bottom metal shows more wear, retaining perhaps 20% original blue. The floorplate has faded to pewter and shows some very light oxidation. The rifle is stocked classic style in English walnut with a rounded left-side cheek piece and nicely checkered grip panels with the forearm a wrap-around pattern. The original horn Mauser buttplate is in place, it shows some minor insect damage and a small flake at the heel. Additionally the arm has a nice horn pistolgrip cap and horn schnabel tip. Standard factory swivels are fitted and the arm is sighted with a bead style front, no hood is present, military adjustable tangent rear graduated to 1000 yards, and a Lyman 35 aperture sight mounted to the bolt stop (these were offered factory-installed). Additionally the arm sports double set triggers and hinged floorplate with interior triggerguard release. Really a very nice Type B in the factory No. 123 pattern clearly ordered by an American or made for the American market. (37440-9D30770) {C&R}
Exceptional Robert Evans-Engraved Colt Second-Generation 3Rd Model Dragoon Belonging To?Col. Rex App
Lot # 391 (Sale Order: 391 of 702)
Low Estimate: 7,000High Estimate: 9,000
serial #21469, .44 cal., 7 1/2” part octagon part round barrel with a bright as-new, unfired bore. This is an exceptional one-of-a-kind revolver engraved in July 1979 by Firearms Engravers Guild of America master engraver Robert Evans. The arm retains all its original engraver-applied blue with the grip frame and backstrap nicely gold plated. The revolver features fine flowing scroll with fine background stippled accents in about 85% coverage. It is further embellished with wonderful fine gold wire inlay circumferentially at the muzzle, point of transition and breech, each flat-panel on the revolver as well is framed in gold with the cylinder having circumferential gold inlays. Barrel and cylinder show fine wide flowing gold wire scroll inlays, flawlessly executed. There are 5 chiseled-in-relief gold inlays as well. The right side barrel flat with a howling coyote, the frame flat with an Indian village scene. The left side with a standing American bison, as-used on the reverse of the American “buffalo nickel”. The left recoil shield shows a Native American bust, identical to that found on the American “Indianhead cent”, while the left frame flat has a beaver atop a rock or perhaps his lodge. The gun is absolutely as-new, unfired, unturned since leaving Bob Evans’s hands. It has been fitted with a one piece polished antique ivory grip which rates excellent. The revolver comes cased in a walnut presentation case with French-fitted burgundy baize lining. Accessories include a blued steel combination nipple wrench/screwdriver and a brass dual cavity “Colts Patent” bullet mould with color case-hardened cut-off, it rates as-new; there is also included a modern japanned tin of “Eley Brothers Colts Patent Percussion Caps”. Included with the arm is a Rex Applegate-signed document on his stationery dated September 15 of 1991 mentioning the subject Dragoon revolver by serial number stating that it was delivered to him in July 1979 and engraved by Bob Evans. Included with this letter is a Certificate of Authenticity from Mr. Evans also mentioning the gun by serial number, signed by Robert Evans in July 1979. Included also is a small narrative about Mr. Evans and the work he does. Bob Evans is a gifted and very well-thought-of engraver, he accepts only very limited commissions and his work is very sought-after when it does come to market. This arm was the personal property of and commissioned by Col. Rex Applegate himself who needs no introduction here. Really a stunning example and likely the last time this arm will be offered publicly for many many years. (37349-21) {ANTIQUE}
Ornate Pair Of Mediterranean Flintlock Pistols
Lot # 392 (Sale Order: 392 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,500High Estimate: 4,000
About .65 cal., 14 1/4” barrels with oxidized bores. This is really a rather ornate and nicely constructed pair of pistols, likely Turkish. The barrels are now a pewter gunmetal gray with brown oxidation staining, with some areas of oxidation and light pitting (one spot more prominent on the barrel near the muzzle). The barrels were lightly chiseled-in-relief near the breeches, that file work has softened and is no longer really legible. The makers name was present at the rear of the thin raised medial rib, it has softened as well. The locks are very ornate and slightly banana-shaped with a pronounced teat at rear. They show nice light engraving over all as do the graceful swan-neck cocks and squarish bridled frizzens. The frizzen springs are nicely chiseled and engraved as well. There are faux brass ramrod thimbles and tailpipes, the “ramrods” integrally carved with the stock as is common on these pistols. There are heavy cast-in-relief triggerguards with slightly ornate front extensions and matching sideplates. The dual-strap buttcaps are heavily cast-in-relief with prominent scroll and silver butt extensions, also showing light cast-in-relief scroll. The Mediterranean hardwood stocks rate near excellent with over all relief-carved flowing scroll and geometric decoration; one shows a thin 4 1/4” sliver missing on the left side front of the forearm. The faces of the grip both show nice silver-wire inlay flanking the triggerguard tang. One pistol has a minor impact mark in this area, the other with a number of small chips in the same area. This same nice wire inlay is continued around the slightly dovetailed tangs and along the rear face of the butt below a nice lozenge-shaped silver inlay. The silver inlay shows a nice niello inlay in a square pattern at its center, with silver tack embellishment and dual orange inset coral inlays. There is another floral-type niello inlay atop the wrist to the rear of the tangs and a similar starburst pattern between the triggerguard front extension and ramrod tailpipe. The locks function with extremely strong springs and the faces of the frizzen are deeply ribbed. Overall a very nice pair of ornate Mediterranean, likely Turkish, flintlock pistols that would’ve been carried by a person of import. (37432-1) {ANTIQUE}
Colt U.S. Model 1873 Artillery Revolver
Lot # 393 (Sale Order: 393 of 702)
Low Estimate: 6,500High Estimate: 7,500
serial #2162, 45 Colt, 5 1/2” barrel with an about very good bore which shows strong evident rifling but with minor frosting and light pitting its full length. The barrel retains a mottled smoky gray patina showing perhaps evidence of a light cleaning and some applied blue. The ejector rod housing retains some very good Colt blue in the flutes and has toned primarily to pewter on its outer edge; it and the muzzle show some nice holster wear. The cylinder is a dark smoky gray faded original blue with the oddly scattered remnant of light pinprick pitting beneath and perhaps a tiny speck or two of surface rust. The frame and hammer show about 97% Colt color case-hardening, no doubt done at the time of the conversion to artillery configuration or during the 1903 refinish at Colt. There are remnants of a light pit here and there but the markings remain crisp. The backstrap shows some good Colt blue as well and is toning to pewter along its lower edge, retaining perhaps 40% Colt factory blue. The triggerguard is a similar with its leading edge toned to pewter and the lower grasping edge dull gun metal. Some of the screws show some good pale fire temper blue, the others have toned to gray. The one piece walnut grip rates very good showing what is likely an old light cleaning with chips at its leading left and right edges, it otherwise fits very well. It is marked however the number cannot be discerned and it is “RAC” stamped on its left and right butt and has a 1903 with script “RAC” acceptance cartouche on the right side of the grip. Additionally the underside of the barrel and rear face of the cylinder are “RAC” marked. The triggerguard is serial numbered 49222 and Nettleton inspected while the backstrap is numbered 50587, the cylinder is not numbered. The included factory letter shows shipment in July 1903 to Springfield Armory after a factory refurbishing. A very good U.S. Artillery Model overall which shows some evidence of some light cleaning in areas but appears to be a very good example overall. (37261-17) {ANTIQUE}
Cased Pair Of British Percussion Pocket Pistols By William Ellis
Lot # 394 (Sale Order: 394 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 3,000
.45 cal., 1 3/4” barrels with near excellent bores. This is a lovely little pair of pistols. The round-body action and barrels each retain about 95-97% original color case-hardening, muting somewhat in spots with some minor handling marks or dings from the years. There is a tasteful ring of engraving at the muzzle with light scroll on the left and right of each action, the left with a square bordered panel with “William Ellis” at its center. The hammers are neatly engraved as well and retain nearly all of their original color case-hardening; there are rear-sliding safeties which currently seemed frozen in place. The bag shaped English walnut grips rate excellent with much original varnish and some minor dings and handling marks from the years. They feature un-engraved silver diamond-shaped monogram plates atop the wrist. The guns function well mechanically. The pistols are cased in a nice walnut presentation case with brass reinforced corners. Inside is what is likely the original combination nipple and barrel wrench, it is nicely color case-hardened, an iron bullet mould, a brass-bodied fixed common top flask which rates very good and percussion caps included. A very pretty set of pistols overall in a rather nice period casing, remaining in very fine condition. (37420-1) {ANTIQUE}
Fine Underlever Pinfire Double Shotgun By E.M. Reilly & Co.
Lot # 395 (Sale Order: 395 of 702)
Low Estimate: 1,500High Estimate: 2,500
!!! NOTICE: This lot has a discrepancy. Please CLICK HERE for the discrepancy list.
serial #13033, 20 bore, 29" barrels with very good bores that show a little scattered light pitting. This is a very nice quality shotgun that remains in very fine condition. The back action locks are engraved with folky gamescenes with gamebirds in wooded scene surrounded by scroll. The frame and top tang are engraved in fine relief scroll with another gamebird on top of tang between hammers. The engraving is also found on the lower tang, triggerguard bow (which is applied to the lower tang and not integral) and the opening lever. The condition of the gun is very nice with the barrels showing vivid damascus pattern their entire lengths and showing the New Oxford Street, London address on rib. The breech section of the rib shows decorative scroll engraving and there are lovely sunbursts emanating from the pinholes. The action and locks show a pleasing mix of smooth gray patina and faded color case-hardened finish. All engraving remains very crisp and there is about a 1" flaw in the rib within the barrel inscription. The checkered straight grip buttstock and forend are of beautifully figured English walnut and rate excellent with 95% original finish remaining and with sharp, coarse checkering. The checkering is beautifully executed being checkered without borders right to the locks. The smooth steel shotgun buttplate is an even gray patina with engraving at the heel. The shotgun comes in a period mahogany case with brass trimmed corners, locks and flush mounted round handle within lid. The interior of the case is properly labeled and the green lining is excellent quality more modern lining. The case includes a cleaning rod, pewter oiler and various cleaning implements. A handsome Reilly pinfire double gun. (17147-156) {ANTIQUE} [Terry Buffum Collection]
serial #13033, 20 bore, 29" barrels with very good bores that show a little scattered light pitting. This is a very nice quality shotgun that remains in very fine condition. The back action locks are engraved with folky gamescenes with gamebirds in wooded scene surrounded by scroll. The frame and top tang are engraved in fine relief scroll with another gamebird on top of tang between hammers. The engraving is also found on the lower tang, triggerguard bow (which is applied to the lower tang and not integral) and the opening lever. The condition of the gun is very nice with the barrels showing vivid damascus pattern their entire lengths and showing the New Oxford Street, London address on rib. The breech section of the rib shows decorative scroll engraving and there are lovely sunbursts emanating from the pinholes. The action and locks show a pleasing mix of smooth gray patina and faded color case-hardened finish. All engraving remains very crisp and there is about a 1" flaw in the rib within the barrel inscription. The checkered straight grip buttstock and forend are of beautifully figured English walnut and rate excellent with 95% original finish remaining and with sharp, coarse checkering. The checkering is beautifully executed being checkered without borders right to the locks. The smooth steel shotgun buttplate is an even gray patina with engraving at the heel. The shotgun comes in a period mahogany case with brass trimmed corners, locks and flush mounted round handle within lid. The interior of the case is properly labeled and the green lining is excellent quality more modern lining. The case includes a cleaning rod, pewter oiler and various cleaning implements. A handsome Reilly pinfire double gun. (17147-156) {ANTIQUE} [Terry Buffum Collection]
Very Rare Limited Edition Uberti Model 1866 L.D. Nimschke Tribute-Engraved Rifle From Cherry’S Inc.
Lot # 396 (Sale Order: 396 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 4,000
serial #LDN034, 44-40 WCF, 24 1/4” octagon barrel with a bright excellent, unfired bore. This is an exceptional Uberti rifle. The barrel and magazine tube retain all their original nice rust blue finish with dual inlaid bands of silver at the muzzle and at the breech. The forend nosecap, frame and buttplate are beautifully engraved in the L.D. Nimschke-style utilizing actual pulls from his work of the period, as illustrated in L.D. Nimschke Firearms Engraver © Wilson. They all retain 100% of their original silver plate with the loading gate, screws and face of the trigger exhibiting brilliant nitre blue, the bright-polished sides of the trigger brilliant and unstained. The lever and hammer retain all their original color case-hardening. The English walnut forend and buttstock rate excellent to very nearly as-new with a very nice satin gloss finish, there being some minor handling marks and tiny dings to the rear of the lower tang and what appears to be the beginning of a drying crack along the right lower edge of the forearm, the rifle is absolutely unfired. There is a simple blade front sight and ladder-style rear sight in place. The quality of the engraving is exceptional and deeply done, the bottom of the frame with a facsimile “LDN” of Nimschke’s signature, the work is strangely unsigned but is top-notch. The rifle comes in its original walnut presentation case with a lockable brass hasps (the key is included). The case has a lovely sky-blue baize lining and rates very good plus overall with the lid showing numerous minor light scuffs and handling marks from the years, the right edge showing a tiny chip missing. Less than 100 of these exceptional arms were produced making them extreme rarities in the post-retail market. (37349-7)
Extremely Limited Edition Tga/Uberti Lincoln Henry Rifle By The American Historical Foundation
Lot # 397 (Sale Order: 397 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 3,000
serial #AL029, .44-40, 24” octagon barrel with a bright excellent bore. The barrel, barrel collar, lever, rear sight, hammer and trigger retain all their lovely factory pale nitre blue, the barrel with a very superficial handling mark here or there, there are only a couple which are easily missed. The bright-polished sides of the trigger and hammer are still brilliant with the hammer showing a couple of very light oxidation blemishes appearing on its left side at the tip of the spur. The frame is covered in Samuel Hodgson-style open flowing scroll with background punch-dot shading and floral embellishment, engraved exactly like Abraham Lincoln’s presentation Henry rifle which is now in the Smithsonian Institution. The frame, lower tang, cartridge lifter, magazine follower and buttplate retain all their original genuine 24 karat gold plate, it remains a very brilliant. The top tang of the buttplate and its left and right edges are also nicely engraved in a floral and banknote filigree pattern. The English walnut stock rates excellent with some really lovely grain figure and all its original varnish showing a few very tiny handling marks which are very unobtrusive and really must be looked for. A silver bladed front sight is in place, the rear sight seat is vacant and the correct ladder-style sight is in place atop the receiver. The right sideplate is engraved in an additional oval vignette: “Lincoln/President/USA” and the gun appears very nearly as-new and un-fired, both barrel and lower tang are serial numbered alike. The rifle comes in its original wall mount presentation case with a rich blue-baize lining and leather identification label. A wonderful re-creation of this, arguably the most-famous of the Henry rifles. Original issue was only 250 rifles making these very scarce today on the secondary market. (37349-5)
Rare Navy Arms Uberti 1866 Saddle Ring Indian Carbine
Lot # 398 (Sale Order: 398 of 702)
Low Estimate: 1,200High Estimate: 1,800
serial #3309, 22 LR, 19” round barrel with a bright excellent bore. The barrel, bands, magazine tube, lever and hammer retain all their original deep factory blue. The bands, lever and hammer show some very nice loose flowing scroll and geometric embellishment with light engraving around the Navy Arms barrel address. Really a special gun, this is their grade C coverage, the frame is beautifully, intricately embellished with high-quality, deeply cut loose flowing scroll in the Ulrich style with very fine background punch-dot shading. There is a loose floral embellishment on the bottom of the carrier and top of the action with similar engraving on the buttplate and its tang. There is a very nice American Indian vignette on the left side of the gun while the right side shows an eagle in-flight, attacking a flying waterfowl; the tang is signed by the engraver “MD” on its right lower edge. The carbine is stocked in an extremely fine grade of English walnut showing rich marbling in the buttstock and lovely grain figure. It is satin-gloss finished and rates excellent with a couple minor handling marks here or there and one or two very light drying cracks due to the highly figured wood. The arm is very stunning and the quality of the engraving exceptional, these arms were imported in 1989 only and rarely become available on the secondary market; the grade C coverage was a $500 added option at that time. (37349-8)
Colt 1911A1 Government Model Semi-Auto Pistol
Lot # 399 (Sale Order: 399 of 702)
Low Estimate: 2,000High Estimate: 2,500
serial #C186351, 45 ACP, 5” barrel with a bright excellent bore. The slide retains 98% original blue, the loss due to some light leading edge wear. The frame retains a similar amount of excellent quality restored blue, now drifting slightly to plum from the years, and showing remnants of some light pitting beneath at the frontstrap. The fully checkered walnut grips rate very good plus to excellent showing only light wear. The pistols Colt barrel has been match fitted and a micro bushing installed at the front and fully adjustable micro target sights have been professionally installed. There is a single blued “Colt/45 Auto” marked magazine included. The trigger pull is very nice and has clearly been tuned. Really a lovely vintage bull’s-eye gun that will no doubt shoot as well as you can hold it. (37447-2) {C&R}
Lovely Colt Model 1849 Pocket Factory Engraved Revolver
Lot # 400 (Sale Order: 400 of 702)
Low Estimate: 6,500High Estimate: 8,000
serial #188540, .31 cal., 4” octagon New York address barrel with a very good bore. The steel surfaces are now a pewter-gray gunmetal patina with scattered light pinprick pitting but the lovely Gustave Young engraving remains sharp overall, the right side showing a bit more light pitting than the left. The stagecoach hold-up scene is near fully visible, a couple spots slightly occluded by some light pitting or wear; the hammer rest pins are intact. The brass backstrap and triggerguard are lovely retaining 97% original silver plate, wearing on the sharp edges and at the butt. The one-piece antique ivory grip is original to the gun, numbered in antique ink pen “8540”. The grip fits perfectly and shows some age cracks along the bottom edge with 7 neat “kill notches”, 3 on the right and 4 on the left. All of the numbers are matching including the wedge and the gun seems to function well mechanically. The revolver comes cased in an orange baize-lined walnut presentation case with an assortment of projectiles; a steel “Colts Patent” dual-cavity mould which shows light oxidation staining, dings and some light pitting on the handles, but with trace original blue; a fixed common top star and eagle flask with tight seams and some minor dings and dents on the body, now a dull ochre patina; and a tin of Goldmark’s percussion caps from the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. Really a nicely cased factory engraved Pocket Model which makes a lovely ensemble over all. (37261-7) {ANTIQUE}
