Auction No. 109 - Session 1
Saturday, April 2, 2016 | 9:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Auction No. 109 - Session 1
Saturday, April 2, 2016 | 9:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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Description
This sale features over 1700 lots of rare and historic firearms. View the entire catalog here.
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New York Buck And Ball Percussion Rifle By Gillespie
Lot # 101 (Sale Order: 101 of 783)
.41 cal / 12 ga, 28" solid rib barrels with a single gold band at the breech and bright excellent bores. The rifle barrel is of cast steel with an even pewter-brown patina, the shotgun barrel is of lovely damascus steel with vibrant contrasting pewter and brown patterning throughout its entirety and a small section of pinprick pitting about 3" ahead of the breech; the rib is maker-marked "GILLESPIE", the underside of the barrels is marked "J.W. WILKINSON". The arm is sighted with a blade front sight and a simple v-notch rear sight which still retains strong fire blue. The locks, hammers and balance of the metal furniture are of case-hardened steel with lovely aged colors still visible throughout, perhaps about 60-70% remaining, and are finely engraved with loose flowing foliate scroll and detailed borders. Metal furniture includes dual wedge escutcheons, ramrod tailpipe, fancy single spur triggerguard, crescent buttplate with decorative toeplate, wonderfully engraved fancy patchbox with "WHS" initials on the silver lid and a star inlay on the left side flared cheekpiece. The checkered straight grip halfstock was crafted from a superb piece of walnut with nice fiddleback patterning and rates excellent with an old added finish, perhaps lightly cleaned at one time, and shows tiny scattered handling marks from the years. The wood to metal fit is almost seamless with the exception of the upper tang and heel of buttplate being slightly proud of the walnut. The locks are tight and function properly and a wooden ramrod is present; the leading trigger is a set trigger. Gillespie, the maker of the arm, has been tentatively identified as George H. D. Gillespie of New York, New York, derived from the secondary Wilkinson marking, which is John W. Wilkinson, also of New York. It was likely that these two men, being of such close proximity, conducted business with each other, Wilkinson of course providing the barrels for Gillespie's arms. According to The New York State Firearms Trade by H. J. Swinney, Gillespie was an active gunsmith from 1848 to 1870 and Wilkinson was only active during 1850, leaving one to believe that this rifle was most likely made during that year. A high quality buck and ball rifle, still in superb, all original condition, made with the combined efforts of two master craftsmen in their prime. (157243-9) {ANTIQUE}
New York Halfstock Percussion Sporting And Target Rifle By Nelson Lewis
Lot # 102 (Sale Order: 102 of 783)
.41 cal., 32" heavy octagon barrel with a very good bore with sparse oxidation. The barrel has toned to a pleasing mottled pewter patina throughout with light oxidation staining; the crown is equipped to accept a false muzzle however the muzzle is no longer present. The barrel is maker-marked "N. LEWIS TROY" along the top flat. The arm is sighted with a globe front sight with post and an adjustable v-notch rear with arrow-shaped finial at the leading edge; the tang is drilled and tapped to accept a tang sight. The lock, patent hooked breech and tang are embellished with fine scroll engraving and exhibit a silvery gray patina and the nipple bolster is nicely sculpted; the left diagonal flat of the breech is ribbed. The stock is outfitted with a pewter forend cap and German silver furniture including single spur triggerguard, crescent buttplate, patchbox (actual lid is iron), geometrically shaped wedge escutcheons and two basic inlays on the flared cheekpiece, one depicting a flying bird and the other closely resembles a daisy head. The straight grip buttstock is of lightly figured walnut and rates excellent with about 75% original finish remaining and light handling marks from the years; there are a pair of tiny cracks on either side of the forend stemming from the forend cap. The arm features single acting, double set triggers and the lock functions properly. A brass-tipped wooden ramrod is included. A lovely example of Mr. Lewis's craftsmanship. (157243-15) {ANTIQUE}
Fine Percussion Halfstock Sporting And Target Rifle By Samuel C. Miller
Lot # 103 (Sale Order: 103 of 783)
45 cal., 32" heavy octagon barrel with a false muzzle and a bright minty bore with strong rifling. The barrel has a fading, nicely restored plum-brown finish showing a series of tiny dings along the top flat; the barrel flat is maker-marked "S.C. MILLER / NEW HAVEN / CAST STEEL" and there are two silver bands at the breech-end. The arm is sighted with a globe-style front sight with post insert, decorative v-notch rear with oversized elevation screw and a lollipop-style tang sight with adjustable windage slide. The back-action lock is a smoky case-hardened patina and is also maker-marked "S.C. MILLER", the hammer retains almost all of its later fire temper colors. The nosecap is nickel-plated brass with a bit of the nickel finish wearing to a pleasing goldenrod patina, the balance of the arm consists of German silver furniture, including the fancy single spur triggerguard, ribbed ramrod tailpipe, dual wedge escutcheons, crescent buttplate, semi-fancy patchbox and lockplate screw escutcheon. Additionally, there are two German silver inlays on the left side flared cheekpiece depicting a hunter with his dog taking aim at a wild boar. The stock is of beautifully figured walnut and is checkered at the wrist and forend and rates very good to near excellent showing an old light cleaning and a bit of added finish with two spliced-in slivers along the upper corners of the forend at tip, a repaired chip on the lower edge of the cheekpiece and light dings and handling marks that one would expect with an arm of this age. Stamped upside-down in the right side of the butt are the numbers "12705". The lock is tight and functions properly and a later ramrod is included. This is a very handsome and fine quality halfstock rifle by this well-regarded maker who operated out of New Haven, Connecticut from 1849 to 1860. (157243-23) {ANTIQUE}
New York Percussion Buck And Ball Rifle By Daniel Fish
Lot # 104 (Sale Order: 104 of 783)
40 cal/ 12 ga, 32" solid rib barrels with two gold bands at the breeches and very good, lightly oxidized bores. The barrels have toned to a pleasing plum-brown patina with pewter undertones and sparsely scattered pinprick pits here and there; the rib is maker-marked "D. FISH NEW YORK". The arm is sighted with a folding Beach-style front sight with post insert, a v-notch rear sight and a folding lollipop-style tang sight with adjustable windage slide. The back action locks and hammers are embellished with ornate scroll engraving and have mostly toned to pewter with a few traces of added blue on the tang; both plates are maker-marked. The triggerguard with fancy spur shows about 60% added blue and is neatly decorated with similar engraving. The steel semi-fancy patchbox and crescent buttplate are graced with more fine scroll engraving and geometric patterns; the patchbox lid depicts an upland bird dog in a field. The balance of the metal furniture is German silver, featuring the decorative ramrod tailpipe, dual wedge escutcheons and an inlay of a leaping buck on the flared left side cheekpiece. The checkered straight grip halfstock is of lovely figured walnut and rates very good, showing added finish and a crack running through the underside of the wrist, just ahead of the triggerguard, that was rudimentarily repaired; the repair will flex slightly under pressure and should be properly fixed by a good wood man. The front trigger is a single set and the locks function properly; a brass tipped wooden ramrod is included. A fine buck and ball rifle by the renowned gunsmith Daniel Fish of New York City, active from 1840 to 1874. (157243-21) {ANTIQUE}
Midland Gun Company Double Hammer Express Rifle
Lot # 105 (Sale Order: 105 of 783)
serial #81205, 470 NE, 25" Birmingham Nitro proofed barrels with near excellent bores which are bright with deep rifling and show just a little very light pitting along some of the lands near the muzzle. This toplever hammer double rifle features tasteful scroll engraving on the locks and action. The tops of barrels are engraved "MIDLAND GUN CO." on right barrel and "BIRMINGHAM & LONDON" on the left barrel. The barrels feature a hand filed matted rib with raised front ramp and quarter rib with balance between the sights being sunken. The barrels retain 95% re-blacked finish with markings remaining clear and legible. The action and locks bear an even gray patina overall and those metal surfaces remain quite smooth and free of pitting. The checkered pistolgrip buttstock and forend are of English walnut and rate very good retaining 95% restored oil finish with very good flattop checkering which shows just light wear. The rifle is equipped with sling stud mounted in toeline of stock and on the underside of the barrel rib. The toeline of stock also shows a brass or silver inlaid monogram plate which remains plain. The rifle boasts a 14 3/4" length of pull over a solid brown Decelerator pad. The action features dual locking underlugs along with a Greener crossbolt; lockup is tight and crossbolt protrudes slightly on the left side when the rifle is closed and toplever is slightly right of center. The rifle is sighted with a single standing and two folding leaf rear sight graduated from 100 to 300 yards with a low profile beaded blade front. A very good utilitarian double hammer rifle in a popular and potent chambering. (17464-31) {C&R}
Hudson Bay Indian Trade Flintlock Musket By H E Leman Of Pennsylvania
Lot # 106 (Sale Order: 106 of 783)
About 69 cal., 36" part octagon part round barrel with oxidized bore. The barrel is primarily a soft brown patina with some scattered oxidation staining and some sparsely scattered light pits. There is a scant blade front sight present, the original rear sight has been lost to the years and a gunsmith-made period replacement sight has been fitted to the rear of this dovetail. The new dovetail has partially obscured, the "HE Leman" name however "Lancaster PA" is still fully readable. The lockplate is a silvery patina with light borderline engraving and some loose open scroll at its rear. It is maker marked and shows a sunken "Tombstone Fox/PA" touch mark. The swan neck cock and frizzen are primarily a dull gray and brown patina showing some scattered light pitting. There are dual ribbed brass ramrod thimbles and a brass buttplate, the triggerguard is lightly oxidized iron. The stock rates very good with the expected overall minor dings and handling marks from the years, with some drying cracks here and there and some slivers missing along the top thin edge of the forearm; there is a chip missing from the rear of the tang. The sideplate is a serpentine Dragon, cast of brass and there are a number of brass tack decorations along with hammered lead "brad" decorations around the periphery of the butt. A very light Hudson's Bay trading company seated Fox can be seen on the left side of the butt just above the comb flutes. The lock is mechanically functional and there is a brass-tipped wooden ramrod in place. Overall a very good example of a Hudson Bay Company Indian trade musket made by this prolific Pennsylvania gunsmith. (37546-32) {ANTIQUE} [Bleecker Williams Collection]
Fine Cased James Purdey Percussion Double Rifle
Lot # 107 (Sale Order: 107 of 783)
serial #3436, .65 caliber, 29" barrels with very good plus bright bores showing crisp rifling their entire lengths. The locks feature sliding safeties and show lovely relief floral scroll engraving and each is properly numbered to the rifle on the inside. The top of the barrel rib is engraved "J. PURDEY. 314 1/2 OXFORD STREET. LONDON" and each lockplate is engraved simply "PURDEY". The bottoms of the barrels show London proofs, are both properly numbered and are each marked "JP". The triggerguard, tang, wedge escutcheons, tailpipe and buttplate tang are also all engraved in tasteful floral scroll. The right side of the butt is equipped with a round hinged patchbox which is engraved with a flower blossom at center surrounded by a sunburst pattern and the face of the buttplate shows near full coverage flat top checkering. The barrels retain about 20% original brown finish blending with a brown patina and with some scattered patches of very light pitting. There is some Damascus pattern still visible on the barrels and the top rib shows a decent amount as well. The locks retain an even gray brown patina with strong traces of original finish in protected areas and with one patch of pitting on the forward portion of the right lock. The triggerguard retains about 15% original blue with the balance bearing a pleasing smooth brown patina. The checkered walnut stock shows nice figure and features a rounded shadowline cheekpiece with incise carved border along outer edge. The condition of the stock is very good plus as nicely refinished with checkering remaining strong. There is a small steel escutcheon neatly inlaid into the top of the wrist for some type of lollipop type peepsight. The locks remain very crisp with the front trigger actuating the left barrel and rear trigger the right. The gun comes in a period mahogany case partitioned perfectly for the rifle and including a brass mold, fluted powder flask, three piece cleaning rod, pewter oiler, cap tin, nipple wrench and a bottle of sperm whale oil. The condition of the case is very good with the locking lobes on the lid being broken but this only affects the locking, it opens and closes fine. Overall a very nice Purdey percussion double rifle. (17464-16) {ANTIQUE}
Unmarked German Bockbuchsflinte Combination Gun
Lot # 108 (Sale Order: 108 of 783)
serial #2422, 16 ga. by 8x57JR, 26 3/4" Krupp Laufstahl barrels with bright excellent shotgun bore choked full and very good plus to near excellent rifle bore which shows minor frosting and sparsely scattered very light pitting within the grooves. The barrels retain about 97% original blue with light fading and muzzle wear. The frame is a pewter patina and is over all engraved in loose flowing foliate scroll with game scene vignettes left and right showing hunting dogs and roe deer. The triggerguard shows some remnants of fading blue, also with similar engraving with the gold inlaid initials "CH". The gun is stocked in a nice grade of European walnut with arched European-style comb and rounded left side cheekpiece. The stock itself rates about very good with overall light dings and handling marks from the years, the right side near the butt with some more moderate impact marks or scrapes. The forearm is in a similar state of condition and shows a bit more wear and handling marks and a repair to a full-length crack which now seems stable. The checkering remains crisp on the pistolgrip and there are nice black horn diamond-shaped inlays at the rear of the stock cheeks, a bone pistolgrip cap and the length of pull to the solid rubber rifle pad is 13 3/4". The forearm checkering is worn flat on the side which was repaired and there is a nice bone insert at the tip. Amenities include a nice cartridge trap along the toeline, nicely engraved with a depiction of an auerhahn, cocking indicators left and right and the triggers showing gold plate, about half of which remains, the front rifle trigger being single set. The rifle is sighted with a simple bead front and flip-up rear sight and there are dual claw-mount bases fitted which currently support a Hensoldt Diatal 6x42 telescopic sight with thick three-post reticle and bright excellent optics. The scope rates very good with numerous minor scratches and handling marks on the tube and a few drilled mounting holes on the integral underside dovetail from previous mountings. Overall a very usable Bockbuchsflinte in a nice caliber and gauge combination, proofed in December 1930. (37552-31) {C&R}
Custom Mauser Magazine Sporting Rifle By Christoph Funk
Lot # 109 (Sale Order: 109 of 783)
serial #38043, 6.5x68mm, 25 1/2" R?chling steel barrel with a bright excellent bore. The metal surfaces retain about 92% original blue, the loss is due to even fading with high edge and muzzle wear. The triggerguard tang shows toning to pewter and the bolt knob and lower portion of handle have worn to bright gunmetal. The barrel is maker marked "Christoph Funk Suhl" near the breech and is retailer marked "W Eblen Stuttgart" ahead of the rear sight. There is some very light border engraving on the receiver, floorplate and bow of the guard. The rifle is stocked classic style with a rounded left-sided shadowline cheekpiece and the stock itself rates very good plus showing a light cleaning but retaining the minor dings and handling marks that come from a hunted arm. The stock features a bone forend tip and a pistolgrip cap and the length of pull to the grooved bone buttplate is 14 1/8". The rifle features double set triggers, lever-release floorplate and a Greener-style safety in addition to the normal bolt-mounted manual safety. The grip shows nicely checkered panels, the forend is smooth. The rifle is sighted with a simple bead atop a sporting ramp a later hood is in place, and a simple flat-top single leaf rear sight. The receiver has been fitted with dual claw bases and there is currently mounted a 6x56 Otto Bock telescopic sight. The "rings" mounted to the telescope tube are not for this set of bases causing the tube to point upward at a slight angle (which would cause the gun to shoot very low). The rear ring has had an extension added to its base at one point, it would be an easy job for any gunsmith of any talent to fashion a new extension and bring this rear ring up to the proper height. The scope rates very good with some worn finish and thick European three-post reticle with bright excellent optics. Really a nicely constructed rifle with classic amenities, proofed in February 1941. The 6.5x68mm cartridge is a high-performance cartridge and is used effectively on everything from varmints right up to Moose with the proper loadings. (37552-29) {C&R}
Germanic Military Matchlock Musket
Lot # 110 (Sale Order: 110 of 783)
79 caliber, 43 1/2" part round part octagon barrel with graceful faceted edges for 2 1/2" and a turned ring at final transition to round. The barrel is marked at breech with "HM" in sunken rectangle, a tree in sunken oval and a key in another sunken semi-round circle. Based upon the stock architecture, this gun likely dates to the first quarter of the 17th century, with Stockel listing "HM" stampings from Nurnberg circa 1560, but also 1650 and a Suhl maker circa 1680 (on Matchlock muskets). The gun features a serpentine cock with rectangular pan and swivel mounted pan cover. The interior of the pan shows a raised "X" to help keep powder in place and the gun utilizes a conventional trigger with iron guard rather than the lever trigger found on some other matchlocks of the period. The lock is 10" in length with pointed ends and no decoration other than two vertical lines at rear. The condition of the gun is remarkable considering it was made 400 years ago. The barrel shows an even smooth gray patina and is generally free of pitting and shows crisp markings. The lock is a little more brown but also very smooth and pleasing in appearance. The stock shows well defined edges and retains nearly all of its original black painted type finish. The stock is generally unadorned but does show double incise carved borders around the periphery of the butt and along the ramrod channel. The buttplate is a flat piece of iron and affixed with three screws. There is a splice in the forend 12" back from the muzzle, the color, texture and finish matches perfectly and the stock may have been made this way or this is a period repair. Simple open sights are present on the top of the barrel and a brass tipped ramrod is present. This musket was once part of the very fine F.W. Roebling Collection and bears his collection tag which reads "F.W. ROEBLING III / COLLECTION / TRENTON, N.J. / 2". It is interesting to note that F.W. Roebling's father John Roebling was the designer and builder of the Brooklyn Bridge. A very rare and very fine Germanic matchlock military musket. (17546-86) {ANTIQUE} [Bleecker Williams Collection]
European Matchlock Wall Gun
Lot # 111 (Sale Order: 111 of 783)
.75 caliber, 47" octagon barrel engraved on top flat with a large "R" and also with a rectangular sunken mark that is not legible but may show a partial crown. The lock is 7" long and rectangular in shape with a slight bow toward the center. The lock shows some vertical lined decoration with punched circles between. The cock has a nice shell motif where it enters the lock and retains its threaded match holder while the pan is square with its swiveling cover remaining intact. The gun features a lever style trigger with a nicely turned finial at its tip. The iron surfaces of gun retain a rich dark brown patina with some very old light surface oxidation and perhaps a little very light pitting here or there. The stock remains in very fine condition with well-defined edges and numerous worm holes in the butt. There is an iron yoke mounted 31 1/2" back from muzzle (almost the mid-point of the gun) with a spike which was intended to fit into a hole atop of fort wall so the gun can be swiveled and aimed. The stock has a rich dark appearance with a few light handling marks and has no provision for a buttplate. A brass tipped ramrod is present. A very interesting 17th century military matchlock. (17546-87) {ANTIQUE} [Bleecker Williams Collection]
Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle
Lot # 112 (Sale Order: 112 of 783)
serial #109975, 45-90 WCF, 25 1/2" barrel with a bright excellent bore. The barrel and full length replacement magazine tube retain 97% original blue with a few light tool marks near the breech-end of the barrel and a few areas of light oxidation; the barrel is mail-order proofed. The frame and action have mostly toned to a pewter-brown patina with light oxidation stains here and there as well as a few light horizontal striations on the sides of the frame. The straight grip walnut buttstock and forend rate about very good, as lightly cleaned, showing a 1 1/4" crack at the rear right side of the upper tang as well as light dings and dents from the years; the comb has been rounded off towards the front. Rifle is sighted with a Marble No. 2 ivory bead front sight and a u-notch sporting rear sight. A very nice 1886 in a great caliber. (157535-23) {ANTIQUE}
Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle
Lot # 113 (Sale Order: 113 of 783)
serial #163727, 38 WCF, 24 1/4" octagon barrel with a bright, near excellent bore with the exception of perhaps a handful of tiny shallow pits. The barrel and full length magazine tube retain about 65-70% thinning original blue with the balance toning to a soft pewter patina with traces of brown and perhaps a handful of tiny oxidation stains. The frame retains about 50-60% original blue fading to pewter with the balance toned to a pewter-brown patina showing horizontal striations on both sides of the frame and lightly scattered specks of oxidation staining. The hammer and lever show strong traces of original case-hardened colors, mostly on the right side of the hammer and root of the lever, with the remaining metal toned to a smoky case-hardened patina. The straight grip walnut buttstock and forend are of lovely figure and rate near excellent showing a small amount of minor dings and handling marks from the years and perhaps a bit of added finish as well as a thin 1" crack at the rear underside of the forend that was overlooked at first glance. Rifle is sighted with a Beach combination front sight, a buckhorn rear and a Lyman No. 1 tang sight is affixed. Really a lovely 1892 rifle that has aged well with time. (157535-4) {ANTIQUE}
Winchester Model 1894 Special Order Rifle
Lot # 114 (Sale Order: 114 of 783)
serial #526536, 32-40, 26" barrel with a bright, near excellent bore with the tiniest amount of frosting in the grooves. The barrel and special order button tip magazine tube retain 97% original blue showing a few small clusters of pinprick pitting and tiny specks of oxidation here and there. The frame shows remnants of pinprick pitting and has mostly toned to a pewter-brown patina with strong traces of blue near the rear edges, base of the lever and top of the bolt. The lever and hammer show traces of faded case-hardened colors with the balance toned to a smoky case-hardened patina; the crescent buttplate shows strong traces of case-hardened colors. The straight grip walnut buttstock and forend rate very good to near excellent with light handling marks from the years and lightly added finish. Rifle is sighted with a standard blade front sight and a buckhorn rear sight. A classic 1894 special order rifle. (157526-52) {C&R}
Holland & Holland Sidelever Double Hammer Ejectorgun
Lot # 115 (Sale Order: 115 of 783)
serial #6470, 12 bore, 30" damascus barrels with bright excellent bores choked improved cylinder and cylinder. This is a very unusual and very neat Holland double gun. The top rib of barrel is engraved "EJECTOR'D BY T. PERKES LONDON HOLLAND & HOLLAND. 98 NEW BOND STREET LONDON" and "WINNER AT ALL THE FIELD / RIFLE TRIALS LONDON 1883". Thomas Perkes was a London gunsmith who worked with Holland & Holland and held a several patents for ejector systems among other things starting in 1878. As if that were not interesting enough this shotgun was sent to Birmingham for re-proofing and is currently proofed "12-70 850 BAR". The shotgun features back action locks with rebounding hammers. The action and locks are engraved in nice tight English scroll with each lock also being engraved "HOLLAND & HOLLAND". The gun originally built as part of a set as the barrels and other components are all numbered "2". The condition is quite nice with the barrels retaining 95% beautiful lightly thinning brown finish with strong Damascus pattern visible their entire lengths. The action and locks are mostly an even smooth gray patina with faded color visible in protected areas. The checkered straight grip buttstock and forend are of nicely figured English walnut and rate very good plus showing lots of original oil finish and with strong, sharp checkering. The wood to metal fit remains very tight as does the action of this double. The guns handles beautifully weighing 6 lbs. 12 oz. with a 14 1/4" length of pull over a grooved horn buttplate and showing drops of 1 5/8" and 2". A truly classic sidelever London double hammergun with period ejector system and modern nitro proofed barrels. The ejectors are not as robust as modern ejectors but they do indeed eject snap caps. A very cool antique London double gun. (17464-27) {ANTIQUE}
Kimber Model 8400 Super America Bolt Action Rifle
Lot # 116 (Sale Order: 116 of 783)
serial #KW30396, 338 Win. Mag., 26" barrel with a bright excellent bore. This is a like-new Kimber rifle. The metal surfaces retain 99% high gloss blue. The checkered pistolgrip classic style buttstock is of beautifully figured AAA walnut and rates excellent featuring an ebony forend tip, blued steel gripcap and flared left side cheekpiece. Rifle is devoid of sights however there are steel Leupold bases affixed to the receiver. The original box is included. A finely crafted Kimber 8400 rifle that is in near-new condition. (157484-3) {MODERN}
Kimber Of Oregon Model 84 Classic Bolt Action Rifle
Lot # 117 (Sale Order: 117 of 783)
serial #TD1049B, 222 Rem, 22" barrel with a bright excellent bore. The metal surfaces retain 99% original high polish blue finish. The checkered pistolgrip walnut buttstock and forend rate excellent featuring an ebony forend tip, blued steel gripcap and Niedner-style buttplate with a few light handling marks here and there. Rifle is sighted with standard front and rear sporting sights. A lovely classic Kimber of Oregon in near-new condition. (157552-49) {MODERN}
Mauser Model Es340B Single Shot Bolt Action Rifle
Lot # 118 (Sale Order: 118 of 783)
serial #149717, 22 LR, 26 3/4" barrel with a bright excellent bore. The barreled action retains 97% original blue with light muzzle wear and loss on the bolt knob. The bottom metal is gunmetal gray with specks of oxidation staining. The plain pistolgrip European walnut buttstock shows nice figure in the butt and rates excellent with light handling marks here and there. Right is sighted with a sporting ramp blade front sight and an adjustable u-notch rear sight. An excellent Mauser rimfire single shot rifle. (156520-1402) {C&R} [Richard "Stretch" Kennedy Collection]
Rare Mauser Type K Short Rifle
Lot # 119 (Sale Order: 119 of 783)
serial #7089, 8x51mm (.315", short), 20" part octagon part round barrel with a bright excellent bore. The metal surfaces retain about 97% plus original blue, the loss due primarily to high edge wear, also with an overall speckling of very sparsely scattered very light surface oxidation. The boltstop, magazine floorplate lever and rear action screw still show some very nice pale fire temper blue and the action races remain brilliant; the knob is toning slightly to pewter. The checkered walnut pistolgrip stock rates very good plus with crisp checkering and rounded left-sided cheekpiece. The checkered horn Mauser logo buttplate shows a very light flake at the toe and a small crack at its top edge from the buttplate screw to the heel. The rifle is sighted with its original simple blade front sight and 2-leaf rear sight, one standing one folding and is equipped with double set triggers and a lever-release floorplate. Really a very respectable example of these very rare and sought-after short kurz action Mausers. (36520-3575) [Richard "Stretch" Kennedy Collection] {C&R}
Extremely Rare U.S. General Officer's Sword With Special Toledo Blade Made For Brigadier General S.V
Lot # 120 (Sale Order: 120 of 783)
31" dual sided blade, 37 1/8" overall length. This is an amazing sword and is 1 of only 21 General Officer's swords recorded as produced between 1872 and 1902. The Register of Ordnance Stores Sold list the sale of "1 hilt complete, 1 scabbard do. and 1 chamois skin sword case" to S.V. Benet April 1, 1884 at a total price of $24.25. The general had a Toledo blade manufactured at the Spanish Royal Arsenal and fitted to his otherwise regulation sword. The blade has beautiful full coverage etching of scroll, draping riband, star, shield and stand of arms on the obverse side while the reverse side shows matching scroll, "U.S." and shield with colors. The reverse ricasso is etched "S.V." / Benet" while the obverse ricasso is etched "ARTILLERIA / FABRICA / DE / TOLEDO / 1882". The cast obverse counterguard shows eagle over flags while the fixed reverse guard shows shield over a panoply of arms, the knucklebow shows typical floral center and the inverted cone-shaped pommel is decorated with an eagle on one side and a shield on the other with a floral decorated cap. The simulated wrapped bronze grip retains all it's bright silver plate. The steel scabbard retains 95-97% original nickel with scattered pinprick flaking and the brass mounts retain equal original gold wash with some minor light impact marks and spots of light tarnish on the boot-style tip and drag. A single star is centered between the mounts signifying the general's rank. This sword is pictured and discussed in detail on pages 155-160 of Farrington's book Swords & Sabers of the United States Army 1867-1918. Stephen Vincent Benet was born January 22, 1827 in St. Augustine Florida only eight years after Spain ceded Florida and may have led to why the good general chose a Toledo blade for his sword. Benet graduated the academy July 1, 1849 and entered the army as a Bvt. 2nd Lieut., Ordnance. He was the assistant ordnance officer of the Watervliet and Frankford arsenals from 1849-1852 achieving the ranks of 1st. Lieut. July 1, 1853. He was the commander of Pikesville Arsenal in Maryland 1853-1854 and was on special duty in Washington for the ordnance bureau in 1854. He acquired the rank of Captain in 1861 and during the Civil War he was an instructor of ordnance at the academy from 1861-1864. March 13, 1865 he was awarded the rank of Bvt. Major and Bvt. Lieut. Colonel for "Faithful and Meritorious Service" in the Ordnance Department. Post war he served on numerous boards on maneuvering and improvement of heavy guns. He attained the rank of Brig. General and Chief of Ordnance of the U.S. Army June 23, 1874 where he remained chief until his retirement January 22, 1891. General Benet passed away on his birthday January 22, 1895 at the age of 68 and is buried in section 1 at Arlington National Cemetery. Included with the sword is a large folder containing numerous copies of letters, registers and appointment both for and from General Benet. A fabulous General's Officer's sword and is one of possibly four known in existence. (57510-20)
U.S. Model 1860 Staff & Field Officer's Sword By Springfield Armory Presented To Lt. Col. George Mc
Lot # 121 (Sale Order: 121 of 783)
31 1/8" diamond shaped blade marked "U.S. / ARMORY / SPRINGFIELD / MASS." on the reverse side. The blade is etched with scroll, Federal Eagle, flags and "Geo. Mc. C. Derby" on the obverse side and scroll, stand of arms and "Lea Febiger" on the obverse side. The cast obverse counterguard shows eagle over flags while the folding reverse kidney shaped counterguard shows shield over panoply of arms; the knucklebow shows typical floral center and the inverted cone-shaped pommel is decorated with eagle on one side, shield on the other side and a floral cap. The handle is covered in rayskin and wrapped in braided brass wire. The blade retains all its bright finish with some scattered specks of light oxidation staining and very light storage marks. The etching remains crisp and defined. The hilt has a pleasing patina with generous traces of original gold wash in protected areas. The grip rates excellent with the rayskin covering and wrapping tight and intact. The scabbard retains 90-95% frosted original nickel with overall pinprick flaking and a couple light impact marks and bends and the brass mounts have toned to a pleasing ocher patina. Included with the sword is Col. Derby's telescope and chamois bag with name on bag and a large dossier of copies of oaths, letters, efficiency reports and other information on both Col. Derby and Febiger. The unmarked four-draw telescope rates very good plus with focusable clear optics. The exterior brass has a tarnished goldenrod patina with light impact marks, the interior brass a duller ocher showing light contact wear. The veneer wood body has a deep russet red finish with a few thin cracks and handling marks. The chamois bag is moderately worn with scuffs and holes and the writing remaining faintly visible. George Mc Clellan Derby was born Nov. 1, 1856 and graduated from the Military Academy in 1878 as a 1st. Lieut. with the Army Corps. of Engineers. He was later promoted to Captain, he and the Lt. Colonel U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ascended in an Army hydrogen balloon in the Spanish American War gathering recon during the Battle of Santiago. After the war he was responsible for numerous levee and river projects in LA, MN, NY, NJ and KY. He retired from service in 1907 and died October 25, 1848 in Louisiana. The sword was given to him by Col. Lea Febiger who was killed in action October 24, 1900 during the Philippine Insurrection. This sword and telescope is pictured on page 94 of Farrington's book Swords & Sabers of the United States Army 1867-1918. A fantastic Staff & Field sword and telescope grouping that once belonged to an instrumental officer both during and after the war. (57510-12)
U.S Model 1860 Staff & Field Officer's Sword By Springfield Armory Presented To 2Nd. Lieut. George M
Lot # 122 (Sale Order: 122 of 783)
31" diamond shaped blade marked "SPRINGFIELD / -ARMORY- / SPRINGFIELD / MASS. U.S.A." in front of the ricasso on the obverse side. The blade is etched with scroll, stands of arms, flags and Federal Eagle clutching "E Pluribus Unum" riband on the obverse side and scroll, stands of arms and "2nd Lieut. George M. Grimes 20th Infantry" on the reverse side. The cast obverse counterguard shows eagles over flags, while the fixed reverse counterguard shows shield over panoply of arms; the knucklebow shows typical floral center and the inverted cone-shaped pommel is decorated with eagle on one side and a shield on the other side with a decorative floral cap. The handle is covered in black leather and wrapped in braided brass wire. The blade remains bright with patches of pale brown oxidation staining. The etching remains crisp with traces of original gold wash still present. The hilt retains 97-98% original gold wash with a lightly mellowed goldenrod patina along the exposed edges and the grip covering and wrapping remaining intact and tight. The interior of the obverse guard has been engraved "PRESENTED TO / 2ND LIEUT. G. M. GRIMES / BY HIS COMRADES IN / TROOP "B" 2ND. U.S. CAVALRY / 1898". Attached to the guard is a gold bullion knot and tassel. The bright colors are fading to a pale copper and the tassel is fraying at the top and bottom of the knucklebow. The scabbard retains 98% original nickel with scattered pinprick flaking and fine oxidation staining. The mounts retain equal original bright gold wash with some faint superficial light scratches, the boot-style tip is equipped with a drain hole and is stamped with Samuel Porter's inspectors mark "S.W.P." on the rear of the drag. George M Grimes was born in October of 1874 and enlisted as a Private in Co. B, 2nd. Cavalry June 4, 1896 and was promoted to 2nd. Lieut., 20th. Inf. June 23, 1898, he contracted Malaria during the battle of San Juan Hill and was promoted to 1st. Lieut. and commander of the 20th. Inf. March 2, 1899. He was promoted to Capt. of the 30th. Inf. August 29, 1903, attained the rank of Colonel a few years later and served in the temporary forces during WWI. He retained that rank until his death on September 21, 1926 from a self inflicted gunshot wound to the brain while of unsound mind, as a result of general breakdown in service. Included are files with copies of oaths, correspondence, requests for leaves and pension files for his widow Daisy Grimes. A fabulous sword presented to a proud and patriotic member of our military. (57510-16)
U.S. Model 1902 Officer's Sword By Springfield Armory Presented To Charles Jamieson U.S. Ordnance De
Lot # 123 (Sale Order: 123 of 783)
29 3/4" slightly curved blade marked "SPRINGFIELD / ARMORY / SPRINGFIELD / MASS. U.S.A." at the rear of the reverse unstopped fuller. The blade is nicely etched with scroll, stands of arms and "C.C. Jamieson / ORDNANCE DEPT. / U.S. ARMY" on the obverse side while the reverse side is etched with scroll, stand of arms old English "U.S.". The hilt is composed of an early style German silver branched guard and fingergroove horn grip and attached to the hilt is a gold bullion acorn style knot and tassel. The blade remains overall bright with light oxidation staining along the foible and more modest pitting and oxidation at the tip. The metal surfaces of the hilt have a lightly tarnished silver patina with a few light impact marks and the horn grip rates excellent with a couple minor light stress marks. The knot is fading to dull brown with light scuffs, stains and a small tear in one of the strands. The German silver scabbard rates near excellent with scattered minor light scratches and a few shallow dents and bends. Charles Clark Jamieson graduated from the Military Academy and was appointed 2nd. Lieut., 15th. Inf. on June 11, 1892. He transferred to the Ordnance Dept. and was promoted to 1st. Lieut. in 1895 and then Capt. on February 7, 1901. He was an instructor at the academy until 1903 and retired as a Major in 1910 due to injuries he sustained testing ordnance. He was called to duty as a consulting engineer to the Ordnance Dept. from 1917-1919 and attained the rank of Brigadier General before his final retirement in 1930 Gen. Jamieson passed away August 21, 1935. Included with the sword is a folder containing copies of numerous appointments, oaths, assignments and correspondence. A great looking 1902 presentation sword with early style German silver hilt and scabbard. (57510-7)
Early U.S. Model 1902 Officer's Sword By Springfield Armory
Lot # 124 (Sale Order: 124 of 783)
34" slightly curved blade marked ""SPRINGFIELD / ARMORY / SPRINGFIELD / MASS. U.S.A." at the rear of the reverse unstopped fuller. The blade is nicely etched with scroll, stands of arms and Federal Eagle clutching "E Pluribus Unum" riband on the obverse side and scroll, flags and "U.S." on the reverse side. The hilt is composed of an early style German silver guard and fingergroove black ebony grip; attached to the guard is a braided leather knot and tassel. The blade retains nearly all its original bright mirror finish with a few tiny scabbard marks. The metal surfaces of the hilt have a pleasing lightly tarnished patina, the grip rates excellent with one or two light checks and the leather knot rates excellent with light scuffing and crazing at the guard. The German silver scabbard retains nearly all its original bright finish with a couple light dings and is equipped with a bi-metal drag. Attached to the rings is a brown leather hanger with a brass hook; the leather shows light scuffs along the edges and light fading but present inspector's initials. A fabulous near mint early 1902 Officer's sword that would be extremely hard to find in better condition. (57510-8)
Perazzi Model Tmi Single Barrel Shotgun
Lot # 125 (Sale Order: 125 of 783)
serial #7219, 12 ga, 32" ventilated rib ported barrel choked full with a bright excellent bore. The barrel retains 98% original blue finish displaying a few light handling marks. The frame retains 97% original blue having just a few light scratches; the forend iron retains 50% of their finish having loss due to what appears to be rub marks. The checkered walnut pistolgrip buttstock and forend rate excellent displaying just a few light dings and scratches over a strong finish. The buttstock is fitted with an added Morgan's adjustable recoil pad which provides a length of pull of 14 1/2". This gun has been modified with a pinned safety and release trigger. (177495-2) {MODERN}
