Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, December 4, 2016  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, December 4, 2016  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Internet Premium: 20.5%
See Special Terms for additional fees
Cash Payment Discount: 2.5%
Share:

Description

2,600+ Lots! Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com/auction/aid/69
Catalog Terms of sale
Search Catalog :
Sort By :
Go to Lot :
Go to Page :
Per Page :
Pg : 1 of 36

Volcanic Lever Action Navy Pistol from the Winchester Collection

Lot # 3000 (Sale Order: 1 of 880)      

Exceptional Volcanic Lever Action Navy Pistol from the Winchester Arms Collection/Cody Firearms Museum

This is a very fine example of a historic Navy size lever action pistol manufactured by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. c. 1856. The pistol is complete with a letter from the Buffalo Bill Historical Center that states it was formerly part of the Winchester Gun Museum and was deaccessioned from the Winchester Arms Collection of the Cody Firearms Museum and sold at auction in June 1991. The pistol has the distinctive blue octagon barrel with integral magazine, gun metal receiver and casehardened lever with finger hole. The barrel has a brass cone front sight. A fixed rear sight is mounted in a dovetail on the receiver. The casehardened hammer has a knurled spur. The two piece flat bottom walnut grips have a high polish varnish finish. The top barrel flat is roll stamped "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEW HAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854" in three lines. The barrel legend indicates that the pistol was manufactured by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. before the firm was reorganized as the New Haven Arms Co. by Oliver Winchester in April 1857. The serial number "1732" is stamped on the right side of the lever, the right side of the butt underneath the grip and on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match. The Volcanic pistols and carbines were revolutionary firearms that combined a primed self contained rocket ball cartridge, integral magazine and repeating lever action. The Volcanic pistols and carbines drew shirt maker Oliver Winchester into firearms manufacturing. The Volcanic lever action and integral magazines were refined to serve as the basis for the successful New Haven Arms Co. Henry lever action rifles and the Winchester Model 1866, Model 1873 and Model 1876 rifles.

Class: Antique

Extremely fine. The barrel and integral magazine retain at least 90% of the original blue finish. The barrel has some very minor edge wear at the muzzle and numerous shallow wide dents present on both sides adjacent to the receiver. The blue has developed a slight plum colored patina. Most of the niter blue finish is present on protected areas of the cartridge elevator and bolt. The hammer and lever retain 80% of the original case colors which have faded to a mottled gray-brown patina. The brass frame and side plates are in fine condition with a few scattered handling marks (removal of the grips exposed much remaining silver plating). There are three very small dents in the top of the right side plate but the joints of both side plates are tight. The follower is a period replacement. The grips are very fine and retain nearly 90% of the original varnish finish with minor handling marks. The right grip has slightly more wear with a shallow dent next to the screw escutcheon, a small chip at the back edge and finish loss along the heel. The barrel markings and serial numbers are sharp. This is an exceptional example of a historically significant Volcanic Repeating Arms Co., Lever Action Navy Pistol from the Winchester Gun Museum. It would be hard to improve on this outstanding pistol.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 35,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3001 (Sale Order: 2 of 880)      

Historic Inscribed and Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Presented by Marlin Rockwell Corp. to Carl G. Winter, President of the Fraternal Order of Eagles

The upper left barrel flat of this rifle is inscribed: "PRESENTED TO THE Grand Worthy President F.O.E. Carl G. Winter ON HIS VISIT TO THE Marlin Rockwell Corp. New Haven, C.T. By Its Members Nov.26.1917". Carl G. Winter was an insurance executive in the early 20th century and Grand Worthy President of The Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) in 1917. The Order was founded in 1898 in Seattle, Washington. The organization's mission is: "The Fraternal Order of Eagles, an international non-profit organization, unites fraternally in the spirit of liberty, truth, justice, and equality, to make human life more desirable by lessening its ills, and by promoting peace, prosperity, gladness and hope." Among the notable past members are seven U.S. presidents including Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. Other notable members include Eleanor Roosevelt, Joe Foss, Billy Ray Cyrus, Gordie Howe, and many more. The rifle has border designs and scroll and punch dot engraving patterns on most of the components along with a game scene on the left side of the action. The game scene and other engraving patterns are match other known Ulrich engraved rifles. Conrad Ulrich is estimated by R. L. Wilson on page 83 to have worked at Marlin from 1895 to 1907 and is known to have not fully retired until around the WWI era. According to Brophy in "Marlin Firearms: A History of the Guns and the Company that Made Them", Conrad Ulrich engraved Marlin firearms from approximately 1881 to 1910 and his son George engraved them from approximately 1907 to 1917. Note the similarities to the deer on the Conrad Ulrich engraved Winchester Model 1866 rifle shown on the dust jacket and front piece of "The Book of Winchester Engraving" by Wilson and other Ulrich family engraved rifles. It is equipped with a beaded blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, and a deluxe checkered forearm and semi-pistol grip buttstock made from attractive burl walnut and fitted with a nickel forend cap and a hard rubber "Marlin Safety" buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Extremely fine. The rifle retains 85% plus of the original blue finish and 50% nickel plating with some minor handling and storage marks, handling wear on the takedown collar, and some minor oxidation primarily confined near the muzzle. The wood is also very fine with sharp checkering, minor dings and marks, and minor wear in the varnish on the butt. The action is excellent, and the markings and details are crisp. An exceptional Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Rifle with interesting history.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 7,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Exceptional Marlin Model 94 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3002 (Sale Order: 3 of 880)      

Exceptional Marlin Model 94 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured circa 1906. This exceptional example of a Marlin Model 94 lever actin rifle in .38-40 caliber is equipped with a German silver Rocky Mountain blade front and sporting rear sights and a full length magazine tube. The top of the frame and upper receiver tang are tapped for sight mounting. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line New Haven address and patent information (1887-1893) marking ahead of the rear sight and "38-40" at the breech. The upper tang is marked "Marlin/MODEL '94." The frame, lever and hammer are casehardened and the remaining metal surfaces are blue. Mounted on a smooth straight grip stock and forearm featuring a steel forearm cap and crescent rifle buttplate made without heel or tang. The Marlin Model 1894 was manufactured until 1934 and was put back into production in 1969 updated for more modern handgun cartridges.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Excellent with 97% plus original blue finish, showing some light scratches on the magazine tube, the start of a brown patina and scattered handling marks. 98% of the vivid case colors are present on the frame with some fading on the high edges and on the hammer and lever. Stock is very fine with some mild pressure dents and scuffs. Mechanically excellent

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 5,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Rare Winchester "One of One Thousand" Model 1876 Rifle

Lot # 3003 (Sale Order: 4 of 880)      

Exceptionally Rare Winchester "One of One Thousand" Model 1876 Rifle with Extensive Documentation Including a Factory Letter

This fresh to the market Winchester 1876 "One of One Thousand" rifle was manufactured in 1879. The Model 1876 "One of One Thousand" rifles are among the rarest and most desirable of all American firearms. Winchester manufactured between 51 (Wilson) or 54 (Flayderman) of the specially selected and finished Model 1876 rifles and 136 "One of One Thousand" Model 1873 rifles. Only about 10 of the Model 1876 rifles have been located by collectors. The factory letter describes the features as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 45/60, Barrel Type: Octagon, Barrel Length: 28 inches, Trigger: Set, Checkered stock, Casehardened", and "1 of 1000". The letter states that this rifle was shipped from Winchester on November 25, 1879, in order number 17811 after being received on November 22. The rifle has a the Second Model receiver with screw fastened dust cover guide rail and dust cover with oval checkered finger guide. The receiver has a single set trigger. The full octagon barrel has a folding leaf rear sight graduated to "10" and marked "1876" at the top of the leaf and dovetail mounted sporting style front sight with extended base. The front sight appears to be a period replacement. The crescent steel buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor. The stock and forearm are 2X fancy grade walnut with checkered panels. The barrel, full length magazine, dust cover and loading gate are blued. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The top barrel flat is engraved "One of One Thousand" is script letters reading towards the receiver in an engraved panel with punch-dot and scallop borders and a scrollwork flourish at the muzzle end. This marking is identical to the marking on Model 1876 "One of One Thousand" serial number 10018 illustrated on page 120 of "WINCHESTER The Golden Age of American Gunmaking and Winchester 1 of 1000" by R.L. Wilson. The sides of the barrel below the "One of One Thousand" marking and the muzzle are decorated with tight scrollwork engraving on a punch-dot background. Single platinum bands are inlaid on the muzzle and receiver end of the barrel. "CAL.45-60" is engraved in script on the top barrel flat ahead of the rear sight. "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1865.OCTOBER 16.1860. is roll-stamped in two lines in front of the caliber designation. "45-60" is stamped in script numerals on the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number "9769" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang behind the lever latch. Included with the rifle are a number of period documents. A copy of a newspaper article that apparently dates from the 1950 "Winchester '73" movie search identifies Will E. Martin of Carmel Valley, California, as the owner of a "One of a Thousand" Model 1876 rifle and states that it was purchased by his father, John Martin, in the 1880s. A copy of a letter from the Winchester Public Relations Director to "Mr. W.E. Martin" of Monterey, California, identifies rifle No. 9769 as a Winchester Model 1876 rather than a Model 1873 rifle and states that he does not qualify for the free Winchester Model 1894 rifle offered by the company to the first 20 persons who reported ownership of a documented Winchester Model 1873 "One of One Thousand" rifle as part of the "Winchester '73" movie promotion. A second letter, dated March 1, 1962, from Mr. T.E. Hall, Curator of the Winchester Gun Museum, to Mr. Gordon J. Martin of Stock, California, provides some details of Model 1876 "1 of 1000" rifles but does not mention Serial No. 9769.

Class: Antique

Fine. The rifle appears to be all original with the exception of the front sight which is a unique period customization. 40% of the original blue finish is present on the barrel and magazine with the blue aging to a plum patina. The scroll engraving and "One of One Thousand" markings are sharp. The platinum bands are tarnished. The caliber marking and factory legend are crisp. The barrel edges are sharp and the bore is bright. The blue finish on the dust cover has aged to a brown patina. 50% of the nitre blue finish is present on the loading gate. The casehardened finish on the forearm cap and receiver has faded to an attractive silvered out gray patina. The case colors on the forearm cap and receiver show age discoloration and light handling wear. The serial number and caliber designation on the cartridge elevator are sharp. The case colors on the hammer, lever and trigger have faded to a brown patina. The crescent buttplate has a deep brown patina with some scattered light pitting. The stock and forearm are both fine and show light to moderate wear with scattered light scratches and handling marks. The nicely figured 2X walnut has an
more...

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 150,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Fine Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3004 (Sale Order: 5 of 880)      

Fine Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1868. The rifle has the Third Model features which include the serial number stamped in block numerals on the lower tang behind the trigger, single tang screw and a flare in the brass receiver at the junction with the forearm. The crescent brass buttplate has a hinged brass door and the brass forearm tip is secured by a screw that passes through the lower part of the barrel. The hammer has coarse, border-less, knurling. The indented loading port cover is secured by a single screw. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29,1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." with a wide space between each line. The upper line utilizes serifed letters while the lower line is stamped in block letters. Factory sling swivels are fitted to the forearm cap and stock. The octagon barrel has a dovetail mounted replacement iron front sight blade and a dovetail mounted replacement buckhorn rear sight. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut. The 24 inch octagon barrel, full length magazine and loading port cover are blued, and the hammer, lever and trigger are color casehardened.

Class: Antique

Fine. The barrel and magazine retain at least 30% plus of the original blue finish; the balance is smooth, blue-gray patina. The edges of the barrel are sharp, and the Winchester legend is clear. The front and rear sights are period replacements, but all the other components are original to the rifle. The brass forearm cap, receiver and crescent buttplate are all in exceptionally fine condition with minimal handling marks and a handsome, un-touched patina. The receiver side-plate joints are perfect. The loading port cover has a dark patina with some light pitting. The case colors on the hammer, lever and trigger have a smooth, silver gray patina. The stock and forearm are in fine condition with scattered, minor handling marks. There is a repaired crack along the bottom of the stock that runs from the rear of the sling swivel to the buttplate. This is an attractive example of an early production Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 9,500.00

You've been outbid  to f****t! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Very Fine Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot # 3005 (Sale Order: 6 of 880)      

Very Fine Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

This Winchester Model 1873 Carbine was manufactured in 1899. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address/King's improvement patent dates ahead of the rear sight with "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL. 1873." The serial is marked on the lower tang, and the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." Blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. Blue finish with casehardened hammer, lever, and buttplate, saddle ring and staple mounted on the left side of the receiver and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate and compartment. There is a three piece cleaning rod in the buttstock compartment.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The carbine retains 60% plus original blue finish with a smooth gray and brown patina on the balance. Finish loss on the receiver is due mostly to flaking and the remainder normal handling wear. There are a few scattered minor dings and scratches. The loading gate retains 80% bright original nitre blue. The wood is fine with some scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 5,500.00

You've been outbid  to f****t! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Winchester Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle

Lot # 3006 (Sale Order: 7 of 880)      

Documented Desirable Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle with Casehardened Frame and Factory Letter

This rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter that describes it as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 38/56, Barrel Type: Octagon, Trigger: Plain, Checkered stock," and "Pistol grip". The letter states that this rifle was shipped from Winchester on April 17, 1891. The 26-inch, full octagon barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and a buckhorn, sporting style rear sight with serrated edges and screw adjustable center piece. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe, highly figured, fancy grade walnut with "Style H" checkering and a high polish piano finish. The pistol grip bottom has an ebony insert. The barrel, magazine, loading gate, bolt and trigger are blued, and the forearm cap, receiver, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation: "38-56 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. "-MODEL 1886-" is stamped on the upper receiver tang. The 1884/1885 patent dates are stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger, and the serial number "54832" is stamped in script numerals between the tang screws.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The rifle retains 80% of the original blue and color casehardened finish. There are several scattered spots of pitting along the magazine ahead of the band that have been re-touched with cold blue. The balance of the barrel and magazine retain the original blue finish. The Winchester legend and caliber designation are sharp. The bolt retains nearly all of the original blue finish. The blue on the loading gate is 85% complete. Most of the blue is present on the trigger. The receiver retains about 85% of the casehardened finish with strong case colors. There is very shallow pitting on the left side and bottom of the receiver. The casehardened finish on the lever, hammer and buttplate is more than 85% complete with strong case colors. The case colors on the forearm cap have faded to a mottled, silver-gray. The highly figured, fancy grade walnut stock and forearm remain in excellent condition. Wear is limited to a few scattered and very minor handling marks and some light cracking at the wrist. Nearly all of the high polish piano finish remains. This is a great looking example of a scarce and very desirable documented Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 lever action rifle.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 12,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Buffalo Bill Presentation Winchester-1895-Carbine

Lot # 3007 (Sale Order: 8 of 880)      

Rare, Historic and Extraordinarily Well Documented Winchester Deluxe Model 1895 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine Presented by Buffalo Bill (William F. Cody) to Deadwood Businessman and Friend M.R. "Gold Nugget Mike/Deadwood Mike" Russell with Factory Letter

This is a rare deluxe version of the Winchester Model 1895 lever action carbine that was factory documented as presented by famed Wild West legend and showman Buffalo Bill to Deadwood, South Dakota, business mogul and longtime friend Mike Russell. This carbine serial number 38732 is pictured and described in R.L. Wilson's book "Buffalo Bill's Wild West: An American Legend" (pages 179 and 181). Cody used a Model 1895 on hunting expeditions, and he is known to have presented Model 1895s to friends. Also pictured and described in Wilson's book is a similar deluxe Model 1895 carbine that Buffalo Bill presented to David F. Powell, serial number 48751 (pages 179 and 181). Both of these carbines have a deluxe stock featuring a silver stock presentation plaque. Another presentation Model 1895 was presented to Chief Plenty Coups of the Crow Nation by Prince Albert of Monaco. At the time, Prince Albert was visiting Cody, Wyoming, and hunting with Buffalo Bill. Although Buffalo Bill did not personally present the rifle to Chief Plenty Coups, film footage of the presentation shows Cody present at the ceremony, even holding the gun, which had an engraved plaque on the stock. Speaking to Buffalo Bill's generosity, former Senior Curator of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center Dr. Paul Fees stated, "[Buffalo Bill] is known to have made several gifts after 1895, all Winchesters. After 1895 he is known to have purchased and presented several Model 1895 Winchesters in .30 government or .405 caliber to adult friends." The factory letter lists the date of serialization as October 2, 1902; confirms the carbine configuration; .30 caliber; oil finished fancy, checkered stock; Lyman front and receiver mounted sights; the "Coin silver plate in stock engraved: "Presented to M. R. Russel by his friend Col. W. F. Cody - Buffalo Bill"; "Name on right side frame: "M. R. Russell"; received in the warehouse on October 23, 1902, and shipped the following day as order number 151629.The silver inscription plaque on this carbine is found on the left side of the buttstock and reads, "PRESENTED TO/M.R. Russell,/BY HIS FRIEND/COL. W.F. Cody/Buffalo Bill." The right side of the receiver is marked "M.R. RUSSELL." The carbine is equipped with a pinned beaded blade front sight, military style folding leaf rear sight with tangent base and Lyman receiver sight. A saddle ring staple with ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. The left side of the receiver also has the long two line address/patent information. The upper tang is marked "WINCHESTER/-MODEL 1895-." The top of the chamber has the caliber marking "30." Mounted with a highly figured finger grooved forearm, handguard and straight grip stock. The forearm and stock wrist feature multi-point checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate with compartment. In 1863 Mike Russell arrived in the United States from Tipperary, Ireland, with $12.00 in his pocket and big dreams of fortune awaiting him on the Western frontier swirling in his head. He took a job with the Kansas-Pacific Railroad, and by the time he arrived in Deadwood, South Dakota, in early 1877, he had befriended buffalo hunter and future famed wild west showman William "Buffalo Bill" Cody and $516.00 to his name, which he used to start a saloon. Legend states that his nickname "Gold Nugget Mike" was in reference to a heavy chain of Black Hills nuggets that crossed Russell's vest. Russell also went by the nickname "Deadwood Mike," possibly a playful moniker inspired by the popular period fictional dime novel character Deadwood Dick. In Deadwood, his dream of making it big on the Western frontier had been realized. The story goes that Russell was so successful that his wealth was able to help Buffalo Bill out of a financial jam. After hearing that his friend was short of funds while performing in England, Russell wired Buffalo Bill $20,000 on a day's notice. A grateful Buffalo Bill showed his appreciation by sending a stuffed buffalo for Russell's Buffalo Bar, which was named after the legendary showman and for over a century has operated on Main Street, living on today as part of the Buffalo Bodega Complex. Russell and Buffalo Bill met in Kansas in the 1860s, and according to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, "Russell was probably Cody's oldest and closet friends." Around 1895, Russell sold Cody cattle and horses under Russell's TE Brand, which Cody used to establish the TE Ranch southwest of Cody, Wyoming. At the time of Cody's death the 4,000 acre property, which borders the Yellowstone Timberland Reserve, supported 500 head of cattle. After Cody died
more...

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 140,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Evans Repeating Rifle Co - Transitional-Rifle

Lot # 3008 (Sale Order: 9 of 880)      

Historic Evans Model Lever Action Sporting Rifle with Factory Presentation Plaque Inscribed to Buffalo Bill (William F. Cody)

Evans Repeating Rifle Company of Mechanic Falls, Maine, manufactured several models of lever action rifles from 1873 to 1879. This example is a Transition Model. It features a two-piece buttstock exposing the magazine in the center and a buttplate without a heel piece. This rifle is one of 1,050 Transition Model sporting rifles that were manufactured from 1876 to 1877. It has the Old Model action with flat top frame and exposed loading port. The Old Model type of action was retained by Transition Model rifles. The barrel has a pinched front sight and a two-leaf folding rear sight and is marked on top "EVANS REPEATING RIFLE MECHANIC FALLS, ME/PAT. DEC 8, 1868 & SEPT. 16, 1871" ahead of the rear sight. The forend cap, lever and trigger are nickel plated, and the remaining metal surfaces are blue. Mounted with a nicely figured smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock. The left side of the forearm has a silver factory presentation plaque, that reads, "This Rifle Presented to/William F. Cody/May 12, 1877/By the Evans Rifle Co./Mechanic Falls, Me." Although there is no documentation at the time of this writing specifically linking this rifle to Buffalo Bill, author Dwight Demeritt, Jr. provides interesting historical context that connects this rifle to the legendary showman. In "Maine Made Guns and Their Makers," Demeritt explains, "The [Evans Company] followed the lead of other arms companies and presented specially made rifles to well-known personalities of the day. One such presentation made by the Evans Company was to William F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) on May 12, 1877. A rifle, allegedly the rifle that was presented to Cody, still exists and is what the author has described as the transitional model gun. It has the old model action with the two-piece buttstock" (page 138). Demeritt cites a Maine newspaper, the "Lewiston Journal" (no issue date provided), as his source of information. Note the similarities between the rifle Demeritt detailed in the aforementioned description and the rifle offered here: Transition Model rifle, presentation date of May 12, 1877 and Old Model action. The Evans rifle was one of the more novel repeating arms of the 19th century and had the largest capacity of any repeating rifle ever mass produced. Notable Western hero's such as Kit Carson, Texas Jack and Buffalo Bill used Evans repeating rifles. In at least one highly embellished retelling of Buffalo Bill's scalping of Cheyenne warrior Yellow Hair, which has been called "the first scalp for Custer," found in popular period dime novels, Buffalo Bill carries an Evans rifle. The prequel to the epic duel began with Buffalo Bill spotting two scouts on horseback about to be attacked by Indians. As it is told: "Instantly Buffalo Bill dashed over the ridge of the hill that concealed him from the view of the Cheyennes, and rode directly toward the band going to attack the two white horsemen. They halted suddenly at sight of him, but, seeing that he was alone, they started for him with wild yells. But still he kept on directly toward them, until within range, when he opened upon them with his matchless Evans rifle, a thirty-four-shot repeater, and a hot fight began, for they returned the fire." His act of heroism saved the two scouts, but soon his life was again endangered, this time by Yellow Hair. A firefight ensued that quickly devolved into hand-to-hand fighting. When the dust settled Buffalo Bill was victorious, holding in his hand the scalp of his assailant. This is one of many contradictory telling's of not only the duel but of Buffalo Bill's life in general. When it came to dime novels, truth was the first causality. Dime novels helped propel Buffalo Bill to legendary status and his Buffalo Bill's Wild West touring show made him world famous. Ned Buntline published a highly successful story and later novel loosely based on Buffalo Bill's adventures. From the 1870s through the early part of the 20th century, many sequels, which were written by Buntline, Prentiss Ingraham and others, followed.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The rifle retains 85% original blue finish showing some minor thinning. The buttplate has a smooth brown patina. 85% of the original nickel finish remains. The lever catch is missing. The wood is excellent showing some minor handling marks. Mechanically needs work; the trigger must be pulled to release the lever from the downward position. Do not miss your chance to own a very fine Evans lever action rifle connected to legendary Wild West showman Buffalo Bill that would add value to any antique lever action rifle collection! Provenance: Robert M. Lee Collection.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 60,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Capt. Jack Presentation Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3009 (Sale Order: 10 of 880)      

Well-Documented, Historic Factory Exhibition Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Dual Presentation Plaques Presented by The Winchester Repeating Arms Company to Captain Jack Crawford and then Gifted to Fellow Western Scout and Poet James Barton Adams

This rifle started life as a carbine in 1895 and was converted into a rifle by Winchester in 1897 and used as a factory display piece. It was displayed at both the New York Exhibition of Industry and Science in 1898 and at the Pan-American International Exposition in Buffalo in 1901 and would have been seen by millions of visitors. In 1902, it was presented by Winchester to one of the true Western folk heroes: John Crawford, better known as Captain Jack or “The Poet Scout.” Crawford had the rifle fitted with a second presentation plaque by the factory in 1903 and gave it as a Christmas present to his close friend James Barton Adams. Crawford’s life was truly full of adventure, violence, daring feats, and intrigue, and he was among the most famous frontier scouts and western performers of the late 1800s and early 1900s. He was born John Wallace Crawford in Ireland to Scottish parents in 1847. His family, like many Scots-Irish, emigrated to the U.S. in search of better opportunities. Crawford served in the 48th Pennsylvania Infantry during the Civil War and was wounded at both Spotsylvania and Petersburg. He headed to the West during the Black Hills Gold Rush and joined the Black Hills Rangers protecting the local populace from Indian attacks as their chief scout. He also worked as a journalist in the Gold Camps and then as a war correspondent during the Bighorn and Yellowstone Expeditions as a scout under Brigadier General George Crook. Crawford became friends with William “Buffalo Bill” Cody while serving under Crook and replaced him as head scout when Cody returned to the East. As a scout, he undertook many dangerous journeys to deliver dispatches and also took place in multiple battles. He rose to national fame after riding 350 miles in just six days in order to deliver news of Crook’s triumph over Chief American Horse at the Battle of Slim Buttes in September 1876 during the Great Sioux War. News of the victory was much needed after Custer’s infamous defeat earlier that June. He then joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in the East until he was shot in the groin during a reenactment of a running horse battle. He later claimed Cody accidentally shot him because he was drunk. He moved his family to New Mexico in 1879 and resumed work as a scout during the Apache War and Victorio’s War and participated in raids against the Apache and into Mexican territory. Crawford also served a trader at Fort Craig and went into the ranching and mining business. His ranch on in New Mexico was established in 1886. Adams grew up in Iowa and Ohio, fought in the Civil War for the Union and was also a former scout and one of the few western poets. He lived and worked at Crawford’s ranch in New Mexico from 1890 to 1892 before moving to Colorado where he continued to write poetry, worked in publishing, and remained in close correspondence with Crawford. Crawford resumed his position as a cultural icon in the 1890s and early 20th century by speaking and performing throughout the U.S. and was known to have continued his crusade against the use of alcohol. He had previously been appointed a special investigator and had looked into the illegal trafficking of alcohol in Indian Country. Like other performers, he wore flashy outfits and acted the part, but his charming nature and poetry contrasted with the popular image of unrefined western men and with “The Poet Scout’s” own tales of battles and adventure. He reportedly regularly appeared armed with a Winchester rifle and a Colt on his hip while he spoke for hours about life in the West and his adventures. His speeches and writings are known to have more closely related the very real dangers of frontier life than many other western icons but also reflected long standing popular beliefs in American exceptionalism, rugged individualism, and the pre-ordained victory of “civilization” over “savagery.” He wrote over one hundred stories, seven books of published poetry and untold unpublished poems, and four plays (in which he played the star roles). It was his friend Adams who wrote the foreword to Crawford's book “Whar' the Hand O' God is Seen” when it was published in 1913 and who helped edit and publish much of Crawford’s other works. Some poems by both men were widely performed as songs. Crawford died in New York in 1917, and Adams was laid to rest the following year in Colorado. The rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter confirming the rifle’s configuration and complex history, including the many dates of shipment and return due to exhibition use and that it was “charged to factory presentation
more...

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 170,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle with Rare Sight

Lot # 3010 (Sale Order: 11 of 880)      

Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle with Rare Mounted Telescopic Sight

Winchester Model 1894 Sporting Rifle manufactured in 1896. The rifle has a full octagon barrel and full-length magazine. The barrel has a sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and a special order "Winchester Express" three leaf rear sight with platinum sight lines. The rifle has a blued barrel, magazine, forearm cap and receiver. The hammer, lever, trigger and crescent buttplate have a color casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut The rifle is fitted with a straight tube telescopic sight with cross-hair reticle in an off-set mount attached to the top of the barrel and right side of the receiver. The off-set mount enables the ejection port to function properly and permits quick use of the barrel mounted rear sight. The telescopic sight has an un-marked, 3/4-inch diameter steel tube with no provision for external sight adjustment. The scope is low (2x-3x) power. The sight is attached to the right side of the receiver by a sliding bar with large knurled set screw and a dovetail mounted base/ring combination on the barrel ahead of the rear sight. The receiver set screw permits rough elevation adjustments. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "MANUFACTURED BY THE/WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A." ahead of the rear sight. "NICKEL STEEL BARREL/ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS POWDER" is roll-stamped in two lines on the left side of the barrel behind the rear sight. The caliber "25-35 W.C.F." is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. The upper tang is roll-stamped: "MODEL 1894/-WINCHESTER-/PAT. AUG. 21. 1884" in three lines. The serial number "1041701" is roll-stamped across the bottom of the receiver. The telescopic sight is professionally mounted and appears to be contemporary to the rifle. Nineteenth century Winchester lever action rifles with telescopic sights are extremely rare.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The barrel, magazine, forearm cap and receiver retain 85% plus of the original blue finish. The hammer, lever and crescent buttplate have strong case colors. The barrel and receiver markings are sharp. The stock and forearm are in very fine condition with most of the original and a few minor handling marks. The telescopic sight has a silver-blue finish. The optics are very good. This is a desirable example of a Winchester Model 1894 Sporting Rifle with rarely encountered telescopic sight.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 4,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Buffalo Bill Wild West Show Poster

Lot # 3011 (Sale Order: 12 of 880)      

Framed Large Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World Poster

This poster measures 19 inches wide and 24 inches tall (not including the frame). It depicts William "Buffalo Bill" Cody riding on horseback armed with a Winchester carbine and a Colt revolver and accompanied by a white eagle in an Old West scene. Buffalo Bill began using the longer title "Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World" for his show outside the Chicago World's Fair in 1893 after returning from touring Europe. He had recognized the opportunity for his show to be seen by millions over the course of the fair but was prevented from participating in the fair itself by the organizers who wanted him to give half of the ticket prices back to the fair. He defied them by simply setting up on 15 acres directly outside the fair and opened his show several weeks before the fair which angered the organizers. His profits reached $1 million and helped him establish Cody, Wyoming, and continue his show into the 20th century. Despite the ire of the fair organizers, the "Congress of Rough Riders" complimented the World's Fair in that it included representatives of horse cultures from around the world, even Mongols and Russian Cossacks. The show naturally remained most famous the dozens of other American and Indian showmen and women, including Annie Oakely, and their stories and reenactments of scenes from the American West. The Indian representatives were a particularly strong draw for audiences, and Cody ensured his former adversaries were given privileged positions. They paraded and entered the stadiums directly following Cody himself, and prior to his death in 1890, Sitting Bull was regularly seen at Cody's side and was introduced as his friend. The special effects and scale of the shows were unlike anything the world had seen. Any given show performed in cities across the U.S. and in Europe could include hundreds of horses, running battles, trick shooting, roping, story telling, wildlife (including bison, bears, and elk), and even a tornado created using a complex arrangement of high power fans. Most shows ended with Buffalo Bill and the cavalry coming to the aid of a family whose farmhouse was being besieged by Indian warriors. Matching Wild West show posters are on display as part of the Huntington Hartford Collection at the Gallery of Modern Art in New York City and The William F. Cody Archive at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming. The Center of the West dated this "The White Eagle 'Col. W. F. Cody Buffalo Bill' Guiding and Guarding" poster design to 1893 and notes that it was published by A. Hoen & Co. in Baltimore, Maryland.

Class: Other

Very fine as professionally restored. The imagery and text remains clear. There is some crumpling, minor fading, and edge wear appropriate to its age upon close inspection. The frame is fine and has mild storage wear. This is a beautiful and rare piece that would perfectly accent your gun room or Americana collection.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 6,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Savage Arms Corporation - 1899

Lot # 3012 (Sale Order: 13 of 880)      

Factory Engraved Savage Model 1899 Deluxe Takedown Lever Action Rifle Inscribed to Trick Shooter Captain Jack O'Connell

Manufactured in 1912, this is a factory engraved example of a Savage Model 1899 lever action rifle that is inscribed to trick shooter Captain Jack O'Connell. From Newago County, Michigan, Jack O'Connell was deaf by the age of 16 and was inspired to become a marksman after meeting legendary trick shooter and inventor of the diving horse attraction Doc Carver. A self-proclaimed "crack shot," O'Connell gained the attention of famed showman Buffalo Bill and for a short period of time toured with Buffalo Bill's Wild West. He later became a spokesman for Hopkins & Allen. It was through Hopkins & Allen that a customer could receive O'Connell's book "My First Rifle and the Story of How I Became a Crack Shot" for free with the purchase of a company catalog. The receiver has a scrollwork engraving that incorporates an engraved band and leaf motif on the chamber. A lighter scroll motif appears on the underside and top of the receiver. The underside of the receiver has the engraved scrollwork above and below the name "CAPTAIN JACK O'CONNELL." The rifle is equipped with a pinned German blade front sight, an elevation adjustable rear sight and a cocking indictor on the upper tang. The barrel is marked with the two-line address on top, ".303 SAVAGE" on the left side at the breech and the one-line steel marking on the right side at the breech. The nicely figured forearm and pistol grip stock feature multi-point checkering with additional checkering on the stock flats, shotgun buttplate with expanded compartment and sling eyelets with makeshift leather sling. The large buttstock cavity contained a cleaning bore snake. According to the consignor, her dad purchased this rifle in Bemidji, Minnesota, from either Buffalo Bill or Captain Jack O'Connell and had the rifle configuration changed from a trick shooter to a hunting rifle at a local gun shop.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The rifle retains 80% plus original blue finish showing thinning to a gray. Traces of original case colors remain on the lever. The wood is fine showing some minor handling marks and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 3,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Factory Engraved Savage Model 99K Deluxe Takedown Rifle

Lot # 3013 (Sale Order: 14 of 880)      

Factory Engraved Savage Model 99K Deluxe Lever Action Takedown Rifle

This rifle was manufactured in 1932 and displays beautiful floral scroll factory engraving on the sides of the receiver and has additional engraving accents on the barrel at the breech and the top of the action. It is equipped with a beaded Lyman blade front sight dovetailed on a serrated ramp, folding notch rear sight, and a folding/adjustable Lyman peep sight mounted on the receiver tang. The top of the barrel has the two-line address, and the left side is marked "300 SAVAGE." The numbers on the barrel, forearm, and bottom of the receiver are matching. The forend and pistol grip stock have multi-point checkering, a Schnabel tip, hard rubber grip cap, and serrated shotgun buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The rifle retains 80% original blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. There is a series of short scratches on the barrel. The lever retains 70% original case colors. The wood is fine with a couple cracks along the grain, a few minor handling marks and much of the varnish remaining which is beginning to craze. The checkering is crisp overall. Mechanically excellent.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 2,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Factory Engraved Savage Model 99K Deluxe Takedown Rifle

Lot # 3014 (Sale Order: 15 of 880)      

Factory Engraved Savage Model 99K Deluxe Lever Action Takedown Rifle

This rifle was manufactured in 1928 and displays beautiful floral scroll factory engraving on the sides of the receiver and has additional engraving accents on the barrel at the breech and the top of the action. It is equipped with a beaded Lyman blade front sight dovetailed on a serrated ramp, folding notch rear sight, and a folding/adjustable Lyman peep sight mounted on the receiver tang. The top of the barrel has "SAVAGE" followed by the two-line address, and the left side is marked "30-30". The numbers on the barrel, forearm, and bottom of the receiver are matching. The forend and pistol grip stock have multi-point checkering, a Schnabel tip, hard rubber grip cap, and serrated shotgun buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The rifle retains 85% original blue finish showing thinning to a brown. There are a couple patches of minor pitting on the barrel. The lever retains 90% vivid original case colors. The wood is fine showing some minor pressure dents and scratches and retaining much of the finish. The checkering is crisp overall. Mechanically excellent.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 2,500.00

You've been outbid  to f****r! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Winchester Repeating Arms Museum Model 1886 Sporting

Lot # 3015 (Sale Order: 16 of 880)      

Exceptional 1 of Only 2 Known Documented Winchester Repeating Arms Museum Model 1886 Sporting Lever Action Rifle in Extremely Rare .45-82 WCF with Factory Letter

This Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle was manufactured in 1894 and shipped directly to the Winchester Repeating Arms Museum. This rifle is accompanied by a factory letter, a copy of the Winchester factory ledger and a copy of one page from the Olin-Winchester Museum inventory dated 1978. The factory letter describes this rifle as: "Rifle, 45/82 caliber, Barrel Shape: Octagon, Plain trigger", and "Potters Gallery". The letter further notes "No shipping date given" and "Received in warehouse on October 19, 1894". The Olin-Winchester inventory identifies item number 3161 as "Model 1886 Winchester Rifle Cal. 45-82. Serial #84420". The consignor notes with this rifle state that it was sent directly to the Winchester Museum from the factory and is one of two Model 1886 rifles chambered for the 45-82 W.C.F. cartridge. The rifle has a 26-inch full octagon barrel, full length magazine and crescent buttplate. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut. The barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel silver blade and large buckhorn, sporting style rear sight. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped for a tang sight. The top barrel flat is roll stamped with the legend "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation "45-82 W.C.F." is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. "-MODEL 1886-" is roll stamped on the upper receiver tang. The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger, and the serial number "84420" is stamped in script numerals towards the rear tang screw. The barrel, magazine, bolt and loading port cover are blued, and the forearm cap, receiver and crescent buttplate are color casehardened.

Class: Antique

Excellent plus. The rifle is in virtually unused condition, shows only storage wear and retains at least 98% of the original blue and color casehardened finish. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer and lever have vivid case colors. The case colors on the buttplate have faded to a silver-gray but remain at least 90% complete. The forearm retains nearly all of the original oil finish and shows minimal handling wear. The left side of the excellent stock has a number of shallow scratches near the buttplate and several small handling marks on the wrist. This is an extremely rare, fully documented .45-82 W.C.F. Model 1886 Winchester lever action rifle from the Winchester Repeating Arms Museum in un-fired condition. It is probably impossible to find another example of a Winchester Model 1886 45-82 Rifle.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 70,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Inscribed Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Dual Tone

Lot # 3016 (Sale Order: 17 of 880)      

Inscribed Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Unique Dual Tone Finish

This late Second Model rifle was manufactured in 1881 and multiple special order style features including rotating front sling swivel, single set trigger, and nickel plated side plates, lever, and buttplate. It also has a dovetailed beaded blade front sight with folding hood, sporting rear sight, long range tang mounted peep sight and a standard sporting rifle forearm and straight wrist stock. It is marked with the two line address and King's improvement marking on the top flat ahead of the rear sight, caliber designation on top at the breech and on the cartridge elevator, "MODEL 1873" under the peep sight base, and the serial number on the lower tang. In addition, the left side plate is inscribed "Geo. W. Green/Pgh, Pa. Fe. 21st 1883". Records indicate George W. Green on September 29, 1883 was registered as a physician and was born in and then residing in New Castle which is part of the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area. A copy of the Cody Research verification confirms the caliber, octagon barrel, set trigger, and that it was received in the warehouse on October 19, 1881, and shipped on November 16 of that year (crossed out in the records). It is listed as returned in October of 1882 and shipped out again on November 17, 1882. The unique finish and inscription was likely added at that time.

Class: Antique

Very fine as factory refurbished. The rifle retains 75% of the thinning blue finish and has a brown patina forming. 85% of the frosted original nickel plating which is flaking in some places. The wood is very good and has moderate handling wear, some gouges and slivers absent from the forearm, a few dents and dings on the buttstock, and some small chips. The markings are crisp throughout, and the action is functions, but the set trigger does not function.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 6,000.00

You've been outbid  to f****t! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

First Year Production Winchester Deluxe Model 1887 Shotgun

Lot # 3017 (Sale Order: 18 of 880)      

Desirable Early First Year Production Winchester Deluxe Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

Manufactured in 1887, the first year of production. Single bead sight on a choked modified barrel. The left side of the receiver has the "WRACo" monogram with the serial number on the underside of the receiver and the three line address followed by the one line patent dates marking is stamped on the lower tang. The right side has the monogram "DTJr" engraved, which appears to be original to the gun. Mounted with a deluxe fancy checkered walnut two-slab forearm and round knob pistol grip stock with Winchester checkered horn buttplate. Length of pull is 13 inches.

Class: Antique

Very good plus. The barrel shows 30% thinning blue finish with almost all of the Damascus pattern remaining. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth brown patina with traces original blue finish on the magazine tube and traces of case colors under the lever. The wood is very good overall with most of the varnish remaining and showing numerous small pressure dents on the stock, a few very small gouges on the left side of the forearm, and overall crisp checkering. The markings are clear. The action is fine.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 7,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Exceptional Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Sporting Rifle

Lot # 3018 (Sale Order: 19 of 880)      

Exceptional Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Sporting Rifle

The Winchester's first single shot rifles were the first firearms they manufactured based on a John Moses Browning patent and were offered in a wide range of variations and calibers. This early production example is chambered in "32-40" and was manufactured in 1893. The rifle is equipped with a #3 weight full octagon barrel, combination Beach front sight (gold wash), elevation rear sight and Vernier tang sight. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "32-40" at the breech. The bottom barrel flat is marked with the weight number "3" ahead of the forearm and under the forearm. The inside of the forearm is also stamped with the number "3." The "32-40" caliber marking is repeated in the bottom barrel flat under the forearm at the breech. The lower tang is marked with the 1879 patent date behind the trigger and the serial number between the two screws. The barrel is blue and the remaining metal surfaces are casehardened. Mounted with a smooth Schnabel forearm featuring an ebony insert and a straight grip stock fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Excellent. The barrel retains 97% plus original blue finish showing some minor thinning. The frame and breechblock retain 98% plus vivid and bright original case colors. The lever and buttplate retain 75% plus faded original case colors. The wood is also excellent with a few minor pressure dents. Mechanically excellent. One will look a long time to find a better example!

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 9,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Winchester - 1885- Schuetzen Rifle

Lot # 3019 (Sale Order: 20 of 880)      

Rare and Very Fine Winchester High Wall Model 1885 Schuetzen Rifle

Manufactured in 1910. Equipped with a combination Beech front sight, elevation adjustable rear sight, scope blocks, mid-range tang sight , #4 weight barrel, double set triggers and Winchester round palm rest. The upper left barrel flat is marked with the two-line address/patent date information ahead of the rear sight and "32-40" at the breech. The Winchester factory oval proof appears on the upper left barrel flat and top of the receiver at the breech. The serial number is marked on the lower tang. Blue finished with casehardened lever, breechblock and buttplate. Mounted with a highly figured full and checkered Schuetzen style Laudensack cheekpiece stock, 1 1/2 inch rise to the comb and 13 inch pull to the front trigger. The stock is fitted with a Swiss style buttplate, ebony forend tip insert and hard rubber Winchester grip cap. The rifle was featured in the November 1990 issue of "Guns and Ammo" and includes a letter giving such credit. Formerly of the Peter and Patty Murray Collection.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine. The rifle retains 85% plus original blue finish showing some minor thinning. The breechblock and lever retain traces of bright original case colors, and the buttplate has faded to a smooth brown gray patina. The wood is also very fine showing some minor handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: Robert M. Lee Collection.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 6,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Extremely Rare Iron Frame Henry Rifle Serial Number 119

Lot # 3020 (Sale Order: 21 of 880)      

Extremely Rare Iron Frame Henry Rifle Serial Number 119

Rare Iron Frame Henry Lever Action Rifle that was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. during the first months of production, April-May 1862. This rifle has the iron frame and buttplate found on very early Henry rifles. The New Haven Arms Co. is believed to have manufactured Henry rifles with brass and iron frames concurrently during the first months of production. Known serial numbers for iron frame Henry rifles run from "2" to "355". Experts believe that the New Haven Arms Co. manufactured as many as 400 iron frame rifles. Approximately 90 iron frame rifles have been identified in contemporary collections. This rifle has a 24-inch octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine along with the distinctive features found on the early iron and brass frame Henry rifles. These features include: (1) alternate rear sight dovetail in the receiver, (2) iron buttplate with rounded heel and hinged trapdoor, (3) lever without a projection to engage a lever latch, (4) lack of lever latch on the lower tang, (5) small diameter brass cartridge follower, (6) straight rectangular follower cut in the bottom of the receiver, (7) small diameter trigger pin and (8) serial numbered buttplate and tang screws. The barrel has a brass front sight blade and a dovetail mounted folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch. The rifle, correctly, is not fitted with a sling swivel or loop for a sling hook which were special order features on early Henry rifles. The iron receiver originally had a high polish blue finish. The barrel/magazine are blued. The hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate are color casehardened. The stock is straight grain American walnut with a varnish finish. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the legend: "HENRY'S PATENT OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS. CO. NEWHAVEN. CT." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The legend is the early smaller style which utilizes block letters for "NEWHAVEN" in the address and serifed letters for the balance of the markings. The serial number "119" is hand-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver, on the inside of the buttplate heel and on the shanks of the buttplate and tang screws (the stock was not removed to examine the serial number stamped on the left side of the lower tang and in the upper tang recess of the stock). The butt trap contains the four-piece, hickory cleaning rod furnished with early to mid-production Henry rifles.

Class: Antique

Fine. The barrel has a silver-gray patina and retains 30% of the original blue finish which is mostly in the protected areas of the barrel. The metal surfaces are smooth and the edges are sharp. The New Haven Arms legend and serial number are both crisp. The barrel loading gate has a few minor dents and scratches. The iron receiver has a good-looking gray brown patina with smooth surfaces. Small amounts of the original high polish blue finish are visible on the lower receiver near the trigger. The sides of the hammer retain about 40% of the original color casehardened finish. The balance of the hammer along with the trigger and lever have a dove-gray patina with smooth metal surfaces. The iron buttplate shows typical wear with patches of dark age discoloration and some pitting on the heel. The straight grain walnut stock is also in fine condition and shows only a few very insignificant handling and storage marks. The stock appears to have much of the crazed original varnish finish. The bore is bright which is very uncommon on a Henry rifle. The Henry rifle was the most advanced long arm available during the American Civil War. Experts believe that most Henry rifles manufactured before 1865 saw military service. Although the Federal government purchased only slightly more than 1700 Henry rifles between 1862 and 1865, individual soldiers were quick to recognize the firepower offered by a 15-shot repeating rifle. Most Henry rifles were privately purchased by Federal soldiers from Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Kentucky regiments. Many of the early Iron Frame Henry rifles were shipped to New Haven Arms dealers in Louisville, Kentucky. A few Iron Frame Henry rifles were obtained by Confederate soldiers. All Henry rifles are scarce and historic firearms. However, the limited production Iron Frame rifles are the rarest and most desirable Henry rifles. This fine rifle would be the stand-out piece in the most advanced collection of Winchester rifles.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 130,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Winchester First Model 1873 Saddle Ring Lever Action Carbine

Lot # 3021 (Sale Order: 22 of 880)      

Rare and Historic Royal Presentation Special Order Winchester First Model 1873 Saddle Ring Lever Action Carbine with Casehardened Receiver and Factory Letter

Winchester Model 1873 carbine manufactured in 1875 and presented by Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, during his 1875 visit to India. This carbine is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter that describes it as: "Carbine, XX wood, Casehardened". The letter states that the carbine was shipped from Winchester on July 31, 1875, along with 29 others on work order number 3701. This order included Model 1873 serial numbers 6618, 6604, and 6597 which are currently displayed at the Prince of Wales former residence, Sandringham House. This carbine was part of a group of fifteen rifles and fifteen carbines shipped from Winchester to James Kerr and London Armory, Winchester's London Agent, as presentation pieces for the visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, to India in October 1875. These rifles and carbines had deluxe, XX fancy grade walnut and were inlaid with a silver plate engraved with the medal insignia of the Prince of Wales surrounded by the chain and medal of the Order of the Star of India. Six of these Winchesters (including one carbine) were apparently returned to England in 1876 following the tour and remain at Sandringham House. The surviving carbine at Sandringham, serial number 6618, is identical to this carbine. In addition to the inlaid medal on the left side of the stock, the barrel of this carbine is engraved; "FROM H.R.H. THE PRINCE OF WALES K.G. G.C.S.I. INDIA 1875+1876" in one line on the top between the upper and lower bands. "LONDON ARMOURY/Jas KERR & CO. 54 KING WILLIAM ST. LONDON" is engraved in two lines on the left side of the barrel between the lower barrel band and the receiver. London proof and inspection marks are stamped on the right side of the barrel and receiver. Rack numbers are stamped on the carbine as follows, "16" is stamped on the right side of the forearm, lower right side of the receiver and on the heel of the buttplate. "6" is stamped on the left side of the stock ahead of the inlaid medal. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860" ahead of the rear sight. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped "MODEL. 1873." in "fancy letters". The serial number "6616" is engraved in script numerals on the lower tang behind the lever latch. This First Model carbine has the distinctive receiver with grooved dust cover guides and dust cover with checkered, oval "finger print". The barrel has the first style band with integral front sight blade and folding leaf sight with sight apertures marked "1, 3", and "5". A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The carbine style buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor and the butt trap contains a three-piece, jointed, steel cleaning rod with brass tip. The barrel, magazine, barrel bands, receiver, dust cover and loading gate are blued. The receiver, hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate are color casehardened. Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, subsequently King Edward VII,(1841-1910) was a popular prince and monarch. As Prince of Wales, he traveled extensively. His 1875-1876 visit to India was considered a great success. Edward was a notable sportsman who was extremely fond of hunting The thirty Winchester Model 1873 rifles and carbines purchased for presentation during his visit to India were almost certainly selected because they represented the most modern repeating firearms available. This presentation carbine may be the only surviving example of the rifles and carbines presented by Edward Prince of Wales other than the six guns on display in Sandringham House. This is a rare and historic Winchester Model 1873 carbine.

Class: Antique

Very good plus. This carbine is all original and retains 25% of the original blued casehardened finish. The barrel, magazine and barrel bands have a plum-blue patina and retain significant amounts of original blue finish. Most of the wear is concentrated on the top of the barrel between the bands. Both the barrel and magazine have scattered light scratches with several spots of light pitting. The engraved presentation and Kerr markings and Winchester legend are sharp. The receiver has mostly an attractive silvered-out case hardened finish overall. Most of the case colors are present on the right side-plate. The casehardened finish on the trigger and sides of the lever have silvered but the hammer retains strong case colors. The buttplate has moderate handling wear with a dark patina. The stock and forearm are both in very good overall condition with moderate handling wear. The walnut has aged to a smooth, dark patina which shows little of the XX fancy grade burl. The silver inlay in the
more...

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 20,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Near New Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Sporting Rifle

Lot # 3022 (Sale Order: 23 of 880)      

Outstanding Near New Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Sporting Rifle

This is a near new example of a late production, standard grade, Winchester Model 92 Sporting Rifle manufactured in 1926. The rifle has a full blue finish with straight grain, American walnut stock and forearm. The rifle has a octagon barrel with full-length magazine. The barrel has a standard, fixed blade, front sight with tinned face and sporting style rear sight with serrated elevator thumb-piece and small adjusting screw. The front of the sight is marked: "PAT. FEB.22.'27". The forearm has a blued end cap, and the stock has a blued, crescent buttplate. The upper receiver tang is drilled and tapped for a peep sight. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 92-WINCHESTER-38 W.C.F.-/-TRADE MARK-" in two lines below the rear sight. The opposite side of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./NEW HAVEN. CONN". The oval Winchester "W/P" proof mark is stamped on the top barrel flat and the top of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "MODEL 92/-WINCHESTER-/ TRADE MARK REG. U.S PAT. OFF & FGN" in three lines. The serial number "960629" is roll-stamped across the bottom of the receiver at the junction with the forearm.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Near new. The rifle appears to be unfired with very minimal handling and retains 99% plus of the original blue finish. The stock and forearm are in the same untouched condition as the steel components and retain nearly 100% of the original finish. The barrel and receiver markings are near perfect. This is a nearly new example of a late production, standard grade, Winchester Model 92 Sporting Rifle that would be extremely difficult to upgrade.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 15,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3023 (Sale Order: 24 of 880)      

Outstanding Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle with Casehardened Receiver and Presentation Inscribed Plaque

This special order Winchester Model 1873 Sporting Rifle was manufactured in 1891 and has presentation inscription. An oval silver plate inlaid on the left side of the stock is inscribed: "-Presented to-/-Fred Dow-/by the members of the/Lake Shore Club./-Sept.11, 1893-". At this time the writer believes that the Lake Shore Club references a private men's athletic club in Chicago, Illinois, and members included prominent Chicago area citizens such as mayor Richard Daley. The building that housed the Lake Shore Club from 1927 to 1977 was converted to student housing for Northwestern University. Today student housing has been replaced by luxury apartments. When Northwestern closed the building in 2005, the building retained several gyms, handball courts, an Olympic-size swimming pool and Otto Hake's 1938 mural depicting Chicago's history. Moreover, a Frederick Dow (1840-1934) of the state of Maine has been found from the period. At the time of the presentation, Dow would have been 53. Dow was the son of Civil War Union General Neal Dow whose influence kept his son out of the war. He was an active member of the Maine Republican Party throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries and held various influential positions within the GOP including state legislature. In 1880, Dow served as a delegate at the Republican National Convention in Chicago. He went on to serve two nonconsecutive posts as the Collector of the Port of Portland under both Presidents Arthur and Harrison. How Dow is connected with the Lake Shore Club has yet to be determined. The rifle has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with serrated rear edges. The octagon barrel, full length magazine and dust cover are blued. The loading gate has a fire blue finish. The receiver, forearm cap, hammer, lever, trigger and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The forearm and pistol grip stock are highly figured, fancy grade walnut with "Style H" checkering and high polish piano finish. The bottom of the pistol grip has an ebony inlay. The barrel has a Lyman "Jack" front sight with white bead and a buckhorn sporting style rear sight with serrated edges and screw adjustable center insert. A Lyman folding combination rear sight with coarsely knurled post is mounted on the upper receiver tang. The buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor and the butt trap contains a four-piece steel cleaning rod with brass tip. The top barrel flat is roll stamped "WINCHESTER'S REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A./-KING'S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29. 1866 OCTOBER 16. 1860.-" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation "44 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top barrel flat just in front of the receiver. "44 CAL" is stamped in script across the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The serial number "429892" is stamped in small letters across the lower tang between the lever latch and the tang screw.

Class: Antique

Excellent. The rifle is all original and retains 97% of the original blue and vivid color casehardened finish. Nearly all of the blue finish is present on the barrel. The markings are crisp. The blue finish on the magazine tube has thinned slightly to a blue-gray patina. About 85% of the bright blue finish is present on the dust cover. Nearly all of the nitre blue finish remains on the loading gate. The receiver and side plates have vivid case colors and show minimal wear. The case colors on the forearm cap, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are more subdued but show very little wear. The highly figured walnut stock and forearm are both in excellent condition and retain nearly all of the high polish piano finish. Wear is limited to a few very insignificant storage marks. The fine checkering on the pistol grip and forearm is extremely sharp. This is an outstanding example of a deluxe, presentation Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Rifle with very desirable casehardened receiver. Provenance: Robert M. Lee Collection.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 50,000.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Rare Civil War Production New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action

Lot # 3024 (Sale Order: 25 of 880)      

Rare Civil War Production New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

Henry Lever Action Rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. in March 1864. The rifle has the distinctive Henry "gun metal" brass receiver and buttplate and octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine. The barrel has the late style, square back, nickel-silver front sight blade and a dovetail mounted, folding leaf rear sight. The sight leaf has a rounded top with 900 yard center notch. The second style receiver lacks the alternate rear sight dovetail found on Henry receivers to about serial number 3000. The bottom of the receiver has the late, beveled magazine follower cut, and the magazine has the large diameter brass follower. The buttplate is the first style with rounded heel which was replaced with a buttplate with sharp pointed heel in the mid-4000 serial number range. The buttplate has a hinged brass trapdoor. The left side of the stock and barrel have a factory sling swivel and screw mounted loop for a sling hook. The swivel and hook were originally special order features but were standard by early 1864. The barrel and magazine have traces of the blue finish, the hammer and lever are color casehardened, and the straight grain American walnut stock has a varnished or oiled finish. The top of the barrel is roll stamped with the second style legend: "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16, 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEW HAVEN ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CT." in two lines. The second style legend, introduced in the late 3000 serial number range, is larger and has all Roman (serifed) characters rather than the smaller, first style legend with the combination of Roman and Gothic letters. The serial number "4585" is stamped: (1) on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver, (2) on the lower left side of the receiver tang, (3) in the upper tang inlet of the stock, (4) on the inside of the buttplate and (5) on the shanks of both hand-fitted buttplate screws. All of the visible serial numbers match. The tang screws are, correctly, not serial numbered. Experts believe that most Henry rifles made before 1865 were privately purchased by individual federal soldiers who wanted the unprecedented firepower offered by the 15-shot Henry repeating rifle. The Henry rifle was especially popular with soldiers in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky regiments. Many of these soldiers purchased Henry rifles from dealers in Louisville, Kentucky, and other mid-west cities in 1864 using re-enlistment bounties.

Class: Antique

Very good. The barrel has a deep brown patina with sharp edges and clear markings. The rear sight is original but is missing the elevator bar. The receiver and buttplate are in good overall condition with an attractive patina. The receiver and buttplate have typical scratches and handling marks. Most of the wear is concentrated on the bottom of the receiver and lower tang. The side plate joints are tight with a few minor dents along the top of the left side plate. The hammer, trigger, and lever have a dark brown patina with slight surface texture and pitting. The stock is in good overall condition with scattered minor handling marks. The bolt has been gunsmith modified to centerfire configuration. This is a very good example of a Civil War production Henry rifle that may have seen Civil War service.

Bid Not Accepted!

Bid Accepted!

You've been outbid!

Sold for: USD 27,500.00

You've been outbid  to onsite! to YOU!

Placing your bid. please wait...

Search Catalog :
Sort By :
Go to Lot :
Go to Page :
Per Page :
Pg : 1 of 36

1.178.0.771.56c32e2.11.145