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Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3 |
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| Guns & Military Artifacts > Rock Island Auction Company > Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3 | |
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Premiere Firearms Auction - Day 3 |
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by Rock Island Auction Company
Sun,
Sep
13,
2015
9:00 AM
Central
2,600+ Lots! Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com/search
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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Casehardened Receiver Lot #3000 (Sale Order 1 of 844) Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Casehardened Receiver
Winchester Model 1873 Sporting rifle that was manufactured in 1886. This rifle has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The top of the receiver has the 'step' at the junction with the barrel found on .22, .32, and .38 caliber Model 1873 rifles. The rifle has a 24 inch round barrel with half-magazine. The barrel has a Rocky Mountain front sight with steel blade and a sporting style buckhorn rear sight with serrated edges and fixed aperture. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The crescent buttplate has a sliding trap door. The barrel, half-magazine, dust cover and loading gate are blued and the forearm cap, receiver, hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are "Extra Finish" walnut with a high polish piano finish. 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." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. "38 CAL" is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel at the junction with the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped "{ MODEL. 1873.}" in fancy letters with foliate devices at either end. "38 CAL" is stamped in script across the bottom of the cartridge elevator and the serial number "222273B" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the tang screw. Class: Antique Very fine as partially restored (all casehardened parts). 75% of the original blue finish is present on the barrel and sights. Wear is limited to a few minor dents and scratches. The barrel legend is sharp. The dust cover retains 70% of the blue finish while the loading gate has about 60% of the blue finish. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer and lever have more than 90% of the professionally restored case hardened finish. The case colors are slightly muted purposely to duplicate age but silvering is limited to contact points on the upper receiver tang and bottom of the lever. The case colors on the crescent buttplate show slightly more wear than the receiver but remain at least 85%. The extra finish stock and forearm are both in fine condition and retain much of the high polish piano finish. The forearm finish shows moderate handling wear while the stock has nearly all of the finish intact. Both the stock and forearm have scattered, minor dents and handling marks. This is an attractive, restored Winchester Model 1873 rifle with very desirable casehardened receiver. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle with Extra Length 28 Inch Barrel Lot #3001 (Sale Order 2 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle with Extra Length 28 Inch Barrel
Manufactured in 1884, this is a Third Model with the dust cover guide rail integrally machined to the receiver. Blade front sight and adjustable folding ladder rear sight graduated to 1,000 yards and marked "1876". The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two line address/King's Improvement patent dates and "CAL 45-60" at the breech. The upper tang is marked "{MODEL 1876}" flanked by fancy brackets, the serial number is on the lower tang and the cartridge elevator is marked "45-60". Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with a steel end cap and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment, (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Very fine. The rifle retains 75% original blue finish with some areas thinning to a brown or gray patina. There is some scattered light spotting. Half of the original case colors remain on the hammer and lever, with a smooth mottled grayish brown patina on the balance. The wood is fine with most of the original varnish remaining, and showing some scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are clear. Mechanically is excellent. |
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Desirable Early Production Winchester Second Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle with Scarce Henry Patent Lot #3002 (Sale Order 3 of 844) Desirable Early Production Winchester Second Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle with Scarce Henry Patent Marked Barrel
This is an example of a Second Model 1866 Rifle manufactured in 1869. The rifle has a full octagon barrel, special order factory sling swivels on the forearm cap and stock, (absent from the cap) and flared receiver at the forearm. The top barrel flat near the breech is marked with the first style legend "HENRY'S PATENT-OCT. 16. 1860/KINGS-PATENT-MARCH 29, 1866". The serial number is marked on the lower tang. Dovetailed blade front sight and a fixed iron rear sight. The barrel, magazine tube and loading gate were finished blue, and the receiver, forend cap and buttplate are brass. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Good. The metal surfaces have a smooth dark patina and the brass components have a very attractive dark aged patina. With the exception of a period saddle worn moderate gouge forward of the right wrist, the wood is also very good with some scattered minor dents and dings. The markings are clear. The action is very good. A nice early production Model 1866 with the scarce Henry Patent barrel marking. |
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Desirable New Haven Arms Co. Lever Action No. 1 Pocket Volcanic Pistol Lot #3004 (Sale Order 4 of 844) Desirable New Haven Arms Co. Lever Action No. 1 Pocket Volcanic Pistol
This pistol is one of an estimated 850 short barreled No. 1 Pocket pistols produced by the New Haven Arms Co. between 1857 and 1860. This example has the "NEW HAVEN CONN/PATENT FEB. 14, 1854" barrel marking, threaded in pinched blade and dovetailed notch sights, varnished walnut grips and the standard ring lever. The serial numbers on the grips and grip frame match. These pocket pistols along with the Navy pistols and carbines produced at the same time by the New Haven Arms. Co. mark an important step in the evolution of repeating firearms. They were the final step prior to the iconic Henry rifle and share many attributes with the later design which was essentially a Volcanic redesigned for .44 Henry rimfire cartridges. Class: Antique Good. The barrels, lever, and hammer have a mostly crisp blue/brown patina with some mild oxidation and spots of scattered surface rust/pitting. The frame has an attractive aged patina with small pin prick marks and light scratches. The grips are fair and have chips along the edges and numerous small scratches and dings. The right panel has a vertical hairline crack present on top. It needs some mechanical work. Due to the small number of these pistols made and their important place in firearms history, the No. 1 Pocket Volcanic pistol is a must have for any collection of American firearms but is absent from most. |
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New Haven Arms Co., Henry Lever Action Rifle Lot #3005 (Sale Order 5 of 844) New Haven Arms Co., Henry Lever Action Rifle
Henry lever action rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co., in April 1865. The rifle has the distinctive brass "gunmetal" receiver and crescent buttplate and blued octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine. The hammer and lever are color case-hardened and the stock is straight grain American walnut. The barrel has the late square back, nickel-silver front sight and folding leaf rear sight with 1000 yard center notch. The magazine has the large late pattern brass follower. The second style receiver has the late style beveled follower cut-out and lacks the alternate rear sight dovetail which was eliminated at about serial number 3,000. The buttplate has the late pattern sharp profile heel with hinged trap. The buttplate screws are the correct style cap head machine screws rather than the hand-fitted serial numbered buttplate screws used on earlier production rifles. The left side of the stock and barrel have a sling swivel and loop for a sling hook which were standard features on later production Henry rifles. The top barrel flat is die-stamped with the second style legend "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16.1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS CO. NEWHAVEN CT." in two lines. The second style legend is slightly larger than the marking used on Henry rifles thru about serial number 4,000 and utilizes all serif (Roman) letters rather than the combination of serifed and block (Gothic) letters in the first style legend. The serial number "8983" is located on the top of the barrel between the rear sight dovetail and the frame, on the lower left side of the tang beneath the stock, in the upper tang inlet of the stock and on the inside of the buttplate. All of the visible serial numbers match. The buttplate screws and tang screws on late production Henry rifles were not serial numbered. Class: Antique Fair. The barrel/magazine has a mottled brown patina. The upper and lower tang screws are modern replacements. The barrel edges are slightly rounded and there is some scattered pitting and age discoloration on the sides of the barrel. The barrel legend and serial number are clear. The brass receiver is in good condition and has a good-looking, un-polished, patina. The side plate joints are tight and the side plates show no sign of having been removed. The receiver has extensive forward handling wear as the lower portion is rounded upward. The buttplate has the same patina as the receiver but shows slightly more handling wear. The hammer and lever have a gray-brown patina with light high-point wear. The sanded, reoiled stock is in good condition but fits to the tang very loosely. This is a solid representative example of a early-mid 1865 production Henry lever action rifle. |
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Scarce Fifty Round Box of Winchester .44 Flat Rimfire Ammunition Lot #3006 (Sale Order 6 of 844) Scarce Fifty Round Box of Winchester .44 Flat Rimfire Ammunition
This box of Winchester cartridges was manufactured circa the 1870s. It has the "STETSON'S PATENT OCT. 24th 1871./ FOR THE/WINCHESTER REPEATING RIFLE" marking on the main label, "44 FLAT R.F." on three of the sides and the Winchester statement on the back panel. Class: Other Good. The box is opened but full. There is moderate overall wear and tears at the corners. |
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Deluxe Exhibition Grade Conrad Ulrich Panel Scene Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3007 (Sale Order 7 of 844) Deluxe Exhibition Grade Conrad Ulrich Panel Scene Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle
This deluxe factory engraved Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle was manufactured in 1870. This deluxe rifle has a gold plated receiver engraved with three panel scenes on the left side, two games scenes and an open panel on the right side, surrounded by Germanic scrollwork on a punch-dot background. The engraving extends to the forearm cap, bottom of the cartridge elevator and buttplate heel. The engraving is not signed but was probably executed by Conrad Ulrich. 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 Henry style folding leaf rear sight. Special order factory sling swivels are fitted on the forearm cap and stock. The crescent brass buttplate has a hinged trap and the upper tang is drilled and tapped. The barrel and magazine are blued. The hammer, lever and trigger are color casehardened, and the brass ("gunmetal") forearm cap, receiver and buttplate are gold plated. The stock and forearm are nicely figured, fancy grain walnut. The stock grade "XX" is stamped on the left side of the lower receiver tang. 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 serial number "79864" is stamped on the lower receiver tang and enclosed in a hand engraved double line banner. Class: Antique Very good. The rifle is all original and retains traces of the gold plated finish in protected areas. The barrel and magazine have a dark, mottled brown patina. The surfaces of the barrel and magazine are generally smooth. The barrel legend is light but legible. The case colors on the hammer and trigger have a brown patina. The brass forearm cap, receiver and buttplate have an attractive aged patina and retain significant amounts of the gold plated finish in protected areas. The detailed game scenes and meticulously executed scrollwork are crisp. The fancy grain walnut stock and forearm remain in good condition. There are several period, barely noticeable, repairs in the stock wrist. This is a good example of a rare, exhibition quality, Ulrich factory engraved Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle. |
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Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Deluxe Lever Action Rifle with 7 Leaf Express Sights Lot #3008 (Sale Order 8 of 844) Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Deluxe Lever Action Rifle with 7 Leaf Express Sights and Factory Letter
According to the factory Cody Museum letter dated March 19, 1992, the rifle was received on June 13, 1892, and shipped three days later with five other firearms as part of order number 24324. The letter confirms the feature's present on rifle including the seven leaf express rear sights and the single set trigger. The express sights are very rare and were most common on rifles destined for Africa. The Beach front sight has been replaced by a German silver blade. It is fitted a checkered fancy grade forearm and semi-pistol grip stock with ebony grip insert and blued forend cap, and casehardened buttplate with a compartment (empty). Class: Antique Very fine as professionally restored. The rifle retains most of the custom applied blue finish and case colors with some light edge and handling wear. The wood is also very fine and has crisp checkering, attractive figure, a few small dings, and a couple miniscule chips. The set screw for the trigger is absent, but the action is otherwise fine. The markings are crisp. |
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Attractive Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine Lot #3009 (Sale Order 9 of 844) Attractive Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine
Manufactured in 1899. This is a beautiful example of a restored Model 1886 Saddle Ring Carbine. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two-line address, and "45-70" is at the breech. The upper tang is marked "-MODEL 1886-", and the serial number is on the lower tang. Pinned blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight graduated to "20" (200 yards). Blue barrel, barrel bands, saddle ring, stud and magazine tube; casehardened remaining parts, and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate. Consignor notes state this was refinished by Turnbull Restoration. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine as restored to near mint with only a few light handling/storage marks. An exceptionally nice, totally restored Winchester Model 1886 Saddle Ring Carbine that would compliment a Winchester collection. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3010 (Sale Order 10 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured in 1892 and has a special order fancy grade semi-pistol grip stock and forearm with multi-point checkering, a shotgun style buttplate, and an ebony grip insert. Other features include the single set trigger and tang mounted peep sight. It has a replacement beaded blade front sight and an adjustable sporting rear sight. The shortened barrel is marked with the two line address on top ahead of the rear sight and the caliber designation "40-65 W.C.F." at the breech. The casehardened action has the model designation on the upper tang under the peep sight and the patent dates and serial number on the lower tang. Class: Antique Fine as period modified (barrel shortened). The rifle retains 60% of the original blue finish and 40% of the case colors. The finish on the magazine tube has mostly faded to a brown patina. The case colors are particularly strong on the lower tang. There is some light spotting. The wood is very fine with sharp checkering, several small dings, a chip on the left wrist at the junction with the frame, and scattered minor scratches. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. Winchester Model 1886 with strong case color retention are very rare. The assorted special order features and condition combine to make this a highly desirable Winchester rifle. |
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Winchester Model 94 Lever Action Trapper Carbine with 15 Inch Barrel and ATF Exemption Letter Lot #3011 (Sale Order 11 of 844) Winchester Model 94 Lever Action Trapper Carbine with 15 Inch Barrel and ATF Exemption Letter
Manufactured in 1928. This carbine features a 15 inch round barrel and full length magazine tube. The left rear of the barrel is marked with the model, trade mark, nickel steel and caliber information, three line Winchester marking on the upper tang and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. The Winchester oval proof is stamped on the top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The barrel is fitted with a pinned blade front sight and a special order Marbles buckhorn rear sight. All blue finish and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a steel carbine buttplate. The carbine is accompanied by a ATF letter of exemption dated June 8, 1999 removing it from NFA provisions and being designated as a collectible curio/relic firearm, and a George Madis handwritten letter describing the carbines features and condition as being all original. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Fine as partially refinished (cold blue on receiver and barrel). The balance of carbine retains 50% original blue finish with edge wear and thinning on the receiver and barrel band. There are a few minor scratches and dings on the receiver. The reoiled wood is fine with a very small gouge on the left side of the forearm, and overall some scattered minor dents and dings. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. |
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Desirable Antique Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action .44-40 Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3012 (Sale Order 12 of 844) Desirable Antique Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action .44-40 Rifle with Factory Letter
Manufactured in 1896. The top barrel flat ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two-line address and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. Three-line upper tang model, maker and patent date marking and the serial number on the bottom of the receiver. Dovetailed blade front and adjustable buckhorn sporting rear sights, full magazine tube, blue finish and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter verifies the rifle configuration, caliber, octagon barrel, plain trigger, and that it was received in and shipped out of the warehouse on October 19, 1900 to order number 77853, a late shipment as the rifle was manufactured four years earlier in 1896. Class: Antique Excellent. The rifle retains 90% plus original blue finish overall with some muzzle and edge wear, and some scratches, thinning and light spotting on the receiver. Much of the original case colors remain on the hammer and lever with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The wood is very fine with some scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine. |
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Exceptional Special Order Deluxe Winchester Model 1886 .50 Express Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3013 (Sale Order 13 of 844) Exceptional Special Order Deluxe Winchester Model 1886 .50 Express Rifle with Factory Letter
Winchester Model 1886 rifle chambered for the .50-110 Winchester Express cartridge. The rifle is complete with a Cody Firearms Museum letter that describes the rifle as: "50 Express Caliber" with "Octagon barrel, Plain trigger, Checkered stock with pistol grip" and "Midrange and Lyman Combination front sights". The letter states that this rifle was shipped from Winchester on August 13, 1894. The barrel, full-length magazine, loading gate, trigger and bolt are blue. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate have a casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are deluxe, fancy grain, highly figured walnut with a high polish piano finish. The forearm and pistol grip have Winchester Style H checkering and the pistol grip has an ebony insert. The barrel is fitted with a special order Lyman folding combination front sight and Winchester Express rear sight with three folding leaves graduated for 25, 100 and 200 yards and platinum sight lines. A folding Lyman Mid Range Vernier Peep Sight is mounted on the receiver tang. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation, "50 EX", is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger and the serial number, "90295", is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the tang screws. Introduced circa 1893 for the Model 1886 Winchester rifle, the Winchester .50-110-300 Express was one of the most potent cartridges available. Deluxe Winchester Model 1886 rifles chambered for Express cartridges are rare and extremely desirable firearms. Class: Antique Extremely fine. The rifle retains more than 95% of the strong original and vivid color casehardened finish. Nearly 95% of the original blue finish is present on the barrel and magazine tube assembly showing some delicate and scattered pin prick pitting along high points. The forearm cap, receiver, lever and hammer have almost 95% of the casehardened finish intact with vivid case colors. The case colors on the crescent buttplate have toned slightly. The piano finished stock and forearm are both excellent with sharp checkering showing only minor storage marks. This is an exceptional example of one of the most desirable variations of the highly sought-after Winchester Model 1886 rifle. |
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Phenomenal Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Sporting Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3014 (Sale Order 14 of 844) Phenomenal Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Sporting Rifle with Factory Letter
Manufactured in 1889. The rifle has a deluxe, highly figured fancy grain walnut forearm and pistol grip stock with 'Style H' checkering and high polish piano finish. The barrel is blued and the receiver, breechblock, hammer, lever and crescent steel buttplate are color case-hardened. The rifle has a half-octagon/half-round barrel chambered for the .25 W.C.F. cartridge. The barrel has a blued, Rocky Mountain front sight and a sporting style rear sight with adjustable insert. The forearm and early style pistol grip have ebony inlays. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped "-MANUFACTURED BY THE- /- WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation: "25 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The lower receiver tang is roll-stamped "-PAT. OCT. 7TH 79-" in a single line behind the trigger and the serial number "34966" is stamped in script numerals between the tang screws. The accompanying factory letter verifies the rifle configuration in 22 L caliber, 1/2 octagon #1 24 inch barrel, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, and that it was received in and shipped out of the warehouse to order number 24197 on July 24, 1889. The letter further notes an additional record date of January 27, 1894, order number 6755. This notation indicates that this rifle was returned to Winchester in 1894 and likely fitted with the 28 inch .25 W.C.F. No. 1 barrel presently on the rifle. Class: Antique Excellent. The rifle retains 95% plus of the original blue and vivid casehardened finish. The barrel retains nearly all of the blue finish and the case colors on the receiver, hammer and lever are vivid. The case colors on the buttplate are slightly faded but remain at least 95%. The deluxe highly figured fancy grain stock and forearm are excellent and retain 98% of the high polish piano finish. The checkering on the forearm and stock pistol grip is sharp. Wear is limited to a few very minor handling marks. This is an excellent example of a Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Sporting Rifle. |
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Near New Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle Lot #3015 (Sale Order 15 of 844) Near New Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle
Standard Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting rifle manufactured circa 1914. The rifle has a 'Thickside' receiver with 24-inch octagon No. 1 barrel. The barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel silver blade and set screw on the right side, and buckhorn sporting style rear sight with screw-adjustable center piece. The barrel and receiver are blued and the breechblock, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The rifle has a standard forearm with knurled final and ebony insert and straight grip stock. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut. 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. PATENTED OCT. 7, 1879." ahead of the rear sight. The top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver is stamped with the oval Winchester "W/P" proof mark followed by "22 SHORT". A second Winchester proof mark is stamped on the top of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped "REG. IN. U.S. PAT. OFF./-WINCHESTER-/-TRADE MARK-" in three lines. The serial number "110609" is stamped on the lower tang behind the rear tang screw. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Near new. The rifle is all original and the barrel and receiver retain nearly 99% plus of the Winchester commercial blue finish. The breechblock, hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate have 99% of the color casehardened finish intact with strong case colors. The heel of the buttplate has just the slightest amount of finish wear. The barrel and receiver markings are crisp. The bore is mirror bright. The stock and forearm are in nearly new condition and retain almost all of the original finish. Wear is limited to a few tiny handling marks on the left stock wrist and several very minor blemishes on the forearm. This is an outstanding, near new example of a Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting rifle. |
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Historic Illinois Civil War New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle with Cavalry Saber and Docum Lot #3016 (Sale Order 16 of 844) Historic Illinois Civil War New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle with Cavalry Saber and Documented History
Henry Lever Action rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company circa 1864 and British Pattern 1821 troopers saber from Edgar County, Illinois. The rifle and saber are accompanied by copies of notarized statements that state the weapons were the property of Ms. Mary Belle Littlefield Bonwell (1934-2014). Ms. Bonwell told her son that the weapons were given to her grandfather Jacob Littlefield by his cousin who was a Civil War veteran, and were kept in a closet in the family home in Edgar County all her life. Edgar County is located in East Central Illinois and portions of a number of Illinois regiments were raised in the county during the Civil War. The second letter/affidavit includes states that the rifle and sword belonged to Samuel H. Light (1834-1914). Who, according to the Illinois Civil War Muster Roll, joined the 7th Illinois Cavalry on September 15, 1861. He re-enlisted as a veteran on March 30, 1864, and mustered out on November 4, 1865, as a sergeant. It a Bonwell descendent states: "I have a letter dated October 30, 1863 addressed to my great-great grand father, Ashel Littlefield, who was a good friend and brother-in-law. The letter describes some war events that he was involved in." A copy of the latter letter is included along with other documents relating to the family. The rifle has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine and brass ("Gunmetal") receiver and crescent buttplate. The barrel/magazine are blued. The hammer, trigger, and lever are color casehardened, and the stock is straight grain, oil-finished walnut. The rifle has the later production features which include: (1) square back, nickel silver, front sight, (2) folding leaf rear sight with rounded top, center notch and slide stop screw, (3) large brass magazine follower, (4) beveled follower cut in the receiver, (5) second style receiver which lacks the rear sight dovetail found on rifles up to about serial number 3000, (6) sling swivel on the left side of the stock and sling hook loop on the left side of the barrel, (7) second style buttplate with sharp pointed heel, (8) cap head buttplate screws and (9) second style New Haven Arms Co. legend. The buttplate has a hinged trapdoor and the butt trap contains the four piece, jointed steel cleaning rod with brass tip furnished with Henry rifles in this serial number range. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "HENRY'S PATENT OCT. 16. 1860./MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS CO. NEWHAVEN. CT." This second pattern legend is slightly larger than the legend used on Henry rifles thru serial number 3500 and uses all serifed (Roman) letters; the early legend used serifed letters for all the characters except the second "NEWHAVEN" which was stamped with block (Gothic) letters. The small "W" inspection mark utilized by Oliver Winchester is stamped on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The serial number, "6886," is stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The rifle was not disassembled to examine the serial number on the lower left side of the receiver tang, stock, and buttplate because the tang and buttplate screws had not been disturbed and remain indexed on the axis of the bore. The saber that accompanies the rifle is a close copy of the British Pattern 1821 trooper's saber which was also the basis for the U.S. Model 1826 Dragoon saber. The saber has a slightly curved, 35 1/2 inch, flat back, spear point blade with single fuller. The brass hilt has a three-bar guard and brown leather covered grip. This saber differs slightly from the British Pattern 1821 saber which had an iron guard and had a back piece with half-round ears pinned to the grip. The saber has a light weight iron scabbard with prominent drag, two iron suspension bands and rings, and a flat throat piece. The saber and scabbard are unmarked, but it appears to be a British made piece imported to the United States during the Civil War. Although the Federal government purchased fewer than 2000 Henry rifles during the Civil War, experts believe that most of the Henry rifles manufactured through early 1865 were privately purchased by Federal soldiers who were willing to spend their pay for the firepower provided by the 15-shot Henry rifle. One of the primary retailers for the New Haven Arms Company was located in Louisville, Kentucky. Henry rifles were especially popular with soldiers in Illinois and Indiana regiments who had the opportunity to purchase them with re-enlistment bounties while returning home on furlough during the summer and fall of 1864. This rifle was almost certainly purchased by an Illinois trooper in 1864 with his re-enlistment bounty in anticipation of the final campaigns of the war. Class: Antique Fine. The Henry rifle rem more... |
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Magnificent Documented Special Order Antique Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Rifle .22 Short with Sw Lot #3017 (Sale Order 17 of 844) Magnificent Documented Special Order Antique Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Rifle .22 Short with Swiss Buttplate, Winchester A5 Telescopic Sight and Factory Letter
Winchester Model 1885 High Wall rifle manufactured in 1898. The rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter that lists the features as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 22 S, Barrel Type: 1/2 Octagon, Barrel Weight: #3, Barrel Length: 26 Inches, Trigger: Plain, Plain, Pistol Grip" and Swiss butt plate". The letter states that this rifle was shipped from Winchester on January 11, 1898. The rifle has a medium weight, half-octagon/half-round, barrel fitted with a Lyman Wind gauge combination front sight and a blank in the rear sight dove-tail. The barrel is mounted with a 5 power Winchester A5 telescopic sight with fine cross-hair reticle and Winchester target mounts and bases. A folding combination peep sight is mounted on the receiver tang. The pistol grip stock has a nickel-plated Swiss buttplate. The barrel is blued and the receiver, hammer, trigger and lever are color case-hardened. The stock and forearm are oil finished, straight grain, American walnut. The forearm tip and pistol grip have ebony inlays. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the early legend: "- MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-". The legend is partially covered by the front telescopic sight base. The serial number, "80882" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang. Class: Antique Excellent. The rifle retains 97% plus of the blue and vivid color casehardened finish. Nearly all of the blue finish is present on the barrel. The case colors on the receiver are vivid. The case colors on the lever and lower tang have faded slightly from handling. The stock and forearm are both in excellent condition and show minimal handling or storage wear. The rifle was fitted with a palm rest at one point and the underside of the forearm has been drilled with two holes and shows the outline of the palm rest base. The Winchester A5 telescopic sight, mounts and bases are contemporary to the rifle and are in excellent condition. At least 95% of the original blue finish remains and the optics are bright. This is an excellent example of a documented special order Winchester High Wall rifle with Swiss Buttplate, pistol grip stock and half-octagon/half-round barrel. |
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Outstanding, Special Order, Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle Lot #3018 (Sale Order 18 of 844) Outstanding, Special Order, Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle
Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle manufactured in 1906. The rifle has a special order, No. 1, half-octagon/half-round barrel, single set trigger and sights. The barrel has a special order Lyman Beach folding combination front sight with white bead and a buckhorn sporting style rear sight with adjustable insert. A special order Mid-Range Vernier Peep Sight is mounted on the receiver tang. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a high polish finish. The stock has a crescent steel buttplate and the forearm tip has an ebony insert. The rifle barrel and receiver are blued and the breechblock, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY THE / WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber, "22 W.R.F." is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. The lower tang is stamped with "PAT. OCT. 7TH 79" behind the trigger followed by the serial number "95182" behind the tang screws. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Excellent 98% plus. The rifle is all original and retains 99% of the original blue and color casehardened finish. There is some very light edge wear at the muzzle but the other components retain nearly all of the original finish. The special order front sight and Vernier sight are in the same condition as the other components. The bore is mirror bright. The barrel legend, patent markings and serial number are crisp. The stock and forearm are both in excellent condition and retain nearly all of the high polish finish. Wear is limited to several very shallow blemishes on the right side of the forearm above the forearm screw and two light scratches on the left side of the forearm near the receiver. This is an outstanding example of a special order Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Plain Sporting Rifle. |
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Exceptional Winchester Deluxe Model 1885 Special Single Shot Rifle Lot #3019 (Sale Order 19 of 844) Exceptional Winchester Deluxe Model 1885 Special Single Shot Rifle
This is an extraordinary example of a Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Single Shot Sporting rifle that was manufactured in 1895. The rifle has a No. 4, 30 inch, half-octagon barrel with a wind gauge front sight. The barrel has no rear sight seat. A Mid-Range Vernier sight is mounted on the receiver tang. The thin side, high wall receiver has a plain trigger and standard lever. The stock and forearm are highly figured, fancy grade, "XXX" walnut with Winchester "Style H" checkering and a high polish piano finish. The stock has the early style pistol grip with ebony inlay. The Schnabel forearm also has an ebony inlay. The stock has a Swiss style cheek piece and a nickel-plated, brass Swiss buttplate. The barrel has the Winchester commercial blue finish. The receiver, breechblock, hammer and lever have a color casehardened finish with fiery case colors. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS Co. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-". The caliber designation "40-90 BAL." is stamped on the top of the barrel just ahead of the receiver. "PAT. OCT. 7. 79" is roll-stamped on the lower tang in a single line behind the trigger and the serial number, "71029", is stamped between the lower tang screws. This rifle is complete with a Cody Firearms Museum letter which confirms the rifle features and states that it was shipped from Winchester on March 11, 1895. Class: Antique Excellent plus. The rifle is all original and retains 98% of the original blue and vivid color casehardened finish. The barrel has 99% finish with crisp markings and a mirror bright bore. The receiver retains nearly all of the vivid case colors with only traces of high point wear. The case colors on the lever contact points have faded slightly but the finish retains about 97%. The only significant finish wear is some flaking on the metal finish of the lower buttplate hook. The highly figured, fancy grade, walnut stock and forearm remain in exceptional, excellent plus condition and retain virtually all of the high polish piano finish. The checkering is extremely sharp. Storage wear is limited to several very insignificant dents in the left side of the stock near the buttplate. This is an exceptional example of a deluxe Winchester Model 1895 High Wall Special Single Shot rifle. |
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Attractive Winchester Third Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3020 (Sale Order 20 of 844) Attractive Winchester Third Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle
This is an attractive example of a Winchester Model 1866 Rifle that was manufactured in 1871. The rifle has a full octagon barrel, special order factory sling swivels on the forearm cap and stock. The top barrel flat is marked "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS.NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860.". The serial number is marked on the lower tang followed by "HS". Dovetailed blade front sight and a Henry style folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. The barrel, magazine tube and loading gate were finished blue, and the receiver, forend cap and buttplate are brass. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Very good. The barrel and magazine tube retain 20% original blue finish, (mainly on the lower barrel flats), with the balance having a very attractive crisp smooth brown patina. The brass has an attractive aged patina. The receiver side plate joints remain tight. The loading gate has a dark gray patina with traces of the original niter blue finish. The loading lever and trigger have a smooth mottled gray/brown patina. The hammer retains much of the original case colors. There are number of shallow gouges on the buttplate. The forearm is fine condition with scattered minor dents and dings. The stock is cracked through the wrist and has been professionally repaired and partially refinished. The stock is otherwise very good with a few deep scratches, and scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. A nice example of a Model 1866 Rifle. |
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Early Production, Special Order Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3021 (Sale Order 21 of 844) Early Production, Special Order Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle
Winchester Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle manufactured in 1886. The rifle has a special order 28-inch full octagon barrel, sling loops and steel shotgun buttplate. The rifle is engraved with factory No. 10 engraving as illustrated in the 1897 edition of Winchester "HIGHLY FINISHED ARMS" reproduced on pages 209-221 of "The Book of Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson. (no factory letter available to writer at time of description). The receiver and forearm tip are engraved with ornamental scrolls and embossed borders and the left side of the receiver has a game scene with a Whitetail Deer. The forearm and pistol grip stock are highly figured, fancy grain walnut with Winchester Style H checkering. The pistol grip has an ebony inlay. The barrel has a standard sporting style front sight and folding leaf rear sight graduated to "10" and marked "1876" at the top of the leaf. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/- WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A. -" ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation "45-90 W.C.F." is roll- stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886-". The lower tang is marked with the 1884 and 1885 patent dates behind the trigger and the serial number "1975" surrounded by engraved flourishes. Class: Antique About good as recheckered. The barrel, magazine, forearm cap, receiver and buttplate have a mottled silver gray patina with patches of darker age discoloration on the barrel and magazine. None of the blue and color casehardened finish remains on the rifle exterior. The factory engraving and game scene are crisp. The markings on the barrel and upper tang are sharp but the serial number is worn. The highly figured walnut stock and forearm are in good condition with moderate handling wear. The stock retains of the original piano finish while the forearm shows more finish wear. The deeply cut redone checkering on the forearm and pistol grip remains in good overall condition with moderate handling wear. This is a solid representative example of a scarce and very desirable, first year production, special order, factory engraved, Winchester Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle. |
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Outstanding Deluxe Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Special Single Shot Rifle with Fact Lot #3022 (Sale Order 22 of 844) Outstanding Deluxe Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Special Single Shot Rifle with Factory Letter and Ledger
he rifle has a half-round/half-octagon No. 4 barrel fitted with a wind gauge front sight with Spirit level and has no seat for a rear sight. A mid-range Vernier rear sight is mounted on the receiver tang. The "thin wall" receiver has a single set trigger. The stock and forearm are fancy grain highly figured XXX walnut with a high polish piano finish and fine checkered panels. The stock has a cheekpiece, late style pistol grip with hard rubber cap embossed "WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO.", and nickel plated Swiss buttplate. The Schnabel type forearm has an ebony inlay at the tip and is fitted with a Winchester "tuning fork" palm rest. The barrel and receiver are blued, and the hammer, breechblock and lever are casehardened. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY THE/WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." followed by the caliber designation "32-40" at the breech. The lower receiver tang is roll-stamped: PATENTED OCT. 7. 79" in one line behind the trigger followed by the serial number "91552" between the tang screws. The accompanying factory letter verifies the rifle configuration, caliber, 1/2 octagon #4 32 inch barrel, "S. Set" trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, mid-range Vernier and wind gauge sights with no rear sight seat, Swiss buttplate and cheek piece, palm rest, and that it was received in the warehouse on July 7, 1903 and shipped to order number 188010 the next day. The ledger copy lists the features as well including "S. S." in the trigger column. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Excellent plus. This rifle appears to be all original and retains 98% of the bright original blue finish overall. The case colors on the bottom of the lever have faded slightly from handling. The top edges of the receiver have traces of high point wear and there are a few very minor handling marks on the receiver sides. The Swiss buttplate retains 97% of the nickel plated finish with some very minor finish wear. The barrel markings are crisp. Both the wind gauge front sight and Vernier rear sight remain in excellent condition. The highly figured fancy grade stock and forearm remain excellent plus and retain nearly all of the piano finish. The checkered panels on the pistol grip and forearm are sharp. Wear is limited to a few very minor handling marks. This is an outstanding example of a deluxe special order Winchester Model 1885 Special Single Shot rifle. |
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Desirable Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3023 (Sale Order 23 of 844) Desirable Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured in 1883. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS.NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860." The serial number is marked on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The left side of the lower tang and the stock under the upper tang are marked with the assembly number "3369". It has a dovetailed German silver blade front sight and an adjustable sporting rear sight. The barrel, magazine tube, and loading gate were finished blue, and the receiver, forend cap and buttplate are brass. It is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with iron forend cap and straight grip stock with an iron crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Very good. The iron surfaces have a dark gray or brown patina along with patches of mild pitting and oxidation. The brass has an aged patina with some minor marks. The lever is possibly refinished. The wood is fine with moderate handling wear including some overall light scratches and small dings. It is mechanically fine and has crisp markings. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3024 (Sale Order 24 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter
This Winchester Model 1873 was manufactured in 1891 and features a special order part octagon barrel, half magazine, casehardened receiver, and checkered deluxe fancy grade pistol grip stock and forearm with ebony grip insert. The configuration is confirmed in the factory letter which also lists that it was received by the warehouse on May 21, 1892; shipped on June 1, 1892; and was repaired and returned on March 15, 1902. It is equipped with a Rocky Mountain blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, and a later added short range tang mounted peep sight. The barrel has the two-line address and patent information ahead of the rear sight and "32 W.C.F." on top at the breech end. The upper tang is marked with the model designation. "32 CAL" is stamped in script across the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number is marked on the tail of the lower tang. Class: Antique Fine as later repaired by Winchester (probably mechanical as the finish is correct). The rifle retains 40% plus of the faded thinned blue finish and 30% rich case colors. The balance has a brown patina along with some spotting and slight spots of pitting. The wood is fine with various small dings and light scratches and spots of wear in the otherwise smooth finish. It is mechanically excellent and has clear markings. |
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Winchester Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun Lot #3025 (Sale Order 25 of 844) Winchester Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun
Manufactured in 1888, the second year of production. Single bead sight on the full choked barrel with a 2 3/4 inch chamber. The left side of the receiver has the "WRACo" monogram with the serial number on the underside and the three line address followed by the one line patent dates marking is stamped on the lower tang. Blue barrel and magazine tube with casehardened remaining parts and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and round knob pistol grip stock with a checkered iron buttplate. Length of pull is 13 inches. Class: Antique Very good. The barrel and magazine tube retain 30% original blue finish with a mottled brown patina and scattered minor oxidation on the barrel and some minor scratches and oxidation on the magazine tube. The receiver and breechblock retain 50% original vivid case colors, and the lever shows generous amounts of bright original case colors in protected areas and a smooth mottled silver gray patina on the balance. The wood has been freshened with a coat of varnish some time ago and remains very good with some scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The lower edge of the stock at the receiver have been sanded down a bit. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Documented Extra Length 30 Inch Barrel a Lot #3026 (Sale Order 26 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Documented Extra Length 30 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter
Third Model manufactured in 1883. The top barrel flat is marked with the two line address/King's improvements patent dates ahead of the rear sight. The upper tang is marked "MODEL. 1873" flanked by foliate, and the serial number is on the lower tang. Dovetailed brass blade front and adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sights. The rifle was finished blue with a casehardened hammer, lever and buttplate. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). The accompanying factory letter verifies the rifle configuration and that it was received in the warehouse on March 13, 1883, and shipped on order number 5331 on July 1, 1883. Class: Antique About good. The metal surfaces have a mottled brown patina with some moderate pitting on the left side of the barrel in the area of the forearm. There is some scattered small areas of light oxidation on the receiver and some minor pitting on the buttplate. The wood is fair as having been freshened with a coat of varnish some time ago. The stock is ill-fitting at the toe and there are numerous small pressure dents. The forearm shows some scattered minor dings and dents. The dust cover hangs up on the cartridge elevator, but if the dust cover is in the rear position the action functions normally. The markings are clear. |
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Winchester Model 1876 Saddle Ring Carbine Lot #3027 (Sale Order 27 of 844) Winchester Model 1876 Saddle Ring Carbine
This carbine was manufactured in 1882 and falls shortly before the generally accepted Third Model range but has the dust cover and integral guide rail that are the hallmarks of that model. It is the same Model 1876 variant as the well known Northwest Mounted Police "Mountie" carbine but is chambered for 45-60 ammunition and has no visible "NWMP" marking. It has the bayonet stud/blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, saddle ring and stud on the left side of the receiver, long forearm secured with a single barrel band and fitted with a distinctive forend cap, and a straight grip buttstock with carbine buttplate. Class: Antique Good. The carbine has traces of the original blue finish in the protected areas and otherwise a mixture of gray and brown patina. There is mild pin prick pitting especially on the receiver. The wood is very good with numerous scrapes and dings typical of a weapon that saw frontier use particularly from the saddle. The action is fine, and the markings are clear. |
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Desirable Antique Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3028 (Sale Order 28 of 844) Desirable Antique Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured in 1896. The .30-30 cartridge was first debuted just one year earlier for this model and has since been the go to deer cartridge for generations of American hunters. The rifle has the standard early style markings, a replacement beaded blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist buttstock with crescent rifle buttplate. Class: Antique Fine. The rifle retains 40% of the fading blue finish with some gray and brown patina showing, light scratches, and some small areas of light spotting. The wood is very good with thinned varnish, some bruising, and light scratches. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. |
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Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Lot #3029 (Sale Order 29 of 844) Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle
Manufactured in 1895. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two address and "30 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1894/-WINCHESTER-/PAT. AUG. 21, 1894" and the serial number is on the underside of the receiver. Lyman blade front sight and three leaf rear sight. Blue finish, casehardened hammer, lever, half magazine tube and mounted with a checkered walnut forearm with a steel end cap and pistol grip stock with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and checkered hard rubber Winchester buttplate. Class: Antique Fine. The rifle retains 50% plus original blue finish overall with some edge wear, some thinning to gray, a few scratches on the receiver and scattered minor spotting. There is some evidence of minor cleaning on the receiver. The lever shows strong original case colors in protected areas with a smooth dark patina on the balance. The wood is very good with a well done pieced in repair on the stock toe and overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The checkering remains crisp. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. |
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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3030 (Sale Order 30 of 844) Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle
Manufactured in 1918. Beech combination front sight, rear sight filler block and a tang mounted adjustable Lyman flip up peep sight. Standard octagon barrel and full length magazine. The upper left barrel flat is stamped with the two line address/patent marking ahead of the rear sight filler block with "32 W.C.F." at the breech. Winchester proofs are on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The upper tang markings are covered by the peep sight. The serial number is stamped on the underside of the receiver. Smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a metal forend cap and crescent buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine. The rifle retains 85% plus of the original blue finish with minor scattered scratches and dings, a few minor dings along the magazine tube, a few small areas of pitting on the left side of the receiver near the lever and brown speckling overall. The markings are clear. The wood is fine with scattered scratches, dings and pressure dents. Mechanically excellent. |
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Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3031 (Sale Order 31 of 844) Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured in 1924 and has the late style markings and features blade front and flat top sporting rear sights, scope mounting blocks, and a smooth stock and forearm. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very good as modified (scope bases added). The rifle retains 40% of the original blue finish. The balance has a brown patina. The wood is very good with some chipping at the junction with the rear of the frame and light scratches. The action is fine, and the markings are crisp. Some of the screws are replacements. |
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Exceptional Special Order Winchester 1866 Third Model Lever Action Rifle Lot #3032 (Sale Order 32 of 844) Exceptional Special Order Winchester 1866 Third Model Lever Action Rifle
This is an exceptional example of an all original, Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle. These 1866 rifles have always been extremely popular with collectors and most have seen heavy use on the Western frontier due to their rapid fire nature and improved forearm. The Winchester Model 1866 was essentially a Henry Rifle with improvements invented/patented by Winchester's shop superintendent Nelson King. The modified magazine tube with the side loading gate in the receiver and new walnut forearm eliminated the primary defects in the Henry rifle and created a lever action rifle associated with opening of the Western frontier. This is a late Second Model that was manufactured in late 1870. This rifle has the following distinguishing Third Model features: 1) The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the first pattern, two-line, barrel marking of: "KING'S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866." between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. 2) The script serial number is stamped directly behind the trigger, followed by "B". 3) It has the slightly more pronounced receiver drop in front of the hammer than the first model. 4) It has the early pattern small loading lever loop. 5) The upper receiver tang has the single screw holding on the buttstock. 6) It has the rare "first" pattern sporting leaf folding rear sight with the narrow staff and the coil-spring and plunger found inside the base. 7) It is fitted with a rare special order, gold washed, early Beech combination folding Globe and Post front sight (which probably also included a early, tang mounted, graduated peep/target rear sight, now removed). 8) It has the early style hammer with the coarse, borderless checkering on the spur. 9) The brass buttplate has the early style hinged trap that normally houses a three-piece steel wiping rod (not included). This excellent example is fitted with the original walnut buttstock and forend with both fitted with factory mounted sling swivels. Class: Antique Very fine with 85% plus of the original blue finish on the barrel and magazine tube with the edges and high spots as well as some upper areas of the barrel and magazine tube turning a light brown patina color. The cocking lever and trigger both have turned a medium brown patina overall. The nosecap, buttplate, receiver and side plates all retain their beautiful deep mustard color aged brass patina and have never been polished or altered. The side plates show no marks of ever having been removed from the action since leaving the factory. The stock and forend are truly amazing in that they literally show only a few minor handling marks with an old very minor scratch on the right side of the stock in front of the buttplate with some minor handling marks on the sides of the forearm. The wood to metal fit is exceptionally fine with only a couple of places where there is some minor shrinkage over time; remember this rifle is approximately 144 years old! The various screw heads are all in excellent condition, and have never been buggered with. Many still show the original blue finish on the heads. The only comment is that the top of the upper tang shows a oval light spot, that would indicated at one time, (probably originally when it was ordered) it had a factory tang sight installed. More than likely it sat there for 100 years until someone removed as I am sure it was a special order feature with the front sight of this rifle. A super example of an all original, early second pattern Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle. |
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Late Production Winchester Model 1885 Takedown Special Sporting Rifle Lot #3033 (Sale Order 33 of 844) Late Production Winchester Model 1885 Takedown Special Sporting Rifle
This Winchester Model 1885 low wall rifle was manufactured in 1919 and features a #1 weight round barrel (octagon was far more common on Model 1885s) fitted with globe front and sporting notch rear sights, tang mounted drift and elevation adjustable Lyman peep sight, and a checkered Schnabel tip forearm and pistol grip stock with a optional checkered shotgun buttplate and hard rubber Winchester grip cap. The barrel is marked with the two line address and patent marking on the left ahead of the rear sight and has "25-20 S.S." to the left of the "WP" proofmark at the breech. The underside of the barrel has an additional caliber marking along with the circled "P" stamp normally used to signify replacement barrels;, but due to the late production, writer believes it to be original to gun. The frame also has the "WP" proofmark, and the patent and serial number markings are on the lower tang. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Excellent. The rifle retains 90% plus of the original blue finish which is lightly thinned on the action and edges and has faded to a brown patina on the buttplate. The breechblock and lever retain nearly all of the fiery case colors. The wood is very good and has some small pressure marks, light scratches, and crisp checkering. The action and markings are excellent. |
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Exceptional Inscribed Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Rifle with Research Lot #3034 (Sale Order 34 of 844) Exceptional Inscribed Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Rifle with Research
This Winchester Model 1885 sporting rifle was manufactured in 1893. It has a special order #3 weight part octagon barrel with an adjustable globe front sight and no provision for a rear sight, a tang mounted Vernier peep sight, walnut Schnabel tip forearm and semi-pistol grip stock with checkering and ebony inserts along with a cheekpiece on the left side of the butt, and a nickel plated Swiss buttplate. The barrel has the two line Winchester address and the caliber designation on the top flat. The underside of the barrel is also marked with the caliber, "3"s, and the oval "VP" proof. The receiver has the serial number and patent markings on the lower tang. An oval silver inscription plate on the right side of the butt is marked "Captain Oberlin M. Carter/Corps of Engineers United States Army". According to the included documents Carter was arrested in 1899 "to account for illicit gains, gratuities, and profits received by him through collusion with contractors for river and harbor improvements in the Savannah, Georgia, improvement district, and to follow such illicit profits into securities and other property held for him by other defendants to the suit." In sum, he was found guilty of defrauding the government of over $2 million dollars and receiving over half a million himself. This was achieved through rigging the bidding system for improvements in Savannah Harbor and then laundering the money through the family estate of his incredibly wealthy, deceased wife. Her father fled to Italy after being asked to testify in the case. Carter professed his innocence and regularly appeared in court until his death in 1944 at the age of 88, but that case against him was widely accepted. The two contractors who conspired with him hid in Quebec were the Canadian government declined to extradite them back to the U.S. for trial. In a dramatic move, the Secret Service abducted the co-conspirators and brought them to the U.S. to face charges. Carter and his conspirators received relatively light prison sentences and fines considering the crime. Among the documents in the file are Carter's mug shots. Class: Antique Excellent. The rifle retains 97% plus of the blue finish and 95% plus brilliant case colors with some overall light handling marks and some light spotting on the lower tang and receiver. The buttplate retains 75% of the original nickel plating and has an aged patina on the exposed brass. There is some minor wear on the sights. The wood is very good with some refinished glossy varnish (possibly applied when the inscription plate was installed), nice figuring, sharp checkering, a blemish above the inscription plate, and some minor handling/storage marks including a few slight dings. The inscription plate has a dark aged patina. The action is excellent. The markings are clear, but a few of the letters in the address appear lightly struck. |
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Extremely Rare Documented 20 Inch Barrel Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Single Shot Saddle Ring Car Lot #3035 (Sale Order 35 of 844) Extremely Rare Documented 20 Inch Barrel Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Single Shot Saddle Ring Carbine with Factory Letter
This is an example of an extremely rare Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Saddle Ring Carbine. Research done in Cody at the BBHC indicates only 17 of these High Wall SRC were ever produced, and with only two survivors known; this carbine and one other in Australia. The accompanying factory letter verifies the all unique and important carbine configuration with rifle furniture, 20 inch barrel length, caliber 44, rifle butt, and it was received in the warehouse on April 6, 1888, and shipped to order number 5307 in an order of 10 carbines the next day. There is also a copy of the Winchester ledger which shows this carbine in a group of 10 all configured alike. These carbines were most likely all shipped to Australia, and only 23760 (this carbine) and one other have ever been located. The other remains in Australia. Interestingly enough, nowhere in Winchester catalogs were the High Wall carbines ever mentioned. With that in mind, this carbine should not exist. This carbine has the standard blade front and adjustable buck horn rear sights. There is a factory saddle ring and stud mounted on the left side of the receiver, it has a blue barrel and casehardened remaining parts and is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. It should be noted that Winchester did make special order short rifles with 20 inch or shorter barrels, which are scarce in their own right; however, the short rifles are not saddle ring carbines. The factory letter must state "Carbine" like this on. Baby Low Wall carbines are known to collectors and are much more common with approximately 250 having been produced. This High Wall Saddle Ring Carbine is documented and believed to be the only one still in America and only approximately 17 were produced. This High Wall Saddle Ring Carbine was returned from Australia some years ago. Class: Antique Very good. The metal surfaces have a smooth brown patina with DA very lightly scratched into the left side of the receiver. The solid stock shows some minor shallow nicks that have been sanded and then the stock was oiled some time ago. The forearm shows a few minor dings and dents. Wood to metal fit is excellent, with overall very sound wood. The markings are clear. The action is fine. If you are a Winchester collector, this is a great and possibly once in a life time opportunity to own the rarest of rare Winchester Saddle Ring Carbines documented by factory letter and ledger. |
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Desirable and Scarce Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Lot #3036 (Sale Order 36 of 844) Desirable and Scarce Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Takedown Lever Action Rifle
Winchester Model 1886 Takedown rifle manufactured in 1895. The rifle has a full octagon barrel and full length magazine. The barrel has a Marble Sheard front sight with brass tip and a flat top, sporting style rear sight with sliding insert. The rifle has a blue finish on the barrel, magazine, forearm cap, receiver and bolt. The loading gate has a fire blue finish and the hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are nicely figured, 'extra finish', walnut The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "- MANUFACTURED BY THE-/- WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A.-" in two-lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber: "38-56 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel just ahead of the receiver. "- MODEL 1886-" is roll-stamped on the upper receiver tang. The lower receiver tang is roll-stamped with the 1884 and 1885 patent dates behind the trigger and the serial number "105404" behind the tang screws. Class: Antique Very fine. The rifle retains 80% plus of the original blue finish overall. The barrel band and adjacent portion of the magazine have the light scuff marks that are typical on takedown rifles. The finish on the forearm cap is slightly flaked. The blue on the takedown collar has faded to a blue-brown patina. The receiver retains most of the blue finish with some wear on high points and some silvering around the lower edges of the loading gate. The hammer and sides of the lever have strong case colors. The case colors on the bottom of the lever and the buttplate have faded to a silver patina. The stock and forearm are in very fine condition with minimal handling marks. The forearm and stock wrist show light finish wear. This is a very fine, original example of a scarce and desirable Winchester Model 1886 Takedown rifle. |
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Excellent Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket Lot #3037 (Sale Order 37 of 844) Excellent Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket
Winchester Third Model 1873 Musket manufactured circa 1903. The musket has the distinctive 30 inch barrel with full-length forearm, three barrel bands, block front sight base that serves as a lug for a socket bayonet, military style folding leaf rear sight and carbine buttplate. The middle barrel band and stock are fitted with sling swivels. The frame has the Third Model integral dust cover rail and a dust cover with serrated edges. The buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor. The barrel, magazine, barrel bands and frame have the Winchester commercial blue finish. The hammer, loading lever and buttplate are casehardened. The straight grain American walnut stock and forearm are oil finished. 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." between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The caliber "44 W.C.F" is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel at the breech. "44 Cal." is roll-stamped in script letters on the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. "{MODEL 1873}" is roll-stamped on the upper tang in fancy letters with foliate devices at either end. The serial number "571127B" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the upper tang screw. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Excellent. The musket is in original condition and shows minor handling and storage marks. There are four small spots of pitting on the right side of the receiver near the junction with the forearm and two smaller pitted spots on the lower left edge of the receiver at the forearm. There are two scuff marks on the top of the receiver near the dust cover rail and several light scratches on the left side of the receiver behind the side plate. The stock and forearm have several light storage marks but remain in excellent condition. This is an excellent example of a Third Model Winchester 1873 Musket. |
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Very Fine Winchester Fourth Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3038 (Sale Order 38 of 844) Very Fine Winchester Fourth Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle
Manufactured in 1881. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS.NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860.". The serial number is marked on the lower tang. Dovetailed blade front sight and an adjustable sporting rear sight. The barrel, magazine tube and loading gate were finished blue, and the receiver, and buttplate are brass. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Fair. The metal surfaces have a dark patina with some scattered pin prick type pitting. The barrel has vise marks visible at the breech. The brass has a dark untouched aged patina. The wood is very good with a couple of small minor gouges, and overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine. |
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Fine Winchester 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3039 (Sale Order 39 of 844) Fine Winchester 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter
Manufactured in 1899. The included factory letter confirms the rifle configuration, caliber, octagon barrel and plain trigger. The letter also states that the rifle was received in the warehouse on April 08, 1899, and shipped on June 14, 1899, with serial number applied on March 13, 1899. This Third Model 1873 Rifle has the integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. German silver blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The top barrel flat is stamped "WINCHESTER'S REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CONN U.S.A./KING'S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16.1860." ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F." near the breech. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL". The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" with the foliate design, and the lower tang is marked with the serial number. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a steel forend cap and crescent buttplate. The buttplate has a compartment with a brass sliding door (cleaning rod not included). Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Fine. The rifle retains 50% plus of the original blue finish with a mottled brown patina overall and scattered scratches and dings. The casehardened hammer and lever retain vivid case colors in the protected area with a smooth gray patina. The brass elevator has a smooth dark patina. The wood is good with scattered scratches, dings, and pressure dents. Mechanically fine. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Extra Light Weight Lever Action Rifle in .45-70 Lot #3040 (Sale Order 40 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Extra Light Weight Lever Action Rifle in .45-70
Manufactured in 1904. The top barrel flat has the two-line address ahead of the rear sight filler block and "45-70" at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1886/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK", and the two-line 1884/1885 patent dates are marked on the lower tang behind the trigger with the serial number at the end. Marbles Improved beaded blade front sight and a Lyman receiver mounted peep sight. Blue barrel, half length magazine and receiver and casehardened hammer and lever. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with steel forend cap and straight grip stock with a checkered hard rubber factory shotgun buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine. The rifle retains 75% plus of the original blue finish with some minor scattered scratches, and the receiver showing a silver and brown patina. The casehardened hammer and lever have a smooth silver patina. The markings are crisp and clear. The wood is very good with scattered scratches, dings and pressure dents. Mechanically excellent. |
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Very Fine Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable 25-35 WCF Caliber Lot #3041 (Sale Order 41 of 844) Very Fine Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable 25-35 WCF Caliber
Manufactured in 1926. The left side of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two-line address/1884 patent date. The two-line nickel steel/smokeless powder marking is on the left rear followed by "25-35 W.C.F., and the Winchester oval proof is marked on the top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The upper tang is marked with the three-line Model 94/maker/trade mark marking. The serial number is on the underside of the receiver. Dovetailed blade front and adjustable semi buckhorn rear sights. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever, and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with a steel end cap and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 98% original blue finish with some mild muzzle wear. The receiver retains 30% original blue finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance. Finish loss on the receiver is due to flaking. The hammer and lever have a smooth dark patina. The buttplate has a smooth mottled brown patina. The wood is also very fine retaining almost all of the original varnish and showing a few minor dings and dents. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. |
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Near New Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Sporting Rifle Lot #3042 (Sale Order 42 of 844) Near New Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Sporting Rifle
This Winchester Model 1894 was manufactured in 1901 and has a blue finish on the barrel, magazine, forearm cap and receiver. The loading gate is fire blue. The hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are "Extra Finish" walnut with a high polish oil finish. The full octagon barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel silver blade and a rare Winchester high velocity smokeless powder rear sight made especially for Model 1894 rifles chambered for high velocity smokeless powder cartridges. The left side of the sight is marked: "SMOKELESS/-.32 W.S.-M'94-" in two-lines followed by "50&100 YDS". The top of the sight base is roll-stamped with the Winchester legend and "OCT.8. 1901" patent date in four-lines. 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. AUGUST 21. 1894." ahead of the rear sight. "NICKEL STEEL BARREL/ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS POWDER" is roll-stamped on the left barrel flat behind the rear sight. The caliber designation "32 W.S." is stamped on the top barrel flat immediately ahead of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "MODEL 1894/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK" in three-lines. The serial number, "230622", is stamped across the bottom of the receiver. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Near new. This rifle is all original and retains virtually all of the blue and color casehardened finish. The only finish wear on the receiver is some very minor wear on edges of the receiver and take down collar. The loading gate has 100% of the fire blue finish. The case colors on the hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate are bright. The sides of the hammer show some very minor cocking wear, and there are several very light scratches on the buttplate. The barrel, rear sight and receiver markings are perfect. The extra finish walnut stock and forearm show only the slightest handling wear and retain close to 100% of the high polish finish. This is an extraordinary example of a Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Sporting Rifle chambered for the .32 Winchester Special cartridge and fitted with the rare Winchester High velocity rear sight. |
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Exceptional Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle with Factory Letter Lot #3043 (Sale Order 43 of 844) Exceptional Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle with Factory Letter
This is an exceptional example of a Winchester Model 1873 rifle with Cody Firearms Museum letter that states it was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on June 1, 1886. The letter describes the rifle's features as: "Octagon barrel" and "Plain trigger". The barrel, magazine, forearm cap and receiver are blued, and the hammer, lever, and crescent buttplate have a casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a polished oil finish. The rifle has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with serrated edges. The crescent steel buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor; the butt trap contains a four-piece jointed steel cleaning rod. The barrel is fitted with a Beach folding combination front sight and a sporting style rear sight with serrated edges. The receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped for a rear sight. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." "44 CAL" is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is stamped "44 CAL" in script letters. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "{ MODEL 1873 }" in fancy script with foliate devices at either end. The serial number "206190B" is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the tang screw. Class: Antique Excellent. The rifle is all original and retains 95% of the original blue finish. The barrel, magazine and forearm cap have nearly all of the original blue finish with minimal wear. The receiver is in excellent condition and retains 95% of blue finish; wear is limited to minor finish loss of the edges of the side plates and receiver and a few very minor handling marks. The most significant wear is along the lower left edge of the receiver and the side plate which show minor edge wear and several tiny spots of discoloration. The stock and forearm are in excellent condition. At least 95% of the original polished oil finish remains. Wear is limited to a few very minor handling marks on the stock and forearm. All of the markings are crisp. This is an excellent example of a Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action rifle. |
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Desirable Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3044 (Sale Order 44 of 844) Desirable Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle
Manufactured in 1872. The top barrel flat directly ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two-line Winchester Repeating Arms address/King's Improvement patent information, and the serial number is stamped on the tang behind the trigger. Behind the serial number is non-factory stamped "DS". Full length magazine tube, dovetailed brass blade front sight and two folding leaf rear sight. The barrel and magazine tube were blue and the hammer, lever and buttplate were casehardened, sling swivels, and it is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with a brass forend cap and straight grip stock with brass crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included). Class: Antique Good. The metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina. The brass has a very pleasant aged patina. The wood is about good with a 3/4 inch round plug repair in the left wrist area and scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine. |
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Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle with Casehardened Frame Lot #3045 (Sale Order 45 of 844) Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle with Casehardened Frame
Manufactured in 1892. Dovetailed blade front sight and adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The two-line address is marked on the top barrel flat ahead of the rear sight, and "40-82 W.C.F." is at the breech. The receiver, forend cap, buttplate and lever are casehardened. Winchester discontinued the use of casehardened frames in 1901. The barrel, full tubular magazine, bolt and trigger are blue. 1884 and 1885 patent dates and the serial number are marked on the lower tang, and the upper tang is marked "- MODEL 1886-". Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with a steel forend cap and straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate. Class: Antique Very good plus. The barrel and magazine tube have 20% blue with the balance a smooth brown patina. The receiver retains traces of original case colors with a smooth mottled gray on the balance. The lever shows strong original case colors in protected areas with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The buttplate has a smooth dark patina. The wood is fine with a small shallow gouge on the upper left rear of the forearm and overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. |
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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Carbine Lot #3046 (Sale Order 46 of 844) Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Carbine
Manufactured in 1915. The left rear of the barrel is marked with the two-line address/patent date, "25-20 W.C.F." at the breech and the Winchester oval proof is marked on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 92/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG. U.S.PAT.OFF&FGN." The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. Pinned blade front sight and King buck horn rear sight. Full length magazine and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip rifle style stock with a steel crescent buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine. The carbine retains 80% original blue finish with a few minor dings and scratches on the barrel and magazine tube, some areas of gray patina on the receiver, as well as some very light spotting. The buttplate retains 85% original blue finish with some minor oxidation. The wood is fine with a couple of small gouges on the left front of the forearm and overall some scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. |
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Inscribed First Year Production Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle Serial Number 3144 in Desir Lot #3047 (Sale Order 47 of 844) Inscribed First Year Production Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle Serial Number 3144 in Desirable 38-55 WCF Caliber with California History
Manufactured in 1894, the first year of production. Full length magazine tube, brass blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "38-55" at the breech. The upper left flat ahead of the rear sight is period engraved "J DOWNEY HARVEY/"COUNTRY CLUB" POINT REYES, CALA". J. Harvey Downey was the President of the Ocean Shore Railway. In the early 1900s, he led English fox hunts through the rolling hills of San Mateo, California, with members of the San Mateo Country Hunt Club. He was known as the "Master of the San Mateo Hounds". He passed away in 1947. The upper tang is marked with the three line model/maker/1894 patent date, and the serial number is marked on the underside of the receiver. Blue finish with casehardened hammer, lever, forend cap and buttplate. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Class: Antique Very good plus. The barrel and magazine tube have a smooth mottled brown patina with some bright high edge wear. The receiver retains 30% original thin blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. There are strong traces of original case colors on the hammer and lever mixed with smooth mottled gray patina. The buttplate has a smooth brown patina. The wood is very good with some shallow gouges on the lower right side of the stock and overall some scattered minor dent, dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. |
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Rare Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in the Desirable .22 Short Caliber Lot #3048 (Sale Order 48 of 844) Rare Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in the Desirable .22 Short Caliber
This is a Third Model 1873 with the dust cover base integrally machined as part of the receiver. Manufactured in 1890, the top of the barrel is marked with two line address/King's Improvement marking. The breech end on top is marked "22 SHORT", and the bottom of the brass elevator is unmarked. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" with the serial number on the lower tang. Blade front sight and adjustable sporting notch rear sight. Mounted with a smooth forearm with an iron end cap and a straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Class: Antique Very good. The rifle retains 20% of the original blue finish faded to a smooth brown patina, scattered scratches and dings and some minor vise marks on the barrel. The casehardened hammer and lever have a smooth dark gray patina with some minor scratches and dings. The brass elevator has a smooth dark patina. The revarnished wood is good with scattered scratches, dings and pressure dents. Mechanically fine. |
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Antique Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Lot #3049 (Sale Order 49 of 844) Antique Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured in 1898 and features a front sight with three rotating beaded blades, dual leaf folding Lyman rear sight, a Marble tang mounted peep sight, half magazine with takedown lever, standard markings, and smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with the standard rifle buttplate. Class: Antique Very fine. The rifle retains 70% plus of the original blue finish with some thinning to a brown patina particularly on the receiver. There are some scratches and marks particularly on the underside of the barrel from the takedown lever. The case colors on the hammer and lever are vivid and remain 50% intact. The wood is also very fine with some small scrapes and dings, and a slight hairline crack at the junction with the receiver on the right. The action is excellent, and the markings are clear. |
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Special Order Winchester Model 1895 Take Down Lever Action Rifle in Desirable 405 WCF Lot #3050 (Sale Order 50 of 844) Special Order Winchester Model 1895 Take Down Lever Action Rifle in Desirable 405 WCF
Manufactured in 1923. Dovetail blade beaded front and rear adjustable notch sights on a barrel with the two-line nickel steel marking on the left side and "405 W.C.F." at the breech. The top of the receiver and barrel are marked with the Winchester oval proof at the breech. The left side of the receiver is marked with the standard two-line address/patent markings. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 95/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG U.S. PAT OFF & FGN" with the serial number on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The hammer is casehardened with a borderless knurling. Mounted with a straight grain walnut Schnabel forearm with ebony insert and a straight grip stock with a checkered steel shotgun buttplate. Complete with a brown leather sling. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very good. The barrel retains 60% of the faded original blue finish with some minor scratches and muzzle wear. The receiver retain traces of the original blue finish with scattered scratches and dings and mottling to a smooth dark grey patina. The lightly sanded, reoiled wood is good with scattered scratches, dings and pressure dents. Mechanically excellent. |
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Desirable Antique First Year Production Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle Serial Number 2182 Lot #3051 (Sale Order 51 of 844) Desirable Antique First Year Production Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle Serial Number 2182
Manufactured in 1894, the first year of production. Blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The top barrel flat has the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "32-40" at the breech. Upper tang has the three-line model/patent marking. Full magazine and smooth forearm and straight grip stock with crescent buttplate. Class: Antique About good. The rifle has a smooth dark brown patina overall. The wood is good with some minor scratches and pressure dents. There is minor pitting present on the buttplate. Mechanically fine. |
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Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle in .32 Winchester Special with Special Order Half Octagon B Lot #3052 (Sale Order 52 of 844) Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle in .32 Winchester Special with Special Order Half Octagon Barrel
This rifle was manufactured in 1907 and has a special order part octagon barrel, German silver blade front sight, the "SMOKELESS -32 W.S.-M.94-" rear sight, standard Winchester markings, and smooth walnut straight wrist stock and forearm with crescent rifle buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very good as partially refinished (cold blue on frame). The barrel and magazine tube retain 70% of the original blue finish while the receiver retains traces and has a mixed gray-brown patina. The lever and hammer have some subdued case colors. The buttplate has a mottle gray patina. The wood is very good with mild handling wear including some small scrapes and dings. The action functions fine, and the markings are crisp. |
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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine Lot #3053 (Sale Order 53 of 844) Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine
Manufactured in 1919. The left side of the barrel is marked "MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A. PATENTED OCTOBER 14, 1884." in front of the rear sight with "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The top of the barrel and receiver are marked with the Winchester oval proofs at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1892/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG U.S. PAT OFF & FGN." and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. This carbine features a pinned blade front sight with an adjustable folding ladder rear sight graduated to 20, full length magazine and saddle ring with stud on the left side rear of the receiver. Mounted on a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a steel carbine buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very good as refinished. The carbine retains 40% of the applied cold blue finish with some brown specking along the barrel and magazine and small areas of pitting under the blue finish on the receiver. The markings are clear and crisp. The wood has been lightly sanded and oiled and remains very good with some scattered minor scratches, dings, pressure dents and some varnish reside on the left side of the stock. Mechanically fine. |
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Exceptional and Rare Small Frame Bullard Lever Action Repeating Rifle Lot #3054 (Sale Order 54 of 844) Exceptional and Rare Small Frame Bullard Lever Action Repeating Rifle
James H. Bullard's rifles were manufactured in an attempt to enter the, already cornered, sporting rifle market dominated by the likes of Marlin and Winchester. Despite being high quality firearms, Bullard's weapons were not able to shift enough customers away from the dominant players and the production of the rifles was ended in 1890 after just four years and a total production estimate of 10,000 to 12,000 guns. It is marked "BULLARD REPEATING ARMS COMPANY/SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U. S. A. PAT. AUG. 16. 1881" on the left side of the receiver, "Cal/38" on the top front of the receiver, and the serial number directly behind the hammer. It has a gold washed Beach combination folding front sight and adjustable sporting rear sight. The hammer, lever, and trigger are casehardened, while the remaining parts are blue. The forearm and a short straight grip stock (possibly special order) are smooth American walnut with an iron forend cap and hard rubber Bullard turkey emblem buttplate. Class: Antique Excellent. The barrel and receiver retain 95% original blue finish with an area of smooth brown patina on top of the barrel, some thinning and some minor spotting around the rear sight, and some high edge wear. The magazine has a smooth brown patina. The sides of the hammer and protected areas of the lever retain original case colors and have a smooth gray patina on the balance. The wood is also fine and retains almost all of the original varnish and shows scattered minor dents and scratches. The fit at the junction with the frame is slightly off. The markings are crisp and it is mechanically excellent. |
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Rare Bullard Large Frame Lever Action Rifle Lot #3055 (Sale Order 55 of 844) Rare Bullard Large Frame Lever Action Rifle
The distinctive Bullard rifles are desirable on the collector market today due to their limited production (estimated 10,000-12,000) from 1886 to 1890. The Bullard Repeating Arms Company attempted to compete for sales against the likes of Winchester, Marlin, and Whitney. The fierce competition stymied their sales and profits and thus halted the manufacture of these formidable lever actions after just a few years, despite their smooth and fast actions and quality craftsmanship. This example is marked with the serial number, "1011", on the upper tang just behind the hammer. "CAL/45" is marked on the top of the receiver at the breech, and the two line Bullard address and patent information is marked on the left side of the action. It has a dovetailed German silver blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight graduated to 1,200 yards. It has a smooth forearm and straight wrist stock with a checkered hard rubber shotgun buttplate embossed with the Bullard elk logo. Class: Antique Exceptionally fine as partially refurbished (buttstock). The rifle retains 95% of the bright original high polish blue finish and most of the partially muted case colors. There is a brown patina on the exposed surfaces such as the sides of the forend cap and some scattered minor marks and scratches. The finish on the receiver and forend cap is a higher polished blue than the barrel and magazine tube. The wood is fine as repaired wrist (right side), refinished with some small pressure marks and the occasional light scratch. The action remains excellent and smooth. The markings are crisp. |
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Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Lot #3056 (Sale Order 56 of 844) Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle
This early 20th century Marlin Model 1894 rifle has a threaded barrel (knurled thread protector installed) marked with two line address and patent information on top and fitted with a bead accented square blade front sight and folding notch rear sight. The upper tang is fitted with a Marble peep sight. It has a half length magazine tube and is fitted with a checkered walnut forearm and semi-pistol grip stock. Sling swivels (non-factory) are fitted to the forend cap and bottom of the butt. It has a smooth, curved buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine as period modified (see above). The rifle retains 80% of the original finish and case colors. There are some minor marks and scratches on the barrel, some patches of spotting, and some streaking of the protective coating on the frame. The buttplate has some patches of minor pitting. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. The wood is fine with crisp checkering, a few small dings, and a few minor scuffs. The upper tang has a replacement screw. |
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Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3057 (Sale Order 57 of 844) Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured circa the late 1880s and features an octagon barrel marked with two line patent and address information ahead of the sporting rear sight and the caliber designation at the breech. The front sight is Rocky Mountain style blade. The receiver is marked with the serial number on the bottom, and the upper tang is tapped for peep sight mounting (screws absent). It has double set triggers. It is fitted with a checkered walnut forearm and semi-pistol grip stock with a nickel plated crescent buttplate and forend cap. Class: Antique Good. The rifle displays 30% of the original blue finish along with traces of the case colors and nickel plating. The remaining surfaces have a brown patina and there is some overall patchy oxidation. The wood is fair as sanded with partially smoothed checkering on the forend, a crack on at the junction with the front of the frame on the right, some small gouges, and overall light scratches. The forend cap is loose due to a broken screw. The action is fine, and the markings are clear. |
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Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3058 (Sale Order 58 of 844) Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured circa the late 1880s and features an octagon barrel marked with two line patent and address information ahead of the sporting rear sight and the caliber designation at the breech. The front sight is Rocky Mountain style blade. The receiver is marked with the serial number on the bottom, and the upper tang is tapped for peep sight mounting. It is fitted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with a nickel plated crescent buttplate and forend cap. Class: Antique Fine. The rifle displays 30% of the original blue finish along with traces of the case colors on the hammer and lever and nickel on the forend cap and buttplate. The balance has a gray patina with some brown forming, spotting, several scratches and nicks on the receiver and buttplate, and some dings on the left side of barrel near the receiver. The wood is fine with a repaired crack on the right rear of the forearm and some minor abrasions. The markings are crisp throughout, and the action is fine. |
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Marlin Model 1889 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3059 (Sale Order 59 of 844) Marlin Model 1889 Lever Action Rifle
This Model 1889 was manufactured circa 1893 and has a beaded blade front sight and an elevation adjustable sporting rear sight on an octagon barrel marked with two line patent and address information ahead of the rear sight and "38-W." at the breech on the top flat. The top of the receiver has the Marlin Safety marking, and the serial number is marked on the bottom. The upper tang is unmarked and is tapped for peep sight mounting. The Model 1889 was the first solid top, side ejection Marlin lever action and paved the way for later Marlin lever action rifles such as the iconic Marlin Model 1894. The .38-40 was the second most popular caliber for the Model 1889 with 18,635 produced in this caliber between 1889 and 1899. Class: Antique Fine. The rifle retains 70% of the original blue finish and has a brown patina on the balance. There are some small patches of light spotting and pitting. The wood is also fine with various minor dings and scratches and "SPAN" period marked on the right side of the butt. The markings are clear throughout, and the action is excellent. |
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Whitney-Kennedy Lever Action Rifle Lot #3060 (Sale Order 60 of 844) Whitney-Kennedy Lever Action Rifle
This rifle was manufactured by the Whitneyville Armory circa 1879 to 1886 and has a small pinched blade front sight, sporting rear sight, full length magazine tube, smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock, a brass plate on the right side of the butt, and slightly curved buttplate. The top barrel flat is marked "WHITNEYVILLE ARMORY, CT U.S.A. KENNEDY" ahead of the rear sight and "44 CAL" at the breech. The serial number is marked on the lower tang, and the patent dates are marked on the upper tang. The three piece cleaning rod and tool are in the buttplate compartment. Only 15,000 of Whitney-Kennedy rifles and carbines are estimated to have been produced. Class: Antique Fair as cleaned and partially refinished. The rifle displays primarily a gray patina with some golden varnish, light pitting, and minor marks. The refinished wood is fine with some chips, scrapes, and minor pressure marks. The action is fine. The front sight blade is broken, and the rear sight elevator is absent. The markings are legible but partially worn. |
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Marlin Model 1893 Lever Action Rifle Lot #3061 (Sale Order 61 of 844) Marlin Model 1893 Lever Action Rifle
Manufactured circa 1901, this example has a blade front and elevation adjustable sporting rear sights, two line address patent date marking ahead of the rear sight, "SMOKELESS SPECIAL STEEL" marking on the upper left flat, and "30-30" on top near the breech. The top of receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY", and the upper tang has the model designation and is tapped for peep sight mounting. The front sight is a marble sheard blade sight with tall profile. The serial number is marked on the front of the frame. It has a straight wrist stock and smooth forearm with a crescent buttplate and a full length magazine tube. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Very fine. 80% of the original blue finish remains mixed with the balance a well established brown patina. The action has 60% plus of the original case colors, including some fiery patches, and primarily a red-brown patina. The wood is also very fine with some light scratches. The action is excellent, and the markings are clear throughout. |
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Historic Inscribed, Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Presented Lot #3062 (Sale Order 62 of 844) Historic Inscribed, Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Presented by Marlin Rockwell Corp. to Carl G. Winter, Grand Worthy 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 engraved Marlin firearms from approximately 1881 to 1910 and his son George engraved them from around 1907 to about 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 90% plus of the original blue finish and 60% 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. |
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Magnificent Cased Historic "National Treasure" U.S. President Chester A. Arthur Presentation Exhibit Lot #3063 (Sale Order 63 of 844) Magnificent Cased Historic "National Treasure" U.S. President Chester A. Arthur Presentation Exhibition Grade V. Bovy 1879 Patent Gold Inlaid Double Barrel Shotgun
This magnificent V. Bovy double barrel shotgun was presented to the 21st U.S. President Chester A. Arthur (1881-1885). Arthur became president after the assassination of his predecessor, James Garfield. Due to poor health, President Arthur retired from office after his term ended and died a year later. During his tenure, Arthur presided over the rebirth of the U.S. Navy, championed civil service reform, and enacted the first general Federal immigration law. Publisher Alexander K. McClure summarized Arthur's presidency: "No man ever entered the Presidency so profoundly and widely distrusted, and no one ever retired … more generally respected." The barrels of this shotgun feature 2 1/2 inch chambers, are choked full and improved cylinder and have an extractor. The barrel flats are marked "17.4", 18.2" and "NON POUR BALLE" and stamped with the Liege ELG proof. "A ARTHUR PRESIDENT" is imprinted on the Damascus pattern on the solid barrel rib and "ARTHUR" is repeatedly spelled out as part of the Damascus pattern on the barrels. A fine gold inlaid band is featured around the barrel breech. The forearm features fine multi-point checkering, gold inlaid casehardened hardware and a gold inlaid blue finished snake-like overlay. The casehardened receiver and lock plates feature fine gold inlaid scrollwork. The lock plates also feature gold inlaid game scenes: two dogs chasing down a stag and two dogs chasing down a fox. The underside of the receiver has a large gold inlaid E Pluribus Unum spread winged eagle. The watertable is stamped with a small star/M proof. Gold inlaid scrollwork extends to the buttplate, skeletonized hammers, trigger guard and barrel release. "V BOVY/PATENT 1879" is on the trigger guard inlaid in gold. The buttplate, barrel release and trigger guard are blue and the double triggers are gold washed. The nicely figured round knob pistol grip stock features fine checkering on the grip area and exposed butt. Length of pull 14 1/8 inches. The mahogany case has brass hardware including corner protectors, lined with red felt and has a gold embossed retailer label (V. Bovy Patent Gunmaker 18[illegible]9) on the inside of the lid. The case contains a set of reloading tools, a screwdriver, and three piece cleaning rod with two attachments. Class: Antique Excellent. The barrels retain 98% of the original brown Damascus with some loss at the muzzles and a few minor handling marks. 95% of the original case colors remain with wear concentrated on the trigger guard tang. The trigger guard and buttplate retain 70% original blue finish with most of the loss concentrated on the buttplate. The wood is excellent, showing some minor handling marks with overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is good with some missing hardware, damaged corner and noticeable exterior handling/storage marks. A highly embellished, historic, exhibition grade shotgun presented to U.S. President Chester A. Arthur that would become a centerpiece to any antique shotgun or 19th century firearms collection! This is one of a few U.S. presidential presentation arms that we have ever offered at auction and most certainly is worthy of the title "National Treasure!" |
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Scarce and Exceptional Documented Early Spencer Sporting Rifle Lot #3064 (Sale Order 64 of 844) Scarce and Exceptional Documented Early Spencer Sporting Rifle
Only an estimated 1,800 of these Spencer sporting rifles were produced between 1864 and 1868. This Spencer is pictured on page 117 of Roy Marcot's Spencer Repeating Firearms and identified as a standard Spencer sporter. It has the standard blade and folding ladder sights on a round 26 inch barrel and the standard sporter receiver peep sight. Given the production statistics quoted on page 111 of the above book, this rifle was likely produced in 1865. It is chambered for the .56-46 (.44 caliber) bottle-neck Spencer cartridge that was standard for the post-war sporters. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel and on the top of the receiver slightly offset to the left. The bottom of the barrel also has a "5" (sub-assembly mark) and "164" (assembly number) towards the breech. "164" is also on the end of the forearm, on the various action components, and the underside of the buttplate. The top of the action has the three line Spencer address and patent marking. It has a smooth forearm with pewter end cap, and a straight wrist stock with standard buttplate. Class: Antique Extremely fine. The rifle retains 90% of the slightly thinned blue finish and 60% of the original case colors. Several of the screws have bright niter blue finish. The balance has a gray patina. There are some minor marks and slight pitting. The wood is very good with a slight crack in the forearm on the left, scattered dings throughout, and some overall light scratches. The action is excellent. The first line of markings on the receiver are faint (likely lightly struck), but the remainder are crisp. Overall an exceptional and scarce early example of the Spencer sporting rifle. |
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Scarce Remington-Keene Bolt Action Hunter's Rifle Lot #3065 (Sale Order 65 of 844) Scarce Remington-Keene Bolt Action Hunter's Rifle
This Remington-Keene is the 24 1/2 inch Hunter's/Sporting rifle variant produced only from 1880 through 1883. The total of all Remington-Keene rifles and carbines produced is estimated at just 5,000. The Keene design was the first bolt action manufactured by Remington and was fed via a full length magazine tube running below the barrel that is fed via a loading gate on the bottom of the action. Upon closing the action, the shooter manually cocked the hammer. It is chambered for the government standard .45-70 cartridge widely in use in Springfield Trapdoor rifles and carbines of that era. It has a dovetailed blade front sight on the front barrel band and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 1,000 yards. It is fitted with a smooth, straight grip walnut stock with a curved buttplate with a compartment (empty). The only visible markings are "45/70"one the left side rear of the action and the three line address and patent information on the tail of the bolt. "916" is marked on the butt under the buttplate and on the buttplate and trapdoor. It has blue finish aside from the bright bolt and casehardened hammer. Class: Antique Exceptionally fine. This rifle is in better condition than the vast majority of the relatively low number of surviving Remington-Keene rifles and carbines. Most saw hard use in the 19th century especially in the West. It retains 85% plus of the bright original blue finish with some thinning to a gray and brown patina, a brown patina forming on the bolt, and strong case colors remaining on the hammer. There are some scratches on the lower tang, and the buttplate has some pitting and brighter wear on the upper and lower raised sections. The wood is very fine with some minor scratches and marks overall and a hairline crack extending from the front of the left flat. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. |
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Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle with Extremely Rare 22 Inch Barrel Lot #3066 (Sale Order 66 of 844) Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle with Extremely Rare 22 Inch Barrel
The Model 1881 was manufactured from 1881 to 1892. This Third Style light receiver example was manufactured circa 1889 with the two line address/patent dates marking ending with "RE-ISSUE NOV. 9. 1880". "38-55" is stamped on the top barrel flat at the breech. It has a blue finish aside from the casehardened hammer, lever, and crescent buttplate. It is equipped with a full length magazine tube, blade front and buckhorn rear sights, an adjustable folding peep sight on the upper tang, double set triggers, and a smooth walnut forearm with metal forend cap and straight wrist stock. According to the factory records discussed in Marlin Firearms by Brophy, only two Model 1881s appear in this barrel length in the factory records. No factory letter is available at time of description, so buyer will have to exercise caution. Class: Antique Fine. The rifle retains 50% plus of the original blue finish with brighter wear on the edged, bottom of the magazine, some flaking, and areas of minor to mild pitting. Muted case colors remain on the lever. The wood is very good with some minor scrapes, a chip on the right side of the forearm, and overall light handling marks. The action is fine, and the markings are generally crisp. This is a rare chance to get your hands on one of the rarest variations of Marlin's first production lever action rifle! |
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Factory Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 6 1/2 Rigby Off-Hand Rifle Lot #3067 (Sale Order 67 of 844) Factory Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 6 1/2 Rigby Off-Hand Rifle
This rifle was manufactured circa the mid 1880s to early 1890s and features scroll, punch dot, geometric, and game scene engraving in the style that was most common on the factory engraved Ballards of this period. The exact same scenes and patterns are seen on rifle 8505 on page 216 of "Ballard: The Great American Single Shot Rifle". That rifle is considered to be one of the earliest rifles in the "Ballard engraving" style. Thus, this rifle, which falls just under five hundred digits ahead of it, is among the earliest known examples in this style. The rifle has a windage adjustable globe front sight, the distinctive raised Rigby barrel flats at the breech, a mid-range Vernier peep sight, checkered forearm with horn forend cap, and a semi-pistol grip buttstock with checkering on the grip, horn grip insert, high comb, cheek rest, and nickel plated Swiss buttplate. It has the "BALLARD" banner on the top barrel rib, the "J. M. MARLIN" address and "BALLARD'S PATENT" marking on the left side of the action at the breech, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, action, forend, stock, and buttplate. Class: Antique Fine. The blue finish on the barrel has faded to a mostly even brown patina. The action has subdued case colors and brown and gray patina. There are strong case colors on the sides of the breechblock. The buttplate retains 60% of the nickel plating and has an aged patina on the exposed brass and a few spots of verdigris. There are patches of rough oxidation. The wood is fine and has a period applied overcoat of protective varnish, sharp checkering, several small pressure marks and scratches, and a few small chips and slight cracks. The action is fine, and the markings and engraving patterns are crisp. |
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Factory Engraved Marlin Firearms Co. Ballard No. 6 Schuetzen Single Shot Falling Block Rifle Lot #3068 (Sale Order 68 of 844) Factory Engraved Marlin Firearms Co. Ballard No. 6 Schuetzen Single Shot Falling Block Rifle
This rifle features a heavy octagon barrel with a new replacement spirit level globe wind gauge front sight and a tang mounted rear mid-range peep sight. The barrel is drilled and tapped for sight blocks with filler screws in place and no rear sight seat. The action is engraved with a tasteful swirling scroll with animal scenes on either side, a bear on the right, and a deer on the left. The ball and spur lever has a nickel finish. With double set triggers. Matching serial numbers on the stock and breech block. Mounted on a finely checkered walnut forearm (numbered 79621) with a horn tip insert, checkered straight grip, high comb stock with a shadow line cheekpiece, and nickel finished Swiss style buttplate. The barrel has a takedown feature with a tapered pin through the action under the threaded barrel shank. Class: Antique Very good as refinished (barrel) with 80% of the blue on the barrel. Showing some edge wear and slightly rounded edges on the barrel flats with small surface scratches and light handling marks. The frame has aged to a mostly uniform gray patina with clear markings and detailed engravings. The lever has been altered and shows some tool marks where the center spur has been removed as well as showing areas of flaking nickel finish. The refinished wood is good with well defined checkering, light surface scratches on the forearm, small indentations on the buttstock, and a repaired crack on the right side of the action. Mechanically very good. |
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Scarce Remington No. 1 Long Range Creedmoor Rolling Block Rifle Lot #3069 (Sale Order 69 of 844) Scarce Remington No. 1 Long Range Creedmoor Rolling Block Rifle
This No. 1 Long Range Creedmoor Rolling Block rifle was manufactured by Remington Arms between 1873 and 1890. Only a few hundred are believed to have been produced. The barrel is marked with the one-line address on top, "45 S" on the bottom ahead of the smooth forearm (chamber measures 45x2-4/10 inches), the matching serial number 4712 and "L. L. HEPBURN" four times under the forearm, and is fitted with a windage adjustable globe front sight with spirit level. A long range Vernier peep sight is mounted on the top of the buttstock, and the upper tang is also drilled and tapped for mounting. The matching serial number is also on the rear of the forearm and on the lower tang. The rifle has a checkered walnut pistol grip stock and a shotgun butt. The pistol grip has a horn inlay and the forearm has a casehardened steel tip. The casehardened action has the patent markings on the left side. Lewis L. Hepburn was Remington's mechanical department superintendent and was also a talented long range rifle shooter who was part of the American Creedmoor International Shooting Team. Half of the team used No. 1 rifles in the team's victory over the Irish team at the Creedmoor range in 1874. Class: Antique Fine as partially refinished (barrel). The barrel retains 75% plus of the slightly thinning refurbished blue finish and the frame retains remnants of the mostly silvered case colors. The buttplate has a gray patina and moderate pitting. The wood is also fine with crisp checkering and only a few scattered minor dings and scratches. It is mechanically fine and has crisp markings. |
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Excellent Stevens Ideal No. 52 Schuetzen Junior Rifle Lot #3070 (Sale Order 70 of 844) Excellent Stevens Ideal No. 52 Schuetzen Junior Rifle
The Stevens No. 52 rifles were manufactured from around 1897 to 1916. This example has a #1 weight, part octagon barrel marked with the two line J. Steven A & T address and patent marking at a slight angle on top, the caliber designation on the left, and the matching serial number and a "1" on the bottom. The front of the No. 44 style action has the "52 0" model marking and the serial number is on the lower tang. The action is engraved with Germanic style floral scroll engraving which incorporates a dog on the left and a game animal on the right. It has a drift adjustable globe front sight, tang mounted Vernier peep sight, full loop lever, double set triggers, checkered matching serialized Schnabel tip forearm, a massive Swiss style checkered pistol grip stock with attractive figure, a large cheek rest, and a hooked buttplate. Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun Excellent. The barrel retains 95% plus of the original blue finish with some minor marks and edge wear and oxidation at the muzzle. The action and buttplate retain 90% of the original vivid case colors and have some patches of spotting. The wood is also very fine with some minor abrasions, small chips and wear at the edges, small pressure marks in the otherwise glossy surfaces, and crisp checkering. The action is excellent and the markings are crisp. |
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Exceptional Remington No. 1 Short Range Rolling Block Sporting Rifle Lot #3071 (Sale Order 71 of 844) Exceptional Remington No. 1 Short Range Rolling Block Sporting Rifle
Manufactured from 1875 to 1890. The top barrel flat is marked "E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y." behind of the rear sight. The lower left side of the receiver is marked with the six line patent dates, and the matching serial number is marked on the lower tang and the bottom barrel flat under the forearm. The caliber designation "40 50" is marked on the bottom barrel flat ahead of the forearm. Folding combination globe front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight and a short range tang mounted peep sight. Blue barrel, niter blue hammer and breechblock, and casehardened remaining parts. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with iron forend and straight grip stock with a carbine style buttplate. Class: Antique Excellent. The barrel retains 95% plus original blue finish showing some muzzle and edge wear, and areas thinning to a smooth plum. The receiver retains 90% plus original slightly fading case colors with a smooth dove gray on the balance. The breechblock and hammer retain 98% original bright niter blue finish. The wood is also excellent with a few overall scattered minor dents and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. |
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Exceptional Remington-Hepburn No. 3 Single Shot Target Rifle with Swiss Buttplate and Vernier Peep S Lot #3072 (Sale Order 72 of 844) Exceptional Remington-Hepburn No. 3 Single Shot Target Rifle with Swiss Buttplate and Vernier Peep Sight
The Remington-Hepburn rifles were designed by Remington Mechanical Department Superintendent Lewis L. Hepburn. He was also a member of the American Creedmoor International Shooting Team which meant that he fully appreciated what a rifle needed to stand up to the rigors of the booming target shooting scene of the late 19th century. Between 8,000 and 10,000 Remington-Hepburn sporting and target rifles were manufactured from 1880 to 1907. A few thousand more Hepburns were built in other variations for marksman ship matches at short, mid, and long range, and a limited number were built for hunting and military use. This outstanding example has the general style of the A Quality Match variant aside from the lack of a cheek rest and the caliber. This example has a Beech combination front sight, no rear barrel sight, a short range Vernier peep sight, standard markings including matching serial numbers, smooth forearm, checkered round knob buttstock with a Swiss buttplate. Class: Modern Long Gun Extremely fine. The rifle retains 98% plus of the original blue finish, 85% of the nickel plating, and nearly 85% of the rich case colors. There is some brown patina on the action, gray patina on the forend cap, and an aged patina on the exposed brass. The wood is also very fine and has sharp checkering and only a few minor dings and scratches from handling/storage. The action is excellent, and the markings are clear. |
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Rare Spencer Repeating Sporting Rifle with Single Set Trigger Lot #3073 (Sale Order 73 of 844) Rare Spencer Repeating Sporting Rifle with Single Set Trigger
Relatively few sporting rifles were made by the Spencer Repeating Rifle Company. Compared to the over 144,000 produced during the war (107,372 purchased by the U.S. government), educated estimates place the sporting arms total production from 1864-1868 at around 1,700. The action first went into production in 1860 and as soon as the Civil War started all of the machinery and man power were devoted to turning out rifles and carbines for the Union forces. This example appears to have been produced during Civil War based on the location of the relatively early serial number. The number is not off set to the left of the peep sight base as was common practice on the 1865-1868 rifles. When the holes were drilled, the first number was obliterated and then restamped above the hole. The matching serial number is also stamped on the bottom of the barrel under the forearm. The rifle is chambered for the 56-46 Spencer cartridge (44 rimfire). The receiver is marked "SPENCER REPEATING / RIFLE CO. BOSTON MASS. / PAT'D MARCH 6, 1860." The assembly number "7" is stamped on various parts including the lever, forearm, breechblock, and buttplate. It is equipped with a globe front sight and a folding leaf rear sight graduated to 800 yards. The tang sight is marked "21" at the bottom and does not have graduating marks. The rifle is also equipped with a single set trigger. The wood is a better quality than normally found on Spencers and is highly figured, uncheckered American walnut with pewter tipped sporting forearm secured by two screws and straight stock with standard steel buttplate. Class: Antique Fine. The barrel retains 60% faded original blue and the balance of the metal has a smooth mottled silver/gray patina. The highly figured buttstock is very fine. The forearm has a fine hand worn patina, overall minor handling marks, and minor dents and the buttstock retains most of its original varnish. The markings are clear throughout. The action is excellent. This is an exceptionally nice Civil War production, Spencer sporting rifle. |
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Sharps Metallic Cartridge Conversion Rifle Lot #3074 (Sale Order 74 of 844) Sharps Metallic Cartridge Conversion Rifle
This rifle is just 199 serial numbers away from the very similar factory converted sporting rifle on page 185 of Sharps Firearms by Frank Sellers. Like the gun pictured in the book it has an octagon barrel chambered for .45-70 cartridges with a blade front sight and combination notch and folding ladder rear sight. Both this rifle and the one pictured also have double set triggers, plain sporting stocks and forearms, and standard buttplates. Sellers lists this style as "typical of conversion work done for J. P. Moore and others in the 1877 to 1880 period." The barrel is marked "Old Reliable" followed by "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT CONN." The breech end of the barrel is marked "CAL 452 1/10". Sharps factory catalog information lists the 452 1/10 as "70-76 Grains" (45-70). The lock plate is marked "C. SHARPS' PAT/OCT 5TH 1852", and the left side of the action has additional Sharp's patent markings. It has a blued barrel and casehardened frame, lever, and hammer. The upper tang has taps for a peep sight. Many of these Sharps conversion rifles saw many years of use on the Great Plains in the hands of professional buffalo hunters. Class: Antique Fair. The barrel has a dark brown patina and various ding and strike marks from hard use. The action has a more mottled brown patina. The wood is poor with a large number of scrapes and chips along with cracks and repairs. The action needs some work. |
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Remington-Keene Bolt Action Carbine Lot #3075 (Sale Order 75 of 844) Remington-Keene Bolt Action Carbine
The Keene carbines and rifles were Remington's first attempt at producing a repeating rifle. Only an estimated 5,000 total of the various variations were produced between 1880 and 1883. This example is built in the standard rifle style and has a scarce 20 inch barrel and corresponding length magazine tube. It has a walnut half stock with standard steel buttplate, forend cap/barrel band and sling swivels. A takedown cleaning rod is stored in the butt compartment. Sources conflict as to the length and configuration of Keene carbines. Most appear to have been outfitted with 22 inch barrels while a small number had 20 inch barrels. The top of the bolt is marked "E. REMINGTON & SONS ILLION NY/PAT FEB 24, MCH. 17.1874, JAN 18, SEPT 26, 1876, MCH 20, JULY 31 1877." The left side of the action is marked ".45/70". It has blade front and notch and folding ladder rear sights. Class: Antique Fine. The barrel retains 90% of the blue finish while the rib and magazine tube have primarily a mottled brown patina and the action retains 40% of the fading original blue finish blended with a brown patina. The bolt has a gray patina with light spotting. The stock is very good with only minor dings and light scratches. The action is excellent and the markings are legible. |
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Very Early Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle with Three Digit Serial Number Lot #3076 (Sale Order 76 of 844) Very Early Marlin Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle with Three Digit Serial Number
This incredibly early rifle was manufactured circa 1881 and is one of just 20,000 Model 1881 rifles manufactured before production ended in 1892. It features an octagon barrel with the two line patent and address information ahead of the sporting rear sight, the caliber designation at the breech, and a Rocky Mountain blade front sight. The receiver is marked with the serial number on the bottom. It is fitted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with a slightly curved buttplate. Class: Antique Fair. The rifle retains 50% of the blue finish on the barrel, has a gray patina on the rough polished, draw filed frame, and a brown patina on the balance. There are areas of oxidation most notably on the buttplate. The wood is fine with some slight cracks, small dings and scratches, and evidence of light sanding. The action is fine, and the markings are clear. |
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Marlin Ballard No. 2 Deluxe Sporting Rifle with Scope Lot #3077 (Sale Order 77 of 844) Marlin Ballard No. 2 Deluxe Sporting Rifle with Scope
This rifle is pictured on page 115 of Dutchers' Ballard: The Great American Single Shot where it is described as "A very pretty rifle with fancy American walnut checkered stocks, and extra-cost double-set triggers. Equipped with a full length Malcolm telescope." It has since been relined to .22 caliber and has the three- line Marlin address and Ballard's patent information on the left side of the action and the matching serial number on the bottom of the barrel and action. It is equipped with double set triggers and has an added set of fancy walnut grips on the lever. The Malcolm scope has back up iron sights on top and a set of lens caps. Class: Antique Very fine as relined. The rifle retains 50% of the thinned blue finish on the barrel and 70% strong original case colors on the action. The buttplate and lever have traces of the case colors. The finish on the scope is a plum brown. The wood is also very fine with crisp checkering and only minor handling and storage marks. The action functions fine, and the markings are crisp. The optics are slightly hazy. |
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Merrimack Arms & Manufacturing Co. Ballard Single Shot Dual Ignition Falling Block Musket Lot #3078 (Sale Order 78 of 844) Merrimack Arms & Manufacturing Co. Ballard Single Shot Dual Ignition Falling Block Musket
Manufactured in the 1860s , this rifle features a blade front and folding ladder rear sights. Fitted with three milled barrel bands. The action features a unique dual ignition system for both percussion and rimfire ammunition. Mounted on an almost full length walnut forearm and straight grip stock with sling swivels and a curved steel buttplate. Includes 8 empty 50-70 brass shell casings, 6 50-70 shell casings with lead bullets in place and small tools. Class: Antique Good overall with 85% of the current thinning blue finish on the barrel. Some areas have aged to a thin brown patina, with scattered small scratches, and areas of light spotting and pitting. |
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Massachusetts Arms Company Maynard Improved No. 16 Target Rifle with Two Additional Barrel Sets Lot #3079 (Sale Order 79 of 844) Massachusetts Arms Company Maynard Improved No. 16 Target Rifle with Two Additional Barrel Sets
This rifle is one of the Maynard target rifles produced in the late 19th century by the Massachusetts Arms Company. It was likely used by a member of a rifle team. The right side of the action has the "MANUFACTURED BY/MASS. ARMS. CO./CHICOPEE FALLS/1882" marking, and the left side has "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE/MAY 27.1851./DEC.6.1859" followed by "1873". All three barrels are marked "16" and the .38-50 caliber barrel is also marked "19222". The lower tang is marked "1865". "1865" is also hand marked on the underside of the nickel plated Swiss buttplate and on the butt of the fancy grade pistol grip buttstock underneath. The grip is checkered and has a removable insert over the lower tang. The upper tang is fitted with a "PATENTED/JAN. 18. 1876" marked adjustable peep sight with rubber aperture pad. The current 27 3/4 inch length barrel was likely shortened from 28 inch and is sleeved for .22 caliber ammunition. All of the barrel sets are complete with levers, walnut forearms (fancy grade on the additional .22 caliber set) with Schnabel style tips and multi-point checkering, and globe front sights. The .22 caliber barrels have spirit levels. Class: Antique Fine. The barrels retain 95% plus, 75%, and 40% of the blue finish. There is a brown patina on the balance. The action and lever retain 30% of the bright original case colors in and around the protected areas and, otherwise, display a mottle silver-gray patina. The buttplate retains nearly all of the original nickel plating, and the hammer retains strong niter blue finish. The wood is fine with crisp checkering and some minor scratches and dings. The action functions fine, and the markings are all legible. |
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Remington Model 2 Rolling Block Sporting Rifle with Scope and Palm Rest Lot #3080 (Sale Order 80 of 844) Remington Model 2 Rolling Block Sporting Rifle with Scope and Palm Rest
Only a few thousand Model 2 rifles were manufactured from 1873 to 1910. The top barrel flat is marked "E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y." behind of the rear sight. This older style barrel address indicates this rifle was built prior to 1888 or shortly thereafter using parts on hand. The lower left side of the receiver is marked with the six line patent dates, and the matching serial number is marked on the lower tang and the bottom barrel flat under the forearm. The replacement forearm is mismatched, number 6223 on interior rear face. The caliber designation "38" is marked on the bottom barrel flat ahead of the forearm. The front of the muzzle is hand scratched with "368", and the inside of the forearm is hand marked "Twist 1-22 368 GD". It has a long Stevens 460 scope, smooth forearm and straight wrist stock, and a clamp on round knob palm rest marked "PAT. APL'D FOR". Class: Antique Very good as assembled (see above). The barrel retains 60% of the thinning original blue finish and has primarily a brown patina on the balance. The action retains more than 50% of the original case colors. The re-oiled wood is good with minor scratches and dings and a well executed repaired crack in the wrist only visible on close inspection. The scope body retains 30% of the original finish with a brown patina on the balance and has a few dings. The action and optics are excellent. The markings are crisp. |
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Rare Evans New Model Lever Action Sporting Rifle Lot #3081 (Sale Order 81 of 844) Rare Evans New Model Lever Action Sporting Rifle
This rifle is one of the "EVANS SPORTING RIFLE" marked examples believed to have been assembled by E. G. Ridout & Company of New York or G W. Turner & Ross of Boston using parts on hand after the Evans Repeating Rifle Company went into bankruptcy. Aside from the barrel marking noted above, the rifle is unmarked. It features a round blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight. It has a smooth two piece butt and a checkered forearm. Class: Antique Fair. The rifle has an overall brown patina with patches of mild pitting and surface oxidation along with various minor marks and dings. The wood is fine and has numerous dings, chips, and scrapes along with a few minor cracks. The action is functional, and the barrel marking is crisp. |
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Rare and Highly Desirable U.S. Harpers Ferry Iron-Mounted Two Band Model 1855 Percussion Rifle Dated Lot #3082 (Sale Order 82 of 844) Rare and Highly Desirable U.S. Harpers Ferry Iron-Mounted Two Band Model 1855 Percussion Rifle Dated 1861
This is one of an estimated 5,151 later production Model 1855 percussion rifles with a 33 inch barrel, two barrel bands and iron mountings, including an iron patch box, manufactured by Harpers Ferry for the U.S. government from 1857 to 1861. Most of the iron mounted rifles were issued to militia units and a number were shipped to Southern states prior to the outbreak of the Civil War. The Harpers Ferry Arsenal was abandoned by the Union Army on April 18, 1861, six days after the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter and was occupied by Confederate units that included "Stonewall" Jackson's Virginia militia until June 18, 1861. The Confederates had a desperate need for weapons and produced many mini muskets as possible before abandoning the Arsenal. Any Harpers Ferry rifle dated 1861, as this one, was therefore either issued to Union soldiers prior to or during the early days of the Civil War or was issued to Confederate soldiers or Virginia militia units. The limited number of Model 1855 Rifles saw heavy use with both the Federal and Confederate armies throughout the Civil War and many were destroyed when the Confederates burned the factory. As a result, the survival rate of these rifles is low, and examples in very good or better condition are very scarce. These rifles featured the Maynard tape primer and percussion bolster with clean out screw. The barrel has been counter bored, absent of rifling on the first 1/4 inch at the muzzle. The rifle is equipped with a blade front sight, three leaf rear sight with "1", "3" and "5" graduations, and a bayonet lug on the right side of the barrel 3 1/2 inches back of the muzzle. The lock plate is dated "1861" at the rear, and "U.S./HARPER'S FERRY" is stamped ahead of the Maynard primer door. The primer door has an American eagle motif. The breech end top of the barrel is also dated "1861" with "V/P/Eagle Head" proof on the left side at the breech. Both barrel bands are stamped with the letter "U". It has a tulip head iron ramrod with a swollen shaft, sling swivel on the front barrel band and front of the trigger guard and mounted with a smooth full length walnut stock with a faint oval cartouche on the left flat and iron carbine style buttplate marked "US" on the tang and Comes with a wooden muzzle tampion. Class: Antique Very good. The metal surfaces remain bright showing some scattered minor pitting and scattered areas of remnants of a protective coating. The barrel band springs are moderately pitted. The stock is good as refinished and repaired at the wrist. The buttplate is a bit ill-fitting. Overall, there are scattered minor dents, nicks and dings. The proofmarks on the breech end of the barrel are fading. Otherwise, the markings are clear. The action is excellent. This solid representative example of both a scarce and highly desirable Harpers Ferry Model 1855 percussion rifle. |
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Rare Harpers Ferry Hall Model 1836 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Dated 1839 Lot #3083 (Sale Order 83 of 844) Rare Harpers Ferry Hall Model 1836 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Dated 1839
Manufactured in 1839 with a total production of only about 2,020. It has the sliding bayonet/ramrod under the barrel and the large eye for the sling through the wrist. Standard "J.H. HALL/US/1839" marking on top of the breechblock. Fixed offset sights on the barrel and front of the receiver. Brown finished iron mountings and barrel, casehardened breech and mounted with a one-piece full straight grip walnut stock secured by two barrel bands and flat iron buttplate. These carbines were issued to the 2nd U.S. Dragoons for the Florida campaign. They saw extensive use and are seldom encountered in this condition. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine retains 80% plus original brown finish with some minor pitting on the barrel towards the muzzle and some scattered minor spotting overall. The breechblock retains traces of original case colors in the protected areas. The stock is fine with numerous pressure dents and a few gouges. Mechanically fine. |
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American Eagle Head Mounted Officer's Sword with Scabbard Lot #3084 (Sale Order 84 of 844) American Eagle Head Mounted Officer's Sword with Scabbard
Manufactured circa 1830. Overall length is 39 1/4 inches, with a 34 inch curved single fuller blade, niter blued on the forte with gold washed patriotic etching and martial themes, along with the text "HONOUR/AND MY/COUNTRY" on the left side. Silver finished brass hilt, with short languets, upturned rear quillion, smooth mother of pearl grip panels and an eagle head pommel. Brass scabbard, with traces of gilt finish on the floral patterned suspension bands. Class: Other Very good. The blade is bright with 40% of the original blue finish and some minor spotting. The hilt is good, with some play in the guard, a few small chips in the grips, and a well aged brass patina. The scabbard is good, with a few light dents. |
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Two American Eagle Head Officer's Sword with Scabbard Lot #3085 (Sale Order 85 of 844) Two American Eagle Head Officer's Sword with Scabbard
Both feature curved single fuller blades with niter blue finished lower halves, gold washed wire etched patriotic designs, and silver finished brass hilts with American eagle pommels. 1) Officer's sword, 34 1/2 inches overall, 29 1/2 inch blade, American eagle languets, wire wrapped bone grip, and squared knuckleguard. With a brass scabbard. 2) "JL&Co" marked officer's sword, 36 3/4 inches overall, 31 1/2 inch blade, "JL&Co" on spine, stirrup guard, ribbed bone grip, leather and brass scabbard. Class: Other 1) Very good, with 40% of the original blue, a mixed gray patina on the bright segment of the blade, mild cracks and chips on the grip, some mended cracks in the hilt, and dents on the scabbard. 2) Good. Mild spotting is present on the blade, with traces of an old protective varnish, over half the original blue, and some contact dents on the edge. Grip is lightly cracked, with traces of silver on the guard. Scabbard is fair. |
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Scarce U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1841 Hall Fish Tail First Model Breech Loading Percussion Rifle Date Lot #3086 (Sale Order 86 of 844) Scarce U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1841 Hall Fish Tail First Model Breech Loading Percussion Rifle Dated 1842
The rifle is one of 4,213 manufactured circa 1841 to 1842 as a percussion rifle and not a conversion. The breechblock is marked "H. FERRY/US/1842", pivots upward for loading, and is released by a fish tail shaped lever device protruding through the bottom of the stock forward of the trigger guard. The fish tail lever was used on the first models, a variation of the Model 1841 breech loading rifle which would later become a spur release device. Sling swivels are present on the mid-barrel band and on the trigger guard. Mounted on a full length stock with three pin fastened barrel bands and a flat iron buttplate. Comes with a button head iron ramrod. Class: Antique Good. The rifle has a smooth brown-gray patina with some minor pitting. The repaired and revarnished stock is good with a hairline crack ahead of the trigger guard, some chipping, and some minor handling marks. Mechanically fine. |
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Rare and Desirable Harpers Ferry Hall Model 1836 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3087 (Sale Order 87 of 844) Rare and Desirable Harpers Ferry Hall Model 1836 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine
Manufactured in 1839 out of a total production of only about 2,020. This is a later variation without the trapdoor in the bottom of the butt for the tools. It has the sliding bayonet/ramrod under the barrel and the large eye for the sling through the wrist. Standard "J.H. HALL/US/1839" marking on top of the breechblock. Fixed offset sights on the barrel and front of the receiver. Brown finished iron mountings and barrel, casehardened breech and mounted with a one piece straight grip walnut stock secured by two barrel bands and flat iron buttplate. These carbines were issued to the 2nd U.S. Dragoons for the Florida campaign. They saw extensive use and are seldom encountered in this condition. Class: Antique Fine. The barrel and trigger guard retain 60% original brown lacquer finish with some minor flaking, scratches and scuffs. The receiver and breech block have 60% of the original mottled case colors. The stock is also fine with a few small minor gouges and some overall scattered minor dings and dents. The marking remains sharp. Mechanically excellent. |
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Massachusetts Marked Robbins & Lawrence Model 1841 "Mississippi" Percussion Rifle Lot #3088 (Sale Order 88 of 844) Massachusetts Marked Robbins & Lawrence Model 1841 "Mississippi" Percussion Rifle
This Mississippi rifle is marked with "ROBINS/&/LAURENCE/US" on the lock plate ahead of the hammer. The buttplate tang has a small "US" stamp along with "CO. C/MASS 46/14". The 46th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry/Militia Regiment was raised primarily in Hampden County, Massachusetts, in 1862. Most of its men volunteered to stay on and join the Army of the Potomac after their enlistments expired due to Lee's invasion of Pennsylvania in 1863. 100 of the men then reenlisted by joining the 2nd Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. During its enlistment, the 46th only lost one man in combat and another 35 by disease. Much of their service consisted of manning defensive positions at key positions in the North. The rifle has a blade/stud front sight and includes a trumpet head iron ramrod. The straight wrist walnut stock has a patch box and faint cartouches. The barrel band and front of the trigger guard have sling swivels. Class: Antique Fair. The action and barrel display a dark brown patina with oxidation and pitting overall. The brass has an aged patina. The wood is fair with a faint crack at the tail of the lock plate, some small cracks in the butt. The action is fine. The rear sight is absent with solder remaining in dovetail. The rifle is bored out to 58 from the original 54. |
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American Eagle Pommel Officers Sword with Scabbard and Hangers Lot #3089 (Sale Order 89 of 844) American Eagle Pommel Officers Sword with Scabbard and Hangers
Overall length is 36 inches with a 31 inch single fuller blade finished in niter blue on the lower half with foliate accents and gold-washed wire etching. Silver finished brass hilt with an American Eagle on the right languet, wire-wrapped bone grip and a screaming eagle pommel. Scabbard is also silver finished brass with light floral patterns on the suspension bands and a set of woven wire chain belt hangers. Class: Other Fine. The very fine blade shows mild spotting overall with over 70% of the bright blue present. Some play is present in the guard with some tearing of the washer and a crack in the rear quillion while the grip and pommel are rock solid on the tang. A chip is absent from the grip, and the backing is flexing away. Scabbard is very good with over 40% silver and some light dings and handling marks. |
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Two Early 19th Century American Militia Staff Officer's Swords with Scabbards Lot #3090 (Sale Order 90 of 844) Two Early 19th Century American Militia Staff Officer's Swords with Scabbards
Both swords feature straight single fuller blade with lozenge cross sections and etched decoration, brass crossguard with sculpted languets and pommels, chain knuckle guards, carved checkered bone grips and brass scabbards with Ames markings. 1) Eagle pommel staff sword, 37 3/4 inches overall with a 31 1/4 inch blade, floral languet designs, gilt scabbard and a 3-dimensional American Eagle pommel with the chain guard in its beak and a 15-star American shield. 2) Helmet pommel staff sword, 37 1/4 inches overall, 31 1/4 inch blade, silvered scabbard marked "7156688" near the drag and an elaborate helmet with plumage for the pommel. Class: Other 1) Fine with some light spotting and handling marks. 60% of the silver remains on the hilt with traces in the protected areas of the scabbard. The pommel detail is excellent. 2) Good with a mixed gray patina and mild spotting on the blade, a crack through the guard, and some dents on the scabbard. |
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Outstanding Mexican-American War U.S. Hall-North Model 1843 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Dated Lot #3091 (Sale Order 91 of 844) Outstanding Mexican-American War U.S. Hall-North Model 1843 Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Dated 1847
The Model 1843 Carbine was extensively used by American dragoons during the Mexican-American War from April 25, 1846, until February 2, 1848. Hall-North carbines continued to be issued to western Federal volunteer cavalry regiments for much of the Civil War. The carbine retains the original smoothbore barrel. The barrel, barrel bands, trigger guard, and buttplate have a brown finish. The breechblock and hammer are casehardened. The sling bar, band spring, and ramrod are bright. The breechblock is marked "U.S./S. NORTH/MIDLTN/CONN./1847". There are small single and double letter inspection marks on several components. The oil-finished black walnut stock has an oval "WAT" final inspection stamp on the right flat and the rectangular "GWH" sub-inspector's cartouche on the left. Class: Antique Excellent. It retains 90% of the slightly thinning original brown finish and case colors remain visible on the breech and hammer. The lever has some bright fire blue colors at the tail. The stock is excellent with some small storage dings and abrasions, even oil finish, crisp cartouches, and sharp edges. The action is excellent. The Hall-North carbine was an important U.S. Cavalry carbine and is a key component of any U.S. martial arms collection. This example is certainly in much higher condition than most. |
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U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1819 Hall Breech Loading Percussion Conversion Rifle Dated 1832 Lot #3092 (Sale Order 92 of 844) U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1819 Hall Breech Loading Percussion Conversion Rifle Dated 1832
The Hall Model 1819 was the first breechloading rifle accepted and used in significant numbers by any military. Just under 20,000 were produced between 1817 and 1840. The innovative Hall rifles and carbines were also the first firearm to have completely interchangeable parts. This Hall breech loading rifle was manufactured as a flintlock at the Harpers Ferry Armory in 1832 as part of the second production period with the front of the breechblock marked: "J.H. HALL/H. FERRY/U.S/1832" in four lines. It was likely converted near the beginning of the Civil War and put to use during the early stages of the conflict as both the North and South rushed men into action. Many Hall rifles and carbines were in arsenals in the South at the start of the Civil War and were converted to percussion and issued to Confederate units. The rifle has the unique Hall breechblock mechanism that pivots upward for loading and distinctive trigger guard with grip extension. The barrel, barrel bands, receiver, trigger guard, and buttplate have a brown lacquer finish. The breechblock and lock are casehardened, and the iron button head ramrod is bright. The black walnut stock has an oil finish. The fixed blade and notch sights are offset to the left because of the position of the action. Class: Antique Fine as arsenal converted to percussion. The rifle retains 70% of the original brown lacquer with some thinned areas. The breechblock has Arsenal refurbished case colors, spotting, and some light pitting. The wood is fine with some chips, dings, and scrapes. The action is excellent. This is a fine example of a U.S. primary issue firearm Arsenal converted for use in subsequent wars. |
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U.S. Springfield Model 1855 Percussion Rifle-Musket Lot #3093 (Sale Order 93 of 844) U.S. Springfield Model 1855 Percussion Rifle-Musket
This 1858 dated rifle has the standard markings and features of the 47,115 Model 1855 rifles manufactured by the Springfield Armory between 1857 and 1861. The Model 1855 was one of the main rifles of the Civil War. Class: Antique Fair. The rifle has primarily a mottled gray patina with some bright surfaces, extensive patches of deep pitting, and several minor marks and scratches. The stock is fair as heavily sanded and re-oiled and has several small slivers and chips absent and some minor marks. The action is fine. The markings, aside from the barrel date, are clear. |
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American Eagle Head Mounted Officer's Sword with Wolfe of New York Merchant Marks and Scabbard Lot #3094 (Sale Order 94 of 844) American Eagle Head Mounted Officer's Sword with Wolfe of New York Merchant Marks and Scabbard
Manufactured circa 1825. Overall length is 35 inches with a 30 1/4 inch curved single fuller blade finished in niter blue on the lower half with gold washed wire etched accents and "Sold by C & JD Wolfe New York" stamped on the spine. Silver finished brass hilt with leaf-decorated languets, a stirrup guard, ribbed bone grip and a screaming eagle pommel. With a silver finished brass scabbard. Class: Other Very good. The fine blade shows mild spotting with over 40% of the original blue and a few tiny strike marks on the edge. Hilt is fair with some fillings performed on the lightly chipped and cracked grip, some bending of the brass, and a fine dark patina. The scabbard is good with traces of silver in the protected areas and a number of dents and strike marks. |
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Two American 1821 Regulation Infantry Officers Swords with Scabbards Lot #3095 (Sale Order 95 of 844) Two American 1821 Regulation Infantry Officers Swords with Scabbards
Both swords feature straight single fuller blade with lozenge cross sections and etched decoration, brass hilts with American eagle languets, wire wrapped pearl grips and engraved brass scabbards with dual suspension rings and frog studs. 1) Eagle pommel sword, 36 1/4 inches overall with a 31 3/8 inch blade. 2) Ames helmet pommel 37 inches overall with a 31 3/4 inch blade, gilt brass hilt and Ames markings on the scabbard. Class: Other 1) Very good with a mixed gray patina on the blade, mild handling marks overall, some play in the guard, and dings on the scabbard. 2) Same as A with some verdigris on the hilt. |
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Early Production Springfield Model 1842 Percussion Musket with Bayonet and Barrel Plug Lot #3096 (Sale Order 96 of 844) Early Production Springfield Model 1842 Percussion Musket with Bayonet and Barrel Plug
The Model 1842 Musket was an important weapon in both the Union and Confederate Armies during the early years of the Civil War. This example is marked with "SPRING/FIELD/1845" vertically at the tail of the lock, the eagle/shield motif over "US" ahead of the hammer, "V/P/eagle head" proofs on the barrel near the breech on the left, inspector E.S. Allen's "ESA" cartouche on the left flat, "SRC" behind the lower tang, and "US" on the buttplate tang. Allen is known to have been active starting around 1850 suggesting it may have been re-stocked. There are also some single letter inspection markings. It has a brass front sight blade on the front part of the dual front barrel band, a bayonet lug on the underside of the barrel and includes a trumpet head ramrod, wooden barrel plug, and "US" marked socket bayonet. The Model 1842 muskets were manufactured from 1844 until 1855 and have the distinction of being the first percussion arms manufactured at both Springfield and Harpers Ferry, the first firearm manufactured at the national armories with fully interchangeable parts, and the last .69 caliber smoothbore U.S. long gun. Class: Antique Fine as partially modified (date buffed off of tang). There are patches of brown patina and slight pitting, but the metal surfaces are mostly bright. The lock plate is fine with legible markings. The stock is excellent and has crisp cartouches. Wear is limited to some small scrapes and chips near the butt and occasional handling/storage type marks. The markings are mostly crisp. The action is excellent. The bayonet is bright but pitted. |
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U.S. Harper's Ferry Model 1841 "Mississippi Rifle" Percussion Rifle Dated 1845 Lot #3097 (Sale Order 97 of 844) U.S. Harper's Ferry Model 1841 "Mississippi Rifle" Percussion Rifle Dated 1845
This Model 1841 is marked "HARPERS/FERRY/1845" vertically behind the hammer and "eagle/US" ahead of the hammer on the lock plate. The barrel tang has faint date stamp (possibly 1846), "V/P/eagle head" and "WW/P" proofmarks. It is equipped with brass blade front and folding ladder rear sights; the rear sight is graduated 1-4 on the base and 5-10 on the ladder. The rifle is fitted with a straight wrist walnut stock with brass furniture including a patch box and unmarked buttplate. The bottom of the patch box has some hand carved letters. The right side of the barrel has a bayonet lug for the included saber bayonet. Sling swivels are mounted to the front barrel band and the trigger guard. The Model 1841 is considered by collectors to be one of the most attractive of all U.S. percussion long guns and was famously used by Mississippi forces under the command of Jefferson Davis during the Mexican-American War. Both Union and Confederate forces used these rifles during the Civil War. Class: Antique Fair. The iron surfaces have a mixture of gray and brown patina and spotting. Most of the brass furniture has a lightly aged patina, but the buttplate has a darker patina and numerous dings. The stock is fair as sanded and re-oiled and has several dings, scrapes, and marks along with a few chips at the edges. There is a repair on the left flat that extends down to the trigger guard and a small crack on the opposite side. The action functions fine. The bayonet is poor with a dark patina on the blade which is pitted and oxidized and an aged patina on the handle. |
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Pre-Civil War South Carolina Militia Officer Sword with Scabbard Lot #3098 (Sale Order 98 of 844) Pre-Civil War South Carolina Militia Officer Sword with Scabbard
Measuring 36 1/4 inches long with a 30 1/2 inch straight single fuller blade decorated on both sides with gold wash enhanced martial themed engraving in a half-length scroll tipped panel of niter blue and the "king" proofmark associated with the Weyersberg firm of Solingen, Germany; procuring high-quality swords from Solingen or Sheffield was a common practice for officers and gentleman in America and is a trend seen even today with Army and Marine officer swords. The hilt is brass construction with scroll and floral decoration showing on much of the length. The languet is decorated with a scene of a shield hung in a palmetto tree (the traditional symbol of South Carolina), an array of arrows and "1776" around the base of the tree. The rear quillion is a sculpted eagle head with a grotesque face on the obverse ferrule, a pair of smooth mother of pearl grip panels and a well rendered Liberty bust pommel. With a brass scabbard engraved with scroll and leaf patterns and fitted with dual suspension rings and a shield-shaped frog stud. Class: Other Fine. Some light spotting is present on the very fine blade with over 80% of the original niter blue and gold. The brass shows a well aged patina overall with traces of the original finish in the protected areas and a few dings on the scabbard. Light handling marks overall. |
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Two Antique American Swords with Scabbards Lot #3099 (Sale Order 99 of 844) Two Antique American Swords with Scabbards
1) Horstmann & Sons/WKC enlisted Marine sword, 32 inches overall with a 26 inch double fuller blade with patriotic etching. Brass hilt with pierced-through designs on the guard and a wire-wrapped leather grip. With a brass fitted leather scabbard with frog stud. 2) American eagle officer's sword, 33 3/4 inches overall, 28 inch curved single fuller blade with gold-highlighted patriotic etching, brass hilt with beaded counterguard and knuckleguard, ribbed bone grip and a leather scabbard. Class: Other 1) Very good with light spotting on the steel and scuffs on the leather. 2) Good. The blade has been lightly cleaned with shallow pitting. Guard is a bit loose. Scabbard poor with absent sections and tears. |
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Rare Simeon North Contract Model 1826 Flintlock Navy Pistol Lot #3102 (Sale Order 102 of 844) Rare Simeon North Contract Model 1826 Flintlock Navy Pistol
This is a very good example of a scarce Model 1826 Flintlock Navy Pistol manufactured by Simeon North of Middletown, Connecticut, in 1828. North manufactured a total of 3,000 of these pistols between 1826 and 1829. Most Model 1826 pistols were later converted to percussion, and examples in original flintlock configuration are extremely scarce. The Model 1826 Navy pistol is also significant as the last U.S. martial pistol manufactured by Simeon North. The pistol is iron mounted with an oil-finished, black walnut stock. The barrel has an iron swivel ramrod with button head, brass blade front sight, and oval rear sight. A steel belt hook is mounted on the left stock flat. The edges of the lock plate are beveled forward and rounded behind the hammer. The lock has a detachable brass flash pan. The lock plate is dated "1828" behind the hammer and marked: "U.S./S. NORTH" in two lines ahead of it. The top of the barrel is stamped with the proofmarks "US/ET/ P" (the latter is in a oval). An oval two letter script cartouche is stamped on the left stock flat above the belt hook. Class: Antique Very good. The pistol retains a mix of faded brown finish and brown patina with some oxidation and a few spots of minor pitting. A small portion of the front sight it is absent. The stock is also very good with a small sections absent above the lock and at the left side of the breech and otherwise only minor scratches and pressure marks. All but the "P" marking are crisp and legible, and the action remains excellent. |
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Wickham U.S. Contract Model 1816 Flintlock Musket Lot #3103 (Sale Order 103 of 844) Wickham U.S. Contract Model 1816 Flintlock Musket
This musket is marked "U.S./M.T. WICKHAM" on the lock below the pan and "PHILA/1835" at the tail. The barrel is marked "US/JM/P" (the latter is inset in a star burst pattern) and is dated "1835" on the barrel tang. The left stock flat has a "JM" cartouche. It has the standard nearly full length stock with three bands and trumpet head ramrod. Class: Antique Good. The barrel has a mixture of gray and brown patina, and the remaining components have a dark brown patina. There are patches of mild oxidation and light to moderate pitting. The stock is good with various scrapes and dents, a few cracks and chips, and some white marks. The lock functions fine, and the markings are legible. |
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American Mounted Artillery Pattern Officer's Sword with Patriotic Blade Lot #3104 (Sale Order 104 of 844) American Mounted Artillery Pattern Officer's Sword with Patriotic Blade
Manufactured circa 1815-1840, most known examples of this pattern were manufactured in Europe and imported, with this example hailing from Solingen, Germany. Overall length is 39 1/2 inches, with a 34 1/2 inch curved single fuller blade with a 10 1/4 inch panel of niter blue decorated with etched and gold washed American patriotic designs, "K.V.S." and "a/Solingen" on the ricassos. Silver-plated brass hilt, with a two-branch guard, elongated oval languets, and a wire wrapped leather grip. With a brass-fitted iron scabbard. Class: Other Very good plus. Mild spotting is present on the steel, with the scabbard lightly polished, some light pitting on the fine blade, and 50% of the original niter blue finish. The grip is fair, with some exposed wood and cord. A well aged patina is present on the hilt. |
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Extremely Fine Civil War Remington New Model Army Percussion Revolver Lot #3105 (Sale Order 105 of 844) Extremely Fine Civil War Remington New Model Army Percussion Revolver
This Remington New Model Army .44 caliber percussion revolver was manufactured in 1864. The revolver has a blue barrel, frame, cylinder and loading lever, casehardened hammer, niter blue trigger, and brass trigger guard. The two-piece grips are oil finished walnut. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "PATENTED SEPT. 14.1858 / REMINGTON & SONS. ILION.NEWYORK. U.S.A. / NEW MODEL" in three lines. The serial number "91523" is stamped on the underside of the barrel. "91213" is stamped on the lower left side of the grip and "91213" is written in pencil on the inside of both grips. The left grip is stamped with the Ordnance inspector's script initials "RH" in a rectangle. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on all major components. A "P" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder. The Remington New Model Army Revolver was the primary handgun issued to Federal cavalry regiments during the last two years of the Civil War. These rugged revolvers remained in service with the regular cavalry regiments on the frontier until they were replaced with the Model 1873 Colt Cavalry revolvers circa 1875. Class: Antique Extremely fine. The revolver appears to be un-fired and retains 85% plus of the original blue finish with scattered, minor, storage marks, and scratches. The finish exhibits the flaking typical of Remington Civil War revolvers on the top strap, right side of the frame, and back strap. Nearly all of the high polish blue finish is present on the barrel, loading lever, and cylinder. The hammer retains nearly all of the dull casehardened finish. The trigger has nearly all of the niter blue finish intact and the brass trigger guard has an attractive patina. The grips are in excellent condition with only light handling wear and a perfect Ordnance inspection mark. The barrel legend, serial number, and Ordnance sub-inspection marks are all crisp. The action functions perfectly. This is a very fine example of an important Civil War Remington New Model Army revolver in un-fired condition. |
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Scarce and Desirable Civil War Era Butterfield Army Model Percussion Revolver Lot #3106 (Sale Order 106 of 844) Scarce and Desirable Civil War Era Butterfield Army Model Percussion Revolver
Manufactured by Jesse Butterfield of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1862, the Butterfield Revolvers were manufactured in anticipation of an order for 2,280 on a government contract. The contract was never awarded and production was limited to only about 640 revolvers but is considered by collectors as a secondary U.S. martial handgun. The revolver has a brass frame with blue five-shot cylinder, octagonal barrel, casehardened attached loading lever, and two-piece flared walnut grips. The revolver is equipped with a special disc priming device loaded by loosening a thumb-screw in front of the trigger guard. The brass top strap is marked "BUTTERFIELD'S/PATENT DEC.11 1855/PHILADA". Matching numbers are found on the butt, barrel, and loading lever. Class: Antique Good. The pistol has a mottled gray patina. The brass has a smooth aged patina. Limited minor pitting is present. The period replacement grips are good with a number of minor handling marks. The grip screw is a replacement. Mechanically fine. |
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Scarce U.S. Martially Inspected Remington Model 1865 Navy Rolling Block Pistol with Experimental Bra Lot #3107 (Sale Order 107 of 844) Scarce U.S. Martially Inspected Remington Model 1865 Navy Rolling Block Pistol with Experimental Brass 1870 Ordnance Department Dated "Pattern Guard"
The Remington Model 1865 pistols were manufactured from 1866 to 1870. Approximately 6,500 were produced. The majority were designed for the .50 caliber rimfire cartridge but some, such as this example, were either adapted for centerfire by Remington at the request of the Ordnance Department by swapping the breechblocks. Many were converted to "Model 1867s" in the 1870s by converting them for centerfire ammunition, shortening the barrels, and changing the spur trigger out for a traditional trigger and trigger guard. This example is a prototype which is a transition between the 1866 and the 1867. It retains the original spur trigger and full length barrel but is fitted with a brass trigger guard marked "PATTERN GUARD./ORDER. JANY.28.1870./ORD DEPT. U.S.N.Y.W./F.M.R." The markings indicate this alteration was done by order of the Ordnance Department at the U.S. Naval Yard in Washington, D.C., and inspected by Cdr. Francis M. Ramsey. The barrel has the anchor marking. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent information, and the right side has the "P/F.C.W" inspection mark. A matching "FCW" cartouche is on the left side of the one piece grip. According to the information discussed in "Remington Rolling Block Pistols" by Jerry Landskron, both the Naval Yards in D.C. and at Norfolk were involved in these brass trigger guard conversions. Remington was actually responsible for the alterations using guards supplied by the Ordnance Department. Examples of these scarce pistols are pictured on page 112 and 113 of the above book. The author notes that only twelve pistols with the brass trigger guard are known and most of these are not marked. This example has the serial number on the bottom of the barrel but not on the frame. Class: Antique Good. The pistol has a brown patina overall with some oxidation and minor marks. The wood is good with lightly visible cartouche, mild handling wear and some small dings and chips. The action is fine. Most of the markings are clear. This Remington rolling block pistol variant is extremely rare and are missing in all but a select few U.S. martial collections. Do not miss this opportunity! |
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Civil War Era Martially Inspected Starr 1858 Double Action Army Revolver Lot #3108 (Sale Order 108 of 844) Civil War Era Martially Inspected Starr 1858 Double Action Army Revolver
Approximately 23,000 of these revolvers were manufactured in the late 1850s and early 1860s, and most were purchased by the U.S. Government. This example has the standard "STARR. ARMS. CO. NEW. YORK." address on left side of frame and "STARR'S PATENT JAN. 15, 1856" on the right. The serial numbers match on the front of the barrel lug, receiver, cylinder, in the hammer well, and front of the hammer. There are small inspection marks on some components. The revolver is fitted with a smooth one piece walnut grip with a cartouche on each side. "RHKW" (Captain Robert Henry Kirkland Whiteley) is on the left, and the left cartouche appears to be "BH" (Benjamin Hannis). Class: Antique Very good. The revolver retains 30% of the original blue finish with a brown patina and oxidation on the balance. The grip is fine with deep cartouches, a variety of scratches and some small pin prick bug damage. The action needs some work given that the trigger does not quite reach the release at the rear of the trigger guard. It is otherwise mechanically fine. Most of the markings are legible. |
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U.S. Pettengill Army Model Percussion Revolver Lot #3109 (Sale Order 109 of 844) U.S. Pettengill Army Model Percussion Revolver
The distinctive "hammerless" (concealed hammer) C.S. Pettengill Army Model revolvers were manufactured by Rogers, Spencer & Co. in the early 1860s and were essentially upsized versions of the late 1850s Pettengill Navy Model. The top strap has the Pettengill and Raymond & Robitaille patent markings, and several small ordinance inspection marks are on the various components. It has a post front sight, frame groove rear sight, and walnut grips with cartouches. The U.S. Ordnance Department originally contracted for 5,000 of these revolvers but decreased the order to 2,000 after trials. The revolvers were then altered per the government's requests and delivered in the fall of 1862 and in early 1863. They were issued to multiple cavalry units during the war including the 3rd Michigan and 3rd Illinois Cavalry. Class: Antique Very good as period replated. The revolver retains 85% of the nickel plated finish with some flaking and minor pitting. The grips are fine with some repairs on the right panel and general mild wear. The action functions, but is loose and does not lock up, and most of the marking aside from the cartouches are legible. |
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Scarce Allen & Wheelock Center Hammer Army Percussion Revolver Lot #3110 (Sale Order 110 of 844) Scarce Allen & Wheelock Center Hammer Army Percussion Revolver
Allen & Wheelock Center Hammer Army revolvers were manufactured only in 1861-1862. Estimates of the production total are as low as 700. 536 of these were purchased by the U.S. government. This example appears to be a scarce privately purchased revolver given the lack of inspection marks. It still was likely used during the Civil War. Only the officers and cavalry along with a few artillerymen were issued revolvers, so many infantrymen purchased their own sidearms as a back up to their muskets and carbines. This example has matching "156" and "56" markings on many of the components including the smooth walnut grip, cylinder, cylinder pin, loading lever/trigger guard, and left side of the grip frame. The left side of the barrel is marked with the two-line Allen & Wheelock address and Allen's patent information. It has a "pinched" brass blade front sight and a notch in the hammer for a rear sight. Class: Antique Very good. The revolver displays mostly a plum brown patina and has some remnants of the original blue finish and patches of minor pitting. The grips are also very good with some general handling wear and scrapes. It is mechanically fine and has mostly crisp markings. Only a small number of these revolvers survived, and most that do have inspection markings. |
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J. Davy & Co. Marked Civil War Era Holster Lot #3111 (Sale Order 111 of 844) J. Davy & Co. Marked Civil War Era Holster
This black leather military style belt holster is marked "J. DAVY & Co. /NEWARK N.J." on the flap. It was designed for a Colt or Remington percussion revolver. Class: Other Fine. The leather is worn especially at the top and has cracking. |
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Rare Virginia Manufactory "Hessian" Cavalry Sword with Scabbard Lot #3112 (Sale Order 112 of 844) Rare Virginia Manufactory "Hessian" Cavalry Sword with Scabbard
Originally established in Richmond in 1798 and completed in 1802, the Virginia Manufactory was a component of the State's private martial machinery, serving as manufacturer, armory, barracks and training ground for Virginia's "Public Guard", continuing the later functions after stopping production in 1822. In 1860 the manufactory was brought back online, using a combination of new-made equipment produced at the Tredegar Iron Works and machinery captured at Harpers Ferry to become one of the chief suppliers of Confederate Armaments until Richmond was evacuated. Though the manufactory produced no swords during the war itself, it's plentiful stockpile of pre-1822 edged weapons served to equip a number of Confederate units. 43 1/2 inches overall with a 39 inch curved double fuller blade stamped "2" near the pierced-through iron guard, ribbed hardwood grip and a smooth "dove head" style pommel. Included is an iron scabbard with a trimmed drag. A similar blade is illustrated on page 105 of Confederate Edged Weapons by William Albaugh III. Class: Other Very good. The steel and iron components show a mixed brown and gray patina, with some mild edge dings on the blade and scattered spotting. Traces of an old protective varnish are also present. Grip is about good with traces of wire and leather wrapping and a crack through the pommel. Scabbard is good with the frog stud absent, split seams and a number of dents and scuffs. |
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Civil War London Armoury Company Kerr's Patent Percussion Revolver with Desirable Confederate Anchor Lot #3113 (Sale Order 113 of 844) Civil War London Armoury Company Kerr's Patent Percussion Revolver with Desirable Confederate Anchor Marking
This is a scarce London Armoury Co. Kerr's Patent percussion revolver with Confederate "J.S/anchor" markings on the grip between the lower tang and grip cap. The anchor stamp is believed to have been applied as an export stamp for revolvers purchased by the Confederate government. The right side of the frame is marked "KERR'S PATENT. 9655.", and the left side is marked "LONDON/ARMOURY". "LONDON ARMOURY CO." on the lock plate. The upper left barrel flat is stamped "L.A.C." followed by two British proofmarks. The cylinder is also marked with proofs between the chambers and the matching serial number. The cylinder has the serial number engraved on it. Kerr revolvers use the same style lock mechanism as was employed in rifles and muskets at the time allowing for easier battlefield maintenance and saw wide use among Confederate forces. At least one pair are known to have been owned by Jefferson Davis and presented to Given Campbell during his failed retreat from Richmond at the end of the war. Class: Antique Fair to fine. The revolver has a mostly mottled gray-brown patina with light to mild pitting, oxidation, and various minor marks. The grip is very good with crisp checkering and only a few minor scratches. Most of the markings are clear throughout including the anchor. The action needs work as the cylinder is loose and does not function. The lanyard ring and stud are absent. A Kerr revolver with the scarce "J.S./anchor" markings is a key piece for any advanced Civil War collection. |
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Two Confederate Style Leather Belts One Dagger and One Holster Lot #3114 (Sale Order 114 of 844) Two Confederate Style Leather Belts One Dagger and One Holster
Both of the belts have interlocking brass "CS" buckles. One has a frog and the other has a hanger. The black leather belt holster is unmarked. The double edged fighting knife/dirk has a 9 inch blade that swells near the center, spines, an iron cross guard, brass fittings and a walnut handle. Class: Other Good to fine overall. The leather has cracking and general wear. The knife has a dark patina with light pitting and some cracks in the wood. |
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Exceptional Civil War Burnside Fifth Model Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3115 (Sale Order 115 of 844) Exceptional Civil War Burnside Fifth Model Breech Loading Percussion Carbine
The Fifth Model version of the Burnside carbine with its signature guide screw on the frame is the model purchased in quantity for use by the Union cavalry units starting in 1863. It was very popular with the troops for its accuracy and reliability. The top of the chamber marked "BURNSIDE PATENT/ MODEL OF 1864". The lock plate is marked "BURNSIDE RIFLE CO/PROVIDENCE R.I." Small single letter inspection marks are on most of the components. The matching serial number is on the breechblock and frame. The barrel is marked "CAST STEEL 1864". It has pinched blade front and two leaf folding rear sights graduated for 100, 300, and 500 yards. It is mounted with a smooth straight wrist stock and forearm marked with "J.M.W." on the underside of the forearm, "HDH" and "RKW" cartouches on the left side of the wrist, and "R.K.W." just ahead of the buttplate tang. It has a casehardened barrel band, bright saddle ring and bar on the left side of the action, bright swivel on the bottom of the butt, and a casehardened buttplate. The barrel is blued. The action, trigger, and breech lever are also casehardened. The breech and tangs are niter blue. Class: Antique Excellent. 90% plus of the original blue, niter blue, and vivid case colors remain with some minor fading. There are some insignificant scattered marks and scratches along with small spots of pitting. The wood is very fine with crisp cartouches and stamps, some small chips at the edges, and minor scratches. The action is excellent. The condition of this carbine is particularly exceptional given that it does not have a late serial number and thus was likely issued and used during the war. |
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Excellent Civil War Smith Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3116 (Sale Order 116 of 844) Excellent Civil War Smith Breech Loading Carbine
The Smith carbine was manufactured by the American Machine Works of Springfield, Mass., Massachusetts Arms Company, and American Arms Company of Chicopee Falls, Mass., from 1861 to 1865 and was one of the more popular cavalry carbines used during the war. A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smaller quantities of the carbines were sold commercially including through Schuyler, Hartley & Graham. Poultney & Trimble served as Gilbert Smith's agents. This American Machine Works produced commercial carbine has the standard three sets of markings on the left side of the frame "MANUFACTURED BY/AM'N M'CH'N. WKS/SPRINGFIELD MASS", "ADDRESS/POULTNEY & TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE U.S.A." and "SMITH'S PATENT/JUNE 23, 1857". There is a blemish in the metal and a seam on the top of the action which may be why it was selected for civilian sales. The blued barrel has a "B" on the left flat at the breech and is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and folding leaf rear sight. It has a casehardened hammer and action with a saddle ring and bar mounted on the left side of the frame and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a blued steel buttplate. There is a "G.P" stamp on the left side of the stock at the junction with the receiver and a "B" on top of the stock directly ahead of the buttplate tang and on the right side of the wrist. Class: Antique Excellent as issued. The carbine retain 97% plus of the original blue and niter blue finish and 98% fiery case colors with some minor fading from handling and storage and occasional small marks. Some flaking of blue on the barrel band which is 60% intact. The excellent wood has only minor pressure marks and a few small scratches. |
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Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Carbine Lot #3117 (Sale Order 117 of 844) Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Carbine
Following the Civil War the U.S. Government decided to convert many percussion military arms to metallic cartridge. These carbines were completely refurbished by Sharps during the conversion process and if needed the stocks were replaced with ones not having a patch box, as is the case with this example. This carbine is chambered for the 50-70 round with a 3 groove barrel. The top of the barrel is marked "NEW MODEL 1863" at the breech (faint). The left side barrel flat and lever pin are marked with an "F". Lawrence patent rear sight and block front sight with brass blade. The lock is marked with the Sharps and Lawrence patent dates, and the serial number is on the upper tang. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a "DFC" ribbon cartouche on the left side. Class: Antique Very fine as arsenal refurbished. The barrel retains 97% blue finish with some thinning to a smooth plum. The hammer, lock and receiver retain nearly all of the age darkened case colors with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The wood is fine with five notches visible on the underside near the toe, and some scattered minor dents and dings. The action is excellent. |
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Excellent Civil War Smith Breech-Loading Carbine Lot #3118 (Sale Order 118 of 844) Excellent Civil War Smith Breech-Loading Carbine
This carbine was manufactured by American Machine Works of Springfield, Massachusetts circa 1863 and has a military blue barrel with a wide bass front sight with nickel-silver blade and a folding leaf rear sight. The barrel latch, trigger guard and screws are niter blued. The barrel band, receiver, hammer and buttplate have a color casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are oil-finished American walnut. The left side of the receiver is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY/AM'N M'CH'N. WKS./SPRINGFIELD MASS" in three lines above the sling bar and "ADDRESS/POULTNEY &TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE U.S.A." in three lines below it. SMITH'S PATENT/JUNE 23 1857" is roll-stamped in two vertical lines on the left side of the receiver. The serial number, "6440", is stamped on the breech lug and receiver. The left side of the stock wrist is stamped with a three-letter script inspection mark enclosed in a rectangle and the script initials "JH" enclosed in an oval. The Ordnance sub-inspection mark "JH" is stamped in block letters on the left barrel flat. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on some components. The Ordnance Department purchased 30,362 Smith Carbines during the Civil War. These carbines were widely issued to the Federal cavalry who considered the Smith Carbine to be a reliable and effective weapon. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine appears to be un-fired and retains 85% plus of the original finish. The barrel has nearly 90% of the dull military blue finish. The case colors on the barrel band, hammer and buttplate have aged to a plum brown patina but the case colors on the receiver and breech are bright. The barrel latch and trigger guard have 85% of the fire blue finish. The stock and forearm are both in very fine overall condition with a few very minor storage marks. The Ordnance inspection marks on the left side of the stock wrist are light but legible. This is an excellent, un-issued example of an important Federal Civil War carbine. |
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Very Fine Civil War Burnside Fifth Model Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3119 (Sale Order 119 of 844) Very Fine Civil War Burnside Fifth Model Breech Loading Percussion Carbine
This carbine was manufactured by the Burnside Rifle Co., of Providence, Rhode Island circa 1863-1865. The Burnside Carbine was designed by Federal General Ambrose E. Burnside before the Civil War and was one of the most widely issued and successful federal cavalry carbines. This Fifth Model carbine has the distinctive guide screw in the right side of the receiver . The carbine has a folding, two leaf, rear sight with three apertures graduated form 100, 300 and 500 yards. A cavalry sling bar and ring are mounted on the left side of the receiver. The barrel has a dull military blue finish. The breechblock, lever and receiver tangs are niter blue. The receiver, hammer, barrel band, lock plate and buttplate have a color casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are oil-finished black walnut. The top of the receiver is roll-stamped: "BURNSIDE PATENT/MODEL OF 1864" in two lines. "CAST STEEL" is stamped on the barrel in a single line ahead of the rear sight. The lock plate is roll-stamped: "BURNSIDE RIFLE CO./PROVIDENCE R.I." in two lines. The serial number, "18831", is stamped on the top of the receiver and breechblock. The left side of the stock wrist is stamped with Ordnance sub-inspection and final inspection marks. The script initials "EPR" are stamped in a rectangle near the receiver and the script letters "RWK" are stamped in a rectangle near the side plate screw. Single letter inspection marks are stamped on most components. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine retains 95% of the slightly faded original blue and 60% casehardened finish with very minor storage wear. The barrel has most of the dull military blue finish. The breechblock and lever retain 98% of the niter blue finish. The niter blue finish on the upper and lower receiver tangs shows some handling wear. At least 95% of the casehardened finish on the receiver, barrel band, hammer, trigger and buttplate is present, and the case colors are strong. The stock and forearm are both in excellent condition with minimal handling wear. The Ordnance inspection marks on the left side of the stock wrist are in nearly perfect condition. This is a very fine example of a Civil War Burnside Breech Loading Carbine. |
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Scarce U.S. Contract Remington Type II "Split Breech" Single Shot Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3120 (Sale Order 120 of 844) Scarce U.S. Contract Remington Type II "Split Breech" Single Shot Breech Loading Carbine
These split breech rolling block carbines were manufactured for Remington under a sub-contract with Savage Revolving Arms Company. They were the first Remington firearm to use metallic cartridges and the last contract arm supplied to the Federal government at the conclusion of the Civil War. These Type II carbines were manufactured circa 1865-1866 and were not delivered until after the Civil War ended. Most of these carbines were sold back to Remington and then sold to the French for use in the Franco-Prussian War. Very few of these carbines have returned from Europe. The upper receiver tang is marked "REMINGTON'S. ILLION. N.Y. / PAT. DEC. 23. 1863. MAY 3, & NOV. 16, 1864" and the serial number is marked on the front of the frame and bottom of the barrel under the forearm. The bottom of the barrel is also marked with inspection marks "J.T. / M P". The buttplate has "US" on the tang. It has pinched blade front and folding two leaf rear sights. A sling bar and ring are on the left side of the receiver and it is mounted with a smooth oiled black walnut forearm and straight grip stock with an iron carbine buttplate. The left side of the stock has two crisp cartouches, and there are a few small single letter inspection marks on some components. Class: Antique Very good. The barrel has traces of blue finish present at the muzzle and breech ends and is partially bright at center. The receiver has some traces of the original case colors. There is an overall mottled gray patina and some areas of oil residue. The wood is fine aside from a small chip at the left side of the forearm by the barrel band and some scattered minor dents. The cartouches are crisp and most of the other markings remain clear. The action remains excellent. |
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Very Fine Spencer Model 1865 Carbine Lot #3121 (Sale Order 121 of 844) Very Fine Spencer Model 1865 Carbine
Manufactured circa 1865-1866. The top of the receiver is roll stamped: "MODEL/1865" across the top followed by "SPENCER REPEATING-/RIFLE CO. BOSTON. MASS./PAT'D MARCH 6 1860" in four lines. The serial number "31597" is stamped on the top of the receiver behind the ejection port. The left side of the stock wrist, behind the sling bar, is stamped with the Ordnance final inspection mark that consists of the script initials "ESA" enclosed in an oval border. The Ordnance Sub-Inspector's mark "J.L.C." is stamped on the left barrel flat just ahead of the receiver. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on some components. The carbine has a bright finished sling bar and ring mounted on the left side of the stock and the receiver. The barrel has a block-mounted iron front sight and folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch. The carbine has the Stabler magazine cut-off on the lower tang that was fitted on late production Model 1865 Spencer carbines and sling swivels on the barrel band and stock. The barrel has a military blue finish. The receiver, hammer, breechblock, lever and buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are oil-finished American walnut. Although the Model 1865 Spencer carbine was manufactured too late for active service during the Civil War it was used extensively used by the regular cavalry regiments on the frontier including Custer's 7th Cavalry regiment. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine retains nearly 80% of the arsenal finish overall. Much of the muted case colors are present on the case-hardened components. 80% of the blue finish on the barrel remains. The balance has faded to a brown patina. The barrel band and rear sight retain most of the blue finish. The stock and forearm are in excellent condition with only very minor storage wear. The "ESA" inspection mark on the stock wrist is extremely sharp. The receiver markings are crisp. This is a very fine example of an important carbine that was widely used by the U.S. Cavalry from 1865-1875. |
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Rare Blakeslee Cartridge Box for Spencer Carbine Cartridges Lot #3122 (Sale Order 122 of 844) Rare Blakeslee Cartridge Box for Spencer Carbine Cartridges
The tall hexagonal cartridge box has a black leather exterior over a wooden base that holds ten cartridge tubes (two absent) designed to hold Spencer carbine cartridges. This style of box was designed by Erastus Blakeslee of the 1st Connecticut Volunteer Cavalry who received U.S. patent number 45,469 for his cartridge box design on December 20, 1864. This example is marked "U.S./ E. GAYLORD/CHICOPEE/MASS." above a hand marked "G F". An unclear script marking is on the rear strap. 30,000 of these boxes were ordered by the government but few actually saw use in the war. Class: Other Good. Aside from the absent main strap and clasp. The box has only mild age crackling of the leather and some edge wear. |
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Desirable Box of Sage Ammunition Works .50 Caliber Cartridges for Spencer Model 1865 Carbines Lot #3123 (Sale Order 123 of 844) Desirable Box of Sage Ammunition Works .50 Caliber Cartridges for Spencer Model 1865 Carbines
This box of ammunition was manufactured in the Indian War era and has a green label marked "FORTY-TWO PRIMED/METALLIC CARTRIDGES/FOR/SPENCER CARBINE./Cal. 50, - - - - - -Model 1865./MANUFACTURED BY/SAGE AMMUNITION WORKS./Middletown, Conn." The box is currently sealed in plastic. Vintage ammunition is often much more scarce than the firearms themselves. This box of ammunition would be a great addition to a Sharps carbine display. Class: Other Very fine overall. The box has only minor shelf wear. Label is excellent. |
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Rare Early Production Variant Merrill Breech Loading Civil War Carbine Serial Number 183 Lot #3124 (Sale Order 124 of 844) Rare Early Production Variant Merrill Breech Loading Civil War Carbine Serial Number 183
This unique single shot breech loading carbine was manufactured by J.H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, and has the desirable features of the earliest Merrill carbines including: "staple" front sight, iron furniture including a patch box, and early style saddle ring bar (ring absent). The rear sight has two folding leaves graduated out to 300 and 500 yards. The breech lever and lock are marked with the two line Merrill address and patent date along with "183". "100" is marked on the underside of the patch box, lever latch, lever, lock, and buttplate. Merrill carbines were known to be issued to New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Indian, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Delaware cavalry units during the Civil War. Class: Antique Very good. The metal surfaces display a rust brown patina with some small dings, oxidation, pitting, and traces of the original case colors. The wood is also very good with hairline cracks visible on the right side wrist and forend and general scratches and dings from use. The action is fine. The markings are legible throughout though no cartouches are visible. Writer cannot recall another example of this most desirable Civil War carbine ever offered at our auctions! |
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Early Production Civil War J.H. Merrill First Type Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Serial Number 3 Lot #3125 (Sale Order 125 of 844) Early Production Civil War J.H. Merrill First Type Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Serial Number 344
A total of around 14,495 Merrill carbines were manufactured by James H. Merrill of Baltimore and used during the Civil War. This example is the first type manufactured with a brass patch box and the early style markings of "J.J. MERRILL BALTO./PAT. JULY.1858" on the lock below the bolster and on the breech lever. This example is also stamped "344" at the tail of the lock and rear of the breech lever. "28" is stamped in two places on the underside of the breech lever, underside of the buttplate, underside of the lock, inside of the trigger guard, and inside of the patch box. It has a rounded blade front sight and a rear sight with leaves graduated to 300 and 500 yards. Class: Antique Very good. The carbine displays a mottled gray patina with light pitting and oxidation. The action is fine, and the markings are legible. The stock is good with some overall light scratches, a few chips, and a hairline crack present to the left of the breech. Mechanically fine. |
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Civil War Merrill First Type Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3126 (Sale Order 126 of 844) Civil War Merrill First Type Breech Loading Carbine
This carbine was manufactured by J.H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, circa 1862. The carbine has a blade front sight and two-leaf folding rear sight graduated to 300 and 500 yards. A carbine sling bar and ring is attached to the left stock flat. The black walnut stock has the brass patch box found on the standard first type carbines. The lock plate and lever are stamped "J.H. MERRILL BALTO/PAT.JULY, 1858". The lock has the third line "APL 9 MAY 21-28-31" added below the early stamp. The serial number is stamped vertically on the lock plate behind the hammer and on the end of the breech lever. "40" is stamped on the underside of the lever latch, lever, patch box, buttplate, lock, and hammer. Merrill carbines were issued to several Union cavalry units. Class: Antique Fine. The barrel has a mixture of 25% of the original faded blue finish with the balance a brown patina with some spotting. The lock and breech have muted case colors on the exterior, stronger colors on the interior including one section of fiery colors, and a brown patina. The stock is fine with some scrapes, and a few scattered dings. There is a dark circle "shadow" present at the rear of the left flat from where the saddle ring has rested for many years. The action is fine. This is a well above average example of a desirable Civil War carbine! |
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Cased Heavy Barrel Sharps Model 1874 Buffalo Rifle with Accessories Lot #3127 (Sale Order 127 of 844) Cased Heavy Barrel Sharps Model 1874 Buffalo Rifle with Accessories
This rifle was manufactured circa 1872-1873 based on other closely serial numbered rifles shipped to the Great Plains for other buffalo hunters those years listed on page 220 of "Sharps Firearms" by Sellers. It has a heavy barrel marked with the post-April 1876 marking "Old Reliable" in an octagon box and followed by "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT. CONN." ahead of the rear sight and "CALIBRE 50" at the breech. "C. SHARPS PAT/ SEPT. 12th 1848" is on the left flat of the receiver behind the breechblock guide. The serial number is on the upper tang of the receiver, the bottom of the barrel, the trigger plate, buttplate, and front face of the buttstock. The bottom of the barrel is also marked "11" which is for the weight of the barrel: 11 pounds. The total weight of the rifle is 14 3/4 pounds. The heavy weight barrel and the double set triggers are special features mounted on this rifle. The barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a folding leaf rear sight graduated to 800 yards. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a brass tack in the center of the left side and an iron buttplate. Complete in a locking period case. The case is wooden, covered in green painted canvas with brown leather edges, tie down straps, and carrying handle. The lock is correctly unmarked, and it was originally lined with maroon felt but now has some green felt inside. Included are a pair of crossed 30 inch long hickory shooting sticks, a lead bar marked "ST. LOUIS BAR LEAD" that weighs a little less than 3/4 of a pound and a replica tang sight built to original specifications. Shooting sticks and heavy barrels were used to stabilize these rifles for long range shots at bison on the Great Plains. The heavy barrels were also less prone to the effects of the heat generated by rapid fire. By shooting from a distance, hunters had the opportunity to inflict multiple casualties among a herd without stampeding the remaining animals. Class: Antique Fair. The rifle has a worn dark patina on the barrel and some of the casehardening pattern on the lock plate and hammer and otherwise a dark patina. There is some light pitting around the loading chute behind the breechblock. The revarnished wood is fair with a few minor cracks in the stock, a filled hole in the forearm, and overall some minor dents and dings. It is mechanically fine. The case is relined and has some loose partitions. The straps show some heavy wear and one side of the handle has come loose from the case. This is a solid representative example of the Sharps Model 1874 Buffalo rifle. |
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Civil War Berdan Sharpshooter Range Sharps Model 1859 Percussion Military Rifle with Double Set Trig Lot #3128 (Sale Order 128 of 844) Civil War Berdan Sharpshooter Range Sharps Model 1859 Percussion Military Rifle with Double Set Triggers
This Model 1859 Sharps rifle was manufactured in 1862 and is in the same configuration as the special ordered rifles produced for the 1st and 2nd U.S. Sharpshooter Regiments (Berdan's Sharpshooters) in 1862. The Ordnance Department's initial order was for standard Model 1859 rifles, but Colonel Hiram Berdan contacted the factory and requested a dull barrel finish and double set triggers. The factory assumed Berdan had permission for the changes and began producing rifles for the unit to his specifications, but once the Ordnance Department got word, they insisted that they would not pay for additional rifles in the altered configuration. The Sharpshooter rifles fall into the 35,000 to 57,000 range. Furthermore, the accepted serial number range for the approximately 500 Sharps Model 1859 rifles with double set triggers purchased to arm Berdan's Sharpshooters is 54390-55574, and this rifle falls in the range. It is correctly not fit with a lever latch. However, it has a pinned blade front sight instead of the angular bayonet stud sight base. The barrel and receiver have matching serial numbers. The top of the barrel is marked: "SHARPS RIFLE/MANUFG CO/HARTFORD CONN" ahead of the rear sight and "NEW MODEL 1859" behind it. The left side of the receiver has the Sharps 1848 patent date. The lock plate is marked with the Sharps 1852 patent date and the Lawrence 1859 patent date. The folding leaf rear sight is graduated to 800 yards and has the usual Lawrence markings on the base. The left barrel flat is stamped with the Ordnance inspector's initials "C.W.H." just ahead of the receiver. The left stock flat is stamped with three rectangular Ordnance inspection cartouches. The script initials appear to be "AWM", "EF", and "TWR". The sub-inspector's initials "N.S.P." are stamped on the forearm flat at the junction with the receiver and the block initials "T.W.R." are stamped on the stock comb just ahead of the buttplate. The outside of the patchbox is stamped with an "M" sub-inspector mark; the inside of the door is stamped with a single punch mark. The tang of the buttplate is stamped with an "R". Class: Antique Very fine as Arsenal refinished overall. There are traces of pitting visible beneath the finish on the barrel between the receiver and the rear sight. The barrel retains 98% of the dull blue finish. The casehardened components have more than 90% of the vivid case colors along with varnish/oil staining. The stock and forearm are very fine replacements. The buttstock has been revarnished. The multiple inspection cartouches are not consistent with the single inspector's stamp (usually "JT") found on Model 1859 double set trigger rifles identified as issued to Berdan's Sharpshooters. The rifle is a restored Berdan's Model 1859 rifle using a later manufactured stock, forearm, and other components. The rifle is a solid representative example of a Model 1859 Military rifle with the very desirable double set triggers. |
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Rare Civil War Merrill Breech Loading Percussion Rifle Lot #3129 (Sale Order 129 of 844) Rare Civil War Merrill Breech Loading Percussion Rifle
Manufactured by James H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, circa 1862. The Ordnance Department purchased 770 Merrill rifles which were issued to the 21st Indiana Volunteer Infantry and individual sharpshooters. Only about 800 Merrill rifles were manufactured between 1862 and 1865; surviving examples are rare. This rifle has a bright finished barrel with large half-moon shaped iron front sight, lug for a sword bayonet on the right side and two leaf folding rear sight that serves as a latch for the breech lever. The receiver, operating lever, bevel edged lock plate, hammer and bolster are casehardened. The forearm cap, barrel bands, side plate, trigger guard, patch box and buttplate are brass. The iron ramrod has a flared tip. The stock is oil finished black walnut. The rifle serial number is stamped vertically on the lock plate behind the hammer. "J.H. MERRILL BALTO/PAT. JULY 1858/APL. 9 MAY 21-28-61" is stamped in three lines on the lock plate ahead of the hammer. The top of the operating lever is roll stamped "J.H. MERRILL BALTO./PAT. JUL. 1858" in two lines. A Ordnance final inspection stamp that consists of the script initials "ZB" (Zadock Butt) with an oval border is stamped on the left stock flat. A block "F" is stamped on the right side of the stock ahead of the patch box. Although manufactured in limited numbers, Merrill breech loading rifles saw action during the siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, in 1863 and were considered to be accurate and effective weapons. Class: Antique Very good plus. The rifle is all original and shows moderate service wear. The bright finished barrel has aged to a smooth plum-brown patina. The exposed areas of the hammer, breechblock and lock plate have a mottled brown patina. The protected areas of the breechblock and receiver retain substantial amounts of the casehardened finish. The brass furniture has never been polished and has a dark untouched patina. The buttplate has moderate handling wear. The markings on the lock plate and operating lever are sharp. The Ordnance final inspection mark on the left stock flat is crisp and completely legible. The stock is very good and shows a professionally repaired wrist with moderate service wear with scattered minor scratches and handling marks. This is a rare example of a rare Civil War breech loading rifle that would be a great addition to any collection of Civil War firearms. |
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Civil War Production Sharps New Model 1863 Rifle Lot #3130 (Sale Order 130 of 844) Civil War Production Sharps New Model 1863 Rifle
This Sharps New Model 1863 rifle is from the lot of approximately 6,100 Sharps rifles delivered to the Ordnance Department between February and June 1865. Most of these rifles were purchased to arm the U.S. Veteran Volunteer Infantry (USVVI) regiments raised in 1865 to serve as an elite corps of veteran infantry. The USVVI regiments were issued Sharps, Spencer and Henry rifles and allowed to retain the rifles when they mustered out of service. The USVVI regiments were raised too late to see action. The rifle has the standard Sharps military blue finish on the barrel and casehardened barrel bands, receiver, hammer, lever, patchbox and buttplate. The stock and forearm are oil finished walnut. The rifle has a steel block front sight that serves as a base for a socket bayonet and a R.S. Lawrence patent folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch. The receiver is fitted with the Lawrence patent pellet primer and the stock has an iron patchbox. The top of the barrel is stamped with the Sharps legend in three lines between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The rear sight base is stamped with Lawrence patent markings, and "NEW MODEL 1863" is stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The Sharps 1864 patent date is stamped on the left side of the receiver. The Sharps 1852 patent date is stamped on the right side of the lock plate, and the Lawrence 1859 patent date is stamped on the upper receiver behind the hammer. The serial number "C37290" is roll-stamped on the upper tang. The Ordnance sub-inspection mark "M.N.M." is stamped on the left barrel flat. Two illegible oval Ordnance inspection marks are visible on the left side of the stock wrist. Single and multiple letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on various components. The rifle is fitted with an old leather sling that is not period to the rifle. Class: Antique Very good. The barrel and barrel bands have a dark patina with scattered spots of age discoloration. The receiver, hammer, lever, patch box and buttplate have 25% of the faded casehardened finish. The percussion nipple, hammer and breechblock show minimal flash pitting. The lower sling swivel is covered with surface rust. The stock and forearm are in good overall condition with moderate handling and storage wear. The action functions perfectly. This is a solid and original example of an important Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 rifle that shows mostly storage wear. |
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Scarce Spencer New Model Military Rifle Lot #3131 (Sale Order 131 of 844) Scarce Spencer New Model Military Rifle
Manufactured circa mid 1860s with an estimated production of approximately 5,000. These New Model Military rifles can be found in the serial number range of 101,000 to over 108,000 and feature a 30 inch 6 groove 52 caliber barrel blade front sight, saber bayonet lug on the underside and a folding leaf rear sight graduated to 700 yards. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "NM", the top of the receiver "SPENCER REPEATING/RIFLE CO. BOSTON MASS/PAT'D MARCH 6, 1860" and the serial number is marked on the top rear of the receiver next to the hammer. The barrel was blue and remaining parts casehardened and mounted with a full length smooth walnut forearm secured by three barrel bands with sling swivel on mounted on the middle band and straight grip stock with iron buttplate and sling swivel. Class: Antique Very good. The barrel and barrel bands have a smooth mottled brown patina with a few minor dings on the barrel. The buttplate has a smooth grayish brown mottled patina. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth silver gray patina. The wood has been varnished some time ago and remains good with a number of pressure dents, a few small absent splinter and dings. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. |
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U.S. Civil War Remington Model 1863 "Zouave" Percussion Rifle Lot #3132 (Sale Order 132 of 844) U.S. Civil War Remington Model 1863 "Zouave" Percussion Rifle
The Remington Model 1863 is widely considered to be one of the best made weapons of the Civil War. High condition guns such as this suggest they were not issued. This "Zouave" rifle has a blade front sight and three leaf rear. It is dated "1863" on the breech near the "V/P/eagle head" markings and has "H STEEL H.S.L." on the left flat at the breech. A bayonet stud for a saber bayonet is fitted to the right side of the barrel just ahead of the forend cap. It has a casehardened lock plate marked with "1863" behind the hammer and the "eagle motif/U.S." and "REMINGTON'S ILION. N.Y." at the front. It has a blued barrel and straight grip walnut stock with brass furniture including the brass patch box which contains a replacement nipple. The left stock flat has "HDJ" and "RH" cartouches. Some single letter inspection marks are also found on various components. It includes a tulip head ramrod. Class: Antique Fine. 70% of the thinning original blue finish remains on the barrel with some brown patina forming. The lock has a mottled silver gray patina. The brass furniture has a lightly aged patina overall and some brighter and darker spots. The stock is also fine with some scratches and a few minor chips but mostly exceptionally smooth surfaces. The lock is excellent. |
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Sharps New Model 1859 Cartridge Conversion Rifle Lot #3133 (Sale Order 133 of 844) Sharps New Model 1859 Cartridge Conversion Rifle
This rifle was manufactured circa 1860 as a New Model 1859 and subsequently converted to cartridge post Civil War. It falls in the range of Sharps rifles issued to Berdans U.S. Sharpshooters during the war. It has a blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, standard New Model patent and address markings, a musket style forend, straight wrist stock with patch box, and sling swivels on the middle barrel band and bottom of the buttstock. Only 1,086 New Model rifles are believed to have been converted after the war to fire the newly adopted 50-70 centerfire cartridge compared to over 27,000 carbines also adapted to 50-70 centerfire with three groove rifling. Class: Antique Fair. The rifle has primarily a dark brown patina overall mixed with traces of the arsenal blue finish, extensive mild pitting, and some light oxidation. The reoiled stock and forearm are both very good with handling/storage type marks and mild wear at the barrel bands. The left flat has a crisp cartouche. The action is fine, and most of the markings are legible. |
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Historic Civil War P.J. Malherbe & Company "Saxon" Percussion Rifle with Bayonet and Powder Flask At Lot #3134 (Sale Order 134 of 844) Historic Civil War P.J. Malherbe & Company "Saxon" Percussion Rifle with Bayonet and Powder Flask Attributed to Charles T. Douglas of the 52nd Illinois Volunteers
This rifle is marked "P.J. MALHERBE&CIE/A LIEGE" on the lock plate. The company was registered with the Liege proofhouse 1836-1869. There are also Liege proofmarks throughout along with "667" on the left barrel flat and small "67" marks on the various components. It has a triangular blade front sight and notch rear sight with two folding leaves. It has a walnut stock with dual front and mid bands and sling swivels on the center band and bottom of the butt. The left side of the butt has a cheekpiece with "USED AT THE BATTLE OF/SHILOH TENN. 1862 BY/CHAS. T. DOUGLAS/CO. H. 52D ILLS. VOLS./WAS WOUNDED BY THREE OUNCE BALLS". Corporal Charles T. Douglas of Aurora, Illinois, is listed on the roster of the 52nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry in Company H. He was discharged on July 19, 1863. Of the 500 men of the 52nd that marched into battle at Shiloh, 170 men were killed, wounded, or missing by the end and another 70 were killed or wounded in the Battle of Corinth that followed. In a contemporary newspaper account, their leader said that the men seemed unphased by bullet wounds and fought hard. Between 20,000 and 30,000 thousand Malherbe Model 1851 and 1857 "Saxon" or "Dresden" rifles were imported for the war. One Illinois colonel reportedly said: "These Belgian muskets will kick like a mule, and burst with the greatest facility. Several soldiers in our Illinois regiments have been killed in this way." He also complained that the bayonets were too soft and would "coil round the enemy, thus taking him prisoner." The Ordnance Department considered them first rate weapons. Included with the gun is an original socket bayonet that is also marked with "67" and an 1847 dated Batty "peace" pattern brass powder flask with leather strap (#861-862 in THE POWDER FLASK BOOK). Class: Antique Very good. The metal surfaces have a golden brown patina overall with some patches of light pitting and oxidation. The lightly varnished, preserved stock is very good with only minor scrapes and a few small gouges. The action is fine, and the markings, including those on the stock, are clear. The front barrel band spring and the hammer screw are absent. The bayonet is fine with an overall mottled brown patina and oxidation. The flask is also fine with a dark aged patina. |
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Civil War U.S. Springfield Model 1863 Percussion Rifle-Musket with Whitney Arms Co. Marking Lot #3135 (Sale Order 135 of 844) Civil War U.S. Springfield Model 1863 Percussion Rifle-Musket with Whitney Arms Co. Marking
This is an example of a Type I Model 1863 Rifle-Musket fitted with a stock marked with an eagle over "WHITNEY ARMS CO." on the right side of the butt. It has a bayonet stud/blade front sight, folding rear sight, and screw fastened barrel bands. The rear of the lock plate and the barrel tang are dated "1863". The lock also has the standard eagle emblem and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" stamped ahead of the hammer. An additional "eagle/shield" is stamped on the bolster. The barrel also has the "V/P/eagle head" proofs on the left side at the breech. The full length stock has "TBH" and ESA" cartouches on the left flat. The iron ramrod has a tulip head and swelled shank. Class: Antique Very good. The barrel has a mottled gray patina with dark speckled pitting along its length. The remaining components retain strong blue finish and also have some pitting and gray-brown patina. The stock is near fine with dark oiled finish, some small chips and minor scratches, and a glued repair visible near the left upper buttplate tang. The action is fine. Most of the markings are clear. |
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Excellent Peabody Breech-Loading Carbine Lot #3136 (Sale Order 136 of 844) Excellent Peabody Breech-Loading Carbine
Developed during the Civil War and manufactured by the Providence Tool Company of Providence, Rhode Island, most Peabody carbines were manufactured for sale to France circa 1870. A small number of Peabody carbine were purchased by South Carolina to arm the state militia. This carbine has a military blue 20-inch barrel with a steel block front sight and a folding leaf rear sight. The barrel band, receiver, side-plate, breech block, hammer, lever and buttplate have a case-hardened finish with muted case colors. A staple-mounted sling ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The stock and forearm are oil finished American walnut. The legend: "PEABODY'S PAT./JULY 22. 1862/MAN'F'D BY/PROV.R.I." is roll-stamped in five lines on the left side of the receiver. The factory inspection mark which consists of the script initials "WC" in an oval is stamped on the left side of the stock wrist. Single letter sub-inspection marks are stamped on major components. Class: Antique Excellent. The carbine appears to be un-fired and shows only very limited storage wear. The barrel retains at least 97% plus of the military blue finish. The case-hardened components retain 98% plus of the original finish with strong case colors - the only significant wear is on the heel of the buttplate. The factory legend on the left side of the receiver is crisp. The stock and forearm are both in excellent condition as the other components. The factory "WC" cartouche is extremely sharp. The stock and forearm have an un-touched raised grain and all of the original oil finish is intact. Wear is limited to a few very insignificant storage marks. This is a new example of a Peabody Breech-Loading Carbine. |
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Civil War Smith Breech-Loading Carbine Lot #3137 (Sale Order 137 of 844) Civil War Smith Breech-Loading Carbine
Smith Carbine manufactured by the American Machine Works of Springfield, Massachusetts. The Smith Carbine was one of the most important Federal Cavalry carbines. A total of 30,362 Smith Carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smith Carbines were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons. The carbine has a military blue barrel, case-hardened barrel band, receiver, hammer, and buttplate and niter blue trigger guard and barrel latch. The stock and forearm are oil-finished American walnut. The barrel has a folding leaf rear sight and front sight with a nickel-silver blade. A bright finished sling bar and ring are mounted on the left side of the frame. The left side of the frame is marked: "ADDRESS/POULTNEY & TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE U.S.A." in three horizontal lines above the sling bar and "SMITH'S PATENT/JUNE 23, 1857" in two vertical lines near the breech. "MANUFACTURED BY/AM'N M'CH'N WKS/SPRINGFIELD MASS" is roll stamped on the left side of the frame below the sling bar. The serial number "7446" is located on the barrel lug and on the receiver lugs. An Ordnance sub-inspection mark, "L.F.R." is stamped on the left barrel flat. A Ordnance final inspection mark which consists of the script initials "JH" in an oval is stamped on the left stock wrist. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on some components. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine retains 90% of the blue and 75% case-hardened finish. The military blue finish on the barrel shows minimal wear. The barrel latch and trigger guard have about 95% of the niter blue finish. Nearly all of the case-hardened finish is present on the barrel band, receiver, hammer and buttplate with strong case colors. The receiver markings are crisp. The lightly oiled stock and forearm are both in very fine condition. The Ordnance inspection mark on the left wrist is extremely sharp. This is a solid representative example of an important Civil War carbine. |
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Fine Civil War Second Model Maynard Breech-Loading Carbine Lot #3138 (Sale Order 138 of 844) Fine Civil War Second Model Maynard Breech-Loading Carbine
Second Model Maynard Breech-Loading Carbine manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Co. of Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts, c. 1863-1865. The carbine has a part-octagon/part round-round, military blue barrel with folding, two leaf rear sight and wide base iron front sight. The hammer, receiver, lever and buttplate are color case-hardened. The left side of the receiver is fitted with a sling bar and ring. The stock is straight grain, oil-finished, American walnut. The right side of the receiver is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY/MASS. ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS." in three lines. The left side of the receiver is marked: "EDWARD MAYNARD./PATENTEE./MAY 27. 1851./DEC. 6. 1859." in three lines. The serial number, "18082" is stamped on the lower receiver tang. Two script Ordnance inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the stock wrist. The Ordnance Department purchased 20,202 Maynard carbines during the Civil War and the carbines were widely issued to Federal cavalry regiments. Class: Antique Very fine. The carbine retains 90% of the slightly faded military blue and 75% color casehardened finish. The receiver markings are crisp. The front sight is covered with modern orange paint which could be easily removed. The stock is in very good overall condition and has a repaired crack in the left wrist that runs from the edge of the receiver to the upper tang. The fine stock has been reoiled and has some scattered and very minor handling marks. Both of the Ordnance inspection marks on the left side of the stock wrist are clear. This is a solid representative example of an important Civil War carbine |
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Uniquely Inscribed Sharps Model 1853 Slant Breech Carbine Lot #3139 (Sale Order 139 of 844) Uniquely Inscribed Sharps Model 1853 Slant Breech Carbine
This model is a continuation of the Model 1852 and was manufactured from 1853 to 1855 by Robbins & Lawrence of Windsor, Vermont, for Sharps with a total production of approximately 10,500. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG CO./HARTFORD, CONN". The upper tang is marked "C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848" followed by the serial number, and the lock is marked "SHARPS/PATENT/1852". It has a round blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, sling swivel mounted on the iron barrel band and left side of the frame, and is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with brass patch box and carbine buttplate. The stock has "ABRAM BROWN/ BULL RUN 1861" period finely carved into the left side. Several, mostly African American, Abram Brown's fought in service to the Union during the war and at least two other Abram Brown's fought for the Confederacy. None have been confirmed by writer to have been in units that participated in the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861, but readily available Civil War records are not complete and further research might uncover a possible connection. Class: Antique Good. The carbine has a gray-brown patina on the barrel, brown patina on the action, and an attractive aged patina on the brass. There are patches of minor pitting and oxidation. The wood is also good with numerous scratches and dents and some chipping around the lock plate. The action is fine, and the markings are legible. |
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Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Smith Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3140 (Sale Order 140 of 844) Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Smith Breech Loading Carbine
A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smith carbines utilized gas sealing rubber cartridges and were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons by many of the cavalrymen they were issued to. This example has the three sets of Massachusetts Arms, Smith, and Poultney & Trimble markings on the left side of the frame. The matching serial number is on the receiver and barrel. It features a blade front sight and a combination notch and correct folding ladder rear sight without range markings. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip walnut stock with a steel carbine buttplate. There are sharp "AJN" and "JM" cartouches on the left wrist. Class: Antique Fine. The partially refinished barrel (cold blue near muzzle) with the balance having a faded blue finish with primarily dark brown patina along with rough oxidation towards the front. The action retains 40% case colors under a brown patina. The wood is fine aside from a few nicks and scratches and on gouge on the left side of the butt. The action is excellent, and most of the markings are crisp. |
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Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Saddle Ring Carbine Lot #3141 (Sale Order 141 of 844) Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Saddle Ring Carbine
After the Civil War the U.S. government had many of its percussion firearms converted to fire metallic cartridges. This included approximately 32,184 Sharps New Model rifles and carbines. This example was converted to .50-70 centerfire using a lined, three groove barrel. It has the standard New Model markings, pinned brass blade front sight, Lawrence folding ladder rear sight, smooth forearm and buttstock, and a saddle ring and bar with "W.L.W." marked base. "WALTER WHITMORE." is period stamped on the left side of the forearm. The buttstock has a crisp "DFC" ribbon cartouche. Class: Antique Fine. The carbine retains 95% plus of the refurbished blue along with traces of partially faded case colors. There are some spots of light oxidation and minor marks. The wood is also fine with some scrapes, dings, and small chips. The action is excellent, Some of the markings are obscured. |
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Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Second Model Maynard Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3142 (Sale Order 142 of 844) Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Second Model Maynard Breech Loading Carbine
The Second Model Maynard carbines were manufactured 1863-1865. The barrel is fitted with a pinched blade front sight and folding two-leaf rear sight graduated to 100, 300, and 500 yards. A sling bar and ring are mounted on the left side of the receiver. The right side of the receiver is stamped "MANUFACTURED BY/MASS. ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS." The opposite side of the receiver is marked "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE/MAY 27 1851/DEC 6. 1859". The serial number is located on the bottom of the receiver tang. It has some small single letter inspection marks. The straight grip buttstock has "GWS" and "JM" cartouches and hand carved "RB." on the left side. Class: Antique Fine. 90% of the slightly thinned original blue finish remains along with strong case colors on the right side of the frame. The receiver 40% case colors with the balance mostly having a mixture of gray and brown patina and there is some overall light spotting. The otherwise fine stock has carved initials (see photo) with scattered light scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. |
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Civil War Fifth Model Burnside Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3143 (Sale Order 143 of 844) Civil War Fifth Model Burnside Breech Loading Percussion Carbine
This carbine is marked with the "BURNSIDE'S PATENT/MODEL OF 1864" marking on the top of the frame at the breech, faint Burnside address on the lock plate, "CAST STEEL 1865" on the barrel, and matching serial numbers on the frame and breechblock. There are several small inspection markings. It has a pinched blade front sight, folding leaf rear sight, saddle ring and bar on the left side of the action, the distinctive guide screw in the right side of the action,, and smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with a smooth buttplate and sling swivel. Class: Antique Very good. The carbine displays primarily a mottled gray patina on the action, a mottled brown patina on the barrel, and has traces of the blue finish and case colors on the breechblock. The sanded and refinished wood is fine with small chips, dings, and scrapes. The action is fine. |
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Scarce Sharps Model 1855 British Contract Carbine Lot #3144 (Sale Order 144 of 844) Scarce Sharps Model 1855 British Contract Carbine
This is an example of 1 of just 3,000 Sharps Model 1855 carbines with an 19 inch barrel sold to the British Government. British proofs are marked on the top of the barrel near the breech and on the upper tang. It is also marked "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" and "25485" on the upper tang and "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTED 1845" on the primer door. Most of these British carbines are lost since they were used in the burgeoning British Empire in the 19t century. A few are believed to have been sold back to the United States and used during the Civil War most of those would have also been well worn or destroyed in the process. This example has a blade front sight and a rear sight with four folding leaves and a center notch graduated 2, 3, 4, and 6. It is fitted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with a brass buttplate and patchbox. Class: Antique Good, but incomplete. The carbine has a partially bright appearance with spots of light pitting and oxidation, some oil staining, and light brown patina. The wood is fair as sanded and re-oiled with a chunk absent above the lock, some cracks and repairs on the forend, and overall minor dings and scratches. The saddle ring and bar is absent. The action is fine, and the markings are mostly clear. |
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Historic Documented Civil War Joslyn Model 1862 Breech Loading Carbine with Research Lot #3145 (Sale Order 145 of 844) Historic Documented Civil War Joslyn Model 1862 Breech Loading Carbine with Research
This Model 1862 Joslyn carbine is one of the 2,200 purchased by the government during the Civil War. Included with the carbine is an extensive research file consisting of copies of documents from the National Archives. On document is a copy of a page from the Adjunct General's Office listing the equipment issued to Judson Stickle. It lists this "480 1 Carbine," "127337 1 Colt Revolver," and "1 Sabre" as having been issued to Stickle. Page 24 of Carbines of the U.S. Cavalry, 1861-1905 notes that the 19th New York Cavalry was the only cavalry unit issued Model 1862 Joslyn carbines. Based on the other documentation, Stickle served in Company F of the 19th N.Y. Cavalry during the war and spent significant time hospitalized do to "Billious Fever" (likely typhoid) which rendered him unfit to fight. This is not surprising given many estimates place the number of Union soldiers killed by disease at 250,000 compared to 110,000 killed in combat. Typhoid was the number two killer of Union troops in camp and thus Stickle is lucky to have survived. A copy of a photograph of Private Stickle is also included. The carbine has a three leaf folding rear sight, sling bar and ring on the left flat, and brass barrel band, trigger guard and buttplate. The serial number is located on the top of the breechblock and on the breech hinge. The lock plate is marked: "JOSLYN FIRE ARMS Co/STONINGTON/CONN". The Joslyn patent markings are located on the top of the breech block. The inspector's initials "EF" are stamped on the left side of the barrel, and script cartouches are stamped in a rectangle on the left side of the stock above the sling bar. Class: Antique Good. The metal surfaces are mostly bright with some patches of slight pitting and some minor marks. The rear sight retains traces of the original blue finish. The wood is also good with some scrapes and pressure marks but generally smooth surfaces and legible cartouches. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. |
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Scarce British Type Greene Single-Shot Breech-Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3146 (Sale Order 146 of 844) Scarce British Type Greene Single-Shot Breech-Loading Percussion Carbine
Greene Breech-Loading Percussion Carbine manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Company for the British government c. 1856. Total production was 2000 carbines; experts estimate that all but about 200 Greene carbines were destroyed and stripped for parts. The carbine has a 16-inch round barrel with 16-sided hand grip in the center, wide base iron front sight and folding leaf rear sight. The receiver has two triggers, the front trigger serves as the barrel latch. The lockplate has a Maynard primer magazine ahead of the hammer. A carbine sling ring is mounted on the lower receiver tang. The walnut stock has an iron buttplate and patch box. The barrel is blued. The lockplate, primer magazine door, hammer, trigger guard, patch box and buttplate are color case-hardened. The stock is oil-finished walnut. The lockplate is roll-stamped: "MASS. ARMS CO/CHICOPEE FALLS/1856" in three lines followed by British "Crown/VxR" Royal Cypher. The primer magazine door is roll-stamped: "MAYNARD'S PATENT/SEP.22. 1845" in a circle. British inspection marks are stamped on the barrel, receiver and patch box. The British "S/Broad Arrow", "Sold-Out-Of-Service" (surplus) mark is stamped on the left side of the barrel. The serial number "1587" is stamped on the underside of the hand grip. "U.S." is stamped on the left side of the stock comb just ahead of the buttplate. The "U.S." mark may not be original to the carbine. Class: Antique Fine. The carbine retains 60% of the original case color and shows only storage wear. The barrel retains 30% blue with the balance mostly a gray patina. There is no flash pitting on the hammer, percussion nipple or adjacent areas of the lockplate. The patch box has a good-looking, untouched, patina. The stock is in fine condition with scattered, minor storage marks. This is a very good example of a scarce British Greene Breech-loading carbine. |
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Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 Navy Carbine Lot #3147 (Sale Order 147 of 844) Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 Navy Carbine
This carbine is one of approximately 6,686 Model 1862 Sharps & Hankins purchased by the U.S. Navy between 1862-1865. These carbines feature a unique leather barrel cover to protect the barrel from rust. The leather is secured by two screws at the breech. The frame is casehardened and has the Second Model floating firing pin mounted in the recoil shield. The walnut stock has an oiled finish and brass buttplate. The barrel has a brass blade front sight and a tangent rear sight graduated to 800 yards. Class: Antique Very good plus. This carbine has a mostly intact leather barrel cover that has some extensive crackling and minor wear but is complete. Most of these carbines are found either without this cover or with it badly deteriorated. The action has 30% of the original case colors and otherwise a mottled brown patina. The buttplate has a pleasant aged patina. The wood is very good with some small dings and a few light scratches. The action is fine, and the markings are crisp. |
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Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Saddle Ring Carbine Lot #3148 (Sale Order 148 of 844) Sharps New Model 1863 Cartridge Conversion Saddle Ring Carbine
After the Civil War approximately 32,184 Sharps New Model rifles and carbines were refurbished and converted to fire metallic cartridges by Sharps for the U.S. government starting in 1867. This example has a relined, three groove barrel, standard markings, German silver blade front and Lawrence patent folding ladder sights, smooth straight wrist stock and forearm, and a saddle ring and bar on the left. The stock has a crisp "EF" cartouche above the barrel and a "DFC" ribbon cartouche on the left side of the butt. Class: Antique Fine. The carbine retains 40% of the refurbished blue and casehardened finish and has some light spotting and minor marks. The wood is also fine with crisp cartouches, some dings and scrapes. The action is excellent. Some of the markings were obliterated but most are clear. |
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Early Production Martially Inspected Serial Number 69 Spencer Model 1865 Repeating Carbine Lot #3149 (Sale Order 149 of 844) Early Production Martially Inspected Serial Number 69 Spencer Model 1865 Repeating Carbine
The Model 1865 Spencer carbine was manufactured in 1865 and has the serial number "69" marked on the top of the action behind the breech. The receiver bridge is marked with the three line address and patent information (same as Model 1860s). The barrel has "M.1865" (early style motif) on the barrel near the breech. There are some small single letter inspection marks. It has a blade front sight on a raised stud, folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards, smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist buttstock, standard Spencer buttplate, sling swivels on the barrel band and butt, and a saddle ring bar with ring on the left side of the wrist. There are two crisp cartouches on the left. Never saw service. Class: Antique Good. The rifle retains 20% of the thinned blue finish on the barrel and traces of the original case colors. The barrel has primarily a dull blue/gray patina while the action has been cleaned to partially bright. There is some light pitting. The wood is very good with legible cartouches, several dings, light scratches, and small chips. The markings are legible throughout. |
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Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Smith Patent Breech Loading Carbine Lot #3150 (Sale Order 150 of 844) Civil War Massachusetts Arms Co. Smith Patent Breech Loading Carbine
A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the U.S. during the Civil War. Smith carbines utilized gas sealing rubber cartridges and were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons by many of the cavalrymen they were issued to. This example has the three sets of Massachusetts Arms, Smith patent, and Poultney & Trimble markings on the left side of the frame. The matching serial number is on the receiver and barrel at the hinge. It features a pinched blade front sight and a combination notch and folding ladder rear sight without range markings. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip walnut stock with a steel carbine buttplate. There are sharp "JM" cartouches on the left wrist. Class: Antique Very good. The rifle retains 80% plus of the original blue finish with some thinning, marks, and light spotting. The action has mostly a dark brown patina. The wood is very good aside from a large chunk of wood is absent at the junction with the back of the frame and some minor scraps and ding. The action is excellent, and the markings are legible. |
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Kentucky Militia Marked Civil War Era Triplett & Scott Breech Loading Rifle Lot #3151 (Sale Order 151 of 844) Kentucky Militia Marked Civil War Era Triplett & Scott Breech Loading Rifle
The Triplett & Scott carbines and rifles were manufactured by the Meriden Manufacturing Company in the final two years of the Civil War. Only 3,000 of the rifles and 2,000 of the carbines are estimated to have been produced. The Triplett & Scott system employs a novel design in which the barrel group rotates down to a magazine tube projecting from the stock underneath the action on the left for reloading. They were designed for the 56-50 Spencer cartridge. Very few of these firearms saw use during the Civil War. The whole 5,000 appear to have been sold on a contract executed on January 2,1865, to the State of Kentucky for use by the Kentucky home guard troops who were called upon to protect Sherman's supply lines. They were delivered in May after the war had ended. This example was clearly designated for that purpose based on the small "KENTUCKY" stamp on the left side of the breech. The upper tang is marked "TRIPLET & SCOTT/PATENT DEC 6 1864", and the left side of the receiver is marked "MERIDEN MANFG Co./MERIDEN CONN." Meriden Manufacturing Company was Charles Parker's second venture into firearms production prior to making the famous Parker Brothers shotguns. The rifle has a blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight. The forearm is secured by a screw and a carbine style single barrel band. The straight wrist buttstock has swivels on the top and bottom and a slightly curved buttplate. Class: Antique Very good. The rifle has a mix of fading original finish and gray and brown patina. The wood is very good with some small pressure marks and light scratches along with a "typical" two inch long hairline crack on the left side of the wrist. Cracks at this location are common on these rifles and carbines due to the inherent weaknesses created by the magazine tube. This example is less obvious than most. The action is fine, and the markings are crisp. The spring for resetting the loading gate appears to be absent or non-functional. |
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Civil War Sharps New Model 1859 Saddle Ring Percussion Carbine Lot #3152 (Sale Order 152 of 844) Civil War Sharps New Model 1859 Saddle Ring Percussion Carbine
This Sharps New Model 1859 has the standard patent and address markings, brass blade front sight, Lawrence patent folding notch/ladder rear sight, replacement earlier production brass barrel band, iron patch box, saddle ring and bar, and smooth walnut stock and forearm. Approximately 30,000 of these carbines were produced. Class: Antique Fair. The carbine has a brown patina with patches of oxidation, some scattered marks, and light pitting. The lever has been reshaped/refinished during the period of usage. The well worn wood is fair and has various scrapes, chips, dings, and small cracks. There is a dowel pin repair on left side of wrist below saddle ring bar. The action is fine but the primer appears incomplete. The markings are mostly legible. |
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Civil War Merrill First Type Breech Loading Percussion Carbine Lot #3153 (Sale Order 153 of 844) Civil War Merrill First Type Breech Loading Percussion Carbine
This carbine was manufactured by J.H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, circa 1862. The carbine has a blade front sight and two-leaf folding rear sight graduated to 300 and 500 yards. A carbine sling bar and ring is attached to the left stock flat. The black walnut stock has the brass patch box found on the standard first type carbines. The lock plate and lever are stamped "J.H. MERRILL BALTO/PAT.JULY, 1858". The lock has the third line "APL 9 MAY 21-28-31" added below the early stamp. The serial number is stamped vertically on the lock plate behind the hammer and on the end of the breech lever. "3/61" is stamped on the inside of the patch box, buttplate, lock, and hammer. Merrill carbines were issued to several Union units including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Delaware cavalry regiments. Class: Antique Good. The carbine has patches of brown patina, spotting, and some light pitting but is primarily bright. The barrel band screw is absent. The brass components have an aged patina. The stock is also good as re-oiled with a faint cartouche on the left flat, a chip at the front of the lock, some scrapes and divots. The action is excellent. Some of the markings are faint, but they are all identifiable. |
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Reproduction Confederate Tredegar Iron Works Style Twelve Pound Napoleon Field Gun with Carriage, Li Lot #3154 (Sale Order 154 of 844) Reproduction Confederate Tredegar Iron Works Style Twelve Pound Napoleon Field Gun with Carriage, Limber and Accoutrements
The twelve pound "Napoleon" cannon was first used in the U.S. in 1857 and was the most popular smoothbore cannon used during the Civil War and was known to be safe and reliable as well as devastating especially at close range. They were said to be accurate out to a mile when handled by a skilled crew. The Union Ordnance Department simply called it the "light 12-pounder gun" to differentiate it from the longer barreled "heavy 12-pound gun" which was seldom used. The Napoleon was the last bronze gun used by the U.S. Army. This example is modelled after one of the Confederate variations based on its straight muzzle. While most Napoleon cannons used by both sides during the war were bronze, the Confederacy began casting iron Napoleons at the Tredegar Iron Works in January 1864 due to the scarcity of copper which was compounded by the Union Army's capture of the copper mines outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee. The massive cannon is just over 11 foot long from the muzzle to the end of the carriage tail and is 5 1/2 feet wide from the outside edges of the wheels which stand 4 feet and 10 inches tall. The bore is 4 1/2 inches at the muzzle which has a post sight, and the cannon itself is 6 feet long from muzzle to the cascabel. The wheels on the limber are the same size. The limber chest and cannon carriage are both marked "No. 1", and there is a round brass plaque on the right side of the carriage tail marked "161A/BOC". Multiple cannon ramrods (two with bore mops), wheel stops, a canvas cover, leather muzzle and vent covers, two iron vessels, and other accoutrements are included. The wood has an olive green paint while the iron has a glossy black paint. No maker's marks were found. Class: Other Very fine as custom made. 90% of the black and olive paint remain with some minor imperfections. There are some cracks in the wood mostly on the axle body and some minor oxidation on the iron wheel rims where the black paint has flaked. This is a very well built cannon and limber set complete with various accoutrements and would look right at home on a Civil War battlefield surrounded by men in gray. |
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Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver with Ulysses S. Grant Bust Carved Grip and Accessories Lot #3155 (Sale Order 155 of 844) Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver with Ulysses S. Grant Bust Carved Grip and Accessories
This revolver was manufactured in 1863 and subsequently custom embellished in the 20th Century. It features the standard German silver blade and hammer notch sights, is cut for a shoulder stock (not included), has the one-line "U.S. AMERICA" barrel address, naval engagement cylinder scene, "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, matching serial numbers, small "D" inspection marks, a one piece style grip with a relieve carved bust of General/President Ulysses S. Grant on the right, and floral scroll and punch dot engraving on about 25% of the barrel, nearly all of the frame, and part of the trigger guard and back strap. The hammer has an animal head design (possibly a wolf). The trigger guard/front strap is silver plated. The barrel, back strap, and cylinder are blued, and the frame and loading lever have case colors. The revolver comes in a modern French fit case with several lead balls, a silver plated powder flask with a dog motif, and a Colt patent bullet mold. Class: Antique Very good as embellished. 90% plus of the refurbished blue finish on the barrel remains. Traces of the blue remains on the cylinder and back strap. The frame and lever retain 60% of the case colors. 40% of the silver plating remains. There are some minor marks and light spotting. The grip is very fine with a hairline crack on the left side, attractive cream tones, and crisp carved designs. The action is excellent, and the markings and engraving patterns are clear. The modern custom case is wear mint with some minor storage wear. The accessories are very good. |
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Pre-Civil War U.S. Colt 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver with Iron Grip Frame Lot #3156 (Sale Order 156 of 844) Pre-Civil War U.S. Colt 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver with Iron Grip Frame
This 1851 Navy was manufactured in 1856 near the end of the Navy-Navy range and is marked with "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." on the left side of the frame, the Texas Navy cylinder scene, and matching visible serial numbers. The butt is marked with "TMA" on the grip to the right, but the butt of the back strap lacks the usual U.S. Navy marking and no inspection marks are visible. It has a brass cone front sight, hammer notch rear sight, and smooth walnut grip. Class: Antique Fine as period refinished. The revolver retains 90% of the blue finish and case colors with minor fading, edge wear, and patches of spotting and pitting. The grip is fine with light scrapes and a repair on the toe on the right. The markings are grips throughout, and the action is excellent. |
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Rare Documented Samuel Colt English Cased, Engraved London Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver Lot #3157 (Sale Order 157 of 844) Rare Documented Samuel Colt English Cased, Engraved London Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver Presented to Admiral Cochrane
This early production London Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver was manufactured circa. 1853 and is pictured and discussed in the Man at Arms Vol. 15 No. 3 from 1993 (copy included). The article "To the Admiral & the Commodore: Compliments of the Inventor-The Story of Two Famous Colt London Navy Pistols by Joseph G. Rosa notes that the revolver has the distinctive British scroll engraving. The back strap is inscribed: "FROM THE INVENTOR/TO ADMIRAL/SIR THOs COCHRANE". The revolver is complete with a British oak case with typical London Colt accessories. Admiral Thomas J. Cochrane G.C.B (1775-1860) was senior British naval officer, radical politician, and was known to the French as "Le Loup des Mers" (The Sea Wolf or The Wolf of the Sea). He was dismissed from the Royal Navy in 1814 due to a conviction for fraud and then fought with the rebel Navy of Chile, Brazil, and Greece during their wars for independence. He rejoined the Royal Navy in 1832 and was given the title Rear Admiral of the Blue. He died in 1860 with the title Admiral of the Red and the honorary title Rear-Admiral of the United Kingdom. Cochrane had a distinguished naval career that included victorious engagements against French and United States warships during the Napoleonic Wars and War of 1812. He participated in the burning of Washington, D.C. in August 1814. The revolver's presentation coincides with the purchase of 23,500 London Model 1851 Navy revolvers by the British government in 1854. Nearly half of these revolvers were issued to the Royal Navy and, as discussed in the article, Cochrane was involved in the process that generated those orders, and thus, the revolver was likely given to grease the wheels. This revolver has the early First London Model brass back strap and small oval trigger guard. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "- ADDRESS COL: COLT. LONDON.-" with arrows at either end on the legend. "COLTS PATENT" is hand engraved in a ribbon on the left side of the frame. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene and "COLTS PATENT No." London "CROWN/V" and "CROWN/CP" proof and inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel lug ahead the wedge and over each cylinder chamber. The serial number "1623" is stamped on the loading lever, bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder and arbor pin. The wedge is not serial numbered. A punch-dot is stamped above or below the serial numbers on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap which indicates these parts were designated by the factory for engraving or special finish. The barrel and cylinder have a high polish blue finish. The loading lever, frame and hammer are color casehardened, and the brass trigger guard and back strap are silver plated. The one piece grip is highly figured walnut with a high polish piano finish. The revolver is decorated with distinctive British scroll engraving on a lined background. The engraving style and coverage are nearly identical to Colt London Navy serial number 1651 illustrated on page 246 of "THE COLT ENGRAVING BOOK VOLUME ONE" by R.L. Wilson. The British style oak case is lined with red baize lining and has six compartments. A Colt instruction label is glued to the inside of the lid. The case contains: (1) steel cleaning rod with blued steel handle, (2) L-shaped combination screwdriver/nipple wrench, (3) straight handle iron double cavity bullet mold stamped "COLTS/PATENT" on the top of the sprue cutter and "36B" on the right mold block, (4) large black japanned cap tin with green paper "Eley Bros." 250 cap label, (5) English bag shaped powder flask with lanyard loop and adjustable charger marked: "COLTS NAVY FLASK" and "JAMES DIXON/& SONS/SHEFFIELD". Also included with the revolver are pages from a book on Cochrane, a loose copy of the article discussed above, research on Cochrane, and original slides of the images used in the article. Samuel Colt presentation revolvers are the rarest and most historic Colt percussion firearms. Class: Antique Very good plus. The revolver has moderate handling wear and retains nearly 25% original blue and casehardened finish. Nearly all of the silver plated finish is present on the trigger guard and back strap. The cylinder retains most of the naval battle scene. Firing wear is limited to some scattered spots of light pitting on the sides of the hammer. The nicely figured walnut grip is in fine condition and has nearly all of the high polish piano finish. The presentation inscription of the back strap is crisp. The delicate English scroll engraving is sharp and deep. The case and accessories are all original and remain in good overall condition. The exterior of the case has been revarnished and shows moderate handling wear more... |
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Rare Early Production Three Digit Serial Number 280 Colt Squareback Model 1851 Navy "Wedge Over Scre Lot #3158 (Sale Order 158 of 844) Rare Early Production Three Digit Serial Number 280 Colt Squareback Model 1851 Navy "Wedge Over Screw" Variation Percussion Revolver
This Model 1851 was manufactured in 1850 (the first year of production). The Colt "Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber" was designed between 1847 and 1850 and manufactured from 1850 until 1873. It was initially called the Ranger Model. Though its name implies maritime use, most Navy revolvers saw use on dry land. The Model 1851 was well liked for its intermediate caliber (between the .44 caliber Dragoons and .31 caliber Model 1849 Pocket) and relatively compact size. It was used by a wide array of well known American heroes and villains including Wild Bill Hickok, "Doc" Holliday, Robert E. Lee, Nathan Bedford Forrest, and a great many others. Many Navies continued to be used in the American West well after cartridge models became available. This example has the early style barrel with an non-beveled loading cut out, screw under the wedge, brass squared post front sight, and "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" stamped on top. The left side of the frame has the "COLT'S/PATENT" marking. The cylinder has the naval engagement scene. The matching serial number is marked on the loading lever, barrel lug, frame, trigger guard (small "K" marked above), cylinder, and back strap. It has a one-piece walnut grip and the standard finishes. Class: Antique Very good plus. The blue finish on the barrel has mostly faded to a brown patina. The grip frame retains 25% of the original silver plating and has an aged patina. The remaining components have a dark gray patina, and there are some spots of minor oxidation and pitting and scattered minor dings. The grip is also very good with a few minor dings and scratches consistent with use. The markings are legible, and the action is excellent. One will look a long time to find another example of this highly sought after variation of Colt Percussion Revolvers! |
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Attractive New York Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver with Checkered Grip Lot #3159 (Sale Order 159 of 844) Attractive New York Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver with Checkered Grip
This revolver was manufactured in 1867 and has the style of engraving commonly seen on revolvers engraved by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham. Note the dog head engraving pattern on the hammer, the coarse scroll and punch dot engraving patterns, and the checkered one piece grip which are all similar to other known Young engraved revolvers. Note the similar hammer on the Model 1860 Army on the top of page 82 of The Book of Colt Engraving and the similar grips on page 96. The revolver is marked with the one line New York U.S. America address, and the left side of the frame has the "COLTS/PATENT" marking. The "44 CAL" marking on the left shoulder of the trigger guard is mostly obscured by the engraving. The serial numbers match, and "6233" is marked on the grip under the back strap. It has a blade front sight and the standard hammer notch rear sight. The loading lever, cylinder, and hammer are finished in gold wash while the barrel, frame, and grip frame are nickel plated. Class: Antique Fine as period replated. The revolver retains 80% of the retailer possibly period applied nickel plating and 40% of the gold finish. There are areas of mild pitting and oxidation particularly on the loading lever and cylinder. The grip is very good and has some small chips and cracks on the lower edges, sharp checkering, and attractive honey-cream tones. The markings are partially obliterated from the engraving and plating, but the engraving patterns are mostly clear. The action is fine. |
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Documented Historic Experimental Colt Model 1849 Pocket .32 Rimfire Cartridge Revolver with R. L. Wi Lot #3160 (Sale Order 160 of 844) Documented Historic Experimental Colt Model 1849 Pocket .32 Rimfire Cartridge Revolver with R. L. Wilson Letter
According to R. L. Wilson, this revolver is a cartridge revolver prototype developed around 1860 to early 1862. It may have been the "Colt's pistol Chambers bored through [item] 36" that is listed on the inventory "In Col's Room" of Samuel Colt's personal office upon his death in 1862. Thus, this revolver was almost certainly produced upon Samuel Colt's request and personally examined by him. Its existence "proves that during Samuel Colt's lifetime the company experimented with metallic cartridge firearms" even before Rollin White's patent expired. Wilson notes that the barrel address used on this revolver would place it as having been produced in the above range. The revolver was originally in the Colt factory museum. It is pictured in two books by R. L. Wilson published before the office inventory was available. It is on page 212 of The Book of Colt Firearms and on page 20 of The Evolution of the Colt: Firearms from the Robert Q. Sutherland Collection (copy included). The revolver is "in the white" and has the "-ADDRESS SAML COLT/HARTFORD CT-" barrel address but no additional markings. The only finished components are some niter blue screws and the trigger. Several of the components are roughly fit and have visible mill marks. The bored through cylinder is counterbored at the back to properly seat .32 rimfire cartridges. Class: Antique Fine. The iron surfaces are in the white, unfinished and rather bright with minor patches of light oxidation. The brass grip frame has a dark aged patina. Strong niter blue remains on the finished components. The action functions but is very stiff, The barrel address is crisp. Famed Colt firearms expert R. L. Wilson wrote that this revolver is "of great importance in the study of Colt firearms, and is one of the extremely rare pieces which represent the transition from percussion to metallic cartridge, and the evolutionary process which led to such classic Colt arms as the Single Action Army." |
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Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver Lot #3161 (Sale Order 161 of 844) Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver
This revolver was manufactured in 1862 and subsequently was embellished in the 20th Century. There is floral scroll engraving on the side of the barrel, nearly all of the frame, and part of the grip frame. There is an eagle head worked into the scroll work just above the wedge on the left and an animal head, scales, and scroll work on the hammer. The matching serial number along with a spurious "E" is marked on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, and butt. The "E" was used by Colt to indicate factory engraved firearms from 1861 until the early 1870s. The wedge and cylinder also have the full serial number, and the cylinder pin has "869". It has the one line "U.S. AMERICA" barrel address, "COLT'S/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, "44 CAL" on the left rear of the trigger guard, and the patent marking on the cylinder. An outline of a cartouche appears to be visible on the left side of the grip. The presence of the eagle head near the wedge is consistent with revolvers engraved in the shop of Gustave Young. For comparison see the Col. R. M. Martin Model 1860 Army on page 82 of the Book of Colt Engraving which also has a very similar motif on the hammer and an animal head near the wedge. The manner in which the scroll engraving wraps around the barrel address also matches known Gustave Young engraved Colt revolvers. Class: Antique Fair. Aside from the cylinder which has an artificial brown patina and light, the revolver primarily displays bright surfaces with some artificial gray patina and light spotting. The brass has an attractive aged patina. There are some spots of minor corrosion. The undersized, revarnished grip is also fair with edge wear and scratches. The action is fine, and the markings and designs, aside from those on the cylinder and grip, are clear. |
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Scarce Gallatin/Freund & Brother Tooled Leather Holster for Colt Model 1860 Revolver Lot #3162 (Sale Order 162 of 844) Scarce Gallatin/Freund & Brother Tooled Leather Holster for Colt Model 1860 Revolver
This holster was manufactured circa 1866-1875 and is marked "GALLANTIN/MAKERS" on the belt loop. It has the classic California pattern Slim Jim construction and floral scroll designs. The banner at the top reads "Freund & Bro." (only Br visible). The Freund brothers Frank and George immigrated to the U.S. from Germany in the mid-19th century. Frank, the older of the two, was trained as a gunsmith in Europe and served in the Union Army during the Civil War. After the war, the brothers worked as mobile outfitters and set up shops at the end of the Union Pacific Railroad and relocated westward with the end of the line starting in Nebraska City. After the completion of the railroad, they operated successful stores in several locations throughout the West. Their shops were known for custom work including high end "improved" rifles original produced by Sharps and other major manufactured and tooled leather gear such as this holster. They supplied many gold miners, buffalo hunters, and homesteaders with arms, ammunition, and equipment. Frank eventually settled back east in New Jersey while George moved to Durango, Colorado, in 1881 where established his "Colorado Armory" and remained until his death in 1911. Class: Other Fine. The holster is complete and retains attractive white highlighted designs. The leather exhibits some rub wear and cracking. The stitching is tight. The brass loop rivet has dark verdigris. Few Freund and Brother holsters survive. Antique leather and fabric good of any type rarely survive well over a century and those that do are certainly scarcely found in this fine of condition. |
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Scarce Cased Gold and Silver Plated Factory Engraved "Tri-Color" Colt Pocket Model of Navy Caliber P Lot #3163 (Sale Order 163 of 844) Scarce Cased Gold and Silver Plated Factory Engraved "Tri-Color" Colt Pocket Model of Navy Caliber Percussion Revolver with Mexican Eagle Carved Grips
This revolver was manufactured circa the early 1860s and has beautiful factory floral scroll engraving patterns on the rear half of the barrel, loading lever hinge and all of the frame. The trigger guard and grip frame also have factory scrollwork along with geometric border designs, and the hammer has a dog head motif. The late vine style engraving may have been executed by Gustave Young and was at the very least inspired by his style. The "I.E." markings by the serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap indicate the engraving and special grips originated from the factory. The grip is one piece rather than two separate pieces bonded to a spacer and has a Mexican eagle with a snake in its beak over cacti and a banner that reads "REPUBLICA MEXICANA". The back of the grip is numbered to match the revolver under the back strap and a "5" is stamped on the left side of the front strap at the bottom. The design is based on the Coat of Arms of Mexico. The Model 1860 Army on page 147 of The Book of Colt Engraving by R. L. Wilson has near identical grip carving and similar barrel engraving. Note that the hammer design the "COLTS/PATENT" frame marking are also nearly identical to those on the Model 1851 Navy engraved by Young on page 69, and the hammer design on the Young engraved Model 1860 Army on page 82 that also has very similar frame engraving but a differing patent marking. The matching partial or full serial number is marked on the loading lever, barrel lug, wedge, arbor pin, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The wedge does not have a retaining spring, and its first number is double or re-stamped. The top of the barrel has the one line "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S.AMERICA" address, and the left side of the trigger guard at the rear is marked "36 CAL". The cylinder has the stagecoach hold up scene. The barrel and grip frame are silver plated, and the loading lever, cylinder, and hammer are gold plated. The frame is casehardened, and the trigger and screws are blue. It comes in a wooden case with fitted interior and compartments for the included Eley Bros. cap tin, package of six combustible cartridges from Colt's Cartridge Works, a small E. Pluribus Unum powder flask with plum blue finish, and a blued dual cavity bullet mold marked "COLT'S/PATENT" on the sprue cutter. Some estimates suggest only five Pocket Navies had this rare combination of finishes. The combination of engraving, finishes, and carved grip certainly make it unique! Class: Antique Very fine. The barrel retains 80% plus of the original silver plating with some minor flaking and light pitting/oxidation. 75% plus of the original gold plating remain with numerous small pin pricks, small flakes, and patches of gray patina on light pitting primarily on the cylinder. The frame retains nearly all of the original case colors which remain very vibrant in the capping cutout and in the protected area below the cylinder. The grip frame and trigger guard retain 30% of the original silver plating primarily on the areas on and near the trigger guard bow. The exposed brass has a pleasant aged patina. The trigger and several of the small screws retain strong original niter blue finish. The engraving patterns and markings remain crisp. The grip is very fine with attractive cream, yellow, and light brown tones, crisp carving, some slight age cracks on the bottom, and minor handling marks. The action functions fine. The case exterior is very good with various minor marks and scrapes from storage and a few chips. The slightly sun faded original interior is fine. The lining has faded significantly and has some stains and pressure marks from the revolver. The tin and cartridge package are also fine. Both have been opened, but the cartridges and most of the caps remain. The flask and bullet mold are very fine and retain nearly all of their original finish with only minor wear. Overall, this is an outstanding set built around a beautifully factory engraved Colt Pocket Navy revolver with rare tri-color finish and carved one piece grip. |
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Cased Gustave Young Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver with Accessories Lot #3164 (Sale Order 164 of 844) Cased Gustave Young Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver with Accessories
This beautifully factory engraved Model 1849 Pocket was manufactured in 1853. It has the dot marking by the serial numbers which was used to denote factory engraved revolvers produced between 1849 and 1861. Note the animal head pattern on the hammer, shell design on the top of the back strap, and the 75% plus coverage leafy German scroll and punch dot engraving patterns match other Gustave Young engraved Model 1849 Pocket revolvers from this early period. See the top right of page 55 in The Book of Colt Engraving by R. L. Wilson for a very similar revolver also produced in 1853. Young worked for Colt from 1852 until the mid to late 1860s. The patent marking on the frame and "SAML COLT" on the top of the barrel are also hand engraved. It has the standard post and notch sights and a varnished walnut grip. The cylinder has the stagecoach scene. The visible serial numbers match. It comes in a more modern case with an English style fit. The case contains an appropriate eagle powder flask, five spare nipples, a conical lead bullet, Eley Bros. tin of percussion caps with the marking "Made precisely for/COLT'S PT./Belt and Pocket/PISTOLS.", and a Colt's patent dual cavity bullet mold. Class: Antique Fine. The revolver retains 25% of the original blue finish on the barrel, 85% of the original silver plating, and traces of blue finish on the cylinder. The exposed brass has an attractive aged patina. The balance has primarily a gray patina. There are some spots of minor pitting and light oxidation and several hammer type marks on the right side of the barrel at the breech. The grip is fine with some edge wear, dings, and scrapes. The right side has a darker tone. Part of the wedge screw head is broken. It needs some mechanical work as the cylinder does not consistently rotate when the hammer is cocked but is otherwise functional. The case is fine with some stains, tears, and fading on the lining; a crack in the lid, and overall mild storage marks. The accessories are fine. This is a beautiful example of Young's early work at Colt and clearly shows the influence of his German heritage. |
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Extremely Rare Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Square Back Revolver Lot #3165 (Sale Order 165 of 844) Extremely Rare Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Square Back Revolver
This is an extremely rare example of a Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Squareback trigger guard revolver that was manufactured in 1851. The top of the barrel is marked with the early first style marking "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene and "COLT'S PATENT No 3546". The barrel lug, muzzle, sides of the loading lever, frame, hammer, trigger guard and back strap are decorated with the early Hartford style scroll engraving. The sides of the hammer are engraved with a fanciful animal head motif, and all of the screw heads are decorated with a leaf design. The complete matching serial number is stamped on the loading lever, barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder. The cylinder pin is stamped with the partial serial number "546". The replacement wedge is numbered "3277". A center punch mark is stamped next to the serial number on all the components except the cylinder. The punch mark indicates that the component received special work. The revolver has a blue barrel and cylinder, casehardened loading lever, frame and hammer and silver plated brass trigger guard and back strap. Blade front and hammer notch rear sights and fitted with a one piece highly figured walnut grip. Class: Antique Very good. The metal surfaces have a gray brown patina with some scattered light pitting on the barrel. The engraving on the barrel shows some wear and the remaining engraving is crisp. The trigger guard and back strap retain 85% of the original silver with an aged patina on the exposed brass. The cylinder retains half of the naval scene. The barrel marking is clear. The grip is good overall with a small chip on the left heel, and some minor wear and tiny nicks on the lower edge. The action functions well. An extremely rare example of a factory engraved Colt Model 1851 squareback revolver with the early pattern engraving. |
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Factory Exhibition Engraved and Cased Colt London Model 1851 Navy Revolver Lot #3166 (Sale Order 166 of 844) Factory Exhibition Engraved and Cased Colt London Model 1851 Navy Revolver
Colt factory cased and engraved London Model 1851 Navy revolver manufactured c. 1856. The serial number of this revolver is higher than the London Navy serial number range (i.e. 1-42000). In "THE BOOK OF COLT REVOLVERS" author R.L. Wilson suggests that Colt may have deliberately mis-stamped a few exhibition revolvers serial numbers to suggest higher production at the Colt London factory. Two London Model 1851 Navy revolvers with nearly identical engraving, serial numbered 69368 and 69371 are illustrated on page 99 "COLONEL COLT, LONDON" by Joseph G. Rosa. This revolver has the typical London Navy features including the legend: "- ADDRESS. COL: COLT LONDON - " with arrows at either end on the top of the barrel, London "crown/v" and "crown/GP" proof marks on the left side of the barrel lug and between each chamber, wide nipple recess on the cylinder, large oval steel trigger guard, large hammer notch in the back strap and round-head screws. The cylinder is roll-stamped with the Texas Navy battle scene and Colts Patent. The full serial number, "69892" is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap and the side of the cylinder. The loading lever is stamped with the partial serial number "92". All of the visible serial numbers match. "COLTS PATENT" is engraved in Old English letters in a ribbon on the left side of the frame. The barrel, sides of the loading lever, wedge, frame, trigger guard, back strap and hammer are engraved with delicate English style scrollwork on a line background. The hammer has fine bordered knurling on the spur. The barrel and frame are blued and the loading lever, cylinder, hammer, trigger guard and back strap are gold plated. The one piece walnut grip has a high polish piano finish. The revolver is complete with an English style mahogany case with red baize lining. The case has six compartments including one compartment with a lid and brass handle. The case contains: (1) several .36 caliber round balls and a conical bullet, (2) steel cleaning rod with turned oak handle, (3) L-shaped combination nipple wrench/screw-driver, (4) 500 count tin of Eley percussion caps with green paper label and (6) bag-shaped powder flask with 1 1/4-1 1/2 dram adjustable charger marked: "G. & J.W. HAWKSLEY/SHEFFIELD". Class: Antique Fine as period refurbished. Most of the blue/gold has aged to a dark patina. There are some fine spots of pitting on the sides of the barrel and some deeper pitting on the bottom of the barrel. Most of the gold plated finish remains on the loading lever and hammer. The gold plating on the cylinder is thin and there are patches of age discoloration over one chamber. The percussion nipples show minimal flash pitting. The plating on the trigger guard and back strap has faded to a dark patina. The grip is in excellent condition and retains more than 90% of the original piano finish. The delicate English engraving is very crisp. The hammer will not hold at half-cock. The case is in good condition with moderate wear. The scalloped brass plate in the case lid is missing. The red baize lining is in good overall condition with scattered oil stains and compression marks and a few minor tears in the fabric. The cleaning rod, bullet mold, and cap tin are all in fair to good condition. The Hawksley flask is in very fine condition and retains about 80% of the brown lacquer finish on the body and 75-80% of the gold plated finish on the top and charger. This is a fine example of a Colt exhibition engraved and finished London Model 1851 revolver with factory case and accessories. |
