Premier Firearms Auction #4090

December 08, 2023 to December 10, 2023

This auction has ended.

Premier Firearms Auction #4090

December 08, 2023 to December 10, 2023

This auction has ended.

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Showing 1-50 of 933 results

Very Fine Documented Antique Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable .45-90 W.C.F. with Factory Letter

Lot 1

Antique Winchester Model 1886 Rifle in .45-90 W.C.F.

Manufactured in 1895, with the desirable early casehardened receiver found only on Model 1886 rifles manufactured prior to 1902. As the spiritual successor to the Model 1876, these rifles were highly prized in the American west for their stunning firepower and rugged dependability, especially in .45-90 caliber, which was more than capable of stopping even the most dangerous North American game. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address and desirable caliber marking at the breech. The model designation is on the upper tang, with the serial number and two-line patent dates on the lower tang. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as receipt at the warehouse on 27 November 1895 and shipment on 2 October 1896 in order number 20572.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-90 WCF

Price Realized:

Antique Early Production Three-Digit Serial Number 946 Winchester Deluxe Model 1895 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 2

Three-Digit Serial Number 946 Winchester Deluxe Model 1895 Rifle

Manufactured in 1896, the second year of production, as one of the first 5,000 manufactured with the flat sided receiver. The included factory letter lists the rifle as manufactured in 1896 with a checkered pistol grip stock when received at the warehouse on 27 March 1897 and shipped the same day. The pistol grip stock may be a factory notation error as the rifle has a straight lower tang. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address and caliber marking at the breech. The upper tang has the two-line trademark/model, serial number on the lower tang, and two-line patent dates are on the trigger plate. "3852" is marked on the butt of the stock and "1111/C" is marked inside the buttplate along with an illegible hand marking in white. It is fitted with a pinned German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. It is mounted with a finely figured, H-pattern checkered, Schnabel tip forearm with ebony insert and a checkered straight grip stock with a smooth shotgun buttplate. The consistent wear between the metal and wood on this rifle and the extended period of time between manufacture and receipt at the warehouse lead the writer to believe that it left the factory in this configuration without the ledger being modified, and has been paired with this wood ever since. It was not uncommon for special orders to be modified to meet demands before leaving the Winchester factory, and this rifle appears to be an example of just that.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30-40 Krag

Price Realized:

Documented Three Digit Serial Number Factory Inscribed Winchester Deluxe First Model 1876 "Open Top" Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 3

Inscribed Winchester Deluxe First Model 1876 "Open Top" Rifle

Offered here is a highly sought after deluxe Winchester "Open Top" First Model 1876 Rifle with several special order features such as a heavy octagon barrel, set trigger, engraved inscription, and deluxe pistol grip stock. Adding to its historical significance is the fact that the rifle is one of three documented factory inscribed consecutively serialized Model 1876s shipped on March 9, 1878, to order number 11257. As stated in the accompanying factory letter, this rifle was received in the warehouse on March 2, 1878, and shipped with four other arms on March 9 with a heavy octagon barrel, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, buckhorn rear sight, and casehardened receiver engraved with the name "Geo. E. Brown." The included copy of the factory ledger indicates that two other Model 1876s in the same March 9, 1878, shipment to order number 11257 were also engraved with a name. No. 740 featured the name W.S. Williams. No. 741 had the name Jack W. Swilling. This rifle, no. 742, has the name "Geo. E. Brown" script engraved on the left side plate. W.S. Williams has yet to be identified. While William S. Williams is a noted frontiersman, he died in 1849, nearly 20 years after this rifle was shipped. An early pioneer in the Arizona Territory, John W. "Jack" Swilling is often credited as one of the original founders of the city of Phoenix. During the Civil War Swilling served with both the Confederate States Army as a minuteman and the United States Army as a civilian aid. When Arizona officially withdrew from the Union in 1861, Swilling was serving with a militia company named the Arizona Guards. The guard was absorbed into the Confederate Army. In May 1862 Union forces captured Tucson and soon after Swilling became a civilian employee of the U.S. Army. Throughout his life Swilling worked a number of jobs. He was an owner of a mine and saloon. He was a builder of a canal, a farmer, and a rancher. When the rifle was shipped in March 1878 Swilling's health was failing and in August he wrongfully arrested and imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. His time in prison contributed to his decline in health and eventually led to his death soon after he was released. The true culprits of the crime were discovered after his death. Whether or not rifle no. 741 was ordered by the Arizona pioneer is not known. George E. Brown remains unknown at this time; however, the George E. Brown & Co. was a well known Aurora, Illinois, cattle and horse breeder of the period. This three digit serial number Model 1876 rifle has the seldom encountered open top frame whereas the later Model 1876s had dust covers. Approximately 3,000 were produced out of the total of 63,871 manufactured between 1876 and 1897. The rifle is fitted with globe front sight, an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, an tang peep sight with 5 inch staff. The rifle correctly lacks a caliber designation as early production Model 1876s were offered in only in .45-75 WCF. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight. The serial number is in script font just below the lever catch on the lower tang. The action is equipped with a documented special order single set trigger. The checkered forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe walnut. The pistol grip has an ebony insert and the stock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The left side of the lower tang has the assembly number "128," which is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Lot 4

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1880 as a Fourth Model 1866 rifle with the gradually sloped receiver in front of the hammer and the serial number on the bottom of the lower tang in script numerals. These rifles are one of the most iconic weapons of the American West with this example having made it to England, proving that the Model 1866 had international appeal. The direct descendant of the iconic Henry rifle, they bridged the gap between the Henry and the Winchester Model 1873. The Model 1866 was highly prized on the western frontier for its rapid firepower in comparison to many single shot arms of the time, and was used by people in all walks of life. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line Winchester address and King's patent marking. London proofs are stamped on the left side of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a later production replacement elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with an iron trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 7

Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Volcanic Lever Action Carbine

This is a solid representative example of one of the approximately 1,000 carbines for all three barrel lengths (16 1/2, 21 and 25 inches) manufactured by Oliver Winchester's New Haven Arms Company between 1857 and 1860. The Volcanic lever action firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine of these pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle, and Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company and the Model 1866, 1873, and 1876 rifles. The Volcanic repeaters were mainly hampered by their underpowered and often problematic ammunition. After these New Haven pistols, lever action designs focused on rifles and carbines. The barrel has a blade front sight and is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN PATENT FEB.14.1854." This barrel marking was adopted by the New Haven Arms Company after Oliver Winchester reorganized the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company in April 1857. The receiver has a dovetail mounted sporting type rear sight featuring a thumb wheel elevator and niter blue finish. A factory floral scroll engraving is featured on the sides of the receiver, and the engraving extends to the upper tang. The left side of the lower tang is marked "68." "68" is repeated on both upper tang screws, one buttplate screw, the butt of the stock, and the buttplate. The cartridge follower is a crudely made period replacement. Provenance: The Felix A. Bedlan Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Large Frame No. 2 Type I Lever Action Pistol

Lot 8

Engraved Smith & Wesson Large Frame No. 2 Type I Pistol

Smith & Wesson manufactured approximately 500 large frame Volcanic pistols from 1854-1855. Surviving examples are scarce and very desirable in any condition. This factory engraved, early production Smith & Wesson Large Frame No.2 lever action pistol was manufactured by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Norwich, Connecticut, c. 1854. This large frame pistol has the distinctive Type I features which include: an uncrowned muzzle, flat T-bar spring, frame with hump behind the lever, loading lever with finger spur and single screw cartridge carrier spring. The eight-inch, .41 caliber, part-round/part-octagon barrel has an integral 10-shot magazine, a "pinched" blade front sight blade, and round magazine follower. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the four-line legend: "SMITH &WESSON/NORWICH. CT./CAST-STEEL/PATENT." The top of the frame has a screw-fastened notch rear sight. The hammer has fine hand-knurling on the spur. The receiver sides, top, back strap, sideplates, and back of the hammer are decorated with the well-executed, open scroll engraving that was standard on S&W Volcanic pistols. The matching serial number "164" is stamped on the back of the rear sight and on the butt under the left grip and lightly written inside the rosewood grips.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Lot 9

Engraved Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 Lever Action Pistol

The bottom of the frame is shown on page 34 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis & Rutter as an example of a later frame without a screw hole. It is noted as from the Donovan Williamson collection. It is one of approximately 1,200 No. 1 pistols that were manufactured by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Norwich, Connecticut, in 1854 and 1855. They are historically significant pieces for both Smith & Wesson and Winchester collectors. The barrel has "CAST-STEEL" (right), "SMITH & WESSON/NORWICH CT" (top) and "PATENT/FEB. 14. 1854." (left). Factory floral and scroll engraving is featured on the frame, side plates, and hammer. The left side of the butt has "I 316," the right side of the lever has "316" and "I," and some of the small parts and both grip panels are stamped with "316". The lever is the later style without a spur on the bottom. Provenance: The Donovan Williamson Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Lot 10

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

This is an extraordinary example of a Fourth Model 1866 carbine that was manufactured by the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1891. The included factory letter confirms the carbines configurations, and lists it as being received in the warehouse on May 07, 1891. Changed to Rim on August 18, 1898, (it began as centerfire per the factory letter). Shipped from the warehouse on August 18, 1898, order number 2603, received in the warehouse on August 18, 1899. Then shipped from the warehouse on September 26, 1901, order number 113108. The carbine has the distinctive brass receiver with blue 20-inch barrel, 13-shot magazine and barrel bands. The hammer, lever, trigger and carbine style iron buttplate are color casehardened. The loading gate and bolt are niter blue. The stock and forearm are oil finished straight grain American walnut. The carbine has the Fourth Model features which include: receiver profile with less drop ahead of the hammer than earlier models, iron buttplate with sliding brass trapdoor and serial number stamped on the lower tang between the lever latch and tang screw. A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped for a rear sight. The barrel has a block mounted steel front sight located behind the upper barrel band and late sporting style folding leaf rear sight marked "1873" and graduated to 900 yards. The magazine has the late style screw fastened cap. The hammer has forged bordered knurling on the spur. The butt trap contains a four piece jointed steel cleaning rod with brass tip. The top of the barrel is roll stamped with the second style legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." ahead of the rear sight and the late "44 B" caliber marking between the rear sight and the receiver. "44 CAL" is stamped in script letters on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The serial number is stamped in script numerals on the lower receiver tang. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 11

Winchester Deluxe Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1876 was the first Winchester lever action rifle offered in calibers truly suitable for hunting large and dangerous game. The larger caliber Model 1876 was popular among those in the West who believed .44-40 wasn't quite enough stopping power for whatever they might encounter. Deluxe variations of the Model 1876 are always in demand in any condition. With only 63,871 rifles and carbines manufactured between 1876 and 1897, surviving examples of the Model 1876 rifle are scarce. Generally being viewed as a working gun, these rifles in deluxe configuration or with special order features are especially rare. This deluxe Model 1876 has all the character of a rifle that has spent a lifetime on the frontier, including the shortened barrel and magazine tube to meet the demands of the day. It is easy to imagine this "short rifle" carried on horseback out west, as likely was the case. The rifle is stamped with a cattle brand style marking, an iconic feature of the American West, on the right side of the butt of an "A" over a bar over "Y." Per the consignor, this rifle was part of the Cody Firearms Museum and was identified as from the "A Bar Yellowstone Ranch that records show was in operation through the 1870s and 1880s." Further information on this ranch could not be found. The included factory letter lists the rifle in .45-60 caliber with an octagon barrel, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock and casehardened receiver when received at the warehouse on March 28, 1884, and shipped on April 14. This rifle was manufactured as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and a dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking and the caliber marking at the breech. The caliber is again marked on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The upper tang is marked with the model designation, and the serial number is on the lower tang. The XX deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock have factory "H" pattern checkering. The buttstock has an ebony insert in the grip area and a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The left side of the lower tang is marked "1838 S XX." The assembly number "1838" on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60

Price Realized:

Lot 13

Antique Winchester First Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. The rifle has the very desirable late first model dust cover with integral "thumb print" that rides in grooves mortised directly into the frame. Only about 31,000 First Models were manufactured. The top flat of the barrel is marked with the two-line address and King's patent marking and correctly lacks a caliber marking. The upper tang is marked with the model designation and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is equipped with a replacement beaded blade pattern front, an elevation adjustable notch rear sight, and a special order single set trigger. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate containing an included four-piece cleaning rod.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 14

Antique Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver

The Colt Single Action Army was one of the most popular handguns in late 19th century and is easily the most iconic and most thoroughly associated with the American West. This example was manufactured in 1881, in a time when much of the West remained untamed, and it certainly has the classic look of an authentic western working gun. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips and barrel length not listed, as was typical for standard guns) as well as shipment to J.P Moores & Sons on 7 September 1881. J.P Moores was one of Colt's many large distributors, a first stop for thousands of firearms that were destined to head farther west. The top of the barrel has the standard one-line address on top. The left of the frame has the three-line patent dates, and the "45CAL" caliber marking is on the left of the trigger guard. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, back strap. The assembly number "6255" is marked inside the loading gate. It is fitted with blade and groove sights and a smooth walnut one piece grip.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 15

Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

Factory engraved Henry rifles are among the most desirable of all antique firearms thanks to their important place in the development of lever action firearms and the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. as well as their place in the history of the American Civil War, the West, and popular culture. The factory engraved rifles represent only a small percentage of the already scarce original Henry rifles and are highly sought after by collectors, especially high condition examples like this one. This beautiful rifle was manufactured in 1864 and featured the classic factory scroll and floral engraving patterns with beaded backgrounds of Samuel J. Hoggson; however, rather than the more common deer or dog motifs on the left side plate, it features a nicely detailed reposed stylish lion which may have been engraved specially for someone of English ancestry. This unusual motif plus the rifle's high condition certainly places it in the upper echelon of Henry rifles. The engraving also extends to the tang of the buttplate which has the point heel standard on later production Henry rifles. Additional later production features include: a flat back German silver blade front sight, notch and ladder rear sight with stop screw below the 900 yard top notch, no second rear sight dovetail on the frame, all serifed letters in the two-line address and patent marking on the barrel, larger diameter magazine follower and beveled follower cut, and sling mounts on the left side of the barrel and stock. The serial number is marked on the top of the barrel at the breech, and the "W" inspection mark of Oliver F. Winchester is stamped between the lever latch and rear screw on the lower tang. The stock has attractive figure visible in the wrist. Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Attractive Volcanic Repeating Arms 6-Inch "Belt Model" Navy Lever Action Pistol

Lot 19

Volcanic Repeating Arms 6-Inch "Belt Model" Navy Pistol

The various "Volcanic" pistols and carbines manufactured by Smith & Wesson, then Volcanic Repeating Arms Co., and then followed by the New Haven Arms Co. are historic firearms that represent incremental steps in the evolution of American lever action firearms and ultimately led to the innovative Henry lever action rifle and the Winchester rifles that followed. Production of these firearms connected a whole host of influential figures in 19th century American firearms history, most famously Oliver Winchester, whose investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company in 1855 led to the creation of the New Haven Arms Co. and then the establishment of the historic Winchester Repeating Arms Company. Only around 600 of these Large Frame 6-inch "Belt Model" Navy pistols were manufactured by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. in 1855-1857. The pistol has the distinctive "brass" (gunmetal) frame, a 6 inch octagon barrel, integral magazine, and loading lever with finger hole. The barrel has a "pinched" blade front sight. A fixed notch rear sight is mounted in a dovetail near the back of the frame. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the lightly stamped legend: "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEWHAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854." in three lines. The serial number is stamped on the right side of the loading lever, the left side of the frame underneath the grip, and on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Lot 20

New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic No. 1 Lever Action Pocket Pistol

The Volcanic lever action firearms are historically significant American firearms and are key links in the evolutionary tree that led to the Henry lever action rifle and the creation of Winchester Repeating Arms Co. and its innovative lever action rifles popular in the American West. The Volcanic repeaters were mainly hampered by their underpowered and often problematic ammunition but set the stage for further innovation. This is one of only an estimated 850 "No. 1 4 inch Pocket pistols" manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. of New Haven, Connecticut, in 1857-1862. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, round finger hole in the lever and flat bottom grips. The pistol is fitted with a pinched blade front sight on the barrel and a notch rear sight at the rear of the frame. The top barrel flat is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN./PATENT FEB. 14. 1854." Both grip panels are numbered to the gun.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Lot 21

Winchester Deluxe "Centennial" Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

The Winchester Model 1876 Rifle made its public debut in 1876 at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition where it garnered the title "The Centennial Model" in honor of the Declaration of Independence. By all accounts the Model 1876 was "a revolutionary gun," as legendary Winchester expert George Madis pointed out. Originally chambered in only .45-75 WCF cartridge, the Model 1876 offered a larger caliber for customers, particularly those out West, who believed .44-40 WCF lacked the stopping power for whatever came their way. Only 63,871 were made c. 1876-1898. The model was fairly quickly supplanted by the Model 1886, but the Model 1876 has that classic early Winchester appeal with its side plates, dust cover, toggle link action, and combination of blued and casehardened metal. Surviving examples of the Centennial rifle are scarce, especially those in high condition. Even rarer are deluxe Model 1876s in outstanding condition. The Model 1876 was a "working gun" when a powerful rifle was still highly valued on the wild Western frontier and customers were generally not inclined to spend extra money on deluxe features. Surviving examples display all the character of hard use. This deluxe example, however, bucks the trend and remains in excellent condition, having the appearance of just coming off the production floor. This stellar deluxe Model 1876 is certainly worthy of the finest and most advanced Winchester or lever action collection. The rifle was manufactured in 1882, when a powerful rifle would have still been highly valued on the wild Western Frontier. It has the desirable casehardened, Second Model receiver with the dust cover guide retained with two screws and a dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. Winchester expert George Madis notes that only one out of every nine Model 1876s received a casehardened finish. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight marked “1876.” The top barrel flat has the two-line Winchester legend ahead of the rear sight and “CAL. 45-60” at the breech. The caliber marking is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator: "45-60." The stock was not removed to check assembly numbers out of respect for the outstanding, rare condition. The forearm and straight grip stock are original factory deluxe grade walnut featuring fine “H” style checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a blued shotgun type steel buttplate. The accompanying factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on March 24, 1882 and shipped the same day and confirms the 26 inch octagon barrel, plain trigger, checkered stock, casehardened frame, and shotgun butt.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60

Price Realized:

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action .44-40 Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 25

Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Rifle

The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. It was often paired with a Colt Single Action Army or other revolver chambered for the popular .44-40 W.C.F. cartridges. This made carrying ammunition for both your rifle and your revolver simple and allowed an individual to be ready to defend themselves against man or beast in a variety of tough situations. Offered here is a high condition special order antique Model 1873. The factory letter states the rifle originally had a plain trigger and octagon barrel when received in the warehouse on December 13, 1883 but returned to the factory and changed to a rifle with round barrel, plain trigger, 1/2 magazine on March 15, 1884, and then returned to the warehouse and shipped on March 15, 1884, with nine others to the order number 11247. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail front sight and a buckhorn elevation adjustable rear sight. The half magazine is a special order feature. The third model receiver has an integral dust cover rail and dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The rifle correctly lacks a caliber designation. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The lower tang has the serial number. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 26

Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1882, the larger caliber Model 1876 was popular among those in the West who believed .44-40 wasn't quite enough stopping power for whatever they might encounter. This example is a Third Model, with integral dust cover guide and a dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The barrel is marked with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent marking and the caliber marking at the breech, which is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The upper tang is marked with the model designation, and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and "1876" marked folding ladder rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60 WCF

Price Realized:

Desirable Antique Early Production Three-Digit Serial Number Winchester Model 1895 Flat Side Lever Action Rifle

Lot 27

Three-Digit Serial Number Winchester Model 1895 Flat Side Rifle

Manufactured in 1896, the first year of production, this is a fine example of a "flat side" Model 1895, which is only seen on the approximately first 5,000 made. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address and the caliber marking "30 U.S." at the breech. The upper tang is marked with the two-line trademark and model designation, early three-digit serial number on the lower tang, and the two-line patent dates on the trigger plate. It is fitted with a pinned German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth Schnabel tip forearm with ebony insert and a smooth straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30-40 Krag

Price Realized:

Lot 28

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

This is a fine example of a documented, special order, Winchester deluxe Model 1876 lever action rifle with factory letter. The letter lists the features as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 40/60, Barrel Type: 1/2 Octagon, Trigger: Plain, Checkered stock with pistol grip, 1/2 Magazine, Shotgun butt" and "Casehardened". The letter states this rifle was shipped from Winchester on June 4, 1886. The rifle has a blued 26-inch barrel with casehardened forearm cap, receiver, hammer, trigger and lever and shotgun buttplate. The dust cover and loading gate have a fire blue finish. The forearm and pistol grip stock are highly figured, fancy grade, walnut with a piano finish and Winchester "Style H" checkering. The bottom of the pistol grip has a horn or ebony inlay. The barrel has a replacement Sheard front sight with 1914 patent date and a sporting style buckhorn rear sight with flat top. A folding graduated peep sight is mounted on the upper receiver tang. The Third Model receiver has an integral dust cover rail and a dust cover with serrated edges. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "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. "CAL. 40-60" is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. "40-60" is roll-stamped in script numerals across the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The serial number is stamped in small numerals across the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40-60 WCF

Price Realized:

Historic and Extraordinary Documented Factory Engraved "One of One Thousand" Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Ordered by Montana Pioneer and Vigilante Leader Granville Stuart and Inscribed for His Brother and Fellow Pioneer Thomas Stuart in 1875 from the Legendary Mac McCroskie Collection

Lot 29

Thomas Stuart's One of One Thousand Winchester Model 1873 Rifle

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Second Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Very Scarce Full Nickel Plated Finish and Factory Letter

Lot 30

Special Order Nickel Winchester Deluxe Second Model 1873 Rifle

Manufactured in 1880, this is a very scarce example of a Winchester deluxe Second Model 1873 rifle with a special order full nickel plated finish. The Second Model receiver has the dust cover guide rail retained by two screws and the dust cover with gripping serrations at the rear. Renowned Winchester author, George Madis, states in "The Winchester Book" that only one of every 600 Model 1873s received a plated finish, either partial or full, and that only one of every 600 received special wood, making a rifle in this configuration incredibly scarce. The included factory letter lists the rifle with an octagon barrel, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, graduated peep and globe sights, and a full nickel finish when received at the warehouse on 27 March 1880 and shipped the same day in order number 19577. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address and King's patent markings, and the rifle correctly lacks caliber markings, as .44 W.C.F. was initially the only caliber offered for the Model 1873. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. The left side of the lower tang is marked "XX 671" and "671" is marked inside the buttplate. The stock does not appear to have a matching assembly number but it appears to be original. It is fitted with a period replacement German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable notch rear sight. The upper tang shows evidence of once having a peep sight mounted, with filler screws now in the factory tapped holes, and the stock inlet shows evidence of the peep sight mounting holes. It is mounted with an H-pattern checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with ebony grip insert and a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 31

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

The legendary Winchester Model 1866 or "improved Henry" was one of the earliest and most widely used repeating rifles in the American West and saw use in conflicts over land, gold, and other resources on the frontier in the second half of the 19th century in the hands of settlers, Native Americans, outlaws, lawmen, and hunters. It is the direct descendant of the Henry rifle and traces its lineage back to earlier repeaters like the Volcanic. This rifle was manufactured in 1872 as a third model with the serial number stamped in block numerals behind the trigger, and the distinctive brass receiver has the more moderately curved shape at the rear when compared to the earlier first and second models. The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, period modified two leaf rear sight, and tang peep sight with 4 inch staff. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address/King's improvement patent marking. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the forend cap and stock. The forearm and straight grip stock are nicely figured walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine in Desirable .44 W.C.F.

Lot 32

Winchester Model 1892 Saddle Ring .44 W.C.F. Carbine

These Winchester Model 1892 saddle ring carbines were incredibly popular in the American West due to their ability to pair with a Colt Single Action Army revolver and share ammunition. There were valued for their small size during the age of travel on horseback and remained so into the age of the automobile. It was stronger and sleeker than Winchester's earlier "pistol caliber" repeaters like the classic Model 1866s and Model 1873s. This example was manufactured in 1900, is chambered in the always desirable .44-40 WCF caliber, and is in outstanding condition. Model 1892s were a working gun of the period, and rarely do we catalog turn of the century examples in such excellent condition. It is fitted with a pinned blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight on a barrel stamped with the two-line Winchester address ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. A saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. The underside of the frame has the serial number. The upper tang is stamped with the three-line Model/patent date information. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a blued carbine buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Rare Documented New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic Lever Action Carbine with Distinctive "Rack Number" 19 Featured in "Volcanic Firearms" by Lewis and Rutter and Attributed as Used by the New York Police During the Staten Island Yellow Fever War in 1858

Lot 33

Staten Island Yellow Fever War New Haven Arms Volcanic Carbine

This carbine is featured on page 112 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis and Rutter as part of their discussion of Volcanic carbines used during the Staten Island Yellow Fever War in 1858. One of the captions states, " Identification number '19' stamped on the receiver of a New Haven Arms Company 16-inch carbine, serial number 136...This carbine, and others noted with similar stamped numbers, are thought to be among those stamped with inventory numbers by the New York Metropolitan Police." They also show an example marked with "8" that was previously sold by Rock Island Auction Co., and we have also sold examples marked with "7," "18," and "37" in the same location. They point to Herbert G. Houze's article "The Volcanic in Service During the Staten Island War of 1858" in the September/October 2005 issue of "Man at Arms." Volcanic carbines are well-documented as used by New York City police officers to quell a mob that attacked the hospitals on Staten Island in New York Harbor. The New York City Quarantine Station was situated on 30 acres of land on Staten Island that had been sold by former New York Governor and U.S. Vice President Daniel D. Tompkins. The sale had a provision that the land would revert to Tompkins's heirs if it was no longer used as the quarantine station. Because of the expansion around the area, the land became more valuable and citizens also grew concerned about the increased proximity of the station and local residents. Ray Tompkins who stood to inherit the land if it was abandoned by the government organized a mob that pulled patients from their beds and burned the Men's Yellow Fever Hospital and the Small Pox Hospital as well as other buildings at night on September 1, 1858. U.S. Marines arrived the next day to defend the government buildings, but government officials sent in an insufficient force thinking the danger had passed, and the mob attacked again that night and burned the Women's Yellow Fever Hospital and the homes of two of the doctors. In response, the city sent in a large force of police officers to secure the area. The New York Times on September 6, 1858, reported that, "The police force at Quarantine consists of 100 men...Each man is armed with a Volcanic repeating rifle, loaded with twenty balls, which can all be fired in less than two minutes. The aggregate is equal to one thousand shots." Their math skills were lacking given that would total 2,000 shots, but the twenty-round capacity points to the "16 inch" variation of the carbines, and the low production of the Volcanic carbines combined with the numbers found on these carbines certainly fits with the idea that these were the New York carbines. Officials quickly setup tents to care for the patients, and Lewis and Rutter indicate that situation soon calmed down. Instead of being imprisoned for his crimes, Tompkins was acquitted. The authors also point out that New Haven Arms Co. agent Joseph Merwin also promoted the Volcanics in advertisements in the New York Times starting on October 12, 1858. Reports indicate that 120 Volcanic carbines saw service with the NYC police during the conflict. The New York Times on May 26, 1859, reported that "The bill of the New Haven Arms Company, amounting to $1,150, for Volcanic arms which the Company let the authorities have during the Quarantine riots, in September last, was received." Houze estimated that around 50 were kept in service while 70 were returned to Merwin and the company. It is further theorized in the book "that rifles were marked in this manner while they were in use by the New York Metropolitan Police." Further investigation into period newspapers includes other accounts of the police all being armed with Volcanic carbines, and some reports also indicate they had Volcanic pistols as well. For example, The Buffalo Commercial Advertiser on September 6, 1858, republished a report from the New York Evening Post that stated "The one hundred policemen required to be sent to Quarantine by the Commissioners of Emigration arrived there in the steamboat Dr. Kane...They were all armed with the volcanic repeating rifles and pistols, furnished by the manufacturers, and are under the command of Captain Walling, the same officer who commanded during the Seaguine's Point War. They have a six-pounder, and plenty of ammunition in charge." The report also notes that Tompkins was arrested "quietly" and "After delivering Mr. Ray Tompkins into the care of Captain Williamson, of the 14th precinct, Detectives Stephenson and Wildey returned last night to Quarantine, for further operations. At daybreak this morning they took a force of twelve policemen, armed with the volcanic repeating rifles, and sallied forth" and made additional arrests. The carbine is marked with the rack number "19" on the underside of the frame behind the cartridge elevator. It has a blued octagon barrel, casehardened loading lever and hammer, brass frame and buttplate, and a high gloss varnished walnut stock. A fixed rear sight is mounted in a dovetail on the receiver behind the elevator port. The top of the barrel flat is stamped with the later New Haven Arms Company marking: "NEW HAVEN CONN PATENT FEB 14 1854" adopted after the Volcanic Arms Company was re-organized as the New Haven Arms Company by Oliver Winchester in 1858. The left side of the lower tang has "230" crossed out by five lines and then "136" further towards the rear. The screws, inside of the buttplate at the heel, and heel of the stock under the buttplate are also numbered "136." The Volcanic lever action carbines were not a commercial success, but the design was sound and with the development of reliable rimfire cartridges evolved into the Henry Rifle and paved the way for the highly successful Model 1866 Winchester rifles and carbines. Production of Volcanic Carbines with 16-1/2, 21 and 25 inch barrels totaled fewer than 1,000 pieces, and surviving examples are rare. These "rack numbered" 16 1/2 inch carbines are particularly rare and desirable. The Volcanic lever action carbine is a key piece in the evolution of the Winchester lever action rifle. Provenance: The Stephen Rutter Collection, Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Lot 34

Deluxe Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

This is an exceptional Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 lever action rifle with extensive special order features. The example has the Second Model receiver with screw-fastened dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated finger guide. The rifle has a blued full-octagon barrel, dust cover, bolt and loading gate. The forearm cap, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened and the receiver has the very desirable, special order, casehardened finish. The forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe fancy grain walnut with checkered panels and a high polish piano finish. The bottom of the pistol grip has an ebony inlay. In addition to the special order casehardened receiver, deluxe checkered pistol grip stock and forearm and rare combination of full octagon barrel and half-magazine the rifle is equipped with other special order features which include: (1) globe front sight, (2) folding leaf tang sight and (3) single set trigger. The rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum factory letter that describes it as: "Type: Rifle, Barrel: Octagon, Trigger: Set, Checkered Stock, Pistol Grip, Casehardened and Sights: Peep & Globe Sights". The letter states this rifle was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on May 31, 1882. In addition to the special order features the rifle has a standard buckhorn sporting rear sight and the butt plate has a sliding brass trap door. The butt trap contains a four-piece jointed steel cleaning rod with brass tip. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the 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. The serial number is stamped in small numerals on the lower tang behind the lever latch. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Fine Civil War Production First Model New Haven Arms Henry Lever Action Rifle with Herb Glass, Jr Letter

Lot 35

Civil War Production First Model New Haven Arms Henry Rifle

This first model Henry lever action rifle was manufactured in 1862. The rifle has the distinctive brass receiver and crescent buttplate with octagon barrel and integral 15-shot magazine. The rifle has the first style receiver with rear sight dovetail and early style buttplate with rounded heel. The rear sight dovetail on the receiver was discontinued about serial number 3,000, and a buttplate with pointed heel was introduced at about serial number 4,000. The barrel has the early pattern nickel silver front sight blade with rounded back and third pattern folding leaf rear sight. The third pattern rear sight is distinguished by "900" stamped below the center notch in the top of the leaf elevator bar with rounded ends and lack of the elevator stop screw in the top of the leaf. The stock and barrel are fitted with a sling swivel and loop for a sling hook. Sling swivels and loops were extra cost, special order items until mid-1863. The buttplate has a hinged brass trapdoor and the butt trap contains a four-piece hickory cleaning rod. The stock is straight grain American walnut with a varnished piano finish. The rifle has a blue barrel and integral magazine. The hammer, trigger and lever are color casehardened. The top barrel flat is roll stamped with the two-line legend "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS.CO. NEWHAVEN.CT." The left side of the lower tang is stamped with the numbers "1159" and "1862. "1862" repeated on the stock inlet, the inside of the buttplate below the trap, both upper tang screws, the lower tang screw, and both buttplate screws. The serial number "1159" is repeated on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. Experts believe that most of the 7,500 Henry rifles manufactured between April 1862 and January 1865 were purchased for use in the Civil War and saw some military service. Aside from 900 rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department in 1863-1864 to arm the 1st D.C. Cavalry Regiment, nearly all Henry rifles used in the Civil War were privately purchased by soldiers who wanted to have the most advanced firearm available and take advantage of the sustained firepower of a 15-shot magazine rifle. As rifles that saw use during the Civil War, the great majority of the Henry rifles under serial number 7,500 show moderate to heavy wear. It is not often that surviving Henry rifles are encountered with original blue finish as found on this example. The condition of this rifle was summarized by noted firearms dealer and collector Herb Glass, Jr., stating that the rifle is "a crisp and unusually nice example. It has seen use, but has obviously been well cared for...and generous amounts of blue are retained on the barrel assembly. Perhaps most important, the brass and wood are untouched and in lovely condition overall."

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Antique Special Order Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle

Lot 36

Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Rifle

As "the ultimate lever gun" for over a century, the Winchester Model 1894 rifle holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. These "working guns" were not often ordered with special, extra cost features, making semi-deluxe takedown variations highly sought after by collectors, especially those in high condition like this example which was manufactured in 1902. The rifle is in takedown configuration and is fitted with a half octagon barrel and half magazine. The barrel has a dovetail blade front sight, a three leaf rear sight (one fixed, two folding), the two-line address on the top flat ahead of the rear sight, "30 WCF" marked on the breech, and the two-line nickel steel marking on the upper left flat. The upper tang has the three-line model/patent marking. The forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The buttstock is fitted with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and a steel shotgun buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is marked "13631 S." The assembly number is repeated on the butt of the stock and on the back of the buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Lot 37

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

The accompanying Buffalo Bill Historical Center letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on December 7, 1895, and shipped on December 9 and confirms the octagon barrel in .38-56 caliber and plain trigger. The rifle has the desirable casehardened frame and is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "38-56 WCF" at the breech. The upper tang is marked '"-MODEL 1886-." The lower tang has the two-line patent date marking and the serial number. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a solid crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-56 WCF

Price Realized:

Antique Winchester Model 1890 Slide Action Rifle with Desirable Casehardened Receiver and Factory Letter

Lot 40

Antique Winchester Model 1890 Rifle with Casehardened Receiver

Manufactured in 1898. Fitted with beaded blade front and elevation adjustable rear sights. The barrel is marked with the two line Winchester address in the middle of the top flat and "22 W.R.F" caliber marking at the breech. The casehardened takedown receiver is marked with the three line model marking on the upper tang and serial number on the lower tang. Mounted with a straight grain 12 groove forend and straight grip buttstock with casehardened buttplate. The included factory letter lists this rifle as chambered in Winchester Rimfire when received in the warehouse on August 12, 1898, and shipped the next day on order number 1819.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 WRF

Price Realized:

Lot 43

Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

This special order Winchester Model 1873 rifle was manufactured in 1885. The rifle has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The rifle has a 24-inch round barrel with half magazine. The barrel has a "Rocky Mountain" front sight with steel blade and a replacement buckhorn style rear sight with flat top. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped for a folding combination tang sight. The barrel, dust cover, loading gate and trigger have a blue finish. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are 1X, fancy grain American walnut with a varnish finish. The rifle is accompanied by a factory letter which describes it as: "Type: Rifle, Barrel Type: Round, Trigger: Plain, 1/2 Magazine", and "Casehardened". The letter states this rifle was received and shipped from the Winchester warehouse on December 11, 1885. 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. "44 CAL." is roll stamped between the rear sight and the receiver. "44 CAL" is roll stamped across the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The upper receiver tang is roll stamped: "-MODEL 1873-" in fancy letters with foliate devices at either end. The serial number is stamped in script between the lever latch and the rear tang screw. Casehardened receivers were special order features on Model 1873 rifles and carbines. Rifles with casehardened receivers usually had fancy grain walnut stocks and forearms.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 44

Winchester Centennial Model 1876 Lever Action Sporting Rifle

The included factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on September 19, 1882 and shipped on September 21 with an octagon barrel in .45-60 caliber and plain trigger. This Third Model rifle has the integral dust cover guide rail and dust cover with serrated rear edges. The rifle has a 28-inch octagon barrel and full length magazine. The barrel has a sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and a folding leaf rear sight graduated to "10" and marked "1876" at the top of the leaf. A folding, graduated, "Mid-Range Vernier Peep Sight" with early style beveled base is mounted on the receiver tang. The crescent buttplate has a sliding brass butt-trap door. 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." ahead of the rear sight. "CAL. 45-60" is roll-stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. "45-60" is roll-stamped in script numerals across the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number is roll-stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw. The barrel and magazine have a blue finish. The forearm cap, receiver, dust cover and bolt are bright blue. The loading gate is fiery niter blue. The hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are casehardened. The straight grain walnut stock and forearm have a semi-gloss varnish or oil finish.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60 WCF

Price Realized:

Desirable U.S./Wells Fargo Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action Revolver with Wells Fargo Badge

Lot 45

U.S./Wells Fargo Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Revolver

This revolver is one of 3,000 First Model Schofields purchased by the U.S. Government. They were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo express agents and many others. The U.S. military markings include "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face, and "L" on the frame. Lacks a visible "US" marking on the butt which has a faint serial number only. The revolver is in the standard Wells Fargo configuration with the barrel shortened to 5 inches as was common with 19th century revolvers purchased by various express companies, nickel finish, and the Wells Fargo marking on the right side of the barrel ("W.F.&CO.EX. 1879"). "GWF" initials are carved on each grip panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Includes a Wells Fargo Services hat badge

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W

Price Realized:

Rare, Documented, American Express Co. Factory Inscribed/Engraved Winchester Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun with 20 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 46

American Express Co. Factory Inscribed Winchester 1887 Shotgun

The included factory letter confirms the serial number, barrel length, receiver engraving, and October 10, 1893, date of shipment on order number 1078 as one of nine guns shipped. Features a documented 20 inch riot length barrel without sights, 2 3/4 inch chamber, cylinder choke, standard "WRACO" monogram on the left side of the receiver, attached (not documented in letter but looks factory) saddle ring and bar on the left side of the receiver, and three-line address and patent marking on the lower tang. The right side of the receiver is engraved "Am. Ex. Co./44". With a two piece slab forearm and pistol grip stock with checkered iron buttplate. The left side of the stock has been marked "Robertson E.C." along the comb. Length of pull is 11 1/2 inches.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Lot 49

Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle

The accompanying factory letter confirms this exceptional Marlin Model 1881's special order extra length 28 inch barrel in .45-70 caliber, double set trigger, and pistol grip stock when it was shipped on December 18, 1889. High end finishes were rarely noted in the Marlin factory records. The deluxe stock on this rifle is factory original. The nicely figured walnut forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered, and the stock is fitted with a casehardened crescent steel buttplate. The Marlin Model 1881 was meant as a "working gun," and Marlin customers were generally not inclined to spend extra money on deluxe features, so very few Model 1881s left the factory with special order features, making examples like this one especially desirable. The Model 1881 was the first lever action introduced by Marlin, and only 20,535 were manufactured between 1881 and 1903 compared to 63,871 of the Winchester Model 1876 it competed with. The Marlin was the stronger gun and could chamber the popular .45-70 Govt. cartridge, and it found buyers in the American West as is clearly shown in advertisements in the Dakotas, Montana, and elsewhere in the 1880s. This gun too made it to the West as it is inscribed to a known Western settler. The right side of the receiver is period inscribed with the name "C.F. LUEBBEN," and the inscription certainly has the appearance of being factory. The rifle was owned by German immigrant Charles Frederick Luebben (1874-1947). He came to the U.S. in 1896 and earned a living as a farmer/labor in several western states including Montana, Idaho, and California. Knowing that this gun made it out West makes its high condition even more impressive. Western guns were meant to be used, and their condition generally shows hard use. This deluxe Model 1881 was extremely well cared for, nearly having the appearance of just coming off factory production line. At the time of his death at the age of 72 in March 1947, Luebben was employed as a woodcutter on the Homer Hawkins ranch in the Ophir district, California. Cause of death was a heart attack. He was survived by his brother who lived in San Francisco and worked in the restaurant business. Included are census reports, obituary, and death certificate related to Luebben. The rifle is fitted with a combination Beach front sight, an elevation adjustable rear sight, and a tang peep sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "45 GOVT" at the breech.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Historic Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle in .44-40 W.C.F. Attributed to G.W. Chapman of the U.S. Forest Service Who Rescued the Original "Smokey the Bear" Cub with Documentation

Lot 50

U.S. Forest Service Antique Winchester Model 1873 Rifle

The Winchester Model 1873 rifles are known as one of the "guns that won the West", however, they were also used as working guns well into the 20th century due to their durability and ability to be paired with a Colt Single Action Army in the same caliber. This rifle is an example of that, being attributed to G.W. Chapman who, while working for the U.S. Forest Service, discovered and rescued a bear cub from a forest fire that would eventually become known as the original "Smokey the Bear". An included notarized letter from Chapman's son lists the rifle by serial number along with the attribution, and a transcript of an interview with Chapman is included which details the discovery of the bear cub. Manufactured in 1882 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking, it correctly lacks caliber markings as .44 W.C.F. was the only caliber initially offered, and "R.P.M" is hand scratched on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a blade front sight and elevation adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm hand marked "44W" on the left and a straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Finest Known Casehardened Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1889 Lever Action Rifle with Desirable Freund Sight and Factory Letter

Lot 54

Finest Known Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1889 Rifle

This outstanding rifle was manufactured in 1893 and is a superb example of late 19th century Marlin artistry made more desirable with a rear sight designed by well-known Western frontier gunsmith Frank W. Freund. The casehardened receiver is decorated with attractive factory floral scrollwork on a punch dot background, light scroll and line borders and a game scene depicting a stag in a circular panel on the left side. The motif is very similar to Marlin's No. 1 pattern as illustrated in Brophy's "Marlin Firearms" on page 531. At the time this rifle was manufactured, famed Master Engraver Conrad Ulrich, who spent a lifetime embellishing some of the finest high art firearms of the late 19th century to early 20th century, did most of the engraving for Marlin, and the embellishment on this rifle certainly follows a standard well-known Ulrich pattern encountered on Marlin arms. The barrel is fitted with a combination Beach front sight and a highly desirable Freund elevation adjustable "V" notch rear sight with insert. Like many in the American firearms industry in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Freund brothers Frank W. and George were German immigrants. They had various temporary shop locations as they followed the Union Pacific Railroad westward and established more permanent shops in Denver, Colorado, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, where they regularly modified firearms, particularly Sharps rifles, to fit their customer's needs. They sold rifles to the likes of Philip Sheridan, George Cook, and Theodore Roosevelt. In addition to mechanical alterations and creating new configurations, the Freunds also designed and patented new sights. The rear sight on this rifle is marked "F.W. FREUND/PATENTED." The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line legend and "38-W." "MARLIN SAFETY" is marked on top of the receiver. The highly figured deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature multi-point checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a casehardened crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 24 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber and pistol grip stock. The factory letter also states the rifle was shipped on February 9, 1893. Although not confirmed by the factory letter, the engraving and deluxe checkered pistol grip stock are definitely factory. As noted Marlin expert William Brophy explained, "Unfortunately, the few remaining factory records do not, with any regularity, indicate if the gun was factory engraved or not." Factory engraved Model 1889s are rare, with high condition examples like this one being even rarer. Provenance: The Milan J. Turk Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Very Fine Antique Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action .45-70 Rifle

Lot 56

Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

The powerful Winchester Model 1886 remains one of the most iconic lever action rifles. It was John Browning's first lever action rifle design. Special order '86s remain especially popular with modern collectors. Deluxe Model 1886s are rare. As Winchester expert and author George Madis noted, "Deluxe Model 86s in the rifles made after 1900 are hard to find, partly due to the higher cost of deluxe features." This example was manufactured in 1893 and is mounted with checkered XX deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock. The barrel has Lyman beaded blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight marked "1886" and is stamped with the two-line Winchester address ahead of the rear sight. The upper tang is marked "-MODEL 1886-." The casehardened lower tang is marked with the two-line patent dates and the serial number. The blued receiver is fitted with a special order single set trigger. The left side of the lower tang is marked "760 XX." The assembly number "760" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Lot 57

Winchester Deluxe Model 1885 High Wall Schuetzen Rifle

The no. 3 barrel has the early production two-line Winchester New Haven address on the top flat. The rifle is fitted with a windage adjustable globe front sight with spirit level and a tang peep sight. The barrel lacks a rear sight seat. The lower tang is stamped with the two-line patent dates marking and lacks a visible serial number. The action is fitted with factory unserialized replacement double set triggers with the tang marked "PAT. OCT 7 79." The checkered forearm and pistol grip are nicely figured deluxe style walnut. The forearm has an ebony tip insert. The buttstock has a hard rubber Winchester grip cap, a right handed cheek piece, and a Swiss buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is marked "8237." The butt of the stock is twice marked with the matching assembly number "8237." The replacement buttplate has the number "7991" along with an illegible number.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1885 High Wall Schuetzen Rifle with Factory Matted Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 58

Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1885 Rifle

The accompanying factory letter confirms several special order features presented on this high condition deluxe variation of a Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Schuetzen rifle. These confirmed features included the no. 4 half octagon matted barrel in .32-40, double set triggers, checkered pistol grip stock, Swiss cheek piece, midrange and wind gauge sights and no rear sight seat. The letter also states the rifle was received in the warehouse on January 9, 1892, and shipped on January 19, 1892, with two other arms to order number 16896. These rifles were incredibly popular among early 20th century competition shooters and deluxe examples like this one are highly sought after by today's collectors. The top barrel flat has the two-line Winchester legend and the upper left flat has the caliber designation to accommodate the matting. Winchester factory matted barrels are rare. As Winchester expert and author George Madis pointed out, "Matted barrels were produced in very limited numbers." As confirmed in the factory letter, the rifle is fitted with a windage adjustable globe front sight and a mid range folding tang peep sight, and there is no rear sight dovetail. The lever and buttplate are plated in nickel. The receiver is casehardened. The barrel is blued. The checkered forearm and pistol grip stock are nicely figured deluxe walnut. The forearm has an ebony tip insert and a tuning fork palm rest. The buttstock has a right handed cheek piece. The left side of the lower tang is marked "601 XXX SBC." The stock inlet is numbered to the gun ("53206"). Includes a Mike Clark of Collectors Firearms letter referencing this rifle.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40

Price Realized:

Lot 59

Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1881 was the first lever action rifle design by Marlin, and it proved to be very popular with many customers out west. Per "Flayderman's Guide to Antique American Firearms", only around 20,000 Model 1881s were manufactured by Marlin in 1881-1892. Very few left the factory in deluxe configuration and even fewer were factory engraved. The added costs for special features were considered too much for the general customer looking for a working gun used out on the frontier. The receiver is wonderfully engraved with a factory pattern established by famed Master Engraver Conrad Ulrich, who worked at Marlin from 1881-1910 and was performing most of the engraving for Marlin when this rifle shipped. Ulrich designed the engraving patterns that would be the standard for Marlin high end finishes. Both sides of the receiver are decorated with plain borders, floral scrollwork on punch dot background, and a circular vignette of a running buck on the left side and a bear on the right. Flourishes of scrollwork extend to the bolt. The barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight and has a top flat marked with the two-line Marlin legend ahead of the rear sight and "38-55" at the breech. The checkered forearm and pistol grip stock are nicely figured walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate. The included factory letter (copy) sates the rifle was shipped on February 11, 1886, and confirms the 28 inch barrel in .38-55 caliber and pistol grip stock. Although the high end finishes are not confirmed by the factory letter, the engraving and stock checkering are definitely factory. As noted Marlin expert William Brophy explained, "Unfortunately, the few remaining factory records do not, with any regularity, indicate if the gun was factory engraved or not."

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Rare Antique Factory Grade No. 10 Engraved, Gold Inlaid, and Stocked Marlin Deluxe Model 1897 Lever Action Rifle Three Barrel Set with Factory Letter

Lot 62

Factory Grade No. 10 Embellished Marlin Deluxe Model 1897 Rifle

Manufactured in 1897. The receiver of this rifle is decorated with a fabulous Marlin Grade No. 10 engraving and inlaid patterns consisting of grape leaves on a fine punch dot background and highly detailed games scenes outlined in gold inlay. The factory engraving patterns were established 1897 when renowned master engraver Conrad Ulrich was the engraver for Marlin. Ulrich did a majority of the engraving for Marlin from 1881 until 1910 when he left for Winchester, spending a lifetime embellishing some of the finest high art firearms of the period. Grade No. 10 was one of the highest grades of embellishments offered by Marlin at this time and cost the customer an additional $50.00. The left side of the receiver depicts a doe and buck in a forest scene inside an oval panel outlined in gold. The right side of the receiver depicts a squirrel in a tree inside a circular panel outlined in gold. Light scrollwork decorates the forend cap and lever. Additional gold inlay is found on the hammer and forend cap. The breech of the barrel is engraved with light scrollwork and inlaid with gold and platinum lines. The rifle is fitted with a beaded blade Lyman front sight, a two leaf Lyman rear sight, and a folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat has the two-line Marlin address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped between the “MA” in the “MARLIN SAFETY” marking. The underside of the receiver has the serial number. The deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature a factory checkering pattern using grape leaves. This style of checkering was reserved for rifles decorated with the No. 10 engraving. As stated in period factory marketing literature, “Our illustration of No. 10 engraving shows a stock and forearm specially checkered to accord with the grape leaf design of the engraving” (“Marlin Firearms,” 520). The buttstock is fitted with a Marlin hard rubber shotgun style buttplate. A similar No. 10 engraved, inlaid and stocked Model 1897 is pictured in “Marlin Firearms” on page 239 where author and Marlin expert Brophy confirms the rarity of this grade of decorative firearm: “One of very few known gold inlaid Model 1897 rifles.” Comes with two extra .22 caliber factory half octagon barrels factory engraved and inlaid to match. Each barrel has empty front and rear sight dovetails, measures 24 inches, and has the factory two-line legend on the top flat. One barrel is unnumbered. The other barrel is numbered to the gun and is marked with the number “2.” The inclusion of three matching engraved and inlaid barrels is another rare feature. The accompanying factory letter indicates that there are two entries for this rifle in the factory ledger. The first entry lists a rifle with 24 inch half octagon barrel in .22 caliber when shipped on October 1, 1898. The second entry lists a rifle with half octagon barrel in .22 caliber and pistol grip stock when shipped September 25, 1897. A second ship date of October 19, 1913, is also provided. A series of shipping entries is indicative of factory exhibition pieces that were displayed at various World's Fairs, other international exhibitions, American exhibitions, and sometimes at important dealers. Marlin factory letters are notorious for being incomplete. Again we turned to Brophy for insight: “Marlin company won numerous awards for excellence at international and national exhibitions and World’s Fairs. Unfortunately, complete details have not survived the many corporate changes that the various Marlin organization went through. The first major award known is the Highest Award of Merit, which Marlin received at the Centennial International Exhibition, held in Melbourne, Australia, in 1888” ("Marlin Firearms," page 487). The ship dates for this rifle are ambiguous; however, there are possibilities. The Brussels International Exposition was a world’s fair held in Brussels, Belgium, from May 10-November 8, 1897. Displays from twenty-seven countries were seen by nearly 8 million people. The Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition was held in Omaha, Nebraska, from June 1-November 1898.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 63

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle in .44 W.C.F.

The Winchester Model 1873 rifles are known as one of the "guns that won the West", and these rifles in .44 W.C.F. were very popularly paired with a Colt Frontier Six Shooter in the same caliber, so that only one type of ammunition needed to be sourced and carried on the frontier. Manufactured in 1889 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. Two-line address/King's patent marking and "44 W.C.F." on the top barrel flat, model designation on the upper tang, serial number on the lower tang, and "44 CAL." on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. It is fitted with a combination front sight, elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, and a peep sight mounted on the upper tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, receipt at the warehouse on 11 May 1889, shipment on 23 May 1889, and return to the factory for repair on 4 October 1890.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 64

Antique Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1897. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address and caliber marking at the breech. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model, trademark, and patent dates, and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Very Fine Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in .45-60 W.C.F.

Lot 67

Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle in .45-60 WCF

This is an exceptionally nice high condition Winchester Model 1876 lever action rifle that was manufactured in 1882. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped in two lines: "WINCHESTER'S- REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860.", with the breech end roll marked: "CAL. 45-60" ahead of the receiver. The upper receiver tang has the final, third style "MODEL 1876" marking with foliate letters. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is inscribed "45-60". The serial number is stamped on the lower receiver tang behind the loading lever latch. The receiver has the integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The barrel is fitted with the original factory half nickel silver blade front sight, and the "1876" marked adjustable folding leaf rear sight, marked: "2-10" (200-1000 yards). The stock is fitted with the original steel buttplate with a sliding brass trap door. These rifles have a rust blued finish on the barrel, magazine tube, receiver and side plates and a casehardened hammer, loading lever, forearm cap and crescent steel buttplate. The loading gate is niter blue. The walnut stock and forearm are varnished.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 68

Winchester High Wall Model 1885 Schuetzen Style Rifle

Manufactured in 1898. The no. 3 barrel has the two-line address and "32-40" markings and fitted with a globe front sight. The lower tang has the two-line patent date marking and the serial number. There is a long range tang peep sight and double set triggers. Mounted on a nicely figured Schnabel forearm and perch bell stock fitted with a Swiss buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40

Price Realized:

Lot 69

Winchester Model 1885 Single Shot High Wall Rifle

This is an attractive example of an antique Winchester Model 1885 High Wall rifle in popular .32-40 cartridge that was manufactured in 1894. The rifle has a 30 inch octagon, no. 3 weight barrel, which is marked with the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "32-40" at the breech. It has a Winchester commercial blue finished barrel and casehardened receiver. Features windage adjustable globe front sight, filler block in the rear sight dovetail and Vernier tang peep sight. The rifle is fitted with a straight grip plain walnut stock and matching straight grain forearm.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40

Price Realized:

Lot 70

Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle in .40-90

According to "Sharps Firearms" by Frank Sellers, Sharps only manufactured approximately 6,400 of these sporting rifles in a variety of configurations between 1871 to 1880. This example is fitted with double set triggers and a 30 inch, heavy, octagon barrel and is one of a reported 360, including both the Model 1869 and Model 1874 rifles, chambered for the desirable .40-90 caliber, making this example relatively scarce (according to page 83 of Roy Marcot's "Sharps Firearms" Volume II). Modified brass blade front sight and a modified fixed notch rear sight. The top barrel flat is marked "Old Reliable" ahead of the Bridgeport address, and the left barrel flat is marked "CAL.40" ahead of "2 5/8". The left side of the receiver is marked with the two-line Sharps 1869 patent date, and the matching serial number "155251" is marked on the upper tang and underside of the barrel. It is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm numbered to the gun and straight grip stock with a steel buttplate. This Sharps sporting rifle in .40-90 caliber likely saw its fair share of frontier use, and would have had plenty of stopping power for taking down buffalo on the plains.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40-90 Sharps

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Trapper's Carbine with Highly Desirable 16 Inch Barrel

Lot 71

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine

Manufactured in 1891, a carbine such as this would have been a very desirable arm in the American West, not only with trapper's, but anyone looking for impressive firepower in a small and mobile package. This example is a Third Model with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with serrations at the rear. The top of the barrel is faintly marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking and the caliber marking at the breech. The upper tang has the model marking and the lower tang is marked with the serial number. It is fitted with a pinned German silver blade front sight, a folding ladder rear sight, and a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor carbine buttplate (cleaning rod not included). Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38

Price Realized:

Lot 72

Serial Number 1000 Colt Burgess Lever Action Rifle

The Colt Burgess rifles and carbines were only available from 1883 to around 1885, and only 6,403 were manufactured. This design by Burgess was one of the highest quality competitors to the Winchester Model 1873 on the American frontier, and was arguably more advanced. There are rumors that a back room deal was reached between Winchester and Colt, that the other would not encroach on the others "turf", leading to Colt halting production of these guns. This example has standard markings and is fitted with dovetailed German silver blade front and elevation adjustable notch rear sights. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Antique Colt Black Powder Frame Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 73

Antique Colt Black Powder Frame Frontier Six Shooter Revolver

When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 W.C.F. Single Action Army, or Frontier Six Shooter, was intended to be used in conjunction with another legendary western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, which came standard in the same chambering. "The .44-40 WCF was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." Manufactured in 1882, it has the standard one-line address on top of the barrel and "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an etched panel on the left. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line patent dates. Matching serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the partial matching number is marked on the cylinder and barrel under the ejector rod housing. The original varnished single piece wood grip is matching numbered "3960" in ink on the interior. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (barrel length and grips not listed, as was standard) as well as shipment to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. in St. Louis on 10 December 1882. These St. Louis arms distributors were prolific in shipping their guns farther west as well as local sales, preparing settlers for the dangers ahead on the Western Frontier.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

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