December 2024 Premier Firearms Auction

December 06, 2024 to December 08, 2024

This auction has ended.

December 2024 Premier Firearms Auction

December 06, 2024 to December 08, 2024

This auction has ended.

Page 1 of 37

Showing 1-50 of 1,805 results

Very Fine Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 1

Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Rifle

Per the Madis serial number data published by Winchester, this rifle is legally an antique. The included factory letter indicates this rifle in .30 caliber with a 1/2 octagon barrel, plain trigger, checkered stock, pistol grip, Lyman front and rear sights, 1/2 magazine, shotgun butt with rubber buttplate, takedown configuration, and oil finish and indicates it was received in the warehouse on August 10, 1899, and shipped the same day in order 33712. The Model 1894 was Winchester's most prolific model, and due to its reputation as a "working gun", deluxe and special order examples such as this are relatively scarce, particularly in high condition. According to the data published by Oswalt and Hawk, out of the first 353,999 Model 1894s produced, only 26,934 were takedowns, 17,768 had shotgun butts, 10,512 had checkered stocks, and 26,579 had half magazines, making a rifle in this configuration quite scarce. The top flat of the part octagon barrel has the two-line address and the caliber marking at the breech, while the two-line nickel steel marking is on the upper left. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model and trademark information while the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. The left side of the lower tang is marked "7933 RB OF" and "7933" is repeated in the stock inlet. It is fitted with a Lyman beaded blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. It is mounted with a very nicely figured, H-pattern checkered forearm and pistols grip stock with a hard rubber grip cap and checkered shotgun buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 2

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket

Manufactured in 1903, this is an outstanding example of a Winchester Model 1873 musket. Out of a total production of around 720,000, only about 5% or 36,000 Model 1873s were produced in musket configuration, with many fulfilling South American military and police contracts and never finding their way back to the North American collectors market. It is marked with the standard two-line address and King's patent marking on top of the barrel along with the caliber marking at the breech, which is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The model marking is on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a bayonet lug, block blade front sight, folding ladder military-type rear sight, and sling swivels on one of the barrel bands and on the bottom of the stock. It is mounted with a full-length, smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor military-type buttplate containing an included five-piece cleaning rod.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 3

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

The included Cody Firearms Museum preliminary firearm serial number verification confirms the carbine configuration and that the carbine was received in the warehouse on May 5, 1885 and shipped on July 7, 1885 on order number 21777. This is a Third Model example with the integral dust cover guide rail and a dust cover with serrated grasping grooves on the tail. Fitted with a bayonet style blade front sight behind the magazine retaining ring, a ladder rear sight marked "1873," and a saddle ring and stud mounted on the left side of the action. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line address/patent date marking ahead of the rear sight and "44 CAL" at the breech. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." The upper tang has the model marking and the lower tang has the serial number. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with crescent buttplate featuring a compartment (the 3-piece cleaning rod is included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 4

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Manufactured in 1870, when the American West was still very much wild. Many legendary firearms are often cited as the "Guns that Won the West", however, there are perhaps no long guns more iconic than the Winchester Model 1866 carbine. These carbines simply have "the look" of having been there when the West was being tamed and were carried for decades on the frontier by lawmen, cowboys, outlaws, Native Americans, gold prospectors, and settlers. This example is a Third Model that certainly has a frontier issued appearance. The carbine is fitted with a blade front sight integral to the barrel band and a folding two-leaf rear sight, as well as a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. The barrel is stamped with the two-line Winchester address and King's patent marking. The serial number is marked in block digits behind the trigger on the lower tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Documented Factory Engraved Silver-Plated, New Haven Arms Company No. 1 Lever Action Pocket Pistol as Featured in the Book "Volcanic Firearms"

Lot 5

Engraved Silver-Plated, New Haven Arms Co. No. 1 Pistol

This No. 1 lever action pocket pistol was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company c. 1858. This pistol is pictured on page 75 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessors to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis and Rutter. The pistol has a blued, .31 caliber, octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, silver-plated brass frame, casehardened lever, trigger, and hammer, and two-piece, piano-finished, walnut grips. The Type III barrel lacks the rib found on S&W and Volcanic Repeating Arms pistols, and it has a crowned muzzle, rounded T-bar spring, pinch-back steel front sight blade and brass, clamshell follower. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "NEW HAVEN CONN./PATENT FEB. 14. 1854 " in two lines. The frame has a crescent-shaped cut out at the front of the ejection port and simple, dovetail mounted, rear sight. The serial number is stamped on the left side of the grip frame beneath the grips. "774" is stamped on the inside of both of the walnut grips. The sides and top of the frame and back strap are decorated with simple factory engraving consisting of open scrollwork and scalloped borders. As the caption of the illustration in "Volcanic Firearms" notes this engraving is one of several engraving styles found on New Haven Arms Company Volcanic pistols and carbines. Provenance: The Gerald Klaz Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Very Fine Early Production Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle with Desirable Henry Patent Marked Barrel

Lot 6

Winchester Model 1866 Rifle with Henry Patent Marking

Manufactured in 1869. 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 traces its lineage back to earlier repeaters like the Volcanic. These rifles are one of the most iconic weapons of the American West. 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. Today the Model 1866 is highly prized by collector's, especially like this early production rifle with the highly sought after Henry patent marking. The top barrel is lightly marked "HENRY'S PATENT-OCT. 16. 1860/KING'S PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866" ahead of the rear sight. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, and Vernier tang sight. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the forend cap and buttock. The buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate and the compartment contains a four piece cleaning rod. These rifles generally saw hard use and we rarely catalog examples like this one in high condition. This Model 1866 is will be a standout piece of Winchester legacy in any lever action collection. Provenance: The Tom Selleck Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Lot 7

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

The Winchester Model 1886 was a rugged rifle designed by John Browning that offered more firepower to the earlier Model 1876, but in a smaller, more robust package. Thus, just as its predecessor, the Model 1886 quickly found popularity among those on the frontier who needed as rifle as rugged as their lifestyle. Offered here is a well cared for Model 1866 carbine in rare .40-65 WCF caliber that will be a fine addition to any Winchester or lever action collection. The accompanying factory letter states this carbine was received in the warehouse on July 17, 1890, and shipped the same day and confirms the .40-65 caliber chambering. According to John T. Madl in his Summer 2018 article in "The Winchester Collector", only 433 Model 1886 carbines manufactured in .40-65 WCF were listed in the available factory records. This is certainly a very rare Model 1886! The carbine is fitted with a pinned blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight marked "1873" and graduated to 900 yards. The top of the barrel has the two-line Winchester ahead of the rear sight and "W.C.F./40-65" at the breech. The upper tang is marked "-MODEL 1886-". The lower tang has the patent dates marking as well as the serial number. The left side of the casehardened receiver is fitted with a saddle ring . It is mounted in plain walnut forearm and straight grip stock with casehardened carbine buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40-65 WCF

Price Realized:

Highly Desirable Framed Union Metallic Cartridge Co. Cartridge Display Board

Lot 8

Union Metallic Cartridge Co. Cartridge Display Bullet Board

Cartridge boards such as this were a great complimentary advertisement provided to sporting goods stores by cartridge manufacturers to hang in their shops, giving consumers a physical representation of the wide range of cartridges they provided. One of these boards is clearly shown hanging in the well-known photograph of the interior of J.P. Lower & Sons' shop in Denver, and other examples would have hung in other gun shops around the country as promotional items distributed by the Union Metallic Cartridge Co. in the late 19th century. These impressive cartridge display boards naturally make eye-catching display pieces in gun rooms, gun shops, homes, and businesses. Being one of the largest American cartridge manufacturers, Union Metallic Cartridge Co. would have wanted boards such as this hanging in as many retail locations as possible to compete with the likes of Winchester. This impressive board includes cartridges ranging from the tiny BB cap up to the massive 4 gauge cartridge, though the 1 inch Gatling Gun cartridge is absent. Centered around a central diamond shaped image depicting a herd of deer and the "U.M.C." logo, a number of primers, caps, wads, and cut away brass shotgun shells join the myriad of rifle and revolver rounds. The frame features the attractive U.M.C. trademark and Union Metallic Cartridge Co. carved banners at the top and bottom respectively. The back side has an original "With the Compliments of/THE UNION METALLIC CARTRIDGE CO." paper label affixed. It measures approximately 41x54 inches overall. The consignor states that this cartridge board hung for years at Montana Armory.

Price Realized:

Very Fine Documented Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in the Desirable .22 Short Caliber with Factory Letter

Lot 9

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle in .22 Short

Manufactured in 1892, this is a very fine example of a Winchester Model 1873 lever action rifle that is chambered in the desirable .22 short rimfire caliber. These Model 1873 rifles were desirable in the American West, with all calibers, large or small, finding a use. The accompanying factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on October 19, 1892 and shipped on November 1 with a round barrel in .22 caliber and plain trigger. The rifle has the distinctive .22 caliber receiver with no loading gate and front-loading magazine. Third Model receiver has an integral dust cover guide and dust cover with serrated edges. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line Winchester address and King patent dates legend ahead of the rear sight and "22 SHORT" at the breech. The bottom of the cartridge elevator is roll-stamped "22 CAL./SHORT." The serial number is marked on the lower tang. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and a buckhorn elevation adjustable rear sight. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 Short

Price Realized:

Unique Special Order Winchester Model 1894 Lightweight Lever Action Takedown Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 10

Special Order Winchester Model 1894 Lightweight Takedown Rifle

Manufactured in 1904 with scarce part octagon, rapid taper, lightweight barrel marked with the standard two-line address/patent dates, "NICKEL STEEL" marking, and "38-55" at the breech. The barrel and receiver are also marked with factory oval proofs at the breech. The upper tang has the three-line model/trademark marking and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. The left side of the lower tang is marked "1180 X R" and the stock mortise is marked "2924". Fitted with ramped, dovetailed Lyman beaded blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. Mounted with a straight grain, smooth forearm and pistol grip stock with a hard rubber grip cap and shotgun buttplate. The included factory letter lists the rifle in .38-55 caliber with a half octagon nickel steel lightweight barrel, set trigger, Lyman front sight, Winchester High Velocity, takedown, and a plain pistol grip stock with a rubber shotgun buttplate when received at the warehouse on 7 January 1908 and shipped the same day in order number 136503.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 11

Glass Winchester Store Display Gun Cabinet

This factory store display cabinet was manufactured in the early 1900s to aid Winchester dealers in displaying their Winchester long guns. Display cabinets such as this would have easily become a centerpiece near the gun counter of hardware stores and sporting goods stores across the nation around the turn of the century. There is a brass Walrus Mfg. Co. Decatur, Illinois rectangular manufacturer plaque attached to the bottom. It is constructed of dark varnished oak, with full length glass panels and a cathedral top with glass panels. The top of door is stamped with the serial number for the cabinet "740". It stands approximately 73 inches in height on four legs with the typical brass feet sheathes present, and each side is approximately 18 inches wide. The inside display height is approximately 45 inches. On the inside is a four sided rack that will hold 20 long guns. All four sides are 5/8 inch thick and are marked "WINCHESTER" in white and black bordered red letters with black lettered "PATENT APPLIED FOR" on a white background below. The bottom of the case and the inner edge of the rack is lined with original green felt. Provenance: The Gateway Collection

Price Realized:

Lot 12

Factory Engraved Volcanic Lever Action Carbine

This Volcanic lever action carbine was manufactured by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company c. 1856. These carbines are, as noted by Lewis and Rutter in "Volcanic Firearms," "an extreme rarity" (page 62). The Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. existed for only 19 months and its short existence meant there was little time and resources for the production of carbines. The carbine has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral magazine and brass frame and buttplate. The barrel has a cone front sight. The top barrel flat is roll stamped with the three-line legend: "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEW HAVEN. CONN. FEB.14. 1854." The address is lightly struck as frequently encountered on Volcanic Repeating Arms barrels. The receiver has a dovetail mounted rear sight with elevation wheel and is factory engraved. The typical factory engraving consists mostly of open scrollwork with kidney patterns at the rear and leaf patterns on the chamber and around the hammer. The scrollwork extends to the upper tang and buttplate tang. The hammer spur is hand-knurled. The serial number is stamped on the right side of the lever, the left side of the lower tang, The assembly number "88" is marked on the right side of the lower tang, butt of the stock, buttplate, buttplate screws, and receiver tang screws. The letter "Y" is marked on the left side of the lever. Volcanic arms have a significant place in the development of American firearms. The combination of a self-contained cartridge, integral, multi-shot magazine and self-cocking lever action made Volcanic pistols and carbines the most advanced firearms of their day. The key features of the Volcanic pistols and carbines were refined and incorporated in the Henry rifle and Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles and carbines. Finally, shirt maker Oliver Winchester's investment in Volcanic Repeating Arms introduced him to the firearms business. Provenance: The Ray Bentley Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Lot 13

Factory Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 92 Lever Action Carbine

Offered here is a rarity in Winchester collecting: a factory engraved deluxe version of the Model 92 carbine with several rarely encountered special order features as manufactured in 1923. The accompanying three page letter from Winchester expert and author George Madis outlines some of the special order features found on this gun. Madis concluded, "I have carefully examined this rare deluxe 1892 inside and out, and have determined it as all original as made by Winchester in 1923." The rifle has a factory style 9 engraving consisting of broad floral scrollwork on a punch dot background, wavy line and dot borders and a vignette of a standing deer on the right side. Additional accents of scrollwork are found on the underside of the receiver by the serial number and near each Winchester factory oval proof found on the barrel and receiver at the breech. Note that the proof on the receiver is offset to accommodate the engraving. The style 9 engraving is illustrated in Winchester's "Highly Finished Arms" catalog as reprinted in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Winchester Engraving" on page 219. The checkered deluxe pistol grip stock is rarely found on carbines and features a high gloss lacquer finish, Winchester hard rubber grip cap and rifle buttplate. A rifle buttplate is rarely seen on carbines. Matching assembly numbers (1119) are found on the left side of the upper tang, stock inlet, inside of the buttplate and buttstock under the buttplate. The buttplate and pistol grip stock were therefore assembled at the factory and are original. The Lyman front and receiver sights are also seldom found on carbines, but their originality on this gun is verified by the fact that no rear sight slot is cut in the barrel. The base for the front sight was forged as part of the barrel, which was standard on the Model 92. The magazine tube support ring was standard on the small caliber Model 92s. The left side of the barrel has the two-line address/patent dates marking followed by the two-line nickel steel marking and "32 WCF." The upper tang is stamped with the three-line model/trade mark information. Provenance: Quail Creek Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Civil War New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

Lot 14

Civil War New Haven Arm Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle

This rifle is one of an estimated 300 manufactured in July 1864 (see page 72 of "The Historic Henry Rifle" by Sword). The rifle features a squareback blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, the two-line address and Henry patent marking with all serif letters, matching serial numbers (barrel, lower tang, upper tang stock mortise, and buttplate), the correct pattern frame without the alternate sight dovetail and with the milling for the larger follower, rotating lever latch on the lower tang, sling loop on the left side of the barrel, sling swivel on the left side of the buttstock, and the later production buttplate with pointed heel and trapdoor (compartment empty). By the middle of the Civil War, the Henry had gained the attention of soldiers on both sides of the conflict. The Union troops had much better access and used them more widely. When Confederates troops could capture Henry rifles and ammunition, they put them to use, particularly after 200+ Henry rifles were captured from the 1st D.C. Cavalry during the famous "Beefsteak Raid" in September 1864, and Jefferson Davis's bodyguards were among the Confederate units armed with Henry rifles as the war came to a close. Many remained in use during Reconstruction following the war, particularly in the West during the Indian Wars where they were used by both settlers and native warriors.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Lot 15

Desirable Sectional Wooden Cleaning Rod for a Henry Lever Action

This is a four section hickory rod measuring 27 inches long assembled, each individual piece about 6 7/8 inches long, designed to fit in the buttstock compartment of a Henry lever action rifle with disassembled. While an extremely common accessory during the period of use, many of the Henrys still in existence are sans rod, due to damage, wear or being misplaced. The rod has iron joining pieces, a jag carved into one tip, and a smooth naked butt on the opposite end.

Price Realized:

Ultra Rare, Exhibition Grade C.F. Ulrich Factory Master Engraved and Signed Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Musket with Bayonet

Lot 16

Ulrich Master Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Musket

This Third Model Winchester 1866 Musket was manufactured in 1870 and engraved and signed by Conrad F. Ulrich. The musket has the distinctive 27-inch round barrel with 24-inch magazine and long (17-inch) forearm, three barrel bands and block-mounted front sight that serves as a lug for a socket bayonet. The barrel has a dovetail mounted, Henry style, folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch and elevator bar stop screw. Sling swivels are mounted on the middle barrel band and the stock. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped for a rear sight. The carbine style buttplate has a sliding trapdoor. The butt trap contains a nickel-plated, four-piece, jointed steel cleaning rod. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend "WINCHESTER-REPEATING-ARMS. NEWHAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. "C" is stamped on the top of the barrel just ahead of the receiver. The serial number "61216" is stamped in an engraved banner behind the trigger on the lower tang. The rifle and bayonet have a full nickel-plated finish. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a semi-gloss finish. The top sides and bottom of the receiver, cartridge elevator, upper and lower tang and buttplate heel are engraved with American style scrollwork on a punch-dot background. A face is partially hidden in the scrollwork of the left side of the receiver in a style more typical of Gustave Young. Both sides of the receiver are decorated with stylish open panels and shields. The scrollwork panels are separated by elaborate engraved borders. The rifle is signed with the tiny rectangular stamp: "C.F. ULRICH" behind the trigger. Factory engraved Model 1866 Muskets are extremely rare. Ulrich signed Model 1866 Muskets are rarer still. No Ulrich signed or engraved Model 1866 Muskets are illustrated in the primary references on Winchester factory engraving "The Book of Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson or "The Winchester Book" by George Madis. This magnificent Ulrich signed engraved Winchester Model 1866 musket is consecutively serial numbered to the following lot. Provenance: The Quail Creek Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Magnificent, Factory Master Engraved and C.F. Ulrich Signed Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

Lot 17

Ulrich Master Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Carbine

Winchester Third Model 1866 carbine manufactured in 1870. The carbine has deluxe factory engraving and is signed by Master Engraver Conrad F. Ulrich. The top, sides and bottom of the receiver (including the upper and lower tangs) and the buttplate heel are decorated with full grade coverage Germanic scrollwork on a punch-dot background with scalloped borders. There are open panels on both sides of the receiver and both side plates as well as a open scroll on the upper tang. The engraver's signature, "C.F.ULRICH" is engraved in tiny letters on the lower tang behind the serial number. The carbine has a blued barrel and magazine with nickel-plated barrel bands, receiver, hammer, lever and carbine buttplate. The stock and forearm are select American walnut with a piano finish. The upper barrel band has the early style integral front sight blade, and the barrel has the early, single leaf, rear sight. The buttplate has a sliding brass trap door. The carbine lacks the staple-mounted saddle ring found on most Model 1866 carbines. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEWHAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866 OCTOBER. 16 1860" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The serial number "61217" is stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger in a hand-engraved rectangle. This stunning Ulrich signed engraved Winchester Model 1866 carbine is consecutively serial numbered to the previous lot. Provenance: The Quail Creek Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Extra Lightweight Takedown Lever Action Short Rifle with Scarce 22 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 18

Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Extra Lightweight Takedown Rifle

The accompanying factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on May 18, 1906, and shipped the same day with a 22 inch round barrel in .30 caliber, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, half magazine, rubber shotgun buttplate, extra lightweight configuration, and oil finish for the wood. Twenty-two inch barrels on Model 1894s are a very scarce special order feature even on the lightweight examples. Out of the first 353,999 Model 1894s produced that the Cody Firearms Museum has the Winchester records for, only 2,252 had 22 inch barrels per page 16 to the ARMAX Cody Firearms Museum journal rarity study. The rifle also has special order short magazine and deluxe forearm and pistol grip stock with checkering. This is a highly sought after variation of the famed Model 1894. 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 lightweight, deluxe takedown variations highly sought after by collectors, especially those in exceptional condition like this example. The rifle is fitted with a beaded blade Lyman front sight, Marble's folding leaf rear sight adjustable for elevation, and folding Lyman tang peep sight. There are two non-factory tapped holes with filler screws on left rear frame. The barrel has the nickel steel marking and caliber designation "30 WCF" on the left side and the two-line Winchester legend on top ahead of the rear sight. The forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The buttstock is fitted with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and shotgun buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is hand marked with the letters "KKK" and stamped "289 XRO". The assembly number "289" is repeated on the stock inlet.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Phenomenal and Rare Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable .44 W.C.F. with Factory Letter

Lot 19

Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1892 Rifle in .44 W.C.F.

Manufactured in 1892 with the standard two-line address and "44 W.C.F." marked on the top barrel flat. Three-line model/trademark/patent date marking on the upper tang and serial number marked on the bottom of the receiver. Fitted with a dovetailed German silver blade front sight, elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, and a special order half-magazine. 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 23 June 1893 and shipped the same day in order number 19941.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Rare Documented Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Short Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 20

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Short Rifle

Offered here is a rare 20 inch barrel Model 1873 short rifle in deluxe configuration. Winchester expert and author George Madis noted that these short rifles "were most popular in the Southwest along the Mexican border and have usually seen long and hard use. They are often called 'Border Model' by collectors" ("The Winchester Book," page 162). Per Madis one of each 450 Model 1873 rifles had special shorter barrel (page 212). Known simply as “The Gun that Won the West,” the Winchester Model 1873 rifle stands as an icon of American firepower on the open frontier that still resonates with modern collectors. The Model 1873 was a "working gun" that saw hard use, and those in high condition are highly sought after. Finding a deluxe Model 1873 in any condition is becoming increasingly difficult. For the typical Winchester customer special features such as deluxe wood were generally considered too costly and unnecessary for those looking for a reliable "working gun." Per Madis one of each 600 Model 1873s had special wood and one of each 700 guns had checkering. This combination of short rifle and deluxe wood make this Model 1873 a Winchester rarity missing from even the most advanced public or private collections. The included factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on December 30, 1886, and shipped the next day with a 20 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, half magazine, casehardened receiver, swivels, and sling. The rifle is fitted with a blade front sight and a three leaf rear sight on a barrel marked with the two-line Winchester/King's patent legend ahead of the rear sight and "38-CAL" at the breech. The rifle has a special order half length magazine. Again, we turn to Madis to point out the rarity of another rare special order feature: one of each 270 Model 1873s had special length magazine. The caliber designation "38 CAL" is marked on the brass cartridge elevator. The lower tang has the serial number. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The rifle is a third model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the forend cap and buttstock. The buttstock has a hard rubber insert in the grip and a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The 2X walnut forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The left side of the lower tang is stamped "1346 38 and XX." The assembly number "1346" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 21

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Musket

The accompanying factory letter lists this musket as chambered in .45-70 caliber when received in the warehouse on September 8, 1892 and shipped the same day. The rifle has a 30-inch round barrel with full-length magazine and distinctive blued steel forearm cap. The barrel is secured by a single band and has a steel block front sight that serves as a mount for a socket bayonet and a military style folding leaf rear sight. Factory sling swivels are fitted to the barrel band and stock. The carbine style buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor. The butt trap contains a five-piece steel cleaning rod. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "-< MANUFACTURED BY THE >-/-< WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN US.A >-" in two lines between the barrel band and rear sight. The caliber "45-70" is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. "MODEL 1886" is roll-stamped on the upper tang. The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are roll-stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger. The serial number is roll-stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the tang screws. The barrel, magazine, forearm cap, barrel band, rear sight, bolt, loading gate, trigger and sling swivels have a blue finish. The receiver, hammer, lever and carbine style buttplate are color casehardened. The receiver and buttplate have vivid case colors. The stock and forearm are straight grain, oil-finished American walnut. The Model 1886 Musket was made in smaller numbers than any other Model 1886 variation and is the rarest of the scarce Winchester lever action muskets.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Exceptional Well-Documented Antique Winchester Model 1890 Deluxe Casehardened Slide Action Rifle with Factory Letter as Pictured on the cover of "Winchester Slide Action Rifles"

Lot 22

Antique Winchester Deluxe Model 1890 Slide Action Rifle

This rifle is pictured and identified by serial number on pages 147, 160, and 228 of "Winchester Slide Action Rifles: Volume I" by Ned Schwing, it is also the featured rifle on the cover of the book. According to Schwing, only 73 Deluxe Model rifles with checkered straight grip stocks were manufactured during the casehardened Second Model period of production. Manufactured in 1897. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle chambered in .22 Short and with a fancy checkered stock when received in the warehouse on August 19, 1897 and shipped the same day. Special order Lyman beaded blade front and unmarked elevation adjustable rear notch sights, second style barrel inscription, "22 SHORT" caliber marking on top barrel flat at the breech, Winchester proofs correctly absent, casehardened Second Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, and standard three-line maker, model, and patent marking on the upper tang. Highly figured XX fancy walnut 12 groove slide handle and deluxe checkered straight grip stock with casehardened crescent buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is marked "3677 XX," and the end of the buttstock is marked with matching assembly number "3677" over "90". The inside of the buttplate is marked "416".

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF Short

Price Realized:

Outstanding and Documented Factory Engraved and Gold Inlaid Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Rifle

Lot 23

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle

This factory engraved, gold banded Winchester deluxe Model 1894 takedown rifle was manufactured in 1911. This special order rifle features a part octagon barrel, half-magazine and highly figured, fancy grade walnut forearm and pistol grip stock with factory H-pattern checkering. The barrel has a gold band inlaid at the breech. The forearm cap, barrel breech, takedown collar, top and sides of the receiver, upper receiver tang and buttplate heel are decorated with Winchester No. 6 factory engraving. The 1897 edition of "Winchester Repeating Arms Co, Highly Finished Arms" describes No. 6 engraving as: "scroll, border, line and ribbon engraving". The variation of the No.9 pattern engraving features detailed game scenes on either side of the receiver; the scene on the left side of the features a highly detailed bighorn ram and the scene on the right side of the receiver depicts a bull elk. The pistol grip has a black hard rubber cap embossed "WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO." The barrel, magazine, loading gate and crescent buttplate have a blue finish. The forearm cap, takedown collar, bolt and receiver are high polish blue. The hammer, trigger and lever are casehardened with subdued case colors. The barrel has an express style front sight with silver bead and a buckhorn, sporting style rear sight with screw adjustable centerpiece. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY THE/WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." in two unequal lines ahead of the rear sight. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "PAT. AUG. 21. 1894" in a single line below the Winchester legend. The caliber designation, "32-40", is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver in a dot and scallop panel surrounded by scrollwork. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "MODEL 1894/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG.IN U.S. PAT. OFF." in three-lines with an engraved scrollwork flourish at the hammer end. The serial number is roll-stamped across the front edge of the receiver bottom. This rifle is pictured and identified in R.L. Wilson's "Winchester Engraving" on page 342. The engraving is attributed to Winchester Master Engraver Angelo Stokes. "A key to identification of Stokes from study of the Big Horn sheep motif," noted Wilson. Provenance: A.W. Pierce Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 24

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1879, this is an attractive example of a Winchester Model 1866 rifle. Few firearms, besides perhaps the Colt Single Action Army revolver, are more indelibly linked with the "Wild West" and the American Frontier than the Winchester Model 1866. These Model 1866 rifles and their decedents were highly valued on the American frontier for decades by any depending on firepower for survival. Often seeing hard use in the wilds of the American West, these 1866s are rarely found in high condition like this example. Nicknamed the "improved Henry", the Model 1866 was essentially an updated version of the iconic Henry rifle. The most notable improvement featured on the Model 1866 was the new loading gate on the side of the receiver and the enclosed magazine tube, a system which was designed by Winchester factory superintendent Nelson King, whose basic design carried on through essentially the whole line of iconic Winchester lever actions. The included factory letter lists this gun as a carbine when received at the warehouse on 13 December 1879, that it was changed to an octagon barrel on 23 February 1880, and that it was shipped on 25 February 1880. This example is a fourth model featuring an iron buttplate instead of brass, a serial number stamped in script, and an even less pronounced drop at the top rear of the frame as compared to proceeding models. These fourth models are found starting in the 149000 serial number range and carried on until the end of production c. 1898. The top barrel flat is marked with the standard two-line address and King's patent markings. The serial number is marked in stamped script on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The left side of the lower tang is marked with "69", "52", and "1278". The assembly number "52" is repeated in the stock inlet and inside the buttplate. It is fitted with set of standard "sporting" sights featuring a German silver blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The left side of the receiver has two visibly filled holes where the saddle ring staple was prior to being factory converted to rifle configuration just before shipment. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Stunning and Rare Factory Panel Scene Relief Engraved and Gold Inlaid Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 25

Factory Engraved/Inlaid Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Rifle

The factory letter lists this rifle in .38-55 with a 26 inch 1/2 octagon barrel, pistol grip stock, half magazine, and takedown configuration and indicates it was shipped on November 9, 1897. It is beautifully embellished with highly sought after Marlin factory No. 5 engraving along with gold inlaid accents. The casehardened receiver features broad scrollwork on a punch dot background along with stunning, finely detailed relief engraved game scenes. The “Monarch of the Dell” (based on the painting "Monarch of the Glen" by Landseer), a typical sign of Marlin’s best work, takes center stage on the left side. On the right side of the receiver is a scene depicting a grizzly bear proudly standing over his fresh kill. A similar engraving pattern but with the addition of inlaid work was used on Annie Oakley's Model 1893 no. 419119 that we had the pleasure of selling in the December 2020 Premier Auction. The underside of the receiver features a bighorn ram's head outlined in gold inlay. Examples of the engraving are found on pages 199-200 of Brophy's "Marlin Firearms." Conrad Ulrich engraved most of the work for Marlin c. 1881 to 1910 while his son Alden George engraved for Marlin c. 1905 to 1919. The Marlin patterns were established by Conrad Ulrich and were influenced by the works by renowned 19th century master engravers L.D. Nimschke and Gustave Young. This Model 1893 certainly showcases the high art of Marlin embellishment at the beginning of the 20th century. Gold inlaid lines terminating in scroll accent the engraving on both sides of the receiver. The exposed barrel flats towards the breech, forend cap, buttplate, and sides of the hammer and lever feature light scrollwork and gold inlay. The top of the receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY" flanked by additional gold inlay. The rifle is fitted with a Lyman dovetail beaded blade front sight, a three leaf rear sight, and Lyman folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates ending with the year 1893 legend ahead of the rear sight and "38-55" at the breech. The upper left barrel flat is stamped "SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL." The select deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature factory fleur-de-lis carving and checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a checkered hard rubber Marlin shotgun buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Outstanding, Documented, Antique, Early Production, Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Rifle with Scarce Casehardened Receiver and Factory Letter

Lot 26

Special Order Casehardened Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Rifle

This is an outstanding example of an antique special order Winchester deluxe Model 1894 rifle in a very attractive configuration, including the exceptionally scarce casehardened receiver. The Winchester Model 1894 was a design by the legendary John Moses Browning and could certainly hold its own in an argument about his best or most successful designs. After all, it is a design that has scarcely been changed with over 7,500,000 produced in over 130 years. The included factory letter lists the rifle in .38-55 caliber with a round barrel, plain trigger, casehardened finish, takedown, and with a checkered pistol grip stock with a rubber shotgun buttplate when received at the warehouse on 17 September 1896 and shipped the next day in order number 18939. Noted Winchester historian and author notes the rarity of some of these features on 1894s, stating that one out of every 800 had special wood, one out of every 725 had a pistol grip, and that one of every 780 had checkering or carving, making these deluxe pistol gripped variations relatively rare. However, what truly makes this rifle scarce is the casehardened finish on the receiver, which was a rarely ordered special feature available on the Model 1894. Survey data compiled directly from the surviving Winchester ledgers which includes listings for the first 353,999 Model 1894s produced showed that only 155 rifles and two carbines received a casehardened finish. Furthering the rarity of this rifle, the survey showed that of the 155 rifles that were casehardened, only 16 of those were ordered in deluxe configuration. Winchester discontinued casehardening as a special order option in 1901, meaning no further examples were made. Only adding to the desirability of this rifle are the special order the shotgun buttplate, and that it's in takedown configuration. The letter also lists a return and repair date of 30 September 1898, which is listed as order number 5497. It is unclear what work was done during its return to the factory, though it likely received only minor maintenance as the rifle appears untouched and unchanged from the original configuration that it left that factory in when initially ordered. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address and "38-55" caliber marking at the breech. The barrel and receiver correctly lack factory oval proofs which weren't introduced until 1905. The upper tang is marked with the standard three-line model, trademark, and patent information. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. The left side of the lower tang is marked "2574 SXXX RB", with "2574" repeated in the stock inlet. The rifle is fitted with the standard "Sporting" German silver blade front sight, an elevation adjustable buckhorn "Sporting" rear sight, and a Lyman combination peep sight mounted on the upper tang. It is mounted with an exceptionally finely figured, "H" pattern deluxe checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with a hard rubber grip cap and a checkered hard rubber shotgun buttplate. This is one of only 16 casehardened deluxe Winchester Model 1894 rifles known to have been manufactured, and this example has survived the last 128 years in outstanding condition.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 27

New Haven Arms Company Henry Lever Action Rifle

This is a fine example of an original Henry lever action rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. late in the Civil War. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the second style legend "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT.16.1860/MANUFACT'D. BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS CO. NEWHAVEN.CT." with all serifed letters. The serial number is stamped on the top barrel flat at the breech and on the inside of the buttplate (the stock has not been removed to examine the serial number on the stock and receiver tang). The rifle has the distinctive brass receiver and 24 inch octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine. The barrel has a nickel-silver square back front sight and a folding adjustable rear sight with 900 yard center notch and a stop screw for the elevation bar. The inspection mark "H" for B. Tyler Henry is stamped on the lower receiver tang. The barrel and magazine are blue, the hammer and loading lever are color casehardened, and the straight grain black walnut stock has an oil finish. The buttplate is the second style with sharply pointed heel. The buttplate has the hinged trapdoor and the butt trap which contains a four-piece jointed steel cleaning rod. The buttplate screws are the late style cap screws which are not correctly stamped with the rifle serial number. The left side of the stock has a factory sling swivel, and the left side of the barrel has a factory screw fastened loop for a sling hook. The Henry rifle was the most advanced firearm of the American Civil War, and most of the New Haven Arms Co. rifle production were purchased by individual Federal soldiers who wanted the advantage of a 15-shot repeating rifle. After the Civil War the Henry rifle was extremely popular with frontiersmen and Native Americans. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Outstanding Documented Antique Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable .45-70 Caliber with Factory Letter

Lot 28

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action .45-70 Rifle

The powerful Winchester Model 1886 is by far one of the most iconic lever action rifles of all time and remains popular with collectors, shooters, and hunters to this day as one of the strongest lever action designs ever developed. This rugged and dependable rifle was invented by prolific firearms inventor John Moses Browning and was his first repeating rifle design to enter production but was far from his last. Browning's design was tweaked for production by none other than William Mason of Colt Single Action Army fame. The Model 1886 kept Winchester at the top of the lever action market. While a shorter action than the Model 1876, the Model 1886 was able to chamber longer cartridges, including the .45-70 Government, and its stronger locking block design was able to handle higher pressures even as Winchester made the jump to smokeless powders. The locking bolts on the '86 pass vertically through the bolt securing it firmly in place, and the design was also sleeker by abandoning dust covers and switching to an internal cartridge elevator. A powerful, dependable rifle was highly valued in the American West in the late 19th century, and remained desirable for hunters through the 20th century and on to today. Among its fans in the period was Theodore Roosevelt, who used this model extensively, including testing samples for the famous Smithsonian–Roosevelt African Expedition, and the legendary Rough Rider leader also presented Model 1886s to his friends. The Model 1886 was manufactured from 1886 to 1935, and the production total reached just under 160,000, but surviving examples in exceptionally high condition are rarely encountered. The '86 was a "working man's gun" and thus surviving examples typically display all the character of hard use. Roosevelt used one of his rifles so much that it was sent back to the factory multiple times for repairs. This classic Winchester Model 1886 rifle is chambered in the popular cartridge: .45-70 Government and remains in stunning condition. It is a high condition example that will make a great addition to any Winchester or lever action collection. The factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on July 13, 1895, and shipped the same day on order number 15367 with an octagon barrel in .45-70 caliber and plain trigger with sights listed as "Lyman hunting front, Lyman rear, Blank in rear slot, Regular sights also." The rifle is fitted with a Lyman beaded blade front sight, a ladder rear sight graduated from 2 to 10, and a folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line Winchester New Haven address ahead of the rear sight and "45-70" at the breech. The lower tang has the patent dates marking as well as the serial number. The receiver has the desirable casehardened finish with striking case colors. Mounted with plain walnut forearm and straight grip stock. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Attractive Antique Factory Game Scene Engraved, Gold Inlaid Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Takedown Lever Action Rifle

Lot 29

Factory Engraved/Inlaid Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Rifle

Manufactured in 1894 and subsequently restored in the 20th century, this rifle features attractive Marlin No. 2 factory engraving with gold inlaid game scene oval borders and fancy grade and checkered walnut stock and forearm. The no. 2 engraving on this rifle was created and almost certainly executed by the shop of renowned master engraver Conrad F. Ulrich. Ulrich, as noted by William Brophy on page 533 of "Marlin Firearms," executed almost all of the engraving on Marlin firearms during the period of 1881 to 1910. Both sides of the receiver are decorated with scroll borders and fine scrollwork on punch dot background flaking the gold outlined game scenes. The left side engraving depicts a whitetail buck running in an open clearing. The right side is adorned with a standing whitetail buck standing at the edge of a forest. Light flourishes of scrollwork appear on the upper left and right barrel flats at the breech and sides of the forend cap. The top of the barrel is factory matted and is marked with the two-line Marlin legend ahead of the rear sight and the caliber designation at the breech. The rifle is fitted with a combination Beach front sight, a folding two leaf rear sight, and a folding tang peep sight. A sling swivel is mounted on the underside of the forend cap. The half length magazine tube is another special order feature. The top of the receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY." The buttstock is fitted with a casehardened crescent buttplate. The receiver, takedown collar, hammer, and lever are also casehardened. It is mounted with fancy grain walnut forearm and pistol grip stock featuring Marlin "F" pattern checkering.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Joseph Fugger Signed Master Game Scene Relief Engraved Savage Model 99 Lever Action Rifle

Lot 30

Joseph Fugger Engraved Savage Model 99 Rifle

Manufactured in 1937 and subsequently custom engraved by Master Engraver Joseph Fugger. Austrian born, Fugger trained in Ferlach and worked for renowned Master Engraver Rudolph Kornbrath. From the late 1920s to 1960 Fugger was the in house engraver for Griffin & Howe and Abercrombie & Fitch. Fugger has been called "the unsurpassed engraver of his generation in the U.S." This Model 99 certainly showcases his talents and per our consignor was featured on the cover of an issue to Gun World. On this Model 99 Fugger signed his masterpiece on the underside of the receiver: "JOS. FUGGER ENGRAVER." The receiver is the steel canvas that has been beautifully and meticulously engraved with fine scrollwork on stippled background surrounding relief woodland game scenes depicting an elk on the left side and a whitetail stag on the right side. These panel scenes are fabulous. As expected with Fugger's engraving, the patterns are highly accomplished whose skill sets are equal to the superb level of craftsmanship that carries to his name. The scrollwork extends to the underside of the receiver, upper tang, and the base to the Redfield receiver sight. The chamber is decorated with a fine checkerboard pattern surrounding the model marking "SAVAGE/MODEL 99." The buttstock pistol grip is also engraved. The rifle is fitted with a ramp blade Redfield front featuring a red insert, a Marbles folding adjustable leaf rear sight, and a Redfield tang peep sight. The barrel has the two-line Savage legend ahead of the rear sight on top and the caliber designation ".300 SAVAGE" on the left side at the breech. Sling eyelets are mounted on the underside of the forearm and buttstock. The bolt and extractor are jeweled, the lever is casehardened, and the remaining surfaces are blued. The buttstock is highly figured walnut, and both the forearm and stock are finely checkered. The underside of the stock has an initial shield with the initials "PTB." The Savage buttplate is serrated with engraved checkerboard patterns at the heel and toe.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 300 Savage

Price Realized:

Lot 31

Winchester Model 1890 Slide Action Short Rifle

The included factory letter confirms the serial number, .22 short caliber, 20 inch barrel, received in the warehouse on February 18, 1907 and shipped the next day. Reportedly, approximately 50 special order barrel lengths were ordered during the period of Second Model production with 20 and 21 inch barrels being the most popular of the period. Beaded blade front and elevation adjustable rear notch sights, fourth style barrel inscription, "22 SHORT" on top barrel flat at the breech, Second Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, standard markings on the upper tang, and matching numbers on the receiver and lower tang.12 groove slide handle and smooth straight grip stock with blue steel crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF Short

Price Realized:

Excellent Winchester Model 90 Slide Action Rifle in Desirable .22 WRF

Lot 32

Winchester Model 90 Slide Action Rifle in .22 WRF

This is a unique, excellent example of one of the last Model 90s assembled by Winchester. Beaded blade front and elevation adjustable rear notch sights, tenth style barrel inscription, Winchester "WP" proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech, Third Model receiver with exposed locking lugs, "WRF" marking on front of receiver, standard markings on the upper tang, and matching numbers on the receiver and lower tang. 12 groove slide handle and plain straight grip stock with blue steel crescent buttplate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 WRF

Price Realized:

Winchester Model 61 Slide Action Rifle with Scarce Round Barrel Chambered in .22 LR (Only)

Lot 33

Winchester Model 61 Slide Action Rifle in .22 LR

Manufactured in 1948. This combination of a round barrel chambered in .22 LR was only manufactured for two years. Nickel bead front and an elevation adjustable rear sights. second style barrel inscription that started in the 40,000 serial number range and ended in the 250,000 range. The "W/P" in an oval proofmark is stamped on the top rear of the barrel and top front of the receiver. Mounted on a 17 groove flat bottom walnut forearm and smooth pistol grip stock with checkered steel buttplate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 LR

Price Realized:

Lot 34

Winchester Prototype Model 1902 Single Shot Bolt Action Pistol

This unserialized pistol is one of less than an estimated 100 prototype pistols based on the Model 1900/1902 rifle action and manufactured during the early 1900s as Winchester explored the idea of making a single shot pistol based on the actions of these popular rifles. It has standard Model 1902 rifle markings on the barrel, Winchester factory oval proof on the barrel, and is fitted with Lyman beaded blade front and adjustable notch rear sights. The stock is carved with floral, geometric, and burst motifs, and there is a carved "MW" monogram on the butt of the grip. Madis discusses these interesting prototype pistols in "The Winchester Book". It is possible that some of these prototypes were retained by factory employees. This specific pistol is very similar to another example previously sold by Rock Island Auction Company which was presented to U.S. Army Brigadier General Abel Davis, recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross and Medal for actions in World War I.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 SL EL

Price Realized:

Historic Documented Double Shipped F.W. Freund Inscribed and Improved Sharps Bridgeport Model 1874 Sporting Buffalo Rifle in .45 2 7/8 Sharps with Factory Letters and Provenance as Owned by U.S. Civil Engineer Montgomery C. Meigs, Pictured in the Book "Freund & Bro. Pioneer Gunmakers to the West"

Lot 35

Documented F.W. Freund Inscribed Sharps Model 1874 Buffalo Rifle

The Sharps Model 1874 was considered one of the best firearms of the late 19th century American West and was famously used by professional buffalo hunters, pioneers, and guides. They were a highly valued arm on the frontier, not only due to their firepower but also their long range accuracy. According to "Sharps Firearms" by Frank Sellers, Sharps only manufactured approximately 6,400 of Model 1874 sporting rifles in a variety of configurations between 1871 to 1880. This exceptional Sharps Model 1874 sporting buffalo rifle has a fascinating history with desirable period improvements performed by the legendary Freund & Bro. including being rechambered for .45 2 7/8 Sharps, giving it all the stopping power a buffalo hunter could ask for. This exact rifle is pictured on page 319 of the book "Freund & Bro. Pioneer Gunmakers to the West" by F.J. Pablo Balentine, in which the caption lists all of its features along with the statement, "This rifle originally belonged to Montgomery C. Meigs (1848-1930), Surveyor General of the United States. It went to his daughter, a Mrs. Orr, then Dede Jasiman [Jasmann], then the present owner." It has accompanying provenance, two different factory shipment records, and subsequent tasteful period alterations performed by the well-known Freund & Bro. out of their Wyoming Armory shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where they regularly modified firearms, particularly Sharps rifles, to fit their customer's needs. Two accompanying factory letters list the rifle by its serial number 156478 as originally invoiced from the Sharps Bridgeport factory on June 24, 1876 to John P. Lower of Denver, Colorado, as a "Model 1874 Sporting Octagon Rifle" in .40 caliber, with a 28 inch octagon barrel, double set triggers, a knife blade front sight, weight at 10 lbs, with a list price of $40. The factory letter further states that this gun was reportedly returned to the factory and rebarreled, then reshipped on August 18, 1876, to Ben Kittredge and Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, again listed as a "Model 1874 Sporting Octagon Rifle" but now in .44 caliber, with a 32 inch octagon barrel, double set triggers, open sights, oil-finished stocks, weight listed at 11 lbs 13 oz, with a list price of $42. One of the two mentioned factory letters only lists the first shipment to John P. Lower, and shows a list price of "$40 less 25%" with weight not recorded, but states that the price indicates that it was a standard weight rifle at 10 pounds. Consignor notes accompanying this rifling list that it was once displayed in Cody, Wyoming, in 2013 next to another Freund altered Sharps, serial number 157130, that is fitted with this guns original "156478" numbered barrel. The display notes state that this rifle, 156478, is wearing a barrel numbered "157404" (unconfirmed, unable view due to leather cover). A third factory letter accompanies this lot that lists serial number 157130 as one of ten "Model 1874 Carbines" invoiced from the Sharps Bridgeport factory to Ben Kittredge and Company at an unlisted date in caliber .50, with 25 inch round barrel, weight not listed and net price of $15. It is likely that these two rifles made their way to Freunds shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, sometime around late 1876-1877 where they received their alterations. An accompanying April 20, 1995, dated letter of provenance from Susan Jasmann (spelling of her last name is hand corrected) states that this rifle, serial number 156478, was sold by her mother, Alice O. "Dede" Jasmann, to the current consignor around 1969 and originally belonged to her great grandfather Montgomery C. Meigs. Alice Orr, the daughter of Montgomery C. Meigs, owned this rifle for many years, and then gave it to Susan's mother, also named Alice. A death certificate was located for Montgomery Meigs, listing him as born February 27, 1847 in Rouses Point, New York, with a December 9, 1931, date of death at 84 years of age in Keokuk, Iowa, with his profession listed as "U.S. Civil Engineer." The death certificate lists his father with the same name, General Montgomery Meigs, who was a prominent, well-known career U.S. Army officer and also a military and civil engineer alive between May 3, 1816-January 2, 1892. A December 10, 1931, dated newspaper obituary was also located for the younger Montgomery C. Meigs, owner of this Sharps rifle, that states, "Maj. Meigs, 82, retired U.S. engineer, was in charge of river work at Keokuk from 1882 until 1926. He went to Keokuk from Rock Island. He was an inspector for the government when the Keokuk lock and dam were built." This rifle features the fancy period inscription "F.W.Freund./-PATENTED-/AUGUST 1. 1876./JANUARY 2. 1877." on the left of the receiver in reference to two of Frank W. Freund's patents for improvements in breech loading firearms, which this gun has features of. These two referenced U.S. patent numbers 180,567 and 185,911 are illustrated and described on pages 150-152 and 172-175 of F.J. Pablo Balentine's book "Freund & Bro. Pioneer Gunmakers to the West". This exact rifle is also pictured on page 270 of the book “Sharps Firearms: Model 1878 ‘Borchardt Patent’ Rifles and other Sharps Models, Volume IV” by Roy Marcot. Features a 28 inch period replacement factory octagon barrel chambered in .45 2 7/8 Sharps with the boxed "Old Reliable" marking on the top barrel flat ahead of the non-viewable Sharps address (hidden beneath the leather cover), with double set triggers, and Freund modifications including the camming breech block, double extractors, hammer with extension, Freund patent dovetail mounted blade front sight marked "FREUND PAT.S" and "1876" on top, modified Lawrence patent rear sight, leather wrapped barrel and walnut forearm adapted for the bottom mounted wooden cleaning rod, and a straight walnut stock with a nickel plated brass crescent buttplate. Serial number "156478" is visible on top of the receiver tang. Includes a metal container with brass cassitings and consignor notes. Provenance: The Family of Montgomery C. Meigs; Property of a Gentleman

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 2 7/8

Price Realized:

"Frontier Used" Montana Armory Retailer Marked Sharps Sporting Conversion Buffalo Rifle in .45-70

Lot 36

Montana Armory Marked Sharps Sporting Conversion Buffalo Rifle

This Sharps sporting rifle appears to have been period assembled using a Civil War era New Model 1863 action with its pellet primer system on the lock filled in and deactivated, and re-barreled for the .45-70 Government cartridge. This rifle appears to have possibly been converted by Sharps specifically for the western market in the 1870s. Sharps sporting rifles are considered to be one of the classic western firearms and were particularly popular with buffalo hunters. The barrel has a Rocky Mountain blade front sight in a dovetailed base, Lawrence patent rear sight with absent ladder, "Old Reliable" in a boxed border and "SHARPS RIFLE CO. HARTFORD CONN." marked on top ahead of the rear sight, "CALIBRE 45" on top of the breech, "2 1/10" on the left of the breech, "75" on the right of the breech, serial number "C,46340" marked on top of the receiver tang, crossed out number "155308" ahead of "36642" marked on the bottom of the barrel, period receiver tang mounted peep sight, double set triggers, smooth walnut forearm and checkered straight grip stock with smooth iron carbine buttplate. Filled in round iron section on the left of the receiver and filled in oval walnut section on the left wrist of the buttstock where provisions for a sling stud once resided. "MONTANA ARMORY/BOZEMAN, M.T." stamped on the left of the buttstock. Located on Main Street in Bozeman, Montana, retailer Montana Armory was owned by August Gottschalck circa 1884 to 1914.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 37

Antique Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1879, the receiver is the second model configuration with the dust cover guide retained with two screws and the dust cover with the flush checkered "thumbprint" area. The included factory letter confirms the configuration, including the special order set trigger, as well as receipt at the warehouse on 24 April 1879, shipment on 11 August 1883, and the additional notation of "Consigned". The barrel is marked with the standard two-line address and King's patent marking, and the rifle correctly lacks caliber markings as the only caliber initially offered was .45-75 W.C.F. The model marking is on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight (appears to have originally been an elevation adjustable notch, evidenced by barrel wear), and a special order set trigger. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). Provenance: The David L. DeLullo Jr. Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Lot 38

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1905 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edge. The included factory letter lists a shipment date of 2 April 1906 and a return and repair date of 24 August 1908. It has standard markings including the two-line Winchester address/King's patent marking on the upper barrel flat. It is fitted with German silver blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Provenance: The David L. DeLullo Jr. Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Scarce Egyptian Contract Remington Model 1875 Single Action Army Revolver

Lot 39

Egyptian Contract Remington Model 1875 Revolver

Manufactured c. 1875, this is a solid example of an Egyptian Army contract Remington Model 1875 revolver. The Egyptian government placed an order for 10,000 Remington Model 1875 Army Revolvers. An unknown number of these revolvers were manufactured before Remington decided to stop production because Egypt still owed the company several hundred thousand dollars for rolling block rifles and carbines. It has long been thought that few, if any, were actually delivered to Egypt. The revolver has "*R" on the left side of the barrel at the breech, an "R" on the left side of the frame at the breech, and an "J.W.R." cartouche on the left grip panel which are associated with the Egyptian contract Model 1875s. Matching serial number on the loading gate arm, left side of the grip frame, right grip panel, and trigger guard tang (internal). Included is a photocopy of the Don Ware's article "Variations in Remington Model 1875, Model 1888, and Model 1890 Revolvers" published in the first quarter 2004 issue of the Remington Society of America Journal. Per our consignor, this revolver belonged to Don Ware and, while not identified in the aforementioned article, is the piece used to illustrate the Egyptian variation. In the article Ware wrote that he had "seen enough evidence" to conclude that "a significant number" of the Model 1875 was delivered to the Egyptian government. Provenance: The Don Ware Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Remington CF

Price Realized:

Lot 40

U.S. Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Revolver

The Schofield revolvers were arguably some of the best revolvers of the period and have gained legendary status. These revolvers were based on modifications of the standard Smith & Wesson Model 3 revolver by Col. George Schofield to make it easier for cavalrymen to reload while riding. The top break design allowed for much faster extraction and reloading than Colt's Single Action Army design; some tests suggest a trained cavalryman could reload the Schofield in half the time he could load a SAA. The slightly lower power .45 S&W Schofield cartridge also had more manageable recoil which allows for faster follow up shots but still proved effective in battle. However, the U.S. Ordnance Department favored Colt's slower loading solid frame design. That Smith & Wesson chambered it for their proprietary cartridge rather than .45 Colt certainly did not help. Colt's design was more durable and reliable. It was occasional supply line problems that put an end to the Army's use of the Schofield and sticking with Colt's famous revolvers; .45 Colt ammunition would only work in the Colts, but the .45 Schofield worked in both revolvers but was not always shipped to units issued Schofield revolvers. Thus, the Schofields were removed from military service by the end of the decade, and the revolvers made their way onto the commercial market. Many were altered or updated by retailers to fit their customers' tastes. Many were used by lawmen, express agents, outlaws, and pioneers in the Old West. Frank James, Jesse James, and Cole Younger are all reputed to have used Schofields at one time. Gun collectors across various genres have discovered the Schofield, and these revolvers are extremely popular. This is an exceptional original example of a First Model Schofield revolver. A total of 3,035 of these were manufactured in 1875 with seven inch barrels, walnut grips and blue finish as the standard finish. The distinctive features of this revolver are the barrel catch attached to the frame rather than the top strap, the gracefully shaped frame and shorter ejector housing. The U.S. Ordnance Department ordered almost the entire production. Many were issued to the 4th Cavalry and the black troops of the 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry, the "Buffalo Soldiers" of the Indian Wars. The left side of the ejector housing is marked with the two-line address/patent dates and "SCHOFIELD'S PAT APR 22D 1873" on the right side. The U.S. military markings include "US" stamped on the butt, "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face, and script letter cartouche on the left grip panel. The matching serial number appears on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Provenance: The Andrew Singer Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W Schofield

Price Realized:

Highly Desirable, Documented, Ainsworth Sub-Inspected, Historic Lot Five 7th Cavalry Custer Battle Era U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with John Kopec Letter

Lot 41

Lot Five 7th Cavalry Custer Battle Era US Colt Cavalry Revolver

In terms of the American Indian Wars in the late 19th century, no battle is as famous as the Battle of the Little Bighorn on June 25-26, 1876, during the Great Sioux War of 1876 (aka the Black Hills War). The "Battle of the Greasy Grass" as it was known to Native Americans, was one of the greatest battlefield victories in Native American history and one of the worst defeats in U.S. history. In the battle, the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho fought off an attack and then pursued and defeated the 7th Cavalry, including destroying Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer's immediate command. Like St. Clair's Defeat during the Northwest Indian War almost a century earlier, the impressive Native American victory did little to slow the tide of western expansion, but it did make legends out of many of the warriors and chiefs that fought that day. By the time the corpses of Custer and his men laid strewn across the plains, Custer was already a very well-known military leader, but his death fighting alongside his command against a superior number of native warriors secured his place in history and has made "Custer's Last Stand" one of the most iconic legends of the American West. As a result, Custer became the most famous U.S. cavalry officer of the Indian Wars, and he and his men have been memorialized in countless works of art and literature. Their defeat shocked the nation. Over the decades, the story of Custer's defeat has been told over and over with varying degrees of accuracy. Much of what happened has been lost to time given no one fighting alongside Custer lived to tell the tale. Instead we have oral histories passed down from Native American warriors who defeated him, reports from surviving members of the 7th Cavalry and the U.S. allied Crow and Arikara scouts that fought elsewhere during the battle, and evidence collected from the battlefield. The basic story is clear. Custer led the 7th Cavalry in an attack on a large combined village of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapahoes on the Little Bighorn River. He believed the village was smaller and contained at most 800 warriors, but instead, they found it contained around 8,000 Native Americans and as many as 1,800 warriors. The 7th Cavalry had 600 men, and 125 men were with the pack train. Custer took command of five companies (210 men) while two other detachments were led by Captain Frederick Benteen and Major Marcus Reno. After the initial attack, Reno's men retreated, and Custer's command remained separated and was encircled by the Native American warriors. Instead of one last stand as is often depicted, there were multiple attempts by groups of his men to fight. Around 40 of the 210 fighting under Custer died surrounded by hundreds of warriors on the hill where a stone monument stands today. Reno's detachment, supported by Benteen's men, fought on to the south through the night and learned of Custer's death the following day. The whole nation was soon shocked by the news of "Custer's Last Stand." As a result, the military committed additional resources to the effort to "pacify" the "hostile Indians" on the plains, and most were defeated and confined to reservations within a year. Colt Single Action Army revolvers are among the most iconic, collectible, and valuable firearms in American history. They are certainly among the top "blue chips" of gun collecting. Thus, it comes as no surprise that when it comes to the classic U.S. contract "Cavalry Model" Colt Single Action Army revolvers, none are more desirable than those used by the U.S. 7th Cavalry under the command of Custer at the historic battle discussed above. Our current revolver falls within the "prime lot" of Colt Single Action Army revolvers issued to Custer's men prior to that fateful day: the Lot Five revolvers, serial numbers 4500-5504. This historic revolver was examined by noted Colt historian and author John Kopec and he has recorded his observations in an accompanying letter of authentication. Kopec identified the O.W. Ainsworth sub-inspected revolver as falling within Lot Five. As Kopec explained, "Lot Five was one of the 'prime' lots from which those revolvers which had been issued to the Seventh Cavalry were drawn. These new 'strap-pistols' were issued to the Seventh Cavalry just prior to their departure into the Black Hills on July 2, 1874." Per Kopec the revolver (no. 5337) falls between nos. 5147, a known revolver issued to Troop L, 7th Cavalry as of March 14, 1888 and 5360, a known revolver issued to Troop G, 3rd Cavalry as of September 14, 1886. Kopec noted that nos. 5349, 5367, and 5395 were returned for refurbishing in 1895 and therefore "indicating that these revolvers had served with a cavalry unit during the Indian Wars." The cylinder is a mixed component with no. "4870," and Kopec concluded "this cylinder was a 'field mixed' component and therefore could act as a distinct clue as to where our subject revolver may have served during the Indian Wars. The revolver #4865 had been issued to Co. H. 2nd Cavalry as of June 121, 1874. The revolver #4878 had been 'turned-in' by the Indian 'Fool-Bear' as of September 5th 1876 just some three months after the famous Custer Battle. So, actually we have choice, a Second Cavalry issue or this Seventh Cavalry captured reference." Kopec addressed other areas worth noting: The barrel and ejector head show tool-like marks, ejector spring is a modern replacement, has an old style mainspring which are thought to have been left from Model 1860 Army production. In the table on page 260, Custer’s command (companies C, E, F, I, and L plus ten staff and three scouts) are listed as having revolvers in the Lot Five and Lot Six range. The 212 revolvers from Custer’s men are presumed to have all been looted by Native American warriors. After the battle, 302 of the 632 revolvers carried into the battle by the 7th Cavalry were reported lost, and “At the minimum 252 and probably closer to 280 Colt Army revolvers were recovered by the warriors during the two day battle at the Little Bighorn” as noted on page 261. Many of the revolvers captured during the battle would have been employed by the warriors later in the battle as the warriors finished their rout of Custer’s men and then reformed and engaged Reno and Benteen’s men in the south. Native American capture would explain why some of these revolvers would not have been altered to Artillery configuration near the end of the century and also explains why so few survive given the overall low survival rate of Native American weapons broadly. See, for instance, no. 4729 sold by Rock Island Auction Co. in August 2024 (lot 3318) and cited in "Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers" on page 280. Since the publication of Kopec's book, a limited number of additional examples have come to light. The most notable of these was serial number 4552 sold by Rock Island Auction Co. on May 14, 2022. That revolver is the finest known Lot Five revolver extant and came with documentation identifying it as a battlefield pickup from the Battle of the Little Bighorn, and it received a gold seal letter from Kopec and brought an impressive $763,750 at auction, clearly demonstrating the immense interest and value these Lot Five revolvers possess. This historic revolver is in classic Cavalry Model configuration and certainly has the look of an Indian Wars survivor. It has a blade front sight, the top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address "+COLT PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT, U.S.A.+" showing the die breaks in the "o" in "Co" and partially broken "A" in "HARTFORD," the bottom of the barrel has "P" and "A," the ejector has the early "bullseye" head, the "black powder" frame marked with the two-line patent marking on the left side, "A" inspection marks on the trigger guard and back strap just behind the hammer, “P” and “A” on the cylinder, grips have traces of cartouche on the left side, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Historic Documented 7th Cavalry Troop C Battle of the Little Bighorn Era U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine Recovered from Captain Henry Jackson of the 7th Cavalry in 1877

Lot 42

Early U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine

This historic trapdoor carbine was manufactured in 1875 and is one of the few carbines documented as issued to Troop C of the U.S. 7th Cavalry. It was turned in as unserviceable in 1877 due to a broken stock and was sent to Springfield Armory for repair. It has the blade front sight on the raised block, a single "U" marked barrel band, notch and ladder rear sight graduated 1-5 on the right side of the base and 6-12 on the ladder, "MODEL/1873/eagle head/crossed arrows/US" marked on top of the high arch breechblock, serial number "12221" on top at the breech, the eagle and shield motif and "US/SPRINGFIELD/1873" marked on the two-click lock, a saddle ring and bar mounted to the left, an oval "ESA" cartouche on the left above the trigger, a circled "P" behind the trigger guard tang, "7" marked at the heel, and "US" marked carbine buttplate. Includes a canvas and leather case. The included Springfield Research Service letter confirms it was issued to Troop C of the 7th Cavalry during the Indian Wars. It further notes that "Carbine no. 12221 was one of 9 unserviceable Springfield cal. .45 carbines received from Capt. Henry Jackson, 7th Cav., and collected by the Chief Ordnance Officer, Dept. of Dakota, during the 2nd quarter of 1877. These carbines were subjected to a Board of Survey that convened at Ft. Totten, Dakota Territory, on March 20, 1877. This Board found that these carbines had broken stocks. Although not specifically stated in the report of the Board, it is very likely that these carbines were rendered unserviceable at the Battle of Little Big Horn, Montana Territory, on June 25 & 26, 1876, as were other weapons surveyed at about the same time. All of these unserviceable arms were sent to Springfield Armory, where they were examined with the object of determining whether any changes were needed." The carbine is identified by serial number in published lists of 7th U.S. Cavalry Carbines returned after the Battle of the Little Bighorn and is identified in records as shipped to Springfield on 4/8/1877. See for example "Springfield Research Service Serial Numbers of U.S. Martial Arms Volume 2." Captain Henry Jackson who turned this carbine in as unserviceable was on detached service in Washington, D.C., at the time of the Battle of the Little Bighorn and commanded Troop C for over 14 years following Little Bighorn, including at Wounded Knee. At the Little Bighorn, Troop C of the 7th Cavalry was officially led by Capt. Thomas W. Custer, a younger brother of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer, and was part of Custer's Battalion during the battle. Since Capt. Custer served as his brother's aid-de-camp, the command during the actual fight fell to Lt. Henry Harrington. Per the National Park Service, Troop C, I, and L were sent down Medicine Trail Coulee towards the village before they came under heavy fire. They were overrun and killed in the coulee and on Calhoun Hill. Custer led his remaining companies towards Last Stand Hill. Aside from the scouts and a few troopers detached prior to the battle, Custer's battalion was entirely wiped out by the much larger combined forces of the Arapaho, Northern Cheyenne, and Lakota. The warriors then turned their attention back to Reno and Benteen's men and kept them pinned down until retiring and making their escape. On June 27, 1876, Reno and Benteen's men and General Terry's relief column discovered the bodies of nearly 200 of Custer's men, many unrecognizable, and hastily buried them. Given its issuance to Troop C and subsequent recovery damaged, it is very likely that this carbine was carried into battle at the Little Bighorn by one of Custer's ill-fated men. Since the carbine is noted as having the stock broken but was recovered, it may have been damaged in the battle itself, possibly after being used as a club or crushed by horse. Unfortunately the exact nature of the damage is not known. With the stock damaged, it may have been deemed unworthy of salvaging by the warriors. Another possibility is that it was damaged by one of Troop C's troopers that were detached during the battle. Some of these men were with the pack train and/or participated in the hill top fight with Reno. One of these men was Peter Thompson. His horse gave out as they reached the battlefield and fell behind. He and James Watson joined Reno on the bluff after the initial attack and was wounded in the hand and arm but continued to take trips outside of the lines to retrieve water for the many wounded men under Reno's command and was awarded the Medal of Honor. Another possibility is that it was damaged by troopers after the battle when they were locating and burying the dead. Sgt. John M. Ryan wrote, "We took all the extra guns belonging to the dead and wounded, broke the stocks off them, and built a fire and threw them into it. We also destroyed all the extra saddles and bridles, as we had no way of carrying them. Terry's men removed their clothing and carried our wounded men all down from the bluffs to their camp. After destroying the guns, we examined the horses thoroughly, and any of them that had been wounded and would not live, we killed. Some of the men hated to part with their horses, but there was nothing else to do." This post-battle destruction combined with the fact that most of the weapon of Custer's battalion are believed to have been captured by the victorious Arapaho, Lakota, and Northern Cheyenne warriors has left very few genuine 7th Cavalry carbines for collectors. A genuine 7th Cavalry documented trapdoor is would certainly be among the most prized possessions for a serious trapdoor or U.S. military collector. Paired with the relevant accoutrements and perhaps even a documented 7th Cavalry Colt Single Action Army, this historic carbine would make for a museum level display focused on one of the most famous battles ever fought in North America.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Exceptional U.S. Springfield Armory Model 1875 Type III Trapdoor Officer's Rifle

Lot 43

U.S. Springfield Officer's Model 1875 Type III Trapdoor Rifle

This is an exceptional example of an original, U.S. Springfield Armory Model 1875 Type III, "Officer's Model" trapdoor Rifle. This series of rifle was manufactured circa 1877 to 1885 and were considered as a true badge of rank and distinction held only by U.S. Cavalry Officer's. These were a private purchase weapon, procured directly from Springfield Armory on a special order basis only. There were three different types of "Officer's Model" rifles with a total of 477 Officer's Models made for all three types; with only 125 Type III Models made. The receiver, breechblock, lock plate, hammer, barrel tang, and barrel band were all highly embellished with a decorative fine scroll engraving and it was fitted with a hand selected American walnut stock. They all have a blued barrel/receiver with color casehardened breech block, lock and hammer assembly, trigger guard/trigger plate and buttplate. The top of the breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873" in three lines, and the lock plate is marked with the late pattern "Springfield Eagle/Shield" motif ahead of the hammer followed by "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" surrounded by scroll engraving. They were fitted with a 26 inch round barrel that is stamped on the left side with: "V/P/Eagle Head/P" proof from Springfield Armory. The barrel is fitted with a gold washed folding Beach front sight that is a combination folding blade and globe front sight with a buckhorn Model 1877 rifle rear sight. The side of the rear sight base is graduated from 1-5 (100-500 yards), and the face of the rear sight is graduated from 6-12 (600-1200 yards). The underside of barrel has a single iron ramrod thimble and is correctly fitted with a hickory wiping rod with nickel plated/knurled front ferrule and slotted rear ferrule. The top of the wrist of the stock has a late Type III folding Vernier tang sight with the oval base. It is fitted with the two piece trigger plate and trigger guard bow that also has fine engraving and is fitted with a single set-trigger. These rare rifles were fitted with a select grade American walnut half-stock with an oil-finish which were hand checkered on the forend and pistol grip area. They were fitted with a beautiful engraved German silver forend tip, with this example having the correct Type III, slightly longer 1/2 to 5/8th inch forend tip with the engraved longer finale. It is fitted with a solid steel buttplate stamped with a "U.S." on top of the heel. Since this is a late Type III rifle it has a correct boxed "S.W.P./1885" cartouche on the left side with a circled script, "P" proofmark behind the checkered panel on the underside of the stock.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Lot 44

U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver

Offered here is a John T. Cleveland (J.T.C.) inspected U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Revolver that has been examined by noted Colt historian and author John Kopec. Kopec recorded his observations in the accompanying silver seal letter of authentication. It was manufactured in 1877 and the revolver was previously listed in Kopec's survey; falling between nos. 35039 (a New York militia revolver) and 35044 (a Cavalry Model). The nearest reference examples found in the National Archives records was nos. 34927 and 35095, which were both issued to Troop C, 5th Cavalry as of August 17th 1886. Because the revolver remains in Cavalry Model configuration, Kopec noted, "The chances therefore are very good that our subject revolver #35042 has also been among the 1878 militia issues." These militia revolvers were eventually returned to Springfield Armory and reclassified as surplus. The earliest surplus examples appeared in Frances Bannerman's 1903 catalog. Cataloged as "almost new", these surplus revolvers sold for $9.00 each. The barrel has the 2nd style (1877-1878) address. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates followed by "U.S." John T. Cleveland (J.T.C.) initials appear on the frame, barrel, cylinder, and bottom of grip. The "P" proof is found on the bottom of the barrel and cylinder. The grip has the date "1877" above the script letter "DAL" cartouche for David A. Lyle on the left side and Cleveland's script letter cartouche on the right side. As noted by Kopec, "The grips of this revolver show both ordnance inspector's cartouches and the year-date '1877' in perfect condition."

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 45

"Buffalo Grazing" Collotype by L.A. Huffman

The American Bison became an icon of the West well before the time this photograph was taken in 1880. The bison was originally closely tied to the native populations as a source of food and materials. These magnificent creatures represent to many Americans today the symbol of the American conservation movement, through their protection and reintroduction to their modern range. These bison herds were some of the last as the American bison were eradicated. Huffman captures what remains from horseback. The scene depicted shows a small herd as they graze on the plains with rolling hills and a handful of mountains in the background. The lower right corner of the print is signed "L.A. Huffman". L.A. Huffman famously photographed Montana wildlife to give the world a representation of their natural habitat. The image is unframed but is surrounded with brick red matting measuring 17 1/2 inches by 11 1/4 inches. Included with the collotype is a certificate of authenticity stating the print was produced by Huffman between 1907 and 1920 for sale in his Miles City, Montana, studio. Provenance: The John Fox Collection

Price Realized:

Rare Factory Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 7 A-1 Long Range Single Shot Rifle

Lot 46

Factory Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 7 A-1 Long Range Rifle

Manufactured c. 1876-1883 by J.M. Marlin, No. 7 A-1 Long Range rifles are highly desired by single shot collectors today, as some of the top tier rifles of their kind. The receiver has highly attractive hand engraved factory scrollwork along with large fancy Gothic script "Ballard A1" on the left side and "Long Range" on the right side. The left side of the frame has the two-line J.M Marlin New Haven address above the Ballard patent marking. Fitted with a windage adjustable front sight with spirit level, tang mounted long range Vernier peep sight, and a Vernier peep sight also mounted on top of the buttstock. The checkered forearm and pistol grip stock are highly figured select walnut, with a checkered steel buttplate. The forearm has a horn cap. Matching serial number "1021" visible on the bottom of the receiver, barrel and on the rear surface of the forearm. Relevant information on the No. 7 A-1 Long Range rifles can be found in John Dutcher's "Ballard: The Great American Single Shot Rifle" on pages 247-251, with similar examples pictured, including serial number 1017 close in range to this example offered. In the book, Dutcher states that he has recorded 18 No. 7 A-1 Long Range rifles serial numbered 782 through 1828 at the time of writing, and all were chambered for the .44-100 Ballard Everlasting cartridge with 2 13/16 inch case length. Includes a modern metal box containing twenty .44-100 shell casings, and two .44 bullet molds.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-100

Price Realized:

Desirable Factory Panel Scene Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 6 1/2 Rigby Off-Hand Mid-Range Single Shot Rifle

Lot 47

Factory Engraved Marlin Ballard No. 6 1/2 Rigby Off-Hand Rifle

Manufactured from 1880 to 1882, these No. 6 1/2 Rigby rifles were one of the top of the line, most refined target rifles offered by Marlin before the turn of the century. These rifles were not only highly tuned, accurate target rifles, but also extensively embellished works of firearms art. This example is no exception, with engraved panel scenes on the left and right of the receiver featuring a deer and a bear, surrounded by floral scroll and decorative borders. The engraving extends to the distinctive "Rigby" barrel ribs on the top and sides of the barrel, which are a signature of this variation. The top rib is engraved with a double ended arrow and "BALLARD" in a banner and there is a ring of fine floral engraving at the muzzle. The barrel is fitted with a globe front sight and there is a mid-range Vernier peep sight mounted on the upper tang. It is mounted with a finely figured, checkered forearm with a horn Schnabel tip and a checkered pistol grip stock with a prominent cheek piece and a brass Swiss buttplate. There are non-factory sling swivel studs installed on the bottom of the barrel and bottom of the stock. the barrel has been relined to a smaller caliber (.25), with the muzzle of the liner being marked "PARKERIFLED/G.B.C". The replacement period custom double set trigger breechblock assembly is marked "P.E. Johnson Detroit".

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 25

Price Realized:

Lot 48

Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1875 this is an exceptionally scarce Colt Cavalry Model revolver that was dual sub-inspected by both W. W. Johnson and A. P. Casey. The included John Kopec gold seal letter indicates that this revolver was previously listed in their survey and falls between nos. 17549 (an Artillery Model) and 17555 (a Cavalry Model). The revolver could not be located in the National Archives records, but it falls between revolvers nos. 17492 and 17586 that were both issued to the 7th Cavalry as of July 14, 1883. Kopec wrote, "We believe that these revolvers had been issued to these 'after-battle' replacement 7th Cavalry recruits during October of 1876, just some three months after the famous Custer Battle...The earliest recorded serial number of these issues was #17128 and the highest number within the group was #17647. Our subject revolver [#17553] certainly fits well within this group." These revolvers would have been issued to the 7th Cavalry that was reformed shortly after George Custer's command was wiped out at the Battle of Little Bighorn and were likely carried through the remainder of the Indian Wars. The disastrous Battle of the Little Bighorn fomented national outrage in both the U.S. Army and public. New recruits eagerly rushed to enlist, and these revolvers were issued to replacement troops known as Custer's Avengers. The 7th Cavalry subsequently fought in the Nez Perce War, Crow War, and Ghost Dance War, including at the infamous Wounded Knee Massacre. Because the revolver remains in original Cavalry Model configuration, Kopec also speculated that the revolver was issued to state militia regiment. The revolver has the early "bullseye" ejector rod head, "cavalry" hammer with bordered elongated knurling on the spur and cone-shaped firing pin. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the first style, "script" barrel address "+ COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A. +" with slanted crosses at either end. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt, two-date/two-line patent marking followed by a small "U.S." property mark. The small "J" sub-inspection mark used by Johnson is stamped below the serial number on the trigger guard, underside of barrel, cylinder, back strap, and ejector rod housing. The "P" proof is found on the underside of the barrel and cylinder. The left side of the grip has a sub-inspected A.P. Casey cartouche. Kopec noted, "The cartouche of the Sub-Inspector A.P. Casey remains today in better condition than many of these 1875 manufactured examples we have encountered." Matching full or partial serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, grip back strap channel, cylinder, and barrel.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Highly Desirable Documented Ainsworth Sub-Inspected Three Digit Serial Number 730 U.S./New York Militia Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with John Kopec Gold Seal Letter

Lot 49

Ainsworth Inspected US/Militia Cavalry Model Revolver

This early production, three digit serial number 730 U.S. contract Colt Single Action Army revolver was manufactured in 1873 and was sub-inspected by O.W. Ainsworth. The revolver was recently examined by noted Colt historian and author John Kopec and he recorded his observations in his accompanying gold seal letter of authentication. The revolver was a new listing to Kopec's survey and falls between nos. 725 (Cavalry Model) and 731 (Artillery Model) in this database. It was originally part of Lot One (nos. 177-1191), revolvers that were received at the Springfield National Armory on November 28, 1873 and mostly issued to the 10th Cavalry. In 1895, the revolver was returned to the Colt factory and was part of the initial group of 800 refurbished revolvers issued to the State of New York. Per Kopec, the revolver left the Colt factory for the second time on October 4, 1895. Kopec noted 1895 modifications: improving the cylinder bolt stops, replacement grip with Rinaldo A. Carr's "RAC" sub-inspector initials, and loading gate and frame applied with a bin number as part of the case coloring process. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the early Colt two-line patent marking followed by a "U.S." property mark. The barrel has a blade front sight and is roll-stamped with the "script" address "+COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.+." The correct first type ejector housing has the "bullseye" ejector bottom. The underside of the barrel is stamped with the matching serial number (correctly exposed), a small Ainsworth "A" sub-inspection mark and "P" proof mark. The cylinder also has the matching serial number and "P" proof mark. Another small Ainsworth "A" sub-inspection mark is found on the trigger guard. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 50

Framed Colorized Print Hymen Terrace, Yellowstone Park by Haynes

This 10 1/2 x 13 1/2 inch print has been colorized with watercolors and features a photo of the colorful calcium deposits of the Hymen Terrace formation, which is located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area of Yellowstone National Park. The bottom right of the photo is stamped with the copyright "BY HAYNES.ST.PAUL", and the matting is stamped "Haynes/YELLOWSTONE PARK". The photograph was taken by either Frank Jay Haynes (1853-1921) or his son Jack Ellis Haynes (1884-1962), with the elder Haynes being the more likely candidate. Frank Haynes started his photography in Minnesota and later became the official photographer of both the Northern Pacific Railway and Yellowstone National Park. The position as photographer of the national park, as well as the photography business, was taken over by his son, Jack Ellis Haynes, in 1921, and he operated it until his death in 1962. The frame measures 18 1/2 x 22 inches. Provenance: The John Fox Collection

Price Realized:

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