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/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #75

Premier Firearms Auction #75

November 30, 2018 to December 02, 2018

This auction has ended.

/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #75

Premier Firearms Auction #75

November 30, 2018 to December 02, 2018

This auction has ended.

Auction Time Summary

Preview DayThursday, Nov 29th10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION IFriday, Nov 30th9 AMLots 1 through 1010

SESSION IISaturday, Dec 1st9 AMLots 2000 through 2950

SESSION IIISunday, Dec 2nd9 AMLots 3000 through 3959

To Be Sold At Auction

Preview Day Thursday November 29th
Open at 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION I - Friday, November 30th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1 and 1010
SESSION II - Saturday, December 1st
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 2000 and 2950
SESSION III - Sunday, December 2nd
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 3000 and 3959

Phone: 1-309-797-1500
Rock Island Auction Company
7819 42 Street West
Rock Island, Illinois, 61265, USA

Phone: 1-309-797-1500

Toll-Free: 1-800-238-8022

Email: [email protected]

Rock Island Auction Company - Rock Island

7819 42nd Street West

Rock Island, IL, 61201, USA

Page 1 of 59

Showing 1-50 of 2,916 results

Lot 1

Colt Model 1860 Richards-Mason Conversion Revolver

Around 2,100 of these Colt Model 1860 Richards-Mason conversions were manufactured circa 1877 and 1878 as cartridge revolvers using a mix of percussion revolver parts on hand and newly fabricated components. They are one of the scarcest Colt cartridge conversion revolver variations and were manufactured concurrently with the famous Colt Single Action Army. The revolver has the distinctive breech plate without a rear sight, a "6" marked loading gate with external spring and a hammer with the added centerfire firing pin and notch rear sight. The barrel lug is a smaller lug, much different in appearance to the standard Model 1860 Army lug, and the slot has been filled and an ejector rod and housing mounted to the right side of the barrel. The top of the barrel has the one-line Hartford address. The two-line 1871 and 1872 patent dates are on the left side of the frame, and "44 CAL" is on the left trigger guard shoulder. It is fitted with a smooth one-piece walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Colt CF

Price Realized:

Colt Model 1860 Army Richards Conversion Revolver

Lot 2

Colt Model 1860 Army Richards 2nd Model Conversion Revolve

Total production of Model 1860 Army Richards conversion revolvers is estimated at approximately 9,000, and most of those are the standard model rather than this transitional 2nd Model/Type II variation which has the Richards-Mason breech plate and hammer but retains the barrel lug type and ejector of the original Richards conversion. It has blade and hammer notch sights, the one-line New York barrel address, the two-line 1871 and 1872 patents on the left side of the frame which was originally a percussion frame cut for use with a shoulder stock, "44 CAL" on the left trigger guard shoulder, matching visible serial numbers (including "3791" on the loading gate rather than an assembly number), and smooth walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Lot 3

Colt Model 1861 Navy Richards-Mason Conversion Revolver

Only around 2,200 of these revolvers were manufactured around the mid-1870s as cartridge revolvers using percussion parts on hand and newly fabricated cartridge revolver components. They are generally numbered in the 100-3300 range like this revolver. It has a blade front sight, hammer notch rear sight, the one-line New York barrel address, naval battle cylinder scene, the two-line 1871 and 1872 patents on the left side of the frame, "38 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, matching serial numbers, "1" by the serial number on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap; and smooth one-piece style grips with wood spacers. Includes information relating to a prior sale of the revolver by Douglas R. Carlson's Antique American Firearms in 2016.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 CF

Price Realized:

Fine Cased Factory "Donut Scroll" Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Lot 4

Cased Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

This Model 1849 Pocket was manufactured in 1852 and engraved with the distinctive early "donut scroll" engraving found on some early Hartford production Colt revolvers. The engraving consists of more tightly curled scrolls without prominent leaves and vines than is generally found on Colt revolvers. The engraver responsible for this distinctive style has yet to be positively identified, but they only appear to have been associated with Colt in 1851 and 1852 making these revolvers particularly rare. Note that the "COLTS/PATENT" marking is hand engraved on the left side of the frame among the patterns, and "Saml Colt" is hand engraved in Gothic script on the barrel in place of the usual roll-stamped address. The hammer has a wolf head motif. The revolver has an "punch dot" either above or below the main serial numbers that was utilized around 1849-1861 to denote guns selects for special finishing and/or engraving. All of the serial numbers match, including in the back strap mortise of the fancy grade walnut grip. The case contains a Colt patent brass bullet mold, lead bullets, Goldmark cap container, L-shaped combination too, and a Colt patent powder flask with Great Seal of the United States themed pattern on one side.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 5

Colt Model 1855 Root Percussion Revolver with Accessories

Manufactured in 1867. This is a solid example of a factory engraved Model 7 Root revolver. The rear portion of the barrel, frame and hammer are decorated with early vine style foliate arabesque patterns. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "ADDRESS COL. COLT/NEW-YORK U.S.A.", and the serial number is marked on the butt followed by an "E" which designated this revolver for factory engraving. The serial number on the butt is extremely unusual in that it is six digits instead of only five (Model 7s were in the 11,075-14,000 range). Apparently the worker applying the serial number got a little excited and lost track of what he was doing and added the "1" at the end. The back strap is inscribed "J.N. Burgess. The inscription appears to be period factory applied. 5-shot cylinder with screw through side retaining the cylinder pin, roll engraved with the stagecoach hold up scene and marked "COLT'S PATENT/No 11232". Brass post front and frame notch rear sights and fitted with a smooth one-piece grip. Complete in an original burgundy velvet lined mahogany case with 5 compartments containing a scarce brass 2-cavity "COLTS PATENT" bullet mold with sprue cutter having an "H" on right side, a 2-sided early eagle flask and several round and conical lead bullets.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 percussion

Lot 6

Colt Model 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver

Manufactured in 1854 and later returned to the Colt factory to receiver the Richards-Mason conversion, which removed the loading lever, partially filled in the lug cutout for the lever, bored the cylinder clean through, mounted a rimfire striker on the hammer, and ground down the recoil shield to accept a breech plate. Silver plated brass bead front sight on barrel with one line block letter New York address on top and the ejector rod mounted on the lower right side. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas/Mexico naval scene and stamped "COLTS PATENT No. 27880", the three screw frame is marked "-PAT. JULY.25.1871-/-PAT. JULY.2. 1872-", on the left side with "COLTS/PATENT" underneath, and the loading gate is marked "7880". Matching numbers. The revolver has no military inspection but has the military style factory blue finish with less polish. One can draw their own conclusion.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 RF

Price Realized:

U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver Rig with Holster, Belt, and Ammunition Pouch

Lot 7

U.S. Colt 1851 Navy w/Holster, Cap Box and Belt

Manufactured in 1857. Notes provided by the consignor attribute the weapon as a family heirloom carried by an unnamed ancestor who was a Civil War soldier. Silver blade front and hammer notch rear sights, with "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" on top of the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." on the left side of the frame, and the "Texas Navy" scene on the cylinder. Matching numbers are present on the barrel, frame, grip frame, loading lever, wedge, cylinder pin and cylinder. Fitted with a smooth walnut grip. Included with the revolver is a brown leather belt, a brown leather "J.A. BAKER/NEW.YORK" cap box (contains a number of lead bullets) and a brown leather cross-draw holster with no visible maker's marks.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 8

Colt Model 1860 Army Richards Conversion Revolver

This is an example of a Colt Model 1860 Army revolver that has been factory fitted with a Richards conversion unit. It is theorized that these late conversions were all based on using up the leftover 1860 percussion revolvers that still remained at the Colt factory. This type of conversion was performed by supplying a new cylinder in the Colt 44 CF cartridge, fitting it with a new cylinder ring in front of the recoil shield and installing a new loading gate on the frame with an internal spring. The loading lever has been replaced with an ejector housing on the right side of the barrel lug which has the cross-hatched ejector head. The conversion breech plate has a firing pin and integral rear sight. The hammer face is milled flat, and the spur is cross-hatched with a border. The top of the barrel is marked "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-", the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT", and the left trigger guard shoulder is marked "44 CAL". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas Navy scene and marked "COLT'S PATENT No. 324". The bottom of the barrel lug is marked "1588", "1553" is on the frame, trigger guard and back strap; "309" is on the cylinder pin, and the wedge is un-numbered. The assembly number "309" is located on the left side of the breech plate and on the loading gate. The revolver has a three screw frame, brass trigger guard, iron back strap and fitted with a one-piece oil finished walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 CF

Price Realized:

Lot 9

Colt Model 1871-72 Open Top Revolver

Highly prized by collectors for its limited production and significance as the first Colt revolver manufactured specifically for a metallic cartridge, the Model 1871-72 Open Top Revolver is the transition model between the Colt cartridge conversions and solid frame Single Action Army revolver. Approximately 7,000 Model 1871-72 Revolvers were manufactured in 1872 and 1873. The barrel has the distinctive integral blade and notch sights and re-rolled one-line "- ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW - YORK U.S. AMERICA-" marking on top. The left side of the frame is re-stamped with "COLTS/PATENT." The cylinder is roll engraved with the naval engagement scene. The re-stamped trigger guard has "44 CAL" on the left.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Civil War Era Civilian Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 10

Civil War Era Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1865. Cone front and hammer notch rear sights, with "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" on top of the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, and the "Texas Navy" scene on the cylinder. Matching numbers are present on the barrel, frame, grip frame, wedge, cylinder pin and cylinder. Fitted with a smooth walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 11

Colt Model 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver with Holster

Manufactured in the early 1870s with the Richards-Mason conversion. Standard markings and features. Front sight cut down. Matching numbers including the grip with loading gate numbered "90". The back strap is marked "J4. Pa. Do. No. 19" on the butt. Includes a leather holster rig with floral patterns on the belt and possibly the Japanese character meaning "heavens" on the holster and a box of 50 .38 long R.F. cartridges.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 RF

Price Realized:

Fine Civil War Era Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Lot 12

Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver

Manufactured in 1861 with the standard markings and features including all matching serial numbers on the metal and grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 13

Third Model Pre-Civil Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1854 as a Third Model and has a period added dovetail mounted blade front sight, the one-line New York barrel address, small "COLTS/PATENT" frame marking, single letter inspection marks, standard cylinder scene, hammer notch rear sight, and matching serial numbers (grip number not visible).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 14

Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1866. Standard markings and features, including matching serial numbers other than the grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 15

Civil War U.S. Martially Inspected Colt Model 1860 Army

Manufactured in 1863, with a 3 screw frame cut for a shoulder stock. The top of the barrel has the one line New York U.S. America address flanked by dashes, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame and the Texas naval battle scene on the rebated cylinder. Inspector initial "G" is found the left side of the barrel just to the right of the wedge screw, "B" on the right side, "G" on the front portion of the cylinder and "B" on the rebated portion, and a "D" behind the trigger guard bow and on top of the back strap. Matching serial number on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap and partial number "1242" on the cylinder, wedge and arbor pin. The grip has a visible boxed "EMC" cartouche on the lower left grip side and an illegible boxed on the lower right side. The center of the left side has had a five point star neatly cut into it and a crude "WP" scratched on the bottom.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 percussion

Price Realized:

Lot 16

Civil War Era Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1862. Standard markings and features including matching serial numbers (miss-stamped "3623" on the cylinder arbor pin).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 17

Stunning, Factory Cased Colt Ehlers Pocket Model Paterson

Colt/Ehlers Pocket Model Paterson Revolver No. 1 with factory case and accessories. Also known as the Fourth Model Ehlers revolver, this revolver was manufactured c. 1842 by John Ehlers using semi-finished Colt Paterson No. 1 revolvers following the bankruptcy of Colt's Patent Arms Manufacturing Company. Total production is estimated at about 500 revolvers. The Fourth Model Ehlers revolvers featured an attached loading lever, capping cut-out in the recoil shield, round back cylinder and modified barrel legend. The five shot cylinder is roll-engraved with the centaur scene with the "COLT" four horse-head trademark. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "-PATENT ARMS PATERSON NEW JERSEY" and lacks the "M'g Co." portion of the marking found on Colt Paterson firearms. The serial number, "170," is stamped: (1) on the inside of the barrel lug, (2) bottom of the barrel wedge, (3) loading lever, (4) rear face of the cylinder between the chambers and (5) inside of the frame. All of the visible serial numbers match. The barrel, frame, cylinder and back strap have a high polish blue finish. The hammer and loading lever are color casehardened, and the select grade walnut grips have a high polish piano finish. The flat top mahogany case is lined with burgundy velvet and has slightly scalloped compartments for the revolver and accessories which consist of a bullet mold, powder flask, combination tool and nipple pick. This revolver was formerly part of the William M. Locke collection and is illustrated and described on pages 104-105 of "Magnificent Colts, Volume I" by Robert M. Lee and R.L. Wilson and is also featured in "Colt Pistols" by Wilson and "The William M. Locke Collection" by Sellers. Includes a plexi-glass enclosed reprint of an advertisement for this model by John Ehlers.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 28 Percussion

Price Realized:

Lot 18

Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver

Manufactured circa 1868. This revolver features the late percussion vine scroll engraving used by Colt from about 1861-1870. This engraving was probably executed by Gustave Young or Georg Sterzing. Both Young and Sterzing were Colt factory engravers during this period and had very similar styles. The vine scroll engraving featured detailed Germanic scrollwork but lacked the punch-dot background that was typical of Colt factory engraving executed prior to the Civil War. This revolver is illustrated and described on page 254 of "The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One" by R.L. Wilson. A block letter "E," which indicates components designated by Colt for engraving or special finish, is stamped above or below the serial number on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The flawlessly executed scrollwork covers the sides of the barrel lug and upper barrel flats, ends of the wedge, sides of the loading lever, bottom and sides of the trigger guard, frame and recoil shields and back strap. The sides and top of the hammer are engraved with scrollwork and a wolf head motif. The barrel legend is enclosed in a panel with scallop and dot borders with a scrollwork flourish at the muzzle end. "COLTS/PATENT" is engraved in an arch on the left side of the frame. The top of the barrel is stamped "ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA." The cylinder has the Stagecoach Holdup scene and "COLTS PATENT". "31 CAL" is stamped on the left rear trigger guard bow. The full serial number is on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number "559" is on the loading lever. The cylinder has the partial serial number "9559". The rosewood, French fitted, brass bound case is lined with purple velvet. A plate in the center of the lid is engraved with the monogram "GLL". The case contains: a 250 count tin of Eley percussion caps with green paper label, L-shaped combination screwdriver/nipple wrench, brass dual cavity bullet mold marked "COLTS/PATENT" on the top of the blocks and a "W" Colt inspection mark, key, assorted lead .31 caliber balls and bottle shaped powder flask with fixed charger and two bullet compartments in the bottom.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 percussion

Price Realized:

Important and Historic Cased 6th Plate Daguerreotype Portrait Identified as John Pearson, Samuel Colt's Gunsmith

Lot 19

Daguerreotype Portrait Identified as Gunsmith John Pearson

This portrait is identified in the accompanying American Society of Arms Collectors Bulletin #103 from April 13-17, 2011, within the article "John Pearson: Gunsmith for Sam Colt" by esteemed Colt Paterson researcher Dr. Robert Pershing and is listed as a portrait of Pearson, probably in his 70s. The portrait is also documented in R.L. Wilson's "Life's Tapestry of a Collector, the Gamble Collection." The portrait measures 2 3/4 x 3 1/4 inches (6th Plate), and the case is 3 1/4 x 3 5/8 inches and has embossed floral patterns. The portrait is hand tinted and shows an older man in formal attire and closely resembles the man in copies of the other known portrait (original since lost but also shown in the article as well as some books on Colt) of Pearson in his late 20s. He immigrated from England and was previously trained as a watchmaker but was working for A.T. Baxter as a gunmaker when he became acquainted with young Samuel Colt (age 19) in Baltimore. He then worked directly for Colt and was responsible for improving and turning Samuel Colt's early designs into realities in 1834-1836, including the first prototypes of the famous Paterson revolvers. Because Colt was not a trained draftsman, Pearson was forced to make decisions about the designs himself and solve some of the technical difficulties making him integral in Colt's early success. However, their business relationship faltered due to Colt's tardiness in providing necessary funds, including Pearson's pay, as well as the funds necessary for the rent and various materials Pearson was instructed to purchase. He also tired of Colt applying pressure on him to work at a frenetic pace and appears to have been greatly offended by Colt taking all the credit for his work. Exactly what Pearson did next is different depending on the source but regardless, he moved to the West where he continued to work as a gun maker and dealer until at least the 1870s. Per Pershing, Samuel Colt finally sent him a payment for $30,000 (roughly half a million adjusted for inflation) in 1861 as compensation for his contribution to Colt's considerable success. Though Pershing indicates he found records of him in St. Louis in 1886, multiple other sources confirm he died in the beginning of August 1883 after working as a gunsmith and dealer in Fort Smith for 40 years. He is also known to have served as a master armorer for the Confederacy at the same time that Colt was supplying arms to the Union, and his son died in 1865 from illness acquired while serving in the Confederate Marines and was the last officer appointed to the latter. Multiple newspaper articles indicate Pearson believed even late into life that he deserved considerable credit for Colt's patents, perhaps Colt sending him that considerable sum helped confirm this belief. The Arkansas Democrat in 1900 even went so far to say that Pearson's name should be on every Colt revolver and that Samuel Colt cheated Pearson out of credit based on the fact that Pearson's work on the designs was as Colt's employee and that he had already been paid for the work.

Documentation

Exceptional Colt Model 1883 Deluxe Hammerless Double Barrel 10 Gauge Shotgun

Lot 20

Colt Model 1883 Deluxe Hammerless Double Barrel 10 GA Shotgun

Manufactured in 1886. Single white bead sight on the smooth concave solid rib with a dolls head extension marked with the one-line address near the breech. Scallop border engraved frame with the patent dates marked on the bottom. Tang mounted automatic safety, brown Damascus barrels, blue break lever and trigger guard and casehardened frame. 3 inch chambers, extractor and mounted with a multi-point checkered walnut splinter forearm with ebony forend insert and round knob pistol grip stock with a checkered horn Colt buttplate and silver initial oval. The Model 1883 shotgun is considered one of the finest of all the American produced shotguns. Length of pull is 14 inches.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 10

Price Realized:

Lot 21

Exceptional Burgess Slide Action Shotgun with Scarce Extra Barre

Manufactured from 1892 to 1899 before the company and all the patents were purchased by the Winchester Firearms Company. Single bead sight, 2 3/4 inch chamber, choked improved modified. Full length solid rib with the one-line patent marking, "BURGESS GUN CO./BUFFALO, N.Y. U.S.A." on top of the bolt, and a checkered wood and blue steel sliding grip. With a checkered forearm and hard rubber Burgess Gun Co. dog's head buttplate. With extra non-matching 12 gauge 26 inch round barrel with 2 5/8 inch chamber and open choke.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Documented Deluxe London Agency Shipped Colt Small Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle with Factory Letter and Case

Lot 22

Deluxe Colt Small Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle with Case

Manufactured in 1895. The factory letter dated March 24, 1997, to the late esteemed collector (and friend) Dr. Chester Bonoff confirms it was in .22 rf with a 24 inch octagon barrel, blue finish, full pistol grip stock with checkering, and "Special Features: Furnished with Colt peep and Beach combination sights" when it was shipped to Colt's London Agency at 14 Pall Mall, London, in a shipment of 15 guns of this type on March 26, 1896. The barrel is round which may indicate an error in the factory ledger or that the barrel was switched at the London Agency. Features a combination bead and globe front sight, standing notch rear sight, short range tang peep sight, checkered forearm and pistol grip stock, standard markings plus London proofs, a "*18174" marking between the bottom of the checkered grip and the initial oval, and a checkered buttplate embossed with the Rampant Colt emblem. It comes with a leather case with Holland & Holland trade label and "E.V.F." marked on the lid that contains an Eley Bros. box of .22 long ammunition, oil bottle, screwdriver, bore rod, and vintage Winchester gun grease.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 23

Nickel Plated Colt Medium Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1889. Features special order full nickel plated finish, blade front and adjustable sporting rear sights, full length tube magazine, smooth trigger, checkered hammer spur, standard markings, checkered forearm, and smooth buttstock.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 24

Colt Small Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1896. The factory letter confirms that it was shipped on May 12, 1899, as the sole gun of its type sent to William Read & Sons of Boston in .22 rimfire with a 24 inch octagon barrel, Lyman peep and bead sights, and blue and casehardened finish. It features a casehardened frame marked with the serial number on the bottom of the lower tang and on the left side of the upper tang, a Lyman combination bead and globe front sight, fixed notch rear sight, Lyman tang peep sight, standard markings, custom checkered forearm with border designs and maple leafs and multi-point checkered buttstock with nice figure near the toe, and a Rampant Colt emblem embossed and checkered hard rubber buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF

Price Realized:

Scarce British Proofed Colt Lightning Slide Action Medium Frame Saddle Ring Baby Carbine in .32-20

Lot 25

British Proofed Colt Lightning Slide Action Medium Frame Carbine

Manufactured in 1899. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address/patent dates and a carbine rear and blade front sights. The left side of the barrel is marked "32 Cal" along with British proofs and the number "300". There is one British proof and the Rampant Colt on the left of the receiver. All of the markings have been white filled, with various levels of retention. Mounted with a two-line bordered smooth forearm and smooth straight grip stock with carbine buttplate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32-20

Price Realized:

Lot 26

Very Fine Colt Lightning Small Frame Slide Action .22 Rifle

Manufactured in 1901. It has a blade front sight, notch rear sight (not adjustable), half magazine, standard markings, smooth stock, and outlined forearm.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 LR

Price Realized:

Lot 27

Colt Small Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1901 with the standard markings and features plus a tang peep sight.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF

Price Realized:

Antique Colt Lightning Medium Frame Slide Action 44-40 Rifle

Lot 28

Antique Colt Lightning Medium Frame Slide Action Rifle

This rifle was manufactured in 1888 and has the standard sporting sights, the two-line address and patent marking and "44 Cal." on the top barrel flat, the Rampant Colt trademark on the left side of the receiver, multi-point checkered pump handle, and smooth straight grip stock with a steel rifle buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Lot 29

Early Production Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring

Manufactured in 1868. This is a nice example of a Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine. The top of the barrel is marked with the highly desirable two-line "HENRY'S PATENT-OCT. 16 1860/KING'S PATENT-MARCH 29 1866" patent dates. The lower tang is stamped with a very small "X" and "O". The left side of the lower tang under the stock and in the upper tang stock slot are stamped "15842". Blade front sight integral with the barrel band and folding two leaf rear sight. There is a saddle ring and staple attached to the left rear of the receiver. Blue barrel and magazine tube, casehardened hammer and lever. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with buttstock compartment (cleaning rod not included).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 30

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring 44-40 Carbine

Manufactured in 1899 as a third model with the integral dust cover guide rail and dust cover with serrated grasping grooves on the tail. Carbine sights and stock, barrel with the two-line address/patent dates information and "44 WCF," cartridge elevator marked "44 CAL," saddle ring on the left side of the frame, model designation on the upper tang, serial number on lower tang and trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Lot 31

Historic Documented Factory Engraved New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic

This Volcanic No.1 Lever Action Pocket Pistol was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. and formerly owned by the great-great-grand daughter of Oliver Winchester. The pistol is accompanied by a sworn statement by Gail Winchester Tarbell that states: "This volcanic pistol has been passed down through generations of our family. My Father, Donald Winchester Tarbell gave it to me before he passed away". A family tree attached to the sworn statement shows that Donald W. Tarbell (1928-2001) was the great-grandson of Oliver Winchester, the founder of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. and president of the New Haven Arms Co. The pistol has a distinctive 3 1/2-inch octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, brass receiver and lever with round finger hole. The pistol has a pinch-top steel front sight on the barrel and dovetail mounted rear sight on the receiver. The hammer has borderless knurling on the spur. The pistol has two-piece high polish piano finish walnut grips. The top and sides of the receiver, side plates and back strap are decorated with open floral engraving and simple scallop borders that was the typical factory engraving on New Haven Arms Co. No. 1 Pocket Pistols. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "NEW HAVEN CONN./PATENT FEB. 14. 1854" in two lines. The serial number is stamped on the left side of the pistol frame underneath the grips and on the inside of both grips. The barrel/magazine, cartridge elevator, bolt, rear sight and lever have a high polish blue finish. The hammer and trigger are casehardened. The receiver and side plates are natural brass. Oliver Winchester's initial investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. in 1855 marked his entry into firearms manufacturing that eventually led to the founding of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. This New Haven Arms Co. No. 1 Lever Action Pocket Pistol is a direct link to Oliver Winchester and a significant piece of Winchester Repeating Arms and New Haven Arms Co. history.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 Volcanic

Lot 32

Fine Documented Civil War Government Inspected New Haven Arms Co

Henry Rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company in May 1865. At least 127 of the 475 Henry rifles manufactured during May 1865 were used to fill an Ordnance Department contract for Henry rifles for the 3rd U.S. Veteran Volunteer Infantry Regiment (3rd VVI). Henry rifles serial number 9316, 9310 and 9323 are all identified as rifles issued to the 3rd VVI. In April and May 1865, the Ordnance Department purchased 627 Henry rifles to arm the 3rd VVI. The 3rd VVI was one of four infantry regiments recruited from discharged veterans in 1864-65 designated to serve as an elite infantry unit commanded by General Winfield Scott Hancock. These regiments were armed with Henry, Spencer and Sharps rifles. In addition to a substantial enlistment bonus, volunteers for the VVI regiments were allowed to retain their issue rifles when they mustered out of service. The Civil War ended before the VVI regiments saw any significant action. The 627 Henry rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department in April-May 1865 and the 1100 Henry rifles procured to arm the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry Regiment (1st DC Cavalry) in 1863 and 1864 were the only Henry rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department during the Civil War. Only the 800 rifles ordered for the 1st D.C. Cavalry on December 30, 1863, were marked with Ordnance final inspection marks. This rifle has the distinctive brass receiver and octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine which identify Henry rifles. The rifle has the late production features which include: (1) nickel-silver, square back front sight blade, (2) folding leaf rear sight with elevation bar stop screw and "900" mark below the center notch, (3) large diameter brass magazine follower, (4) beveled magazine follower slot, (5) sling swivel on the left side of the stock and screw-fastened loop for sling hook on the left side of the barrel, (6) brass buttplate with sharp pointed heel and (7) large, second style, New Haven Arms Co. legend that uses all serif letters. In addition to the distinctive brass receiver and buttplate, this rifle has a blued barrel/magazine and casehardened hammer, trigger and lever. The stock is oil finished, straight grain, American walnut. The hammer has coarse, borderless knurling. The buttplate has a hinged trapdoor. The butt trap contains the four-piece, jointed, steel cleaning rod with brass tip furnished with late production Henry rifles. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "HENRY'S PATENT OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS CO. NEWHAVEN. CT" in two lines with serif letters ahead of the rear sight. The serial number is located: (1) on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver, (2) on the left side of the lower receiver tang beneath the stock, (3) in the upper tang inlet of the stock and (4) on the inside of the buttplate. All of the visible serial numbers match. The late style cap screws on the buttplate and tang are, correctly, not marked with the rifle serial number.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Outstanding Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Set Trigger

Lot 33

Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Rife with Set Trigger

Manufactured in 1882 as a second model with the dust cover guide secured to the receiver with two screws and a dust cover with serrated rear edge. Dovetail blade and elevation adjustable sights are on a barrel marked with the two-line address/patent dates information ahead of the rear sight and "44 WCF" at the breech. The model designation is on the upper tang, the serial number is on the lower tang, and "44 CAL" is on the brass cartridge elevator. The action is equipped with a special order single set trigger. The highly figured and checkered walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature an ebony grip insert and trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The left side of the lower tang is marked "XX 4204," and "4204" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate. A Cody Firearms Records Office serial number confirmation states this rifle had a 1/2 octagon barrel, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock and casehardened finish when received in the warehouse on April 25, 1882 and shipped on May 12, 1882. The finish on the receiver is original and the serial confirmation likely reflects an error within the factory records.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 34

Stunning Special Order Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

This Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle manufactured c. 1872. This rifle has the Third Model receiver with the serial number, "118094", stamped in block letters on the lower tang behind the trigger. The rifle has a special order extra long 28-inch full octagon barrel. The barrel has a sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and the Henry style folding leaf rear sight. The rear sight leaf has a round top with 900 yard center notch and elevator bar stop screw. The full length magazine has a threaded cap. The forearm has the first style brass tip and is fitted with a factory sling swivel. The brass receiver has a single upper tang screw. The hammer has coarse, border-less, hand knurling on the spur. The hammer has a half-cock notch. The stock has the early, Henry style, brass buttplate with hinged trap door. The stock is fitted with a factory sling swivel. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the second style legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./ KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED -MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The barrel and magazine have a blue finish. The loading gate is fire blue. The hammer, trigger, lever and sling swivels are casehardened with muted case colors. The receiver, forearm cap and crescent buttplate have a natural brass finish. The stock and forearm are fancy, burl grain, American walnut with a varnished, piano finish. Fancy grain walnut stocks and forearms are very rare on Model 1866 rifles and carbines.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Ultra-Rare Documented Winchester "One of One Hundred" Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter and 1878 Inscription Identified as the Last of the One of One Hundred 1873 Rifles

Lot 35

1 of 100 Documented Winchester 'One of One Hundred' Model 1873

This is an extremely rare example of an original Winchester "One of One Hundred" First Model 1873 rifle with a Cody Firearms Museum letter. Winchester manufactured a total of just eight "One of One Hundred" Model 1873 rifles. Six of these rifles are reportedly known to collectors. The Model 1873 "One of One Hundred" rifles were announced by Winchester in 1875 and were shipped from the factory between April 1876 and April 1878. This rifle, serial number 27179, was the last "One of One Hundred" Model 1873 rifle shipped from Winchester on April 16, 1878. This rifle is illustrated and described on pages 113-118 of "The Story of the Winchester 1 of 1000 and 1 of 100 Rifles" by Edmund E. Lewis. He notes that it was the last 1 of 100 rifle manufactured and seems to get some minor details mixed up with the rifle above it which he notes was believed to have been carried by "R.H. Hapburn" [sic] on the "Collins exploratory expedition to the Amazon and Madeira Rivers of South America in 1878." The elevator is marked with Robert Hopewell Hepburn's initials and "1878" suggesting that this was actually the rifle he was discussing. Hepburn (1850-1944) was an engineer and graduate of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) in 1871. He participated in the failed 1878 Madeira-Mamore Railway Expedition during which he is reported to have been in charge of surveys and transporting materials by tug boat from Para, Brazil. Some of the men on the expedition, particularly those of higher rank, are documented as carrying rifles. He wrote an unpublished account about the expedition titled: "Transportation on the Amazon and Madeira Rivers with The Disastrous American Expedition of 1878.” The "Collins Expedition" was the beginning of an attempt to connect Bolivia to the Atlantic Ocean by constructing a railroad from the Bolivian border into Brazil along the Mamore and Madeira Rivers. Some of the men on the Collins Brothers' expedition were killed by native people and many others suffered from scurvy, dysentery, and other medical ailments. Reports indicate one out of every four men brought to work on the railroad under the Collin Bros. from the U.S. perished. Hepburn's own account notes that only 26 of the original 54 engineers survived. The attempt was abandoned for financial reasons. Thousands of men died (6,000+) working on the subsequent construction of the railroad in 1907-1912 due to tropical disease and violence leading to it being nicknamed the Devil's Railroad. The Cody Museum letter describes "Model 1873, serial number 27179" as: "Type: Rifle, Barrel Type: Octagon, Barrel Length: 26 inches, Trigger: Set, Checkered stock, Casehardened" and "1 of 100". The letter states that this rifle was received in the Winchester warehouse on August 16, 1877, and shipped on April 16, 1878. The rifle has the First Model receiver with dust cover retained by grooved guides. The top of the dust cover has the distinctive oval checkered finger grip. The full octagon barrel and full-length magazine have a blue finish. The loading gate and trigger are nitre blue. The forearm cap, receiver, dust cover, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are piano finished, fancy grade walnut with the first style factory checkering on the wrist and forearm. The top of the barrel is engraved "One of One Hundred" in script letters in a panel with scallop and dot borders located between the rear sight and the receiver. The inscription is surrounded by scroll and foliate engraving on a punch-dot background which extends to the barrel side flats. This style of inscription is found on all of the Model 1873 "One of One Hundred" rifles with octagon barrels. The top and sides of the barrel at the muzzle are engraved with identical scroll and foliate designs. Single platinum bands are inlaid on the barrel at the muzzle and breech. This rifle appears to be the only surviving Model 1873 "One of One Hundred" rifles with inlaid platinum bands. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is engraved with a fancy entwined monogram "RHH" over the year "1878". The monogram is not noted in the Winchester ledger and was probably added after the rifle left the factory. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." ahead of the rear sight. The serial number "27179" is engraved on the lower tang between the lever latch and upper tang screw hole. The barrel has a sporting style front sight with nickel silver blade and a buckhorn sporting rear sight with solid back and knurled edges. A Winchester folding graduated peep sight with fifty minute graduations is mounted on the receiver tang. Factory sling swivels are mounted on the forearm cap and stock. The receiver has a single set trigger. The hammer has impressed bordered knurling on the spur. The crescent buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor and the butt trap contains a four piece steel cleaning rod. This rare rifle was formerly part of the collections of Frank R. Sweet and Arnold M. Chernoff. Although less well known than the Winchester Model 1873 "One of One Thousand" rifles, the Model 1873 "One of One Hundred" rifles are far rarer and represent one of the most elusive variations of special order Winchester lever action rifles. Provenance: Frank R. Sweet; Arnold M. Chernoff; Carl Press Collection; The Robert M. Lee Collection; The Gateway Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 36

Factory Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1895 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1915. The rifle has standard Winchester markings including the factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver, a raised dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight. The factory engraving on the receiver consists of a vine and leaf scroll motif along with game scenes on the sides. A wedge of engraved scrollwork appears on top of the barrel at the breech, and additional engraved vines are found on the bolt at the rear. The nicely figured forearm and straight grip stock are checkered and feature an ebony forend tip insert and hard rubber Winchester shotgun buttplate. Model 1895s with factory engraving are tough to find. According to Winchester author and expert George Madis, "Engraved Models 95 are very rare; by the time the Model 95 was introduced the cost of engraving had become quite high."

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 405 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle with Buffalo Bill Historical Center Letter

Lot 37

Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Rifle with Letter

The accompanying Buffalo Bill Historical Center letter indicates that Winchester factory records lists this rifle with a round barrel in .30 caliber, plain trigger, takedown configuration, blank in the rear sight seat, Lyman front and receiver sights, and checkered pistol grip stock when received in the warehouse on September 26, 1906, and shipped the next day. The sights are as confirmed by the letter including the blank in the rear seat. The barrel has the two-line address/patent date and "30 WCF" on top and the two-line nickel steel marking on the left side. Winchester factory oval proofs are present on the receiver and barrel. The upper tang has the three-line model/trademark information. The nicely figured forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The buttstock has a hard rubber grip cap and a crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Rare Documented Factory Engraved Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1892 Takedown Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 38

Factory Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1892 Rifle, Letter

The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a half octagon barrel in 25-20 caliber, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, "Lyman rear sight, no rear seat," half magazine, hard rubber shotgun buttplate and $2.00 factory engraving when it was received in the warehouse on March 23, 1909 and shipped on March 26. Factory engraved Winchester Model 1892 rifles are rare and very desirable. The sides of the receiver feature engraved scrollwork on a punch dot background and scalloped borders. A detailed game scene in a circular panel is featured on the left side. Additional scroll flourishment is found on top and bottom of the receiver and behind the hammer. The factory engraving is described and illustrated in Winchester's "Highly Finished Arms" on page 23. The rifle has standard Winchester markings including the factory oval proof on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. Combination beach front sight, no provision for a rear sight on the barrel and folding tang peep sight. The highly figured forearm and pistol grip stock feature checkering and hard rubber factory grip cap and buttplate.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 25-20 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 39

Extraordinary Documented Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1886

This is an exceptional example of a documented special order Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1886 Sporting Rifle that was manufactured in 1895. This rifle is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum factory letter that describes this Model 1886 as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 45/90, Barrel Type: Octagon, Barrel Length: 30 inches, Trigger: Set, Plain pistol grip stock, Sights; Globe and Peep" and "Sling & Swivels". The letter further states that this rifle was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on February 15, 1895. A second included factory letter from the late 1960s for this rifle is addressed to the famed Winchester collector Mac McCroskie. The rifle has a blue barrel, magazine and bolt with niter blue loading gate. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate have a vivid color casehardened finish. The forearm and special order plain pistol grip stock are straight grain American walnut with a semi-gloss finish. The bottom of the pistol grip has an ebony inlay. The extra-long, full octagon 30-inch barrel has a Winchester globe front sight and a factory blank in the rear sight dovetail. A Lyman folding combination rear sight with coarsely knurled post is mounted on the receiver tang. The receiver has a single set-trigger. Eyes for detachable sling swivels are mounted on the stock and forend cap. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" in two lines ahead of the rear sight dovetail. The caliber designation "45-90 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top barrel flat ahead of the receiver. The 1884/1885 patent dates are roll-stamped in two lines on the lower tang behind the trigger. The serial number is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the tang screws. Model 1886 rifles with special order extra long barrels are rare. The combination of 30-inch barrel, special front and rear sights, single set trigger, plain pistol grip stock and sling swivels make this a one-of-a-kind rifle.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-90 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 40

Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Sporting Lever Action Rifle

Winchester Model 1873 Sporting Rifle with Cody Firearms Museum letter. The Cody letter describes this rifle as "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 32, Barrel Type: Round, Trigger: Plain", and "1/2 Magazine" and states that it was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on May 14, 1884. The rifle has a 24-inch round barrel with screw-fastened, button tip, half-magazine. The Third Style receiver has a integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edges. The receiver has the step at the junction with the barrel found on 22, 32 and 38 caliber Model 1873s. The barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel silver blade and buckhorn, sporting style, rear sight with serrated edges and solid face. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1865. OCTOBER 15. 1860" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. "32-CAL." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel just in front of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1873-" in fancy letters with foliate devices at either end of the marking. "32 CAL." is roll-stamped in script across the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number is roll-stamped in script numerals on the lower tang between the lever latch and rear tang screw. The barrel has a blue finish and the forearm cap, receiver and dust cover are a high polish blue. The loading gate has a fire blue finish. The hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are casehardened. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a varnish finish.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Excellent Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1894 Extra Lightweight Lever Action Short Rifle

Lot 41

Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1894 Extra Lightweight Short Rifle

Manufactured in 1900. The barrel is equipped with Lyman beaded blade front and Lyman two leaf folding rear sights and is marked with the two-line address/patent date marking on top and the two-line nickel steel marking followed by "30 WCF" on the left side. It has a button magazine and finely checkered forearm and pistol grip stock fitted with hard rubber factory grip cap and shotgun buttplate. The left side of the lower tang and stock inlet are marked "16943."

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 42

Fine Early Production Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring

Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine manufactured in 1868. The barrel has very desirable, first style, "HENRY'S-PATENT" barrel markings. This carbine has the Second Model receiver with single upper tang screw and flare at the junction with the forearm. The carbine has a 20-inch round barrel with full-length magazine. The barrel has the first style upper barrel band with integral front sight blade and early two-leaf rear sight. The top of the barrel has the first style marking: "HENRY'S-PATENT-OCT. 16. 1860/KING'S-PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866" in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The magazine has the early, screw-in cap. The distinctive brass receiver has a staple-fastened saddle ring on the left side and an indented loading port cover retained by one screw. The hammer spur has the early, border-less knurling. The loading lever is secured by the large style latch screw. The serial number is stamped on the bottom of the receiver behind the trigger. The carbine has the early, crescent, brass buttplate with sharply pointed heel. The buttplate has a hinged brass trapdoor. "282" is stamped on the right side of the receiver behind the side plate. The carbine has the distinctive brass receiver and buttplate. The barrel, magazine and barrel bands have a blue finish. The loading port cover is fire blue. The hammer, trigger, lever and lever latch are casehardened. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a varnish or oil finish.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Lot 43

Exceptional Documented Second Model Winchester Deluxe Model 1873

The Cody letter describes this Model 1873 as: "Type: Rifle, Barrel Type: Octagon, Trigger: Plain, Checkered stock" and "Casehardened". The Cody letter further states that this rifle was received in the warehouse on July 17, 1878 and shipped on July 19, 1878. This rifle has the early Second Model receiver with screw fastened dust cover guide and dust cover with checkered oval finger grip. The rifle has a blue barrel and magazine, high polish blue dust cover and niter blue loading gate. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are casehardened. The stock and forearm are "XX" fancy grade walnut with a piano finish and factory checkering. The 24-inch octagon barrel has a Beach folding combination front sight and early buckhorn, sporting style rear sight with short base and knurled sides. The full length magazine tube has the early threaded cap. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. The buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor. The stock and forearm have factory checkering; the forearm checkering is the early style that completely adjoins the receiver and extends forward to slightly ahead of the rear sight dovetail. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two-line legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." ahead of the rear sight. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped "MODEL. 1873" in fancy letters. The serial number is roll-stamped on the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw. The left side of the lower tang is stamped with the assembly number "754" followed by "XX". The assembly number is also stamped in the upper tang inlet of the stock and in the inside of the buttplate. The barrel and brass cartridge elevator, correctly, have no caliber markings.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 44

Winchester Model 1895 Flat Side Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1896, the second year of production and serialized with a three digit number, 884. This rifle is 1 of only 5,000 manufactured with the desirable flat side receiver. The rifle is equipped with German silver blade and elevation adjustable sights on a barrel marked with the two-line address and "30 U.S." on top. The upper tang is marked "WINCHESTER/MODEL 1895." Directly behind the trigger it is marked "PAT NOV. 5, 1895/-- NOV. 12, 1895 --." The serial number is marked on the lower tang. Mounted with a smooth tapered forearm with an ebony insert and straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30 U.S.

Price Realized:

Lot 45

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Sporting Rifle

Winchester Model 1873 Sporting Rifle with Cody Firearms Records Office letter that describes this rifle as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 32, Barrel Type: Round, Trigger: Plain" and "1/2 Magazine". The letter states it was shipped from the Winchester Warehouse on September 16, 1887. The rifle has the Third Style receiver with integral dust cover guide rail and dust cover with serrated rear edges. The front of the receiver has the step found on 22, 32 and 38 caliber rifles. The 24-inch round barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and buckhorn, sporting style rear sight with serrated edges and solid back. The half-magazine has a late style casehardened magazine cap held in place by the forend tip. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S- IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." head of the rear sight. "32 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. "32 CAL" is roll-stamped in script across the brass cartridge elevator. "-MODEL 1873-" is roll-stamped on the upper tang in fancy script with foliate devices at either end of the marking, and the serial number is roll-stamped in script letters on the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw. The barrel, forearm tip, receiver and dust cover have a blue finish. The loading gate is a fiery niter blue. The magazine tip, hammer, trigger, lever and crescent buttplate are casehardened. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with a high polish varnish finish.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Excellent Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Fancy Sporting Rifle in Desirable 45-90 WCF with Factory Letter

Lot 46

Excellent Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Fancy Sporting Rifle

The included factory letter lists this rifle with a round barrel in .45-90 caliber, plain trigger and checkered pistol grip stock when received in the warehouse on February 15, 1894, and shipped the next day. This stunning rifle has a casehardened receiver and deluxe, fancy grade, highly figured walnut forearm and pistol grip stock. The stock and forearm have Winchester "Style H" factory checkering, and the bottom of the pistol grip has an ebony inlay. The stock and forearm have a high gloss piano finish. The rifle has a 26-inch round barrel with full length magazine. The barrel and magazine have a blue finish. The barrel has a standard sporting style front sight with nickel-silver blade and sporting style buckhorn rear sight with serrated edges and adjustable center piece. In addition to the receiver, the forearm cap, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are casehardened. The bolt, loading gate and trigger have a bright blue finish. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/- WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" in two un-equal lines ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation "45-90. W.C.F." is roll stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. The upper receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped and roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886-". The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are located on the lower tang behind the trigger, and the serial number is stamped in script letters between the rear tang screws.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-90 WCF

Price Realized:

Outstanding Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Helm Model Schuetzen Rifle with Shooting Kit and Factory Letter

Lot 47

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Rifle

The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a 30 inch octagon barrel in .38-55 caliber, Schuetzen set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, mid-range and windgauge sights (no rear seat), Helm buttplate and Dutch cheekpiece when shipped on March 24, 1898. The factory records list a repair and return date of June 25, 1902. This rifle is pictured in John Campbell's "The Winchester Single-Shot" on page 134. Full octagon #3 weight barrel with two-line Winchester marking on the top flat and "38-55" over the chamber. Front sight is a Winchester windgauge spirit level. Rear is a mid-range Vernier tang sight. There are no holes drilled/tapped for scope target blocks. The pistol grip action is paneled, has a round top, leaf spring, double set triggers, and one piece Schuetzen spur lever with some engraving. The buttstock is the factory extra fancy walnut Schuetzen helm style with a blued steel hooked butt plate, shadow line cheekpiece, checkered pistol grip and a hard rubber Winchester motif grip cap. Forearm is matching walnut with standard checkering pattern, ebony inlay in schnabel tip, Winchester tuning fork palm rest with inletted base. The shooting kit is a black Moroccan leather covered hard case (3x8x16 inches) with a leather luggage carrying handle and purple lining. Contents are an ideal style breech seating tool, Ideal nickeled flask, nickeled Ideal re/decapper, tin oiler, small round tin can of felt wads, tin of Winchester #2-1/2 primers (unopened). Box of 25 each Winchester 38-55 primed shells (unopened), 6 boxes (25 each) of paper patched 38 cal 255 gr target bullets. The label is marked as made for the Ballard rifle by the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. Single cavity 38 cal bullet mold. Also comes with "Major Ned H. Roberts and the Schuetzen rifle" edited by Gerald Kelver.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Lot 48

Second Year Winchester Model 1885 Special Sporting High Wall

This example was manufactured in 1886, the second year of production, with special order deluxe checkered walnut stock and forearm, front sight and extremely rare casehardened frame, lever and buttplate. Heavy #1 octagon barrel with a dovetailed folding globe front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight and tang mounted mid-range Vernier peep sight. The top of the barrel is marked "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight and "38 CAL W.C.F." at the breech. The bottom flat under the forearm is marked with a "125", "WCF", "VP" in an oval under the spring and "1" and "9" ahead of the spring. The serial number is marked on the lower tang, and "-PAT OCT. 7TH 79-" is marked just behind the trigger. The barrel is blue with casehardened remaining parts. Deluxe high gloss walnut checkered Schnabel forearm with ebony tip inlay and checkered pistol grip stock with an ebony insert and casehardened crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter confirms the rifles configuration, that it had Beach and Lyman sights, weighed 8 3/4 pounds and that it was shipped from the warehouse on March 11, 1886.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Rifle with Special Order Set Trigger

Lot 49

Winchester - 1885-Rifle

This is an early Winchester Model 1885 low action that is chambered in the .25-20 WCF cartridge. It comes with a Winchester ledger accounting sheet that is dated May 1971 that lists the rifle in .25-20 with a 28 inch octagon barrel and set trigger and states it was originally shipped in March 1892. The rifle was built on a desirable thick side (smooth side) low action with the correct round top receiver with no sighting groove cut in the receiver. The barrel is correctly marked on top with the Winchester factory two-line address with the caliber marking stamped on the top flat at the breech end of the barrel. It is fitted with the standard 1885 trigger guard with a single set trigger. It is fitted with a standard, straight grip, walnut buttstock and forend. The stock is fitted with the second pattern nickel plated two prong Winchester buttplate (does not letter in the factory records) with the shorter prongs, and a small ebony insert is on the front end of the forend. The lower tang is marked with the patent date and the serial number. The barrel has the factory filler block in the rear sight dovetail, and it is fitted with a Winchester windgauge, adjustable target front sight and a Winchester pattern 1885 tang mounted target rear sight. It has the correct Winchester factory blued metal finish on the barrel and a color casehardened receiver, trigger guard, lower tang, hammer and breechblock. Since this rifle was originally manufactured in 1892, we suspect that this rifle was returned to the Winchester factory sometime after 1895 where it was updated to the current configuration, including a barrel change from .25-20 Single Shot to .25-20 W.C.F. since the latter cartridge was not released until 1894/95 time frame after this rifle was manufactured.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 25-20 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 50

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1886 as a third model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edge. The accompanying factory letter confirms this rifle with an octagon barrel in .38 caliber, plain trigger and casehardened finish when received in the warehouse on November 24, 1886, and shipped the same day. German silver blade and elevation adjustable sights on a barrel marked with the two-line address/patent dates ahead of the rear sight and "38 WCF" at the breech. "38" CAL" is marked on the brass cartridge elevator. The upper tang has the model designation, and the lower tang has the serial number. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the buttstock and forend cap. The frame is casehardened. Mounted on a nicely figured walnut forearm and straight grip stock. The buttstock has a trapdoor buttplate holding a four piece cleaning rod.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

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