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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 11

Showing 1-50 of 525 results

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:

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:

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

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 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:

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:

Lot 57

Very Fine Antique Winchester Model 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

Manufactured in 1893. The left side of the receiver is marked with the large "WRACo" monogram, the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver, and the lower tang is marked "MANUFACTURED BY THE/WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./- NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A. -/PAT. FEB. 16. & JULY 20. 1886". The breech end of the barrel is marked "12" on top, and the Winchester "WP" oval proof is on the left side. Single brass bead sight, 2 3/4 inch chamber, and choke gauges modified. Blue barrel and magazine tube, casehardened receiver and lever, and mounted with the standard smooth two slab walnut forearm and round knob pistol grip stock with checkered iron buttplate. Length of pull is 13 inches. Winchester produced about 65,000 Model 1887 shotguns in 10 and 12 gauge from 1887 to 1901.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1886 50 Express Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 67

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1886 50 Express Rifle

Winchester Model 1886 rifle manufactured in 1896 and chambered for the Winchester .50-110 Express cartridge. This rifle is accompanied by a factory letter that states the serial number was applied on September 11, 1896, and the rifle was received in the warehouse on December 17, 1902 and shipped from the Winchester warehouse on December 18, 1902. The letter describes the rifle as: "Type: Rifle, Caliber: 50 Express, Barrel Type: Round, Trigger: Plain, 1/2 Magazine" and "Sling Swivels". The barrel, forearm cap, receiver, bolt, loading gate and trigger are blue and the hammer, lever, and crescent buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are varnished, straight grain, American walnut. The round barrel has an express style front sight with nickel silver blade and a Winchester Express rear sight with three folding leaves. The leaves have platinum sight lines and are numbered: "50", "1" and "2". The receiver tang is factory drilled and tapped. Factory swivel eyes are fitted to the forearm cap and stock, and Winchester sling hooks are attached to both swivel eyes. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "MANUFACTURED BY THE/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation: "50 EX" is stamped on the center-line of the barrel just ahead of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886-". The 1884/1885 patent dates are stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger and the serial number is stamped in script numerals behind the rear tang screw.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50-110

Lot 68

Excellent Winchester Semi-Deluxe Model 1892 Takedown

Manufactured in 1911. Dovetail beaded blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The upper left barrel flat is marked with the two line address/1884 patent date and "25-20 W.C.F." at the breech. The top barrel flat and top of the receiver are marked with the Winchester oval proof at the breech, and the upper tang is marked with the three line model/maker/trade mark information. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever, 1/2 length magazine tube and mounted with a checkered walnut forearm with a metal forend cap and pistol grip stock with a hard rubber Winchester grip cap and checkered buttplate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 25-20 WCF

Historic Documented Southern Style Percussion Long Rifle "From the Cotton Bails at New Orleans" Inscribed Once Owned by Famed 19th Century Hunter, Pioneer, and Mountain Man Seth Kinman

Lot 111

Seth Kinman Mountain Man Rifle

The nearly four foot long swamped octagon barrel of this massive rifle has a bone blade front sight and traditional winged notch rear sight and is marked "Seth Kinman Old C[otton] B[ale]" (bracketed areas illegible) on the long barrel tang which extends back nearly to the buttplate, "Gave Many an Englishman the Belly ake(sic)" (lower right flat) and "From off the Cotton Bails(sic) at New Orleans" (upper flat) and "Jan. the 8 1815 Old Kentuck" on the left flat. The furniture is all iron. The spurred trigger guard encloses double set triggers. The current lock and the iron butt and toe plates appear to have been added to the rifle later in Kinman's life post-1876 based on photographs. According to Seth Kinman's (1815-1888) own tall tales, his rifle was used by a Kentucky rifleman under the command of General Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans the year he was born to kill British General Edward Pakenham. The general in reality is recorded as having been killed by grape shot from the American cannons though he may have been injured by gunfire. According to Kinman's account, his father purchased the rifle in 1831 from a man named Bridges from Kentucky who told him the tale of his own father using it at New Orleans. Kinman inherited the rifle when his father died 1839 and used it the rest of his life. He said the rifle was originally stocked in walnut but the original stock was damaged by a grizzly that chased him up a tree, and he subsequently restocked it himself. He reportedly crossed through the Rocky Mountains multiple times on foot with this rifle. His rifle, which he also called Old Cotton Blossum, is shown in many of the photographs of Kinman from the 1860s into the 1870s. Close examination of the photographs shows the stock being steadily modified over the years as it was damaged. It was also originally flintlock but was converted to percussion by the time it appeared in photographs. The current length of the forend can be seen in the photograph of him with then presidential candidate and Ohio Governor Rutherford B. Hayes in September 1876. The buttplate, toe plate, and current lock plate were apparently added late, reportedly by Kinman in the period of use. The original lock is clearly roughly fit in a damaged lock mortise in many of the period photographs, and a new lock was likely fitted late in his life to help keep the gun in one piece and/or functioning. Also included with the rifle is a copy of "Seth Kinman's Manuscript and Scrapbook," "I'm a Gonna Tell Ya a Yarn," a framed display on Kinman including a photograph of him holding the rifle, and copies of articles and other texts relating to Kinman's life. Among those is the article "The Last of the Mountain Men and His Remarkable Rifle" by Dr. Alan W. Maki in the April 2018 issue of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association's "Muzzle Blasts" magazine which details Kinman's life and his rifle and also includes photographs both from the period and present showing the rifle. The "They just don' make testosterone the way they used to" quote attributed to Kinman and displayed on the framed poster and in the article can't be correct since hormones weren't understood at the time and the term testosterone was not coined until 1935. Kinman was born in Union County, Pennsylvania, but moved with his family to Illinois in 1830. His father reportedly served alongside future president Abraham Lincoln during the Black Hawk War in 1832. In 1849, he went to California to join the Gold Rush. His wife and two of their sons died in the winter of 1852-1853 back in Illinois while he was exploring Northern California. That same year, he first started making a living supplying meat to the U.S. soldiers at Ft. Humbolt in Northern California and also supplied meat to others in the region. He is also known to have helped exterminate all of the grizzlies in the county by 1868. He also claims and was reported to have killed a number of Native Americans in California and may have been part of the brutal 1860 Wiyot massacre in Humboldt County. He had gained his first fame for the chair he presented to President Buchanan in 1857 after which he reportedly received an appointment to remove Native Americans on the West Coast for $1,300 a year per the Rock Island, Illinois, Daily Argus on June 12, 1857, via the New York Times, and Kinman capitalized on the publicity. Starting in 1861, decades before William "Buffalo Bill" Cody and other's capitalized on the romanticization of the West, Kinman was already selling chairs, photographs of himself, and other items, including scalps; playing his fiddles, telling tales, and putting on exhibitions to make a profit. He also opened up a museum to contain his artifacts. Dr. Maki indicates the rifle was hung in the museum until the museum was sold by the Kinman family in 1893 and then remained in the family for several generations until he purchased it from Kinman's great-great granddaughter. He presented additional elk antler or grizzly bear chairs to Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, and Rutherford Hayes as well as Vice-President William A. Wheeler. He cultivated a friendship with President Lincoln whom he claimed to have known since he was a boy living in Illinois. A drawing of Lincoln holding Kinman's rifle while accepting the gift of Kinman's chair on November 26, 1864, was sketched by Alfred Waud. Kinman reportedly spoke with Lincoln the day before his assassination and witnessed the attack at Ford's Theater. He was also part of two or more of Lincoln's funeral processions and gathered attention for his distinctive attire and rifle. Per the New York Times, "Much attention was attracted to Mr. Kinman, who walked in a full hunting suit of buckskin and fur, rifle on shoulder. Mr. Kinman, it will be remembered, presented to Mr. Lincoln some time ago a chair made of California elk-horn, and continuing his acquaintance with him, it is said, enjoyed quite a long conversation with him the very day before the murder." The Times also referred to him as the "Pacific Coast Nimrod" in recognition for his career as a hunter. That same article notes that he claimed to have killed over 800 grizzlies in his lifetime and as many as 50 elk in a single month. While in the East, he had many of the famous portraits of him and his chairs taken by Mathew Brady's famous studio. Despite his disheveled appearance and tattered animal skin clothes, he was actually quite a successful businessman, and he and his family owned a hotel and saloon later in his life and at one time had a farm and herd of cattle. He died as a result of complications from a self-inflicted accidental gunshot wound to the leg and subsequent amputation in 1888.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 68

Lot 122

Springfield Model 1855 Percussion Rifle-Musket with Bayonet

47,115 Model 1855 rifle-muskets were manufactured at Springfield Armory between 1857 and 1861, and another 12,158 were produced at Harpers Ferry. They were widely used in the Civil War and first saw action in the Coeur d'Alene War in the Pacific Northwest in 1858. The unreliable and easily damaged tape primers were the main complaint and were abandoned for the otherwise similar Model 1861. It has the standard markings and features for this period in production and includes a socket bayonet with scabbard.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 58

Price Realized:

Lot 158

Remington Model 1890 Single Action Army Revolver

Remington only manufactured about 2,000 of these Model 1890 Single Action Army revolvers in 1891-94. The Model 1890 was the successor to the Model 1875 and 1888 and was also intended to be the competitor of the Colt Single Action Army like its predecessors. This model is one of the most sought after of all of the Remington produced handguns. The top of the barrel is marked "REMINGTON ARMS CO. ILION, N.Y.," and "44 C.F.W" is marked on the left side of the frame just below the cylinder. The matching serial number is marked on the lower left side of the frame under the grip and the heel of the trigger guard, and the assembly number "416" is on the loading gate arm. The revolver has a blade front and frame notch rear sights, lanyard stud and ring mounted on the butt and is fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the "RA" monogram at the tops. Like many of the Model 1888 revolvers, the barrel length is 5 3/4 inches rather than the listed 5 1/2 inch length.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Desirable Martially Inspected Civil War Navy Remington Model 1861 Percussion Revolver

Lot 160

Martially Inspected Civil War Navy Remington 1861 Percussion

Marked "PATENTED DEC. 17, 1861/MANUFACTURED BY REMINGTON'S ILION, N.Y." on top of the barrel. The patent was for the grooved lever to allow the cylinder pin to be pulled forward without lowering the loading lever. This was William Elliot's patent, and his name is sometimes found on the lever. The serial numbers on these started after the last of the Beal's patent Navy revolvers at about 15,000, so this is approximately the 565th revolver of this model made. Approximately 12,000 were made in 1862. The serial numbers match in the left side of the frame under the grip and the bottom of the barrel. A "CGC" cartouche is on the left grip, and "W" and "J" initials are on various parts. This cartouche is also found on the rare U.S. Contract Henry rifles!

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Fine Remington "Split-Breech" Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot 164

Fine Remington Type III 'Split-Breech' Saddle Ring Carbine

This carbine has the "Type I" Civil War-era features which include 20-inch round barrel chambered for the .46 rimfire cartridge, short 7 1/2-inch forearm and small receiver. The carbine has a steel dovetail mounted front sight blade and two-leaf folding rear sight. A sling bar and ring are mounted on the left side of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "REMINGTON'S. ILION, N.Y./PAT. DEC. 23. 1863, MAY 3 & NOV. 16. 1864". It is estimated that less than 1,000 of these saddle ring carbines were assembled from remaining parts in various configurations after the completion of both military contracts.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 46 RF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Parisian LeMat Patent Centerfire Single Action "Grapeshot" Revolver

Lot 180

LeMat Brevete Centerfire Single Action Grapeshot Revolver

LeMat revolvers are most famously associated with the Confederacy during the Civil War as percussion revolvers, but they remained in production well-after the war ended. Centerfire LeMat revolvers were manufactured from the late 1860s until the early 1880s. The odd cylinder flute pattern can be seen in patent drawings for the centerfire LeMat revolvers pictured on various pages of "LeMat: The Man, The Gun" by Forgett and Serpette. The maker is unidentified other than that they are Parisian/French (see page 187 of the book). The barrel has "Colonel Le Mat Bte Paris" in Gothic script followed by the reversed "E" conjoined "EP" Parisian proof mark. The only other markings are the matching serial number marked on both barrels, the recoil shield, loading gates, face of the nine-shot cylinder, right side of the frame, and underside of the grips. It features a high blade front sight, groove in the frame above the hammer for a rear sight, central hammer selector switch, loading gates for each barrel, and smooth European walnut grips. It weighs in at a hefty 3 lbs. 3 oz. unloaded. The calibers are 12 mm for the cylinder and 15 mm for the shot barrel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12mm/18 Gauge

Price Realized:

Fine Clauberg Staff and Field Officer's Sword Attributed to General Charles W. Ewing, Brother in Law of General Sherman and Staff Officer During the "March to the Sea"

Lot 195

Clauberg Staff & Field Sword, Att'd to Bgen Charles Ewing

Measuring 37 inches overall, with a 31 1/2 inch double fuller blade, decorated on each side with etched and gold washed patriotic motifs, and the left side etched "JAMES P. FITCH/NEW-YORK" at the bottom of the fuller and the Clauberg trademark on the ricasso. The hilt is of cast brass construction, with fine scrollwork and "US" between the branches and a cast German silver grip. The scabbard is iron construction, with a repaired two-piece tip and engraved suspension bands. The upper suspension band is inscribed "C.W.E." on the reverse side. Notes from the consignor attribute C.W.E. as Charles W. Ewing. A lawyer in civilian life, Ewing was commissioned a Captain in the 13th Infantry in May 1861 and saw action at the Siege of Vicksburg (suffering wounds in the course of planting a battalion flag on the Confederate parapet), Jackson, Colliersville, Missionary Ridge, and the Atlanta Campaign. He spent much of the war subordinate to William Tecumseh Sherman; having lost his father at a young age, Sherman was taken in by the Ewing family, later marrying Ewing's sister. Ewing was on Sherman's staff during the March to the Sea, Sherman's personal scorched earth campaign from Atlanta to Savannah before proceeding up through the Carolinas. Ewing ended his military service in 1867, having become a permanent Captain and brevet Colonel in the Regular Army and a permanent Brigadier General with the Volunteers. In his post-war life, he was appointed Catholic Commissioner for Indian Missions, a leadership role in the newly established Catholic Indian Bureau; in this role he was recognized by Pope Pius IX via being made a Knight in the Order of St. Gregory the Great.

Price Realized:

Lot 198

Winchester-Lee Straight Pull Sporting Rifle with Factory Letter

Only an estimated 1,700 of these scarce sporting rifles were manufactured with the same action as the Winchester-Lee Straight Pull Rifle adopted by the U.S. Navy in 1895 and chambered for the 6mm Lee/.236 U.S.N. cartridge. The older factory letter details assembly and disassembly of the rifle. The 2013 factory letter confirms the gun was serialized on June 3, 1898, and received in the warehouse on June 22, 1898. It was later refurbished at the factory as indicated by the Winchester proofs on the receiver and barrel and confirmed by the letter. It was sent to "Russ" on January 7, 1904, and the letter then lists "improvements January 12, 1904 - 6 mm Sporting." It also lists that it was "back in the warehouse on December 8, 1913," and was not shipped until May 1, 1915, in order 609105. A factory ledger scan is also included listing that information. The barrel has a pinned blade front sight, traditional sporting rear sight, the two-line nickel steel marking to the left of the rear sight, and ".236 U.S.N." on the left at the breech. It has the standard half-length stock with Schnabel tip, grasping grooves, Winchester trademark grip cap, and checkered shotgun buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 236 USN

Price Realized:

Lot 199

National Armory Officer's Saber and Scabbard Inscribed

The etched blade has "NATIONAL/ARMORY" among the designs on the right side and "BREVET COLONEL E.B. WILLISTON CAPT 2nd ARTILLERY U.S. ARMY." on the left. The rayskin grip has gold wire, and the hilt is brass. The scabbard is nickel with gilded brass fittings and "SWP" marked chape. The consignor as included information on Medal of Honor recipient Brigadier General Edward Bancroft Williston. He was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the 2nd U.S. Artillery on August 5, 1861. His Medal of Honor was for "distinguished gallantry in action at Trevillian Station, Virginia, June 2, 1864." He became a brevet captain on May 3, 1863, after action at Salem Heights, Virginia; brevet major after the Battle of Gettysburg on July 2, 1863; brevet lieutenant colonel on September 19, 1864, after the Battle of Winchester; and brevet colonel on March 13, 1865. The saber would have been presented after the latter promotion. He remained in the army after the war and became a major in the 3rd U.S. Artillery on March 2, 1885, lieutenant colonel on February 12, 1895, colonel in the 6th U.S. Artillery on March 8, 1898, brigadier general of volunteers on March 4, 1898, during the Spanish-American War, reverted to colonel in June 12, 1899, retired on July 15, 1900, and was given the rank of brigadier general on the retired list on April 23, 1904, by Congress.

Price Realized:

Lot 235

Marlin Ballard No. 9 Union Hill Single Shot Rifle

Manufactured from 1884 to 1890. Fitted with a standard 1/2 inch globe wind-gauge Marlin-Ballard Type B front sight and Marlin's Improved Vernier peep sight. The rifle lacks provision for a rear sporting sight. Checkered forearm with slight Schnabel and perch belly pistol grip stock with roll over cheekpiece and nickel plated Swiss buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40

Price Realized:

Lot 247

Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Medium Frame Spur Trigger Revolver

This is an early production (first model) example with exposed cylinder pin, scoop cylinder flutes, loading gate (slides downward for loading), flat butt and 3 1/2 inch barrel. It has matching numbers on the grip frame, cylinder and barrel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 CF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Chicago Firearms Protector Palm Revolver

Lot 249

Excellent Chicago Firearms Protector Palm Revolver

Estimated 12,800 manufactured in the 1890s. Standard markings, with floral engraving on the barrel and frame, and knurling around the edge of the side plate. Matching numbers are present on the interior of the frame and grip panel, as well as on the cylinder. Grip panels and pad on the trigger bar are checkered hard rubber.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 XSRF

Price Realized:

Lot 268

Rare J.C. Bell Drop-Shank, Silver Inlaid and Mounted Spurs

Manufactured during the early 20th Century by J.C. Bell, a rancher from near Casper, Wyoming. The inside of the heel band is marked "J.C. BELL" and "IL CITY. O." This marking may refer to "Oil City", a nickname for Casper, Wyoming. The consignor notes that this address marking is considered rarer than the normal Waltman, Wyoming marking. They feature 16-toothed rowels, drop shanks with chap guards, engraved silver inlays and domed conchos throughout, and straight heel bands with swinging buttons. The straps are period floral carved leather with engraved silver buckles and a large engraved silver dome which covers the outer buttons. Heel band width: 1 1/8" Shanks: 2 7/8" Rowel diameter: 2 1/2" Heel opening: 3 1/4"

Price Realized:

Lot 269

Eddy Hulbert Single Mounted Elaborately Engraved Spurs

Manufactured circa the 1930s-1940s by Eddy Hulbert of Hillsboro, Montana. They show Hulbert's stylized "EH" mark under the inside button of the left spur and feature his signature deep engraving in the single mounted silver on the upturned heel bands, drop shanks with chap guards, engraved lateral buttons, seven pointed star rowels, and deeply floral carved period straps. Heel band width: 5/8" Shanks: 2 1/2" Rowel diameter: 2" Heel opening: 3 1/4". Provenance: Frank Lofton Collection, Mike Worley Collection, and Bruce Bartlett.

Price Realized:

Documented San Antonio, Texas, Shipped Factory Engraved Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 272

Factory Engraved Antique Colt SAA Revolver, Letter

Manufactured in 1890. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 5 1/2 inch barrel length, .45 caliber, type of stocks, and factory engraving. It was sold and shipped to Charles Hummel & Son of San Antonio, Texas, on September 18, 1890, as part of a 5 gun shipment. 70% of the surfaces are engraved in a Helfricht style with Germanic scrolls, dot, and zig zag line patterns. The back strap has a blank zig zag line panel. The barrel has the one-line address and "45 COLT." in a banner. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent marking followed by a circled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Impressive Exhibition Damascus Pattern J.A. Henckels Solingen Hunting Knife with Extraordinary Sculpted Deep Relief Chiseled Decoration

Lot 273

Sculpted Damascus Henckels 'Zwillingswerk' Hunting Knife

Measuring 12 inches overall, the main structure of the knife is a single piece of Damascus steel, featuring an integral bolster guard and a lightly tapered full-length tang. The blade is 7 1/8 inches long and just shy of a quarter inch thick on the spine, with an unsharpened flat clip, "J.A. HENCKELS.SOLINGEN/ZWILLINGSWERK" on the right side and the "twins" trademark on the left ricasso. The left side of the blade features a deeply relief chiseled scene of a mountain lion delivering dead game (possibly a rabbit or another small animal) to its three cubs, with a rocky foreground and mountainous background. The very fine grips are nicely contoured stag horn.

Price Realized:

Lot 278

Rex Schnitger Cheyenne Style Split-Heel, Drop-Shank Spurs

Manufactured during the early 20th Century by Rex Schnitger of Gilette, Wyoming, who worked for the famous Edward H. Bohlin in Hollywood in the 1930s. They are unmarked, as is typical of Schnitger's work, and display many of his trademark features, such as the single piece split heel construction, the wide pointed star engraved raised dome buttons, and Cheyenne style silver inlays and engraving on the heel bands. They feature 16-toothed rowels, drop shanks with chap guards, engraved silver inlays throughout, and split heel bands with domed silver buttons. The straps are period basket weave pattern stamped leather marked "TEX.TAN. 1788D/illegible". Provenance: formerly Mike Worley Collection and Bruce Bartlett. Heel band width: 1/2" Shanks: 2 1/4" Rowel diameter: 1 3/4" Heel opening: 3"

Price Realized:

Lot 281

J.R. McChesney Texas Style Double Mounted 'Gal-Leg' Spurs

Manufactured during the late 19th to early 20th Century by J.R. McChesney, who is known as the "Grandaddy of the Texas style spur". The upturned heel bands are double mounted with engraved silver and copper and feature the "gal-leg" shanks with silver slippers and garters and copper socks associated with McChesney work, which are mounted with 5-pointed star rowels. They are fitted with unmarked period floral stamped leather straps. Heel band width: 1/2" Shanks: 2 1/4" Rowel diameter: 1 1/4" Heel opening: 3 1/4".

Price Realized:

First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot 287

1st Generation Colt SAA Revolver, 32 WCF, 7 1/2 Inch Barrel

Manufactured in 1919. Fixed sights, with "32 W.C.F." on the left side of the barrel, one-line Hartford address on top, and the two-line, three-date patents next to the uncircled Rampant Colt on the frame. Matching numbers are present on the grip frame and cylinder, with a pair of checkered and matching hand-numbered Rampant Colt imprinted grips.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 290

Tom Johnson Jr. Style Single Mounted Spurs

Manufactured during the early 20th Century in the style of Texas craftsman, Tom Johnson Jr. They are unmarked, as is typical of Johnson's work and display the "boot and garter-less" "gal-leg" shanks often associated with his work. They feature 9-toothed rowels, "gal-leg" shanks, engraved silver single mountings, and straight heel bands with swinging buttons. The straps are absent. Heel band width: 1/2" Shanks: 2 1/4" Rowel diameter: 1 1/2" Heel opening: 3 1/4"

Price Realized:

Lot 291

Louis Bryant Eagle Pattern Double Mounted Spurs

Manufactured starting in the 1930s by Louis Bryant, shown by the "BRYANT" mark on the outside of each heel band. They are the G.A. Bischoff eagle pattern, double mounted with engraved silver panels and silver eagle head shanks with toothed rowels. The eagle pattern has become one of Bryant's most recognizable and desirable patterns among today's collectors. The leather basket weave stamped straps are marked "DELANCEY/MAKER/LERAMIE WY". Heel band width: 7/8" Shanks: 2 1/2" Rowel diameter: 1 1/2" Heel opening: 3 1/4". Provenance: Larry Reynolds Collection and Bruce Bartlett.

Price Realized:

Lot 292

Kelly Bros. & Parker No. 22 Double Mounted Ladies Size Spurs

Manufactured during the early 20th Century by Kelly Bros. & Parker, bearing the "K.B. & P" mark on the outside arm of each heel band. They show features of the Kelly Bros. "No. 22" pattern spurs such as engraved silver and mother of pearl buttons, engraved silver double mounted heel bands, and gooseneck style shanks ending in 6-toothed rowels. Heel band width: 1/2" Shanks: 1 3/4" Rowel diameter: 1" Heel opening: 2 3/4". Provenance: Joe Flores.

Price Realized:

Lot 293

Oscar Crockett No. 123 'California' Pattern Double Mounted Spurs

Manufactured circa the late 1920s to early 1930s by Oscar Crockett. They are marked "CROCKETT" inside each heel band, which are double mounted with engraved silver and Mexican coin mounted buttons. They also feature drop shanks ending in 16-toothed rowels. The unmarked straps are stamped with a basket weave pattern. Heel band width: 7/8" Shanks: 2 1/2" Rowel diameter: 2" Heel opening: 3 1/4"

Price Realized:

Lot 294

Kelly Bros. 'Powder River Special' Single Mounted Spurs

Manufactured during the early 20th Century by Kelly Bros. bearing the "KELLY BROS" mark on the outside arm of each heel band. They show features of the Kelly Bros. "Powder River Special" pattern spurs such as engraved buttons, engraved silver single mounted heel bands, and drop shanks with chap guards ending in toothed rowels . Fitted with period stamped leather straps. Heel band width: 1-1 1/8" Shanks: 2 3/8" Rowel diameter: 2 1/4" Heel opening: 3 1/2". Provenance: Jack Nichols.

Price Realized:

Lot 297

U.S. Colt Artillery Model Single Action Army Revolver

From 1895 to 1903 a number of "US" marked Single Action Army revolvers, like this one, were returned to either the Colt factory or Springfield Armory where they were modified (to 5 1/2 inch barrel length), dismantled and refinished, often with little regard to which gun the refinished parts came from, resulting in a mix of serial numbers and markings. (Writer believes this revolver to be a Springfield Armory rework). This revolver has a 5 1/2 inch barrel, casehardened frame and blue cylinder, grip frame and barrel. The serial numbers are mixed on these altered models, and they were remarked by inspectors of the era. This revolver is serially numbered "115025" on the frame, "1581" on the trigger guard, "115951/G" on the back strap and "7716" on the cylinder. It bears the standard one-line address on top of the barrel, "P" and "D.F.C." marked on the bottom of the barrel and the three-line, three patent date marking on the left side of the frame followed by "U.S." "D.F.C. is also stamped on the bottom of the frame above the serial number. The loading gate is numbered "2434". It has the standard blade front and frame notch rear sights and is fitted with the correct, finely fitted smooth one piece walnut grips absent of any cartouche or inspector markings. The accompanying factory letter indicates that this revolver was originally shipped to the U.S. Government inspector at the Colt plant on September 16, 1885, as part of a 200 gun shipment.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Desirable Black Powder Colt London Agency Single Action Army Revolver in .455 Eley with Factory Letter

Lot 305

Antique Colt London Agency Single Action Army Revolver in 455

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .455 caliber, blue finish and wood stocks when shipped to Colt's London Agency on June 3, 1891, as part of a 20 gun shipment. Colt manufactured only 1,150 SAA revolvers chambered in .455 Eley. The top of the barrel is marked "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A. DEPOT 14. PALL MALL LONDON," the left side of the barrel is marked "455 CAL," the left side of the frame is marked with the two-line patent dates information along with a circled Rampant Colt, and British proofs are marked on the cylinder between each chamber towards the rear. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt. The revolver has a full blue finish. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. A small "K" is marked below the back strap serial number. Comes with a contemporary hardwood case holding six Remington-UMC .455 Eley II cartridges in a cartridge block.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 455 eley

Price Realized:

New York Engraved Antique Colt Model 1877 Lightning Double Action Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 318

New York Engraved Colt Model 1877 Lightning, Letter

The accompanying factory letter list this revolver with a 5 inch barrel (currently 6 inches, most barrels were 2 1/2 to 4 inches), "soft" finish indicating it was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside the factory, type of stocks not listed and ejector when shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York City on March 16, 1887. The revolver features a scroll engraving on a punch dot background with a different scroll pattern featured on the replacement barrel. The grip straps have zig zag and double line engraved motifs. The barrel has the two-line Colt address on top and "COLT DA 38" marked on the left side. Matching numbers on frame and both grip straps.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 LC

Price Realized:

Very Fine Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 319

Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter Revolver, Letter

Manufactured in 1898. The accompanying factory letter (photocopy) lists this revolver with a 5 1/2 inch barrel in .44 caliber, blue finish and hard rubber grips when it was shipped to M.F. Kennedy and Brothers, St. Paul, Minnesota, on March 22, 1898. Standard Colt markings including "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" marked on the left side of the barrel. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model of 1950 Target Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter and Box

Lot 332

S&W Model of 1950 Target Revolver, Letter & Box

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, 5-screw frame, McGivern gold bead front sight, blue finish, and checkered walnut Magna grips when shipped on May 13, 1957, and delivered to E.H. Braunstein Co., Pittsburgh, PA. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, crane, and ejector shroud. Comes with the original box and factory tools. Provenance: Ray Cheely Collection.

Documentation

Has Box

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W special

Price Realized:

Historic and Documented John M. Olin Presented Smith & Wesson .357 Registered Magnum Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 333

J. Olin's S&W .357 Registered Magnum Revolver, Letter

This 1st production run Registered Magnum, Reg. # 15, is one of 1,518 manufactured with a 6 1/2 inch barrel and was shipped to John M. Olin, famed American inventor and businessman, for many years the head of Winchester Repeating Arms Company. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, King red post front sight, rear sight to match, blue finish and checkered walnut grips with grip adapter (currently fitted with period checkered Roper target grips) when shipped on May 7, 1935, and delivered to John Olin of Western Cartridge Co., East Alton, Illinois. Other included documents from the S&W Historical Foundation (photocopies) are the S&W order form listing barrel length, sights and John Olin as the recipient, postal inquiry from Western Cartridge Co. asking when shipment of the revolver would be made, S&W's response to the Western Cartridge's inquiry and shipping invoice showing the revolver was ordered by John Olin. Before becoming a captain of industry in the field of firearms, John M. Olin (1892-1982) was first a chemical engineer working at his father's Western Cartridge Company, a predecessor of Olin Industries. When Western Cartridge and Winchester Repeating Arms Company merged in 1935 to create Winchester-Western, Olin became head of the Winchester division. He was the inventor or co-inventor of 24 U.S. patents in the manufacture and design of arms and ammunition and was responsible for numerous developments in ballistics, notably the Super-X shotgun shell. Olin was intimately involved from the start with Douglas B. Wesson, Vice President of Smith & Wesson, in the development, testing and early production of the new .357 Magnum cartridge. In grateful appreciation for his efforts Olin was presented Registered Magnum # 15 by D. B. Wesson at the introduction of this new model in 1935. In 1944, following a reorganization of the company, Mr. Olin became president of Olin Industries. Ten years later he was named chairman of the board, a position he held until his retirement in 1963, having grown the corporate holdings to include; Olin Matheison Chemicals, Squibb Pharmaceuticals, Ecusta Paper and Olin Cellophane & Aluminum, in addition to Winchester and the Western Cartridge Company. Long recognized as premiere naturalist and conservationist, Olin founded Nilo (Olin spelled backward) Farms in Alton, Illinois, and established the Nilo Plantation outside Albany, Georgia. Nilo Farms was a hunting and shooting preserve dedicated to creating a wildlife and waterfowl habitat that, in conjunction with Cornell University, also became the primary medical research and development facility for the study of the Labrador retriever breed in the USA. The Nilo Plantation in Georgia was one of the world's finest quail and wildlife hunting and conservation areas in the nation. In addition, the John M. Olin Foundation, a conservative American grant-making foundation begun by Olin in 1953, disbursed over $370 million in funding, primarily to conservative think tanks, media outlets, and university law programs, before disbanding in 2003. The Federalist Society was one of most notable organizations the foundation supported. This .357 Registered Magnum revolver has standard S&W markings with "REG. 15" stamped on the inside of the frame and matching serial numbers found on the butt, cylinder and ejector shroud. The Roper target grips were a popular addition to S&W revolvers of the day and were likely added by Olin himself soon after being presented the gun.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 357 magnum

Price Realized:

Wolf & Klar Embellished Shipped Smith & Wesson Pre-World War II .44 Hand Ejector Third Model Double Action Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 336

Engraved Wolf & Klar Shipped S&W 44 Hand Ejector Revolver Letter

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 5 inch barrel and nickel finish when it was shipped on March 12, 1930, and delivered to S&W Fort Worth, Texas dealer Wolf & Klar as part of a 59 revolver shipment. The revolver features a period retailer zig zag line motif engraving throughout. Motifs include wavy lines, scrolls and Xs. A large floral type pattern appears on the right side of the frame. Matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder and ejector shroud.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W special

Price Realized:

Factory Documented Union Pearl Company Shipped Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector Second Model Double Action Revolver with Attractive Carved Steer Head Pearl Grips

Lot 339

S&W.44 Hand Ejector Revolver, Steerhead Pearl Grips, Letter

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, fixed sights, nickel finish and checkered walnut non-medallion grips when shipped on October 15, 1926, and delivered to Union Pearl Co. of Brooklyn, New York. The revolver is fitted with pearl grips. The right grip panel has a relief carved steer head. The butt has a S&W factory rework star, and the left side of the grip frame has the S&W factory return date of July 1956 ("7 56"). Matching serial numbers on butt, cylinder and barrel.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W special

Price Realized:

Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector First Model Triple Lock Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 341

S&W 44 Hand Ejector First Model Triple Lock Revolver, Letter

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with the desirable 6 1/2 inch barrel, checkered walnut grips and blue finish when sold on January 19, 1917, and delivered to Paxton & Gallagher, Omaha, NE. Matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder and ejector shroud.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W special

Price Realized:

Well-Documented Special Order Smith & Wesson .38/44 Outdoorsman (Pre-War) Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 342

Special Order S&W .38/44 Outdoorsman (Prewar) Revolver, Letter

The accompanying factory letter indicates this revolver was part of a special order for 2 units with several special features when shipped to T.K. Lee, a competition shooter and founder of T.K. Lee Co. of Birmingham, Alabama, the maker of Lee Dot Scopes. Other documents (photocopies) pertaining to this special order .38/44 Outdoorsman include S&W invoice listing a 6 1/2 inch barrel, Sheard bead sight, minimum trigger pull, special dummy thumb latch, T.K. Lee as the recipient and special notation to charge for labor only per his friend Douglas Wesson, Western Union telegram from Lee to S&W requesting two Outdoorsman with Sheard sights and minimum trigger, Douglas Wesson's response to Lee's telegram that mentions a dummy latch on the right side and other correspondence between Wesson and Lee discussing the special features found on this revolver. Lee "wanted this gun principally for exhibition shooting" and desired a dummy thumb latch on the right side of the frame because the revolver was to be shot in the left hand. The dummy latch would provide a place for Lee's thumb to rest against when firing the revolver in his left hand. Besides being a master target shooter, T. K. "Tackhole" Lee was the inventor and long time manufacturer of the Lee Dot telescopic sight system used for over forty years by rifle shooters all over the world. Totally unique in their design, Lee Dot Scopes utilized genuine black widow spider webs in which the "dot" was suspended within the optics. Lee served during World War II as a marksmanship instructor assigned to Camp Perry, Ohio. He died in 1957 at the age of 69. The Roper dual white-line front sight and checkered right hand thumb rest Sanderson grips were added by Lee himself during the period of this revolver's use. Matching serial numbers are found on the butt, cylinder and ejector shroud.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 S&W special

Well-Documented Chuck Connors' Factory Inscribed Smith & Wesson Model 66 Double Action Revolver with Holster, Box and Factory Letter

Lot 343

Documented Chuck Connors' S&W Model 66 Revolver, Holster, Letter

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 4 inch barrel and the name "Chuck Connors" engraved on the frame when shipped on March 4, 1976, and delivered to Devere Company, San Pedro, California. A letter from the executive assistant for the Chuck Connors estate confirms this revolver by serial number as the gun "carried by Chuck [Connors] as a personal sidearm in his car and… a special black leather basketweave holster [included with this lot] was attached to his car's interior for the carrying of this particular gun." A photocopy of Connors' 1979 Californian license to carry a concealed firearm bears this Model 66's serial number as the gun Connors was authorized to carry for self protection. Hollywood actor Chuck Connors (1921-1992) is best known for his portrayal of Lucas McCain, the lead character in the hit ABC western television show "The Rifleman" (1958-63). He later reprised his iconic role in the television western movie "The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw" (1991). Connors was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame in 1991. A World War II U. S. Army veteran, Connors Hollywood career lasted 40 years and included roles in "Geronimo," "Old Yeller," "Flipper," and "Roots." Prior to his Hollywood career, he was a professional athlete and is one of only of 12 American athletes to play both in Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association. He was one of the first modern day NBA players, being one of the original Boston Celtics. Notably Connors was the first professional basketball player to be credited with breaking a backboard when he shattered the improperly installed glass backboard with a 40-foot heave as warmups ended before the season opener was to start during the at Boston Arena on November 5, 1946. In professional baseball he played for the Brooklyn [later L. A.] Dodgers and Chicago Cubs. The revolver has "Chuck Connors" factory engraved on the side plate, serrated red ramp front sight, adjustable square notch rear sight and smooth S&W medallion target grips. Comes with Connors' black basketweave leather holster made by Tex Shoemaker & Sons and unnumbered Model 66 S&W box.

Documentation

Has Box

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 357 mag

Price Realized:

Rare and Spectacular Well Documented Factory "B" Engraved Colt First Series Woodsman Semi-Automatic Target Pistol with Box

Lot 345

Engraved Colt First Series Woodsman Target Pistol, Box

Manufactured in 1936 and featuring a rare Colt factory engraving. Experts believe that only about 151 First Series Woodsmans were factory engraved. The pistol is documented in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Colt Engraving" on page 329 (note the different grips). According to Wilson, this pistol will factory letter as having a 6 1/2 inch barrel in .22 caliber and factory "B" engraving when it was sold and shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine, Chicago, December 1936. Although the engraver's identity remains unknown, the work may have been done by William Gough. 80% of the surfaces feature a fine factory floral scroll engraving on a punch dot background. This beautiful engraving appears on the frame, grip straps, all sides of the slide and barrel at the muzzle and rear section. The pistol has standard Colt markings with the barrel address/patent dates information inside an engraved double line banner. The barrel has an unusual replacement front sight (missing a pin). The rear sight is a factory adjustable square notch. The front of the frame has provision for barrel weights (see image). Fitted with fully checkered panel grips and a "WOODSMAN" marked full blue magazine. The period correct box has been renumbered to the gun and features a "SPECIAL TARGET" end label. Comes with a bore brush, matching numbered test target and instructions.

Has Box

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 LR

Extremely Rare and Excellent Colt Second Series Woodsman Match Target Semi-Automatic Pistol in Extremely Rare .22 Short with Box

Lot 346

Colt Second Series Woodsman Match Target 22 Short Pistol, Box

Manufactured in 1949 and chambered in the extremely rare .22 Short caliber. The standard caliber was .22 Long Rifle. Colt manufactured a small number of Woodsman in .22 Short for experimentation and five in 1949 for use with the U.S. team at the Pan American Games in South America. The .22 Short Woodsmans used at the Pan American games were Second Series Match Targets with 4 1/2 inch barrels and alloy slides. This example has a 4 1/2 inch barrel and alloy slide. The left side of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address/patent marking and a Rampant Colt above "MATCH TARGET." The alloy slide is unmarked and lacks a slide stop. Fitted with thumbrest grips and grip adaptor. With bore brush and unnumbered correct model box featuring a Robert Petersen collection label on the bottom.

Has Box

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 short

Price Realized:

Outstanding Pre-World War II Colt First Series Woodsman Sport Model Semi-Automatic Pistol with Black Box

Lot 355

1937 Colt 1st Series Woodsman Sport Model Pistol w/Box

Manufactured in 1937. Fixed blade front and windage adjustable square notch rear sight, with standard markings and features. Includes the original Colt "black box", matching hand-numbered to the pistol with white-on-blue Woodsman label and black-on-white "4 1/2 INCH BARREL/Fixed Front Sight" label on the lid, and a Woodsman instruction sheet.

Has Box

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 LR

Price Realized:

Engraved and Gold Inlaid Colt New Service Target Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 365

Factory Engraved/Inlaid Colt New Service Target Revolver

Manufactured in 1900 and subsequently rebarreled to .38 Special years later. The Colt factory rework star is stamped on the right side of the trigger guard, and the work order number "1230" is stamped on the left side of the grip frame. The frame has a factory quality scroll engraving on a punch dot background, the gold initials "AG" are inlaid on the top strap in front of the rear sight. Both the barrel and cylinder are not engraved. It has fancy diamond checkered grips, checkered grip straps, trigger, and custom wide low target hammer spur; windage adjustable rear sight, and fixed serrated blade front sight. The factory letter lists this target revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44 Russian, blue finish and type of stocks not listed when shipped to J.B. Crabtree (address unknown) on August 28, 1900, as part of a 3 gun shipment. The revolver was likely engraved when it went back to the factory.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 special

Lot 381

Outstanding, Near Mint Factory Relief Engraved Gold Inlaid

This stunning example of a pre-war Sauer double features dual bead sights on the matte concave rib marked "J.P. SAUER & SON" with 2 3/4 inch chambers, ejectors, standard German proofs on the jewelled flats, and full chokes. This fantastic shotgun has copious amounts of deeply chiseled floral and scroll engraving starting with 2 3/4 inch wedges at the barrel chambers and continuing onto the casehardened receiver with multiple relief and semi-relief gold inlays. A pair of ducks on the right, snipes on the left, a setter on the underside, and a pair of partridge on the trigger guard. The fences are sculpted with side clips. The break lever and trigger guard are also engraved with the same deep scroll. With dual triggers and engraved automatic tang safety with gold inlaid "SAFE" marking. Finely checkered splinter forearm with Anson type latch, engraved fittings, and a diamond studded insert at the rear of the forearm with an impressive 16 individual diamonds. The stock is nicely figured dark walnut with relief carved flats, fine checkering, and solid rubber recoil pad. The underside of the stock is fitted with a brass inscription plate reading "DONATED BY/NAN & FRANK/PACHMAYR/TO/DUCKS UNLIMITED". Barrel and stock measurements are: bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .720/.720 inch; minimum wall thickness .030/.030 inch; drop at comb 1 5/8 inches; drop at heel 2 1/8 inches; length of pull 14 1/2 inches.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 12

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