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/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #84

Premier Firearms Auction #84

December 03, 2021 to December 05, 2021

This auction has ended.

/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #84

Premier Firearms Auction #84

December 03, 2021 to December 05, 2021

This auction has ended.

Auction Time Summary

Preview DayThursday, Dec 2nd10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION IFriday, Dec 3rd9 AMLots 1 through 770

SESSION IISaturday, Dec 4th9 AMLots 1000 through 1814

SESSION IIISunday, Dec 5th9 AMLots 3000 through 3640

To Be Sold At Auction

Preview Day Thursday Dec 2rd
Open at 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION I - Friday, Dec 3th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1 and 770
SESSION II - Saturday, Dec 4th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1000 and 1814
SESSION III - Sunday, Dec 5th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 3000 and 3640

Phone: 1-309-797-1500

Email: [email protected]

Rock Island Auction Company
7819 42 Street West
Rock Island, Illinois, 61201, 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 7

Showing 1-50 of 338 results

Lot 272

U.S. Army Colt Model 1877 “Bulldog” Gatling Gun

Few firearms in history, especially American history, are as well-known as Dr. Richard Gatling's "Battery Guns." They were designed to tremendously increase the amount of firepower a small group of men could unleash and thus in theory decrease the size of standing armies and the incredible losses of men due to disease in the camps. They are widely seen as the predecessors of the true machine guns that proved so devastating to massed infantry formations in World War I and forever changed military strategy. The first Gatling guns were used in the American Civil War, and the U.S. military continued to use multiple versions of the design into the early 20th century. The U.S. Army purchased seventeen of these Model 1877 "Bulldogs" which are listed as serial numbers 190 and 203-218 per Wahl and Toppel on page 80 of "The Gatling Gun." This “Bulldog” is no. 204. They also note: "Probably the best of the Gatling Guns, the Bulldog enjoyed a considerable sale in the U.S. and abroad." They were light enough for use by the cavalry and offered a significant increase in firepower compared to men armed with single shot Springfield Trapdoors. The 1877 was also more enclosed which provided more protection to the various components. It has five barrels, a fixed blade front sight offset to the right, "GATLING'S/BATTERY/GUN/PAT. NOV 4. 1862/MAY 9. 1865/FEB 28. 1871/APR -9.1872/MADE BY COLT'S/PAT. FIRE ARMS/MFG CO/HARTFORD, CONN./U.S.A." on the plate on top at the rear, and an oak tripod with iron hardware. Several of the Gatling gun and tripod components are marked "MODEL/1877" along with Henry Nettleton's inspector "N" mark. The original tripod has each of the three wood legs marked "MODEL/1877" over Henry Nettleton's "HN" inspector mark and has several components marked with matching assembly number "10." This is a matching numbered tripod. Included are the following accessories: one sealed box of 25 rounds of Winchester .45 Gatling blank cartridges, ammunition crate marked “MDL 1877/GATLING/.45”, 22 stripper clips, approximately 380 rounds of .45-70, one magazine, “APRIL/1876” marked wooden box with sliding lid, and an assortment of tools such as a rear guide nut wrench, brass wiping rod, shell driver, adjusting screw wrench, T-screwdriver and lock screwdriver. The Inspection Certificate (copy) for nos. 203, 204, 205 and 206 is also included. This certificate was signed by 1st Lt. John E. Greer, Inspector, and Henry Nettleton, Sub-Inspector. Sixteen tripods were also inspected but only 12 were accepted, with this example being one of those. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Lot 564

Pedersen Model GY Self-Loading Rifle Serial Number 4

This is an extremely rare early semi-automatic prototype rifle that was developed by firearms inventor John D. Pedersen. It was originally designed to compete with the M1 Garand rifle circa 1939. Following the Army's decision to develop the .276 semi-automatic rifle invented by John C. Garand in 1931 rather than the Pedersen T1 Autoloading Rifle, John Pedersen developed the GY Self Loading rifle. The GY rifle was chambered for the .30-06 cartridge and combined features of both the M1 Garand and Pedersen T1 rifles. The GY rifle had a gas cylinder, hand guard, operating rod and new "telescoping" rotating bolt. The rifle retained the en-bloc clip, spiral-ribbed barrel, drum rear sight and walnut stock with grasping grooves and cooling vents that were features on the T1 Pedersen rifle. This rifle has been further modified by the incorporation of a "stripper clip" guide on the left rear side of the receiver. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number "4" followed by the legend: "PEDERSEN SELF-LOADING RIFLE/MODEL GY CAL.30.U.S." in two-lines, and "GY4" is also stamped on the top of the operating rod. The top of the bolt lug is scribed "P/4", and the top of the receiver is stamped with a single "P" firing proof. The barrel receiver and other components have a dull-military blue finish. The stock and handguard are oil-finished black walnut. Includes a leather sling and U.S. "SA 1908" bayonet with scabbard. Very limited information is available on the Pedersen GY rifle. Author Bruce Canfield discusses the rifle briefly on page 190 of "THE M1 GARAND RIFLE". He states that John Pedersen developed the GY rifle circa 1939 and submitted the rifle to Springfield Armory for testing in 1943. Canfield states that only two examples of the GY rifle are known, including serial number 3, located in the Springfield Armory Museum. Included with this rare rifle is a photocopy of a document from when Robert Bretherton purchased this rifle directly from John Pedersen's son Eric in 1988. Provenance: The Robert Bretherton Collection; The George Moller Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare U.S. Springfield Armory Pedersen Semi-Automatic T2 Test/Trials Rifle

Lot 587

U.S. Springfield Armory Pedersen Semi-Automatic T2 Rifle

This is an extremely rare example of the original Pedersen "T2" series toggle lock mechanism test rifle that was developed in the 1930s as a test rifle model for the British Government. The original T1 series rifles was developed by John D. Pedersen in the early 1920s, and it eventually competed against the M1 Garand in the late 1920s and early 1930s; however, the M1 Garand (T3 series rifle) was chosen instead of the Pedersen design. This example like the US Military test model featured a retarded blow-back, toggle-jointed mechanism similar in functioning to the Luger pistol firing the same new .276 Pedersen cartridge. John D. Pedersen was an firearms designer, engineer and innovator in his own right, having developed the WWI era 1918 Mark-I Pedersen Device which was designed to convert an M1903 rifle into a semi-automatic rifle, a concept way ahead of its time. His overall theory was that a semi-automatic battle rifle was the way of the future and that they should be easier and lighter to handle, shooting a lighter weight cartridge that developing less heat and recoil. It was this same concept that lead him to design the famous Pedersen Device noted above. Using that theory, he had developed the radically designed .276 Pedersen cartridge firing a much lighter cartridge and bullet than the 30-06. This cartridge was tested along with his toggle-jointed mechanism shown here against the M1 Garand rifle in the 1930s. He is also credited with developing the "en-bloc" cartridge clip design, with the only flaw being his clip was unidirectional (ie it had to be inserted in one direction only) while the John Garand designed clip was reversible allowed it to be inserted from either direction. This model, as noted, is the rifle version of the original Pedersen model only designated the "T2" series for the British trials. The left side of the receiver is marked "U.S. SEMI-AUTO RIFLE T2/CAL .276-PEDERSEN PATENTS". The right side is stamped with only serial number "2". The top chamber is marked "SA," indicating Springfield Armory. It is fitted with a 24 inch barrel with the unique spiral cooling fins on the rear area of the barrel, all milled components, and the perforated sheet metal handguard. It is fitted with a full length walnut stock with finger grooves on the side, and cooling holes on the under of the forearm, and a heavy cupped brass buttplate. This model also used the fixed extended box magazine chambered for the noted .276 Pedersen cartridge. It has the fully adjustable rear sight and the fixed high front sight. This is an unbelievably rare test model of the original Pedersen rifle. This super rare test rifle is complete with a WWI era leather sling, one unidirectional en-block clip containing 10 rounds of original .276 ammunition and a full box (20rds) of the original .276 Pedersen cartridges. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 276

Price Realized:

U.S. Contract New Haven Arms Company Henry Lever Action Rifle

Lot 210

U.S. Contract New Haven Arms Co. Henry Rifle

This U.S. contract Henry lever action rifle was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company in November 1863. On December 30, 1863, the Chief of Ordnance ordered 800 Henry rifles from the New Haven Arms Company. These rifles were intended for issue to the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry Regiment and were delivered in March 1864. The 800 Henry rifles in the December 30, 1863 order were stamped on the barrel and stock with the initials of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Charles G. Chapman (C.G.C.). They were the only Ordnance-inspected Henry rifles issued during the Civil War. The 1st D.C. Cavalry was originally assigned police and provost duties in the District of Columbia; the commander, Col. Lafayette Baker, reported directly to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. Shortly after the Henry rifles were issued, the regiment was transferred to Virginia and saw extensive action during the Petersburg campaign. Many of the 1st D.C. Cavalry Henry rifles were captured by the Confederates in the Petersburg fighting. Approximately 80 Henry rifles in the serial number range issued to the 1st D.C. Cavalry are listed in "THE HISTORIC HENRY RIFLE" by Wiley Sword as issued to the 3rd U.S. Veteran Volunteer Infantry Regiment in May 1865. The 3rd Veteran Volunteer Infantry was organized too late to see combat in the Civil War. This rifle has the distinctive Henry octagon barrel with integral 15-shot magazine and brass receiver. The barrel has a flat back, German silver, front sight blade, folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch and a large diameter brass follower. The second pattern brass receiver lacks the rear sight dove-tail found on Henry receivers up to serial number 3000 and has the late style, beveled, follower cut-out. The hammer has hand-cut knurling on the spur. The straight grain walnut stock has the early style brass buttplate with rounded heel. The left side of the stock and barrel, correctly, lack the sling swivel and sling hook loop which were extra cost items and not present on most of the 800 rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the first style address: "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT." in two lines with the final "NEW HAVEN" stamped in block rather than serif letters. The serial number is stamped: (1) on the top barrel flat behind the rear sight, (2) on the inside of the buttplate, (3) on the lower left receiver tang beneath the stock, (4) in the upper tang inlet of the stock and (5) on the shanks of the hand-fitted buttplate screws. All of the visible serial numbers match. The "C.G.C." inspection mark is stamped on the right barrel flat. The script, oval, "C.G.C." inspection mark stamped on the right side of the stock wrist is not visible. A New Haven Arms "C C" inspection mark is stamped on the right barrel flat between the Ordnance mark and the edge of the receiver and a second "C C" mark is stamped on the right side of the receiver near the right flat. The crude, period, initials "AR" are faintly scratched on the left side plate. The Ordnance inspected Henry rifles originally had a blued barrel/magazine, casehardened hammer, lever and trigger, fire-blue bolt and small parts and oil or lacquer finished stock with natural brass receiver and buttplate. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry

Price Realized:

Very Rare Well-Documented Sharps Model 1855 Navy Breech Loading Percussion Rifle with Rollin White Self-Cocking Mechanism Formerly in the William M. Locke Collection

Lot 240

Sharps Model 1855 Navy Rifle with Rollin White Mechanism

This incredibly rare Sharps rifle is pictured in "The William M. Locke Collection" on page 352 and in "Sharps Firearms" on page 63, both by Frank Sellers. This is the only Model 1855 Navy rifle with a still functional Rollin White self-cocking mechanism. The Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. made only fifty of these self-cocking Model 1855 rifles for the U. S. Navy. Except for the self-cocking mechanism, they were the same as the other 201 Model 1855 rifles made for the Navy. Of the 50 made for the Navy, virtually all failed in the testing at the Navy Yard. Reportedly only twelve were left in their original form after the Navy returned the 38 that failed the tests and could not be returned to operating state by the Navy. Sharps was directed to remove the cocking device and return them "to their original state." The self-cocking mechanism was complicated. A switch inside the operating lever operates a disconnect lever. When the switch is in the rear position, the disconnect lever raises the cocking lever so it will not engage the tumbler and the hammer must be cocked for each shot. When the switch is in the forward position, the hammer is cocked each time the lever is closed. The cocking lever is attached to the breechblock with the same screw as the lever link. The link was modified to make room for the cocking lever. The lever carries the number of the device, "8", on the right side. The spring for the lever rides in a slot cut in the rear of the receiver. A special tumbler, with the cocking surface extended to the centerline of the receiver, was made to allow the tip of the cocking lever to engage it. The over-sized tumbler required an equally large tumbler to hold it in place. Except for the screws required to hold the new parts in place, the other lock parts, internal and external, were the same as the Model 1855s made without the device. The rifle has the standard "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD CONN." marking on the barrel behind the rear sight, "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" on the upper tang and "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE/1845" on the primer cover. "R. WHITE'S PATENT/1855" is stamped on the lock plate behind the hammer. This rifle was developed at the same time that Robbins & Lawrence, the actual manufacturers, were making the machinery for producing Enfield rifles for the British government, so Enfield type sights were used on all of these rifles. A bayonet lug is on the bottom of the barrel for a sword type bayonet. The stock has a tiny "GDM" mark by the toe and is mounted with brass furniture. Provenance: The William M. Locke Collection; The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Lot 299

U.S. Springfield Model 1882 Experimental Trapdoor Short Rifle

This is a very rare example of one of only 52 Model 1882 experimental short rifles manufactured for trials in the 197000-199000 serial range. The intent of this series was to develop a single rifle configuration that could be adopted by both the Infantry and the Cavalry. It had merit in 1882 and has the same merit in the U.S. Military today. The idea was to save manufacturing and logistics cost by using only one configuration. Additionally these rifles incorporated some requested improvements at the time, such as a shorter barrel for better handling, different rifling configurations for improved accuracy, cleaning, and improved rear sight modifications. The 52 examples of these rifles were manufactured for test trials with the most unique features including the 28 inch barrel, and a special friction fit breech block with a mechanism that enables it to be retained at any position between fully opened and closed; a feature only found on the Model 1882. Of the 52 made, known examples have wraparound front and rear sling swivels to facilitate easy entry into a cavalry rifle scabbard, half were manufactured with the traditional, 3-groove rifling with the other half manufactured with a new 6-groove rifling system; of these, half were to be equipped with the new experimental triangular sliding bayonet with the other half equipped with a blade front sight with lug for socket bayonet mounting. This example has 3-groove rifling and the lug front sight. These are a very rare rifle with only a handful extant today, as very few actually survived the tests with almost all being cannibalized or destroyed after the testing was completed. Thicker/heavier barrel than standard with a larger outside diameter (approximately .780) fitted with the experimental M1882 rear sight with locking screw in the center of the windage slide, with the leaf marked "28 B" on the upper end and "28/B" on the left of the base. Low arch friction fit breechblock marked "U.S./MODEL/1873", receiver has extended gas ports and thicker walls. Smooth trigger. Boxed script "SWP/1882" (Samuel W. Porter) inspection cartouche on the left of the stock wrist. Long wrist stock with the short comb. The lock plate and barrel both have the standard proofmarks and markings. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes period leather sling. These rare Model 1882 Trapdoor rifles are described and pictured on pages 130-135 of the book "The 45-70 Springfield" by Frasca & Hill. Certainly one of the rarest of all the models of Trapdoors, of which almost none are known to exist today. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Historic Civil War Berdan's Sharpshooters Sharps New Model 1859 Percussion Rifle

Lot 1205

Civil War Berdan's Sharpshooters Sharps New Model 1859 Rifle

Sharps New Model 1859 rifle manufactured c. 1862. This is one of 2,000 Sharps Model 1859 rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department for issue to the 1st and 2nd U.S. Sharpshooter Regiments organized and recruited by Col. Hiram Berdan in 1861-62. Berdan was a prominent New York businessman and target shooter. Berdan's two U.S. Sharpshooter regiments (U.S.S.) were composed of experienced marksman from Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Wisconsin. The regiments were intended to serve as skirmishers and light infantry modeled on the famous British Rifle Brigade. Like their British counterparts the U.S.S. were issued dark green uniforms with non-reflective black buttons. Berdan selected the New Model 1859 Sharps rifle to arm the Sharpshooters, replacing the originally issued Colt Model 1855 rifles. After considerable lobbying by Berdan, the Ordnance Department agreed to supply the Sharpshooters with 2,000 Sharps rifles. Genuine examples of the Model 1859 rifles manufactured for Berdan's U.S. Sharpshooters fall within the reported serial number range of 54374-57567. Berdan rifles are known to have factory double set triggers, a 30 inch barrel with a block front sight that serves as a socket bayonet lug, Lawrence patent ladder rear sight with readings graduated to 800 yards and a 900 yard center notch at the top, and a casehardened iron patch box. On pg. 82 of the book "Sharpshooter" by Wiley Sword it states, "...a detail of sharpshooters cut small sticks to fit to the sight in order to increase the elevation while at the Po River in 1864. Their shots at an estimated 1,500 yards distance caused a Confederate signal station to be abandoned, reported an observer." The U.S.S. regiments were assigned to the Army of the Potomac and saw extensive action at the battles of Yorktown, Gaines Mill, Glendale, Malvern Hill, Grovetown, and Antietam in 1862. In 1863 the regiments were heavily engaged at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg and Mine Run. By autumn of 1863 most of the surviving members of the 1st U.S.S. completed their three-year enlistment and were mustered out of service. The survivors of the 2nd U.S.S. continued to serve until February 1865 when the regiment was disbanded. The Berdan's Sharpshooters served with distinction in some of the most important battles of the Civil War and claimed to have inflicted more casualties on the Confederate Army than any other Federal regiments. The left barrel flat at the breech is marked with the inspector initials "O.W.A." (Orville W. Ainsworth). The underside flat of the forearm ahead of the trigger guard is marked with the inspector initials "N.S.P." The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "SHARPS RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD CONN." in three lines ahead of the rear sight and "NEW MODEL 1859" behind it. The underside of the barrel is marked with the matching serial number "56970". The receiver is fitted with the Lawrence pellet primer. The right side plate is roll-stamped with the Sharps 1852 patent markings and the R.S. Lawrence 1859 patent markings. The left side of the receiver is stamped with the Sharps two-line patent markings. The serial number "56970" is stamped on the upper receiver tang. A faint circled script "JT" (John Taylor) inspection cartouche is marked on the left of the wrist of the stock. The middle barrel band and stock are fitted with factory sling swivels. The barrel and breech block are blued, and the barrel bands, receiver, hammer, lever, patch box and buttplate are color casehardened. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a period leather sling with initials "ND" carved into it. Most of these rifles would see hard use in the major battles of the Civil War and be dropped in battle, and are seldom found in this condition! Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 52

Price Realized:

U.S. Springfield Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle in an Extremely Rare Cameron-Yaggi Trench Device

Lot 580

U.S. Springfield Model 1903 Rifle, Cameron-Yaggi Trench Device

A rarely seen artifact from World War One, this is a fine combination of a 1916 production Model 1903 Springfield Rifle and a Cameron-Yaggi Device. As one of the signature American weapons of the 20th century, the 1903 Springfield needs no introduction. Developed as a joint venture between J.L. Cameron and L.E. Yaggi (which has been misspelled Yazzy and Yazzi over the years), the device was designed to let an infantryman engage targets from a trench without exposing themselves to enemy fire or shell fragments. Mainly made from blackened steel and brass, a 1903 rifle is mounted via brackets and straps at the butt and wrist, with a periscope (not included) for sighting, a hinged linkage to connect the rifle trigger to trigger on the frame and a swiveling pantograph arm to work the bolt. This allows the shooter to support and fire the rifle nearly two feet higher than normal, allowing them to keep their entire body behind hard cover and still observe and engage anyone trying to cross No Man's Land. On pages 217 and 218 of "The Springfield 1903 Rifle" by Lieutenant Colonel William S. Brophy, there are photographs of other devices and the periscope that this example does not have. The rifle is fitted with a "SA/1-16" marked barrel and a "JFC" marked stock, as well as a brown leather sling. Part of the bolt arm of the trench device is marked "SP 108." With a set of hardwood grip panels. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06

Price Realized:

Desirable Colt Paterson Second Model Ring Lever Percussion Rifle

Lot 1239

Colt Paterson Second Model Ring Lever Rifle

Samuel Colt manufactured approximately 500 Second Model Ring Lever Rifles at his Paterson, New Jersey factory from 1838 to 1841. These rifles were serial numbered in their own range starting with serial number 1. Surviving example of this historically significant Colt firearm are extremely rare. The rifle has the distinctive ring on the bottom of the frame ahead of the trigger guard to rotate the cylinder and cock the internal hammer and the Second Model type frame correctly without a top strap. Other Second Model features include the loading lever, capping channel in the recoil shield, rounded shoulders of the cylinder. The barrel has the dovetail mounted nickel silver front sight and dovetail mounted elevation adjustable notch rear sight. The top barrel flat is stamped "- PATENT Arms M'g Co. Paterson, N.J.-Colt's Pt-" with "snake and star" terminals at either end reading towards the muzzle. The matching serial number is stamped on the face of the barrel lug, ring lever, rear cylinder face, cylinder collar, barrel wedge and buttplate. The stock has a cheekpiece and an iron crescent buttplate. Includes a period leather sling. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the stock toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare Documented French Saint Etienne Model 1717 Flintlock Rampart Musket

Lot 1077

Documented French Saint Etienne 1717 Flintlock Rampart Musket

This is a very seldom seen example of a French Saint Etienne Model 1717 flintlock rampart musket. Approximately 40,000 of these muskets were manufactured in total between 1717-1725, with very few surviving examples today. French Model 1717 rampart muskets are described on pages 309-311 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume I" with this exact musket pictured on pages 309 and 310. Page 309 states, "The Model 1717 rampart musket is visually similar to the infantry musket [reference previous lot], except that rampart muskets were stocked to the muzzle. The salient differences are in the very slightly larger caliber, the larger barrel diameter, and the heavier stock dimensions. The example described here was fabricated at Saint Etienne. It conforms to the configuration of the regulation Model 1717 rampart musket, except that it is brass-mounted. Its markings suggest manufacture at the Royal Armory for commercial sale, possibly to the navy or the French India Company (Compagnie Des Indes)." Features an early wooden ramrod, blade front sight, brass S shaped side plate, brass trigger guard with two long teardrop finials, and a brass buttplate with a long "wasp-waisted" tang. "S/(fleur-de-lis)/E" Saint Etienne marking above "P. GIRARD" (contractor for the Royal Manufactory) marked at the center of the early lock, "I•DAVID" marked on the underside of the lock, and "IPEVI" ahead of two illegible cartouches and "IP" marked on the top left flat at the breech. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 71

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare French Saint Etienne Model 1717 Flintlock Infantry Musket with Bayonet

Lot 1076

French Saint Etienne 1717 Flintlock Infantry Musket with Bayonet

This is a very seldom seen and extremely desirable example of a French Saint Etienne Model 1717 flintlock infantry musket still in its original configuration. The Model 1717 is historically significant as France's first regulation shoulder arm, and approximately 48,000 were manufactured in total by Saint Etienne, Charleville, and Maubeuge between 1717-1728; with very few surviving examples today, mostly residing in museum collections. Most of these muskets were issued to France's regular troops in Europe and saw hard use in the Seven Years'/French and Indian War era, although it is of interesting note that Benjamin Franklin is said to have purchased a number of these French Model 1717 muskets during the Revolutionary War, and archaeological evidence from the Battle of Guilford Courthouse indicates use by American troops. French Model 1717 infantry muskets are described on pages 306-309 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume I" in which the picture caption second from the bottom on page 307 states, "The salient feature that distinguishes the locks of 1717 model-series of arms is the curved bridle that extends upwards from the frizzen spring screw to support the head of the frizzen screw." Features an early wooden ramrod, bayonet stud on top of the barrel towards the muzzle, sling rings mounted on the left of the iron rear barrel band and left stock flat, iron trigger guard with two long teardrop finials, iron S shaped side plate, and an iron buttplate with a long "wasp-waisted" tang. Faint remnants of the Saint Etienne Arsenal marking above a partial marking that appears to read "P MELETE" at the center of the early lock, and faint stock maker markings behind rear of the trigger guard tang. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a reproduction socket bayonet and reproduction leather sling. For more information on these muskets reference the books "The History of Weapons of the American Revolution" and "Battle Weapons of the American Revolution" by George C. Neumann, "Muskets of the Revolution" by Bill Ahearn, and "Arms and Armor in Colonial America 1526-1783" by Harold L. Peterson in which the book states in a picture caption at the top of page 166, "Muskets of this model conforming exactly to specifications are almost impossible to find." Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Lot 124

Documented French Maubeuge Model 1728 Flintlock Infantry Musket

This is a seldom seen and desirable example of a French Maubeuge Model 1728 flintlock infantry musket still in its original configuration. Approximately 375,000 Model 1728 muskets were manufactured in total by Saint Etienne, Charleville, and Maubeuge between 1727-1746. Most of these muskets were issued and carried by the majority of France's regular troops during the French and Indian Wars where they would see hard use, with most examples receiving various alterations throughout their service life including many being torn apart and rebuilt in various configurations for use by the American Continental Army during the Revolutionary War; making surviving examples such as this one a rarity today. French Model 1728 infantry muskets are described on pages 312-315 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume I" with this exact musket pictured twice on page 313. The top picture caption on page 313 states, "The Model 1728 infantry musket was the first regulation French musket equipped with three barrel bands. Until 1741 muskets were equipped with wood ramrods. Muskets produced thereafter were equipped with steel ramrods, and the wood ramrods of most existing muskets were replaced." The lower picture caption on page 313 states, "The configuration of the 1728 year-model-series lock reflects a return to the component styles used prior to 1717. The lock plate of this example is stamped 'A,' fleur-de-lis, 'R' over only faint traces of 'M B E' forward of the cock. This marking is attributed to the Royal Manufactory at Maubeuge." Features an iron ramrod, bayonet stud on top of the barrel towards the muzzle, sling rings mounted on the left of the iron middle barrel band and left stock flat, iron trigger guard with two long teardrop finials, iron S shaped side plate, and an iron buttplate with a long "wasp-waisted" tang. "IM" marked at the tail of the lock. A faint fleur-de-lis stamp is visible on the top left flat at the breech. "IIM" with stars in between the letters above "J. J. WADE" carved into the right of the buttstock. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a socket bayonet. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

U.S. Springfield Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle with Incredibly Rare Demonstration Model Cutaway Experimental Moore Silencer

Lot 554

U.S. Springfield Model 1903 Rifle with Moore Cutaway Silencer

This M1903 rifle is equipped with an inert, cutaway early experimental Moore silencer, as invented by Robert A. Moore of New York (originally from Chicago, Illinois). This cutaway Moore silencer follows the design shown in patent number 1,021,742, originally filed September 22nd, 1911 and granted March 26th, 1912; an improvement on his first silencer, patent number 956,717, originally filed November 24th, 1909 and granted May 3rd, 1910. Interestingly, Robert Moore would later continue on to patent a few different versions of mufflers. Moore silencers are described on pages 433-434 of the book "The Springfield 1903 Rifles" by Lt. Col. William S. Brophy, in which the book states, "Tests conducted during 1910-1911 resulted in 100 of the improved type Moore silencers being purchased by the Ordnance Department for issue, during 1912-1913, to selected organizations for tests in comparison with the Maxim silencer. The Moore silencer attached to the muzzle of the '03 by means of a band latched behind the rear sight and around the barrel, and a hinged latch device that locked the silencer to the bayonet lug on the bottom of the upper band." Number "274" is marked on the bottom of the bayonet lug on this example. There is an identical example of a Moore silencer in the Springfield Armory museum collection, item SPAR 5083, marked "277" on its bayonet lug. The rifle has a smooth trigger, blade front sight and ladder rear sight with 2,850 yard notch and dished windage and elevation knobs. The barrel is marked "SA/flaming bomb/4-11" behind the front sight, and the receiver is roll marked with the five-line, standard Springfield Armory markings. The rifle has an oil quenched casehardened receiver and all blued milled components that include the bolt, trigger guard, and floorplate. It is fitted with a walnut "S" style stock that has a single reinforcing bolt, and checkered buttplate with buttstock compartment. It has the correct high hump handguard, has the proper rear sight clearance cut and spring clips. The right side of the rear bolt lug is marked "C2". It has milled barrel bands with the upper barrel band marked "H" on the bayonet lug. The safety and cut-off lever are casehardened. The left side of the stock wrist is stamped with the Ordnance final inspector's initials "J.F.C." in a rectangle, and there is a small "16" above a circled script "P" firing proof stamped behind the trigger guard. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a 1907 pattern sling, and oiler inside the buttstock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06 Springfield

Price Realized:

Early Four Digit U.S. Springfield Armory "Gas Trap" Configuration M1 Garand Semi-Automatic Rifle with Bayonet

Lot 1574

Early Gas Trap U.S. Springfield Armory M1 Garand Rifle

This is an early production U.S. M1 Springfield "Gas Trap" style Garand rifle that was restored/assembled back to that configuration using a combination of both original and reproduction parts. Developed beginning in 1936, the Gas Trap Garand was a critical step in the acceptance of a semi-automatic battle rifle for American use and an important phase in the refinement of John Garand's famous rifle. A strong front runner in automatic arms development during the 1930s and 1940s, the gas trap system had the virtue of not needing to tap directly into the barrel, instead using a muzzle device (the "trap") to catch surplus gas to cycle the action. While this system saw some success, and was adopted for field use by the Germans, the virtues of the gas port system led to its adoption, not just for the Garand; while the gas trap lives as a historical curiosity, porting has become the de-facto standard for gas-operated firearms clear to the current day. Most of the "Gas Trap" Garands were subjected to arsenal overhaul or wore out during use; they are difficult to find in any condition. The refinished replacement barrel is marked only with two "P" proof stamps on the right side of the chamber. It has an early production gas cylinder that is marked on the top of the rear barrel ring "D 28289", and the right side of the reproduction front sight is marked "B 8882" with grooves on top of the sight protectors. The operating rod is marked "D 35382-0" on the right side and has the later relief cut, the recoil spring is an original style square edge "Keystone" spring, and it has a correct style square comp spring with the early long type operating rod guide with serrations on the side, without rivets. The bolt is marked "D 28287-1/J 6". The trigger housing is numbered "D 28290" without pad, small hole, hammer number "C 46008-1" (on the side) with hole, safety "C-46015-3", blue hammer spring housing, trigger guard "C 46025" with rings. The rear sight assembly is marked "B-8872" on the sight cover, and the windage knob is an early checkered pattern (unnumbered) marked "LEFT" and "LEFT" with flared arrows. The elevation knob is also the early pattern that is marked "UP" and "DOWN " and "BATTLE RANGE" with the pointer triangle, closed arrows, and is checkered around the edge (also unnumbered). The middle band is grooved and notched at the bottom (C-46000), the rear handguard clip is grooved, and the follower arm is marked "B8869" with 2 bevels. The follower and clip latch are both unnumbered, and the later "seventh round stoppage" modification has been performed on the interior of the arsenal refinished receiver. The stock is marked with a "SA/SFC" cartouche on the left side and a circled "P" proof in the pistol grip, and fitted with a green canvas sling. Two cylindrical holes (one large, one small) are drilled into the butt, with no corresponding door on the checkered buttplate, which is hand-marked "5" on the interior. Also included with the lot is a 1913 dated Springfield bayonet in a USN Mark I sheath, 20 3/8" OAL, 15 7/8" blade, with ribbed hardwood grips. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06

Price Realized:

Rare and Desirable Documented Jacob Dickert Pennsylvania Militia Contract Flintlock American Long Rifle with Bayonet

Lot 140

Jacob Dickert Pennsylvania Militia Flintlock Rifle with Bayonet

From the 1760s to his death in 1822 Jacob Dickert was both a military contractor and a respected Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, gunmaker. Dickert was born in Germany in 1740 and arrived in the colonies in 1748 with his parents. He is believed to have made weapons for the Continental Army and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania during the revolution, but his first known contract is dated 1792. He owned a gun barrel boring mill a few miles from his gun factory in Manheim Township. He later took his grandson on as an apprentice and then business partner. Dickert's rifles are rare and highly sought after today. Pictured and discussed on page 310 of "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume II: From the 1790s to the End of the Flintlock Period" by George Moller, and the signature of the rifle is shown on page 312. He states: "This very plain brass-mounted Jacob Dickert rifle is attributed to Pennsylvania militia purchase during the War of 1812." This rifle has his subtle "GDM" collection mark ahead of the toe plate. The barrel has traditional low profile blade and notch sights and is signed "J [crossed tomahawk and arrow touch mark] Dickert" behind the rear sight (see page 81 of "Thoughts on the Kentucky Rifle in Its Golden Age"). The muzzle section is turned down to tapered round ahead of the forend tip for a socket bayonet. Moller notes that the bayonet used with it may have been friction fit or secured by a set-screw. A socket bayonet made to fit the rifle is included. The lock is signed "SWEITZER" (backward Z). It has a plain single trigger and is mounted with brass furniture including a simple patch box. The curly maple stock is nicely figured but plainly finished and has an incised line border on the cheek rest. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 56

Price Realized:

Very Rare Sharps Model 1855 U.S. Navy Inspected Saddle Ring .577 Percussion Carbine

Lot 1190

Sharps Model 1855 U.S. Navy Saddle Ring .577 Carbine

This is a rare example of 1 of just 100 Sharps Model 1855 Martial marked carbines with a 19 inch barrel in 577 caliber purchased by the U.S. Navy in July of 1857. "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" and "26006" marked on the upper tang, and "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE 1845" on the tape primer door. Blade front sight and a rear sight with four folding leaves and a center notch graduated 2, 3, 4, and 6. A British "crown/2" proof is hidden underneath the barrel and on the right of the breech block, matching number "26006" marked underneath the barrel. Fitted with a smooth walnut forearm and a straight wrist stock with a brass patchbox and buttplate. "I/SCR/1857" inspection mark on the front plate of the brass patchbox and marked "USN" on top of the buttplate tang with two five-pointed stars between the letters. On pg. 109 of the book "Civil War Carbines, Volume II, The early years" by John D. McAulay it states, "By June 1857, the Sharps factory had completed their British contract for the Model 1855. Having additional carbines left over, 100 were delivered to the Navy Yard in Brooklyn, New York, ... The U.S. Navy Model 1855 Sharps carbines inspected by Commander [Stephen C.] Rowan were stamped with the letters U.S.N. on the brass buttplate and on the patchbox: I/SCR/1857... Many of these M1855 Sharps carbines were issued to the Marines during the later part of 1857-1859 period. They likely remained in the Navy inventory throughout the Civil War." "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 577

Price Realized:

Very Rare Historic U.S. Hammerli Martini Model 1928 International Match Rifle, with Documentation to Noted American Marksman Bill Bruce

Lot 1618

U.S. Hammerli Martini 1928 International Match Rifle

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30

Price Realized:

Lot 1307

Experimental U.S. Springfield Model 1888 "Positive Cam" Trapdoor

This is a fine example of a very rare, one of only 100, Springfield Model 1888 "Positive Cam" trapdoor rifles that was manufactured in 1888. The "Positive Cam" rifle was an attempt by Springfield Armory to modify the Springfield trapdoor breechblock to eliminate the occasional failure of the locking cam mechanism. The "Positive Cam" rifles featured a modified breechblock marked "U.S./MODEL/1888". The breechblock has the screw that retains the firing pin located on the right side behind the thumb piece rather than on the underside. The "Positive Cam" itself is part of the breech locking device. All known examples of these rifles fall in the 400,000 to 416,000 serial number range and the stocks of all the rifles have the "SWP/1888" inspection cartouche. This rifle is in the correct serial number range and has the correct configuration breechblock, correct breechblock markings, receiver relief cut on the right side for cam shaft clearance and "SWP/1888" cartouche. The rifle has the standard blade front and Buffington rear sights, and a slotted button head cleaning rod. The lock and barrel have standard Springfield Armory markings and proofs, along with an "A" on top of the barrel at the breech. There is a discreet "GDM", George D. Moller Collection mark in the toe of the stock. These rifles are one of the rarest variations of the Springfield trapdoor rifles and were issued to the San Antonio Arsenal for testing. Most of them were subsequently issued to active units in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona where they saw active service. Includes a U.S. M1873 socket bayonet, scabbard with "US" marked leather frog, period leather sling, and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 1313

U.S. Springfield Model 1879 Long Range Trapdoor Rifle

This is one of only 33 total manufactured Model 1879 Long Range Trapdoor rifles manufactured in the year 1879 with six-groove rifling and a buttplate identical to a Hotchkiss rifle. This rifle is one of 127 total Long Range rifles (including the Model 1881s) fitted with Freeman R. Bull's windage adjustable buckhorn rear sight. Included Springfield Research Service letter from Frank Mallory states, "Pursuant to your request for information on Springfield cal. .45 rifle serial no. 114229, please be advised that the records of the U.S. Ordnance Dept. indicate that this arm is one of 183 Long Range rifles made in 1879 and 1881. Rifle no. 114229 is one of 33 made in 1879. It is believed that rifle no. 114229 was either used or exhibited at the Creedmoor national rifle matches in 1879. A letter dated Oct. 20, 1879, from Col. Joseph C. Audenried [scanned copy included] requested permission to purchase this rifle; however, the Commander of Springfield Armory declined to sell it, stating that there were only four of these special rifles on hand at the Armory and all were needed for experimental purposes. There is no information on subsequent use or disposal of this rifle." A boxed script "SWP/1879" (Samuel W. Porter) inspection cartouche is marked on the left wrist. The left rear of the barrel is marked with "V/P/eagle head/P" proofs, and the top of the barrel at the breech with the letter "R". The breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873", and the lock plate is marked with the eagle/shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD". Three-click tumbler and smooth trigger. Blue finish with casehardened breechblock and barrel tang and oil finished walnut stock. A circled "P" proof is marked behind the trigger guard tang. The unique straight profile Hotchkiss buttplate has no "US" marking on the tang as normally found on standard issue Trapdoor rifles. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes period leather sling. Information on these long range rifles can be found on pages 94-102 of "The 45-70 Springfield" by Albert J. Frasca. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Desirable U.S. Springfield Officer's Model 1875 Type I/Type II Transitional Trapdoor Rifle

Lot 280

U.S. Springfield Officer's Model 1875 Type I/Type II Rifle

Only 477 of Officer's Model rifles were manufactured by the Springfield Armory between 1875 and 1885 to fulfill the request by U.S. Army officers for suitable sporting rifles for use in hunting and target shooting. Of those, 125 are estimated to have been of the Type I rifles manufactured c. 1877-1879 and 252 of the Type IIs which were manufactured in 1877-1881. These are easily among the most desirable of all the rifles manufactured by the Springfield Armory thanks to their rarity, quality, and connection to military officers. This example was likely manufactured c. 1878 as it shows some features of the Type I rifles and some of the Type IIs. As is standard, it is not serial numbered, but it is marked "37" on the stock by the upper tang and "6" on the inside of the trigger guard bow. The lock has the standard U.S. Springfield markings along with "1873", and the breech block has the late Type I/Type II "U.S./MODEL/1873" marking that lacks the eagle head and crossed arrows. The 26 inch barrel is fitted with a combination blade and globe front sight, standard Model 1873 folding ladder rear sight graduated to 1,200 yards, and Type II tang mounted peep sight, mounted with one screw. The lock, top of the receiver, breech block, upper tang, trigger guard, barrel band, forend cap, and buttplate all have flourishes of factory floral scroll engraving. It is also fitted with the early type reshafted cleaning rod with nickeled, knurled ferrule, as well as the detachable checkered pistol grip. The forearm and wrist are both checkered. The "GDM" George D. Moller Collection mark is on the stock at the toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 670

Barrett M82A1 Semi-Automatic .50 BMG Rifle

Developed in the early 1980s, the M82 series of weapons has been adopted by a number of military forces, where its long range striking power makes it useful for disabling vehicles, detonating enemy ordnance, and sniping at ranges well beyond a conventional rifle. This impressive weapon has the standard Barrett Manufacturing Inc. markings on the left side of the magazine well. Fitted with a heavy fluted barrel with Barrett two chamber chevron muzzle brake, ventilated steel chassis, flip up blade front and rear peep sights, AR style fire controls and checkered grip, and solid rubber recoil pad. With Pelican 1750 case, cleaning kit, and Leupold Ultra 20x scope. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Has Box

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 50 BMG

Price Realized:

Colt Model 1855 Percussion Revolving Military Pattern Rifle-Musket with Bayonet

Lot 263

Colt 1855 Revolving Military Pattern Rifle-Musket with Bayonet

Reportedly, 800 of the Colt Model 1855 rifle-muskets were manufactured in .56 caliber with 31 3/16 barrels out of 9,310 military rifles manufactured in 1856-1864. It has a front sight that also acts as a bayonet lug, two barrel bands, three leaf rear sight graduated for 100, 300 and 600 yards, sling swivels on the rear band and buttstock holding a black leather sling, unmarked top strap groove, "COLT'S/PATENT" (faint) marked upper tang, matching visible serial numbers on the underside of the frame, lower tang and buttplate, and smooth stock and forearm with cleaning rod under the barrel. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes US socket bayonet, leather scabbard with frog, leather sling, and cleaning rod in the butt compartment. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 56

Price Realized:

Documented Early 17th Century Suhl Spanish Butt Matchlock Musket and Forked Rest

Lot 106

Early 17th Century Suhl Spanish Butt Matchlock Musket and Rest

This musket is featured and discussed on pages 34-35 of "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume 1: Colonial and Revolutionary War Arms" by George Moller and listed as a "Suhl Spanish Butt Musket, Circa 1602." Moller notes that Suhl was a major source of muskets for multiple European countries in the 17th century. The lock has the "SVL" (Suhl) control mark and a "LS/head" mark (see Der Neue Stockel no. 3877). The barrel has the Suhl "hen" marking along with the "SVL" control mark, another partially obscured mark, an "E" and a deep shield shaped mark. The barrel also has a post front sight and an empty dovetail at the breech. The pan is attached to the barrel at the breech via the fence which is mortised into the barrel and has a sliding cover. The serpentine arm has a simple bestial design. The Spanish style stock has "E 14" above the tail of the lock and on the left flat. A fork rest with acorn design on the forks and a length of worn cord are included. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 83

Price Realized:

Lot 147

Revolutionary War Era German Hessian Type Flintlock Jaeger Rifle

This German Jaeger rifle is visually similar to examples attributed as having been used by Hessians during the Revolutionary War. The Hessians consisted of approximately 30,000 German troops hired by the British to fight against the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, and a rifle such as this one could have possibly seen use with the Hesse-Hanau Freicorps, a group of elite soldiers skilled in the art of hunting. This early example has a right side mounted lock bar for a sword bayonet, of which it is believed the Hesse-Hanau Freicorps were the only unit of the Revolutionary War to use jaeger rifles equipped for use with sword bayonets (reference page 64 of the book, "British Military Flintlock Rifles 1740-1840" by De Witt Bailey). These short large caliber rifles were well suited for use in the woods with accuracy at long ranges, especially in the hands of the skilled German sharpshooters carrying them. Features seven-groove rifling, an iron ramrod, dovetail mounted brass blade front sight, flip-up V notch rear sight, and brass fittings. The lock is completely unmarked. Raised letters "V•H" in a sunken rectangle and "XXXXXVI" assembly marks underneath of the side plate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a later leather sling, tools and extra flints in the patchbox. Reference page 226 of George C. Neumann's book "Battle Weapons of the American Revolution" for a similar example pictured. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 62

Price Realized:

Rare Documented French Saint Etienne 1716 Contract Grenadier Flintlock Musket

Lot 125

Documented French Saint Etienne 1716 Grenadier Flintlock Musket

This is a very early example of a French Saint Etienne 1716 contract grenadier musket, which were reportedly procured by the French Navy Ministry from private gunmakers between circa 1716-1729. These 1716 contract grenadier muskets are described on pages 303-306 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume I" with this exact musket pictured on three of the pages. Page 303 of the book states, "The configuration of the Saint Etienne musket described and illustrated here generally conforms to the Model 1716 grenadier musket manufactured at Tulle and is believed to be either a variation of that arm or possibly a musket made for sale to the navy or the French India Company. In addition to its length, the musket differs from those made at Tulle in that its brass mountings are of different configurations, it has a forend band, and the stock does not have raised plateaus at the breech." It has an early wooden ramrod with an iron tip, front sight that doubles as a bayonet lug on top of the barrel, brass forend band and ramrod ferrules, a single iron barrel band, the remaining fittings are brass including the early S shaped side plate with decorative projections, and sling rings are located on the left of the barrel band and left flat of the stock. "LEJAY" above "A ST. ETIENNE" marked at the center of the early lock; according to Moller this marking is believed to have been added on the lock at a later date during an overhaul due to Lejay, a private contractor, being recorded as active around 1760. "G•CR" is marked on the underside of the lock. A deeply stamped proof mark consisting of a fleur-de-lis above initials (hard to read) on the top left flat of the breech. "P. CIZERON" is marked on the bottom of the stock behind the lower tang, the name of the inspector and supervisor of the Royal Manufactory at Saint Etienne between 1717-1740. A star and a large fleur-de-lis stamp marked on the left of the buttstock ahead of faint remnants of lightly carved initials. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a reproduction leather sling. There is currently an obstruction inside the breech end of the barrel. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Experimental U.S. Springfield Model 1870 Rolling Block Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot 1303

Experimental U.S. Springfield Model 1870 Rolling Block Carbine

Manufactured in 1870, this very scarce carbine is one of only 314 manufactured at Springfield Armory under a royalty agreement with Remington. These few hundred carbines, as well as 1,008 rifles, were manufactured for trials testing in which they competed against many entrants, including the Springfield Trapdoor, which was ultimately chosen. The most distinguishing features on this carbine is the "eagle/U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1870" marking on the right of the receiver, the smaller hammer spur and thumb piece on the breech block, and the longer Springfield style forearm which measures 11 3/4 inches. It also has the standard two-line Remington address and patent dates on the upper tang, is fitted with blade and folding ladder sights, and a saddle ring bar is mounted on the left of the frame and wrist with a saddle ring. A script "J.S." is hand carved on the left of the stock. Some sources claim that a number of these carbines, and other arms from the trial, were carried by the 8th Cavalry during the Red River War. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50-70 U.S. Govt

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Documented Seven Years' War Era Altered French Saint Etienne Brass Mounted Flintlock Musket with Bayonet

Lot 1086

Documented Seven Years' War Era French Saint Etienne Musket

This is a very early example of a French Saint Etienne musket originally manufactured in the late 1690s and arsenal updated with brass mountings during the Seven Years' War era (1756-1763). These brass mounted Saint Etienne muskets are described on pages 299-302 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume I" with this exact musket pictured from various angles and three of the pages. Page 299 states, "There are, in American collections, a very few muskets made at Saint Etienne that, because of their brass mountings, have been attributed to early French naval contracts. These muskets may have been made by the Saint Etienne manufactories under direct contact with the Navy Ministry, or they may have been among those that Tulle manufacturer Martial Fenis de la Comb obtained in Saint Etienne for supply under his navy contracts. It is more likely, however, that they were made at Saint Etienne under contract with the French Compagnie des Indes [French India Company] for commercial sale." The picture caption on page 299 states, "This Saint Etienne musket was originally similar to the 1696 contract grenadier musket configuration. It was stocked to the muzzle and had a single barrel band, three ramrod thimbles, and a tapered wood ramrod. It probably was equipped with upper and lower bands and modified to accept an angular socket bayonet and a steel ramrod sometime in the 1750s." The picture caption second from the bottom on page 301 states, "This early musket's lower swivel differs from those of later arms in that it is riveted to a ring around a bolt in the stock's left breech flat. The butt plate tang has a modified fleur-de-lis profile." It has an iron ramrod, bayonet stud on top of the barrel, "crown/V" marked on the left quarter of the breech, faint remnants of the Saint Etienne marking at the center of the early lock, and inspection initials marked on the side plate and inside the lock. "EE" ahead of an inverted "LE" carved into the right of the buttstock. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a reproduction socket bayonet, later replacement leather sling, and a chipped piece of wood originally forming a part of the forward area of the lock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Documented Civil War Era Engraved William Billinghurst Percussion Sharpshooter/Target Rifle with Scope

Lot 1211

Engraved William Billinghurst Percussion Target Rifle

This rifle is featured on page 429 of "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume 3: Flintlock Alterations and Muzzleloading Percussion Shoulder Arms, 1840-1865" by George Moller as an example of the rifles made by William B. Billinghurst of Rochester, New York, and used by Civil War sharpshooters. Moller notes, "The majority of sharpshooters' telescopic rifles used in the Civil War by Union forces were privately owned arms brought into service by their owners when they entered federal or state military service. Sharpshooters' telescopic rifles became legend as snipers equipped with these rifles in fixed positions not uncommonly dealt death to the enemy at ranges exceeding 800 yards." The heavy barrel is marked "W. BILLINGHURST/ROCHESTER. NY." on top, "2" on the lower right, and "CAST STEEL" on the lower left and is mounted with a full-length scope with rear mount marked "R. HASKELL/PAINESVILLE O." The other metal components have scroll engraving. The upper tang has a second empty scope/sight mounting tap probably used for a peep sight. An oval "crown/AF" (Auguste Francotte) and a "2T" marking are inside the lock. The rifle has an adjustable single set trigger. The included false muzzle and brass starter are unmarked. "GDM" is lightly marked by the toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40

Price Realized:

Lot 1096

1799 Dated U.S. Springfield Model 1795 Type I Flintlock Musket

The Model 1795 is historically significant as the first official standardized U.S. martial arm and the first firearm manufactured at the U.S. armories. The Model 1795 was based on the French Model 1766 widely used during the Revolution, and was the main infantry arm of the War of 1812.This musket has the correct Type I markings of the 1799-1802 period, and the buttplate has the rare and desirable "1799" date. The Model 1795 Type I musket was manufactured by Springfield from 1795 and 1806 with those produced in 1799 being the first units to receive a manufacture date stamped on the buttplate. The lock is marked with the eagle and shield emblem (traces) over a script "US" at the center and "SPRINGFIELD" in a vertical arch at the rear. The left side of the barrel only has a "V" proof. The sling swivels hold a leather sling. "GDM" George D. Moller collection mark in the toe of the stock. The socket bayonet is marked "ROSE" and "US." Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Lot 1191

U.S. Navy Sharps Model 1855 Breech Loading Percussion Rifle

This is an example of an extremely rare Sharps Model 1855 U.S. Navy rifle, one of approximately 263 manufactured in 1856 with a saber bayonet lug and guide. They were serial numbered in the 20000-21000 range. The Navy received 201 of these rifles in 1857 with a small amount going to the USS Wabash, USS Merrimack, USS Mississippi, and the USS Minnesota. The barrel is fitted with a stud and key guide on the underside near the muzzle for a saber bayonet. The top of the barrel behind the rear sight is marked "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG.CO./HARTFORD CONN." ahead of a Navy anchor marked on top of the breech end of the barrel. The underside of the barrel is marked with the matching serial number "20325". The primer door is marked "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE 1845." and the upper tang is marked "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" followed by the serial number. It has a blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, casehardened finish on the lock and frame, blue remaining steel parts, a smooth walnut forearm with screw retained brass barrel band, and a straight grip stock with a brass patch box and carbine style buttplate. "Z 39" is marked on the inside of the patch box as well as underneath the barrel. "N/95" is marked inside the patch box door. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Rare U.S. Springfield Model 1879 Long Range Trapdoor Rifle with Desirable Bull Rear Sight

Lot 281

U.S. Springfield Model 1879 Trapdoor Rifle

This is one of approximately 183 Model 1879 Long Range Trapdoor rifles manufactured with special six-groove rifling and a buttplate identical to a Hotchkiss rifle. This rifle is one of approximately 127 total Long Range rifles (including the Model 1881s) fitted with Freeman R. Bull's windage adjustable buckhorn rear sight. A boxed script "SWP/1880" (Samuel W. Porter) inspection cartouche is marked on the left wrist. The Bull windage adjustable rear sight is graduated up to 1,200 yards on the ladder and is marked "R" on the left of the ladder and base. The left rear of the barrel is marked with "V/P/eagle head/P" proofs, and the top of the barrel at the breech with the letter "R" below what appears to be an upside down "F". The breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873" and the lock plate is marked with the eagle/shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD". Three-click tumbler and smooth trigger. Blue finish with casehardened breechblock and barrel tang, and oil finished walnut stock. A circled "P" proof is marked behind the trigger guard tang. The unique straight profile Hotchkiss buttplate has no "US" marking on the tang as normally found on standard issue Trapdoor rifles. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a period leather sling. Information on these long range rifles can be found on pages 94-102 of "The 45-70 Springfield" by Albert J. Frasca. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 224

Burnside First Model U.S. Saddle Ring Percussion Carbine

This is an example of one of less than 300 total First Model Burnside carbines manufactured by Bristol Firearms Co. circa 1857-58. A reported 200 First Models were purchased by the U.S. government, with most issued to the 1st U.S. Cavalry at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas in January 1858 and carried on various expeditions. This example is marked with sub-inspector initials "ADK" (Andrew D. King, the K is faint) on the left of the barrel at the breech. A tape primer device located inside the frame is actuated by a breechblock release lever mounted on the right side of the frame (currently not working properly); unique to the First Model Burnside carbines, with subsequent models absent both the primer system and this style of lever. According to "The Burnside Breech Loading Carbines" by Edward A. Hull pg. 15-17, "...on April 21, 1856, Col. [Henry] Craig [Chief of Ordnance] ordered 200 carbines of Burnside for field trials... By the terms of this first Army order for carbines [Ambrose] Burnside was to provide carbines of .54 caliber having a barrel 22 inches long and weighing less than seven pounds overall. The carbines were required to have a swivel bar with ring for cavalry use. In a change to the design, Col. Craig required that the carbine be configured to use Maynard's tape primer…This requirement presented Burnside and Foster [Burnside's partner and head gunsmith] with the problem of developing a primer feed mechanism which would work reliably, could be readily manufactured and avoided infringing on Dr. Maynard's lock patent (to avoid paying royalties)." Like the second model after it, it correctly lacks a forend. Blade front and flip up ladder rear sight. Matching numbers are on the frame, breechblock, and underside of the barrel. The stock is fitted with an unmarked German silver oval plaque on the left of the stock and a brass trapdoor buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Lot 1194

Massachusetts Arms Co. First Model Maynard Percussion Carbine

This carbine was produced circa 1858-59 and has the correct first model markings of "MAYNARD ARMS CO/WASHINGTON" on the right side of the action and the three-line Massachusetts Arms Co. address on the left. The patch box has the four-line patent marking. Moller's "GDM" collection mark is by the toe. Multiple Confederate states are known to have had contracts for Maynard rifles and carbines in both .35 and .50 caliber including Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia. Estimates based on the dates of the orders and deliveries along with the approximate production rate of Maynard firearms places the approximately 3,000 Confederate purchased Maynard carbines and rifles. ". . within the serial range from approximately 1800 through 4100 (give or take 200)" according to "The Maynard Rifle and Carbine in the Confederate Service" by Howard M. Madaus. This example falls within that range based on the "2920" serial number on the underside of the primer door. The .35 caliber barrel is above the noted serial number range and is marked "4219" on the bottom at the breech. Over 1,000 .35 caliber carbines went to Florida, 300 went to Mississippi, and approximately 800 are also presumed to have been among those sold to militia units of South Carolina and Louisiana as well. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 35

Price Realized:

Lot 1575

U.S. Winchester Model 97 Slide Action Trench Shotgun

Manufactured during World War II. Single bead sight on the bayonet lug/4-hole heat shield, with the barrel marked for cylinder choke and a 2 3/4 inch chamber. Flaming bomb proofs are present on top of the barrel and on the left side of the frame next to "U.S.". Ribbed forearm and a smooth pistol grip stock, with "G.H.D./Ordnance cannons" on the left side, "GDM" collection stamp on the belly, sling swivels, checkered buttplate and a 13 5/8 inch length of pull. Includes a tan canvas Nobuckl sling and a Remington marked Model 1917 bayonet with sheath. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Lot 104

Wheellock Saddle Ring Carbine

Likely manufactured in the early to mid 17th century for mounted use. The smoothbore barrel has a blade front sight, notch rear sight, a "WB" maker's mark on top at the breech, and some unclear markings on the left at the breech, one of which appears to be a Suhl mark. "VIII" is on the bottom of the barrel at the breech and inside the lock mortise. The lock is unmarked and is secured by three screws. The middle lock screw and a screw through the forend by the ramrod entry point secure the saddle ring bar. The narrow stock has a simple sheet iron forend cap, single sheet iron ramrod ferrule, faint mark visible on the left flat, and bare butt. The ramrod has an iron jag. A small "GDM" collection mark is by the toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 62

Price Realized:

Lot 111

Early Colonial Era Snaphance Caliver

George Moller noted this piece as a British snaphance caliver from circa 1598-1602. The multi-stage smoothbore barrel has blade and notch sights, girdles at the first transition point, and no visible markings. The lock has a shell design fence at the right edge of the pan which has an automatic cover, and no visible markings. The ramrod is secured in a channel in the stock without ferrules, and the buttplate and trigger guard are simple sheet iron. The stock retains the classic shape of many English matchlock calivers and arquebuses. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 67

Price Realized:

U.S. Springfield Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle in USMC Sniper Configuration with 8x Unertl U.S.M.C.-Sniper Scope and Scope Case

Lot 1584

U.S. Springfield 1903 Rifle, 1942 USMC Sniper Configuration

Manufactured in 1938, this Springfield Model 1903 rifle has been subsequently fitted out in the "1942 USMC Sniper" configuration, with a pair of scope blocks added to the barrel and receiver, the former matched with a specially prepared upper handguard. The barrel is star gauged and dated "SA/3-39", with a "NS" marked bolt that has been electro-pencil numbered to match the receiver. The receiver ring has been drilled and tapped twice, with one set of holes later filled in and the second currently open and used by the receiver block. Smooth pistol grip stock with a circled "P" on the wrist, "L.T.T." on the left side, a brown leather "BOYT/42" sling, a small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collector mark behind the sling swivel, and a checkered buttplate. The J. Unertl 8x scope is "USMC-SNIPER" marked, with a serial number of "2727", threaded steel lens caps and aluminum rings. Included with the rifle is a green painted round scope case and a 1909 dated Springfield bayonet with sheath. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06

Price Realized:

Lot 1301

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

Only 477 of Officer's Model rifles were manufactured by the Springfield Armory between 1875 and 1885 to fulfill the request by U.S. Army officers for suitable sporting rifles for use in hunting and target shooting. Of those, 125 are estimated to have been this Type I configuration, manufactured c. 1877-1879. These are easily among the most desirable of all the rifles manufactured by the Springfield Armory thanks to their rarity, quality, and connection to military officers. They are not serial numbered, but this rifle is marked "23" on the inside of the trigger guard bow. In function, the rifle is a standard Model 1873 trapdoor rifle with high-arch breechblock. However, it is embellished with traditional acanthus scroll engraving on the nickel forend cap, receiver, breechblock, lock, trigger guard, and buttplate. The lock has the standard U.S. Springfield markings including "1873" and the breech block has the standard Model 1873 markings including the early "eagle head/crossed arrows/US". There are standard proofs on the upper left of the barrel at the breech and "US" on the buttplate tang. It also features a shorter 26 inch barrel fitted with folding combination blade and globe front sight in place of the military front sight, a Model 1873 style rear sight graduated 1-4 on the right side of the stepped base and 5-11 on the ladder, and the early pattern tang mounted peep sight which were purchased from Sharps Rifle Co. It has a single set trigger, shorter sporting stock with checkered forend and wrist and lacks the detachable pistol grip that was added on later rifles, and a traditional style cleaning rod of the early nickeled and knurled type mounted below the barrel. "GDM", George D. Moller Collection mark is on the toe of the stock. Includes a wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Desirable U.S. Springfield Armory M1C Sniper Rifle with USMC MC1 Sniper Scope

Lot 565

M1C Sniper Rifle with Kollmorgan USMC MC1 Sniper Scope and Mount

This is a desirable example of a WWII M1C Garand sniper rifle manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1945, subsequently reconfigured into a USMC MC1 type sniper rifle. The original M1C sniper was developed by Springfield Armory in late 1944 with approximately 4,000 M1C sniper rifles manufactured by the end of the war. Most were subsequently refurbished at the start of the Korean War. During the early post-war years due to the shortcomings of the original M81/M82 and M84 sniper rifles during the Korean war the Marine Corps contracted with the Stith Kollmorgen company to develop a new/improved and larger 4X sniper scope. They also contracted with Griffin & Howe to develop a larger more robust scope mount, so that both could be issued/used on standard M1C sniper rifles. As adopted by the USMC in this configuration it was cataloged as the MC-1 sniper rifle and the Marines designated these rifles as the "1952 Sniper Rifle". They were issued in limited numbers circa 1953-1967. This is an original first pattern Stith-Kollmorgen sniper scope fitted with a correct style Griffin & Howe MC-1 type sniper scope mount. The scope tube is marked "MC 922-P" with the objective eye-piece roll marked in two lines: "4X DOUBLE STITH MOUNT S.A.TEX/KOLLMORGEN OPTICAL CORP. BROOKLYN NY." The scope is fitted with the improved, "audible click" windage and elevation knobs and the standard fine cross-hair reticle. The scope has the original blue/black type finish. The scope mount has the original markings: "GRIFFIN & HOWE INC. NEW YORK/PAT. #1.856,549 MAY 3, 1932" and is fitted with the "T4" marked scope rings with the later square end locking levers. The top of the mount is also etched with rifle serial number "3372487". The actual rifle has the standard Springfield Armory markings over serial number "3252184" with a correct wartime bolt and trigger group with a early post war op-rod marked "6535382-SA" with the locking bar rear sight set. The M1C scope bracket (base) with three new screws and two new taper pins and is renumbered "379/0508" on the side. The barrel is stamped "1-S-A-12-44" with the breech in the white. Fitted with reproduction cone type flash hider, marked on the underside "FLASH HIDER/XM-2". It has a standard walnut stock with a deep "AAG" proof followed by a boxed "SA/NFR" and cross-cannon cartouche with a circled "P" proof in the grip area. It has an unmarked leather cheekpiece (not screwed in) with a stamped steel checkered buttplate. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30-06

Price Realized:

Rare U.S. Springfield Model 1877 Transitional Trapdoor Rifle with Desirable Bull Rear Sight and Experimental Tang Sight

Lot 1302

Springfield 1877 Trapdoor Rifle with Bull/Experimental Sights

This example features standard lock and barrel marking, An upside down oval script "ESA/1878" (Erskine S. Allin) inspection cartouche is marked on the left of the stock wrist. It is fitted with a hooded blade front sight, Freeman R. Bull's windage adjustable Buckhorn rear sight graduated up to 1,100 yards on the ladder and marked "R" on the left of the base, and a period experimental elevation adjustable notch sight mounted to the left of the upper tang that runs all the way through the bottom of the stock and is graduated up to 900 yards and marked "500" at the bottom likely in reference to use with 500 grain bullets. This tang sight has not been witnessed on any other examples by this describer at the time of writing. The left rear of the barrel is marked with "V/P/eagle head" proofs. Three-groove rifling. The breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873" and the lock plate is marked with the eagle/shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD". Three-click tumbler and serrated trigger. Blue finish with casehardened breechblock and barrel tang, and oil finished walnut stock. "R.D." inspection initials ahead of a circled "P" proof is marked behind the trigger guard tang. "US" marked buttplate tang. The stock has a dished checkered thumb oval relief on top of the wrist and is fitted with a period checkered steel pistol grip. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a period leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Seven Years' War Era French Saint Etienne Model 1746/54 Flintlock Musket

Lot 1087

Seven Years' War Era French Saint Etienne 1746/54 Musket

This is an early example of a French Saint Etienne musket originally manufactured as a Model 1746 and was subsequently arsenal updated to the Model 1754 configuration during the Seven Years' War era (1756-1763). Model 1746 and Model 1754 infantry muskets are described on pages 323-330 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume I" in which salient features of each are noted. This example has sling swivels relocated to the underside of the middle band and ahead of the trigger guard in the Model 1754 configuration, whereas the Model 1746 before it that had left side mounted sling swivels. It is fitted with its original Model 1746 lock and does not have an external bridle to the support the head of the frizzen screw unlike the Model 1754 locks. It has an iron ramrod and bayonet stud on top of the barrel towards the muzzle. "crown/S•E/B" Saint Etienne marked above "CARRIER/MONTIER" at the center of the lock, and "TEUENON" marked on the inside of the lock. Small "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a reproduction leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Rare Documented Civil War Model 1841 U.S. Lindner Breech Loading Alteration "Mississippi" Rifle with Bayonet

Lot 1170

Civil War 1841 Massachusetts Lindner Alteration Rifle

U.S. Lindner alteration rifles are described on pages 181-183 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume III", with this exact rifle pictured on page 181 next to the caption, "The 200 Model 1841 rifles altered to the Lindner breechloading system for U.S. service in General Butler's forces differed from those altered for Massachusetts. Instead of a barrel mounted rear sight, they had a long range rear peep sight mounted through the breech cover." The alteration of these 200 Model 1841 rifles to Lindners breech loading system was performed in late 1861 by Allen & Morse of Boston. The locking "screw-sleeve" on this rifle is marked "PATENTED/MAR. 29, 1859" on top in reference to Edward Lindner's U.S. patent number 23,378. Lindner's breech loading system utilizes a locking "screw-sleeve" coupling that joins the breech end of the barrel to a tip-up threaded breech block with a chamfered face. To load, the knob on the screw-sleeve is rotated counter clockwise using the right hand, which allows the spring loaded breech block to tip upwards for loading with a combustible paper contained cartridge or loose powder and ball. Once loaded, the spring-loaded breech block is pushed down and held with the left thumb, and the screw-sleeve is rotated clockwise gripping the knob with the right hand; creating a tight gas seal. These Lindner conversion rifles have a distinctive reinforcing metal plate, brass on this example, ahead of the trigger guard fixed with a wedged pin. The brass breech cover/upper tang is fitted with a detachable windage adjustable peep sight that would have been mounted at the time of its Lindner alteration. Seven-groove rifling. The breech block is marked "U.S./J.P.C./P" (James P. Chapman, inspector) on top and serial number "160" on the underside. Matching serial number "160" is also marked on the left of the stock hidden beneath the rear barrel band and underneath the brass reinforcing plate. "WINDSOR VT/1850" marked at the tail of the lock and "ROBBINS/&/LAWRENCE/U.S." at the center. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a Drake pattern socket bayonet, Watervliet Arsenal leather sling, tools and an extra nipple in the patchbox. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Extremely Scarce Documented U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1817 Type II Artillery/Cadet Flintlock Musket with Bayonet

Lot 1115

Documented U.S. Harpers Ferry 1817 Artillery/Cadet Musket

Harpers Ferry Armory manufactured an unknown quantity of these 36 inch barrel muskets between 1817 and 1822 for Cadet use. Model 1817 Artillery/Cadet muskets are described on pages 440-444 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume II" with this exact musket pictured at the bottom of page 442 (LOT 1147 of this auction is also pictured on the top of the same page). The Model 1816 lock plate is marked "HARPERS/FERRY/1822" vertically behind the hammer with the eagle and shield motif above "US" between the hammer and the detachable brass flash pan, "1822" dated barrel tang, "V/P/eagle head" (the eagle head is very faint) proofs marked on the left of the breech, and serial number "S/25" marked on top of the breech. The full length stock is fitted with three barrel bands, sling swivels mounted on the middle band and front bow of the trigger guard, and a "US" marked buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a socket bayonet and reproduction leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 69

Price Realized:

Lot 214

Joslyn Model 1855 "Monkey Tail" Navy Rifle with Saber Bayonet

The U.S. Navy originally ordered 500 of these rifles with 30 inch barrels and saber bayonet lugs, and only approximately 200 are believed to have been manufactured and delivered by A. H. Waters of Milbury, Massachusetts, in 1860. Interestingly, these Joslyn arms were the last firearms manufactured by Asa H. Waters. The Waters family had been involved in U.S. martial arms contracts since at least the 1808 contract muskets. "A. H. WATERS & CO./MILBURY MASS" marked at the center of the lock with some fading on the top right edge of the markings. It has a large pinched blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight graduated up to 800 yards. Matching serial number "956" marked on the left of the breech block, hidden inside on the left of the receiver, underside of the barrel, and underside of the buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a brass handled Model 1855 attributed Ames saber bayonet and brass tipped leather scabbard. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 58

Price Realized:

Rare U.S. Revenue Cutter Service Marked Remington Contract Jenks "Mule Ear" Breech Loading Percussion Carbine, without Maynard Patent Tape Primer Device

Lot 1167

U.S. Revenue Cutter Service Remington Jenks Mule Ear Carbine

The Jenks is unique in that it is the only side hammer weapon officially used by the U.S. military. E. Remington & Sons purchased machinery and a U.S. Navy contract for 1,000 Jenks carbines from Ames Manufacturing Company and manufactured them circa 1847-48. The distinguishing feature of the Jenks-Remington typically includes the Maynard tape primer, although this Remington example was made without it. According to "Flayderman's Guide, 9th Edition" page 624 states, "Three specimens of this model known with the usual lock (i.e. not made with Maynard primer as on 9B-063) marked only REMINGTON'S/HERKIMER, N.Y. Presumably fabricated in c. 1846-47 in the interim during transfer of the Navy contract and the equipment from Ames to Remington. Very Rare." The Jenks carbines were originally smoothbores with a round loading aperture. Around 1861 most Jenks carbines were rifled and had the loading aperture enlarged to an oval shape to accept a paper cartridge rather than loose balls and powder; with this example escaping said alteration and still retaining its original round loading aperture and smoothbore. Features a "REMINGTON'S/HERKIMER/N.Y." marking on the lock plate. Marked "7/35" on the underside of the breech lever, "W JENKS" parallel to the bore on the barrel at the breech followed by "U.S.R./P/1847/CAST-STEEL" perpendicular to the bore ahead of the round loading aperture. The rare U.S.R. mark indicates purchase by the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service; with other known U.S.R. marked examples typically seen with the round loading aperture and without sling ring as on this example. Faint boxed script "RP" (Richard Paine) cartouche on the left of the stock ahead of another partially visible boxed script cartouche. Some small "P" marks on a few of the components. Other features include the integral blade front sight on the foremost of the two brass barrel bands, the integral notch sight on the top of the lever, brass trigger guard, and brass buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Lot 215

Civil War U.S. Navy Spencer Repeating Rifle with Saber Bayonet

Approximately 700 of the 1,000 Spencer repeating rifles ordered by the U.S. Navy were this pattern. The Navy rifles were the first Spencer rifles purchased by the government during the Civil War, and they fall within the 1-750 serial number range. The Navy contact rifles were issued with a sword bayonet with brass hilt and have a distinctive ribbed bayonet lug on the underside of the barrel. The rifle has a steel lug front sight with nickel-silver blade and a folding leaf rear sight with 800 yard center notch. The top of the receiver is roll-stamped: "SPENCER REPEATING-/RIFLE CO. BOSTON MASS./PAT'D MARCH 6. 1860." "G" is stamped on the top of the barrel in front of the lower barrel band, and an "M" is on the lock plate. The rifle correctly has no inspection or property marks. The rifle is complete with sword bayonet with 21 3/4-inch yataghan style blade and brass hilt with ribbed grip. The blade is dated "1862" on the obverse and stamped "AMES MFG CO/CHICOPEE/MASS" on the reverse. A leather wrapped scabbard with brass fittings for the bayonet and a black leather sling are included. "GDM" is deeply stamped at the toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 56-56

Price Realized:

Lot 223

Sharps Model 1851 "Box Lock" Breech Loading Percussion Carbine

This model was the first model of Sharps carbines issued to the U.S. Only 175 were ordered and marked for the U.S. Army and issued to the 1st and 2nd U.S. Dragoons in the Southwest in 1854 and 1855 making them especially desirable for Sharps and U.S. martial arms collectors. This example has the proper "US 1852" marking on the buttplate and "U.S/S.K/P" marks on the barrel for a U.S. contract carbine. It also has the usual Sharps and Maynard patent markings. The barrel has a brass blade front and flip up "squirrel ear" rear sight. A long sling ring bar runs from the left side of the receiver to the brass barrel band. The Model 1851 was redesigned by Richard S. Lawrence and William Jones based on a model submitted by Christian Sharps. The changes made to the design without Christian Sharps' involvement are part of what led to him leaving the company, but this model, manufactured by Robbins & Lawrence, established the Sharps as one of the most advanced and desirable American firearms of the 19th century, and the Sharps rifles and carbines were famously used by the Free Staters during Bleeding Kansas, during John Brown's Harper's Ferry Raid, by Union forces during the Civil War, and out on the American frontier late during the post-Civil War settlement of the West and Indian Wars. The Sharps Model 1851 carbines are distinguishable from the later Sharps firearms by their hammers which are mounted inside the locks. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 52

Price Realized:

Exceptional Civil War Lindner's Patent First Type U.S. Martially Inspected Breech Loading Percussion Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot 1174

Civil War Lindner First Type U.S. Inspected Saddle Ring Carbine

Designed by Edward Lindner of Manchester, New Hampshire and manufactured by Amoskeag Manufacturing company. Only 500 of these First Type American carbines are reported to have been delivered on U.S. Government contract in January of 1863, and 297 of them are reported to have been issued over three months later to the 8th West Virginia Mounted Infantry, who used them in skirmishes against Confederate forces between August through November of 1863. Fixed blade front sight and flip-up two-leaf rear sight with the lock, trigger guard, buttplate, and stock all resembling the pattern found on the U.S. Special Model 1861 Rifle-Musket then in production by Amoskeag. The breech block is marked on top "EDWARD LINDNER'S/PATENT,/MARCH 29, 1859." in reference to U.S. patent number 23,378. "GKJ" (George K. Jacobs) inspection initials marked on the left stock flat and an oval script "AMC" inspection cartouche marked ahead of the buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Detailed information about these First Type U.S. Lindner carbines can be found in the book "Lindner Carbines and Rifles" by Edward A. Hull on pages 88-95. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 58

Price Realized:

Lot 1314

U.S. Springfield Model 1880/82 Experimental Trapdoor Rifle

This rifle presents itself as an anomaly in having a triangular sliding ramrod bayonet in the form of the rare Model 1882 experimental rifles now with square locking holes as opposed to round holes on the Model 1880 that precedes it and with no projecting ears on the sides of the bayonet retaining spring, and it does not have the friction fit breech block found in the Model 1882. The serial number of this rifle places it inside the accepted Model 1879 range of 100000-280000, after the 1,001 Model 1880 experimental ramrod rifles in the 154000-158000 range, but before the 52 Model 1882 experimental short rifles in the accepted 197000-199000 range. The serial number "187796" has a star marked to the right of it, which is typically attributed to rifles that have gone through an arsenal rebuild. This was likely built as a one-off experimental trial piece with the improved bayonet system. Initials "JG" (possibly John Greer, Captain of Ordnance) marked on the left of the rear barrel band. "U.S./MODEL/1873" marked low arch breech block. Faint boxed script "SWP/1881" (Samuel W. Porter) inspection cartouche on the left of the stock. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Model 1880 buttplate with compartment containing a Model 1879 combination tool and shell extractor tool. Includes leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Rare Civil War Era Lindner Patent Breech Loading Saddle Ring Carbine Conversion of an Austrian Model 1842 Jaeger Percussion Rifle

Lot 1172

Civil War Era Lindner Austrian 1842 Conversion Carbine

This seldom encountered surviving example is one of approximately 3,000 Austrian rifles of two types, including the Model 1842 Jaeger rifles and Model 1854 Extra Corps rifles, reported to have been converted to the Lindner breech loading system and transformed to carbine configuration with a saddle ring as a means of attempting to attract U.S. Government interest for purchase; with part of the work performed by the American Edward Lindner's shop overseas in Hamburg and shipped back to the United States to Amoskeag Manufacturing Company where they were “altered and finished” between 1860-62. Approximately 400 of these Austrian Lindner conversion carbines were sold by sales agent Samuel Smith to the U.S. Government in November of 1861 (not to be confused with the "First Type" that is listed in Flayderman's Guide, of which it has recently been discovered that it incorrectly includes this delivery of these Austrian conversions in its total) and it is said that some were used by Colonel Thornton F. Brodhead's 1st Michigan Cavalry regiment during the Civil War. Detailed information about these early Lindner Austrian conversion carbines can be found in the book "Lindner Carbines and Rifles" by Edward A. Hull on pages 64-87. Page 71 of the book states, "The carbines issued to the 1st Michigan Cavalry may have seen service at the Second Battle of Bull Run, August 28-30, 1862 (where Col. Brodhead suffered a mortal wound). By December, 1862 the regiment had been rearmed with 385 Sharps carbines and these Lindner carbines disappear from the record." No other U.S. deliveries of these carbines are known, with the majority reported to have been later sold to South America and used by Brazil and Argentina. Page 87 of Edward Hull's book states, "From the scarcity of examples today it would appear that even those that were used here in the Civil War were subsequently sold out of the country... the author has located only nine 'Austrian carbine' conversions remaining in the U.S.... the converted 'Austrian carbine' is today among the most rare of Civil War issue carbines." The top of the breech block is marked "EDWARD LINDNER'S/PATENT,/MARCH 29, 1859." (partially legible markings) in reference to Lindner's U.S. patent number 23,378. Lindner's breech loading system utilizes a locking "screw-sleeve" coupling that joins the breech end of the barrel to a tip-up threaded breech block with a chamfered face. To load, the knob on the screw-sleeve is rotated counterclockwise using the right hand, which allows the spring loaded breech block to tip upwards for loading with a combustible paper cartridge or loose powder and ball. Once loaded, the spring loaded breech block is pushed down and held with the left thumb, and the screw-sleeve is rotated clockwise gripping the knob with the right hand; creating a tight gas seal by acting as a cover around the breech while utilizing its threaded screw system to pull the chamfered face of the breech block tightly against the breech end of the barrel. Features blade front and flip-up notch rear sights, number "456" marked on the underside of the breech block, trigger guard, locking "screw-sleeve", barrel, and inside of the stock channel, "L&Z 1046" marked on the right side of the breech block, and "850" marked at the center of the Austrian lock. The stock has a saddle bar and ring on the left and brass furniture. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 58

Price Realized:

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