Premier Firearms Auction #86

August 26, 2022 to August 28, 2022

This auction has ended.

Premier Firearms Auction #86

August 26, 2022 to August 28, 2022

This auction has ended.

Page 1 of 42

Showing 1-50 of 2,085 results

Documented Winchester Model 1876 .50 Express Lever Action Short Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 1

Winchester Model 1876 .50 Express Short Rifle

This Short Express Rifle Model 1876 is configured similarly to the Model 1886 Lightweight in that it has a short 22 inch barrel (although not tapered), rifle style forearm, short magazine tube, and shotgun butt. A similar example is pictured on page 238 of "The Winchester Book" by Madis. In the data discussed on page 253 of the above book, Madis notes that only one of each 800 had a shorter than average barrel. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 22 inch round barrel in highly desirable .50 Express caliber, plain trigger, 1/2 magazine and shotgun butt. The letter also states the rifle was received in the warehouse on October 20, 1880 and shipped on November 9, 1880 with 5 other arms to order number 22432. This rifle is a second model with a dust cover guide rail attached to the receiver with two screws. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an "1876" marked folding ladder rear sight. The top of the barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patents legend ahead of the rear sight and ".50 CAL" at the breech. The dust cover is marked "WINCHESTER EXPRESS/.50 CAL 95 GRS." The cartridge elevator has the factory "50-95" caliber marking and is faintly hand marked "Johny Fay" by a previous owner. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1876." The lower tang has the serial number. This Model 1876 lacks British proof marks which are commonly seen on these .50 Express short rifles. The plain forearm and straight grip stock are walnut. Fitted with a smooth steel shotgun type buttplate. Per consignor the rifle "came out of California." The .50-95 Winchester Express was the largest caliber available for the Model 1876 and proved popular with big and dangerous game hunters. Many Model 1876 rifles chambered for this powerful cartridge were shipped to England and then found their way to Africa and India where they were often employed against big cats. Theodore Roosevelt loved his .45-75 '76, but he and other Americans scorned the .50 Express, and thus, the Model 1876 was only produced in limited numbers chambered for that cartridge compared to the smaller calibers.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50 express

Price Realized:

Lot 2

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

This classic Model 1886 carbine was manufactured in 1894 and is chambered in the popular frontier cartridge: .45-70 Government. The John Moses Browning designed Model 1886 was the first Winchester repeater capable of chambering the .45-70. While .45-70 was the most popular caliber for the Model 1886, research by John T. Madl in the available records found only 1,911 carbines in this caliber. This carbine has a pinned blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, the two-line address ahead of the rear sight, the caliber behind the rear sight, a saddle ring on the left, "-MODEL 1886-" on the upper tang, the patent marking behind the trigger, the script serial number at the rear of the lower tang, and a smooth carbine stock and forearm.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Price Realized:

Lot 3

Winchester First Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. The rifle has the very desirable late first model dust cover with integral "thumb print" that rides in grooves mortised directly into the frame. Only about 31,000 First Models were manufactured. It is equipped with a blade front sight with thick base, an elevation adjustable sporting rear sight, a single set trigger, and the standard straight grain walnut stock and forearm with steel buttplate (compartment empty). The barrel is marked with the two-line address and King's improvement patent marking, and the frame has "Model. 1873." on the upper tang and the serial number in script on the lower tang. Since it is an early Model 1873, it correctly does not have caliber markings on the barrel or the elevator.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 4

Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. Lever Action Navy Pistol

This lever action Navy Pistol was manufactured by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. c. 1856 and is pictured cased with sn. 7065 on page 92 of "Volcanic Firearms: Predecessor to the Winchester Rifle" by Lewis and Rutter. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral 10-shot magazine, brass receiver and loading lever with finger hole. The eight-inch, Type I barrel has a full rib, crowned muzzle, rounded T-bar spring, clam-shell shaped brass follower and cone front sight. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the legend: "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEW HAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854." in three lines. The brass receiver lacks the factory engraving found on most Volcanic Repeating Arms pistols. The receiver has semi-circular cut-outs on either end of the ejection port and a dovetail for a rear sight. The bolt has a single hook extractor, and the hammer has hand-cut knurling on the spur. A "Y" inspection mark is stamped on the left side of the loading lever. The serial number is stamped on the right side of the loading lever, right side of the receiver butt beneath the grip and on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match. The barrel has a blue finish, the bolt, cartridge elevator and loading lever are niter blue, and the hammer and trigger are color casehardened. The walnut grips have a high polish piano finish. Provenance: The Dr. Gerald Klaz Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Engraved Copy of a Winchester First Model 1866 "Flat Side" Lever Action Saddle Ring Rifle

Lot 5

Engraved Copy of a Winchester First Model 1866 "Flat Side" Rifle

This is a copy of a rare early Winchester Model 1866 First Mode rifle. This style of rifle retains much of the profile and styling of the New Haven Arms Co. Henry rifles, including a Henry style "flat side" frame with "Henry drop" by the hammer, and also has the early flat loading gates and simpler forearm. In addition to being a copy of a First Model, this rifle has classic "American style" custom scroll engraving on the silver plated frame and buttplate. Similar engraving patterns from Louis D. Nimschke's pull-book are shown on pages 9, 12, 14, 16, 17, and 48 in "L.D. Nimschke: Firearms Engraver" by R.L. Wilson, and other Model 1866s and Henry rifles in the chapter "L.D. Nimschke Independent Engraver" in Wilson's book "Winchester Engraving" show similar patterns as well. The barrel has a dovetailed nickel-silver blade front sight, Henry type notch and ladder rear sight with sliding elevator, the "HENRY'S PATENT -OCT. 16. 1860/KING'S PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866" dual patent marking, and a blued finish. A full-length magazine tube with screw affixed front hanger and early non-capped forend with cross screw through circular escutcheons are fitted below the barrel. The Henry style flat profiled frame with "Henry drop" at the hammer has beautiful floral scroll engraving with punched backgrounds, an open scroll pattern on the left side as found on Nimschke engraved Henry rifles noted above, gaddrooning, and border designs. The nicely figured buttstock has a rifle buttplate and is secured in the correct First Model fashion with two screws in the upper tang and one in the lower tang. The serial number is marked on the left side of the lower tang, inside the upper tang mortise of the buttstock, and on the backside of the buttplate at the toe. The left side of the upper tang is stamped "L.D.N.," and the lower tang on the left is also marked with "1834" in small numerals.

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 6

Union Metallic Cartridge Co. Cartridge Display Board

One of these boards is clearly shown hanging in the well-known photograph of the interior of J.P. Lower & Sons' shop in Denver, and other examples would have hung in other gunshops around the country as promotional items distributed by the Union Metallic Cartridge Co. in the late 19th century. These cartridge display boards, especially exceptional examples like this, naturally make excellent display pieces in gun rooms, gun shops, homes, and businesses. This impressive and rare Union Metallic Cartridge Co. "bullet board" displays a wide range of handgun, rifle, and shotgun cartridges and components from the minuscule bb cap to the massive (and extremely rare) 1 inch Gatling gun cartridge divided into categories including "RIM-FIRE," "CENTRAL FIRE PISTOL," "SPORTING AND MILITARY," " WATERPROOF PAPER SHOT SHELLS," and "BRASS SHOT SHELLS." The center of the display has a diamond shaped panel with U.M.C. in bold text and a background lithograph image showing a variety of deer and elk in a wooded scene. The remainder of the text on the board shows various company information including trademarks and store locations. The original frame has large cast badges on the top and bottom with the U.M.C. trademark and nomenclature repeated with the display area protected by a pane of glass. It measures 41 5/8 x 54 3/8 inches including the frame.

Price Realized:

Lot 7

Winchester Deluxe Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1884 as a third model with a casehardened receiver featuring an integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edges. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 28 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock and casehardened receiver. The letter also states the rifle was received in the warehouse on March 6, 1884 and shipped the same day. The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, an elevation adjustable rear sight, and a folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent marking ahead of the rear sight and "38-CAL" at the breech. "38 CAL" is stamped on the cartridge elevator. The left side of the lower tang is marked "5295 XX." The assembly number "5295" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate. It is mounted with a finely figured and "H" pattern checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with an ebony insert in the grip and trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included). As listed in the Winchester 1875 catalog, the optional finish for a "fancy walnut stock" cost at least $5.00 extra. Special features such as deluxe wood were generally considered too costly and unnecessary for the average customer looking for a reliable "working man's gun." Finding a deluxe Model 1873 in any condition is becoming increasingly difficult.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 8

Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1879 as a special order deluxe second model featuring a casehardened receiver with a dust cover guide rail attached with two screws, a dust cover with thumb print checkering, and a set trigger. The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, a folding ladder rear sight marked "1876" on the leaf, and a tang folding peep sight with the left side graduate from 0 to 75. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent date marking ahead of the rear sight. There are no caliber markings. The serial number appears in script between the lever catch and the lower tang screw. The left side of the lower tang is marked "XXX 282." The assembly number "282" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate. The nicely figured forearm and pistol grips stock feature H-style checkering. The buttstock has an ebony grip insert and a trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included). With an incorrect Ideal 44-40 caliber reloading tool. The larger caliber Winchester Model 1876 was popular among those in the west that believed .44-40 wasn't quite enough stopping power for whatever they might encounter.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Exceptional Documented First Year Production Winchester Deluxe Model 1901 10 Gauge Lever Action Shotgun with Factory Letter

Lot 9

Winchester Model 1901 Lever Action Shotgun

Offered here is a spectacular first year production deluxe Winchester Model 1901 lever action shotgun. The Model 1901 was a redesign of the Model 1887 shotgun offered in 10 gauge only, and production serial numbers began at 64856. From 1901 to 1920 Winchester manufactured 13,500 Model 1901s with deluxe variations being extremely rare. This deluxe example was manufactured in 1901, the first year of production, and is in exceptional condition, making it a true crown jewel in Winchester collecting. Any high condition Model 1901 is difficult to find, let alone a deluxe, as Winchester had trouble with the heat treated receivers taking the blue finish. Moreover, this Model 1901 has an interesting factory record. The accompanying factory letter lists this rare Model 1901 shotgun with a 32 inch barrel in 10 gauge and checkered pistol grip stock when it was received in the warehouse on October 18, 1901 and shipped on October 21 (order number 113951). The shotgun returned to the warehouse on November 20, 1901 and shipped the next day with the configuration listed as "10 gauge, 32 inches, fancy, checkered stock" (order number 123701). The factory records list a third and final ship date of September 2, 1902 (order number 153963). Winchester firearms with multiple return and ship dates were often used as factory display pieces. The Pan-American Exposition, for instance, was held in Buffalo, New York, from May 1-November 2, 1901. The first block of dates listed in the factory letter makes it possible that this shotgun was on display for the last month at this New York exhibition. The shotgun features a single bead sights, full choke, 3 inch chamber, and 12 15/16 inches. The top of the barrel has the two-line address/patent dates followed by "MODEL 01. 10 GA". The left side of the frame has the ''WRA CO." logo and the upper tang is marked "-WINCHESTER-." The two piece forearm and round knob pistol grip stock are checkered deluxe walnut. The stock is fitted with a checkered steel buttplate.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 10

Price Realized:

Winchester Model 1873 "Trapper" Lever Action Carbine with ATF Exempted 15 Inch Barrel

Lot 10

ATF Exempted Winchester Model 1873 Trapper Lever Action Carbine

This gun is listed in the included 1992 dated ATF letter and the ATF Curio & Relics lists as exempted from the NFA and classified as a curio or relic. The serial number on the bottom of the frame was applied per the instructions in the letter. It has a "barley corn" style front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, button magazine, taps for a second model dust cover (use c. sn. 31000- 90000 in 1879-1882), and Native American style tack decorated stock and forearm. While the Model 1873 has been famously nicknamed "The Gun that Won the West" and was a popular "cowboy" gun both in real life and on the silver screen, Native Americans on the plains are known to have switched to Winchester's repeating rifles shortly after they became available even while the U.S. military and many American civilians continued to use single shot rifles. Native warriors used them to devastating effects at the Battle of Little Bighorn and other engagements in the West, and Geronimo's Apache appear to have been fond of Winchester's repeaters base on period photographs and tack decorated examples noted as found on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, but the will of various native nations to fight and the firepower of their Winchesters was not enough for them to overcome American settlers' hunger for native lands and resources in the long run. Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Native American Style Tack Decoration

Lot 11

Tack Decorated Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Carbine

When it comes to firearms of the American West, two come to the top of the list: the Winchester Model 1873 "The Gun that Won the West" and the Colt Single Action Army. The two were literally made for another once Colt introduced the Single Action Army in .44-40 and other cartridges used in Winchester's popular repeaters, and both guns saw extensive use on the frontier in the late 19th century. While commonly associated with American cowboys and settlers, the Winchester Model 1873 also saw extensive Native American use, with multiple examples known to have been used by the Lakota, Apaches, and other native nations during their respective struggles to maintain autonomy and territory. These fast firing carbines offered a serious edge in close in engagements compared to the single shot Springfield trapdoor rifles used by the U.S. Army at the time. Many Native American firearms, including Winchesters documented as owned by Lakota Warrior Kicking Bear, Nez Perce Chief Joseph, Lakota war leader Sitting Bull, and others, were decorated with tacks as a way to personalize their trusted firearms, and this decoration gives these antique firearms a lot of character and sets them apart from other Winchesters in many collections. This Model 1873 has small tacks on both sides of the forend and the buttstock, including cross designs. Cross symbol use predates the arrival of Europeans, but the design on the right side of the stock is distinctly Christian in style. Many Native Americans converted to Christianity, some under force, and many others incorporated the Christian God and/or other elements of Christianity into their own tribal religion. In addition to the decoration, this carbine has the usual "barley corn" style front sight, the usual Winchester markings, a period modified rear sight, Third Model integral dust cover rail, saddle ring on the left, carbine forend with a single barrel band, and a rifle style buttstock with crescent buttplate. Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 12

Panel Scene Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

The engraving on this Winchester Model 1866 rifle from 1870 was inspired by Conrad Ulrich's masterful engraving on 1866 #112270 (see page 124 of "Winchester Engraving" by Wilson) which features similar patterns in semi-relief. The barrel features an altered front sight blade to form a post, an adjustable sporting rear sight, filled third dovetail, and no visible markings. The frame has scroll, border, and Greek key engraving, a rendition of Diana, Goddess of the Hunt, on the right side plate, a stag scene on the right at the front, a bison on the left at the front, and a small scene with a bear and a larger scene with a pair of deer on the left side plate. The forearm cap and buttplate have full-coverage scroll engraving. It has a plain stock and forearm.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Lot 13

Winchester Single "W" Cartridge Display Bullet Board

This advertisement displays the large variety of ammunition produced by Winchester from percussion caps up to the massive express cartridges and large gauge shot shells. This is an extremely rare board as it has both 1894 vintage (30 WCF and 25-35 WCF) and 1895 vintage (30 U.S.G. and .270 U.S.N.) cartridges as well as Winchester Leader 12 gauge shotgun shell. This means it was manufactured late 1894 or early 1895. There are three versions of this board known to acknowledgeable collectors, this being the last. The consignor noted that he has only observed two surviving examples of this last version. The ammunition is displayed in a large "W" pattern and additional cartridges are organized in star and circular patterns as well as lines of shotshells on the sides. The board displays a dark brown woodgrain background, "WINCHESTER/REPEATING ARMS CO." at the top in bold red and yellow lettering, a pair of ducks at center, and vignettes of two hunters in the woods with a Winchester rifle aimed at unseen game and a cowboy using his horse for cover as he engages a distant foe with his Winchester. All of the cartridges appear to be present and remain attached. The back of the board has the original "PRESENTED WITH COMPLIMENTS OF THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. PLEASE HANG IN A PROMINENT PLACE" paper label affixed to the top center. The overall display including the frame measures approximately 36 3/4 x 49 5/8 inches.

Price Realized:

NRA Silver Medal Winning and Magnificent Deluxe Factory Engraved Double Deer and Dog Running Animal Scene, Silver-Plated, Henry Lever Action Rifle

Lot 14

Engraved and Silver-Plated New Haven Arms Co. Henry Rifle

Deluxe, factory engraved, Henry lever-action rifle manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. in August 1863. The rifle has a high polish blue finish on the barrel and integral magazine. The receiver and crescent buttplate are silver plated, and the hammer, lever and trigger are color casehardened. The stock is nicely figured, fancy grain, walnut with a high polish "piano" finish. The barrel has a nickel-silver, square back, front sight blade and a dove tail mounted folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch. The magazine has the larger, second style follower, and the receiver has a beveled follower notch. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "HENRY'S PATENT OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS. CO. NEWHAVEN. CT." ahead of the rear sight. The receiver has the alternate rear sight dovetail that was discontinued around the time this rifle was manufactured. The buttplate is the first pattern with rounded heel. The buttplate has a hinged trap door, and the butt trap contains a four-piece, jointed, hickory cleaning rod. The left side of the stock is fitted with a factory sling swivel, and the left side of the barrel has a factory, screw-mounted loop for a sling hook. The rifle serial number "3007" is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver and on the left side of the lower tang beneath the stock, in the upper tang inlet of the stock and on the inside of the buttplate. The shanks of both hand-fitted buttplate screws and stamped with the rifle serial number. All of the visible serial numbers match. The assembly number "924" is stamped on the barrel inside the loading sleeve and on the rear face of the sleeve. The receiver and buttplate are decorated with deluxe "extra" engraving attributed to Samuel J. Hoggson of New Haven who is believed to have executed most of the factory engraving on Henry rifles. The engraving features has the same combination of scrollwork on a punch-dot background, floral designs and stylized game scene as other Hoggson engraved Henry rifles but is more elaborate and extensive. The game scene of the left side plate features two deer pursued by two hounds; this is the only factory engraved Henry rifle known with four animals in the scene. In addition to the more elaborate game scene, the rifle features more extensive scrollwork on the top and rear of the receiver, upper tang and buttplate heel as well as extra scrolls in front of the side plates and more extensive borders. This rifle was awarded the Silver Medal for "Ten Best Arms" at the 2000 NRA National Convention. The rifle is accompanied by letters of inspection/evaluation by authors George Madis and R.L Wilson. The Madis description states that the rifle is "all original as made by the New Haven Arms Co.," and that "Every pin, screw and all components are as they left the factory". The Wilson letter states: "The number of authentic engraved Henry Rifles is limited - No. 3007 ranks as one of the most remarkable examples, having survived in a condition that is remarkably fine."

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Rare and Desirable Special Order Winchester Model 1892 .44 WCF Smooth Bore Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot 15

Winchester Model 1892 .44 WCF Smooth Bore SRC

This is a truly unique Winchester Model 1892 Saddle Ring Carbine with three special order features that was manufactured in 1914. The unique special order feature on this carbine is the smooth bore 44 W.C.F. chambering. The actual bore diameter measures .420, so that indicates the barrel was never rifled by the factory validating the authenticity of this barrel, it has a half length or button magazine and it is fitted with a very rare short yardage Winchester Express rear sight. This sight is rarely encountered and is calibrated for 50, 100 and 200 yards, with each sight leaf having a small platinum sighting line. The left side of the receiver is fitted with a factory saddle ring and staple. The top left side of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked "MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. PATENTED OCTOBER 14. 1884.", with the caliber designation "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The rear of the barrel and top of the receiver are stamped with the oval Winchester "W/P" proofmark. The serial number is stamped on the underside of the receiver. The upper receiver tang is marked "MODEL 1892/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG. IN U.S. PAT. OFF." Blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever, and mounted with a smooth beautiful straight grain forearm and straight grip stock with a checkered hard rubber shotgun style buttplate. No records are available to writer at time of description, but the gun is undoubtedly original!

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 16

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Musket

This extraordinary Winchester Model 1866 musket was manufactured in 1877 and remains nearly as it was when it left the factory, a remarkable feat for any Winchester Model 1866, but especially so for a standard grade musket, a variation that often saw hard use. These muskets were manufactured by Winchester with an eye for military contracts, and many were made for foreign military contracts and saw battlefield use in Latin America, Europe, and Asia. This incredibly high condition Model 1866 musket has the distinctive 27 inch round barrel with 24 inch magazine and 17 inch walnut forearm secured by two barrel bands. A bayonet lug for a sword bayonet is mounted on the right side of the front barrel band. The stock has a carbine style brass buttplate with sliding trap door. Factory sling swivels are mounted on the upper barrel band and stock. The barrel has a block front sight base with steel blade, and folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch and screw stop for the elevation bar. In addition to the distinctive Model 1866 brass frame and carbine style buttplate, the musket has a blue barrel, magazine, barrel bands and loading gate, and the hammer, trigger, and lever are casehardened. The straight grain American walnut stock and forearm are oil finished. The top of the barrel is roll stamped with the two-line legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING"S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH. 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860" between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The serial number is stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 rimfire

Price Realized:

Lot 17

Winchester Model 92 Trapper Lever Action Carbine

This high condition carbine was manufactured c. 1921-1928 and features a very desirable trapper/baby carbine length 16 inch barrel (legal length, so no need for ATF exemption!). Winchester called these "Special Short Carbines" back then. These were never a cataloged option and were discontinued in 1933 leaving only a limited number available. While they were in production, they were reportedly popular with law enforcement agencies like Winchester's standard length carbines in the early 20th century, and some are known to have been sent to South America making surviving example, especially in high condition like this one, rare and valuable collectible firearms. It also features a pinned beaded blade front sight, an adjustable folding rear carbine sight, saddle ring on the left, and smooth carbine stock and forearm. The barrel has the two-line address on the right, the model, trademark, and caliber on the left; and oval "WP" proof on top. The frame has the oval "WP" on top, the three-line model and trademark marking on the upper tang, the serial number on the bottom of the frame at the front, and "26" to the left of the lever.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Iconic, Historic, and Well-Documented Special Order 1/2 Nickel Plated "One of One Thousand" Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Gold Inlaid Peter Floeck, Houston Inscription, 32 Inch Extra Length Barrel, Factory Letter, and Provenance Documentation

Lot 18

Peter Floeck Houston Gold Inlaid 1 of 1000 Winchester Model 1873

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Rare, Highly Desirable, Special Order Smoothbore Marked Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Takedown Rifle in .50 Express with Letter of Authenticity

Lot 19

Smoothbore Winchester Model 1886 Rifle in .50 Express

Manufactured in 1920 with Winchester factory oval proofs on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The two-line address and patent marking in on the upper left of the barrel in front of the rear sight and the upper left of the barrel at the breech is marked "SMOOTH BORE 50-EX." Winchester factory records indicate that there were 15 of these rare smoothbore Model 1886s manufactured, with likely a handful more, such as this example, that fall into the serial number range that is not present in the factory records. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model and trademark information while the serial number is marked on the lower tang. The included Leroy Merz letter of authenticity states that he has encountered five or six of the .50 Ex. smoothbore Model 1886s, and that he believes this example to be original and correct, including the bore diameter. The bore diameter on this example is approximately .497, indicating that this is an original smoothbore barrel as the diameter would be larger if rifling had been removed. It is fitted with a Lyman beaded blade front sight and a three-leaf express rear sight, and the frame is in takedown configuration. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. These smoothbore rifles are one of the rarest variations of Model 1886 available to the collecting community and are highly desirable.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 50 express

Price Realized:

Excellent Winchester Model 61 Slide Action Rifle in Very Scarce .22 Short with Octagon Barrel

Lot 20

Winchester Model 61 Slide Action .22 Short Rifle

Manufactured in 1947. Beaded blade front and elevation adjustable rear notch sights, first style barrel inscription, Winchester "WP" proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech, matching numbers on the receiver and trigger guard assembly, smooth round top receiver, smooth trigger, serrated hammer catch, and correct un-drilled upper tang. 17 groove slide handle and smooth pistol grip stock with checkered blue steel buttplate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF Short

Price Realized:

Lot 21

Winchester Model 1890 Slide Action Rifle in .22 Short

Manufactured in 1905. Beaded blade front and elevation adjustable rear notch sights, third style barrel inscription, "22 SHORT" on top barrel flat at the breech, Second Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, standard markings on the upper tangs, and matching numbers on the receiver and lower tang. Short 12 groove slide handle and smooth straight grip stock with casehardened crescent steel buttplate. The factory letter confirms the .22 short caliber as well as received in the warehouse on June 1, 1905, and shipped the next day.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF Short

Price Realized:

Well Documented and Magnificent Special Order Factory Gold Inlaid and Plated Presentation Winchester Model 1894 Carved and Deluxe Takedown Lever Action Rifle Signed by Master Factory Engraver John Ulrich with Texas History

Lot 23

J. Ulrich Engraved Winchester Deluxe Model 1894 Rifle

This rifle, 384,777 is one of the most spectacularly appointed and rarely configure Winchester Rifles we at Rock Island Auction have seen headlined by the incredibly rare factory gold inlaid barrel half octagon barrel with globe, peep and folding rear sight, takedown, shotgun butt, factory "D" carved stock with plated frame and trim (forend cap and buttplate) No. 4 factory panel scene engraving signed by John Ulrich. Rightfully so this rifle is extremely well published and described on page 274 of "WINCHESTER ENGRAVING" and on page 178 of "STEEL CANVAS" by R.L. Wilson. The rifle features Winchester factory No. 4 engraving as illustrated and described in the Winchester "HIGHLY FINISHED ARMS" catalog reproduced on page 224 of "WINCHESTER ENGRAVING." The catalog describes No. 4 engraving as: "engraved arabesque scrolls, fancy border and line work, and outline engraving." The left side of the receiver features the game scene of a hunter and two bull elk illustrated in the catalog. The right side of the receiver is engraved: "Presented to/George Rutledge/by/R.M. Dudley./January 1st/1912." in six lines. George Rutledge was a talented marksman and the president of the El Paso, Gun Club starting in 1911 and was also the superintendent of the El Paso division of the Mexico North-Western Railway, the railway robbed by Pancho Villa in 1913 and again by an affiliated group in 1916. Richard M. Dudley was an engineer, financier, mayor of El Paso (1923–1925), and two term Texas state senator. He directed the building of the railroad after previously working on New York Harbor. He moved to El Paso in 1911 from Chihuahua. The engraving covers the rear barrel flats, forearm cap, bolt, hammer, lever, screw heads and buttplate. The barrel is inlaid with a gold band just ahead of the receiver. The lower tang is engraved: "J.H. ULRICH" in tiny letters behind the trigger. The barrel, magazine, bolt and loading gate are blued. The hammer and lever are color casehardened and the forearm cap, receiver and buttplate are gold plated. The stock and forearm are highly figured fancy grade walnut with Winchester Style "D" carving and a high polish piano finish. The Winchester catalog describes Style "D" carving as: "hand carving and fancy checkering" in an "artistic oak leaf pattern". In addition to the gold plated finish, factory engraving, and relief carved stock and forearm, the rifle has numerous special order features. The 24 inch, part round/part octagon barrel has a globe front sight with circular aperture and a Lyman No. 6, two leaf, folding rear sight with bright sighting triangle on the flat top leaf. A Lyman folding combination peep sight with locking button is mounted on the receiver tang. The receiver is fitted with Winchester double-set triggers. The stock has a checkered steel shotgun buttplate. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO./NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A. PATENTED AUGUST 21. 1894." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The left barrel flat is roll-stamped: -NICKEL STEEL BARREL-/ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS POWDER" between the rear sight and the receiver. The caliber: "25-35 W.C.F." is roll stamped on the left barrel flat in an engraved panel. The Winchester oval "W/P" proofmark is stamped on the top of the receiver. The serial number is stamped across the bottom of the receiver. "76" is stamped on the bottom of the receiver just ahead of the double set triggers. The combination of deluxe factory engraving and most importantly factory gold inlay, signed by John Ulrich, rare gold plated finish, relief carved stock and forearm along with numerous special order features and a rarely encountered dated presentation with Texas history make this rifle one of the finest Model 1894 Winchesters extant. Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection; Property of a Gentleman.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 25-35 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Short Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 24

Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Short Rifle

The Winchester Model 1876 became very popular among those on the western frontier who had a desire for more firepower than was available in the Model 1873. Most of the chamberings available for the Model 1876 were capable of making quick work of even the most dangerous game or enemies that might be encountered in the Wild West. This example, a second model manufactured in 1879, is a prime example of that, with its original owner having a desire for both firepower AND portability, having ordered it with a shorter than standard barrel. According to George Madis in "The Winchester Book", only one of every 800 Model 1876 rifles had a shorter than standard barrel. The special order 24 inch barrel is marked on the upper flat with the two-line address/King's patent and correctly lacks caliber markings. The upper tang is marked with the model designation and the serial number is on the lower tang. The left side of the lower tang is marked "4037", which is repeated in the upper stock inlet. It is fitted with a combination Beach front sight, folding ladder rear sight, and a tang mounted peep sight. Both the Beach and peep sights are listed as special order features. It is mounted with a nicely figured, rifle length, smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate containing a four-piece cleaning rod. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration including the special order shorter than standard barrel and sights, as well as receipt at the warehouse on 11 August 1879 and shipment the same day.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Scarce and Desirable Documented Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Factory Letter

Lot 25

Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Saddle Ring Carbine

Manufactured in 1898, this is one of only 652 Model 1886 carbines among the existing records chambered in .38-56 W.C.F. This specific carbine is further rare being that it is one of only 75 recorded as ordered with a shotgun butt. The Model 1886 became extremely popular on the frontier due to its large and powerful caliber options, as well as its improved durability over previous Winchester lever models. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line address in front of the rear sight and caliber marking at the breech. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the lower tang is marked with the patent dates and serial number. It is fitted with a pinned German silver front sight, folding ladder rear sight, and a tang mounted Lyman peep sight. It's mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a hard rubber shotgun buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the configuration including the special order buttplate as well as shipment on 26 August 1898.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-56 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 26

Texas Shipped Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

The Colt Single Action Army is one of the most iconic firearms of the American west, and it, alongside the Winchester Model 1873, are often cited as the "guns that won the west". This example certainly has the look of "been there, done that". Manufactured in early 1898 with the standard one-line address on top of the barrel and caliber marking on the left, two-line patent dates and Rampant Colt on the left of the frame, and matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, with the assembly number "465" on the loading gate. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as shipment to Walter Tips in Austin, Texas on 13 May 1898. Also included in a brass collection type tag marked "GRT/169".

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Documented Antique Special Order Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in .38-56 W.C.F. Attributed to Oregon Trail and Western Scout Mathias "John" Neisius with Supporting Documentation and Winchester Gun Museum Letter

Lot 27

Western Scout Attributed Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Rifle

An included two-page letter typed on G.R. Taylor letterhead lists this rifle by serial number and states that the original owner was Mathias "John" Neisius (1840-1925), who was an important scout on the Oregon Trail and in the American west. On the second page of the letter, Taylor states that Neisius special ordered this deluxe Winchester Model 1886, which is listed by serial number, in 1887, and that he received the rifle in January of 1888. Taylor also states that in the early 1860s, Neisius was a scout in the U.S. cavalry at forts Randell and Mitchell. He later went on to ride in a scouting roll in the territories Dakota, Nebraska and Wyoming, even riding with Buffalo Bill Cody for a time around Fort Laramie. In 1885, he settled down to a ranching life near Silver Creek, Nebraska with his wife Magdelina, and is said to have carried and used this rifle on his ranch until he died on 29 August 1925. Also included are copies of two letters (dated 1966 and 1967) from Al Neisius, a grandson of John's. The two letters confirm most of the information previously stated by Taylor as well as one of them again listing the rifle by serial number and caliber. A copy of Mathias Neisius' death certificate is also included, listing his occupation as "Retired Farmen" as well as a copy of a notary certificate signed by Al Neisius. The included Winchester Gun Museum letter lists the rifle in .38-56 caliber, with an octagon barrel, set trigger, and checkered pistol grip stock when it shipped on 19 January 1888. Manufactured in late 1887, the top flat of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address/King's patent marking ahead of the rear sight, and the caliber marking at the breech. The model designation is marked on the upper tang while the lower tang is marked with the two-line patent dates and the serial number. The left side of the lower tang is marked "1383 XX", and "1383" is repeated in the upper stock inlet and on the inside toe of the buttplate. The rifle is fitted with a folding, gold washed, Beach-style combination front sight, elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, and a Lyman peep sight mounted on the upper tang, as well as a special order set trigger. It is mounted with a finely figured, H-pattern checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with an ebony insert in the base of the grip and a crescent buttplate. This is a rifle that was clearly specifically ordered for both form AND function!

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-56 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented First Generation Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 28

1st Gen. Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1901 with the standard two-line address on top of the barrel and Frontier Six Shooter marking on the left, two-line patent dates and Rampant Colt on the left of the frame, and matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, with the assembly number "208" on the loading gate. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to Simmons Hardware Co. in St. Louis on 21 June 1901.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Historic "The Continental" Double Barrel Hammer Shotgun with Gold Inlaid "J R PLATT TEXAS RANGERS" Inscription

Lot 29

JR Platt Texas Rangers The Continental Double Barrel Shotgun

These shotguns were made in Belgium by Simonis, Janssen & Dumoulin. The underside of the barrels and watertable have matching serial numbers and Belgian proofs (pre-1893 style). The watertable and right lock also have patent markings, most clearly "Patd. June 20 1883" on the lock. The left lock is marked "The Continental." The matted, concave rib is marked "THE CONTINENTAL-.-FINE DAMASCUS" and has "J R PLATT TEXAS RANGERS" in gold inlay and a single bead front sight. The forearm and round knob pistol grip stock are checkered, the former features a contrasting tip, and the latter has a hard rubber buttplate embossed with a basketweave pattern and scene of a dog, shotgun, and shot birds. The chambers measure 3 inches with a single extractor, the choke constrictions measured .015/.006 (R/L) inches. Stock measurements: 1 3/4 inch drop at comb; 2 3/4 inch drop at heel; 14 1/2 inch length of pull. John Radcliff Platt (1862-1911) was one of the several Platt brothers that served in the Texas Rangers in the late 19th century. Their father, Captain Radcliff Platt (1822-1909), is also listed as having served as a mounted volunteer during the Mexican-American War and was a sheriff, farmer, and livery stable owner in Austin. J.R. Platt worked in the stable before he enlisted in the Texas Rangers on June 20, 1886, as a private in the Frontier Batallion in Captain Sam McMurry's Company, and left the Texas Rangers on August 31, 1891. Prior to working as a ranger, he was recorded as working in a stable. The Frontier Battalion was tasked with protecting the Texas frontier from Native American raids and outlaws starting in 1874 at the end of the Reconstruction era in Texas. Texas was very rural at the time and hampered by the depressions of the late 19th century and labor conflicts, and part of Captain McMurry's Company's duty included dealing with labor disputes at the Texas & Pacific Coal Company in Erah County.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Lot 30

Colorized Oil Fields Print by L.A. Huffman

The visible portion of this print measures 5 1/2 x 10 1/4 inches and features oil production facilities and oil wells, likely in the oil fields of eastern Montana, and has been lightly colorized with water colors. The print is marked with L.A. Huffman's copyright dated February 1921 in the lower left corner in black ink. Laton Alton Huffman (1854-1931) is famous for his photography of Montana life, including Native Americans, the landscape, wildlife, and ranching. Many of his prints were later colorized and enlarged.

Price Realized:

Freund & Bro. Marked Sharps Model 1874 Rifle

Lot 31

Freund & Bro. Improved Sharps Model 1874 Rifle

Like many in the American firearms industry in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Freund brothers Frank W. and George were German immigrants. They had various temporary shop locations as they followed the Union Pacific westward and established more permanent shops in Denver, Colorado, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, where they regularly modified firearms, particularly Sharps rifles, to fit their customer's needs. They sold rifles to the likes of generals Philip Sheridan and George Cook and Theodore Roosevelt. In addition to mechanical alterations and creating new configurations, the Freunds also designed new sights. This early Model 1874 rifle from the Hartford factory has a blade front sight and unique Freund improved Lawrence patent rear sight with improved notches. The barrel, which was shortened during the period of use, likely at a Freund shop, has the Sharps Hartford address ahead of the rear sight (partially covered), "FREUND & BRO." at an angle and "CALIBRE 44" on top at the breech. The bottom of the barrel is marked "S155741" and the inside of the forend has "155741", which is repeated on the upper tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock. The rifle in the West prior to the famous Battle of Little Bighorn when the region was still contested and conflicts with Native Americans as well as other settlers and outlaws remained part of life. Sharps rifles were preferred by many in the West because they could reliably take game and be used in defense at longer ranges.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Desirable, Early Production, Freund & Bro. Marked Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle with Henry Patent Barrel Marking

Lot 32

Freund & Bro. Marked Winchester Model 1866 Rifle

The story of the Freund brothers as gunsmiths traced its path westward much like the expanding railways and settlers seeking opportunity, as they set up temporary shops along their route. Eventually the brothers settled permanently, with shops in Denver, Colorado and Cheyenne, Wyoming. From those two shops they became known for retailing and improving mostly single shot rifles, particularly the Sharps Model 1874, making a repeater with their markings quite scarce. It is possible that this rifle was simply retailed or repaired in a Freund shop, and had their marking added at that time. Manufactured in 1868 with the Second Model receiver. The octagon barrel has the first style marking "HENRY'S PATENT OCT. 16. 1860/ KING'S-PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866" in two lines ahead of the rear sight and "FREUND & BRO" between the rear sight and the receiver on the breech. The serial number "19555" is stamped on the left side of the lower tang following "VR" and covered by the stock. The serial number is repeated in the stock inlet and inside the buttplate. It is fitted with a blade front sight and the standard Henry style folding ladder rear sight, as well as a sling swivel on the brass forearm cap and on the bottom of the buttstock. The brass receiver has an indented loading port cover that is retained by a single screw and the hammer does not have a half-cock notch and has borderless knurling on the spur. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate featuring the sharply pointed heel and hinged trapdoor that contains a four-piece cleaning rod.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Desirable Documented Nickel Plated Colt Black Powder Etched Panel Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 33

Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

The accompanying factory letter confirms the 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber and nickel plating (type of stocks not listed). The letter also states the revolver was shipped on May 9, 1884 to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, Missouri. This was a 25 gun shipment. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address on top and features the desirable etched panel ("COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER") on the left side. The underside of the barrel has the correct caliber designation "44" in small font. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is marked "44 CF." Fitted with a set of attractive pearl grips.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Native American Style Tack Decorated Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle with Desirable "Thumbprint" Dust Cover

Lot 34

Native American Style Decorated Winchester Model 1876 Rifle

Manufactured in 1884 as a second model with the dust cover rail retained with two screws and the dust cover having the desirable "thumbprint" grip checkering. These Model 1876 rifles were incredibly popular on the western frontier for their increased firepower over almost anything else available. This example shows extensive brass tack decoration on the stock, which is often associated with Native American use, and a period shortened barrel which would certainly make it the sort of rifle any Native American warrior would have been happy to carry into battle. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking (partially obfuscated) in front of the rear sight dovetail and the caliber marking at the breech. The model designation is on the upper tang, faint serial number on the lower, and faint caliber marking repeated on the cartridge elevator. It is fitted with a brass blade front sight and an empty rear sight dovetail, with the rear sight appearing to have been absent for quite some time judging by the patina on the barrel. The loading gate is a modern replacement. It is mounted with a smooth rifle-length forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. As previously stated, the wood has been extensively decorated with domed brass tacks in various patterns and lines.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60 WCF

Price Realized:

Historic and Documented One of Three Known Nickel Plated Rinaldo A. Carr Inspected U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 35

Nickel U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Revolver

Offered is a historically significant nickel plated U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Revolver as it has taken center stage to a grand debate among Colt and U.S. military firearms collectors that continues on to today. Four basic theories for the existence of highly controversial nickel plated U.S. Cavalry Model Revolvers have developed over the decades and are the following: 1) issued to Indian Scouts and Police; 2) special order "officers" revolvers; 3) surplus State of Virginia Militia revolvers sold to and nickel plated by Colt or commercial retailers; and 4) U.S. Navy revolvers. See Kopec's "A Study of Colt Single Action Army Revolver" for the history related to this ongoing debate. This example, no. 137603, is documented by serial number in Kopec's aforementioned ground breaking study on pages 237 and 249 as being one of only three nickeled U.S. revolvers found in the Rinaldo A. Carr ordnance inspected model serial number range 131208-140361 known to exist in collections today. The other two revolvers are nos. 133125 and 134191. After a careful review it was determined, "The occurrence therefore of nickel plated U.S. Cavalry revolvers was predominantly found in the 1870s. Their 'popularity' began to dwindle during the 1880s and was nearly gone during the 1890s" (page 249). The accompanying factory letter for this Cavalry Model states it was chambered in .45 caliber and had a blue finish when it was sold to the U.S. government and delivered to the U.S. government inspector at the Colt plant on January 20, 1891. This delivery was for 200 units. The barrel length and stocks are not listed in the records, a common indication of a 7 1/2 inch barrel and walnut stocks as these features were standard and are the features found on this revolver. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by "US." Carr's "RAC" inspector initials appear on the barrel, cylinder, frame, and bottom of the grip. A "P" proof appears on the barrel and cylinder. The grip has the date "1891" (faint) and Inspector Stanhope English Blunt's script letter cartouche on the left side and Carr's script letter cartouche on the right side. The matching full serial number is on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The matching partial serial number "7603" is on the cylinder and barrel.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Lot 36

U.S. Springfield Model 1877 Trapdoor Carbine

Reportedly 4,500 of these so called "Transitional Model 1873/1879" carbines were manufactured between 1877-1878. This rifle is manufactured within the correct pre-100000 serial number range with the low-arch breechblock, standard blade front sight, the continuous curve notch and folding ladder rear sight graduated out to 1,200 yards and marked "C", "U.S./MODEL/1873" breechblock marking, no "1873" on the lock, single sling swivel on the barrel band (stacking swivels listed as standard), an "1878" dated cartouche on the stock, and a thick wrist stock with a 10 1/2 inch comb and a compartment in the butt (empty).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 37

Three Large Framed Colorized Native American Prints by Carl Moon

This desirable grouping includes three large framed photograph prints by Carl (Karl) Moon (1879-1948), all of which are ink signed by the artist in the lower left corner in black ink. Moon turned a lifelong obsession with Native American culture into a successful career as a photographer and an artist, even being invited to exhibit his work at the National Museum in Washington D.C. in 1906, as well as at the White House by President Theodore Roosevelt, who also later included Moon on his hunting expeditions for the Smithsonian Institute. All three prints have been lightly colorized with what appears to be water colors. The portrait appears to be titled "Pesothlanny, Mr. Much Money, Navajo" and measures approximately 25 1/2 x 21 inches including the frame. The other two appear to be a set, featuring a Native American man stretching a hide on a frame in one and the same man painting the stretched hide in the other. The two prints in this set measure approximately 25 1/4 x 21 1/4 inches and 21 1/4 x 25 1/4 inches including the matching frames.

Rare and Desirable Special Order Antique Casehardened Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Thin Side Single Shot Rifle in Extremely Scarce .45 Express with Factory Letter

Lot 38

Antique Winchester 1885 High Wall Thin Side Rifle in 45 Express

The Winchester Model 1885 was Winchester's first firearm capable of firing powerful big game cartridges and is based on designs patented by John Moses Browning in 1879. The .45-125 Winchester Express cartridge was introduced in 1886 and only available by special order and discontinued after only a few years making rifles like this one chambered for this long express cartridge true rarities. This early rifle from 1887 has a beaded blade front sight, the two-line address ahead of the three-leaf express rear sight, "45 EX." on top of the barrel at the breech, "4" on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the forearm, "11" under the forearm, "45 EX 7" on the bottom at the breech, a period modified Vernier tang peep sight on the upper tang, casehardened frame, patent marking and script serial number on the lower tang, and smooth walnut forearm with contrasting insert in the tip and straight wrist stock with steel shotgun buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the 30 inch no. 4 weight octagon barrel in .45 Express and plain trigger. The letter also states the rifle was received in the warehouse on February 26, 1889 and shipped the same day.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 express

Price Realized:

Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Single Shot Target Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 39

Special Order Winchester 1885 High Wall Single Shot Target Rifle

The factory letter lists this rifle in .38-55 caliber with a 30 inch, 1/2 octagon, #2 weight barrel (current replacement barrel marked "3"); plain trigger, and checkered stock with pistol grip (no mention of cheekpiece or Swiss style buttplate) and indicates it was received in the warehouse on June 21, 1886, and shipped on June 27, 1886, in order 7069. It is equipped with a windage adjustable globe front sight, spirit level in the rear dovetail, adjustable single set trigger, Vernier peep sight, deluxe checkered Schnabel tip forearm, and deluxe multi-point checkered pistol grip stock with large cheekpiece and nickel Swiss buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Custom Engraved Marlin Ballard Schuetzen Single Shot Rifle with Al Siegrist Barrel

Lot 40

Engraved Marlin Ballard Schuetzen Rifle with Al Siegrist Barrel

This is a very fine example of a custom Schuetzen rifle with an Al Siegrist 28 inch part octagon heavy barrel. Attractive floral engraving with a punchdot background on the frame and lever. Drilled and tapped for a tang peep sight, double set triggers, a two-finger spur lever, and is fitted with a custom checkered walnut Schnabel tip forearm and straight grip stock, raised comb with cheek rest, and a silver plated Swiss buttplate. The receiver and lever are casehardened, and the barrel is blued. The top of the barrel is marked "A. SIEGRIST". The left of the receiver is marked with the two line Marlin Fire Arms Co. maker and patent information and the serial number "25095" is marked on the bottom of the frame at the front. Includes an assortment of brass .28-30-120 Stevens shell casings and .28 caliber lead cast bullets. Provenance: The Gerard F. "Jerry" de Vaudreuil Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 28

Price Realized:

Lot 41

Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

This fairly early production Winchester Model 1894 was manufactured in 1902 and has a pinned blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, standard markings, and smooth carbine forearm and buttstock. This model quickly became the most popular lever action in the U.S. and was used by numerous American hunters as well as lawmen like Frank Hamer and the Texas Rangers. The latter frequently used their rifles in the early 20th century in a tragic wave frontier violence.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 42

Antique Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

The Model 1892 is one of the most iconic western firearms and was a co-star in many classic films. This carbine falls within the pre-1899 serial number range published by Winchester based on the Madis dates and is thus legally an antique. It has a pinned blade front sight, notch and ladder rear sight, standard markings, and carbine stock and forearm.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Texas Shipped First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Holster, Belt, and Factory Letter

Lot 43

Texas Shipped First Generation Colt Single Action Army with Rig

The factory letter lists the revolver in .38-40 with a 4 3/4 inch barrel, and blue finish when it was part of a shipment of 18 guns of this type shipped on August 15, 1902, to Bering Cortes Hardware Co. in Houston, Texas. The company was formed by Julius C. Bering and H.W. Cortes c. 1885. The revolver has a blade front sight, two-line address, no visible caliber marking, the two-line patent marking followed by a faint encircled Rampant Colt on the left, matching serial numbers, and checkered hard rubber grips with embossed Rampant Colt emblems. The brown leather double loop holster and cartridge belt are not marked.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 44

Framed Panoramic Print of Grazing Wild Horses by L.A. Huffman

The visible portion of the print measures 8 3/8 x 18 3/8 inches and features a herd of what appear to be wild horses calmly grazing on a hillside, while a couple large tents are seen in the distant background. It is marked "L.A.Huffman" in the lower right corner in black ink. The frame has an attractive antique appearance with accenting insect type holes/trails and measures approximately 11 1/2 x 21 1/2 inches. Laton Alton Huffman (1854-1931) was among the few photographers to photograph the reality ranching life in Montana in the late 19th century and enlarged many of his earlier photographs later in his life.

Price Realized:

Lot 45

Two Old West Railroad Related Prints, One Framed by L.A. Huffman

These two prints both feature turn of the century railroad themes, both appearing to be located in the American West. The framed example featured a track laying team and their equipment laying railroad track near Miles City, Montana, in the winter time. The lower left is marked "C.M.St.P+P TRACK LAYING OUTFIT NEAR MILES CITY, 1908", and the lower right has the L.A. Huffman copyright and "232B". The other print is attached to card stock that has a faint marking at the bottom, likely that of the studio that produced it, which appears to give the location as North Dakota. The print shows a large crown of people standing around a derailed train. L.A. Huffman became one of the legendary photographers of the American West by photographing all aspects of life there, with this piece being a prime example.

Price Realized:

Documented Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Very Scarce Extra Heavy Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 46

Antique Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Heavy Barrel Rifle

Manufactured in 1884 as a second model with the dust cover guide rail retained with two screws and dust cover with the serrations at the rear. The included factory letter lists this rifle with a special order 26 inch extra heavy octagon barrel and a set trigger when it was received at the warehouse on 10 January 1884 and shipped the next day with six other Model 1873s to order number 9835. A heavier than standard barrel was a special order feature that renowned Winchester author George Madis lists as only being found on one out of every 1,100 Model 1873 rifles, making it one of the rarest special order features. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address/King's patent marking and correctly lacks a caliber marking. The extra heavy barrel is fitted with a later added, large German silver blade front sight, an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, and the rifle has a tang mounted long range peep sight and the previously mentioned set trigger. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 47

Antique Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1891 with the desirable early casehardened receiver found only on Model 1886 rifles manufactured prior to 1902. The Model 1886 was designed by John Browning and provided heavy firepower in a rugged and durable design, two very desirable traits on the frontier or anywhere in the American West. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address in front of the rear sight and the caliber marking at the breech. The upper tang has the model designation, and the lower tang is marked with the two-line patent dates and the serial number. It is fitted with a later added King's patent, beaded blade, sun reflector front sight and an elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40-65 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 48

Texas Shipped Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1904, this First Generation Single Action Army has every appearance of being a working man's gun on the Texas prairie. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to Walter Tips C/O W.B. Fox & Bros. in Austin, Texas. Tips operated a hardware store at 710 Congress Ave in Austin starting c. 1872. It has the standard two-line address on top of the barrel, caliber marking on the left, and two-line patent date on the left side of the frame along with the Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the loading gate has the assembly number "774". It has standard features.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Factory Panel Scene Engraved Sharps Model 1853 Slant Breech Sporting Carbine

Lot 49

Factory Engraved Sharps Model 1853 Slant Breech Sporting Carbine

This Sharps Model 1853 sporting carbine was factory engraved at the Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. in Hartford, Connecticut, and is chambered in 60 bore (.44 caliber), with a 22 inch octagon barrel, double triggers, globe and ladder sights with a tang mounted peep sight. The distinctive Hartford factory Germanic scroll engraving, consisting of tight circular scrollwork on a punch-dot background, covers the top of the barrel between the rear sight and receiver, the receiver, lock plate, hammer, upper and lower tang, lever, patch box and buttplate tang. This style engraving is also found on factory engraved Colt revolvers manufactured in the mid-1850s. The left of the receiver does not have a sling bar and ring which were frequently not fitted to Model 1853 sporting carbines. The carbine has the distinctive "slant breech" receiver with Lawrence pellet primer. The stock and forearm are straight grain American walnut with an iron patch box and buttplate. The barrel is blued, and the receiver, lock plate, patch box, buttplate and lever are color casehardened. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG.CO./HARTFORD CONN" in three lines. The lock plate is roll-stamped "SHARPS/PATENT/1852" in three lines in a panel surrounded by scrollwork with scenery of a waterfowl flying out of the water behind. A scene of hunting dogs taking down a stag is engraved on the patchbox, and hunting dogs taking down a bear are engraved on the left of the receiver. "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" is roll-stamped on the upper receiver tang in a panel surrounded by scrollwork ahead of the serial number. The matching serial number is located on the underside of the barrel, rear flat of the forearm, underside of the patchbox door and underside of the buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare Cased Engraved Massachusetts Arms Co. Maynard Primed Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun

Lot 50

Massachusetts Arms Co. Maynard Primed Double Barrel Shotgun

Very little is known about these rare Mass. Arms Co. Maynard muzzleloading double barrel shotguns. They were presumably made in the 1850s, but must have been manufactured in very limited numbers given the small number that have surfaced, and we have seen less than a handful. They are discussed briefly in the article "The Design, Marketing and Production of Maynard Rifles" by Max W. Goodwin in the American Society of Arms Collectors Bulletin 88 from Fall 2003 and a similar example from the NRA National Firearms Museum is shown. The shotgun is currently improperly listed on the NRA Museum website in case 11 as a converted musket and is very similar to the current shotgun but is in lower condition. The back action locks have "MASS. ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS" behind the hammers, "MAYNARD'S PATENT/SEP. 22. 1845" on the primer doors, and scroll engraving. The Damascus barrels have a bead front sight and "LONDON. FINE TWIST." on the concave rib. The underside of the rib and the breech plug hooks are marked "43," and the barrels have Birmingham proofs. The furniture has scroll, floral, and entwining pattern engraving. The stock has nickel-silver wedge escutcheons, a checkered wrist, a blank nickel-silver escutcheon on the bottom of the butt, and a 14 1/2 inch length of pull. The case contains several accessories, including leather shot and powder flasks.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Panel Scene Engraved and Silver Mounted Double Barrel Percussion Cape Gun by Nelson Lewis of Troy, New York

Lot 51

Engraved Nelson Lewis New York Double Barrel Percussion Cape Gun

"N. LEWIS MAKER TROY N.Y" marked on top of the rib. Nelson Lewis' (1811-1888) shop was located at Congress and Church Street in Troy, New York, where he was an active gunmaker starting in 1843 and continuing for more than forty years. The rifled left barrel measures at approximately .40 caliber with the smoothbore right barrel measuring at approximately 20 gauge. The solid rib is fitted with a hooded silver blade front sight and an empty dovetailed slot for a rear sight, with a flip-up tang mounted peep sight. The rifle is mounted with a straight grip half stock with a silver forend cap, eagle plaque and patchbox, and casehardened upper tang, locks, hammers, trigger guard with pineapple finial, and buttplate. Features fine floral scroll and border engraving on all of the fittings minus the barrels, with a finely detailed German silver patriotic eagle plaque on the left side cheekpiece, and a bear scene on the patchbox door. Complete with a brass tipped double sided wooden ramrod for use with each barrel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40

Price Realized:

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