Premier Firearms Auction #87

December 09, 2022 to December 11, 2022

This auction has ended.

Premier Firearms Auction #87

December 09, 2022 to December 11, 2022

This auction has ended.

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Showing 1-50 of 86 results

Historic Documented Serial Number 1 U.S. Springfield-Sharps Model 1870 Second Type Trials Rifle

Lot 69

SN 1 U.S. Springfield-Sharps Model 1870 2nd Type Rifle

This historic rifle was on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013 to 2022 and is pictured in the book "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" by Supica, Wicklund, and Schreier on p. 196 in the "Serial Number One Guns" section of the "Historic Arms" chapter. The caption stated "Sharps U.S. Model 1870, Serial Number 1 .50-70, ca. 1870. After the Civil War, the U.S. military assembled a small number of these as they searched for a metallic cartridge, breech-loading rifle to replace the muzzle-loaders of the 1860's. This Second Type Sharps rifle is #1 of 300 made. Eventually the military settled on the trapdoor action." The Sharps was one of the best firearms of the Civil War and continued to see extensive use in the American West in the late 19th century, even after the Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. closed in 1881. These Model 1870 rifles were part of the company's transition from percussion ignition to metallic cartridges and helped pave the way for the Model 1874 that became one of the most iconic western firearms. The Second Type Model 1870 rifles use the early Model 1874 style actions rather than converted percussion actions. Springfield Armory produced the other parts and actually built the rifles. Serial number "1" is marked on the left side of the barrel at the breech and on the upper tang. The "armory bright" finished barrel has a "barley corn" front sight that doubles as the lug for a socket bayonet and a notch and folding ladder rear sight. The action components are casehardened. The left side of the frame has the 1848 patent. The left side of the wrist has a crisp "ESA" cartouche for Springfield director Erskine S. Allin who designed the Springfield trapdoor that ultimately beat these Sharps rifles to become the standard U.S. long gun. There is also an "L" stamp on the buttstock behind the lower tang, and "L" and other single letter inspection marks are found on some of the other components. Sling swivels are mounted to the upper barrel band and buttstock, and the buttplate has "US" stamped ahead of the heel screw. A "100/SUPICA" and "SERIAL/NUMBER/ONE" marked tag and a "LOAN/to/NRA" tag accompany the rifle. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50-70

Price Realized:

Fascinating, Well-Documented Gustave Young Factory Exhibition Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 3 American 2nd Model Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 70

Factory Exhibition Engraved S&W No. 3 American Revolver

Offered here is a well-documented Gustave Young factory engraved Smith & Wesson No. 3 American 2nd Model Revolver with an exciting history of being used by S&W at various exhibitions. In the accompanying factory letter S&W historian Roy Jinks identifies the gun as a "Special Engraved Exhibition Revolver" that was displayed "in 3 major world exhibitions before it was sold." No other details concerning the exhibitions are given. However, the letter furnishes the factory record, indicating the revolver was sold on May 15, 1878 and delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City with an 8 inch barrel, gold finish, Gustave Young factory engraving and ivory grips. The revolver was billed to Robinson at $25.00. Additional information is found in John Parsons' "Smith & Wesson Revolvers" where this work of art on steel canvas is listed by serial among six Americans specifically decorated to be exhibited at the San Francisco Fair of 1877 (page 130). This fair was likely the 1877 San Francisco Industrial Exhibition. It is known that other Gustave Young engraved Americans displayed in San Francisco were also exhibited at world's fairs in Vienna in 1873 and Philadelphia in 1876, and after the San Francisco fair these exhibition Model 3s veterans were delivered in 1878 to M.W. Robinson, S&W's largest distributor, where they were sold (see "Artistry in Arms: The Guns of Smith & Wesson" on page 67). This American was among those few Gustave Young exhibition engraved pieces displayed in Vienna, Philadelphia, and San Francisco and then sold by M.W. Robinson in 1878. The near full coverage engraving features a scrollwork pattern most often used by Gustave Young in his career. This exhibition veteran No. 3 is unusual in that it is chambered in .44 S&W Russian. Standard chambering for the No. 3 American was in .44 American with around 200 manufactured in .44 Rimfire Henry. This example, however, is chambered in .44 Russian, a cartridge designed by S&W for their No. 3 Russian revolvers originally intended for the Imperial Russian Army circa 1871. The .44 Russian cartridge was more popular than .44 American, and the revolver was likely re-chambered during its period of use. Other period modifications include shortening the barrel from its original 8 inches to a more manageable and more popular length of 5 inches and changing the grips out to plain pearl. As author Charles Pate pointed out, "Another of the exhibition revolvers, serial number 15688, probably has at least an equally interesting story but it is, unfortunately, partially lost to history." The revolver was found by our consignor at a Tulsa gun show. This exhibition veteran has enjoyed coverage in prominent S&W related publications: Charles Pate's "Smith & Wesson American Model" on page 317, Michael Kennelly's "Smith & Wesson Engraving" on page 63, and the 4th edition of Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 61. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Russian

Price Realized:

W.F. Sheard Livingston, Montana Shipped and Marked Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver with Rare Documented 5 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 72

W.F. Sheard Marked Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

The accompanying factory letter confirms the scarce 5 inch barrel (standard barrel length for this model was 6 1/2 inches) and blue finish. The letter also states the revolver was shipped on July 20th, 1891, to famed sight designer W.F. Sheard (address not available, but presumably Montana). The underside of the frame is marked "FROM W.F. SHEARD/LIVINGSTON MONT." This marking matches others found on other arms sold by William F. Sheard who lived in Livingston, Montana, in 1884-1895 before moving on to Tacoma, Washington. He is remembered by American arms collectors for his patented front and rear rifle sights which were later produced by Marble, but he was also a key firearms dealer in Montana in the late 19th century where this No. 3 was retailed. In the factory letter S&W historian Roy Jinks notes, "Sheard was a good customer of Smith & Wesson, a very skilled target shooter and inventor of the Sheard sight." The front sight on this revolver has been reshaped to the general Sheard configuration, probably by his own hand. Other features of the revolver include the two-line S&W address/patent dates legend on the barrel rib and matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The back of the right grip panel is marked "GW BARRY." Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Special Order Young Family Shop Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver with Exceptional Relief Carved Mexican Eagle Grip and Factory Letters Indicating Target Champion and NRA Historical Association

Lot 73

Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Revolver

Engraved in the Young family shop, this is a Smith & Wesson No. 3 revolver with target sights and fine carved Mexican eagle and snake grips. The revolver features nicely executed scroll and punch dot engraving on the sides of the barrel, cylinder, and frame. The front end is mismatched to the frame, but the engraving is nearly identical, indicating it was done by the same hand. The trigger and hammer are finely checkered. The engraving covers approximately one-third of the revolver. The revolver has a high-polish blue finish, casehardened hammer, trigger and trigger guard. The revolver is fitted with target front and rear sights. The front sight blade is topped with a bead and inserted in a groove on the barrel rib. The adjustable target type rear sight is mounted on the barrel catch. The grips are later replacements. The S&W New Model No. 3 two-line address is located on the top of the barrel rib. The serial number "29731" is stamped on the butt. The cylinder and barrel are numbered "32530". The barrel latch is unnumbered. Factory letters for both serial numbers (29731 and 32530) are included. Per the factory letters, both guns were special orders, but there are no details for the special features nor of how they came together, which would certainly be an interesting story. No. 29731 is listed with a 6 1/2 inch barrel and was shipped on August 22, 1901 and delivered to National Rifle Association Secretary A.S. Janes of Washington D.C. No. 32530 is listed with a 7 inch barrel and was shipped on March 6, 1898 and delivered to American pistol champion G. Armstrong of San Francisco. All frames for these revolvers were manufactured prior to 1899, which makes the gun an antique, but were cataloged into the early 1900s. This is still a handsome New Model Number 3 with genuine period engraving that appears to be done by a member of the Young family. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Very Rare U.S. Smith & Wesson Second Model Schofield Single Action Revolver Converted to .450 Boxer for NRA Imperial Meeting Target Competitions

Lot 74

U.S. Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver Converted to .450 Boxer

Originally manufactured for the U.S. military circa 1876-77 with total production approximately 5,934, this very interesting and historically significant U.S. S&W Schofield revolver later received a very rare target conversion to .450 Boxer for use at the NRA's Imperial Meetings. The conversion consists of an additional plate added to the recoil shield to reduce the head space and modified sights. First held at Wimbledon Common in 1860 with the inaugural shot fired by Queen Victoria, the Imperial Meetings were initially opened to only regular and reserve military personnel competing with issued service small arms. The competition moved to Bisley Camp in 1890 and is today one of world's leading shooting competitions open to all who qualify. Revolvers classed as Military Revolver were mandated to carry British government ammunition. To compete therefore required the U.S. Army's Schofield chambered in .45 S&W to be converted to a British service cartridge. The .450 Boxer was the British Army's first centerfire revolver cartridge circa late 1860s and considered obsolete in 1880 but remained in service as late as World War I. The revolver retains the U.S. Ordnance sub-inspector stamps "W" and "P" on the underside of the barrel lug and rear cylinder face. "US" is stamped on the butt, and the number "9004" is stamped on the bottom of the left grip panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Many Schofield revolvers were issued to the 4th Cavalry which saw service in the "Geronimo Campaign" and the famous 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry comprised of the "Buffalo Soldiers" stationed in the American Southwest. Pictured in the 4th edition of Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 113. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 450 Boxer

Price Realized:

Lot 76

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action First Model Revolver

All frames of the .44 Double Action First Model Revolver were manufactured between 1881 and 1898, but this model was listed in the company catalogs and sold up until 1913. This example has the rare Bridgeport rig stud on the sideplate. The Bridgeport rig, which is not included with this lot, was patented by Louis S. Flatau of Pittsburg, Texas, in 1882 and manufactured by the Bridgeport Gun Implement Co. of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Approximately 500 units were manufactured for U.S. Army trial issue and were attached to Model 1874 saber belts at the Rock Island Arsenal. The rig allowed for a revolver to be quickly disengaged from the belt or swiveled and fired from the belt. The Army determined that it was not suitable for issue and sold the remaining devices as surplus. A smaller number of the Bridgeport rigs were manufactured for the civilian market where it enjoyed limited success among those on the Western frontier. The revolver wears a set of plain pearl grips and is fitted with a factory lanyard ring on the butt. Matching serial number appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Desirable and Documented Wells Fargo Marked U.S. Smith & Wesson Second Model Schofield Single Action Revolver

Lot 77

Wells Fargo/US Schofield Second Model Revolver

This is a S&W Schofield Second Model Revolver that was originally purchased by the U.S. Government. Schofields were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo express agents and many others. The U.S. military markings include "US" stamped on the butt, "W" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face and "W" on the frame. The right side of the ejector rod shroud has the Wells Fargo marking: "W.F.&CO. EX. 3436" followed by a larger "S". The barrel has been shortened during its period of use, as was common with 19th century revolvers purchased by the various express companies. Matching serial number on the butt, right grip panel and cylinder. Matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel and cylinder. This revolver has been pictured in the "Guns West" exhibit catalog on page 13 and David Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on pages 134-135, reported in "American Rifleman" and "True West" magazines, and displayed at the National Firearms Museum in 2008-2009. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W Schofield

Price Realized:

Rare, Documented Colorado Shipped Serial Number 1 Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 .38 Winchester Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 78

Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 .38 Win. Revolver Serial No. 1

The New Model No. 3 .38 Winchester Revolver is one of the rarest production models manufactured by S&W. From 1900 to 1907 only 74 units of this model were manufactured, and all units are found in the serial number range 1-74. Offered here is serial number 1! These ultra rare S&W revolvers were built in New Model No. 3 configuration but with the long 1 9/16 inch cylinder to accommodate the .38-40 Winchester cartridge. The New Model No. 3 is often credited as the most advanced revolver design of the 19th century, made popular by lawmen and outlaws of the Western frontier who took their choice of sidearm very seriously. The accompanying factory letter for serial no. 1 confirms the revolver was shipped on July 24, 1901, and delivered to G. Tritch Hardware Co. of Denver Colorado. In the factory letter S&W historian Roy Jinks notes, "This was the largest single shipment of this rare model." George Tritch (1829-1899) immigrated from Germany as a child around 1831 and established his first hardware store in Denver in 1860. The first store operated out of the cabin where the Tritch family also lived. The George Tritch Hardware Company grew to become one of Denver's most successful commercial ventures during a time when Colorado had a well known reputation for being an unforgiving and lawless environment as settlers pushed westward in their quest to build their own American Dream. Years of unrest and bloodshed paved the way for the region to become the beacon of development of the West. Serial no. 1 is a high condition, well cared for Colorado shipped sidearm. The left side of the barrel is stamped "38 WINCHESTER CTG," and the barrel rib has the one-line address. Matching serial number "1" appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Over the years the revolver has been well-documented in various publications including Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 108, "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum on page 198, and Jim Supica's "The Illustrated History of Firearms, 2nd Edition" on page 94. The revolver was also loaned to the NRA Museum for a number of years and was on display there until two years ago. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Historic Documented Last Production Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver with Scarce 8 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 79

Last Production Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

In 1878 S&W introduced the New Model No. 3, and it was an instant success. Its design drew on handling and mechanical improvements from its popular predecessors, the American, Russian and Schofield models, and spawned a series of wide ranging variations, including a target model that dominated target competition in the late 19th century. For many gun historians, the New Model No. 3 was simply the finest single action revolver design of the 19th century, easily beating out the Colt SAA for the top spot. All frames for these revolvers were manufactured prior to 1899, which makes the gun an antique, but they were cataloged into the early 1900s as seen with this example. The New Model 3 serial number range is 1 to 35796, with this example, no. 35796, being the highest number New Model No. 3 S&W manufactured. Thus, it is a historic revolver that closed the chapter on one of S&W's most popular and influential designs. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped on June 1, 1908, and was delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City. In the letter S&W historian Roy Jinks states unequivocally, "This was the last New Model #3 manufactured." The revolver has the scarce 8 inch barrel and the longer top strap to accommodate the 1 9/16 inch cylinder. The barrel rib has the late production one-line address. The left side of the barrel is stamped "44 S&W CTG." The grips are checkered walnut. The matching serial number appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Rare and Interesting "Club Gun" Serial Number "0" Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action Revolver

Lot 80

Club Gun Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Revolver

Offered here is an unusual S&W Schofield Revolver with the serial number "0," indicative of what is known in the S&W field as a "Club Gun". It is a First Model Schofield having the first type cylinder latch. The rear cylinder face carries the U.S. Ordnance stamps "W" and "P." There are no other visible U.S. Ordnance markings. The cylinder has the serial number "3084." The butt has the serial number "0" and a S&W factory rework star. The grip frame has the S&W factory January 1912 ("1 12") return date. S&W assembled firearms specifically for prizes and gifts to notable shooters of their day. Many of these purpose built guns bore a serial number "0" or a zero prefix number and were sent to shooting clubs to be presented to the winners of matches, hence the name "Club Gun". It is speculated that across the whole of S&W production only some 750 guns were made for these purposes according to Nahas and Supica on page 336 of the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson", of these 750, some 50 were made especially for the Wesson family. These highly prized guns were generally assigned "zero" serial number prefixes. For comparison see S&W .44 Double Action no. 0 that is identified on page 336 of the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" as a club gun, which is also in this auction Lot 81. The factory may have assembled this Schofield from available parts in 1912. The serial number on the cylinder places it within the Second Model serial number range (3036-8969), but as already stated, the design of the cylinder latch makes the revolver a First Model. The difference in the Second Models featured a rounded edge at the top of the latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W Schofield

Price Realized:

Lot 81

"Club Gun" Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Frontier Revolver

In the accompanying factory letter S&W historian Roy Jinks identifies this S&W .44 DA Frontier Revolver as a "club gun" that unfortunately lacks a factory record. "Club guns" are a special group of handguns S&W gave or loaned to factory personnel, shooting clubs and/or notable shooters as samples or test guns. These highly prized guns were generally assigned "zero" serial number prefixes. In the factory letter Jinks notes, "It is known that several club guns were made with only '0' serial numbers, but there are no records." The serial number "0" appears on the butt, both grip panels, and cylinder. The barrel and barrel latch are unnumbered. The revolver features a pinned blade front sight, notch rear sight on the barrel latch, and two-line address/patent dates marking on the barrel rib. This revolver is pictured in Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 336. Includes a period 6 inch barrel .44 DA Frontier box, and bore brush. Inside the box is a handwritten note: "This revolver belonged to (Mrs) Mary Norman Smith, who was reared near Smithton, Arkansas, lived at Searey from 1907 to her death here in 1926." Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Historic "National Treasure" Factory Documented Spanish-American War Rough Rider Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Shipped Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 84

Documented Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Smith & Wesson No. 3

This revolver is one of the most iconic Smith & Wesson firearms in existence and is factory documented as shipped to one of the most beloved and influential men in American history: Colonel Theodore Roosevelt. The included factory letter confirms this New Model No. 3 was shipped to "Colonel Roosevelt" on May 12, 1898, the same day Roosevelt left for San Antonio, Texas, and the same day as the bombardment of San Juan during the Spanish-American War. On May 6th, Roosevelt had been officially sworn in as a lieutenant colonel in the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry. He was previously expected to be in San Antonio around the 10th but was delayed, so the revolver was likely Texas shipped and was intended to be Roosevelt's personal sidearm for the campaign in Cuba. On July 1, 1898, Theodore Roosevelt famously led the Rough Riders in their charge up Kettle Hill during the Battle of San Juan Hill. The event became one of the most famous events in Roosevelt's life and helped propel him to the governorship of New York, then the vice presidency, and ultimately the presidency in short order. He has remained one of the most iconic statesmen in our nation's history, seen as the physical embodiment of American masculine values at the turn of the century, and was a highly influential leader during a significant transitional period in American history on many fronts. For firearms collectors, veterans, and sportsmen, he is often remembered for his collection of beautiful firearms like this Smith & Wesson, his tough stance against foreign adversaries, his courage in combat, the sacrifice he and his family made for the country, his epic hunts both in the U.S. and abroad, his conservation of more than 230 million acres of public land for all Americans, the establishment of the Boone & Crockett Club and the American Bison Society, and so much more. For historians, we can proudly call him one of our own; he published numerous books in his lifetime, including "History of the Naval War of 1812," "The Rough Riders,"and the multi-volume "The Winning of the West." He is the only American to be awarded both the Nobel Peace Prize (1906) and the Medal of Honor (2001). There is something about Roosevelt for every American to admire. His contributions to this country are simply too immense to compile here. Roosevelt had many firearms, and they were often highly personalized special order pieces that fit his specific tastes and needs. This revolver is chambered in .38 Long Colt, the standard U.S. service cartridge of the period. This caliber is very rare in the New Model No. 3 but makes perfect sense as a choice for Roosevelt as he was heading off to fight in the Spanish-American War. The factory engraving by the Youngs is also fitting given Roosevelt's other engraved firearms. The embellishment is elegant and fairly understated rather than flashy, again fitting for an officer headed off to war. It consists of flourishes of scroll engraving with beaded backgrounds on the barrel, cylinder, and frame. The revolver has a pinned rounded blade front sight, notch rear sight on the barrel latch, "+SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS. U.S.A.+" on top of the rib, Matching serial numbers are on the barrel, latch, cylinder, butt, and inside of the right grip. An early 20th century Rock Island Arsenal brown leather holster for a Colt double action service revolver with an "E.H.S." inspector mark below the arsenal marking on the flap and "US" embossed on the body is included. These holsters were designed for the Colt Model 1892 and subsequent double action revolvers. A Model 1892 recovered from the USS Maine was famously carried by Roosevelt in the Battle of San Juan Hill. This iconic revolver won silver medal 352 for the Ten Best Arms Award at the NRA Annual Meeting in 1996 (medal and plaque included). It was on loan to the NRA National Firearms Museum c. 1998-2013 and then the National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013-2022. The revolver has been featured in multiple publications. It has been featured in multiple editions of the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas, including on the cover in 1996; in "Smith & Wesson Engraving" by Michael Kennelly on page 10; on page 277 of "Theodore Roosevelt: Outdoorsman" by R.L. Wilson; on page 4 of "Theodore Roosevelt: Hunter-Conservationist" by R.L. Wilson and discussed on page 111; in "Firearms, Freedom, and the American Experience Guidebook to the NRA Museum;" "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" by Supica, Wicklund, and Schreier on page 90 which notes "Roosevelt received this factory engraved revolver in May of 1898 just as he left New York for San Antonio to train the Rough Riders. It is one of only a handful of this model chambered for the then new .38 U.S. Service cartridge. It is believed he intended to take this revolver to Cuba in the Spanish American War."; page 140 of "The Illustrated History of Firearms from the NRA Museums Second Edition" by Supica, Wicklund, and Schreier; and "The Colonel Roosevelt Smith & Wesson New Model Number Three Serial Number 32661" by Jim Supica in "The Texas Gun Collector" Spring 1998 issue. It was also featured for the month of September on Smith & Wesson's 1995 calendar, the First Freedom NRA membership magazine centerfold in Feb. 2009 and on television on Ozarks Watch and CSPAN coverage of presidential firearms. Provenance: Also included are affidavits from Albert Brichaux and Jeffrey Allen Faintich stating that the revolver was sold by them to Jim Supica and guaranteeing that the revolver was originally shipped to Theodore Roosevelt. The statement by Faintich also states that Mike Berkshire of Palm Beach, Florida, "reported buying the revolver from the descendants of the bodyguard or valet of President Theodore Roosevelt, who had represented to Mr. Berkshire that the revolver had been a present from Pres. Roosevelt to their ancestor." The revolver was then subsequently confirmed via a factory letter as having been shipped to Colonel Roosevelt. Berkshire sold the revolver in 1990. It was then briefly owned by Brichaux before being returned to Faintich to be sold to Supica. History: Exactly where the revolver went after being shipped to Roosevelt is not clear aside from the fact that it later turned up in the possession of the family of a bodyguard/valet of Roosevelt who indicates Roosevelt had given the revolver to their ancestor. As explained in the provenance section above, this attribution was subsequently solidified when factory records confirmed the revolver was shipped to "Colonel Roosevelt." What we do know is that in May of 1898, Roosevelt was in Texas preparing the Rough Riders to go to war. He was an early proponent of U.S. intervention in Cuba and of driving the Spanish Empire out of the Western Hemisphere considering U.S. involvement to be both advantageous to the country and also the honorable and just course of action. At the time, he was serving as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, but he desired to have direct involvement in the war and resigned to serve as an lieutenant colonel in the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, the soon to be famous "Rough Riders." The unit was formed of men from many walks of life from both the East and West, but the recruits from the Southwest and Indian Territory gained a lot of attention and made up the bulk of the unit. There were also New York policemen who had previously served under Roosevelt when he was the New York City Police commissioner and men from high society in the East. Some had fought in foreign wars in the service of other countries. American newspapers widely reported the affairs of "Teddy" Roosevelt and his "Rough Riders," including Roosevelt's planned arrival in San Antonio, Texas, around May 10th prior the revolver being shipped and then subsequent confirmation that he left on May 12th. His diary entry for the 12th reads, “Made for San Antonio,” and the entry for the 15th reads, “Reach camp at San Antonio.” While he never liked the "Teddy" nickname, he embraced the "Rough Riders" tag for his diverse troopers. He arrived in San Antonio on the 15th. After training in Texas, they departed to Tampa, Florida, at the end of May. Four of the companies stayed behind due to inadequate transports and some of the men died of malaria and yellow fever, but the rest arrived in Cuba on June 23, 1898. Many of their horses and mules had also been left behind, so the Rough Riders were forced to fight as infantry rather than cavalry. They fought in the Battle of Las Guasimas on June 24th and helped force the Spaniards to retreat. Soon, their most famous moment was upon them: the Battle of San Juan Hill. On July 1, the Spanish troops were heavily outnumbered, but they held the high ground, and the Americans were forced to charge exposed uphill to force them out. Roosevelt, the Rough Riders, the 3rd U.S. Cavalry, and the Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th U.S. Cavalry assaulted Kettle Hill on the right of the battlefield supported by suppressing fire from Gatling guns. They charged up the hill taking losses from both Spanish fire and the heat. The 10th Cavalry were the first to reach the top. Roosevelt moved to support the troops on San Juan Hill and then was ordered back to defend Kettle Hill which was soon counterattacked by the Spanish. The Gatling guns again proved significant in stopping the Spanish attack. Before the battle was over, 200 Americans were killed. Another 1,000 were wounded. Though the various units had fought admirably together to take both Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill, the Rough Riders and Colonel Roosevelt received much of the attention along with the now famous Buffalo Soldiers. Roosevelt was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2001 for his actions. He preferred to be called Colonel Roosevelt after the war. He returned home to New York and then ran for governor as a Republican in 1898 and won, placing him at the head of the most populous state in the country at the time, but he soon jumped back to the national stage as vice president under President McKinley and then was propelled to the presidency when McKinley was assassinated at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. Thus, he went from a relative outsider to the leader of the Republican Party and the country. As president, he was both popular and controversial. His dinner with Booker T. Washington at the White House marked the first time an African-American had been openly an equal guest at the White House and was met with serious hostility in the Democratic controlled South. He quickly earned a reputation as a progressive leader. Roosevelt established himself as a serious regulator of big business breaking up trusts and negotiating for better prices and pay, fighting corruption in government agencies, passing laws to ensure safer food and medicine, and conserving over 1/4 of a billion acres in National Parks, National Monuments, and National Forests and reserves preventing them from being destroyed and preserving the land for future generations, establishing himself as one of the foremost conservationists in American history. After leaving the White House, Roosevelt and his son Kermit participated in the Smithsonian-Roosevelt African Expedition which is recorded in his book "African Game Trails." During the expedition, they killed over 11,000 animals, including 512 big game animals, for preservation and scientific study back in the U.S. He then toured Europe. When he returned to the U.S., he clashed with President William H. Taft, his longtime friend and hand-picked successor, when Taft broke from Roosevelt's progressive policies, particularly on conservation. The growing schism within the Republican Party led to Roosevelt running as the presidential candidate of the newly found Progressive Party in 1912. During the campaign, Roosevelt was shot in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Despite being shot in the chest, Roosevelt went on to give his 90 minute speech, living up to his manly reputation after opening his speech with: "Ladies and gentlemen, I don't know whether you fully understand that I have just been shot, but it takes more than that to kill a Bull Moose." During his recovery, he noted "I'm fit as a bull moose." Together these statements led to the Progressive Party being nicknamed the Bull Moose Party. It was around the time of the assassination attempt that another revolver for Roosevelt was ordered. That Colt Single Action Army subsequently sold for $1,466,250 at Rock Island Auction Company on December 5, 2020. The split between the Republicans and the Progressives essentially threw the election to Woodrow Wilson and the Democrats. After his defeat, Roosevelt traveled to South America where he participated in the dangerous "River of Doubt" expedition aka the Roosevelt-Rondon Scientific Expedition. He planned to bring back examples of various animals for scientific study at the Smithsonian, but the expedition went poorly. Their boats were overturned losing supplies and their scientific specimens. Three members of the expedition died and nearly everyone contracted malaria. Roosevelt himself at one point asked to be left behind for dead as he languished from an infected wound on his leg as well as malaria, but Kermit would not leave his father behind. Though he made it back to New York, he never fully recovered his trademark vigor. Nonetheless, when World War I broke out, Roosevelt was authorized to raise volunteers but was stopped by President Wilson. His son Quentin served as a pilot and was shot down and killed. Theodore Roosevelt died on January 5, 1919. Roosevelt's last words were to his former bodyguard/valet, James E. Amos. He asked James to turn out the light and then died in his sleep. Vice President Thomas R. Marshall famously remarked, "Death had to take Roosevelt sleeping, for if he had been awake, there would have been a fight." Unfortunately the identity of the specific bodyguard/valet that received this revolver was not recorded in the provenance documentation. Amos seems a very likely candidate and is known to have had one of Roosevelt's revolvers in his possession after T.R.'s death. Amos was an African-American and began working for Roosevelt when he was president and was his valet for over a decade. His father was born into slavery and fought with the U.S. Colored Troops during the Civil War and was a Washington, D.C., police officer when he met Roosevelt while he was riding his horse. James was initially hired to help care for Roosevelt's children but quickly moved up, including taking care of Sagamore Hill, and as valet/bodyguard during his presidency and became a close friend of the president and his family. He later worked as a private detective as well as for the U.S. Customs and the Interior Department, but remained in contact with the former president and returned to work for him. The Theodore Roosevelt Center noted Roosevelt called Amos "the best shot that I have ever seen" and indicated he "offered advice on Roosevelt's gun collection and purchased and tested all of his firearms." Amos was not with Roosevelt during the assassination attempt, but he was with him while he was recovering and helped nurse him back into health. The family called him to be at Roosevelt's side during his final hours. Amos later wrote about his time with Roosevelt in "Theodore Roosevelt: Hero to His Valet" and went on to be one of the first and longest serving African American FBI agents, serving from 1921-1953. When Amos died, he left behind a variety of Roosevelt's hunting trophies and other memorabilia to the Theodore Roosevelt Museum House. One page 151 of his book, Amos wrote, "While President he often went armed. I have in my home now a large revolver which Mr. Roosevelt placed at the side of his bed every night while in the White House. It was given me by Mrs. Roosevelt after his death." Thus, this revolver very well could have been Roosevelt's bed stand gun and have been given to Amos. Bedside use would certainly help explain how this revolver has remained in such extraordinary condition. Provenance: The Mike Berkshire Collection; The Jeffrey Faintich Collection; The Albert Brichaux Collection; The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Well-Documented, Historically Significant Medal of Honor Recipient and Theodore Roosevelt’s Friend and Rough Riders Commander Major General Leonard Wood’s Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action First Model Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 87

General Leonard Wood’s Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Revolver

This incredibly historic Smith & Wesson revolver is factory documented as shipped to one of the most influential American military officers of the late 19th century and early 20th century while he was serving as the governor of Moro Province in the Philippines during the bloody Moro Rebellion: Major General Leonard S. Wood. By that time Wood had already served in the U.S. Army for around two decades, had been awarded the Medal of Honor, and had served with his friend Theodore Roosevelt as the commander of the famous 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, better known as the Rough Riders, during the Spanish-American War. In the years that followed, Wood rose to one of the highest positions in the U.S. military: Chief of Staff of the United States Army, and he was initially favored to lead the U.S. Army during World War I and a leading candidate for the presidency in 1920. He continued to serve after retiring in 1921 when he was appointed as governor general of the Philippines, holding that position nearly until his death in 1927. The accompanying April 2000 factory letter for this historic revolver confirms the 6 ½ inch barrel, blue finish and checkered black hard rubber grips as well as its shipment to Major General Leonard S. Wood (no address listed) on May 20, 1905, (all frames were manufactured prior to 1899, making this model an antique). It is not often that the factory shipped directly to an individual as it was Smith & Wesson policy to work directly with its distributors. Shipping to an individual occurred only in special cases, usually when the individual was a prominent person; such is certainly the case with General Wood. As noted above, at the time it was shipped, Wood was serving in the Philippines as the governor of Moro Province during the Moro Rebellion. In the rebellion, the Colt Army revolvers in .38 Long Colt earned a reputation of lacking enough firepower to stop the suicidal attacks by sword wielding juramentados. Thus, a .44 Smith & Wesson Russian was a logical choice as a sidearm for Wood; it offered more power than the .38 Long Colt and faster follow-up shots than the single action Colt "Artillery Model" revolvers. Over the years this revolver has appeared in a number of publications including “Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum:” on page 88, the July 2017 issue of "American Rifleman" on pages 90 and 91, David Chicoine’s “Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West” on page 400, Dean Boorman’s “The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms” on page 110, and Jesse Hardin’s “Old Guns and Whispering Ghosts” on page 175. The revolver was on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013 to 2022 and was featured on Ozarkswatch TV, NSAM in April 2018 and CSPAN Presidential Firearms (https://www.c-span.org/video/?438656-1/presidential-firearms). The revolver has the standard two-line address/patent dates legend on the barrel rib, the left side of the barrel has the caliber designation, and matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Major General Leonard Wood (1860-1927) is hands down one the most noteworthy American officers of the late 19th century Indian Wars and early 20th century. Though he rose to the highest positions of the U.S. Army, Wood joined the military not through a background of military studies at West Point or Annapolis but as a physician after studying at the Harvard Medical School, completing his MD in 1884. He was then contracted in June 1885 as an assistant surgeon in the U.S. Army's Department of Arizona. He served with the 4th Cavalry based out of Fort Huachuca in Arizona during the Apache Wars, including the campaign that led to the capture of famed Bedonkohe Apache leader Geronimo. During the campaign, Wood carried dispatches 100 miles through hostile territory and, though not officially an officer at the time, also took command of a detachment of the 8th Infantry following a fight with the Apache in which their officers had been killed. He was nominated for the Medal of Honor by both the expedition's commander Nelson A. Miles and his commanding officer Henry W. Lawton and was awarded the Medal of Honor on April 8, 1898, shortly before the outbreak of the Spanish-American War. By 1898, he had been promoted to captain and served as the personal physician of President Grover Cleveland and then William McKinley. In the nation's capital, Wood became a friend of Theodore Roosevelt, then Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Roosevelt was an early proponent of war with Spain and support for Cuban independence. President McKinley meanwhile wanted to avoid war. The explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898, pushed the public further into supporting war with Spain although the actual cause of the explosion remains debated to this day. The U.S. still did not declare war, but did increase support to Cuba, including establishing a blockade which resulted in Spain declaring war on the U.S. When the war broke out, Wood became the commander of the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry and Roosevelt served as his second in command. The unit became known as the Rough Riders very early on and attracted national media attention. Wood was in command of the Rough Riders when they landed in Cuba and in the Battle of Las Guasimas just after their arrival and was then quickly promoted to brigadier general of volunteers and placed in command of the 2nd Cavalry Brigade after the former commander fell ill. At the famous Battle of San Juan Hill, Wood was thus in command of the brigade while Roosevelt was in command of the Rough Riders within it, and they famously emerged victorious and captured and defended both Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill. While Roosevelt and the Rough Riders returned home and Roosevelt was soon to become governor of New York, Vice President, and President in short order, Wood remained behind in Cuba. He received a proper promotion to brigadier general and served first as military governor of Santiago and then all of Cuba. As governor, Wood earned a notable reputation as being a strong and effective administrator. In 1903, Wood was promoted to major general and was assigned to the Philippines where he served as provincial governor of the restless Moro Province and commander of the Philippine Division in 1906-1908. At the time the U.S. was attempting to put an end to the rebellion by the Moros who began armed resistance when the U.S. moved to curtail Moro autonomy following victory in the northern provinces of the Philippines. It was during his service in the Philippines when this revolver was shipped to Wood, and its double action, powerful caliber, easy to reload design made the S&W .44 DA Revolver an appealing sidearm to use in a bloody insurgency in the Philippines. This well-cared for and well-used revolver certainly has the look of being carried through the jungle. As governor, Wood moved aggressively to curtail the power of the Sultan of Sulu, officially abolished slavery and offered U.S. military protection to former slaves, reformed the legal system, instituted a poll tax, and attempted to modernize the region's economy to bring peace and stability but Moro resistance continued. Towards the end of his term as governor, in early March of 1906, — less than a year after the revolver was shipped to Wood — he ordered U.S. forces against Moros at the volcanic crater of Bud Dajo on Jolo Island in the First Battle of Bud Dajo, the bloodiest engagement of the Moro Rebellion. After requesting for the Moros to disband and then to send the women and children to safety were rebuffed, the U.S. force opened fire with their mountain guns. Wood himself arrived on the scene on March 6. Negotiations were again attempted, but the Moros refused. U.S. forces advanced on the crater from three directions. The Moros were primarily armed with traditional edged weapons such as their distinct barung and kris swords along with spears and rocks while the U.S. military was armed with modern bolt action rifles, grenades, artillery, and machine guns. Despite being outnumbered and heavily out-gunned, the Moros bravely put up a stiff resistance. The U.S. forces captured the trenches and then placed their mountain guns and machine guns in positions around the crater. The Moros still refused to surrender and were cut down, some in hand-to-hand combat fighting to the death while charging the American lines rather than surrendering. By the time the battle was over, there were only 6 survivors out of up to 1,000 Moros. The U.S. forces lost 21 killed and 75 wounded. It was an overwhelming victory for U.S. forces, and Wood was congratulated by his friend President Roosevelt. However, the battle became a public relations disaster when reports of women and children being killed by U.S. soldiers quickly emerged. The incident occurred in the final days of General Wood’s term as governor of Moro Province and became publicized as the Moro Crater Massacre leading to public criticism of Wood's leadership. Though he had not led the assault, he accepted full-responsibility as the senior officer, and the controversy blew over fairly quickly. However, Mark Twain's scathing critique for his handling of the event is credited with later hampering Wood's presidential ambitions. When his term as governor ended, he took command of the Philippine Division. When Wood returned stateside, he was placed in command of the Eastern Department. Under President Taft, Roosevelt's handpicked successor, Wood served as Chief of Staff of the United States Army in 1910-1914 and thus prepared the U.S. military for World War I. It was also in 1910 that Wood became one of the first patients to undergo successful brain surgery to remove a tumor. During the lead up to World War I, Wood was an outspoken advocate for military preparedness and was instrumental in the organization of civilian officer training camps, which became the model for some 30 divisional camps scattered throughout the U.S. He was a primary candidate to command the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe during the First World War but was passed over due to his criticism of the Wilson administration. Nonetheless, Wood was influential in the training of the U.S. 89th and 10th Infantry Divisions and received the Army Distinguished Service Medal and recognition as a Grand Officer in the French Legion of Honor. In 1919, his friend Theodore Roosevelt died, and Wood was widely considered to be his natural successor. While serving as the commander of the 6th Corps Area, he made a run for the Republican presidential nomination but narrowly lost out to Warren Harding. President Harding appointed the recently retired Wood to the Wood-Forbes Mission to the Philippines, and Wood, likely taking his trusty side arm with him, was soon appointed governor general, a post he held until forced to resign due to the recurrence of his brain tumor in 1927. After returning to the states, he died in surgery. The well-known Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri is named for him. Letters of provenance are included that trace the ownership of this revolver after Wood's death. Although they erroneously state the revolver was carried by General Wood during the Geronimo and San Juan Hill campaigns, these letters indicate the revolver remained with Wood's family until it was sold by his grandson. In his notarized letter from July 1962, auctioneer and appraiser Herbert F. Cole states this revolver (listed by serial number) along with a S&W .38 caliber revolver no. 399155 (incorrectly listed in .32 caliber) came from the General Wood family collection and were consigned by Wood's grandson. By 1965, the .44 DA revolver was in the possession of Norman Brigham Pemberton of Milton, Massachusetts. Pemberton’s April 1965 letter addressed to S&W asking for information pertaining to the revolver is included as well as the factory letter S&W sent to Pemberton. As with the factory letter from 2000, the 1965 factory letter confirms this .44 DA Revolver was shipped to General Wood. Additional information is obtained from Pemberton’s included June 1997 dated notarized letter (copy) when he transferred ownership of the revolver to Antonio Croce of Hackettstown, New Jersey. In the letter, Pemberton states he purchased the revolver directly from Herbert Cole. Provenance: General Leonard Wood; The Wood Family Collection; The Norman Pemberton Collection; The Antonio Croce Collection: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

"Club Gun" Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver with Box and Factory Letter

Lot 93

"Club Gun" Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Revolver

In the accompanying factory letter S&W historian Roy Jinks states that this New Model No. 3 is a "club gun" which is not listed in the factory club gun records. "Club Guns" are a special group of handguns S&W gave or loaned to factory personnel, shooting clubs and/or notable shooters as samples or test guns. These highly prized guns were generally assigned "zero" serial number prefixes. The "03" serial number is stamped on the butt with matching single digit "3" on the cylinder and barrel latch. The barrel has the fitter's number or "9" which is repeated on the cylinder under the extractor star. The revolver has the two-line barrel rib legend, target sights, and a set of checkered walnut grips. Includes a correct period New Model No. 3 box with the number "33695" and bore brush. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Lot 94

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action First Model Revolver

The accompanying factory letter states this revolver had a 6 inch barrel, blue finish, and checkered black hard rubber grips when shipped on September 20, 1886 and delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City. In the factory letter S&W Historian Roy Jinks provided further information: "The revolver was rebarreled and reblued by Smith & Wesson in April of 1930." There is speculation that the work was specifically carried out for famed target shooter and firearms designer Walter F. Roper, who is perhaps most famous for his designer grips. Evidence suggesting the revolver was reworked for Roper is found in the two labels featured on the interior of the included 1920s S&W patent type box. One label reads, "THE MAN THAT MADE THE NEW BARREL POSSIBLE." The second label provides Roper's address ("WALTER F. ROPER/95 BENEDICT TERRACE/LONGMEADOW, MASS") along with "Smith & Wesson/Springfield/Mass" in pencil. Jinks addresses the probable rework for Roper in the factory letter: "However, there is no record of the work on this revolver in company files in either April or May of 1930. The last entry for Walter Roper was in 1929 when he was working as Sales Manager of the company. This is not a surprise since I would have suspected that the work would have been done free and therefore there would not be an invoice...This revolver, when I examined, it was in a repair return box which would have been added when the revolver was completed in the Service Department." The 8 inch barrel is an unusual feature for this model, likely made to meet Roper's specifications. Standard barrel lengths for this model were 4, 5, 6, or 6 1/2 inches. The barrel is marked "44 S&W CTG" on the left side. The barrel rib has the one-line address. The revolver has the long 1 9/16 inch cylinder as found on examples above serial number 15340. The left side of the grip frame has a S&W factory diamond "B" refinish mark and a S&W factory April 1930 ("4 30") return date. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The revolver is pictured in the 4th edition of Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 29. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Lot 108

Serial Number 1 Brown Manufacturing Co. Southerner Derringer

Around 10,000 of these pistols were manufactured by Brown Manufacturing Co. in Newburyport, Mass., c. 1869-1873 with about 7,000 being brass framed and 3,000 being iron. This design was first manufactured under the Merrimack Arms & Mfg. Co. from 1866-1869. They are rarely found with significant original finish as most spent many long days in someone's pocket. It has a small German silver blade front sight, "BROWN MF'G. Co./NEWBURYPORT. MASS./PAT. APR. 9. 1867." and the desirable matching serial number "1", including on the dark rosewood grips. The inside of the grips are also hand marked "RH" and "HAMILTON". This pistol was on display at NRA National Sporting Arms Museum 2013-2022 and is pictured in the book "Guns of the NRA NSAM" 2017 on p. 197. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 RF

Price Realized:

Rare Well-Documented Serial Number 1 Third Model P.W. Porter Percussion Turret Carbine Attributed as U.S. Ordnance Purchase

Lot 239

Serial Number 1 Third Model P.W. Porter Turret Carbine

This distinctive turret carbine is the design of Parry W. Porter with features of the standard Third Model, which are typically seen numbered in the approximate 680-1225 serial number range, but has a few unusual features given the low serial number, round barrel and the lack of Porter markings. It has offset blade and notch sights on the barrel. Serial number "1" marked on the bottom of the barrel, frame, removable cylinder and on various components. Fitted in a smooth buttstock with a military style flat buttplate. Includes a printed copy of email correspondence from George Moller that states, "You may want to tell Jim that his Porter rifle is identical to one of mine. The serial number of his is '1' and mine is '9'. I think these two are survivors of the ten Porter rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department in the late 1850s. They were sent to the San Antonio Ordnance Depot, then disappeared from government records following the outbreak of the Civil War." The serial "9" George Moller is referring to may have been sold by Rock Island Auction Company recently, although listed as serial number "6" (Lot 81, Auction 84). This rifle, serial number "1", was previously on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum between 2013-2022, was featured on "Serial Number One Guns" episode of Outdoor Channel's "Gun Stories" season 4 episode 16, is pictured on page 196 of the book "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum", and pictured on page 64 of the book "The Illustrated History of Firearms From the NRA Museums, Second Edition". Circular brass collection tag marked "101/SUPICA" hanging from the rear sling swivel. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50

Price Realized:

Haenel-Lorenz "Wehrmannsgewehr" Mauser GEW. 98 Bolt Action Target Rifle

Lot 365

Haenel-Lorenz "Wehrmannsgewehr" Mauser GEW. 98 Target Rifle

This is a pre-World War I Mauser GEW. 98 that was later reworked after the war to be in compliance with the Treaty of Versailles. These rifles are often referred to as "Wehrmannsgewehr" or "serviceman's rifles" and were very commonly produced in single shot variations and chambered in 8.15x46R to be used by various shooting clubs as target rifles. This particular rifle is not single shot and has an internal magazine with spring loaded follower. The top of the barrel is marked "8.15.46 Norm:" denoting the target caliber. Fitted with a blade front sight and elevation adjustable notch and ladder rear sight. Number "1" is stamped on various components, with some stamped in place of the original numbers of the rifle. "HAENEL" marked on the left of the rear sight base. World War II era "eagle/37" proof stamp on the later replacement floorplate. "Eugen Overmeyer" carved on the right of the buttstock. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 8.15X46R

Price Realized:

Lot 495

Engraved Smith & Wesson Model 29-6 With Factory Letter

The included factory letter lists this revolver as having a 6 inch barrel, blue finish, and synthetic grips when shipped to Lew Horton Distributing Company on November 29, 1995. The letter further states the embellishment on the revolver was done by the distributor as the revolver had nothing extra when it left. An attached note states the engraving was done by either Lambert Engraving or Baron Technologies. The side plate is marked "001 of 100" among the engraving. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Magnum

Price Realized:

Historic Documented Outlaw Jesse James Attributed Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action Revolver with Tooled Leather "Slim Jim" Holster, Factory Letter, and Provenance Documents

Lot 1075

Outlaw Jesse James Attributed Smith & Wesson Schofield & Holster

This iconic Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield revolver was shipped on July 12, 1875, to the Springfield Armory per the factory letter. The included documentation indicates the revolver and accompanying holster were acquired by Milton Shanton in Missouri and that the revolver and tooled left handed holster had belonged to the famous outlaw Jesse James. They were then passed down through his family in Ohio after his death and remained in the family until it was sold by Bernice M. Gilmerr in 1975. In addition to the family history, the holster is particularly important. Another First Model Schofield, sn. 366, a right handed holster with virtually identical designs, and a cartridge belt are also attributed to Jesse James and were part of the set of guns displayed by Jesse James Jr. Pages from "Fired in Anger" by Robert Elman, "Outlaws of the Old West" from the November 1982 issue of "Western Frontier," and "Guns and the Gun Fighters" from Guns & Ammo are included showing that Schofield and holster rig. The holster with sn. 366 and the current one are indeed very, very similar. The revolver is a classic Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield. Only 3,035 First Models were manufactured in 1875, mainly for the U.S. Army. They were issued to the 4th, 9th, and 10th U.S. Cavalry, the latter two the famous "Buffalo Soldiers." They were also issued to state militias. Some were still in use in the Spanish-American War, but many were sold off as surplus in the 1880s, and they saw use in civilian hands in the American West in the late 19th century, including by outlaws and Wells, Fargo & Co. Express agents. It has a pinned, rounded blade front sight as well as a long sighting groove along the top of the rib and a notch rear sight on the distinctive Schofield latch. The left side of the barrel has the two-line patent marking, and the right side has the one-line Schofield patent marking. The cylinder is numbered "146" and also marked "L" and "P" on the rear face. The butt has the serial number "273," and the right side of the butt under the grip is stamped "A.H. RYAN." The grips were reshaped and then lined on the interior. The left side "Slim Jim" holster for this revolver matches the right side holster that has historically been displayed with the Crittenden board James attributed Schofield sn. 366. It has a closed toe, floral tooling, and belt loop with four brass rivets. With one being left handed, one being right handed, both holding First Model Schofield revolvers, and both being attributed to Jesse James through different sources, it is clear this revolver and holster is something very special. This revolver has been featured in multiple publications and been displayed in renowned museums for many years. This revolver and holster were on display at NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in 2013-2022 and was the NRA Museums' "Gun of the day" on November 12, 2019. It was previously displayed at the National Firearms Museum in 2008-2009 as reported in "American Rifleman" and "True West" magazines. They are featured on page 176 of "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" where it is noted as "Jesse James attributed Smith & Wesson Schofield and Holster." They were also featured in "Treasures of the NRA National Firearms Museum," "Illustrated History of Firearms from the NRA Museums," "Old Guns and Whispering Ghosts" by Jesse L. Hardin, and "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" by David R. Chicoine. The revolver is also mentioned in "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Supica and Nahas as "reported to have been used by a James Gang member, possibly Jesse." In "Guns West!: A Retrospective of the Old West," it is listed as "Smith & Wesson 1st Model Schofield with Holster sn 273, .45 S&W Schofield caliber. This revolver and holster are attributed to the outlaw Jesse James (1847-1882) and match the revolver and holster set kept by Governor Thomas T. Crittenden. The grip frame is stamped 'A.H. Ryan,' a known member of the James gang." Jim Supica stated, "Cartridges & bullets fired through this gun were sold at Friend of NRA auctions as fund-raisers" and also indicated it was featured on Ozarks Watch TV. It was also featured in the articles "Smoking Gun!?! Family Finds Possible Tie To Western Legend: Father, Son Believe They Own One of Jesse James' Revolvers" by Gene Ballinger in Volume 19, No. 19 of "The Courier" from May 11, 1995, and "Outlaw Jesse James' Pistol Found?" by John P. Karshner in the Fall 1996 issue of "The Texas Gun Collector" which discusses much of the included provenance information discussed below. Provenance: A letter from Jim Supica, now-former Director of the NRA National Firearms Museum, states: "This particular revolver is tied to Jesse James through three different threads, each leading to the James Gang: 1. The chain of ownership is documented in signed statements and affidavits. These report the gun given or sold, along with Jesse's gold watch, by Frank and Jesse James in the 1880's to Milton Shanton (b. 1854), inherited by his brother William Shanton (b. 1862) in 1923, who gave it to his niece Bernice Gilmerr at that time. Mrs. Gilmerr documented the story in writing in 1975 when she sold the gun. Each of the two owners following Mrs. Gilmerr have provided affidavits documenting the gun's chain of ownership, which accompanied the gun to the current owner. 2. The holster accompanying the gun appears to be the left hand mate to the famous holster and cartridge belt displayed by Jesse James, Jr., on an exhibit board of his father's firearms (sometimes referred to as the 'Crittenden Board'). The floral carved pattern appears to be the same, and there appears to be a worn area on the cartridge belt where a second holster was carried at one time. The revolver accompanying the holster on the board is a S&W Schofield. It is very possible that a side by side comparison of the two Schofields and holsters would shed further light on the subject. 3. Stamped underneath the wood grips on the grip frame is the name 'A.H(?). RYAN.' The age of this marking suggests it was applied during the period of use. 'Andy Ryan' was known to be a member of the James Gang. One must be especially careful in examining historic attribution of any Old West outlaw, especially one as famous as Jesse James. Any one of the threads listed above might not be fully compelling, but taken together they make an excellent case that this revolver was once used by the James Gang, with a strong likelihood that it was carried by Jesse himself." A binder of information is included containing the information noted in Supica's letter. John P. Karshner of Adelphi, Ohio, stated, "That I believe that this Schofield and holster were at one time owned by the famous outlaw Jesse James, as discussed in the following documents- a. Magazine article 'Outlaw Jesse James' Pistol Found?' Fall 1996 The Texas Gun Collector b. Newspaper article 'Smoking Gun!?! Family Finds Possible Tie to Western Legend' in Volume 19, No. 19 of The Courier newspaper. c. Dana Zeigler affidavit dated August 26, 1997. d. Handwritten statement signed by Bernice M. Gilmerr, dated 11-20-75." He also notes, "That I believe that the 'A.H. RYAN' marking indicates possible possession at one time by James gang member Andy Ryan, and know of no other explanation for this marking," and, "That to the best of my knowledge and belief, the chain of ownership of this revolver has been as follows- a. Jesse and Frank James to their friends John, William & Milton Shanton in the 1880's. b. Milton Shanton to his niece Bernice Gilmerr & her husband Roy in 1924. c. Bernice Gilmerr to Dana Zeigler (fellow Mason with Roy Gilmerr) in 1976. d. Dana Zeigler to me in 1993." An affidavit from his son John P. Karshner II is also included stating the same information, and other correspondence between Supica and the Karshners is included. The younger Karshner notes that he believes this revolver and holster are the left hand matching pistol and holster from Jesse James's rig and indicated that the prior owner of those items also believed these were likely the mates from that set. He also indicates Jesse James's watch remained in the Shanton family. Provenance documentation on the other Schofield revolver attributed to Jesse James, sn. 366, and its holster and rig are also in the file. Jesse James's widow is said to have indicated that sn. 366 was the revolver James set down moments before he was assassinated by Bob Ford. A Dana Zeigler statement from 1998 is also included. They state that they purchased the revolver in 1975 from Bernice Gilmerr and that her husband was a friend and fellow Mason. "Mr. Gilmerr had told me that Bernice's two Uncles, William and Milton Shanton, had been friends with Jesse and Frank James. Both William and Milton Shanton would visit their brother John Shanton, in Missouri. As a result of their friendship with Jesse and Frank James, they were given the 1875 Schofield, serial number 273, the floral carved holster, and a pocket watch. Mrs. Gilmerr further told me that William and Milton Shanton were friends of the James Brothers. Mrs. Gilmerr further told me that Milton had left the pistol and holster with her and her husband in 1923 and told that if did not return for them, it would go to them." Another handwritten document signed by Bernice M. Gilmerr in 1975 has a slightly different story of how the Shanton's got the revolver. It states that, "Milton Shanton had a shoe shop in Missouri beside of a gun shop. He purchased this Smith and Wesson gun from this gun shop with the understanding it had belonged to the James Brothers. Mr Shanton never married so at his death his Brother William Shanton fell heir to the gun. In the last years of Wm Shanton's life he had no home only staying with some one wherever he could so he brought the gun to Roy and I and told him if he never called for it the gun was ours. He died and we still had the gun. Serial no on the butt of gun No 273. Sold to Dana Zeigler November 19, 1975." Karshner in the Texas Gun Collector article noted above indicates Barbara Shanton said her aunt had listed the gun as purchased because she didn't want her family to be associated with the James Gang. Milton Shanton (1854-1911), then a resident of Kansas, died of typhoid fever while on a visit to his family in Ohio and was identified as a baker and single on his death certificate. The Chillicothe Gazette indicates William Shanton of Concord was listed among his survivors. He lived until 1945. The Texas Gun Collector article suggested the family had indicated John Shanton owned a farm in Missouri where Frank and Jesse James would hide out. Details on John (b. 1844) after his marriage in Ohio in 1864 are unclear aside from the fact that he appears to have died prior to Milton. A John Shanton lived several miles outside of Butler, Missouri, in 1885, and this may have been where the farm in question was located. Bernice Marie Voss Gilmerr's (1902-1994) mother was Minnie Shanton (1874-1946) of Ohio. Jesse James, Outlaw: Jesse James (1847-1882) needs little introduction. He is easily one of America's most famous outlaws. In popular culture, James is widely portrayed as a Robin Hood figure, but the historical record reveals him as a much darker, more merciless figure who left numerous bodies in his wake in the 1860s, 1870s, and early 1880s. He has been the subject of numerous dime novels, history books, articles, movies, television series, and more. He was both lauded and reviled in his own day and became a classic western icon and subject of multiple films in the 20th century and more recently "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (2007) which shows James wearing a cartridge belt with two holsters with very similar designs and tooling as those that accompany the Jesse James attributed Schofields. Clearly the film crew did their research and was aware of one or both of these revolvers and their holsters. Jesse James was born near Kearney, Missouri. His father owned six slaves but died when Jesse was still a young boy while in California preaching to '49ers during the Gold Rush. His mother remarried, and the family owned seven slaves that worked on their tobacco farm prior to the Civil War. Young Jesse got off to a bloody start as a pro-Confederate guerrilla with his brother Frank during the Civil War. He was a teenager when the war began, but his elder brother went off to fight. Frank was a member of the infamous Quantrill's Raiders which conducted the massacre at the famous abolitionist stronghold of Lawrence, Kansas, destroying the town and killing around 180 men and boys. Jesse was whipped and his stepfather tortured when Union forces came to the family farm seeking information on Frank and the Confederate raiders. Too young to properly enlist, Jesse nonetheless rode off to fight for the Confederacy and joined the "Bushwhackers" with his brother. They later fought under "Bloody Bill" Anderson, including in the Centralia Massacre during which the town was looted, an unarmed man was killed, and then around 22 unarmed Union soldiers were stripped, executed, and scalped or otherwise mutilated. Around 123 responding Union soldiers were ambushed and killed in the Battle of Centralia, including Union Major Andrew Johnston who was reportedly shot by Jesse. Some of those that surrendered were tortured before being killed, and many of the slain Union dead were mutilated. Jesse was also severely wounded twice during the war. Thus, from the beginning of his "career," he and his allies left many unarmed men dead in their wake. During Reconstruction, some of his former comrades continued to operate illegally against the Republican led government in Missouri. Jesse and Frank are believed to have helped break out a former Quantrill Raider in 1866 in Jackson County. On December 7, 1869, Jesse and Frank shot and robbed a cashier. Many of their subsequent robberies also left men dead in their wake, sometimes because of their Republican or Union Army connections. By 1869, Governor Thomas T. Crittenden had put an award for Jesse's capture, and he clearly enjoyed the notoriety and wrote in to the newspapers promoting himself as a hardened Confederate hero fighting against Republican domination and continued to use other former Confederates to shelter him from persecution. Over time, the outlaws, known as the James-Younger Gang led by Jesse James and Cole Younger, conducted a long string of bank robberies and then turned their attention to trains and stagecoaches which were easier. Their first train robbery was on July 21, 1873, outside of Adair, Iowa. In addition to the contents of the express car, the gang robbed the passengers. Nonetheless, their exploits earned them fame and admiration from many, and even other crimes committed by different outlaws were blamed on the famous gang. Jesse married his first cousin, Zerelda Mimms, named after his mother. Their son Jesse Edward James was born in 1875. By that time, the Pinkertons and law enforcement were working to track down James and his outlaws, and the Pinkertons attacked the James family farm in 1875 thinking Jesse and Frank James where there. They tossed a smoke bomb into the house to smoke them out. Their nine year old half-brother Archie threw the bomb into the fireplace leading to an explosion that killed Archie and permanently maimed their mother who had one arm blown off in the explosion. Soon after, a neighbor who had aided the Pinkertons and one of their agents were shot and killed. The following year, the James-Younger Gang was nearly wiped out when they attempted to rob the First National Bank in Northfield, Minnesota. Jesse shot the bank cashier when he refused to open the safe, and the townsfolk armed themselves and assailed the gang. Several gang members were killed or seriously wounded. By the time the smoke cleared, everyone but Jesse and Frank were either dead or arrested. The James brothers fled and hid out in Tennessee. Frank apparently wanted to retire from the outlaw life and live in peace with his family, but Jesse created a new gang of outlaws in 1879 robbing for money and fame rather than to resist the Republicans and pulled Frank back into it. Multiple gang members were killed or captured, and Jesse's circle of support kept shrinking. Governor Thomas T. Crittenden's offer of a reward enticed Bob and Charley Ford to stop Jesse James. Bob had also been arrested for the murder of Wood Hite earlier that year and was promised to be pardoned if he helped bring down James. He shot Jesse James in the back of the head while he was unarmed. Jesse was reportedly meeting with the Fords to plan one last big robbery before settling down. It has generally been believed that James knew he had been betrayed and accepted his fate before he was shot on April 3, 1882. Instead of receiving a reward, the Ford brothers were arrested and convicted for murder and sentenced to death. They were then pardoned by the governor and received only part of the reward. Charley Ford killed himself two years later, and Bob Ford made money with a stage show reenacting the event and was shot in his saloon in Creede, Colorado, in 1892. Frank surrendered himself to the authorities and was acquitted. He later appeared in some Wild West shows with Cole Younger in the early 20th century. At least seventeen men were killed by Jesse James and his outlaws. Across approximately 26 heists, they stole around $200,000 (worth over $5,000,000 today). "A.H. Ryan": The "A.H. RYAN" marking under the grip may be for Andy Ryan. Brothers Andy and Bill Ryan were implicated as members of the James Gang and appear in various sources on the gang, including the included pages of "Jesse James and Bill Ryan at Nashville" by Ted P. Yeatman. Both are mentioned in "The Trial of Frank James for Murder, With Confessions of Dick Liddil and Clarence Hite, and History of the James Gang" from 1898. Liddil's confession notes that Andy Ryan was a boy and helped with horses. Bill Ryan was captured in 1881 after pulling his pistols on a man in a saloon and running his mouth about being an outlaw. He had $1,400, expensive jewelry, two revolvers, seventy-five cartridges, and maps. He was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison but was released early in 1889 and then supposedly killed shortly thereafter in a riding accident. However, he was reportedly arrested again for a burglary in 1895 under another alias, released again in 1897, shot and captured in 1898, acquitted, and was then accused of being involved in another train robbery just a few days later. His brother, Andy Ryan, was arrested for an 1898 train robbery and was accused of being part of a new gang with Jesse James Jr. After his father's assassination, young Jesse was employed by Thomas T. Crittenden Jr., the son of Governor Thomas T. Crittenden of Missouri. He worked for Crittenden for a few years before Crittenden secured him a position at a packing house in Kansas City where he worked until 1898 when he opened a cigar stand by the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City. In 1899, James and Ryan were arrested for train robbery. Another man claimed by the authorities to be Bill Ryan was also arrested but was found to be an older man named Bill Jennings. A card identifying the robbers as John Kennedy, Bill Ryan, Bill Anderson, Sam Brown, and Jim Redmond is said to have been left during the robbery. William W. Lowe claimed he, James, and Andy Ryan planned the Leeds hold-up together, and Lowe's confession formed the main basis of the case against Jesse James Jr. His version of the events placed Jesse James Jr. and Andy Ryan as two of the main bandits in the affair. However, the defense successfully convinced the jurors of James innocence and the case against Andy Ryan also fell apart as a result. During the trial, Ryan said he hadn't heard from his brother since 1893 and claimed he had gone to Venezuela as part of a surveying company. The Leeds train robbery case and its outcome were widely reported. For example, the Sacramento Daily Union, on March 2, 1899, announced that "All Train Robbery Cases Dismissed" and noted that "W.H. Lowe, the self-confessed robber, and Andy Ryan and Charles Pole left the jail free men." Prior to his arrest Ryan had been a fireman but was fired due to his association with John Kennedy. He was briefly reinstated after his release and soon owned a saloon at 1529 West 9th Street in Kansas City, Missouri, and later one at 12th and Wyoming Street. He choked to death in February 1904 at the age of 45. His obituary in the Kansas City Star noted him as "a relative of Bill Ryan and friend of John Kennedy, train robbers" and indicated he came to Kansas City 19 years prior. Unfortunately, other details such as his real full name have not been found. The evidence against his friend Jack "the Quail Hunter" Kennedy was stronger. He is said to have committed seven train robberies in the 1890s and was convicted and served twelve years at the Missouri Penitentiary. After his acquittal, Jesse James Jr. wrote a book about his father titled "Jesse James, My Father. The First and Only True Story of His Adventures Ever Written" which included an account of Jesse Jr.'s trial and played it up as a move by officials to get him imprisoned through association with the Ryans. He later opened a pawn shop, became a lawyer, ran a restaurant in Los Angeles, and played the roll of his father in the films "Jesse James Under the Black Flag" and "Jesse James the Outlaw," both released in 1921 and also was an adviser for the 1927 film "Jesse James." Provenance: The Shanton Family; The Gilmerr Family; The Karshner Family, The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Schofield

Price Realized:

Documented Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson 44 Double Action Frontier Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 1076

Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson 44 DA Frontier Revolver

Offered here is a documented and rare factory engraved example of S&W's .44 Double Action Frontier Revolver which is pictured and identified in Dean Boorman's "The History of the Smith & Wesson Firearms" at the top of page 110. The accompanying factory letter confirms this revolver as a special order factory engraved .44 Double Action Frontier which was shipped on November 4, 1901 (all frames of this model were manufactured prior to 1899, making this gun an antique) and delivered to Charles Cricks (address not listed). It is not often that we catalog 19th-early 20th century S&Ws shipped to an individual, as it was standard factory practice to ship to an official S&W distributor. The revolver features S&W factory style no. 3 floral scroll and punch dot engraving by Oscar Young, son of Gustave Young. The top of the barrel rib is marked with the two-line address/patent dates, "44 WINCHESTER CTG" is marked on the left side of the barrel, and the matching serial number is marked on the butt (partially removed serial number as drilled and tapped for a lanyard, filler screw present), cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The revolver wears a set of S&W medallion pearl grips. The revolver is pictured in the 4th edition of "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 122. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 1077

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action First Model Target Revolver

Introduced in 1881. The revolver is fitted with target sights, the original 1 7/16 inch cylinder, and checkered S&W monogram embossed hard rubber grips. The barrel latch is unnumbered. The matching full serial number appears on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder and barrel. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Documented Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 1st Model Single Action Revolver

Lot 1080

Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 1st Model Transitional Revolver

Manufactured in 1871-1874. The barrel rib has the one-line address/patent dates marking ending in "RUSSIAN MODEL." A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. The matching assembly number "A645" appears on the grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Per our consignor this revolver was loaned to Smith & Wesson Performance Center in 2002 as a model for S&W's line of No. 3 reproductions. Pictured in Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 107 in the 4th edition and page 56 in the 2nd edition. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Cased Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 .32-44 Single Action Target Revolver Documented to Decorated Second Boer War and World War I Brigadier General Roland Charles Haig

Lot 1083

British General's Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

The New Model 3 dominated target competitions in the late 1800s and are found in the serial number range below 4,333. Of the 4,333 target variations manufactured, 2,930 were chambered in .32-44 caliber. These revolvers were introduced in 1887. The revolver features target sights, two-line barrel rib legend ending with the re-issue patent date, and matching three digit serial number "514" on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. "A 403" is finely engraved on the front strap. The British style oak case has an interesting handwritten "Directions for use" on the interior of the lid and the name "C.E. Haig" inscribed on the brass lid disk. Includes a box of UMC .32-44 cartridges. The accompanying letter of provenance on Michael Miller letterhead states that the revolver belonged to Charles Edwin Haig (1849-1917) who "in turn gave it to his son R.C. Haig when he received his commission in the 16th Lancers in 1894. He served in the South African Wars and received the Queens Medal and four clasps [Cape Colony, Orange River Colony, Johannesburg, and Diamond Hill]. During the Great War 1914-1918 he was mentioned in dispatches five times. Received the Distinguished Service Order in 1915...He received that bar to the DSO in 1917 and a second in 1918. In 1917 he was made a brigadier general." The letter erroneously states General Roland Charles Haig was killed in action in 1942. During the Third Battle of the Aisne on May 27, 1918, General Haig's headquarters was heavily gassed and overrun by a German attack. Haig managed to escape, but his injuries from the gas attack forced him to resign his command. He retired from the army in 1923, became an avid golfer, and died at the age of 80 in 1953. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-44

Price Realized:

Well Documented, New York Engraved, Smith & Wesson No. 3 American 2nd Model Single Action Revolver in Rare .44 Henry Rimfire with Relief Carved Mexican Eagle Grip and Decorated Tooled Leather Holster

Lot 1086

Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 3 American .44 RF Revolver

Manufactured in 1871-1872. This is one of only an estimated 2,500 total No. 3 American Models chambered in the highly prized .44 Henry Rimfire cartridge. Many Rimfire chambered American's went to Mexico through the S&W distributor Wexell & DeGress where they saw hard use. The relief carved Mexican eagle on the right grip panel certainly suggests that this example found its way south of the border. Overall this is a very rare variation of the No. 3 American that features a period broad scroll engraving in the New York style. Includes a hand stitched heavy leather tooled holster featuring a brass eagle on the front of the body. This revolver was featured on the back cover of the February 1997 issue of the "Gun Journal" (issue included), pictured in Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 106, 2nd edition of "The Illustrated History of Firearms" on page 94, "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 233, Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on pages 22 and 56 in the 2nd edition and pages 63 and 101 in the 4th edition, Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on pages 91, 102, 102 and 108, and Hardin's "Old Guns and Whispering Ghosts" on page 134, and was on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in 2013-2022. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Documented, Rare Civilian Sale and New York Engraved Smith & Wesson Second Model Schofield Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 1087

Engraved Civilian Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver

In the included factory letter this revolver is confirmed as a rare commercial Schofield that was shipped on September 5, 1878 and delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City with a nickel finish. In the letter S&W historian Roy Jinks states "the engraving was done in New York City." As a commercial variation the revolver correctly lacks U.S. sub inspector marks and "US" marking as found on martial contracts. These rare civilian variations of the desirable Second Model Schofield were manufactured in 1876-77. Estimates place the number of civilian guns made at approximately 650 (see Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" for further information). The New York engraving consist of scrollwork and zig-zag line and dot motifs which covers 75% of the surface. The butt has a period added lanyard ring that partially obscures the serial number. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt and cylinder. The revolver was featured on the cover of the February 1997 issue of the "Gun Journal" (issue included), pictured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 233, Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on pages 22 and 53 of the 3rd edition and pages 63 and 101 of the 4th edition, and Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 107 where it is noted that "period engraved Schofields are quite scarce," and loaned to the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum, April 2013. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W Schofield

Price Realized:

Smith & Wesson No. 3 American 2nd Model Single Action Revolver Linked to the Texas-Mexico Border

Lot 1090

Smith & Wesson No. 3 American 2nd Model Revolver

Manufactured from 1872 to 1874, this S&W No. 3 American 2nd Model Revolver has a interesting story to tell. It has been period modified with a shortened barrel and added post front sight and linked to the Texas-Mexico border. In his 1989 letter, previous owner John Curtis states: "This gun was a regular blued Smith 2nd Model American that came out of Mexico as I bought it from a North Dakota dealer, Douglas Janacke, who bought it back from Mexico with a bunch of Winchester 66s about 10 years ago...I was never able to totally substantiate the story that it was a 'post sight' conversion /barrel cut to 4 1/2" by either a Texas gunsmith or a gunsmith in Mexico but I do know that a number of them found favor with the Mexican bandits and revolutionaries following the ouster of Maximilian from the throne of Mexico in the late '60s early '70s. For almost forty years Smith-Wesson Americans and Schofields turned up in abundance in Mexico." Curtis notes a Schofield own by Pancho Villa also had a cut down barrel. The gun certainly has the look of a well-traveled firearm that spent a lifetime in the harsh climate south of the border. Provenance: The John Curtis Collection; The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W American

Price Realized:

Lot 1091

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Frontier Target Revolver

All frames for this model were manufactured pre-1899, but finished revolvers were shipped as late as 1913. The revolver features a pinned beaded blade Lyman front sight, an adjustable "U" notch rear sight, two-line address/patent dates marking on the barrel rib, caliber designation marked on the left side of the barrel, and matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Pictured in the 4th edition of Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 122. This model is seldom found with original target sights. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 1092

Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver

The New Model No. 3 Target Model dominated target competitions in the late 1800s, and are found in the serial number range below 4,333. Of the 4,333 target variations manufactured, only approximately 2,900 were chambered in .32-44 caliber. This example is fitted with an unusual set of sights: pinned round blade front sight with bead and rear drift sight. The top of the barrel rib has the two-line address-patent dates marking. The revolver has the 1 71/16 inch cylinder. The grip panels are numbered to a different gun ("27189"). Matching two digit serial number "96" appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-44

Price Realized:

Lot 1093

Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 1st Model Single Action Revolver

Offered here is a rare S&W No. 3 Russian 1st Model Revolver with a factory documented 6 1/2 inch barrel. Standard barrel length for this model was 8 inches. The accompanying factory letter for this revolver confirms the 6 1/2 inch barrel and lists the revolver with smooth walnut grips when it was part of a 60 unit shipment of this model to S&W's largest distributor M.W. Robinson of New York City on June 21, 1872. In this shipment there was a mix of both blue and nickel finishes and six of these revolvers had a 6 1/2 inch barrel. Robinson likely supplied the current grips and the inscription on the right side of the frame which has since been removed. The scarce short barrel rib has the one-line address/patent dates marking ending in "RUSSIAN MODEL." Matching assembly number on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Lot 1096

Smith & Wesson .38 Winchester Double Action Revolver

Offered here is one of only 276 .38 Winchester Double Action Revolvers S&W manufactured from 1900 to 1910 and it is an early production example with low two digit serial number (16) and scarce four inch barrel. A derivative of the 44-40 Winchester cartridge, the 38-40 never found the same level of popularity as its parent, resulting in limited production and scarcity on the current market. The accompanying factory letter confirms the revolver was shipped on May 4, 1901 and delivered to Harry L. Hawes of Springfield, Massachusetts. Hawes was the maiden name of Cynthia Wesson (1825-1906), the wife of S&W co-founder D.B. Wesson. Also, there was at least one known Hawes working at the S&W factory at this time. Also, period newspapers list a Harry L. Hawes as a sporting goods retailer in the Springfield, MA area. The revolver has matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The barrel rib has the one-line address marking, and the left side of the barrel is stamped "38 WINCHESTER CTG." The revolver is pictured and identified in David Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on pages 158, 161 and 162 and in Supica and Nahas 4th edition of "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 123. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 1097

Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Revolver

Introduced in 1887, this is one of 1,413 New Model No. 3 Target Revolver S&W manufactured in .38-44 S&W caliber. The revolver features a pinned blade front sight, adjustable "U" notch rear sight, 1 7/16 inch cylinder, and matching serial number on the butt, right grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The New Model No. 3 Target Model dominated target competitions in the late 1800s, and are found in the serial number range below 4,333. The revolver is pictured in Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 4th Edition" on page 120. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-44

Price Realized:

U.S. Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action Revolver

Lot 1098

U.S. Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Revolver

This revolver is one of 3,000 First Model Schofields purchased by the U.S. Government. They were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo express agents and many others. The U.S. military markings include "US" stamped on the butt, "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face and "L" on the frame. The barrel has been shortened during its period of use, as was common with 19th century revolvers purchased by the various express companies; however, the Wells Fargo marking is spurious as well as the "RFD" marking on the butt and ejector housing. The left grip panel has a restamped cartouche. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt and cylinder. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 S&W Schofield

Price Realized:

Rare Documented First Production Attributed Factory Engraved Marlin No. 32 Standard 1875 Revolver Serial Number 1

Lot 1102

First Production Attributed Marlin No. 32 Standard 1875 Revolver

Around 19,500 No. 32 Standard 1875 revolvers were manufactured by Marlin between 1875 to 1887, and offered here is the first production attributed revolver of this model, serial number 1. The revolver was on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013-2022 and is pictured in the book "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 200. Serial number "1" appears on the grip frame, barrel and cylinder. The factory engraving consists of floral scrollwork on a punch dot background on the frame, dot and line motifs on the back strap and around the hammer, and zig-zag line motif on the barrel and cylinder. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 RF

Price Realized:

Documented, Engraved Special Order Smith & Wesson No. 3 American First Model Single Action Revolver Chambered in .44 Russian with Pearl Grips

Lot 1104

Engraved Special Order Smith & Wesson No. 3 American Revolver

This American is a First Model chambered in .44 Russian caliber, one of a small few found in the 2600-3100 serial number range that were apparently the first commercial sale examples known produced in this caliber, pre-dating the "Russian Model" barrel roll marks. The lack of a hammer interlock lip and the presence of a flat bottom frame at the rear pin and a German silver blade front sight are the distinctive features of a No. 3 American 1st Model. Introduced circa 1870, standard chambering for the No. 3 American was in .44 American with around 200 manufactured in .44 Rimfire Henry, and the standard barrel length was 8 inches. The barrel length on this revolver was professionally shortened just slightly over one and a half inches. The first Russian Model began as a variant of the American chambered in .44 Russian. The early .44 Russian chambering alone makes this American even rarer than those chambered in .44 Rimfire Henry. As an extreme rarity in S&W collecting, this revolver has enjoyed coverage in prominent S&W related publications: Dean Boorman’s “The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms” on page 106 (caliber and barrel length are incorrectly listed as .44 S&W American and 6 inches respectively), Michael Kennelly’s “Smith & Wesson Engraving” on page 63, and Supica and Nahas’ “Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson” on page 40. Experts agree the engraving was by Gustave Young, noting the style of engraving, especially the use Young’s “donut” motif, as their evidence. The scroll engraving on a punch dot background covers 90% of the surface. The barrel rib has the American Model one-line address/patent dates legend correctly lacking the “RUSSIAN MODEL” marking, which was not yet in use. The grips could not be removed; otherwise, matching assembly number “4” is confirmed on the cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The revolver wears a set of plain pearl grips. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Historic Smith & Wesson No. 3 Third Model Russian Single Action Revolver with Spanish-American War Veteran Colonel D.B. Case Inscription and Factory Letter

Lot 1105

Inscribed Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian Revolver

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, nickel finish and smooth walnut grips when shipped on August 5, 1877, and delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City. The left side of the ejector housing is engraved "Col D. B. Case/4th Pa." A period retailer or jeweler performed the inscription. As a member of the 4th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Colonel David Brainard Case was among several thousand state militia soldiers called on by the Pennsylvania governor to restore law and order to a violent labor dispute in Homestead in 1892. Known as the Homestead Steel Strike as well as the "Homestead Massacre" and "Battle of Homestead", the labor dispute was a defining moment in U.S. labor history as the incident dealt a major blow in the movement to unionize steel works. Colonel Case went on to fight in the Puerto Rico campaign during the Spanish-American War (1898). The barrel rib legend ends with "RUSSIAN MODEL." The barrel, cylinder and barrel latch feature the mismatched serial number "38303." Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Documented Argentina Shipped Exhibition Quality Engraved Presentation Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver with Pearl Grips Inscribed to Argentinian Official and Factory Letter

Lot 1107

Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No.3 Revolver

Offered here is a spectacular near full coverage factory exhibition quality engraved S&W New Model No. 3 Revolver and is a presentation gun from the head of the Argentine National Guard to the governor of the San Luis province. The factory letter confirms the revolver was shipped on April 4, 1880 and delivered to Verney & Gobert of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Although the records do not list the engraving, S&W historian Roy Jinks notes the genuine period engraving that appears to be done by a member of the Young family. The gun is featured in Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 108 where "the typical Young family style" engraving and presentation inscription featured on the pearl grips are noted, and is also featured in Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 22 where the Young style engraving is cited. In this catalogers professional judgement, there is no doubt what-so-ever that the extensive coverage scrollwork was done by Gustave Young. Arguably the greatest family dynasty in 19th century American engraving: Gustave, Oscar and Eugene Young ran S&W's engraving department for 50 years (1869-1919). Nearly all of the surface features fine Gustave Young style scrollwork on punch dot background along with light borders. Even the hammer features the engraving. The revolver wears a set of plain pearl grips with the left panel featuring a presentation inscription: "Teofilo C. Gomila/a /Juan Saa." This revolver was a gift from the head of the Argentine National Guard, Teofilo Gomila, to the Governor of San Luis province, Juan Saa. The top of the barrel rib has the two-line S&W legend. The revolver is fitted with standard pinned blade front and fixed notch rear sights. The matching serial number appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Juan Saa (1818-1884) was an Argentine soldier and politician who took part in the later Argentine Civil Wars, a series of internal conflicts that occurred from 1814 to 1853 between the Centralists and Federalists, and fought against Unitarian Bartolome Miter. Under the government of Justo Saract, Saa was appointed second chief of the Southern Division of the Army of the Confederation and later took command of the division after the death of the commander in 1856. He led a federal cavalry division to victory against Miter forces at the Battle of Cepeda in 1859. In 1860, he became governor of the San Luis province and in the same year crushed a revolt at Constitutional Fort. His army defeated Unitarian Antonino Aberastain at the Battle of Rinconada del Pocito in January 1861. Internal strife ultimately led to a war against the Argentine Confederation, and Saa found himself exiled to Chile and Europe during the presidency of Miter. Saa returned to his native country in 1880 where he died four years later. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare, Historic, Documented, and NRA Award Winning Colt Model 1851 "Navy" Experimental Prototype .40 Caliber Percussion Revolver Serial Number 1 from the Colt Factory Museum Collection

Lot 1221

SN 1 Prototype .40 Caliber Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

The Colt Model 1851 Navy was one of Samuel Colt's most popular revolvers. Over a quarter of a million of these revolvers were manufactured between the introduction of the model in 1850 and the end of percussion revolver production in 1873. More Colt Model 1851 Navy revolvers were used in the 19th century than the famous Colt Single Action Army. At first glance, this revolver looks like a standard Model 1851 Navy in incredibly high condition, a rarity in and of itself, but the matching serial number "1" markings visible on the loading lever, cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap then clues that this revolver is something even more special. A check of the caliber reveals it to one of the rarest Colt firearms ever made: a .40 caliber Colt Model 1851 "Navy". You could count on one hand how many of these incredibly rare revolvers were ever manufactured and still have your pinkie to spare. In the 1850s, Colt's Model 1851 Navy was arguably his most important model. While the Model 1849 Pocket was the most popular in terms of overall sales, the Model 1851 Navy was the model adopted by the U.S. Army and Navy as well as multiple foreign militaries and thus presented the best possibility for large government contracts. Colt's .44 caliber revolvers starting with the famous Walker followed by the various Dragoon models were too large and cumbersome to be suitable for belt carry but were well-suited for riding in pommel holsters for the dragoons and cavalry and were not nearly as popular. Colt manufactured more '51 Navy revolvers in just the year 1856 than they did Dragoon revolvers in total across more than a decade. However, while the .36 caliber '51 Navy revolvers were popular, they did not provide nearly as much firepower. Finding a way to bridge the gap between the two was logical and an excellent opportunity to perhaps entice new customers unimpressed by the .36 caliber revolvers. In U.K., for example, Colt's main competition was the .442 caliber Beaumont-Adams revolver. Colt and his team certainly knew that finding a way to increase the firepower while still being able to use as many '51 Navy components as possible would make it more efficient and profitable for the company to produce. The idea is somewhat akin to the later development of the .40 S&W which bridges the gap between the various .38 caliber cartridges then in use and the larger .45 ACP. The barrel has a brass cone front sight and is marked with "DRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on top. The "AD" at the front of the address may have been lightly struck and polished off when the revolver was finished. The left side of the frame has the "COLTS/PATENT" marking. The six-shot cylinder has the standard "COLTS PATENT No" marking and roll-scene. The iron/steel trigger guard has a large round bow. The back strap is also iron. The left side of ther trigger guard has a "K" at the front and an "M" at the rear where the caliber is usually marked (meaning "Model" per Flayderman). A "1/SUPICA" and "SERIAL/NUMBER/ONE" marked tag and a "LOAN/to/NRA" tag accompany the revolver. The basic history of this rare revolver is explained well in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 195 which states: "In the 1850s, Colt attempted to develop a model with more power than their handy holster size .36 caliber Model 1851 Navy that was also smaller than their massive .44 caliber Dragoon. Before settling on the rebated cylinder Model 1860 Army, they experimented with a .40 caliber revolver on the 1851 Navy frame. This is s/n 1 of four produced." This incredibly rare experimental .40 caliber Colt Model 1851 Navy won the NRA Silver Medal #349 in 1995 for Ten Best Arms (medal, box, and display plaque included); was loaned to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming for the Colt Collector Association display from July 2002 through late 2003; is pictured and discussed in Wilson's "Book of Colt Firearms" on pages 120, 121, & 130; "Evolution of the the Colt: Firearms from the Robert Q. Sutherland Collection" by Wilson on page 10; displayed at NRA National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013 to 2022; is pictured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 195; was featured on the Season 4, Episode 16 "Serial Number One Guns" of "Gun Stories" on the Outdoor Channel; and was featured in Season 3, Episode 5 "The .40 cal Solution" of the NRA Gun Gurus. The included R.L. Wilson letter provides more details on the revolver's history after it was manufactured in the late 1850s. He indicates this revolver "is rarer than any other model, in fact, even more rare than the Double Rifle" and notes that serial number 3 was part of Samuel Colt's personal firearms collection. Wilson indicates this revolver "left the Colt Factory Museum Collection while Fred A. Roff was company President. Certain guns from the Museum Collection were retained by Colt when the Collection was transferred to the Connecticut State Library, 1957. Among these was Number 1 .40 caliber Navy. In October of 1965, Mrs. Roff contacted Colt's and asked for help in disposing of her husband's collection, several of the guns having been taken home by Roff, and were set up on display in their recreation room. The included letter from Norm Flayderman explains that the current grip is indeed original and that the checkered antique ivory grip shown in Wilson's books was put on only for photographing purposes. Wilson, however, stated that those grips were "noted in one of the factory museum inventories" in "The Book of Colt Firearms." Provenance: The Colt Factory Museum Collection; The Fred A. Roff Collection; The Johnny Basset Collection; The Robert Berryman Collection; The Norm Flayderman Collection; The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40

Serial Number 1 Westley Richards Royal Irish Constabulary Pattern Double Action Revolver Featured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum"

Lot 1346

SN 1 Westley Richards Royal Irish Constabulary Pattern Revolver

This revolver is featured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 201 where it is listed as "Westley Richards RIC Revolver, Serial Number 1, .450 cf. ca. 1870s. 'Royal Irish Constabulary' pattern revolver; maker & significance of serial number unknown. British proofed." The revolver has a rounded blade front sight, "WESTLEY RICHARDS & CO" retailer mark on top of the barrel, "C/450" on the left at the breech, notch rear sight, Birmingham proofs, "8" and "1" on the face of the cylinder, "1" on the loading gate, "8" on the rear cylinder shield, and "1" on the left side of the front grip strap under the grip. Supica collection and "LOAN/to/NRA" tags accompany the revolver. This revolver was on display at the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in 2013-2022 and was featured on the "Serial Number One Guns" episode of Outdoor Channel's "Gun Stories," season 4 ep. 16. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 450

Price Realized:

Lot 1348

Serial Number 1 Webley Bulldog Style Double Action Revolver

This revolver is featured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 201 where the "significance of the serial number is unknown" is noted. The barrel, arbor pin, cylinder, frame, loading gate, and grips have "1." The back of the cylinder has "450." The only other markings are Birmingham proofs on the barrel and cylinder. The barrel has a brass blade front sight, and the top strop has a groove rear sight. Includes a Supica collection tag and "LOAN/to/NRA" tag. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 450

Price Realized:

Rare, Highly Desirable, Documented USAF Smith & Wesson M13 Aircrewman Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 1462

USAF Smith & Wesson M13 Aircrewman Revolver

Manufactured in late-1953 or very early 1954, the M13 was produced on government contract for the U.S. Air Force, who designated it the Model 13 Aircrewmen and requested the revolvers be stamped "M13". They were intended for use by strategic bomber crews for use as survival weapons. Weight conscious, they were originally produced with a lightweight alloy frame and cylinder with a steel barrel. The model was eventually rejected because of problems with the alloy cylinder with most destroyed by the government or S&W, making surviving examples rare and highly desirable among collectors. The top strap is marked "REVOLVER, LIGHTWEIGHT, M13". Back strap marked "PROPERTY OF U.S. AIR FORCE". The left side of the frame has a "P" proof mark. Serial number "C286749" is on the butt of the frame. The six-shot alloy cylinder, barrel, and extractor are numbered to the gun. The checkered grips have S&W medallions, with the right panel numbered to the gun. This revolver falls within the accepted Aircrewman serial range of C247000-C405363 ("The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Supica and Nahas, pg. 147). The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as shipment to Norton Air Base in San Bernardino, California, on May 14, 1954. Other included documents (copies) pertaining to the revolver: The May 14, 1954 S&W invoice for 1,000 M13 revolvers ordered by the USAF and the U.S. government shipping invoice for the 1,000 M13 revolvers.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Special

Price Realized:

Extremely Rare and Highly Desirable U.S.A.F. Smith & Wesson "Baby Aircrewman" Double Action Revolver

Lot 1466

U.S.A.F. Smith & Wesson "Baby Aircrewman" Revolver

This is an extremely rare and desirable example of a Smith & Wesson four-screw J-frame revolver manufactured on government contract for the U.S. Air Force, and known by collectors as the coveted Baby Aircrewman. These revolvers were intended for use by flight crews as survival weapons in the event of an emergency. Reportedly, Smith & Wesson manufactured 605 J-frame Aircrewman revolvers, and like this example they fall into the A.F.No. 1795 to A.F.No. 2399 serial number range. (Smith & Wesson also manufactured a version based on the five-screw K-frame, which fall into the serial number range A.F. No. 1190 to A.F. No.1794.) The Baby Aircrewman model was subsequently rejected due to safety issues encountered with the alloy cylinder, and most were destroyed by the government. There are very few surviving examples today. Smith & Wesson experts and authors of "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson", Jim Supica and Richard Nahas, estimate that 10 to 15 revolvers survived. The revolver has a 2 inch barrel numbered to the gun on the underside, 5-shot alloy cylinder numbered to the gun on the rear face, ejector numbered to match on the underside, alloy J-frame with four screws and checkered grips with U.S. Air Force medallions. These Air Force medallions are only found on these "A.F. NO." marked guns. The inside of the right grip panel is numbered to the gun. The barrel is marked "SMITH & WESSON" on the left and "AIRCREWMAN/38 SPECIAL CTG." on the right. The frame is marked with the four line Smith & Wesson marking on the right and the S&W logo is on the left. A "P" proofmark is stamped above the front of the trigger guard on the left. Matching assembly number "606" marked on the inside of the frame and crane. "PROPERTY OF U.S. AIR FORCE" marked on the back strap, and the "A.F.No.1966" serial number is marked on the butt.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 S&W special

Price Realized:

Documented Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special Revolver Carried by Los Angeles Police Chief Edward M. Davis Serial Number 3J1 with Factory Letter

Lot 1527

Los Angeles Police Chief Smith & Wesson Model 36 Revolver

The Model 36 was popular with law enforcement officers, often carried as a back-up piece. In Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms," this Model 36 is cited as "owned by Los Angeles Police Chief Edward Davis." Chief Davis (1916-2006) spent 33 years with the LAPD, serving as chief from 1969-1978. Fans of late '60s police dramas might know him as Davis' name appeared in the closing credits for "technical advice" for the TV shows Dragnet and Adam-12. True crime enthusiasts certainly recognize the name as it was Chief Davis who held a press conference to announce the arrests of Charles Manson and his followers connected to the Tate–LaBianca murders in 1969 that defined a generation. Davis' role in the murder case was well documented in Vincent Bugliosi's highly popular book "Helter Skelter." He gained notoriety for making controversial statements in public but, as the Los Angeles Times conceded, "his real legacy as chief was a series of groundbreaking reforms that were copied by police departments across the country." He created the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation to help families of police officers killed in the line of duty. He wrote the first LAPD policy and procedure manual and formulated management principles for the department. He created many crime-figthing programs that included community outreach. In 1978, Davis ran an unsuccessful campaign for Republican governor of California in the primary election and later served 12 years in the California State Senate where he became an outspoken supporter of gay rights and environmental issues. The revolver is fitted with oversized combat style grips. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 S&W special

Price Realized:

Extremely Well Documented Serial Number 1 Al Herbert Exhibition Quality Engraved and Gold Inlaid Charter Arms Undercover Double Action Revolver

Lot 1626

Engraved and Gold Inlaid Charter Arms Undercover Revolver

Offered here is the first revolver manufactured by Charter Arms. In an included letter Charter Arms founder Douglas. S. McClenahan states that he built this revolver, including shaping and finishing the stocks, in July of 1965 after he left Sturm, Ruger, and Co. This pistol is the first of fifty pilot run pistols used to start the company. The revolver was part of a Serial Number One Guns display in the NRA's National Sporting Arms Museum from 2013-2022, as well as being featured on season 4 episode 16 of Outdoor Channel's "Gun stories" on serial number one guns. It is also pictured on page 201 of "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum", page 263 of " The Illustrated History of Firearms: Second Edition", and the cover story of the December, 1967 issue of Guns and Hunting magazine. The revolver features blade front and frame notch rear sights. The revolver features near full coverage floral scroll engraving with "DESIGNED BY DOUGLAS S. McCLENAHAN" inscribed on the backstrap. Gold inlays include a band at the muzzle, gold inlaid scroll accents, dots on the frame and cylinder, "#1" on the front of the right side of the frame, and band at the rear of the cylinder. There is a single platinum dot at the center of both sides of the topstrap. The engraving and inlay were executed in 1966 by Colt Master Engraver Al Herbert. This revolver was also part of the Charter Arms display for the 2018 SHOT Show. Also included is a January, 1991 notarized letter from McClenahan for the sale of the revolver to author Jim Supica as well as giving some history of how McClenahan came to start Charter Arms. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Special

Price Realized:

Lot 1627

Colt King Cobra Double Action Revolver with Box

Manufactured in 1992. Standard markings as well as serial number "KD0001" marked on the frame and crane, making this revolver the first example of a "KD" prefix revolver. The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped to Williams Shooters Supply of Quincy, Illinois, on June 24, 1992. The Colt King Cobra revolver was designed as an evolution of the well served Trooper series of revolvers, which served as Colt's medium frame option at the time. The King Cobra featured a heavier full lug barrel with a thick solid rib to make it a sturdy duty weapon for police contracts and accurate for the average consumer. The original run of King Cobra revolvers was introduced in 1986 and ended in 1992, making this one of the last of the first run. The revolver would be brought back from 1994-1998, and return again in 2019. The King Cobra series of revolvers remains a popular option for many shooters to this day. Fitted with blade front and adjustable rear sights and Colt medallion rubber grip. Includes an unnumbered Colt "heritage" box. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 357 magnum

Price Realized:

Gold Inlaid Colt MK IV Series 80 Officer's ACP Semi-Automatic Pistol Made for R.L. Wilson Serial Number RLW-1 with Factory Letter

Lot 1628

Presentation Gold Inlaid Colt Officer's ACP Pistol

Manufactured as a presentation gun for noted Colt writer R.L. Wilson. This ornate pistol features a fixed blade front sight and notch rear sight with gold inlaid dots. The slide and frame feature gold inlaid markings as well as floral and Art Deco appointments gold inlaid with a griffin behind the serrations and Wilson's monogram on top of the slide ahead of the rear sight. The included letter confirms the 3 1/2 inch barrel in .45 ACP, "wood" grips, unique serial number and left in the white when shipped to R.L. Wilson, American Master Engravers, Hadlyme, Connecticut, on June 1, 1987. This was a two gun shipment. This pistol was on display as part of the NRA National Firearms Museum's Centennial of the 1911 exhibit from 2011 to 2017. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 45 ACP

Price Realized:

Rare Engraved Bole Industries/Smith & Wesson Semi-Automatic Pistol Serial Number "EXP-1"

Lot 1629

Engraved Bole Industries/Smith & Wesson Pistol S/N: "EXP-1"

Manufactured as an experiment to test possible subcontractors for Smith & Wesson, the frame for this pistol was made by Bole Industries. It features a standard S&W markings on the slide. The frame is marked "EXP-1" on the left side and with the BII logo and "Northridge. CA." on the right. It is reported that 20 of these pistols were manufactured. In the end, a contract was not awarded to Bole Industries and the company went bankrupt. This pistol features 50% coverage floral scroll engraving on the slide, frame, and grip screws. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 9 mm para

Price Realized:

Dardick Model 1500 Autoloading Revolver Serial Number PT1 in Carbine Configuration

Lot 1630

Dardick Model 1500 Autoloading Revolver in Carbine Configuration

Manufactured circa 1958-1962, the Dardick 1500 uses a novel combination of a fixed in-grip magazine, an open-sided auto-ejecting three chamber cylinder and a proprietary plastic-cased triangular cartridge dubbed the "tround". This combination permits an ammunition capacity comparable to an automatic pistol while retaining the simple reliability of a revolver. Additionally, the barrel is secured with a single threaded bolt and can be rapidly detached or swapped. This pistol is currently equipped with a Dardick Corp marked .30 caliber barrel and fit into a carbine conversion unit. The serial number PT1 can be seen inside the grip behind the follower. Includes a box of 19 .38 special Trounds. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 30

Price Realized:

Lot 1631

American Industries Calico M-100P Semi-Automatic Pistol

Standard markings and features with the serial number "F000001". Included with the pistol is a May 6, 1993 dated letter from Michael K. Miller (president of Calico Weapon Systems) stating that this pistol was part of his personal collection and further states this pistol was manufactured in the fall of 1986, as one of the first of its production run. Also included is a Beamshot laser sight, extra magazine, and manual. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 22 LR

Price Realized:

Lot 1633

Desirable Pre-Ban Maadi/Steyr ARM Semi-Automatic Rifle

Manufactured in Egypt on equipment supplied by the Soviet government. Many claim these to be the closest copy of a Soviet AKM available on the market. Standard markings and features including Egyptian proofs and import mark. Includes a bayonet and composite sheath. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Modern

Caliber / Gauge: 7.62x39 mm

Price Realized:

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