Premier Firearms Auction #88

May 19, 2023 to May 21, 2023

This auction has ended.

Premier Firearms Auction #88

May 19, 2023 to May 21, 2023

This auction has ended.

Page 1 of 14

Showing 1-50 of 666 results

Rare and Well Documented Winchester Model 1885 High Wall Single Shot Rifle in Highly Desirable 50 Express Caliber with Factory Letter

Lot 2

Winchester 1885 High Wall Single Shot Rifle in .50 Express

The included factory letter confirms the current .50 Express caliber, 30 inch octagon No. 3 barrel and plain trigger when received in the warehouse on December 24th, 1896, and shipped on January 30th, 1897. The top barrel flat is marked "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight and "50 EX" at the breech. The serial number is marked on the lower tang. The No. 3 barrel has a blade front sight and three leaf rear sporting sight. "3" marked on the bottom of the barrel. Mounted with a smooth Schnabel forearm with ebony insert and straight grip stock with a sling swivel and casehardened rifle buttplate. The exact number of 1885s made in .50 Express caliber is unknown, but the number is believed to be somewhere around only 300. Provenance: The Tom Selleck Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50 express

Price Realized:

Lot 4

Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1898, making this Winchester Model 1894 rifle an exceptionally fine, highly desirable antique. As "the ultimate lever gun" for over a century, the Model 1894 has truly become the most famous and popular sporting rifle of all time, and this example would make for a worthy addition to any Winchester or lever action collection. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and two folding leaf rear sight marked "50" and "2" respectively. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address ahead of the rear sight and "30 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang carries the three-line model/patent date marking, and the underside of the frame is stamped with the serial number. Mounted with plain walnut forearm and straight grip stock. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 5

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1887 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail on top of the receiver and dust cover with gripping serrations at the rear. The standard two-line address/King's patent marking is on the top barrel flat along with the caliber marking. The upper tang is marked with the model designation and the lower tang has the serial number. It is fitted with German silver blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable .45-70 Caliber

Lot 6

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action .45-70 Rifle

This Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in desirable .45-70 caliber was manufactured in 1890. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and elevation adjustable rear sight. The top of the barrel has the two-line Winchester address ahead of the rear sight and "45-70" at the breech. The upper tang is marked "-MODEL 1886-." The lower tang has the two-line patent dates marking and the serial number. The frame has the desirable casehardened finish. The forend cap, hammer, lever and buttplate are also casehardened. The barrel, full length magazine tube and bolt are blued. The loading gate is niter blue. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70

Fine Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Desirable 45-90 W.C.F. with Factory Letter

Lot 7

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action with Casehardened Receiver

A fine example of an early production Winchester Model 1886 lever action rifle that was manufactured in 1887, the second year of production. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a round barrel in .38-56 caliber (currently 45-90 WCF), plain trigger, Winchester Express sights, half magazine, and shotgun butt when received in the warehouse on December 5, 1887 and shipped the next day. The letter also states the rifle "returned [from] James Kerr and Company" and shipped on September 15, 1890. When the rifle returned to the factory the rifle was likely re-barreled. This rifle has a very desirable color casehardened receiver, forearm cap, and shotgun buttplate. Winchester used a casehardened finish on these components until 1901 when the case colors were replaced with a blue finish. The hammer, lever, and trigger are also color casehardened. The 26-inch round barrel and half-length magazine have a blue finish. The bolt and loading gate are a fiery niter blue. The stock and forearm are made of walnut with a lustrous oil finish. The barrel has a bead-in-blade front sight and three leaf adjustable rear dovetailed sight. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped. The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line legend: "- MANUFACTURED BY THE-/-WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight. The caliber designation: "45-90 W.C.F." is marked at the breech, along with British proof marks on the left side in the same area. Additional British proofs are stamped into the left side of the receiver and rear of the bolt body. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped: "-MODEL 1886-". The 1884 and 1885 patent dates are stamped on the lower receiver tang behind the trigger. The serial number is roll-stamped in script numerals on the lower tang ahead of the rear tang screw.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-90 WCF

Lot 8

Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

The factory letter lists this rifle with an octagon barrel and plain trigger and indicates it was received in the warehouse on October 10, 1881, and shipped on October 15, 1881, in order number 28466. The rifle is a second model with a dust cover rail secured with two screws and serrated edges on the dust cover. The bolt is an earlier style with a bushing visible on the bolt face. Sights include a dovetail blade front sight along with a period added seven leaf rear sight soldered on top of the barrel, with the original factory dovetail visible beneath. These rare additional rear sights were typically used for big game hunting by British sportsmen, with the six leaf sights (graduated from 100 to 600 yards) offering rapid adjustment in the bush while the ladder holds more precise adjustments from 700 to 1,000 yards. The 28 inch extra length octagon barrel is marked with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight. There are no visible caliber markings. "MODEL 1876" is marked on the upper tang, and the serial number is marked on the lower tang. The trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included) is fitted to a nicely figured straight grip stock.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Exceptional Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Factory Letter

Lot 9

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine

This Winchester Model 1873 Carbine was manufactured in 1896. This carbine has the Third Model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The carbine is accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter that identifies it as "Type: Carbine, Caliber: 44" and states that the serial number was applied on April 8, 1896, and it was shipped from Winchester on March 16, 1897. The barrel has the block style front sight located behind the second style barrel band and adjustable folding leaf rear sight marked "1873" at the top of the leaf. A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The upper tang is factory drilled and tapped for a tang sight. The carbine style buttplate has a sliding brass trapdoor. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The caliber designation: "44 W.C.F." is roll-stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. "MODEL 1873" is roll-stamped in fancy letters on the upper tang with foliate devices on either end of the marking. "44 CAL" is stamped in script across the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number is stamped in script on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The barrel, magazine, barrel bands, receiver and dust cover have the Winchester commercial blue finish. The loading gate is fire blue. The hammer, trigger, lever and buttplate are color casehardened with muted case colors. The stock and forearm are oil finished, straight grain American walnut. Provenance: The Dr. Paul McCombs Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Excellent Antique Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Rare .40-82 W.C.F. with Very Attractive Casehardened Frame and Factory Letter

Lot 10

Antique Casehardened Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

The Winchester Model 1886 was the first lever action rifle designed by legendary American gunsmith John Moses Browning and was the first Winchester repeater available that could use high power "express" cartridges. This rifle is chambered in the rarer .40-82 W.C.F. This caliber was introduced in 1885 for the Winchester Model 1885 single shot rifle also designed by Browning and was available for the Model 1886 into the early 20th century but was then discontinued. The caliber was favored by elk and heavy game hunters, but rifles in this caliber are rarely encountered due to many being altered over the last century to more available calibers. This rifle also has the desirable color casehardened frame and furniture. The included factory letter lists this rifle in .40-82 with an octagon barrel and plain trigger. It was received in the warehouse on June 5, 1893, and shipped on June 9, 1894, with one other gun in order 18628. The barrel has a beaded Lyman front sight, flat folding Lyman two-leaf rear sight, the two-line barrel address, and "40-82 W.C.F." marked on top at the breech. The barrel and frame properly do not have the "WP" proofs. The upper tang is fitted with a folding Lyman peep sight with the 1879 patent marking. The lower tang has the patent marking behind the trigger and the serial number at the tail. The smooth straight wrist stock and forearm have a casehardened forend cap and a casehardened crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40-82 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Civil War Production New Haven Arms First Model Henry Lever Action Rifle

Lot 11

Civil War Production New Haven Arms First Model Henry Rifle

This is an extraordinary example of a Henry lever action rifle that was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. of New Haven, Connecticut, in 1863. The rifle has the distinctive brass receiver and crescent buttplate with octagon barrel and integral 15-shot magazine. The rifle has the first style receiver with rear sight dovetail and early style buttplate with rounded heel. The rear sight dovetail on the receiver was discontinued about serial number 3,000 and a buttplate with pointed heel was introduced at about serial number 4,000. The barrel has the second pattern nickel silver front sight blade with tapered front and flat back and third pattern folding leaf rear sight. The third pattern rear sight is distinguished by "900" stamped below the center notch in the top of the leaf elevator bar with rounded ends and lack of the elevator stop screw in the top of the leaf. The magazine has the large diameter brass follower used after serial number 1,900. The receiver has milled flats on either side of the follower slot. The stock and barrel are not fitted with a sling swivel and loop for a sling hook (sling swivels and loops were extra cost, special order items until mid-1863). The buttplate has a hinged brass trapdoor and the butt trap contains a jointed four-piece hickory cleaning rod. The stock is straight grain American walnut with a varnished piano finish. The rifle has a blue barrel and integral magazine. The hammer, trigger and lever are color casehardened. The rear sight components, bolt and receiver, trigger spring and buttplate screws have a fire blue finish. The top barrel flat is roll stamped with the two-line legend "HENRY'S PATENT. OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT'D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS.CO. NEWHAVEN.CT." The legend is the smaller first style which utilizes Roman (serifed) letters for all of the address except for the second "NEWHAVEN" which is stamped in Gothic (block) letters. The "H" inspection mark of B. Tyler Henry is stamped on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The serial number is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver, the left side of the lower receiver tang beneath the stock, the stock in the upper tang inlet, the inside of the buttplate below the trap, the hand-fitted buttplate screws and the upper and lower tang screws. All of the visible serial numbers match. The period initials "JB" are lightly scratched in the left stock wrist facing the receiver. The initials are 5/16-inches high and 14 to 16-inches long and are noticeable only on close inspection. Experts believe that most of the 7,500 Henry rifles manufactured between April 1862 and January 1865 were purchased for use in the Civil War and saw some military service. Aside from 900 rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department in 1863-1864 to arm the 1st D.C. Cavalry Regiment, nearly all Henry rifles used in the Civil War were privately purchased by soldiers who wanted to have the most advanced firearm available and take advantage of the sustained firepower of a 15-shot magazine rifle. As a result, the great majority of the Henry rifles under serial number 7,500 show moderate to heavy wear. Henry rifles manufactured during the Civil War with any original finish are very rare. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Fine Early Production Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 12

Early Special Order Winchester Second Model 1876 Rifle

Manufactured in 1878, the larger caliber Model 1876 was popular among those in the West who believed .44-40 wasn't quite enough stopping power for whatever they might encounter. This example is a Second Model with dust cover guide retained by two screws and a dust cover with checkered "thumbprint" grip. The special order half-octagon barrel is marked with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent marking along. The rifle correctly lacks caliber markings, as the only caliber initially offered for the Model 1876 was .45-75 W.C.F. The upper tang is marked with the model designation, and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a blade front sight, "1876" marked folding ladder rear sight, and a later production peep sight is mounted on the upper tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the special order part octagon barrel as well as "lid", referring to the dust cover, and that it was received at the warehouse on 27 November 1878 and shipped on 30 November 1878 in order number 13972.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-75

Price Realized:

Special Order Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action .45-90 WCF Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 13

Special Order Winchester Model 1886 .45-90 WCF Rifle

The Model 1886 is one of the finest Winchester models and was the first repeater based on designs by John M. Browning. It was developed as a replacement for the weaker toggle link action Model 1876, but their production was fairly limited at around 160,000 between 1886 and 1935. This fine special order example is chambered in the desirable .45-90 WCF caliber. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a round barrel in .45-90 caliber, Winchester express sights, half magazine, and shotgun butt as well as the rifle received in warehouse on October 8, 1892 and shipped on October 19. The rifle has several desirable features including the casehardened receiver, special order half magazine and shotgun butt, and sights. The rifle is fitted with a beaded blade front sight and a three leaf Winchester express rear sight (one fixed, two folding) with silver sight lines on a barrel with the two-line legend ahead of the rear sight and "45-90 WCF" at the breech. British proofs are stamped on the barrel, receiver and bolt. The lower tang has the two-line patent date marking and the serial number. "-MODEL 1886-" is stamped on the upper tang.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-90

Price Realized:

Outstanding Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot 16

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

This outstanding Third Model Winchester 1866 carbine was manufactured in 1869 has the distinctive brass receiver and crescent buttplate with blue barrel, magazine, barrel bands and loading gate. The hammer, trigger and lever are casehardened. The stock and forearm are oil-finished straight grain American walnut. The carbine has the Third Model features which consist of a moderately curved receiver profile and serial number located on the lower tang behind the trigger. The front sight blade is an integral part of the upper barrel band. The barrel has an un-crowned muzzle and a dovetail mounted two-leaf rear sight with "1, 3," and "5" yard markings. The magazine tube has the earlier style threaded cap. A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The upper receiver tang has a single stock screw. The hammer has coarse borderless knurling on the spur. The brass buttplate has a sharply pointed heel. The top of the barrel is roll stamped with the legend "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." ahead of the rear sight. The serial number is stamped in block numerals on the lower tang. A "B" Winchester inspection mark is stamped behind the serial number. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 18

Deluxe Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

This is a rare deluxe Winchester Model 1873 rifle with factory engraving, inscription, and numerous special order features. The rifle was factory engraved by Master Engraver John Ulrich and is signed "J. ULRICH" in tiny letters on the lower tang behind the trigger. The rifle features Winchester "$4.00" engraving. The forearm cap, top, sides and bottom of the receiver, dust cover, cartridge elevator and buttplate heel are engraved with scrollwork and line borders. The right side plate is decorated with a detailed game scene featuring two deer and intricate scrollwork. The left side plate is inscribed: "DR. E.X. AMOSS" in an engraved panel surrounded by scrollwork. The barrel and magazine are blued, the forearm cap, side plates, hammer, lever and crescent buttplate are nickel-plated and the receiver and dust cover buttplate are casehardened. The forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe, highly figured, fancy grain walnut with a piano finish. The forearm and pistol grip have "Style H" checkering, and the bottom of the pistol grip has an ebony inlay. Other special order features include a part-round/part-octagon barrel, matted barrel top and single set trigger. The rifle has Marble's blade front sight and adjustable rear sight. The rifle is complete with a Cody Firearms Records Office letter that describes the features and states that it was shipped from the Winchester warehouse on September 18, 1889. The factory legend on the top of the barrel is obscured by the factory matting. The left barrel flat is roll-stamped with the caliber "32 W.C.F.". "32 CAL" is roll-stamped across the bottom of the cartridge elevator and surrounded by engraving. The upper receiver tang is roll-stamped "- MODEL. 1873.-" in fancy letters with flourishes at either end. The serial number is stamped across the lower tang behind the lever latch and highlighted with hand-engraved flourishes. The combination of John Ulrich signed factory engraving, factory inscription, special order blue, nickel-plated and casehardened finishes and other special order features make this rifle extremely rare. Dr. Edwin X. Amoss (1855-1900) was born in Markham, Ontario, Canada, to English born parents and received a doctorate of medicine from the University of Michigan in 1884 and became a leading physician and deputy coroner in St. Paul, Minnesota, and was listed at 703 E. 3rd Street. He was evidently an early collector of fine arms given this rifle and the very rare factory engraved Colt Lightning Express Rifle inscribed "DR. E.X. AMOSS" that is shown on page 273 of "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R.L. Wilson. That rifle was shipped in November of 1887. These two rifles would definitely make quite the pair! It makes you wonder what other incredible rifles and revolvers were in his gun room. He married in 1890 and had two sons. He was very popular in the community and was judged the most popular doctor at the St. John's church fair in 1889, and was a Democratic candidate for the legislature in 1890 and noted as "broad-mined and kindly to a fault" and "the best known man in the Second Ward," but, by 1892, he had severe drug and alcohol addiction problems. That August he reportedly fired a revolver to get a servant's attention when he wanted a glass of water leading to a false story of him attempting to shoot his wife and the servant and then turning the gun on himself. By 1895, he was committed to the Rochester Asylum for liquor and drug addiction and was committed again and adjudged insane in 1899. After being placed in home confinement under police watch in January 1900, he died in August 1900 at age 39. Provenance: The Dr. Edwin X. Amoss Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 19

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. Today the Model 1873 holds a special place for modern collectors, especially those in high condition like this example. The accompanying factory letter confirms the octagon barrel in .44 caliber and plain trigger as well as the rifle received in the warehouse on April 12, 1888, and shipped on May 15. The rifle has a third model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated rear edge as well as dovetail blade and elevation adjustable sights. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates legend ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. "44 CAL" is marked on the cartridge elevator. The lower tang has the serial number, and the upper tang is marked "MODEL/1873." The smooth straight grip stock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate. A four piece cleaning rod is included in the butt. Provenance: The Dr. Paul McCombs Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle with Extra Length Barrel, Factory Letter and George Madis Letter

Lot 20

Winchester Model 1876 Rifle with Extra Length Barrel

Manufactured in 1885 as a third model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. This rifle has a highly sought after special order 30 inch extra length barrel in .45-60 caliber. The rarity of the 30 inch barrel in .45-60 caliber is highlighted in the included George Madis Letter: "Special length barrels were available for the 1876 model, but comparatively few were ordered. In a count of total production it was found that only one of each 1200 rifles had barrels longer than standard. For this model twenty-eight inch barrels were standard; the thirty-inch barrel length is very rare. In the '76, while .45-75 WCF was standard; the cartridge chambered for this rifle, the .45-60, was ordered in very limited numbers." The set trigger is an additional rarity: "Only one of each fourteen rifles in this model had set triggers, as seen on this gun." In his letter Madis also states, "I have carefully examined this rare Winchester inside and out, and have determined it all original as made by Winchester...This is a rare and fine Winchester with its unusually fine condition, rarity and age of over a century, it will be a star in any collection of rare arms." The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a 30 inch octagon barrel in .45-60 caliber and set trigger when received in the warehouse on August 14, 1885 and shipped the same day with 55 other Model 1876s. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight, a folding ladder rear sight marked "1876", and folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat has the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "CAL. 45-60" at the breech. "45-60" is marked on the cartridge elevator. The receiver is fitted with a factory set trigger, and the buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included). Nicely figured plain walnut forearm and straight grip stock. Madis believed that the wood had "some deluxe grain, and the fit and finish as well as the grain of the wood indicate Winchester 'extra finish' walnut." Provenance: The Tom Selleck Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-60

Price Realized:

Highly Attractive, Documented L.D. Nimschke Signed Deluxe Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle, as Pictured in "Winchester Engraving"

Lot 22

L.D. Nimschke Engraved Winchester Model 1866 Rifle

This highly attractive Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle was manufactured in 1869, and engraved and signed by the renowned 19th century Master Engraver Louis D. Nimschke. He remains one of the most recognized and accomplished American arms engravers. Henry and Winchester rifles with Nimschke engraving are among the most desirable of all engraved American firearms. On this example, Nimschke's initials ("LDN") are signed on the underside of the frame just ahead of the lower tang. The rifle is pictured and identified in R.L. Wilson’s “Winchester Engraving” on page 55 where the “simple signature” of “LDN” is noted. The brass surfaces (forend cap, frame, sideplates, and buttplate) display highly attractive floral scrollwork on a punch dot background with all the characteristics of being executed by the most celebrated of the 19th century’s master engravers, L.D. Nimschke. In addition to the scrollwork, the left side plate is engraved with a monogram and the right side plate is decorated with a blank inscription banner surrounded by fine checkerboard designs. The rear and top of the frame are accented with line and dot motifs. A floral pattern is engraved behind the hammer. The cartridge elevator and chamber are decorated with a star burst. The engraving is similar to the pattern featured on attorney and politician Albert Fountain's Model 1866 as pictured in "The Winchester Engraving" on page 52. The lower tang has the serial number. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address/King's patent legend. This is a third model with the serial number stamped in block letters on the lower tang. The forearm and straight grip stock are attractively figured varnished walnut. Provenance: The John F. Miller Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 23

Volcanic Repeating Arms Company Lever Action Navy Pistol

The Volcanic Arms Company manufactured only an estimated 1,500 Navy Pistols with 8 inch barrels between 1855 and 1857. This pistol has an 8 inch octagon barrel with an integral 10-shot magazine, a brass receiver, and the distinctive loading lever with finger hole. The receiver has a dovetail mounted notch rear sight, semi-circular cut-out at the front of the ejection port, and bolt with single hook extractor. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with: "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEWHAVEN CONN. FEB.14.1854" in three lines. The matching serial number is located on the right side of the loading lever, right side of the butt beneath the grip, and stamped on the inside of both grips.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Volcanic

Price Realized:

Fine and Scarce Massachusetts Arms Co. Wesson & Leavitt Percussion Dragoon Revolver

Lot 24

Massachusetts Arms Co. Wesson & Leavitt Dragoon Revolver

Reportedly, 850 of these Dragoon revolvers were manufactured between 1850-1851 before production was halted due to a patent infringement suit won by Colt. The design was in part by Edwin Wesson, older brother of Daniel B. Wesson of later Smith & Wesson fame. The younger Wesson and Horace Smith were among the incorporators of the Massachusetts Arms Co. This nickel finished example has standard markings and features with a six-shot cylinder. "MASS. ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS" marked on the top strap, "WESSON'S & LEAVITT'S PATENT" marked on the lock, "LEAVITTS PATENT APRIL 29. 1837" on the back of the cylinder, "WESSON'S PATENT AUG. 28. 1849" on the bevel gear. "412" marked on the back of the barrel "barb", "17" marked on the bottom of the barrel topstrap, recoil shield, rear of the frame, underside of the back strap, and front face of the grip. Scarce 6 1/4 inch barrel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 40

Price Realized:

Factory Engraved Massachusetts Arms Co. Wesson & Leavitt Belt Model Percussion Revolver

Lot 25

Factory Engraved Mass Arms Co. Wesson & Leavitt Belt Revolver

Only around 1,000 of the Wesson & Leavitt Belt Model revolvers were manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Co. in 1850 and 1851 before production was halted due to a patent infringement suit won by Colt. The design was in part by Edwin Wesson, older brother of Daniel B. Wesson of later Smith & Wesson fame. The younger Wesson and Horace Smith were among the incorporators of the Massachusetts Arms Co. In addition to the standard markings and cylinder etching, this revolver has higher quality engraving and silver plated trigger guard, grip washer, and back strap. "921" marked on the back of the barrel "barb" and face of the arbor pin. "659" marked on the underside of the back strap, on the right of the grip beneath the lock, front flat of the grip and front and rear flats of the frame.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 27

Antique Winchester Model 1890 Slide Action Rifle

The accompanying factory letter for this rifle states the serial number was applied on November 6, 1896 and confirms the .22 short chambering as well as received in the warehouse on November 17, 1896 and shipped on December 1. Replacement beaded blade front and elevation adjustable (1902 and 1901 patents respectively) rear notch sights, first style barrel inscription, "22 SHORT" caliber marking on top flat at the breech, Winchester proofs correctly absent, correct magazine tube without collar, casehardened Second Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, and three-line maker, model, and patent marking on the upper tang. 12 groove slide handle and plain walnut straight grip stock with casehardened crescent buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 RF Short

Price Realized:

Antique Winchester First Model 1890 Slide Action Solid Frame Rifle in Desirable .22 WRF with Factory Letter

Lot 30

Antique Winchester First Model 1890 Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1892. Standard blade front and fixed notch rear sights, correct 24 3/8 inch First Model barrel with first style inscription, "22 W.R.F." caliber marking on top flat at the breech. Correct early magazine tube, First Model solid frame receiver, and three-line maker, model, and patent marking on upper tang. The inside of the upper tang is correct marked "WRF". 12 groove slide handle and plain walnut straight grip stock with casehardened crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter states the serial number was applied on January 22, 1892 and confirms the .22 WRF chambering as well as received in the warehouse on August 4, 1892 and shipped on October 7, 1892.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 WRF

Price Realized:

Scarce Documented Nickel Plated Finish Winchester Model 1866 Carbine with Factory Letter

Lot 33

Winchester Model 1866 Carbine with Nickel Plated Finish

This fine Winchester Model 1866 saddle ring carbine features a very scarce factory full nickel plated finish. This highly sought after factory full nickel plated carbine is pictured and identified in George Madis’ “The Winchester Book” on page 75. Madis noted, “This fourth model carbine, number 164,533, is standard in all respects except for the full nickel plated finish. Only one of each three hundred guns was plated.” Based on Madis’ calculations, less than 570 Model 1866s were "plated in some manner" out of the approximately 170,100 manufactured in total. According to Madis, "It is interesting to note that plated models 66 are of greater rarity than inscribed or engraved guns" (page 126). This is certainly a rarity in Winchester collecting missing from even the most advanced collections! Fourth model carbines are found in the 149000-170100 serial number range, represent the last style of carbine to the highly successful '66 line, feature an even less pronounced drop at the top rear of the frame, and late guns have an iron buttplate instead of brass. The carbine has a barrel band ahead of the iron block front sight and late pattern folding leaf rear sight. A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the receiver. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860" ahead of the rear sight. The serial number is stamped in script numerals on the lower tang behind the lever latch. The iron carbine-style buttplate has a sliding trap (cleaning rod not included). The stock and forearm are straight grain black walnut. The accompanying factory letter confirms the nickel plating and that the carbine was received in the warehouse on November 13, 1883 and shipped on August 16, 1898. Provenance: The Frank Barrigan Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Lot 36

Colt Lightning Medium Frame Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1888. Brass blade front and semi-buckhorn style rear sights with the two line address/patents marking ahead of the rear sight and "32 Cal." at the breech. The Rampant Colt is marked on the left side of the receiver, full length magazine, casehardened hammer and mounted with a checkered forearm and smooth straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-20

Price Realized:

Antique Black Powder Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Holster

Lot 38

Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1879, this antique .44 WCF SAA features desirable nickel finish and antique ivory grip. The nickel plating and grip material exude late 19th century wealth, an affluent status symbol carried perhaps a prosperous rancher. The evenly worn condition certainly displays working gun character obtained through a lifetime or more of service. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and "44" in small font on the underside. The frame has the three-line patent dates marking, and the left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CF." Matching full or partial serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and cylinder. With lightly floral and border tooled leather holster.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 40

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle in .22 Long

Manufactured in 1886 as a Third Model, the barrel has the two-line address/King's patent marking and caliber marking at the breech and on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The upper tang is marked with the model designation and the serial number is on the lower tang. Fitted with combination front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Winchester manufactured approximately 19,552 Model 1873s in .22 short or .22 long between 1884 and 1904. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as receipt at the warehouse on 9 April 1886 and shipment on 10 May 1886 in order number 6408. A second shipment date of 26 April 1888 and order number 5482 are also listed.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 22 L

Price Realized:

Lot 43

Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1888. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, the two-line address, and "38-56 W.C.F." on top at the breech. The rifle properly does not have the oval "WP" proofs. The casehardened frame has the model designation on the upper tang and the serial number and patent marking on the lower tang.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-56 WCF

Price Realized:

Colt Model 1878 Grade 2 Double Barrel Hammer Shotgun with Factory Letter and Case

Lot 46

Colt Model 1878 Grade 2 Double Barrel Hammer Shotgun with Letter

Blued Damascus steel barrels with a single bead sight on the smooth solid rib, 2 1/2 inch chambers with extractor, and chokes measured .033/.030 inches. The casehardened rebounding hammer action is unadorned aside from the factory marking on either lock. Lightly figured, multi-point checkered splinter forend with ebony tip inlay and round knob pistol grip stock with blued steel buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the current grade, gauge, barrel length, and finish when it was shipped on May 4, 1886, to a J. G. Munroe of Buffalo, NY. J. G. Munroe was a prominent businessman in the Buffalo area and was involved in the shipping of heavy ore from Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Also includes a leather mutton leg takedown case. Stock measurements: 2 inch drop at comb; 3 1/8 inch drop at heel; 14 3/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs. 13 oz.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 12

Price Realized:

Lot 47

Remington Model 1890 Single Action Army Revolver

Remington manufactured approximately 2,000 of these Model 1890 Single Action Army revolvers in 1891-94. The Model 1890 was the successor to the Model 1875 and 1888 and was also intended to be the competitor to the Wild West legend the Colt Single Action Army. The Model 1890 is one of the most sought after of all of the Remington produced handguns. The top of the period shortened barrel is marked "REMINGTON ARMS CO. ILION, N.Y." The caliber designation "44 C.F.W" is marked on the left side of the frame just below the cylinder. The serial number is correctly located on the lower left side of the frame under the grip panel. A factory lanyard ring is mounted on the butt.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 49

Antique Colt Medium Frame Lightning Slide Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1893 with the standard two-line address/patent marking and caliber designation on the top of the barrel. The Rampant Colt is marked on the left of the frame, and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with German silver blade front and elevation adjustable notch rear sights. Mounted with a multipoint checkered slide handle and smooth straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Desirable Antique Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Takedown Rifle

Lot 51

Antique Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Rifle

Manufactured in 1897 with standard markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. It is fitted with Lyman beaded blade front, three-leaf rear sights, and a tang mounted peep sight, as well as being in takedown configuration. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 30 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 52

Antique Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1897. Dovetail blade front sight and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight on a barrel marked with the two-line address and "44 W.C.F." on the top flat. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model and patent date information. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 53

Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 WCF SAA was intended to be used in conjunction with another legendary Western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, which used the same cartridge. "The .44-40 WCF was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." Offered here is an antique black powder frame .44 WCF SAA. These .44 WCF SAAs have found a special place in the hearts of Peacemaker collectors, and this example certainly has the look of a survivor of the western frontier. This revolver will factory letter as a blued SAA chambered in .44-40 with type of stocks and barrel length not listed when shipped on August 7, 1882, to Simmons Hardware Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, the gateway to the American frontier. Matching full or partial serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel. Includes a floral tooled open top/open toe leather holster with holster loop added by the owner to meet the demands of the day.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Documented Antique Colt Single Action Army Revolver in Rare .44 S&W with Factory Letter

Lot 54

Antique Colt Single Action Army Revolver in .44 S&W

Manufactured 1898, the top of the barrel has the standard two-line address while the rare and desirable "44 S&W" caliber marking is on the left. The left of the frame has the two-line patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The included factory letter confirms the .44 S&W caliber, finish, and grip type, while listing the barrel length as 5 1/2 inches, and shipment to Jack Morris on 12 February 1898 (one could certainly research this individual). According to "The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army" by Brown, only 12 standard frame Single Action Army revolvers were chamber in .44 S&W Russian (only). There are factory rework stars stamped on the underside of the ejector rod housing and on the right side of the front strap, though it is unclear what all was done during the rework (this might explain the shorter 4 3/4 inch barrel, rather than the listed 5 1/2 inch). It is fitted with a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W

Price Realized:

Lot 61

Antique Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Lever Action Rifle

Offered here is a wonderful, high condition, highly sought after antique Marlin deluxe Model 1893 lever action rifle that was manufactured circa 1893 (see William Brophy's published serial number range). The full octagon barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight and is stamped with the two-line Marlin address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "32-40" at the breech. The frame retains highly attractive original case colors and is marked "MARLIN SAFETY" on the top. The serial number is stamped on the underside of the frame. The highly figured deluxe walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature Marlin factory No. B multi-point checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a casehardened crescent buttplate. From 1882 to 1915 the extra cost associated with select walnut and checkering varied from $10.00 to $18.00. Due to the added expense deluxe Model 1983s were not often ordered. The '93 was a "working man's gun" which saw hard use, and deluxe rifles were not viewed as a necessity with late 19th century customers looking for a rifle to get the job done. Finding a deluxe variation let alone a high condition example is becoming extremely difficult.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-40

Price Realized:

Exceptional and Rare Deluxe Special Order Casehardened Bullard Lever Action Rifle with Special Order Tapered Barrel in Desirable 45 Caliber

Lot 65

Deluxe Special Order Casehardened Bullard Rifle

This is a beautiful example of a Deluxe Special Order Bullard lever action rifle with the special order tapered 28-1/8 inch full octagon barrel. Bullard rifles are considered very rare on the collector market today as they were only produced from 1886 to 1890 and competed for sales directly with the Winchester, Marlin and Whitney Arms Company lever actions rifles also produced during this time. This fierce competition really stymied their sales creating a very limited production of Bullard rifles. This rifle employs a very long receiver/action that houses a brass cartridge lifting mechanism (very similar to the Winchester Model 1876 rifles) to accommodate the larger and longer cartridges. It has a 6 1/4 inch straight cylindrical bolt (similar to the 1873 and 1876 Winchester rifles). This bolt has a unique two-tooth, gear mechanism on the rear that engages a similar two-tooth geared mechanism on the front of the breechblock. This geared mechanism functions off the loading lever and basically acts as the locking lug for the rifle bolt which gave it far more strength to withstand higher pressure of the larger cartridges. The left side of the receiver has a small side plate that allows access to the mechanism inside, and the loading gate for the tubular magazine is located on the under side of the receiver. This specific rifle is a "deluxe" version that has the special order 28-1/8 inch tapered sporting barrel (1.0 at the breech and .75 inch at the muzzle) that is fitted with a sporting front sight with a nickel blade insert (almost identical to the Winchester sights) and a semi-buckhorn, adjustable rear sight. The left side of the receiver is marked "BULLARD REPEATING ARMS COMPANY/SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U. S. A. PAT. AUG. 16. 1881", and the top of the receiver is marked "CAL/45". The stock is deluxe "fancy" grade American walnut with a very nice, fine cut, wrap around checkering pattern on the pistol grip area with a fancy maple buttplate (stained dark red) to give it the appearance of rosewood. The forearm is also a better grade of American walnut with nice straight grain pattern as factories tended not to use real deluxe fancy wood on the forearm because they saw more use and had a tendency to crack. The forearm is checkered with six panels; two on each side of the forearm and two panels on the underside. The rifle has the factory blued finish on the barrel, magazine tube, dust cover, lower tang and loading gate with the complete action, loading lever and nose cap being color casehardened.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45

Price Realized:

Exceptional E. Remington & Sons No. 1 Rolling Block Long Range "Creedmoor" Target Single Shot Sporting Rifle

Lot 68

Remington No. 1 Rolling Block Long Range "Creedmoor" Rifle

Reportedly, a few hundred of the original Long Range "Creedmoor" Rifles were manufactured by Remington c. 1873-1890. These were among the finest target rifles of the 19th century and certainly among the finest 19th century arms manufactured by the Remington factory. The part octagon barrel is marked with the E. Remington & Sons address on top and has a windage adjustable globe front sight with a spirit level (level included separately, does not properly stay in place), "44 S" marked on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the forend (.44-77 Sharps). The frame has the patent markings on the left and a long range Vernier peep sight on the upper tang. Matching serial number "4685" marked on the bottom of the barrel beneath the forend, rear flat of the forend, on the lower tang, front flat of the buttstock and underside of the buttplate. Additional mounting base for the peep sight located on the top rear of the buttstock. The forearm is smooth and has a steel end cap, and the pistol grip stock has a checkered wrist, horn inlay, some nice figure, and a smooth steel shotgun buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-77

Price Realized:

Engraved Sharps Model 1853 Slant Breech Octagon Barrel Percussion Sporting Rifle with Factory Letter

Lot 69

Engraved Sharps 1853 Slant Breech Octagon Barrel Sporting Rifle

The Sharps Model 1853 is one of the most iconic firearms of the often violent antebellum era and was famously used by John Brown and his abolitionist allies in Bleeding Kansas and his raid on Harpers Ferry. Early Sharps rifles like this engraved sporting rifle helped establish breech loading firearms in the U.S. and led to Sharps rifles and carbines being among the most significant firearms of the Civil War era and the settlement of the West after the war. The included copy of a factory letter from Dr. Richard J. Labowskie notes that this rifle was invoiced at Sharps' Hartford factory on April 30th, 1855, and described as a 60 bore Model 1853 sporting rifle, about .44 caliber, and plain finished with no mention of engraving or any other extras. The engraving on this example does, however, appear to be similar to other known factory engraved Sharps Model 1853 sporting rifles. This rifle is engraved in the distinctive patterns attributed to the shop of Gustave Young, if not by the master himself. The hammer has nine dots stamped below the spur, which was a method used by Gustave Young to denote the level of embellishment. He also did this on Colt Revolvers. It is possible this rifle was returned to the factory to be engraved and rebarreled with an octagon barrel upon request, as the Sharps factory barrel is non-matching numbered "12179" on the underside. It features fine engraving covers nearly all of the visible surfaces of the frame, lock plate, and patch box as well as most of the lever, trigger plate, buttplate tang and around the lower buttplate screw. The majority of the Young engraving consists of the classic Germanic scroll engraving including floral bloom accents, intertwining scrolls, small sections of crosshatch and dot patterns, and wavy line borders. The left side of the frame features a detailed scene of an elk and trees, and the patch box has a round panel scene of a hog in front of a fence. The rifle features a dovetailed German silver blade front sight, a dovetailed notch and folding ladder rear sight, and adjustable double set triggers. "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD CONN." marked on top of the barrel, the upper tang has "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" just ahead of the serial number, and the lock is marked "SHARP'S/PATENT/1852". The "SHARP'S" markings on the barrel and lock are noted variations seen on many of the Model 1853 rifles and was created by a mistake of the man who cut the stamps and was corrected later in the production of this model. Matching serial numbers visible on the upper receiver tang, inside the lock and inside of the patch box. and "E" is stamped on the lower left of the frame, front of the trigger plate, and the inside of the patch box. The forend has a simple pewter forend cap and the buttstock has a classic Sharps patch box and lightly curved buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Spencer Repeating "Buffalo" Rifle with Remington Marked Heavy Barrel

Lot 70

Spencer Repeating "Buffalo" Rifle with Remington Heavy Barrel

Approximately 50,000 of these carbines were manufactured between 1863 and 1865 for the Union Army. This rifle was later updated and fitted with a heavy barrel, likely for a buffalo hunter. Spencers were among the first repeating rifles available in the West alongside the Henry rifles but offered more firepower and thus were better suited to big game. It has a dovetailed German silver blade front sight, notch and ladder rear sight, and "REMINGTON 8" marking on the upper left at the breech. The top of the frame has the three-line marking. The serial number is marked on top. A saddle ring is fitted on the left. The stock has an "M" hand-marked on the left.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 50

Price Realized:

Lot 71

Engraved Remington-Hepburn No. 3 Single Shot Sporting Rifle

These rifles were manufactured c. 1883-1907. This example has an "E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y." address on the barrel, indicating it was manufactured c. 1883-1888 before the company was reorganized as Remington Arms Co. Features fine floral scroll and border engraving on the action and trigger guard, and double set triggers. The barrel is equipped with a windage adjustable globe front sight with spirit level, and a tang mounted adjustable peep ladder rear sight. Two filled in and filed rear sight screw holes visible on top of the barrel. The caliber designation "38 2 1/4" (.38-50 Remington Ballard) marked on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the forearm. "HEPBURNS PAT./OCT. 7TH 1879." marked on the left of the frame. Matching serial number "5948" marked on the underside of the barrel, rear surface of the forearm, and lower tang. Mounted with a checkered walnut forend with hard rubber forend cap and nicely figured round knob checkered pistol grip stock with hard rubber buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-50 Rem

Price Realized:

Lot 73

Remington-Hepburn No. 3 Single Shot Sporting Rifle

These rifles were manufactured c. 1883-1907. This example has an "E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y." address on the barrel, indicating it was manufactured c. 1883-1888 before the company was reorganized as Remington Arms Co. The barrel is equipped with a windage adjustable globe front sight and elevator notch rear sight, with a tang mounted adjustable peep ladder rear sight. The caliber designation "45.70" marked on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the forearm. "HEPBURNS PAT./OCT. 7TH 1879." marked on the left of the frame. Matching serial number "5224" marked on the underside of the barrel, rear surface of the forearm, lower tang, front surface of the buttstock and underside of the buttplate. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with nickel forend cap and round knob checkered pistol grip stock with casehardened buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45-70 Government

Price Realized:

Lot 74

Marlin Ballard No. 9 Union Hill Single Shot Falling Block Rifle

This model was manufactured between 1876 and 1891. The left side of the receiver is marked "MARLIN FIRE ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT. U.S.A./BALLARD'S. PATENT. NOV. 5, 1861." The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "38-55." Matching serial numbers are marked on the bottom of the barrel, tail of the forearm, bottom of the receiver, inside of the buttplate, and front of the stock wrist. It features a globe and pin front sight dovetailed to the barrel, plain trigger, and a factory Ballard mid-range tang sight. It is mounted with a checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with a cheekpiece and nickel plated Swiss style buttplate.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38-55

Price Realized:

Historic Cased Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver from the Lodge Family Attributed as Presented to Congressman Henry Cabot Lodge by His Close Friend President Theodore Roosevelt with Notarized Letter

Lot 75

S&W New Model 3 Attributed as Presented to Henry Cabot Lodge

This revolver was passed down through the family of Henry Cabot Lodge Sr., and his great-grandson Henry Sears Lodge indicated in an included letter that the revolver was a gift from President Theodore Roosevelt to Roosevelt's close friend Senator Henry Cabot Lodge Sr. during a hunting trip in the "Wild West". He indicates that his father, Senator and U.S. Ambassador Henry Cabot Lodge Jr., had told him the revolver was the mate to another Smith & Wesson given by Roosevelt to the future Czar Nicholas II on the same trip and suggested that the Russian leader liked the revolver so much that he had them ordered for his personal guard leading to the revolver being known as the "Russian .44." A subsequent letter from David M. Grose relates mostly the same story but also adds that the revolver was only fired once by Henry Cabot "Lodge Sr. only used this gun to outdo a neighbor's cat on Nahant, MA where they lived at the time." It also indicates Grose purchased the revolver from Henry Sears Lodge c. 1988 and had fired it himself twice. The included factory letter notes that this revolver along with two others shows no shipping information in the factory ledger though they should have been shipped in 1892 or 1893. This revolver was loaned to NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in April 2013 and is featured in "Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum" on page 87, "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" by Chicoine on page 400, Boorman's "History of S&W Firearms" on page 108, and discussed by Jim Supica on C-SPAN's Presidential Firearms (https://www.c-span.org/video/?438656-1/presidential-firearms). The family lore clearly has at least some aspects of the story incorrect. The Smith & Wesson .44 Russian would have been in use by the Russian government since the 1871 when Nicholas II and Theodore Roosevelt were both children, and Nicholas II never came to the United States and was not liked by Theodore Roosevelt. The story may have been confused with visit of Grand Duke Alexei, son of Czar Alexander II and uncle of Nicholas II. He visited the U.S. in 1871 and toured the Smith & Wesson factory which was by then already contracted to supply revolvers for the Russian military and also went hunting in the American West with Lt. General Philip Sheridan, Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer, and William F. Cody (then a hunter and not yet an international sensation). Nicholas II is known to have presented an elaborate Smith & Wesson revolver to a Russian officers in 1895, the same year the Russian military adopted the more modern Nagant revolver. President Theodore Roosevelt's most famous dealings with Russia and Czar Nicholas II came in 1905 when he helped negotiate peace between Russia and Japan ending the Russo-Japanese War and earning Roosevelt the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906. Henry Cabot Lodge Sr. (1850-1924) was one of Theodore Roosevelt's most important political allies and advisors and also one of his closest friends starting in the mid-1880s when both men were delegates to the 1884 Republican National Convention in Chicago. In 1887, Roosevelt was one of the founding members of the Boone & Crockett Club formed for the conservation of wildlife. Lodge was one of the key members and helped push the clubs agenda in Congress. In 1892 or 1893 when this revolver likely left the factory, Lodge would have either been running for a Senate seat or have recently been elected. He had previously made a name for himself as a historian, member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, chairman of the Massachusetts Republican Party, and Congressman. Roosevelt had also in part made a name for himself as a historian and in 1892 and 1893 was a commissioner on the United States Civil Service Commission, a position he was given by President Benjamin Harrison based on Lodge's recommendation. Roosevelt served on the commission until 1895 and earned a reputation for fighting against corruption. In 1895, Roosevelt and Lodge co-authored the book "Hero tales from American History." He then served as president of the New York City Police Commissioners where he continued to earn a reputation as a reformer. He became the Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President William McKinley in 1897, and then resigned that position to fight in the Spanish-American War as the lieutenant colonel of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry (The Rough Riders). Both Lodge and Roosevelt were proponents of U.S. intervention in Cuba. The famous factory engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 shipped to Roosevelt just as he left to join the Rough Riders was sold in our last auction in December 2022 and clearly demonstrates his interest in this model. The Rough Riders' success in the Battle of San Juan Hill helped propel Roosevelt to the governor's mansion in New York in 1899, and then the vice presidency following the death of Vice President Garret Hobart. With the assassination of McKinley at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, Roosevelt became president, still the youngest person to ever hold the office. Lodge remained in the U.S. Senate from 1893 until his death in 1924 and became the majority leader. Though a supporter of the League of Nations, he ultimately led the Senate in its rejection of the Treaty of Versailles due to concerns that without amendments, the League of Nations would undermine U.S. sovereignty. When Roosevelt died in 1919, it was Lodge who gave the eulogy. The revolver has a pinned bead style blade front sight, notch rear sight, the two-line address and patent marking ending in "1871" on the rib, matching serial numbers (barrel, cylinder, and butt) and checkered grips (right panel numbered "27654"). It comes in a hardwood case with purple lining closely fit to the revolver and an empty box for Winchester .44 Smith & Wesson Russian ammunition. A brass "N10/SUPICA" and "S&W/Mod 3" tag is also included. Provenance: The Henry Cabot Lodge Sr. Family Collection; The David M. Grose Collection; The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum; The Supica Collection

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Smith & Wesson Number 3 American 2nd Model Single Action Revolver

Lot 76

Smith & Wesson Number 3 American 2nd Model Revolver

Introduced in 1872. The revolver features a scarce 6 inch barrel (standard length was 8 inches), one-line barrel rib legend, gold plated cylinder with remaining surfaces nickel plated, non-visible serial number, mismatched assembly numbers, cylinder chambered for .44 S&W Russian (original .44 S&W American cylinder likely traded out of the cylinder chambered in .44 S&W Russian, a more popular caliber of the day), "kill notches" on the left grip panel, and grip frame modified to better fit the contours of the user's hand during its service life. This S&W has all the hallmarks of a well traveled trusty sidearm carried at the hip for years! Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Scarce Japanese Navy Contract Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver

Lot 77

Japanese Contract Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

This revolver falls into the 28111-29668 serial number range of an August 1896 dated shipment of New Model No. 3s exported to Japan via Takata & Company. Nearly a third of this model was exported to Japan. This example lacks Japanese contract markings; however, the Japanese military purchase markings are not present on a majority of Japanese contract guns. The lanyard ring is through the butt serial number, and the number "704" was subsequently stamped on the butt. The barrel is unnumbered. The serial number "29391" is clearly marked on the cylinder and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Turkish Contract Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 .44 Rimfire Single Action Revolver

Lot 78

Turkish Contract Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

Produced on order for the Ottoman Empire, the Turkish Contract New Model No. 3 was chambered for the .44 Henry Rimfire, a cartridge that was already on the decline on the domestic market but still in demand overseas. Springfield Armory provided the Ottoman government the services of one of their inspectors, A. F. Cameron, to serve as their representative and chief inspector for the contract run. His initials are marked on the top of the left grip panel on this revolver. The inspection mark "P" is visible on the rear face of the cylinder and the frame beneath the cylinder. The barrel latch is unnumbered. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Historic, Documented Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver Shipped to International Target Shooting Champion and New York Police Officer William E. Petty with Factory Letter

Lot 79

William Petty's Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Revolver

The accompanying factory letter confirms the revolver was shipped on December 17, 1892 and delivered to William E. Petty of New York City. No other details are provided. 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 like William Petty. As S&W historian Roy Jinks notes in the factory letter, "Petty was one of America's great revolver shooters. On March 15, 1901 Mr. Petty set a new 100 shot 20 yard record firing a score of 908. Mr. Petty was a great fan of Smith & Wesson's and used his New Model No. 3 to win many matches." This revolver has yet to be documented to any of Petty's wins. The "Report of the Police Department of the City of New York" for the year of 1904 lists 19th century champion shooter William E. Petty as serving with the New York City Police Department from May 5, 1884 until his retirement on May 25, 1904. Petty started the first organized police marksmanship program for the NYPD when future U.S. president Theodore Roosevelt was the NYC Police Commissioner. Petty is quoted in Richard Zacks' "Island of Vice: Theodore Roosevelt's Quest to Clean Up Sin-Loving New York" (page 220-221) expressing his dismay over the lack of proper weapons training received by New York City police officers in the late 1880s. For Petty it was imperative that his students received only the best revolver training: "A trained marksman can disable a man where a bumbler might kill." The revolver is pictured and identified in David Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on page 392. The revolver is fitted with target sights, has the two-line address/patent dates legend on the barrel rib, and wears a set of checkered walnut grips. The left side of the grip frame has a S&W factory rework star and May 1970 ("570") factory return date. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel latch ("740"), and barrel. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W Russian

Price Realized:

Documented New York Engraved Turkish Contract Smith & Wesson Russian 3rd Model Revolver in Scarce .44 Rimfire Henry with Holster and Factory Letter and Photographed in Several Publications

Lot 80

Engraved Turkish Smith & Wesson Russian 3rd Model Revolver

As noted in the included factory letter, "This revolver was one of 340 units built at the request of the Turkish Government." These rare "Turkish models" were standard Russian models converted to .44 Henry Rimfire. Records are not available to know which contract revolvers were forwarded to Turkey as the revolvers were delivered from the factory to S&W's New York distributor and acting Turkish government agent M.W. Robinson. This revolver was shipped on April 18, 1877. Around 5,000 Russian 3rd Model revolvers were ordered by Turkey. The revolver was subsequently period New York style engraved. S&W historian Roy Jinks noted the engraving in the factory letter: "The [Turkish contract] revolvers were plain handguns with smooth wood grips upon shipment. Based on the photograph you forwarded it is my opinion that the engraving was completed by a New York City engraver." The revolver is decorated with excellent quality New York style broad scrollwork on a punch dot background covering 80% of the surface. The barrel rib has the legend ending with the reissue date. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt. The back of the right grip is stamped with the frame serial number. The cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch are also numbered to the gun. With a star and moon embossed leather flap holster. These rare "Turkish models" saw hard use and when encountered are generally in rough condition. The high condition of this revolver along with its New York engraving is certainly a standout example. According to our consignor the revolver came out of England. The revolver is pictured in Jim Supica and Richard Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 110, David Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on pages 120 and 122, Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 105, and Michael Kennelly's "Smith & Wesson Engraving" on page 72. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Henry RF

Price Realized:

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Frontier Target Revolver Presentation Inscribed to a Belgian Artillery Officer

Lot 81

Inscribed Smith & Wesson .44 DA Frontier Target Revolver

This S&W .44 Double Action Frontier target revolver features a presentation inscription to Belgian artillery Major Robert Reyntiens (1860-1913). Major Robert Reyntiens was a graduate of the Artillery Section of the Bruxelles Military Academy in 1877 and married Lady Alice Josephine Bertie, the daughter of the 7th Earl of Abingdon, in 1897 after the death of his first wife. He resigned from the military with the rank of captain in 1898 but returned to military service in 1903 after abruptly resigning as the Belgian representative to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) following intense quarrels with IOC President Pierre de Coubertin. Purportedly their disparagements became so heated the two men almost resorted to a duel. At this time the weapon of choice for a duel was sword, and de Coubertin would have been at a great disadvantage as Major Reyntiens was a renowned fencer. Reyntiens was not a stranger to the duel. Military records show that the major was sentenced to eight days in prison and fined by a Brussels criminal court for assisting in a duel as a second. He held several military honors including knight of the Order of Saint Anne of Russia (3rd class), knight of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great, knight 3rd class of the Order of the Crown of Prussia, and officer of the Order of the Oak Crown and served as the first commander of the Ecole mitaire d'Escrime when the school was established in 1885 as well as aide-de-camp to Belgian King Leopold II. Also, an avid footballer he would go on to become the founding president of the football section of the Leopold Club de Bruxelles. Reyntiens was not the only one in the family with a sports background. His son went on to compete in jumping at the 1912 Olympics. The revolver was presented to Major Reyntiens when he was a captain in 1891 and based on the inscription the presentation occurred at a competition where the revolver was the 4th prize. The top strap is inscribed "H JAS A BRUXELLES," a retailer in Brussels. The back strap has the presentation inscription: "COUCOURS AU VISE DE 1891/4me PRIX AU/CAPITAINE R. REYNTIENS." The revolver is fitted with a pinned beaded blade front sight and a square notch adjustable rear sight. This model is seldom found with original target sights. The barrel rib has the two-line S&W address/patent dates marking. Belgian proofs are stamped on the rear cylinder face: Liege proof and "*/B" proof. Additional "*/B" proofs are stamped on the right side of the barrel and frame. The barrel latch is unnumbered. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, cylinder, and barrel. All frames for this model were manufactured pre-1899, but finished revolvers were shipped as late as 1913. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

Presentation Cased New York Panel Scene Engraved Smith & Wesson .32 Single Action Revolver with Pearl Grips

Lot 82

New York Engraved Smith & Wesson .32 Single Action Revolver

Manufactured from 1878 to 1892. Offered here is an early model of S&W's .32 Single Action revolver as it was built with the strain screw found under the grips. The revolver is decorated with wonderful L.D. Nimschke New York engraving. Profuse floral scrollwork on a punch dot background is engraved on the sides of the barrel, sides of the frame and cylinder. Amongst the scrollwork on the side plate is a finely detailed vignette of a sailing ship. Zig-Zag line patterns adorn the sides of the barrel rib and the rear of the cylinder. The back strap features floral and dot and line motifs. The barrel rib has the two-line S&W address/patent date marking, and additional patent dates are marked on the top strap. Fitted with a set of pearl grips. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. Includes a deluxe period leather bound French cut case lined in white and blue silk, likely a product of Hartley & Graham in New York City.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 S&W

Price Realized:

Lot 83

Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Frontier Revolver

This example has the rare and desirable 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 Bridgeport rig stud is original, and the accompanying Bridgeport rig plate is a reproduction. The revolver is also fitted with a rare 4 inch barrel. It has the correct 1 9/16 inch cylinder that is numbered to the gun. The right grip panel, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch are also numbered to the gun. All frames for this model were manufactured pre-1899, but finished revolvers were shipped as late as 1913. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 WCF

Price Realized:

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