When the Ansley H. Fox opened his now legendary factory in Philadelphia, the production goal for daily output stood at 15 guns, meaning that this gun, number 5, is very likely to have been completed and sent out in the very first shipment to ever leave the grounds; it cannot get much earlier than that! This gun was built with a single nickel bead sight on the matted concave solid rib, barrels marked "KRUPP FLUID STEEL MADE BY" and "A. H. FOX GUN CO. PHILA. PA" on the right and left respectively, light bands of engraving at either breech, and chambers measures at 3 inches with single extractor. The casehardened boxlock action shows pre-1912 Grade B engraving consisting of floral scrollwork with "ANSLEY H. FOX" marked on either side and features double triggers and a tang mounted automatic safety switch, Attractively figured, multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings and round knob pistol grip stock with checkered flats and serrated hard rubber buttplate. Included with the gun is the original factory hang tag and a reprinted Fox catalog. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .735/.731 inches; choke constriction .040/.038 inches; minimum wall thickness .030/.031 inches; 1 9/16 inch drop at comb; 2 5/8 inch drop at heel; 14 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs.

Fine, retaining 90% original blue finish, flashes of original case colors in the protected areas on the action with the balance a fine silver patina, some light spotting on the barrels and underside of the action, and overall light handling evidence. The wood is also fine with a few small scratches, some high edge wear, a few pressure marks, and crisp checkering. The hang tag is legible with some creasing and fading. Mechanically excellent. Do not miss out on owning this incredible early piece of an American legend!