Manufactured circa 1921-1922, as one of only five Sousa Special Flues shotguns estimated to have been produced during the era. Named for famous band leader and composer John Philip Sousa, the Sousa Special was the highest grade offered by Ithaca, complete with fine engraving and gold inlaid decoration. Fitted with a set of white front and brass mid bead sights, with "ITHACA GUN CO." and "ITHACA, N.Y. U.S.A." engraved on the left and right side of the chamber, respectively, fine scroll engraving on the sides and top of the chamber, and a 2 1/2 inch long wedge of scrollwork running up the barrel on each side with a gold inlaid scene of a live pigeon flying through the debris of a smashed clay pigeon. The scroll engraving continues on the frame, with around 99% coverage, including floral designs on the barrel hinge and locking bolt and a checkered gold washed trigger. Hand-engraved matching numbers are present on the trigger guard, forearm, barrel and water table, with the first two decorated with gold fill and the last also bearing the "SOUSA SPEC." grade marking. Further gold inlays are present on the frame, with a hunting dog in a field scene on each side, a duck coming in for a landing in a marsh with gold plants on the underside, and a mermaid on the trigger guard. Fitted with an extra fancy walnut stock, with fine scroll and floral engraving on the beavertail forearm, checkered flats on the buttstock, gilt grip cap, unmarked inscription shield and a solid recoil pad. The cap has raised scroll designs surrounding an inscribed "McK" over a horseshoe with a "GA" monogram. Measurements: weight - 8 pounds 4.2 ounces, choke - improved modified, chamber - 2 3/4 inches, drop at comb - 1 1/2 inches, drop at heel - 1 1/2 inches, length of pull - 14 1/4 to end of pad, 13 1/4 to end of wood.

Very fine as period refurbished, with 95% of the blue finish, showing a patch of brown patina on the underside of the barrel just ahead of the forearm and some light handling marks overall. The frame shows a smooth gray patina overall, with vivid case color preserved in the protected areas. The engraving is sharp, and the inlays are in excellent condition. Stock is very good, with some cracks at the rear of the forearm and around the upper tang, mild dings, and attractive grain. Mechanically excellent. A high quality example of Ithaca's top grade of single barrel trap guns.