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  • Auction Catalog #67
  • Lot #1369
Lot #1368
Lot #1370

Lot 1369: European Pinfire Rifle 15 mm pinfire

Large Pinfire Revolving Rifle with Buenos Aires Markings and Snap Bayonet

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: April 30, 2016

Lot 1369: European Pinfire Rifle 15 mm pinfire

Large Pinfire Revolving Rifle with Buenos Aires Markings and Snap Bayonet

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: April 30, 2016

Estimated Price: $2,500 - $3,750
Price Realized:
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Large Pinfire Revolving Rifle with Buenos Aires Markings and Snap Bayonet

Manufacturer: European
Model: Pinfire
Type: Rifle
Gauge: 15 mm pinfire
Barrel: 24 3/4 inch solid rib
Finish: bright
Grip:
Stock: walnut
Item Views: 3862
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 187
Class: Antique
Description:

This is a very interesting pinfire revolving rifle that was manufactured in Europe, proofed in Liege, Belgium, and then sold in Argentina where there was a successful struggle for independence from Spain in 1810-1820 followed by multiple civil wars which finally came to a close in the 1880s. The rifle has a folding, spring loaded bayonet on the left side of the barrel. Similar bayonets were often used in the late 1700s and early 1800s primarily on blunderbusses. The barrel is marked "JUAN LOPEZ ST. MARTIN 18 BUENOS-AYRES" on top of the rib, and a blade front sight is dovetailed at the front. A rear peep sight is fitted on the top strap. Juan Lopez appears at San Martin in directory records from as late as the 1870s and 1880s as a dealer in arms and ammunition and drops from listings by the early 20th century. A Liege oval "E/LG/*" proofmark ahead of a "crown/U" proof is on the side of the cylinder, and "NN" is on the face. There are three script letters on the bottom of the barrel that appear to read "LTY." Chris Curtis, in his book "System Lefaucheux" on page 219, indicates that 15mm revolving rifles are at a Level 9 (out of 10) for rarity & desirability. The Argentine retailer markings further add to the rarity. Multiples rifle manufactured by various Belgian and French firms with similar design aspects and nearly identical trigger guards are pictured on pages 168-170. The large guard and trigger allow for a two finger pull to combat the heavy double action mechanism. Three 15mm pinfire rounds are included.

Rating Definition:

Good. There is an mottled gray-brown patina overall with light pitting and oxidation and a few brighter areas. The stock is very good with scattered dents and light scratches. The action functions very well. The snap bayonet functions fine with strong spring.



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