Blued steel barrels with dual white bead sights (mid-bead absent) on the matted vent rib which is marked "L. C. Smith 12 Ga." at the breech, chambers measured at 2 3/4 inches with a single extractor, and "W. S. BROPHY" marked on the left barrel flat. The casehardened sidelock action is unadorned and is marked with the serial number, "W. S. BROPHY", and "L. C. SMITH/DELUXE GRADE" on the watertable and "THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO./NEW HAVEN, CONN." on the triggerplate. The gun features double triggers and a tang mounted automatic safety switch. Nicely figured, multi-point checkered beavertail forend which is marked "WSB/1" on the inner iron and pistol grip stock with synthetic grip cap and buttplate. This gun was presented to William Brophy (author of "L. C. Smith Shotguns") by Marlin's head of L. C. Smith production William Backus for the help Brophy provided during the 1969-1971 period when the L. C. Smith guns were back in production by Marlin. While no serial number is listed, it is very likely that this is the Deluxe Grade pictured on page 125 of Brophy's aforementioned book. This Deluxe Field Grade gun is one of only 186 manufactured and this one was specially assembled for Brophy. Included with the gun is a 1986 dated letter from Brophy confirming the above information. Also included is a leather bound Huey takedown case with "W. S. BROPHY" in a brass plaque on the lid which contains ebony handled cleaning tools, brass snap caps, and a brass oiler. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .732/.730 inches; choke constriction .028/.036 inches; minimum wall thickness .038/.041 inches; 1 3/4 inch drop at comb; 2 5/8 inch drop at heel; 14 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs 7 oz. Provenance: The Milan J. Turk Collection

Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue and casehardened finishes with only the slightest handling evidence and sharp checkering on the forend and stock. The case and accessories are also excellent. Mechanically excellent.