Lot 707: Baerten Signed Browning "C" Grade Exhibition Superposed Shotgun

Dual white bead sights on the matted vent rib, standard Browning barrel markings, chambers marked 2 3/4 inches with automatic ejectors, and chokes marked "**{{{BODY}}}quot;/"**{{{BODY}}}quot; (skeet/skeet). The coin finished action features deep floral scroll engraving over a matted background extending onto the top lever, tangs, triggerguard, and safety surrounding game scenes on either side. The right displays a trio of pheasant in flight over an upland scene, and the left shows a trio of mallards in flight over a marsh. The left side is signed "C.BAERTEN" for FN Factory Master Engraver Claude Baerten at the bottom of the scene. Beautifully figured, exhibition quality, multi-point checkered target style forend with engraved fittings and pistol grip stock with ventilated Browning rubber recoil pad. According to the information on page 292 of "The Browning Superposed: John M. Browning's Last Legacy" by Ned Schwing only 256 "C" Grade exhibition guns were manufactured, 133 of which were twelve gauge. Barrel and stock measurements (U/O): bore diameter 9 inches from the breech .723/.723 inches; choke constriction .003/.003 inches; minimum wall thickness .041/.035 inches; 1 3/8 inch drop at comb; 1 5/8 inch drop at heel; 14 5/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs 11 oz.

Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue and coin finishes, some minor areas showing light oil staining on the action, and minor handling evidence. The wood is very fine with a slight crack in the varnish, a few tiny marks, varnish wear at the recoil pad, and sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent.