Spring Firearms Auctions Gross Almost $17 Million Combined!

Auction: April 11th, 12th & 13th, 2017: 10am

Preview: April 8th, 9th & 10th, 2017: 9am-5pm

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

If you have questions please email firearms@jamesdjulia.com.




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1620
$25,875.00

*ONE-OF-A-KIND KNOBLE .45ACP US MILITARY TEST PISTOL.

NSN. Cal. .45ACP. This extremely well recognized prototype, pictured in every reference covering early US military arms development, is offered for the first time at auction. This exact pistol is illustrated as plate IV in The War Dept Annual Report, Vol. 6, 1907. The Knoble is one of very few toggle mechanism pistols and is the only example outside the Luger to have been submitted for military testing. This particular double action gun was patented by W. B. Knoble of Tacoma, Washington in 1902 and submitted as one of a pair (the other a single action) in November 1906 to Springfield Armory for formal review. Although impressive in any size, the examiners cited “they were so crudely manufactured as to render any test without value – smooth working being impossible. It was, therefore, decided that these arms would be given no further consideration by the board”. The pistol being offered at auction, without any markings/NSN, has a 5.5″ rnd bbl and fixed sights. The geometry of the toggle action is different from the Luger, requiring that it be pulled upward and slightly forward so as to disengage from the breech before being pulled backward for casing ejection. There is no hold-open. Fitted with a deeply checkered spur hammer and a mechanism that allows both single and double action. The frame is fitted with separate, smooth walnut panels and has a checkered magazine release at the bottom of the backstrap. The frontstrap has a large, rectangular window that allows exposure/contact of the forward magazine spine. Should the single column magazine be stuck, it can be removed by exerting downward pressure on the exposed portion in addition to pulling on the small checkered ears that extend from each side of the base. Magazine presents as a single column design with a brass follower having open sides and a rounded base to conform with the bottom of the pistol. Included with this gun is a hang tag from early owner, Alex Montgomery. Montgomery was one of the very first major collectors of early experimental pistols. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: The submitted pistol was presented in an unfinished form with the parts having been heat treated rather than blued. The bbl was heat treated to a fire blue with approximately 50% remaining. The receiver is now grey. The frame appears to have been heat treated to a fire blue, or given an oil quench blue, with moderate fading around the sharp edges and patchy discoloration. Grips retain most of their org varnish. Magazine in the white with comparable discoloration of the tinned surface. Bright bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics with sticky action and tightly fitting magazine. 51516-1 LMA (30,000-60,000) C&R – Lot 1620

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1622
$20,125.00

*IMPRESSIVE AND HISTORIC GRANT HAMMOND, US MILITARY TEST TRIAL PISTOL.

SN 8. Cal. 45ACP. This exceptionally rare US test pistol was invented by Grant Hammond and made by the Grant Hammond Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut in a plant owned by Liberty Motors of New Haven, an ownership that led to the nickname “LIBERTY PISTOL”. This single action pistol was made circa 1917-1918 in two variations, both as a delayed blowback with an external hammer. The bolt included a spring loaded stop that protruded as a 3/8″ circular extension from the right side. Towards the rear was a stiff retarding spring that also assisted in the final lock-up. The design included two very interesting features: 1) After the last cartridge was fired, the bolt would lock open while the magazine was automatically expelled out of the pistol via a spring loaded accelerator loaded under the left panel, 2) Inserting a loaded magazine automatically released the bolt to a chamber the first cartridge, similar to what Mauser had implemented in its M1910/M1914 pocket pistols. The gun was tested on two separate occasions in 1917, and then sent to Springfield Armory for additional testing in early 1918. In several respects, the gun was felt superior to the Colt; the Grant Hammond was more accurate and had a higher magazine capacity (8 versus 7). Unfortunately, there were a number of malfunctions during the Army and later Navy testing and concerns regarding fabrication and endurance precluded its being selected as a standard service arm. Nevertheless, the Grant Hammond was a well documented contender that was taken very seriously by the US military. The pistol offered at auction is a 2nd variation Grant Hammond with a 6-3/4″ rnd bbl, fixed front sight and drift adjustable rear sight. Top of receiver marked “HAMMOND”. The left side marked “PATENTED MAY 4, 1915 OTHER PATENTS PENDING”; the right side marked “GRANT HAMMOND MFG. CORP. NEW HAVEN, CONN., U.S.A.”. The receiver just below the bbl is numbered “8” and is repeated immediately below on the frame. The frame has been fitted with a push button magazine release behind the trigger. The magazine accelerator is in place under left grip. Smooth wood panels. Unmarked magazine with forward spine and folded lips over base. A super rare gun, total production of both the first and second variation Grant Hammond was fewer than 20 pistols. Included with this gun is a pamphlet on the development of the Grant Hammond, Savage, and Schoube pistols by Roger Marsh.This exact pistol is illustrated in a display article by Montgomery on pp.53-62 of World’s Guns and Other Weapons, 1958. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Approximately 90% orig rust blue finish with sharp edge wear and grip strap handling as one might expect from a carefully tested pistol. The same condition concerns apply to the wood panels. The magazine is more worn, retaining approximately 20% orig finish, the remainder appearing as grayed metal with superficial oxidation. Bright bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics. A phenomenal pistol, fresh to market, and the first to be offered in over a decade. 51516-5 LMA (25,000-35,000) C&R – Lot 1622

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1623
$25,875.00

*FABULOUS AND HISTORIC WHITE-MERRILL 1907 US TEST TRIAL PISTOL.

NSN. Cal. 45. The 1907 White-Merrill was an extraordinary pistol designed through the collaboration of Joseph White and his partner Samuel Merrill, of Massachusetts. This massive single action blowback pistol, fitted with a deeply checkered spur hammer, could be cocked and loaded in the usual manner or with a single hand by means of a cocking lever, that the inventor called a a “loading spur”, located below the trigger guard. Feeding could be through the top, via stripper clip or more conventionally by way of a detachable 10-shot magazine. The left side of the frame is fitted with a hold-open/slide release, and one example had a left grip made of plexiglass, numbered “1,2,3”, to allow visual inspection of the loaded status. The magazine, made to hold a staggered column of cartridges, with open walls, was released by depressing a push button at the bottom of the backstrap. At least one White-Merrill pistol was submitted for formal military trial pistol competition and fired 211 rnds. Unfortunately, the number of malfunctions and failures to fire were such that testing was discontinued and the gun disqualified from consideration. This exact pistol is illustrated as plate VI in The War Dept Annual Report, Vol. 6, 1907. One example is pictured in Small Arms of the World by Ezell (pgs 326-327). This exact pistol is also pictured in U.S. Military Automatic Pistols by Meadows (pgs 273-274) has a 6″ bbl fitted with a half-moon front sight and a fixed rear sight. The top of the heavy slide is marked “PAT. APP’D FOR” and serrated at the rear for grasping. The frame is fitted with a hold-open, whose function is unreliable and separate grip panels. The left panel is made of clear, numbered plexiglass; the right panel, made of smooth brown Bakelite, is secured by two small screws. The heavy duty, open bodied magazine has a reinforcing plate on the back spine secured with six separate screws and a floorplate secured by an additional two screws. Accompanied by an archive of material on the M1906 pistol incl. rare original patent drawings, operation manual and blue prints. Also included with this gun is a hang tag from early owner, Alex Montgomery. Montgomery was one of the very first major collectors of early experimental pistols. This exact pistol is illustrated in a display article by Montgomery on pp.53-62 of World’s Guns and Other Weapons, 1958. Also included is a very rare White-Merrill stripper clip and 5 rnds orig ammo. Note: An extensive archive of related White-Merrill drawings, notes and patent related documents is being offered for sale as a separate lot in this auction. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Approximately 70% orig blue with most areas of contact subjected to handling having faded to grey, particularly the front of the trigger guard and the grooved surface of the cocking lever. The grip panels are in excellent condition with fewer scratches and mars than one might expect from a test gun. The magazine remains in-the-white without suggestion of polishing or enhancement. Mirror bright bore. Excellent manual mechanics with unreliable hold-open as previously mentioned. Truly an extraordinary, charismatic, one-of-a-kind test pistol that should be familiar to every enthusiast of military small arms. 51516-2 LMA (30,000-60,000) C&R – Lot 1623

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1624
$14,375.00

*UNIQUE WHITE-MERRILL .45 CALIBER PISTOL, 2ND TYPE EXPERIMENTAL, US MILITARY.

NSN. Cal. 45. After the M1907 White-Merrill pistol with its one-handed cocking features was rejected by the US military, Merrill went to work on another .45 cal pistol he hoped would be of more interest. This second Merrill pistol, that could be called the Model 1911, differed considerably from his previous effort. The new gun functioned as a simple blowback with an external hammer and a more refined slide release located on the left side of the receiver. In contrast to other blowback pistols of that era, the recoil spring was located in a tube below the bbl. The pistol in consideration was completed without manufacturers markings or SN. It had a 6.5″ bbl fitted with a half-moon front sight and a fixed rear sight. The left side of the slide was marked “PAT. APP’D FOR”. At the rear of each side of the slide were checkered sections for gripping, a pattern that was repeated over the top of the spur hammer and on the surface of the hold-open/slide release mounted on the left frame. The frame was made of blackened brass. Each of the grips were coarsely checkered and secured by 7 small screws. The magazine release was mounted at the bottom rear of the frame and functioned in the same manner as a Colt 1900/1902. The single column magazine, 7-rnd capacity, was in the white and made to have a separate spine and base that were each secured with a series of screws. Four screws on each side were used to secure the spine; two screws on each side of the base were used to secure the floorplate. In correspondence to Springfield Armory dated May 1911, Merrill indicated that he only had the one sample and even though it had been fired several hundred rounds, he was not inclined to submit it for testing, especially as the government had already committed to arm its cavalry and light artillery with the Colt. Although he left open the option for later submission, there was no further correspondence, suggesting that the project was subsequently abandoned. Another example the same pistol with different left grip, pictured in Small Arms of The World by Ezell, co 1981, pg 325. This exact pistol is illustrated in a display article by Alex Montgomery on pp.53-62 of World’s Guns and Other Weapons, 1958. It is again referenced and pictured on pgs 175-176 of US Military Automatic Pistols, Meadows, 1993. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Overall very good with the steel surfaces retaining 60% of their orig finish. Most of the blackening from the brass frame has worn away, leaving only about 10% in protected areas. Excellent grips whose coarse checkering shows only mild blunting, particularly on the right side. Magazine remains entirely in the white with minimal oxidative disturbance, showing no suggestion of recent cleaning. Bright bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics, except that the hold-open will not reliably engage and magazine insertion/removal is sticky. 51516-7 LMA (17,500-35,000) C&R – Lot 1624

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1626
$6,325.00

*RARE WHITE MERRILL TOOL ROOM EXPERIMENTAL .38 CAL PISTOL, SECOND VARIATION.

NSN. Cal. .38. After the M1907 White-Merrill pistol with its one-handed cocking features was rejected by the US military, Merrill went to work on another pistol design he hoped would be of more interest. This second Merrill pistol differed considerably from his previous effort. The 1908 second type of .38 Cal, pistol developed by J.C. White was striker fired using a rotating locked breech action. The only example extant is the tool room prototype offered in this auction as an incomplete firearm that has no markings, SNs, or proofs. Mounted on top of the bbl shroud is a small front sight. There is no rear sight or trigger guard, though after the bolt is pulled back, the firing pin extends from the back of the bolt to serve as a cocking indicator that is released by pulling the trigger. The magazine retainer is a brass strip welded to the backstrap that extends down to reach under the floorplate. There are no grips, nor provisions for any grip screws. The unfinished magazine is a closed structure without markings or indicator holes. On the floorplate is a perpendicular brass strip to aid in grasping. Also included with this gun is a hang tag from early owner, Alex Montgomery. Montgomery was one of the very first major collectors of early experimental pistols. This exact pistol is illustrated in a display article by Montgomery on pp.53-62 of World’s Guns and Other Weapons, 1958. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Excellent in the white metal with surprising little oxidative disturbance, considering that the tool room sample is over 100 years old. No evidence of cleaning. Though incomplete, the bolt retracts fully, the firing pin releases when the trigger is pulled, and the magazine is nicely retained within the frame. Although this gun, as per its more developed counterpart, were never considered by the U.S. Ordinance Dept, its pattern is well recognized and invariably mentioned in the same breath as its more famous cousins. An interesting part of the American firearms scene in the early 20th century. 51516-3 (7,500-12,500) C&R – Lot 1626

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1627
$2,875.00

FANTASTIC AND HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT ARCHIVE OF ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS AND DRAWINGS RELATED TO PATENTS AND OPERATIONS OF THE WHITE-MERRILL MANUFACTURING CO. AND COMPETITORS, INCL RARE ORIG ORDNANCE REPORT FROM THE U.S. TRIALS OF 1907.

You are bidding on a wonderful and comprehensive archive of original documents, drawings and assorted notes/correspondence from the White-Merrill Co of Boston, Mass. This archive originates from the private collection of Alex Montgomery who was one of the very first major collectors of early 20th century experimental and prototype pistols and rifles. Included in the archive are: 1). Numerous drawings, patents and blueprints of the White-Merrill semi-auto pistol detailing its development up to the test trials of 1907 and later improvements in 1909. 2). An extremely rare hard bound volume of the WAR DEP’T ANNUAL REPORTS OF 1907, Volume 6. This 122 page book details the test trials of a variety of small arms from the 1903 rifle, a variety of ammunition and most importantly the records of the testing of various handguns including the cal. 45 Colt Model 1905, Luger cal. 45 pistol, Savage cal. 45 pistol, the Knoble cal. 45 pistol, the Bergman cal. 45 pistol, the White-Merrill cal. 45 pistol, the Colt New Service cal. 45 DA revolver, the Smith & Wesson cal. 45 DA revolver and the Webley-Fosbery cal. 45 semi-auto revolver. The back of the book, just before the index are 9 black & white photographs of all the handguns tested. The Knoble and Bergman pistols were disqualified without testing. 3). A reproduced copy of the referenced volume. 4). Four large envelopes of drawings of the White-Merrill semi-auto pistol dated 1906-1907. 5). An original double stacked magazine body & spring for the White Merrill cal. 45 pistol, still in the white and missing its base & follower. 6). An extremely rare magazine for an experimental White-Merrill pistol that utilized a single stack magazine. Magazine is cracked on the top rear edge and is missing its spring but otherwise appears to be complete. 7). Patent papers dated September 16, 1913 for a semi-auto rifle invented by J.C. White. 8). A large volume of drawings, notes and correspondence dated 1911-1913, all relating to the White semi-auto rifle. 9). A 1908 calendar with various notes regarding testing of this rifle. 10). Numerous other notes & papers relating to the White-Merrill Co. business. 11). Three original photographs with 1 depicting a completed White semi-automatic rifle built on a modified 1903 rifle and 2 others of the barreled action out of the wood. 12). Six additional patent papers, 3 involving Browning’s patents, (a). for a machine gun mechanism, (b) a mechanism for converting a lever action rifle into a semi-automatic, (c). and a device for removing particles from the chamber of a firearm involving air pressure, (d). a W.B. Franklin patent dated November 1887 for a magazine feeding device for a rifle, (e). a Rudolf Frommer patent dated October 1905 for a semi-automatic pistol, and (f). an Albert H. Serale patent for a recoil operated firearm dated November 1905. In addition to Mr. White’s experimentation with the development of firearms he also was interested in redesigning military cartridges, several drawings for which are included. As related to the voluminous material about Mr. White’s semi-automatic rifle, he experimented with various cartridges but primarily worked with the caliber .30 1906 military cartridge and the Winchester 405 cartridge. He apparently used both rimmed & rimless cases when testing the 405. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Generally, Very Good. Many of the handwritten notes are on low grade lined tablet paper and 5 X 7 note papers which have turned dark and have become very brittle & fragile. Many of the drawings are on vellum & linen and other high grade paper. The blueprints are all on regular engineering type blueprint paper and have become fragile. The 1907 War Dept. test trials report book shows light soil with some yellowing & foxing to the pages and a loose spine. The 2 magazine bodies are in the white and show light discoloration. 51516-25 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1627

1628
$10,925.00

*SCARCE SAVAGE 1907 45ACP, US TEST TRIAL PISTOL.

SN 47. Cal. 45ACP. This massive, impressive and historic pistol is one of approximately 300 Test Trial guns submitted by Savage for military testing in 1907. The rejected guns were later returned and reworked, some by Savage, most by the Tryon Company. During the reworking process the legend on the rib was removed except for the marking “CAL 45.”. Guns reworked by Savage were subsequently marked with a small, single line legend adjacent to the rib as per this pistol. During the testing and reworking it was not uncommon for parts to be interchanged. In this case, extended disassembly shows a matching hammer group, rear sight, slide, bbl and frame. The grip panels are unnumbered with the left having a repaired hairline crack that is only perceptible when looking at the inner surface. Orig finish mismatched magazine is number “89”. Complete with commercial Heiser holster, Model coded “520” with weave patterned body and snap closure strap. Included with this gun is a series of early research documents piecing together information on the Savage .45ACP Pistols and an original 1905 dated patent document signed by the inventor, Elbert Searle. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very good with much of the finish having thinned to a toned, dark grey. Approximately 50% of orig fire blue on rear sight with at least 60% orig case hardening on the trigger and magazine release. Excellent orig grips with a deep checkering, slightly blunted on the right panel. Excellent, orig finish, blued magazine. Mirror bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics. An impressive and classic part of American history! 51516-12 LMA (9,000-14,500) C&R – Lot 1628

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1630
$80,500.00

*SUPERB UNISSUED SINGER MODEL 1911A1 PRESENTATION SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOL.

SN 0 0. Cal. 45 ACP. This pistol has all blue finish with 5″ bbl, standard fixed sights with the slide marked “S. MFG. CO. / ELIZABETH, N.J., U.S.A.” and without military acceptance proofs. Mounted with orig Singer checkered brown composition grips without donuts and without reinforcements inside. Accompanied by its orig Singer all blue magazine. Pistol has checkered slide stop, thumb safety, hammer spur, recoil spring keeper, magazine release and arched main spring housing with lanyard loop. This pistol is typical of the very small number of pistols made by the Singer Manufacturing Company, but lacks any marking any marking except the slide legend and a small “0 0” on the frame under the left grip. In April 1940 “an educational contract” was placed with the Elizabethport factory which called for the preparation of one complete set of tools, fixtures & gauges and the manufacture of 500 complete pistols (SN S800001-S800500), plus spare parts. The purpose of this contract was primarily to provide tools which would be available for further larger production orders and to familiarize the Elizabethport personnel with pistol manufacture. With the advent of WWII this original 500 pistol contract was re-designated for military issue. A few un-numbered pistols were made as overruns of the original order. After the war, most of these leftover pistols were simply brought home by Singer executives. This particular example was retained by Singer Chief Engineer/Production Manager, Mr. Wilbur Peets. Mr Peets was employed by Singer for 47 years before retiring in 1961. The Pistol remained in the Peets’ family until a subsequent private sale in 1981. Accompanied by copies of factory documents regarding Singer’s production of the 1911A1 pistol, Mr. Peets’ 1981 obituary, and documentation regarding the timeline and chain of possession of the pistol from 1981 until its offering at this auction. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: A magnificent Singer presentation example. Overall a superb condition Singer Presentation Pistol that appears to be as it left the factory with the exception of a very small ding and wear mark. Small pit on left side mostly hidden by slide stop. Small ring scratch on front grip strap. Light pitting on side of mainspring housing. No apparent wear even to edges. No evidence of firing except for possibly proof firing, but no p mark on bbl. Slide has spot of finish deterioration on left front that appears to have been factory touched up as well as a shadow on right side that appears to be an artifact of when the hold open notch was factory hardened. Tiny spot on right muzzle and small ding on right rear. Receiver and slide have 99+% orig factory finish. Small amount of thinning on front strap. Stocks are Singer manufactured with typical Singer wavy checkering pattern. Grip screws are about as perfect as they can be. Magazine has typical Singer large headed rivets and large view holes. Sides of magazine show sanding marks that were not completely polished out. The condition is amazing with only a few very minor blemishes. Orig stocks are in near perfect condition as is the bbl. This pistol was obviously well-stored and never used or altered in any way. 51516-15 (50,000-80,000) C&R – Lot 1630

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1631
$10,925.00

*EXTREMELY RARE SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 1911 2ND TYPE GALLERY PRACTICE PISTOL.

SN 131301. Cal. 22LR. One of only 25 produced at Springfield Armory in 1919 for pistol practice with less expensive ammunition. Based on a design submitted by J.H. Carl and modified through trials conducted by the likes of Col. Julian L. Hatcher, it consists of a Colt-type 1911 frame, flat mainspring housing and standard features for the group of spare receivers the frame came from and double diamond checkered walnut grips. Left front side of frame has “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” in Gothic font. Right side of the frame has the SN in the usual place and has no inspection marks on the trigger guard bow as should be with the serial range receiver. The conversion unit somewhat resembles a 1911 slide with integral fixed bbl and fixed sights. It has an enclosed bolt with dual checkered grasping knobs on each side and ejection port on right side. Slide is tapered with deep, tapered lightning grooves on each side. This was done to keep the balance approx. the same as a 1911 pistol. R side of slide is marked with a Springfield eagle. The bolt number “2” is on left side, visible through the grasping groove port. A trapezoidal cut in the bottom middle of the slide has been expertly brased with a well fitting plug on both sides. Accompanied by an orig Type-2 magazine with heavy 22 Long Rifle Cal. insert in a cut down regular 1911 magazine body that has been altered by having a recess stamped in one side for the loading assist button and the top edges crimped to hold the insert. Cal. 22 LR. The insert is further secured with 2 pins near the bottom of the magazine. The chart on p. 449 of Military Automatic Pistols 1894-1920, Meadows, does not list this pistol. Dr. Meadows in later discussion, states that the mixed numbers undoubtedly resulted from being mixed during the numerous returns to the Armory for alteration to correct malfunctions. These pistols were first issued for testing in Sept. 1919 and over the ensuing 4-1/2 years were issued to the Infantry School o Arms at Camp Benning, GA and the Cavalry Board at Ft. Riley, KS. Over several tests in these years the pistols were deemed unsuitable for a variety of reasons and were withdrawn from testing in favor of the Ace Model pistol that was being developed by Colt Mfg. Finally in Aug. 1938 authority was granted to dispose of the 25 pistols. Dr. Meadows states “It is assumed that the pistols were cannibalized for usable parts, as was the custom, and the non-standard or un-serviceable parts disposed of.” It is unknown how many of these pistols actually survived, but only a handful are known. PROVENANCE: Transcripts from Springfield Armory Museum website records documenting the developmental stages of this prototype design from 1914-1919 and the specs of the museum’s reference example; The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Excellent original condition, blue finish on frame with scattered spotting, slide has excellent Springfield rust blue finish with scattered spotting. Small area of pin-prick pitting on right side of slide. Magazine retains 85-90% strong orig blue with light wear. Grips show light to moderate wear with a few chipped diamonds. Perfect manual mechanics. Bright bore with sharp rifling. 51516-13 KXK (10,000-20,000) C&R – Lot 1631

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1632
$8,050.00
Revised: 3/24/2017

Please Note: There was a typographical error. This is NOT a Class III/NFA item.

**EXTREMELY RARE SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 1911 2ND TYPE GALLERY PRACTICE PISTOL.

SN 500781. Cal. 22 LR. One of only 25 produced at Springfield Armory in 1919 for practice with less expensive ammunition. Based on a design submitted by J.H. Carl and modified through trials conducted by the likes of Col. Julian L. Hatcher. The conversion unit resembles a 1911 slide with integral fixed bbl and fixed sights. It has an enclosed bolt with dual checkered grasping knobs on each side and ejection port on right side. Slide is tapered with deep, tapered lightning grooves on each side. This was done to keep the balance approx. the same as a 1911 pistol. Right side of slide is marked “U.S. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY NO 24”. The “4” in this number is stamped horizontally. The bolt number “21” is on left side, visible through the grasping groove port mated to a Colt-type 1911 frame with flat mainspring housing and standard features with the small Springfield eagle on left side over “S12” and diamond checkered walnut grips. Left front side of frame appears to have had “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” reapplied over a dished area where the orig marking had been removed. Right side of frame has the lightly struck SN in the usual place and has an “S” in a circle on right front web of trigger guard. Accompanied by an orig Type 2 magazine with heavy 22 Long Rifle Cal. insert in a cut down 1911 magazine body that has been altered by having a recess stamped in one side for the loading assist button and the top edges crimped to hold the insert (SA Museum specimen is missing its mag). The insert is further secured with 2 pins near the bottom of the magazine. The chart on p. 449 of Military Automatic Pistols 1894-1920, Meadows, lists this pistol, by SN, and shows that it was initially fitted with Springfield conversion #8. Dr. Meadows, in later discussion, states that the mixed numbers undoubtedly resulted from being mixed during the numerous returns to the Armory for alteration to correct malfunctions. These pistols were first issued for testing in Sept. 1919 and over the ensuing 4-1/2 years were issued to the Infantry School of Arms at Camp Benning, GA and the Cavalry Board at Ft. Riley, KS. Over several tests in these years the pistols were deemed unsuitable for a variety of reasons and were withdrawn from testing in favor of the Ace Model pistol that was being developed by Colt Mfg. Finally in Aug. 1938 authority was granted to dispose of the 25 pistols. Dr. Meadows states “It is assumed that the pistols were cannibalized for usable parts, as was the custom, and the non-standard or un-serviceable parts disposed of.” It is unknown how many of these pistols actually survived,but only a handful are known. PROVENANCE: Transcripts from Springfield Armory Museum website records documenting the developmental stages of this prototype design from 1914-1919 and the specs of the museum’s reference example; The Esteemed Collection Of Noted Expert And Author Warren Buxton. CONDITION: Very good with dull blue, orig arsenal finish with scattered light surface spotting and one area of pin prick pitting on right side of slide. Magazine retains 60-70% strong orig blue with light wear. Grips show light to moderate wear with a few chipped diamonds. Mechanically fine. Bright bore with sharp rifling. 51568-21 LMA (6,500-9,500) C&R – Lot 1632

1636
$1,725.00

*SCARCE GUIDE LAMP LIBERATOR PISTOL.

NSN. Cal 45 ACP. Stamped sheet metal construction with 3″ rnd bbl, fixed sights with storage compartment in the butt. This pistol is of very simplistic design with simple striker fired ignition. To operate the striker is pulled to the rear and rotated to the side which locks it open. A sliding T-shaped steel breech block is raised which exposes the chamber for loading or unloading. There is no extractor so a tool is required to remove the fired casing. Approximately 1 million of these pistols were produced in 1942 by the Guide Lamp division of General Motors and were intended to be air dropped behind the lines to resistance fighters. The intention was that they were to be used for close up and personal assassination of enemy soldiers to obtain better arms. They were originally individually packed in paraffin coated cardboard boxes with a wood ejector rod, a small box containing 10 rounds of ammunition and a cartoon style instruction sheet. A few of these pistols were used in Europe with the majority seeing service in the Philippines and China. General Motors manufactured the entire production of 1 million pieces in 10-11 weeks. This is the only pistol that could be manufactured faster than it could be loaded. Reference Blue Book of Gun Values, Fjestad. CONDITION: Extremely fine shows a few nicks & dings and retains most of its original matte finish. May or may not have been fired. 51685-3 JRL (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 1636

1640
$6,325.00

*SUPERB NEAR MINT ORIGINAL CONDITION REMINGTON 1903-A4 WW2 SNIPER RIFLE WITH WEAVER SCOPE.

SN Z4002575. Cal. 30-06. Absolutely fantastic high orig condition specimen of a Remington 1903-A4 WW2 sniper rifle with Weaver scope, and leather scope caps. Marked on left side of receiver “U.S. REMINGTON MODEL 03-A3” With “R.A.” marked barrel with flaming bomb proof and “10-43” barrel date. Weaver scope with correct markings. Stock is devoid of any discernible proofmarks. “Z” prefix serial number places this gun in the correct range, and everything about this gun is consistent. CONDITION: Near mint with green-gray tinged orig finish on receiver, barrel, bands, end cap, and trigger guard/floorplate. Bolt has more of a lustrous deep blue finish as does the scope. Leather scope caps are in excellent condition. Stock is likewise near excellent with only the slightest of handling marks discernible upon close inspection. Bore is excellent, shiny and bright. Scope optics are clear. This rifle is from the collection of an advanced U.S. rifle collector and is in a condition impossible to upgrade. 51632-2 JWK90 (4,500-6,000) C&R – Lot 1640

1641
$46,000.00

*RARE AND SPECTACULAR M1 GARAND GAS TRAP RIFLE NUMBER 338 ONE OF THE BEST IN EXISTENCE.

SN 338. Cal. 30/06 . 22″ bbl. 3 piece walnut military stocks with most all metal finished in grey/green phosphate. Gas-trap system itself is finished in its japanned black finish. This rifle serial number 338 is believed to be of the finest known examples to be in public hands. This rare and early production rifle has been carefully detail disassembled and parts vetted using the book, ‘THE GAS TRAP GARAND” by author Billy Pyle and published By Collectors Publications. We have listed the drawing numbers as follows. Trigger group #D28290, Trigger Guard #C46025, Hammer#C46008-1, Safety #C46015, Bolt#D28287 steel lot J1, Operating Rod D3532,Clip Lifter #B8869, Clip Guide #B8875, Front Sight SA12703-0, Gas Trap System D28289, Forearm Iron B8893-1 Receiver Serial number 338 R1-D on left leg D 28291 on right leg. Barrel stamped X with large “P” and #28291, Mid Band # C46000 Butt Plate3 C-46012. Production truly started in 1936 after having Springfield Armory totally modernized and retooled. The first rifles came off the line in August 1937, serial number 338 must have been immediately after this. The walnut 3 piece stocks are very consistent in grain and color. There is no cartouche present on the let side of the stock however the “P” with in circle proof is located on the front of the pistol grip. Stock is the appropriate pattern with out cleaning kit storage holes. This outstanding example would be virtually impossible to improve upon. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, bore and mechanics are excellent. 3 piece walnut stocks are excellent with no major bruises or damage. Typical very small storage marks are present from storage and handling. Phosphate finish is outstanding with most all remaining. Very light finish loss on operating rod handle and high points of sights. Butt plate has very light wear with slight finish loss at high points of checkering. Gas Trap system has retained most of its black japanned finish with slight loss at very front at bottom and on bayonet lug. This is the finest example this cataloger has seen to date and possibly could not be improved upon. 51388-5 TDW (25,000-35,000) C&R – Lot 1641

1642
$6,900.00

*RARE WINCHESTER TOOL ROOM 1ST MODEL GAS PORT M1 GARAND RIFLE WITHOUT SERIAL NUMBER.

NSN. Cal, 30/06 24 inch barrel. Barrel itself was left in the white with only the Winchester “WRA” proof on the right side. a small 312 is located on top of barrel and is possibly a steel lot number. Grey/Green phosphate finished receiver has correct Winchester markings but was never serial numbered .Front right receiver ear has the drawing number D28291-2WRA .This receiver was made with out needing the 7 round failure weld modification. Gas port is drawing number D35449W.R.A. gas system lock is unmarked. Bolt is Drawing Number marked D28287-1W.R.A.Trigger group is all early Winchester. Operating Rod is square cut and drawing number D35382-W.R.A.Butt stock is a modified 3rd pattern gas trap stock and has been modified for trap butt plate at some time but has a unmarked solid butt plate. Hand guards are unmarked walnut but have early milled bands. Recoil spring in round spun spring with early unmarked long serrated spring guide. This is a recently discovered tool room rifle. Very few developmental M1 Garands ever survived as most where destroyed. This rifle is an interesting cross over from the Gas Trap pattern rifle to the Gas Port pattern rifles. CONDITION: Very fine overall with excellent finish on receiver . Bore and mechanics are excellent. Barrel remains in its unfinished /white condition with light period staining at gas system. Several very minor chips exist in stock at pistol grip and forward of trigger group area from disassembly. No cartouche or Government inspection are evident on this rifle anywhere. This would be correct as the rifle was made as a prototype and developmental rifle.This rifle is in its as found un-cleaned condition, This is a great opportunity for the collector of US Martial arms. 51137-3 TDW (5,000-10,000) C&R – Lot 1642

1643
$0.00

*FANTASTIC ORIGINAL SPRINGFIELD USMC M1952 MC-1 GARAND RIFLE WITH KOLLMORGAN SCOPE.

SN 3246188. Cal. 30-06. This is an absolutely superb original United States Marine Corp USMC MC-1 Garand complete with original sling and even the original properly marked “Stith Kollmorgan Telescopic Sight Model 4XD-USMC” cardboard box for the scope. This rifle is in the proper SN range. Telescope mount rings, scope (marked “MC 1087-P” with correct Sith Mounts markings at rear) are all proper for this gun. Base screws have not been staked but this is common for Marine Corps rifles. Rubber scope covers marked, “1203 Broadway, Yakima, W.N.”. Barrel is marked “6 52”. Bolt marked “D28287-12SA”. Leather sling marked “MILSCO 1944”. No cheek pad present on stock which is marked “S.A.” within square cartouche on left side stock with Serif “P” at pistol grip. Consignor is a known advanced rifle collector. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish are simply outstanding with nearly all of the original green tinted arsenal refinish remaining on all metal parts with the exception of the painted black scope aluminum body which is correct. There is some slight brassing to the high edges of the gas cylinder where the nut screws on but it is hardly worth mentioning. Buttplate is worn under the green tinted refinish. Bore is excellent, shiny and bright. Optics are clear. Stock is a wonderful deep brown with only the slightest of handling marks visible upon very close inspection. Cardboard scope box markings are clear and box is extremely fine to near excellent. Pretty much impossible to upgrade this specimen of a truly wonderful highly prized all-American rifle. 51632-1 JWK88 (10,000-15,000) C&R – Lot 1643

1644
$5,175.00

*OUTSTANDING WW2 JOHNSON MODEL 1941 RIFLE WITH BAYONET AND SLING.

SN 7714. Cal. 30/06. 22″ bbl. Green/Grey phosphate finish with oil finished 2 piece walnut military stocks. Outstanding unmarked pattern 1907 leather military sling that appears to be period to rifle. Numbered in the very first series with out a serial prefix this rifle most certainly saw service with the United States Marine Corps. These rifles saw extensive use with the Corps in the Pacific theater. The barrel bushing has the correct .30-06 and 41 markings on the face. Both the barrel and the barrel bushing have matching 5531K assembly numbers. Johnson rifles were only serial numbered on the receiver, balance of numbers are assembly numbers and they where not matching. The bolt remains correctly in the white with its assembly number C2084. Rear sights are graduated 100 to 900 meters.Unique 10 round rotary magazine design that utilized 2 standard 5 round US GI stripper clips.Entire production of these rifles where manufactured by Cranston Arms Company in Providence Rhode Island under the supervision of Melvin Johnson the inventor. With the rifle is the even more scarce Model 1941 Johnson Bayonet with Scabbard.The brown leather scabbard has the correct “M” pattern stitching and the bayonet itself is proper phosphate finish with blue steel spring latch assembly. A great opportunity to own a very uncommon non-prefix Johnson 1941 rifle. These rifles most certainly saw service in the Pacific theater with the United States Marine Corps. CONDITION: Very fine overall with excellent bore and mechanics. 2 piece walnut stocks are very good with several very minor bruises and dings as to be expected but is very fine overall and far better than the average Model 1941 example. Blue steel finished rotary magazine id very fine with slight surface wear however most finish remains with loss only at very high points. Phosphate finish on receiver is equally as fine with slight loss of finish at high points and over ejector protrusion. Bayonet is slightly pitted overall but is a very good example. The white stitch scabbard is very fine with its trademark “M”pattern stitching remaining intact. This is a very fine example of a difficult to obtain US Military issued rifle. 51388-3 TDW (4,500-6,500) C&R – Lot 1644

1660
$10,925.00

*EXTREMELY RARE PRATT & WHITNEY TOOLING SAMPLE .303 SMLE MK III RIFLE.

SN 26. Cal. 303. 25.2″ bbl. Extremely rare previously thought to be fewer than 20 specimens ever made, this Pratt & Whitney tooling sample was made in Hartford, CT and has all matching numbers except for the hand guard to the rear of the rear sight which is graduated to 2000 yards. Dial sight is graduated 1,600-2,800 and marked “L.E.S. III”, sighted for Mk VI ammo. There is a glued tag “GREAT BRITAIN” on underside of stock directly below rear sight. Most of the parts are in- the-white, others such as the receiver itself, safety, and cocking have remnants of a dark finish. Consignors notes indicate this was purchased from Val Forgett. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of World Renowned British Rifle Collector Robert W. Faris. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish near excellent. Museum quality with only some light handling marks and bruises to the wood with an area of added varnish over and around the sticker on the stock. Bore is excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt face appears unfired. An exceedingly important and attractive specimen for the British or American rifle collector. 51608-3 JWK (3,000-6,000) C&R – Lot 1660

3006
$1,725.00

**NEAR NEW COLT AR-15 SEMI AUTO RIFLE.

SN SP70432. Cal. .223. 21-1/2″ bbl. Near mint orig Colt AR-15 model SP-1 semi-auto rifle with typical Colt markings on left side of receiver. Classic triangular hand guard and “C MP Chrome Bore”, no bolt forward assist on right side. One Colt 20 rnd mag and black web sling included. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is in near mint condition with light wear, where charging handle rides in the receiver. Mint bore. Simply an outstanding condition specimen. 51500-49 JWK717 (1,000-1,500) – Lot 3006

3013
$0.00

*SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 1911 PISTOL, 1914 PRODUCTION, APPARENTLY ORIGINAL (EXCEPT MAG).

SN 79829. Cal. 45 ACP. All parts (except mag) appear to be Springfield made from their distinctive shapes, but most are not “S” marked. Pistol was not taken down to examine internal small parts. Proper large diamond Springfield made stocks. Wide spur duck bill hammer. Right hand slide Springfield eagle marked as well as “Model of 1911 US Army” in Springfield fonts. Left side of slide has standard patent marking, Springfield Armory marking and flaming bomb. Receiver right side has SN, left side has “United States Property” and flaming bomb marks. Bbl bushing has distinctive Springfield front profile. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Bbl has heavy pitting with lands still showing, rear of hood properly marked “MD”, lugs properly marked “S” and “P”, link and pin loose, most of bbl finish missing. Mag is Colt type-3 lanyard loop with minor surface deterioration on bottom, but no cracks in the upper corners. All finish is missing from stock screws, some are partially damaged. Slide has noticeable wear on top and on the muzzle end. Rear of slide has some wear on the high spots. Receiver has most wear on front grip straps and dust cover. Most Springfield made pistols show considerable wear, the overall appearance of this all orig (except mag) pistol is very pleasing with only moderate wear. 51517-4 KXK (4,500-7,500) C&R – Lot 3013

3014
$0.00

*COLLECTOR’S LOT OF TWO .45 ACP SERVICE PISTOLS.

1) REMINGTON RAND 1911. NSN. Cal. 45 ACP. Bbl “P” marked at rear of ejection port. Proper Remington UMC markings on left side. Right slide marked “Model of 1911 U.S. Army”. Hammer is wide checkered, thumb safety is checkered, trigger is long and smooth. Most collectors believe the unnumbered pistols were made after the production contract from left over parts. Appears to have all Remington UMC parts although unmarked. Mag is standard Colt type-3 with lanyard loop. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Slide dark-blue blued with fading from middle to rear, one minor ding opposite ejection port on left side. Receiver in-the-white with tarnishing of exposed surfaces. Stocks appear to be Colt manufactured and in very good condition, right stock screws show mild buggering, left stock screws very good +. Receiver has no numbers showing inside or out. Trigger, mag catch, hammer, grip safety, thumb safety are black finished, remainder of lower receiver in-the-white. C&R 2) NORWEGIAN 1914. SN 31336. Cal. 45 ACP. Right side slide marked “1945” over a square proof mark, top of slide shows “F” in front of hammer, left side of slide marked with standard Norwegian markings, SN, and above Crown/7 and Crown/K (Wilhelmina proofs). Pistol has no Nazi proofs. Left frame marked “31336”. Trigger, slide stop, thumb safety, bbl, grip safety, and mainspring housing marked with “.336”. Hammer and mag catch release unmarked but have proper Norwegian finish. Stocks are very light European wood that has been stained. Trigger is long, smooth. Hammer is short, checkered. Thumb safety is checkered. Mag appears to be post-war spot welded base. Entire pistol appears to be original with late war finish (except mag). Mainspring housing lacks lanyard loop. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Has 96++ war-time finish, slight edge wear, slight fading on grip straps. Stock screws very good. C&R 51517-17, 51517-21 (5,000-6,000) – Lot 3014

3024
$0.00

*FINE COLT/ITHACA MODEL 1911 ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL PISTOL REBUILD.

SN 629019. Cal. 45 ACP. Manufactured in 1919 as a 1911 Government Model 45. Later rebuilt and so marked at Rock Island Arsenal retaining many of the earlier 1911 parts, such as long trigger, diamond pattern checkered walnut grips, flat mainspring housing, short grip safety and not modified for finger grooves at trigger and having an Ithaca 1911 A1 slide assembly installed on top. This was commonly done during wartime and post-wartime. CONDITION: Very fine overall, with excellent bore and mechanics. Most Arsenal refinish remaining. Grips are very fine with slight wear at bottom and having been re-checkered probably at the Arsenal. Slight muzzle wear and evidence of holster wear, but this is typical for these rebuilt government models. 51590-4 (1,000-1,750) C&R – Lot 3024

3025
$1,150.00

*COLT 1911 PISTOL MANUFACTURED IN LATE 1919.

SN 625109. Cal. .45 Auto. Colt 1911 pistol manufactured in 1919, one of the last 1911 receivers made. Gothic “H” over firing pin stop plate, thin front sight, small notched rear sight. Left slide marking has “February 19, 1911” last patent date, all slide markings are Roman font including “Model of 1911 US Army”. Slide was manufactured pre-1913. All small parts checkered rather than serrated. Bbl bushing (refinished) has contour of WWII part. Acceptance mark is Springfield eagle over “S5”. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection Of Noted Expert And Author Warren Buxton. CONDITION: Slide and receiver both refinished (Parkerized) with no sign of arsenal markings. Stocks are plastic Keyes Fibre with reinforcing ribs. Replacement High Standard (HS) bbl is blued with frosted bore but decent lands and grooves. Bbl link is staked on both sides. Refinished surface of slide shows moderate edge wear and scuff marks. All parts including small parts appear to be refinished (Parkerized). Mag is Risdon WWII welded base construction with minor pitting on the left side and erosion of finish on base plate. Overall a very decent WWII re-work with early slide and late receiver. 51569-250 KXK (1,200-1,500) C&R – Lot 3025

3026
$1,150.00

*VERY EARLY COLT 1911 PISTOL OF 1913.

SN 52623. Cal. 45 ACP. Standard 5″ bbl. Blue finish overall with early 2-line patent and address with rampant Colt on rear of left side. Right side marked “Model of 1911 U.S. Army” with narrow tapered front sight and early rounded rear sight. Traditional markings of “U.S. Property” on left front of frame and SN on right side above trigger. Inspected “WGP” in circle for Walter G. Penfield. 2-pc diamond pattern checkered grips with short hammer and appropriate trigger, mainspring housing and grip safety. Correct early Colt bbl and bushing. PROVENANCE: Gerard Ruth Collection, ex Alex Chauffe SR. CONDITION: Good as totally refinished. Markings are strong and legible. Grips are good with slight wear but having had additional finish placed over them. Bore and mechanics are fine. Has late Risdon manufactured magazine. 51594-4 (1,500-2,000) C&R – Lot 3026

3205
$1,150.00

*COLT MODEL 1878 DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER 1902 VARIATION U.S. ISSUE SOMETIMES KNOWN AS “THE ALASKAN MODEL”.

SN 47948. Cal. 45LC. 6″ bbl. Full blue finish. 2-pc hard rubber grips with rampant Colt motif. Bbl shows correct 1-line address. Left side of bbl is marked 45 Colt at breech. Bottom of bbl shows “P” over “K” inspector mark. Frame has SN stamped on butt in front of swivel. Last 4 digits of SN also appear on rear face of cyl and loading gate. Right side of frame shows large “U.S.” on forward flat. Rear of frame shows “J.T.T.” inspector mark below which is stamped 1902. Note JTT are the initials of John T. Thompson of machine gun fame. Right side of frame above grip is stamped R.A.C. as is the forward left bow of trigger guard. R.A.C. are the initials of Army inspector Rinaldo A. Carr. Trigger and trigger guard is of the large type with long trigger, which was introduced to make it easier to cock the action using the trigger. Grips are not marked. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl shows 20% blue in protected areas with the balance blending to a gray brown patina with some small dents and scratches. Bbl address and cal. mark are sharp and clear. Front sight is full size. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Ejector rod housing shows considerable blue in the flute with the outside edge being a smooth gray brown patina. Frame retains 20% blue finish overall that is blended to a gray brown patina with some scratches and mars. Grip straps are gray brown patina. All frame markings are sharp and clear. Cyl. retains 10% blue with traces of blueberry color in the flutes. Hammer shows traces of fire blue on the back and top. Trigger also shows traces of fire blue. Grips are good. Checkering is slightly worn with a few dents and scratches. Left grip is cracked at locating pin. A very good example of a relatively rare Colt Revolver made for U.S. service. 51389-2 TEP (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 3205

3206
$747.50

COLT NEW ARMY AND NAVY MODEL 1894 DA REVOLVER.

SN 64234. Cal 38 COLT. Blue finish with 6″ bbl, half-moon front sight & fixed groove rear sight in top strap. Bbl has standard markings with last patent date March ’95. Frame marked “R.A.C.” and bottom of grips also marked the same. Buttstrap has standard Army markings. Mounted with smooth 2-pc walnut grips. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains 60-65% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas showing wear on sides of bbl, top strap & backstrap. Grips are sound showing edge wear and a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 51389-1 JRL (1,000-1,500) – Lot 3206