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In March of this year James D. Julia Auctioneers conducted what is the largest grossing firearms auction ever in history. At nearly $18 million, nothing else had ever come close to that figure. It was hard to imagine ever putting together another sale of such monumental proportions, but the recent October sale certainly nearly approached it. At almost $16 million the October sale is the second largest grossing firearms auction ever held in history. The first day began with the second session of the Wes Adams Winchester Collection, and like those offered in Julia’s March auction, the participation was extraordinary. In fact, the crowd in attendance was one of the largest in recent years; many had come for the Adams’ Winchester and/or Savage Collection, both of which are considered to be the finest of their type ever offered at auction. Highlights included a fine 1860 Henry rifle, estimated at $65,000-95,000, and realized $109,000. The piece de resistance of this Adams’ session, however, was, a spectacular cased, silver-plated and L.D. Nimschke engraved Model 1866. The gun was originally made for James J. Hill, a railroad and steamboat magnate, and reportedly when he died in the early 20th century, he left an estate of $53 million. The gun carried an estimate of $100,000-175,000, but when the smoke cleared, it had realized $224,250. This same gun had at one time been the focal point of the renowned Eldon Owen’s Collection, also considered to be one of the top Winchester collections ever offered at auction in the world. A fine Model 76 with beautiful case coloring was estimated at $15,000-25,000, and it brought just under $49,000. A rare, semi-deluxe Model 86 with extraordinary case coloring estimated at $25,000-40,000 brought just over $50,000. A rare Model 94 saddle-ring carbine estimated at $25,000-40,000 went out at just over $63,000. A presentation 1873 John Ulrich engraved Winchester, presented to George P. Bissell, carried a presale estimate of $30,000-50,000, and finally sold for just under $95,000. An early, special order Model 86 estimated at $50,000-80,000 realized just under $75,000. Also featured in the first session from the Adams’ collection was Session I of his Savage collection, unquestionably the finest collection of Savages to ever come to auction in the world. Session I included a number of rare Savages. A factory D engraved Savage Model 99 with carved wood carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000 but went for $77,625. The very next gun, a spectacular one-of-a-kind factory engraved Model 99, also with carved wood, was estimated at $27,500-37,500 and brought just under $52,000. Wes also had a great love for Colts, and this session included the remainder of his collection of Colts. A very rare, early pinch frame Colt SA, SN 2 carried a presale estimate of $40,000-60,000 and finally went out at $63,250. Also a rare Nimschke engraved Colt SA estimated at $30,000-50,000, went out at $69,000. The second session also included the remainder of Wes Adams’ Marlin collection and included some extraordinary examples. An extremely rare, deluxe, engraved presentation quality Model 1893 takedown in outstanding condition was estimated at $30,000-50,000 but sold way over high estimate at $80,500. Also an ultra-rare deep relief gold-plated presentation Model 1889 was estimated at $20,000-30,000, and that also went way over high estimate at $48,300. The Adams’ Winchesters were not the only good Winchesters in this auction. A rare special order, deluxe Model 76 with a presale estimate of $55,000-75,000 blew past the high estimate to $86,250. Another great Henry in high condition was estimated at $60,000-100,000 and went out at $80,500. A group of rare Winchester advertising items, most of which were from an old-time Winchester collection, included a very rare 1891 Winchester calendar, estimated at $5,000-8,000. It more than doubled its high estimate to sell for $19,550. Rare and wonderful Sharps rifles have been kind of a mainstay in the recent past Julia auctions, some bringing outstanding prices such as this extraordinary Freund 1874 “Boss” gun Sharps. This one went out at $166,750. Historical arms also do extremely well at Julia’s, and this sale was no exception. Included was an extremely rare factory-engraved Colt SA Sheriff’s model that originally belonged to legendary lawman Jefferson Davis Milton. Milton was at one time a Texas Ranger, and eventually became Sheriff in various areas, including El Paso. He was commissioned by Theodore Roosevelt into the U.S. Immigration Service to patrol the southwestern border. Milton was not only a historic, but colorful, western lawman. In fact, his biography laid claim to the famous lawman’s statement, “I never killed a man that didn’t need killing.” His Colt was estimated at $150,000-250,000 and went out at just a tad over $200,000. Holding the record for the collection to come from the greatest distance was a Dr. John and Margaret Pickup Collection of rare antique Colts. The Pickups, residents of Tasmania, had recently decided to dispose of their fine collection. One of the most stunning offerings was their extremely rare cased, 1st Model Dragoon, which was identified to C.H. Bowman of the Tampico Rangers. This is believed to be one of the finest 1st Model Dragoons known and carried a presale estimate of $125,000-225,000. It went out at just over $181,000. A Walker pistol complete with an appropriate size holster and rare Walker flask, carried a presale estimate of $100,000-150,000 and went out at $109,000. A rare Colt Paterson, No. 5 Texas Model revolver, estimated at $100-150,000, just squeaked by the low estimate at $103,500. A stunning and rare cased engraved pair of Colt 1851 London Navies, estimated at $75,000-125,000, brought over low estimate at $80,500 but still seemed like a very nice buy. Another historic gun, this one from the Pickup Collection, was a cased, 1860 Colt given to Attorney General Edward Bates by Samuel Colt. It originally had come from the famous John Hamilton Collection of identified firearms which Julia’s sold a number of years ago. This time it was estimated at $50,000-75,000 and went out at $51,750. There were many other great Colts from collections other than the Pickups. One such example was a fine 2nd model Dragoon in outstanding condition, estimated at $60,000-75,000. It realized $69,000. A rare pair of Colts with great history was the plated and engraved, presentation cased set of 1861 Navies. These, at one time, belonged to Medal of Honor Winner, Adjt. Chas. A. Clark of the Maine Volunteer Infantry. Estimated for $100,000-$150,000, is sold at just over $109,000. The second session began with a spectacular offering of U.S. Civil War swords from the renowned Kevin Hoffman Collection. The highlight of this grouping was a rare, statue hilted sword worn by Brig. General Joseph Haskin. The sword’s grip featured a Civil War Officer impaling a serpent with his sabre all in beautiful gilt highlighting. It was estimated at $90,000-110,000 and neared mid-estimate at $109,250. An outstanding grouping of rare Confederate swords included a fine Courtney & Tennent Naval Officer’s sword. It was estimated at $40,000-50,000 and went out above estimate at $56,000. A fine Leech & Rigdon Confederate revolver estimated at $40,000-60,000 brought nearly high estimate at $57,500. A Confederate uniform once belonging to Capt. Mark S. Cockrill, of Rutledges Battery 1st Tennessee Artillery was estimated at $30,000-60,000. It sold for $48,500. As with every auction, there were bargains, and there were some things that didn’t sell. One such item was a fabulous early American silk, embroidered jumpsuit made during the first half of the 19th century. This extraordinary rare piece featured embroidered naval anchors, spread-winged eagles and flags and carried what seemed to be a very reasonable presale estimate of $10,000-20,000. A rare and spectacular Confederate battle flag considered to be one of the finest of its type ever offered at auction was estimated at $75,000-125,000. It went out at $120,750. A historical A&V battle flag of the 2nd South Carolina Palmetto Regiment carried a presale estimate of $50,000-100,000. A number of bidders had lined up to bid on this historic flag. The flag quickly got to $50,000, when noted Confederate expert and dealer, John Sexton, hollered out “$51,000 on behalf of the South Carolina Museum”. At that point everyone stopped and the flag sold for $58,650 (of course including the 15% buyer’s premium). Julia’s recently opened a new satellite office in Woburn, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. Although they have only been open a few months, the dividends from the office have already paid off significantly. For instance, a collection of rusty, old artillery projectiles from the Gettysburg battle were discovered in an old Massachusetts house which was being renovated. The projectiles had at one time been part of the J.A. Danner Battlefield Museum in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Danner had collected these projectiles shortly after the actual battle and mounted many of them on little wooden plaques on which he painted the location of where they were found. Many of these projectiles retained these original small wooden plaques, one of which was inscribed, “Pickett’s Front”, another “Hancock Front”, etc. The entire grouping of relics were offered with a total presale estimate of $24,000-38,000, but blew far by the high estimate to finally realize $100,800. All the big money was not just for Colts. An extremely rare cased presentation quality Savage revolver from the Civil War era carried a presale estimate of $27,500-32,500, and when the smoke cleared, it blew well past the high estimate to $46,000. Another great was a deluxe cased engraved presentation quality Starr SA revolver estimated at $15,000-20,000. It was hotly contested for and finally sold over double the high estimate at $41,400. Items associated with General George Custer and/or The Battle of Little Big Horn frequently crop up at Julia sales. A rare Indian used Custer range Springfield 1873 saddle-ring carbine carried a presale estimate of $6,500-9,500, but the bidders just kept bidding and bidding until the final sale price was over three times high estimate at $33,350. The Pickup Collection also featured fine antique Smith and Wessons, one of which was a rare Model 320 revolving rifle with accessories. Estimated at $20,000-30,000, it reached over double high-estimate at $63,250. A unique collection of thirteen engraved 18th Century powder horns, believed to have been executed by the same carver had been written up in various articles over the years. The lot carried a presale estimate of $60,000-90,000 and went out at $69,000. Kentucky rifles have also been a staple at Julia’s. In fact, over the past two years they have set and broke the world record for a Kentucky rifle twice – the latest record being approximately $195,000. A double signed Ohio long rifle by James & William Clark was estimated at $35,000-55,000 did just over mid-estimate, selling for $46,000. Another exceptional carved and engraved long rifle by Jacob Sell was estimated at $45,000-65,000 and went out at $46,000. A British patent 1877 short land musket, estimated at $10,000-15,000, saw a lot of competition and brought twice over high estimate at $32,200. Over the years Julia’s has established themselves as the preeminent seller of rare, high-grade and important sporting shotguns and rifles. A couple of years ago they set the world record for the most expensive shotgun ever sold at auction – a Fox shotgun that brought well over $800,000. This sale included a spectacular offering, rich in quality and rarity, which in turn attracted a great number of very motivated buyers. A beautiful full-relief engraved J. Rigby rising bite double rifle made for Mohammed Nasrullah Kahn in caliber 350 Rigby was estimated at $40,000-60,000. This was a prize and lots of serious collectors hoped to own it, and it ended up well above high estimate to sell for $80,500. Noted golfer Tom Watson’s 28 ga. Purdy best side lock ejector game gun was estimated at $70,000-90,000 and nudged low estimate at $69,000. A pair of fine cased Holland & Holland royal deluxe 20 bore game guns topped the charts for non-American sporting shotguns at this auction. Estimated for $75,000-100,000, they finally went out just above high estimate at $109,000. Another pair of Holland & Holland Grifnee engraved, deluxe game guns which were estimated at $75,000-100,000 realized just over $89,000. A beautiful pair of Wesley Richards side lock ejector game guns were estimated at $45,000-55,000 and sold well above high estimate at almost $60,000. The star of the sporting arms, however, was in the American shotguns. A rare and exceptional Parker 20 bore A-1 Special with beautiful deep relief engraving was estimated at $125,000-175,000 and came close to high estimate at $166,750. Another Parker, DHE 28 ga., estimated at $25,000-35,000, sold at just over $36,000. A fabulous Winchester Model 21 deluxe, No. 5, engraved two-barrel set for Chicago Industrialist, S. H. Wacky Arnolt, was estimated at $35,000-55,000 and went for a strong but not wacky price at $39,675. A rare and historic Parker was a Parker Bros. VHE 12 ga. The gun, originally ordered by Annie Oakley’s husband, Frank Butler, featured vignette engravings on either side of the breach of the famous crack-shot Annie Oakley herself, wearing her traditional broad-brimmed bonnet. The gun was estimated at $30,000-50,000 and neared low estimate at $28,750. Another field in which the Julia company has dominated the market is in Class III items. A few years ago Julia’s handled the extraordinary Sterns’ Collection of rare military and Class III. The Class III segment of the collection was the largest and finest that had been offered at auction in many years, realizing between $1-2 million. Many of the examples in the Sterns’ Collection brought extraordinary prices. Since that time Julia’s has continued to attract a number of rare and wonderful Class III items and continues to generate very strong and impressive results. This sale included an extremely rare and early MG42/59 by Rheinnetal. It went out at $63,500. The M-60 caliber 308 manufactured by Maremont saw tremendous competition. It was estimated at $25,000-30,000 and sold way above high estimate at $37,950. Prices were generally strong throughout the Class III in this particular sale. An H&K M5, Sear conversion to full auto (fully transferable) in .22 caliber conversion kit, was estimated at $13,000-17,500, and it sold for almost double the high estimate at $31,050. More details about this historic auction can be had by visiting Julia’s website at jamesdjulia.com, and catalogs together with prices realized lists are still available by contacting the office at 207-453-7125. Julia’s next auction will take place in late November and will include a major auction of rare Glass & Lamps, including fine Tiffany lamps, French cameo glass, etc. The Toy, Doll & Antique Advertising Division also has a spectacular sale put together, including a vast array of items. Julia’s is now accepting consignments for these and for the next Firearms Auction which will take place in March of 2013. This sale will include the third and final session of the Wes Adams collection and will feature the extraordinary Dodge Winchester and Dodge Savage rifles, both examples of some of the finest art produced by either one of these firms. Also included will be session II of the Pickup Collection as well as a vast array of Civil War, Confederate and fine high-grade shotguns and sporting rifles, Colts, and much, much more.

	The finest of finest Parker A-1 Special 20 ga. with deep sculpted engraving. Estimated at $125,000-175,000. SOLD $166,750
	Exquisite true pair of Holland & Holland royal deluxe sidelock ejector 20 bore with superb relief engraving and foliate scrollwork. Estimated at $75,000-100,000. SOLD $109,250
	Extremely rare and desirable MG 42/59 7.62 mm machine gun by Rheinmetal in caliber .308 Nato. SOLD $63,250
	Extraordinarily rare Freund “Boss” gun Sharps Model 1874 Sporting rifle purported to be one of the finest of its type in the world. SOLD $166,750
	Spectacular Confederate Battle Flag in the Army of No. VA design. Perhaps the finest Confederate battle flag ever to come to public auction. Estimated at $75,000-125,000. SOLD $120,750
	Extremely rare outstanding cased 1st Model Colt Dragoon percussion revolver identified to C.H. Bowman of the Tampico Rangers "Veteran of Mexican War" believed to be the finest in existence. (Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection) Estimated at $125,000-225,000. SOLD $181,125
	Exceedingly rare and important factory engraved Colt SAA Sheriff's Model built for legendary Western lawman Jeff Davis Milton in 1916. Estimated at $150,000-250,000. SOLD $201,125
	Magnificent Savage 99 TD Monarch Grade .303 w/Tiger & Buffalo motifs and intricately carved stocks. (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimated at $20,000-30,000. SOLD $77,625
	Superb early special order deluxe Winchester Model 1886 lever action, engraving includes platinum barrel bands, rare flatpoint checkering and pil finished wood. (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimated at $50,000-80,000. SOLD $74,750
	Rare special order deluxe Winchester 3rd Model 1876 with vibrant original case colors. (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimated at $50,000-90,000. SOLD $69,000
	Extra fine 1860 Henry lever action with wonderful rich brass patina and much original blue remaining. (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimated at $65,000-90,000. SOLD $109,250
	Magnificent Marlin 1893 deluxe TD w/custom #10 style game scene engraved by Conrad Ulrich w/gold & platinum vinework. (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimated at $30,000-50,000. SOLD $80,500
	Truly exceptional full relief engraved J. Rigby rising bite .350 NE double rifle for H. H. Mohammed Nasrullah Kahn. Estimated at $40,000-60,000. SOLD $80,500
	Exquisite 20 gauge James Purdey best sidelock single trigger 20 bore game gun with case. Estimated at $35,000-55,000. SOLD $46,600
	Magnificent true pair of Holland & Holland royal deluxe sidelock ejector 12 bore, with special relief engraved huntress encased in bold foliate by Ph. Grifnee. Estimated at $75,000-100,000. SOLD $89,125
	Superb Confederate Naval officer’s sword, marked, "Courtney Tennent Charleston, SC". Estimated at $40,000-50,000. SOLD $56,350
	Rare & Unusual superb set of cased Wesley Richards sidelock ejector single trigger game guns, 20 gauge and 12 gauge with extra barrels. Estimated at $45,000-55,000. SOLD $59,800
	Rarest of all Civil War statue hilted swords, presentation Schuyler, Hartley & Graham soldier Army statue hilt to "Col. Haskin", worn by Brig. General Joseph Haskin. (Kevin Hoffman Collection) Estimated at $90,000-110,000. SOLD $109,250

Fairfield, Maine, March 12-13, 2012. James D. Julia’s had touted their Spring firearms auction for a matter of months as being comprised of three historic collections. The auction results were equally historic. The much anticipated auction had one of the strongest responses Julia’s ever experienced for a firearms auction. But as they say, “The proof is in the pudding,” and the proof was simply extraordinary. At nearly $18 million the sale generated by far the highest grossing firearms auction ever held in history. The low estimate of everything sold was just a little over $10 million. Thus the sale results were almost $8 million over low estimate! Also of note was another firearms auction, held by Jim Julia’s sister and brother-in-law who operate the Poulin Auction Company, which grossed over $2 million the three days preceding the Julia auction. Thus the five day gun auction event generated approximately $20 million in all! This record far exceeds the former world record of $12.7 million set by the Julia firm in March 2008. The statistics are equally as impressive. Over 185 lots generated $25,000 or more; 65 lots generated $50,000 or more; 18 lots generated $100,000 or more, eight of those generated $200,000 or more. The sale began with Class III items which always generates strong interest. Some lots had as many as 20 to 30 telephones with numerous absentee bids. A Colt 1919 B.A.R. Commercial 30-06 automatic rifle, estimated at $20,000-$30,000, was top lot at $43,700. 20th Century arms included a historic Sauer double rifle presented to Hermann Goering by the City of Suhl, Germany, in 1934. This lavishly engraved gun, estimated at $100,000-$200,000, went out at $115,000. An extraordinary rare Colt engraved service model Ace pistol in pristine condition carried a presale estimate of $40,000-$50,000 and blew through the top of that estimate at $103,500. The next session included an outstanding array of high-grade sporting shotguns and rifles. An ultra-rare 20 ga. Parker Grade 3 hammer/lifter shotgun, estimated at $3,000-$5,000, seemed like it was never going to stop, but finally went out at $32,200. An exceptionally fine L.C. Smith 20 ga. Monogram Grade, estimated at $50,000-$60,000, went out at $51,750. An exquisite Purdey Best over-under single trigger game gun in 20 ga. was estimated at $55,000-$75,000 and sold just under $60,000. One of the top items of the day, however, was a huge J. Dickson Four Bore Hammer shotgun made for the eccentric Charles Gordon. Gordon, during his lifetime commissioned many of the leading English firearms firms of the day to produce copies of their earlier guns. Most of these exquisite guns created for him were never used and are in extraordinary condition. This was one of only two four bores ever made and carried a presale estimate of $40,000-$60,000. It sailed far beyond the high estimate at $86,250. A brace of John Dixon percussion pistols made also for Gordon, in the original pigskin lined case was estimated at $15,000-$20,000 and went out at $24,000. The highest selling lot of the sporting arms was an Alfred Lancaster .450 double rifle made for the Maharaja of Bulrampore. The gun, originally made in 1871, at that time was fitted with a complete butt stock and fore stock made from rhinoceros horn. Because of the size of the stock, it was probably a white rhino as they are one of the few rhinoceroses that produced horns big enough to accomplish this remarkable feat. Because of the value of the rhino stock alone, the gun was estimated at $50,000-$75,000. But it soared to almost twice the high estimate at $138,000. Sporting rifles included the J. Rigby .470 nitro sidelock ejector rising bite double rifle estimated at $50,000-$80,000, which sold at $67,850. Immediately following the sale of the sporting arms was Dr. Lucie’s historic collection of Bill Scagel knives. Bill Scagel (1875-1963) made exquisite handmade knives up until his death. His utilitarian knives were truly works of art and the vast society of bladesmiths today trace their beginnings back to Bill Scagel. He was indeed the genesis of today’s high art knives. Dr. Lucie was Scagel’s personal physician and later became an ardent collector of Scagel knives. He is considered to be the reigning authority today on Bill Scagel and his works, and recently completed the definitive book on Bill Scagel and his life. Lucie’s collection was extraordinary not only for the number of objects but also their rarity and exceptional condition. Leading up to the sale there was tremendous interest. The highest priced lot was a massive, extremely rare Scagel made VL&A Bowie knife with its original sheath in outstanding condition. It carried a presale estimate of $18,000-$28,000 and sold for $45,425. The second highest grossing lot in the collection was a rare Scagel made D-Guard Fighter. One of only six ever made, this one was made for a marine in 1942 during WWII. The knife and its original scabbard estimated at $18,000-$26,000, finally sold for $41,400. One of the most important Scagel item in the collection was Scagel’s personal sheathed knife carried and used by him on a daily basis. Inscribed on the blade was his name, “W. Scagel”. It carried presale estimate of $20,000-$28,000 and finally sold for $40,250. Scagel didn’t just make knives – he also made other blades including axes. A special ax was described by Dr. Lucie as an extremely rare 2-handed ax which is the only one known by the author to exist. In excellent condition, it carried a presale estimate of $17,500-$25,000 and finally sold for $29,900. Dr. Lucie was unquestionably very passionate about his collection and his descriptions reflected his great passion. In many cases a knife carried a personal story about Bill Scagel and/or how Dr. Lucie came to own the knife. One such knife was one referred to as the “Damn Democrat” knife. Scagel, always the crusty, independent, extremely conservative individual would never be beholding to anyone. After receiving a favor from the local Ward Chairman of the Democrat party, the next day he made a small string cutter knife and went to the ward chairman’s home, handed it to him with the comment, “Thanks for the favor the other night.” A week or so later a friend inquired of Bill about the strange knife he made for the ward chairman of the Democrat party. Scagel responded, “Oh, you mean that damn Democrat knife.” When his friend inquired why the handle of the knife had an ivory slab on one side and a striated mother-of-pearl handle on the other side, he quickly responded, “Those damn Democrats are two-faced, so I made him a two-faced knife!” The diminutive knife measuring about 3 5/8” long, carried a presale estimate of $3,500-$5,000 and went out at $11,500. The final historic collection of the first day was the estate of the late Robert Howard. Howard was unquestionably one of the foremost firearms collectors of the twentieth century. His extraordinary diverse taste in firearms resulted in an extremely comprehensive collection which began with early flintlocks and ran all the way to arms of World War II. Condition, rarity and quality were all hallmarks of his collection, and there was a tremendous response. Most anybody who has been in the firearms world for any length of time knew who Bob Howard was and esteemed the things in his collection. Their esteem was reflected in bids. A rare factory engraved Winchester Model 86 Deluxe, estimated at $30,000-$50,000 sold for $63,250. Mr. Howard loved good Colts and his collection reflected that. An engraved black powder SAA with Texas history, and in very fine condition was estimated at $25,000-$35,000, but it blew through the roof and tripled the high estimate at $97,750. His rare black powder frame nickel sheriff’s model had a presale estimate of $15,000-$30,000 and went out at $57,500. An extremely rare factory engraved boxed Colt, Model 1877 D.A. was a stunner, and so was its final price. Estimated at $4,000-$7,000, it did over 5 times the high estimate at $39,100. An exceptional cased Model 1861 Navy percussion revolver estimated at $20,000-$30,000 also performed very well at just under $60,000. A very rare Smith and Wesson No. 3 Third Model Russian single action revolver was estimated at $25,000-$40,000, but performed nearly 3 times its high estimate selling to a collector of Smith & Wesson at just over $112,000. Items related to the Old West have tremendous interest. So while the price on one lot was very high, it was not as shocking as some of the other results. A complete Buffalo hunter’s outfit including a cased Sharps rifle, caliber 50-70 was estimated at $25,000-$40,000 and went out at just over $86,000. One focal point of the Howard Collection was his infatuation with unusual derringers. There were many great rarities in this collection some of which produced dramatic results. A rare Remington-rider magazine pistol in superb condition estimated at $4,000-$7,000 sold at just under $21,000. A spectacular cased engraved and gold-plated American Standard Tip-up revolver was estimated at $4,000-$7,000. It saw incredible competition and ended up over 3 times the high estimate at $23,000. A boxed pair of engraved No. 1 Moore all metal Derringers in the original cardboard box were also estimated at $4,000-$7,000, and also went out at a remarkable $23,000. The biggest money Derringer of the day was the rare Reid large frame knuckle duster in 41 rim fire. Estimated at $6,000-$12,000, it sold for just under $36,000. Tuesday morning’s auction began with another historic session. Touted as perhaps one of the finest Winchester collections to ever come to auction was the collection of the late Wes Adams. The condition, quality and rarity of these guns were astounding. Julia decided to divide the Winchester collection into three equal parts and this was the first of three auctions to take place to dispose of the Winchester collection. The results on Tuesday were phenomenal. Many of the finest collectors and Winchester aficionados had been attracted and the results were tremendous testament to the Wes Adams and his collection. An extraordinary, one of a kind, relief engraved, gold and nickel Winchester Model 1866 carried a presale estimate of $200,000-$300,000, and went out at $293,250. A rare early Model 73 22 caliber, estimated at $20,000-$32,000 sold for approximately 5 times high estimate at $155,250. Things continued this way throughout the Wes Adams sale. A rare factory engraved exhibition Model 94, estimated at $40,000-$60,000 saw tremendous competition and ended up at $207,000. An exceptional John Ulrich engraved gold inlaid Model 94, estimated at $50,000-$80,000 went out at $253,000 after the dust cleared. Wes Adams had been known as a man of great passion, enthusiasm and determination when it came to Winchesters. He had a hard time taking no for an answer, sometimes going back to the collector on multiple occasions, each time raising the price until he finally got what he wanted. It appeared that many of the bidders here decided to follow his lead. A rare deluxe Model 1887 Damascus shotgun estimated at $25,000-$40,000 topped out at just over $63,000. One lot was an extraordinary original crate of unissued Winchester Model 94 saddle ring carbines. As the story went, some years ago a few cases of these guns were found in a warehouse. They had originally been destined for a militia unit but never used. All but two of the cases were broken and sold individually – this being one of the only two kept intact. It carried a presale estimate of $50,000-$100,000, and after a heated bidding battle it sold for $218,500. The Winchesters were not the only thing that Wes collected. For a period of time he had an infatuation with Marlins, but his modus operandi was the same. If it was great – do whatever it took to get it. As a result he had some spectacular examples. One such spectacular acquisition was a rare deluxe engraved Model 93 with platinum and gold inlay. Estimated at $20,000-$60,000, it went out at $120,750. Another stand out in this collection was a rare, engraved special order takedown 1895 with a presale estimate of $16,000-$28,000. It topped out at about 4 times high estimate for $92,000. Wes also had for a period of time an infatuation for Colts and again, his tastes were focused on condition, condition, condition. Some of the finest single action cavalry Colts known were in his collection. His Ainsworth inspected SAA, possibly the finest known to exist, was estimated at $125,000-$175,000. It went out at a little over $200,000. A rare and extraordinary case hardened sheriff’s model considered to possibly be one of the finest of its type known was estimated at $125,000-$175,000 and went out for a hearty $282,000. A fine Cuno Helfricht engraved Colt SAA estimated at $20,000-$45,000 generated $112,000. The Adams Collection of Winchesters was not the only good Winchesters in this sale. Immediately after the Adams Collection, items from other estates and collections were sold including an extraordinary half nickel Henry that was consigned by the descendants of the original owner. The owner had been a piano player in Dodge City during its wild days and had been given the Henry by a grateful saloon owner. It carried a presale estimate of $75,000-$125,000 and went out at $126,000. A rare famous Nimschke engraved Model 66 saddle ring carbine estimated at $85,000-$145,000 sold for $161,000. From the Dr. Ed Lewis collection came an extraordinary rare Winchester Model 73, One of One Hundred, considered to be one of the finest ones known to exist. This one carried a presale estimate of $150,000-$200,000 and went out at $316,250. Many firearm firms produced special arms to be displayed at the Centennial Exhibition of 1876. Those few that have survived are exceedingly collectable and much sought after. One of those centennial arms, produced by Sharps was a Sharps Model 1875, long range single shot. It was estimated at $150,000-$250,000 and sold for $201,000. A pair of extraordinary cased Tryon gold inlaid Philadelphia percussion derringers with casing similar to a pair of famous Dragoon revolvers that were once owned by James Janeway-Van Sickle and very likely originally belonged to him was estimated at $65,000-$125,000, and sold for $86,250. Julia’s set and broke the world record twice in the past year for Kentucky rifles and so understandably this sale had a number of fine examples. One was a George Schreyer relief carved flintlock with rattlesnake patch box, estimated at $32,500-$42,500. The barrel and the fore stock had been stretched at one time, but this rare gun by an important maker from the Golden Age still realized $69,000. A great selection of rare Civil War items was offered in this sale; many pieces were from a single collector. An extraordinary rare Thomas Griswold & Co. New Orleans confederate military rifle with engraved lock and hammer was estimated at $75,000-$125,000 and realized $92,000. A rare confederate Fayetteville High-Hump rifle estimated at $15,000-$25,000 brought just over $35,000. One extraordinary item was a recently discovered rare early production LeMat revolver in superb condition. It had been discovered by a cleaning company that was cleaning debris from an old house. The gun offered here with an estimate of $60,000-$90,000, went out at $69,000. A rare Leech & Rigdon Novelty Works confederate revolver, considered one of only a couple known, and this one possibly being the finest was estimated at $40,000-$60,000 and brought just under $100,000. A good confederate Dance revolve estimated at $40,000-$60,000 went out at $48,300. A dramatic and beautiful small Civil War flag with battle honors (including Gettysburg) for the 8th New Jersey Infantry carried a presale estimate of $20,000-$30,000 and realized just under $35,000. A group of Indian objects offered were originally assembled by Lydia Parry-Teasdale, whose father at one time owned the largest carriage factory in the world. The family located in Indiana eventually also made the Parry automobile. Her collection at one time was on display at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. An extraordinary rare carved wooden feast bowl, probably Sioux 18th century and having an ornamental quill-work fringe around the edge was estimated at $50,000-$85,000 and went out at just under $52,000. Another great rarity was an extraordinary Springfield Officer’s model rifle with marksman’s type stock. The gun was the only one ever made and had been ordered by General John Gibbon of Civil War and Indian War fame. General Gibbon was one of the many military officers that pursued Chief Joseph and his Nez Perce Indians on their attempted retreat to Canada. Gibbon intercepted Chief Joseph and attacked his entire village, but the brilliant Chief Joseph and his braves rallied and overcame Gibbon, captured his Gatling gun and greatly humiliated him and his entire command. The gun, estimated at $50,000-$100,000 went out at $57,000. The sale proceeds realized by the Julia firm at nearly $18 million is not only by far the highest grossing firearms auction ever conducted in history, but was attained with only fewer than 1100 lots, having an incredible average of about $16,500 per lot. A truly astounding sale. It must be remembered there are more extraordinary things to come from the fabulous Wes Adams Collection this fall. They say a rising tide raises all ships and certainly the results of the sale saw tremendous enthusiasm, excitement and highly competitive bidding. Some of this enthusiasm spilled over into other areas. At every sale Julia’s sells a large lot of past auction catalogs. The entire proceeds (including the 15% buyer’s premium) are donated to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Usually the lot of a dozen catalogs will bring anywhere from $10-$100. At this sale, a similar lot was offered and after briefly asking for $100 opening bid, Martin Lane, of Lane Historical Americana in New York City, shouted out “$1,500”! The auctioneer asked if anyone would advance it to $1,600 and Lane jovially offered to raise his own bid to $1,600. Lane is one of the world’s foremost Colt dealers. Next, a renowned Winchester dealer, Leroy Mertz sitting nearby decided to compete with Lane and raise it to $1,700. The bidding battle eventually ended up with Lane winning at $2,500—or should we say – St. Jude’s Hospital winning! It was a very generous gesture on both of these gentlemen’s parts, and Julia and the entire crowd gave Lane an ovation for his generosity. For more details check out www.jamesdjulia.com online. James D. Julia can be contacted by email at firearms@jamesdjulia.com or by telephone at 207-453-7125 and are located at 203 Skowhegan Rd., Fairfield, ME 04937. Auctioneer: James D. Julia Lic#: ME: AR83 NH: 2511.

	Extraordinary, One of a Kind, Relief Engraved, Gold & Nickel Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimate $200,000-300,000. SOLD: $300,900
	Extraordinarily Rare Original Crate of Ten Unissued Winchester Model 94 Saddle Ring Carbines (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimate $50,000-100,000. SOLD: $218,500
	Fine Ainsworth Inspected Colt Cavalry SAA Revolver, Possibly the Finest Extant (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimate $125,000-175,000. SOLD: $201,250
	Rare & Extraordinarily High Condition Colt Sheriff's Model SAA Revolver Believed to be the Finest Example Extant (Wes Adams Estate Collection) Estimate $125,000-175,000. SOLD: $281,750
	Extraordinarily Rare Winchester Model 1873 "1 of 100" Lever Action Rifle (Dr. Edmund E. Lewis Collection) Estimate $150,000-200,000. SOLD: $316,250
	Fine and Rare Production LeMat Revolver Estimate $60,000-90,000. SOLD: $69,000
	One of a Kind Sharps Model 1875 Centennial Exhibition Long Range Single Shot Rifle Estimate $150,000-250,000. SOLD: $201,250
	Rare Leech & Rigdon Novelty Works Confederate Revolver Estimate $40,000-60,000. SOLD: $97,750
	Extremely Rare & Important Ceremonial Burl Carved Feast Bowl, Probably Sioux (Ex-Lydia Perry Teasdale Collection) Estimate $50,000-85,000. SOLD: $51,750
	Huge J. Dickson Four Bore Hammer Shotgun Made for Charles Gordon, with Original Case, Leather Outer Cover and Accessories Estimate $40,000-60,000. SOLD: $86,250
	Rhino Horn Stocked Alfred Lancaster .450 Double Rifle Made for the Maharaja of Bulrampore with Spare Stocks and Case Estimate $50,000-75,000. SOLD: $138,000
	J. Rigby .470 Nitro Sidelock Ejector Rising Bite Double Rifle with Case and Accessories Estimate $50,000-80,000. SOLD: $67,850
	Scagel's Personal Knife, An Extremely Rare and Important Scagel Knife (Dr. Jim Lucie Collection) Estimate $20,000-28,000. SOLD: $41,300
	Massive Extremely Rare Scagel Made VL&A Bowie Knife Estimate $18,000-28,000. SOLD: $45,425
	The "Damn Democrat" Knife (Dr. Jim Lucie Collection) Estimate $3,500-5,000. SOLD: $11,500
	Engraved Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Texas History (Robert Howard Estate Collection) Estimate $25,000-35,000. SOLD: $97,750
	Scarce Cased Colt London Model 1860 Percussion Revolver (Robert Howard Estate Collection) Estimate $30,000-40,000. SOLD: $57,500
	Extremely Rare Genuine Buffalo Hunter's Rifle Complete with Carrying Case & Hunter's Equipment (Robert Howard Estate Collection) Estimate $25,000-40,000. SOLD: $86,250
	Rare Reid Large Frame Knuckle Duster (Robert Howard Estate Collection) Estimate $6,000-12,000. SOLD: $35,650
	Julia’s state-of-the-art auction facility is large and comfortable, replete with a large, interesting collection of sporting decorations. The firearms are laid out and presented in a convenient and professional manner with many items displayed under glass.
	The response was one of the greatest the Firearms Division has experienced in many years, both from live and absentee bidders. Here James Julia, assisted by Dudley Browne, fields bids.
	Extremely Rare Deluxe Engraved Marlin Model 1893 Takedown Lever Action Rifle with Platinum & Gold. Estimate $20,000-60,000. SOLD: $120,750

James D. Julia Auctioneers, of Fairfield, Maine, announced that they are donating to the Museum of Northwest Colorado, in Craig, Colorado, an exact replica of the famous gold inlaid and engraved presentation Colt revolver which was once owned by infamous lawman Robert D. Meldrum. Not a great deal is known about Meldrum. There are no books written about him, there was never a movie made about him, but most certainly, his life and his character are the grounds for a most interesting Western movie. The Meldrum presentation Colt, is an exceedingly rare presentation Colt given to him by the Tomboy Mining Company of Telluride, Colorado. What is known about Meldrum is that sometime around the turn of the century he was hired as a mining guard for the Tomboy Company to assist them with two major problems: the first was to rid them of activists that were attempting to organize their miners on strike and the second problem was claim jumpers stealing minerals from their site. Although it’s not known exactly what Meldrum did, it was obviously very important for the mining company. A gun of this nature, around the turn of the century, was very, very expensive; so expensive in fact, that of the vast number of Colt revolvers produced by the world renowned Colt industries, only 16 first generation Colt single action revolvers ever had any gold inlay at all. Meldrum was the epitome of a tough western character. He was hard as nails, fast as lightening and had an unquestionable mean streak. As a lawman, it is known that at the time that he was a guard for the Tomboy Company he also was a deputy in the village of Telluride. The Tomboy Mining Company was located high up in the mountains above Telluride. It was literally, a small village near the peaks of some of the taller mountains in the area. The village sported a small general store, a school and even a bowling alley where the miners lived and worked. According to one source, the Tomboy Mining Company, desperate to deal with their problems, had originally contacted Tom Horn. Horn was a range vigilante and had worked for the Cattlemen’s Association, ridding the range of cattle rustlers. At the time that they contacted Horn, supposedly he was too busy, but he apparently referenced Meldrum and they later hired him. He established his reputation early on in the village of Telluride. Just after being sworn in as a deputy sheriff, he brazenly walked into a busy local saloon and announced in a loud voice that he was the new deputy sheriff in town, and he would not tolerate any funny business, if anybody had any issue or problem he would be glad to step outside with them, then stepped up to the bar and had a drink. He dealt with problems in a very direct way but his mean streak apparently was exhibited whenever anything didn’t go quite his way. During his lifetime he killed a number of men, at least 2 were unarmed. In one incident, while in Telluride a large Scandinavian miner had gotten drunk in one of the local saloons and was creating a disturbance. Someone sent word for Meldrum. The small, slight of build Meldrum announced to the miner that he was taking him to jail. However, the large miner responded he would do no such thing, and would beat Meldrum severely if he tried. Meldrum simply drew his gun and shot him dead. The matter eventually went to court, but Meldrum was acquitted. Later in life, as a deputy sheriff up in Wyoming, a similar incident did not work out so well for him; he attempted to arrest a young cowboy who had gotten drunk in a local saloon, the cowboy defied him and once again, Meldrum pulled his pistol and shot the man dead. Unfortunately for Meldrum, the unarmed dead cowboy had a lot of friends in the community and Meldrum was taken to court and a long lengthy court battle ensued in which he was finally sent to the penitentiary. Some years later, after Meldrum was released from prison, it is known that he moved to a small community in Wyoming, started a saddlery shop and apparently was an excellent leather worker as his saddles and holsters were of excellent quality (some of these exact creations are on display at the Museum of Northwest Colorado). One night his saddle shop mysteriously burned down and Meldrum himself was never seen alive again by anyone and to this day it is still unknown what happened to him, although it is suspected that a relative or a friend of one of the various men that he killed eventually had their revenge. The story of the Colt is almost as interesting as the man himself. Many years ago a Montana rancher negotiated a deal with a fellow rancher. The fellow rancher wished to purchase bull sperm from a top-of-the-line bull but the asking price from the Montana rancher was a little steep and the rancher friend offered in lieu of cash, an interesting old Colt revolver he had (you won’t believe it, but the name of the sperm-donating bull was “Colt”!). The Montana rancher thought the gun simply an interesting sidearm and wore it in a holster frequently when he worked on horseback. On other occasions, he left it in the glove compartment of his pickup truck and frequently shot it. Over the years it sustained a fair amount of use and abuse. The inscription on the gun, however, intrigued him (it read, "From The Tomboy Gold Mine Co. Lt'd / Telluride Colo to Rob't. D. Meldrum"). He always wondered who Robert Meldrum was and one day he discovered that the museum in Craig Colorado, had an outstanding collection of outlaw items which included objects that had belonged to the nefarious lawman, Robert Meldrum. A visit to the museum and various conversations with the very affable curator, Mr. Dan Davidson, eventually led the Montana rancher to loan his Colt to the museum for exhibit. The Colt was an outstanding addition and was featured in their Meldrum presentation. Then 2008/2009 came and the rancher’s fortunes began to decline. He was in desperate need of money and around the same time he learned that his Colt, left on loan was, in actuality, a very valuable object. He also discovered that the James D. Julia Auction Company in Fairfield, Maine (the world’s leading auctioneer of important and historical firearms), had just sold a similar gold-inlaid Colt revolver in pristine condition for an enormous sum of $747,500! He contacted Julia’s and after various discussions, made arrangements to consign the gun to an upcoming auction. At the same time, Julia’s learned that the gun was currently on loan to a museum so Julia made a personal call to the curator of the museum. During his various discussions, he was impressed with the curator and what the museum had done. The Meldrum Colt was obviously a significant addition to the museum and he felt badly about the circumstances but he realized that the rancher, desperate for money, was going to sell the gun, regardless of whether it was in a Julia auction or somewhere else. So, if Julia elected not to take it for auction, it was still going to be pulled from the museum and sold. After Julia thought about the matter and then called the curator back and told him that although the gun was being removed, if he was successful in selling it at auction, he would personally, at his own expense, have a special exact, hand-made recreation of the famous Meldrum gun made and personally donate it to the museum and this is exactly what he did. Before offering it at auction, Julia contacted Doug Turnbull Restorations. Mr. Turnbull is considered one of the finest gun restorers in the world today, his specialty being that of Winchesters and Colts. Doug told Julia that he could produce an exact re-creation of the pistol without any problem at all and arrangements were made. An order like this involves a tremendous amount of artistry and from the time of the order, it took literally many months for Turnbull’s master craftsmen to create the replica gun, the final product was expensive but the result was exact in every detail. It can now be seen on permanent display at the Northwest Museum along with a selection of other Meldrum items as well as a great number of other very historic old western items. The museum is located in Craig, Colorado. Its business hours are Monday thru Friday 9:00-5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 4:00 (year round). The curator is Dan Davidson and more information can be had by contacting them at (970) 824-6360. Visit their website at musnwco@moffatcounty.net. James D. Julia Auctioneers, the world’s leading auctioneer of rare, historic and expensive firearms can be contacted at www.jamesdjulia.com, by phone at (207) 453-7125, or at 203 Skowhegan Road, Fairfield, ME 04937. The original Meldrum Colt, by the way, sold at public auction to one of the world’s largest collectors of western artifacts for $258,750. With antique firearms history is very important, but of equal importance is condition and had the rancher never distressed the gun and had it been in its outstanding original condition, the gun would have probably brought a multiple of what it realized.

	James D. Julia Auctioneer poses with the replica $250,000 gold inlaid Robert Meldrum Colt which his firm is donating to the Museum of Northwest Colorado in Craig, Colorado.
	This replica is of the very rare gold inlaid Colt which was presented to nefarious lawman Robert Meldrum. It is one of only 16 gold-inlaid Colt (first period) S.A.A.s ever produced by Colt.
	Deputy Robert Meldrum of Telluride was of small stature but tough as nails and lightning quick with his gun. He also had no reservation about shooting someone if he thought they needed it. In 1900 he recognized a Texas fugitive Noah Wilkerson from a wanted poster. Meldrum simply walked up to Wilkerson, shot him dead and then collected the reward money.
	The Meldrum gun was inscribed on the backstrap and butt “From the Tomboy Gold Mine Co. Lt’d Telluride Colo.” and “Robert D. Meldrum”.