*BEAUTIFUL FURR FUNCTIONAL MINIATURE MODEL 1893 GATLING GUN.
SN HGIV. Cal. 22 Short. 6″ bbl. Overall length 12″, height is 18″ with drum. Very attractive Furr miniature in brass with steel bbls miniature of the Colt Model of 1893 Gatling gun. Six bbls rotate when rear crank handle turned clockwise. Miniature sights. Two functional Accles feed drums also in brass are included as is brass tripod which allows for both traverse and elevation. Carefully engraved at top of casing “GATLING GUN COMPANY HARTFORD CONN POLICE MODEL 1893 No HGIV CALIBER 22”. These Furr Gatling guns exhibit the highest levels of quality and attention to detail. One may access the bolts by removing the rear cover just as on the full sized originals. This specimen has a large brass handle at left so that one may control it during firing. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish very fine with the brass starting to patina with a couple of small brown spots on top of the casing and drums with the crank handle turning a pleasing dark patina. Mechanics are crisp. Bores are shiny and bright with some green verdigris at the muzzle and firing residue in the breech area. An exceedingly attractive miniature of a classic. 53094-134 JWK (8,000-10,000) – Lot 2245
SN 9495. Cal. 30. 2-1/4″ bbl with a silver washed finish overall with 2-line Hartford address on top of bbl. Engraved in a scroll and foliate pattern with dot punch background and a chased border, probably by the hand of Gustav Young as his work was utilized extensively by Colt during this time frame. Manufactured in our centennial year of 1876 as confirmed by SN. Mounted with fiery 2-pc mother of pearl grips with gold tone escutcheons. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Fairly good overall retaining approximately 60% of its silver washed finish with thinning on bottom of grip and forward edges of cylinder. Engraving is excellently executed to amount to what appears to be full coverage. Grips are excellent with a minuscule chip on left grip at confluence of lower frame and grip. Mechanics are excellent and in proper order. After detailed dis-assembly all numbers appear matching including bbl, frame and cylinder. Bore is rather dark with strong rifling. This is an elegant Newline that is deluxe engraved. 53094-39 TDW (2,500-3,500) – Lot 2248
EXTREMELY RARE COLT NO. 5 TEXAS PATERSON REVOLVER WITH FACTORY 4-1/4″ BBL PICTURED ON PG 144 OF THE PATERSON COLT BOOK.
SN 594. Cal. .36 4 1/2″ bbl, Extremely rare Colt No. 5 or Texas Model Paterson revolver with 4 1/2-inch barrel marked: “Patent Arms M’g. Co. Paterson, N J. – Colt’s Pt. with star and snake terminals at each end. Muzzle is chamfered as is the case with all orig Patersons. Round-back, five-shot cylinder is roll-engraved with the stage holdup scene with “COLT” in a central panel facing the hammer. The serial number, “594” appears on breech end of the barrel, bottom of the barrel wedge, Cylinder arbor, turning ring, and breech end of the cylinder, backstrap, frame and trigger. All of the visible serial numbers match. The revolver has no provision for a loading lever, the recoil shield does not have a capping cut-out and the hammer spur is not knurled. The flared, highly figured, walnut grips have varnish finish. Cyl may be a period replacement. Accompanied by a copy of “The Paterson Colt Book” by R.L. Wilson in which this exact pistol is illustrated on p 144 with credit to noted collector Dennis A. LeVett. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains considerable blue finish. Cyl exhibits nearly all of its roll engraved stagecoach scene, nipples appear orig. Frame retains faint traces of orig case color, some screw heads are degraded. Address line on bbl is faint, and only partially visible. Figured walnut grips are slightly undersized but fit well and are orig. Right grip has large piece of possibly replaced wood. Bore shows characteristic Paterson rifling, will clean to very good. No. 594 offers the advanced collector the opportunity to acquire a well known and well documented Colt Texas Paterson. 53084-2 (80,000-120,000) – Lot 1394
SN S15102. Cal. 41 RF. 2-1/2″ bbl. Blue and nickel finish. 2-pc ivory grips. Bbl shows “COLT” on top bordered by vine motif engraving with a find punch dot background. Muzzle shows gold inlaid line accent. Frame also shows a unique vine decoration with fine punch dot background. Backstrap shows a walking line decoration with punch dot accents. SN is struck on the inside of the left grip frame. There is an “S” stamped in front of SN. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 60% of the somewhat dulling blue finish. Marking and engraving is sharp. Bore is dark with traces of rifling. Frame retains nearly all of the nickel finish. Hammer shows a generous amount of case color. Trigger shows traces of blue. Mechanics are crisp. Grips are very good and intact. Right grip shows a repair through the screw hole. A very nice example of a unique New York engraved Colt No 3 Deringer. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53044-3 TEP (2,000-3,000) ESA – Lot 3026
**EXCEEDINGLY FINE AND ATTRACTIVE COLT US NAVY OVERSTAMP THOMPSON MODEL 1921/28 WITH ORIGINAL DRUM (CURIO & RELIC).
SN 7065. Cal. 45 ACP. 12-1/2″ bbl with unmarked Cutts compensator. Extremely fine high orig condition US Navy overstamp Thompson with British nitro proofs in a semi circle around bbl where it meets the receiver. Typical engraved “U.S. NAVY” above model marking on left side of receiver with “8” overstamping the “1”. The Thompsons did not sell particularly well at first, and later the US Navy brought a significant number of them into service with the provision that they be modified with a heavier actuator with slower rate of fire primarily as an ammunition cost saving measure. Many of these US Navy guns also found their way to or from police departments and this one apparently is no exception as there are hand inscribed “CPD” markings on forend iron forward of magazine well. Included with this lot is one vintage “New York N.Y.” 50 round drum with 1920 patent dates and one 20 round 1920’s patent date magazine. Clear anchor proof mark visible at front of stock matching numbered upper and lower assemblies. 1928 model parts confirmed within receiver. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable on an ATF form 3 or form 4 as Curio & Relic eligible. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish extremely fine, deep blue orig finish with some very slight loss of finish at the attachment points high edges between matching numbers upper and lower receiver with some fading and the occasional handling mark. Wood is extremely fine with some very light handling marks. Mechanics are crisp. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright. Drum magazine has more of a dull, lustrous blue finish with a slight ding at the 5 o’clock position at the front edge. Patent date magazine has extremely fine lustrous blue finish. Pretty difficult to upgrade the condition of this US Navy Thompson which combines markings. What an attractive looking veteran! 53165-5 JWK (35,000-40,000) C&R – Lot 1074
EXCEPTIONAL FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP POCKET MODEL REVOLVER.
SN 59075. Cal. 22 RF. 2-3/8″ bbl. Full nickel finish. 2-pc walnut grips. Top of bbl shows 2-liner Colt address bordered by Maltese crosses. SN is struck on bottom of bbl lug and butt of grip frame. Numbers match. SN is written in pencil on inside of each grip. Bbl is engraved in an intertwining line motif with punch dot accents. Frame shows a floral motif on both sides with a punch dot background and punch dot accents. Star engraved on the apron behind hammer. Cyl shows intertwining walking punch line engraving with line accent. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Very fine. Pistol retains 98% of the original bright nickel finish with some flaking near the loading cut next to the hammer and on the frame near the top of each grip. Bore is bright with visible rifling. Chambers clean. Revolver appears unfired. Mechanics are crisp. Grips retain nearly all of the varnish finish with only a few minuscule handling marks. A very fine example of an old model Colt pocket revolver in a condition that is seldom seen. 53094-30 TEP (750-1,000) – Lot 2252
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 317503. Cal. 31. Blue and case colored finish with desirable 6″ bbl, 5-shot cyl. Bbl has brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. The silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap contain a 1-pc varnished walnut grip. Revolver is factory engraved with full coverage arabesque scrolls on frame which extends over bbl, bbl lug and rammer pivot. The muzzle is engraved in a matching thin drapery border. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern. Backstrap and trigger guard are further engraved with matching arabesques. Gun retains most of its orig bright blue finish and stagecoach holdup scene is almost entirely visible, four of the six safety pins are serviceable. Accompanied by an orig red velvet lined, Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for revolver, dbl-sided eagle pocket sized flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold, a packet of six “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges, a Japanned tin of Eley’s caps with green and black label and a functioning key. This is a fine factory engraved revolver made in 1868 retaining most of its orig finish with fine casing and accessories. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine overall, retaining most of its orig blue and case colors with most thinning coming on cyl which still matches gun very well. Strong traces of silver are found on trigger guard and backstrap. Grips retain most of their orig varnish. Accompanying casing is matching fine condition with light soiling and light fading on bottom. Flask retains most of its orig varnish as does L-shaped combination tool. Mold, cartridges and cap tin also very good to fine. Mechanically crisp with bright shiny bore. 53073-12 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1397
*INTRIGUING COLT/SAUER SPORTING RIFLE MADE FOR COLT INDUSTRIES BOARD CHAIRMAN GEORGE STRICHMAN AND PRESENTED TO HIM IN 1974.
SN CR 1000. Cal. .30-06 Spgfld 24″ tapered rnd bbl engraved at center “COLTS PT. F.A. MFG. CO., HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. Left side of frame marked “COLT SAUER/SPORTING RIFLE” with Colt industries logo toward muzzle, Sauer logo towards breech. Stocks checkered in 2-point pattern at forearm, 3-point pattern at grip with small Monte Carlo and “COLT SAUER BRAND” white lined waffle pad. Rosewood white lined grip cap inlaid with Colt industries logo and rosewood white lined nose cap at foreend accent the beautiful fiddleback stock. Right side of stock with large engraved golden colored oval plaque inscribed “George A. Strichman / Chairman of the Board / Colt Industries / April 15, 1974”. Rifle is mounted with a Leupold 3X9 Vari-X II scope. WEIGHT: 8 lbs 15 oz. CONDITION: Very fine as very lightly range used. Bbl retains virtually all of its high polish orig blue. Stocks are excellent with only minor handling marks and one more significant rub on left side below action. Plaque with beginning tarnish. Mechanics are fine. Bore is bright and shiny. Optics are slightly clouded. This is a very interesting rifle that should be further researched. 53051-20 JSL (1,000-1,500) – Lot 3279
**VERY FINE COLT U.S. NAVY MODEL 1921/28 AC OVERSTAMP THOMPSON MACHINE GUN (CURIO & RELIC).
SN 13226. Cal. .45 ACP. Bbl 12 1/2″ w/ compensator. Fine example of the U.S. Navy overstamp Thompson w/diamond logo Cutts compensator and matching upper and lower receiver assemblies. Typical “U.S. Navy” added engraved marking over model and SN on left side w/correct “8” overstamped over “1”. Anchor proof mark present at front end of buttstock. 1928 parts verified within receiver with unknurled cocking handle. Additional 1928 parts included are a knurled parkerized actuator w/recoil spring and buffer assembly. Also included is a 50-rd “Bridgeport” drum, an orig “New York, N.Y.” 1920s patent date “L” drum and 2 30-rd magazines. The Colt Thompson machine gun exhibited the highest levels of fit and finish. Specimens w/the Cutts compensator and “U.S. Navy” markings are among the most desirable to historical collectors. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable on an ATF form 3 or form 4 as Curio & Relic eligible. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is fine to very fine. Lustrous blue orig finish, some wear to gray patina where the actuator rides in the receiver, and also thinning to a pleasing gray patina on the Cutts compensator. There is also some thinning to the finish at the high edges, right side of receiver w/a finger nail-sized area of a pinprick oxidation on the lower assembly below the patent dates. There is a noticeable scratch parallel to the SN on the lower assembly, which is not visible when stock is attached. Buttplate finish has also thinned to a gray patina w/small area of brown corrosion at the 7 o’clock position with a small area of scattered brown pick pricks at the 12 o’clock position. Bridgeport drum in fine orig dull blue finish. New York drum has very fine black enamel paint coverage over some pitting at the 5 o’clock position on rear side with a couple of scrapes across 1 patent date under the enamel. Spare actuator is a parkerized blue finish. Stock exhibits some handling marks and wear to the finish, particularly near the toe. Vertical fore grip and handgrip quite fine with a small crack on the right side of the fore grip which does not affect serviceability. Stick magazines are a very fine, deep lustrous blue. Mechanics are crisp. Bore is fine to very fine, brilliant and bright with some firing residue in evidence. 53166-1 JWK (30,000-45,000) C&R – Lot 1075
SN 80735. Cal. 22 RF. 2-3/8″ bbl, blue and nickel finish, 2-pc American walnut grips. Top of bbl shows 2-line Colt address bordered by Maltese crosses. SN is stamped on bottom of bbl lug, butt of grip, and written in pencil inside right grip. Frame has “22 CAL” stamped on left side; vine engraving on either side with punch dot background. There’s a star behind hammer on apron followed by intertwining double lines running down backstap. Cyl has punch dot, line and walking line engraving around periphery. “P” inspector mark on right inside of grip, frame, and an “A” inspector mark on rear face of cyl. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 60-70% bright blue finish with some flaking and a couple of small dents. Markings are sharp. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Frame retains nearly all orig nickel finish. Engraving is sharp, markings are sharp. Hammer shows traces of fire blue on backside of spur. Trigger is a plum/blue patina. Cyl shows 80% bright blue finish with very little roughness. Engraving is sharp. Grips are fine and retain most of varnish finish with only a few bruises and high-point wear. Mechanics are crisp. A very nice example of the first cartridge revolver made by Colt. 53094-29 TEP (750-950) – Lot 2253
*UNIQUE GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED 41 COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN FULL NICKEL WITH FACTORY RAISED CARVED STEER HEAD PEARL GRIPS AND FACTORY LETTER.
SN 187737. Cal. .41. 5-1/2″ bbl. This unique factory engraved revolver was originally shipped in 1899 and returned to the factory for engraving at a later date. According to Colt authority R.L. Wilson, only one other specimen from the Glahn shop was returned for embellishment having been shipped in 1905 and engraved in 1923. Single-action 187737 has the factory ampersand rework mark on the right side of trigger guard bow. Engraving is classic Wilbur Glahn rose and scroll. Grips are unusual for Glahn with high raised relief carved steer head pearls with imitation ruby eyes. According to Wilson, this subject revolver was in the collection of a prominent Middle Eastern princely figure. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Gun retains nearly all of its orig Colt factory nickel finish. Bore is mint. Face of cyl shows virtually no flash marking. Action is crisp as new. A most interesting rare and desirable factory engraved Colt Single Action. 53073-11 (17,500-27,500) C&R – Lot 1413
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT KING COBRA DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER, INSCRIBED TO GEORGE A. STRICHMAN, CHAIRMAN EMERITUS, COLT INDUSTRIES BY MASTER ENGRAVER ALVIN A. WHITE.
SN KC9105. Cal. 357 Magnum. 4″ bbl, stainless steel finish, 2-pc Pachmayr rubber grips. Left side of bbl is engraved “KING COBRA” with a high relief Cobra inlaid in gold between two words. Left side of bbl shows 2-line Colt Cal. and address. SN is stamped inside of crane mortise and on crane opposite the mortise. Left side of ejector rod housing is inscribed “GEORGE A. STRICHMAN / CHAIRMAN EMERITUS / COLT IND”. Rampant Colt logo is inlaid in gold relief on left side of frame by cyl latch. Right side of frame is marked “GAS-0” inlaid in gold. Revolver is finely engraved in a scroll motif with punch dot background. Engraving is seen on bbl, on each side and on bottom of ejector housing. Frame is engraved on both sides in a vine motif. Trigger guard also shows engraving around to front of crane. Front sight has gold inlay. Rear sight has white outline. Engraving and gold inlay accomplished by Master Engraver Alvin A. White, whose initials appear on right side of frame under grip. CONDITION: Revolver shows and even dull stainless steel finish overall with a matte finish on top of bbl and top strap. Bore is dirty with visible rifling. Cyl face shows evidence of firing. All markings and engraving are sharp and clear. Grips are very good. Mechanics are crisp. An opportunity to obtain a masterfully engraved Colt King Cobra revolver, once the property of George A. Strichman. 53051-10 TEP (6,000-8,000) – Lot 3438
FABULOUS FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER WITH ONE PIECE IVORY GRIP.
SN 38016. Cal. 36. 5-1/2″ bbl, blue and case color finish with silver-plated grip straps in American factory casing with accessories. Bbl shows 1-line Colt New York address rolled on top. SN appears on frame, trigger guard, backstrap, wedge and arbor. Last 4-digits of SN are struck on rear face of cyl. Grip was not removed. SN on frame, trigger guard and backstrap have “IE” which designations ivory grips and engraved. All numbers match. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” in an arc. Left rear bow of trigger guard is stamped “36 Cal”. Backstrap is inscribed “WILLIAM A. FARNAM / JULY 1866”. 1-pce ivory grip. Revolver was engraved in an open scroll pattern by Conrad Ulrich Jr. Engraving appears at breech of bbl bordering address. Bbl lug shows a riband with dental motif, indicative of Conrad Ulrich, Jr.’s work. Frame engraving has no background. Engraving frames “COLT PATENT”mark. Hammer shows wolf’s head motif. Trigger guard shows scroll surrounding front screw and on outside of trigger guard bow. Backstrap has a splay of lines radiating from the hammer mortise, bordered by a scalloped line and a scroll tail. Butt of backstrap also shows scroll which borders inscription. Butt shows scroll engraving. SN is bordered by riband. Screw has fine lines radiating around it. Backstrap engraving is bordered by a fine line. Mahogany case is of the American style made for Colt revolvers. Case has pine bottom and dust lip. Case is of the partition design, lined with purple felt. Partition contains Colt bullet mold marked “COLT’S PATENT” on the screw. Correct Colt flask with eagle and shield under 2 rows of stars over crossed pistols with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on a riband under the pistols. Flask is embossed only on one side. Colt combination nipple wrench and screwdriver. Eley Brothers 250-count cap tin. Packet of 5 combustible envelope cartridges. Case also has a key. PROVENANCE: Fritz Baehr lifetime collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 80% bright blue finish with balance having flaked to a smooth grey/brown patina. Most of the flaking is on right side of bbl. Engraving and markings are sharp. Rammer shows considerable case color remaining, especially on the flat. Cone sight is sharp. Frame retains 80% case color finish with most of the loss on left side by hammer screw. Engraving and markings are sharp. Backstrap and trigger guard also retain most of the orig silver-plate with the majority missing on backstrap. Markings are sharp. Frame and grip screws all retain a generous amount of fire blue finish. Left grip strap screw has a broken head. This made it impossible to remove grip. Grip fits perfectly. Cyl shows 50% somewhat dull blue finish with flaking at the rear and a light drag mark between bold stops. SN is clear. Five safety pins are present but somewhat battered. Hammer shows considerable case color finish. Wolf head engraving is sharp. Trigger retains a generous amount of fire blue. Mechanics are crisp. Case is very good with most of the orig varnish on exterior and a couple of small cracks and dents on the lid. Case lock tab area has been repaired. Lining is very good, partitions are intact. Revolver pocket shows impression of revolver. Partitions are slightly tattered. Bullet mold is very good with clean cavities and shows most of a dull blue finish. “COLT’S PATENT” mark on sprue and “36P” mark on mold are sharp. Flask is very fine, retaining most of the lacquer finish and very crisp embossing. Top and spout retain most of the gilt finish. Spring shows traces of orig blue finish. Cap tin is very good, retaining most of the Japanned finish. Label is intact with some slight stains and losses on edge. Combination tool also shows considerable blue remaining. Cartridge pack is very good with clear label and is intact. An opportunity to obtain a very attractive late production Colt Model 1861 police revolver whose history would be worth the research. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53096-1 TEP (17,500-27,500) ESA – Lot 1402
ELEGANT MASTER ENGRAVED COLT THUNDERER REVOLVER WITH RARE 2″ BARREL.
SN 15535. Cal. 41. 2″ bbl. Manufactured 1880 this master engraved Colt Thunderer with 1-pc ivory grips that are numbered internally to match has what amounts to be a full coverage of scroll and foliate engraving with a dot punch background. 2″ bbl has the appropriate half moon blade front sight with the desirable 2-line Colt’s address on left side of bbl where traditionally the caliber designation would reside. 3-line patent date on left side of frame. Left side of trigger guard at rear has caliber designation of .41 cal. Engraving amounts to what would be full coverage inclusive of backstrap, cylinder, bbl, frame and loading gate. The two inch bbl has always been considered the most desirable length and one of the ultimate rarities in Colt ’77 pattern revolvers. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Very good overall with fine mechanics and all visible numbers matching. Bore is somewhat frosted but in no way detracts from the gun. One piece ivory grips have acquired a very mellow aged appearance with several very appealing age cracks emanating from butt. An extremely desirable variation of the Colt Thunderer revolver. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53094-15 TDW (3,000-4,000) ESA – Lot 2262
*VERY RARE & DESIRABLE FACTORY ENGRAVED FULL SILVER-PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 4-3/4″ BBL MARKED COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER 44-40, W/FACTORY LETTER.
SN 350181. Cal. .44 WCF. 4-3/4″ bbl. Full factory silver plating is one of the scarcest finishes for the Colt SAA. No. 350181 is ultra-rare. The characteristic Wilbur Glahn engraving decorates the bbl, frame, cyl, backstrap and trigger guard in his usual rose and scroll style. Revolver features Colt factory medallion steer head ivory grips with five notches carved out at the base of left grip; significance is unknown. Silver plating has assumed a most attractive deep blue-black color and has not been polished. .44-40 at 4-3/4″ SAA’s of this period are rarely encountered. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming configuration and Silver finish, Steer head carved ivory grips, Factory “Level 2” Engr, Shipped Oct 18,1926 to Richards & Conover Hardware Co in a shipment of 2 guns. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: This beautiful revolver retains most of its orig factory silver plating, engraving is as crisp as the day it left the factory with very little wear. Bore is mint and front of cyl shows only factory test firing. Action is crisp as new. Carved steer head grips fit perfectly. All together a fantastic revolver in the extremely desirable .44-40 cal. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53073-7 (40,000-60,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1412
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT PEACEKEEPER DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER, INSCRIBED TO GEORGE A. STRICHMAN, CHAIRMAN EMERITUS COLT INDUSTRIES BY MASTER ENGRAVER ALVIN A. WHITE.
SN 64523V. Cal. 357 Magnum. 6″ bbl, full grey Parkerized finish, rubber Pachmayr grips with Colt medallion. Left side of bbl is marked “PEACEKEEPER / 375 MAGNUM CTG.”. Right side of bbl shows 1-line Colt address. SN is stamped in crane mortise of frame and on crane opposite the mortise. Right side of frame is engraved “GAS-0”. Bottom of bbl is engraved “GEORGE A. STRICHMAN / CHAIRMAN EMERITUS-COLT INDUSTRIES”. Front sight has gold inlay. Rear sight has white outline. Revolver is engraved in a vine motif at muzzle and breech of bbl, on both sides of frame, apron, and between each cyl flute. Engraving accomplished by Master Engraver Alvin A. White whose initials are engraved on right side of frame under grip. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Revolver shows most of the dark grey Parkerized finish with some high-point wear and handling marks. There is a slight drag mark on cyl. Cyl face shows evidence of firing. All markings are clear. Engraving is sharp. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Mechanics are crisp. Grips are fine. A chance to obtain a factory engraved Colt revolver once owned by George A. Strichman. 53051-9 TEP (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3439
*ELEGANT CASED MASTER ENGRAVED COLT NEW FRONTIER REVOLVER WITH NICKEL FINISH AND FACTORY LETTER.
SN 3000NR. Cal. .45 Colt. 7 1/2″ bbl Master engraved Steve Kamyk in scroll and vine motif in the tradition and style of Cuno Helfricht, w/a magnificent flying eagle scene on right recoil shield. The coverage of engraving amounts to what would be considered D coverage. Deep, lustrous nickel finish over the gun’s entirety w/exception of the Eliason target adjustable rear sight. Dual eagles heads are depicted on both sides of the nickel hammer. This cased New Frontier single-action was shipped Jan. 2 of 1962 to Mr. Fred Roff, President of Colt Patent Firearms Co., Hartford, Ct. This was by no doubt a prized custom engraved revolver and probably made for presentation by the President of Colt. Factory letter that accompanies this revolver does not indicate the engraving nor the 2-pc checkered ivory grips. However, the finish and embellishments appear to have been done by the factory. Steve Kamyk was a note Master Engraver for Colt and Engraved a number of firearms specifically for the president of Colt Firearms. These have been recorded in the factory ledgers and observed by us in the past. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall condition w/no indication of use. Bore and cylinder appear to have never been fired, grips fit perfectly and show no signs of distress or material loss. No turn line is evident on cylinder, so to prevent damage mechanics were not tested. Colt monogrammed display glass-fronted display case is equally fine and appears factory new.The revolver itself is signed by Master Engraver Steve Kamyk on the interior of the loading gate. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53194-1 TDW (10,000-15,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1420
*FANTASTIC FACTORY CUSTOM SHOP ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY BY DENISE THIRION.
SN THIRION-1. Cal. 45 Colt 4-3/4″ barrel. Royal deep blue finish overall. Full factory engraved in “B” coverage with gold bands on rear of cylinder and at muzzle. This master engraved Single Action is a true piece of mechanical art. Having been made to appear screwless so as to allow the engraving not to be disrupted by the screw heads or screw holes. An elegant scene of a cowboy mounted upon a bucking bronco inset in a desert ranch scene with a mesa in the rear is portrayed on the right side of frame. This is surrounded by fine scroll and foliate arabesque with a fine dot punch background. The engraving continues to cover the full recoil shields as well as back strap and over two thirds of the barrel. Butt and trigger guard are embellished in the same format as is the cylinder and top strap of frame. mounted with a perfectly fitted pair of Colt monogrammed one and half piece Ivory grips. This masterpiece, embellished by Denise Thirion, has the serial number of THIRION-1. Comes with its original Colt shipping box with outer sleeve and label reads, “Custom Shop Model p1840Z THIRION-1 Ivory “B” engraved Expert engraved Gold Bands Panel scene Screwless Frame order 5799″. Denise Thirion is now listed as a Master Engraver with the Colt custom shop. Comes with the original shipping packing list dated 1998 to Bangers gun distributors in Birmingham, AL. CONDITION: Excellent and as new. No indication of actual use. Bore and mechanics are as new. All observed numbers are matching. Box is excellent and complete with instruction manual and all paper work from factory. This is an opportunity to own one of the finest examples of Colts Custom shop work and the inclusion of gold bands and Ivory make it one of the great rarities from the factory. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52832-1 TDW (12,000-15,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1418
1) Cal. 45. Black powder frame, flat top target revolver. Full blue finish with eagle hard rubber grips. English leather bound case with oak partitions and cartridge block with oiler and cleaning rod. 2) Cal. 45. Colt SAA black powder frame revolver. Blue and case color finish, wood grip with long bbl marked “SN 1”. Housed in mahogany case with green French fit lining and plaque from US Historical Society. 3) Cal. 45. Colt SAA black powder frame revolver. Blue and case color finish, wood grip with long bbl marked “SN 1”. Housed in mahogany case with green French fit lining and plaque from US Historical Society. 4) Cal. 45. Short bbl, wood grip, engraved with gold line inlay and nickel silver front sight, SN 536. Housed in green cardboard box. 5) Cal. 45. Short bbl, blue and case color finish, wood grip, nickel silver front sight, SN 531. Housed in green cardboard box. 6) Cal. 45. Long bbl, full blue finish, engraved with gold accents. Wood grips, SN 367. Housed in a green cardboard box. 7) Cal. 45. Short bbl, full blue finish, engraved with gold inlaid, nickel silver front sight, wood grips, SN 534. Housed in a green cardboard box. 8) Cal. 45. Long bbl, full blue finish, engraved, gold inlaid, wood grip, German silvr front sight. SN 389. Housed in a green cardboard box. 9) Cal. 45. Medium bbl, blue and case color finish, wood grip, German silver front sight, SN 588. Housed in a green cardboard box. 10) Cal. 45. Medium bbl, full blue finish, engraved with gold inlay, wood grips, German silver front sight. SN 535. Housed in a green cardboard box. 11) Cal. 45. Medium bbl, full blue finish, engraved, gold inlay, wood grip, German silver front sight. SN 537. Housed in a green cardboard box. 12) Cal. 45. Medium bbl, blue and case color finish, wood grip, German silver front sight. SN 555. Housed in a green cardboard box. 13) Cal. 45. Short bbl, blue and case color finish, wood grip, German silver front sight. SN 556. Housed in a green cardboard box. 14) Cal. 44. Colt Model 1848 Whitneyville/Hartford Transition Dragoon. Blue and case color finish, engraved, gold inlaid, burl walnut grip, SN 80. 15) Cal. 44. Colt Whitneyville/Hartford Transition Dragoon. Blue and case color finish, wood grip, SN 182. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: 1) Extremely fine. Case has a small dent on lid. 2) Gun and case both extremely fine. 3) Gun and case both extremely fine. 4) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 5) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 6) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 7) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 8) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 9) Gun is very fine, showing some very slight oil residue on cyl; box is very good. 10) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 11) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 12) Gun is extremely fine; box is very good. 13) Gun is extremely fine. There is one minuscule dent on left side of grip. Box is very good. 14) Extremely fine. 15) Extremely fine. 53094-49 TEP (4,500-5,500) – Lot 2277
*PAIR OF EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & DESIRABLE FULLY FACTORY LETTERED ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED SILVER PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT SAA. SN 208657. Cal. 45 Colt. Extraordinary engraved, silver plated Colt single action revolver with backstrap inscription. 4-3/4″ bbl, standard sight, 2-line bbl address with 2-line patent date and rampant Colt in circle. Fitted with fine, smooth pearl grips and has the last three digits of its serial number on the back of the cyl. This pistol is silver finished with fire blued screws & beautifully engraved by the master, Cuno Helfrecht, with about C+ level coverage. Engraving consists of about 60-70% coverage wonderful foliate arabesque pattern with very fine punch dot background. Top strap has feather pattern and top of bbl has Moorish pattern. The gullet of the frame in front of cyl on each side has tiny flower blossoms and top of back strap has beautiful fans with central “V”s. Top & bottom of actual back strap has beautiful incised pattern and the central part of back strap is inscribed “JOE PERIA”. The butt strap is lightly engraved and trigger guard bow has pattern that match the back strap. Full factory silver plated SAA are rare to begin with and to find one with beautiful engraving by master engraver Cuno Helfrecht presents a wonderful opportunity for the collector of decorated Colt firearms to acquire a gun with great rarity. Accompanied with a copy of Ron Graham letter. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Retains about 96-97% strong orig silver plating and most of the orig fire blue on the screws with only minor muzzle edge wear and some sharp edge wear on the frame. Grips are excellent, possibly period replacements. Bore is excellent. Mechanics are excellent showing little use. C&R 2) COLT SAA. SN 208673. Cal. .45. 4-3/4″ bbl. This is the pair to SN 208657; only it is presented to “N Garza” and retains its original factory pearl grips. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Virtually identical to its mate SN 208657 in every respect. Matched pairs of Helfricht engraved revolvers are virtually unknown and to find a silver plated pair with such beautiful and masterful engraving that letters from the Colt Factory as well as being lettered by a noted Colt authority Ron Graham, represents a not to be missed opportunity to acquire the rarest and best in decorated Colt SAA’s. C&R 53073-9, 53073-10 (150,000-225,000) – Lot 1410
*MASTER ENGRAVED CASED COLT WOODSMAN AND HUNTSMAN PISTOLS BY STEVE KAMYK
1) COLT HUNTSMAN. SN 175003 C. Cal. .22. 4 5/8″ rnd bbl, nickel finish skillfully engraved in scroll and vine w/a muted nickel finish on backstrap and top of slide assembly. This delicate embellishment amounts to what would be known as D coverage from factory. Mounted w/pearlite synthetic grips from Ajax custom grips. This pistol is proudly signed by Steve Kamyk beneath the left grip panel. Mr.Kamyk is well-known and recognized master engraver, whose custom embellished firearms have adorned the collections of many notables, including the President of Colt himself. CONDITION: As new, with no signs of use, bore mechanics are perfect. Colt French fitted display case w/blue satin lining is as new. ESA 2) COLT WOODSMAN. SN 044364S. Cal.22 LR. 4 1/2″ rnd bbl w/adjustable Eliason rear target sight, nickel finish. Overall engraved in scroll and vine foliate. The amount of coverage would be considered a D coverage by the factory. Mounted with 2-pc elephant ivory thumb rest, target stocks. This Woodsman is engraved in exactly the same pattern and configuration as the Colt Huntsman that it is displayed with in their French-fitted case. Wonderfully signed by the noted Colt master engraver Steve Kamyk underneath the left grip panel. Mr. Kamyk, as previously noted, is recognized by Colt as one of their in-house master engravers. This elegant set of pistols displays wonderfully and would be a fantastic addition to any Colt automatic collector’s display. CONDITION: As new, w/no visible signs of use, grips are equally fine, and are starting to acquire an attractive patina w/age. Thius pair of guns were previously the property of a Colt Firearms executive. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53194-2, 53194-3 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1135
*BEAUTIFUL COLT FACTORY CUSTOM SHOP ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY WITH IVORY BIRD’S HEAD GRIP.
SN S08208A. Cal. 45 Colt. 3-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finishes with factory ivory grips. This outstanding revolver is listed as being “B” coverage engraved. The engraving consists of master quality foliate arabesque with a fine dot punch background. The coverage on the frame amounts to a full coverage of embellishment. The barrel is skillfully engraved in the same manner with a two thirds coverage and is inclusive of the front sight being engraved. Cylinder is engraved with full coverage with the exception of the flutes. The backstrap and triggerguard are engraved with a equal amount of coverage. The perfectly fitted Ivory grips in the special order bird’s head grip are of the 2-piece variation. Another very rare feature is the hammer is factory engraved and left blued. This is very rarely encountered on Factory Colt engraved revolvers. Box label is marked “Model P1840Z C.S. #4901 Serial number S08206A S.A.Army-CP Design .45LC, 3 1/2” Bbl. Blue/CC Finish Type “B” Engraving Ivory Grips”. These fantastic pieces of workmanship are no longer available from the Colt Factory as they are no longer accepting custom work orders. The revolver is complete with blue box with outer sleeve and all factory instructions and paperwork including hang tag. CONDITION: Excellent and as new. The gun shows no evidence of having ever had the cylinder turned. There is no wear or distress on the revolver. Grips are equally fine. Bore is pristine as viewed from muzzle as no attempt to cock or rotate the cylinder was made. A finer example can not be had at this time. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52832-2 TDW (8,000-10,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1419
CASED FACSIMILE OF A COLT MODEL 1847 WALKER REVOLVER.
SN 58. Cal. 44. 9″ bbl, blue and case color finish, brass trigger guard, iron backstrap, 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl is marked with Colt address on lug reading from the right side. Bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, and backstrap show markings for “A COMPANY No 58”. Trigger guard is of a narrow profile. Cyl is engraved with a scene of Rangers fighting Comanche Indians. No pressure ring on cyl. Modern mahogany case is lined in green felt. Case contains facsimile accessories. CONDITION: Very good overall. Revolver shows a dark finish. Trigger guard has a mustard brown patina. Backstrap is aged and distressed. Cyl is good with a brown patina. Engraving is clear. Case is good. Accessories are included. Mechanics are crisp. A chance to fill a slot in a collection as a representative example of the type. 53044-5 TEP (1,750-2,250) – Lot 3000
EXTRAORDINARY NIMSCHKE STYLE ENGRAVED COLT FACTORY SILVER AND GOLD PLATED 1851 NAVY REVOLVER PRESENTED TO LT COMMANDER LEROY FITCH, HERO OF THE BATTLE OF NASHVILLE WITH SUPERB ROSEWOOD COLT FACTORY CASE.
SN 139699. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ bbl. This most important and beautiful historical Colt 1851 Navy was “Presented to Lieutenant.Commander Leroy Fitch / A token of / Friendship and Esteem / from / A. Mast. Frederick Read / A. A. Surgn Geo. W. Shields / May 6, 1865”. Subject revolver is silver plated with gilt cyl, rammer, trigger and hammer. Profusely and beautifully engraved in the Nimschke style. Backstrap engraved “Leroy Fitch”. “P” for plated on backstrap, trigger guard and frame. Magnificent carved ivory grips with high raised relief American eagle in flight above a ship and sea serpent. Most unusual and attractive motif.
Leroy Fitch (1834-1875) Fitch graduated from the Naval Academy in 1856 and served in the service until his death. There are over 1,000 pages in the official records with his name or report. He is best known as Commander of the “Brown Water Navy” where his gunboats would support land forces with naval artillery fire. During the Battle of Nashville in December 1864, Fitch battled Confederate Cavalry under Nathan Bedford Forrest at Kelly’s Point at what is now called The Battle of West Nashville. This was possibly the only time in General Forrest’s career that he was surprised and out-maneuvered in a military operation. Fitch was Commander in Charge of the riverboat fleet from his flagship USS Moose, along with USS Carondelet, USS Neosho, USS Fairplay, USS Silverlake, USS Reindeer, USS Brilliant and USS Springfield. This little known hero’s career is summarized in the recent 2013 432-pg text by Myron Smith Leroy Fitch: The Civil War Career of Union Gunboat Commander. Though Fitch died quite young, his naval career is intriguing. A US destroyer, USS Fitch was named in his honor, launched June 14, 1941. The orig bronze commissioning plaque for the “first of the Fitch Class Destroyers” descended in the Fitch family along with this spectacular Colt. The USS Fitch Commissioning Plaque is also being offered for sale in this auction. PROVENANCE: Leroy Fitch 1865; Mary Fitch 1875; ancestor of Loree Collins, 1913; Loree Collins, USN, Summit, NJ; the spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Commander Fitch’s 1851 Navy retains nearly all of its orig silver plating on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Retains most gold gilt on cyl, rammer, trigger and hammer. Bore is excellent. Screws retain much orig bluing. Gilding on trigger is period. Case is in excellent condition with beautiful Civil War era engraving with presentation to Cmdr. Fitch on escutcheon. Casing retains very rare American Flask and Cap Co. slant charger Navy flask with almost all orig silver. Silver plated Colt’s patent mold, nipple wrench and package of Colt cartridges for Colt’s Navy pistol. Lining has faded but is mostly intact with some missing where front side rubbed against partition. All together a striking and most historical ensemble presented to a Naval Commander with significant Civil War service. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53091-130 (25,000-50,000) ESA – Lot 2111
**VERY ATTRACTIVE COLT MODEL 1928 COMMERCIAL BROWNING WATER COOLED MACHINE GUN AS REGISTERED BY CHARLES ERB (FULLY TRANSFERABLE).
SN USN7763797W. Cal. 7.65 mm Argentine. 27-1/2″ bbl with flash hider. Extremely attractive Colt commercial model 1928 Browning water cooled machine gun as registered by Charles Erb of Fredericktown, PA, and so marked on right hand sideplate, with added SN in recessed portion after “U.S. NO.” and registration SN also visible engraved at bottom flat of right sideplate. Orig Colt markings on left hand sideplate with Argentine property number visible at top of brass trunnion. Brass water jacket cap also very attractive. Wooden grips on pistol handle. Water fill and drain caps with orig chains present. Included with this lot is a 1942 manufactured 1917A1 tripod, complete manufacturer’s plate attached to leg. Shiny unmarked bolt in receiver. Cartridge spacer for 7.65 Argentine in feed way. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable on an ATF form 3 or form 4. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish fine to very fine with lustrous blue refinish with some dings visible under the refinish. Bronze trunnion and front cap of water jacket turning a pleasing dull patina with a little bit of green just starting at the trunnion cap. 1928 Colt Commercial style flash hider has scattered areas of corrosion that should clean up with a little care as should some small areas of surface corrosion at top of water jacket. Sight ladder and bolt are in the white. Charging handle just starting to turn a gray patina. 1917 A1 WWII era tri-pod is very fine, with orig paint, with brass socket and some corrosion to the stirrup which holds the machine gun. Leather leg retention strap intact and in good condition. Gun attachment chain and pin are replacements. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant, bright bore. The Colt 1928 commercial gun was the product of taking off left WWI Contract over parts and assembling them into guns, making what new ones were needed and then marketing the guns as “new” models to the post WWI world. Fortunately for the US collector’s market, many of the ones purchased by Argentina have found their way back to the United States almost exclusively as parts kits. These are very attractive machine guns and this is one of the very few extent original intact guns that was not cut up. 53171-10 JWK (15,000-20,000) – Lot 1063
SN 37. SN 403/37. Cal. 45-70. Fine Gatling with full shrouded 24″ 10-bbl cluster with SN and caliber on the right trunnion. Trunnions are 1-1/2″ dia. and the cascabel about 2-1/4″ dia. The front raised area of the shroud, just over the trunnions and in front of the articulated feed base is engraved “U.S. NAVY / NO. 37 / 1884” with the inspector initials “H.W.L.”. Rear part of the housing is mounted with a 3-3/4″ dia. rnd plate that has an elevation spirit level in the center and is engraved “GATLING GUN / PATENTED”. To the rear of the housing is engraved “MANUFD BY / COLTS PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD CONN.”. The articulated feed base is for the Accles Drum Feed. This gun has an adjustable rear sight on each side of the rear cover with a fixed front sight on each side. The crank handle is on the right side. The rear cover has an integral housing containing a horizontal spirit level. Mounted in an orig cast brass yoke with a steel arc that is attached to brackets on the bottom of the shroud and passes through the yoke, which controls the elevation and depression of the bbls. The yoke is on a pintle which fits in a bronze socket which sits atop 3 square wooden legs. Left trunnion is engraved and shows that the gun weights 205 lbs. Accompanied by 1 Accles Feed Drum. Drum is made entirely of brass and was designed to hold 104 rounds. There is no indication in available research material how many of these Gatling guns were purchased by the Navy, but it is believed they are substantially more rare than those purchased by the Army. CONDITION: Very fine. The brass overall shows a medium to dark mustard patina with only a few light nicks & scratches. The engraving shows light to moderate wear, probably from being polished during its service with the Navy. Tripod is fine, legs appear to be reproductions. The magazine is very fine with no apparent serious damage just a few light bumps & bruises. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bores. 52863-1 JWK (200,000-300,000) – Lot 2105
SN 14805. Cal. 44. 7-1/2″ bbl, blue and case colored finish with 1-pc burl walnut grip. Bbl shows sgl line hyphenated New York Colt address on top of lug. SN appears on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cyl. SN is written in ink in backstrap channel of grip. Last 4-digits of SN found on lever, arbor and wedge. All numbers match. Colt’s patent mark on left side of frame. Revolver was engraved by Thomas J. Barlow in a cloud scroll motif. Examples of Barlow’s work are illustrated on pg 18&19 of Colt Factory Engravers of the Nineteenth Century by Herbert G. Houze. Bbl is engraved on lug and around muzzle. Loading lever is engraved on flat. SN also has a cloud decoration. Frame is scroll engraved overall with scalloped borders and checkerboard accents. Trigger guard has scallop border accent. Trigger guard bow shows an American shield bordered by scroll. Backstrap has scroll engraving on apron and heel, butt has full coverage scroll engraving. Hammer shows scroll engraving with a wolf head motif. Cyl is rolled with scene of Dragoons fighting Indians on horseback. Bbl has gain twist rifling. Approximately one dozen of these cloud scroll engraved Dragoons are known to collectors. This particular gun was formerly in the Frank Singer Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl shows smooth grey/brown patina overall. Engraving is clear. Markings are sharp. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Frame also is a smooth grey/brown patina. Engraving is clear. Markings are sharp. Trigger guard and backstrap show a deep mustard patina with traces of silver plate in protected areas. Hammer is darker grey patina with sharp engraving and some slight erosion. Arbor is tight. Cyl shows 20-30% of scene overall with a clear sharp SN. Six safety pins are intact. Chambers are clean. Grip is very good and shows an old repair with most of re-varnished finished. Mechanics are fine. This is a fine example of an early Colt Dragoon revolver made in 1854 and engraved by Thomas Barlow who only worked for Colt for 3 years in this unique style. 53044-2 TEP (10,000-17,500) – Lot 3004
POSSIBLY CONRAD ULRICH’S GREATEST MASTERPIECE AND A LEGENDARY WINCHESTER COLLECTOR’S ICON FOR NEARLY HALF A CENTURY IS THE MAGNIFICENT GILDED HIGH RELIEF ENGRAVED AND FULLY SIGNED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 79994. Cal.44 Henry. 24″ octagon bbl with gold plated with blue finish on other metal parts. Uncheckered wood deluxe highly figured walnut stock. This is a extraordinary exhibition Winchester model 1866 lever action rifle manufactured in 1870 and superbly engraved (signed under lever) by the master of the Winchester engraving shop Conrad F. Ulrich. This rifle is shown on the dust jacket and front piece of the 1975 edition of The Book of Winchester Engraving by R.L Wilson. Pages 103-106 of this book contain a full description and eight illustrations of this magnificent work of art rifle, including a multi-page color foldout. The description states that this rifle is considered to be one of Conrad Ulrich’s masterpieces. This most artistic and extraordinary 1866 was the pride of iconic Connecticut collector Jonathan M. Peck and illustrated on pages 30 and 31 of the Texas Arms Manual. The rifle has a very rare blued and engraved octagonal barrel, full-length magazine and lever with a nitre blue loading gate. The hammer and trigger are color case hardened. The brass forearm, nose cap, frame and crescent buttplate have a gold washed finish. The stock and forearm are select fancy grained walnut with high polish piano finish. The barrel is fitted with a globe front sight and the standard model 1866 folding leaf rear sight with 1,000 yard center notch and elevation bar retaining screw at the top of the leaf. A folding leaf peep sight is mounted on the tang. The forearm cap and stock have factory sling swivels. The top of the barrel is roll stamped with the two-line legend “WINCHESTER’S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT.-KING’S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866, OCTOBER 16.1860.” in an oval panel with engraved borders ahead of the rear sight. The serial number “79994” is located behind the trigger in an engraved panel. The lower tang is stamped “C.F. ULRICH” in a tiny rectangle, with “L.C.”as an overstrike. The rifle frame is profusely relief-engraved. The focus of the engraving are two standing nude female figures in relief panel on either side of the frame and three highly detailed game scenes. R.L. Wilson notes that the engraving on this rifle differs dramatically from the typical Winchester scroll and game scene engraving. He states that nude figures are rarely found on engraved arms from the Victorian era. The archways which frame the nudes and the use of geometric borders are of the greatest rarity. The nudes are based on the most famous sculpture of the mid-19th century, “The Greek Slave” by famed sculptor Hiram powers completed in 1844. This magnificent work of art held symbolic meaning for American abolitionists and inspired innumerable poems and essays. Ulrich’s use of Power’s sculpture to decorate this rifle raises it to the level of high art far above almost any other decorated firearms. The game scene on the left side of the frame depicts five running deer in the forest and in a panel with escalloped borders. The scene captures the fluid lines of animals in motion against a finely detailed forest backdrop of trees and ferns. The right side of the receiver features two game scenes. The first scene depicts a buck, doe and fawn at rest near a forest stream in a circle with escalloped borders. A second smaller scene behind the first depicts a seated hound in a circle with escalloped borders. Six horizontal geometric designs frame the loading gate and six vertical geometric designs separate Ulrich’s version of Power’s “Greek Slave” from the game scene on the left side of the frame. Smaller geometric ovals form part of the border at the front of the receiver and back of the forearm cap. The underside of the tang and the top of the buttplate heel are also engraved with relief scrollwork. The barrel is decorated with flowing scrollwork on a punch dot background. The engraving extends from the receiver along the top and sides of the barrel for six inches, on the sides of the barrel for several inches near the forearm cap and on the top and sides of the barrel for about 4″ behind the muzzle. Conrad Friedrich Ulrich began his engraving career with Colt and served his engraving apprenticeship primarily under the renowned Gustave Young. Serial 79994 is regarded as the finest and best known of all engraved 1866 Winchester rifles. The combination of a relatively early production Model 1866 rifle, special order features, distinctive and flawlessly executed engraving by one of the 19th Century American master engravers. Dramatic bright fire gilt finish and outstanding condition make this rifle one of the finest of all engraved Winchesters. PROVENANCE: Jonathan M. Peck 1971: Arlen L. McCroskie 1975; The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Extremely fine. The rifle is in outstanding original condition and retains 98% of the original blue and gold washed finish. The barrel and magazine retain nearly all of the high polish blue finish. The engraving and barrel legend are extremely crisp. The loading gate has more than 95% of the fiery nitre blue finish intact. Nearly all of the gold washed finish remains on the forearm cap, frame and buttplate with very minor handling wear on high points. The highly detailed engraving on the frame, forearm cap and buttplate is deep and extremely sharp. The highly figured fancy deluxe figured walnut stock and forearm are both excellent; nearly all of the oiled piano finish is present, with few extremely minor handling and storage marks. The hammer and trigger retain nearly all of the muted case colors. Action is excellent. Bore bright and shiny. This magnificent Conrad Ulrich Engraved Model 1866 rifle is the ultimate engraved Model 1866 Winchester rifle, and the finest we have ever offered. It is a collection in itself and one of the most famous of all Winchesters. As a work of 19th Century art it transcends the fact it is a firearms and its interpretation of Power’s “Greek Slave” sculpture makes it worthy of display alongside one of Hiram Powers’ sculptures or the finest American 19th Century paintings. The fortunate purchaser of this splendid rifle will own an ‘American Winchester Legend’. 53091-88 (175,000-275,000) – Lot 2010
Please Note: Typographical Correction: The caliber of this rare revolver is .38 Spl, not .32 Spl as stated in the catalog.
*SPECTACULAR FACTORY DOCUMENTED AND ENGRAVED COLT SHOOTING MASTER REVOLVER WITH MOTHER OF PEARL GRIPS.
SN 341284. Cal. 32 Special. 6″ bbl. Blue finish overall with lustrous fiery Colt monogrammed Mother of Pearl grips. This outstanding “C” coverage engraved Shooting Master was manufactured April 13, 1940 and shipped to the Seattle Hardware Co. Seattle, WA. This information is well documented by a factory letter dated Oct. 8, 1979. Factory embellished New Services or Shooting Masters are some of the rarest of all embellished Colt firearms. This Shooting Master of course was an improved target variation of the iconic New Service revolver. The improvements included checkered rear and front straps, adjustable Partridge front sight and Windage adjustable rear sight. This outstanding example is complete with its factory Colt Shooting Master shipping box with numbers matching in pencil on interior of lid. The engraving although indicated by letter as having been “C” coverage appears to be extensively more than the traditional “C”. The engraving consists of wonderful scroll and vine foliate with dot punch background that is executed in virtually full coverage of frame and cylinder with exception of flutes. Extensive coverage on both sides of bbl inclusive of even the front sight base. This outstanding work has a wonderful lined border around address and caliber designations. CONDITION: The gun is in near new condition and an unbelievable state of preservation. Only the slightest evidence of edge wear is visible at the extreme corners and leading edges of the bbl and extreme high points of sights. The grips are masterfully fitted and remain in pristine condition. No evidence of distress, damage or ill storage is evident on this magnificent piece of mechanical art. The Colt shipping box has suffered extensive edge wear and is missing one end of the lower box. Label is still quite legible on top and interior is fine. This outstanding Colt Double Action would be the centerpiece of any of the finest Colt collections known. 53197-14 TDW (45,000-65,000) C&R – Lot 1131
*SCARCE, CUSTOM ENGRAVED VERY EARLY COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 1060. Cal. 380 ACP. Spectacular Gino Cargnell engraved pistol with 3-3/4″ bbl, bbl bushing at the muzzle end of slide, fixed sights and custom, smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Pistol is wonderfully engraved by Gino Cargnell and signed on left front web of trigger guard. Frame and slide are very tastefully engraved with highly detailed raised gold inlays of grape leaves, vines and clusters of grapes along with flat gold wire inlays on both sides on the grip safety and over the slide. Leaf & grape cluster inlays are in 2-color gold. Top of slide is also inlaid with a spectacular 3-color gold tiny goldfinch. Left rear side of the slid has the Rampant Colt and circle inlaid in 2-color gold. Accompanied by a spare bbl that has British proofs and is probably the orig bbl to this pistol as left rear side of the frame also has a tiny British proof. Apparently the proof mark on the slide was covered by the gold inlay. Gino Cargnell was an engraver employed at Fabrique Nationale in Belgium when his friend and mentor Angelo Bee immigrated to the United Sates and set up his own business. Mr. Bee convinced Mr. Cargnell to also come to the U.S. and work with him, which he did, to great success. Mr. Cargnell is one of the premier engravers in recent years and has created numerous, fantastic works of art on firearms. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually of its fine custom blue. Grips are extremely fine, mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore in both bbls. Mechanics are crisp and functioning. 52969-5 TDW (4,000-7,000) C&R – Lot 1133
*EXTRAORDINARY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH EXTRA CYLINDER, WOOD DISPLAY CASE AND FACTORY LETTER.
SN LADY 2007. Cal. 45LC/45 ACP. 3-1/2″ bbl, full silver finish with fire blue accents. 1-pc ivory bird-head grip. Extra cyl in 45ACP Cal. This revolver was factory engraved by master engraver Denise Thirion for the Colt Collector’s Association to be raffled at their 2007 Reno, Nevada convention. The revolver is engraved in a vine motif with checkerboard accents. Bbl shows engraving at the bbl breech around the address and Cal. designation. There is a decorative band at the muzzle. Ejector rod housing is also engraved with a vine motif and checkerboard accent with a walking line and punch dot motif in the flute. Frame shows vine decoration with a fine punch dot background on both sides with scallop accents on recoil shield and loading gate. Right side of frame also shows a checkerboard motif. Backstrap apron has vine motif with a floral splay in center. Backstrap is engraved “C.C.A.-RENO, NEVADA”. Butt of grip also shows vine motif decoration. Trigger guard is also engraved in front of and on loop, also with checkerboard accent. Cly is engraved between flutes with an alternating floral and vine motif on each cyl. Rear periphery of cyl is bordered with walking line engraving with checkerboard accent and punch dot background. Both cylinders are engraved in the same style. All engraving is masterfully executed. Bbl shows standard Colt 2-line address rolled on top with Cal. marking on left side. SN is shown on forward bottom portion of frame. No further disassembly was affected. Revolver is housed in a wooden case with glass sides and hinged lid with a mount for revolver and drawer below to house the accessories. Cyl is mounted on a maple pedestal which shows the commemoration of the event and engraver with a silver coin commemorating the statehood of Nevada. Also attached is a piece of silver ore. Accompanying this revolver is a 2-pg Colt factory letter confirming all features, naming the engraver and confirming delivery to the Elizabeth Colt Legacy Foundation. Also accompanying this revolver is a Fall 2007 issue of the Rampant Colt Magazine that advertises this revolver for the raffle at the 2007 Colt show. Cover of magazine is autographed by many of the members of the Colt Collector’s Association. The winner of the raffle at the show was well-known Colt Collector’s Association member and Elizabeth Colt Legacy Foundation founder, Jan Quick who is the wife of the renowned firearms author and collector, the late Les Quick. This revolver is consigned by Mrs. Quick. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of Jan Quick. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Revolver is unfired and is in the condition that it left the factory in. Revolver retains all of the orig silver finish. Screws, base pin and ejector rod head also retain all of the orig fire blue finish. Mechanics were not tested and no disassembly afffected. This is an opportunity to obtain an extremely rare and unique Colt Single Action Army revolver with an unmatched provenance. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53122-1 TEP (6,500-9,500) C&R; ESA – Lot 3018
*MAGNIFICENT WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED 5-1/2″ .45 SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH SUPERB FACTORY MEDALLION CARVED IVORY GRIPS, W/FACTORY LETTER.
SN 350742. Cal. .45. 5-1/2″ bbl. As fine a factory engraved late Colt SAA revolver as can be found. Gun has characteristic Glahn rose and scroll engraving with extra touch just above SN on frame. The factory carved ivory grips are unusually well detailed and have beautiful mellow patina. Engraving on recoil shield and ejector is most tasteful reflecting some of the best work by Colt’s master engraver. All cuts are crisply executed in the very best manner. Standard markings throughout. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming configuration and Blue finish, Steer head carved ivory grips, Factory Engr, Charged to Loan Acct, Shipped on March 24,1927 to Murta Appleton & Co in a shipment of 2 guns. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Extraordinary throughout. This revolver is in essentially the same condition as it was when it left the factory in 1927. It retains almost 100% of its orig factory blue on bbl, ejector rod housing, backstrap and trigger guard. Frame retains all of its brilliant factory case colors. Hammer retains all of its factory case colors. Face of cyl has little or no flash. Bore is mint and action is perfect. There is only the faintest hint of a tracking line on the cyl and overall is one of the finest condition pre-war SAA we have ever offered. Grips are nearly perfect with only one minute stress crack above the right grip medallion, it does not detract from the piece. Screw heads are all perfect. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53073-8 (45,000-65,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1411
*FANTASTIC FACTORY MASTER ENGRAVED PRESIDENT’S EDITION COLT WOODSMAN MATCH TARGET AND SPORT MODEL WITH FACTORY LETTER.
1) COLT WOODSMAN. SN S3162. Cal. .22LR. Bbl 4 1/2″, blue finish. Master engraved in elegant scroll and Arabesque w/dot punch background in a documented Class D coverage and factory gold inlaid “President’s Edition”. This fantastic piece of mechanical art was master engraved by Steve Kamyk. This pair of guns was specifically commissioned for the collection of Mr. Ed Warner, President of Colt Firearms from August of 1975 through May of 1981. Mr. Warner had a display of these guns in his office at Colts Manufacturing, and used them as samples for the promotion of Colt firearms. These guns are further embellished w/outstanding thumb rest design, elephant ivory 2-pc smooth stocks, and are housed in their factory-documented French fitted glass-topped display case w/presentation plaque, indicating (Colt President’s Edition, Woodsman match target, SN P.E.-C.E.W.-S3162 Woodsman Sport SN P.E.-C.E.W.-S1141. Factory documented, engraved Colt automatics are extremely uncommon and the ultimate rarity in Colt embellishment is the use of gold, which is extremely well documented in the provided 2-pg factory letter that accompanies this pair of cased Colt automatics. CONDITION: As factory new, w/no evidence of use or handling, bore is of course pristine, mechanics are in proper functioning order, case is equally fine w/only the slightest trace of wear at forward edge of draw from having been displayed and appreciated. ESA 2) COLT WOODSMAN. SN S1141. Cal. .22. 6″ match target heavy bbl. Factory D coverage, master engraved w/matching Presidents Edition gold inlay and smoot2-pc thumb rest, elephant ivory grips w/all embellishment having been executed by Colt’s own master engraver Steve Kamyk. The full coverage scroll and Arabesque engraving w/dot punch background, as well as the gold inlay are all fully documented in the attached 2-pg factory letter. These factory exhibition pistols are a rare opportunity, and would certainly be the centerpiece of any Colt collection. CONDITION: As new, w/no signs or indication of actual use. Bore and mechanics are equally fine and the attractively grained grips show no sign of use or distress or material loss. Display case, as previously noted, shows very slight handling at front of case from having been displayed. This pair of guns is also accompanied by their numbers matching Colt custom shop shipping boxes w/a factory number of FO10795, which is also indicated in the factory letter. C&RSpecial Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53197-5, 53197-6 TDW (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1134
RARE COLT RIMFIRE SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER DOUGLAS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE.
SN 694. Cal. 44. This is an honest example of early production rimfire Single Action in standard configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl with early single line Colt Hartford address with daggers. Bottom of bbl marked with tiny “44” and has matching SN under the ejector housing. Ejector housing is correct and of the first type with correct style bullseye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent and “44 CAL” is stamped on rear left side of trigger guard. This gun appears orig and complete with well weathered orig Colt ivory grips. Bottom of butt is engraved in block letters “DOUGLAS Co. S.0” (Douglas County, Sheriff’s Office, Omaha?). CONDITION: Gun is good overall. All matching SN’s found except grips which are not numbered. SN’s found on bbl, cylinder, frame, trigger guard & backstrap. Markings are all easily discerned as is the Sheriff’s Office markings on bottom of grip. Metal overall is a mottled gray with staining and light pitting. Light holster wear. Grips are slightly underfit and there is a old chip repair at rear of left toe. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52963-1 JS (5,500-7,500) ESA – Lot 3017
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY MASTER ENGRAVER ALVIN A. WHITE WITH 2-PC PLAIN IVORY GRIPS AND 5″ BARREL WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN S04628A. Cal. 45 LC. 5″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. 2-pc plain ivory grips. Revolver is engraved with Class D coverage by Master Engraver Alvin A. White. Engraving is done in a vine motif with punch dot background and checkerboard accents. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head motif. Cyl shows a vine motif with checkerboard accent and scallop detail inside of each flute. Screw heads also show embellishment. Backstrap apron is engraved with a Rampant Colt motif with a scrolled border. SN is struck on the frame and on the left inside of the trigger guard and backstrap. Bbl shows one line Colt address rolled on top with model and cal designation rolled on left side. Frame shows 2-line Colt patent mark followed by Rampant Colt motif. Grips have last 4 digits of SN written in ink on the inside. Cyl shows last 3 digits of SN struck on front face. Engraver signature “A.A.W.” is engraved on right inside of trigger guard under grip. Accompanying this revolver is a Colt factory letter confirming all features including engraver and showing shipment to Armsmear II Annaheim, CA on March 10, 1994, factory order number 5043 in a one gun shipment. Also included is the factory shipping box with a custom shop label describing this particular revolver. Revolver is housed in a burl wood veneer case with piano hinge. Case is lined in red velvet and is French fit. CONDITION: Revolver shows nearly 100% of the original royal blue and case color finish with only a couple of minuscule scratches on rear face of cyl. Bore is bright with strong rifling. All markings are sharp and clear. Engraving is crisp. Mechanics were not tested. Factory shipping box is very good with label intact. Box contains Colt literature. Blue box is fine. Wood case has some minor crazing to the burl finish. Lining shows impression of revolver and slight scuff marks around periphery of pocket. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53115-2 TEP (6,000-8,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 3020
Factory Engraved Colt Peacekeeper Double Action Revolver and Colt King Cobra Double Action Revolver, Inscribed to George A. Strichman, Chairman Emeritus Colt Industries by Master Engraver Alvin A. White
EXTREMELY FINE AND ELABORATELY ENGRAVED COLT LONDON NAVY REVOLVER CASE WITH ALL ACCESSORIES BEARING THE INITIALS AND SIGIL THE FITZGERALD CLAN.
SN 28319. Cal 36. 7-1/2″ bbl. SN 28319 is one of a very few Colt’s London Navy’s that has the extremely elaborate and superbly executed scroll engraving on all parts. Other examples of this extraordinary engraving coverage may be found in the book of Colt Engraving and Colt pistols featuring the collection of R.E. Hable. Knurling on the hammer, engraving on the saddle of the hammer and the shell design at the hammer nozzle are all characteristic of this rare series of ultra-deluxe London Navy Colts. London Navy Colts are typically made better than the Hartford examples and this one is no exception. The fit and finish are equal to the best London gun makers of the time. CONDITION: Condition is fine throughout with what finish is missing caused by flaking rather than wear. Engraving is as crisp as the day it left the London factory. Case colors on frame are muted. Some bright blue remains in protected areas on bbl and underneath the elaborately engraved rammer. Checkering is as new. Backstrap retains most orig silver as does trigger guard. Fitzgerald Sigil extremely crisp. Domed screws retain much orig finish as does trigger. Blue has mostly drifted from cylinder but Naval engagement scene is clear throughout. Burl walnut grips show much orig varnish and lovely figure. London casing has orig blue lining. Some damage to partitions. Dixon flask has much orig gilding on spout and much orig lacquer on body with a few dents. Colt’s patent mold has some orig bluing. Eley cap tin present. At some point the orig escutcheon was removed and replace with one engraved “Captain Blake”. All matching numbers including wedge. Bore is excellent. Pin safeties are intact and action crisp as new. As beautiful an engraved London Navy Colt as one could ask for. 53182-1 (17,500-22,500) – Lot 1399
SN 1147. Cal. 36. This most popular brass framed revolver was made by Samuel Griswold from converted cotton gin factory near Macon, Georgia. Confederate soldiers lucky enough to be issued a Confederate made “Colt” often wrote of their pride in ownership of such high Southern quality. This is a standard configuration of 1st Model Griswold revolver having rnd bbl housing with crisp well discerned SNs with an overall smooth appearance where twist in cylinder is quite evident. This gun is SN’d “1147” on right side of bbl housing, frame, cylinder and bottom of trigger guard. Secondary number “47” found on wedge, hammer, loading arm and right side of backstrap. A cryptic backwards “B” is found on bottom of bbl near latch. Cryptic “W” is found on back of frame, right side of trigger guard, right side of backstrap, and back of cylinder. A Roman numeral “VII” is found on left side of backstrap and trigger guard. PROVENANCE: Don Bryan Collection; private collection, 1996. CONDITION: Very good overall as refinished and restored. Iron overall is smooth and plum overall with especially crisp cryptic “B” which appear orig. Cylinder retains all 6 safety pins, though all short and worn, ratcheting is still crisp and cryptic discernible. Grips are well fit restorations that fit and match gun well. Secondary number on loading assembly and wedge are not orig but engraved restorations. Other than grips, wedge and loading assembly, gun appears orig and complete and presents beautifully. Mechanically functional with well defined rifling in bore. 51571-9 JS (15,000-18,000) – Lot 1353
*LOT OF 2 COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY PEACEMAKER CENTENNIAL COMMEMORATIVE REVOLVERS.
1) COLT SAA. SN PC1477. Cal. 45 LC. 7-1/2″ bbl, blue and case color finish. 1-pc American walnut grip. Bbl shows 1-line Colt Italic address rolled on the top. Left side of bbl marked “1873 PEACEMAKER CENTENNIAL 1973”. Bottom of bbl marked “P / C” in front of base pin. Frame shows 2-line Colt patent address on left side followed by “U.S.”. SN appears on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Partial SN is stamped on rear periphery of cylinder. “C” is stamped below SN on trigger guard and apron of backstrap behind hammer. These proof markings replicate military inspection marks on early revolvers. Grip shows a military cartouche on left bottom side. “C/P” also are stamped on rear periphery of cyl. Accompanying walnut case has engraved lid denoting the commemorative. Inside of case lid has portrait of Samuel Colt with replica of his signature. Case also has an inside glass lid. Case has purple lining in the French style with a commemorative plaque inlaid inside. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbl and magazine tube retain all of the orig blue finish as does cyl, backstrap and trigger guard. Frame and hammer show all of the mottled case color finish. Grips are excellent with no mars or dents. Mechanics were not tested. Case is excellent with very few slight handling marks. Lining is slightly frayed where revolver sits. C&R 2) COLT SAA. SN 1477PC. Cal. 44 WCF. 7-1/2″ bbl, full nickel finish, 2-pc hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt medallion and eagle motif. Top of bbl shows 1-line Colt italic address. Left side of bbl has “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” in an etched panel. Right side of bbl is marked “1873 PEACEMAKER CENTENNIAL 1973”. Bottom of bbl is stamped “44”. SN appears on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. 4-digits of SN are stamped on rear periphery of cyl. 2-line Colt patent mark is stamped on left side of frame. “44C.F.” is stamped on left rear trigger guard flat. Case is brown leatherette and marked for the Centennial Model on the lid. Portrait of Sam Colt and his signature is on inside of lid. Case has brown velvet lining in the French style with a plaque denoting the commemoration. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Revolver retains all of the orig nickel finish. All markings are sharp and clear. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics were not tested. Case is also extremely fine. Casing is of the French style and shows some wear in the revolver recess. A chance to obtain a pair of Colt Peacemaker Centennial revolvers; one in the military style and one in the civilian style. C&R 53080-35, 53080-36 TEP (1,750-2,750) – Lot 3023
REMARKABLE AND MOST ATTRACTIVE 2ND YEAR PRODUCTION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45 REVOLVER WITH EARLY SLANT BBL ADDRESS, 2-LINE PATENT MARKING AND FULL SILVER PLATING.
SN 3693. Cal. .45. 7-1/2″ bbl. This remarkable revolver features full silver plating which is certainly of the period and possibly factory. Bbl address is as crisp as new and frame markings are perfect as well. Cal marking on trigger guard is crisp and gun has tiny British proofs on bbl and cyl. Varnished walnut grip fits perfectly and obviously orig to this revolver. Gun comes with attachable shoulder stock in full nickel. We have never seen an early full silver plated Colt SAA as this is usually a characteristic of earlier engraved SAA. However, the finish on this gun is impossible to fault. All slant bbl address SAA’s are rare and highly prized by collectors of the SAA. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Markings, mechanically excellent. Bbl, frame, cyl, backstrap and trigger guard all period silver plating. Bore is excellent. Grips retain nearly all their orig varnish. Stock is excellent (period of mfg not certain). All together, a most unusual and beautiful Colt SAA. Well worthy of factory letter which it may reveal it origin and subsequent English destination. 53091-92 (12,500-15,000) – Lot 2121
FACTORY ENGRAVED 5-SHOT ROUND CYLINDER COLT HOUSE MODEL REVOLVER.
SN 7972. Cal. 41 RF. 2-5/8″ bbl, blue finish with silver-plated gunmetal frame, 2-pc nicely figured rosewood grips. Bbl shows 2-line Colt model and address rolled on top with Maltese Cross finials. SN is struck on bottom of bbl and on butt of frame. SN also written in ink on inside of each grip. Frame is stamped “41 CAL” on left side. Top strap has “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871” in sight groove. Bbl is engraved in a punch dot motif with a walking punch border. Frame shows scroll engraving with a fine punch dot background on both sides. Forward part of frame shows a splay on either side near bbl. Cyl is decorated with a walking punch motif with punch dot accent. Rear of cyl shows “C” proof. PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains generous traces of blue finish that has drifted to a plum/brown patina. Engraving is sharp. Bbl mark was unevenly struck with top line partially visible. No polishing is evident. Frame retains traces of silver-plate under grip with balance a deep mustard brown patina. Engraving and markings are sharp. Cyl shows 50% blue finish with balance drifting to plum. Grips are fine and show most of the varnish finish with only some small handling marks and high-point wear. Hammer shows fire blue on top and back. Trigger and spring also show considerable blue finish. Mechanics are crisp. An opportunity to obtain a scarce House Model 5-shot Colt House pistol with a total production of about 2150 made. 53094-26 TEP (2,500-3,000) – Lot 2247
*EXTRAORDINARY MARLIN ENGRAVED 1893 TAKEDOWN LEVER ACTION RIFLE WITH GOLD & PLATINUM INLAID DESIGN PRESENTED BY MARLIN TO ANNIE OAKLEY.
SN 419119. Cal. 38-55. This spectacular gun with irrefutable history is a takedown rifle and has a 24″ oct to rnd bbl with half mag was built by Marlin in 1917 for presentation to the world’s most famous marksman, Annie Oakley. It has a Rocky Mtn front sight and V-notch sporting rear sight. The receiver has special deluxe engraving with gold & platinum embellishments. The left side being the majestic “Monarch of the Dell”, stag typical of Marlin’s best work. The right side is that of a great bear poised over its kill. The remainder of the action is engraved in flowing foliate arabesque scroll with punch dot background. There is gold wire border engraving on receiver, lever, takedown ring & bottom of receiver. The hammer has platinum embellishments. A gold & platinum line surrounds the chamber area of the bbl and is encased with delicate scroll work. This great work is most likely that, of the renown Conrad Ulrich. Mounted with very highly figured American walnut with fine C-style checkering and pistol grip to a Marlin hard rubber buttplate. This fine firearm has a very interesting history and is chronicled in the book, Marlin Firearms; William S. Brophy, and is pictured on pgs 200, 547, and 548. Also printed in this book is a letter dated June 7, 1921, from Marlin Rockwell Corp. to Mr. L.J. Huber which follows:
“New Haven, Conn. June 7, 1921
Dear Sir:- We have your favor of June 6th giving us the number of the special model 1893 38-55 caliber Marlin rifle which you purchased in Philadelphia a short time ago.
This is a rifle which we presented to Annie Oakley back in 1917, and we are somewhat disappointed that it has been now offered on the market for sale. Miss Oakley expressed a desire to have one of our 38-55 caliber rifles and we went to considerable extra bother in getting out a special fancy gun that we considered she would be proud to own and shoot.
The value at the time that it was made up was in the neighborhood of $150.00 but considering the advance that has been made in the market price of firearms during the past two or three years the present value would be somewhat in excess of that figure. You can consider that you have obtained a very beautiful rifle and an exceptionally good shooter.
Under the present conditions we would not be in a position to furnish an extra 32-40 barrel part for the rifle engraving or forearm to match the buttstock. The only thing that we could supply would be the plain forearm without checkering and no engraving on the barrel, and our charge for a barrel part of this description would be $17.50.
There is a possibility that we will again take up the manufacture of the Marlin line in the near future and that guns will be on the market within the next four or five months. However, we do not think that we would be in a position to get out any special work for quite some time, although there is no doubt but what later on we could furnish a barrel part with the engraving and the checking to match the buttstock which you now have.”
Mr. Huber’s dismay is obviously very understandable. Marlin, like other firearm companies, wished to honor Oakley’s accomplishments, but of course, also wished to take advantage of her extraordinary popularity. Producing a firearm that was truly a work of art and presenting it to one of the most public marksmen in the world would likely result in much public use & exposure of their firearms. It was a very insightful & smart marketing ploy which had early on been much used by the famous and successful Samuel Colt. Unfortunately for Marlin, Oakley was not a vain, showy or boastful person. Her modesty and more importantly, her patriotic fervor, obviously far outweighed her attachment to such a beautiful gift. Not only did Oakley donate this and other fine firearms to the war effort, but she also relinquished most of her trophies for the cause of generating money to support the war effort and the purchase of War Bonds. Further proof of her patriotic feelings was exemplified by her attempt in both the Spanish American War & the First World War to establish a regiment of female soldiers to fight on behalf of the nation. In addition, she also offered to donate her services to teach marksmanship to the troops. At some point, Marlin purchased back this rifle (perhaps from Mr. Huber) and for years has been in the Marlin archives. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz; The Cody Firearms Museum (2007-2017), on loan from consignor for one of their prominent displays. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 95% of its orig blue with only sharp edge wear on the oct part of the bbl. It has the usual slight muzzle wear and typical nicks and dings. The mag tube retains most of its orig blue. The takedown ring and forward portion of receiver have faint case colors and mostly that of a silver hardening finish. The rear portion of the receiver the lever and hammer retain good strong visible colors. The stock is sound with a very professionally and expertly repaired hairline crack in the wrist. It has the usual minor nicks and dings and retains most of its fine factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, bore is shiny with some light scattered pitting. 53073-3 (200,000-250,000) – Lot 1421
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER JOHN WAYNE COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE WITH COLT FACTORY CONGRATULATORY LETTER.
SN CJWC1258. Cal. 45 LC. 4-3/4″ bbl, full blue finish with gold accents. 2-pc ivory grips. Left side of bbl shows a spread eagle over shield with “JOHN WAYNE” in a riband. Right side of bbl shows a vine motif style of engraving. Ejector rod housing has a line and dot gold inlay. Frame shows scrolled decoration on each side. Left side shows 2-line patent date and Rampant Colt motif engraved in gold. Cyl has a portrait of John Wayne inlaid in gold on one side with John Wayne on horseback inlaid in gold on other side. Bordered by rope motif, backstrap shows John Wayne’s brand “RED RIVER D” inlaid in gold on apron with Wayne’s signature inlaid in gold below. SN is stamped on frame in front of trigger guard, no further disassembly was affected. 2-pc ivory grips are plain. Case is made of oak with a burgundy lining in the French style and a plaque on inside denoting the commemorative. Gun accompanied by Colt Industries letter of congratulations. CONDITION: Fine. Revolver retains nearly all of the orig somewhat matte blue finish with some slight staining on one portion of cyl and one slight scratch near one bolt stops. Markings and engravings are sharp and clear. Mechanics were not tested. 2-pc ivory grips are fine with no evident marring. Case is also fine. Finish is intact, lining is intact and shows some wear in the recess where gun sits. An opportunity to obtain a Colt commemorative dedicated to one of America’s great icons. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 53080-30 TEP (1,750-2,500) C&R; ESA – Lot 3024
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL FLAT TOP TARGET REVOLVER WITH BOX AND FACTORY LETTER.
SN 20240. Cal 22. Blue finish with 6″ tapered rnd bbl. Adjustable Patridge target front sight and adjustable rear sight in a dovetail in the top flat of the frame. Bbl has standard for the period 2-line address on top and is marked “COLT OFFICERS/MODEL .22 LONG RIFLE” on the left side. Left side plate has the Colt trademark Rampant Colt. Trigger is checkered and all blue finish while the hammer is polished bright on the sides with blued top & rear edges. Top flat of the frame and rear of the frame are matte finish and the backstrap is checkered. Revolver is engraved by William Gough with class “B” coverage of about 60% of the revolvers surface. Engraving consists of fine arabesque scrolls with pearled background. Revolver is mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips that have left & right Rampant Colt silver medallions and a raised carved eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 6″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, class “B” engraving and shipped to Loan Account,(These rare loan account guns were the Colt Exhibition guns and were shipped for display purposes to selected and important Colt Dealers to exhibit the BEST Colt had to offer.) Spaulding W. Arms, Salt Lake City, Utah on May 31, 1938 in a one gun shipment. Remarks section indicates that the revolver was returned to the factory on Feb 1, 1939 and shipped 6 additional times to businesses in Albany, NY, Indianapolis, IN, Jamestown, NY, Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL and Jenkintown, PA and was finally sold on April 5, 1940 to the Bacharach Raisin Company in Baltimore, MD. Also accompanied by an orig burgundy hinged lid cardboard box with black & white end label identifying this revolver. Additionally there are 3 black & white overlabels, 2 on the end of the lid “TARGET” and “PATRIDGE SIGHTS”. The 3rd label is diagonally over the top “ENGRAVED” from which “EN” is missing. This exact revolver is pictured on page 330 of The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson and on page 306 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable wherein they state that it is “one of the most traveled of sample guns”. Wilson also states that this box was shipped 6 or 7 times and shows the travel wear but protected the gun during its travels. To say that this revolver is beautiful is a gross understatement. It is exceptionally beautiful and exceedingly rare. Accompanied by a copy of the Wilson & Hable book in which this outstanding revolver is pictured. PROVENANCE: R.E. Hable Collection, Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Excellent, appears to be new and unfired showing no evidence whatsoever of having been fired. There is only the most faint cylinder line and a small spot or two on left side of the trigger. Grips are excellent, showing great fire and color. Box has worn edges and a couple of broken corners with the right end of the top partially detached, otherwise it is intact with mostly legible labels. This is the rare opportunity to own one of the most rare Colt’s extant. 52329-2 (22,500-27,500) C&R – Lot 1159
LOT OF 3 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 5731. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and cased colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc grip of fancy walnut. All visible SN’s match. Includes orig 1-pc tan & brown box with instruction papers. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears unused retaining over 98% orig finish. Silver finish grip straps shows some age related tarnish. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. 2) COLT 1851. SN 7929. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and cased colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc grip of walnut. All visible SN’s match. Includes orig 1-pc tan & brown box with instruction papers. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears unused retaining over 98% orig finish. Silver finish grip straps show spots of tarnish. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. 3) COLT 1851. SN 22925. Cal. 36. “C” series, The Shooter Model. Only 500 manufactured in 1978. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and cased colored finish. Brass finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc grip of walnut. All visible SN’s match. Includes orig wood grained box with foam liners instruction papers. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears unused retaining over 98% refinish. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box has tears on end flaps. 52332-168, 52332-169, 52332-190 DS (1,300-1,900) – Lot 3148
ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CHECKERED FLEUR-DE-LIS GRIPS IN DISPLAY CASE.
SN 138254. Cal. 45 LC. 7-1/2″ bbl. Full gold finish with blue screws. Revolver is elaborately engraved in a vine motif with a punch dot background. There is a vignette of a horse throwing a rider on the top of bbl in front of bbl address. Frame shows almost full coverage. Backstrap and trigger guard also show full coverage. Cylinder has coverage everywhere except the flutes with a line border at the rear periphery. 1-pc grip is checkered in the Fleur-de-lis pattern. This custom revolver was built using a Colt black powder frame and a 2nd Generation bbl. Cylinder appears to be 1st Generation and shows small inspector initials on rear periphery. Trigger guard has an “A” stamped which could possibly indicate that it came from a military revolver. Trigger guard and backstrap are not numbered. Loading gate has assembly number “1021” on rear face. Another assembly number also appears on the face of the gate hinge, that number appears to be “254”. Further assembly was not affected. There is a “VP” proof stamped on the left front trigger guard bow and an “&” stamped on the right front trigger guard bow. Backstrap is not marked. This revolver appears to have been built using a composite of Colt parts from various revolvers. Display case holds pistol upright and is glass sided on 3-sides and the top as seen in photographs. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine as totally refinished. Gold wash is intact with only slight handling marks overall. Markings are sharp. Engraving is sharp. Grip is extremely fine with only a couple of small dents in checkering. Mechanics are crisp, bore is bright. A very attractive example of a Colt single action revolver that has been given a second life. Display case is fine. 52470-12 TEP (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3086
COLT BABY DRAGOON WITH AFFIDAVIT STATING IT BELONGED TO WILLIAM THOMPSON, 6TH TENNESSEE, CSA.
SN 6061. Cal. 31. Initials “WNT” are finely engraved on bottom of gripstrap. Gun is accompanied by several letters of provenance stating this Baby Dragoon from an 81 year old woman, remembered her grandfather who talked to her about “fighting in the war”. Gun is well used, but presents well. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Good to very good. Matching SNs are found on bbl, cylinder, arbor, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Cylinder is fairly beat, but some rolled scene is still visible. Wedge and wedge screw are replaced. Otherwise gun appears orig with discernible 2-line address, retaining most of its silver plate on backstrap and traces on trigger guard. Action is functional, but sloppy with discernible rifled bore. 52438-20 JS (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3467
COLT “FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” SAA WITH BEAUTIFUL ENGRAVED AND TURQUOISE INSET TWO PIECE SILVER GRIPS.
SN 161127. Cal. 44. Standard 44 caliber Single Action Army with 7-1/2″ bbl. Customized probably in Mexico or SW with silver grips with 27 turquoise inset cabochons. This particular gun was made in 1895 and has seen some use, but is still functional and presents nicely. CONDITION: Good overall. Gun appears orig as used with addition of non-dimpled arbor. Bbl address not discernible. Front sight trimmed. SN’s are discernible though weak. Metal overall is cleaned, gray with pitting. Silver and turquoise 2-pc grips are unsigned, but well fit. Mechanics are fine with pitted bore. 52552-9 JS (2,000-2,500) – Lot 3092
**TRULY STELLAR ORIGINAL CONDITION COLT 1921/28 NAVY OVER-STAMP THOMPSON MACHINE GUN IN ORIGINAL CASE WITH ACCESSORIES (C&R).
SN 9507. Cal. 45 ACP. 12-1/4″ bbl. This absolutely fabulous condition Colt US Navy marked Model 1921/28 over-stamp Thompson was formerly in the personal collection of James L. Ballou, author of the noted Browning Automatic Rifle reference book, A Rock and a Hard Place. This specimen comes in its orig hard carry case with one orig New York address 50 rnd drum, four 20 rnd magazines; two un-marked and the other two with “August 24 1920” patent dates. Brass cleaning rod with 45 Cal. brush also included. Buttstock has anchor proof mark. US Navy engraved above model on left side of receiver. Cutts logo on top front of compensator with square cut-out slots. External SNs match. Photocopy of registration form showing James Lester Ballou as transferee included. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable as Curio & Relic eligible on an ATF form 3 or 4 as Curio & Relic eligible. PROVENANCE: James Lester Ballou Collection. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine with brilliant shiny bore. Very crisp mechanics. Orig finish is outstanding with some slight wear to the finish where actuator knob contacts slot of receiver. Metal parts retain a moderate coating of preservative grease to include drums and magazines. 1928 internals as would be expected in extremely fine condition. Wood is likewise, extremely fine with only the slightest of handling marks, the only blemish being at the toe of the vertical foregrip the wood has a near perfect repair where a chip had come loose and has been expertly glued back in place. Black hard case with blue liner in very fine condition with only some light brassing to the leather reinforced corners, key included. This is without a doubt the finest condition US Navy over-stamp Thompson this cataloger has ever seen. It will appeal to both the classic Thompson and US military collector enthusiast. One of the best of its kind, with very attractive estimate! 52517-5 JWK (28,000-38,000) C&R – Lot 2134
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY CASED 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 4586. Cal. 36. Custom Shop “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in Colt Custom Shop walnut presentation box with red velour fitted interior. Case contains Colt’s patent stand of arms flask, 2-cavity mold, nipple wrench, cap tin, and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 90% orig finish. Bbl, frame and hammer show scattered spots of surface corrosion. Grip straps show spots of storage related tarnish. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. Case condition is fine. Over box as torn or missing end flaps. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4462. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in Colt walnut presentation box. Box contains Colt’s patent stand of arms flask, 2-cavity mold, and cap tin. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 90% orig finish. Frame and grip straps show scattered small spots of corrosion. Grip straps have areas of dark tarnish. Mechanics are fine. Bore is bright. Case is fine. Flask has spots of storage related tarnish and corrosion. 52332-191, 52332-196 DS (1,250-2,000) – Lot 3149
Please Note: 4th generation single action manufactured in 1998.
*EXTREMELY FINE CASED 2ND GENERATION COLT CUSTOM SHOP ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH CARVED IVORY GRIPS.
SN S48099A. Cal. 45. 4-3/4″ A+ engraved by Master Engraver Wayne D’Angelo for Colt Custom Shop and carved grips by Jim Alaimo. Truly a 20th century masterpiece in red velvet lined mahogany casing. Gun originally manufactured in 1968. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, retaining virtually all orig nickel plating, appears like new, mechanically crisp with bright shiny bore. 52470-29 JS (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3098
*FACTORY PRESENTATION 1911 COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL PISTOL.
SN C45495. Cal. 45. 5″ bbl. Left side of slide inscribed “Presented By Harvard Regiment/To Constant Cordier/May 30, 1916“. Left side rear has Rampant Colt. Right side has “COLT 45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER 45” with Colt’s standard address and patent markings Checkered ivory grips have fine patina with carved Old English “C” cartouche. This gun is listed by SN in William H.D. Goddard’s book The Government Models, 1988, in this exact configuration “checkered ivory stock, ‘C’ on each stock, engraved on receiver “PRESENTED BY HARVARD REGT. LT CONSTANT CORDIER MAY 13, 1916”. Goddard also notes that the gun was shipped to Iver Johnson Sporting Goods Company in Boston along with SN 46081 with identical inscription and ivory grips. CONDITION: Extremely fine condition as refinished. Verified proof appears sharp and crisp. Rear sight has dent on left side and registration marks do not line up. Magazine catch shows rounded corners as do pin holes in rear of receiver. Front sight is missing. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52684-1 (6,000-9,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1396
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 1ST SERIES PRE-WWII WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 102096. Cal. 22LR. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front and rear sights and mounted with full checkered walnut grips. Accompanied by an orig 2-tone magazine with marked base. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this pistol in Cal. 22 with 6-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved Class “B”. It also shows that it was equipped with Partridge front sight, shipped September 30, 1936 to David A. Hay, Wilmington, DE in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks section of the letter, it shows that it was returned to the factory August 2, 1937 and subsequently shipped August 16, 1937 to Camp Perry, OH where it was finally sold. The engraving consists of about 60% coverage, well executed foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Front & backstraps and trigger bow are engraved to match. Additionally accompanied by a custom made felt lined mahogany case. According to the Blue Book of Gun Values, Fjestad, there were about 112,000 1st Series Woodsman pistols produced 1927-1947 of which only 151 were factory engraved and of that, only 126 were of this model making those few engraved items some of the most rare of Colt handguns. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are properly un-numbered. Overall retains 98-99% orig factory blue with faint muzzle end wear and some dulling to the front and backstraps. Grips are crisp with only faint diamond point wear. Magazine shows moderate wear and is darkened on the white upper portion. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is fine. 51918-1 JRL (6,000-8,000) C&R – Lot 1399
*WONDERFULLY ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH STAG GRIPS AND DISPLAY CASE.
SN 0056MC. Cal. 45. 5-1/2″ bbl, full blue finish, 2-pc stag horn grips. Revolver is engraved in a floral scroll motif with gold oines inlaid to accent engraving. Engraving is shown at the breech and muzzle end of bbl. Bbl is banded at muzzle and breech with 2-lines in gold. Ejector rod has also received same treatment. Cylinder base pin and ejector rod head both have gold bands. Frame shows the head of an eagle in relief inlaid on the left recoil shield. Again, all engraving is accented by gold lines. Cylinder has also received the same treatment with a 4-banded border and star accents around the rear periphery. Backstrap and trigger guard also show the same treatment. SN matches on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. “056” is seen on the front face of cylinder. A Rampant Colt logo appears on rear face. Assembly number “395” is stamped on rear face of loading gate and on right rear flat of frame. Bbl shows correct 1-line Colt address on top with model and Cal. designation on the right side. Left side of frame shows 2-line Colt patent mark followed by Rampant Colt logo. Left forward trigger guard bow shows “VP” proof with a “V” inspector mark on rear of bow. Right front trigger guard bow shows assembler number “3”. Grips have “12968” written in pencil on the inside of each grip. Also, “#/N.M.” is written in red ink on the inside of each grip. Revolver is housed in a glass topped display case with blue velvet lining and cartridge blocks for 12 rnds. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Revolver retains nearly all of the dark blue finish with no indication of wear. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Chambers are clean. Engraving and all markings are sharp. Case is very fine with very few small handling marks overall. Stag grips are also very good. Grip locating pin is not present. Mechanics are crisp. A very attractive, well executed, engraved, gold inlaid 2nd Generation Colt SAA. 52470-33 TEP (4,000-6,000) C&R – Lot 3099
*ENGRAVED COLT MARK IV – SERIES 70 GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL THAT BELONGED TO TEXAS RANGER JOHN (NICK) HANNA.
SN 78226B70. Cal. 45 ACP. Nickel finish with 5″ bbl, and fixed sights. Slide has standard Series 70 markings on both sides with normal markings on the frame above the grip & trigger bow. Hammer & grip safety are standard items with serrated, arched mainspring housing. Mounted with smooth, 2-pc ivory grips that have a miniature gold Texas Ranger badge inlaid in the right side. Pistol is engraved by Weldon Bledsoe with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. Accompanied by a letter on Texas Ranger letterhead over the signature of Ranger J. Nick Hanna, Sgt, Co. E, Brownsville, TX wherein he states that this pistol was his duty weapon which he carried while working. Also accompanying is an 8-1/2″ x 11″ color photo of the Rangers in Co. E with their signatures. Additionally accompanying is Sgt. Hanna’s business card. Texas Ranger arms & equipment rarely ever come to market, especially as well documented as this. Additionally accompanied by a fine hand-tooled brown leather zipper case with D-ring carrier attachment and lined with synthetic orange sheep-skin. Each side bears a 4″ diameter circle reproduction of a Texas Ranger badge. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains about 98% crisp custom nickel finish applied after engraving. Front & backstraps are slightly dulled from handling. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Shows moderate use. Case is equally new. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52174-3 JRL (7,500-12,500) ESA – Lot 1400
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY CASED 2ND GENERATION BABY DRAGOON AND 1860 ARMY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT BABY DRAGOON. SN 16192. Cal. 31. “F” series, only 1,352 manufactured 1981-82. Bbl 4″ oct without loading lever. 5-shot rnd roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver plated square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Includes black presentation box with gold velour fitted interior Colt medallion on lid. Case contains baby sized eagle flask, 2-cavity mold, cap tin, and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Grip straps have obtained a dark tarnish from storage. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box and accessories are in fine condition. 2) COLT 1860 ARMY. SN 205007. Cal. 44. “F” series revolver, only 6,300 manufactured 1978-1982. 8″ rnd bbl. Roll engraved 6-shot rebated cyl. Blue and case colored finish with brass trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. Action has provision for should stock attachment. All visible SN’s match. Housed in a Colt black presentation box with gold velour fitted interior and Colt medallion on lid. Box contains stand of arms pistol flask, 2-cavity mold, nipple wrench, cap tin and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Brass trigger guard shows light tarnish from storage. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Case exterior shows scattered marks. 52332-181, 52332-182 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3150
*OUTSTANDING SA PRESENTATION WALTHER MODEL PPK WITH SA MARKED PRESENTATION HOLSTER.
SN 863364. Cal. 32. 3.3″ bbl. Profusely and elaborately engraved in an acorn and oak leaf motif. Walther Banner with traditional Walther markings on left hand of slide, including Mod. PPK. “RZM” marking forward of safety, with outstanding “L” over “V” engraved over “1936” with the Germans “SA” emblem on front strap. Fully gold-plated. This firearm has been attributed by its previous owner as having belonged to General Victor Lutz, who was appointed General in charge of the SA by Adolf Hitler in 1936. This is one of the most elaborately engraved and embellished Walther PPK’s that has been offered. Eagle N proofs are found on slide, chamber and bbl. 90 degree safety with the sub-assembly number “3” found under the grips on left side of grip frame. White Walther Banner checkered grips with German eagle holding swastika is inset in a pre-cast mortise on right side of grip. Thumb magazine release with loaded chamber indicator. Magazine is engraved in matching ornamentation and is fully gold-plated as well. Pistol resides in a russet brown flap holster with the pre-war German “SA” monogram on flap with maker’s name and date of “OBERHOFF CIE” OVER “LUDEN SCHEID 1939” over a Rampant Colt. This is an exceptionally rare presentation rig. CONDITION: Very good overall, with approximately 15% of the fragile gold finish having flecked from its high points of engraving and embellishment. This fragile finish rarely held up. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Mechanics need attention as gun fails to stay open on empty magazine and 90 degree safety only engages to the 60 degree position. Grips are very unusual, in very fine overall condition with light staining and several very small age cracks at screw slot and top of grip strap. 52700-12 TDW (25,000-45,000) C&R – Lot 2025
RARE AND VERY DESIRABLE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON TRANSITION REVOLVER WITH RAMMER.
SN 13538. Cal. .31. 5″ bbl, blue and case color finish with silver grip straps and burl walnut grip. Revolver is engraved overall in a vine scroll design with a fine punch dot background. The engraving has a scalloped border on frame around the recoil shield and at the rear of the bbl lug. Fine line bordering also appears on the frame and the loading lever. The engraving can easily be attributed to Joseph Delaney because of its unique style. Screws have very unique floral decoration which are also rather unique. Engraving appears on the bbl lug with a band at the muzzle, on the flat of the loading lever, frame has almost full coverage, hammer also shows a very distinct decoration that can be definitely attributed to Joseph Delaney. A Colt 1851 Navy is pictured on pg 38 of Colt Factory Engravers of the 19th Century, 2012, Houze that has the same motif. There are small punch dot marks on the bbl lug, frame and trigger guard that indicate special polish for engraving. The inspector mark “T” is usually stamped on the right rear flat of the trigger guard, but in this case, because this part was engraved, the inspector mark was moved to the right rear bow of the trigger guard.
Top bbl flat shows correct 2-line Colt New York City address bordered by dashes. SNs match on frame, bbl lug, trigger guard, backstrap, rammer and cylinder. Partial SNs appear on the arbor, wedge, and written in ink in the backstrap channel of the grip. “COLT’S PATENT” appears on the left forward side of the frame. Revolver is housed in a contemporary Colt factory casing made of mahogany with a pine bottom. Case is lined with purple velveteen. Case contains a correct Colt’s Patent bullet mold, a correct eagle flask that is embossed on both sides, an L-shaped combination tool, a box of paper cartridges and a 100-cnt tin of Eley caps. There are a few conical and rnd bullets also in the case. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl has a smooth grey/brown patina with some slight roughness toward the muzzle and traces of orig blue in protected areas. Bbl address was rolled slightly to the side, leaving the upper line slightly faint. Bbl address has not been polished. Engraving is sharp and unmolested. Rammer shows a hint of case color present. Frame also shows a deep grey/brown patina with no roughness. Engraving is sharp and unmolested. Trigger and backstrap retain nearly all of the orig silver finish which is common for Colt revolvers of this vintage. Cylinder shows nearly all of the rolled stagecoach scene with some erosion above the Colt’s Patent mark. Patent mark is sharp. SN is sharp. 5-safety pins are intact, 2 are somewhat battered. Hammer is a grey/brown patina, engraving is sharp and unmolested. Grip retains nearly all of the piano varnish finish with slight wear at the bottom of both sides. Bore has dark stains with visible gain twist rifling. Action functions well. Cylinder locks up at full cock, half-cock is crisp. Case is very good with no cracks or breaks and a nice even patina finish. Lining is very good with some wear on partitions and on the bottom where revolver sits. Partitions are intact. Mold is very good with clean cavities and clear “COLT’S PATENT” mark. Flask is fine with no dents, sharp embossing and most of the clear lacquer finish. Combination tool is very good with nearly all of the dull blue finish. Cartridge box is wrapped and intact and appears to have cartridges inside. The Eley cap tin is also very good with most of the lacquer. The label may be a reproduction. A chance to obtain a very rare, low production factory engraved transition Baby Dragoon revolver. 49788-1 (8,000-10,000) – Lot 1136
RARE COLT RIMFIRE SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER DOUGLAS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE.
SN 694. Cal. 44. This is an honest example of early production rimfire Single Action in standard configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl with early single line Colt Hartford address with daggers. Bottom of bbl marked with tiny “44” and has matching SN under the ejector housing. Ejector housing is correct and of the first type with correct style bullseye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent and “44 CAL” is stamped on rear left side of trigger guard. This gun appears orig and complete with well weathered orig Colt ivory grips. Bottom of butt is engraved in block letters “DOUGLAS Co. S.0” (Douglas County, Sheriff’s Office, Omaha?). CONDITION: Gun is good overall. All matching SN’s found except grips which are not numbered. SN’s found on bbl, cylinder, frame, trigger guard & backstrap. Markings are all easily discerned as is the Sheriff’s Office markings on bottom of grip. Metal overall is a mottled gray with staining and light pitting. Light holster wear. Grips are slightly underfit and there is a old chip repair at rear of left toe. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52001-2 JS (5,500-7,500) ESA – Lot 1181
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER IN BOOK CASE TITLED THE TEXAN’S GUIDE TO MORAL PERSUASION BY ROBERT EVANS.
SN 3A41343. Cal. 44 Spcl. All blue finish with 3″ bbl, 2-line bbl address with “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL” on left side & caliber marking on right side. Left side of frame has 2-line Patent dates and rampant Colt without circle. Left front web of trigger guard has the “VP” proof in a triangle with a “K” on rear web and a “Q” on right front web. Fitted with smooth 1-pc horn grip. Frame, back strap & trigger guard are very beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with gold wire borders and an extremely unusual wolf’s head on each side of hammer with a rose-gold eye. Cylinder, top & front half of frame & bbl have very beautiful Moorish & arabesque pattern gold wire inlays with highly polished finish. Right side of the trigger plate is engraved “R. EVANS ENGR.” Accompanied by a fine book case in black leatherette with the cover embossed in gold as in the title. Inside the cover has a fine western scene water color with the hand lettered inscription “State Your Argument / If That Fails . . . Smile / And Offer The Gentleman / A Cigar / If That Fails . . . / Shoot The Sonovabitch!!!” The bottom interior is red suede lined & French fitted for the revolver and two cigars. The upper left corner has a cartridge block with six gold plated 45 caliber cartridges. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: New unturned & unfired, retaining all of its custom finish. Grip has a small scratch on left side. Book case is equally new. Mechanics were not checked due to the mint condition of the revolver. 52470-10 TEP (3,500-5,000) C&R – Lot 3100
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 4765. Cal. 36. Silver plated. Standard configuration with longest and most desirable 6-1/2″ rnd bbl 1-line New York address. Gun finely engraved on bbl, cylinder, frame, hammer, trigger guard and backstrap. Gun has matching SNs with small “E”s stamped adjacent denoting engraving. This gun was made in 1861 at the start of the Civil War. This is an aesthetically pleasing gun, popular with Civil War officers, especially in this longer bbl length. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun appears orig as used. SNs matching except wedge “4904” and grips which have a partially discernible 4-digit number inked that do not match “4765”. Gun retains about half of its orig silver plate with staining and pitting. Engraving and markings all discernible. Grips retain about 80% of a bright varnished finish. Mechanically sound with crisp discernible rifled bore. 52328-15 JS (4,500-6,500) – Lot 1153
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY BLACK BOX REVOLVERS
1) COLT 1851. SN 4388. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box with instruction pamphlet. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Grip straps have dark tarnish from long storage. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box is in fine condition. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4405. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. One piece walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box with instruction pamphlet, warranty card and associated papers. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Silver grip straps show some tarnish from storage. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box is fine with some wear on corners. 52332-176, 52332-177 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3151
OUTSTANDING RARE EARLY EXHIBITION QUALITY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 5597. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ bbl. Rare dovetail front sight with bead and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in an unusual postion. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contains a beautifully figured burl walnut with varnished 1-pc grip with last three digits of SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is engraved with full coverage foliate arabesque pattern with a small cross-hatched panel on each side all with shaded background. Engraving extends over bbl lug and onto rammer pivot with a fine border over the muzzle. Hammer is engraved to match. Backstrap, butt strap and trigger guard are also engraved to match. All screwheads are lightly engraved in matching patterns. Cylinder is usual 6-shot with Ormsby naval battle scene and five of the safety pins are mostly serviceable. These fancifully embellished Colt firearms have frequently been attributed to The Crystal Palace Exhibition of 1851. Based upon the production date, this could well be a distinct possibility. CONDITION: Very fine as bbl retains about 80% glossy blue with sharp edge wear and light flaking. Rammer retains faded case colors in sheltered areas. Balance has somewhat turned silver. Frame and hammer are a mostly grey metal color. Cylinder is clean, grey metal color with a few prominent scratches and retains overall 60-70% of the Ormsby naval battle scene. Trigger guard retains most all of its silver finish as backstrap retains over 50% of its silver. Grip
is very fine and retains most of its crisp deluxe varnish. Mechanics are crisp. All visible numbers have been found to be matching. Bore is very good with strong rifling and slight spotting from age. This is truly an exceptional example of Colt’s artistry. 52705-3 TDW (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1139
SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED MERWIN & HULBERT EARLY OPEN TOP ARMY MODEL SQUARE BUTT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER.
SN 8390. Cal. 44 Merwin & Hulbert. Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl that has integral front sight with groove rear sight on top of frame. Frame is open top with 6-shot scooped flute cylinder. Frame, bbl and cylinder are factory engraved in foliate and dot patterns with about full coverage on sides of the frame, full length on right side of bbl and cylinder pin housing with matching patterns on the left side leaving the Hopkins & Allen marking completely legible. Cylinder has matching patterns on lands between flutes. Left side plate has a small rnd vignette depicting a sailing vessel with building and mountains in background. Right side is engraved with a shield shaped pattern with flower blossom and foliate patterns. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Buttstrap is mounted with a factory lanyard loop. Left side of the grip frame is marked with assembly number “5761” which is also found on the cylinder pin, cylinder and rear face of the bbl lug. Note: a 44 American cartridge will also chamber in this cylinder. Merwin & Hulbert were themselves not manufacturers, but entrepreneurs who either designed or bought patents which they had manufactured by established manufacturers such as Hopkins & Allen. They then distributed the product themselves. One of the Merwin & Hulbert design, in some instances, is superior to other revolvers of the same era. The product was late on the market after Colt had already established contracts with the government. In addition, the early Army size revolvers were in a proprietary cartridge, as found here, which was not readily available throughout the buying market. They later chambered these large frame revolvers in Cal. 44-40 which was compatible with Winchester and other repeating rifles. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grips which are un-numbered. Bbl retains about 60-70% orig nickel showing holster wear to grey metal on both sides. Frame retains about 60-70% orig nickel with the front and backstraps worn to grey metal. Trigger and hammer retain faint case colors. Grips show minor chips around the edges with a larger chip near the left toe, otherwise are sound with great fire and color. The frame screws and one front strap screw are slightly battered. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with some minor orange peel pitting. 51935-2 JRL (5,000-8,000) – Lot 1214
INSCRIBED COLT BREVETTE NAVY REVOLVER OF CONFEDERATE BRIGADIER GENERAL WILLIAM Y. SLACK OF MISSOURI, KILLED IN ACTION AT BATTLE OF PEA RIDGE, ARK.
NSN. Cal. 34. Brigadier General William Y. Slack (1816-1862) of the Missouri State Guard at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, August 10, 1861, his command was the first to attack Union General Lyon’s troops and suffered severely. 36 were killed and 76 wounded, General Slack himself fell with a dangerous wound at the head of column. After Slack recuperated he was back in action and commanding troops in the spring campaign of 1862 in Northeast Arkansas which resulted in the fierce battle at Elkhorn Tavern (Battle of Pea Ridge). At the opening of the fight on March 7, while maintaining a successful attack, he was shot through the body, a wound which proved mortal. “I hope his distinguished services will be restored to his country,” wrote General van Dorn. General Sterling Price also alluded to him as “one of his best and bravest officers”. In this fatal battle, in which so many brilliant officers lost their lives he was one of the costliest sacrifices of Missouri. (Quotes taken from Confederate military history.) This brevette of unknown manufacture is original and has great collection history. It is pictured and described in Confederate Presentation & Inscribed Swords & Revolvers by Dan Hartzler, 1988 and has a large file of correspondence starting in 1974. This gun has been in several fine Confederate collections and was studied by early Confederate authority Henry Stewart. The inscription on backstrap reads “BRIG. GEN’L WM.Y.SLACK IV Mo.S.G.” The gun is beautifully made emulating Colt Navy with 7-3/4″ octagonal bbl, iron frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The metal of bbl and frame show striations not seen on American or European brevettes and Henry Stewart and Russ Pritchard commented in a 1984 letter that the gun is quite a mystery as to maker. Engraved under loading arm on bottom of bbl “GEO. S. POLLEYS ARKADELPHIA 1862”. Captain George S. Polleys was in charge of the Confederate Ordnance Works at Arkadelphia, AR and when this establishment moved to Tyler, TX he was placed in charge of the armory there. Polleys also served with Arkansas regiment and was captured in 1865. The connection between the Polleys and Slack is unknown. Accompanying revolver is a rare signature on legal document signed by Slack in 1841. Regardless, this is an interesting revolver with good collection history. PROVENANCE: Collection of Fred Slayton, Nebo, KY; Don Bryan collection; outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun is crisp with traces of finish. Markings are excellent as can be seen in photos. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. Hand worn checkered wood stocks. Cylinder retains crisp safety pins and unique knurling on surface. 51957-16 JS (10,000-20,000) – Lot 1266
*EXTREMELY FINE CASED, ENGRAVED AND IVORY INTERPOL 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN A94480. Cal. 45. 154 Commemoratives were made by Colt for the U.S. Historical Society in 1991, each bearing an additional SN (INT.1-154), this being “INT.-25”. Gun is magnificently engraved with almost total coverage with 3 panel scenes and commemoration to “Carbine Williams” engraved on butt in relief panel “DAVID M WILLIAMS / GOODWIN N.C.”. CONDITION: Extremely fine, virtually all silver plate remains. Carved ivory grips with American eagle on right side are also excellent with silver Colt medallions. Mechanically crisp, appears as new as does the custom purple velvet lined book casing. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52420-2 JS (3,000-5,000) ESA – Lot 3102
RARE CASED SECOND MODEL COLT 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 1701. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York City address. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” and it has a small square back silver plated brass trigger guard and back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with the first three digits of SN visible in back strap channel. Trigger guard and backstrap are engraved with a heavy zig-zag border with a small engraved cartouche in the form of an oval inscribed “PRO DEO ET REGE” (Translation: For God and King) at the top. The center of the cartouche is inscribed with what appears to be “W R” in Old English and there is a figure above the cartouche that may be a fist or some other indistinguishable character. Center of backstrap is engraved with light foliate and floral patterns. Accompanied by an English oak casing with the lid medallion missing. Interior is purple velvet lined with a Colt directions label in the lid and compartmented in bottom for a Dixon “COLT’S NAVY” bag-shaped flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Right rear covered compartment contains a wood handled cleaning rod with broken tip. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: About fine, all matching including wedge and grip. Overall retains virtually all of a fine professionally restored finish to bbl and frame. Cylinder was re-blued but not polished. Cylinder retains 85-90% Ormsby Naval battle scene with an area of pitting. Trigger guard and back strap retain most of their post engraving silver finish. Wedge screw is a replacement. Grip is sound with moderate edge wear and numerous small nicks & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a few minor chips in the edge of the lid, otherwise is sound with handling & storage nicks, dings and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish, missing brass plaque on top of lid. Interior is strong & bright with light soil in bottom and light damage from front sight and hammer spur. Mold, flask and cap tin are very fine, screwdriver tip of tool is slightly reshaped and cleaning rod with its broken tip is fine. 52328-4 (6,000-8,000) – Lot 1141
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY BLACK BOX REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 4511. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. In early SAA-style one piece black box with instruction pamphlet and associated papers. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Grip straps have dark tarnish from storage. Grips show small scratches. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Black box shows some tape damage. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4350. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish grip straps show spots of wear and tarnish. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box shows some edge wear. 52332-178, 52332-179 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3152
*STUNNING FACTORY “D” ENGRAVED COLT PYTHON REVOLVER WITH BOX AND PAPERWORK.
SN V57819. Cal. 357. 6″ bbl. 2-pc Colt checkered walnut grips. Complete with wood grained cardboard box with Colt custom shop numbers matching label. Engraved in vine and scroll patterns in a virtual full coverage. This is the highest amount of standard coverage available from Colt and is rarely found on dbl action revolvers. This 1980 manufactured Python is Colt custom shop model no. I3660-D. CONDITION: Extremely fine and possibly unfired. A faint trace of cylinder line is evident. No evidence of finish loss to be found. Grips are excellent with a minor imperfection in finish are rear bottom of grip. Bore is bright and shiny. Wood grain cardboard box with manual is somewhat tattered with end flap detached. Visible numbers matching. An outstanding and hard to improve upon example. 52696-8 TDW (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2457
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED AND NICKEL PLATED COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING RIFLE THAT BELONGED TO PORFIRIO DIAZ.
SN 3543. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Full nickel finish with 20″ bbl, full magazine and barleycorn front sight with blued, reverse mounted 900 yard ladder rear sight. Mounted with exceptional Italian walnut buttstock that has checkered straight grip and carbine buttplate without trap. Left side of receiver has a stud & ring and the trigger guard has a safety. Forearm is of 2 pieces, double Schnable checkered hard rubber with the Rampant Colt trademark logo on each side. Underneath top tang has matching SN with matching SN in pencil on rear face of buttstock, under the buttplate and also inside the toe of buttplate. Carbine is incredibly engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on the receiver & top tang. Engraving consists of the large vignette of a cowboy, that resembles Buffalo Bill Cody, roping a bull buffalo in a prairie scene on the left side, a standing bull elk on the right side and the engraved Rampant Colt logo on top rear of the receiver. All the vignettes are surrounded by extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine pearled background. The areas in front & behind the loading gate recess have extremely fine diamond & dot patterns with a matching diamond pattern over the receiver ring. Each side of the front edge of the receiver is engraved in a small shell pattern. Top tang is engraved with a fan pattern around the hammer slot with foliate arabesque patterns down the tang. Trigger plate & trigger bow are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns and geometric patterns with smaller patterns on the bottom tang. Bottom tang is engraved in period script, also by Mr. Helfricht “Porf. Diaz”. Buttplate tang & heel are engraved to match. This carbine is pictured, both sides & bottom tang, in full color on page 493 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson, in the Cuno Helfricht section of that publication. The medium frame Lightning rifle was Colt’s first attempt at producing a pump action firearm. They made almost 90,000 between 1884-1902. Of that number only a limited few were carbines and of those exceedingly few were so elaborately engraved with special plating. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Bbl & magazine tube retain 97-98% strong orig nickel with some fine pimpling in a couple of spots on the bbl. Receiver retains about 90% strong orig nickel with losses from flaking, not wear on the right side. Top & bottom tangs, trigger guard & trigger plate retain virtually all of their strong, orig nickel. Buttplate retains about 60% orig nickel with the losses from flaking not wear. Buttstock has handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains about 90% strong orig varnish. Forearm has a couple tiny bruises on the left rear edge and shows light diamond point wear, turned chocolate on the left side. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with sharp rifling and moderate pitting. 52428-1 JRL (25,000-45,000) – Lot 1157
ENGRAVED AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPPED COLT NEW LINE 22 CALIBER REVOLVER.
SN 32397. Cal. 22. Standard configuration with 2-1/4″ bbl with 2-line address, 7-shot cylinder, etched panel “COLT NEW 22”, nickel plated and engraved frame with factory mother-of-pearl smooth grips. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Gun retains 40% orig plating with fine mechanics and well discerned bore. 52488-1 JS (600-800) – Lot 3107
RARE ENGRAVED COLT HARTFORD/LONDON 2ND MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 168. 44 Cal. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct-rnd bbl, German silver front sight and stamped “ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY”. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. There were only 700 Hartford-London Dragoons, very few engraved. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a deluxe varnished burl 1-pc grip. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLT’S PATENT” cartouches partially visible. Left side of bbl lug and cylinder have British proofs. Revolver is engraved in English style with about 60-70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns and beautiful foliate and floral patterns on the recoil shields, frame and bbl lug. The rammer pivot is engraved to match with rosettes around each side of the pivot link screw. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are also engraved to match with line borders. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Gun appears orig and matching with exception of 4 screws and spring-loaded loading arm catch which are replaced. Iron is overall grey/brown with staining and pitting. Tiny trace of finish in protected area of well. Gun is well worn, though engraving is all discernible with most wear on bbl housing. Cylinder shows about half of its rolled Dragoon/Indian fight scene, though dark. Other markings on gun are mostly discernible, crisp address. Backstrap and trigger guard retain 20% orig silver plating. Grips are well fit with traces of orig varnish with several dings and gouges and heavy edge wear, with rounded chips at both inside toes. 52328-8 JS (6,000-8,000) – Lot 1132
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY BLACK BOX REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 5015. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box with instruction pamphlet, warranty card and associated papers. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 95% finish. Frame shows spots of freckling. Backstraps have some storage tarnish. Grips show scattered handling marks. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. Box shows light handling wear. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4769. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box with instruction pamphlet, warranty card and associated papers. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 90% orig finish. Bbl and cyl shows light scratches and spots of wear. Case coloring shows light fading. Grip straps show small scratches and some tarnish. Grips show scratches and spots of wear. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. Box shows wear, torn and taped edges and flaps. 52332-184, 52332-185 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3153
SN V33782. Cal. 357. 6″ bbl. Nickel finish with 2-pc Colt monogrammed checkered grips. Elliason adjustable rear sights. Profusely engraved in scrolls and vine pattern amounting to basically a full coverage. The engraving also covers the cylinder flutes as well as the grip pommel at rear of hammer. This amount of coverage is rarely found on Colt dbl action revolvers. Manufactured 1979. Colt custom shop model no. is I3661-ENG. CONDITION: Extremely fine, overall with no indication of actual use. A very faint cylinder line is evident. Several minor imperfections are evident at bottom of grip. Box and paperwork are relatively crisp with no obvious distress or wear. Visible numbers matching. Virtually impossible to improve upon. 52696-7 TDW (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2458
*VERY FINE ENGRAVED 1ST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS.
SN 313305. Cal. 45. Standard configuration Single Action Army with 4-3/4″ bbl made in 1910 is beautifully engraved with about 70% coverage, showing light use. CONDITION: Fine to very fine overall. Gun retains bright blue on engraved screws and cylinder pin head. Crisp markings and engraving. Left grip has chip on left rear toe. Mechanically crisp with bright shiny bore. 52175-1 JS (5,000-7,000) C&R – Lot 3085
SN 13969. Cal. 31. 4″ bbl. 5-shot cylinder with rolled stagecoach holdup scene. Standard configuration squareback trigger guard with one piece varnished walnut grips. PROVENANCE: Outstanding estate collection of Confederate and historical arms of Morris Racker. CONDITION: Good to very good. Gun appears all matching, metal overall gray/silver with traces of thin finish in protected areas. About 80% rolled cylinder scene with other markings including 2-line bbl address with brackets, sharp and well defined. Three initials “JEN” are engraved on buttstrap. Grips are sound and solid with hand worn patina retaining about 90% original varnish with edge wear and expected cosmetic blemishes. 51958-6 JS (3,000-5,000) – Lot 3116
SPECTACULAR SILVER PLATED TOMMY HAAS RESTORED AND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 11519. Cal. 45 Colt. Extremely beautiful silver plated single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, 1-line script address with serifs at each end and without any broken dies. Left side of bbl has the caliber marking and left front side of frame has 2-line patent dates. Revolver is very beautifully engraved with full frame coverage Nimschke-style engraving with fine pearled background. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with Nimschke’s trademark flower at the center of a couple of the scrolls. Engraving extends 3″ up the sides of the bbl with a Moorish pattern around the address and a scalloped border at the muzzle. Front sight is surrounded by an engraved flower blossom. It also has the scalloped pattern in the ejector rod housing gullet with other border patterns. Cylinder has engraving patterns on the lands between the flutes with border patterns at the rear edge.Top strap is engraved with feather & bar patterns. Top of the backstrap has a well executed fan with diamond & dot center. Balance of the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also beautifully engraved. Trigger, bullseye ejector rod head, base pin and all the screws show high quality fire-blue. Fitted with spectacular pearl grips that have a deep relief American eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a fine custom walnut & glass display case. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, unfired since custom plating after engraving. It retains all of this fine silver finish. The grips are equally exceptional with tremendous fire and color. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant, shiny bore. Display case is equally new. 52465-10 JRL (7,500-12,500) – Lot 1183
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY BLACK BOX REVOLVERS
1) COLT 1851. SN 5047. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box with instruction pamphlet, warranty card and associated papers. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 98% blue and case color finish. Grip straps show a light tarnish with spots of corrosion. Grips show light handling marks. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. Box is in good condition showing spots of tape damage and light wear at corners. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4794. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver as produced 1971-78. Bbl 7-1/2″ oct, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished back strap and square back trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. In early SAA-style 1-pc black box. Box has grease pencil SN mark on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Fine. Over 95% orig finish. Bbl shows fine scratches. Frame has spots of lightly worn finish. Grip straps show a light tarnish with spots of freckling. Grips show light edge wear and light handling marks. Box has torn corners. 52332-186, 52332-187 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3154
SN 6530. Cal .357 Mag. 6″ bbl with vent rib and full lug. Serrated ramp front site with sq notch Accro adjustable rear sight. 6-shot fluted cylinder. Custom full coverage vine type scroll engraving on frame, bbl & cylinder. Entire revolver including sights has custom bright nickel finish. 2-pc checkered walnut target grips with gold rampant colt medallions. Frame and crane have matching SN’s. 1958 manufacture. CONDITION: Very fine as refinished, retaining over 99% nickel finish. Grips show light marks. Mechanics are fine. Nice bright bore. 52472-11 DS (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 2459
UNIQUE SILVER INLAID CIVIL WAR COLT 1860 ARMY REVOLVER OF LEVI BLASDELL, 50TH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS.
SN 23620. Cal. 44. Levi S. Blasdell (1833-1910) enlisted 9-6-1861 at Montrose, PA as a Private in Company D, 50th PA Infantry. He was captured at Spotsylvania Courthouse May 12, 1864 and was promoted to Corporal after his release. The two marvelous silver insets, one with Blasdell’s name and unit with a well chased American eagle and the other, of a color bearer holding American flag, certainly appear to be wartime, but why would an enlisted man in the infantry have a government purchased Colt in his possession as infantrymen were not issued revolvers? Even more interesting, is the fact that this gun was purchased in the small town of Americana in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil and that Americana was a city founded by descendants of Confederate soldiers who did not want to return to the United States. A most likely scenario is that this gun was taken from Blasdell when he was captured and kept as a trophy by a Confederate who was among the founders of the Brazil Confederate colony at Americana. Regardless, this is a very fine early 4-screw Colt Army with the finest silver inlays. Accompanying lot are series of letters detailing history and genealogy which should be read. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun is sharp, though cleaned with no orig finish. Markings are crisp including 1-line New York bbl address, SNs and patent markings. The Ormsby rolled naval battle scene on cylinder is only partially discernible, otherwise crisp action with bright well defined bore. Silver insets are of the highest quality, mounted flush with chased pins matching engraved backgrounds. 52489-1 JS (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1326
VERY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED PRESENTATION 1ST MODEL 1851 COLT NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 613. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ oct bbl. There are few known 1st model engraved Navies and this is an honest, complete, and original example. Herbert House in his fine text Colt Factory Engravers of the 19th Century shows nearly identical early scroll engraving attributed to Joseph Delany, who worked at Colt 1850-1852. This particular gun was made in 1850. Presentation engraved inside trigger guard “J.N.F. to E.A.R.” PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Gun appears original and matching, with all parts normally SN’d 613 with punch dots below or above numbers denoting the factory engraving. Hammer screw has been restored. Gun retains traces of finish in protected areas, engraving and other markings all fairly crisp and discernible, though bbl address a little light as can be seen in photos. Cyl has a majority of its rolled cyl scene with one large dent just above SN. Grips are sound, well fit, retaining about 60% of their original factory varnish. Engraved brass backstrap and trigger guard retain about 20% of their silver plate, especially in protected areas. Slight muzzle wear, reduces engraving in crowning. Mechanically fine with crisp rifled bore. 52332-37 JS (5,000-7,000) – Lot 3126
SN 206323. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. It is engraved in the style of Cuno Helfricht with full coverage on the frame & recoil shields. Cylinder is engraved with fine alternating flourishes of arabesque patterns and sunburst patterns on the lands between the flutes with a snake & dot decoration on the back edge. The bbl is extensively engraved from the frame to the end of the ejector rod housing and on both sides of the muzzle. Recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in Helfricht-style sunburst patterns. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in the top gullet and on the outer radius with foliate arabesque patterns at each end. The top of the backstrap is engraved with Helfricht-style fan pattern with wavy border and a geometric pattern down the backstrap & on the butt strap. The trigger guard is engraved with matching geometric patterns and all the engraving has pearl background. Screws, base pin & ejector head are beautifully fire-blued. Accompanied by a fine walnut & glass display case. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. It retains 99% plus factory-style restored nickel finish with bright fire-blued screws, ejector rod head and base pin. Grips are beautiful with lots of fire and fit extremely well. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore, dark in the grooves with fine pitting. Display case is extremely fine, showing virtually all of its orig custom finish. 52465-7 JRL (5,000-10,000) C&R – Lot 1188
LOT OF 2 COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY CASED 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 4754. Cal. 36. “C” series 2nd generation revolver, manufactured 1971-78. Bbl is 7-1/2″ oct. Six-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in a Colt walnut presentation box with blue fitted interior. Box contains Colt Navy flask with James Dixon & Sons markings, 2 cavity bullet mold, cap tin and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Over 98% orig finish. Silver finished grip straps have a light tarnish form storage. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. Box is fine. Powder flask has a small dent. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4610. Cal. 36. “C” series 2nd generation revolver, manufactured 1971-78. Bbl is 7-1/2″ oct. 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in a Colt walnut presentation box with blue fitted interior. Box contains Colt patent flask embossed with stand of arms. Other accessories include 2 cavity bullet mold, cap tin and nipple wrench/screwdriver combination tool. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 95% orig finish showing a wear spots on cyl and some light tarnish on grip straps. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 52332-193, 52332-197 DS (1,000-1,500) – Lot 3155
*OUTSTANDING CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT DIAMONDBACK 38SPL. REVOLVER WITH BOX.
SN P36183. Cal 38 SPCL. Nickel finish with 4″ vent rib bbl & adjustable rear sight. Mounted with gold medallion checkered walnut grips. Frame, bbl & cylinder are engraved in about A or B coverage consisting of flowing foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background.Finely executed engraving with no signature found. Accompanied by a Colt 1-pc wood grain, Styrofoam lined box with owners manual & papers. Very likely this revolver was a presentation piece as no evidence of use is visible. CONDITION: New and unfired. Box is equally new. 52472-26 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 2460
SCARCE AND HISTORIC COLT MODEL 1878, 10 GAUGE HAMMER SHOTGUN ORDERED BY BRIGADIER GENERAL D.S. STANLEY MOH WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 7621. Cal. 10 ga. 31″ Damascus bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Full length Damascus top rib with brass front bead and typical Colt bbl address. Dbl triggers, extractors, no safety. Round knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in 3-point pattern with 14-5/8″ LOP over orig Colt HRBP. Toe line of stock with beautiful initial oval engraved “D.S.S.” Splinter forearm with Deeley release and triangular ebony tip checkered in 2-point pattern. Per factory letter Receiver is engraved with $1.75 worth of engraving which appears to be a light border pattern and geometric pattern on trigger plate. All visible SN’s match. WEIGHT: 9 lbs, 5 oz. HISTORICAL INFORMATION: This gun was ordered directly from Colt by Brigadier General David Sloane Stanley. After graduating West Point in 1852, he served with distinction out west fighting Indians, resulting in a promotion to Capt. At the outbreak of the Civil War, he was offered a commission in the Confederate Army, which he declined. In March of 1861, President Abraham Lincoln appointed him to Brigadier General. He fought under General William T. Sherman, rising to command of the Union IV Corps. At the battle of Franklin, Tenn. he earned the Congressional Medal of Honor for leading a counterattack while being wounded in the neck. He continued to serve throughout the war. Following the cessation of hostilities, he remained in service as Colonel of the 22nd U.S. Infantry. He commanded the Yellowstone Expedition of 1873. Before being reassigned to Texas in 1879 to suppress Indian raids he was one of Gen. George Custer’s superiors, having reprimanded him several times. It was during his time in Texas when he ordered this gun directly from Colt. Undoubtedly the gun accompanied him to New Mexico where he was placed in command of the district. In 1884 he returned to Texas where he stayed until his retirement in 1892. This gun was purchased directly out of the family by the consignor and is accompanied by a factory letter, printed research, and a hard cover copy of the General’s autobiography. CONDITION: Good, as found. Bbls with approximately 40% toned and lightly stained visible Damascus pattern. Receiver retains approximately 30% orig case color, balance has toned brown. Buttstock and forearm retain about half their orig finish with some finish added for preservation. Buttstock with small gaps behind locks and behind tang. Checkering lightly thinned. Bores are fair with scattered pitting. Mechanics are functional. 52318-1 JSL (3,000-5,000) – Lot 3081
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SECOND MODEL 1851 SQUAREBACK NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 3546. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ oct bbl with 1-line New York address manufactured in 1851. There are very few early factory engraved squareback Navy’s known and this is a good orig example. Gun appears orig and matching. Interesting patriotic shields are engraved on backstrap and trigger guard. Hammer has a long dished indent terminating in rear sight. Front sight is also unusual and appears contemporary being a German silver blade mounted on a dovetailed inset bar with engraved decoration at muzzle. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Metal is has old cleaning and is grey/brown overall with engraving weak on bbl housing with pitting. Address is still fairly crisp and discernible as are matching SNs and other engraved panels. Cylinder scene is about 40% discernible. All SNs match with exception of wedge which is close at “3277”. Backstrap and trigger guard retain 60-70% orig silver plate. Dark burl grips are well fit with chip at left rear toe. Mechanically fine with crisp bright bore. 52332-38 JS (3,500-4,000) – Lot 3130
Please Note: Great News! A factory letter accompanies this item.
*EXCEPTIONAL CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF COLT STOREKEEPER MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED AND INLAID WITH SILVER BY COLT MASTER ENGRAVER GEORGE SPRING.
SN SA65254/SA65255. Cal. 45 COLT. Revolvers are as nearly as possible precisely identical. They are 3rd generation storekeeper’s model with 2-line address on their 4″ bbls. They have full front sights that have been slightly thinned during the engraving & finishing process. They are full blue finish with 100% coverage, fantastic silver inlaid cattle brands in the tradition of Cole Agee and his successor, Weldon Bledsoe. The entire surrounding surfaces are beautifully pearled except for fine artistic borders and in the flutes of the cylinder. Front straps & trigger plates are likewise not engraved and neither are the hammers. They are mounted with fleur-de-lis & diamond checkered 2-pc ivory grips that are matching numbered to the revolvers. Left side of buttstraps under the grips are engraved “SPRING”, the signature of George Spring, Colt Master Engraver for many years who was at one time in charge of the engraving department. Accompanied by a Colt custom shop oak display case that has gray velvet lining, compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, with working key. CONDITION: Revolvers are exactly identical in condition. Both appear to be new & unfired, possibly unturned. Grips are equally new with a light ivory patina. Case is equally new. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52543-1 JRL (15,000-25,000) ESA – Lot 1195
LOT OF TWO COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY CASED 2ND GENERATION 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851. SN 4548. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in Colt walnut presentation box. Box contains Navy style flask, 2-cavity mold, nipple wrench, cap tin, and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 95% orig finish. Grip straps show light tarnish and spots of finish loss from storage. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 2) COLT 1851. SN 4606. Cal. 36. “C” series revolver manufactured 1971-78. 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Roll engraved 6-shot cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished square back trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Housed in Colt walnut presentation box. Box contains Colt stand of arms flask, two cavity mold, nipple wrench, cap tin, and case key. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 95% orig finish. Grip straps show spots of finish loss. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 52332-194, 52332-195 DS (1,000-1,500) – Lot 3156
SN 4751. Cal. 12 ga. 28-3/4″ (reduced to this length) Damascus bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Full length Damascus top rib with standard Colt marking. Dbl triggers, extractor, no safety. Round knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in 2-point pattern with 12-3/4″ LOP over modern Fajen black plastic buttplate. Buttstock and bottom rib with sling swivels. Splinter forend with Deeley release near full coverage checkered in 5-point pattern with triangular ebony tip. Receiver is nicely scroll engraved with about 40% coverage with small oval at front of lock with turkey on right, bust of setter on left. Trigger guard with burst of scroll. All visible SN’s match. Bore diameter: left .736, right – .739. Bore restrictions: left .006 (IC), right – .009 (IC). Wall thickness: left – .042, right – .035. Drop at heel: 3-1/4″, drop at comb: 2-1/8″ cast off about 1/8″. Weight: 8 lbs. LOP: 12-3/4″. CONDITION: Fair. Bbls with approximately 20% visible Damascus pattern. Buttstock, which has been shortened, and forearm retain approximately half of their orig finish. Receiver retains approximately 30% orig color. Bores are good with scattered minor pitting. Mechanics are fine. In it’s day, this was a very high grade Colt Hammer gun and they are not easy to find in any condition. 52093-6 JSL (1,500-2,500) – Lot 3082
SN 4608. Cal. 12 ga. 30″ Damascus bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Full length matted top rib with white synthetic bead front sight. Dbl triggers, extractor, automatic safety. Round knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in 3-point pattern with checkered side panels and 14-1/4″ LOP over Colt HRBP. Splinter forearm with engraved Deeley release, checkered in 2-point pattern with triangular ebony tip. Frame is beautifully engraved with a large setter on right, pointer on left, in game scenes surrounded by well executed scroll engraving in about 60-70% total coverage. Trigger guard bow with goose in flight. Silver oval in stock near toe. All visible SN’s match. Bore diameter: left -.730, right – .733. Bore restrictions: left – .021 (MOD), right – .021 (MOD). Wall thickness: left – .029, right – .022. Drop at heel: 3-3/8″, drop at comb: 2″. Weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz. LOP: 14-1/4″. CONDITION: Very fine, as completely and competently restored. Retaining virtually all its restored finish to both wood and metal, likely unfired since restoration. Bores are bright and shiny. Mechanics are fine. These high grade 1883 Colt’s are extremely rare and very infrequently available to collectors. 52269-2 JSL (2,500-4,000) – Lot 3083
1) COLT 3RD DRAGOON. SN 20909. Cal. 44. Very early production “C” series revolver and Colt Custom shop foam lined molded case. 7-1/2″ rnd bbl with oct shank. 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Colt royal blue and case colored finish with brass back strap and rounded trigger guard. 1-pc walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 95% orig finish. Frame and grip straps show small dents and scratches. Mechanics are crisp. Bright bore. 2) COLT 1860. SN 0537US/US0537. Cal. 44. 8″ bbls. Matching set of 2nd gen pistols in orig wood case. Comes with matching shoulder stock, powder flask, empty cap tin, tool, keys and bullet mold. Lid of case is marked “UNITED STATES CAVALRY/1777 1977/COMMEMORATIVE”. This commemorative set was produced in 1977 to honor the 200th anniversary of the creation of the U.S. Cavalry. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Both guns are in extremely fine condition with light handling marks. These guns do not appear to have been fired. Shoulder stock has slight dings. Wood case has light handling marks. 3) COLT 1851. SN 24949. Cal. 36. Spectacular 2nd Generation 3rd Model Navy stocked & finished by Frank Klay of Rockland, Mass. This is one of 150 cased sets that he produced in the early 1990s on special order only. This revolver is blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address with “COLTS PATENT” on left side of the frame. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a spectacular flame grain, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip. These revolvers were all finished by former Colt Master Engraver and restoration specialist, Dan Cullity, for Mr. Klay. Accompanied by its orig 1-pc, wood grain, Styrofoam lined cardboard box that is missing its end flap. Also accompanied by its orig Colt-style, burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing, compartmented in orig style configuration in the bottom for the revolver, an outstanding reproduction dbl-sided eagle & stars flask with angle spout, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a reproduction lacquered Eley Bros. cap tin with caps. Also in the case are cast lead bullets & balls and the orig functioning key. And finally accompanied by a large envelope of orig pamphlets, brochures & letters, one of which is the orig invoice dated 19 Nov. ’96 for the revolver & case with an extra charge for special wood. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all visible numbers matching, new & unfired. Blue & case colors are in orig Colt style with bright blue and brilliant colors. Mechanics are crisp, bore is as new. Case is exceptional also and retains virtually all of its orig varnish with bright, clean orig lining; accessories are also equally new. 52332-180, 52332-188, 52332-192 (1,750-2,750) – Lot 3146
*RARE BRACE OF COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVERS WITH BOHLIN SILVER GRIPS AND BOHLIN DOUBLE BUSCADERO TOOLED SILVER MOUNTED HOLSTER RIG.
SN 309570/262595. 1) Cal. 38 Colt. SN 262595. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ replacement bbl that has a gold bead altered replacement front sight with 1-line block letter address, marked on left side “(BISLEY MODEL) 38 COLT”. Left side of frame has 2-line three patent dates and Rampant Colt trademark. Backstrap has been fully checkered. Mounted with fantastic engraved hollow Bohlin 2-pc silver grips with screw from right grip. Grips are engraved in incredible foliate arabesque and floral patterns with fine shaded background. Left grip, at the bottom edge is inlaid with the raised gold initials “HMH” (H.M.Horkheimer 1882-1962). Left side of front strap and buttstrap, under the grip is marked with the assembly number “359”, which number is also found inside the ejector housing but not on the bbl or cylinder. This number indicates that this revolver had been returned to Colt for rework, probably at which time the bbl and cylinder were replaced. 2) Cal. 38 Special. SN 309570. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl that has altered, wedge-shaped front sight pinned over the orig sight. Bbl has 1-line block letter address and left side is marked “(BISLEY MODEL) / COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .38 SPECIAL”. Left side of frame has 2-line three patent date and Rampant Colt in circle. This revolver is mounted with nearly identically engraved grips to match number 1 above with the screw from the left grip. Right grip is inlaid with the raised gold initials “HMH”. Revolvers are accompanied by an incredible Bohlin-made dbl Buscadero rig about 44″ l x 3-1/4 w lined dark brown leather belt tooled in foliate and floral arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. The entire bottom edge of the belt is studded with small silver flower blossom buttons. The billets are mounted with a beautifully engraved Bohlin silver buckle set, marked on back of buckle. The holsters made for 5-1/2″ bbl Single Action revolvers have elliptical Cheyenne plugs with sewn back edge and fine calfskin lining. Holsters are secured to the skirts with a sgl strap that each have a fine engraved Bohlin buckle marked on the back “STERLING”. One of these straps is broken and the other very dry and fragile. Top edge of holsters and completely around the skirts are mounted with matching silver floral buttons. Back of the belt and back of each holster has the “BOHLIN-MADE / CALIF. / HOLLYWOOD” cartouche and back of each holster and belt are professionally hand-carved “H.M.Horkheimer”. Mr. Horkheimer, along with his brother founded the Balboa Amusement Production Company, an early film production company based in Long Beach, California. They began making movies in 1911 and ceased production in 1918 after having produced 229 mostly short films. This is an incredible set by one of Hollywood’s most famous silver and leather companies. The likelihood is that Mr. Horkheimer may have starred in some of his own movies and used this rig with his costume. CONDITION: 1) Fine. Bbl and cylinder retain about 95-96% glossy Colt blue. Frame and hammer retain about 95% orig case colors, strong in front gullets, moderately faded elsewhere. Trigger guard and front strap retain about 95% thinning Colt blue and the backstrap is a blue-grey patina. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore. 2) Bbl and cylinder retain 95-98% crisp Colt blue with only sharp edge wear. Frame and hammer retain about 30-40% faded case colors with the balance silver-grey. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 70% orig blue, strong on the trigger guard, faded on the backstrap. Grips are extremely fine. Hammer is not solid in safety or half-cocked notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore. Holster rig is somewhat dry, in need of treatment with its one broken strap. Otherwise, it is extremely fine with sharp tooling showing little wear or soil. 52587-1 JRL (15,000-25,000) C&R – Lot 1194
LOT OF COLT 2ND AND 3RD GENERATION DRAGOON AND WALKER REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 3RD DRAGOON. SN 23455. Cal. 44. Colt’s Manufacturing Co. “C” Series 2nd generation revolver. Only 3,899 manufactured 1974-78. Bbl 7-1/2″. 6-shot roll engraved cyl, blue encased finish with brass grip straps, one piece walnut grip. All visible SN’s match. Accompanied by wood grain 1-pc box with full liners having proper SN label. Box contains instruction papers. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears unused retaining 98% orig finish. Grip straps have light tarnish from storage. Bore is bright. Mechanics are crisp. 2) COLT WITNEYVILLE HARTFORD DRAGOON. SN 1249B. Cal. 44. Colt Black Powder Arms Co. 3rd Generation signature series, manufactured 1998-2002. 7-1/2″ bbl, 6-shot roll engraved cyl. Blue and case colored finish with silver plated square back trigger guard and back strap. 1-pc walnut grips. All visible SN’s match. Includes orig gray box and white over box. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl and action retain over 86% blue and case colored finish. Silver finished grip straps show scattered spots of finish loss and storage related corrosion. Grips have very good finish. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 52332-163, 52332-183 DS (750-1,250) – Lot 3158
*1ST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER CUSTOM ENGRAVED FOR SHERIFF PHIL HARRIS OF EMORY, TEXAS WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 280457. Cal. 44/40. This gun is accompanied by copy of factory letter showing gun was shipped to El Paso, Texas in June of 1906 with 4-3/4″ bbl. Also accompanying is letter from Master Engraver David Wade Harris of Jacksonville, Texas stating he engraved this gun for Sheriff Phil Harris in the 1980’s and added carved mother-of-pearl grips. Obviously, Sheriff Harris carried this gun as there is light muzzle wear, but engraving is still strong and gold plating on trigger and hammer still discerned. CONDITION: Fine as refinished and engraved by D. W. Harris in the 1980’s. Mechanically fine with crisp well discerned bore. 52247-1 JS (4,000-6,000) C&R – Lot 3087
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH BELT AND HOLSTER WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 193124. Cal 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2 line address, marked on left side “(BISLEY MODEL) 38 W.C.F.”. Left side of frame has 2 line 3 Patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved spread-winged eagle on left side. Engraving appears to be factory from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Engraving consists of about C coverage foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunbursts on the recoil shield & loading gate. Top of the backstrap, around the hammer slot is engraved in his trademark fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Matching patterns to the frame extend up both sides of the bbl and around the address. Top strap has leaf & vine patterns with a snake pattern in top gullet of ejector housing. Cylinder is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. Chicago, IL February 22, 1900 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by an unmarked money/cartridge belt that is 34″ with a replaced tongue billet which has extended the length by about 3″. Belt is made of 2 pieces of fine russet brown leather, 2-5/8″ wide with tooled patterns and 41 sewn-on cartridge loops, Buckle billet is originally sewn on with a single rivet with a brass D-ring buckle. The belt is mounted with a fine, fully tooled double loop, left hand holster marked on the inside of the skirt “T.W. MCDONALD / LEAD, SO. DAK.”. This rare rig being left-handed with a left hand pearl grip leads one to believe that it is an orig set. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran there were fewer than 60 Bisley revolvers factory engraved of which, at the time of the printing only 54 were known. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 98-99% restored nickel finish with only slight muzzle edge wear on the left side and tip of the ejector housing. There is a small area of pitting under the finish on the cylinder. Grip has a small chip at the frame on the left side and a couple other tiny chips, otherwise is sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong, sharp bore with fine pitting. Belt has a somewhat crackled surface with one broken cartridge loop. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear on the loops & toe and shows a somewhat worn dark patina. Altogether a fine rig. 52310-1 (8,000-12,000) C&R – Lot 3084
THREE COLT MANUFACTURING COMPANY 1851 NAVY SECOND GENERATION REVOLVERS.
1) COLT 1851 NAVY. SN 23014. Cal. 36. F series revolver only 3950 manufactured 1980-1981. 4-1/2″ oct bbl. 6-shot roll engraved cylinder. Blue finish with case colored frame and loading lever. Brass square back trigger guard and back strap. 1-pc walnut grip. SN’s on frame, bbl, cylinder, grip straps and loading lever match. Wood grained box with foam inserts and instruction papers. Box has hand marked SN on flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Extremely fine, appears unused. Over 99% wood and metal finish. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. Box has taped small tears by end flaps. 2) COLT 1851 NAVY. SN 24610. Cal. 36. F series revolver only 3950 manufactured 1980-1981. 4-1/2″ oct bbl. 6-shot roll engraved cylinder. Blue finish with case colored frame and loading lever. Brass square back trigger guard and back strap. 1-pc walnut grip. SN’s on frame, bbl, cylinder, grip straps and loading lever match. Wood grained box with foam inserts and warranty papers. Box is torn and missing one flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Over 98% blue and case colored finish. Brass pieces have storage related tarnish. Very good grips. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 3) COLT 1851. SN 22199. Cal. 36. F series revolver only 3950 manufactured 1980-1981. 4-1/2″ oct bbl. 6-shot roll engraved cylinder. Blue finish with case colored frame and loading lever. Silver finished brass square back trigger guard and back strap. 1-pc walnut grip. SN’s on frame, bbl, cylinder, grip straps and loading lever match. Wood grained box with foam inserts and instruction papers. Box has hand marked SN on end flap. PROVENANCE: The collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine condition. Over 98% blue and case colors. Silver finished grip straps have light storage related tarnish. Very good grips. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore. 52332-162, 52332-164, 52332-170, 52332-164 DS (1,200-1,800) – Lot 3147
*EXTREMELY RARE TRANSITIONAL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN A SCARCE CALIBER FACTORY ENGRAVED BY WILBUR GLAHN WITH IVORY GRIPS AND FACTORY LETTER.
SN 341804. Cal. 44 Russian & S&W Special. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with V-notch rear sight in the top strap. Left side of the bbl has the roll marked caliber “RUSSIAN AND S&W SPECIAL 44”. Left front side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the Rampant Colt trademark. Mounted with very beautiful 2-pc ivory grips that have deep left & right Colt medallions. SN was observed on the bottom front of frame and on the left side of the front & backstraps under the grip. Rear face of the cylinder has last 4 digits of matching SN. This revolver is beautifully engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about B-style which consists of about 50% coverage extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with nearly full coverage on the frame, recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in extremely well executed leaf & vine patterns with beautiful, simple arabesque patterns on the bbl which extend from the frame to the front sight, surrounding the 1-line block letter address. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake pattern in the top gullet with extremely well executed geometric patterns on the outer radius. Each side of the frame bbl boss is engraved with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive V-shape pattern which are also found at the top of the backstrap and on the heel & toe of the grip frame. Buttstrap is engraved in a light arabesque pattern with an extremely detailed hunters star on the trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved to match with a continuous running foliate arabesque pattern between & behind the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder has a double wavy line border pattern. Rear edges of the frame on each side of the hammer slot are engraved in feather patterns with very nicely shaded background. Wilbur Glahn began working for Colt in 1919 and was greatly influenced by the master engraver Cuno Helfricht which shows in much of the extremely fine detail found on this revolver, particularly in the very fine shading & crisp, sharp cuts. The pearled background found in the engraving on the frame is very consistent and even, also an influence by Mr. Helfricht which was not so noticeable on Mr. Glahn’s later work. The leaf & vine patterns on the top strap of this revolver and the arabesque patterns on the bbl are also indicative of Mr. Helfricht’s influence and are reminiscent of the early leaf & vine patterns found on his work on early percussion Colt’s. A review of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson, in the Wilbur Glahn section, disclosed several other similarly engraved revolvers, but few with such simple artistic beauty as found on this one. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 S&W, with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, ivory stocks & factory engraved, shipped to Baker, Hamilton, Pacific Co., San Francisco, CA / Ellery Arms Co. on May 9, 1921 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a 1-page letter by renowned Colt Historian, author & researcher, the late R.L. Wilson wherein he discusses the Cuno Helfricht / Wilbur Glahn transition engraved pieces which he states are the best work by Mr. Glahn. A very similar example of this rare transitional work is seen in Wilson & Hables book of Colt pistols on page 216 and 217 further describing the rarity of these embellished arms. This is truly an exceptional work by Mr. Glahn. PROVENANCE: Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Excellent plus, all matching . Overall retains about 99% plus crisp, orig nickel with only a very light cylinder line and a couple small spots of flaking under the grips. Grips are excellent with a few age lines and show a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, new & unfired. Possibly a one of one ever produced. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Please read the Conditions of Sale, section 15, for more information regarding the Endangered Species Act, and your responsibilities as a buyer. 52598-1 (75,000-125,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1158
FINE CIVIL WAR ERA FACTORY ENGRAVED MANHATTAN POCKET NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 29652. Cal. 36. Standard configuration 6-1/2″ oct bbl with 1-line Newark address, silver plated with scroll and punch dot engraving in style of Civil War Colts. 5-shot cylinder is engraved with 5 military panel scenes with floral engraving around frames. Varnished 1-pc walnut grips have rich color. This is a beautifully engraved Civil War Pocket Navy revolver rarely seen with contemporary engraving and all silver which presents as well as any engraved Civil War Colt. PROVENANCE: The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Fine overall, retaining about 95% orig nickel with balance smooth silver grey with tiny areas of pitting. All matching, well fit grips with tacking inside toes, both chipped, small dents and bruises retaining 95% bright piano-like varnish. Mechanically functional with bright crisp bore. 52438-12 JS (3,000-5,000) – Lot 3464
ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER WITH DISPLAY CASE.
SN 28564. Cal. 45 LC. 3-1/2″ bbl, full gold wash finish with blue screws, trigger and base pin. 2-pc Mother-of-pearl grips. Revolver is engraved overall in the Nimschke style with scroll, scallop and checkerboard motifs. Frame shows scrolled engraving on both sides with fine punch dot background. Recoil shield and loading gate show a scallop motif. The scallop motif is repeated again on the apron of the backstrap. Cylinder shows scroll engraving between the flutes with a scallop and line border around the rear periphery. Topstrap shows intertwining rope motif. Hammer shows scroll decoration on either side. Bbl shows 2-line Colt address. SNs match on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Last 4-digits of SN appear on cylinder. Action was not tested because of the nearly mint condition of revolver. Bore was not examined. Case holds revolver in upright position and is glazed on all sides. See photo. PROVENANCE: The Forrest G. Rhodes collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Revolver retains 98% of its gold wash finish overall with slight loss on right side of trigger guard, on the forestrap of trigger guard, backstrap, front of frame and front of trigger guard. Revolver was silver plated before it was gold washed and the silver is showing through. Mechanics are crisp. All markings are sharp and clear. Engraving is sharp and clear. Grips are fine with no missing pieces. Front sight has been slightly trimmed. Display case is in fine condition. A nice example of an old Colt that was born again. 52470-11 TEP (3,500-5,000) – Lot 3088
*RARE WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1903 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 316065. Cal 32 ACP. Blue finish with 3-3/4″ bbl, fixed sights and standard slide markings. Mounted with smooth 2-pc factory ivory grips that have left & right Rampant Colt deep silver medallions. Pistol is engraved by Wilbur Glahn in “C” plus coverage consisting of fine, intertwined, flowing foliate patterns with fine shaded background. Engraving extends fully over the slide, both sides of the frame, bottom front of the frame & slide, trigger guard, front strap, grip safety housing and rear of the slide & frame. Accompanied by an orig Colt black leatherette covered hard case that has burgundy satin lining inside the lid that is in the top embossed with the “COLT” trademark. Bottom is lined in burgundy velvet and recessed for the pistol. Very few of these early Colt pistols were factory engraved and few are known today, especially cased examples. Also included with this gun is a June 3, 1980 Colt Factory letter confirming the gun in its current configuration and lists this gun as a 1 gun shipment to B.H. Dyus Co. Los Angeles, CA. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine. Pistol retains about 85% orig blue showing sharp edge wear, a thin front strap and spring housing that is worn to gray metal from handling. Grips have a few small age lines otherwise are completely sound and show a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting. Case is extremely fine, completely sound with only some minor chips in the bottom edges. Interior shows very light fading & soil. 51516-17 JRL (12,500-17,500) C&R; ESA – Lot 1492
FINE BLACK POWDER ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER INSCRIBED TO MEXICAN PRESIDENT PORFIRIO DIAZ.
SN 23524. Cal 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 4-3/4″ bbl that appears to have been shortened, with relocated full front sight. Top of the bbl has 1-line block letter address and left side of frame has 2-line 2-Patent dates. Ejector housing is second type with bullseye ejector rod head. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side with major repairs & reinforcements on the insides. Revolver is very nicely engraved by L.D.Nimschke with about “C” coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Sides of the bbl boss have crosshatch engraving and top of backstrap has Mr. Nimschke’s typical flower blossom. Backstrap is engraved with a double border leaving a large panel poorly engraved by another hand “PORFIRIO DIAZ”. Buttstrap is engraved in geometric patterns & the trigger bow with a hunters star. Top of the bbl is engraved with chip & dot borders surrounding the bbl address. The relocated front sight was installed through the front end of the engraving. Ejector housing is engraved in geometric and foliate patterns and the cylinder with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with a narrow border at the rear edge. Bbl has last 4 digits of matching SN under the ejector housing and also on the cylinder. SN’s on the frame & trigger guard appear to have been restamped. Grips are old replacements as they have locator pin holes whereas the trigger guard does not have a locator pin or hole for one. Complete with Colt Factory Letter with the following details.Serial number 23524, Cal. 45/c ,Barrel length not listed , Finish blue , Types of stocks not listed. Shipped to Spies, Kissam and Company New York New York . Date March 31 1876. CONDITION: Fair, all matching as noted above. Traces of orig nickel remain in the most sheltered areas primarily around and under the ejector housing with the balance of the metal a cleaned gray patina. Left side of bbl & recoil shield have moderate pitting. One land on the cylinder is correspondingly pitted. Grips have large chips at the frame & heels with a repaired break in the right side also with a missing chip. Hammer will not hold in the safety notch otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 51605-2 JRL (5,000-8,000) – Lot 1139
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 150TH ANNIVERSARY ENGRAVING SAMPLER.
SN SA90379. Cal. .45LC. 4-3/4″ bbl. Black powder style frame and ejector head. SN is stamped on front bottom of frame. Full nickel finish with 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in a vine motif with coverage on both sides of front sight, both sides of bbl address, and at the rear of ejector housing. Frame shows a star motif and scroll at the forward end with scallop decoration on the recoil shield and loading gate. Frame is sparsely engraved at the rear around the screws. Backstrap apron shows Colt 150th Anniversary Rampant Colt logo in a circle. Backstrap is engraved “Colt Engraving Sampler”. Butt shows vine accent. Cylinder is engraved between the flutes in a scroll and scallop motif with a line and dot border around the rear periphery. Grips have silver medallions inlaid. Left grip is scrimshawed “R.Henshaw 1831” over “L.Nimschke 1850-1900” and “C.Helfricht 1871-1921” over “Contemporary”. Revolver is housed in a blue Colt custom shot box in a white sleeve. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Appears new and unfired. 51761-20 TEP (2,500-3,500) C&R; ESA – Lot 2170
SN 36 of 100. Statue is cast bronze of the very famous Colt trademark of a rearing stallion produced by the late Tommy Haas in 1968. Mr. Haas, the ultimate craftsman and reproduction artist faithfully copied the orig lead casting formally in the Colt archives and, at that time owned by famous Colt researcher, author & publisher R.L. Wilson. These new castings faithfully followed the orig and exactly 100 castings were made from the orig mold under the supervision of Mr. Haas. Statue measures 21″ high including a 1-1/2″ thick base by about 21″ long. Mounted on a cast bronze oval base that is also 21″ long by about 11″ wide. The base is somewhat domed with cast foliate and rock patterns with a pair of crossed Paterson revolvers towards the front center above the attached 3-5/8″ by 1-1/2″ brass plaque which is engraved “The / Rampant Colt / 36 of one hundred”. The horse as noted, is rearing in the posture representing a war horse holding a spear in it’s mouth and another between it’s front legs as though breaking it. There were only of 100 these bronzes cast in 1968 from the original Cold lead mold pattern of the Rampant Colt that was in the colt factory originally in 1855. The bronze is cast with an embellished base that exhibits two crossed Colt Texas Paterson revolvers. It has a brass escutcheon: The Rampant Colt/ #36 of One Hundred. This bronze is in excellent condition and is complete with two arrows as originally produced. The size is 21 inches high and 10 inches deep and 21 inches wide. Weight about 35 lbs. A wonderful highlight to any colt collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. 51638-1 (6,000-9,000) – Lot 1171
Please Note: The lot contains 10 guns NOT 8 guns as indicated in the title.
LOT OF EIGHT FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC PISTOLS RANGING FROM HAND CANNON THROUGH PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
1) TWIGG POCKET PISTOL. NSN. BOXLOCK FLINTLOCK, 1-3/4″ Barrel, 6-1/4″ overall, marked “Twigg” and “London” on brass frame, brass screw bbl, plain walnut bag grip, steel trigger guard, sliding safety. CONDITION: Very good. Old cleaning, nicely patenated, will not cock, trigger spring broken. 2) KETLAND & CO LONDON NAVAL OFFICERS F/L PISTOL. NSN. (ca 1785). 7-7/8″ Round swamped brass bbl, brass lockplate and pan, marked with makers name. Steel serpentine cock and frizzen. Acorn finial to trigger guard. Some relief carving around bbl tang. Pierced sideplate. CONDITION: Fair due to crudely replaced trigger guard bow and tang. Full stock appears sound, but with some minor stress cracks on left side, replaced ramrod with ferrule missing. 3) EUROPEAN POCKET PISTOL. NSN. UNMARKED PAIR OF SCREW BARREL BOXLOCK FLINTLOCK MUFF PISTOLS: Steel frames, 1″ barrels, Birmingham proofs, 5-1/4″ overall. Sliding safeties, folding spur triggers, floral and foliate engraving on frames, silver chinoiserie inlay in walnut bag grips. CONDITION: Good. Gray patina on metal, considerable lifting of inlay. Mechanically good. 4) EAST EUROPEAN MIGUELET HOLSTER PISTOL. NSN. HIGH QUALITY. 13-1/2″ Relief filed steel bbl attached to morocco leather covered nearly full stock with three silver bands with inlay. Gold damascened lock, ball trigger with no guard. Scrolled silver sideplate, matching bbl bands, ball grip with silver cap decorated “en suite” with bands and backstrap. CONDITION: Fair, due to major break in stock at grip, otherwise good plus. Essentially, as found. 5) UNMARKED PISTOL HAND CANNON. NSN. INTERESTING BREECH LOADING MINIATURE HAND CANNON. 4-5/8″ Flared octagon bbl with “thunder mug” breech section put into battery with wooden wedge. Elm (?) stock with turned fruit wood (?) butt. 15″ overall. CONDITION: Good, cleaned, stock repair to breech area. 6) MIQUELET BELT PISTOL. NSN. PERCUSSION WITH BELT HOOK. 7-3/4″ Octagon to round bbl. Brass trigger guard. Walnut full stock with flared butt having floral carved cap. Steel belt hook on left side. CONDITION: Good, lightly cleaned patina. 7) COLT POCKET PISTOL 1849. SN 75733. 6″ Bbl. Standard configuration. Matching numbers. New York City bbl address. CONDITION: Fair. Re-blued over scattered pitting. Frame re-plated. Grips worn. Hammer cocks. Cylinder does not rotate. 8) WITTEMAN OF DARMSTADT FLINTLOCK PISTOLS. NSN. PAIR. (Most likely Johann, working 1793-95). 10″ Blued steel octagon to round bbls with makers name on top flats. Plain locks with roller frizzens. Walnut full stocks mounted with engraved brass furniture. Skip checkered grips with brass stud highlights on flared grips, with foliate cast caps. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Iron parts retain over 80% of their orig finish. Stocks have a few nicks and dings. Brass backstraps most likely later replacements. 51343-2, 51343-3, 51343-5, 51343-6, 51343-7, 51343-8, 51343-9, 51343-11 MGM5(3,550-6,500) – Lot 3520
*COLT COMBAT COMMANDER PISTOL FACTORY ENGRAVED BY R. BURT, WITH WOODEN BOX.
SN 70BS28500. Cal. .45 ACP. Factory nickel finish, factory engraved by R. Burt, genuine Ivory stocks. Left stock engraved with steer head, right engraved with flying eagle. Bbl marked “Colt .45 Auto”. Slide fully engraved on three sides, right side marked “Colt’s Combat Commander”, left side marked “Combat Commander Colt Automatic Caliber .45”, receiver marked “Engraved by R. Burt” above slide stop. Right side of receiver marked “Colt’s Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co. Hartford, Conn. U.S.A.” above SN. Serrated mainspring housing with no lanyard loop. Grip safety with short tang. Serrated hammer with lanyard hole. 70’s type thumb safety. Front sight serrated ramp, rear sight square notched. Mag is marked “Colt .45 Auto” with engraving. Entire gun has full coverage engraving very tastefully done. Pistol is housed in a Colt factory wood box with no label but has prancing pony on the lid interior and Colt logo on outside lid, interior has red velvet lining.With an additional black french fitted case with purple lining with provision for a spare magazine and ammunition. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Bore is shiny and appears like new. Mag is fully nickled with no sign of wear. Overall gun appears to be completely orig with no apparent wear and no sign of firing. Box is near excellent, small rub mark on interior lid lining near pony. 51516-16 KXK (10,000-15,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1495
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH BELT AND HOLSTER.
SN 193124. Cal 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2 line address, marked on left side “(BISLEY MODEL) 38 W.C.F.”. Left side of frame has 2 line 3 Patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved spread-winged eagle on left side. Engraving appears to be factory from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Engraving consists of about C coverage foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunbursts on the recoil shield & loading gate. Top of the backstrap, around the hammer slot is engraved in his trademark fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Matching patterns to the frame extend up both sides of the bbl and around the address. Top strap has leaf & vine patterns with a snake pattern in top gullet of ejector housing. Cylinder is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. Chicago, IL February 22, 1900 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by an unmarked money/cartridge belt that is 34″ with a replaced tongue billet which has extended the length by about 3″. Belt is made of 2 pieces of fine russet brown leather, 2-5/8″ wide with tooled patterns and 41 sewn-on cartridge loops, Buckle billet is originally sewn on with a single rivet with a brass D-ring buckle. The belt is mounted with a fine, fully tooled double loop, left hand holster marked on the inside of the skirt “T.W. MCDONALD / LEAD, SO. DAK.”. This rare rig being left-handed with a left hand pearl grip leads one to believe that it is an orig set. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran there were fewer than 60 Bisley revolvers factory engraved of which, at the time of the printing only 54 were known. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 98-99% restored nickel finish with only slight muzzle edge wear on the left side and tip of the ejector housing. There is a small area of pitting under the finish on the cylinder. Grip has a small chip at the frame on the left side and a couple other tiny chips, otherwise is sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong, sharp bore with fine pitting. Belt has a somewhat crackled surface with one broken cartridge loop. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear on the loops & toe and shows a somewhat worn dark patina. Altogether a fine rig. 51619-2 JRL (15,000-25,000) C&R – Lot 1143
Ivory Note due to ivory beads. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meet the standard for sale under ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase.
LOT OF SIX UNITED STATES HISTORICAL SOCIETY MINIATURE REVOLVERS.
1) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT SAA. SN 114. Miniature copy of famous Colt sgl action army revolver # 114. Presidential Edition. Factory engraved silver and gold finish. 1-pc checkered ivory grips. Cased in a mahogany box with glass lid. Case contains a plaque describing the miniature. CONDITION: New in box. 2) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT MODEL 60 ARMY. SN 400. Miniature of Colt model 1860 Army revolver. Classic Edition. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc walnut grip. Housed in a mahogany case with glass lid and plaque describing this miniature. CONDITION: As new in box. 3) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT MODEL 51 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 400. Miniature of a Colt Second Model Navy revolver. Classic Edition. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc burl and walnut grip. Housed in a mahogany case with a plaque describing this revolver. CONDITION: As new in box. 4) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT SAA REVOLVER. SN 1. Miniature of Colt Single Action Army revolver. SN 1. Classic Edition. Blue and case colored finish. German silver front sight. Housed in a mahogany case with plaque describing this miniature. CONDITION: As new in box. 5) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT MODEL 51 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 19. Miniature of Colt Second model Navy revolver. Presidential Edition. Factory engraved. Blue and case color finish with 1-pc mother of pearl grips with medallion. Housed in a mahogany case with a glass lid and a plaque describing this revolver. CONDITION: As new. 6) US HISTORICAL SOCIETY COLT WALKER. SN 185. Miniature of model 1847 Walker Colt. Presidential Edition. Factory engraved with 1-pc silver grip. Blue and case colored finish. Housed in a mahogany case with a glass lid and a plaque describing this miniature. CONDITION: As new in box. 51761-7, 51761-8, 51761-9, 51761-10, 51761-11, 51761-12 TEP (4,500-6,500) – Lot 2171
CONFEDERATE COL. JOHN S. MOSBY PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 142683. Cal. 36. This gun originally was in the extensive John S. Mosby Collection of the late Bob Daly of Middleburg, Virginia who had large collection of personal Mosby objects, including many orig letters and documents direct from the Mosby descendants.. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address, “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame and Cal. marking on left shoulder of trigger guard, brass trigger guard and back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Backstrap is engraved in period script “To J.S. Mosby from R.H.D.” and buttstrap is inscribed in matching script “Welbourne”. John Singleton Mosby was born in Virginia in 1833, educated locally and in 1849 entered the Univ. of Virginia. In 1852 he was expelled for shooting another student, a bully, who had insulted him. He was convicted of the crime and was sentenced to one year in jail and a $500 fine. He was pardoned by the Governor and the fine rescinded. At the outbreak of the Civil War he joined the Confederate Army as a private even though he was opposed to secession. He later stated that he fought for Virginia, not for slavery. In his early career he rode with the Washington Mounted Rifles but was recognized for his intelligence gathering abilities and in early 1862 was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and was authorized to form & command the 43rd Battallion, 1st Virginia Cavalry, Partisan Rangers. He was promoted to Captain and then Major in March 1863, to Lt. Col. in January 1864 and Colonel in December 1864. His command was notorious for their lightning-like and stealthy raids on Union supply trains and encampments. He was known by one & all as the “Grey Ghost”. At the end of the war he did not surrender his command but simply disbanded them. After the war he became a staunch Republican and worked on Gen. Grant’s campaign for president and subsequently was appointed Consul to Hong Kong 1878-1885. He served in numerous other government & state positions throughout the remainder of his career and died in 1916. The initials in the presentation on back strap of this revolver, “RHD”, are thought to be for Richard Henry Dulany (1820-1906), also a Virginian and cavalryman for the Confederacy. The Dulanys are a very old and venerated Virginia family and members of the wealthy Virginia aristocracy having arrived from Ireland in 1703. The Dulany ancestral home is called “Welbourne” and remains in the Dulany Family today as a public Bed & Breakfast Inn. In July 1861, Richard H. Dulany personally equipped a company of mounted riflemen, the Dulany Troop. Col. Mosby and Dulany were apparently friends during the war with recorded instances of Mosby and his troops resting and recuperating at Welbourne. Richard Dulany was originally a Captain in the 7th Virginia Cavalry in command of the Dulany Troop then was appointed Lt. Col. in October 1862 and Colonel in October 1864. He was wounded on three separate occasions and survived numerous campaigns and battles including Jackson’s Valley Campaign, Cedar Mountain, Second Manassas, Antietam, Wilderness Campaign, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor & several others. Accompanied by a packet of information regarding Col. Dulany including copies of his military record and copies of several photographs of Col. Mosby both in and out of uniform and with his family. Also included is the book The Dulanys of Welbourne, A Family in Mosby’s Confederacy, Vogtsberger, which consists primarily of letters between Col. Dulany and his family. Col. John Mosby was one of the most famous and enigmatic characters of the Civil War. Due to his unpredictability and daring & dashing raids against the Union troops his capture and/or death was greatly pursued by the Union. This cataloguer recalls reading somewhere that there was, unusually for a military person, a substantial reward offered for his capture or proof of his death. Apparently his continuing raids and the inability of the Union to capture him was greatly demoralizing to the Union Army in that area. Mosby supposedly preferred the 1851 Navy to all other hand guns as did so many other Confederate officers. If this gun could only speak and tell us how Dulany obtained this pistol made at the height of the Civil War in early 1863 and gave it to his comrade. Dunlay’s wartime letters should be read. PROVENANCE: Ex-Collection Bob Daly, Middleburg, VA. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except wedge which is numbered “20364” and the rammer handle which is numbered “2688”. (Grip was not checked.) Bbl & frame retain a gray/brown patina with traces of blue in most sheltered areas of bbl. Rammer handle is also a gray patina with traces of case colors in sheltered areas. Grip frame is an even light mustard patina, having been cleaned and polished in the past, now beginning to regain a patina. Grip is sound showing heavy edge wear with nicks, dings and scratches and retains about 50-60% orig varnish. Cylinder is a matching patina to the frame and retains about 60% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore 51619-1 JS (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1209
SN 105793. Cal 22 LR. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front & rear sight and mounted with full checkered walnut grips. Pistol is aftermarket engraved in about “C+” coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Right side of grip frame, under the grip is marked “ENGR. BY R. MAREK”. Accompanied by 1 orig, refinished 2-tone magazine. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains 99% plus strong custom blue with a few freckles of fine pitting under the blue on front strap, and bolt face. Grips are sound showing light diamond point wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 51516-18 JRL (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 1497
*CUSTOM BUILT AND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN AN UNUSUAL CALIBER.
SN SA61860. Cal 9 MM. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and the Rampant Colt trademark. Serial number was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front & backstraps under the grip. Mounted with factory orig silver medallion smooth ivory grips. Revolver is lightly engraved on the cylinder & bbl in very detailed foliate arabesque patterns with very fine pearled background. Frame is not engraved. All of the screws, hammer, trigger, base pin & ejector rod head are brilliant fire blued. Accompanied by a handwritten letter on Colt stationery dated January 11, 2017 over the signature of “Don Cox” wherein he states that he built this gun from parts of a 44 caliber revolver and the bbl, cylinder, grips & ejector rod tube purchased at a gun show. He states that he had the late Howard Dove do the engraving and finishing as well as fitting the grips. He states that he did the assembly and “rework” on the bbl & cylinder. Don Cox was a Custom Gunsmith for Colt at the plant for many years. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually 100% of its fine custom nickel & fire blue finish. Grips are equally fine with a mellow ivory patina. Revolver appears to be new & unfired. 51720-1 JRL (7,500-9,500) ESA – Lot 1150
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP POCKET MODEL REVOLVER.
SN 63568. Cal. 22RF. 2-3/8″ bbl, full nickel finish, 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved on either side of the frame in a scroll motif with punch dot background. Cylinder is engraved in an intertwining line motif with star accents and walking punch border. Bbl is engraved on either side of the address with a dot and line motif and a splay toward the muzzle. Bbl shows “COLT” 2-line address on top. Left forward side of frame is marked “22CAL”. SN is stamped on bottom of grip, rear face of cylinder and on bottom of bbl lug. SN is written in pencil on the inside of each grip. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 90% bright nickel finish with one stain on the left side near the front of the address. Markings are sharp, engravings are sharp. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Cylinder retains 80% nickel finish with some loss on the front and rear face, and a slight drag mark. Frame shows 90% nickel finish overall with sharp engraving and clear marks. Grips are fine, intact with a deep patina on both sides. 51733-2 TEP (2,500-4,500) ESA – Lot 2180
EXTREMELY RARE AND SPECTACULAR CONDITION, FINEST OF ONLY TWO ROBERT JONES LIVERPOOL MARKED ENGLISH CONFEDERATE LEMAT GRAPESHOT REVOLVERS MADE 1862-1863.
SN 16. Cal. 42/18. This is no doubt the finest example of two extant specimens. The only other example is SN 6, which was offered by James D. Julia and sold in 2002 was well used. This gun, like its mate, shares the early LeMat characteristics of reciprocating pin mechanism to turn and lock cylinder. This mechanism proved defective in the field, and in 1863 the ratchet system like Colt was utilized. The Tipping & Lawden Confederate navy contract of 1864 produced 1,000 London LeMats which are quite different then these varieties and are all SNd 8000-9000. Even this group of London LeMats, though a 1,000 were produced, survival is quite low as the census is quite small; many must have been lost on a blockade runner, though that history is not documented as of yet. Like the other rare London LeMat & Girard patent offered in this sale, this was also a prize of the Clifford Young Collection. SN 16 is noted on most major parts and Roman Numeral II on others. Bbl markings “ROBERT JONES, NO 6 CHAPEL ST. LIVERPOOL” is engraved on top bbl flat. Ed Simmons in his Lemat research published in Confederate Handguns, 1963, Albaugh, Benet & Simmons; pg 99 in correspondence between the Confederate Navy Agent Bullock and Caleb Huse Confederate Agent “we have been very disappointed. The proposal we made to these gentlemen of Liverpool was not at all disastrous for them, we only asked them to give us the necessary money for the manufacture of their arms; these arms would have been delivered to them for further dispatching to American and the payment would have been made to them…. we asked them to indicate us another firm in Liverpool which we could make an arrangement…there is evidently an agreement between them and Major Hues, in order to keep the monopoly of the commerce between the Confederate States”. With all of the problems Girard was having with the English production of his guns, could this Robert Jones, Livrpool made gun be part of this September 1862 correspondence? We do know the English agent Perreaux & Company of London did receive November 8, 1862 500 LeMat revolvers destined for the Confederate States War Department that were sent abroad on the ship Lustika, November 8, 1862. It was always believed that this initial shipment was strictly Paris addressed guns, but based on this correspondence, English made varieties could have easily been included and it is to note that all of these early Paris guns are quite rare also. This is a unique opportunity to obtain an extremely fine and rare Confederate LeMat with these unique markings. PROVENANCE: Clifford Young Collection; pictured on pg 78 and described on pg 82 of “The Confederate LeMat Revolver”, Doug Adams, 2005. CONDITION: Fine overall. Strong traces of bright blue are found on frame, bbl, shotgun bbl, cylinder and loading assembly. There is a number “3827” stamped on left stock which we believe may be a number from the US Cartridge Collection (more research required and this inventory # is possible key). Gun is functional with crisp, shiny rifled bore and smooth shotgun cylinder. There are areas of scattered denting and pitting which do not affect the overall aesthetics of this arm. 51410-2 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1211
**COLT AR-15 SP 1 MACHINE GUN SET UP FOR SILENCER.
SN SP94595. Cal. .223. 12-1/4″ bbl. Classic full-auto Colt Model SP 1 with bare threads at muzzle for suppressor which is not present. Round handguards, forward assist, and telescoping buttstock. Front of mag housing engraved “RPB INC. / ATL GA”. Rampant Colt logo marked “Colt AR-15” with standard Colt manufacturer’s markings. Firing mechanism moves smoothly when operated by hand, this weapon appears fully functional. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable on an ATF form 3 or form 4. PROVENANCE: From the estate collection of noted discerning firearms enthusiast, Donald W. Dix, Jr. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish near excellent, retaining nearly all of its orig black finish with evidence of firing but also of extremely fastidious care. Telescoping buttstock well lubricated and slides very freely. Bolt is very clean. Bore is excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt is in the white but otherwise in appearance and compactness it would difficult to improve on this classic package of portable firepower. 51794-8 JWK139 (18,000-25,000) – Lot 1705
SCARCE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER.
SN 73723. Cal 41 COLT. Nickel finish with 5″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has the 3-line patent dates. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips with last 3-digits of matching serial number to this revolver on the inside. Rear face of cylinder also has last 3-digits of matching SN. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his typical patterns of flowing foliate arabesque scrolls that have fine pearled background. Left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved with this traditional sunburst or flower blossom patterns. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend 3/4 up each side of the bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot patterns with a simple vine pattern on the outer radius. Sides of the trigger guard are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Cylinder is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating patterns on lands between flutes with a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Top of the backstrap is engraved in a simple X-pattern with geometric patterns on the backstrap & trigger guard. Altogether a fine factory engraved Colt Thunderer. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 41 Colt with 5″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks & factory engraved. Shipped to Ketlesen & Degatau, El Paso, TX on December 30, 1889 in a 15 gun shipment. Also accompanied by a tan leather single loop mail-order holster with pressed decorations and a Cheyenne plug. Very few of these revolvers survive today and of those extremely few are engraved. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including cylinder & grips. Bbl retains 88-90% strong orig nickel with losses around the muzzle and some fine pitting on left side of muzzle. Frame retains about 98% crisp orig nickel and the cylinder about 90%. Backstrap has some loose nickel & corrosion at the top and on the backstrap with a few small flakes on the trigger bow. Hammer is bright polished on the sides and retains most of its fire blue on the edges. Trigger retains most of its orig fire blue, thin on the front face. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Grips are crisp showing great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pin-prick pitting. Holster shows moderate wear and retains about 75% orig finish. 51732-6 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1156
SN D95925. Cal. .22 LR. 4″ bbl with ventilated rib, target sights, full blue finish, with 2-pc checkered walnut grips showing nickel Colt medallions. Engraving is nearly full coverage in a vine scroll motif with a stippled background. Bottom of frame, trigger guard, and straps show no engraving. Engraving is nicely accomplished. Left side of bbl shows model and cal mark, right side of bbl shows Colt address. SN is stamped on the frame in the crane mortise and on the crane opposite the mortise. Revolver has target sights, front sight has red insert, rear sight has been polished white. CONDITION: Very good as totally re-finished. Revolver retains nearly all the blue finish. Sight, hammer, and trigger have been polished to a bright finish. Markings are sharp. Bore is bright with sharp rifling. Cyls are clean. There is what appears to be an Engravers signature on the left side of the grip frame under grip. Grips are very good, with sharp checkering and only light handling marks overall. Made in 1976. 51761-17 TEP (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2470
EXTREMELY RARE AND FINEST EXAMPLE OF EARLY LONDON MADE CONFEDERATE LEMAT GRAPESHOT REVOLVER, ONLY 4 EXAMPLES KNOWN.
SN 128. Cal. 42/18 ga. In the archives of the Confederate Memorial Hall, New Orleans, is a letter dated August 28, 1862 to General P.G.T. Beauregard from LeMat concerning the completion of revolvers in England by Girard. The date of this letter, no doubt, relates to the English patent filed April 15, 1862 which mirrors the Paris made revolvers still utilizing the reciprocating pin cylinder rotating and locking mechanism. There are so few London LeMats known with these early features, Alain Serpette, among the early LeMat researchers, notes only 4 guns of this genre: SNs 3, 9, 55 and 128. Doug Adams in his text The Confederate LeMat Revolver, 2005, also hypothesizes why these early guns exist. This correspondence cited moves it. The reciprocating pin mechanism was modified to a ratchet system like Colt in 1864 and Confederate Naval contract guns are all of this type with more modifications and should not be confused with these extremely rare 1862-1863 revolvers. Of the few examples known, all saw relatively hard use just like the Paris produced guns of these same years. This example no doubt, is the finest known example of this early London LeMat. These early guns are engraved not stamped “LEMAT & GIRARD’S PATENT LONDON” on top barrel flat. Ed Simmons wrote the chapter on LeMat revolvers in Confederate Handguns by Albaugh, Benet & Simmons, 1963 and is the only author other than Adams to state definitively that a handful of LeMat Revolvers were being made in England at the same time as in Paris during the earliest production. Cliff Young prized this rarity when it was part of his monumental LeMat collection. PROVENANCE: Clifford Young Collection, listed by SN and model described on pgs 119-121 “Confederate Handguns” by Albaugh, Benet & Simmons, 1963; listed by SN “Colonel Fracois A. Le Mat”, Alain F. Serpette, pg 53, 1995; listed by SN “LeMat The Man, The Gun”, Forgett & Serpette, pg 77, 1996; listed by SN and model described in “The Confederate LeMat Revolver”, Doug Adams, pg 79, 2005. CONDITION: Fine overall. Metal retains strong traces of thin blue. Matching SNs are found throughout. Fully functional with good bores and crisp markings. 51410-1 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1212
SN 19693. Cal. 12 ga. 30″ laminated twist bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Full length laminated top rib with brass front bead. Dbl triggers, round knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in two-point pattern with 14-1/8″ LOP over case hardened steel buttplate. Splinter forearm with long Deeley release checkered in two-point pattern with triangular ebony tip. Unengraved receiver marked “Colt’s PT.F.A.MFG.Co.” on both sides. Weight: 8 lbs. CONDITION: Very good. Bbls retain approx 80% orig brown laminated pattern with some minor toning. Small crimp at muzzle on bottom of left bbl. Buttstock and forearm are very good with minor handling marks and light impressions throughout and retain approx 80% orig varnish, checkering lightly thinned. Forearm tip with shrinking. Receiver retains approx 20-30% orig case color mostly in protected areas. Bores are very good showing a few old dings having been removed. Buttplate with orig case color. Mechanics are good. 51567-14 JSL (2,000-3,000) – Lot 2138
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO NEW MEXICO AND EL PASO TEXAS BUSINESSMAN AND POLITICIAN FELIX MARTINEZ.
SN 99319. Cal 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and marked on left side “COLT. D.A. 41”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates & the Rampant Colt logo in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with deluxe coverage of about 75-80% of the surface. Engraving consists of flowing foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Recoil shield & loading gate have Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunburst patterns. Top of the backstrap is engraved in an elaborate fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the trigger bow & trigger guard. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with snake & dot edges. Top of the bbl is engraved, full length with geometric & snake & dot patterns. Ejector housing is engraved full length on the outer radius with snake & dot patterns and a flower blossom in the center with additional snake & dot pattern in the top gullet. Cylinder is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s traditional alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes with geometric patterns toward the rear and snake & dot patterns around the rear edge. There are corresponding snake & dot patterns on the front edges of the recoil shield & loading gate. This is one of the most elaborately engraved Model 1877 revolvers ever examined by this cataloger. According to consignor’s family legend this revolver was the property of his great grandfather, Felix Martinez (March 1857-March 1916).El Palacio, the history magazineof New Mexico, in a feature article described him as “the most prominent Hispanic of his time”. Mr. Martinez was born in Taos County New Mexico and received his education in New Mexico. In 1876 Mr. Martinez was employed in a store in Colorado, later becoming part owner of a mercantile business there. In 1879 he moved to Las Vegas New Mexico where he opened his own mercantile business and bought & sold cattle, all at about the same time that the Santa Fe Railway reached that point. He sold out in 1886 and was elected Territorial Representative in 1888. In 1890 he purchased a Santa Fe newspaper and moved it to Las Vegas. Mr. Martinez became more involved in politics and in 1893 was appointed clerk of the U.S. Territorial Court for the fourth district of New Mexico. In 1897 he moved with his family to El Paso, TX where he owned and published a newspaper from 1899-1909, founded a Realty company, organized the Portland Cement Co. there and a small railroad that serviced the El Paso area. He continued involvement in politics serving on the Board of Directors for several banks and was instrumental in the construction of the Elephant Butte Dam in New Mexico, at that time the world’s largest irrigation project. Mr. Martinez served as liaison & advisor for the 1909 meeting between Presidents Porfirio Diaz & William Howard Taft. In April 1911 Mr. Martinez acted as an intermediary to prevent Francisco Madero’s revolutionary forces from sacking Cuidad Juarez. He was successful but only temporarily as a month later General Pancho Villa attacked Juarez and executed those he considered to be enemies. In 1912 when New Mexico was to become a state Mr. Martinez ran as a candidate for the U.S. Senate, but was finally defeated on the 8th ballot. In 1913 Mr. Martinez was appointed President of the Panama-Pacific Commission and along with other dignitaries toured much of South America and in 1915 participated in the Panama-Pacific Exposition in San Francisco. Mr. Martinez died on March 22, 1916 after a bout of pneumonia. He is buried on his ranch in New Mexico near the Colorado line.He has been the subject of feature articles in The Password, the publication of the El Paso Historical Society; and is the subject of an exhibit in the El Paso History Museum.With Colt Factory letter documenting serial number 99319 Cal, 41/c Barrel length illegible finish nickel stocks Pearl Factory engraved Yes , Sold to Ketelson & Degeau El Paso Texas Shipped to E.Alvarez Mexico City Mexico Jan 18 1895 in a 2 gun shppment. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains about 99& crisp orig nickel finish. Screw heads retain most of their orig bright fire blue. Hammer has polished sides with bright fire blue rear edge. Trigger retains about 60% bright fire blue. Left grip has a small chip at the frame and a couple of age lines in the right grip, otherwise the grips are sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Appears to have been fired, probably no more than one cylinder load. 51595-1 JRL (7,500-15,000) – Lot 1157
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT DIAMONDBACK DA REVOLVER WITH BOX.
SN P36183. Cal 38 SPCL. Nickel finish with 4″ vent rib bbl & adjustable rear sight. Mounted with gold medallion checkered walnut grips. Frame, bbl & cylinder are engraved in about A or B coverage consisting of flowing foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Accompanied by a Colt 1-pc wood grain, Styrofoam lined box with owners manual & papers. Very likely this revolver had a presentation case as there is no end label on the box. CONDITION: New and unfired. Box is equally new. 51176-54 JRL (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2478
*UNUSUAL LEFT HAND 20 GAUGE JAMES PURDEY SELF OPENING SIDELOCK EJECTOR SINGLE TRIGGER GAME SHOTGUN.
SN 21376. (ca 1917) Cal. 20 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 28″ Chopper lump bbls are engraved with Purdey’s famous name and Audley House address along with Whitworth Steel info on narrow slightly swamped game rib. Gun is no “2” of a pair, with “2” engraved on rear portion of rib, top lever, and forend iron. Bbl flats are stamped with London nitro proofs for 2-1/2″ chambers. Bottoms of bbls are stamped with SNs, “CHOKE”, and bbl makers initials “S.S” (Sam Simons). Tube numbers “46367” and “46368” are on loop. Case hardened, small sized Beesley patent self-opening sidelock action has unusual left pivoting top lever for left hand shooter, and features automatic safety (SAFE inlaid in gold), bushed strikers, raised rib tumbler end cocking indicators, and Jurjevic sgl non-selective trigger (Intercepting sears retained; tails and blocking studs removed). Action is engraved with very well cut Purdey house style rose bouquets and small scroll. “J. Purdey & Sons” is on each lockplate, as well as bottom of action over “London”. Scroll engraved trigger guard has SN on tang. Nicely streaked and lightly figured European walnut straight grip stock measures 14-3/8″ over leather faced Old English pad, over 1-3/16″ well matched lengthening piece, and features standard drop points, grip checkering, and a gold oval on toe line engraved with a winged crown over “John S. Dumont” (most likely co-author with R. L. Wilson and C. C. Cunningham on Colts). Matching splinter ejector forend with Anson release has actioner’s initials “JT” (Joe Thompson) on iron. Bore diameter: left -.619, right – .618. Bore restrictions: left – .012 (mod), right – .007 (IC). Wall thickness: left – .032, right – .029. Drop at heel: 1-7/8″, drop at comb: 1-1/2″. Cast is neutral. Weight: 5 lbs. 12 oz. LOP: 14-3/8″. CONDITION: Fine. Bbls retain most of what appears to be their orig blue. Action and locks retain 20 – 30% orig case hardening color. Stocks have most of an old refinish with numerous subsequent light marks, wear and dents. Checkering freshened. Bores are excellent. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Trigger works. (The Jurjevic is a very highly regarded single trigger.) 51505-3 (18,000-25,000) C&R – Lot 1346
SN 6440. Cal. 12 ga. 30″ Damascus bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Chokes Full/Full. Full length matted top rib with brass front bead. Dbl triggers, extractors, auto safety. Full knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in two-point pattern with brass oval engraved with fancy “C” (Colt family connection?) and 13-7/8″ LOP over orig Colt HRBP. Splinter forearm with Deely release checkered in four-point pattern and triangular ebony tip. Receiver is border line engraved. Weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz. CONDITION: Very good as found. Bbls retain 70% browned orig Damascus pattern. Buttstock and forearm are excellent and retain most orig finish with scattered scratches, handling marks, and hunting bumps, though some finish has been added for preservation. Receiver retains better than 40% orig color and will benefit from gentle cleaning. Action is a bit gummy, and will also benefit from gentle cleaning. Bores are bright and shiny with scattered beginning erosion. This gun should be further researched. 51717-1 JSL (1,500-2,500) – Lot 2139
SN 298226. Cal 22. All blue finish with 3″ bbl, replaced front sight with hand engraved “COLT” on top. Grip frame has been altered to bird head shape and is mounted with 2-pc carved wood grips. Cylinder has been sleeved from what appears to be about 38 Special or possible 32-20 and the hammer nose has had a rnd firing pin installed with the frame altered to accommodate the rimfire firing pin. Revolver is amateurishly engraved in foliate patterns with cross-hatching on sides of the bbl and a fan pattern at top of backstrap. Backstrap is engraved in a series of connected circles. Front strap is stippled and trigger bow is engraved with sun pattern. Recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in fan patterns and front sides of the frame have deep punch marks. Cylinder is engraved to match with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Base pin is first type with dimpled ends and screw heads are engraved. All together a most unusual revolver. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains about 98% custom blue finish. Trigger is pitted. Grips are sound showing light to moderate wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 51505-6 JRL (1,500-2,500) C&R – Lot 1158
*LOT OF TWO COLT .32 AUTO PISTOLS GENERAL OFFICER AND ENGRAVED.
1) COLT 1903 HAMMERLESS. SN 293494. Cal. 32ACP. Pistol engraved on all surfaces with flower pattern. Right slide marked “Colt Automatic Calibre 32 Rimless Smokeless”. Left slide marking “Colt Standard Patent”. Rampant Colt on rear of slide. Colt “VP” legible. Upper trigger guard bow marked “R”. Short, smooth trigger. Slide stop checkered. Mainspring housing plain. Magazine marked “Cal .380 Colt”. Mag release serrated. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter listing this gun as being shipped to Murta, Appleton & Co. Philadelphia. 5 Guns in shipment. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Finish moderately eroded on front and rear grip straps. Colt plastic stocks with Rampant Colt and brass inserts around screws good. Slight pitting on bottom of magazine. Slight pitting on bottom of butt. Bore lands and grooves eroded but still visible. C&R 2) COLT 1903 OFFICERS MODEL. SN 571146. Cal. .32 ACP. 3-3/4″ bbl, gray Parkerized finish, 2-pc checkered walnut grips with Colt medallions. Fourth type with mag disconnect safety. Slide shows 2-line Colt address and patent mark on left side with Rampant Colt logo to the rear. Right side of slide shows 2-line Colt cal designation under ejector port. Frame is marked “U.S. Property” above trigger guard on right side. Left side of frame shows SN stamped above trigger guard. 2-pc checkered walnut grips with nickel Colt medallions. Mag base is stamped “Cal. 32 Colt”. Box is made of Kraft paper and is unmarked. Instruction leaflet is correct for this model as is the cleaning rod. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Slide retains 90% of the gray/green Parkerized finish with clear markings. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Frame also retains 90%+ of the dull gray/green Parkerized finish with clear markings. 2-pc grips are fine with sharp checkering and only a couple of small bruises on the right grip. Mag shows nearly all of the dull blue finish. Box is fine with no breaks or oil stains, instruction sheet is also fine with no oil stains. An opportunity to obtain a scarce Colt Model 1903 Officers pistol, one of the last made. C&R 51517-86, 51517-92 (4,500-5,500) – Lot 3030
*FINE BILL MAINS ENGRAVED WITH GOLD WINCHESTER MODEL 21 SKEET GRADE DOUBLE-BARREL SHOTGUN.
SN 11027. Cal. 20ga. Beautiful upgraded skeet grade 21 that has 26″ bbls with tapered, matted, concave solid rib, Bradley red bead front and silver middle bead, Choked WS1/WS2. Receiver has ejectors and Winchester single selective trigger. Mounted with nicely figured American walnut with kidney-shape checkered beavertail forearm and paneled pistol grip buttstock with checkered wood butt. Grip cap is an empty oval gold plate. Receiver has full coverage, semi-relief oak leaf & acorn pattern engraving with an unusual border. Left side of the receiver is engraved with an elliptical vignette of two raised gold flying woodcock set in a woodland scene and the right side also inlaid with two raised gold woodcock in a very detailed marsh scene. Both vignettes are surrounded by flat gold wire inlay with raised gold leaves. Trigger plate is inlaid with an elliptical vignette of a raised gold pointer on point in a field scene also surrounded by flat gold wire with oak leaves and acorns. Trigger bow is engraved with the oval vignette of a raised gold Ruffed Grouse in a woodland scene, also surrounded by flat gold wire and oak leaves and acorns. Trigger plate is inlaid “SKEET” in flat gold and just forward of the trigger guard is engraved in tiny letters the engraver’s name, “MAINS”. Matching engraving extends to the opening lever and onto the top tang with “SAFE” in gold. Trigger guard tang is engraved to match. Matching oak leaf & acorn engraving extends about 3-3/8″ over chamber area of the bbls and onto the forend iron. Bill Mains was a very prolific engraver employed for many years by Colt until he became an independent engraver. Consignor was personally acquainted with Mr. Mains and very likely commissioned this work. Drop at the heel: 2-7/16″. Drop at the comb: 1-1/2″. LOP: 14″. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp custom finish to both metal and wood with only a couple of tiny mars in the finish and some darkening toward the rear end of the forearm. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bores. 51758-2 JRL (8,000-12,000) C&R – Lot 1452
SN 1341. Cal. 12 ga. 30″ blued steel bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Choked Cyl/Full. Full length top rib with brass front bead and doll’s head extension. Dbl triggers, extractor, auto safety. Round knob pistol grip buttstock checkered in three-point pattern with nickel oval and 14-1/4″ LOP over Colt HRBP. Splinter forearm with Deeley release and triangular ebony tip. Receiver engraved with “$3” factory engraving with modern heavily blued finish applied. Accompanying this gun is a Colt factory letter describing it as a Grade 1 with $3 engraving and notes blue finish. Shipped October 1, 1886 to Indiana. Weight: 8 lbs. CONDITION: Fair. Bbls are fair with scattered losses, staining and erosion and retain approx 70% refurbished finish with scattered light dents. Buttstock is fair as is forearm with checkering mostly gone and dents and scratches throughout and losses near receiver. Receiver with cold blue finish is fair. Engraving thinned. Bores are fair with scattered pitting. Mechanics are somewhat gummy, action slightly loose. 31377-5 JSL (750-1,500) – Lot 2140
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT #3 THUER SINGLE SHOT DERRINGER PISTOL.
SN 8577. Cal 41 RF. Standard model with nickel finish and 2-1/2″ rnd bbl that has half moon front sight and a large “COLT” engraved on top. Pistol is beautifully engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with about 75-80% coverage exquisite foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled & shaded background. Left side of the bbl, over the chamber area is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s mythical dogs head. Outside of the ejector tube is engraved in very fine detailed leaf patterns. Each side of the frame, by the hammer slot is engraved with a fan pattern which is also found at top of backstrap. Buttstrap & bottom of frame are engraved to match. Mounted with most unusual full checkered 2-pc ivory grips. This little pistol has a long history dating back to 1981 with a sale at Christie’s and later Butterfield’s in 1999. While the #3 Derringer is not uncommon such fine engraved specimens are extremely hard to find. These little pistols were produced in fairly large numbers 1870-1912 and were extremely popular with ladies as muff pistols and gentlemen and gamblers for vest pocket pistols. Few survive today with orig finish. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig factory nickel. Hammer & trigger retain strong case colors. Grips are sound with a golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 51732-5 (8,000-12,000) ESA – Lot 1159
*COLT MODEL 1908 POCKET PISTOL ENGRAVED IN ELVIS PRESLEY PATTERN.
SN 324998. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/8″ bbl, fixed sights with color case hardened grip safety, thumb safety & trigger. Mounted with Rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Slide is engraved with about full coverage, very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Both ends of the slide on both sides are inlaid with fine gold wire patterns similar to a Walther PPK from the same engraver. Bottom front of the slide is engraved “MAINS”. Bill Mains was a Master Engraver for Colt Firearms in the late 20th Century and was one of Colt’s most prolific engravers. When he first began engraving for Colt, he was told not to sign his work so he developed a small buffalo logo to represent his signature which is frequently found on both factory work and outside contract work with the occasional full signature instead as found here. Pistol is housed in a black leatherette case with a green velvet lining. Top of case is embossed “Colt 1908 Elvis Pattern” over “Colt Master Engraver” over “Bill Mains”. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepard Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of it’s orig blue on the frame & case colors on the 2 safeties & trigger. Slide retains virtually of it fine custom blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 51761-21 (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 3031
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE COLT CAMP PERRY “MODEL W” SERIAL NUMBER 1 REVOLVER PRESENTED TO CONNECTICUT GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
SN 1. Cal 22. Blue finish with 10″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front & rear sights and 2-line address with caliber marking on the left side. Mounted with 2-pc silver medallion checkered walnut grips. Sideplate is engraved by renowned master engraver Rudolph Kornbrath. The engraving consists of a flowing ribbon upon which is inscribed “GOVERNOR JOHN H. TRUMBULL DECEMBER 1926”. Engraving has decorative borders with a fine shaded background. Sideplate also has the Rampant Colt trademark. The SN was observed on the inside of the bbl crane and left side of buttstrap under the grip. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter addressed to renowned dealer/collector the late Herb Glass which identifies this pistol in 22 caliber, bbl length & type of stocks not listed, blue finish and presented to Governor John H. Trumbull by Mr. Samuel M. Stone, President Colt’s Patent Firearms Co., 150 Huyshope Avenue, Hartford, CT on December 6, 1926 in a one gun shipment. Under remarks section the following is noted “Records do not indicate any inscription on this revolver, however, we feel this fact could have been omitted by the recorder.” John H. Trumbull (March 1873-May 1961) formed the Trumbull Electric Co. in 1891 and was that company’s President 1911-1944, when it apparently became part of the General Electric Corporation. Mr. Trumbull served in the Connecticut National Guard rising to the rank of Colonel. He was elected Governor of Connecticut and served January 1925-January 1931. He was a delegate to the Republican National Convention on numerous occasions and was apparently an active conservative Republican. Additionally accompanied by two targets fired with this pistol, one of 25 shots at 15 yards which is annotated “Target made with first model W produced with new tools 25 shots at 15 yards offhand.” The other is simply annotated “10 shots” in a very small grouping. Additionally accompanied by a large packet of the orig blueprints and drawings used in the manufacture of this model of pistol. Also accompanying is a 3-page handwritten parts list for the Camp Perry Single Shot Target Pistol Model W dated Oct 31, 1944 under the initials “JA”. Additionally there is a typewritten sheet listing the 82 parts of this pistol with their drawing numbers. Also accompanying are 5 American Riflemen magazines dated June, August and December 1927, September 1928 and June 1929 all of which have full page ads for the Colt Camp Perry Model. In addition there is a page 12 from the U.S.R.A. BULLETIN magazine which is a full page ad for the Camp Perry. Additionally there are several copies of newspaper articles regarding Governor Trumbull’s activities. According to Flayderman’s Guide To Antique American Firearms there were 2525 of these pistols produced 1926-1941 with less than 100 experimental models made in 1920 “All with serials under 100”. According to referenced publication this pistol was “among the smallest production of all Colt Cartridge Handguns”. This exact gun is pictured in “The Book of Colt Engraving” 3rd edition, by R. L. Wilson and had previously been on loan and displayed at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center Museum. This rare pistol encompasses virtually all of the rare features desired in a collectible firearm, rarity, condition, engraving by a renowned engraver with presentation to a noted figure. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig Colt blue with some minor thinning and a few spots on the bbl. Frame has sharp edge wear with a spot of pitting on right side of bbl boss. Hammer & cylinder latch retain bright fire blue with sides of hammer polished bright. Trigger retains virtually all of its orig fire blue. Grips are sound showing only minor diamond point wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Has been fired but very little. 51665-1 JRL (40,000-65,000) C&R – Lot 1486
Please Note: Upon closer examination, the barrel address and patent date appears to be chased. Patent dates were thinned during the final polish. We guarantee this gun to be a genuine New York engraved single action.
WONDERFUL ANTIQUE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 92065. Cal 45 COLT. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, thinned front sight but still full height and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips, probably supplied by the distributor, with relief carved flying American eagle on left side. Engraving by Mr. Nimschke is about D-coverage consisting of extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, bbl, cylinder, backstrap, buttstrap, trigger guard and ejector housing. Top strap is engraved with very fine diamond & dot patterns along with foliate patterns, most unusual for a single action but frequently seen on Mr. Nimschke’s engraved Winchesters. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s fan pattern with a triangle at the center and flower blossoms covering the junction of the backstrap shoulders to the frame. Sides of the shoulders are engraved in fan patterns. Trigger bow & ejector housing both have very detailed engraved Hunter’s Stars. Accompanied by a 4-page letter from renowned Colt historian and author, the late R.L. Wilson wherein he authenticates the engraving as having been accomplished by master engraver L.D. Nimschke. Additionally accompanied by a 3 page article about this revolver which appeared in the March 1997 issue of the German arms magazine, Deutsches Waffen-Journal which featured this revolver on the cover. An illustration in the article includes a Colt factory letter which identified this revolver in caliber 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, “soft” finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on May 9, 1883 in a 25 gun shipment. Under remarks section the letter states that “soft” indicates that the revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside the factory. Additionally accompanied by a fine R.T. Frazier double-loop buck stitched holster. Body of the holster has very fine border carving and the “R.T. Frazier / Pueblo-COLO.” cartouche on the top loop. Given the quality and extent of the engraving along with the fine holster it seems likely that this revolver belonged to someone in the west. Although the holster shows moderate to heavy wear, the revolver does not, indicating that it saw very little use, just some light handling. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine retaining virtually all of its fine nickel finish that appears to be completely original. Screws retain most of their bright fire blue. Cylinder has been fired but very little, showing “burn” around all 6 chambers, otherwise cylinder retains virtually all of its orig nickel. Grip is missing a large chunk and a small chip at the right heel and another small chip from the right toe otherwise grips are sound showing extremely light wear with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear with some finish loss near the top and on the loops otherwise is sound and retains 80% fine orig brown finish. 51732-7 JRL (25,000-45,000) – Lot 1135
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT WAS PURPORTEDLY OWNED BY JACK CASE OF THE 101 RANCH, WILD WEST SHOW.
SN 65852. Cal. 44 WCF. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Checkered walnut grips. Revolver is boldly engraved overall in a unique style. “J. Case” is engraved on bottom of bbl. “101” is stamped on forward flat of frame. SNs have been engraved over, with the exception of frame and cyl. Both of which nos. match. Number “7349” is stamped on bbl under ejector rod. 1-line Colt address is visible on bbl. 1-pc walnut grip has been checkered in a fleur-de-lis pattern with studs mounted on either side of grip on top. Revolver is housed in a metal bound wood travel case, with Jack Case ephemera on the lid. Also included is a 2-loop Mexican style holster, embossed with the initials “H.S.”. This exact revolver was sold by Brian Lebel at his Old West Auction. A copy of the auction listing is included in the provenance. CONDITION: Very good, as totally re-built, engraved and refinished. Revolver is a smooth gray-brown finish overall, with some roughness at muzzle end of bbl. Engraving is very sharp and deeply cut. Bbl mark is legible, bbl SN is clear. Frame no. is clear. Cyl base pin screw is missing. Grip is well worn, but completely in tact, no missing pieces. Box is very good with scratches and handling marks overall. Holster is very good and intact. An opportunity to purchase a revolver said to have belonged to Jack Case, who was a very famous Wild West Show performer in the early part of the 20th Century. Case worked for the Miller Brothers 101 Wild West Show. 51422-8 (7,500-10,000) – Lot 2143
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT #3 THUER SINGLE SHOT DERRINGER.
SN 285. Cal 41 RF Short. Nickel finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight and large “COLT” on top. Mounted with 2-pc birdhead walnut grips matching numbered to this pistol. Pistol is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Front sides of the frame are engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s feather patterns and the backstrap & buttstrap in his typical geometric patterns. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Overall retains most of its orig nickel somewhat thin on rear sides of the frame. Grips show moderate/heavy high point wear and retain about 75% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with heavy pitting. 51785-2 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1160
*COLT 1911 TYPE GOVERNMENT MODEL PISTOL WITH CANADIAN PROVENANCE AND MILLS WEBB HOLSTER.
SN C10969. Cal. 45. Colt 1911-type Government Model with Canadian provenance. Right side receiver marked “GOVERNMENT MODEL” over serial number behind slide stop pin. Left side upper trigger guard bow marked “VP”. Lower left trigger guard bow marked “Y”. Right slide marked “COLT AUTOMATIC” over “CALIBRE 45”. Left slide marked with Colt standard 1913 patent dates and Colt’s standard Hartford address with Rampant Colt at rear of slide. Left stock has Canadian emblem engraved with “35” in a circle around a cannon, apparently artillery. There are no observable property marks. Mag floorplate has partial broad arrow “C” marking. Mag is standard Colt made two-tone type IV. Front sight is rounded, thin tapered. Rear sight is rounded with U-notch. Portion of bbl visible through ejection port is marked with a partial “P” up front. Hammer is short, checkered wide spur. Thumb safety and slide stop checkered. Holster is a Mills 1914 dated 45 caliber webb holster. Rear of holster marked with pistol SN, under flap of holster is hand done Canadian broad arrow property mark, flap of holster “F.R.N.”. CONDITION: Mag is in overall excellent condition with most of the original finish remaining with only a small scuff on the tongue. Overall gun has a highly presentable factory polish finish. Right upper edge of slide has considerable pitting due to poor storage. Left side of slide has only minor erosion on the muzzle and a couple of very minor dings. Right receiver shows considerable erosion of the front grip strap and partial erosion of the mainspring housing. Left side of receiver shows speckled erosion from fingers; orig owner was probably left handed as the left side shows most of the erosion. Mag catch lock shows some buggering but mag inserts properly. Holster has field repair on belt loop with black leather. Forward and rear top edge shows minor fraying. Overall pistol in very attractive condition with great engraving on left stock showing Canadian Artillery. 51696-12 KXK (2,500-4,500) C&R – Lot 3035
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL FLAT TOP TARGET REVOLVER WITH BOX.
SN 20240. Cal 22. Blue finish with 6″ tapered rnd bbl. Adjustable Patridge target front sight and adjustable rear sight in a dovetail in the top flat of the frame. Bbl has standard for the period 2-line address on top and is marked “COLT OFFICERS/MODEL .22 LONG RIFLE” on the left side. Left side plate has the Colt trademark Rampant Colt. Trigger is checkered and all blue finish while the hammer is polished bright on the sides with blued top & rear edges. Top flat of the frame and rear of the frame are matte finish and the backstrap is checkered. Revolver is engraved by William Gough with class “B” coverage of about 60% of the revolvers surface. Engraving consists of fine arabesque scrolls with pearled background. Revolver is mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips that have left & right Rampant Colt silver medallions and a raised carved eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 6″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, class “B” engraving and shipped to Loan Account,(These rare loan account guns were the Colt Exhibition guns and were shipped for display purposes to selected and important Colt Dealers to exhibit the BEST Colt had to offer.) Spaulding W. Arms, Salt Lake City, Utah on May 31, 1938 in a one gun shipment. Remarks section indicates that the revolver was returned to the factory on Feb 1, 1939 and shipped 6 additional times to businesses in Albany, NY, Indianapolis, IN, Jamestown, NY, Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL and Jenkintown, PA and was finally sold on April 5, 1940 to the Bacharach Raisin Company in Baltimore, MD. Also accompanied by an orig burgundy hinged lid cardboard box with black & white end label identifying this revolver. Additionally there are 3 black & white overlabels, 2 on the end of the lid “TARGET” and “PATRIDGE SIGHTS”. The 3rd label is diagonally over the top “ENGRAVED” from which “EN” is missing. This exact revolver is pictured on page 330 of The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson and on page 306 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable wherein they state that it is “one of the most traveled of sample guns”. Wilson also states that this box was shipped 6 or 7 times and shows the travel wear but protected the gun during its travels. To say that this revolver is beautiful is a gross understatement. It is exceptionally beautiful and exceedingly rare. PROVENANCE: R.E. Hable Collection, Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, appears to be new and unfired showing no evidence whatsoever of having been fired. There is only the most faint cylinder line and a small spot or two on left side of the trigger. Grips are extremely fine, showing great fire and color. Box has worn edges and a couple of broken corners with the right end of the top partially detached, otherwise it is intact with mostly legible labels. This is the rare opportunity to own one of the most rare Colt’s extant. 51546-1 JRL (35,000-45,000) C&R – Lot 1487
*MINTY WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY SHIPPED TO WOLF & KLAR, FORT WORTH, TEXAS WITH GOLD MOUNTED CARVED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 353118. Cal. 45. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight, 2-line address and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY 45” on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with spectacular 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved by master engraver Wilbur Glahn in his deluxe full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine punch dot background. Top of back strap, top of back strap ears & corresponding area of frame are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Back strap is full coverage engraved in tulip patterns with acanthus leaf patterns on butt strap & foliate arabesque patterns on trigger guard. Foliate arabesque patterns extend 3/4 of the way up each side of bbl with a snake & dash pattern in ejector rod housing gullet and foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius. Ejector rod housing boss on frame is engraved with a large flower blossom. Cyl has full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving around the outer diameter, strikingly offset by the bright nickel flutes. SN was observed in the usual place on bottom of frame and on right sides of front & back straps under grip. Last two digits of SN are found on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt, 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks, factory engraved in Class “C” coverage, shipped to “Loan Account” Wolf & Klar, Fort Worth, TX on July 15, 1929 to Account #16671/1 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks section it states that “This revolver was purchased by Wolf & Klar on Jan. 16, 1931.” The first time this gun came to auction and sold at a California auction house in 2006, revolver was described as showing “beautiful raised relief carved medallion ivory grips with Wolf & Klar accents to the carving consisting of gold steerhorns, nose ring and ruby eyes inset in the right grip; large gold medallions which appear to be “TD” on the left grip. Wolf & Klar were one of the bigger dealers in Colt firearms at this period of time, and this pistol was loaned as a display piece by Colt. The quality of the engraving is excellent and is one of the finest examples of Wilbur Glahn’s work. The initials on the left grip purportedly belong to a Texas oilman who was a regular customer of Wolf & Klar and purchased very ornate Colts and S&Ws of which several are known to old-time collectors. This pistol recently surfaced in Arizona in the hands of an elderly gentleman whose father obtained it in a trade for a horse, along with its fancy tooled S.D. Myers, El Paso marked holster in the 1930’s. One of the best unknown Single Actions to surface in a decade”. Since this gun was sent to Wolf & Klar’s on account in 1929, gold mounted carved grips appear orig from this date and similar are seen on several other special guns in the Wilbur Glahn era. See SN 341995, pgs 564-565 of The Colt Engraving Book – Volume One, R. L. Wilson. Also, of note, is SN 353113, only five SNs different from this gun is also a grade “C” Wilbur Glahn revolver shipped in 1930 with carved ivory steer head grips. This is indeed a stunning Single Action. PROVENANCE: Ex-David Crocker Estate Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cylinder, grips are unnumbered. Has been fired, but very little and retains virtually all of its fine orig factory nickel with possible re-polishing and touch-up on front & back straps which is not detectable. “Elephant ivory” grips are also extremely fine, fit well with good patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 50412-32 (30,000-50,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1136
INTERESTING PERIOD INSCRIBED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH HOLSTER AND CASE.
SN 163823. Cal. 45. COLT Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, very slightly altered front sight that has been re-attached and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head with red eyes on right side, missing its right eye stone. Buttstrap is engraved in period block letters “J B FOX”. Right side of front and back straps, under the grip, are stamped with a small 6-point star. Rear face of cyl, bottom of bbl and inside ejector housing are also marked with the same star and assembly number “823”. All this indicates that this revolver was refinished at the factory. The hammer is a modern replacement that has had a small block welded near the bottom pivot which strikes on the top of the backstrap and will not permit the hammer to go to full cock indicating someone created a “fanner”. By holding the trigger and manipulating the hammer with the heel of the free hand the revolver could be fired very rapidly. Accompanied by a late 19th/early 20th Century mail order holster with sewn toe and impressed decorations. Holster has a belt loop on back attached with harness rivets. Accompanied by a reworked walnut silverware box with empty plaque on lid. It has green velvet lining and is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver and three other compartments, one of which contains a full, sealed packet of 12 Frankford Arsenal Cartridges bearing the date 1878. The front of the case has a cartridge block containing two 44 cal Henry Rimfire cartridges & six 44 short rimfire cartridges with seven additional empty holes. Inside the lid has a copied Colt advertisement. Accompanied by a packet of information entitled “Jubilee B. Fox / Confederate Soldier and Texan”. Fox was enlisted in the 28th Tenn Infantry and fought for the Confederacy. After the war he migrated to Texas where he died in 1924. The owner of this revolver was very likely a law enforcement officer or cattleman who later in life had it restored, probably during the period of use. A Colt Factory letter may provide additional information on who J.B. Fox was. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains traces of factory blue and ejector housing about 50% blue in the gullets. Frame retains faded case colors in the front gullets with smoky colors on the hammer and frame, being mostly a gray metal patina. Grip frame is a gray metal patina, as is the cyl. Grips have small chips near the frame, otherwise are sound, showing great fire. Mechanics as noted above are fine. Strong bore with good shine and fine pitting. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear and is sound, retaining strong orig brown finish. Box has a crack in lid, otherwise is fine. Cartridges are fine. 51787-6 (6,000-10,000) – Lot 2146
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 71109. Cal. 22 Short. Silver & nickel finish with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight with 2-line bbl address, silver plated brass frame with 7-shot cylinder and fitted with, what appear to be, smooth, factory, birds head ivory grips. Engraving is in New York style consisting of large flower blossoms & leaves on each side of frame with geometric designs at top of back strap & down each side of bbl. Accompanied by a fine red velvet lined walnut box that is possibly an orig Colt box that has been relined. Bottom is compartmentalized for revolver, a full orig box of Winchester smokeless cartridges, a small turn screw & orig functioning key. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine, all matching, bbl retains about 90% strong orig nickel with cylinder bright polished metal with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Frame retains traces of silver plating in engraving & under grips. Grips are well fit with ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a few spots of light pitting. Box is fine with a few light nicks & stains. Interior is lightly soiled. Ammunition & accessories are fine. 51785-3 (3,000-5,000) ESA – Lot 1162
*PRIME COLLECTOR’S LOT OF .25 AUTO POCKET PISTOLS.
1) GALESI POCKET MODEL. SN 311246. Cal 25 ACP. 2-3/16″ bbl, full nickel finish, 2-pc faux pearl grips with Galesi medallions. Pistol is engraved overall in a donut scroll motif with line accents and background. Left side of slide is marked “Armi. Galesi-Brescia-Brevetta-Cal 6.35”. Marking is bordered by a riband. Right side of slide is marked “Made in Italy”. Italian proofs are present at breech of bbl, right side of slide, and behind trigger on right side of frame. “1958” appears below frame proofs denoting the year of manufacture. Magazine is not marked. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Slide retains nearly all of the nickel plate finish with some flaking in the gullet. All markings are sharp, engraving is crisp. Frame also retains nearly all of the nickel finish with sharp markings and crisp engraving. Sides of trigger have leaf accents. Magazine shows a considerable amount of nickel finish with some erosion & scratches. Grips are very good with fine medallions. Left grip has 3 age cracks near the screw. A very attractive engraved Galesi pocket pistol. C&R 2) DREYSE POCKET MODEL. SN 53232. Cal 25 ACP. 2-1/16″ bbl, full blue finish with 2-pc horn grips. Left side of slide shows “Dreyse”. SN is stamped on right side of frame above trigger. SN also appears on the inside of the slide at the rear. There is a crown “N” proof on left side of frame behind trigger, at left rear of slide and at the left breech of the bbl. Checkered grips show a “RFM” monogram at the top of each grip. Magazine is not marked. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl & slide retain 80% of the dull blue finish that is blending with a plum brown patina toward the muzzle. Markings are sharp. Frame also retains 80% blue blending with plum brown patina especially on the backstrap. Magazine shows traces of blue with some roughness and has been lightly cleaned. Grips are very good with some slight losses and age cracks on left side. A nice example of a Dreyse pocket pistol from a famous collection. C&R 3) BROWNING BABY RENAISSANCE. SN 390914S. Cal. 25ACP. 4″ in total length. Gold plated trigger. Slide and frame are near full coverage floral scroll engraved. Faux pearl grips. Matching magazine. Backstrap and trigger guard are also engraved. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Excellent as very lightly used. Bore is bright and shiny. Mechanics are very good. These are fantastic little carry pistols, and cute as a button!. C&R 4) UNIQUE HENDAYE MIKROS. SN 555107. Cal. 25ACP. 2-1/4″ bbl. Brush grey finish slide with green alloy frame. 2-pc faux pearl grips. Left side of slide is marked “ARMES/HENDAY” on either side of “UNIQUE”. Right side of slide is marked “MIKROS” in a riband with “MADE IN FRANCE” in front. SN is stamped on right side of frame above the trigger. Magazine is not marked. Grips have “MIKROS” in a riband on both sides. Housed in a cardboard box with model marked on top and instruction sheet inside. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl and slide show all of the brush finish with only slight scratch marks and sharp markings. Alloy frame retains all of the green finish with only a few scratches. Grips have shrunk and are loose. Box is good with broken corners and loose hinge. C&R 5) MANN POCKET. SN 9122-21. Cal. 25ACP. 1-5/8″ bbl, blue finish, 2-pc checkered plastic grips with “MANN” logo at top. Left side of frame shows Cal. mark over trigger guard and “MANN’S-PATENTE” to the rear. Right side of frame over trigger is marked “MADE IN GERMANY”. There is a “Crown N” proof stamped on the bolt, front of bbl and on the right side of frame behind trigger. SN is stamped at the bottom of the forestrap. Magazine is not marked. Pistol is housed in a 2-pc cardboard box with “MANN” logo on the lid and instruction sheet inside. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Pistol retains nearly all of the matte blue finish with sharp markings and very little high point wear. Possibly unfired. Grips are fine and intact. Box is very good and intact. C&R 6) COLT JUNIOR. SN 53084CC. Cal. .22 SHORT. 2-1/8″ bbl, blue finish, 2-pc checkered wood stocks with Colt medallions. Left side of slide is marked “Junior Colt” over “Cal. .22″ Short”. Right side of slide shows 2-line Colt address. SN appears on right side of frame above trigger and on right rear of slide. Mag is nickel plated and marked “Colt” on the base. Box is red in color with Colt logo on top, end label shows model, cal, and SN. Box contains, instruction sheet, cleaning rod, and wrapping paper. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Nearly as new in box. Pistol retains 99% of the orig blue finish and is nearly as new. Mag shows nearly all of the nickel finish. Box is very good with some staining and some edge loss. An opportunity to purchase a nearly new Colt Junior in an original Colt box. C&R 7) COLT 1908. SN 234819. Cal. 25ACP. Usual configuration with hard rubber Colt branded grips. Case colored trigger guard, slide stop, and safety. Housed in an original Colt 1908 box with SN 325296 on bottom in pencil. Included in box is bore brush, Colt instruction manual, and orig operator’s guide. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, retaining approximately 98% blued finish with only very minor high point edge wear. Case colors are 97% with light toning on safety and trigger. Box is very good with scraping and corner erosion. C&R 8) FN POCKET MODEL. SN 45004. Cal. .25 ACP. 2″ bbl, full blue finish, with 2-pc checkered hard rubber grips that have FN logo embossed at top. Left side of slide shows FN address over Brownings patent. Belgian proofs are stamped under address, and on frame adjacent to slide mark. SN is stamped on right side of frame above trigger. Mag is not marked. Case is leatherette with rounded corners and two latches, lining is velvet with satin lid lining, lid lining shows FN logo. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Pistol shows 95% blue finish overall that is turning slightly plum with age. Pistol has slight muzzle wear. Markings are sharp. Bore is frosty with visible rifling. Grips are fine with sharp checkering and clear logo. Mag retains most of the blue with some scratching overall. Case is very good to fine, showing the impression of this pistol. A very nice FN Browning patent pistol in an orig case. C&R 51517-39, 51517-59, 51517-63, 51517-69, 51517-72, 51517-90, 51517-93, 51517-94 (4,500-6,500) – Lot 3113
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED BANKER’S SPECIAL DA REVOLVER.
SN 370638. Cal 22. Blue finish with 2″ rnd bbl, integral front sight with serrated rear edge and fixed rear sight in top strap groove. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc, silver medallion ivory grips that have a raised carved steer head on the right side. Revolver is factory engraved in A-style which consists of about 25-30% coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background but has light shading. Bbl has standard markings on both sides. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 2″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks with carved steer head motif and type “A” engraving, shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. Chicago, IL for “A. Horton, Pradera Farm, Valporaiso, IN on May 9,1939 to order # 8391 in a one gun shipment. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were about 35,000 Bankers Special revolvers produced in 3 calibers, 22, 38 Colt Police Positive (New Police) and 38 S&W. They were offered in both blue & nickel finish with round and square butt. According to referenced publication there were fewer than 50 engraved or inscribed Bankers Special revolvers with few of those surviving today. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains virtually all of a restored blue finish with the cylinder and sideplate slightly purple color. Left grip has a repaired chip by the locator pin hole and there are a couple of small age lines, otherwise grips are sound with a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 51732-2 JRL (6,000-10,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1488
*EXTREMELY FINE CUNO HELFRICHT FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CARVED MEXICAN EAGLE PEARL GRIPS OF PIONEER TEXAS FAMILY.
SN 333587. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with a large relief carved Mexican eagle on left side. The heel of left grip is chipped with a solid gold well fit apparently contemporary restoration. SN was observed in three places on bottom of revolver with last four digits on rear face of cylinder. Revolver is classically engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. A nearly identically engraved single action is pictured on p. 300 of Colt Engraving, Wilson. Top of back strap, left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved with light sunbursts. Left side of bbl boss on frame & ejector rod housing boss are engraved with hunter stars. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns and the top gullet of ejector rod housing is engraved in a snake pattern. Cyl is engraved with light arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a light snake pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found in 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Stauffer, Eshleman & Co., New Orleans, LA, c/o: A.J. Anderson Co., Fort Worth, TX on Aug. 17, 1916 in a 2-gun shipment. Of note, the second gun in this shipment, SN 333530, was sold on these floors as Lot 1289, October 29, 1996 and equally in extremely fine condition. Also accompanied by a copy of a hand written note from previous owner stating that this revolver has never been offered for sale publicly or privately until the previous owner purchased it from the family of the person who had purchased it new. He states that the revolver was initially purchased by a Mr. Atkinson who worked for the railroad in Waco, TX and bequeathed it to his daughter of Gatesville, TX. Her husband’s name was Thomas R. McClellan who was a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral with a long Texas history dating back to Coryell County, TX to at least 1864. A bit of genealogy from this family shows that John Bingham Atkinston obtained his law degree from the University of Texas in 1911. He was later Attorney for McLellan County from 1912 to at least 1916 when this gun was made. Is it possible that this was a wedding gift to County Attorney who would no doubt be prosecuting some dangerous types? A few years later,he became an inspector for the IGNR Railroad in Waco, TX. Atkinson, who was outlived by his father-in-law John Scott Paul, also worked for the Texas & Pacific Railroad at the time this gun was made. The McClellan family were well known in the era of this pistol. James Rufus McClellan, known as “Rufe” was District Attorney and Judge responsible for prosecutions including one of the 1914 murder trial of Texas hit man and psychopath Felix Jones. The jury was initially deadlocked and he was released and on the street in 1916 when this gun was purchased. Jones was not nailed on another murder case until 1918. Once newspaper account concerning Felix Jones states “would have killed his mother for a dime”. In 1920, McClellan became a District Judge with a tough reputation of upholding the law. At one point he ordered the destruction of $200 worth of booze during Prohibition that would hardly endear him to the local populace. As a judge, he presided over murder trials including the 1922 trial of a drill master at a local reform school with essentially running a kid to death. This District Attorney and Judge needed protection. PROVENANCE: Atkinson/McClellan Family of Waco and Gatesville, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except 2-pc grips which are numbered internally (#354) and appear to be Colt, though probably were added by the owner in Texas as grips lack the medallion seen on factory guns of this date. Grips do fit quite well and the gold restoration to one toe is extremely well executed and unique. Overall retains about 95-96% strong orig nickel finish with light holster wear on left side of bbl and left edge of muzzle with some light wear on front sight, otherwise shows little evidence of having been fired. It will not hold at half-cock and safety notch missing. Bright shiny well defined bore. 50412-39 (25,000-35,000) C&R – Lot 1137
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 3RD GENERATION.
SN SA65493. Cal. .45LC. 5-1/2″ bbl. Full nickel finish with smooth rosewood 2-pc grips with Colt medallions inset. Revolver is engraved with type “C” coverage in a vine motif with a fine punch dot background. Bbl is engraved on both sides of front sight and on both sides of bbl address. Ejector rod housing is engraved 3/4 of length. Frame shows engraving on the forward part in front of cylinder, along top strap, and on the recoil shield and loading gate. This engraving flows down either side of frame around the screws. Backstrap apron shows scallop design with scroll accent at the heel. Buttplate is engraved at the heel. Bottom and forward part of trigger guard is also engraved. SN is stamped on front of frame. Grips were not removed. Cylinder shows engraving between each flute. Bbl shows one line Colt address on top with model and caliber designation on left side. Frame has two line patent mark on left side with rampant Colt logo to the rear. Revolver is housed in factory box with end label confirming all features. CONDITION: As new in box. Appears unfired. 51761-19 TEP (2,000-3,000) C&R – Lot 2167
SN 231610. Cal. 31. This is among the most aesthetically pleasing deluxe Colt revolvers you will find. This gun is pictured on pgs 114 & 578 (color plate) The Book of Colt Firearms, R. L. Wilson, 1971. This gun is also pictured and described in Jordan and Watt’s treatise Colt’s Pocket ’49, Its Evolution, 2000 on pgs 113 and 247. Four designs are known on these distinctive raised relief grips. This example exhibits a raised wing American eagle with floral and arabesque framing decoration. This gun was manufactured during the height of the Civil War, early in 1863. Jordan and Watts state in their text “So called “Tiffany” style grips are a rarity and are sometimes found on percussion Colts… These grips were cast in New York and were installed by special order… We only know of two Pocket ’49s that are outfitted with Tiffany-style grips, both are 1-line New Yorkers. One has an American eagle [subject gun], the other, the Mexican eagle design. This gun was originally offered in a April 1967 Gun Report (pg 2) ad by Al Kelley and Jack Malloy. The gun then was described six inch barrel with New York address was originally gold and silver plated, but only 10% of this finish now remains. The metal is very clean and crisp having no rust or pitting. The barrel, rammer, frame and hammer are beautifully engraved. Cylinder is fine with the usual stagecoach hold-up scene. Serial number “23160E” and all matching. The ornate cast metal grips are brass showing an American eagle with wings outspread. Surrounding the eagle is raised, floral and scroll work. The buttcap is missing and has been replaced by a piece of walnut. This is the rarest of all the Tiffany done arms and one of the most desirable of Colt items. Rarely seen or offered for sale.” Obviously, after Mr. Sutherland purchased this gun, he had it re-plated and had the buttcap beautifully restored. The added orig Colt casing has a very fine double eagle flask, 2-cavity mold, cartridge pack and cap tin. PROVENANCE: Al Kelley Collection, 1967; Ex-Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; Pictured and described on pgs 114, 577-578 “The Book of Colt Firearms”, 1971; Ex-William Meyers Collection CONDITION: Markings are all crisp and well defined. Surfaces are vibrant and 98% of gold and silver remain. Mechanically gun is crisp with well defined rifling in bore. Casing is sound and solid, retaining much of its orig varnish with empty brass plaque on lid. Flask retains 95% orig varnish and 2-cavity “Colt’s Patent” mold retains about half of its thinning blue and also properly stamped “31PKT”. Wood block Colt pistol pack is empty and missing about 20% of its label. Eley cap tin is very good-fine with good label marked “Made Expressly for Colts Pt Belt and Pocket Pistols”. The blue lining is better than average with light fading, soiling and wear spots. Compartment lid for loose bullets has a polished bone finial and red baize cover which contrasts nicely with the blue. 51346-1 JS (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1166
SN 40553B. Cal. 22 LR. Blued Service Model Ace Series 70, full factory engraved. Right side of slide marked “ACE”, bbl marked “Colt Cal. .22 L.R.”, left side of slide marked “Colt Service Model ACE .22 Long Rifle” with Rampant Colt in middle of slide, left upper trigger guard bow has “D” final inspector, lower left trigger guard bow has verified proof showing raw displaced metal, right trigger guard bow marked “B” assemblers mark, standard Colt marking above right stock.. Mag marked “Colt .22 L.R.”, stamped metal with welded back, folded over sides and removable bottom. Front sight thin backward sloping post, rear sight adjustable square notch. Serrated short trigger, flat sided serrated hammer, serrated slide stop, mag catch, and thumb safety. Stocks are ivory with Colt Custom Shop medallions on each side. Left stock is scrimshawed with the full color image of the Rampant Colt surmounting a 48 star U.S. flag. Pistol is housed in a red velvet lined custom shop hinged lid walnut display case with key. Accompanied by a Navy Arms Co. invoice which identifies this pistol by SN as “Colt Ace “D” engraving scrimshaw ivory grips”. Invoice is dated Oct 13, 1981 with the initial deposit placed on 8-23-79.Accompanied as well with the Colt Custom shop shipping box with serial numbers matching label. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Pistol is as new. Display case has minor scratches, otherwise as new. 51517-95 (5,000-8,000) ESA – Lot 3280
*INCREDIBLE KURT JAEGER ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT NEW SERVICE FITZ SPECIAL DA REVOLVER.
SN 340748. Cal 45 COLT. Blue & gold finish with Fitz special 2″ bbl, cutaway trigger guard and bobbed hammer spur with serrated top edge of the hammer. Mounted with incredible gold Colt medallion 2-pc ivory grips that have full coverage, relief carved grape leaf & vine patterns with a fine stippled background. Revolver is incredibly engraved by master engraver Kurt Jaeger with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns that have extremely fine pearled background. The entire perimeter of the revolver, cylinder & sideplate are outlined in flush gold wire inlay. The sideplate is inlaid with a spectacular gold Bald Eagle executed in exquisite detail. The right side flat has an equally detailed Indian warrior’s head with braids, necklace & feathered war bonnet. Bottom of the frame, just in front of the trigger is engraved in diamond patterns with matching diamond patterns on rear of trigger guard and on the cylinder latch. The Fitzgerald configuration of this revolver was the trademark of John H. Fitzgerald, a Colt field representative from about 1930-1944. He was an expert trick-shot and speed artist, usually with a new service revolver in caliber 45 Colt. He specialized in police training and promoted the use of this style of revolver as a carry piece. According to a previous sale record this revolver will not letter from Colt as a Fitz Special, however given the precise details of the alteration it seems very likely that this was an original Fitz Special custom engraved by Mr. Jaeger. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 99% plus crisp custom blue. Details in the gold inlays are crisp & sharp. Grips are sound showing little or no wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 51732-3 JRL (8,000-12,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1489
*BEAUTIFUL AND EXTREMELY FINE WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CARVED “STEER HEAD” MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS SHIPPED TO FORT WORTH, TEXAS.
SN 349801. Cal. 45. Colt Single Action Army with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig thick front sight and 1-line block letter address. Frame has rampant Colt without circle & 2-line patent dates. SN is marked properly on right side of front & back straps under grip. Fitted with beautiful pearl grips with relief carved steer head with ruby eyes on right side. Frame, cyl, bbl and backstrap have factory engraving by Colt master Wilbur A. Glahn, consisting of about 50% coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cyl has patterns between flutes and a wavy border near back edge. Top of backstrap has Glahn’s characteristic ‘V’ shaped design with an arabesque pattern in center of backstrap. It has arabesque design on bottom of heel with light patterns around trigger guard and front trigger guard screw. According to accompanying Colt factory letter, gun shipped January 12, 1927, Order No. 12291/1, sgl gun shipment to Wolf & Klar, Ft. Worth, TX, factory engraved, nickel, 5-1/2″ in 45 Cal. Letter also states shipped with rubber grips, no doubt the deluxe mother-of-pearls are Wolf & Klar products as seen on other Single Actions they sold. Nearly identical examples of Glahns level “B” engraving such as this can be seen on pgs 571-574 of The Colt Engraving Book – Volume Two, R. L. Wilson. This is a magnificent gun with a stunning pair of carved mother-of-pearl grips. CONDITION: Extremely fine to extremely fine, retaining virtually all of its orig nickel, with reductions around edges of backstrap with pitting on those edges. Light holster wear on left side of muzzle. Grips fit well, however there is a 8″ sliver at right inside toe that is missing and has been polished smooth. Mechanically gun functions well with crisp, clean bore. 50412-33 (25,000-40,000) C&R – Lot 1138
*ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH 2 PIECE FAUX-IVORY GRIPS.
SN 11016SA. Cal. 45. 5-1/2″ bbl. Full blue finish. Scroll engraved with gold inlays. This revolver was engraved by J.R. French of Irving, Texas, whose name appears on butt-strap. Revolver is scroll engraved overall. Bbl has gold bands at muzzle and breech. Gold floral inlay on ejector rod housing. Frame engraving is also bordered by gold. Cyl has 2 gold bands around the rear periphery. Recoil shield has eagle head inlaid on left side. Colt logo on right side of frame is gold inlaid also. Backstrap has a 5-point Texas star inlaid into the apron, with gold borders intertwining down the backstrap. Trigger guard has small gold inlay on toe end. Engraving is very nicely accomplished, with intertwining scroll work, checkerboard work, and a fine punch-dot background. 2-pc faux-ivory grips have gold Colt medallions and some scroll engraving on right grip. SNs match on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Cyl is un-numbered. Grips are marked “AJAX #1”. Revolver is housed in a red velvet lined mahogany box. CONDITION: Fine, as totally refinished. Revolver retains nearly all of its full-blue finish. All markings are sharp. There are a few minuscules at dents at heel of butt strap. Box is in very good condition. A nicely executed elaborately engraved gold inlaid Second Generation Colt Single Action. 51422-16 (5,000-7,000) C&R – Lot 2169
FINE CIVIL WAR COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH BEAUTIFUL CHECKERED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 128320. Cal. 36. Standard configuration of a mid-war Colt Navy revolver popular among officers both North and South. 7-1-2″ oct bbl with 1-line NY address, 6-shot cylinder with rolled Ormsby Naval battle scene. This particular gun was made in 1862 and is in beautiful condition retaining much of its orig finish with a very unusual pair of full checkered ivory grips. Gun is all matching and has an “I” stamped adjacent to each SN which is thought to designate ivory. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine overall. Bbl retains about 90% bright blue finish. Cylinder has strong traces of blue with about 80% discernible Naval battle scene. 5 of 6 safety pins are serviceable. Trigger guard retains strong traces of silver plate in protected areas. Backstrap has tiny traces of silver in protected areas and its SN has been re-engraved. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” stocks fit well with hand worn patina. Mechanically gun is fine with crisp, shiny bore. 50412-40 (4,000-6,000) ESA – Lot 1168
1) BERETTA 1915/19. SN 235651. Cal. 32ACP. 3-1/4″ bbl. Numbers matching slide, frame and bbl. Sheet metal “PB” marked grips, hammerless design, blue finish overall with slide having a somewhat purple/plum coloring. With flap holster that is unmarked, however is believed to be proper and correct. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine with typical minor edge wear, with several small scratches in frame and slide, but nothing of major distress. Sheet metal grips are exceptionally fine and are rarely seen in this condition. Traditional Italian proof marks on left rear with a small “1929” stamped underneath that. Holster is very fine with sound stitching, leather is still supple, no visible markings. C&R 2) GALESI MODEL 6. SN 147219. Cal 32 ACP. 3-1/4″ bbl, full blue finish, 2-pc stippled plastic grips with Galesi monogram on top. Left side of the bbl is marked “Industria Armi Galesi-Brescia-Brev. Mod. 6”. SN is stamped on forestrap of frame. Last 2-digits of SN appear on inside of slide at rear. Italian proofs are stamped on left side of frame behind trigger and on slide above frame proofs. “1946” is also stamped behind trigger which is the year of manufacture. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Slide retains 90% bright blue finish with slight muzzle wear and some scratches. Markings are sharp. Model mark is lightly struck. Frame retains 80% blue with most of the loss on the grip straps. Markings are sharp. Grips are very good, intact with clear monograms. Magazine retains nearly all of the blue finish with some slight scratch marks. A fine example of a Galesi pistol made right after WWII. C&R 3) GALESI MODEL 9. SN 157692. Cal 32 ACP. 3-1/4″ bbl, full nickel finish with blue trigger and safety lever. Pistol is engraved overall in a vine motif. Left side of slide reads “Industria Armi Galesi Brescia-Brev. Mod. 9”, 2-pc plastic grips with stippled finish and Galesi monogram. SN is stamped on front strap. Last 2-digits of SN are stamped on inside of slide at the rear. Magazine is blue with a finger-piece style bottom plate. Pistol shows Italian proofs on the frame, behind the trigger with one proof on the slide above. “1949” is stamped with proofs which indicates date of manufacture. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Pistol retains most of the nickel finish. Engraving is sharp. Markings are sharp. Grips are very good, intact with clear monograms. An attractive Galesi Semi-automatic pistol. C&R 4) WALTHER PP. SN 144854P. Cal. 32ACP. 3-3/4″ bbl, full blue finish, checkered 2-pc plastic grips. Magazine has plastic grip extension. Left side of slide shows “WALTHER” banner, “WALTHER” 2-line address patent and Cal. mark, followed by “MOD PP”. Right side of slide shows “Eagle N” proof adjacent to the same proof on the breech of bbl. SN is stamped on right side of frame behind trigger. Forestrap is marked “R.F.V.17115 W”. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Slide shows 95% bright blue finish with some slight muzzle wear and a few scratches. Markings are sharp. Frame shows considerable blue that has drifted to a smooth plum/brown patina overall. Safety shows considerable bright blue. All markings are sharp. Grips are fine, intact with sharp checkering in logo. A very nice pre-war Walther PP. C&R 5) WALTHER PPK. SN 286074K. Cal. 32ACP. 3-1/4″ bbl, full blue finish, 2-pc checkered plastic grips with “WALTHER” banner. Left side of slide is marked with a “WALTHER:” banner, followed by a 2-line “WALTHER” address patent and Cal. mark. “MOD.PPK” is marked to the rear. SN is stamped on right side of frame behind trigger. Right side of slide below ejector port has an “Eagle/N” proof with corresponding proof at breech end of bbl. Magazine has “WALTHER” banner on right side above model and Cal. mark. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Slide retains 90% bright blue finish, turning somewhat plum toward the muzzle with a few light scratches overall. Markings are sharp. Frame retains a considerable amount of blue that is drifting to a plum/brown with some high point wear. Markings are sharp. Grips are very good, intact and show slight shrinkage. Magazine has most of the blue finish with some scratch marks, marking is clear. A nice pre-war Walther PPK. C&R 6) FRANZ STOCK POCKET. SN 33995. Cal. 32ACP. 3-1/2″ bbl. Blue steel construction with 2-pc Commercial Stock marked hard rubber grips. Hammerless striker fired design. Slide is marked “FRANZ STOCK-BERLIN CAL. 7.65”. Commercially finished with commercial magazine marked “FS” on base. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine with slight holster wear on front and leading edges of slide. Minor wear at front of trigger guard and high points of slide and rear sight. Grips are very fine. Bore and mechanics appear excellent by manual inspection. C&R 7) FN 1900 POCKET MODEL. SN 711032. Cal. 32ACP. 4″ bbl, full blue finish, 2-pc checkered hard rubber grips with “FN” logo picturing this pistol at the top of each grip. Left side of slide shows “FN” mark. Left side of frame shows “FN” logo over “BROWNING’S – PATENT” over “BREVETE – S.G.D.G.”. SN is stamped on the right side of the frame, right rear of the slide and right side of sight. Belgium proofs appear on the left side opposite the SNs. Magazine has “FN” mark on lower left side. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Slide retains 95% matte blue finish with muzzle wear, especially on left side as well as a few scratches. All markings are sharp. Frame retains 95% matte blue finish with slight edge wear and a few minor scratch marks. Grips are very good with clear logos and some minor abrasion on the checkering, especially on right grip. Magazine shows almost all of the blue finish with some light scratch marks. A nice example of the revolutionary FN Model 1900 pistol. C&R 8) COLT 1903 HAMMERLESS. SN 361640. Cal. 32ACP. Right slide marking “Colt Automatic Calibre 32 Rimless Smokeless”. Bbl marking: none visible through ejection port. Left slide marking “Patented April 20 1897, December 22 1903 Colt’s Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co. Hartford, CT. USA”. Prancing pony at rear of slide. Upper left trigger guard bow marked “R” over “VP”. Upper right trigger guard bow marked “34”. Smooth, long trigger. Checkered slide stop. Serrated mag release. Thin rounded front sight and rounded rear sight with “U” notch. Magazine marked “Cal. 32 Colt”. Stocks finely checkered with Colt and prancing pony medallions. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Stock brass escutcheon rings with screw, excellent. Right slide has dings on upper corner edge, front and rear. Top of slide has numerous small scratches. Left slide has minor dings and scratches. Minor erosion on trigger guard bow bottom. Bore is very good with minor pitting in grooves. C&R 51517-31, 51517-37, 51517-38, 51517-65, 51517-66, 51517-81, 51517-84, 51517-85 (4,500-5,500) – Lot 3396
RARE CASED ENGRAVED MODEL 2 COLT 1855 SIDE HAMMER PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 14465. Cal 28. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & Hartford address with pointing hand motif. Cyl is 5 chambers. Mounted with 1-pc smooth “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustav Young with about 60% coverage, fine foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Hammer shank & sides are engraved to match. Engraving patterns extend over the top strap onto the bbl and rammer pivot with matching patterns on backstrap, buttstrap & bottom of frame. Accompanied by a brown velvet lined Colt mahogany casing. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, single-sided Eagle & Stars “COLTS PATENT” flask, a brass “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold. This is a beautiful presentation grade gun, made in 1860 just prior to hostilities in the upcoming Civil War. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine overall, all matching. Overall retains about 70-80% orig finish with the loss areas flaked to a light patina. Ivory grip has good patina with several hairlines, well fit. Mechanics are fine. Crisp bright bore. Case is sound and solid with 2 hairlines in lid and bottom with light nicks & scratches and retains much of its orig varnish. Interior is sound and solid with soiling and wear to areas where gun makes contact especially at cyl and muzzle. Flask is also very fine retaining most of its thinning original finish with bright fire blue retained on spring. Mold is average with numerous dings and dents where used as a hammer, mostly obliterating Colt marking. Also including is a later pack of caps and two corroded rounds which were removed and displayed in small glass tube. 49631-46 JS (15,000-25,000) IVORY – Lot 4220
Please Note: Due to a typographical error, the estimate should be $7,000-$10,000.
*MAGNIFICENT, THIRD GENERATION COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN 44-40 CALIBER WITH ASTONISHINGLY RARE IVORY FACTORY RELIEF CARVED SALOON GIRL MOTIF GRIPS DOCUMENTED ON THE COLT FACTORY ARCHIVE LETTER.
SN S08255A. Cal. 44-40. 5-1/2″ bbl. 3rd Generation SAA. Blue and case color finish. Incredible Factory ivory grips with a Colt Factory carving of a saloon girl carved in high relief on left side. Revolver is beautifully engraved in the documented coverage “B” class. Bbl shows scroll engraving at breech end, on both sides of bbl address and both sides of front-sight. Ejector rod housing is scroll engraved also. Frame is wonderfully engraved in a scroll motif on recoil shields and both rear sides. Frame engraving extends onto trigger guard and backstrap side flats. Backstrap is nicely scroll engraved on apron and butt. Trigger guard is engraved on the bow and forward end. SN is stamped on front flat of frame. Cyl is scrolled engraved between flutes and around rear periphery. Bbl has 1-line address on top and model and cal mark on left side. Frame shows 2-line patent address with rampant Colt logo to the rear. Revolver was shipped June 19, 1995 to “Armsmear II” which was the company affiliated to famed author and collector Mr. Albert Brichaux, who co-authored the “Factory Engraving” section of Don Wilkerson’s famous Colt books on Single Action Revolvers. Mr. Albert Brichaux was well known both at Colt and in the Colt collecting community during the time of this revolver’s engraving and manufacturing at the Colt Factory, and Mr. Brichaux’s notoriety is clearly on display in this spectacular revolver in both the quality of the factory engraving and the extreme rarity of the Ivory Salon Girl Motif documented by the factory on the Colt Factory Archive Letter Accompanying this gun. Also included is the Colt custom shop box with end label, showing features of this revolver. OF NOTE: A similarly spectacular Colt SAA in 44-40 Caliber with Relief Carved Factory Ivory Grips was delivered to “Armsmear II” the previous day (June 18th 1995) that this revolver was delivered by Colt and is for sale elsewhere in this current James Julia auction and is serial numbered just a few numbers away from this revolver. A wonderfully executed factory engraved Colt single action army revolver. PROVENANCE: Special order by the collection of Albert Brichaux via Armsmear II, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Colt Factory Archive Letter. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: As New. Un-fired. 50872-4 (4,000-7,000) C&R; IVORY – Lot 4297
SCARCE DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT 1849 POCKET WITH CASE AND ACCESSORIES.
SN 94612. Cal. 31. 5″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight, bbl engraved in classic Gustave Young style and marked on top “SAML COLT”. All matching including wedge. Frame and hammer nicely scroll engraved, hammer with wolf’s head. Top of backstrap in shell pattern. Butt and trigger guard bow with scroll engraving. Five shot rnd cyl with stage coach hold up scene. 1-pc walnut grips. Backstrap and trigger guard with silver plating. Housed in an original Colt casing with red velvet interior with accessories including brass mold, American Eagle flask, percussion cap tin and cap, bullets. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Pistol is good, no factory original finish remains. Bbl with moderate soiling and couple areas of deep pitting, one at muzzle and one on top of bbl at legend. Frame is very good with scattered erosion. Cyl scene approximately 70% present. Cyl with pitting and impressions throughout. Trigger guard and backstrap with outstanding original silver perhaps as much as 85%. Mechanics are good. Bore is good with scattered pitting. Case is very good with light staining and soiling, accessories are good, compartment mostly intact and very good overall. Handsome gray ’49 that would make a great conversation piece. 49973-72 JSL134 (4,500-6,500) – Lot 2243
RARE COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER WITH THUER CARTRIDGE CONVERSION- AS PICTURED ON THE COVER OF BRUCE MCDOWELL’S BOOK ON COLT CONVERSIONS.
SN 178577. Cal. 44. 8″ bbl. Blue and case color finish with silver plated brass trigger guard, and iron backstrap. Bbl shows 1-line New York address on top with German silver front-sight. Bbl shows correct gain twist rifling. Frame is of the 3-screw variety not cut for stock, with Colt’s patent stamped on forward left side. Recoil shield has a small “A” inspector mark on face. Trigger guard has “44cal” stamped on left rear flat. SN matches on frame, bbl, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor, and grip. Wedge is not numbered. Last 3-digits of SN is on cyl. No. “20” is stamped on rear face of cyl and rear of conversion ring. Conversion ring is stamped “Pat. Sep. 15, 1868”. Rear of loading plunger has correct hole tapped for Thuer loading device. Front face of hammer has hardened rnd disc inserted. These 2 features are necessary for a true Thuer conversion. This exact gun is pictured on pages 82, 86, and 87 of McDowell’s book on Colt Conversion pistols and is also featured on the cover as noted above. Included with the gun is a very rare .44 cal Thuer cartridge. These cartridges are rare and hard to find! PROVENANCE: Ex Bruce McDowell Coll. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl is a smooth mottled gray-brown finish overall with a sharp bbl mark and a bore that appears un-fired. Frame is also a smooth gray-brown patina, with traces of case color on face of recoil shield. Trigger guard is a mustard-yellow patina with some slight bruising around SN. Markings are clear. Backstrap is a silver-gray patina, with traces of blue on the apron and a clear mark. Cyl is also a silver-gray patina with sharp markings. Cyl scene is very good with some roughness on about 1/3 of surface. Engaged mark is clear. Conversion ring has clear markings with traces of blue in protected areas and a sharp “E” engraved. Grips are very good, slightly undersized with some dents and scratches, and a fresh coat of varnish. Truly a wonderful Conversion with great provenance and well recognized by any serious Colt Pistol Student. 50470-1 TEP (8,000-12,000) – Lot 4242
Please Note: Great News!! The engraver’s name, Hans A. Pfeiffer, was discovered on the frame.
*ENGRAVED IN GOLD INLAY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 2ND GENERATION WITH 1-PIECE IVORY GRIP.
SN 55378SA. Cal. 45. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue finish. 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is nicely engraved in a scroll style. There are dbl gold bands at muzzle and breech of bbl. The frame engraving is also bordered in gold, as are the flutes on the cyl and the rear periphery of cyl. Engraving on backstrap and trigger guard also has a gold inlaid border. Engraving is nicely accomplished and is of fairly deep relief. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine. Revolver retains 98% blue finish overall, with very little apparent wear. Grips are fine. This is a very attractive 2nd generation Colt Six Shooter that has been wonderfully embellished. 50626-5 TEP (4,000-6,000) C&R; IVORY – Lot 2371
*FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID BY MASTER ENGRAVERS TIM GEORGE AND DAVID PERDUE.
SN 272934. Cal. 45 LC. 5-1/2″ bbl. Full blue finish. 2-pc Mother of Pearl grips. Bbl is scroll engraved at breech-end on either side of bbl address. There is also scroll engraving on either side of muzzle. There is one thick and one thin gold band on each end of bbl. Dbl bands are also seen on each end of ejector rod housing with scroll accents at breech-end. Frame is nicely scroll engraved on flats on each side of hammer, front of frame, around bbl, on each side of recoil shield and on front and rear of top strap. Frame engraving has a gold line border overall. Left recoil shield has an Indian’s head inlaid in gold that is a facsimile of the Indian head nickel. Hammer, trigger, and bolt screws have engraving accents. Trigger guard is engraved on each rear flat with a gold border. Trigger guard bow is engraved on outer edge. Apron of backstrap behind hammer has a bison inlaid in gold. Bison has scroll accents. Heel of backstrap and butt also have scroll accents. Cyl is scroll engraved between flutes with scroll accent around rear periphery. There are also 2 gold bands, one small and one large, inlaid around rear of cyl. 2-pc pearl grips are unmarked. Top of bbl shows standard 1-line Colt address. Left side of bbl shows cal mark. Ejector rod housing under base pin screw shows “ODE-TG” which is the signature of the engraver. SNs match on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Cyl is not numbered. Accompanying this revolver is a letter from Tim George, certified Colt master engraver, from Altavista, Virginia, stating “that Dick Clark sent him this Colt in the late 1980’s for a complete exhibition engraving job.” “ODE-TG” stands for Old Dominion Engravers – Tim George. Included with this gun is 1-pair of simulated pearl grips with ebony backing and 1-pair of Colt second generation hard rubber grips with eagle motif. CONDITION: Very fine, as refinished after engraving. Bbl markings are sharp. Bbl shows a few small dents behind the front-sight. Front-sight has been slightly trimmed. There is also a scratch at breech end of bbl on left side. Otherwise bbl and ejector rod housing retain 98% blue finish. Frame also retains almost all of blue finish, as do trigger guard, backstrap, and cyl. Cyl is slightly rough on front and rear face. Bore is frosty with strong rifling. Chambers are frosty. Hammer shows blue finish on top and rear with polished sides. Knurling is sharp. A very fine beautifully engraved, gold inlaid First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver that would be very costly to duplicate. 51033-57 TEP (10,000-15,000) C&R – Lot 4267
“EDWARD PRUDHOMME” ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID 1ST GENERATION 2ND MODEL DRAGOON REVOLVER.
SN 8929. Cal. 44. Well known firearms engraver Edward C. Prudhomme (1911-1990) engraved this 1850 vintage 2nd Model Dragoon for famous Colt collector Robert Q. Sutherland (1918-1992). Bbl has extensive leaf and vine and gold wire inlays, in addition to a standing doe deer and Indian brave on each side of the bbl lug. The loading lever is also engraved with gold wire border and crosshatching at the end. Frame and recoil shields are deep engraved with a walking gold horse on the left side and a horse and rider on the right side all surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns with fine stippled background. Right side of the frame also has the gold initials logo “R.Q.S.”. The recoil shields are deep relief engraved with foliate and vine patterns and have gold wire borders. Cylinder scene and all its markings have been re-engraved with silver Fleur-de-Lis between the cylinder stop notches and extensive gold wire borders. Hammer is completely stippled on both sides and engraved on the top with gold wire borders. The brass trigger guard and backstrap are deep relief engraved with arabesque patterns. Bbl is engraved in tiny letters “ENGRAVING BY E.C. PRUDHOMME”. PROVENANCE: Pictured in Prudhomme’s book on his engraving (with the orig wood grips). CONDITION: Very fine as restored, retaining most of Mr. Prudhomme’s blue finish. When this gun was originally engraved it was quite worn as noted by muzzle wear on its now 7-7/16″ bbl. Gun otherwise conforms to other standard 2nd Model Dragoons. SN on bbl housing is re-engraved and only one number can be found on loading arm. Original wood grips with matching SN inked in the backstrap channel are well worn and orig from 1850, hand worn patina and rounded edges at inner toes. Mechanically gun is fine, with crisp rifling in bore. 50324-1 JS (10,000-20,000) – Lot 4226
Please Note: Due to a typographical error, the estimate should be $7,000-$10,000.
*MAGNIFICENT THIRD GENERATION COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN 44-40 CALIBER WITH ASTONISHINGLY RARE IVORY FACTORY RELIEF CARVED RAMPANT COLT PONY MOTIF GRIPS DOCUMENTED ON THE COLT FACTORY ARCHIVE LETTER.
SN S08259A. Cal. 44-40. 5-1/2″ bbl. 3rd Generation SAA. Full Nickel finish. Incredible Factory ivory grips with an astonishingly rare Colt Factory carving of a Rampant Colt Pony carved in high relief on left side. Revolver shows the coverage of “C” class engraving overall. This is a masterfully engraved revolver with wonderful animal figures worked into the engraving, clearly executed by an extremely talented Colt Factory engraver. Top of bbl is elaborately scroll engraved on both sides of address, extending all the way to the muzzle, including accent work around front-sight. Ejector rod housing is scrolled engraved on outer edge and accented with line engraving in the gullet. Recoil shield and side of frame is also beautifully scroll engraved, which extends to the side of trigger guard and backstrap. There is an incredibly well executed figure of a horse head on the left side of the frame and a spectacular figure of a lion’s head on the right side worked into the engraving. Top strap is engraved on both sides with a spread-wing eagle design. Apron of the backstrap has another equally impressive figure of a horse’s head worked into the engraving, which is incredibly well executed, this is bordered with scroll running down 2/3 of backstrap. Backstrap is also bordered with a punch design. Butt is very nicely scroll engraved with a border. Trigger guard is engraved on outer bow and around front screw. Cyl has scroll engraving between flutes and a dbl band border around rear periphery. Bbl shows 1-line address on top, with model and cal mark on left side. Frame shows 2-line patent mark on left side with rampant Colt logo to rear. SN is stamped on bottom flat of frame. This specific revolver was shipped June 18, 1995 to “Armsmear II” which was the company affiliated to famed author and collector Mr. Albert Brichaux, who co-authored the “Factory Engraving” section of Don Wilkerson’s famous Colt books on Single Action Revolvers. Mr. Albert Brichaux was well known both at Colt and in the Colt collecting community during the time of this revolver’s engraving and manufacturing at the Colt Factory, and Mr. Brichaux’s notoriety is clearly on display in this spectacular revolver in both the quality of the factory engraving and the extreme rarity of the Rampant Colt Pony Motif on the factory relief carved ivory grips on this revolver. Colt factory letter confirms all features, including the details of the Rampant Colt Pony Motif factory ivory grips, and shipment details. Also included is the Colt custom shop box with end label, showing features of this revolver. A very finely executed engraved Colt single action army revolver. OF NOTE: A similarly spectacular Colt SAA in 44-40 Caliber with Relief Carved Factory Ivory Grips was delivered to “Armsmear II” the day after (June 19th 1995) that this revolver was delivered by Colt and is for sale elsewhere in this current James Julia auction, and is serial numbered just a few numbers away from this revolver. PROVENANCE: Special order by the collection of Albert Brichaux via Armsmear II, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Colt Factory letter. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: As New. Un-fired. 50872-5 (4,000-7,000) C&R; IVORY – Lot 4298
SN 255926. Cal. 31. Oct bbl is shortened to 4″ length with reinstalled bead sight and has standard NY address. 6 shot rnd roll engraved cyl. Large brass trigger guard and backstrap. 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl, frame, grip straps, cyl, wedge and loading lever have matching numbers. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. Metal surfaces are cleaned with scattered light pitting and have gray coloration from touch-up finish. Brass grip straps have bright appearance from recent cleaning. Refinished grips show moderate wear and handling marks. Good mechanics. Bore shows good rifling with spots of pitting. 50582-54 (1,000-1,650) – Lot 2249
EXCEPTIONAL CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 1855 MODEL 2 SIDEHAMMER ROOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH IVORY GRIPS.
SN 19475. Cal. 28. All blue finish with 3-7/16″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, and 2-line Hartford address with pointing hand. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and cabin and Indian scene roll marking. It is mounted with a beautiful checkered butt on smooth sided 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip. Revolver is engraved with foliate, floral scrolls with pearled backgrounds and has about 60% coverage which extends over sides of the frame, top strap and raised area of the bbl. Rammer pivot, hammer, backstrap and buttstrap are engraved to match with light matching patterns on the bottom strap of the frame. Accompanied by a Colt mahogany turquoise/green velvet lining. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a rare root sized eagle and stars dbl-sided flask, a brass bow-legged, bullet and ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped gun tool. This gun was manufactured in late 1858 or early 1859 and is in beautiful “as found” condition retaining most of its original finish along with accessories in case. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. bbl, frame and gripstrap overall retains about 90% bright orig blue with some flaking on bbl which is now a lighter plum/blue. Loading arm and hammer retain much of their dark case colors with balance silver/blue. Cyl is crisp with bright blue found on smooth areas rear of rolled panel scene which is crisp, bright and virtually 100% with an overall light plum/silver patina. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip is crisp and well fit with a few small hairlines in butt, ivory patina. Mechanically gun functions well with a crisp bright bore. Case is sound and solid retaining thin original varnish with small nicks and scratches and one long 6″ crack in lid. Interior is very fine with only moderate soiling and staining. Flask is extremely fine retaining most of its original varnish with light cosmetic blemishes. Mold is crisp with bright steel sprue cutter excellent overall. L-shaped tool is also excellent retaining about 80% of its original bright blue. Accompanying key appears original and functioning. 50679-1 JS (20,000-30,000) IVORY – Lot 4244
SN 30248. Cal. 38 Police. 4″ bbl. Blue finish with script “C” hard rubber Colt grips. Early rampant Colt is stylized “C” on left sideplate. Peacock blue hammer. With numbers matching box. PROVENANCE: The Charles Copeland, Jr. Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall, with slight finish loss on bbl sides. Frame has peppered finish loss on left side and backstrap. Cyl has finish loss on high points with very light pitting over 2 chambers. Butt is engraved “H.A. Schmidt”. Grips are fine with no chips or cracking. Bore and mechanics are fine. Box is very good with fine blue label and evidence of early repair to lid. Manufactured 1909. 50823-23 TDW (1,000-1,500) C&R – Lot 2399
RARE AND EXTREMELY FINE SPRINGFIELD ARMORY MODIFIED 5-1/2″ SINGLE ACTION ARMY ARTILLERY REVOLVER CIRCA 1885, NORTH CAROLINA MILITIA.
SN 116650. Cal. 45. An all Matching Serial Number gun, rack marked “46” on top of back strap of pistol. This exact revolver is pictured on the book “Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers” by Kopec and Fenn page 147 where it is illustrated and discussed as being one of the 400 revolvers requested by Alfred M. Scales, governor of North Carolina on November 24, 1886, a copy of his original request letter is illustrated on page146 of said book. Mr. Kopec lists 3 revolvers with 2-digit rack numbers engraved on top of the back straps from the contract as requested by North Carolina’s Governor in 1884 and 1886. This gun SN 116650 made in 1881 shows the 5 digit serial number stamped on the bottom of the back strap, trigger guard and frame; with the last 4 digits of the Serial Number stamped on the cylinder and barrel of the gun indicating that it was configured into an artillery model at the Springfield Armory. Additionally, the last 4 of the Serial Number are also inked inside the back strap channel of the grips. The inspection stamp “DFC” (David F. Clark) appears on barrel, cylinder and frame on the gun and a “RAC” (Reginald A. Carr) appear on the left grip panel butt. 5-1/2″ blue barrel and case color frame, single line address, full front sight is the correct sight showing the correct feathering around sight, left side of frame has a 3-line patent dates with large “US” stamped on it. Stocks have no discernible inspector’s cartouche, but crisp sub-inspector “RAC” initials on butt. A large “46” rack number is engraved on top of the back strap. This is a rare Springfield Armory variation of the artillery series of Single Action Army’s. PROVENANCE: Ex. Robert Hoelscher Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extra fine as arsenal refinished. “P” inspection marks are all crisp. The cylinder shows 95% bright arsenal blue with slight index line between cylinder stops; barrel and ejector housing also retain 95% bright arsenal blue, back strap and trigger guard retain over 90%, hammer retains strong traces of case colors and the frame shows 30% case hardening drifting to silver grey patina with some good colorful rainbow hues where protected. Stocks are sound and solid with nominal wear, especially on edges with several shallow dents near frame, hand worn patina. Mechanically crisp with bright shiny bore. 50672-3 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 4271
CASED PAIR OF GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVERS WITH IVORY GRIPS “WILLIAM H LENT”, 7TH NEW YORK NATIONAL GUARD.
SN 141531/141583. Cal 31, SN 141531 & 141583. This beautiful pair of cased pistols made in 1858 is the same style casing seen on the well known General McPherson Colts and the cased pair sold on these floors as Lot 2150, March 2016 with nearly identical two-tone French fitted velvet lined case. William Humbert Lent (1837-1902) was from a very prominent New York family and a member of 7th New York National Guard when he received these pistols. He later served in this unit during the Civil War. A short bio found on Lent Family Genealogy site: “WILLIAM HUMBERT LENT, born in New York City, October 8, 1837, was the son of John A. (46) and Susan Lent. He was a veteran of the War of the Rebellion; also a member of the Seventh Regiment, N. Y. S. N. G. (Seventh Company), New York City, and Lafayette Post, 140, G. A. R. He was a graduate of the University of New York. He died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Cordelia Farley, No. 134 East iiith Street, New York City, July 2, 1902. He was buried in the Lent family plot at Rural Cemetery, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.” Identical pair of revolvers with 6″ oct bbls, the top flats engraved “Saml. Colt”. The balance of the revolvers are engraved in Gustav Young #3 style consisting of beautifully detailed, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns over about half the bbls, rammer pivots, frames, backstraps, butts and trigger guards. The side edges of the trigger guards have extra wavy border patterns. The body of the engraving has Young’s trademark blossom patterns and his famous wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer noses, along with his well-known elliptical panel on the left sides of the receivers engraved in an arc “Colt’s Patent”. Both revolvers are fitted with beautiful smooth ivory grips with the left sides engraved “Wm. H. Lent.”, and the right sides, “7th Co 7th Regt. N.G”. They have five-shot unfluted cylinders with stagecoach holdup scenes. This pair is cased as noted in French fitted, two-tone burgundy and green velvet lined, brass bound mahogany case. It has compartments for the revolvers, a fine dbl-sided “E Pluribus Unum” American eagle flask with crossed revolvers, a brass two-cavity “Colt’s Patent” mold, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screw driver and a small tin of Eley Bros. caps. Upper right and lower left have fitted compartments for other accessories each with small turned ivory finials. The case has brass-bound corners on the lid and a blank medallion in the center. It is made of very nicely grained rosewood and is 14″ long x 9-1/4″ wide x 2-3/8″ deep. This is a beautiful pair of pistols that were well cared for, retaining most of their orig finish with beautiful ivory patina in an extremely rare French fitted rosewood case. PROVENANCE: William Humbert Lent, 1858; Ex-Pete Holder Collection (Ex-lead guitarist for The Tornados); Ex-Alain Fontanili Collection; Ex-Chris Hamilton Collection; Ex-Derek Palons Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Both revolvers are extremely fine, orig and matching including grips with last four numbers inked in backstrap channel with matching Roman numeral assembly marks on grips and grip frame. Every screw is also engraved and all are quite crisp. SN 141583 retains over 98% brilliant glossy blue on the bbl with a few light scratches and light muzzle edge wear. Numerous small hammer marks around the wedge slot on right side that actually blend into the engraving (see photos). Loading arm pivot, hammer and frame retain much of their muted case colors with an overall dark silver/grey patina. Cylinder retains 60-70% bright orig blue with balance plum/blue, stagecoach holdup scene is virtually all intact and easily discerned with a few light nicks on cylinder face, one crisp safety pin; the other four are partial or smashed. Trigger guard retains virtually all its orig silver plate. Backstrap retains about 75% strong orig silver overall. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are sound, well fit with easily discerned inscriptions, light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. SN 141531 retains 90% orig blue with a few scattered spots of light staining and pinprick pitting. Frame, loading arm and hammer retain much of their orig muted case colors, a bit lighter than SN 141583. Cylinder retains strong traces of orig blue with balance plum/grey, retaining four partial safety pins and crisp, well discerned cylinder scene, light pitting around nipples. Grip frame retains about 80-90% orig silver plating. “Certifiable antique ivory” grips are sound, solid and well fit with darker ivory patina with several dark hair-lines in grain, especially on left side. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Accessories are fine. Case has a crack in the lid and exhibits some shrinkage away from bottom right and upper left brass corners, otherwise is sound and retains generous amounts of orig varnish. Both top and lower lock faces are replaced and lock mechanism is removed; lock escutcheon, however is orig. Lid lining is bright with a minor wear spot. Bottom lining is slightly faded and soiled. 50683-1 JS (40,000-60,000) IVORY – Lot 4228
FINE AND EXTREMELY RARE CONFEDERATE “C.L.DRAGOONS” COLT DRAGOON REVOLVER.
SN 19579. Cal. 44. The only Colts that were actually sold to a Confederate unit were a group of 3rd model Dragoons and a few Navies which were sold to John J. Crocheron a wealthy businessman from Elm Bluff, Alabama in early 1861; therefore the name “CROCHERON LIGHT DRAGOONS”. These guns are engraved on the bbls most likely by Colt C.L.DRAGOONS”. This particular Dragoon is made very close to the end of the Dragoon serial range, late 1860 with the rare 8″ bbl. There is an excellent article by Walter Anderson published in the January 1991 Gun Report which gives a detailed history of this unit and pictures this exact gun, which became a part of the 3rd Alabama Calvary which most of its command was utilized to protect commanding generals as escorts. The C L Dragoons were the personal escorts of Gen. Braxton Bragg early in 1862 en route to his command in Corinth, Mississippi just prior to the Battle of Shiloh; where this unit saw action and Capt. Robert W. Smith as commander was cited for “personal gallantry and intelligent execution of orders, frequently under the heaviest fire”. This unit continued as escorts and couriers for Bragg in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga. When Gen. Joseph Johnston replaced Bragg as Commander of the Army of Tennessee, this unit continued as his personal escort. Late in 1864 when Confederate President Jefferson Davis impatient with Johnston’s actions and placed Gen. John Bell Hood in charge of the Army, again the “C. L. Dragoons” remained as Hood’s personal escort. Only about a dozen of these rare typically very hard used Confederate Colt’s are known and this is a fine orig example. PROVENANCE: Ex-Damon Mills Collection; Ex-James C. Mitchell, Mobile, Alabama; Pictured on pg 17 of “The Gun Report”, January 1991 in an article by Walter Anderson, Jr., “The C. L. Dragoons”. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal cleaned with grey smooth surface overall with good markings and light pitting. Cylinder has matching color, discernible SN, no safety pins are retained, tiny hints of orig cylinder scene are visible. Matching SNs are found on bbl, loading arm, wedge, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor and cylinder. Well fit grips retain traces orig factory varnish and penciled SN is only partially discernible, but little doubt are orig to this gun. Markings are very good and easily discerned including bbl address, “C.L. DRAGOONS” on left flat of bbl housing, patent marking on frame (top line weakly struck) and SNs. Gun appears completely orig and authentic. Mechanically gun functions well, crisp well defined rifling in bore. 50895-1 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 4365
COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER WITH “MAJ. H.D. BLASINGAME FIRST PENN. VOL. 1861” ENGRAVED ON BACKSTRAP CASED WITH ACCESSORIES.
SN 149810. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. 1-pc walnut grip. This gun presents an enigma to this cataloger. The SN falls in the range of a 4th Model Navy made in 1863 with New York bbl address and a capping groove in the middle of the recoil shield cutout. Trigger guard and backstrap, although numbered to the gun, are of the 3rd Model type with a small rnd guard, which was discontinued in the 85,000 SN range. The date of the inscription “1861” falls in the range of an early 4th model. The inscription is spurious. There is some evidence that these grip straps may have been fitted at a later date. The grips are not numbered and do not fit well on this revolver, but are definitely Colt grips. The only conclusion that can be made is that this revolver is a composite of parts from 2 different revolvers, assembled and numbered together, at a later date. SN dyes match on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Case is made of mahogany with green velvet lining. Case contains a Navy bullet mold marked “Colt’s Patent”. A flask with a stand of flags, canon, an eagle motif embossed on both sides. A packet of combustible cartridges, a tin of Eley caps, and a Colt combination tool. PROVENANCE: Collection of Daniel C. Scott. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 60-70% blue finish with high point and muzzle wear and a sharp bbl address. Some battering about the wedge. SN’s match on frame, bbl, rammer, wedge, trigger guard, backstrap, and cyl. Frame retains 50% vivid case color, as does the hammer in protected areas. Cyl shows 50% blue with a nearly complete cyl scene. Safety pins are intact on cyl. Trigger guard and backstrap retain nearly all of silver finish. Grips show nearly all varnish finish, with some dents and high point wear. Grips have a crack at top corner on both sides, which have been repaired. Case is very good with a small crack on top. Partitions are intact. Lining is good. Bullet mold shows 20% blue with clear markings. Flask is dark mustard-brown patina, with sharp embossing and few dents. Cartridge pack and cap tin are intact. Key is present. 50709-19 TEP (4,000-6,000) – Lot 2255
EXTREMELY RARE ORIGINAL COLT TRIPLE REVOLVER CASING.
Rare burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing for three Colt revolvers which include an 1851 Navy, an 1849 pocket revolver with 4″ bbl and a compartment in the right front for a Model 1855 Root revolver. Other compartments are for flasks and molds, cap tins and bullets. Outside corners of the case are rounded and it has a brass shield in the lid engraved with the intertwined initials “ET”. It also has a small shield shaped lock escutcheon on the front. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Lid has a repaired crack above the hinge and a long grain check toward the front with another couple in the bottom and overall retains about 90% orig varnish with nicks, scratches and dings. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid, a little more heavily faded in the bottom with moderate soil. A very rare casing seldom ever offered on the open market. 50679-3 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 4244A
*FANTASTIC COLT MODEL 1918 SELF LOADING RIFLE (SLR) SN 1 OF 200.
SN C1918-00001. Cal. 30-06. bbl 27″ W/flash hider. Utterly fantastic Colt Model 1918 Self Loading Rifle manufactured for Colt under license by Ohio Ordnance Works, Inc. – Top of receiver marked “COLT’S PT. MFG. CO.” with classic rampant colt logo prominently displayed on the ejector plate. Completely faithful to the original Browning Automatic Rifle down to the receiver machined from a solid billet of steel as opposed to an investment casting, and incorporates the early flash hider design. This incredibly beautiful high luster deep blued finished SEMI-AUTO rifle pays tribute to the Browning Automatic Rifle and save the fantastic finish, the rampant colt engraved on the top of the receiver, the lettering, and fact that it is semi-auto, is in every way the classic American B.A.R. – Forend and stock was exactly copied from original new old stock examples, and no expense nor effort was spared when making only 200 specimens of this presentation level quality rifle. This offering includes two high lustrous finished magazines, leather sling, boxed cleaning kit, and a high-end specially commissioned felt lined leather case which was made in Italy by the same company that makes high quality shotgun cases. Combination lock case is marked with COLT logo inside the cover and incorporates compartments for the accessories, including a special glossy paged manual specifically for this 200 rifle run. CONDITION: As new in all respects. Bolt has been drawn back to check to ensure rifle was not loaded and just as fresh as can be imagined with a light coating of preservative oil. This cataloger has seen a fair number of Browning Automatic Rifles but none come close to the beauty of fit and finish of this specimen. Number 1 of 200, Robert Landies has stated there will only ever be 200 of these manufactured ever. This rifle is the ultimate showpiece and tribute to the Browning Automatic Rifle and one cannot help but be drawn like a magnet to it. That this is serial #1 makes this the ultimate opportunity to own the most desired specimen of this very limited production run. 51087-15 JWK84 (9,000-12,000) C&R – Lot 3008
*FABULOUS, EXTRAORDINARILY RARE, TEXAS SHIPPED, FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW FRONTIER BY MASTER ENGRAVER LEONARD FRANCOLINI WITH EXTENSIVE GOLD INLAYS AND NUMEROUS GOLD WILDLIFE SCENES WITH FACTORY IVORY GRIPS WITH INLAID GOLD MEDALLIONS, IN COLT FACTORY PRESENTATION CASE.
SN 04136NF. Cal. 45LC. 7-1/2″ barrel. Very early 3rd Generation. Full blue finish with Factory Ivory Grips with gold inlaid medallions and multiple Factory Gold Inlays. Revolver was so extensively engraved at the Colt Factory by Master Engraver Leonard Francolini that this revolver comes with an extremely rare 2-Page Colt Factory Archive Letter in order to fit all of the engraving and gun specification details of this spectacular Colt into one letter. Top of bbl is scroll engraved on both sides of address, both sides of front-sight, and muzzle. Gold line accents are present throughout engraving. Top of bbl is inlaid in gold with a golden coiled rattlesnake. Bbl markings are inlaid in gold. The bbl is further embellished with dbl inlaid gold bands at muzzle and breech of bbl, extending down to ejector tube. Frame is flawlessly engraved on re-coil shield and forward portion in a beautiful scroll style. Frame is inlaid in gold on left side with a golden black bear, and on the right side with a pair of Tule elk. Backstrap and trigger guard are scroll engraved. A gold inlaid border impressively highlights the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Top strap is scrolled engraved with leaf accents on both sides of rear-sight. Cyl is scroll engraved with gold accents and borders, and dbl gold bands on rear periphery of cyl. Bbl shows standard 1-line Colt address on top, with model and cal mark on left side. SN is stamped on forward bottom of frame. 2-line patent address along left side of frame. Revolver is fit with beautiful factory ivory grips with gold Colt medallions Revolver was shipped to Houston Texas in a factory presentation case on June 29, 1979. This Spectacular Colt was Factory Engraved near the very end of Master Engraver Leonard Francolini’s time at the Colt Factory and is one of Francolini’s last works as a “Colt Factory Engraver”. On page 217 of Don Wilkerson’s famed book on Post-War SAA’s he states that only 16 Colt New Frontier Models were “Master Engraved”, while the 16 revolvers are not broken out by the specific engraver’s name, this masterpiece by Leonard Francolini is certainly among the finest made by Colt and possibly the only example in this fabulous configuration with profuse gold inlays and factory ivory grips. PROVENANCE: The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Colt Factory Archive Letter. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: As New. This is a beautiful and unbelievably rare gold and game scene Colt Factory Master Engraved revolver by Leonard Francolini during his time as a Colt Factory Engraver. Un-fired in a wonderful Colt Factory presentation case. 50872-10 (14,500-22,500) C&R; IVORY – Lot 4289
1) COLT NEW LINE. SN 1768. Cal. 38 RF. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” 2-pc grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: All metal re-nickeled, except hammer and trigger, bore is dark. IVORY 2) COLT NEW LINE. SN 11033. Cal. 38 CF. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, patent address on bottom of bbl, factory engraved, left side of bbl stamped “Colt New .38”, “certifiable antique elephant ivory ” 2-pc grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Cal. 38 CF. Nickel is flaked around and in engraving turning mostly brown, balance is bright nickel. Hammer and trigger are fire-blued. Grips are slightly undersized. Bore is good. 3) COLT NEW LINE. SN 4344. Cal. 38 CF. 2-1/4″ bbl. 5-shot cylinder. 2-pc rosewood grips. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Nickel has mostly flaked with 20% remaining. Grips are cracked. Bore is fair. 4) COLT NEW LINE. SN 10880. Cal. 38 CF. 4″ bbl, blade front sight, framed notch rear sight, rosewood grips, “Colt New .38” etch panel. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Orig nickel 60% remaining with areas of flaking and wear. Hammer and trigger have bright fire blue, grips are in good condition. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. 50582-101, 50582-102, 50582-103, 50582-104 (2,500-3,500) – Lot 2307
EXTREMELY FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER.
SN 60476. Cal. 31. Blue & color cased hardened with 4″ oct bbl, pin front sight & engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of the frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a double arc shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain smooth ivory 1-pc grip. Cylinder is 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Revolver is beautifully engraved in 1853 when famous engraver Gustave Young was first working with Colt. Gun exhibits full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug & top side flats with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. Matching pattern engraving is also on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, an eagle’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spur & top edge with a hand checkered spur. SN’s on the bottom of the revolver and buttstrap are accompanied by a small punch mark which is thought to signify extra polishing for engraving. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined mahogany casing compartmentalized in the bottom for a “COLTS PATENT” eagle and stars pocket sized flask, a brass 2 cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold, L-shaped gun tool, and cap tin. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine overall, all matching though gun was not disassembled to check for internal numbers as it is so well fit. Bbl retains over 97-98% strong blue with a few minor scratches and flaking. Loading arm, frame and hammer retain dull silvery case colors proper for this era. Cylinder retains 60-70% bright blue, balance mostly plum/blue and virtually all of its rolled stagecoach holdup scene. Cylinder retains all 5 crisp and serviceable safety pins. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip is well fit with typical light shrinkage at top strap, ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Mahogany case is sound & solid with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains most of its varnish. Interior is fine overall with light areas of soiling & wear. Partitions are solid. Flask is in matching extremely fine condition retaining most of its original varnish, bright fire blue to spring. Mold is excellent condition also with minor small blemishes. Cap tin retains original caps, most of its japanned surface and good original label with scuffing and reduction with minor text losses as can be seen in photos. There is a non-functional key included for display. The L-shaped tool retains most of its original bright fire blue. 50679-2 (25,000-35,000) IVORY – Lot 4229
SPECTACULAR HISTORIC LEECH & RIGDON CONFEDERATE REVOLVER CAPTURED AT THE BATTLE OF MOBILE BAY, ALABAMA FROM THE CONFEDERATE IRONCLAD “CSS TENNESSEE”.
SN 605. Cal. 36. This is a standard model Leech & Rigdon revolver, part of first Confederate contract of November 26, 1862. What makes this gun so important is it’s condition and history. This is among the most iconic of all Confederate revolvers being universally recognized by most Confederate collectors and scholars. This gun has fabulous provenance and history and a large album of orig correspondence accompanies it. Herb Glass, Sr.(1916-1970), among the most respected of early antique firearms experts stated in accompanying orig 1956 letter “That Leech & Rigdon #605 is in my opinion, is the finest Confederate pistol in existence. It came to me directly from the person who bought it from the Harrington family and that family is still in existence in Yonkers, NY…Ensign Harrington wound up an Admiral and is a nationally known naval hero”. This gun is in wonderful condition with rarely seen silver presentation plaque finely engraved with it’s history “ENSIGN P. FRED. HARRINGTON / U.S. NAVY / U.S.S. MONONGAHELA / MOBILE BAY, ALABAMA / FRIDAY AUG. 5TH 1864 / CAPTURED WITH THE REBEL IRONCLAD / TENNESSEE”. Ensign Purnell Frederick Harrington (1844-1937) was a lifelong navy man, graduating from Annapolis September 1861, seeing much service advancing through the ranks. Harrington wrote a very detailed letter to his brother after the Battle of Mobile Bay which content can be found in provenance file, which should be read. “Altogether it was a desperate and plucky fight on both sides…the honor of capturing the finest ram ever built and the finest ironclad ever built belongs almost exclusively to wooden ships…Immediately after the fight, I went on board the ram. She is like the Atlanta but twice as powerful. Her gun deck was flesh and gore“. It is interesting to note Harrington’s mention of the CSS Atlanta as it is the only other vessel I know of to have a silver plaque commemorating it’s capture and that was LeMat SN 7 which was sold on these floors as Lot 1107, October 2007 at the time a record auction price for a Confederate handgun when it realizes $166,750. The historic Battle of Mobile Bay took place on August 5th, 1864. This was the last important defended Confederate port in the Gulf of Mexico east of the Mississippi River. Early on in the war, the Confederates realized they could not protect all of their ports and thus selected only the important ones to protect. To the Union, the closure of this port would be the last step in the completion of the blockade of that reason and thus very important, just as it was equally important to the Confederates to defend it. Rear Admiral David G. Farragut led the attack accompanied by an overwhelming force of naval vessels and a contingent of soldiers. The Confederates had 3 forts in the bay so not only was it imperative that they destroy the naval forces but also the forts. It was at this battle that Farragut is purported to have given the dramatic order, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” The Confederate fleet was far outnumbered and before the day was out, the only vessel left fighting was the ironclad CSS Tennessee. Despite this, she did not flee but engaged the entire Northern fleet. Because of her ironclad armor, she was able to inflict more injury than she received. Completely surrounded and fighting by herself, she was finally reduced to a motionless hulk. It was then and only then Admiral Buchanan finally surrendered. Within a few days, the forts were also captured and this last remaining Confederate port was now in Union hands. The capture of Mobile Bay was a coup for the North but most specifically for President Abraham Lincoln. The battle was extensively covered in publications of the day and due to the great success it was a morale booster for Lincoln and his people. It certainly assisted him in his reelection which took place only a few months after the battle. A rare Confederate revolver in this type of condition is indeed a prize item but when coupled with the impeccable provenance and association of such a significant historic engagement, it is truly a prize. This revolver is indeed iconic and a most rare opportunity for any serious collection of important Confederate arms. PROVENANCE: Ensign P. F. Harrington, USN, August 5, 1864; Harrington Family Estate to Herb Glass, Sr., Bullville, NY; Described on pg 51 of “The Original Confederate Colt” by William Albaugh & Richard Stuart, 1953; Ex-William Florence Collection, 1956; Ex-Clifford Young Collection; Pictured and described in The Boston Globe, January 23, 1966; Pictured on pg 21 “Confederate Revolvers” by Bill Gary, 1987′ Pictured and described on pg 323-324 of “Confederate Presentation Swords and Revolvers, Dan Hartzler, 1988. CONDITION: Very fine overall. 100% orig and matching. Gun is crisp retaining strong traces of orig finish in protected areas, otherwise an overall smooth grey/plum with a light mustard colored brass. SNs and bbl address are as crisp and well struck as you can find. Grips are fine and well fit, retaining about 90% of their orig varnish. Silver plaque is professional engraved, smooth with minor tiny cosmetic scratches. Mechanically revolver functions well, all 6 safety pins on cylinder are crisp and functional, bore is crisp with well defined rifling. 44797-26 JS (60,000-80,000) – Lot 4366
SN 104108. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ oct bbl, with standard NY address. 6 shot rnd roll engraved cyl, silver finished large brass trigger guard and backstrap, 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl, frame, grip straps, cyl and wedge have matching numbers. Loading lever is unmarked and appears to be a replacement. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. Metal surfaces are cleaned with scattered very light pitting. Cyl retains 80% scene. Grip straps show 70% silver finish with spots of dark tarnish. Unsanded grips show moderate wear and handling marks. Last cocking notch on hammer is not holding. Dark bore showing light pitting. 50582-56 DS (1,000-1,500) – Lot 2266
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF HOUSE PISTOL.
SN 1950. Cal. 41. Originally gold finish with 3″ rnd bbl, pinched blade front sight and 4-chamber cloverleaf shaped cyl. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Frame and bbl once silver finished, though only small traces remain. Frame and bbl are matching numbered. Revolver is beautifully engraved in the style of L.D. Nimschke with nearly full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with fine dot and diamond patterns on borders of frame. Bbl is matching engraved with a diamond and dot border around the muzzle. Backstrap is engraved with arabesque scrolls at the top and geometric patterns down the backstrap. Cylinder is engraved with cross hatched diamond and dot pattern, with borders en suite at muzzle and frame borders. Accompanied by an orig Colt rosewood casing, that is purple velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a wire cleaning rod in a slot in the back edge. Left front has a Mahogany cartridge block containing 24 cartridges. This gun was made in first year of production in 1871. CONDITION: Very good overall and functional. Gun appears orig and complete. Iron is overall plum/brown with tiny traces of finish found in sheltered areas of bbl. Brass has light mustard patina with tiny traces of finish. Hammer still has traces of thinning gold plate. Casing is sound and solid with craquelure to lid and loss of varnish where chipped in areas. Lining faded to near yellow/white with only orig color in protected areas. Brass escutcheon plate in lid and brass keyhole facing still present. Left rear dovetailed wood corner is missing. Grips sound with no chipping, light wear and good color. 50405-1 JS (3,500-5,500) – Lot 4246
*HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT COLT MODEL 1908 GENERAL OFFICER’S PISTOL CALIBER 380.
SN 136079. Cal. 380 ACP. Blue finish U.S. property marked General Officer’s pistol. Issued to Brigadier General John F. Egan, United States Army Air Corps. Egan was a Mustang General enlisting in World War I as a private and honorably discharged at the end of hostilities as a P.F.C. Re-enlisting and following an Army career in aviation eventually making Brigadier General and commanding troops in the China-Burma-India theater. Bright blue finish with checkered walnut grips with rampant Colt medallions. Engraved on left side of pistol “John F. Egan, B/G, U.S.A.F.” with correct brown leather with gold snaps and rivets General Officer’s holster. Additional items included in this lot are a silver presentation pitcher (8 3/4″ H X 9 1/2″ across including handle) presented to then “Lieut. John F. Egan from First Pursuit Group June 19, 1928” and is so inscribed on the cup. Also included is a Gold pilots ring in original box which was the personal property of, and worn by John F. Egan. The ring depicts in relief a Bi-plane in flight on either side below pilots wings, with relief letters surrounding feathered wings in the center. The letters read, “VOLABAMUS VOLAMUS” (“Fly Fly”). Another item in this lot is a 7″ wingspan desktop chrome plated rendition of a Curtis P-40 fighter plane in flight, in fine detail complete with U.S. Stars in color on the wings. There is also an original “Eastern Air Command Personalities” booklet which identifies in photos and several brief paragraphs the senior officers serving in that command from 15 Dec 1943 – 15 Dec 1944, including “Brigadier General J.F. Egan”, as well other American and British officers. Finally, included is a signed statement from the consignor stating that he acquired these items purchased in an estate sale held at John F. Egan’s home in 2002. CONDITION: Very fine overall with slight edge wear. Several very minor spots of pitting on left side from being in holster. Excellent bore and mechanics. Grips are very fine with no cracks, chips or material loss whatsoever. General Officer’s brown leather holster is exceptionally fine as leather is still supple with only small amounts of wear. A very fine specimen and an interesting and historically significant U.S. aviation related handgun. The silver pitcher is extremely fine, shiny and attractive, without any dents or scuffs. The ring has some slight brassing as one would expect of a ring worn daily, but very attractive. The P-40 desktop model is also in extremely fine condition, shiny and attractive. The 10″ x 7 1/2″ booklet rates fair to goo with some wear to corners and staining, but the pictures are clear and the text completely legible. This is an exceeding unique and attractive offering of personal items from a significant American pilot who served in both WW1 and WW2 and distinguished himself in the air as well as pioneering air tactics which involved flying straight at buildings, releasing bombs and pulling up at last minute so the bombs would strike the buildings horizontally. 50599-1 TDW (2,500-5,000) C&R – Lot 3064
*SPECTACULAR , EXCEEDINGLY RARE, FACTORY ENGRAVED BY DENNIS KIES, COLT NEW FRONTIER SECOND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH WALNUT GRIPS AS PICTURED IN VARIOUS DON WILKERSON BOOKS.
SN 5766NF. Cal. 45LC. 5-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Factory walnut grips with inlaid colt medallions. Ramp front-sight. Flat top frame with adjustable rear-sight. This revolver is beautifully engraved in a factory coverage level of “Class B” with scroll motif by famed Colt factory engraver Dennis Kies. The barrel is engraved at breech-end, bordering both sides of the barrel address. The barrel is also engraved at the muzzle end on both sides of the front-sight. Ejector rod housing is also scroll engraved at front and rear. Frame is wonderfully scroll engraved on both sides of recoil shield and frame, with scroll work in front of the cylinder. Top strap is flawlessly engraved at forward end and on the rear side. Backstrap has scroll engraving on the apron and at the heel. Butt is very nicely engraved. Trigger guard is engraved around front screw and on outer ring of trigger guard. Trigger guard is also flawlessly engraved on bows and rear flats. All engraving is expertly accomplished with a very fine punch dot background. Cyl is scroll engraved between each flute and at rear between each bolt stop. 2-pc grips are walnut with silver Colt medallions at the top. Bbl has standard 1-line address with model and caliber mark on left side. Serial Number matches on frame, trigger guard, back strap, and grips. Cyl shows rampant Colt logo on rear face. Frame has 2-line patent mark on left side with rampant Colt logo to rear. Loading gate and right rear flat of frame under grip bears the assembly no. 15. The Colt Factory Archive Letter confirms Caliber, Barrel Length, Finish, Factory Engraving “Yes, Class B engraving”, “Engraver’s name Dennis Kies”, and shipped to the Gun Store in Klamath Falls Oregon on September 30, 1971. This spectacular Colt Revolver is featured on full display in at least 2 of famed author Don Wilkerson’s books: on Page 167 is a full color page profile of this exact revolver in Don Wilkerson’s “The Post-War Colt Single Action Army 1955-1975” attributed to the Howard Steere Collection with engraving by Dennis Kies. Yet again in another Don Wilkerson book, this exact Colt Revolver is pictured on Page 154 in full profile stating engraving by Dennis Kies and as one of only 20 New Frontier revolvers engraved in 45 caliber, in the Wilkerson book “Colt Single Action Revolver Handbook 1955-1975”. The importance and rarity of this 2nd Generation Factory Engraved New Frontier cannot be overstated; Don Wilkerson states in his book on Page 161 that while factory engraved 2nd generation Colts are rare, a factory engraved 2nd generation New Frontier is an “extreme rarity”. Don Wilkerson ends his famed analysis with the statement on Page 161 “Lady Luck will truly be smiling on the Colt enthusiast who finds an original factory engraved New Frontier.” PROVENANCE: The Howard Steere collection, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Don Wilkerson Books: “Colt Single Action Revolver Handbook 1955-1975”, “The Post-War Colt Single Action Revolver 1955-1975”. Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: New and un-fired. All markings are sharp and clear. Engraving is crisp. No evidence that cyl has been turned. This important and marvelous revolver was shipped 45 years ago in 1971 and looks like it did the day it left the factory. Hard to improve upon. For the most advanced Colt enthusiast. 50872-11 (9,500-18,500) C&R – Lot 4290
1) COLT #2 DERINGER. SN 8395. Cal. 41 RF. 2-1/2″ oblong nickel finished bbl with silver washed frame. 2-pc checkered walnut grips. Moderate scroll engraving with German silver front blade sight. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G.W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine overall with most nickel remaining on bbl. Silver washed finish has dulled somewhat to a matte with most silver remaining. Checkered 2-pc walnut grips are very fine with no cracks or chips and are quite pleasing. Bore is good. Action not functioning as needs mainspring. 2) COLT OPEN TOP. SN 1570. Cal. 22 Short. 2-7/8″ bbl. Colt 1st model Open Top revolver manufactured 1871 with integral ejector. 7 shot single action design. 2-pc walnut grips. Nickel finished bbl and brass frame. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G.W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine overall condition with traces of nickle finish remaining. Excellent bore and mechanics. Clear markings with functioning integral ejector. 3) COLT OPEN TOP PKT. SN 1770. Cal. 22 Short. 2-3/8″ bbl. Colt 1st model Open Top revolver with integral ejector, blue finished bbl, brass frame and rosewood grips. 7 shot single action. Manufactured in 1871. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G.W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Strong remnants of blue finish remaining on bbl, 7 shot cyl has turned plum, brass frame an even mustard patina with exceptionally fine 2-pc grips with no cracks or chips. Ejector rod believed to be a later replacement. Mechanics and bore are fine. 4) COLT OPEN TOP. SN 27049. Cal. 22 Short. 2-3/8″ bbl. Colt Open Top revolver 2nd model with nickel finish bbl and 7 shot nickel finish cyl. Very elegant scroll and vine engraving with dot punch background. With nicely fitting 2-pc grips. Manufactured 1874. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G.W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine overall with much nickel finish remaining on bbl and cyl. Traces of nickel remaining on protected areas of frame. 2-pc grips fit well with a very pleasant patina. 5) COLT OPEN TOP PKT. SN 61647. Cal. 22 Short. 2-3/8″ bbl. Colt Open Top revolver 2nd model 7 shot single action revolver. Elegantly engraved and nickel finished with superb 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Manufactured 1875. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G.W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine overall, with much finish remaining with slight thinning on left side of bbl. Mechanics and bore are good. Engraving is spectacular, sharp and clean. 2-pc grips are very fine with vivid colors and fitted nicely. 49973-177, 49973-195, 49973-196, 49973-197, 49973-198 TDW (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2310
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER WITH SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION TO CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR JOHN WELLER AT HEIGHT OF THE GOLD RUSH.
SN 146808. Cal. 31. This standard model 5″ pocket is elaborately factory engraved in style Gustav Young made famous with wolf’s head decorated hammer, beautiful floral scrolls terminating in flower blossoms and a large dog’s head on left side of bbl housing. Backstrap engraved “To John B. Weller/from the Inventer [sic]”. John B. Weller (1812-1875) was the fifth governor of California from 1858-1860. This gun was made in 1858, no doubt the enterprising Mr. Colt saw big potential in gifting this beautiful gun to the newly elected governor of a very wealthy state, now governed by a veteran of the Mexican War who was well acquainted with the firepower Colt could give his militia. Weller, at the end of his administration in 1860, became the American Ambassador to Mexico. Gun is cased along with brass “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold, eagle and stars powder flask, L-shaped gun tool and 1858 dated percussion cap box. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall retaining strong traces of bright finish in protected areas. Gun appears complete and orig and all matching, though cyl is unserialized it has matching color and surface and crisp rolled stagecoach holdup scene. Crisp action and well-defined rifling. Stocks retain about 90% of their orig varnish with edge wear and tacking marks on butt. Engraving and markings all crisp and discernible including presentation. Accompanying casing retains much of its orig varnish. The interior is heavily light faded, once a burgundy red, now a mix of pink and light orange with soiling and several glued repairs. Bottom of case has 1/4″ wide longitudinal crack and several hairlines found elsewhere. Tools are very good overall. Flask retaining traces of varnish with old polish. Mold has mustard patina with light tacking marks. 51057-1 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 4230
KRIDER LEMAT PATENT REVOLVER SERIAL NUMBER 2, THE PERSONAL REVOLVER OF COL. ALEXANDER LEMAT HIMSELF.
SN 2. Cal 40/16. Among the greatest rarities in LeMat revolvers are the two patent models made for Dr. Alexander LeMat. These first two revolvers made by John Krider, SN 1 and SN 2 were most likely used at the US military trials in New Orleans in March 1859 and later at the Washington Arsenal in May of 1859. Doug Adams in his excellent text The Confederate LeMat Revolver, 2005, conveys the success of the Grapeshot Revolver: The trials brought great success and reviews of the weapon were enthusiastically positive. Published comments include “….after a close examination of said arm, we consider it a great and important improvement on Colt’s revolver…we consider this arm far superior to any we have seen for the use of cavalry…it is also indispensable for artillerists in defending their pieces…its advantages in the naval service in boarding or repelling boarders is too obvious. This group recommended immediate introduction of the arm into our military and naval services.” Krider is also known to have made a cased engraved “patent pistol” October 24, 1859 for Charles Girard. Charles Girard was orig involved and witnessed the patent documents 3 years earlier of Col. LeMat and became his and P.G.T. Beauregard’s business partner. LeMat and his new partner’s, P.G.T. Beauregard and Charles Girard, early in 1859 must have contracted with Auguste Francotte to manufacture a small quantity of revolvers based on the Krider prototypes. There are six known Francotte made pistols closely emulating the Krider pistols, with highest SN known 20. The finest known Francotte, SN 16, was sold on these floors as Lot #2218, March 2016. These must be the guns that Beauregard was advertising in the New Orleans newspapers as early as May 21, 1859 just two weeks after testing at the Washington Arsenal where “This board was also impressed, suggested some minor adjustments and recommended that “this arm be subjected to trial by hands of troops that are in actually service in the field”. One such Francotte made gun was actually inscribed as a Christmas gift in 1863 to an officer in the 16th Maine. This unit was heavily engaged all through Virginia and most likely this weapon was captured and given as a gift. In the texts by Alain Serpette and later by Val Forgett and prior to the discovery of this revolver, these authors believed the Francotte made guns were actually products of Krider. Adams in his most recent text, points this incorrect correlation out, noting that indeed there are only 2 Krider made LeMat’s known. This cataloger feels quite strongly that this is the most important gun relating to the development of the iconic LeMat grapeshot revolver. Again, quoting from Doug Adams’ great text as to the likely theory that this indeed was Col. LeMat’s personal revolver. “The “COL.” marking, which appears to have been added to the barrel {which does not appear on SN 1}. This could indicate ownership of the pistol by LeMat, himself, or an attempt to use his new rank to gain acceptance with military inspectors. Further, one must question who, other than LeMat himself, would bother to add this title to the address, given that the name “A. LeMat” was already present. The fact that this piece came out of Northern France in the mid-1900’s and that LeMat retired in that same region in the late 1800’s lends support to the “educated deduction” that this may have been his personal gun”. This is a remarkable rarity in American arms collecting being the only known American made LeMat in private hands. The only other American made prototype SN 1 is in the Liege Arms Museum. It was obtained by the Liege Arms Museum directly from Francotte in 1891. This represents an extraordinary opportunity to personally own what is perhaps the most significant LeMat in existence. PROVENANCE: Dr. Alexander LeMat, 1859; Ex-Doug Adams & Clifford Young, 2003; Ex-Clifford & Lynne Young Collection; Photographed and described on pg 20-31 of The Confederate LeMat Revolver, Doug Adams. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun is complete and authentic in every regard. Metal is overall grey with staining. Markings are crisp and well discerned. There are traces of blue finish in protected areas. Brass trigger guard and backstrap retain about 20% of their silver plating. Checkered stocks are well fit with hand worn patina and a few minor dents and bruises. Brass and steel also have scattered areas of cosmetic dents and bruising. Mechanically, gun functions well with crisp, well defined rifling. 44797-27 JS (60,000-80,000) – Lot 4378
SN 2548. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ rnd bbl with NY address. 6 shot rnd roll engraved cyl, brass grip straps, 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl, frame, grip straps, cyl and wedge have matching numbers. Loading lever is unmarked. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. Metal has cleaned gray appearance, showing scattered spots of light pitting. Cyl retains 30% lightly visible scene. Sanded and refinished grips have heavy dents at butt with plastic wood repair along right side of frame and trigger guard. Action functions properly. Bore shows intact rifling, having general dark appearance and areas of pitting. 50582-70 DS (750-1,250) – Lot 2270
SN 488. Cal. 45-70. Fine Gatling with full shrouded 24″ 10-bbl cluster with SN and caliber on the right trunnion, “488 / CAL 45”. Trunnions are 1-1/2″ dia. and the threaded knurled cascabel about 2-1/2″ dia. The front raised area of the shroud, just over the trunnions and in front of the articulated feed base is engraved “U.S.N. / anchor / NO. 41 / WWK / 1889”. Inspector “WWK” (Lt. W. W. Kimball, USN). Rear part of the housing is engraved in 5″ x 2-1/2″ lozenge “GATLING GUN PATENTED / manufactured by / COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG CO / HARTFORD, CT. USA”. The feed base is for the brass Accles circular drum, which one is attached (for 104 rounds), inspected “DFC” (David F. Clark). This gun has an adjustable iron rear blade sight with brass collars engraved “R” and “L” to distinguish on which side of the rear cover either sight is to be positioned. The iron crank with brass handle is on the right side. Mounted on an orig cast brass yoke with a steel arc that is attached to brackets on the bottom of the shroud and passes through the yoke, which controls the elevation and depression of the bbls. The yoke is on a pintle which fits in a bronze socket which sits atop bronze tripod. Left trunnion is engraved “WT 209lbs”. Yoke is marked and inspected “5 / USN / anchor / WJK / 1889”. Bronze tripod is marked and inspected “MOUNT NO 2 / MARK II / ORD. DEP. W.N.Y. / 189 / anchor / C. ON / C.J.B.”. There is no indication in available research material how many of these Gatling guns were purchased by the Navy, but it is believed they are substantially more rare than those purchased by the Army. The Model 1883 was greatly improved over the Model 1877-1881 models that had seen field use by the British Army during the Zulu Wars and improvements were made including making all models with jacketed bbls, no longer having exposed bbls on any model. The breech bolts were made longer and sturdier and the firing rate was increased to about 800 rounds per minute with the side mounted crank. The crank could be removed and attached directly to the main shaft (by unscrewing cascabel) with now each crank firing a sequence of all 10 bbls so a cyclic rate as high as 1,500 rounds per minute could be obtained! CONDITION: Very fine overall. The brass shows a mixed light to medium patina with only a few nicks, dents and minor cosmetic blemishes. Engraved and stamped markings all discernible with light wear. Yoke has matching patina to gun and tripod has darker patina. Several brass parts have assembly numbers “8” or “9”. Gun has been well conserved and appears functional though 3 of the breech bolts are missing. The other 7 breech bolts are in varying conditions from fine to pitted with welded restoration, several inspected “DFC” , and one dated “1889”. The only discernible external restoration that we note is the cascabel and brass handle to crank, otherwise all external parts are orig and marked. All in all, this is a superior, orig, very fine Naval Gatling gun on a rare Naval bronze tripod. 50360-1 JS (175,000-250,000) – Lot 4247
*SCARCE PARKER GHE 20 GAUGE ONCE OWNED BY LEGENDARY AUTHOR AND WESTERN WRITER ZANE GREY – “HIS FAVORITE BIRD GUN”.
SN 149406. Cal. 20 ga. 2-3/4″ chambers with 25-7/8″ bbls (appear orig and uncut). Full length matted rib with brass front bead marked “Parker Bros Makers. Meriden, Conn. Damascus Steel”. #0 frame. Water table with SN and grade designation noted. Bbl flats with unstruck bbl weight of 3 lbs. 2 oz. Double nickel plated triggers, extractors and automatic safety. Capped full pistol grip buttstock, checkered in 3-pt pattern with nickel shield and Parker Bros. DHBP. Pistol grip cap marked “Parker Bros. / Meriden, Conn.”. Splinter forearm with Deeley type release is lightly floral engraved and steel tipped. Receiver is engraved in typical GH pattern with flying birds on left side, standing birds on right in ovals and marked “Parker Bros.”. Bottom of frame is lightly scroll engraved and trigger plate with 2 pheasants in circle. Trigger guard with single burst of scroll and SN noted at tang. This fabulous small bore Parker was once the property of famed author, sportsman and chronicler of the American West, Zane Grey(1872-1939)writer of famous western novels such as “Riders of the Purple Sage and The Lone Star Ranger”. After a career in dentistry, Zane moved to Altadena, CA in 1918 where he began his writing career. 112 films and 2 television series were based on his novels. Also accompanying this gun is a signed and notorized affadavit from noted firearms dealer Michael R. Zomber of Pennsylvannia wherein he shares the history of this gun and a Colt single action also owned by Grey being offered elsewhere in this sale. Zomber purchased the Parker and a Colt single action Army from Zane Grey’s eldest son in July of 1974. Within the affadavit Zomber notes that Romer Grey stated that “The Parker was Zane Grey’s favorite bird gun and he treasured it”. “Romer was more reluctant to part with the Parker than either the Colt single action or the more valuable Ulrich engraved Winchester M1895.” Zomber sold the gun to Mr. Lewis Ferguson owner of Ames Guns in Santa Monica, CA in August of 1974 who has owned both of these guns until now. Bore diameter: left – .621, right – .619. Bore restrictions: left – .016 (mod), right – .004 (imp/cyl). Minimum wall thickness: left – .030, right – .020 . Weight: 6 lbs. 3 oz. Drop at comb: 1-7/16″, drop at heel: 2-15/16″. LOP: 14″. CONDITION: Exceptional as refurbished. Damascus bbls have been lightly blued over though remain in excellent condition and could be very easily restored to show their bold orig pattern. Receiver retains nearly all of its dark recase hardened finish with engraving slightly softened. Trigger guard is near mint as restored. Buttstock & forearm are excellent and retain nearly all of professional quality restored finish with just minute handling marks throughout. Checkering is crisp. Bores are excellent. Mechanics are crisp. Gun is tight on the face. An opportunity to acquire the personal hunting partner of one of America’s most famed 20th century western authors. One can only imagine hunting with a legend like Zane Grey in America’s west. 51023-2 JSL (20,000-30,000) C&R – Lot 3465
*FRESH TO MARKET, FANTASTIC, EXCEEDINGLY RARE CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF EARLY THIRD GENERATION COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS IN 357 MAGNUM CALIBER WITH FACTORY EAGLE GRIPS AS PICTURED IN DON WILKERSON’S BOOK.
SN SA01622/SA01623. Cal. 357MAG. 4-3/4″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Hard rubber eagle grips with Colt logo and American eagle motif. Spectacularly engraved in the coverage of class “C” in a scroll style. Bbls are engraved at breech end bordering the bbl address and the model and cal mark on left side. Ejector rod housing is engraved in a scroll style with a checkerboard pattern in center. Frames are flawlessly engraved on both sides of recoil shield and frame next to hammer. Top straps are engraved at forward and rear end. Frames in front of cyl are engraved. Bottom front of frames are engraved. Backstraps are engraved on apron of backstraps in a scalloped pattern, with a very nice checkerboard accent in the middle, with scroll running down the backstraps and at the heel. Butts of backstraps are nicely engraved. Bow of trigger guards are engraved. There is also engraving accent on both sides of trigger guard screws, and on rear flat of trigger guards where pattern is continued down from the frame. Cyls are engraved in a floral pattern between each flute. Both revolvers were hand engraved in a duplicate pattern as a pair, which is both very rare and difficult for a factory engraver to execute in duplicate. Bbls have 1-line bbl address on top. Model and cal marks on left sides. Frames have 2-line patent marks on left side with rampant Colt logos to rear. SNs are stamped on front flats of frames. Included with the pair is a walnut Colt case for both revolvers with purple felt-lining cartridge blocks and American partitions and two Colt Factory leatherette cases for each revolver. Colt factory letter shows shipment Feb. 9, 1979 from the Colt Factory as a “Consecutive” pair with “C” class engraving, bbl length, cal, and finish. This exact consecutive set of Factory Engraved SAA is pictured on a full page profile on Page #218 of Don Wilkerson’s famed book “The Post-War Colt Single Action Revolver 1976-1986”, and credited to the Willard Webb Collection. Also in Don Wilkerson’s book on Pages #215 & #221, Wilkerson details how the Colt Factory Records show that of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers only 3% were done in 357 Magnum Caliber and only 3% of all Colt Consecutive Serial Sets were done in 357 Magnum Caliber. OF NOTE: Elsewhere in this current James Julia auction, there are two (2) other equally rare and spectacular consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers in Calibers 45 and 44 Special; also of note ALL THREE consecutive sets were originally shipped by the Colt Factory to exact same address and the exact same collector Mr. William Winkelman of Merrill, Wisconsin approximately 35 years ago; ALL THREE consecutive sets are also consigned to this auction from the same Texas collector. This is a chance to own three consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved revolvers in three different calibers: 357 Magnum, 45 Caliber, and 44 Special. PROVENANCE: The William Winkelman Collection, The Willard Webb collection, The George Gill collection, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, The Book Post-War Colt Single Action Army by Don Wilkerson page # 218, and a Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: New. Un-fired. SN SA01623 has extremely faint striation on bbl. In line with ejector rod head movement. 50872-7 (9,500-18,500) C&R – Lot 4291
1) COLT OPEN TOP. SN 21879. Cal. 22 RF. Engraved open top Pocket Model with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, having Hartford address and semi-circular front sight. 7 shot cyl. Bbl, frame and cyl have full coverage scroll engraving with punch dot background. Orig 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” birdshead grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good. Bbl and frame retain 70% nickel finish. Cyl shows heavy polishing with damaged engraving over spots of remaining pitting. Grips are slightly undersized due to age related shrinking. Good mechanics. Dark bore with spots of pitting. IVORY 2) COLT NEW LINE. SN 25108. Cal. 22 RF. New Line 2nd Model with 2-1/4″ flat sided bbl with Hartford address and semi-circular front sight. Etched panel cal marking. 7 shot long flute cyl. Full nickel finish. 2-pc checkered hard rubber birdshead grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. 80% nickel. Grips show light wear. Action will not cycle properly. Dark worn bore. 3) COLT NEW LINE. SN 41531. Cal. 22 RF. New Line 2nd Model with 2-1/4″ flat sided bbl having Hartford address and semi-circular front sight. Etched panel cal marking. 7 shot long flute cyl. Full nickel finish. 2-pc checkered hard rubber birdshead grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very Good. 75% nickel with flaking on forward part of frame and cyl. Grips show light wear. Good mechanics. Lightly pitted bore. 4) COLT NEW LINE. SN 948. Cal. 22 RF. Very early New Line revolver with 2-1/8″ flat sided bbl with Hartford address and semi-circular sight. 7 shot rnd cyl measuring 5/8″ in length. Silver finished brass frame with spur trigger. 2-pc rosewood birdshead grips are numbered to gun. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good. Bbl and cyl have cleaned gray metal with weakened marking and scattered light pitting. Frame retains 50% thinning silver finish. Grips show moderate wear. Good mechanics. Bore has good rifling with spots of pitting. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. 50582-4, 50582-6, 50582-13, 50582-99 DS (1,500-2,000) – Lot 2320
EXTREMELY FINE AND UNIQUE FACTORY ENGRAVED DONUT SCROLL COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH “EAGLE & PEACE” PANEL SCENE.
SN 33610. Cal. 31. This beautiful cased pocket model was made about 1852 and exhibits factory engraving identical to other examples noted pre-1853 with “donut scroll” engraving on bbl housing, frame, backstrap, trigger guard and hammer. Most unusual and unique feature of this revolver which has never been seen on another example is the 2″ spread wing eagle grasping pistol in either talon above a ribbon held in eagles beak emblazoned “PEACE”. There are few other “donut scroll” engraved Colts with panel scenes but nothing like this very special example. Housed in a red velvet lined mahogany case with 2-cavity brass mold and “L” shaped combination nipple wrench/screwdriver. A pack of cartridges, cap tin, double eagle flask, and about 10 loose bullets fill compartments. This unique clearly shows eagle holding what appear to be Wesson & Leavitt dragoon revolvers with side hammers, the same patent infringement revolvers being made by Mass Arms at the time the law-suit which was won by Colt that ended their production. this pistol may represent a tribute to this fact CONDITION: very fine to extremely fine overall. Markings including SNs, and engraved maker and patent marks are crisp as is engraving overall. Bbl & Cyl retain 30-40% bright original blue, balance a blue/plum patina. The frame & hammer retain about 80% bright and muted case colors as does the loading arm pivot, balance silver/gray; top of loading load has darkened colors. The vibrant case colors are reminiscent of Civil War era Colts and not 1852 when case colors from Colt were silvery/gray. It is possible the gun was retained by Colt for posterity and refreshed by the factory prior to its sale at a later date. The silver and blue appear absolutely untouched. Matching SNs found externally on all parts including bbl, loading arm, frame, cyl, trigger guard, backstrap. Backstrap & trigger guard retain 95% of their original silver plate with most of loss at butt. The “select walnut” grips are well fit showing bright burl colors retaining 90% plus original factory varnish with moderate edge wear. Revolver is mechanically sound, retaining all 5 crisp safety pins on cyl. Cyl also has traces of blue in chambers. Bore is crisp and bright. Mahogany Colt casing retains traces of thinning original factory varnish, sound and solid, missing keyhole escutcheon. Interior red velvet is light faded with soiling and stains where cyl, hammer and muzzle abut. Brass 2-cavity mold “COLT’S PATENT” is excellent, smooth with yellow brass patina. Double sided eagle flask retains 80-90% mottled light gold colored varnish and is very fine overall. L-shaped tool has 30-40% blue with pitting, cap tin and packet of Colt cartridges are also very good to fine, The loose balls, extra nipple are fine also. 50154-4 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 4231
EXTRAORDINARY AND FINEST KNOWN ENGRAVED EARLY BRASS FRAME WARNER REVOLVING PERCUSSION RIFLE.
SN NSN. Cal. 40. 24″ part oct bbl, browned and case hardened. The total production on these revolving rifles with the automatic revolving cylinder and brass receiver for the bbl has been estimated at approx. 25 guns, making this extremely rare. These self-revolving carbines were considered an infringement of Colt’s patent and their production was stopped shortly after it began with Colt’s intervention. Engraved lockplate marked “WARNER’S PATENT / JAN. 1851” in two banners. Reverse side of frame is engraved with a panoply of American flags, stars and a patriotic shield, possibly made as exhibition piece as the only other example I have found (SN 7), was blued not browned, plated and frame un-engraved. This is a beautiful and unique example of Warner’s finest work made prior to the Civil War. PROVENANCE: Ex-South African collection, 2002; Estate of Tig Sogoian. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall. Bbl retains over 95% orig thinning brown finish. Cyl retains 98% of its orig bright blue with etched scroll decoration. Frame retains over 80% of its thinning brown finish, with light pitting at top of breech ring and front top of lock. Trigger guard retains about 1/2 of its orig brown with balance gray, and has a small casting flaw visible on left side near rear. Buttplate, hammer and loading assembly are mostly silver/gray with strong areas of bright and muted case colors. Buttstock is sound, solid and well fit, retaining virtually all its orig bright factory varnish. Mechanically sound with crisp bright rifling in bore. 50763-5 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 4430
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE RICHARDS/MASON CONVERSION REVOLVER MCDOWELL TYPE 1-B 1-PIECE BURL WALNUT GRIP.
SN 31018E. Cal. 38 CF. 4 1/2″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc. burl walnut grip. Factory engraved in the open vine style with coverage on half of bbl mainly at lug and both sides of frame. Conversion ring shows a punch dot and walking line motif. Trigger guard and backstrap show light coverage with borders and scroll. Bbl has script addres “SAM’l COLT” surrounded by light scroll work. Bbl lug also shows some dental motif in style of C.F. Ulrich Jr. Ejector rod housing and ejector rod are missing. SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Wedge has no. 0096. “E” is stamped below SN indicating factory engraving. Last 4 digits of SN in grip channel. 1-pc burl walnut grip. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl is gray-brown patina overall with visible engraving and sharp Sam Colt mark engraved. Front sight is battered flat. Bore is dark with visible rifling. SN is clear. Frame has sharp engraving and a sharp Colt patent mark. Trigger guard and backstrap are a mellow mustard patina with sharp engraving. Cylinder is gray-brown patina with about 10% visible cylinder scene and readable SN. Chambers are dark. Grip is very good and retains 70% orig varnish finish with some staining, high point wear and mars and dents overall. A very colorful factory engraved Colt conversion with scarce bbl marking. 49973-233 TEP (2,500-3,500) – Lot 2286
*BEAUTIFUL AND EXTREMELY FINE WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SHIPPED TO TUSCON, ARIZONA WITH UNIQUE CARVED “BUFFALO” MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS.
SN 349148. Cal. 45. Colt Single Action Army with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig thick front sight & 1-line block letter address. Frame has rampant Colt without circle & 2-line patent dates. SN is marked properly on right side of front & back straps under grip. Fitted with beautiful pearl grips with a deep relief carved full body buffalo on right side not noted previously on any other Colt grip. Frame, cyl, bbl & backstrap have factory engraving by Colt master Wilbur A. Glahn, consisting of about 25% coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cyl has patterns between flutes and a wavy border near back edge. Top of backstrap has Glahn’s characteristic ‘V’ shaped design with an arabesque pattern in center of backstrap. It has another ‘V’ shaped design on bottom of heel with light patterns around trigger guard and front trigger guard screw. The accompanying Colt factory letter states that it was shipped from Colt to Albert Steinfeld & Co., Tucson, AZ on July 7, 1926, 5’1/2″ bbl, nickel and factory engraved, rubber grips. Engraving is listed as level “C” in the factory letter but this appears to be a transcription error on the part of the archivist as stated there is only about 25% coverage and should be level “A” engraving. Rubber grips stated in factory letter were subsequently changed to the pearl grips. Regardless, this is a magnificent gun with a stunning pair of carved mother-of-pearl grips. PROVENANCE: Ex-David Crocker Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired but very, very little. Retains virtually all of its orig factory nickel with some light edge wear and backstrap finish has worn through and exhibits a few spots of very fine pitting. There are also some spots of pitting under left grip. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a spot or two of light pitting. 50412-34 (40,000-80,000) – Lot 4251
RARE CASED EARLY PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 46076/49761. Cal. 31. Both revolvers are similar in engraved patterns, blue and color case hardened with 6″ oct bbls, engraved “Saml Colt” addresses, pin front sights. Both revolvers have silver plated trigger guards and backstraps containing highly figured, burl walnut 1-pc grips matching numbered to their respective revolvers. Both have 5 shot cylinders with stagecoach hold up scene roll markings. SN 49761 is engraved in typical factory style with wolf’s head hammer, large scrolls, cross-hatched backgrounds seen on other circa 1852 Colts as seen in the various books on engraving. Both engraved with “COLTS PATENT” on the frames; both in different styles as can be seen in photos, SN 49761 in a lozenge and SN 46706 in a ribbon. All screw heads are nicely engraved. Hammers are deluxe engraved, SN 49761 as noted with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer noses, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spurs and top edges. SN 46706 appears to be orig factory engraved but is among the crudest Colt Factory work I have noted, the engraver obviously an apprentice not quite journeyman as were most Colt factory engravers. The following year, 1853, for Colt begins the Gustave Young era. Thomas Joseph Barlow was possibly the engraver of SN 49761 and his work with similar cross-hatching is shown in Herbert Houze text Colt Factory Engravers, 2012. Barlow is among the very few engravers known by name, engraving prior to 1853 when the heyday of Colt engraving began. Accompanied by a beautiful brass bound rosewood casing that has a gold washed plaque in the lid. Interior is dark green baize lined and compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, a sgl sided eagle and shield pocket size flask, a iron 2 cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, two lacquered tins for Eley’s caps, along with one orig pack of 5 cartridges. PROVENANCE: Ex-Bobbie Smith. The esteemed collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Revolvers are nearly identical in condition, both all matching. Both retain about 80-90% glossy orig blue on the bbls and dark case colors on the rammers and handles. Frames retain most of their orig muted case colors as is typical of the Colts of this era. Cylinders retain strong traces of their bright orig blue and about 99% stagecoach hold-up scene roll markings. Trigger guards and backstraps retain 95%+ of their orig silver plating with some minor edge wear. Grips are sound with good edges and light nicks & scratches and retain most of their strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case is sound and solid, retaining most of its orig varnish with handling and storage nicks and scratches. Interior is lightly soiled inside the lid and bottom with light to moderate soil in the bottom. Partitions are all solid. Flask is as new. Mold is also excellent, retaining most of its orig blue with several small blemishes. Other accessories are equally fine. 49631-25 JS (25,000-35,000) – Lot 4207
*FRESH TO MARKET, WONDERFUL, EXCEEDINGLY RARE CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF EARLY THIRD GENERATION COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS IN 45 CALIBER WITH EQUALLY RARE FACTORY ROSEWOOD GRIPS WITH GOLD INLAID MEDALLIONS.
SN 88547SA/88548SA. Cal. 45LC. 7-1/2″ bbls. Blue and case color finish. Rare factory 2-pc rosewood grips with gold Colt medallion inlaid. Revolvers are beautifully scroll engraved with coverage in the desirable and rarest class “A” coverage. Bbls are scroll engraved at the breech on both sides of bbl address. Ejector rod housings are scroll engraved at rear. Frames have very nicely executed scroll engraving on recoil shield, loading gate, both sides of frame at rear, and in front of cyl. Top straps have scroll accent at both ends. Backstraps are scroll engraved on apron and toe. There is nicely done small scroll accent on the rear flats of the trigger guard. Cyls have scroll engraving between flutes, with a wavy line border around rear of periphery. Bbls have a 1-line address on top with model and cal marks on left side. Left side of frames shows 2-line patent address with rampant Colt logo to rear. SNs are stamped on bottom flat of frames. Accompanying these revolvers is a Colt box made of walnut that is partitioned on the inside in the American style with a green felt lining and individual Colt Factory leatherette cases. In famed author Don Wilkerson’s book on pages #215 & #223, Wilkerson details how the Colt Factory Records show that of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers only 17% were done in Grade A coverage and only 2% of all Colt Consecutive Serial Sets were manufactured with Factory Grips in a material other than “Eagle Stocks or Ivory Stocks”, making the Factory Rosewood Grips on this consecutive set exceedingly rare. OF NOTE: Elsewhere in this current James Julia auction, there are two (2) other equally rare and spectacular consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers in Calibers 357 Magnum and 44 Special; also of note ALL THREE consecutive sets were originally shipped by the Colt Factory to the exact same address and the exact same collector Mr. William Winkelman of Merrill, Wisconsin approximately 35 years ago; ALL THREE consecutive are also consigned to this auction from the same Texas collector. This is a chance to own three consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved revolvers in three different calibers: 357 Magnum, 45 Caliber, and 44 Special. PROVENANCE: William Winkelman, The George Gill collection, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, and a Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: As New. Un-Fired. 50872-8 (9,500-18,500) C&R – Lot 4292
1) COLT NEW LINE. SN 47882. Cal. 22 RF. 2-1/4″ flat sided bbls with semi-circular front sights, having standard Hartford addresses. 2nd Model with 7 shot long flute cyl. Etched cal panel marking. Full nickel finish. 2-pc rosewood birdshead grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Metal retains 60% nickel. Grips show moderate wear. Good mechanics. Dark bore with spots of pitting. 2) COLT NEW LINE. SN 55372. Cal. 22 RF. 1st Model with 7 shot short flute cyl. Blue finished bbl and cyl with nickel finished frame. 2-pc birdshead rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 50% light faded blue. Cyl retains 70% bright blue. Frame shows over 90% nickel finish. Grips show moderate wear. Good mechanics. Dark bore with pitting. 3) COLT NEW LINE. SN 20002. Cal. 22 RF. Engraved 2nd Model with 7 shot long flute cyl. Engraving is full coverage open scroll style. Etched panel cal marking. Full nickel finish. 2-pc birdshead pearl grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl and action retain 50% nickel. Very good grips. Good mechanics. Bore has good rifling with small spots. 4) COLT NEW LINE. SN 17668. Cal. 22 RF. 2nd Model with 7 shot long flute cyl. Etched panel cyl marking. Full nickel finish. 2-pc birdshead rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. 60% nickel finish. Grips show light wear. Good mechanics. Dark worn bore. 5) COLT NEW LINE. SN 54038. Cal. 22 RF. 2nd Model with 7 shot long flute cyl. Blue and nickel finish. 2-pc rosewood birdshead grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. Bbl and cyl have faded to gray with spots of pitting. Brass frame retains 40% nickel finish. Grips show light wear. Action is not cocking properly. Dark pitted bore. 50582-8, 50582-10, 50582-11, 50582-62, 50582-72 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 2324
EXTRAORDINARILY GOLD ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 235127. Cal. 31. Well known firearms engraver Edward C. Prudhomme (1911-1990)is thought to have engraved this 1864 manufactured vintage Colt Model Pocket revolver for Dixie Gun Works in 1970. Bbl has extensive leaf, vine and gold wire inlays, gold address, in addition to gold foxes on each side of the bbl lug. The loading lever is also engraved with gold wire border surrounding relief scrolls. Frame and recoil shields are deeply engraved with two hunting dogs and three ground hogs all surrounded by relief engraved foliate arabesque patterns with fine stippled background. Both sides of frame also have gold “COLT’S PATENT” logos and decorated lozenge. The recoil shields are deep relief engraved with foliate and vine patterns and have gold wire borders. Cylinder scene and all its markings have been re-engraved with gold wire trip, gold wire, patent and SN along with arabesque panels between each stop and each nipple recess. Hammer is completely relief engraved with gold wire frame on both sides and engraved on the top with gold arabesque flourish. The brass trigger guard and backstrap are deep relief engraved with arabesque patterns. No engravers signature is found, grip frame is stamped “DIXIE GUN WORKS 1970”. Custom 2-pc grips are nicely checkered. CONDITION: Extremely fine retaining virtually all orig finish as customized. Mechanically crisp with with defined rifling in a pitted bore. Custom case accompanies. 50382-2 TEP (6,000-10,000) – Lot 4233
EXTREMELY RARE AND FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED “EXHIBITION” SHARPS DELUXE MODEL 1853 SHOTGUN.
SN 9324. Cal. 26 ga. This particular gun, once part of the famous A.E. Brooks collection prior to 1900 and later in the U.S. Cartridge company collection was little doubt an exhibition gun. Only 320 model 1853 shotguns were manufactured and only 6 were “Extra Fancy Engraved” according to Frank Sellers 1978 text Sharps Firearms. Factory letter states this gun was invoiced at the Hartford factory January 11, 1855, being stocked with fancy wood and extra fancy engraved. Larry Wilson in his 1974 text Colt Engraving pg 145, another Model 1853 “Exquisitely engraved by Gustave Young as an exhibition piece”. Still another engraved 1853 Sharps, SN 8421, on pg 103 of Steel Canvas 1995, Wilson attributes to shop of Gustave Young. Gustave Young’s signature features are note on this example his deluxe scroll with pearled background and instead of dog or eagles head, engraving on top of bbl terminates in sea serpent with pointed tongue. This shotgun has 3 panel scenes of hunting and game, which, as can be seen in photographs are quite elaborate and well done. PROVENANCE: A. E. Brooks Collection, Hartford, CT, about 1880; Displayed at A. E. Brooks Restaurant at 387 Main Street, Hartford, CT til 1893; Displayed at the Wadsworth Athenaeum, 1894; A. E. Brooks Collection Catalog, Item #1563, line #447, pg 72, 1899; U. S. Cartridge Company Collection, Lowell, MA, 1902; Exhibited by the U.S. Cartridge Company at St. Louis World Exposition, 1903-1904; Collection auctioned Robins H. Ritter, East Hartford, CT Auction, 1942; Michael Cairns, 1989. CONDITION: Very fine to extra fine overall. Mechanically excellent with crisp, bright, shiny bore, retains virtually all of bright piano polish varnish surface with several cosmetic dents and scratches. Metal overall is silver/gray with bright finish found in protected areas, light staining and pitting on bbl, which retains much of its thinning brown finish. 51006-1 JS (15,000-25,000) – Lot 4431
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT WAS PURPORTEDLY OWNED BY JACK CASE OF THE 101 RANCH, WILD WEST SHOW.
SN 65852. Cal. 44 WCF. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Checkered walnut grips. Revolver is boldly engraved overall in a unique style. “J. Case” is engraved on bottom of bbl. “101” is stamped on forward flat of frame. SNs have been engraved over, with the exception of frame and cyl. Both of which nos. match. Number “7349” is stamped on bbl under ejector rod. 1-line Colt address is visible on bbl. 1-pc walnut grip has been checkered in a fleur-de-lis pattern with studs mounted on either side of grip on top. Revolver is housed in a metal bound wood travel case, with Jack Case ephemera on the lid. Also included is a 2-loop Mexican style holster, embossed with the initials “H.S.”. This exact revolver was sold by Brian Lebel at his Old West Auction. A copy of the auction listing is included in the provenance. CONDITION: Very good, as totally re-built, engraved and refinished. Revolver is a smooth gray-brown finish overall, with some roughness at muzzle end of bbl. Engraving is very sharp and deeply cut. Bbl mark is legible, bbl SN is clear. Frame no. is clear. Cyl base pin screw is missing. Grip is well worn, but completely in tact, no missing pieces. Box is very good with scratches and handling marks overall. Holster is very good and intact. An opportunity to purchase a revolver said to have belonged to Jack Case, who was a very famous Wild West Show performer in the early part of the 20th Century. Case worked for the Miller Brothers 101 Wild West Show. 50935-5 TEP (14,000-16,000) – Lot 2344
*MINTY WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY SHIPPED TO WOLF & KLAR, FORT WORTH, TEXAS WITH GOLD MOUNTED CARVED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 353118. Cal. 45. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight, 2-line address and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY 45” on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with spectacular 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved by master engraver Wilbur Glahn in his deluxe full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine punch dot background. Top of back strap, top of back strap ears & corresponding area of frame are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Back strap is full coverage engraved in tulip patterns with acanthus leaf patterns on butt strap & foliate arabesque patterns on trigger guard. Foliate arabesque patterns extend 3/4 of the way up each side of bbl with a snake & dash pattern in ejector rod housing gullet and foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius. Ejector rod housing boss on frame is engraved with a large flower blossom. Cyl has full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving around the outer diameter, strikingly offset by the bright nickel flutes. SN was observed in the usual place on bottom of frame and on right sides of front & back straps under grip. Last two digits of SN are found on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt, 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks, factory engraved in Class “C” coverage, shipped to “Loan Account” Wolf & Klar, Fort Worth, TX on July 15, 1929 to Account #16671/1 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks section it states that “This revolver was purchased by Wolf & Klar on Jan. 16, 1931.” The first time this gun came to auction and sold at a California auction house in 2006, revolver was described as showing “beautiful raised relief carved medallion ivory grips with Wolf & Klar accents to the carving consisting of gold steerhorns, nose ring and ruby eyes inset in the right grip; large gold medallions which appear to be “TD” on the left grip. Wolf & Klar were one of the bigger dealers in Colt firearms at this period of time, and this pistol was loaned as a display piece by Colt. The quality of the engraving is excellent and is one of the finest examples of Wilbur Glahn’s work. The initials on the left grip purportedly belong to a Texas oilman who was a regular customer of Wolf & Klar and purchased very ornate Colts and S&Ws of which several are known to old-time collectors. This pistol recently surfaced in Arizona in the hands of an elderly gentleman whose father obtained it in a trade for a horse, along with its fancy tooled S.D. Myers, El Paso marked holster in the 1930’s. One of the best unknown Single Actions to surface in a decade”. Since this gun was sent to Wolf & Klar’s on account in 1929, gold mounted carved grips appear orig from this date and similar are seen on several other special guns in the Wilbur Glahn era. See SN 341995, pgs 564-565 of The Colt Engraving Book – Volume One, R. L. Wilson. Also, of note, is SN 353113, only five SNs different from this gun is also a grade “C” Wilbur Glahn revolver shipped in 1930 with carved ivory steer head grips. This is indeed a stunning Single Action. PROVENANCE: Ex-David Crocker Estate Collection. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cylinder, grips are unnumbered. Has been fired, but very little and retains virtually all of its fine orig factory nickel with possible re-polishing and touch-up on front & back straps which is not detectable. “Elephant ivory” grips are also extremely fine, fit well with good patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 50412-32 (40,000-80,000) IVORY – Lot 4253
RARE AND VERY FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 146961. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, “Saml Colt” engraved on top flat. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in two arc’s. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is engraved in Gustav Young’s deluxe style with full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on the frame that has two scrolls terminating in flower blossom. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl with a scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s dog’s head and two scrolls on the right side that terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot. Matching patterns are also on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern at the top and sunbursts on sides of the backstrap shoulders. Hammer is typically engraved with animal’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & spur. Grip is constructed with two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined mahogany casing that has the rare contoured divider in the bottom and is compartmented for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold without sprue cutter, a packet of 6 Colt’s Cartridge Work’s combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin with paper label for Eley’s caps. There were over 330,000 of these revolvers produced in the period 1850-1873, only a few of which were engraved and extremely few were cased.This revolver was built in 1858 just before the onset of the Civil War where it almost certainly would have seen service. These revolvers were very popular on the American frontier, even after the Civil War and literally around the world. They are rarely found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Ex-Michael Simens. The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including loading arm, wedge and cyl. Bbl retains strong traces of original blue finish with balance plum/blue. This gun is very crisp and sharp, though little original bright finish is found on iron. Frame, hammer and loading arm retain strong traces of bright and muted case colors with balance a dark silver patina. Cyl has tiny traces of thin blue in protected areas with balance mottled gray/plum and shows about 95% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about all their original silver plating. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip has one tiny chip on the rear left toe and shows good ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with crisp rifling and good shine. Case is sound and solid retaining most of its original varnished finish. Interior is strong & bright inside the lid, lightly faded in the bottom with light to moderate soil. Flask is very fine retaining 80-90% of orig finish. Mold is very fine, good markings and few minor blemishes with yellow patina. Cartridge packet and cap tin are equally fine. Accompanying orig key is functional. 49631-6 JS (15,000-25,000) IVORY – Lot 4208
*FRESH TO MARKET, SPECTACULAR, EXCEEDINGLY RARE CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF EARLY THIRD GENERATION COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS IN 44 SPECIAL CALIBER WITH EQUALLY RARE FACTORY ROSEWOOD GRIPS WITH COLT FACTORY INLAID MEDALLIONS.
SN SA22725/SA22726. Cal. 44 Special 4-3/4″ bbls. Blue and case color finish. Exceedingly rare Colt Factory Rosewood Grips with inlaid medallions. Revolvers are flawlessly engraved with class “C” coverage. Barrels are beautifully engraved on both sides of address with a line and punch dot border, ending in scroll work on both ends, from breech to muzzle. Barrels are also engraved on left side below model and caliber mark, at breech and muzzle end. Ejector rod tubes are scroll engraved. Frames show remarkably unique scroll engraving on both sides with a line and punch dot pattern on the recoil shield on left side with a wonderful checkerboard accent. Loading gates are elaborately scroll engraved without border. Right side of frame has a checkerboard pattern accenting the engraving. Top of frames are decorated with a line and punch dot pattern matching the engraving on the barrels. Backstraps are engraved with line and punch dot checkerboard and scroll engraving. Butts and trigger guards are engraved with scroll. Rear flat of trigger guards and side flats of backstraps are engraved in a checkerboard pattern. In a very rarely seen manner the cylinders are spectacularly engraved in a scallop, checkerboard, and scroll pattern between the flutes. Rear of cyls have scroll accents between bolt stops. Bbls show 1-line bbl address on top. Model and cal mark on left side. SNs are stamped on bottom of forward flat of frame. 2-line patent mark with rampant Colt logos on left side of frames. Factory grips are made of Rosewood with Colt custom medallions inlaid at the top. Revolvers are each cased in a Colt Factory leatherette box and both revolvers also come with factory cardboard sleeves that have an end label describing the features of each revolver. In famed author Don Wilkerson’s book on pages #215, #221, and #223, Wilkerson details how the Colt Factory Records show that of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers only 7% were manufactured in the 44 Special caliber, and only 9% of all Consecutive Sets were in the 44 Special caliber, and only 2% of all Colt Consecutive Serial Sets were manufactured with Factory Grips in a material other than “Eagle Stocks or Ivory Stocks”, making the Factory Rosewood Grips on this consecutive set exceedingly rare. OF NOTE: Elsewhere in this current James Julia auction, there are two (2) other equally rare and spectacular consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers in Calibers 357 Magnum and 45 Caliber; also of note ALL THREE consecutive sets were originally shipped by the Colt Factory to the exact same address and the exact same collector Mr. William Winkelman of Merrill, Wisconsin approximately 35 years ago; ALL THREE consecutive sets are also consigned to this auction from the same Texas collector. This is a chance to own three consecutive sets of Colt Factory Engraved revolvers in three different calibers: 357 Magnum, 45 Caliber, and 44 Special. PROVENANCE: William Winkelman, Charles Layson, The Vince Sepulveda Collection, and a Colt Factory Archive Letter confirming all features and showing shipment as a consecutive set on October 1, 1982. CONDITION: As New. Un-fired. A super rare and highly collectible consecutive set of investment quality firearms. 50872-9 (9,500-18,500) C&R – Lot 4293
*IMPORTANT WOLF & KLAR ENGRAVED TWO GUN LOT: SMITH & WESSON 38/44 HEAVY/DUTY AND COLT 1911 .38 SUPER PISTOL. THE PROPERTY OF FBI SPL AGENT GEORGE H. FRANKLIN.
SN 47675/6550. 1) Smith & Wesson 38-44 Heavy/Duty revolver, custom engraved by Wolf & Klar of Fort Worth, Texas. Cal. 38SPEC. 4″ bbl. Nickel finish. 2-pc ivory grips with Mexican eagle motif on right side. Engraving is of the walking hunch design with farce coverage overall. Right side shows bird motif of “G.H. Franklin” in a riband. SN matches on frame, cyl, and bbl. Assembly no.5610 on inside of frame and cyl crane. Standard Smith & Wesson markings for this model. Factory letter states shipped 4/29/1936 to G.H. Franklin % Federal Reserve Bank Bld, K.C.,MO in a one gun shipment. 2) Colt Model 1911 .38 Super Pistol, custom engraved by Wolf & Klar of Forth Worth, Texas. Cal. 38 SUPER. 5″ bbl. Full nickle finish. Stag-horn grips. Engraving is of the walking hunch design with sparce coverage. Right side of slide shows a bird and floral motif. Left side of frame is engraved “G.H. Franklin”. All factory markings are standard for this pistol. 2-pc stag-horn grips. Factory letter states shipped 8/9/1933 to Oklahoma City Hdwe Co in a one gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Accompanied by S&W and Colt Factory Letters and biography of George H. Franklin (FBI SA 1932-56). Franklin was one of Hoover’s “hired guns” serving during the outlaw days of the 1930s in NC, OK, MO, TX, NM. Consigned by the Franklin Family. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: 1) Fine. Revolver retains 90% of the nickel finish overall. Engraving was accomplished through the nickel finish. Markings are sharp. Bore is very good. Chambers are very good. Cyl shows a slight drag mark. Hammer and trigger show generous traces of case color. Hammer spur has been slightly bobbed. Grips are very good with no missing pieces and a carved Mexican eagle on right grip. 2) Fine. Pistol retains 90% of orig nickel finish, with some muzzle wear and slight dulling. Engraving was accomplished through the nickel finish. Factory markings are sharp. Bore is fine. Grips are very good. 50207-1 TDW (5,000-9,000) C&R; IVORY – Lot 1613
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 98258. Cal. 36. Fourth model, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight with German silver blade & 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver-plated large brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a very nicely figured varnished burl walnut 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with a couple of scrolls terminating as flower blossoms. Deluxe engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug & top side flats of the bbl with a couple of scrolls terminating in flower blossoms & another with a most unusual Indian’s head wearing a feather bonnet. Matching scrolls are also on the rammer pivot. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, fish scales on the top edge & sides of hammer spur and matching foliate arabesque patterns on the shank. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with 1/4 blossoms on sides of the shoulders and foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. All of the SNs on bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small punched dot which would signify to the factory workmen to add extra polish for engraving. Accompanied by a rare Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal 36 with 7-/12″ bbl, blue finish, wood stocks, factory engraved & shipped to the Colt New York office on February 11, 1861 in a 10-gun shipment. Given the time frame of this shipment it seems likely that this may have been a Civil War unit order or possibly for presentation to Civil War personnel by citizens of New York. Regardless this revolver was shipped to a major hub of Civil War supply activity and almost certainly would have seen service throughout the Civil War. Such arms are rarely found with high orig finish. Pg 139 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume 1, and pg 87 of Colt Engraving, both by Wilson, pictures the left side of the bbl lug of this revolver, illustrating the Indian head motif. Although it is not identified by SN in the publication, there are identifying marks that certify that it is the same revolver. The pg 87 caption credits this revolver to the S.P. Stevens Collection. PROVENANCE: Ex-S.P. Stevens Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 70% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium/dark patina. Rammer & handle are cleaned to bright metal. Frame is grey metal patina & the hammer retains about 70% strong case colors, moderately faded on left side. Cyl retains about 20% orig blue with the balance a grey patina & shows about 80-85% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating showing edge wear on the buttstrap & heel and some thinning on backstrap. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains about 98% crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 50142-9 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 4235
*ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH STAGHORN GRIPS.
SN 316631. Cal. 32WCF. 5-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. 2-pc stag grips. This revolver is elaborately scrolled engraved with nearly full coverage. Engraving is bordered by 2 gold bands at the muzzle and breach of the bbl. Frame engraving is also bordered in gold. Cyl flutes are gold bordered with 2 rings around the rear periphery of the cyl.There is a bison head inlaid in gold on left rear recoil shield. The initials “RMS” are inlaid in gold into the apron of backstrap behind hammer. Engraving is expertly accomplished with a very fine stippled background. Bbl mounts a custom King front-sight. Bbl markings have been engraved over. Patent mark on left side of frame is present. No’s match on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Trigger guard no’s have been re-stamped. CONDITION: Fine as refinished. Bbl and ejector housing contain 98% blue finish, as does the cyl, hammer, trigger guard, and backstrap. Frame shows nearly complete case coloring through the engraving. Grips are very good but do not fit well along backstrap. A very attractive Colt Single Action Army revolver that was orig manufactured in 1911 and was totally customized at a later date. 50758-1 TEP (3,000-6,000) C&R – Lot 2357
*EXCEPTIONAL GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SAA REVOLVER WITH DEEPLY CHECKERED CARVED STEER-HEAD IVORY GRIPS SHIPPED TO PORTLAND, OREGON.
SN 348846. Cal. 38-40. 5-1/2″ bbl. Blue finish. 2-pc ivory grips with carved steer-head motif on left side and Colt medallions in upper corner. This revolver was manufactured in 1926 and was engraved by Wilbur Glahn in a scroll and floral motif. Bbl engraving borders the address on both sides. Ejector rod housing has scroll work on the outer edge with a walking line in the gullet. Ejector rod head is engraved with a star motif. Engraving shows a fine line background. Frame engraving is nearly full coverage with chevrons on the recoil shield and the loading gate. Frame engraving extends down from the frame into the rear portion of both trigger guard flats, which is indicative of Glahn’s work. Top strap has a leafy scroll accent at front and rear. Frame in front of cyl also is engraved. Gullets in front of cyl remain un-engraved. Front face of frame shows a cactus motif. Frame engraving shows a fine punch dot background. Backstrap apron also shows a chevron motif bordered on either side by scroll engraving. Bottom of backstrap shows a scroll and floral motif. Butt shows a rather unique chevron motif. Bottom of trigger guard is scrolled engraved, as is the front of the trigger guard behind SN. Cyl is scroll engraved between the flutes with a walking line around the rear periphery. Cyl engraving also has a fine line background. Bbl shows proper 1-line address on top with cal mark on left side. Proper fat front-sight. Frame shows proper 2-line patent mark on forward left side. Rampant Colt logo without a circle to the rear. SN matches on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Rear face of cyl has the last 2 digits of the SN stamped on the web between 2 chambers. Assembly no. “563” is stamped on right rear of frame under grip and on rear face of loading gate. Hammer has correct coarse knurling with a border. Grips are carved in the factory style with 3 relief holes drilled in rear behind each medallion. Checkering appears to have been done at a later date. Factory letter states above described: Shipped May 27, 1926 to Honeyman Hardware Co, Portland, OR. Single gun in shipment, 38/40, 5-1/2″, blue, ivory, factory engraved, Colt factory order 10983/1. Checkering on stocks appears of subsequent time after factory. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 98% blue finish, with only slight muzzle wear. Ejector rod housing also retains 98% blue finish, again with only slight holster wear at the front end. Engraving and markings are sharp and clear. Frame retains 80-90% of orig case color finish, which is vivid in the protected areas of the top-strap, gullets in front of cyl and under the loading gate. Engraving and all markings are sharp and clear. Backstrap retains about 80% bright-blue finish, that has drifted somewhat to a plumb patina, with a few very light scratches that were made when the grips were checkered. Trigger guard retains 80% bright-blue finish with most of the wear on the fore-strap, which is turning somewhat plumb color. There are also some small scratches on the fore-strap that were made when the grips were checkered. Engraving on backstrap and trigger guard is sharp and crisp. Cyl shows 90% blue finish with blueberry color in the flutes. There is a slight drag-mark and a few light scratches overall. Bore is frosty with sharp rifling. Cyl chambers are dark. Hammer shows generous traces of case color, with some scratching on left side. Trigger shows generous traces of fire-blue. Frame screws retain nearly all of blue finish. Hammer screw is slightly marred. Grips straps screws also contain nearly all of blue finish. Rear trigger guard screws and butt screw are slightly marred. Grips are fine and appear to be a Colt product, but are definitely not orig to this gun. A very fine example of a Colt factory engraved Single action army revolver, mastered engraved by Wilbur Glahn in 1926, that would be a welcome addition to any collection of factory engraved Colts. 50999-1 (35,000-45,000) C&R; IVORY – Lot 4254
EXTRAORDINARY RARE PRESENTATION DOUBLE CASED SET OF COLT 1860 ARMY AND 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS PRESENTED TO GENERAL WILLIAM A. THORNTON BY COL. COLT.
SN 11682, 1822. Both revolvers have a period engraved inscription on backstraps “Col. W. A. Thornton / with Compliments of Col. Colt”. Both revolvers are blue and color case hardened with deluxe 1-pc varnished walnut grip. Accompanied by their spectacular, orig, purple velvet lined, brass bound walnut casing with empty brass plaque in the lid. Corners have mortised brass reinforcements and its has English style sliding latches in the front with a mortised brass lock and large escutcheon. Interior is compartmented for both revolvers, a sgl sided, angle spout, “COLTS PATENT”, trophy of flags & arms, Army sized and Navy sized flasks, blued “COLTS PATENT” bullet molds with sprue cutters in both 36 & 44 cal, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Eley’s caps. Left front corner has a small tube of spare parts and a functioning key. Col. William A. Thornton, later Brigadier General Thornton, graduated West Point in 1825 and became Captain of Ordnance in 1838. Over 41 years of service he commanded Ordnance depots at New York, Watervliet and St. Louis and was chief inspector for Military Arms at Springfield beginning with the Paterson revolver and continuing through the Dragoon series. There were many sub-inspectors who worked for him until 1861. General Thornton was highly regarded and very ingenious and was instrumental in the development of the Dragoon models of Colt revolvers. He died in 1866. It is evident that Sam Colt regarded General Thornton very highly or at least wished to influence his decision making with this presentation. According to preeminent Colt Historian & author R. L. Wilson there were only a very few dbl case sets, such as this one, presented by Col. Colt in late 1861. Several of them are know today, with this one being one of the most important. 1) Model 1860 Army. Serial number 11682. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Frame is 4-screw type, cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. The silver plated brass trigger guard and blued steel backstrap contains a highly figured 1-pc walnut grip with last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. 2) Model 1861 Navy. Serial Number 1822. Cal 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a tiny “COLTS PATENT”, and left shoulder trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Cyl has usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a highly figured 1-pc varnished walnut grip with matching serial number in backstrap channel. This double cased set of revolvers was part of a special grouping of approx. 60 special revolvers consisting of several double-double and even fewer double cased sets given by Colonel Colt to select military dignitaries as “Presents to Officers” in late 1861. Lot is accompanied by an original handwritten letter to Col S. Colt dated 1/23/1860 from Thornton requesting a quantity of pistol barrels be sent to affect repairs at the New York Arsenal, and signed W.A.T. PROVENANCE: Ex-William Gerber Family Collection; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: 1) Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 75% orig blue mixed with dark brown patina; rammer handle retains about 95% orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot; frame and hammer retain about 90% orig case colors, strong & bright on the sides, turned a little dark on recoil shields and edge of hammer, showing light wear on left recoil shield; cyl retains about 50-60% thin orig blue and shows about 75% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. 2) Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% orig blue, strong & bright in sheltered areas, mixed with light patina elsewhere; rammer and handle retain most of their orig case colors, brilliant on pivot; frame and hammer retain about 90% orig case colors, lightly to moderately faded; cyl retains about 50-60% orig blue with balance a brown patina and shows about 80% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard and backstrap retain about 98% strong orig silver; grip is sound with a few nicks in the edges and retains about 93-95% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with 3 or 4 small spots of pitting. Case has a couple grain checks in the lid and couple more in the bottom with usual handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains 95-96% strong orig varnish; interior is very lightly faded in the lid with some light staining from revolvers and implements, bottom is moderately faded showing wear from the front sights and hammer spurs with light soil; flasks are very fine with the Army model retaining about 93-95% orig finish with one small dent on the back side; Navy model also has a sgl dent and retains about 95-98% orig finish; molds and other accessories are fine. This is an extraordinary rare set. 49631-50 (175,000-275,000) – Lot 4210
*FRESH TO MARKET, EXCEEDINGLY RARE AND SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SECOND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN FULL “D” LEVEL COVERAGE WITH FACTORY EAGLE GRIPS.
SN 70049SA. Cal. 45LC. 5-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. 2-pc Colt hard rubber grips with eagle motif. Revolver is Factory Engraved in full “D” level coverage engraving that may be the work of famed engraver Robert Burt who worked as a Colt factory engraver during time of manufacture. Bbl shows scroll engraving on both sides of address and extending toward the front sight. Both sides of muzzle are beautifully engraved with scroll. Bottom of model and cal mark is also bordered by scroll engraving. Frame is flawlessly scroll engraved with nearly full coverage overall. Backstrap is scroll engraved on entire length. Butt is engraved on 2/3 of its length. Trigger guard is engraved on bow and around the screw with a walking line border on either side. Cyl is beautifully engraved with a scroll patter between flutes. Flutes are also wonderfully engraved. Rear periphery of cyl shows scroll engraving. Bbl shows 1-line address on top. Model and cal mark on left side. Amazingly, the Serial Number is hand engraved on bottom flat of frame in front of trigger guard, which is almost never seen in typical Colt Factory Engraving. Frame shows 2-line patent date on left side, with rampant Colt logo to rear. Grips are excellent with the Serial Number on the inside of each grip. Serial Number also Factory Stamped on grip strap under the grips. Accompanying this revolver is a Colt factory letter confirming “D” coverage engraving, stocks not listed, and shipment on September 21, 1976. Also included is Colt shipping box with end label showing finish, bbl, cal, and “D” engraving. This revolver was completed near the very end of Colt’s 2nd Generation run, at which time according to noted author Don Wilkerson the “D” Level factory engraving was introduced by Colt as an engraving option to customers. On page 118 of Don Wilkerson’s famed book “The Post-War Colt Single Action Revolver” he notes that only 2 (two) “D Level Coverage” Factory Engraved Colt SAA were produced by Colt during the 2nd Generation Period in this specific revolvers configuration. This revolver may be one of the rarest of all Colt Factory Engraved 2nd Generation Single Action Army Revolvers. PROVENANCE: The Vince Sepulveda Collection, A Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: Excellent. Revolver is in nearly new condition with a VERY slight mark between two of the bolt stops. Grips are excellent. 50872-1 (9,000-14,000) C&R – Lot 4294
*SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED COLT PYTHON IN DISPLAY CASE.
SN K98180. Cal. 357 Mag. Stainless steel with 6″ bbl, red ramp with white outline, adjustable sight. Engraved with C coverage by engraver R. W. Ingle and dated “1-7-85”, with custom grips manufactured by Art Jewel Enterprises with a Colt motif visible on display side. Engraving is done in a scroll and vine pattern with dot punch background reminiscent of a New York pattern. Housed in a French-fitted walnut display case. CONDITION: As new with no traces of use and/or handling. There is no cyl drag line or anything else that detracts from this firearm. Engraving is spectacular and is well executed and presents well. Truly a beautiful casing. 50827-13 TDW (4,500-7,500) – Lot 1619
FINE CIVIL WAR COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH BEAUTIFUL CHECKERED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 128320. Cal. 36. Standard configuration of a mid-war Colt Navy revolver popular among officers both North and South. 7-1-2″ oct bbl with 1-line NY address, 6-shot cylinder with rolled Ormsby Naval battle scene. This particular gun was made in 1862 and is in beautiful condition retaining much of its orig finish with a very unusual pair of full checkered ivory grips. Gun is all matching and has an “I” stamped adjacent to each SN which is thought to designate ivory. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine overall. Bbl retains about 90% orig bright blue finish. Cylinder has strong traces of blue with about 80% discernible Naval battle scene. 5 of 6 safety pins are serviceable. Trigger guard retains strong traces of silver plate in protected areas. Backstrap has tiny traces of silver in protected areas and its SN has been re-engraved. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” stocks fit well with hand worn patina. Mechanically gun is fine with crisp, shiny bore. 50412-40 (4,000-6,000) IVORY – Lot 4238
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN SHADOW BOX CASING.
SN 69833. Cal. 45. 5″ bbl. Satin nickel finish. Scrolled engraved with 2-pc stag-horn grips. Engraving is of the scroll style and well executed. Factory bbl address has been removed. Front-sight is a replacement. 3-line patent date on frame. 45cal on left forward trigger guard bow. SN matches on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. CONDITION: Fine, as totally refinished. Revolver was not removed from case, so no further examination was possible. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter showing orig shipment on August 25, 1881 to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, Missouri, in a group of 50 guns. 50385-5 TEP (2,500-4,500) – Lot 2364
*BEAUTIFUL AND EXTREMELY FINE WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CARVED “STEER HEAD” MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS SHIPPED TO FORT WORTH, TEXAS.
SN 349801. Cal. 45. Colt Single Action Army with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig thick front sight and 1-line block letter address. Frame has rampant Colt without circle & 2-line patent dates. SN is marked properly on right side of front & back straps under grip. Fitted with beautiful pearl grips with relief carved steer head with ruby eyes on right side. Frame, cyl, bbl and backstrap have factory engraving by Colt master Wilbur A. Glahn, consisting of about 50% coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cyl has patterns between flutes and a wavy border near back edge. Top of backstrap has Glahn’s characteristic ‘V’ shaped design with an arabesque pattern in center of backstrap. It has arabesque design on bottom of heel with light patterns around trigger guard and front trigger guard screw. According to accompanying Colt factory letter, gun shipped January 12, 1927, Order No. 12291/1, sgl gun shipment to Wolf & Klar, Ft. Worth, TX, factory engraved, nickel, 5-1/2″ in 45 Cal. Letter also states shipped with rubber grips, no doubt the deluxe mother-of-pearls are Wolf & Klar products as seen on other Single Actions they sold. Nearly identical examples of Glahns level “B” engraving such as this can be seen on pgs 571-574 of The Colt Engraving Book – Volume Two, R. L. Wilson. This is a magnificent gun with a stunning pair of carved mother-of-pearl grips. CONDITION: Extremely fine to extremely fine, retaining virtually all of its orig nickel, with reductions around edges of backstrap with pitting on those edges. Light holster wear on left side of muzzle. Grips fit well, however there is a 8″ sliver at right inside toe that is missing and has been polished smooth. Mechanically gun functions well with crisp, clean bore. 50412-33 JS (30,000-50,000) – Lot 4256
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE AND UNIQUE ENGRAVED BOOK CASED COLT MODEL 1862 PERCUSSION REVOLVER PRESENTED BY SAMUEL COLT TO U.S. SECRETARY OF WAR JOHN B. FLOYD’S WIFE.
SN 781. Cal 36. Long considered the rarest of all Colt casings, this extraordinarily rare gold embossed, red Moroccan leather covered case bears inscriptions from Samuel Colt to Mrs. John B. Floyd, January 1st, 1861 just after he had resigned December 29th, 1860. Ironically, Colt had gifted John B. Floyd with almost every model in his arsenal, because as Secretary of War he was responsible for purchasing many of Colt’s arms for the military. John Floyd was a staunch Secessionist who had previously been governor of Virginia and soon would be a Confederate General, he would die before the war ended in 1863. Colonel Colt being such a brilliant businessman no doubt thought this present would help him receive orders from the seceding Southern states and indeed many Colt’s were shipped south prior to Fort Sumter. Julia’s sold several of Floyd’s guns over the years including exceptional Colt revolving rifle lot #1154 in March, 2008. This pistol was made in standard configuration 1st year production, blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight, engraved in script “SAMl COLT”. Left side of frame is marked with a small engraved “COLTS PATENT” in 2-lines. Cyl is standard, rebated with and half-fluted for 5 chambers. The silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a full checkered, 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved in foliate vine pattern with pearled background, in style made famous by Gustav Young with about full coverage on the frame and sides of the hammer. Engraving extends up the sides of the bbl with each scroll on the bbl terminating in Mr. Young’s human face figures, one bearded with fez. Several scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms and the hammer has an animal’s head on each side of the nose. Backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s distinctive foliate arabesque patterns top and bottom with 2-line inscription in center “To Mrs. John B. Floyd / From Col. Colt”. Accompanied by it’s extraordinarily rare, incredible original book casing that measures 10-1/2″ x 6-3/4″ x 2″, covered in red Moroccan leather with gold embossing on both covers and the spine. The spine is embossed “COLT / ON THE CONSTITUTION / HIGHER LAW & / IRREPRESSIBLE CONFLICT” and further down is the inscription “DEDICATED / BY THE AUTHOR / TO / MRS. JOHN B. FLOYD”. Bottom of the spine “JANY 1st, 1861”. The covers are have fabulous gilt vignettes of American patriotism including eagles, stars, George Washington, Columbia, Liberty cap, American Indians and more; banners reading “PEACE”, “INDEPENDENCE”, “PLENTY”, “ART”, “SCIENCE” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Hinged lid is secured by a unique brass book latch. Interior is green velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a blued steel bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, a tin of Eley’s caps with green label and sealed packet of orig Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible envelope cartridges along with some loose balls. Book casings such as found here are only known to a very few exclusive collectors and of those extremely few remain in this fine condition. No doubt this is the most important historical Colt book casing known. PROVENANCE: Ex-John B. Floyd family; Ex-Sally Ann Brock Putnam; Ex-Norm Flayderman Collection, 1970; Ex-Bill Turner Collection; Ex-Bobby Smith Collection, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee; Pictured on pg. 125 Flayderman’s “Guide to Antique American Firearms”, 2007; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Revolver is all matching. Gun is crisp retaining traces of original finish in protected areas with balance a fine silver/gray with light pitting. Backstrap and trigger guard retain 95% original silver plating. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are well fit, exhibiting light ivory patina. Mechanically gun functions well with crisp bright rifling in bore. Case is very fine with only light crackling on the hinge and some light chipping and wear on the edges. Casing surface overall retains most of its gilding with light scuffing and soiling, all embossing is crisp and easily discerned with minor cosmetic defects, a well executed about 1″ chip repair to bottom right edge of spine which affects only a portion of decorated border but no text. Flask retains about 95% of its original finish with light scratching and 3 dents on reverse. Mold is very fine, retaining over 80% of its original blue finish. Cap tin and cartridge pack are fine. 49631-32 JS (80,000-150,000) IVORY – Lot 4214
*EXTREMELY RARE AND FACTORY DOCUMENTED TO MASTER ENGRAVER BILL MAINS, COLT SECOND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH FACTORY EAGLE GRIPS.
SN 51142SA. Cal. 45LC. 5-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. 2-pc Colt hard rubber grips with eagle motif. Revolver is beautifully factory engraved in the coverage level of “B class scroll engraving” by Colt Factory Master Engraver Bill Mains. Bbl address is bordered on both sides with flawless scroll work. Both sides of muzzle are also scroll engraved. Ejector rod housing is scroll engraved on each end. Frame is masterfully scroll engraved. Backstrap is engraved on apron and at butt end. Butt has very nice scroll engraving at the heel. Trigger guard is engraved on outer bow and around screw. Cyl is scroll engraved between flutes and around rear periphery. Bbl shows 1-line address on top with model and cal mark on left side. Frame shows 2-line patent mark on left side with rampant Colt logo to rear. Frame has SN stamped on forward bottom flat. Serial Number is also stamped on the left side of the grip straps under the grips. The partial serial number “142” is also marked on the front of the cylinder. The matching assembly number “351” is stamped on the loading gate and on the rear of the frame. The grips are numbered to the gun. The famous Bill Mains “signature markings” are crisply shown on the front of the frame where a clear “B” and “buffalo mark” can be seen. The Colt Factory discouraged factory engravers from signing their work, so since Bill Mains operated out of Buffalo, New York, he signed his Colt factory work in this now famous symbolic signature. In famed author Don Wilkerson’s book “The Post-War Colt Single Action Army 1955-1975” Wilkerson details the Colt factory records on page 118 as stating that Colt only produced 7 (seven) factory engraved 2nd generation SAA in this specific revolvers configuration. With over 70,000 Colt SAA produced during Colts 2nd Generation run, this specific revolver being one of only 7 engraved and produced by Colt in this engraved configuration, speaks to the rarity of this beautiful gun. Colt factory letter confirms all features with attribution to master engraver Bill Mains. Letter shows shipment to Colt executive Mr. James McLaughlin, Jr. Colt Firearms Division, Hartford, CT on December 10, 1970. This is an “in-house” revolver, delivered to a Colt employee. Also included is a Colt Stagecoach box. PROVENANCE: The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: Excellent. Grips are excellent. A wonderful and very rare factory engraved 2nd generation Colt single action army. 50872-2 (8,000-14,000) C&R – Lot 4295
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL HARTFORD/LONDON DRAGOON REVOLVER.
SN 154. Cal. 44. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Walnut grips. Revolver is finely engraved on frame, trigger guard, bbl lug, and loading lever in the English style. SN matches on frame, trigger guard, arbor, wedge, bbl, cyl, and loading lever. Backstrap and grips are replacements and remain un-numbered. British proofs are present on the bbl lug and the cyl. New York bbl address on top of lug. PROVENANCE: Collection of Daniel C. Scott. CONDITION: Good. Revolver shows a gray-brown patina overall with some cleaning on the trigger guard. There are remnants on silver plate of protected are of the trigger guard. Engraving is worn but visible overall. Bore is dark. No cyl scene remains. A nice example of a partially restored Colt 2nd model dragoon revolver that evidently saw considerable use. 50709-16 TEP (4,000-8,000) – Lot 2239
*EXTRAORDINARY ACEVEDO ENGRAVED AND DECORATED MODEL 1861 COLT NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 24690. Cal. 36. Remarkable rendition by one of America’s most talented 20th century engravers. This particular gun is a copy of the famous General Robert Anderson presentation revolvers which were orig made in 1863. This gun is a faithful facsimile made on a Colt 2nd Gen black powder revolver made in 1978 and as can be seen in photographs it is quite elaborate. Gun is in truly amazing condition retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Horatio Q. Acevedo (1924-2010) and his work is prominently shown on pgs 706-719 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two by R.L. Wilson. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Extremely fine, retaining virtually all orig blue in case colors. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 50% thin, orig gold wash with wear and cosmetic bruising on grips straps. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Smooth elephant ivory grips are excellent, well fit. Mechanically fine with crisp, bright new bore. 50324-2 JS (8,000-12,000) IVORY – Lot 4239
ENGRAVED COLT SAA REVOLVER WITH TWO PIECE IVORY GRIPS.
SN 75024. Cal. 38SPL. 5-1/2″ bbl. Full nickel finish. Engraved in a scroll motif. This revolver began life in 1882 as a 45 cal. At some point it was converted to 38spl using a Colt bbl and cyl. At this time, revolver was scroll engraved, fully nickel plated, and mounted with 2-pc ivory grips. The engraving is well executed and attractive. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Fine, as totally refinished. Nearly all of nickel finish remains. All markings are sharp on the bbl. 3-line patent date is visible on frame. Front-sight has been reshaped. Ivory grips are non factory (Art Jewel Company, 1985 dated) but bear colt medallions on either side. An attractive old black powder antique 6-shooter that has been given a new life. 50988-8 TEP (1,500-3,000) IVORY – Lot 2366
*EXTREMELY FINE CUNO HELFRICHT FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CARVED MEXICAN EAGLE PEARL GRIPS OF PIONEER TEXAS FAMILY.
SN 333587. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with a large relief carved Mexican eagle on left side. The heel of left grip is chipped with a solid gold well fit apparently contemporary restoration. SN was observed in three places on bottom of revolver with last four digits on rear face of cylinder. Revolver is classically engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. A nearly identically engraved single action is pictured on p. 300 of Colt Engraving, Wilson. Top of back strap, left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved with light sunbursts. Left side of bbl boss on frame & ejector rod housing boss are engraved with hunter stars. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns and the top gullet of ejector rod housing is engraved in a snake pattern. Cyl is engraved with light arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a light snake pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found in 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Stauffer, Eshleman & Co., New Orleans, LA, c/o: A.J. Anderson Co., Fort Worth, TX on Aug. 17, 1916 in a 2-gun shipment. Of note, the second gun in this shipment, SN 333530, was sold on these floors as Lot 1289, October 29, 1996 and equally in extremely fine condition. Also accompanied by a copy of a hand written note from previous owner stating that this revolver has never been offered for sale publicly or privately until the previous owner purchased it from the family of the person who had purchased it new. He states that the revolver was initially purchased by a Mr. Atkinson who worked for the railroad in Waco, TX and bequeathed it to his daughter of Gatesville, TX. Her husband’s name was Thomas R. McClellan who was a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral with a long Texas history dating back to Coryell County, TX to at least 1864. A bit of genealogy from this family shows that John Bingham Atkinston obtained his law degree from the University of Texas in 1911. He was later Attorney for McLellan County from 1912 to at least 1916 when this gun was made. Is it possible that this was a wedding gift to County Attorney who would no doubt be prosecuting some dangerous types? A few years later,he became an inspector for the IGNR Railroad in Waco, TX. Atkinson, who was outlived by his father-in-law John Scott Paul, also worked for the Texas & Pacific Railroad at the time this gun was made. The McClellan family were well known in the era of this pistol. James Rufus McClellan, known as “Rufe” was District Attorney and Judge responsible for prosecutions including one of the 1914 murder trial of Texas hit man and psychopath Felix Jones. The jury was initially deadlocked and he was released and on the street in 1916 when this gun was purchased. Jones was not nailed on another murder case until 1918. Once newspaper account concerning Felix Jones states “would have killed his mother for a dime”. In 1920, McClellan became a District Judge with a tough reputation of upholding the law. At one point he ordered the destruction of $200 worth of booze during Prohibition that would hardly endear him to the local populace. As a judge, he presided over murder trials including the 1922 trial of a drill master at a local reform school with essentially running a kid to death. This District Attorney and Judge needed protection. PROVENANCE: Atkinson/McClellan Family of Waco and Gatesville, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except 2-pc grips which are numbered internally (#354) and appear to be Colt, though probably were added by the owner in Texas as grips lack the medallion seen on factory guns of this date. Grips do fit quite well and the gold restoration to one toe is extremely well executed and unique. Overall retains about 95-96% strong orig nickel finish with light holster wear on left side of bbl and left edge of muzzle with some light wear on front sight, otherwise shows little evidence of having been fired. It will not hold at half-cock and safety notch missing. Bright shiny well defined bore. 50412-39 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 4257
PAIR OF CIVIL WAR CASED CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY REVOLVERS, GOLD AND SILVER FACTORY ENGRAVED WITH FABULOUS CARVED PATRIOTIC IVORY GRIPS.
SN 5544/5543. Cal. 36. This incredible pair of exhibition revolvers made at the height of the Civil War in late 1862 have rarely seen gold plated and silver plated contrasting elements and finely relief carved grips with Lady Liberty and Columbia. Both guns are all matching and orig. Most likely this set of guns were made for a retailer to display in their store as carved ivory, gold and silver cased pairs of revolvers are virtually unknown. This exact pair of guns, once in the collection of Buddy Hackett, is pictured on pg 179 of Colt Engraving, R. L. Wilson, 1982. Guns are cased in an orig Colt casing with red lining, sgl sided eagle and stars “COLTS PATENT” flask, blued “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, l-shaped combination tool and two tins of Eley caps. Guns are in the most desirable 6-1/2″ bbl length and the incredibly rare casing that accompanies would be impossible to duplicate. PROVENANCE: Ex-Buddy Hackett Collection; Pictured on pg 179 “Colt Engraving” by R. L. Wilson; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item(s) contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item(s) meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item(s) into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item(s) and consummating the purchase. CONDITION: Very fine overall. All matching SNs found on both pistols, including wedges and grips. SNs have an additional “I.E.” on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap denoting factory engraving and ivory. SN 5543 retains over 90% silver on bbl with freckling and lifting to an overall non-even surface with staining and rust. Frame has similar patina to bbl with same areas of pitting. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 80% thinning silver plate. Loading arm retains about 70% orig gold plate with balance silver/grey. Cylinder and hammer retain 60% orig gold with balance dark patina with pitting, cylinder retains 60-70% cylinder stagecoach holdup scene. SN 5544 exhibits about 90% silver plate on bbl and is overall smooth with some pitting toward housing, turning plum/brown. Frame retains about 90% silver color as frames were polished and not plated with a matching silver patina to bbl. Trigger guard and backstrap retain traces of finish in protected areas. Cylinder, hammer and loading arm retain much of their orig gold plate, though thinning on loading arm on the right side with 80-90% visible stagecoach holdup cylinder scene. Screws on this gun retain much of their orig fire blue. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips exhibit ivory patina, well fit with chip on right side on SN 5543, and chip at rear toe on left side on SN 5544. Both guns are mechanically sound with discernible rifling in bores, both with light pitting. Accompanying mahogany veneered case is sound and solid with several chip reductions on lid, a blank silver escutcheon. Lining soiled, faded and worn, especially where guns and accessories make contact. Accompanying mold is properly marked “36P” and has numerous small nicks and dings where used as hammer and retains about 90% dark blued finish. L-shaped tool is equally fine. Flask is fine also, retaining about 90% orig varnish; cap tins are also fine. 49631-29 JS (25,000-40,000) IVORY – Lot 4215
Please Note: Due to a typographical error, the estimate should be $8,000-$12,000.
*SPECTACULAR, AND UNBELIEVABLY RARE EARLY THIRD GENERATION COLT “FULL GOLD PLATED” FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN CALIBER 44 SPECIAL WITH FACTORY EAGLE GRIPS.
SN SA25889. Cal. 44 SPECIAL. 4-3/4″ bbl. Revolver is beautifully factory engraved overall in a scroll style with the coverage level “C” documented in the Colt Factory Archive Letter. The barrel shows scroll engraving on both sides of bbl address, which also borders model and cal mark on left side. Frame is flawlessly engraved in the scroll style. Engraving extends onto rear flat of trigger guard. Backstrap is nicely scroll engraved on apron and butt. Trigger guard is engraved on bow and forward end. Top strap is wonderfully engraved on rear portion. Cyl is scroll engraved between flutes. Bbl shows a 1-line address on top with model and cal mark on left side. Frame shows a 2-line patent mark with a rampant Colt at rear. SN is stamped on forward flat on frame. Colt factory letter confirms all features, including grips, and showing shipment on October 1, 1982. Also included is the Colt custom shop box, whose end label confirms all features. In Don Wilkerson’s famed book on Page 215 “The Post-War Colt Single Action Revolver 1976 – 1986” Wilkerson states that the Colt Records show that only 1% of Colt Factory Engraved Revolvers were in “exotic finishes, gold, silver, dual etc.” In addition on the same Page 215 Wilkerson states the Colt Records show only 7% of Factory Engraved Single Action Army revolvers were in the caliber 44 Special. Combined, the Colt records referenced in Don Wilkerson’s book makes this “Full Gold Plated” revolver one of the rarest of all factory engraved 3rd generation single actions. In addition, the Colt Factory pricing-guide of “Full Gold Plating” is so expensive that The Colt Custom Shop does not even list the pricing of “Full Gold Plating” but rather states “Price on Request”. The gold plating completely encompasses the revolver including inside the cylinder chambers, inside the barrel, the grip straps under both grips, etc. The revolver was truly “fully gold plated” by the Colt Factory. PROVENANCE: The Vince Sepulveda Collection, Colt Factory Archive Letter. CONDITION: New. Un-fired. Gold Plating is immaculately intact. A simply wonderful and exceedingly rare “Full Gold Plated” Factory Engraved Single Action Army. 50872-3 (6,000-12,000) C&R – Lot 4296
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL HARTFORD/LONDON DRAGOON REVOLVER.
SN 158. Cal. 44. 7-1/2″ bbl. Blue and case color finish. Silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap. Revolver is engraved in the English style on frame, bbl lug, loading lever, hammer, and trigger guard. Backstrap is a replacement and bears the no. 7176. SN’s match on frame, bbl, wedge, arbor, trigger guard, and cyl. British proofs are present on bbl lug and cyl. PROVENANCE: Collection of Daniel C. Scott. CONDITION: Good to very good. Revolver shows an even gray-brown patina overall with some roughness towards muzzle. Bbl address is clear. Engraving is sharp on frame, with a clear Colts Patent engraved in a riband on left side. Bbl engraving is slightly washed out but visible. Trigger guard engraving is sharp. Trigger guard and backstrap show remnants of the silver plated finish. Grip is undersized and probably from another revolver. Chips are missing at the toe on both sides. SN is visible on the cyl. No cyl scene remains. A good example of an early Colt 2nd model Hartford/London dragoon revolver. 50709-17 TEP (4,000-8,000) – Lot 2240
EXTRAORDINARY CASED ENGRAVED SPECIAL COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER, SWORD, SASH OF 2nd LT. HUNTINGTON FROTHINGHAM WOLCOTT.
SN 151385. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York US America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape and it has the caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. The silver-plated brass trigger guard and iron back strap contain a 1-pc ebony grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in late vine style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with several patterns terminating in flower blossoms. Hammer also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale patterns and the spur is hand checkered. Mr. Young’s deluxe patterns extend about 4″ up each side of bbl, terminating forward of the bbl address. Left side of bbl lug has one scroll that terminates in Mr. Young’s distinctive dog’s head pattern and another in a flower blossom. Right side of lug has a scroll terminating in his distinctive bird head pattern and a scroll terminating in a flower blossom. There is also a dash & line pattern border around muzzle. Rammer pivot is lightly engraved to match. Cyl is rebated and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking on the major diameter. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s deluxe fan pattern with flower blossoms on sides of back strap shoulders. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger guard are also engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. None of the screws are engraved although the frame screw holes are outlined with a narrow borders on both sides. The SN on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all accompanied by a small “I” and “E” indicating that the revolver received special polishing for engraving and the “I” usually indicating ivory grips. However, in this case, it simply means special grips. Accompanied by a fine, orig, burl mahogany, Colt casing with green velvet lining, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a fantastic Navy size “COLTS PATENT” angle spout flask, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “44H” and a small “D” inspector mark. Also included is an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a sealed tin of Eley’s caps with marbled brown & Buff colored paper wrapping. Right front compartment contains cast lead bullets & balls. This revolver is engraved very similarly to a series of Model 1860 Army percussion revolvers that are extremely famous & well known, all with ebony grips, including the cased pair for Gen. Joseph R. Hawley and the one made for Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. All appear to be in the 151,000 serial range. The Hawley Armys are serial numbered “151388” and “151389” and are not quite so elaborately engraved as this one being sold here. The Grant Army is numbered “151718” and is substantially more elaborate than this revolver. Of note, the arms display by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham at a NYC Benefit Fair during the Civil War, contains a pinwheel of ebony gripped and engraved Colt Army revolvers (see p.314 “The Book of Colt Firearms”, Sutherland and Wilson). As Wolcott’s father was known to be a principal organizer of the display, it is very likely that this 1860 Army is one those on the display which was subsequently given to Wolcott’s son. It is also likely that the Army revolvers presented to Grant and Hawley were also part of this Accompanied by a Model 1850 Foot Officer’s sword by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham with bright steel scabbard. Sword has a 32″ slightly curved blade with wide & narrow fullers, lightly etched about the center with “U.S.” on left side and a spread-winged American eagle on right side with a ribbon in its beak inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. The Schuyler, Harley & Graham marking is etched on right ricasso and the Clauberg marking on the left with “IRON PROOF” on the spine. It has a small, single-branch hand guard with filigree flowers & vines with fish skin & braided wire wrapped handle. Right side of scabbard is engraved “Lieut. H.F. Wolcott / FROM / His Schoolmates”. Also accompanying is a burgundy silk sash with long braided knots & tassles at each end. Also accompanying is a spiral bound, self-published 119 page booklet titled “Family Jottings / Roger Wolcott”. It was apparently privately printed in 1939 and this is a reproduced copy. Also accompanying is a 3-ring binder of information including military records of Lt. Wolcott. This revolver was the property of 2nd Lieutenant Huntington Frothingham Wolcott, Company I, 2nd Mass. Cavalry. Lt. Wolcott enlisted as 2nd Lieutenant in March 1865 at age 19. Apparently he had attempted to enlist earlier but was rejected for being too young. He did volunteer as a surgeon’s assistant for two summers prior to enlisting. Upon his enlistment he was assigned as Aide de Camp to Brig. Gen. Gibbs (a relative) just in time to participate in Gen. Sheridan’s raids into Virginia. Lt. Wolcott was, by all accounts, a dashing & brave young officer who regularly participated in the thickest of the fighting and was part of the unit that captured 7,000 prisoners, 9 pieces of artillery and 10 battle flags as reported by Gen. Gibbs on May 9, 1865. Apparently young Wolcott had to be restrained by orders from superior officers from even more active & vigorous participation. The war ended in early June 1865 and Lt. Wolcott survived. He marched with his regiment in the grand review in Washington, seemingly in glowing good health, however the very next day he was stricken with camp fever and died on June 9, 1865. Among the information accompanying this lot is a signed Bill of Sale from Susan Dexter (nee Wolcott) of Ladue, MO, dated Jan. 20, 2000. The Bill of Sale is for this sword with belt & officer’s belt plate, a leather flap holster, sash & sword along with a revolver. Attached to the sword belt is a very old, very dark brittle tag, which accompanies, that reads “Belt and holster carried by Lt. H.F. Wolcott in the Civil War. The revolver was also his but not carried in the Civil War.” The Bill of Sale states that the leather rig & holster are in poor shape. Apparently they have disintegrated and no longer accompany this grouping. The Bill of Sale further states “Lt. Huntington Frothingham Wolcott was my great uncle. My father, Roger Wolcott, Jr., mentions ownership of this item plus the Colt revolver, sword and sword belt sash in his book, Family Jottings, privately printed in 1939″, signed “Susan Dexter”. Mrs. Dexter explains in another letter dated Jan. 6, 2000 that the reason Lt. Wolcott was using this sword was that it is a replacement for the orig that was lost when Lt. Wolcott was fording a stream. Additionally accompanying are two black faced brass plaques for both the revolver and sword from an unknown display. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 85-88% glossy orig Colt blue with the losses flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Top right side of bbl has a line of fine surface rust. Rammer & handle retain about all of their brilliant orig case colors. Frame retains about all of its orig case colors, brilliant on right side, moderately faded on left side. Hammer is about identical with strong bright colors on right side, brilliant on rear edge and lightly faded on left side. Cyl retains about 90% orig blue thinning & turning plum in the rolled areas, strong & bright with fine surface rust on rebated area and with five crisp safety pins. Trigger guard retains about 60% thinning orig silver with the exposed areas a light mustard patina. Back strap & butt strap are flaked to a medium steel patina with light rust on the heel & butt strap. Grip has a large chip on left heel with a couple of small dings in the left edge and a chipped right toe with light nicks & scratches and overall retains about 90-92% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case has two grain checks in bottom, otherwise is completely sound with only light handling & storage surface mars and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Flask is equally crisp & new, retaining 96-97% crisp orig finish. Mold appears to be unused retaining all of its orig blue with a few scattered spots of light surface rust. Nipple wrench is fine. Cap tin is faded with light water damage to the label and missing one edge of the label. Interior of case is dark & clean inside the lid with bottom lightly faded and soiled with minor damage from front sight. Sword is fine, showing a cleaned metal finish on scabbard. Blade is bright & clean showing only faint scratches. Hand guard & pommel retain most of their orig gold wash. Fish skin wrap shows light wear. Sword knot is worn & soiled but intact. Sash has a few frayed spots on edges with a few minor holes & losses but basically intact. 50223-1 JR231 (135,000-165,000) – Lot 4240
*ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH 2 PIECE FAUX-IVORY GRIPS.
SN 11016SA. Cal. 45. 5-1/2″ bbl. Full blue finish. Scroll engraved with gold inlays. This revolver was engraved by J.R. French of Irving, Texas, whose name appears on butt-strap. Revolver is scroll engraved overall. Bbl has gold bands at muzzle and breech. Gold floral inlay on ejector rod housing. Frame engraving is also bordered by gold. Cyl has 2 gold bands around the rear periphery. Recoil shield has eagle head inlaid on left side. Colt logo on right side of frame is gold inlaid also. Backstrap has a 5-point Texas star inlaid into the apron, with gold borders intertwining down the backstrap. Trigger guard has small gold inlay on toe end. Engraving is very nicely accomplished, with intertwining scroll work, checkerboard work, and a fine punch-dot background. 2-pc faux-ivory grips have gold Colt medallions and some scroll engraving on right grip. SNs match on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Cyl is un-numbered. Grips are marked “AJAX #1”. Revolver is housed in a red velvet lined mahogany box. CONDITION: Fine, as totally refinished. Revolver retains nearly all of its full-blue finish. All markings are sharp. There are a few minuscules at dents at heel of butt strap. Box is in very good condition. A nicely executed elaborately engraved gold inlaid Second Generation Colt Single Action. 50935-7 TEP (7,000-8,000) C&R – Lot 2369
*MINTY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY CUNO HELFRICHT.
SN 335562. Cal 45. Nickle with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight and 2-line block letter address. Left side of frame is marked with 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with factory 2-pc smooth mother-of-pearl grips that have silver Colt medallions. Revolver is among the last of Colt master engraver Cuno A. Helfricht’s personal work, note the refinement of the scroll toward the end of his career. There are numerous examples of virtually identical Helfricht engraving pictured in many texts. Two noted examples are found on pgs 443 & 448 (SNs 3331877 & 333764) in The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, R. L. Wilson. Accompanied by Colt factory letter, showing shipped in 45 Cal with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickle finish with pearl stocks, factory engraved and that it was shipped to Stauffer, Eshleman & Co. of New Orleans, LA on, April 11, 1917 in a 4-gun shipment. The two guns pictured in Wilson cited above with virtually identical “Grade B engraving” were also shipped to same company in New Orleans. SN was observed on frame, trigger guard, backstrap and internally on pearl stocks. Rear face of cyl has last 4-digits of SN. This gun no doubt is among the last guns personally engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his shop. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig factory finish with only a few small, thin areas of dark, pinprick pitting and staining on cyl and right face of frame unaffecting the overall aesthetics of an otherwise almost new gun. Gun shows no evidence of ever having been fired. Grips are crisp with fine translucence and “fiery” color. Mechanically, gun is perfect with crisp shiny bore. 50412-38 JS (30,000-50,000) – Lot 4258
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 PERCUSSION NAVY REVOLVER WITH IVORY GRIPS AND “SLIM JIM” HOLSTER.
SN 11814. Cal. 36. Model 1861 Colt Navy percussion revolver in standard configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl made in 1863, gun exhibits fine engraved floral and punch dot designs in frame and bbl housing, hammer engraved with animal head. Matching SNs are found with initials “IE”, which probably denotes Ivory and engraved. Gun is accompanied by fine “Slim Jim” holster. PROVENANCE: The Estate of W. G. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Gun is good to very good overall, all matching including wedge. Gun has been cleaned, gray overall with pitting, backstrap and trigger guard have tiny traces of silver with overall smooth light mustard patina, markings are mostly discernible though portions of address are weak as can be seen in photos. SN are all discernible and Colt’s patent with last 4 digits of SN present on cylinder. Cylinder scene is about 20% visible. Grips are no doubt original Colt grips but are poorly fit to this gun with discernible gaps at top of backstrap as can be seen in photos. Mechanically gun functions well, with well defined rifling and bore. Grips are “Certifiable Antique Elephant Ivory”. Holster is very good and sound overall with scuffing and crazing in high areas, sewn belt loop is sound with similar scuffing and crazing, holster was made without plug, about 1″ of sewing is loose at top edge. 49973-441, 49973-295, JS IVORY (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1242
SN 9658. Cal. 32 RF. SN 9658. 2-1/4 ” bbl, 2 line bbl address, normal sights, etched panel on bbl, 5 shot cylinder, scroll engraving with stars on frame, 2-pc ivory grips. Case is orig oak with brass nameplate, purple velvet interior, 3 cartridges. Collector’s notes included. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Orig nickel is 85%, light flaking on frame and cylinder, engraving is sharp and clear, etched panel is vivid, hammer and trigger have bright fire blue, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are slightly undersized, though in good condition, bore is fair. Case has finish added, light scratches, is in very good condition. Lining is worn and faded. 50019-231 TN IVORY (1,500-2,500) – Lot 1395
SN 1509. 1) Cal. .30 RF. SN 1509. Parts only, missing hammer, trigger, and side plate. Has 2-pc rosewood grips. 2) Cal. .30 RF. SN 2667. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 2-line bbl address, no etched panel, 5-shot cylinder, silver blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. 3) Cal. .30 RF. SN 10709. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc hard rubber SN matched grips with “Rampant Colt” and raised carving. 4) Cal. 30 RF. SN 10404. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips, brass blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight. 5) Cal. .30 RF. SN 5329. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, rosewood grips. 6) Cal. .30 RF. SN 604. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top frame groove rear sight, 2-pc grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Silver plated with flaking. Good etched panel bbl. Grips are in good condition. 2) 80% bright orig nickel with sharp engraving. Grips are slightly undersized. Bore is good. 3) Muzzle has 1/8″ of flaking. Cylinder has flaking near front. Balance of finish is bright orig nickel. Etched panel is clear. Grips are near excellent condition. Bore is good. 4) Metal is mostly gray with some light pitting. Etched panel is visible. Grips have orig finish with dents and scratches. Bore is fair. 5) Overall nickel is 60% remaining of orig finish. Cylinder has oxidation. Etched panel is clear. Grips have orig finish with light handling marks. Bore is good. 6) Overall metal condition is mostly gray/brown metal with light pitting. No visible etched panel. Grips are in fair condition. Bore is fair. 50019-37, 50019-41, 50019-50, 50019-278, 50019-282, 50019-287, TN38 IVORY (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1439
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ENGRAVED BOOK CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 30747 I. Cal 36. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York US America address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 cal”. Cyl is rebated and half-fluted with 5 chambers. The silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a full checkered, 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip with last 3 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Grip is made in the orig manner of 2 slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer. Revolver is beautifully engraved in late vine pattern without background, probably by Gustave Young with about full coverage on the frame and sides of the hammer. Engraving extends up the sides of the bbl with one scroll on the bbl terminating in Mr. Young’s mythical bird figure, several scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms and the hammer has a wolf’s head on each side of the nose. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with other foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Accompanied by an extraordinarily rare, incredible book casing that measures 11-1/2″ x 6-5/8″ x 2″, covered in burgundy leather with gold embossing on both covers and the spine. The spine is embossed “COLT / ON THE CONSTITUTION / HIGHER LAW & / IRREPRESSIBLE CONFLICT” and further down is the inscription “DEDICATED / BY THE AUTHOR / TO / ——–“. Bottom of the spine has only the date “1861” visible. The covers are secured by a unique brass latch and a mortised brass lock. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a blued steel bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, a paper wrapped tin of Ely’s caps with blue label and 2 sealed packets of orig Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible envelope cartridges. There were about 28,000 of this model Colt produced 1861-1873 of which extremely few were engraved and incredibly few are known with this extraordinarily rare casing. These revolvers were produced at a time when the west was very wild and carrying a firearm was expected. Few of these revolvers survive today with any orig finish. Book casings such as found here are only known to a very few exclusive collectors and of those extremely few remain in this fine condition. This set is suitable for the most discriminating collector or museum collection. PROVENANCE: William Meyers Collection; Eric Vaule; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolver is all matching including wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 60% glossy orig blue with the balance turning plumy brown with some fine pitting on each side of the muzzle. Frame & hammer retain about 75% faded case colors, stronger on the recoil shields and in sheltered areas. Hammer retains about 80% dark case colors. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Cyl retains about 30-40% thin orig blue, strongest in the flutes and rebated area, 3 of the 5 safety pins are serviceable. Trigger guard retains 50-60% orig silver with the front strap a light mustard patina. Backstrap & buttstrap are a dark mustard patina. Grip has a couple of age lines on the bottom edges otherwise is sound, showing very light wear and has a fine golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore with 3 or 4 small spots of pitting. Case is very fine with only light crackling on the hinge and some light chipping on the edges. Bottom of the spine has a 3/4″ x 1″ area of faded color which is now a lighter red. The front, top & bottom edges have darkened gold finish. Inside the lid has faded to a mellow gold color with light soil. The bottom retains dark burgundy in the bottom of the compartments otherwise is also faded to matching color. Flask has a couple of small dents in the back and retains about 60% orig finish. Mold is exceptional and appears to be new and unused. Cap tin is missing part of its paper wrapping with light soil and faded label but appears to be still sealed. Cartridge packets are extremely fine. This is one of the finer book casings to come to market in recent history. 49631-31 JR6 IVORY (75,000-110,000) – Lot 2109A
HISTORICAL PRESENTATION COLT REVOLVER USED BY MAJOR AND LATER GENERAL SCHUYLER HAMILTON AT THE BATTLE OF FIRST BULL RUN WHERE HE WAS PERSONALLY THANKED BY PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN FOR SAVING THE LIVES OF CONFEDERATE PRISONERS OF WAR.
SN 162812. This fine cased Colt Pocket model revolver was made in 1860 at the beginning of Civil War fervor and given by Edmund Lincoln Baylies to Schuyler Hamilton who was the grandson of Alexander Hamilton, West Point graduate and Mexican War hero. He was aide-de-camp to General Winfield Scott prior to the Civil War and was General Scott’s military secretary and aide-de-camp early 1861. Hamilton was writing confidential letters for General Scott prior to the Battle of Bull Run to President Lincoln and no doubt would have been by Scott’s side at meetings with the President. At the battle of 1st Bull Run, July 21, 1861, Scott met with Lincoln discussing the rout of US troops, no doubt Schuyler Hamilton by his side. Schuyler Hamilton, a Major at this time and life long military officer would not stand for outraged Union troops threatening to murder Confederate prisoners marched through the Capitol streets. As the inscription states this was the pistol used when he confronted Union soldiers who wished to take revenge on helpless prisoners at the 1st major battle of the Civil War. The presentation states that this gun was originally given to Hamilton in April of 1861 by Edmund Lincoln Baylies, who was a 32 year old Harvard graduate working in New York city where Hamilton was also a most prominent and well known inhabitant. Baylies was by heredity a member of The Order of Cincinnati, as was Hamilton, who of course his grandfather Alexander Hamilton was a founding member. Though we cannot be certain without further research of the exact occasion of this presentation but, we do know that then Major General Schuyler Hamilton presented this gun to the son of Edmund Lincoln Baylies, whose father had died at only 40 years old in 1869. Hamilton must have been close to the Baylies family. We do know Margarita “Peggy” Schuyler Van Rensselaer was Elizabeth’s Schuyler Hamilton’s sister who was Schuyler Hamilton’s grandmother and of course married to Alexander Hamilton; so we have direct family connection to the final recipient of this gun Edmund Lincoln Baylies Jr. when he married Louisa Van Rensselaer in 1887. What a spectacular presentation which is finely jeweler engraved in 17 lines of the affixed beveled 5-1/4″ x 3-1/8″ brass plaque “EDMUND LINCOLN BAYLIES TO SCHUYLER HAMILTON APRIL 1861”, “MAJOR GEN. SCHUYLER HAMILTON TO THE SON OF EDMUND LINCOLN BAYLIES”, “THIS PISTOL WAS USED IN SAVING THE LIVES OF CERTAIN REBEL PRISONERS OF WAR, TAKEN AT BULL RUN, WHEN SOME OF OUR INFURIATED SOLDIERS PROPOSED TO MURDER IN THE STREETS OF WASHINGTON. FOR THIS SERVICE PRESIDENT LINCOLN PRESENTED TO COL. HAMILTON, AS SENIOR OFFICER, THE THANKS OF THE NATION, IN THE PRESENCE OF GEN. SCOTT AND SEVERAL OF HIS CABINET, ADDING, HE REGRETTED HE COULD GIVE NO MORE PUBIC MANIFESTATION OF HIS APPROVAL BUT SO DOING WOULD ‘LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG THE SAME AS IF THE PRISONERS HAD BEEN ACTUALLY MURDERED SO FAR AS OUT FOREIGN RELATIONS ARE CONCERNED’.” From The Biographical Dictionary of America, vol. 05, 1906: “HAMILTON, Schuyler, soldier, was born in New York city, July 25, 1832; son of John Church and Maria Eliza (Van den Heuvel) Hamilton; grandson of Gen. Alexander and Elizabeth (Schuyler) Hamilton; and great-grandson of Gen. Philip Schuyler. He was graduated at the U.S. military academy in 1841 ; entered the service as 2d lieutenant in the 1st infantry; was on the plains, and at West Point as assistant instructor of tactics ; service in the Mexican war, where he was brevetted 1st lieutenant for gallantry at Monterey, Sept. 21-23, 1846. and where from the effects of a ball in his abdomen, he was left on the field for dead, but revived and fought the battle; and was brevetted captain for gallantry at Mil Flores, Aug. 13, 1847, where he was severely wounded by being run through with a lance, which passed entirely through his body and left lung, in a hand to hand combat with a Mexican lancer. He was promoted first lieutenant in March, 1848; was acting aide to Gen. Winfield Scott, 1847-54, and resigned from the army May 31, 1855, at San Francisco, Cal. “When the Civil War broke out he marched as a private in the 7th regiment, N.Y.S.M., went with that organization to the defense of Washington and offered to pledge himself for canteens and haversacks furnished the regiment, and paid for their transportation. He afterward served on the staff of Gen. B. F. Butler; was appointed military secretary with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, U.S.A., on the staff of Gen. Winfield Scott, serving from May 9, 1861, until be retired Nov. 1, 1861 ; and in that capacity he was instrumental in preventing the murder of certain Confederate prisoners of war captured on the battle-field of Bull Run, July 21, 1861. He was thanked for this service by the President in the presence of General Scott and members of the cabinet, but no publicity could prudently be given to the service at the time. He was appointed additional aide-decamp to General Scott with the rank of colonel and served from Aug. 7 to Nov. 12. 1861, when the aide-de-camp were disbanded. He was then made assistant chief of staff to Gen. H. W. Halleck with rank of colonel, accompanied that officer from New York to St. Louis, and was promoted brigadier-general of volunteers, Nov. 12, 1861. He was with Grant’s army operating in western Kentucky and Tennessee and suggested to General Pope the canal to cut off the enemy’s position at Island No. 10, and in the assault on that island and New Madrid he commanded a division. He was promoted major- general of volunteers, Sept. 17, 1862, for “meritorious services” at New Madrid and Island No. 10, and had accepted his promotion in good faith, thus vacating his commission of brigadier-general of volunteers, which had been confirmed by the senate, when he was seized with swamp fever and incapacitated from active service. He soon after received a letter from General Halleck demanding his resignation, under the rule that no officer unable to take the field should be named to the senate for confirmation, and after consult-” The accompanying 1840-1850 vintage cross belt plate depicting George Washington which has always accompanied this pistol is a variant of the “WASHINGTON GRAYS” a popular New York militia unit that also descended in the Schuyler/Van Rensselaer/Baylies family. This plate is in excellent condition, measuring about 4″ x 3″ polished German silver with gilted solder filled arabesque frame with applied silver plated bust of George Washington in profile. This is a very well made plate, in excellent condition with 3 soldered brass hooks on verso. This is a unique example and no identical examples found in Kerksis, Campbell & Howell, or O’Donnell. PROVENANCE: Edmund Lincoln Baylies, 1829-1869; Schuyler Hamilton, April 1861; Edmund Lincoln Baylies Jr., 1857-1934; Harold R. Beacham, Boston, MA, 1905-1955; CONDITION: Fine to excellent overall, bbl and cyl retain about 50% bright finish with remainder flaked not worn with balance mottled gray/plum. Cyl retains crisp rolled stagecoach holdup scene with areas of staining and pitting. Frame and hammer retain 80-90% bright and muted case colors with balance silver/gray. Loading arm retains darkened case colors on protected areas with balance silver/gray with pin prick pitting. Markings are all crisp and well discerned including matching SNs on bbl, loading arm, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cyl. Grips are well fit retaining virtually all their bright factory varnish with light edge wear and scattered tiny blemishes. Gun mechanically functions fine with crisp bright bore and cyl retains bluing in the individual chambers. Mahogany casing retains original Colt varnish with warped lid with broken lock. Bottom of case has pencil marking to the collection of Harold R. Beacham, Boston, Massachusetts, who was the last caretaker before consigned by his children to this sale. Interior of case has fading and wear to velvet lining and partitions which contain revolver and implements. 2-cavity Colt patent bullet mold retains about 40% bright blue finish with balance blue/gray having scattered tacking marks on sides. Accompanying double eagle flask with stars retains about 90% of its original dull varnish finish. 3 original Colt cartridge packs have good discernible labels with several balls and broken cartridges retained. Japanned cap container has green paper label that is loose. “Washington Grays” buckle is very fine overall, missing a small retaining wire on verso which is easily replaced. 50163-1 JS (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2215
SN 354912. Cal. 38 Spec. 5-1/2″ bbl, full blue finish, engraved, no grips. Engraving is of scroll patent with punch dot background and borders around bbl address. Engraving is nearly full coverage on bbl, frame, backstrap and cyl. Engraving is nicely executed. Bbl has 1-line address on top and Colt SAA cal mark on left side. Front sight is fat, high profile type. Frame has 2-line patent mark on forward left side with Rampant Colt logo without circle to the right. SN matches on frame, backstrap and trigger guard. Assembly number 254 is stamped on loading gate and right rear of frame. Hammer has fine knurling and is polished bright. Cyl has last 2 digits of SN stamped on rear face. Case is made of walnut, nicely joined with two latches, three hinges, and a cartridge block for 6 cartridges. Accompanied by a letter from Colt Archives stating that they have no record for this gun but also stating that it was manufactured between January 18 and 24, 1934. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, as totally refinished after engraving. Bbl and ejector rod retain almost all of the blue finish. Markings and engravings are sharp. Front sight has been slightly trimmed. Frame, trigger guard and backstrap have nearly all of the reblued finish. Sight groove on top strap has been cut square. Markings and engravings are sharp. Cyl has nearly all of the blue finish with slight high point wear. Engraving and markings are sharp. Case is fine with miniscule scratches on the outside and a very good padded blue lining. A very attractive engraved Colt Single Action that just needs a nice set of grips. 50062-33 TEP C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1300
SN 2914. 1) Cal. 41 RF. SN 2914. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-show cylinder. Blade front sight with frame notch rear sight. Rosewood grips, etched panel “Colt New .41. Jackson Arms Sales Receipt included. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2167. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and frame notch rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips, factory engraved. Jackson Arms sales receipt from 1976 included. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 6663. 2-1/4” bbl, 5-show cylinder, rosewood grips, “Colt New .41″ etched panel. Collector’s notes included. 4) Cal. .41 CF. SN 1952. 2-1/4” bbl. Blade front sight, frame notched rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, etched panel “Colt New .41”, 2-pc rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) 50% orig blue with areas of flaking and a noticeable cylinder drag line. Grips have orig finish with normal dents and scratches. 2) 80% bright nickel with light flaking. Grips have darkened with age and are in very good condition. Bore is very good. 3) 40% orig nickel finish with sharp edge wear and flaking. Grips have orig finish in very good condition. Bore is good. 4) Metal has 60% bright orig nickel with flaking on left side. Hammer, trigger and cylinder pin have bright fire blue. Grips have orig finish with light scratches and dents. 50019-113, 50019-115, 50019-308, 50019-310., TN13 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1418
RARE, HIGH QUALITY WESSON FIREARMS CO (FRANK WESSON) DOUBLE PERCUSSION SHOTGUN.
SN NSN. Cal. 12 ga. Frank Wesson, brother to Daniel and Edwin, and uncle to Edward, made military and sporting guns in Worcester, Mass, later Springfield, and is the inventor and maker of the “2-trigger” single shots, and producer of fine quality falling block target rifles. This unusual high quality shotgun was most likely made in the early 1870’s when Wesson Firearms Co. moved to Springfield, Mass. It has 28″ bbls of fine Bernard Damascus with “WESSON FIREARMS CO SPRINGFIELD MASS” engraved on rib. Patent breeches have silver blow-outs. Front action locks are mounted with tall, round bodied, serpentine hammers with tall, checkered spurs. Trigger plate has stylized pineapple finial which matches thimble. Locks and all metal parts are engraved with near full coverage of exceptionally well cut, large, open, shaded scroll with punch-dot background in the style of noted Colt engraver, Gustav Young, who was based in Hartford, CT, (30 miles downriver from Springfield). Lightly fiddle figured American walnut stock is fitted with engraved steel buttplate with short spur. There are small drop points behind lockplates, and flat top point pattern checkering is at grip and forend. Stock attaches to bbl with captive side nail which slides through and is flush fitted into engraved steel escutcheons. A single beaded pipe on bbl holds nicely figured fruitwood ramrod with brass tip and tail which has worm under cap. PROVENANCE: Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain most of their orig brown finish with dramatic pattern. Other metal parts retain traces of their orig case hardening color which doesn’t appear to have ever been strong. Stock retains most of what appears to be its orig finish with some oil added in over the years for maintenance, with a number of knocks and scratches. Checkering is somewhat worn and dirty, with some heavy marks on right portion of forend. Bores are excellent. Locks are crisp. An historically important American shotgun. 49941-24 MGM175 (6,000-8,000) – Lot 2056
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 23642. Cal. 36. Rare silver and gold finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is half fluted and rebated with all 5 safety pins prominent and serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a rare 1-pc “certified antique African elephant ivory” grip with deep relief, raised carved eagle & chicks on a nest on the left side and is matching numbered to this revolver. Cyl, trigger and hammer are gold-washed with the remainder of the revolver silver finished with blued screws. Revolver has full coverage, foliate arabesque engraving with very fine pearled background. Engraving patterns extend over sides of the bbl and around the muzzle with a long arrow between the address and front sight. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and spur. The top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with heavy foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Cyl, unusually has matching engraving patterns over each chamber. Accompanied by an outstanding orig Colt rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a silver plated “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars single-sided flask, a scarce silver plated steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, a silver plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a sealed paper wrapped tin of Eley’s caps with green label, a sealed packet of 5 combustible cartridges marked “New Model Revolving Police Pistol”, a spare hammer spring and a functioning key. There were approximately 28,000 of these revolvers produced 1861-1873, the vast majority of which were not engraved. Of the few known engraved specimens, most were elaborately engraved such as found here and exceedingly few of these have special plating. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, rosewood casings for this model are also exceedingly rare. This revolver was produced in 1863 at the height of the Civil War which lends credibility to the proposition that it was created as a presentation to someone of high office or for valor on the battlefield. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains most of its orig silver plating with about 70% dull gold on the cyl, about 80% on the hammer and 60% on the trigger; the two upper backstrap screws are slightly battered, as are two of the trigger guard screws from someone using an improper tool. Grip is outstanding with sharp edges and a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with one small spot of pitting. Case is sound with some fine grain checks in the lid and retains most of its orig varnish; lining inside the lid is heavily faded but unsoiled; bottom is moderately faded with light soil; flask retains about 60-65% thin orig silver and the mold about 98% orig silver, unused; other accessories & equipment are fine. This lot is accompanied by an “ESA Certification of Antique Ivory” dated September 30, 2014. 49631-42 IVORY (20,000-35,000) – Lot 2140
SCARCE DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT 1849 POCKET WITH CASE AND ACCESSORIES.
SN 94612. Cal. 31. 5″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight, bbl engraved in classic Gustave Young style and marked on top “SAML COLT”. All matching including wedge. Frame and hammer nicely scroll engraved, hammer with wolf’s head. Top of backstrap in shell pattern. Butt and trigger guard bow with scroll engraving. Five shot rnd cyl with stage coach hold up scene. 1-pc walnut grips. Backstrap and trigger guard with silver plating. Housed in an original Colt casing with red velvet interior with accessories including brass mold, American Eagle flask, percussion cap tin and cap, bullets. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Pistol is good, no factory original finish remains. Bbl with moderate soiling and couple areas of deep pitting, one at muzzle and one on top of bbl at legend. Frame is very good with scattered erosion. Cyl scene approximately 70% present. Cyl with pitting and impressions throughout. Trigger guard and backstrap with outstanding original silver perhaps as much as 85%. Mechanics are good. Bore is good with scattered pitting. Case is very good with light staining and soiling, accessories are good, compartment mostly intact and very good overall. Handsome gray ’49 that would make a great conversation piece. 49973-72 JSL134 (4,500-6,500) – Lot 1186
*FINE BILL MAINS ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH PRESENTATION CASE.
SN 82868SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt without circle. Revolver is engraved in about “A” coverage by Colt master engraver Bill Mains. Engraving is in foliate arabesque patterns that have fine shaded and pearled background. Cyl, bbl, backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved to match. Heel of buttstrap is inlaid with a tiny gold buffalo, the signature of Mr. Mains. Bill Mains was Colt’s most prolific factory engraver by a large margin. When Colt asked him not to sign his work he developed the small buffalo logo as his signature and most of his factory work is so marked. Mounted with matching numbered Rampant Colt/Eagle hard rubber grips. Accompanied by a fine dovetailed walnut presentation case that has blue velvet lining and a cartridge block containing 6 cartridges. Lid is inlaid with a small rosewood diamond. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains 99%+ glossy factory style blue and bright factory case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas. Trigger guard has a purple cast from low bluing salts temperature. Backstrap shows bright blue. Grips are crisp, as are the mechanics. Brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 50062-56 JR154 (3,500-5,500) – Lot 1357
SN 38640/7971/6211/4911/4909. 1) Cal. .22 RF. SN 38640. 2-3/4″ bbl, factory engraved, etched panel on bbl, 7-shot cylinder, 2-pc mother-of-pearl grips. 2-line bbl address. 2) Cal. .30 RF. SN 7971. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips. 3) Cal. .30 RF. SN 6122. 2-1/4″ bbl, front blade sight and frame notched rear sight, mother-of-pearl grips. 4) Cal. .30 RF. SN 4911. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and frame notched rear sight, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips. Includes Colt letter informing of no records. 5) Cal. .30 RF. SN 4904. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, blade front sight and frame notched rear sight, mother-of-pearl grips. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Blue bbl and cylinder with 60% orig finish. Frame is 80% orig nickel. Hammer and trigger have good fire blue. Grips are slightly undersized in very good condition. Bore is good. 2) Bbl has 80% bright orig blue. Frame and cylinder have flaked and worn to 60%. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is good. 3) Near excellent etched panel. Metal overall 90% bright orig nickel. Hammer, cylinder pin, trigger, and screws are bright fire blue colored. Grips are in very good condition with one tiny chip on lift grip. Bore is good. 4) Fine high condition 90% orig nickel, mother-of-pearl grips are near excellent. Bore is good. 5) Dull nickel finish. Fair etched panel. Very good grips. Bore is fair. 50019-21, 50019-39, 50019-42, 50019-44, 50019-277, TN19 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1429
*EXQUISITELY ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN S48099A. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line address with model and Cal. marking on left side. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip that has raised relief carved ox head with red eye on each side. Grip is constructed in the orig manner of 2 slabs of ivory attached to wooden spacer blocks. Revolver is wonderfully engraved by Master Engraver Wayne D’Angelo with about D-plus coverage. Frame has full coverage, extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns and bottom front sides of frame are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with counter-point shaded diamonds. Ejector housing boss is engraved in a hunter’s star. The loading gate slot in the recoil shield is, unusually, engraved in a matching diamond & dot pattern and rear face of loading gate is engraved in foliate pattern. The bbl is also elaborately engraved in a variety of patterns including matching diamond & dot panels with other foliate and floral patterns. There is a band of square & dot patterns at the frame and sides of front sight are engraved. Ejector housing is also elaborately engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the outer radius and leaf & vine pattern in the top gullet. Cyl is engraved in matching patterns on lands between flutes with a feather pattern around the rear edge. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also elaborately engraved with a very fine shell pattern at top of backstrap. Outside of loading gate has a matching shell pattern with similar shell patterns on sides of hammer shank. Hammer nose is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side. Screw heads are also engraved. SN was observed on bottom of frame and sides of front and backstrap under the grip with last 3 digits of matching SN on the bbl under the ejector housing and front face of cyl around the bushing. Accompanied by a custom built, red velvet lined, simple walnut case. Mr. D’Angelo is a self-taught Master Engraver who worked several years for Smith & Wesson with a lengthy stint at a plating company where he also was an engraver. For the past several years, he has been an independent engraver, creating such masterpieces as found here. A conversation with Mr. D’Angelo disclosed that he has a record of having engraved this revolver and that it was commissioned by Nutmeg Sports, Tolland, CT. Accompanied by a letter on Nutmeg Sports, LLC letterhead which identifies this revolver by SN and states that it was engraved by Mr. D’Angelo and is represented in his engraving record book. PROVENANCE: The Terry Lester Collection; The Brad Shepard Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Appears to be new and unfired. “Certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” grip is equally new. Case is equally fine. 50061-66 JR199 IVORY (5,000-8,000) – Lot 2096
CASED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CALCUTTA AGENT MARKING.
SN 5266. Cal. 36. This is a standard London made Navy revolver assembled at Pall Mall in 1852. Gun retains no finish but is sound with good markings and functionality with the engraved agent marking on backstrap of “CHARLES NEPHEW & CO CALCUTTA”. Charles Nephew was a well known Colt agent in India, but early Colts engraved with his name are quite scarce. The accompanying mahogany Colt casing is fitted with 2-cavity “Colt’s Patent” bullet mold, a Barlow bag flask and an orig British tin cap container with paper label. PROVENANCE: The Spiropoulos Estate Collection. CONDITION: Gun is good overall. Matching SN 5266 is found on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Loading arm is numbered 64 and wedge is numbered 767; though color on wedge and loading arm match the overall grey color of gun. Address, SNs and agent marking are all discernible. Cylinder has no safety pins and about 20% of the rolled naval battle scene is visible. Stocks are well fit with about 70% of their varnished finish intact. Gun functions with a clean crisp bore. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 10% of their orig silver plating. Trigger bow is bent as can be seen in photos. Accompanying casing has empty rectangular brass plate applied in lid which has longitudinal crack. Lining and interior of case are worn, soiled and faded with old cloth repair to section of case adjacent to backstrap. Interior is worn through at areas of front sight and hammer. 49891-3 JS (3,000-4,000) – Lot 2167
RARE ENGRAVED SILVER FINISH MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 156891. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is half fluted and rebated with 5-chambers. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain an outstanding period 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved flying eagle that appears to be orig to this revolver on the right side. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage, flowing foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on the frame which extend over about two-thirds of the bbl and each side of the muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with leaf and vine patterns on each side of the rammer handle. Wedge is also engraved. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with spiderweb patterns on each side of the shoulder. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved to match the frame. Cyl is also engraved with matching patterns over each chamber with a dash & dot border at the transition. All the SNs on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “IE”, which signifies to the plant workers to provide extra polish for engraving and ivory grip. Over 28,000 of these revolvers were produced 1861-1873 with this revolver manufactured in about 1863. A revolver of this quality, of engraving and the elaborate grip was undoubtedly the property of someone of substantial means or presented for an act of valor. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip which is unnumbered, but appears to be orig to this revolver. Overall retains about 90-92% strong orig silver with some pimpling in the gullets on the bbl lug and a couple small spots on the bbl, otherwise silver is strong and clean. Grip has a chipped left toe, a chip at the top left at the frame, another small chip by the backstrap with several natural age lines and overall shows a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 49973-206 JR32 IVORY (5,500-7,500) – Lot 1247
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP REVOLVER WITH WEXELL & DE GRESS GRIPS IN BURL WOOD CASE.
SN 64904. Cal. 22. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish. Standard Helfricht Shop engraving with minimal coverage on bbl, frame and cylinder. Nickel plated grips with floral motif. SN matches on bbl and frame. 2-line bbl address. Frame marked 22 cal. on forward left side. Right grip marked “PAT APT 28.74”. Case has mahogany sides with a highly figured burl wood top. Top is inlaid with an engraved presentation plaque and banner. Case is lined with blue felt and contains the key. Key compartment has ivory pull. Accompanying is correspondence between the consignor and dealer and shows purchase from Bob Berryman in 1975. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 95% orig nickel finish with slight erosion at muzzle and breech especially on left side. Bbl markings are sharp. Bore is dark with traces of rifling. Frame retains 95% nickel overall with slight dents overall. Frame has small crack on left side of hammer. Cylinder retains 90% nickel overall with wear on front and rear edges, a slight drag mark and some erosion on face. Hammer retains 50% fire blue. Screws are good with little finish remaining. Grips are very fine and retain nearly all nickel plate finish. Case is fine. Lock escutcheon is missing. Case has minor handling marks on exterior overall. Lining is slightly worn. A nice 22 Open Top in a beautiful wood case. 50019-237 TEP (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1396
SN 735. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 735. 2-1/2″ bbl, address is 2-line and bbl stamped “NO 1″, all metal frame with engraving and checkering. Includes Bill of Sale and collector’s notes. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2849. 2-1/2” bbl, bbl stamped “No 2″ with 2-line bbl address, engraved with checkered walnut grips. Includes collector’s notes. 3) Cal. .41 RF. SN 8925. 2-1/2” bbl, Blade front sight, hammer notch rear sight, rosewood grips, bbl stamped “No 2″ with 2-line bbl address, engraving on frame. Includes collector’s notes. 4) Cal. .41 RF. SN 7326. 2-1/2” bbl, “No 2” stamped on bbl with 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight, checkered rosewood grips. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Orig nickel finish has flaked and worn to mostly gray metal. Left side of bbl has 40% orig nickel. Bore is good. 2) Metal is mostly gray/silver. Grips are worn. Checkering is flattened. Bore is fair. 3) Bbl is bright orig blue with flaking. Frame has 80% nickel finish with light scratches, rosewood grips are in very good condition. Bore is fair. 4) Metal is mostly silvered gray with pitting. Rosewood grips are in good condition with light oil staining. Bore is poor. 50019-328, 50019-330, 50019-331, 50019-332, TN22 (3,500-5,500) – Lot 1440
RARE COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 8664. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with scarce 3″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City right hand address with dashes. Left side of frame is center marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and oval stop notches with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and single safety pin. The square-back brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with penciled matching SN in backstrap channel. Buttstrap is hand scratched “J D B”. Accompanied by an early Paterson-style, fluted lid mahogany casing which is brown fabric lined and recessed in the bottom for the revolver, a double-sided, standing eagle “COLTS PATENT” flask, a brass bullet and ball “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and lacquered Eley’s cap tin with blue paper band. Bottom of the case has the handwritten name in pencil “W P A Strantham”. This revolver has the cyl spindle without grease grooves which is cupped on the end to serve as a rammer and the right recoil shield has a capping groove. There were about 15000 of these small pocket revolvers produced 1847-1850 in a variety of bbl lengths and configurations, about 2000 of which, at the end of production were fitted with 1849-style rammers. These small revolvers were Colt’s first attempt at a small handgun after the demise of the Paterson line. They were instantly accepted by the buying public and most often were used on the American frontier and almost never found with an orig casing or accessories. They are rarely found with any orig finish. The front trigger guard screw and buttstrap screw are engraved. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 70-75% scattered blue mixed with plummy patina. Frame retains traces of case colors being mostly a dark grey patina. Cyl retains thin blue/brown patina with some orig blue showing through and shows about 85% Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and has prominent safety pin. Trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig silver finish. Grip is sound showing light edge wear and overall retains about 90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with some shine and fine pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid with a repaired crack in the lid behind the top front edge and a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with nicks, scratches and dings and shows most of an old restored finish. Interior is possibly an old re-line from the period of use showing light fading and moderate to heavy soil with some staining from chemical around the revolver recess. Flask is very fine with the body retaining about 95-97% orig finish and the collar & spout about 80% orig gold wash. Mold shows some light battering on top and bottom edges otherwise is crisp and clean. Nipple wrench and cap tin are fine. 49631-1 JR13 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 2111
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT M-1851 PERCUSSION NAVY REVOLVER INSCRIBED TO CAPTAIN JULIUS HAYDEN, LATER BRIGADIER GENERAL.
SN 63812. Cal. 36. This is a fine “as found” Colt Navy orig manufactured in 1856 utilizing some parts that originally were manufactured under the U.S. Military contract, note “U.S.” under “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of frame & small inspector’s initials found on several parts. This exact gun is written about on pg 85 of Nathan L. Swayze’s text “’51 Colt Navies” & he states that small punch marks found below or above SNs denote rejection however, regulations state such guns be marked with a condemnation “C”. Swayze states “Just because this gun was condemned by the Ordnance Department of the U.S. Army, would Colt throw it away? – Never! Back it went to have the blue stripped off, then to the engraver, not only to engrave the gun but probably to also engrave the presentation wording, back to the blueing department where a finer degree of blue was applied. Using an example such as this is in no way implying that Colt – to keep from wasting a gun – would “pretty it up” and present it as a gift, even though it might be dangerous to fire. Colt certainly was not a fool, and the chances are that some of his ’51 Navies were rejected because of some minor defect, which in no way affected the operation, safety or the firing of the gun.” Regardless, this is a factory engraved and inscribed Colt Navy carried by Julius Hayden who saw continuous service in the U.S. Army as an officer from 1850 to 1870. The backstrap is inscribed “Captn. J. Hayden. U.S.A.”- with the U.S.A standing for United States Army which is typical designation for regular Army soldiers. Captain Hayden was orig commissioned in the 2nd U.S. Infantry seeing service in the west until the Civil War when he was commissioned into the Field and Staff of the 10th U.S. Infantry in the Army of the Potomac. Captain Hayden advanced through the ranks and by the time of the Battle of Gettysburg, he was Inspector General of the 3rd Corp. He is cited in several references as personally leading the 3rd AC to the Gettysburg battlefield as he was acquainted with the terrain. Lt. Col. Hayden was cited by Major General French of the 3rd Army Corps for distinguished and conspicuous ability. Hayden was indeed brevetted Brigadier General for gallant and meritorious service during the Civil War. There are over 100 pgs of copied records of Bvt. Brig-General Julius Hayden outlining his war service beginning with his graduation from West Point in 1839, Mexican War where he was wounded, first promotion in 1850 to Captain, Civil War service, command of Fort Larned, Kansas until his retirement in 1870. This is a rarely offered inscribed and engraved Colt to a regular U.S. Army officer in fine unaltered matching condition. CONDITION: Gun appears all-orig with matching SNs. Full-coverage engraving of bbl, frame, backstrap, and trigger guard even include screws with exception of hammer screw and wedge screw which appear to be contemporary replacements with matching patina. Metal overall is gray/plum with fairly sharp edges with edge wear. Cyl shows traces of naval battle scene with an old repaired chamber which is barely detectable without close scrutiny. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 50% of their orig silver plating and hold a fine varnished 1-pc burl grip. Mechanically, revolver functions well with well discerned rifling in bore. This gun no doubt was carried by Hayden throughout the Civil War. 50149-1 JS (13,500-19,500) – Lot 2216
Please Note: Additional Information: We have learned that Robert G. Sullenger, nicknamed “Denver Bob”, was a long time west Texas peace officer who died from Amarillo, TX, Dec. 5, 1934.
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVED IN FACTORY STYLE NICKEL PLATED WITH TWO-PIECE CARVED STEER HEAD MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS, INSCRIBED “R.G.Sullenger 1915” ON THE BACKSTRAP.
SN 147242. Cal. 45 Colt 4-3/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with blue screws. Two piece carved steer head Mother-of-pearl grips. “R.G.Sullenger” Stamped on backstrap. The date 1915 is stamped on the apron of backstrap behind hammer possibly indicating when re-finish work was done. Engraving is definitely in Helfricht style and could possibly be factory orig, deserves further research. Two line bbl address. Colt patent mark with Rampant Colt logo on left side of frame. SNs on frame trigger guard and backstrap are all matching. Grips are not orig to the gun but fit very well. Right grip is definitely carved in the factory style. Grips also could be Colt factory products. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine as professionally re-nickeled. The engraving has not been overly polished. Bbl retains 95% bright nickel finish with some muzzle wear on left side. Two line bbl address is sharp. Front sight has been slightly trimmed. Bore is dark with traces of rifling. Frame retains 98% nickel finish as does backstrap and trigger guard. Hammer and trigger also retain 98% nickel finish. Screws retain almost all of re-blued finish. Cylinder retains 90% nickel finish with some wear on the front face. Grips are very good with a small chip on upper left side. Action needs repair as bolt does not rise at full cock. A very interesting Colt Single Action Army Revolver that deserves further research to determine who was the owner of this fancy revolver. 50019-165 TEP (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1301
SN 2899. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2899. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips, etched panel. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 80. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips are numbered to gun. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 8050. 4″ bbl with etched panel, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, 2-line bbl address with patent date, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. Includes Bill of Sale from Antique Armory. 4) Cal. .41 RF. SN 1046. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight with top strap groove rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. Includes Bill of Sale from Jackson Arms dated 1967. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Bbl and frame have 75% bright orig blue. Etched panel is clear. Cylinder has 50% nickel with X’s scratched in finish. Grips are in good condition. Hammer and trigger are bright fire blue. Bore is good. 2) All metal is 80% bright nickel with sharp engraving. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is fair. 3) Silver finish has flaked and worn to 30% overall. Etched panel is good. Metal is smooth. Hammer and trigger have fire blue color. Grips are slightly undersized. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl is flaked and peeled to 60%. Cylinder has peeling and flaking with bright nickel in flutes. Etched panel is missing. Frame has peeling in front of cylinder. Right grip is chipped. Left grip is in good condition. Bore is fair. 50019-104, 50019-117, 50019-119, 50019-304, TN41 IVORY (2,500-4,500) – Lot 1419
SN 403/37. Cal. 45-70. Fine Gatling with full shrouded 24″ 10-bbl cluster with SN and caliber on the right trunnion. Trunnions are 1-1/2″ dia. and the cascabel about 2-1/4″ dia. The front raised area of the shroud, just over the trunnions and in front of the articulated feed base is engraved “U.S. NAVY / NO. 37 / 1884” with the inspector initials “H.W.L.”. Rear part of the housing is mounted with a 3-3/4″ dia. rnd plate that has an elevation spirit level in the center and is engraved “GATLING GUN / PATENTED”. To the rear of the housing is engraved “MANUFD BY / COLTS PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD CONN.”. The articulated feed base is for the Accles Drum Feed. This gun has an adjustable rear sight on each side of the rear cover with a fixed front sight on each side. The crank handle is on the right side. The rear cover has an integral housing containing a horizontal spirit level. Mounted in an orig cast brass yoke with a steel arc that is attached to brackets on the bottom of the shroud and passes through the yoke, which controls the elevation and depression of the bbls. The yoke is on a pintle which fits in a bronze socket which sits atop 3 square wooden legs. Left trunnion is engraved and shows that the gun weights 205 lbs. Accompanied by 1 Accles Feed Drum. Drum is made entirely of brass and was designed to hold 104 rounds. There is no indication in available research material how many of these Gatling guns were purchased by the Navy, but it is believed they are substantially more rare than those purchased by the Army. Accompanied by a copy of a page from a log book of the USS Miantonomoh dated 12 May 1885, titled “Fore Noon Watch”. Below the 11/15 entry shows “Colts Battery Gun, Caliber 45, Serial number 403 & 37 mounted on triangular base”. The Miantonomoh of the 1885 was the second double turret Monitor warship to carry that name. The first Miantonomoh was built during the Civil War and commissioned in 1865, but in 1874 she was taken to Chester, PA ostensibly to be rebuilt. Instead, the Navy used the funds to build another ship under the same name that had heavier armor and with more speed and the orig was broken up and scrapped in 1875. CONDITION: Very fine. The brass overall shows a medium to dark mustard patina with only a few light nicks & scratches. The engraving shows light to moderate wear, probably from being polished during its service with the Navy. Tripod is fine, legs appear to be reproductions. The magazine is very fine with no apparent serious damage just a few light bumps & bruises. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bores. NOTE: The two spare magazines pictured with this Gatling gun are being sold as the following separate lot. 49634-1 (150,000-250,000) – Lot 2065
RARE FIRST YEAR OF PRODUCTION CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 5291. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 6-1/2″ oct bbl, brass front pin sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 Cal”. Cyl is rebated with 5-chambers and has the stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a Colt 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip that is made of two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacers in the original manner. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Gustave Young in late vine style without background. Frame has full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the bbl lug onto the top 3 flats of the bbl and rammer pivot. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose with fish scale patterns on the top edge and side of the spur. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. All of the SNs on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that this revolver was to receive special polish for engraving. Accompanied by a rare Colt mahogany casing that is velvet lined with rare contour partitioning in the bottom. Case is compartmented for the revolver, a single sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle and stars flask, a blued steel bullet and ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, a lacquered Eley’s cap tin, a spare hammer spring and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in 1861 just at the outset of the Civil War and was most likely a gift to a soldier departing to fight. That it survived at all is remarkable, but that it has survived with its orig style casing and accessories is even more incredible. Most of the revolvers of that era saw extensive service throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier and are very rarely found today with high orig finish, especially with their orig type accessories. Only about 17,000-18,000 of these scarce revolvers were produced 1861 to 1873. They remained in service well into the 1870’s until fully supplanted by cartridge firearms. They were a very popular sidearm with frontier citizens of all walks of life. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge and cyl. Rammer and grip are properly unnumbered. Bbl retains about 70% thin plummy blue orig finish with sharp edge wear, a couple of cleaned spots and a few scattered spots of light pitting. Rammer pivot retains dark faded case colors. Frame and hammer show faded case colors. Cyl retains traces of blue in the rebated area and shows about 70-75% stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking with four of the five safety pins mostly serviceable. Rear shoulder of the cyl is lightly pitted in a couple of areas between nipple recesses. Trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their strong orig silver plating. Grip has a chipped heel and toe with light age lines. Hammer screw is a replacement. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of fine pitting. Case has a couple of cracks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with storage and handling nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior, which was probably originally brown, is faded to a light creamy tan with light soil in the bottom. Partitions are all intact. Flask retains about 80% thin orig finish and the mold about 65-70% orig blue with some light, fine pitting. Cap tin is fine. 49631-35 JR11 IVORY (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2142
SN 115140. Cal. 31. SN 115140. Dot under SN indicates extra polish for engraving or plating. 4″ oct bbl, dog’s head engraved on front of bbl, arabesque scroll, heavy coverage, engraved screws, Colt’s patent pillow, 5-shot cylinder has stagecoach scene, 1-pc unnumbered ivory grips. Colt case with compartments, Colt’s patent bullet mold, black powder flask, percussion cap case, lined with red velvet. Bbl address “SAML COLT”. Ramrod, cylinder, and wedge have matching SNs, small brass trigger guard. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Sharp engraving with faded finish, mostly grey metal, “certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” grips are slightly undersized, fair bore. Box is in very good condition with light staining on velvet. Cylinder scene is clear with some light pitting nearby. 50019-225 TN IVORY (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1187
Please Note: This is NOT C&R eligible, it IS a Modern Gun.
*ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH ONE PIECE MOTHER OF PEARL GRIP.
SN SA 07081. Cal. 44 Special. 7-1/2″ bbl, blue and case color finish, 1-pc Mother of Pearl grip. Engraving coverage is class “A” with scroll around bbl address and on either side of muzzle. Gold band at breech and at muzzle. Frame is engraved with scroll at the rear that continues to the sides of the trigger guard. Recoil shield has a scallop pattern which is matched on loading gate. Small scroll in front of cyl on top of frame. Backstrap only has small scroll on either side of hammer, balance is bare. Cyl has scroll over each chamber and a gold band at the rear. Engraving is expertly executed with very fine stippled background. Gold bands are also expertly executed and very straight. There is no engraver’s signature apparent on the gun. Bbl has 1-line address on top and Colt SAA cal mark on left side. Front sight is of the fat style with a high profile. Frame has a 2-line patent mark on forward left side with Rampant Colt logo to the right without circle. SN matches on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. 7081 is stamped on the front face of the cyl. 1-pc Mother of Pearl grip is built around wood blocks on the inside and is not marked. Accompanying this revolver is a Colt Factory Letter confirming cal, bbl length, blue finish with stocks not listed. No mention is made of engraving. Shipment was to Howco Distributors Inc., 122 Lafayette Avenue, Laurel, MD on November 24, 1978 in a shipment of 2 guns. Accompanied by a dovetail construction oak presentation casing w/ blue velvet interior and a block for 6 cartridges. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl and ejector rod retain nearly all of the blued finish applied after engraving with only a few slight scratches. Bbl markings are sharp. Front sight is full sized with some staining on right side. Bore is bright with sharp rifling and a couple of small stains at the muzzle. Engraving is crisp. Frame retains nearly all case colors applied after engraving with only miniscule handling marks. Engraving and markings are crisp. Hammer retains nearly all of the blue finish on top and back with sides polished bright and a couple of small scratches on left side. Trigger guard has nearly all of the blue finish applied after engraving with a couple of small scratches. All markings and engraving are sharp. Backstrap retains nearly all of the blue finish applied after engraving. Cyl retains nearly all of the blue applied after engraving with a slight rust stain around base pin at front of cyl. A couple of chambers also have some slight staining. Engraving is crisp. Grip is fine with no chips and vibrant hues. A masterfully engraved Colt Single Action Army revolver with gold inlay. 50062-63 TEP C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1358
SN 9351. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 9351. Colt New Line. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and frame notch rear sight, rosewood grips, 2-line bbl address with patent date under side of bbl. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 567. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap notch, 5-shot cylinder, engraved, mother-of-pearl grips. Included is Colt letter stating no records, and a Bill of Sale. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 9580. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. 4) Cal. .41 CF. SN 8166. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and top strap notch, 2-line bbl address, and stamped “P. Jones 38 Manchester LPool”. Patent date under side of bbl. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very fine orig condition nickel. Etched panel is bright and clear. Hammer, trigger, cylinder rod, and screws are bright fire blue. Grips have nearly all of orig finish with light scratches. 2) Bbl has flaked and worn to mostly silver metal. Frame has traces of gold wash and sharp engraving. Cylinder is mostly smooth metal. Grips are in good condition with two small chips. Bore is fair. 3) Bbl has bright nickel with very good etch panel. Cylinder is flaked to 50%. Frame has 60% nickel starting to dull. Hammer, trigger, and cylinder pin have bright fire blue. Grips are in very good condition with orig finish. Bore is good. 4) Blue has mostly faded and worn to gray. Frame has good traces of case color. Trigger and hammer have fire blue. Grips are slightly oil stained with scattered scratches. Bore is good. 50019-105, 50019-114, 50019-301, 50019-309, TN24 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1430
EXTRAORDINARY FACTORY ENGRAVED IVORY GRIPPED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER.
SN 16331. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line Hartford address and crisp “COLT D.A. 41″ etched panel on left side. All the screws, base pin, trigger & hammer are bright fire blued. Mounted with orig, factory, smooth ivory grips. Frame is beautifully engraved in flowing foliate arabesque patterns with about 80% coverage. Top strap is engraved with leaf & vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl with a geometric pattern forward of the address on top. Back of the hammer slot on the backstrap and down the backstrap are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved on lands between the flutes with foliate arabesque patterns. Left rear web of trigger guard is stamped “41 CAL”. Inside grip strap is engraved in script initials “J.B.H.”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 with 3-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, ivory stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on October 25, 1879 in a 2-gun shipment. Model 1877 revolvers are rarely found with high orig finish as they were very popular in their day and usually saw very hard service on the American frontier with infrequent or no maintenance. History records numerous individuals on both sides of the law carrying this model of revolver including Billy the Kid and others. We wonder who “J.B.H.” may have been. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig nickel finish. All the screws, base pin, trigger & hammer retain most of their orig bright fire blue. There are small areas of bubbling in nickle noted at rear of top strap & there is scratching & light reductions to nickle on butt & inside grip strap near inscription as seen in photos. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are well fit with minor shrinkage, ivory patina with light scratching & scuffing to high areas. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 50194-2 JS IVORY (12,000-15,000) – Lot 2097
EXTRAORDINARY EXHIBITION QUALITY ENGRAVED AND CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 105815. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an outstanding 1-pc “certifiable antique ivory” grip with SN in pencil in back strap channel. Grip is made in the orig manner with two slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory spacer. SNs on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are accompanied by a small punch mark and on the frame & trigger guard with a number “6”. The punch marks were a signal to the factory workmen to apply extra polish for engraving. Revolver is engraved, probably from the hand of Gustave Young himself with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background on the frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. His deluxe engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with a wonderful flower blossom and a mythical bird’s head incorporated into the patterns on left side. Right side has similar foliate patterns with one scroll terminating in a flower blossom. The rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the back strap, butt strap & trigger bow. All screw heads and ends of wedge are also engraved. Cyl is unfluted with 5 chambers and stagecoach holdup scene roll marking, with all 5 safety pins crisp & serviceable. Stagecoach holdup scene appears to have been hand enhanced by Mr. Young during engraving process as the markings are very deep & sharp. Accompanied by the fine orig American style, brass bound mahogany casing with brass reinforced corners and an empty name plate in the lid. Bottom corners are also brass reinforced. Front of case has a shield shaped brass lock escutcheon. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a very unusual “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity steel mold that is in the white, a sealed packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps and an L-shaped nipple wrench. This presentation quality revolver was undoubtedly owned by someone of importance, great wealth or of high rank and saw little if any use. It may have been fired, but if so, very little. This cased revolver is known to have been in the private collection of Norm Flayderman for over 50 years. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Collection; James D. Julia Auctions October 2010. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with one small wear spot on right flat at the muzzle & faint sharp edge wear. Rammer retains strong case colors on the pivot with the handle turned silver. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong orig factory case colors. Cyl retains 40-50% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked to a gray patina and retains virtually all of its fine hand-enhanced stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip frame retains virtually all of its strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound with sharp edges and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a couple of cracks in the bottom and some minor pry marks along front edge, otherwise is completely sound and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish with light handling & storage marks. Interior is lightly to moderately faded & soiled, primarily from lead oxide from bullets with light damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is crisp & near new with one small dent. Mold is in the white and appears to have never been blued, possibly cleaned to its present state. Cap tin & nipple wrench are fine. Altogether a wonderful high quality, high condition cased set suitable to the most discerning collector. 50140-14 JS111 IVORY (45,000-65,000) – Lot 2171
SCARCE COLT BREVETTE MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 1525. Cal. 31. Interesting Brevette with 5″ bbl marked “COLT / PATENT”. So many of these Colt infringements didn’t bother paying Colt a commission, but typically if they used his name, Colt received a licensing fee. Cylinder is engraved with a dog chasing a bird and men in a boat rowing ashore. There is a proof on the left side of bbl lug with crown over “D”. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very good overall. Appears original and all matching, slight traces of finish. Iron overall gray. Brass backstrap and trigger guard have a yellow-mustard patina. With well-fit grips with traces of varnish. Gun is functionally operational with good, crisp bore. 49973-115 JS (600-800) – Lot 1256
FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED PAIR OF COLT REVOLVERS: COLT OPEN TOP POCKET MODEL AND COLT NEW LINE REVOLVER BOTH WITH WEXELL & DE GRESS BRASS GRIPS.
SN 61911/4211. 1) Cal. 22 RF. 2 3/8″ bbl. Nickel finish with brass grips. Engraving is standard Helfricht Shop style with minimal coverage only on frame and cylinder. Frame is scroll engraved on both sides with a star motif and intertwined line pattern on backstrap. Cylinder has diamond pattern and punch dot motif with a wavy borderline at face. Bbl has 2-line address with SN stamped on bottom lug. Frame shows 22 cal. stamped on front left side. Frame has SN stamped on butt of grip. Brass grips have a floral motif with “PAT APR 28.74″ at top of left grip. Grips were nickel plated. 2) Cal. 22 RF. 2 1/4” bbl. Nickel finish with brass Wexell & de Gress grips. Engraving is standard Helfricht Shop style with minimal coverage on bbl, frame and cylinder. Bbl has 2-line address. SN matches on bbl, receiver, and cylinder. Frame is marked 22 cal. on left side. Hammer is gold washed. Grips are a floral scroll motif with a blank presentation shield on right side. Grips are gold wash. Case is after market, made of rosewood with red silk lining and cartridge blocks with cleaning rod, brush and key. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very good. Bbl is silver-gray patina overall with sharp markings full-sized front sight and frosty bore with visible rifling. Frame retains 80% orig nickel finish. Engraving is sharp. Cal. marking is sharp. Screws are good. Cylinder retains 80% nickel finish overall with most of loss on 1 chamber. Chambers are dark. Engraving is sharp. Grips retains remnants of nickel plate. Action needs repair. 2) Very good. Engraving is sharp overall. Bbl has sharp address. Full-size front sight. 80% thinning nickel finish overall. SN is sharp. Bore is dark with traces of rifling. Frame retains slight traces of nickel finish. Hammer retains slight traces of gold wash. Trigger and bolt retain traces of blue. Cylinder is gray patina overall. Engraving is sharp. Some erosion on forward end. Grips retain traces of gold wash. Action functions well. Case is very good. Pearl medallion from lid needs to be replaced and is in box. Case lining is oil-stained. A nice pair of Colt 22 Cal. revolvers in an after market case. 50019-28, 50019-29, TEP (1,250-2,500) – Lot 1397
LOT OF TWO COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED THUER DERRINGERS.
SN 290. Both are Cal. .41 RF. 1) SN 290. High hammer early 3rd Model Thuer Derringer, 2-1/2″ bbl, engraved, bbl address 1/8th” letters, silver-plated, British proof mark, rosewood grips. SNs on grips are matching. 2) SN 7063. 2-1/2″ bbl, 3rd. Model Thuer Derringer, bbl address 3/16th” letters, engraved, ebony grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Plating has aged and turned a mellow silver color. Hammer and trigger were fire-blued. Backstrap has worn metal, grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 2) Bbl is mostly brown patina. Frame is showing mostly brass. Hammer and trigger have traces of fire blue. Grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 50019-137, 50019-144, TN21 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1441
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 173274. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, scarce dovetail front sight and “Saml Colt” engraved address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a pillow-shape. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and stagecoach holdup scene roll marking with all 5 safety pins prominent and serviceable. The brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a smooth 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip with last four digits of SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is engraved in Mr. Young’s deluxe patterns with full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on the frame that has two scrolls terminating in flower blossom. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl with a scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s dog’s head and two scrolls on the right side that terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot. Matching patterns are also on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern at the top and sunbursts on sides of the backstrap shoulders. Hammer is typically engraved with wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & spur. Grip is constructed with two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer. Accompanied by an orig fluted lid, blue velvet lined mahogany casing that has the rare contoured divider in the bottom and is compartmented for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold without sprue cutter, a packet of 5 Colt’s Cartridge Work’s combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps. There were over 330,000 of these revolvers produced in the period 1850-1873, only a few of which were engraved and extremely few were cased, especially with the early style fluted lid case. This revolver was built in 1860 just at the onset of the Civil War where it almost certainly would have seen service. These revolvers were very popular on the American frontier, then through the Civil War and later back to the American frontier and literally around the world. They are rarely found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: C. W. Slagle; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue with loss areas flaked, not worn to a light patina showing light edge wear. Frame retains about 50-60% dark case colors and the hammer dark case colors. Cyl retains 25-30% thin blue around the rear shoulders with the balance a light plummy patina and shows about 95% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap retain traces of silver in the most sheltered areas, being mostly a dark mustard patina. Grip has one tiny chip on the front edge and shows a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks and a repaired crack in the lid and a grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with nicks & scratches and shows and old restored finish. Interior is strong & bright inside the lid, lightly faded in the bottom with light to moderate soil and slightly loose partition. Flask has one small dent and shows about 65-70% dark orig finish. Mold is lightly to moderately battered on the outside with good cavities and a dark mustard patina. Cartridge packet is extremely fine, cap tin is fine. 49631-8 JR25 IVORY (10,000-15,000) – Lot 2117
FINE AND EXTREMELY RARE CONFEDERATE “C.L.DRAGOONS” COLT DRAGOON REVOLVER.
SN 18511. The only Colts that were actually sold to a Confederate unit were a group of 3rd model Dragoons and a few Navies which were sold to John J. Crocheron a wealthy businessman from Elm Bluff, Alabama in early 1861; therefore the name “CROCHERON LIGHT DRAGOONS”. These guns are engraved on the bbls “C.L.DRAGOONS”. This particular Dragoon is made very close to the end of the Dragoon serial range, late 1860 with the rare 8″ bbl. There is an excellent article by Walter Anderson published in the January 1991 Gun Report which gives a detailed history of this unit, which became a part of the 3rd Alabama Calvary which most of its command was utilized to protect commanding generals as escorts. The C L Dragoons were the personal escorts of Gen. Braxton Bragg early in 1862 en route to his command in Corinth, Mississippi just prior to the Battle of Shiloh; where this unit saw action and Capt. Robert W. Smith as commander was cited for “personal gallantry and intelligent execution of orders, frequently under the heaviest fire”. This unit continued as escorts and couriers for Bragg in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga. When Gen. Joseph Johnston replaced Bragg as Commander of the Army of Tennessee, this unit continued as his personal escort. Late in 1864 when Confederate President Jefferson Davis impatient with Johnston’s actions he placed Gen. John Bell Hood in charge of the Army, again the “C. L. Dragoons” remained as Hood’s personal escort. Only about a dozen of these rare typically very hard used Confederate Colt’s are known and this is among the finest survivors. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall, retaining traces of blue finish in protected areas with balance plum/gray. There are numerous small dents on right side of wedge slot on bbl housing. Cyl has matching color, fairly smooth with pin prick pitting, crisp SN but rolled “Indian-Dragoon Fight” cyl scene is only partially discernible, mostly in outline. Matching SNs are found on bbl, loading arm, wedge, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor and cyl. Well fit grips retaining about 30% original factory varnish were not removed to check for SN, though they no doubt appear original to this revolver. Markings are very good and easily discerned including bbl address, “C.L. DRAGOONS” on left flat of bbl housing, patent marking on frame and SNs. Gun appears completely original and authentic with minor exception of hammer screw which is a restoration. Mechanically gun functions well with strong spring, crisp well defined rifling in bore. 50155-2 JS (30,000-40,000) – Lot 2226
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER “E. de Mex”.
SN 305797. Cal .38 WCF, 4-3/4″ bbl, blue and case color finish, checkered hard rubber grips with Col medallions. Bbl has standard 2-line address with cal marking on left side. “E. de Mex” is engraved on the left side in front of cal mark. A small “41” is stamped on the bottom of bbl. 2-line patent mark on left side frame. Rampant Colt logo in circle to the right. Assembly number “86” is stamped on loading gate and on inside of frame under trigger guard. The SN matches on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. Cyl is unmarked. Grips have last 4 digits of SN scratched on inside. Left forward trigger guard bow has “VP” proof and left rear trigger guard bow has assembler number 6. Revolver is accompanied by 2 Colt factory letters, one dated January 24, 1961 addressed to Captain John Shomier and the second dated July 10, 1967 addressed to Mr. Robert Q. Sutherland. A noted old time Colt Collector. Letters both state caliber 38-40, bbl length 4-3/4″, finish blue, stocks not listed, factory engraved “E. de Mex” on bbl and showing shipment to M. Hartley Co., New York, N.Y. on August 26, 1908 in a 50 gun shipment. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine as professionally refinished. Bbl retains 95% blue finish with very slight muzzle wear and some minor scratches. Front sight is full-sized. Bore is frosty is strong rifling. Ejector rod retains 98% blue with slight muzzle wear at the front end and a few small scratches. Frame retains 95+% re-case colored finish with sharp markings. Trigger guard and backstrap also retain 98% re-blued finish with sharp markings. Hammer has coarse knurling without a border is polished bright on the sides and is blue on the top and back. Screws retain nearly all of their fire-blue finish. Cyl retains 95% re-blue finish with slight high-point wear and some striations. No drag mark. Grips are fine with sharp checkering and medallions and only one tiny chip missing at toe of left grip. A very fine example of a single action army revolver that was shipped to Mexico before the Revolution and has a very professional, possibly factory, restoration. Although there are no factory restoration marks. 50062-17 TEP C&R (3,500-5,000) – Lot 1313
SN 3635. 1) Cal. .41 CF. SN 3635. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, blade front sight and top strap groove sight, 2-pc walnut grips. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 288. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder, factory engraved, 2-pc matching SN grips. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 6516. 2-1/4″ bbl, cylinder stops on back of cylinder. 2-line bbl address, “Colt New 41″ etched panel, British proofed 5-shot cylinder, loading gate, 2-pc ebony grips, silver plated. 4) Cal. .44 CF. SN 9763. 2-1/4” bbl, 5-shot cylinder with stops at rear, British proofed, 2-line bbl address, etched panel “Colt New 41”, 2-pc grips, blue and case colored. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) 60% of an old re-nickel starting to flake. Hammer has been nickeled. Grips are in good condition. Bore is fair. 2) Bbl and frame have 60% bright nickel. Cylinder has flaked and worn to only traces of plating, balance is gray metal. Engraving is still good. 3) Etched panel is clear. Orig silver plating is a mellow silver shade with light scratches and flaking. Hammer and trigger have bright fire blue. Grips are orig finish with light scratches. 4) Bbl and cylinder have turned mostly gray patina. Etched panel is still visible. Frame has strong traces of orig case color. 2-pc grips are slightly undersized. Bore is fair. 50019-99, 50019-112, 50019-118, 50019-311, TN37 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1420
MAGNIFICENT FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ETCHED BARREL FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER WITH PEARL GRIPS SHIPPED TO CHARLES HUMMEL & SON, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS IN 1885 ACCOMPANIED BY THE HOLSTER AND BELT THAT WERE PURCHASED NEW WITH THE REVOLVER.
SN 115349. Cal. 44 WCF. 4 3/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish. Nickel hammer. Nickel trigger. Blue screws. 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Master engraved in the American Style and attributed to the hand of Cuno Helfricht. Engraving is full coverage on both frame and barrel with slightly less coverage on trigger guard, backstrap and ejector rod housing. Bbl engraving shows American Scroll on both sides with a border around bbl address and a splay in front of address. Unique to this revolver is the engraving around front sight which is seldom seen on a Colt single action army revolver. Frame engraving is full coverage with border and checker board on either side of hammer. Recoil shield displays a scallop pattern with a wonderfully executed cross-hatch and punch dot border. Loading gate reflects same design. Top strap is also full coverage except in sight groove. The gullets in front of cylinder exhibit punch dot and walking line work on both sides and bordered scroll work on both sides in front of cylinder. Backstrap exhibits a wonderfully executed scallop design behind the hammer with punch dot and walking line work down the backstrap and on butt. Presentation panel on backstrap is blank. Trigger guard shows border work and scroll on forward end above SN and interrupted scroll on outer side of trigger guard bow. Ejector rod housing has scroll work on either end with star pattern in middle with punch dot and walking line work in the gullet next to barrel. Cylinder exhibits scroll work between each flute with a scalloped border around rear edge of cylinder with punch dot and walking line accent. Bbl shows 2-line bbl address with index mark toward frame. Etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side of bbl. Frame has 3-line patent on forward left side. On right rear flat of frame under trigger guard there is a “C” over a “u” stamp. Assembly no. 654 is stamped on inner surface of loading gate and on forward part of frame under the trigger guard. Matching SN is stamped on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. A small “G” inspector mark is under the SN on trigger and backstrap. “44.CF” is stamped on left forward part of trigger guard bow. Ejector rod housing is unmarked. Pearl grips are unmarked grips and fit perfectly. Revolver is accompanied by a early Slim-Jim style Texas holster and cartridge belt which according to family legend was purchased new with this revolver. 7-1/2″ bbl holster has “short barrel bend” showing that a 4-3/4″ SA has been in it for years. Cartridge loops hold special mesquite cartridges used to maintain shape of loops. Revolver is cased in a walnut display case that was made by Peter Werner of Blue Hill, ME to preserve this special Colt. Case contains an orig Winchester Repeating Arms Company unopened box of 44 cal. cartridges with a green label on top and an image of a model 73 carbine on the side. Case is French fit with maroon felt lining. This revolver was shipped to Charles Hummel & Son in San Antonio, Texas in 1885 on special order, probably for a display piece in his store on Commerce St. in San Antonio. Charles Hummel & Son was the largest Colt dealer west of the Mississippi at the time. In 1885 the railroad had just reached San Antonio, the town was booming, and crawling with Texas Rangers, Law Men, Cattle Men, and other local characters. The orig owner was in Texas from New York to check on some business interests, and purchased this revolver, belt and holster as a souvenir of his visit to Texas. Ralph Hyde of New York,the grandson of the orig owner, contacted the Colt Collectors Association in the early part of the 21st century wishing to sell the revolver to someone who would appreciate its historic significance. The revolver was purchased by Rampant Colt Editor Kurt House who then sold it to the late Bill Spicer of Rosebud, Texas. When Mr. Spicer encountered some health issues, he reluctantly but confidently sold it to the present consignor. Also accompanying this revolver is a Colt factory letter confirming cal., bbl length, finish, grips, factory engraving and shipment to Charles Hummel & Son, San Antonio, Texas on October 29, 1885. Also included is a picture of Mr. Hyde as a young boy, circa 1920, sitting on a pinto pony in front of family “cottage” on Long Island, NY. Mr. Hyde stated that he was allowed to wear his grandfather’s gun on very special occasions. The billet of gun belt has been restitched in order to fit a young boy. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 80-85% orig nickel finish that has slightly dulled with age blending into a very pleasing uncleaned chocolate brown patina toward muzzle. Muzzle has slight wear on either side. Bbl address is sharp. Front sight retains 80% nickel and is full-sized. Etched panel is excellent with all letters clearly legible. Bore is bright with sharp rifling and slight staining toward muzzle. Ejector rod housing retains 40-50% orig nickel finish with balance turning a pleasing uncleaned chocolate brown patina. Ejector rod head retains nearly all orig nickel finish. Frame retains 80-90% of orig nickel finish with most of wear on loading gate which has also blended to a pleasing uncleaned chocolate brown patina. Patent mark on frame is sharp. Hammer retains 50-60% orig nickel finish blending to a chocolate brown patina on hammer spur. Trigger retains nearly all orig nickel finish. Frame screws, trigger guard screws, backstrap screws, cylinder pin retaining screw and ejector rod screw all retain most of orig fire blue finish. Screws are unmarred with the exception of a very slight mars on hammer screw and butt screw. Cylinder base pin is unmarred and retains nearly all of orig fire blue. Trigger guard retains 80% orig nickel finish with most of loss inside trigger guard bow and on forestrap. Cal. marking is sharp. Backstrap retains 10% orig nickel finish in protected areas with balance a pleasing uncleaned chocolate brown patina. Cylinder retains 80-85% orig nickel finish with 1 section on either of one flute and in flute showing a even uncleaned chocolate brown patina. Pearl grips are excellent with vivid rainbow hues throughout on both sides with only 1 tiny chip at toe of right grip and a very miniscule chip at top of left grip. Action functions perfectly. A rare opportunity to purchase a wonderful engraved Colt Single Action Army revolver shipped to Texas in 1885 with a provenance trail to the consignor who is only the fourth owner of this magnificent revolver. 50074-1 TEP (100,000-125,000) – Lot 2075
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF EXHIBITION QUALITY COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS FROM THE GENERAL JOSEPH R. HAWLEY ESTATE.
SN 151388/151389. Cal. 44. Incredible pair of ’60 Army revolvers that are consecutively numbered and nearly identical with blue & color case hardened finish, each having 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight, 1-line New-York U.S. America address and mounted with smooth 1-pc ebony grip. Frames are 3-screw type cut for shoulder stock. Cyls are rebated with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Revolvers are engraved, probably by Master Engraver Gustave Young in late vine style with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frames with some scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Left side of frame on SN 151388 has “COLTS PATENT” engraved n a pillow shape while SN 151389 has the small stamped “COLTS PATENT”. Engraving extends over the sides of the bbls and terminates forward of the address. Several scrolls terminate in flower blossoms with a scroll on the left bbl lug of number 151389 terminating in Mr. Young’s dogs head and the right side in his mythical birds head. Backstraps, buttstraps & trigger guards are engraved to match with shoulders of backstrap engraved in quarter flower blossoms. Tops of the backstraps are engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern. Ends of the wedges are also engraved and the hammers are deluxe engraved with wolf heads on each side of hammer noses, foliate arabesque patterns on the shanks, & fish scales on top edge and sides of spur. Accompanied by their orig, most elaborate and spectacular silver mounted, solid rosewood double casing versus the usual veneered style. The casing was made by William Milton and his casings were recognized as the very finest. Case has silver reinforced corners with a silver English style lifting ring in the center of the lid, a mortised lock with scalloped escutcheon & sliding latches at each front corner. The interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolvers, a spectacular “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms & flags angle spout flask, a bow-legged, blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “44H”, a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, 2 L-shaped nipple wrenches, 2 lacquered tins for Eley’s caps, 2 spare hammer springs, a spare trigger & a spare trigger return/lockbolt spring, a set of 11 spare screws and a centenary of American independence, a pressed oak medallion with the bust of General Joseph R. Hawley who was the President of the U.S. International Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876. These wooden medallions were created at the Expo and sold as part of a set of 6 in a fitted case. These revolvers are in the same 151,000 serial range as the more elaborately engraved General Grant “Liberty” and “Union” Model 1860, SN 151713 and another nearly identically engraved ’60 Army with ebony grip that belonged to Lt. Huntington Frothingham Wolcott, a Civil War veteran, SN 151385. Joseph Roswell Hawley (Oct 1826-March 1905) was the 42nd Governor of the State of Connecticut, a Republican politician, Civil War general, journalist & newspaper editor. In 1857, he was a leading organizer of the Connecticut Republican Party and became the editor of the party newspaper. In April 1861, Hawley helped recruit and organize and infantry company, the 1st Connecticut Infantry, and was elected Captain. That unit saw combat at the first Battle of Bull Run in July. His term of service was only 3 months and after mustering out assisted Col. Alfred Terry in raising the 7th Connecticut Infantry, a 3 year regiment and was named Lt. Col. Hawley’s unit participated in the major battles of Port Royal, Ft. Pulaski, Siege of Charleston Harbor, Battle Oulstee, Bermuda Hundred Campaign, Siege of Petersburg & the Battle of Wilmington along with several other minor battles & skirmishes. He rose through the ranks, being promoted to Brig. General in Sept 1864. He remained Chief of Staff for the Department of Virginia until October 1865, having risen to the rank of Brevet Major General and was mustered out of the Army Jan. 1866. He served as Gov. of Connecticut April 1866 – April 1867 and had Oliver Winchester as his Lt. Governor. After leaving office he purchased the Hartford Courant newspaper and combined it with the Press newspaper. He served 2 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and 4 terms as a U.S. Senator. From 1873-1876 he served as President of the United States Centennial Commission which planned and ran the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia. He was a trustee of Hamilton College from whence he received a law degree in 1875 and later in 1888 another law degree from Yale. Two weeks after stepping down from his office in the Senate, he died in Washington, DC. These revolvers are pictured in the Texas Gun Collector July 1969 and in color in books by R. L. Wilson Colt An American Legend and Colt Heritage, both on pg 103. Part of the caption reads: “According to tradition, the set had been borrowed from Colonel Colt for an exhibition, and was never returned to the factory”. It is believed General Hawley was presented these pistols by the Centennial Committee for his effort as President for the Centennial Commission. They are truly extraordinary Colts and are some of the most elaborate known today. PROVENANCE: Jonathan M. Peck Collection; Jay Altmayer Collection; Larry Scherrin Collection; Warren Anderson Collection; Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. CONDITION: Pistols are nearly identical with SN 151388 retaining about 99% glossy, special polish bright blue and brilliant case colors. Grip frame retains about 60% orig silver and grip is crisp & new. Cyl has a long thin scratch over 1 chamber. SN 151389 is also crisp and new but shows some flaking on the bbl and thinning of the finish on the major diameter of the cyl. Otherwise, retains brilliant case colors with crisp grip. Grip frame retains about 60% orig silver. Both guns appear to have never been fired or used and as such, are in extraordinary orig finish. It should be noted that the rebated part of the cylinder on 151388 had some teeny prickling or pitting and was partially polished at the time the guns were finished at the factory. SN 151389 is missing the wedge screw, which has been missing for as long as anyone can remember. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its bright orig varnish. Silver furniture is also fine. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid with a couple of stains from contact with revolver cylinders. Bottom is heavily faded with damage from front sights & hammer spurs. Mold & flask are superb and like new. Nipple wrenches & spare parts are also crisp & clean. Cartridge packet has old cellophane tape over a broken toe edge. Cap tins are fine. Wood medallion is crisp & clean. 49941-2 (250,000-350,000) – Lot 2149
DONUT SCROLL ENGRAVED COLT 1849 POCKET WITH CASE AND ACCESSORIES.
SN 43655. Cal. 31. 4″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight, donut scroll engraved as is loading lever and top of bbl marked “SAML COLT”. Five shot cyl with stage coach hold up scene. Frame, recoil shield and hammer beautifully engraved. Left side of frame engraved in banner “COLT’S PATENT”. Hammer engraved in dogs head pattern, top of backstrap in shell carved fan and butt engraved as is trigger guard bow in open donut scroll. Great 1-pc burl grips with piano finish. Cased in an original light brown velvet lined Colt casing, with brass mold, original key, American eagle power flask, original screw driver and nipple wrench, bullets and a Hicks primer tin with primer caps. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Pistol is very good, all metal surfaces have toned gray, light engraving losses on bbl though frame appears mostly sharp particularly recoil shield. Lever and frame with minor pin prick erosion. Straps with great original silver perhaps 90% or more. Cyl scene is very good with 85% still present. Grips are excellent retaining most of what appears to be its original finish though could be an ancient re-varnish. Mechanics are excellent. Bore is good with scattered light pitting. Case is very good with few light scratches on lid, compartments mostly good with minor separation, interior with fading and minor soiling, lid slightly warped. Accessories are very good to excellent. 49973-73 JSL133 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1188
Please Note: This is NOT C&R eligible, it IS a Modern Gun.
*ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH 1-PIECE MOTHER OF PEARL GRIP, PART OF THE COLT U.S. MODEL LIMITED EDITION CIRCA EARLY 1990S.
SN SA95172. Cal. 45 ACP. 5-1/2″ bbl, full Royal Blue finish, 1-pc Mother of Pearl grip. Engraving is of the scroll style with Class “A” coverage. Bbl has scroll around the address and at the muzzle. Receiver has scroll on recoil shield and loading gate, also scroll on either side of frame under hammer. Trigger guard has scroll at forward end and on outside of trigger guard bow. Backstrap has scroll on apron behind hammer. Engraving is well executed. Bbl has 1-line address on top and Colt SAA cal mark on left side. Frame has 2-line patent mark on forward left side with Rampant Colt logo without a circle to the right. Loading gate has last 3 digits of SN stamped on the inner flap. SN matches on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Last 3 digits of SN are stamped on front face of cyl. Rear face of cyl is stamped “ACP”. Grip is unmarked. Revolver is housed in a walnut case that is nicely joined with a single latch, padded blue velvet lining, with a cartridge block with provision for 6 cartridges. Revolver is accompanied by a Colt Letter saying that they were unable to provide the usual information on this revolver but confirmed this revolver was part of the “Colt U.S. Model Limited Edition” which was produced by the Colt Custom Shop in the early 1990s. The Edition consisted of 270 revolvers that were made in 45 ACP cal. 110 were made with 5-1/2″ bbls and Colt records indicate this revolver is one of those. Revolver was orig fitted with plain walnut grips. Engraving was done by Old Dominion Engravers of Lynchburg, VA. in a Class “A” American style. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to excellent. Revolver retains almost all of the orig Royal Blue finish overall with sharp markings and crisp engraving. Loading gate has turned a plum color. Bore is bright and appears unfired. Chambers are clean with no evidence of ever being fired. Grip is excellent with no chips and vibrant color. Case is excellent with very small handling marks overall. Lining is excellent. This is a very fine Colt Single Action from the Colt Custom Shop with very good out-of-house engraving and pearl grip. 50062-65 C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1359
SN 8149. All four are Cal. .22. 1) SN 8149, 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 2-line bbl address with no patent date, un-numbered grips. Has a Colt letter confirming .22 Cal., no other information listed. 2) SN 8463. 2-1/4″ bbl, no patent date, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” 2-pc grips. Has a Colt letter confirming .22 Cal., no other information listed. 3) SN 40905. 2-3/4″ bbl, rosewood grips, 7-shot cylinder with locking notches at rear. 4) SN 4165, 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, rosewood grips, 7-shot cylinder, and has paperwork showing bought from Jackson Arms in 1967, PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Factory engraved with nickel finish flaking on bbl and frame, cylinder is mostly gray metal, grips are slightly under-sized. Bore is dark. 2) Most of nickel finish remains on frame and bbl, cylinder is mostly gray metal, engraving is sharp, grips are in good condition. 3) Traces of nickel, bbl has etched panel that is prevalent, cylinder has flaked and worn to bare metal. Frame shows 20% brass. Grips are in very good condition. Collector’s notes included. 4) Bbl, hammer, and cylinder pin have been cleaned to silver. Frame has polished brass with dents and scratches, rosewood grips are in good condition. Bore is dark. Collector’s notes included. 50019-15, 50019-17, 50019-271, 50019-272, TN11 IVORY (2,250-4,000) – Lot 1431
COMPOSED CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVERS.
SN 5005. Cal. 41. Fine pair of New Line pistols, both with nickel finish and 2-1/4″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight with 2-line address. Both have 2-pc smooth pearl grips. 1) SN 5005 Cal. 41 CF. Left side of frame bottom strap has the Cal. marking and a “C” which indicates center fire and left side of grip frame is marked with the SN, a “P” and an “N” which indicates pearl grip & nickel finish. Grips are matching numbered to the pistol. Pistol is engraved from the Gustave Young shop, possibly by the Master’s hand with about full coverage on the frame of foliate arabesque patterns that have a fine shaded background. Topstrap and edge of hammer slot are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with full foliate arabesque patterns on the bbl and backstrap. Cyl is engraved to match. 2) SN 5014 Cal. 41 RF. Toe of the grip has the Cal. marking and left side of grip frame is marked with the SN and a “P” which indicates pearl grips. Inside right grip is marked with a partial matching SN. Pistol is engraved by Gustave Young with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background on the frame which extends over the top strap and down the backstrap. Bbl is beautifully engraved with intertwined foliate arabesque patterns and very fine pearled background. Cyl is engraved to match over the chambers. Accompanied by a distributor supplied, German silver bound, blue velvet lined rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid. Interior is French fitted for the two revolvers and two boxes of 41 Cal. Long RF ammunition, one sealed and one opened. The open box has a couple of 41 Short cartridges. Only about 7000 of these scarce revolvers were produced 1874-1879. Accompanied by a packet of information and the cart de visit of James R. Wasson which is addressed to “Gen. O. M. Watkins” on the front and inscribed on the back “With compliments and as a souvenir of May & June 1883 which coincides with the date on the card.”, and signed “Jas. R. Wasson”. Wasson was at that time a Major in the Army having graduated first in his West Point class of 1871. He had been close to President Grant and family and associated with the upper crust of society. He spent substantial time in Japan advising the Japanese government. In May of 1883, Major Wasson stole $24,000 from the Army to which he subsequently confessed, was cashiered out of the Army and sentenced to prison for 18 months. His trial took place in May & June 1883. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter for SN 5014 which lists it as a 41 RF, bbl length not listed, nickel and gold finished pearl grips, factory engraved, shipped to Worton & Cooke on March 18, 1886 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a letter on the letterhead of R. L. Wilson, dated June 1972 over the signature of George F. Havens who states that this revolver was used by his father during 35 years with the Hartford City Police Department, ca 1890-1925. Another letter also dated June 1972 is selling this revolver to Dr. Cox. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 90% orig nickel on the frame & bbl with losses only around the muzzle. Cyl shows traces of orig nickel, being mostly a cleaned grey metal patina. Grips are sound with great fire and color. Trigger return spring is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with fine pitting. 2) Very fine. Frame retains about 70% orig nickel and the bbl about 95%. Cyl shows nickel in the flutes being a dark patina on the outer diameter. Grips are exceptional with great fire and color. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is extremely fine with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded and soiled. Cartridge boxes are fine. 50018-110, 50018-116, JR45 (4,000-7,000) – Lot 2098
SN 109089. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Cyl is unfluted with 5 chambers and has the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The small guard, silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a fabulous 1-pc “certifiable antique ivory” grip that has deep relief carved European soldier with epaulets, a star medal and wearing a Germanic-style helmet with large eagle on top. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with deluxe full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have a fine pearled background. Several scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends onto the bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl with one scroll on the left side terminating in a dogs head and another on the right side in a flower blossom. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s light fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Center of the backstrap is engraved, probably by Mr. Young “D.L. Stone / from Colt’s P. F. A. Mfg. Co.”. All screw heads & screw tips are engraved. Accompanied by a fine purple velvet lined rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid and a rosewood lock escutcheon. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a brass “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with bright steel sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps & an L-shaped nipple wrench. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn to a medium patina. Rammer handle & pivot retain most of their orig case colors, turned a little dark. Frame & hammer also retain most of their orig case colors also turned a little dark. Trigger guard & backstrap retain 85-90% strong orig orig silver plating. Cyl is a grey metal patina and shows about 90% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip has a long repaired crack on the right rear edge with some chips along the right front edge and several age lines in the bottom edges and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Trigger return/lockbolt spring is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has a crack along the top rear edge with a couple of grain checks in the top and another or two in the bottom. Otherwise, case is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled with light damage from the front sight & hammer spur. Flask retains about 95% orig finish and the mold most of its orig finish with some small dings on the left arm, bright metal sprue cutter. Other accessories are fine. 50142-3 JR110 IVORY (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2172
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1871 OPEN TOP REVOLVER WITH CARVED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 3655. Cal. 44 RF. Beautiful and pleasing early cowboy era Rimfire Colt gun appears all original and authentic with well preserved markings including engraving and beautifully patinaed carved Mexican eagle grips. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Iron overall gray with dark highlights in engraving, scattered small blemishes including muzzle wear from holster and light pitting especially at cylinder face and bbl taper. Gun appears all original to time of use with exception of several replaced screws. Matching SNs are found on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Wedge appears original with matching patina, though not numbered. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are well fit with slight gap and old spacers at top and appear original to time of use of gun. 49973-154 JS IVORY (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1257
FACTORY ENGRAVED AND CASED COLT NEW LINE REVOLVER.
SN 3050. Cal. 22 RF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Blue and silver finish with plain rosewood grips. Bbl is scroll engraved almost to muzzle with an extremely small punch dot background. Top of bbl is also scroll engraved on either side of address again with extremely small punch dot background. Front sight is surrounded by engraving. Frame is also scroll engraved on either side. Top strap is scroll engraved with checkered board pattern in middle of each side. Backstrap has an intertwining scroll going from behind hammer and tailing out down back of strap. Cylinder is scroll engraved between flutes with a wavy line border at rear. Bbl has 2-line address with German silver front sight. Frame is stamped “22 cal.” on left side. SN is stamped on bottom of butt. cylinder is stamped on rear with matching no.. Grips are unmarked. Case is red leatherette with French fit and cartridge block with provision for 50 cartridges. There are 38 old cartridges in box along with a cleaning rod and combination tool. Box is lined with maroon felt. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains 20% blue with sharp bbl address. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Frame retains 80% tarnished silver finish overall. Hammer and trigger retain traces of fire blue. Cylinder retains 20% blue blending to a plum-brown patina with some staining in flutes. Action needs repair. Grips are fine with only miniscule dents and not missing pieces. Case is good with minor abrasions on outside. Case lining is good with impression marks from revolver. A very nice engraved New Line 22 revolver in a period case. 50019-236 TEP (1,000-1,500) – Lot 1398
EXTREMELY RARE DELUXE COPY OF THE COLT PATERSON REVOLVER BY BELGIAN GUNSMITH TOUSSAINT JOSEPH LHOIST.
SN NSN. Cal. 36. 6-3/4″ octagon bbl, raised steel bead front sight. 6-shot rnd cylinder which is near-fully engraved. Frame back strap and butt are beautifully scroll engraved. 2-pc fancy walnut grips. Folding trigger, just like Colt’s Paterson Revolver, other features similar to the Paterson include the shape of the bbl, the bbl lug and wedge, and the fact that both this gun and the Paterson lack an attached rammer. Maker’s name stamped in panel on right bbl lug. CONDITION: Good as found. All metal surfaces have toned and retain scattered light salt and pepper pitting throughout. Engraving on cylinder is lightly worn. Grips are very good and sound with minor losses at butt. A very interesting early Colt Paterson copy with wonderful and tasteful engraving. 50125-2 JSL115 (4,000-6,500) – Lot 1476
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 95037. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow-shape. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and well struck stagecoach holdup scene roll marking with all 5 safety pins prominent and serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a smooth, 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Grip is made of two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer. Revolver is beautifully deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Two scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats with one scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s mythical birds head and another just above the wedge screw with Mr. Young’s dog’s head. Right side has another scroll that terminates in a flower blossom. Another unusual feature is a small sunburst on the bottom right of the bbl lug. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s fine fan pattern and sides of the backstrap shoulders are engraved in sunbursts. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & sides of the spur. Screws & wedge are also engraved. Accompanied by a fine brown velvet lined mahogany Kidder casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold without sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, a spare nipple and a functioning key. This revolver is pictured in color on pg 95 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One, Wilson with credit to the Charles Radcliffe Collection. This revolver was produced in about 1854 at a time of the great migration to the American frontier when any repeating firearm was in great demand. These little revolvers were extremely popular and usually saw very hard and continuous service and are rarely found today with high orig finish. Given that this revolver has Mr. Young’s extra finish engraving, it surely must have been for someone of great wealth or as a presentation to someone for service or great valor. Over 330,000 of this model revolver was produced 1850-1873. They remained in service well into the 1870’s until completely supplanted by cartridge firearms. PROVENANCE: Charles Radcliffe Collection; Michael Simens; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains 97-98% glossy orig blue with only faint sharp edge wear. Rammer, pivot and handle retain about all of their strong orig case colors. Frame and hammer also retain virtually all of their naturally muted case colors. Cyl retains about 95-96% orig blue showing light front edge wear & some thinning on the shoulder and shows about 99% crisp stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and a fine ivory patina. Trigger retains most of its orig fire blue. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soiling inside the lid and moderate to heavy soil in the bottom with intact partitions. Flask is fine and retains about 65-70% orig finish. Mold is crisp with a few minor nicks. Cap tin is also fine. 49631-7 JR24 IVORY (25,000-37,500) – Lot 2119
FINE PRESENTATION 1ST MODEL MERWIN & HULBERT ARMY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER.
SN 6379. Cal. 44 M&H. Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl, integral front sight and 1-line Merwin & Hulbert address on top with Hopkins & Allen manufacturer’s address on left side. It has square butt grip frame with lanyard swivel and is mounted with red & black marbled, checkered hard rubber grips. This is the 1st type revolver with open top frame and scooped flute cylinder. Back strap is engraved in period script “A.H.B. to F.C.B. 12/25.78”. The SN is found on butt strap and assembly “3850” is on the left side of butt strap under the grip, also on cyl spindle, rear face of cyl and rear face of bbl lug. Production figures for the Merwin & Hulbert are unknown but Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms states that production is estimated at only a few thousand. Merwin & Hulbert were not themselves manufacturers but dealers & promoters who contracted the manufacturing process to established firearms makers, in this case Hopkins & Allen. These revolvers were very popular on the American frontier with lawmen & others for their rapidity of unloading & reloading. Once all the cartridges were fired, a simple twist & pull of the bbl/cyl assembly emptied the cyl which could then be re-closed and rapidly reloaded through the loading gate on right side of frame. Unfortunately by the time the Merwin & Hulbert emerged on the scene Colt had a 3-year head start with their distribution system and in government contracts. In addition the early Merwin & Hulbert revolvers were introduced in their proprietary calibers such as found here. That ammunition was not always readily available which depressed sales until the company began chambering their revolvers in standard calibers. Merwin & Hulbert marketed these fine revolvers in several different models and calibers only from 1876-1880. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with only some very fine pin prick flaking on sides of frame. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, turned a little dark. Grips are crisp, mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 49450-12 (14,000-17,000) – Lot 2261
*INCREDIBLE PAIR OF COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS ENGRAVED BY JERRY HARPER.
SN 51188SA & 60135SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Revolvers are virtually identical with nickel finish, 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, block letter address with Model & Cal. marking on the left side. Left side of frames have 2-line, 3-patent dates & Rampant Colt without circle. Both revolvers are mounted with incredible fleur-de-lis checkered, 1-pc, Colt medallion “certified pre-ban elephant ivory” grip matching numbered to their respective revolver. Revolvers are elaborately engraved in the style of Rudolph Kornbrath with D-plus coverage very fine foliate arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. Matching patterns extend over the top strap, sides of the bbl & even to the sides of the front sights. Hammers are also matching engraved as are the ejector housings, cyls, backstraps, buttstraps & trigger guards. Unusually, the engraving from the frame on each side extends onto the sides and shoulders of the trigger guards which creates a somewhat larger palette. All of the screws, triggers, ejector rod heads & base pins are beautifully fire blued, making for a fine counter-point to the nickel finish. Revolvers are each signed “Engr. JHarper” on right side of front straps under the grip, “JH” on rear face of cyl and under ejector housing on bbl. These are the signatures of Master Engraver Jerome (Jerry) Harper. Mr. Harper is a retired professor from UCLA who now lives in Tennessee and engraves almost exclusively for Nutmeg Sports, LLC of Tolland, CT. Accompanying this beautiful pair of Colts is a 2-pg letter on Nutmeg Sports letterhead over the signature of James V. Aliamo, former Superintendent of the Colt Custom Gun Shop and the owner of Nutmeg Sports. The letter is addressed to Mr. Terry Lester and identifies these two revolvers, by SN, as having been engraved by Mr. Harper. The letter also states that the ivory grips were manufactured and fitted at Nutmeg Sports and then sent to Lubbock, TX for checkering. Nutmeg Sports also installed the Colt medallions. Also accompanied by a beautiful dovetailed walnut casing in Colt Custom Shop style with brass furniture and red velvet lining, with spaces for both revolvers and a cartridge block in the center containing 12 cartridges. PROVENANCE: Terry Lester Collection; The Brad Shepard Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolvers are extremely fine plus, retaining 99% plus fine nickel finish and brilliant fire blue and appear to be unfired and unturned. Grips are slightly stained with pink tone from the red case lining, otherwise are crisp and new also. Case is equally new 50062-49, 50062-52, JR178 IVORY (8,000-15,000) – Lot 1349
SN 110. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 110. 2-/14″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, right side engraved “BIG COLT”, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. 2) Cal. .41 RR. SN 5381. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 2-line bbl address, silver blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 7951. 4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, 1-line patent address under bbl, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 2-pc rosewood grips, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, etched panel. 4) Cal. .41 RF. SN 8892. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address with 1-line patent address, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Overall metal has turned gray/brown. Cylinder has light pitting balance is smooth metal. Grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 2) Bbl and frame are 50% orig nickel with sharp scroll engraving. Cylinder is mostly gray with scroll panels between each flute. Hammer and trigger have fair fire blue. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is fair. 3) Bbl has peeled at muzzle. Good etched panel. Bbl has light flaking. Cylinder has flaked and peeled and is 40% brown. Frame has peeled ahead of cylinder and flaked behind. Grips are darkly oil stained in good condition. Bore is fair. 4) Metal is mostly smooth and gray with traces or orig finish. Grips are darkly oil stained. Bore is good. 50019-103, 50019-246, 50019-302, 50019-307, TN43 (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1421
FINE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 88179. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickle finish with 7-1/2″ bbl. Full front sight & 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” etched panel on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny 44 just forward of the base pin. Ejector housing is third type with half-moon ejector rod head. Left side of frame is marked 3-line patent dates & left front web of trigger guard “44 CF”. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 60-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background on the frame. Top strap is engraved with chip & dot patterns with foliate arabesque patterns extending up sides of the bbl & each side of the muzzle. top of the bbl is engraved with snake & dot patterns around the address, terminating in geometric patterns toward the front sight. Top gullet of ejector housing is also engraved in a snake & dot pattern. Cyl has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with a large zigzag & double dot pattern around rear edge. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with light foliate patterns at the top & heel. Trigger guard & left side of base pin boss along with ejector housing boss are engraved with hunters starts. Accompanied by 2 Colt Factory letters dated 1996 & 2015 which report the identical information identifying this revolver & Cal. 44-40. Bbl length & type of stock not listed, finish “soft” & shipped to Harley (Hartley) & Graham, NY, NY on Feb 17, 1883 in a 25-gun shipment. Under remarks “The word soft which appears with the finish indicates subject revolved was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory”. It is well established that Harley & Graham was one of Colt’s major customers who had direct contact with various engraving houses, especially that of L.D. Nimschke. Mr. Nimschke and his engraving house were very prolific & produced many fine works of art on such Colt revolvers. Undoubtedly this revolver was nickle finished after engraving & either Mr.Nimschke or Hartley & Graham supplied the pearl grips. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 99% fine, quality re-nickled finish. Grips are exceptional showing no wear with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 50153-3 (17,000-27,000) – Lot 2081
IMPORTANT PAIR OF PRESENTATION ENGRAVED GOLD AND SILVER COLT MODEL 1861 NAVYS PRESENTED TO “GEO. A. WILLIAMS CAPTAIN U.S. INFANTRY….1864”.
SN 16678/16684. 16678/16684. Cal. 36. Revolvers are virtually identical with silver & gold finish, 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, orig front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Frames are marked “COLTS PATENT” and they’re both mounted with 1-pc ivory grip with extraordinary, raised carved American eagle & shield on left side. All of the SNs on bottom of the revolvers are accompanied by a small “E”. Revolvers are nearly identically engraved in Gustave Young-style with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frames with some of the scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lugs and terminates forward of the address on toe. Backstraps and trigger guard are similarly engraved. Cylinders are gold-washed, unfluted with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. All safety pins are intact. Accompanied by an original rosewood casing that has a brass plaque in the lid that is engraved “Presented to / Geo. A. Williams ‘ Captain 1st U.S. Infantry / as a token of respect from / B. W. Warner / Memphis, Tenn. May. 1864”. Case has reinforced corners with a mortised brass lock that has rnd escutcheon. Interior is 2-tone burgundy & green velvet lined, French fitted in the bottom for the revolvers, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” Cal. 31 bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, a silver-plated, double-sided eagle & stars, trophy of flags & arms angle spout flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a very early lacquered tin of caps with “W. & C. Eley” tan label. Interior of case also has 3 covered compartments with ivory pulls. Case is configured in the French style, which is quite rare on Colt revolvers. This cased set was part of the renown Frederick E. Hines Estate Collection (1868-1920) Dorchester, Mass. Mr. Hines’ great collection of cased guns were sold in two auctions by Walpole Galleries in New York on May 9, 1924 (this was session II). They are lot 109 and were on of the few lots illustrated in the catalog (see pg 24). George Augustus Williams was a lifetime American officer. He graduated from West Point July 1, 1852. He was soon sent to Texas 2nd Lt. He stayed at various Texas posts, La Pena, Rodeo, Ft. Lancaster, Ft. Duncan, Ft. McIntosh, Ft. Clark, Camp Cooper, and finally to Fort Cobb in Indian Territory 1859-1860. He then moved back to teach at west point September 4, 1860 but has short tenure as Civil War began and he was promoted to Captain in the 1st US Infantry. He was in charge of Heavy Artillery in early operations near Sedalia, Missouri (November 61-Febraury 62) and was involved in the capture of Island #10 and capture of New Madrid, Missouri, March & April of 1862. Later actions at the siege and battle of Corinth, Miss. earned him Brevet Major’s commission for gallant & meritorious service. Again during the Vicksburg campaign, he was in charge of Heavy Artillery and “Williams Battery” of Henry Parrotts was named for him and opposed famous Confederate fortification “Battery Robinette”. Williams was disabled in March 1863 and was made Provost Marshall of Memphis, where he was to receive this spectacular pair of Colts. The presentation “B. W. Warner” is listed on Capt. Williams “Semi-Monthly Report of Citizen Prisoners Within the District of Memphis”. No charge is listed for his incarceration – but others include: Rebel Spy, Shooting at Soldier, Concealing Escaped Prisoner, Aiding in Prisoner Escape, Guerrilla, Bribery, Disloyal Language, etc…Were these pistols a “bribe” that got Warner in Prison? Or did they get him out? PROVENANCE: These are illustrated in the book “Colt Firearms from 1836” by J.E. Serven. Also in Serven’s other book, “Percussion Colt Pistols”. Also mentioned in John Hamilton’s monograph “History and Heroes”. Frederick E. Hines; McMurdo Silver; F. Theodore Dexter; Leonard A. Busby; William M. Lock (See pg 148 of Locke Book); Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolvers are of a virtually identical condition with both retaining virtually all of a fine silver & gold finish which has turned dark. Cylinders show dark gold wash with number “16684” showing about 95% naval battle scene roll marking and number “16678” about 65-70% roll marking. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips each have a crack on the right side with an age line in number “16684”. Neither grip shows wear to the eagle carving and both retain a fine, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bores. Retaining blue in most cyl chambers. Case is sound with crackled finish and light nicks & scratches. Interior is lightly faded with light soiling ans staining. Flask retains its superb orig silver finish which over the years has tarnished on the display side, the underside, protected by the case, is beautiful and bright. 49941-7 JS IVORY (50,000-100,000) – Lot 2150
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO CIVIL WAR PHOTOGRAPHER & SOLDIER “IRA S. NEGUS”.
SN 201155. Cal. 31. Standard 4″ model 1849 Colt pocket model with 2-line Hartford address and other typical markings found on this model. Gun appears 100% original and authentic with pleasing aesthetics. “Ira S. Negus” is finely engraved on buttstrap. Ira shows up in 1861 enlisting in the 3rd Massachusetts infantry in New Bedford, MA., where he had a twin brother Edward who was in another Mass unit. Ira was a known ambrotype photographer before the Civil War and continued as a photographer after the war. This particular gun was made early in 1862 at the height of Civil War fervor. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. All matching SNs including wedge. Iron overall is gray/plum with tiny traces of finish in protected areas with crisp markings including inscription on buttstrap. Cylinder retains about 90% of discernible rolled stage coach hold up scene, and retains 5 of 6 original safety pins. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 70% of their original silver plate with balance a light mustard patina. Grips are sound and well fit with scattered blemishes, retaining about 90% original factory varnish. Mechanically gun is sound with crisp rifling. 49973-168 JS (1,000-2,800) – Lot 1201
*FINE JOHN ADAMS FACTORY ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN S45813A. Cal. 45 Colt. Bright nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with model and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame is marked with 2-line 3 patent date and Rampant Colt without circle. Mounted with matching numbered Rampant Colt/Eagle hard rubber grips. Revolver is engraved in “B”+ coverage, excellent foliate arabesque patterns with very fine pearled background. Engraving is the style of Wilbur Glahm with a distinctive V pattern at the top of the backstrap. Accompanied by a spectacular Bianchi marked, heavily tooled buscadero belt and holster rig, #110707. Belt is about 50″ x 3”. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found, with Class “B” engraving and shipped to Camfour Inc, Westfield, MA, August 17, 2007. Also accompanied by a letter of authentication for the engraving over the signature of John Adams. Additionally accompanied by a Bianchi letter of certification for a “Full custom buscadero gun belt with deluxe floral carving and sterling engraved buckles on belt & holster with extra long drop on belt & holster.” Also accompanied by its orig 2-pc blue Colt cardboard box and white shipping sleeve with matching numbered label on end. CONDITION: New, appears to be unfired and unturned. Belt & holster rig are equally new. Box is fine. 50076-1 JR155 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1360
SN 40208. 1) Cal. 22 RF. SN 40208. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 7-shot cylinder, “Colt New .22″ in etched panel, locking notches on rear of cylinder, hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt and scroll carving. Also included is a Bill of Sale from Antique Armory in GA. 2) Cal. .22 RF. SN 359. 2-1/4″ bbl, 7-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips, blade notch front sight and a frame notched rear sight, missing cylinder pin locking screw. Also included is a Bill of Sale from Antique Armory in GA. 3) Cal. .22 RF SN 18669. 2-1/4” bbl, 2-line bbl address, 7-shot cylinder, factory engraving, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” 2-pc grips. 4) Cal. .22 RF. SN 9105. 2-1/4″ bbl, 7-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. Collector’s notes included. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) 70% orig nickel, right side of frame has flaking and wear. Panel is in good condition. Cylinder pin and hammer have good fire blue. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is fair. 2) Bbl blue has flaked to 30%. Frame has traces of nickel balance brass. Rosewood grips are in good condition. Bore is in fair condition. 3) Bbl has 80% bright nickel with “Colt New .22” etched panel in very good condition. Receiver has most of its orig nickel. Cylinder is mostly flaked and turned gray/brown. Grips are slightly undersized. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl has turned mostly brown patina. It has a good visible etched panel. Frame is all brass with scratches and dents. Cylinder has turned mostly brown. Hammer and trigger have good fire blue. Grips have orig finish in very good condition. Bore is good. 50019-9, 50019-13, 50019-24, 50019-274, TN17 IVORY (2,500-4,500) – Lot 1432
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 10934. Cal. 38 CF. Nickel finish with gold-washed cyl and rare 4″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight and 2-line Hartford address. Bottom of bbl at the muzzle has the 1874 patent date and SN. Left side of bottom strap is marked “38 Cal” and “C”. Cyl has long flutes with 5-chambers and locking notches on the rear face. Right recoil shield has a thumbnail loading gate. The bird head grip is mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips that are matching numbered to this pistol. Left side of grip frame, under the grip is marked with the SN a “P” & an “E” which presumable indicates pearl grips and engraving. Revolver is very nicely engraved in the style of Eugene Young with flowing, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns, which have fine pearled background. Left sideplate is engraved in a beautiful flower blossom. Accompanied by an orig burgundy leather coffin-lid, burgundy velvet lined, orig Colt casing that is contour fitted in the bottom for the revolver with an all metal cleaning rod in the rear edge. Left front of the case has a form fitted cartridge block containing 50 very early Cal. 38 cartridges without head stamps. Front of the case has a simple latch in the center, missing its top receptacle and swinging latches at each end. Bottom also has beveled edges with paper covering. Only about 550,000 of these revolvers were produced 1874 to 1880 in both rim fire and center fire calibers. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, these revolvers with 4″ bbl are the least common of the New Line, few of which were engraved and extremely few were cased. These revolvers were very popular with ladies as muff pistols or gentlemen as pocket pistols and usually saw hard service, often with little maintenance and are rarely found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Overall retains about 96-98% strong orig nickel on the bbl and frame. There are number of small dings on the bottom of the bbl from some clumsy oaf hammering on the cyl pin. Front sight also has a small ding. Hammer & trigger retain most of their orig fire blue and cyl almost all of its light gold-wash. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with some light roughness. Grips are sound showing great fire and color. Case is sound showing moderate to heavy corner wear with nicks & chips in the leather and overall retains about 80% orig burgundy finish. Interior is moderately faded with two spots of chemical staining inside the lid and two spots of heavy chemical staining and lining deterioration at the muzzle and cyl areas of the revolver recess. Cleaning rod is slightly damaged but intact; cartridges are fine. 50018-241 JR38 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 2099
EXTREMELY RARE DOUBLE PANEL SCENE FACTORY EXHIBITION ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 31113. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl & brass pin front sight. Top flat of bbl has an unusual engraved address of “SAML COLT” with no additional flourishes. Left side of frame has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a ribbon. The small guard silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe burl walnut varnished 1-pc grip with matching SN in back-strap channel. First 4 digits of SN are visible with the last digit obscured by oil & wear. Serial numbers on bbl lug, frame & trigger guard are accompanied by a small punch dot indicating that this revolver was to receive extra polish for engraving. Cyl is unfluted with 5 chambers and stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Revolver is beautifully factory engraved with full coverage & rare transitional vine style foliate arabesque patterns without background & donut style scrolls. Exhibition engraving patterns extend over bbl lug & top side flats of bbl and on rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug is engraved with an early style spread-winged American eagle clutching arrows in its right talons and an olive branch in the other. Eagle has rays emanating from the background. Right side of bbl lug is engraved with a classic recumbent lion also with rays emanating from the background. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger bow are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. R.L. Wilson in The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, pg 47 “Likely a display revolver, due to the eagle and lion motifs (representing the United States and Great Britain) and extra quality decoration”. Hammer is engraved with a small foliate arabesque pattern on the sides with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scales on top edge & sides of spur. Hammer spur has hand checkered panel. In the period 1850 to about 1873 there were in excess of 300,000 Model 1849 revolvers produced with only a small portion of those factory engraved. Extremely few were panel scene engraved and are almost unknown. It is extremely unusual to find such an early made Pocket model with exhibition double panel scene engraving. This revolver is completely authentic in all respects and one of the most rare of all the Pocket models. Similar examples of other exhibition engraved 1849s from this time period (1851-53) are illustrated on pgs 46-55 in same text. PROVENANCE: Martin Lane Collection; Dr. Paul McCombs Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 50-60% thin orig blue with the balance a blue/brown patina, showing only sharp edge wear. Frame retains traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas being an overall gray/brown patina. Cylinder is matching mottled gray/brown patina and retains about all of the stagecoach holdup roll marking scene with all five safety pins intact. Grip is sound showing moderate wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of light pitting. 50139-3 JR197 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2173
RARE ENGRAVED RICHARDS CONVERSION COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 198174. Cal. 44. This nice example of contemporarily engraved Richards Army conversion with excellent coverage including engraved cylinder in matching scroll and punch dot designs. Engraving is quite reminiscent of Nemske and quite likely from his shop. This pleasing example exhibits checkered ivory Colt grips, and overall retains most of its original nickel plating. PROVENANCE: The Estate of W. G. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Metal all matching SNs except bbl which is 200552, but appears to have grown up with this gun with matching wear to plating and engraving. Wedge is unserialized as is proper in this serial range and Colt factory grips have numbers inked on ivory backstrap channel “9798” though not matching fit gun well. There is about 1/4″ chip in ejector housing just rear of guide. Overall pistol retains 90%+ original nickel with reductions mostly noted at muzzle, facings of bbl to frame, with scattered areas of freckling and bubbling. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips have hand worn patina with small chip on inner left toe. Mechanically sound with crisp discernible bore. 49973-141 JS IVORY (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1269
CASED LONDON AGENT MARKED COLT NEW LINE 22 SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 48881. Cal. 22 RF. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl, half moon front sight & 2-line address. Left side has the “COLT NEW 22” etched panel. Bottom of bbl & flutes of cyl have British proofs. Mounted with rare full checkered hard rubber grips. Top strap is engraved “Watson & Hancock / 308 High Holborn London”. Cyl is fluted with 7 chambers & has 4 digits of SN 3281. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined English oak casing with Pall Mall Colt label inside the lid. Bottom has compartment for the revolver & a small metal cleaning rod/screwdriver & 2 covered compartments with bone pulls. Lock is missing. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Frame & bbl retain about 90% strong orig nickel & the cyl about 80%. Grips are sound showing moderate wear, turned chocolate. Mechanics are fine. Bright bore with light pitting. Case is fine, lightly faded with soiled inner label. 50019-34 JR171 (1,000-1,500) – Lot 1399
SCARCE LARGE EARLY COPY OF THE COLT 1851 NAVY BY JEAN-JACQUES HERMAN.
SN 96. Cal. 36. 6-3/4″ octagon bbl with dove-tail front sight. Bbl assembly very nearly replicates that of a Colt 51 Navy. 6-shot rnd cylinder with very nicely machined hammer with heart-shaped top. Frame is lightly vine scroll engraved. 2-pc checkered wood grips. Ring trigger and grips are of pepper box style. Stamped with maker’s name and SN on front strap. Butt with steel cap and diamond shape center with light engraving and floral pattern. CONDITION: Good. All metal surfaces retain an even silver finish with scattered light beginning salt and pepper pitting. Grips are very good with minor losses throughout and have shrunk with age. Checkering mostly present though lightly hand worn. Rare early mixture of pepperbox and Colt Navy features by a famous Belgian gunsmith. 50125-1 JSL114 (4,000-6,500) – Lot 1478
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 4358. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon. Cyl has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins crisp and serviceable. The blued steel large guard trigger guard and backstrap contain a very highly figured, varnished, burl walnut 1-pc grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver has the English domed head screws and is nicely engraved in light English arabesque scrolls with partially shaded background. Engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug and top three flats of bbl, with matching patterns on rammer pivot. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are also engraved in matching patterns. The buttstrap is unnumbered while, unusually, the left side of the hammer is matching numbered. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined English style mahogany casing with empty plaque in top of the lid and a Samuel Nock distributors label inside the lid. Bottom of the case is compartmented, English style for the revolver, a fine Dixon bag-shaped flask, a scarce brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with bright steel sprue cutter, a packet of Hazards Powder combustible cartridges, a large lacquered tin for Eley’s caps and a small pewter oil bottle. There are only about 42,000 London Model 1851 revolvers produced 1853-1856 at which time production ceased and left over parts were shipped back to Hartford and used in production there. Unusually, this revolver is not British proofed. These revolvers were extremely popular with the British military during the Crimean War and many were sold cased as found here although only an estimated less than 1,000 were engraved. Few are encountered today, especially in the U.S. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains 15-20% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina showing only faint sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot and handle retain bright case colors. Frame retains 60-70% strong case colors, bright on the right side, flaked and faded on the left side being mostly a grey patina. Hammer retains strong dark case colors. Cyl is mostly a blue/grey patina with scattered spots of discoloration and shows about 65-70% Naval battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap show blue in sheltered areas, being mostly a grey patina. Grip is sound showing light edge wear, a couple of small dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Case has some light grain checks in the lid with a crack and some slivers missing from the bottom, otherwise is sound with refinished top and orig finish around the edges. Interior is lightly faded with moderate soiling in the bottom and damage from the front sight and hammer spur. Flask is very fine, retaining about 95-96% orig finish on the body and about 70% gold-wash on the collar. Mold is crisp with bright sprue cutter. Cartridge packet is extremely fine. Cap tin and oiler are also fine. 49631-18 JR20 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2121
*RARE OBILTSCHNIG ENGRAVED COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL MK III MID-RANGE NATIONAL MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 278-MR. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 5″ bbl and orig adjustable sights in a raised rib on top of the slide. Pistol is elaborately engraved with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine shaded background. Both sides of the slide are relief engraved in rose & leaf patterns and finished in French grey. The entirety of the pistol is outlined in gold wire with fancy scrolls at each terminus. Mounted with elaborate fish scale carved burl walnut grips that have gold Rampant Colt medallions. Grip screws are also engraved. Spring housing is serrated straight-style, frontstrap and trigger guard are also matching serrated. Slide lock and thumb safety are engraved to match and the only areas not engraved are the bbl bushing and hammer. Bottom front of the frame is engraved in a rectangular panel “ENGRAVED / OBILTSCHNIG / FERLACH”. Accompanied by 1 orig Colt 38 Special magazine. Also accompanied by a wonderful dovetailed, fluted lid, green velvet lined presentation style case that has functioning key. Accompanied by a fax from the consignor with information regarding this pistol which discloses that Mr. Obiltschnig had spent 230 hours on the engraving. He stated that the steel was so hard that a full days work would net an engraved area “no larger than his fingernail” and asked “please, no more Colt pistols”. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be new and unfired at least since engraving. Grips are equally crisp and case is as new. 50184-1 JR198 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2607
Please Note: One of these two guns in this lot have ivory grips. Because we cannot guarantee the age of this ivory, we cannot legally sell it. To repeat, if you purchase this lot, when you receive it, one gun will not have the grips.
*FINE PAIR OF BILL MAINS ENGRAVED COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS.
SN 36644SA & 61746SA. Cal. 357 Mag. Revolvers are identical configuration, blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, block letter address with model and cal marking on left side. Left side of frames are marked with 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt without circle. 1) SN 36644SA. Cal. 357 Mag. With 2-pc, after market stag grips. Cyl, each side of muzzle, ejector housing tip, backstrap and trigger guard are lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background. Bottom front of the trigger plate is stamped with a small buffalo figure. 2) SN 61746SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Nearly identically engraved with slightly more coverage on rear edge of cyl & ejector housing and bbl just in front of the frame. Tip of trigger guard also has extra engraving. Buttstrap is signed “Mains” with a tiny buffalo. Mounted with factory 2-pc smooth ivory silver medallion grips. Bill Mains was Colt’s most prolific factory master engraver for several years. Colt instructed Mr. Mains not to sign his work so he developed a small buffalo stamp or engraving as a signature, which is usually found on most of his work. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolvers are virtually identical condition, both are all matching except grips, which are unnumbered. Both retain bright custom blue on the bbl, ejector housing, cyl & grip frame. Frames retain about all of their orig factory case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas, moderately faded elsewhere. Grips are fine. Neither revolver appears to have been fired since engraving. 50062-42, 50062-54, JR159 IVORY (4,000-8,000) – Lot 1350
SN 13987. Cal. 22 RF. All have Wexell & DeGress grips. All are .22 RF. All are engraved. All have 2-1/4″ bbls. 1) SN 113987. Blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, 7-shot cylinder. 2) SN 6235. 2-line bbl address, blade front sight, frame notched rear sight, 7-shot cylinder. Includes collector’s notes. 3) SN 20070. Blade front sight, frame notched rear sight, 2-line bbl address, etched panel, 7-shot cylinder. 4) SN 13832. 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and frame notched rear sight, left grip is inscribed “G.W.G. Troy, NY September 28th, 1876”. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Nickel finish has mostly flaked and worn leaving brass tones on frame and silver/gray metal on bbl. Grips are in good condition. Bore is poor. 2) 40% orig nickel with worn and flaked and brass tones showing through. Grips are in good condition. Bore is fair. 3) Etched panel is barely visible. Bbl has traces of nickel. Frame and cylinder have 30% nickel. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is poor. 4) Bbl has good etched panel. 60% orig nickel. Cylinder is mostly gray metal. Frame has traces of nickel with balance brass color. Bore is fair. 50019-26, 50019-27, 50019-31, 50019-32, TN20 (750-1,250) – Lot 1422
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 146148. Cal. 41 Colt. Silver finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight with small copper insert, 1-line block letter address and Cal. marking on the left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “41” under the base pin. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in about C coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Left recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in half flower blossom patterns and the top strap in snake & dot patterns. Base pin and ejector housing bosses are engraved in foliate sprays. Matching pattern engraving extends to both sides of the bbl with wave & dot patterns around the address. Ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot patterns on the outer radius and with top gullet. Top of backstrap is engraved in an elaborate fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved, typically, in Mr. Helfricht alternating patterns on lands between flutes with snake & dot pattern at the rear edge. Mounted with fine 2-pc, smooth pearl grips that are probably not orig to this revolver. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 41 with 5-1/2″ bbl, silver finish, pearl grips & factory engraved, sold to J.P. Lovell Arms Co., Boston, Mass and shipped to A. L. Chester Co., address not available on June 15, 1892 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a copy of the collection card from the renowned Lew Yearout Collection of Great Falls, MT. One entry on the card shows that he purchased this revolver on March 26, 1966 from Mr. Jerry Marsh of Kalispell, MT. Back of the card states that this revolver is pictured in the Colt Engraving Book, Wilson, however a search of all 3 of Mr. Wilson’s books on Colt engraving disclosed no such entry. Revolvers of this era, especially those in use on the Western frontier saw very hard service frequently with little or no maintenance and are rarely found today with high orig finish. It seems likely that his revolver may have been the property of a law enforcement officer, wealthy rancher or an outlaw. PROVENANCE: Lewis & Layton Yearout Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains traces of orig silver, strong under the ejector housing with traces in the more sheltered areas elsewhere. The balance is a smooth grey patina. Cyl is matching grey patina showing moderate to heavy holster wear. Grips have a couple of age lines, otherwise are sound with great fire and fine color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 50190-1 JR200 (7,000-9,000) – Lot 2084
ENGRAVED GOLD AND SILVER IVORY GRIPPED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER WON AS SHOOTING PRIZE BY CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARDSMAN ALONG WITH SHOOTING MEDALS.
SN 197438. Cal 44. This fabulous “as found” cased Colt Army percussion revolver was only the second prize in the Centennial Shooting Competition of the California National Guard at San Bruno, California, Oct. 24, 1876. First prize was a gold watch and chain. You would think that such a special Colt with fabulous carved ivory grips, with Mexican eagle and snake, factory engraved with gold and silver wash would have been a more valuable prize, but this is 1876 and cartridge Colt single actions are now king. This fancy 3-4 year old percussion revolver was now obsolete. This gun was provided by the well known arms and sporting store of A.J. Plate of San Francisco. This must have been one of his trophy display guns as it would have been among the most expensive manufactured by Colt in its day. Gold and silver plated Colts are among the rarest to survive in fine condition, and this is a wonderful survivor, retaining most of its gold plate on loading lever. Unloading lever, hammer and rebated portion of cyl, silver plating is retained on all other metal surfaces of the gun. The gun is cased in a beautiful Colt mahogany case compartmented with its .44 caliber silver plated 2-cavity mold and would originally have had a silver plated flask which is now missing, but in it’s stead are displayed 5 medals, 2 of which are silver 1864 (Ellis Guard) & 1866 (Tittel Zouaves) dated shooting medals with (California state seals.) Another medal has brass, silver and gold bars for 10,15 & 20 years faithful service. What a wonderful identified grouping with provenance; the original owner and recipient of this gun as a prize was California Militiaman John William Sturke. His son William Sturke loaned this gun and medals to the California State Park Commission and they were on display at Sutter’s Fort State Historical Park from 1942 to 1957 when they were returned to the family. Factory engraving is excellent and well done with arabesque and punch dot design typical of early 1870’s and the first single action Armies. This gun was originally manufactured in 1872. There are few gold plated Colt percussion revolvers that retain such excellent condition and there are few that have ever been offered with such aesthetics and provenance. PROVENANCE: John William Sturke 1876. William Sturke, Sutters Fort State Historical Park 1942-1957. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Gun is excellent overall, all matching, orig and authentic in every regard retaining over 90% orig silver plate and 95% gold wash on loading arm, rebated section of cyl and hammer with only minor freckling. Gun has possibly only been fired one time as 5 of 6 nipples retain most of their orig gold color and only one cone has been darkened. The bore and cyl chambers are quite crisp, though with scattered areas of staining and light pitting. “ESA certifiable antique elephant ivory grips” exhibit fine age patina, sharp edges and little wear. Screws all retain most of their orig fire blue finish. Mold retains about half its orig silver plate marked “Colt’s Patent” and “44H”. Accompanying tin of percussion caps is excellent. The 1866 dated medal has top bar broken, but still present as sewn to top stud with ribbon. Top bar is lose but complete on long service medal. There is a gold and enamel patriotic pin of unknown origin to this cataloger. There is an additional 1876 dated 3-piece brass shooting medal that is uninscribed. The mahogany casing is very good overall with attached newspaper article telling of William Sturke’s first place medal won with a score of 40 out of a possible 50 at shots of 200 yards and 500 yards for small bore rifle. Also attached to lining is the display card from Sutters Fort Historical Park when on display. Casing is very good overall with light fading from years of display. The polished bone key hold finial has a chipped edge as can be seen in photos. Case is missing top portion of lock which is no longer embedded in lid. 49962-1 JS IVORY (30,000-50,000) – Lot 2158
LOT OF 2 POCKET MODEL ENGRAVED PERCUSSION REVOLVERS: COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET AND 1ST MODEL MANHATTAN POCKET.
SN 69457/296. 1) Cal. 31. 4″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc smooth “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip. Markings standard for this model. Engraving is of factory style. Hammer is plain. SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder, and arbor. Grips were not removed. Wedge is no. 38586. The initials “WG” are scratched into right side of grip on butt. 2) Cal. 31. 4″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. Engraved with 2-pc burl walnut grips. No. matches on bbl, lever, wedge, cylinder, and frame. Engraving is of factory pattern. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Good. Revolver is a gray-brown patina overall with some traces of silver remaining on trigger guard and backstrap. Markings are clear and readable. Engraving is worn on frame and bbl and fairly sharp on backstrap and trigger guard. Cylinder scene is only partially visible. Action needs repair. Grip is good with no missing pcs and a nice mellow patina. 2) Good. Revolver is silver-gray patina overall with clear markings and sharp engraving. No scene is evident on cylinder. Action needs repair. Grips are very good with no missing pcs. A nice pair of early engraved pocket revolvers. 50019-147 IVORY (1,500-2,250) – Lot 1202
*BEAUTIFUL FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT WYATT EARP COMMEMORATIVE BUNTLINE SPECIAL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 369WYE. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 16″ bbl, full front sight and block letter address with model and cal marking on left side. Top strap has a mortised long range sight. Frame is 3-screw type with extended hammer screw for shoulder stock. Right side of frame, unusually, is marked with the 2-line 3 patent date and Rampant Colt without circle. Mounted with matching numbered smooth 2-pc walnut grips. Revolver is very beautifully engraved in L.D. Nimschke style with “B”+ coverage by Colt master engraver Steve Kamyk. Frame has about 65-70% coverage engraving with about the same percentage of coverage on the bbl, ejector housing, backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Bbl has a gold band around the muzzle and 2 at the root with another on each end of the ejector housing. Rear edge of cyl also has 2 gold bands. Hammer & trigger are nickel finish. Left side of buttstrap, under the grip, has the engraver’s signature “ENGR. S.KAMYK”. Accompanied by its orig red satin and velvet lined black leatherette case and its matching numbered nickeled brass skeleton shoulder stock. Also accompanied by a 2 pg Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 Colt, with 16-1/8″ bbl, royal blue and nickel finish with case hardened frame, with black leatherette case, shipped to John Warren Hardware Inc, Eugene, OR, on January 8, 1971. Letter further states that it was returned to the factory on March 10, 2012 for customizing. Sales order No. 51600 included Class “B” custom scroll engraving and the gold bands as found, by Colt master engraver Steve Kamyk. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including grips. Appears to be unfired since engraving. Case has slightly scuffed corners, otherwise is equally as new. 50076-2 JR156 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1378
SN 368. 1). FIRST MODEL NEW LINE 22 REVOLVER. Cal. 22. SN 368. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl, half-moon front sight & 2-line address. Cyl is first type with stop notches on the outside & short flutes. Mounted with matching numbered 2-pc rosewood grips. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Bbl & frame retain about 90% orig nickel and Cyl about 85%. Hammer shows about 95% fire blue. Grips are extremely fine with light wear and show about 95% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 2). SECOND MODEL NEW LINE 22 REVOLVER. Cal 22. SN 19292. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl with etched panel, half-moon front sight & 2-line address. Cyl is 2nd type with stop notches on the rear & long flutes. Mounted with matching numbered 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in New York style with light coverage geometric patterns. Nearly 40,000 produced. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 60-70% orig finish. Good mechanics, fine grips, bright shiny bore. 3). STANDARD MODEL COLT NEW LINE 30 REVOLVER. Cal. 30 RF. SN 4424. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ round bbl, etched panel, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Cyl has long flutes and it is mounted with matching numbered rosewood grips. Accompanied by a doeskin pocket holster. About 11,000 produced in two models 1874-1876. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Crisp mechanics, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4). SECOND MODEL NEW LINE 22 REVOLVER. Cal. 22. SN 26400. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl, etched panel, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame marked “22 CAL”. Mounted with 2-pc rosewood grips. Cyl is second type with long flutes and rear stop notches. CONDITION: Fair to good. Overall retains about 60% milky nickel on bbl and frame with traces on the cyl. Grips show light wear with strong varnish. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with distinctive rifling. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: See above. 50019-12, 50019-23; 50019-47; 50019-270, JR177 IVORY (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1433
RARE EARLY PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT NEW HOUSE MODEL SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER W/ PEARL GRIPS.
SN 25634. Cal. 38 CF. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight and 2-line address with “NEW HOUSE 38” roll marking on left side. Left rear side of frame has the Rampant Colt trademark in a circle. The square-butt grip frame is mounted with extremely rare smooth, 2-pc pearl grips and right recoil shield has a thumbnail loading gate. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Gustave Young with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque pattern that has pearled background. Topstrap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with matching fine patterns down each side by the hammer slot and on each side of the bbl address with geometric patterns around the front sight. Cyl is engraved to match on lands between flutes with a snake & dot pattern continuous band around the rear edge. Backstrap is beautifully period script engraved “Presented to / Wm J. Collins / by his friends / June 18th / 1893”. There were about 4000 of these revolvers produced 1880-1886. According to The Colt Book of Firearms, Wilson, this was the highest SN for a 38 cal pistol of this type. Mr. Wilson also states that engraving for these pistols is “extremely rare”. That this revolver was presented 7 years post-production and appears to be completely factory orig indicates that it was probably a slow selling model. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 38 with bbl length not listed, nickel finish, pearl grips, factory engraved and sold to Henry C. Hallaver at the Colt factory Jun 14, 1893 in a 1-gun shipment.A paragraph at the bottom of the page states “Two other Hallaver’s were employed at Colt’s in 1893”. Also accompanied by a 4-pg handwritten letter from Dr. Cox to R. L. Wilson wherein he orders some of Mr. Wilson’s books and is purchasing this pistol, identified by SN. Additionally accompanying is a 2-pg letter from Mr. Wilson to Dr. Cox discussing the relative rarity of engraved New Line pistols. In one paragraph of the letter, Mr. Wilson states that Colt shipping ledgers indicate that 1890 was the cutoff for production but deliveries continue sporadically into the 1900’s. Further accompanied by a copy of a letter from Dr. Cox to Mr. Wilson informing him that this pistol had arrived. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains about 96-98% strong orig blue with some minor losses on face of cyl and a few scattered spots on the outer diameter of the cyl. Screws retain most of their vivid fire blue. Grips are sound showing great fire with good color. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with one spot of pitting. 50018-93 JR39 (5,000-8,000) – Lot 2100
EXTREMELY FINE AND UNIQUE FACTORY ENGRAVED DONUT SCROLL COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH “EAGLE & PEACE” PANEL SCENE.
SN 33610. This beautiful cased pocket model was made about 1852 and exhibits factory engraving identical to other examples noted pre-1853 with “donut scroll” engraving on bbl housing, frame, backstrap, trigger guard and hammer. Most unusual and unique feature of this revolver which has never been seen on another example is the 2″ spread wing eagle grasping pistol in either talon above a ribbon held in eagles beak emblazoned “PEACE”. There are few other “donut scroll” engraved Colts with panel scenes but nothing like this very special example. It is of note that another pocket model just 12 SNs different 33598 was presented to Anson Chase by Col. Colt with closely identical engraving but no panel scene for his testimony for Colt in Massachusetts Arms Company trial in 1851. R. L. Wilson in his Colt Engraving Book, vol 1, page 48 states: “The author regards this set as one of the most historic and important of presentations made by Samuel Colt; it honors the man who made the first of the Colt revolvers….”. The Anson Chase gun is cased in identical red velvet lined mahogany case with same compartments, exhibiting same 2-cavity brass mold and “L” shaped combination nipple wrench/screwdriver. A similar pack of cartridges, cap tin, double eagle flask, and about 10 loose bullets fill compartments.Our historic gun here clearly shows eagle holding what appear to be Wesson & Leavitt dragoon revolvers with side hammers, the same patent infringement revolvers being made by Mass Arms at time law-suit which was won by Colt that ended their production. I love the wit Col Colt is showing with heraldic American eagle taking his competitor’s guns away and proclaiming “PEACE”. Could this have been a presentation he might give to an attorney or principal of the Massachusetts Arms Company who had once been a friend and letting him know, we now have PEACE that I have won, but your well made revolvers will have to use hand turned cylinders and never truly compete with me again. CONDITION: very fine to extremely fine overall. Markings including SNs, and engraved maker and patent marks are crisp as in engraving overall. Bbl & Cyl retain 30-40% bright original blue, balance a blue/plum patina. The frame & hammer retain about 80% bright and muted case colors as does the loading arm pivot, balance silver/gray; top of loading load has darkened colors. Matching SNs found externally on all parts including bbl, loading arm, frame, cyl, trigger guard, backstrap. Backstrap & trigger guard retain 95% of their original silver plate with most of loss at butt. The “select walnut” grips are well fit showing bright burl colors retaining 90% plus original factory varnish with moderate edge wear. Revolver is mechanically sound, retaining all 5 crisp safety pins on cyl. Cyl also has traces of blue in chambers. Bore is crisp and bright. Mahogany Colt casing retains traces of thinning original factory varnish, sound and solid, missing keyhole escutcheon. Interior red velvet is light faded with soiling and stains where cyl, hammer and muzzle abut. Brass 2-cavity mold “COLT’S PATENT” is excellent, smooth with yellow brass patina. Double sided eagle flask retains 80-90% mottled light gold colored varnish and is very fine overall. L-shaped tool has 30-40% blue with pitting, cap tin and packet of Colt cartridges are also very good to fine, The loose balls, extra nipple are fine also. 50154-4 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2174
NEW YORK ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY RICHARDS MASON CONVERSION REVOLVER WITH CHECKERED IVORY GRIP WITH CARVED MEXICAN EAGLE.
SN 176438. Cal. 44 Colt. 8″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. Checkered 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip with Mexican eagle motif on left side. Engraving is American scroll in New York Style. There has been some gold inlay work done on bbl engraving. Cylinder shows naval battle scene. 1-line New York bbl address. SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor and cylinder. Grips are unnumbered. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very good as refinished. Bbl is a silver-gray patina overall. Bbl address is partially washed out. Engraving has been polished and gold has been inlaid into some of scroll work. Bbl retains 20% bright blue finish on especially on bbl lug. Bore is dark with strong rifling. SN is faint but readable. Frame retains sharp engraving overall with same type of blue as on bbl. Trigger guard retains traces of silver finish. Backstrap is silver-gray patina overall.Hammer is worn on sides with strong traces of engraving. Trigger is a replacement. Cylinder retains 80% cylinder scene with a clear patent mark and SN. Chambers are dark. Grips are very good with sharp checkering and high relief eagle that has high point wear. Chip missing from toe of left grip. Hammer does not stay on half-cock. A very attractive engraved Colt Richards Mason Conversion that definitely saw service South of the Border. 49973-484 TEP IVORY (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1271
COLT NEW HOUSE REVOLVER WITH ETCHED BARREL AND DEALER INSCRIPTION IN ENGLISH CASE.
SN 16131. Cal. 41 CF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full blue finish. Checkered hard rubber grips with Colt medallions. Bbl has small 2-line address with Colt House 41 etched panel on left side. Small British proof on bottom side of bbl. Frame has 41 cal. stamped above trigger on left side. Cylinder has P inspector mark on front face and small British proofs behind each flute. Frame has P inspector mark on left side under grip and A inspector mark under right grip. Left grip is no. 18219. Right grip is marked no. 18224. Backstrap is engraved “F.T. Baker Gun Manufacturer. London.” Case is English style made of oak with medallion in lid and dealer label of Frederick T. Baker on inside of lid. Case contains 2 cartridges and a cleaning rod. Accompanied by a collector card describing this revolver and showing its purchase from Norm Flayderman in December 1972. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 80-85% bright blue finish with most of wear on left side. Bbl address is sharp. Etched panel is excellent with clear lettering. Front sight retains 90% blue. Bore is frosty with sharp rifling. Frame retains 40-50% blue with most of loss on top strap left side above trigger, backstrap and forestrap which has blended in a pleasing blue-brown patina. Hammer retains nearly all of fire blue on top and back. Hammer sides are bright with some staining. Trigger retains 60% bright blue finish Cal. mark on frame is sharp. Frame screws all retain most of orig fire blue finish. Cylinder retains 80% of thinning blue finish. Grips are fine with sharp checkering and sharp Colt medallion. Grips have a few small scratches. Case is very good with fine lining, complete label and surface mars and scratches especially on backside of lid. A fine Colt New House pistol of which only 4000 were made, and only a small portion were in 41 cal. 50019-256 TEP (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1410
LOT OF TWO CIVIL WAR PERCUSSION REVOLVERS: REMINGTON NEW MODEL 1858 ARMY AND COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY.
SN 98509/67310. 1) Cal. 44. 8″ bbl. Blue finish. Plain 2-pc walnut grips. Standard markings for this model with military inspector’s initials on bbl, frame, cylinder, trigger guard, and grips. Inspector cartouche “OWA” on left grip. SN matches on bbl, frame, and grip. 2) Cal. 44. 8″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc walnut grip. Markings are standard for this model with small military inspector marks on bbl, cylinder, trigger guard, and backstrap. Grips show no cartouche. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very good. Bbl shows an even plum-brown patina overall with sharp bbl address and SN. Frame retains 60% bright blue finish turning plum patina on backstrap and forestrap. Cylinder is a gray-brown patina overall with slight traces of blue a few dents and a noticeable drag mark. Grips are very good with a clear acceptance cartouche stamp on left side. Small chip is missing on upper left grip. Action functions well. 2) Poor. Revolver is a rough gray-brown patina overall with legible marks appropriate for this model. Brass trigger guard has been polished. Bottom of trigger guard has small engraved pattern applied. Cylinder scene is only partially visible. Action needs repair. Grips are full-sized with no cartouche visible and small chips missing at toe on both sides. 50019-197 (1,750-2,250) – Lot 1482
RARE CASED DELUXE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 91163. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with desirable 6″ oct bbl, dovetailed front sight with German silver blade and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow-shape. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and hand enhanced stage-coach hold-up scene roll marking with 3 of the 5 safety pins serviceable. The small guard. silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc burl walnut grip with backstrap channel obscured by dark stains. This revolver has received Mr. Young’s most elaborate and deluxe treatments with full coverage entwined foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background and great detail. One scroll on the left side terminates in an elaborate flower blossom with another flower blossom on the right side and an elaborate leaf pattern on the left recoil shield. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl with a dog’s head incorporated in a scroll on each side. Matching patterns are also applied to the rammer pivot and ends of the wedge are engraved. All screw-heads are also engraved. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with very delicate sunburst patterns on the shoulders and foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. All of the SNs on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small punch dot which indicated to workmen to provide extra polish for engraving. Accompanied by a very rare blue velvet lined, fluted lid mahogany casing with the rare contoured divider in the bottom. The compartments contain a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold without sprue cutter, a packet of 6 combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label. Although there were over 330,000 of these revolvers produced 1850-1873, only a small percentage were engraved and few were cased. Of those numbers, extremely few received the deluxe treatment as found here. These revolvers were manufactured at the time of the great Westward Expansion of Manifest Destiny where they saw hard and continuous service on the American frontier then throughout the Civil War remaining in service well into the 1970’s. Few are found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Michael Simens; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 75% orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium patina and showing light edge wear. Rammer handle retains faded case colors. Frame retains traces of case colors in sheltered areas being a smooth, even grey patina. Hammer is matching patina. Cyl is a light brown patina with fine pitting on the rear shoulder. Trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plate, a little thin on the buttstrap and heel. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with a few light nicks & dings and retains 90-92% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with fine pitting. Case has two or three grain checks in the bottom and a loose end in the lid, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior retains strong bright color with moderate to heavy soiling in the bottom. Flask is a dark patina with a couple of small dents. Mold is fine with a couple of light nicks. Cartridge packet and cap tin are also fine. 49631-5 JR22 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 2122
*FINE ENGRAVED PRE-WWII COLT WOODSMAN MATCH TARGET SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN MT2528. Cal. 22 LR. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ flat side bbl, adjustable front and rear sights, mounted with Colt silver medallion elephant ear checkered walnut grip. Pistol is very tastefully engraved with about 30% coverage. Very well executed foliate arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. The safety is engraved in diamond & dot patterns and each side of the front and rear webs of the trigger guard are engraved in a triangular diamond pattern. Left side of bbl has gold inlay “MATCH / TARGET” above and below a gold four-ring target. The frame is gold inlaid “THE WOODSMAN” and the slide is gold inlaid “COLT” with the Rampant Colt in gold. Left side of grip frame, under the grip, is marked with the engraver’s initials “D.P.”. This engraving does not appear to be factory but is of very high quality and very tastefully done. Accompanied by one orig Match Target mag with marked base. Also accompanied by a fine custom red velvet lined oak case. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Pistol retains 99%+ crisp custom blue, showing no wear. Grip has a hairline below the front screw and shows a fine restored finish. Mechanics are crisp. Very bright shiny bore, shows very little use. Mag retains thin blue finish. Case is extremely fine. 50061-121 JR151 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 2608
*FINE BILL MAINS ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 18035SA. Cal. 38 Spcl. All blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly reduced front sight & 1-line block letter address with model & Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates & Rampant Colt without circle. Mounted with aftermarket 2-pc beautiful stag grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved in about C coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. Matching engraving extends over the top strap & about 3/4 of the bbl also with matching patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl has last 4 digits “2329” of another SN. Cyl has full coverage matching patterns on the outer circumference with unengraved flutes & has 2 inlaid gold bands at the rear edge. Front of the frame is marked with a small buffalo which was the logo signature of Bill Mains. Mr. Mains was Colt’s most prolific in-house engraver having engraved nearly double the numbers of single action revolvers as any other factory engraver in the years 1967-1972. When Mr. Mains began engraving for Colt there were only 3 levels of engraving “A”, “B”, or “C”. Mr. Mains frequently applied extra engraving to the point that the factory complained that he was doing too much. Apparently the factory liked it however, and so the extra coverage became “D” engraving. While all of the other post war factory engravers are mentioned in most of the publications by renowned author R.L. Wilson, Mr. Mains is not. This apparently came about when Mr. Mains was visiting the Colt plant to meet with the Colt president & Al DeJohn, custom shop manager, regarding engraving coverage when Mr. Wilson was also present. Apparently when Mr. Wilson introduced himself and asked who Mr. Mains was he replied that “Oh, I’m just visiting”. Apparently Mr. Wilson never pursued the matter & Mr. Mains remained reasonably anonymous. Accompanied by a modern red velvet lined, fluted lid walnut case. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom blue finish. Grips are fine. Crisp mechanics. Brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is fine. 50062-37 JR130 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1351
LOT OF THREE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE REVOLVERS W/ WEXELL & DEGRESS GRIPS.
SN 621. 1) Cal. .30 RF. SN 621. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, engraving added, 5-shot cylinder, Wexell & DeGress grips. Includes collector’s notes and Colt letter. 2) Cal. .30 RF. SN 1693. 2-1/4″ bbl, regular sights, 2-line bbl address, Wexell & DeGress grips. 3) Cal. .30 RF. SN 3806. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, etched panel, engraving, gold plated Wexell & DeGress grips.Includes Colt factory letter. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl and frame have been re-nickeled. Etched panel is barely visible. Cylinder has no finish. Grips are in very good condition. 2) 80% overall orig nickel with light flaking. Fitted grips are in very good condition. Bore is good. 3) Bbl and frame have traces of aged silver finish. Cylinder has silver plating in flutes. Frame has finish in protected areas. Grips are in good condition. Bore is fair. 50019-30, 50019-35, 50019-51, TN48 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1423
*CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF KEN HURST ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS.
SN 42818SA. These 1966 produced revolvers are identical in configuration, both are in Cal. 45 Colt, blue & color cased hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & cal marking on left side. Left side of frames have 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without circle. Both are mounted with smooth 1-pc ivory grip, each with last 2 digits of matching number to their respective revolver. Revolvers are nearly identically engraved with full coverage extraordinary engraving by master engraver Ken Hurst. Revolvers are signed “K. HURST” on bottom front of each frame & left side of the front & backstraps under the grip. Front strap of each revolver is also stamped “RY”. As noted, revolvers are virtually identically engraved with the exception that No. 42818SA has a gold inlaid howling wolf on left recoil shield with a gold inlaid wolf track on loading gate. No. 42819SA has a gold inlaid buffalo head on the left recoil shield & a gold inlaid buffalo track on loading gate. The remainder of the full coverage engraving consists of outstanding, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Engraving extends completely over the frames, bbls, backstraps, buttstraps & trigger guards ejector housings & cyls. Front sights are engraved in feather patterns on each side. Backstraps each have an eagle’s head in the center with an American shield at the top. The entirety of the frames, sides of the hammers, trigger guards, backstraps, buttstraps, ejector housings & both ends of the bbls are inlaid with gold wire. The ejector housings have extra wide tapered inlays. Grips are made in the orig manner of 2-slabs of “certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” attached to a wooden spacer block. This is an incredible set of Colts that will be impossible to duplicate today. Ken Hurst was a master engraver for Colt well into the 1980’s when he left to form his own engraving school & team of engravers in Virginia. Mr. Hurst has engraved extraordinary examples of just about any kind of firearm imaginable. He has continued to engrave for Colt, Winchester, Ruger & private commissions. Represented her is some Mr. Hurst’s finest work. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, both revolvers all matching including grips. Overall they retain virtually all of their fine custom finish with bright Colt-style blues with beautifully muted case colors. Color case hardening is covered with lacquer. Grips are crisp & new with light ivory patina. Overall both revolvers appear to be crisp & new and unfired, possibly unturned. 50061-46, 50061-47, JR125 IVORY (10,000-20,000) – Lot 2090
RARE ONE OF TWO MANUFACTURED AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY “THE AMERICAN EAGLE” SILVER AND GOLD INLAID COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER DESIGNED BY TIFFANY.
SN 202294. Cal. 44. Spectacular gold & silver Model 1860 Army percussion revolver, #1 of only two made by the American Historical Society Cir. 1994. It has 8″ rnd bbl, sculpted front sight in the shape of a feather with heavy gold overlay. Top of the bbl is inlaid in gold “THE AMERICAN EAGLE . DESIGNED BY TIFFANY & CO.” The entire bbl lug and about 5″ of each side of the bbl have heavy gold overlay masterfully engraved in the shape of an eagle’s wing with matching heavy gold feathers on the rammer handle. Bbl has a heavy gold engraved ring around the muzzle. Sides of frame are inlaid in silver depicting an eagle’s talon holding an olive branch, with one gold olive on the left side and an eagle’s talon clutching 3 arrows on the right side. Cyl has an incredible heavy silver overlay of 6 eagles heads with gold beaks and a heavy band around the front edge with alternating gold feathers & smooth silver. One chamber is overlaid with a heavy gold cartouche bearing the inscription “COLT’S PATENT”. Recoil shields have heavy gold overlay feather patterns with bands of feather patterns by the hammer slot which flow down the rear edge and across bottom edges of the frame. Toward the front the gold feathers are alternated with graduated, smooth silver partitions. Bottom left front of the frame is inlaid with a gold “1”. Bottom front of the frame, adjacent to the SN is engraved with the engravers name “A. BOURBON”. This extraordinary work of art was designed by Tiffany & Co. and manufactured in the early 1990’s. It was originally intended that only 10 of these superb works of art would be created however only 2 were executed. This one bearing number “1”. The work was created by Andrew Bourbon, a renowned engraver of jewelry and firearms. Bourbon was born in Providence, Rhode Island in 1949 and later worked for a considerable period of time with the renowned firearms engraver, A. A. White. He developed the skill of his art while in the tutelage of A.A. White. This is an extraordinary and almost unique work of art; it being one of only two in existence. Top of the backstrap is engraved with the American Historical Society double-eagle logo and the backstrap is engraved “United States Historical Society”. Buttcap is sculpted steel with feather patterns and inlaid gold patterns on the toe. It is mounted with 1-pc pearl grip that it has inlaid U.S. $5 dollar gold piece on the left side and a large gold Colt medallion on the right side. Trigger guard & backstrap are gold plated. SNs on bottom of bbl lug and bottom front of frame are inlaid in gold. The gold & silver embellishments along with the concealed frame screws are by Andrew Bourbon. An example of this revolver is illustrated on pg 306 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, R. L. Wilson. Also, this exact gun is illustrated in “Steel Canvas” by R. L. Wilson on both the frontice page and page 23. Also, the only other example of “The American Eagle” resides in the renown collection of Robert M. Lee. His gun (SN 20315) is illustrated and replete with a very detailed write up of the engraver and the gun on pages 466, 467, 468 and 469 of the Art of the Gun, Magnificent Colts. PROVENANCE: Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, crisp and new. The only flaw found by the cataloger was a loss of a teeny fleck of bluing on the left side of the forward portion of the barrel. It is otherwise in superb condition. 49941-10 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2159
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT FIRST MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 620. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, crowned muzzle, front blade sight, top of bbl marked “Address SamL. Colt New York”, 6-shot replacement cylinder marked with SN “30942”. The wedge screw on first model Navies is under the wedge and the square back silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap with a varnished 1-pc walnut grip. Cylinder with normal Ormsby Naval battle scene. Hammer is nicely engraved with a somewhat obliterated dogs head on each side of the nose and has long ears each side towards spur. Bbl and loading lever are nicely engraved in early vine style as is frame and recoil shield. Front strap inscribed of the period “J.P. Steptoe VA”. Trigger guard nicely scroll engraved and with bundled wheat sheaf pattern on bow. Backstrap and butt also engraved in vine pattern. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Good. All matching except cylinder as noted above. No orig finish remains on metal parts, being a smooth lightly cleaned gray finish throughout with light to moderate wear and handling marks. Left side of frame near grips with unusual divot likely from an in-service hit the gun may have take, Grips are good but slightly undersized at butt and toe and appear to retain most of a period re-varnish. There is a trace or two of orig silver near trigger guard bow, approximately 30% orig cylinder scene is present. Cylinder is very good with one deeper scratch running horizontally. Mechanics are good, bore is fair. A very rare gun worthy of additional research with inscription. 49973-129 JSL80 (4,500-6,500) – Lot 1204
COLLECTOR’S LOT, TWO SCARCE COLT 1877 LIGHTNING MODELS AND COLT 1877 THUNDERER.
SN 19809, 38421, 102312. 1) Engraved Colt m1877 Lightning revolver with 3-1/2″ nickel plated bbl. Marked on left side in panel “COLT D.A. .38” and marked on top “COLT’S PAT., F.A. MFG. CO / HARTFORD CT U.S.A.” Frame, top strap and recoil shield engraved in factory pattern, top of backstrap with fancy diamond pattern. Checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt on top. This gun with early Colt Factory letter indicating was originally shipped with nickel finish and pearl grips and confirms factory engraving, shipped to Simmons Hardware, St. Louis, MO, November 12, 1879. 2) Colt m1877 Lightning revolver with 3-1/2″ nickel plated bbl. Marked on left side in panel “COLT D.A. .38” and marked on top “COLT’S PAT., F.A. MFG. CO / HARTFORD CT U.S.A.” Six shot cyl, full nickel finish with checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt on top. Colt Factory letter confirms current configuration, gun shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, September 8, 1882. 3) Colt m1877 D.A. Thunderer. Standard configuration 5″ bbl, full height front blade sight, ejector rod housing on right side of bbl. Six shot rebated cyl. Checkered black hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt on top. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very good. Retaining 30-40% original nickel plating overall. Bbl engraving is very good with about 1/2 original nickel, front sight lightly trimmed, minor pin prick pitting at muzzle. Frame and cyl retain strong traces of original nickel plating as does top strap, engraving lightly worn, with some small areas of very minor corrosion. Front and backstrap lightly stained with hints of original silver particularly towards toe. Grips lightly to moderately worn from handling and holster carry, some checkering loss and minute loss to right grip at frame. Undoubtedly the original pearl grips were replaced early during this guns life as the current grips fit perfectly and have near identical wear to the gun. Trigger needs slight adjustment. Bore is very good with minor pitting. 2) Very good to excellent. Bbl retains 30-40% original nickel finish with strong panel. Frame, top strap and cyl retain 75-80%+ original nickel finish with light scattered flaking particularly to few flutes at front of cyl and at loading gate. Back of hammer and trigger retain some original high polish blue finish. Back and front straps are excellent retaining more than 80″% original nickel finish. Grips are excellent, checkering mostly quite crisp. Mechanics are excellent. Bore near excellent with scattered staining. 3) Bbl and ejector retain more than 1/2 of their original blue just starting to tone from age. Cyl retains approximately 30% original blue as does trigger guard. Frame with 30-40% nice original case color. Back and front strap have toned brown. Grips are near excellent with only light handing marks. Mechanics are excellent. Bore near excellent. 50019-156, 50019-222, 50019-223, JSL116 (1,250-1,750) – Lot 1390
SN 16836. 1) Cal. .32 RF. SN 16836. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 5-shot cylinder, etched panel, 2-line bbl address, front blade sight with top strap groove sight, mother-of-pearl grips. 2) Cal. .32 RF. SN 12902. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, patent address, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. 3) Cal. .32 CF. SN 7590. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips. 4) Cal. .32 CF. SN 5663. 2-1/4″ bbl, silver plated, etched panel, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Engraving is sharp. Etched panel is vivid. Bbl and frame have 70% orig nickel. Cylinder has traces of gold wash in flutes. Hammer and trigger are gold washed. Grips are in excellent condition. Bore is good. 2) Etched panel is fair condition. Nickel overall is 60% starting to dull and flake. Rosewood grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 3) Good etched panel. Bbl at muzzle has peeled. Balance of bbl and frame are 50% silver. Cylinder has flaked and worn to mostly gray metal. Grips are in very good condition. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl has flaked and worn to 60%. Etched panel is clear. Frame has 60% orig finish. Cylinder has peeling and flaking with 20% orig finish remaining. Hammer and trigger have good fire blue. Grips are oil stained. Left grip has chip at butt. Grips have scattered scratches and dings. Bore is good. 50019-63, 50019-284, 50019-289, 50019-290, TN45 (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1434
SN 494. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish, all metal pistol with 2-1/4″ ovoid shaped bbl with half-moon front sight and 2-line company name & address on top flat. Hammer spur is grooved on the top tang to serve as rear sight. Pistol is lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the side and back of hammer slot with 3 checkered panels on the grip. There are about 6,500 of these little pistols produced 1867-1890. This early 3-digit example is near new retaining virtually all of its bright nickel finish, this example could not be upgraded. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be new and unfired, retaining virtually all of its orig nickel finish with a few small scuffs on the bbl. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 50140-9 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 2101
RARE CASED ENGRAVED MODEL 2 COLT 1855 SIDE HAMMER PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 26484. Cal 28. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & type 2 Hartford address without pointing hand motif. Cyl is 5 chambers, unfluted with cabin/Indian fight scene roll marking. Mounted with 1-pc smooth “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip that is matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with about 60% coverage, fine foliate arabesque patterns that has pearled background. Hammer shank & sides of hammer are engraved to match. Engraving patterns extend over the top strap onto the bbl and rammer pivot with matching patterns on backstrap, buttstrap & bottom of frame. Tip of cyl pin is broken. Accompanied by a burgundy velvet lined Colt rosewood casing that has escalloped plaque in the lid that is engraved “Amos Stellenwerf”. Case is German silver mounted with corner reinforcements & matching lock escutcheon. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a Root sized, double-sided Eagle & Stars flask, a bowlegged blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps and a small pewter Dixon oiler. Accompanied by a packet of information regarding Amos Ryder Stellenwerf (1812-1894). Early in life Mr. Stellenwerf was a grocer before moving to Islip ,N.Y. in September 1849. He was the proprietor of Lake House on Long Island, N.Y. which apparently was a summer boarding house for visitors to the south shore of Long Island. It seemingly was an extremely popular vacation place, even advertised in the Long Island Railroad Co. brochures at $12-14 per week. Mr. Stellenwerf apparently managed the operation until his death. Engraved Root revolvers are quite rare, cased ones even more rare with rosewood casings the most rare. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine, all matching. Overall retains about 60% orig finish with the loss areas flaked to a light patina. Cyl retains about 20-25% orig blue with the balance a grey metal patina and shows about 75% cabin Indian fight scene with strong “COLT’S PATENT” cartouche. Bottom sideplate screw is broken & missing. Grip has a small chip in the toe and one small age line and shows a golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with heavy spots of pitting about mid-point. Case is missing 1 small corner reinforcement and a strip of veneer on the right bottom edge and another on the left bottom edge. Lid shows an open seam, otherwise case is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Bottom retains about 75-80% purple velvet cloth covering. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid with stains from contact with the cyl & muzzle. Bottom is lightly faded also with stains from contact with the cyl & muzzle of the revolver. Partitions are solid. Flask has a few small dents and shows about 20-25% orig finish on the body with good gold on the collar and spout. Mold retains about 65-70% orig blue with light pitting on one handle and some battering on the body. Other accessories are fine. 50142-11 JS107 IVORY (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2176
Please Note: The barrel has been stretched a couple of inches.
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 RICHARDS-MASON CONVERSION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 6096. Cal. 44. This is one of about 2000 Richards-Mason conversions of Colt Army produced 1877-1878. This gun has contemporary engraving and has seen apparent hard use, but good care. Gun appears original and complete, including the well patinaed ivory grips. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Gun is fair to good overall. Engraving fairly crisp and discernible, though bbl address and patent markings are weak. Iron cleaned, gray overall. Brass trigger guard has traces of silver, cleaned with light brass patina. Grips fit fairly well with good hand worn patina to the “certifiable antique elephant ivory”. Mechanically gun is sound and functioning though a little wobble between bbl and frame, wedge appears to be a replacement, bore shows considerable wear with barely discernible rifling and pitting. 49973-152 JS IVORY (1,500-3,000) – Lot 1272
SN 10639. 1) Cal. .38 CF. NEW LINE. SN 10639. 4″ bbl, blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, grips are un-numbered ebony, 2-line bbl address and patent address. 2) Cal. .38 CF. NEW LINE. SN 8802. 4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, walnut grips, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, cylinder is British proof marked. 3) Cal. .38 CF. NEW POLICE. SN 15398. 5″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, blade front sight and top strap groove sight, ejector housing with rnd ejector head, 2-line bbl address, etched panel “NEW POLICE 38”, 2-pc checkered Colt grips with Cop and Thug scuffle scene. Scratched in right side of frame a star and “M H”. Includes a 1968 Bill of Sale from Jackson Arms. 4) Cal. .38 CF. NEW POLICE. SN 21852. 4-1/2″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, etched panel “NEW POLICE 38”, ejector housing with round ejector rod head, 5-shot cylinder with loading gate, mother-of-pearl grips, right grip is engraved “H.A.L. TO W.H.W. KANSAS 1899”. Includes a Bill of Sale from Antique Armory in GA. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) 90% of a full re-nickel. Etched panel is not visible. Hammer, trigger, cylinder pin, and screws have been nickeled. Grips have had finish added. Bore is good. 2) 70% of a re-nickel. Etched panel is nearly gone. Some screws have been nickeled. Hammer has near excellent fire blue. Grips are orig finish with scratches and dents. Hammer is unsteady at fire position. Bore is fair. 3) Condition of bbl and ejector housing are 60% orig blue with corrosion at muzzle. Cylinder has flaked to mostly gray/silver. Frame has 60% orig blue with light scratches and flaking. Grips are in near excellent condition with “M H” carved at butt. Bore is good. 4) Bbl and ejector housing have 90% bright orig blue with vivid etched panel. Cylinder has flaked and turned slightly dull. Frame has 80% orig blue. Trigger and hammer have fire blue color. Mother-of-pearl grips are in near excellent condition and slightly over sized at butt. Bore is near excellent. 50019-75, 50019-77, 50019-128, 50019-129, TN34 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1411
*BEAUTIFUL BILL MAINS ENGRAVED WITH GOLD BROWNING MODEL 1910/55 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 559368. Cal. 380 ACP. Blue finish with 3-3/8″ bbl, fixed sights & Browning embossed, checkered hard rubber grips. Accompanied by 1 orig magazine. Pistol is beautifully engraved by master engraver Bill Mains with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background on the slide with matching patterns on sides of the frame. Left side of slide has the “BROWNING” name inlaid in gold & all of the panels are outlined in gold wire, both on slide & frame. Bottom of the left side center panel of the slide is engraved “MAINS”. Trigger is gold washed. Bill Mains was master engraver for Colt in the last 20th Century, producing numerous master-pieces & was Colt’s most prolific factory engraver. Mr. Mains rarely signed his work with his full name, usually only a small buffalo stamp. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, appears to be unfired since custom finishing. Trigger shows wear on the front, otherwise pistol retains virtually all of its fine custom finish. Grips are crisp. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 50062-177 JR170 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1554
RARE ROSEWOOD CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 91858. Cal. 36. Incredible 1851 Navy, blue and color case colored with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetailed front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow-shape. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins crisp and serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a smooth 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip that has last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Grip is constructed of two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young with his deluxe full coverage on the frame which consists of fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Several scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug and top three flats of the bbl. The major scroll around the wedge on the left side terminates in a serpent. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and ends of the wedge are also engraved. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on top edge and sides of spur. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Accompanied by an incredible, orig, brass bound rosewood Colt casing that has gold-washed appointments with an empty rectangular plate in the lid and matching lock escutcheon. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a double-sided trophy of arms & flask, eagle & shield with stars flask that has angled spout, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with bright steel sprue cutter, a paper wrapped tin of Eley’s caps, a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Work’s combustible cartridges and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Accompanied by a 3-pg letter from renowned author & Colt historian, R.L. Wilson which corroborates this information. This revolver was produced in about 1859, obviously for someone of considerable wealth or as a presentation to someone of great importance, or possibly a reward for an act of valor. There were approximately 215,000 Models 1851 produced 1850-1873. From their introduction until well into the 1870’s, these revolvers were extremely popular and usually saw very hard service on the American frontier and literally around the world with such notable figures Wild Bill Hickock and many others from both sides of the law. Only a small percentage were engraved and incredibly few were fitted with the ivory grip and spectacular casing. Few of those survive today. PROVENANCE: Jim Epplen Collection; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 75% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a dark patina, showing only light sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot retains strong case colors with the handle lightly cleaned in the center. Frame retains virtually all of its orig case colors, strong and bright on the right side, moderately faded on the left. Hammer shows faded case colors with fine pitting on the hammer nose. Cyl retains about 40% thinning orig blue with the balance flaked to a medium patina and shows about 95% Naval battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard retains about 60% strong orig silver, thin on front strap and buttstrap. Backstrap retains most of its orig silver. Grip is sound with a few age lines and shows a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom with most of its oil cloth bottom covering intact, otherwise is sound and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Brass appointments retain strong gold-wash. Interior is strong and bright with only light wear from revolver contact in the bottom. Flask retains about 97-98% bright orig finish on the body with traces of gold-wash on the collar and spout. Mold is crisp and clean with some minor dings on the sides. Cap tin is open with slight losses and faded label. Cartridge packet and nipple wrench are fine. 49631-16 JR18 IVORY (60,000-80,000) – Lot 2123
Please Note: Mr. Shepherd states this is not engraved by Colt Custom Shop. Aftermarket engraved by Luis Herrera.
*COLT CUSTOM SHOP ENGRAVED DETECTIVE SPECIAL DA REVOLVER.
SN 49136R. Cal. 38 SPCL. Nickle finish with 2″ shrouded bbl, fixed sights & mounted with checkered walnut grips. Consignor reports that this revolver is engraved by Luis Herrera. Engraving consists about D+ coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Accompanied by a Colt Custom Shop brown leatherette, hinge-lid, orange velvet lined, Custom Shop casing with gold embossed Colt logo on the lid & company information inside. Very few of this era of detective specials were factory engraved. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Appears to be new & unfired showing only a very faint hint of a cyl line. Case is equally new. 50062-98 JR169 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2611
*ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 39652SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, block letter address with model & Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates & Rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with factory silver medallion smooth “certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” ivory grips. Engraved with what appears to be factory patterns with about B coverage foliate arabesque patterns with large fans on left recoil shield, loading gate & top of backstrap. Top strap, bbl, backstrap, buttstrap, trigger guard & cyl are engraved to match. Right side of front & backstraps are marked with assembly No. 180 and left side of buttstrap under the grip is marked with the No. 101496 which are factory reworked numbers. Accompanied by a Colt Custom Shop style green velvet lined mahogany case, French fitted for the revolver. It also has two 6-RD cartridge blocks. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 99%+ factory silver finish. Left grip has a repaired chip in the heel with other minor age lines and overall shows a fine ivory patina. Screws retain most of their fine fire blue. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. Case is extremely fine. 50062-43 JR132 IVORY (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1352
SN 3764. All are Cal. 38. 1) SN 3764, 4″ bbl, etched panel bbl, 2-pc walnut grips. 2) SN 2550, 2-1/4″ bbl, has “Colt New 38″ on panel, has rosewood grips. 3) 2-1/4” bbl, 2-line patent address, “Colt New .38″ etched panel, rosewood grips. 4) SN 8781, 2-1/4” bbl, factory engraved, mother-of-pearl grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Refinished metal over pitting. Grips have traces of orig finish but are darkly oil stained. 2) Blue is mostly flaked with bright orig blue in protected areas, grips have orig finish in good condition. 3) Nickel is 80% bright orig Colt finish, etched panel is clear an unmarked. Trigger and hammer have brilliant fire blue, grips have finish added over light dents and scratches. 4) Finish is 80% orig nickel with thinning in areas, hammer and trigger are fire blued in very good condition, mother-of-pearl grips are perfectly fit in near excellent condition., 50019-76, 50019-83, 50019-84, 50019-90., TN10 (2,750-5,000) – Lot 1424
*RARE ONE OF A KIND COPY OF THE FAMOUS SEARS COW BOY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY RENOWNED COLT MASTER ENGRAVER DENNIS KIES.
SN S46039A. Cal. 45 Colt. Royal blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with Cal. marking on left side. The 3rd Generation black powder frame has 3-line patent dates on left side. It is mounted with an incredible 1-pc “certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” grip that has spectacular raised carved seated Goddess Liberty with gold accents on the right side and standing Goddess Liberty with gold accents on the left side. Revolver is engraved in about D-plus coverage spectacular foliate & floral arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. The frame, cyl, bbl & top of backstrap are inlaid with 24 karat gold wire and screw heads are all engraved. Front of the frame, just under the base pin, is marked with the engravers name “D. KIES”. The engraving patterns very closely, but not exactly, follow those found on the orig 1897 Single Action Army revolver used by the Sears Roebuck Company as an advertisement, which is now referred to as the “Cow Boy Special”. The orig revolver was recently sold by the Julia Auction Company for $747,500. The grip on this revolver was prepared and fitted by James Aliamo, the former Superintendent of the Colt Custom Gun Shop who took the commission for this revolver. The carving was accomplished by Mr. Dennis Holland of Lubbock, TX, a master carver and scrimshaw artist. Accompanied by a 6-pg letter on Nutmeg Sports letterhead over the signature of Mr. Aliamo, dated March 20, 2008, which details the work leading up to and being accomplished on this revolver by the 2 artists involved, Mr. Kies and Mr. Holland. Mr. Aliamo, through his company, Nutmeg Sports, ordered the revolver from the Colt Custom Shop. He had it especially polished to accommodate the royal blue finish after which he fitted the grip in his own shop and sent it to Mr. Holland for carving and the revolver to Mr. Kies for engraving. Also accompanied by an incredible burl walnut, beveled case that is 15″ long x 10-1/4″ wide x 3-1/2″ deep at the front and 5-5/8″ deep at the back. Case has a fluted front with mortised brass lock and a 5″ x 3″ brass plate in the lid with a short history and specifications of this revolver. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and fitted in the bottom for the revolver, right side up. Inside the lid is another matching brass plate detailing information about the engraver. Also accompanying is a 2014 U.S.A. Shooting calendar which includes a picture of the orig Sears Colt on the September page. PROVENANCE: Mr. Terry Lester Collection; The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, no disassembly was effected to check for matching numbers. Revolver appears to be new & unfired and unturned. Grips are also equally new as is the case. 50061-67 JR121 IVORY (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2091
RARE SPECIAL ORDER DELUXE COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CARVED BURL GRIPS.
SN 28208. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2 rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Most unusually, the trigger guard & backstrap are steel and are color case hardened. Mounted with an extraordinary, carved, 1-pc walnut grip. Grip is beautifully carved with foliate arabesque patterns at the top & bottom on each side with the center section an intricate basket weave pattern. Back strap channel of the grip is marked with the full matching serial number. Frame is most unusually, without “COLTS PATENT” marking on the left side. Cylinder is unfluted with the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and has all 6 safety pins prominent & serviceable. Bbl address & cylinder roll marking are very light strikes as is often found on the ’61 Navy. At one time, this revolver was accompanied by a 1-pg letter from Colt Historian, researcher and author, R.L. Wilson, where in he verifies most of the above information. Mr. Wilson states that the grip on this revolver is carved similarly to the grip found on a cased Colt pocket navy about which Mr. Wilson had also written a letter attributing the carved grip to Charles J. Helfricht, father of Colt master engraver Cuno A. Helfricht. In the letter which formerly accompanied this revolver Mr. Wilson attributed the carved grip to Colt craftsman J. Grosch. Regardless of the attribution these carved grips are extraordinarily rare and only found on equally rare revolvers. Consignor states that this revolver was discovered in a small estate sale in Connecticut several years ago. Consignor further states that when this revolver was purchased from that estate sale it was accompanied by an elaborately engraved Colt Single Action Sheriff’s Model revolver with ebony grip. An additional rare feature on this revolver are the very fine checkered ramrod handle & hammer spur. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains about 90% glossy factory blue, thin on each side, turning a little plum with spots of surface discoloration; left side of bbl lug has 3 scratches and right side has nicks & dings around the wedge slot; frame & hammer retain bright case colors, slightly more faded on the recoil shields and top edge of hammer; trigger guard retains bright case colors in sheltered areas, moderately faded on the trigger bow and turned gray on the front strap; back strap retains strong case colors at the top and bright colors on the butt strap, lightly to moderately faded in center of back strap; cyl retains about 70-80% thin blue and shows about 90% thin Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear with a few light scratches in the finish and overall retains about 95% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 50139-1 JR195 (25,000-35,000) – Lot 2160
EXCEEDINGLY RARE COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER WITH “WELLS FARGO” TYPE ORIGINAL FOUR INCH BARREL ASSEMBLY.
SN 56337. Cal. 36. 4″ oct bbl, small cone front bead sight, no loading lever, six shot cyl, brass trigger guard, brass front and backstrap. Arbor has scooped face. 1-pc walnut grip. Backstrap nicely engraved “UPRR” and butt inscribed “TLD”. Frame is U.S. over-run. Formerly in the Severn collection. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Good, as found. All metal surfaces with scattered light pin prick erosion, more moderate erosion on cyl. Bbl address is good. Backstrap and trigger guard are good with light handling marks and light scratches. Grips are good with minor losses and handling marks. Inscription and backstrap mark are most intriguing, only adding to the rarity of this highly unusual configuration. Mechanics are good. Bore with moderate pitting. 49973-137 JSL118 (1,000-2,500) – Lot 1220
CASED PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE REVOLVERS WITH PEARL GRIPS.
SN 6172/6194. 1) Cal. 32 RF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with blue screws. Gold wash hammer, gold wash cylinder and gold wash cylinder base pin. 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Helfricht Shop engraved in an American Scroll pattern. Engraving on bbl is scroll on both sides with a border around bbl address and an accent around front sight. Frame shows engraving on both sides and top strap. Cylinder shows scroll engraving between each cylinder flute with a wavy line border at rear of cylinder. SN matches on bbl, frame, cylinder and grips. 2) Cal. 32 RF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with blue screws. Gold wash hammer, gold wash cylinder and gold wash cylinder base pin. 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Helfricht Shop engraved in an American Scroll pattern. Engraving on bbl is scroll on both sides with a border around bbl address and an accent around front sight. Frame shows engraving on both sides and top strap. Cylinder shows scroll engraving between each cylinder flute with a wavy line border at rear of cylinder. SN matches on bbl, frame, cylinder and grips. Case is mahogany with brass reinforcements on lid and sides of lower part of case. Brass medallion in center of lid is unmarked. Case is lined in red felt. Case contains an unopened box of Remington 32 short R.F. cartridges. Revolvers are a accompanied by a Colt factory letter showing these revolvers were shipped as a pair to J.P. Moore & Sons in New York City on September 12, 1874. Letter confirms engraving and grips. Letter states that revolvers were shipped engraved with blue finish. The nickel plating and gold wash was applied by order of J.P. Moore when the revolvers were in new condition. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very fine. Bbl retains 98% orig nickel finish with a few small scratches. Engraving is sharp. Bbl address is sharp. Front sight is untrimmed. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Frame retains 98% orig nickel finish sharp engraving and sharp cal. mark. Hammer retains 50% gold wash finish. Trigger and bolt retain 95% fire blue finish. Cylinder retains 80% tarnished gold wash finish that is bright in flutes. Cylinder base pin shows traces of gold wash in protected areas. Cylinder has slight drag mark at rear. Chambers are dark. 2) Very fine. Bbl retains 99% orig nickel finish with a few small scratches. Engraving is sharp. Bbl address is sharp. Front sight is untrimmed. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Frame retain 98% orig nickel finish sharp engraving and sharp cal. mark. Hammer retains 50% gold wash finish. Trigger and bolt retain 95% fire blue finish. Cylinder retains 80% tarnished gold wash finish that is bright in flutes. Cylinder base pin shows traces of gold wash in protected areas. Cylinder has slight drag mark at rear. Chambers are dark. Case is very good with some staining in lining and mars and dents overall on outside especially on lid. A wonderfully preserved pair of engraved Colt New Line revolvers. 50019-234 TEP (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1391
SN 800. 1) Cal. .32 RF. SN 800. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 2-line bbl address, SN on side of bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. 2) Cal. .32 RF. SN 9816. 2-1/4″ bbl, gold wash finish and factory engraved, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. 3) Cal. .32 RF. SN 9325. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, silver blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. 4) Cal. .32 RF. SN 8054. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line patent address, “Colt New 32” etched panel, 5-shot cylinder, blade front sight with top strap grooved back sight, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 2) Bbl and frame have 60% orig nickel, cylinder has peeling near face. Light flaking in flutes. 60% overall finish. Hammer and trigger are good fire blue. Grips are in good condition. Bore is fair. 2) Gold has begun to fade. Engraving is sharp and clear. Grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 3) Bbl address is partially removed. Engraving is still in good condition and has checkered panels on bbl, starburst on frame, and scroll on rest of frame. Grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 4) Nickel is beginning to oxidize and flake. Etched panel is in very good condition. Hammer and trigger have good fire blue. Grips are in good condition. Bore is good. 50019-59, 50019-64, 50019-65, 50019-279, TN44 IVORY (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1435
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED GOLD COLT NO. 3, HIGH HAMMER DERRINGER.
SN 7011. Cal 41RF. Early production third model, 3rd variation with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight & large “COLT” in slanted letters on top and British proofs on the bottom. Mounted with 2-pc smooth rosewood grips, matching numbered to this pistol. Pistol is very nicely engraved, probably by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. Front sides of frame are engraved with feather patterns and backstrap in geometric patterns. Hammer is early style with high spur & is color cased hardened. Bbl & frame are totally gold washed over silver with fire blued screws. Trigger appears to be silver plated. Accompanied by an orig blue velvet lined English oak casing with empty brass medallion in the lid. Inside the lid has the Colt’s Pall Mall label. Bottom is compartmented for the pistol & a steel wire cleaning rod with slotted tip. Two compartments with bone pulls are empty. Although this variation had fairly high production, about 12,000 in the period 1873-1877, very few were so elaborately engraved, exceedingly few had precious metal plating & of those only a few are known cased. These little pistols were extremely popular with gamblers, gentlemen & ladies as muff pistols. They usually saw fairly hard service and are rarely found with high orig finish. The gold finish on this pistol is of a soft nature & easily worn. This is most likely the finest example of this gold engraved Colt deringer known. CONDITION: Very fine all matching. Pistol retains about 98% strong orig gold wash with some minor staining on bottom of bbl with some slight pimpling of the finish in that area. Hammer retains brilliant case colors & the screws most of their org blue. Grips are sound with a couple of very minor nicks and retains virtually all of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case is sound with a few light nicks & retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Interior is bright & clean with crisp label inside the lid. 50140-8 JS103 (25,000-30,000) – Lot 2102
INCREDIBLY RARE SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION CASE FOR A MODEL 1855 ROOT REVOLVER PRESENTED TO ELISHA KING ROOT.
Spectacular rosewood case of unusual design and configuration. Case measures 10-1/8″ long x 6″ wide and 3″ deep, silver bound with a large escalloped plaque in the lid, which undoubtedly was engraved by Gustave Young with very fine flourishes of foliate arabesque patterns and a full chip & dot border. The inscription is quite large in script: “Presented to / E. K. Root / by Col. Saml Colt / Prest Colts Pt F. A. Mfg. Co / May 16th 1857”. Corners of the case are bound with 3 silver straps & it has an engraved escalloped lock escutcheon. Interior is extremely unusual with an inside glass lid framed in rosewood, secured with sliding silver latches; lock & hinges are also silver. Interior, inside the lid & bottom have been relined in cream colored chamois leather. This case was part of a set presented to Mr. Root upon his resignation & retirement as the Superintendent of the Colt plant, a position he had held from 1849. Prior to coming to work for Colt, Mr. Root had been the Superintendent of the Collins Axe Factory, in which position he had reorganized and made the company into a leading producer of cutting tools. At the time Mr. Root moved to Colt, he became the highest salaried person in the State of Connecticut. Elisha Root was without peer in the design & implementation of manufacturing machinery with some of the machines he designed for Colt still being used today. Mr. Root is credited with the design of the Model 1855 revolver & revolving rifle, along with assisting in the design of innumerable other firearms and machinery. Samuel Colt and the Board of Directors of the company regarded Mr. Root so highly that when he tendered his resignation for health reasons, the Board of Directors ordered “that in testimonial (of his valuable and faithful services) and in testimonial thereof (he be presented) a full and complete set of all the different kinds of arms manufactured by the company made and finished in the best style be presented to him”. Currently there are only a few sets of these firearms known with the remainder yet to be discovered. Elisha Root was so well respected and held in such high regard by Mr. Colt that upon Samuel Colt’s death in 1862, Mr. Root was selected as one of his 8 pallbearers and then became the President of Colt, a position he held until his death in 1865. During those years as president, Colt reportedly produced as many firearms as had previously been produced by the company in total. Mr. Root’s genius as a designer and superintendent obviously extended to relationships with his working personnel in the plant. Reportedly, when this case first came to light, its interior had been reconfigured and a subsequent owner restored it to conform to the interior of other known E. K. Root presentation cases. Unfortunately, the whereabouts of the orig revolver is unknown. Accompanied by a 40-pg letter from renowned author & Colt historian R. L. Wilson. CONDITION: Very fine, as noted. Left bottom edge of the case end is missing a corner reinforcement and a sliver of veneer, with some other chips of veneer missing on the right end. Otherwise, case is sound with nicks, dings & scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is also fine. 50142-15 JS108 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2177
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE RICHARDS/MASON CONVERSION REVOLVER MCDOWELL TYPE 1-B 1-PIECE BURL WALNUT GRIP.
SN 31018E. Cal. 38 CF. 4 1/2″ bbl. Blue and case colored finish. 1-pc. burl walnut grip. Factory engraved in the open vine style with coverage on half of bbl mainly at lug and both sides of frame. Conversion ring shows a punch dot and walking line motif. Trigger guard and backstrap show light coverage with borders and scroll. Bbl has script addres “SAM’l COLT” surrounded by light scroll work. Bbl lug also shows some dental motif in style of C.F. Ulrich Jr. Ejector rod housing and ejector rod are missing. SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Wedge has no. 0096. “E” is stamped below SN indicating factory engraving. Last 4 digits of SN in grip channel. 1-pc burl walnut grip. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl is gray-brown patina overall with visible engraving and sharp Sam Colt mark engraved. Front sight is battered flat. Bore is dark with visible rifling. SN is clear. Frame has sharp engraving and a sharp Colt patent mark. Trigger guard and backstrap are a mellow mustard patina with sharp engraving. Cylinder is gray-brown patina with about 10% visible cylinder scene and readable SN. Chambers are dark. Grip is very good and retains 70% orig varnish finish with some staining, high point wear and mars and dents overall. A very colorful factory engraved Colt conversion with scarce bbl marking. 49973-233 TEP (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1279
Please Note: Gun #3; Serial Number 632; Barrel may be a replacement and has been restamped.
LOT OF THREE COLT CLOVERLEAF HOUSE REVOLVERS.
SN 261. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 261. 3″ bbl, Nimschke engraved, 2-line bbl address, bushing-type cylinder pin with ejector inside, 4-shot cylinder, 2-pc mother-of-pearl grips. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2866. 1-1/2″ rnd bbl, bbl stamped “Colt” on left side, bushing-type cylinder pin, rosewood 2-pc grips, 4-shot cylinder. Brass blade front sight with a top strap groove rear sight. 3) Cal. .41 RF. SN 632. 1-1/2″ oct bbl, bbl stamped “Colt” on left side, brass blade front sight and top strap groove rear sight, bushing-style cylinder pin, 4-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl and cylinder are silver-plated with nearly full coverage. Engraving on bbl. Cylinder has engraved panels on each chamber. Frame has full coverage arabesque engraving with traces of silver plating. Engraving is sharp and un-altered. Hammer has traces of gold wash. Bore is very good. Grips are near excellent. 2) Bbl and cylinder have 40% orig blue. Frame is brass with traces of silver plating. Hammer is fire-blued starting to dull. Grips have orig finish. Bore fair. 3) All metal has 70% nickel with light scratches and sharp edge wear. Grips have oil staining with orig finish in good condition. Bore is fair. 50019-132, 50019-135, 50019-342, TN35 (5,500-6,500) – Lot 1413
*COLT MODEL 1908 POCKET PISTOL ENGRAVED IN ELVIS PRESLEY PATTERN.
SN 324998. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/8″ bbl, fixed sights with color case hardened grip safety, thumb safety & trigger. Mounted with Rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Slide is engraved with about full coverage, very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Both ends of the slide on both sides are inlaid with fine gold wire patterns similar to a Walther PPK from the same engraver. Bottom front of the slide is engraved “MAINS”. Bill Mains was a Master Engraver for Colt Firearms in the late 20th Century and was one of Colt’s most prolific engravers. When he first began engraving for Colt, he was told not to sign his work so he developed a small buffalo logo to represent his signature which is frequently found on both factory work and outside contract work with the occasional full signature instead as found here. Also accompanied by a small vinyl zippered rug. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepard Collection CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of it’s orig blue on the frame & case colors on the 2 safeties & trigger. Slide retains virtually of it fine custom blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 50062-227 JR182 C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1738
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 6A 1855 ROOT SIDE HAMMER PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 10337. Cal. 31. All blue finish with rare 4-1/2″ stepped rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New-York U.S.A. address. Mounted with 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip that has very deep relief carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Grip is matching numbered rather whimsically, probably by a bored assembler with the Roman numerals “III III VII” (337) which are the matching last three digits of the SN. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and stage-coach hold-up scene roll marking. Revolver is engraved in late vine style without background and has about 60% coverage on the frame, top and bottom straps with matching patterns extending over the major diameter of the bbl on the backstrap, buttstrap and hammer. Accompanied by an English style, brass bound rosewood casing with plaque of the lid engraved “Amori Benson”. The brass fittings are gold-washed. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a blued steel bow-legged “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter and a brass and steel cleaning rod. Covered compartment in the right rear is empty. There were about 2100 Model 6 and 6A revolvers produced 1855 to about 1870. Extremely few were engraved and of those only a handful were so cased. These revolvers were very popular with both ladies and gentlemen of this era and usually saw hard service and are almost never found with high orig finish. Survival rate of cased examples are exceedingly rare. A quick Google search disclosed that there was a Dr. Amori Benson who was born 1799 in Putney, VT and died 1876 in Somerville, MA and is buried in Bennington, VT. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including bbl, cyl and grip. Overall, frame and bbl retain about 60-70% orig blue with the balance flaked to a dark patina. Backstrap is mostly a grey patina and the cyl is a light grey patina showing 60-70% stage-coach hold-up scene roll marking. Bbl is loose in the frame. Grip has a couple of age lines and a large chip out of the toe, otherwise is sound with a mellow ivory patina. Hammer will not catch at full cock and is not solid at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is fine with most of the green paper covering on the bottom and overall retains most of its orig factory varnish and about 80% gold-wash on the brass fittings. Interior is very lightly soiled in the bottom, otherwise is bright and clean. Flask retains 85-88% strong orig finish and the mold about 95% bright orig blue. Cleaning rod is fine. 49631-47 JR21 IVORY (12,500-17,500) – Lot 2125
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 99292SA. Cal. 44 Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with model and Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with beautiful, smooth, 1-pc ivory grip with gold Colt medallions. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 44 Spcl with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory Class C engraved in standard American style scroll, shipped to Cherry’s Sporting Goods, Genesco, IL on Sept 28, 1979 to order number 10723 in a 2-gun shipment. Also accompanied by an orig brown leatherette covered custom shop case with orange satin lining in the bottom and embossing on top and inside the lid. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, no disassembly was effected to check for matching numbers. Overall retains 99% plus crisp, orig factory blue and brilliant case colors. Hammer retains fire blue on top and rear edges, bright on the sides. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and a fine ivory patina. Case has a repaired hinge, otherwise is fine. 50062-61 JR119 IVORY (4,000-7,000) – Lot 1353
SN 1768. 1) Cal. .38 RF. SN 1768. 2-1/4″ bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” 2-pc grips. 2) Cal. .38 CF. SN 11033. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, patent address on bottom of bbl, factory engraved, left side of bbl stamped “Colt New .38”, “certifiable antique elephant ivory ” 2-pc grips. 3) Cal. .38 CF. SN 4344. 2-1/4″ bbl. 5-shot cylinder. 2-pc rosewood grips. Includes collector’s notes. 4)Cal. .38 CF. SN 10880. 4″ bbl, blade front sight, framed notch rear sight, rosewood grips, “Colt New .38” etch panel. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) All metal re-nickeled, except hammer and trigger, bore is dark. 2) Cal. 38 CF. Nickel is flaked around and in engraving turning mostly brown, balance is bright nickel. Hammer and trigger are fire-blued. Grips are slightly undersized. Bore is good. 3) Nickel has mostly flaked with 20% remaining. Grips are cracked. Bore is fair. 4) Orig nickel 60% remaining with areas of flaking and wear. Hammer and trigger have bright fire blue, grips are in good condition. 50019-85, 50019-86, 50019-298, 50019-299., TN12 IVORY (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1425
*FANTASTIC ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH STEERHEAD IVORY GRIPS FROM THE JOHN DUMONT COLLECTION.
SN 357723. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with late first generation marking on the side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without circle. Left side of front strap, under the grip is inlaid with Mr. White’s gold cartouche marked “A.A. WHITE / ENG.” Revolver is wonderfully engraved by Mr. White with about 70% coverage on the frame consisting of extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background. Left recoil shield has a very large raised gold rampant Colt with a raised gold buffalo skull on the loading gate. Top of back strap has an incredible raised gold spread winged American eagle clutching arrows & olive branches in its talons and the back strap is inlaid with a raised, gold longhorn steer head with platinum horns & fantastic detail. Top of bbl, just behind front sight has flat gold inlay of crossed cavalry sabers. Sides of frame, back strap, butt strap, trigger plate, bbl, ejector rod housing & trigger guard are inlaid with flat gold wire as part of the foliate arabesque engraving patterns. Muzzle & breech ends of the bbl are inlaid with a narrow gold band, as is the ejector rod housing. Sides of hammer are also engraved to match. In addition, the screw heads on the frame are nicely engraved and the ends of the transverse pin are checkered. Cylinder has full coverage matching foliate arabesque patterns with foliate patterns in the flutes. The flutes & lands between the flutes are inlaid with fine continuous gold wire and the back edge of cylinder also is inlaid with a fine gold band. SN was observed on bottom of frame and on right side of the front & back straps under “certified pre-ban elephant ivory” 2-pc grip. Cyl is unmarked. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, charged to “Arms Selling Expense” and shipped to Mr. John S. du Mont, Greenfield, Mass. on Sept. 27, 1950 in a 1-gun shipment. Alvin White was one of Colt’s premier master post-war engravers as well as engraving on his own under his own shop name. He produced some of the finest engraved Colts of the modern era that are in some of the greatest collections in the world today. Mr. John du Mont was one of the deans of the firearms collecting fraternity for many years until his death late in the 20th century. Mr. du Mont amassed a very large collection of a great variety of firearms of very high quality and great value. Accompanied by a reconfigured black leather covered distributors case lined in purple satin with gold braided cord outline and a gold stain ribbon diagonally across inside of lid. PROVENANCE: John S. du Mont Collection; David Crocker Estate collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except cyl & grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its wonderful post engraving custom finish probably by Colt. Blue is crisp & bright with strong case colors. Gold animals are executed in extreme fine detail and are a fine example of Mr. White’s talent at its zenith. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case is extremely fine. 50222-1 JR228 IVORY (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2092
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 132993. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetailed Rocky Mountain style front sight with blued steel blade & 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated large guard, brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last 4 digits of SN faintly in backstrap channel. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins mostly serviceable. All SNs on the bottom are accompanied by a small “E” which was a signal to factory workmen to provide extra polish for engraving. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe foliate arabesque patterns consisting of fine pearled background having nearly full coverage on the frame. Two scrolls on the left side and 1 on the right side terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats with one large flower blossom on the left side and a stylized dogs head in the bottom center of the left side. Right side of the bbl lug also has a single flower blossom and another scroll terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized birds head. Matching engraving patterns are also found on the rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger bow. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s light fan pattern with 1/4 blossoms on sides of the backstrap shoulders. Ends of the wedge are also engraved. Accompanied by a purple velvet lined Colt mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a correct navy sized flask with angled spout with 2-sided Eagle and Panoply of Arms, a blued steel, unmarked Colt-style bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a partial packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges and an unlacquered tin with green label for Eley’s caps. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 36 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish with wood grip shipped to Cooper & Pond, NY, NY on Nov 18, 1862 in a 6 gun shipment. Given that this pistol was shipped late in 1862, at the height of the Civil War, it can easily be assumed that this was probably intended as a presentation or gift to a military person, probably an officer leaving for the war. While there were many such revolvers engraved during that time frame, most saw hard service throughout the war and later on the American frontier and few survive today with orig finish, especially with their orig case and accouterments. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear & some thinning on left side. Rammer pivot retains bright case colors, the handle faded to silver. Frame retains about 90% strong case colors showing wear around the bottom and rear edges, thinning on the recoil shields. Hammer retains about 60-70% bright case colors turned silver on the back edge. Cyl retains about 60-70% thin orig blue and shows about 80% Naval battle scene roll marking, apparently a light strike. Grip frame retains traces of silver, being mostly a dark mustard patina. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. Case has a grain check in the lid and 3 more in the bottom, otherwise is solid and shows and old restored finish. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid with light soil. Bottom is lightly to moderately faded in areas with wear from contact with the revolver and light damage from the front sight. One partition is partially loose. Flask is very good with about half of its original varnish. Mold is very fine, showing about 85% orig blue. Cartridge packet is open with 3 cartridges remaining. Cap tin is soiled but fine. 50142-4 JS112 (30,000-40,000) – Lot 2162
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1855 HALF STOCK SPORTING RIFLE WITH BAYONET LUG.
SN 3011. Cal .44 Percussion, 31-1/4″ round bbl with oct breech. Blue and case colored finish, straight grained American walnut stocks with carbine buttplate. Engraving is on the breech end of the bbl and the receiver. Cyl and hammer are also engraved. Trigger guard and buttplate also show engraving. Engraving is open scroll style with no punch-dot background. Fore end has an engraved German silver cap. Loading lever is knurled. Bbl has a German silver blade front-sight and a folding rear sight. Rear sight also has engraving accents. Bbl mounts a bayonet lug about 4″ from the muzzle. There is a orig wooden cleaning rod with brass tip under the bbl. Receiver has standard Colt address stamped on the top. SN is stamped on the bottom of receiver in front of trigger guard. Cyl has “Patent September 10, 1850” stamped in one flute. Buttstock is unmarked. Fore-end is unmarked. Fore-end is attached by a wedge. SN is stamped on bottom of bbl under fore-end. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl is an even gray brown patina overall with high-point wear and some roughness at the muzzle. Sights are very good. Engraving is sharp. Receiver is a silver gray patina overall with sharp engraving and clear Colt address mark, which is somewhat deteriorated toward forward end. Hammer is a plumb brown patina. Trigger guard is a dark brown patina with some roughness. Lower tang shows traces of blue in protected areas. Cyl is a dark brown patina with sharp engraving and marks. Cyl is somewhat battered over one chamber. Stocks are very good and full size with only minor handling marks overall. Buttplate is a gray brown patina with considerable roughness at the heal and the toe. Buttplate screws appear to be replacements. Fore-end is good with some dark stains. Ramrod is good with some dark stains. A very unique Model 1855 Sporting Rifle with Bayonet Lug and Carbine Butt. 49973-164 TEP (5,800-6,800) – Lot 1224
FACTORY ENGRAVED NEW LINE REVOLVER CASED IN FRENCH FIT BLACK LEATHERETTE CASE WITH SATIN LINING WITH COLT MODEL ON INSIDE LID.
SN 13911. Cal. 32 CF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with blue screws, hammer and trigger. 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Blue screws and cylinder pin. High grade Helfricht Shop engraving with scroll on both sides of bbl, border around address and front sight,and very fine punch dot background. “COLT NEW 32” engraved on left side of bbl below scroll. Frame has full coverage engraving on both sides with intertwining scroll, scallop and floral motifs. Engraving has very fine punch dot background. Cylinder has scroll engraving between flutes with decorated cartouche in center of scroll and fine dot background. Rear border of cylinder has punch dot border. Bbl has 2-line address. Frame is unmarked. SN matches on bbl, frame, cylinder, and grips. Case is leather bound with “TP” monogram and “1882” on the lid. Case is french fit with satin and felt lining. Satin ribbon on inside lid reads “COLTS NEW 32”. Case has cartridge block with 30 cartridges. Case also contains cleaning rod/combination tool. Accompanying are numerous pages of correspondence including a letter from the factory stating they had no record of this revolver. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to excellent. Bbl retains 98% orig nickel finish with slight flaking on right side of muzzle. Engraving is sharp. Bbl address is sharp. Bore is bright with strong rifling and some staining toward muzzle. Frame retains 99% orig nickel finish with very sharp engraving. Cylinder retains 99% orig nickel finish with only slight staining on front face. SN is clear. Hammer, trigger, base pin, and screws retain 98% fire blue. Grips are excellent with fiery color, no chips and only miniscule handling marks. Case is very good with losses to exterior leather cover and some staining of cover overall. Lining is very good with some wear around the edges. A wonderfully preserved Colt New Line revolver that exhibits engraving from the hand of a master. 50019-232 TEP (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1392
SN 44165. All four are Cal. 22 RF. All four have 2-1/4″ bbl. 1) SN 44165 has 2-line bbl address with no patent dates. “Certifiable antique ivory” grips are SNd with gun. Factory engraved. Includes collector’s notes. 2) SN 67680 bought from Swanson Hills, Palestine TX in 1968. Has a 2-line bbl address, un-numbered rosewood grips, factory engraved. Includes collector’s notes. 3) SN 73713 has a 2-line bbl address, rosewood grips. 4) SN 62496 has 2-line bbl address, frame is marked “22 Cal.”. 2-pc rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Orig nickel has flaked to 70% with discolorations ahead of cylinder. Cylinder has wear patterns. Frame is in very good condition with only light flaking. Bore is dark with fair rifling. Functions properly. Includes collector’s notes. 2) Overall metal is in very good condition with scattered flaking and light scratches. Grips have turned dark with age and have dents and scratches. 3) Metal has been cleaned, bbl and cylinder are mostly brown patina. Frame has been lightly polished and is in good condition. Grips have orig finish with areas of wear and oil staining. Bore is dark. 4) Bbl and cylinder have been cleaned and are mostly brown with light pitting. Frame has 50% orig nickel with light scratches and mars. Grips have orig finish in good condition with scratches and dents. Bore is dark with fair rifling. 50019-344, 50019-346, 50019-351, 50019-353, TN7 IVORY (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1436
EXTREMELY FINE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 DERRINGER WITH PEARL GRIPS.
SN 20716. Cal. 4l RF Short. Silver finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight & large “COLT” on top. Mounted with smooth, 2-pc bird head pearl grips. Pistol is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 60-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background on the frame with feather patterns each side of the front frame. Sides of the bbl are engraved to match with an engraved arrow running through the Colt name which is inside a scroll. They were extremely popular with both ladies and gentlemen in the Victorian era for their small size and ease of concealment. Only a few were engraved and of those extremely few survive today, especially those by Nimschke. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of its orig silver finish that is lightly oxidized, with some minor pimpling on left side of bbl. Grips are extremely fine with great fire and color. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 50140-10 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 2104
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER WITH RARE MEXICAN EAGLE TIFFANY GRIP.
SN 1972. Cal. 38RF. This exact gun once in the collection of Robert Q. Sutherland & pictured in his book states “Purchased with an interesting history which attests to original ownership by several Mexican military officers & revolutionaries, including Diaz, Villa, & Zapata. Nickel and silver finish with 5-1/2” rnd bbl, brass pin front sight, & 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Right side of lug has an attached ejector housing with bullseye/half-moon ejector rod head. The old rammer slot is plugged. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Mounted with a fine, nicely detailed silver plated cast brass Tiffany grip with rare Mexican eagle on the backstrap and raised foliate arabesque patterns with acanthus leaves around the bottom edge. Bottom edge of the buttcap is beaded with 4 flower blossoms. Buttcap insert is typical Tiffany sunburst. Inside the cap is numbered “88”. Under the buttcap, on the grip has two small punch dots with corresponding dots on bottom edge of grip frontstrap. Revolver is very nicely engraved by L. D. Nimschke with about full coverage on the frame, recoil shield & loading gate. Left recoil shield is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s typical flower blossom with radiant rays on the loading gate. Edge of the conversion plate is engraved in chain & dot patterns and shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with matching pattern on bottom front of frame. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over the bbl and each side of the muzzle with a long oval pattern on the ejector housing with foliate sprays at each end. Cyl has engraved wavy borders at the front & rear edges of the major diameter and chip & dot border around the rear edge. Cyl has 5 chambers with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking and the last 3 digits “087” of a SN. Very rarely are orig & authentic Tiffany gripped revolvers seen in market. PROVENANCE: Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; Pictured on pgs 229, 576-577 “The Book of Colt Firearms” by Sutherland & Wilson, 1971; Lot 913 July 23, 1996 Butterfield & Butterfield, SF. CONDITION: Fine, matching except wedge which is unnumbered & cyl as noted. Ejector housing door & cyl pin both numbered “1915”. There are small assembly letters also found on face of cyl & rear of bbl housing. A very similar 62 conversion with Tiffany grips, SN 1029, is found on pg 327 “A Study of Colt Conversions and Other Percussion Revolvers”, Bruce McDowell 1997. Bbl retains about 80% orig nickel showing wear on each side of the muzzle and some fine pimpling on bottom edges. Frame retains virtually all of its orig nickel and the hammer about 70% nickel. Cyl retains traces of nickel, being mostly a cleaned metal patina and shows about 75% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard & front strap retain about 70% nickel. The loading gate spring is broken or missing. The Tiffany grip shows light to moderate high point wear and retains about 60-70% orig silver. Buttcap with its orig nut retains about all of its orig silver. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 50140-3 JS109 (25,000-35,000) – Lot 2179
SN 7137. Cal. 38 RF. 4 1/2″ bbl. Full nickel finish. Straight grained American walnut grips. Engraving is almost full coverage and in New York Style. Markings are standard for this model. SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor cylinder and grips. 2-line patent date on left side of frame. Assembly no. 1338 on loading gate and under trigger guard on frame. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Fine as refinished. Revolver retains 98% of this old re-nickel finish. Bbl address is sharp and all other markings are sharp. Cylinder retains nearly all the stagecoach scene. Grips retain 90% varnish finish with miniscule scratches and mars overall with a small repair to toe of left grip. An attractive Colt that was expertly engraved and refinished. 49973-232 TEP (1,000-1,500) – Lot 1282
LOT OF THREE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF HOUSE MODEL REVOLVERS WITH ROUND CYLINDERS.
SN 8366. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 8366. 2-5/8″ bbl, factory engraved, integral front sight, top strap rear sight, patent date in groove, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips with diamond scrimshaw design, 2-line bbl address. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 9275. 2-5/8″ bbl, integral front sight and top strap grooved rear sight with patent date in groove, factory engraved, 2-line bbl address, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips with diamond scrimshaw design. 3) Cal. .41 RF. SN 8930. 2-5/8″ bbl, dove-tailed front bead and top strap groove with patent date, factory engraved, 2-line patent address, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Bbl has 60% orig nickel with dots and chain engraving. Frame has traces of nickel showing mostly brass with sharp arabesque engraving. Cylinder is 50% bright nickel with flaking. Grips are in very good condition. Gun action is stuck. 2) Bbl has 40% orig nickel with a chain and dots engraved. Frame has traces of orig nickel with scroll engraving. Cylinder is mostly silver metal with Number “9220”. Grips are slightly undersized in good condition. Bore is fair. 3) Bbl has light bbl address. Dove-tailed front sight. Engraved with chain and dots. Frame has traces of nickel with scroll engraving. Cylinder is 30% nickel with balance flaking. Grips are in good condition. Bore is fair. 50019-122, 50019-123, 50019-130, TN39 IVORY (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1414
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT DETECTIVE SPECIAL DA REVOLVER.
SN 02335M. Cal. 38 Special. Royal blue finish with 2″ shrouded bbl, fixed sights, and mounted with 2-pc checkered walnut grips. Revolver is engraved with about C coverage foliate arabesque pattern with light shading and without background. Left side of grip frame, under the grip, is marked “COLT ENG.” Accompanied by a Colt custom shop brown leatherette cover, gold velvet lined, hinged lid case embossed in gold on top and inside the lid. Very few of the late Detective Specials are known to have been engraved. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains 99%+ crisp orig factory blue, appears to be new and unfired. Display case is equally new. 50062-93 JR152 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1741
SN 11256. Cal. 31. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ stepped rnd bbl, brass pin front sight, and 2-line New-York U.S.A. address. Cyl is unfluted with 5-chambers and stage-coach hold-up scene roll marking with cyl pin retaining screw in the side between two chambers. It is mounted with a beautifully checkered 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip with last four digits of matching SN in the top of the backstrap channel. SN on the buttstrap is accompanied by the initials “IE” which indicates factory engraving and ivory grip. Revolver is engraved in late vine style without background and has about 60% coverage which extends over sides of the frame, top strap and raised area of the bbl. Rammer pivot, hammer, backstrap and buttstrap are engraved to match with light matching patterns on the bottom strap of the frame. Accompanied by an incredible German silver mounted, green baize lined rosewood casing that also has German silver hinges and a mortised German silver lock. Center of the lid has a German silver inlaid shield inscribed in period script “F. A. St. John”. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a rare root sized eagle and stars dbl-sided flask, a blued steel, bow-legged bullet and ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a sealed packet of 5 Colts Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a small metal cleaning rod. There were nearly 3,000 Models 7 & 7a produced in the 11,000-14,000 serial range, 1867-1870. Extremely few of these fine revolvers were engraved and incredibly few of those were cased. Those with ivory grips such as found here are practically unknown. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including cyl, bbl and grip. Overall retains about 80-85% orig blue showing a cleaned area on the left side of the bbl with fine pinprick pitting. Frame is lightly flaked with strong glossy blue in sheltered areas and sides of the frame. Rammer and hammer retain dark case colors with the rammer handle a grey patina. Cyl is a cleaned grey patina with traces of orig blue and light pitting, showing about 80% stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking. Grip has an age line in the toe, otherwise is sound showing light diamond point wear and a light ivory patina. Hammer will not catch in half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with green velvet covered bottom. Overall shows light nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded, with soiling and staining inside the lid, with some mothing in the bottom and one reattached partition. Flask is extremely fine with some minor staining on the collar. Mold is lightly nicked and dinged with some fine pitting on the outside and shows about 70% orig blue. Cartridge packet is extremely fine as is the cap tin. 49631-45 JR10 IVORY (17,500-27,500) – Lot 2126
*ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 85804SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with model and Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with extraordinary 1-pc ivory grip with silver Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved in A+ patterns with about 40-50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the top strap and sides of the bbl. Backstrap is engraved with a fan pattern at the top and foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap & trigger bow. Matching patterns are on the ejector housing. Trigger guard & frontstrap are a bright purple color from low bluing salts temperature at the factory. This 1977 produced Single Action is accompanied by an orig brown leatherette covered custom shop casing with orange lining in the bottom and gold embossing on top and inside the lid. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine, plus. Overall retains 99% plus crisp orig finish with bright blues and brilliant case colors. Grips is crisp with sharp edges and a mellow ivory patina. No disassembly was effected to check for matching numbers. Case is fine. 50062-57 JR120 IVORY (4,000-7,000) – Lot 1354
SN 957. 1) Cal. .38 RF. SN 957. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, 2-pc “certifiable antique ivory” grips, 5-shot cylinder. 2) Cal. .38 CF. SN 8105. 4″ bbl, blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, loading gate, “Colt New .38″ etched panel, 2-pc grips. 3) Cal. .38 CF. SN 361. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. 4)Cal. .38 RF. SN 6297. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and frame notch rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. Included is Jackson Arms Sales receipt from 1969. 5) Cal. .38 RF. SN 279. 2-1/4” bbl, 2-line bbl address. Blade front sight and rear frame notch sight. Included is a receipt from Jackson Arms dated 1969. PROVENANCE: The Dr.Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Metal is pleasant gray-brown patina with sharp engraving. Bore is dark with fair rifling. Grips are slightly undersized. 2) Bbl is 60% bright orig blue, frame has flaked to traces of finish, cylinder has orig blue in flutes, grips are slightly undersized, and has a Colt Firearms letter and a R.L. Wilson letter. 3) Bbl has traces of blue, frame is mostly silver, cylinder has orig blue in flutes, hammer and trigger have traces of fire blue. Grips are slightly undersized and are darkened with oil stain with scratches and dents. 4) Metal is mostly brown with oxidation on cylinder. Grips are in good condition with one dent and light scratches. Right grip is slightly undersized. Bore is fair. 5) All metal has been cleaned and lightly polished leaving metal in the white. Bore is dark with fair rifling. 50019-72, 50019-78, 50019-87, 50019-294, 50019-300., TN14 IVORY (1,000-1,500) – Lot 1426
*RARE ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 345974. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color cased hardened, 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address & Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt without a circle. SN was observed on bottom of the frame and right sides of the front & back straps, under the grip. Last 2 digits of matching SN are on rear face of cyl. Left side of frontstrap, under the grip has Mr. White’s gold inlaid cartouche “AA WHITE / ENG.”. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Mr. White with D-plus coverage, fine foliate & floral arabesque patterns that have fine shaded background. Left recoil shield is relief engraved with the figure of General George Armstrong Custer inlaid with silver hat and face, wearing a uniform with the shoulder straps of a Major General. Top of the backstrap has the relief engraved characterization of what appears to be Sitting Bull, a principal Indian player at The Little Big Horn. Top front of the bbl is engraved with crossed sabers surmounted by a “7”, the hat badge of the 7th Cavalry regiment. Cyl has 2 gold lines around the rear edge with 2 more at the bbl root and 2 additional bands at the muzzle. Backstrap is engraved in script “John S. du Mont”. John du Mont was a prolific author of firearm & Custer books and is considered “the Dean of Gun Collectors” and one of the early pioneers of gun collecting who amassed a marvelous collection of Colts and Custer memorabilia. Reportedly created for Mr. du Mont in the mid-1960’s. This is one of the finer examples of Mr. White’s work. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed & shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, Mo on Oct 9, 1923 in 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Appears to be new and unfired since custom finishing showing virtually all of its fine custom finish with bright blues and muted case colors. Grips are sound showing good fire. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. 50061-26 (12,000-18,000) – Lot 2093
EXTREMELY RARE HISTORIC & IMPORTANT COL. COLT PRESENTATION CASED ENGRAVED MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER, PRESENTED TO U.S. NAVY PURSER L.D. SLAMM.
SN 8786. Cal 36. This particular gun is among the earliest personal presentations of Col. Colts. R.L. Wilson on pgs 60-61 Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I “Cased, engraved and presentation-inscribed to Purser Levi D. Slamm, U.S.N., from a grateful Samuel Colt. Model 1851 Navy Number 8786/. is one of the most historic of presentations from the inventor. Slamm assisted Colt with the first model of the revolver, while on board ship, c. 1830-31. Inscribed on the backstrap and rosewood case plaque, as pictured. The inscription on the case lid plaque done in Gustave Young script, whereas the backstrap inscription was done in a style used by the shop which was responsible for the donut scroll.” Fine engraved model ’51 Navy, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a very nicely figured, varnished 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking & all 6 safety pins crisp & serviceable. Revolver is very nicely engraved in early large donut style with full coverage on the frame. Left front of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” and a short ribbon. Screw heads and tips are also all engraved. Engraving extends over the bbl lug & top side flats and down onto the rammer pivot. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved to match with a fan pattern at the top similar to engraving by Gustave Young but probably by his predecessor at Colt. Trigger guard is engraved in the rare pattern of a shield, also with large scrolls. Backstrap is very nicely engraved in same hand with inscription “PURSER SLAMM / U.S.N./FROM Sam Colt”. Hammer is also engraved with the early style wolf’s head on each side of the nose & fish scale patterns on top edge & sides of spur. All the SNs on the bottom are accompanied by a small punched dot which would have signified to the factory workmen that this revolver was to receive extra attention to finish for engraving. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined Colt, rosewood casing with brass plaque in the lid that appears to have been engraved from the hand of Gustave Young, “L.D. Slamm Esqre / Purser U.S.N. / Compliments of / Col Colt”. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a double-sided “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms & flags, Navy size flask with angled spout, a brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a full sealed packet & an open empty packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps. Additionally accompanied by a 3-pg typewritten letter signed by L.D. Slamm’s grandson Hugh Morsell Mitchell of Jamestown, N.Y. dated November 12, 1932, with its original envelope addressed to Mr. Charles P. Day of New York City, an early American arms collector. Mr. Mitchell states in the body of the letter that he is the grandson of Purser Slamm and that Mr. Slamm had been a close friend of Samuel Colt. Apparently young Sam Colt served under Purser Slamm as a Cabin Boy on the Brig Corvo 1830-1831 from Boston to Calcutta and back. It was during this voyage that the 16-year-old Sam Colt carved the famous wooden pattern that was to become the genesis for the Colt dynasty. Apparently Mr. Colt never forgot Mr. Slamm and remained in contact with him long after Mr. Colt had become successful and Mr. Slamm had received his commission in the U.S. Navy in 1846. This revolver was manufactured in 1851 and likely presented to Purser Slamm shortly thereafter. Levi D. Slamm was born in 1812 the son of a Revolutionary War Veteran and lineage to “Light Horse” Harry Lee. In 1846 he was appointed purser in the U.S. Navy. He died in October 1862 the result of an accident while boarding a ship in Montevideo. Also accompanied by an 8-pg letter from well-known author and Colt historian R.L. Wilson wherein he documents much of the above information. Additionally accompanied by copy of the Summer 1996 issue of The Rampant Colt (the magazine of the Colt Collector’s Assoc.) which contains a 2-pg article by Greg Martin regarding this revolver with photographs of the revolver. There are a number of examples of early engraved Colts and even a few of those with Colt presentations, many of which are extremely important. However, that having been said, few rise to the importance of this presentation. Undoubtedly Samuel Colt, as a 16-year-old on a world class adventure, was probably befriended and mentored by Mr. Slamm on that voyage to India. Samuel Colt reportedly never forgot those who befriended him or helped him along the way. Such is epitomized by this presentation as it is unlikely an ordinary purser, a somewhat minor personality in the U.S. Navy, would have otherwise come to Colt’s attention such as his typical presentations that would benefit him financially to generals, presidents & royalty. Pg 60, Wilson “One of the most important historically of all presentations from Samuel Colt.” PROVENANCE: L.D. Slamm 1852; Hugh Morsell Mitchell, grandson; Charles P. Day, NYC 1932; James R. Lowensteine, Chicago 1941; Pg 50 “Colts History & Heroes”, by John Hamilton 1963; Pages 60-61 & front end paper Wilson “The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I”; Lot 959 July 24, 1996, Butterfield & Butterfield, SF. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 70% glossy orig blue with loss areas lightly cleaned. Rammer, pivot & handle are cleaned to bright metal. Frame & hammer are also cleaned bright metal patina. Cyl is also cleaned to bright metal with one area of very fine pitting, probably from laying in the case and cyl shows about 85-90% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking with completely legible Ormsby signature. Trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver finish with only slight sharp edge wear. Grip shows very little wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains about 99% crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a very few small spots of pitting. Case has a grain check in the lid and a couple of others in the bottom with a gouge in the lid and a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Bottom retains about 85% orig oilcloth covering. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid with chemical staining from contact with the cyl. Bottom is less faded with moderate soil and damage from the front sight & hammer spur. Flask has had its spout soldered at the angle joint and shows traces of orig finish, being a dark patina. Mold has bent arms with light battering over 3 sides and cleaned sprue cutter with crisp cavities. Nipple wrench & cap tin are fine. Sealed cartridge packet is crisp and the open packet is fine. A rare set worthy of any collection or museum. 50140-4 JS105 (75,000-125,000) – Lot 2163
FINE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CARVED MEXICAN EAGLE IVORY GRIPS IN “SLIM-JIM” FLAP HOLSTER.
SN 197072. Cal. 44. This is a very fine all matching, original and authentic silver plated engraved, most likely by Nimschke. This gun is made near the very end of Colt percussion production in 1872. Gun is very aesthetically pleasing with crisp engraving and markings with a beautiful pair of “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips with carved Mexican eagle in medallion. Holster is of the “Slim-Jim” style with a flap. Flap is marked “E.T. Moyer” which is probably the owners name. Holster is black finish with fine stitching and a toe plug. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Iron overall is silver/white retaining much original bright silver plating especially in protected areas which blend nicely into overall silver/white color of gun. Gun has all matching SNs with no number on wedge which is proper and wedge retains silver plating in protected areas and no doubt original to this gun. Grips are unnumbered but fit gun well with fine patina and light craquelure on butt. Cylinder and loading assembly were originally gold washed and tiny traces are found in protected areas of both. Cylinder retains about 50% of its cylinder scene with scattered areas of pitting. Mechanically gun functions well with very tight mainspring and crisp bright shiny bore. Holster is in fine condition with all stitching intact and a readable owners mark. 49973-488 JS IVORY (7,000-9,000) – Lot 1226
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE REVOLVER WITH INSCRIBED PEARL GRIPS IN A BLACK LEATHERETTE CASE.
SN 5025. Cal. 41 RF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with blue screws and gold washed hammer and cylinder. Engraving is from the Helfricht Shop, in American Style, and is of highest quality. Bbl is scroll engraved on either side with a punch dot background. Bbl address is bordered. Front sight also has punch dot border. Frame engraving is wonderfully executed in scroll with punch dot background and a wonderful scallop motif on right side around hammer screw. Backstrap has intertwining scroll mixed with checkerboard punch dot motif. Cylinder has intertwining scroll with punch dot background between each flute. Rear of cylinder has punch dot border. Bbl has 2-line address. SNs on bbl, frame, cylinder and grips are all matching. Cal. mark is stamped on butt of frame. Pearl grips are inscribed “Annieta Mitchel” on left side. Right grip is marked “41 CA” and “5025” on inside in lead pencil. Case is black leatherette with purple lining in the French fit style. Case has a cartridge block for 25 cartridges and a combination tool. 25 cartridges are in case. Accompanying this revolver is provenance reflecting the fact that this revolver was in the William Locke collection and was sold to consigner by Bob Berryman in early 1970s. Also correspondence with Colt factory that states there is no record for this gun. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 98% orig nickel finish with sharp marking and engraving. Some slight flaking on bottom left side near base pin and at muzzle Bore is frosty with strong rifling and some erosion at muzzle. Frame retains 98% nickel finish that has slightly dulled on forestrap. Frame screws retain 20-30% fire blue. Hammer retains traces of gold wash. Trigger shows 20% orig blue. Backstrap of frame has a very small crack about 1/2 way down. Cylinder retains 20% gold wash finish mainly in flutes. Cylinder has some erosion on front and rear face. Grips are fine with vibrant color and only a slight chip at top of right grip. Case is very good. Leather cover has some edge wear on top, back and sides. Felt lining is good with some wear from holding revolver. A very nice master engraved new line with an inscription that is worth more research. 50019-242 TEP (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1393
SN 63255. All four are Cal. .22. All are 2-1/4″ bbl. 1) SN 63255 is engraved with scroll engraving, punch dot on bbl, Wexell and DeGress grip patent “April 28,’74”. Bbl has a 2-line patent bbl address without patent dates. Framed marked “22 Cal”. Bought from Jackson Arms in 1978. 2) SN 69275 has good nickel finish, also has Wexell and DeGress grips marked patent “April 28, ’74”. 3) SN 46443 with blade front sight, hammer notch rear sight, spur trigger, rosewood grips. 4) SN 77433 has 2-line bbl address, engraved with scroll patterns, frame is marked “22 Cal”. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl in fair condition is discolored with signs of polish, with traces of nickel. Frame is in good condition with good engraving in 2-tone brass colors. Trigger and hammer are very good with bright fire blue. Grips are very good with nickel worn from parts of surface, bore is dark with fair rifling. 2) Orig nickel finish has numerous scratches and dents. Screws are rough. Grips are in very good condition with surface worn to bronze. Bore is fair. 3) Very good orig nickel with light scratches and dents, finish peeling at head of cyl, hammer and trigger have dull fire blue finish. Rosewood grips are in good condition with traces of orig finish. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl and cyl have been cleaned, engraving is still sharp, frame has 2-toned hue with scroll engraving. Grips are rosewood with orig finish. Left grip has a hole and crack. Right grip is stained dark with oil. Bore is fair. 50019-7, 50019-33, 50019-229, 50019-343, TN6 (2,750-4,000) – Lot 1437
PAIR OF COLT NO. 3 THIRD VARIATION DERRINGERS IN RARE CIGAR CASE.
SN 12765/3550. Cal. 41 RF Short. Pistols are virtually identical with nickel finish, half-moon front sight and “COLT” on top of bbl. They are 3rd Type with high hammer spurs and are mounted with matching numbered 2-pc rosewood grips. The butt of each pistol is engraved with a large “S”. Accompanied by an orig burgundy leather covered cigar/cigarette style casing lined with purple satin in the lid & magenta velvet in the bottom. Recessed in the bottom for the 2 pistols. The number 3 Derringer was the highest production of the 3 models of Colt Derringers with very few known to have the cigar style case. These little pistols were very popular with gamblers, gentlemen and ladies for their ease of concealment and reasonably powerful short range cartridge. CONDITION: SN 3550 very fine. Overall retains about 98% strong orig nickel with a few minor, light handling marks. Hammer retains brilliant case colors. Left grip has a chip at the locator pin, otherwise they are sound with some roughness of the left side and overall retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. SN 12765 very fine, also retains about 98% strong orig nickel with light handling marks and brilliant case colors on the hammer. Trigger & screws retain bright fire blue. Grips are sound with light high point wear and retain about all of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case shows heavy wear with losses around the edges and faded with finish loss to a tan/buckskin color on top. The front latch is damaged, but still present. Interior is moderately faded with a couple of small tears in the lid lining and wear in the bottom. 50140-12 (6,000-9,000) – Lot 2105
COLT CUSTOM PERCUSSION DRAGOON & NAVY REVOLVER FACTORY ENGRAVED BY ALVIN WHITE WITH GOLD INLAY & IVORY GRIPS.
SN 24858/24688. Cal. 44. This unique pair of Colt factory engraved 3rd model Dragoon & model 1851 Navy percussion revolvers are accompanied by factory letter stating “Class ‘B’ scroll engraving, gold inlaid bbl band at the muzzle & a flush gold inlaid Rampant Colt on the bbl lug. The engraving was executed by Master Engraver A.A. White”. Guns were shipped to Sacramento in 1983. Colt custom casing is red velvet lined with reproduction Dragoon flask, Navy flask with angled spout, cap tins, two engraved L-shaped gun tools, 44 Cal. brass 2-cavity mold, 36 Cal. brass 2-cavity mold with Colt patent sprue cover. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Both guns & accessories like new with only minor blemishes. Both guns retain virtually all of their bright factory blue encased colors. “Certifiable pre-ban ivory grips” are well fit with bright ivory color & structure. 50142-12 JS IVORY (4,000-6,000) – Lot 2183
SN 128E/330. 1) Cal. 38 RF. 4 1/2″ bbl. Silver finish. Engraved with 1-pc ivory grip. Engraving is of the factory style with full coverage on frame and scroll to muzzle of bbl. Hammer is engraved in a scroll style. 1-pc ivory grip was not removed but fit very well. No. is not visible on bbl but matches on frame, trigger guard, arbor, and backstrap. Cylinder is unnumbered. 2) Cal. 38 RF. 5 1/4″ bbl. nickel finish. 1-pc wood grip. Markings standard for this model SN matches on bbl, frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. There is a “1” and a letter which appears to be an “N” stamped under the SN on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Cylinder is unnumbered. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Very good as refinished. The revolver has been lightly polished overall and totally silver-plated. Engraving remains sharp on frame but is washed out on bbl. Bbl address is barely legible. Other markings are clear. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips are very good with a couple of small chips on forward edge of left side. 2) Poor to good. Revolver retains 20% nickel finish overall with balance a dark brown patina. Bbl has been cut to its present length. Bbl address is legible. Colt’s patent mark on side of frame is legible as is cal. mark on trigger mark. Other numbers are clear. Grips are poor with missing pieces, burn marks and numerous dents and mars. A nice pair of colorful Colt conversions that definitely saw hard service in the Old West. 50019-150 TEP IVORY (1,000-2,000) – Lot 1289
SN 2191. 1) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2191. 2-7/8″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, integral blade front sight and top strap grooved rear sight, ejector rod, 4-shot British proofed cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. 2) Cal. .41 RF. SN 2132. 2-7/8″ bbl, integral front sight and top strap groove rear sight, 2-line bbl address, 4-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl and frame have 60% silver plating. Cylinder is flaked to gray metal. Engraving on frame and trigger extension in very good condition. Grips have orig finish and are in good condition. Bore is good. 2) Bbl is silver that is roughly flaking. Frame has traces of gold wash. Side panels and trigger extension are engraved. Rosewood grips are in good condition with orig finish. Bore is in fair condition. 50019-131, 50019-133, TN40 (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1415
*FINE CUSTOM ENGRAVED AND SILVER INLAID COLT PYTHON DA REVOLVER.
SN 47077. Cal. 357 Mag. Custom blue finish with 6″ vent rib bbl, orig sights and custom carved black & gray laminated grips that have fine foliate carvings with inlaid silver left and right hand large Rampant Colt trademark. Revolver is beautifully engraved with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has stippled background. Left sideplate is inlaid in silver with an engraved running leopard in a jungle setting and the right side with a matching lioness also in a jungle-type setting. The entire frame & crane are outlined in silver wire, as is the cyl. Bottom of bbl is inlaid in beautiful silver geometric patterns. Accompanied by a set of gold medallion, checkered Python grips that are probably orig to this revolver. Also accompanied by a fine blue felt lined walnut casing. Additionally accompanied by a Paul Jaeger Engraving Catalog from 1963. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains about 99% fine custom blue that has a slight purple tone, appears to be unfired. Both pairs of grips are crisp. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. Case is equally new. 50062-94 JR158 (4,000-7,000) – Lot 1743
RARE AND EXTREMELY FINE COLT CIVILIAN MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH MATCHING SHOULDER STOCK INSCRIBED TO SAMUEL BOWLES FOR USE DURING HIS REMARKABLE 1865 JOURNEY TO THE WEST.
SN 151313. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. It has usual 6-shot rebated cyl with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and all 6 crisp safety pins are present. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with proper long flat head hammer screw and a stock dimple in butt strap. 4- screw frames utilized in this late serial range are quite rare and few examples are known and several famous examples in this serial range including the “Eustace Barron” which is pictured in Wilson & Sutherland’s The Book of Colt Firearms. The silver plated brass trigger guard & blued steel back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip serial numbered to this revolver. SNs were observed on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last five digits of SN on wedge and last four digits on cyl & cyl spindle. The SN on frame, trigger guard & backstrap are accompanied by a small “S”, indicating that the frame was to be cut for shoulder stock. Pistol back strap and stock frontstrap are engraved in Colt factory style script “SAML BOWLS / SPRINGFIELD MASS”. Accompanied by matching orig Colt 1860 Army stock with brass yoke & buttplate bearing the SN “151313” on the yoke and “128032” on buttplate followed by small “S”. Last three digits of SN, “313”, are inked under the buttstock lower tang. Though the SN on buttplate is not matching; this seems to be a factory trend. Note that on these same floors lot 2132, October 2011, a similar stock SN 150722 on yoke and 128033 on butt which was accompanied by reference from noted Colt authority, collector & dealer, the late Alan S. Kelley wherein Colt stocks with mismatched numbers, “This discrepancy common on shoulder stocks of the period.”. Stock has a beautiful bright varnish finish with a lanyard stud & ring in bottom tang. It would be difficult to upgrade this particular example as it retains most all of its bright orig finish and appears unfired plus it has stellar collection history. Samuel Bowles was an editor publisher in Springfield, Massachusetts printing influential newspapers and journals throughout his lifetime. There are several books written on his life containing many of his numerous articles and journal entries. There is a 500 pg volume Across The Continent published in 1865 transcribed from his journals and letters of a summer journey he made starting in Atchison, Kansas in May 1865 transversing the West with specific study of the Mormons, including meetings with Brigham Young and other church elders, views on polygamy, interviews with Mormon wives, etc. This trip Mr. Bowles party was led by Schuyler Colfax, Speaker of the House of Representatives, was initially set to visit the mining regions of Colorado, Nevada, and California, though it seems most of the time was in study of the Mormon culture, people, topography of Salt Lake area, etc. This amazing book, which an orig 1st edition accompanies this lot, was annotated and edited from Bowles’ letters, diaries and journals that reads quite-like an adventure that could make a good plot for a movie today. Bowles’ party had access to the best railroads, and coach service, so crossing America was much easier now after the Civil War no wonder so many soldiers went West. Though every comfort would be afforded, this group of travelers, with important politicians and other journalists, Bowles does mention “There are rifles and revolvers for Indians and game…with the news that (Overland Stage) had been attacked by the Indians..halfway to Fort Kearney. It is the first raid of red-skins this season…” This particular Colt, based on SN, was made in late 1864, just in time for this journey. I see little doubt that this weapon was purchased with this trip in mind, though based on its near new condition it probably wouldn’t have left its box. PROVENANCE: Samuel Bowles, 1865; Family of a Boston Judge; Robert Tompkins, Sheffield, Mass, 1951; Herb Glass Sr., Bullville, NY; Gerald Fox; Herbert Green, 1955; Al Kelly; The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl, grips & shoulder stock with noted known discrepancy on Colt buttplates. Bbl retains about 99% strong glossy orig factory blue with light muzzle edge wear and a few scattered scratches and two about 1″ thin scuffs, one on right side of bbl just rear of latch and the other on left side of bbl just forward of wedge. Rammer & handle retain most of their orig case colors with balance, especially forward on arm, silver/gray. Frame & hammer retain brilliant case colors on sides with recoil shields turning dark. Cyl retains 97-98% strong bright blue overall with thinning in rebated area. Virtually all of the rolled Ormsby Naval battle scene is crisp and discernible. Chambers are crisp & clean with thin orig blue. Trigger guard retains about 80% of silver plating with reductions being on grip strap where held, which is mixed silver and a light brass patina. Back strap & butt strap retain about 98% glossy orig blue. Grip is sound and well fit, retaining virtually all orig varnish except where in contact with yoke, which has indented an area on each side of grip about 1″ wide where there is no finish and slight reduction of surface. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with lots of orig blue. Stock yoke retains 95% plus orig silver plating with one large reduction on right yoke where it abuts gun and several other small freckles of missing finish. Buttplate retains about 80% orig silver finish with reductions at bottom. Stock has a few scattered very light blemishes and retains virtually all of its brilliant orig varnish, a superb specimen. 49631-23 JS (40,000-50,000) – Lot 2130
SN 2936. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 30″ High quality Damascus bbls, choked IC and Mod, are marked with Colt’s Hartford address on rib with dolls head extension. Typical Colt hammerless action with automatic safety and double triggers, is engraved with exceptionally well cut sprays of small scroll, surrounding very fine hunting scenes on sides; setter points a pair of flushing snipe on left, with pair of pointers pointing pair of grouse on hillside on right. Beautifully marbled and figured European walnut round knob pistol grip buttstock measures 14″ over orig Colt buttplate. Checkered side panels have lozenge shaped drop points. There is well cut point pattern checkering at grip. A vacant silver oval is on toe line. Matching splinter forend with inset ebony tip, has Colt’s rendition of a Deeley release. CONDITION: Very fine, but gun suffers a bit from poor storage. Bbls retain 70 – 80% orig bbl brown, with excellent definition to pattern, most loss due to hand wear and spotting, mostly above forend. Action retains traces of orig case hardening color where protected, but is mostly silver to gray with some spotting. Stocks retain 85 – 90% of their orig French polish, with numerous marks and scuffs, some fairly deep. Checkering is lightly worn and dark. Bores are very fine with some frosting, and one or two small dents. Action has just a hint of looseness, otherwise mechanically fine. This scarce American gun is unusual in that it has relatively modern dimensions, and would probably make a good shooter. 49939-1 MGM166 (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1167
*BEAUTIFUL JERRY HARPER ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN S58640A. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight & 2-line address with Cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates & Rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with custom 1-pc ivory grip that has orig Colt silver medallions. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Jerry Harper in L.D. Nimschke patterns with extra flourishes with about B+ coverage. Scrolls are beautifully executed with a fine hand showing great skill. Mr. Harper’s signature is found on right side of front strap under the grip with his engraved initial under ejector housing & rear face of cyl. Accompanied by a 3-pg letter to consignor over the signature of Jim Alaimo, former superintendent of the Colt Custom Shop & now the proprietor of Nutmeg Sports, LLC. The letter relates the biography of Jerry Harper & this revolver. Mr. Alaimo states that he produced the grips in his own shop in Connecticut where he does ivory work for the Colt Custom Gun Shop utilizing certified pre-ban African elephant ivory. Accompanied a modern wood case. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine. Overall retains 99%+ fine custom nickel finish, appears to be new & unfired. “Certifiable pre-ban African elephant ivory” grip is equally new with a creamy ivory patina. Case is fine. 50062-68 JR134 IVORY (4,000-7,000) – Lot 1355
LOT OF FIVE COLT ENGRAVED NEW LINE COLT REVOLVERS.
SN 30992. 1) Cal. 22 RF. SN 30992. 2- 1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, etched panel on bbl “Colt New 22”. Patent mark under bbl “September 15, 1874”. Factory engraved. Bought from Antique Armory in East Point, GA. 2) Cal. 22 RF. SN 318. 2-line bbl address, un-numbered mother-of-pearl grips. 3) Cal. 32 LRF, SN 8058. 2-1/4″ bbl, mother-of-pearl grips, factory engraved. 4) Cal. 38 RF. SN 5551, 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, bbl panel blank, mother-of-pearl grips. 5) Cal. 22 RF, SN 16359, 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address with no patent. mother-of-pearl grips, factory engraved. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very good nickel finish with sharp engraving. Unmarked mother-of-pearl grips in very good condition. Bore is dark with fair rifling. 2) Engraving has oxidized and turned brown. Mother-of-pearl grips are very good. Bore is dark. 3) Bore is dark with fair rifling. Metal is in very good condition with flaking in flutes of cylinder. Grips are in very good condition. 4) Metal finish is nickel that has mostly flaked and has been lightly polished, good engraving. Mother-of-pearl grips are in very good condition. 5) Bbl has slight brassy hue, receiver is worn and flaked to 10% nickel. Mother-of-pearl grips in very good condition. 50019-18, 50019-36, 50019-52, 50019-74, 50019-347., TN8 (3,500-5,000) – Lot 1427
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER REFERRED TO AS A “BAR-B-QUE GUN”.
SN 277973. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Gold over nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight & 2-line address with Cal. marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt. Mounted with outstanding 2-pc pearl grips that have a raised carved ox head on left side with red stone eyes in gold bezels, gold horns and a gold ring in its nose. Bottom side of the left grip is inlaid with a one dollar U.S. gold coin and the top of the grip with a gold Mexican coin. Top of the right grip has a matching gold coin. Revolver is engraved in very deep foliate arabesque patterns with about 80% coverage over the frame, bbl & grip frame. Cyl is engraved to match over the entire outer diameter with un-engraved counter-point panels in and around the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 32-20, with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on May 14, 1906 in a 15-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a copy of an email from Luis Rojas of “The Engraver’s Cafe – The World’s Largest Hand Engraving Community” wherein he states that this revolver was engraved by his uncle Primitivo Rojas. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 60% orig gold-wash with the exposed areas grey metal patina. Cyl is matching patina with strong gold in the flutes and rear face. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with light frosty pitting. Left grip is chipped near the frame, otherwise grips are sound with good fire. A fine looking engraved Colt SAA! 49967-1 C&R (7,500-8,500) – Lot 2094
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 98258. Cal 36. Fourth model, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight with German silver blade & 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver-plated large brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a very nicely figured varnished burl walnut 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with a couple of scrolls terminating as flower blossoms. Deluxe engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug & top side flats of the bbl with a couple of scrolls terminating in flower blossoms & another with a most unusual Indian’s head wearing a feather bonnet. Matching scrolls are also on the rammer pivot. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, fish scales on the top edge & sides of hammer spur and matching foliate arabesque patterns on the shank. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with 1/4 blossoms on sides of the shoulders and foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. All of the SNs on bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small punched dot which would signify to the factory workmen to add extra polish for engraving. Accompanied by a rare Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal 36 with 7-/12″ bbl, blue finish, wood stocks, factory engraved & shipped to the Colt New York office on February 11, 1861 in a 10-gun shipment. Given the time frame of this shipment it seems likely that this may have been a Civil War unit order or possibly for presentation to Civil War personnel by citizens of New York. Regardless this revolver was shipped to a major hub of Civil War supply activity and almost certainly would have seen service throughout the Civil War. Such arms are rarely found with high orig finish. Pg 139 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume 1, and pg 87 of Colt Engraving, both by Wilson, pictures the left side of the bbl lug of this revolver, illustrating the Indian head motif. Although it is not identified by SN in the publication, there are identifying marks that certify that it is the same revolver. The pg 87 caption credits this revolver to the S.P. Stevens Collection. PROVENANCE: S.P. Stevens Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 70% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium/dark patina. Rammer & handle are cleaned to bright metal. Frame is grey metal patina & the hammer retains about 70% strong case colors, moderately faded on left side. Cyl retains about 20% orig blue with the balance a grey patina & shows about 80-85% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating showing edge wear on the buttstrap & heel and some thinning on backstrap. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains about 98% crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 50142-9 JR106 (25,000-35,000) – Lot 2164
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY REVOLVER WITH CARVED IVORY GRIPS.
SN 5754. Cal. 44. Interesting engraved fluted Army that appears original and matching patina and wear to time of use. This gun saw hard use as engraving is quite worn as are carved Mexican eagle ivory 1-pc grips. This gun has look of lot of other survivors used by cowboys in the West. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Good overall. Matching SNs are found on bbl, arbor, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Wedge and cylinder are not matching but are both close with wedge being numbered 5742 and cylinder 5918. Cylinder has discernible patent markings in 1 flute and condition matches rest of gun. Iron backstrap retains much of its original silver plate and brass trigger guard retains traces of original silver. “COLT’S PATENT” marking on left side of frame is weak and bbl address has been re-stamped. “Certifiable antique elephant ivory grips” are well fit with no discernible markings with chip on left front toe. Mechanically gun functions well with discernible rifling in well worn bore. 49973-106 JS IVORY (4,500-6,500) – Lot 1227
FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT NEW LINE REVOLVER WITH PEARL GRIPS.
SN 3191. Cal. 38 RF. 2 1/4″ bbl. Full nickel finish with 2-pc mother of pearl grips. Engraving is in the American style from Helfricht Shop. Engraving is very fine and well executed. Bbl is scroll engraved on either side with a double wavy line at muzzle. Engraving has small punch dot background. Engraving on frame is full coverage scroll on both sides with fine punch dot background. Top strap has scroll engraving bordered with punch dots and separated in middle with punch dot accent. Backstrap has arabesque scroll behind hammer with intertwined lines running down backstrap that has a diamond in middle. Cylinder is scroll engrave between each flute with punch dot background and borders. Wavy line border at rear cylinder. Bbl address is sharp but slightly washed out as a result of polishing after engraving. SN matches on bbl, frame,and cylinder. Frame is unmarked. “38 Cal.” is stamped at butt of grip. Cylinder shows a “C” inspector mark on rear face. Grips are unmarked. English case made of oak with brass medallion on lid, purple lining and cartridge block with 50 cartridges in it. Accompanying this revolver is a receipt from Jackson Arms on February 8, 1985. Also a letter from Colt stating they have no record for this gun. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good. Bbl retains 90% nickel finish with some flaking on bottom. Nickel has slightly dulled with age overall. Bore is frosty with sharp rifling. Frame retains 85-90% nickel finish that is also dulled with age. Some loss of finish on either side of hammer and on backstrap and forestrap. Hammer retains 20% fire blue in protected areas. Trigger retains slight traces of fire blue. Screws are good and retain traces of fire blue. Cylinder retains 80% dull nickel finish with some stains in flutes. Chambers are clean.Grips are very good. Right grip has a slight chip on top edge. Case is very good with a new varnish finish overall. Lining shows wear on bottom where revolver rests. A nice engraved and case Colt New Line revolver. 50019-240 TEP (2,000-4,000) – Lot 1394
SN 863. 1) Cal. 22 RF. SN 863. 2-7/8″ bbl, ejector, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight, ejector rod and housing, 7-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. Included is Jackson Arms Bill of Sale. 2) Cal. .22 RF. SN 87176. 2-3/8″ bbl, factory engraved, 2-line bbl address, German silver blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight, 7-shot cylinder, no ejector, 2-pc mother-of-pearl grips. 3) Cal. .22 RF. SN 53327. 2-3/8″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, replaced front sight and hammer notch rear sight, factory engraved, 7-shot cylinder, no ejector rod, 2-pc mother-of-pearl grips. Includes letter from Jackson Arms, Bill of Sale, and collector’s notes. 4) Cal. .22 RF. SN 2724. 2-3/8″ bbl, silver blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight, 2-line bbl address, ejector rod and housing, 7-shot cylinder, 2-pc rosewood grips. Includes collector’s notes. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl and cylinder have 50% orig blue remaining with balance flaked and worn. Frame has cleaned bright brass finish with light dents. Grips are in good condition with oil staining. Bore is fair. 2) Bbl is mostly gray with good engraving and a SN on lug. Frame is gold washed with scroll engraving. Backstrap is flaked. Mother-of-pearl grips are in very good condition. Cylinder is mostly gray metal with simple engraving. Bore is fair. 3) Bbl and frame have 70% orig nickel with brass showing at sharp edges. Cylinder is mostly gray with scroll engraving. Grips are in near excellent condition. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl and cylinder are mostly gray metal with pitting. Frame has 40% orig nickel with numerous scratches and small dents. Hammer and trigger were nickeled. Grips are lightly oil stained with scratches and dents. Bore is fair. 50019-3, 50019-5, 50019-348, 50019-349, TN36 (2,500-3,500) – Lot 1438
EXTREMELY RARE PAIR OF ENGRAVED GOLD & SILVER MOORE DERRINGERS.
SN 4194/4261. Cal. 41 RF Short. Pistols are virtually identical with gold frames and silver 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbls, half-moon front sight with the Moore Company name & address on top flat and 1863 patent date on the bottom. Standard production 5th variation pistols are nearly identically engraved in New York style, with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background with an elaborate American eagle & shield on the top of each backstrap behind the hammer slot. Doug Eberhart in his 2011 text The Collecting of Deringers manufactured by Moore, National & Colt states “This deluxe specially engraved pair of Moore derringers…gold washed engraved frames, silver plated bbls. The 20 odd pairs of this very limited production…were made 1864-1865 and were (possibly) presented to US Military officers at the end of the Civil War.” This is an exceptional set, much better than pair sold on these floors March 10, 2013, Lot 207, SNs 2253/3343 from the Eberhart collection and pictured in book cited here. Pistols also have additional checkered panels on the backstrap and butt. SN 4194 is engraved with a pear & leaves on the top flat forward of the hammer slot and SN 4261 is engraved with a very detailed flower blossom in the same panel. Matching patterns extend over both sides of the bbl with an arrow on each side pointing toward the muzzle so the shooter will know which end the bullet comes out. The bbl extensions are engraved with a chip & dot border which are also found on top flat of bbls. This is quite possibly the finest pair of these rare Civil War era derringers. PROVENANCE: SN 4194, James Kaekel Collection; Pg 121, Deringer In America, Vol. II, 1993. CONDITION: SN 4194 very fine. Bbl retains about 98% lightly tarnished orig silver and the frame about 80% orig gold-wash. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with scattered pitting. SN 4261 very fine. Bbl retains traces of orig silver, being mostly a grey metal patina. Frame & grip retain about 98% strong orig gold-wash. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 50140-6 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2107
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE L.E. TUCKER LANCASTER TEXAS CONFEDERATE NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 79. This remarkable pistol is in wonderful matching original and complete condition, being 1 of only 2 known examples and SN 79 being offered here is vastly superior to SN 52 which is part of the Carl Metzger Collection on display at Texas A&M University. This example is very fine retaining much of its original finish. Gun measures 13-1/4″ overall with 7-5/8″ half oct to rnd bbl with brass blade front sight, silver inset makers mark “L.E. TUCKER & SONS.” There are also inset silver designs on either side of bbl housing and a lightly engraved border around perimeter of the capping slot on the right side of the recoil shield. Bbl is also etched with indiscernible name and date “1864” and “Weatherford / Parker / Co.” Weatherford, Parker County, Texas is just west of Dallas not far from the pistol factory established by Tucker & Sherrard in Lancaster. Bill Gary in his text Confederate Revolvers dedicates an entire chapter to this pistol that he believed Tucker made in Marshall, Texas, prior to his move to Lancaster in 1862. This is no doubt the rarest, most desirable of any maker marked Texas Confederate revolver. There is a large file of original provenance and correspondence detailing history of this revolver and Laban E. Tucker including a framed photograph of Tucker. PROVENANCE: Hugh Dial Tucker (Grandson of maker); Harry Brooks, Dallas, Texas, 1950; Pictured in “Confederate Handguns, A Collectors Detailed Study Of Southern Pistols”, by William Albaugh, this being an early detailed study of Confederate revolvers as it appeared in the journal of The American Ordnance Association, 1951; Pictured on cover of The Texas Gun Collector, Issue No. 8, March 1951; Jackson Arms, Dallas, Texas; William Bond Collection, December 1959; Displayed at Amon Carter Museum of Western Art, Fort Worth, Texas, 1963-1964; Pictured on pg. 203 “Confederate Handguns”, by Albaugh, Benet, Simmons, 1963; Conestoga Auction Lot #586, July 5, 1994; Donald Tharpe Collection; Don & Kathlee Bryan Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine overall. All matching and complete, SN 79 is found on bbl, frame, loading arm and cyl. Retains strong traces of bright finish scattered over length of bbl, loading arm, frame and cyl. Brass trigger guard and backstrap have an olive/brass patina overall. Grips fit well and retain 90%+ of original varnish with moderate edge wear. Mechanically gun is sound, functioning with well-defined rifling and crisp bore. Accompanying holster fits the gun well, is sound and solid, has a new tab sewn over remnants of old, otherwise very good. Accompanying 2-cavity iron bullet mold is very similar to ones manufactured in England, however, this example has a long straight tail on sprue cutter unlike English molds and could have been the one described in the original bill of sale by Hugh Dial Tucker, but he stated it was a Colt brass mold. The framed photograph measuring 11-1/2″ x 14″ overall is inscribed on back “LABAN E TUCKER FOUNDER OF TUCKER & SHERRARD GUN FACTORY OF LANCASTER, TEXAS” 50122-6 JS (150,000-250,000) – Lot 2204
RARE EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH DOUBLE MEXICAN EAGLE CARVED IVORY GRIPS IN A THREE QUARTER SKIRT MEXICAN LOOP HOLSTER MADE BY BURLESON CO. CARRIZO SPRINGS TEXAS.
SN 32818. Cal. 45 LC. This 7-1/2″ nickel plated Colt SAA was made in 1876 and has fine aesthetic appeal. Gun appears all original and complete with fine aesthetics for an early Western Colt that obviously saw plenty of service but was well cared for. The three quarter skirt Mexican single loop holster has a maker’s mark “Burleson Co. Maker’s Carrizo Springs, Texas” in an oval on the loop. The holster also has a leather concho under the loop. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Good to very good overall. Matching SN on frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder, last 4 digits of SN on bbl are not matching “3324”. Revolver was engraved by Nimschke probably along with other SAA Revolvers. During the engraving process, bbls had to be removed. The switch likely took place at this time. Ejector housing and bbl retain about 1/2 their original nickel plating. Bbl has some moderate muzzle wear and wear to left side of bbl engraving. 1-line Hartford address is crisp. Frame, cylinder, backstrap and trigger guard have matching wear especially to left side, traces of nickel are found in protected areas of frame and cylinder. Grips are fairly well fit with considerable wear especially on right side where relief carving is much lower than other side. The “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips have age patina and cracking. Mechanically gun is functional with discernible rifling in bore. Holster is in very good condition for its age circa 1870’s, stitching is in tact, bottom inside of holster at muzzle has a tear from the weight of the revolver. Maker’s cartouche is very clear and absolutely orig. Concho is also very good with two rawhide tails. 49973-155 JS IVORY (9,000-13,000) – Lot 1297
SN 643. 1) Cal. .38 RF. SN 693. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved with “certifiable antique ivory” carved Mexican eagle grips, 2-line bbl address, blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, 5-shot cylinder. 2) Cal. .38 CF. SN 18082. 2-1/4″ bbl, New House Model, blade front sight and frame notch rear sight, 2-pc hard checkered hard rubber grips with Colt oval. 3) Cal. .41 CF. SN 16798. 2-1/4″ bbl, blade front sight and frame notched rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, hard rubber grips with oval Colt. 4) Cal. .38 CF. SN 12297. 2-1/4″ bbl, rosewood 2-pc grips, 5-shot cylinder, blade front sight with frame notch rear sight, 2-line bbl address with patent date. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: 1) Nickel is 70% bright orig on frame and bbl, cylinder has flaked and worn to mostly bare metal. Cylinder SN matches bbl. Hammer has traces of gold plating. Bore is fair with strong rifling. 2) 80% bright orig nickel, near excellent “Colt House .38” etched panel. Hammer, trigger, screws, and cylinder pin are fire-blued. Cylinder has some flaking and discoloration, grips are in very good condition and are very well fit. Bore is good. 3) Good etched panel, frame and bbl have flaked and worn to 10% nickel. Cylinder is mostly worn and shows nickel in flutes. Bore is good. 4) Very good etched panel, bbl has flaked near muzzle, cylinder has light flaking. Cylinder face has bevels at flute. Cylinder pin, hammer, and trigger have good fire blue. Grips have orig finish and are in good condition. Bore is good. 50019-73, 50019-91, 50019-100, 50019-295, TN IVORY (2,500-4,500) – Lot 1416
*FINE BILL MAINS ENGRAVED COLT STAINLESS STEEL PYTHON DA REVOLVER.
SN K99125. Cal. 357 Mag. All stainless steel with 6″ vent rib bbl and standard adjustable sights. Mounted with Colt silver medallion black & gray checkered laminated grips. Revolver is engraved by Colt master engraver Bill Mains in about “B” coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Bbl and cyl are engraved to match and Mr. Mains’ signature is incorporated in one scroll on the sideplate. Bill Mains was Colt’s most prolific factory engraver, although his work is seldom recognized. The work that he did outside the factory on private commission is most often signed, as found here. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined Colt Custom Shop walnut case that has small medallion on the lid and a larger one inside the lid. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory finish, has been fired but very little. Grips are fine. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore. Case is crisp. 50062-96 JR153 (3,500-6,500) – Lot 1744
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 28098. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 Cal”. Cyl is unfluted with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a fine burl walnut varnished 1-pc walnut grip that has last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is very nicely engraved, probably by Gustave Young, in late vine style without background having about full coverage on the frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and around the address with a flower blossom above the wedge slot on the right side. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and spur. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. All of the SNs on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signal to the factory workman to apply extra polish for engraving. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined, mahogany Colt casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms & flags flask with angle spout, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36B”, a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Work’s combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label. Only a little more than 38,000 of these fine revolvers were produced 1861-1873. The majority having been produced during the Civil War years saw hard service throughout the war and the entire production generally saw hard frontier service thereafter. This was considered Colt’s most beautiful percussion revolver and few remain today with high orig finish and extremely few are cased. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection of Steve Ardia. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains about 95% orig blue, turned a little plum over the top with glossy bright blue elsewhere and light sharp edge wear. Frame and hammer retain virtually all of their orig, naturally muted case colors, turned a little dark on the hammer. Cyl retains about 75-80% blue/brown patina and shows about 95% Naval battle scene roll marking with light, scattered pinprick pitting. Trigger guard and backstrap retain silver in sheltered areas, being mostly a yellow brass patina. Grip is sound with a few small dings on the bottom edges and retains most of its slightly dulled orig finish. Mechanics are crisp. Very bright, shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. Case is sound with usual handling & storage nicks &scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with light to moderate soil inside the lid and moderate to heavy soil in the bottom with solid partitions. Flask retains 88-90% orig finish on the body with most of the losses on the back side. Collar and spout are a brass patina. Mold retains about 80% dull blue with crisp cavities. Cartridge packet and cap tin are fine. Altogether, a rare fine set. 49631-52 JR19 (40,000-60,000) – Lot 2132
RARE COLT MODEL 1848 PRESENTATION BABY DRAGOON WITH 4″ BARREL.
SN 10345. Cal. 31. 4″ bbl brass cone shaped front sight, 2-line NY address on top of bbl. 5-shot cylinder with no scene visible and typical oval cylinder stops. Left side of frame marked “Colts Patent”. Brass trigger guard and butt with silver plating, 1-pc walnut grips. Matching wedge. Top of back strap beautifully engraved with presentation “From/Freemont Co./To/C.McKee”. PROVENANCE: The Estate of G. W. “Bill” Stewart of Sonora, Texas. CONDITION: Good. Bbl, cyl, frame, and hammer retaining brown patina finish with scattered salt and pepper pitting throughout. Cyl scene is gone. Back strap retains approx 70% orig silver, as does butt and trigger guard, front strap. Mechanics are excellent. Bore is fair with light staining and pitting. 49973-121 JSL90 (2,900-4,900) – Lot 1185
*BEAUTIFUL JEFF FLANNERY ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 0056MC. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 5-1/” bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with model & Cal. marking on right side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates & rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with 2-pc fine stag grips that has SN 12968 inside each grip. Revolver is very nicely engraved in about D coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Left recoil shield is inlaid with a heavy, very nicely sculpted gold eagle’s head. Frame, top strap, bbl, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard have elaborate gold wire inlay incorporated within the engraved scrolls. Tip of the base pin also has a fine gold wire inlay. Cyl is engraved to match with 4 gold wire bands surrounding a band of engraved stars. Front & rear edges of the flutes are engraved in small foliate spray. Accompanied by a fine blue velvet lined, glass topped oak casing that is French fitted for the revolver & has two 6-rd cartridge blocks. Also has a functioning key. Mr. Flannery is apparently a very accomplished engraver having formed his own company about 40 years ago. Numerous examples of his work can be found by searching the internet. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching,including cyl except grips as noted. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom blue finish. Grips are fine with crisp mechanics. Bright shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is fine. 50062-62 JR131 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1356
SN 1091. 1) Cal. .32 RF. SN 1091. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, normal sights, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. 2) Cal. .32 RF. SN 1086. 2-1/4″ bbl, factory engraved, SN is stamped over engraving on bbl, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line bbl address, normal sights, carved and checkered mother-of-pearl grips. Included is collector’s notes. 3) Cal. .32 RF. SN 418. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, regular sights, rosewood grips. 5-shot cylinder. 4) Cal. .32 RF. SN 3712. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, front sight filed down, top strap grooved rear sight, 5-shot cylinder, rosewood grips. 5) Cal. .32 RF. SN 1321. 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line bbl address, regular sights, 5-shot cylinder, mother-of-pearl grips. PROVENANCE: The Dr. Robert G. Cox Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Bbl has flaked to about 20% orig blue. Cylinder has strong orig blue in flutes, otherwise some flaking. Frame has very good orig case coloring. Grips are orig finish in fair condition. Bore is in fair condition. 2) 60% bright orig nickel with crisp engraving. Mother-of-pearl grips are beautifully carved and checkered having a soldier’s head in relief carving on left side. There is a similar gun with a close SN pictured in Vol I. Colt Book of Engraving shows the SN stamped over engraving and has a very similar carved and checkered grip. Bore is very good. 3) Metal has 50% orig nickel. Grips are dark with age and oil stain, in good condition. Bore is fair. 4) Bbl has traces of orig blue with balance flaked. Cylinder has bright orig blue in flutes balance is silver. Frame has strong traces of case coloring. Grips have orig finish, and are in good condition. Bore is good. 5) Bbl has 80% orig silver. Frame has peeling in front of cylinder. Frame has 60% orig silver plating. Cylinder has peeling and flaking with 50% orig silver. Hammer and trigger have good fire blue. Mother-of-pearl grips are in very good condition. Bore is good. 50019-62, 50019-66, 50019-71, 50019-280, 50019-283, TN46 (4,000-5,000) – Lot 1428
INCREDIBLE ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER COMMEMORATING WILD BILL HICKOK.
SN 59088. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, thinned front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of the black powder frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Ejector head is half-moon style and the base pin is early style with dimpled ends. Revolver is incredibly engraved by Master Engraver Alvin White with D-plus coverage fine foliate & floral arabesque patterns with very fine shaded background. Screws are all also engraved. Left recoil shield has the raised gold inlay of the bust of an Indian warrior with long hair, a necklace & two feathers. Top of the backstrap is inlaid with the raised gold bust of William Butler (Wild Bill) Hickok. Backstrap is engraved in script “C. M. Williams”. Left side of front strap, under the grip is inlaid with Mr. White’s gold cartouche marked “AA WHITE / ENG.”. Mounted with a 1-pc “certifiable pre-ban elephant ivory” grip that is constructed in the orig old-fashioned manner of two slabs of ivory attached to a central ivory spacer block. Right side has a very detailed, deep relief carved figure of a “Can-Can” girl. Backstrap channel of the grip is engraved “Grips By AA White Eng.”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 45 Colt, bbl length and type of stocks not listed, blue finish, shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY NY on Oct 11, 1880 in a 100 gun shipment. Available information from a previous sale indicates that the engraving on the revolver and carved grips were done by Mr. White in the mid-1950s and that at that time Mr. White had only ever carved 1 other dance hall girl. PROVENANCE: The Brad Shepherd Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine, except for the grips. No disassembly was effected to check for matching numbers. Overall, revolver retains about 99% crisp custom finish with bright blue and strong, bright case colors. Left side & top edge of hammer have turned dark with finish loss on the left side of spur. Grip is sound with some age lines and shows no wear with a fine, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 50061-1 JR122 IVORY (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2095
RARE INSCRIBED COL. COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CANTEEN STOCK.
SN 79482. Cal 36. Fourth model ’51 Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetailed front sight with German silver blade and 1-line Hartford address. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw and extended stock screws. Cylinder is unfluted with Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking. The silver plated steel large guard, trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc varnished walnut grip that has last 3 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Backstrap is very nicely engraved in period script “F.W.H.S.” Bottom of frame, just in front of trigger guard, is mounted with a factory lanyard loop. Accompanied by a very rare matching numbered canteen shoulder stock with brass & steel furniture. Buttplate also has matching number. Top of the yoke is period script engraved “F.W.H. Sheffield / with Compliments of / Col Colt”. Buttstock is very nicely figured, slab-sawed American walnut with straight grip and silver-plated brass carbine buttplate. Bottom of stock and bottom tang have sling loops. A quick Google search disclosed that F.W.H. Sheffield was one of the founders of the Merchant’s National Bank of Dubuque, IA. At the Founders meeting he was elected president and apparently remained so until September 1873 when there was a run on the bank & it was forced to close its doors. Mr. Sheffield is reported to have been a native of Saybrook, CT, having arrived in Dubuque in 1856 or 1857. Nothing more was disclosed until the 1883 census of Utica, NY lists him as being in a wagon making partnership in Utica. Nothing further was learned. This revolver appears to have been manufactured in 1857 which coincides with Mr. Sheffield’s departure from Connecticut. Given that Mr. Sheffield was in the banking business it stands to reason that he may have been connected to Samuel Colt through his banking connections. Undoubtedly additional research will disclose the actual connection. PROVENANCE: Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl, grip and shoulder stock. Bbl retains 60-70% dull original blue turning a little plummy in areas with sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot retains bright case colors, turning dark on the handle. Frame retains about all of its original bright case colors, especially on the sides, turned silver on left recoil shield and a little dark on right recoil shield. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cyl retains traces of original blue, being mostly a light, smooth brown patina and shows about 95% Ormsby Navy Battle Scene roll marking. Trigger guard retains traces of original silver, being mostly a smooth gray/brown patina. Backstrap and buttstrap retain virtually all of their original silver with a few spots of minor pimpling. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with nicks and scratches and damage at the top from the stock yoke and retains about 70-75% original varnish. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Stock has a slightly opened seam at the toe from shrinkage, otherwise is sound with a few light nicks and retains 96-98% strong original varnish. Yoke retains traces of original silver being mostly a dark mustard patina. Buttplate retains about 65% thinning original silver. All together an exceptional and beautiful stocked ’51 Navy with rare “Col Colt” presentation. 49941-26 JR73 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 2166
EXTREMELY FINE KENTUCKY PISTOL MADE BY FAMOUS COLT MASTER GUNSMITH AND ENGRAVER ALVIN A. WHITE.
This gun is made in the style of the Golden Age of Kentucky pistols. Silver mounted with fabulous inlaid American eagle in wood opposite lock, other silver panels of stylized moon, star and clouds. Butt cap engraved with panoply of arms. There is relief carving behind tang in shape of clam shell with projections toward barrel. The barrel is two-stage brass; half octagonal to round with a 30 caliber rifled bore. Barrel is engraved with arabesque swirls and large initials “A A W” on top of barrel flat. CONDITION: 13″ overall. Very fine. Gun is fully functional. Well figured, tiger striped maple show minor, small blemishes. Brass barrel has staining, silver embellishment is fine, well fit. 48739-1 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2500
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 DOUBLE ACTION LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER.
SN 14002. Cal. .38 Colt. 3-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish. Hard rubber grips. CONDITION: Good condition. Engraving appears to be factory or New York style, gun was engraved when it was new. 10% nickel finish on the bbl and cylinder, 20% nickel finish on the frame, traces of blue on the hammer. Very good representative example of an engraved Lightning. 49433-108 TEP C&R (3,000-4,500) – Lot 1040
*ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY MASTER ENGRAVERS FRANCOLINI AND THIRION.
SN S18980A. Cal .45 Colt. All blue finish with 4-3/4″ bbl & full front sight with 1-line address and model & cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and it is mounted with beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is constructed in the orig manner of two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacer blocks. Left side of front & back straps, under the grip has the matching SN. Revolver is spectacularly engraved and gold inlaid by master engravers Leonard Francolini & Denise Thirion. Engraving consists of full coverage, exquisite, intertwined, foliate arabesque patterns that have very fine pearled background. The entire frame, top strap, back strap, buttstrap and trigger guard have extremely fine gold wire inlaid borders. Hammer is matching engraved with a dolphin or dragons head on each side of the hammer nose and is also outlined in gold wire. Left side of frame has the patent dates inlaid in gold with a tiny, very highly detailed raised gold Rampant Colt. Cyl is inlaid with one wide and one narrow gold band around the rear edge with very fine gold wire outline around the flutes and front edge. Bbl has left side markings inlaid in gold with one wide and one narrow gold band around the muzzle and breech ends. Engraving patterns extend nearly full length of the bbl, with matching patterns in ejector housing gullet and outer radius. Both sides of front sight are engraved to match. Screws, trigger, base pin and cross bolts are fire blued. Engravers’ signatures are on bottom front of frame. The three frame screws have engraved ends. A truly incredible representation of the engravers’ art. Accompanied by a signed letter from James V. Alaimo, former superintendent of the Colt Customs Shop wherein he states that he owned this revolver and another also being sold in this auction, while employed at Colt. He states that the ivory on each of these revolvers was legally imported African elephant ivory and grips are “certifiable pre-ban African ivory”. PROVENANCE: James D. Aliamo, Superintendent Colt Custom Shop Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains 99.9% bright, Colt custom shop blue with only the hint of a drag line. Grip is crisp showing a light ivory patina. 49409-1 JR IVORY (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3217
*SUBLIME MASTERPIECE OF FUNCTIONAL SPORTING ART, EXCEPTIONAL KEN HUNT RELIEF SCULPTED JAMES PURDEY .410 SIDELOCK EJECTOR GAME GUN WITH CASE.
SN 28483. Cal. .410. 3″ Chambers. 28″ Chopper lump bbls with slightly raised, matted, concave game rib, are engraved “J. Purdey & Sons.” “Audley House. South Audley Street. London. England.” on tops. Bbl flats are stamped with 1981 London nitro proofs for 3″ chambers. SNs are on bottoms of bbls. Bottom of left bbl is stamped “PURDEY” and with bbl makers initials “AH” (long time Purdey craftsman, Alf Harvey). Tube nos. 75353 and 75354 are on loop. Case hardened, Beesley patent, self-opening, sidelock action with rounded bar, is as small as this action is possible to make due to complex cocking and self-opening mechanism; strikers are .84″ apart, action bar is .98″ deep and 1.415″ wide. It has been estimated that fewer than 30 of these small actions have been made by Purdeys since they first rose to the challenge in the late ’20’s, with only 6 being built before WWII. Action features automatic safety (SAFE inlaid in gold), bushed strikers, side clips, raised rib tumbler end cocking indicators, and gold-plated double triggers (front articulated). Action and lockplates of this fine example, are fully relief sculpted with scrolled grape leaves and ferns with floral highlights. This exquisite work serves as background and counterpoint to game scenes with subjects carved in full relief; a covey of quail rise from thicket with fence line and trees in background on left lockplate, and a flock of white winged doves erupt from trees on right. The outline of distant mountains fades into the open background. Bottom of action depicts a pointing pointer in dense brush land. Leaf and floral motif extends to fences, top lever, and single beaded trigger guard, which has SN on tang. Fire blued hinge pin is relief engraved in floral motif. Both bird scenes are signed by revered master engraver, Ken Hunt, who was trained by Harry Kell, and worked exclusively for Purdeys through the middle ’50’s, and has been freelance since then, and is responsible for some of the finest firearms engraving extant. Trigger guard tang extends to horn grip cap with large inset vacant gold oval. Very fine dark, heavily marbled and nicely stump figured European walnut capped pistol grip buttstock measures 14-7/8″ over skeleton steel buttplate, which is engraved to match action and other furniture. Typical drop points are behind lockplates, and standard point pattern checkering with mullered borders wraps over top of grip. Long beavertail ejector forend has Anson release, and interior is stamped with actioners initials “BD” (Ben Delay,Jr, (?) son of long time Purdey actioner, Ben Delay, Sr). Bore diameter at muzzles: left -.390, right -.393. Bore restrictions: left – (full), right – (mod). Wall thickness: left -.035, right -.042. Drop at heel: 2-1/16″, drop at comb: 1-1/2″. Weight: 5 lbs 14 oz. LOP: 14-7/8″. Makers orig oak and leather case with brass corners and brass central medallion is accompanied by its orig canvas outer cover with tan leather trim, and strap closure. Case is lined in burgundy cloth, and has gold embossed black leather Purdey label in lid, and paper charge label for this particular gun. Case contains 2-pc brass and composition cleaning rod with brush, mop, jag and shell extractor, in brown leather wallet with Purdey address, Purdey marked large square oil bottle, pair of snap caps, Purdey marked striker key with walnut handle, and a pair of matching turnscrews. Covered compartment holds a striker case with spare strikers, and two keys. PROVENANCE: Consignor’s notes. This gun was made especially for Larry Sheerin, renowned sportsman, rancher, investor, Colt collector, adventurer, and publisher of the “American Gun” 1961-1962, and “Antique Arms Annual 1971”. Purdey ledgers support all specifications, and also states stocker was Bill O’Brien. With other notes on gun and Larry Sheerin by R. L. Wilson. Also a statement by Larry Sheerin stating “Purdey no. 28483 was ordered by me some 30 odd years ago as a gun I could use in the field for small upland birds, namely doves and quail. I contacted Ken Hunt and told him to simply do me a design that he would consider his finest work. As you can see, he complied with my wishes. The sculpted steel figures and the rest of the motif make this, in my opinion, one of Ken Hunt’s finest works.” Signed Larry Sheerin with a P.S. ” Because of the overall beauty of this piece, I never took it into the field, simply left it in my gun room and have admired it all these years.” CONDITION: Excellent, essentially as new, appears unfired since proof, with only some minor assembly and handling marks on wood and metal, and extractor wipe marks on breechface. Gold of triggers and oval on grip considerably darkened. Mechanically crisp. Case leather is excellent, near new, as protected by its outer cover, which only has some light stains. Interior is excellent with some minor rubs. Accessories are excellent. An opportunity to own one of the world’s finest guns, impossible to duplicate today. 49467-1 MGM204 (80,000-120,000) – Lot 2254
RARE COLT MODEL 1883 DOUBLE BARREL SHOTGUN TWO BARREL SET THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS ARIZONA SHERIFF JOHN H. SLAUGHTER.
SN 1249. Cal. 10 ga. Fine grade 3 hammerless Colt shotgun with 2 sets of fine Damascus bbls, one of which is 18-1/8″ and the other 32-1/8″. Mounted with highly figured European walnut with 2 checkered, semi-schnable, black insert splinter forearms and Prince of Wales stock with round knob and solid red pad of recent vintage. Bottom of the stock has a small nickel silver oval engraved “J.M. Thurston”. Receiver is engraved with light border patterns and rosettes around the hinge pin, screws and receiver pins. Accompanied by 2 Colt Factory letters, one dated March 5, 1977, and the other April 8, 1987. Both letters agree that this shotgun was a 10 ga with 32″ bbls and blue finish, shipped to Collins & Gordon, Omaha, NE, February 22, 1887. The 1977 letter additionally lists the weight as 10 lbs. with “walnut” stocks and a note at the bottom “Records also indicate extra barrel was supplied for this shotgun on May 24th, 1889”. The 1987 letter simply lists the type of stocks as “wood” but has the additional information of being factory engraved, grade 3. In this latter letter there is no mention of the extra bbl. Additionally accompanied by a sworn, notarized affidavit dated September 8, 1973, over the signature of Richard R. Riss, II. Mr. Riss states that he is the owner of “How The West Was Won Memorial Museum”, located in Custer, SD, which houses the Riss collection, “Which is considered to be the rarest and largest collection of authenticated Outlaw and Frontier guns, photographs, mementos and material that made Western Expansion possible”. He further states that in 1961 he received the “American Archives Award for Sincere Dedication to Research, Authenticity and the Preservation of American History”. He further states that his collection has been written up in more than 80 publications and has been exhibited —– since it was started in 1936. Mr. Riss certifies that he “Did purchase in 1947 (through Lynn Reeder, gun dealer, of Kansas City, MO.) a 10 ga doubled barreled Colt Shotgun cased with two sets of barrels bearing serial #1249, that belonged first to J.M. Thurston (magician) and so inscribed on a silver medallion in the stock. This gun was later given to John Slaughter and I purchased it from family heirs in Florida.” Additionally accompanied by a large volume of research material on John Horton Slaughter, compiled by consignor. Included are several copies of photographs from the Arizona Historical Society which cannot be reproduced without authorization. This shotgun has been the subject of several articles including one by Robert Doyle which appeared in the April 1980, Arms Gazette. It has also been exhibited by consignor and his 3-piece, folding, tabletop display accompanies this lot. The display board includes 7 framed photographs and the framed title board. In addition there is a plastic wrapped 100-rd box of UMC Majestic 10 Gauge Paper Shot Shells, probably new primed empties. Plastic was not opened to check contents. Also accompanying are 4 books which are The Southwest of John Horton Slaughter Cattleman Sheriff, Erwin. The other 3 only have a mention or a chapter about Slaughter: The Last Chance Tombstone’s Early Years, Myers; Tombstone’s Immortals, Traywick; Billy King’s Tombstone, Sonnichsen. John Horton Slaughter was born October 1841, in Louisiana and when he was only a few months old his family moved to a homestead in west Texas. He grew up ranching and fighting Indians & Renegades and when the Civil War broke out he enlisted in the Texas Cavalry but was soon mustered out for illness. He returned to his home and enlisted in the Texas Rangers, quickly rising to the rank of Lieutenant. With the boom in cattle prices Mr. Slaughter went into the cattle business with his wife. He stayed in Texas for a period of time and then in the 1870’s moved to Arizona, purchasing the San Bernardino ranch of about 70,000 acres east of Douglas, in Cochise County, which sprawled below the Mexican border. Later he added an additional 30,000 acres where it became one of the largest ranches in the U.S. Although Mr. Slaughter was a small man, less than 5′ 6″, he was no one to argue with and is credited with having killed at least 20 men. He was so feared that outlaws and even the fearsome Apache avoided his ranch. His ranch was in the area of Tombstone, which had become a tough, wild town. He served as Sheriff of Cochise County from 1888 – 1892 and was known throughout the area to have carried a double barrel shotgun which he applied liberally, usually without the benefit of trial. He was known to have frequently confronted local “Bad Men” and with a simple “Get Of Cochise County or I’ll kill you” which usually sent the miscreant packing, never to been seen again. Mr. Slaughter’s wife, Adeline died in 1878 and he then married Viola Howell a woman 21 years younger than him. Together they built the San Bernardino ranch into an amazing entity unto itself, completely self sustaining, even with its own Post Office, School, store, farm and orchards and over 30,000 cattle. Mr. Slaughter had a fierce reputation as a man hunter and tracker and along with the infamous Tom Horn was enlisted by the Army to track down the famous Apache Chief Geronimo, which he did, leading to the Apache’s surrender. John Slaughter died in bed February 2, 1922 at age 80 with his boots off, leaving that area of Arizona a better and safer place. His great ranch was gradually sold off with the last parcel of 4,000 acres sold in 1965. Today the ranch headquarters is a museum. PROVENANCE: John H. Slaughter descendants; Richard R. Riss, II Collection; John R. Butcher Collection; to present Consignor. CONDITION: Very fine. The 32″ bbls are extremely fine showing virtually all of their strong brown Damascus pattern and bright shiny bores with a few small spots of light pitting. The 18″ bbls show most of an old blued finish with wear over the forearm area and have bright shiny bores. Receiver retains 40-50% faded case colors with the balance turned silver. Wood is sound with a gouge in the buttstock, light nicks and scratches, showing light to moderate diamond point wear. The buttstock is 13-5/8″ without the pad, which would comport with a man of short stature. Obviously the pad was added later. Shot shell box has a couple of broken corners and a tear with tape on one side, otherwise is sound with light soil and a dark yellow/brown patina. Books are fine as is the display. 49537-1 JR (15,000-30,000) – Lot 3245
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT M-1851 PERCUSSION NAVY REVOLVER INSCRIBED TO CAPTAIN JULIUS HAYDEN, LATER BRIGADIER GENERAL.
SN 63812. This is a fine “as found” Colt Navy orig manufactured in 1856. This gun was originally manufactured under the U.S. Military contract and was rejected for unknown reasons. Sam Colt, being the frugal businessman that he was, put burl grips on the gun, had it engraved, and likely sold it to the public. Most parts have inspector’s initials and a small “U.S.” is found on left side of frame beneath “COLT’S PATENT”. This exact gun is written about on page 85 of Nathan L. Swayze’s book “’51 Colt Navies”. Regardless, this is a engraved and inscribed Colt Navy carried by Julius Hayden who saw continuous service in the U.S. Army as an officer from 1850 to 1870. The backstrap is inscribed “Captn. J. Hayden. U.S.A.”- with the U.S.A standing for United States Army. Captain Hayden was orig commissioned in the 2nd U.S. Infantry seeing service in the west until the Civil War when he was commissioned into the Field and Staff of the 10th U.S. Infantry in the Army of the Potomac. Captain Hayden advanced through the ranks and by the time of the Battle of Gettysburg, he was Inspector General of the 3rd Corp. He is cited in several references as personally leading the 3rd AC to the Gettysburg battlefield as he was acquainted with the terrain. Lt. Col. Hayden was cited by Major General French of the 3rd Army Corps for distinguished and conspicuous ability. Hayden was indeed brevetted Brigadier General for gallant and meritorious service during the Civil War. There are over 100 pgs of copied records of Bvt. Brig-General Julius Hayden outlining his war service beginning in the Mexican War, wounded during this war, with his first promotion in 1850 to Captain until his retirement in 1870. This is a rarely offered inscribed and engraved Colt to a regular U.S. Army officer in fine unaltered matching condition. CONDITION: Gun appears all-orig with matching SNs. Full-coverage engraving of bbl, frame, backstrap, and trigger guard even include screws with exception of hammer screw and wedge screw which appear to be contemporary replacements with matching patina. Metal overall is gray/plum with fairly sharp edges with edge wear. Cyl shows traces of naval battle scene with an old repaired chamber which is barely detectable without close scrutiny. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 50% of their orig silver plating and hold a fine varnished 1-pc burl grips. Mechanically, revolver functions well with well discerned rifling in bore. This gun no doubt was carried by Hayden throughout the Civil War. 49622-6 JS (16,000-25,000) – Lot 3167
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 DOUBLE ACTION THUNDERER REVOLVER.
SN 100477. Cal. .41 Colt. 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish. Mother of Pearl grips. CONDITION: Very good condition. Revolver retains 50-60% nickel finish overall with the balance blending to smooth clean metal. Front sight has been trimmed. Engraving appears to be original factory or New York style, well executed. Mother of Pearl grips fit well. Nice example of an early engraved Thunderer. 49433-104 TEP C&R (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1044
*ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY MASTER ENGRAVERS FRANCOLINI AND THIRION.
SN SA99998. Cal .45 Colt. All blue finish with 4-3/4″ bbl & full front sight with 1-line address and model & cal on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and is mounted with beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is constructed in the orig manner of two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacer blocks. Left side of front & back straps, under the grip has the matching SN. Revolver is spectacularly engraved and gold inlaid by master engravers Leonard Francolini & Denise Thirion. Engraving consists of full coverage, exquisite, foliate arabesque patterns that have very fine pearled background. The entire frame, top strap, back strap, buttstrap & trigger guard have extremely fine gold wire inlaid borders. Hammer is matching engraved and the spur is also outlined in gold wire. Left side of frame has the patent dates inlaid in gold with a tiny, very highly detailed, raised gold Rampant Colt. Cyl is inlaid with one wide and one narrow gold band around the rear edge with very fine gold wire outline around the flutes & front edge. Bbl has left side markings inlaid in gold with one wide and one narrow gold wire band around the muzzle & breech ends. Engraving patterns extend nearly full length of the bbl, with matching patterns in ejector housing gullet & outer radius. Both sides of front sight are engraved to match. Screws, trigger, base pin & cross bolt are fire blued. Engravers’ signatures are on bottom front of frame. A truly incredible representation of the engravers’ art. Accompanied by a signed letter from James V. Alaimo, former superintendent of the Colt Customs Shop wherein he states that he owned this revolver and another also being sold in this auction, while employed at Colt. He states that the ivory on each of these revolvers was legally imported African elephant ivory and is “certifiable pre-ban ivory”. PROVENANCE: James V. Alaimo, Colt Custom Shop supervisor. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 99.9% bright, Colt custom shop blue with no hint of a drag line. Grips are crisp showing a light ivory patina. 49409-2 JR IVORY (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3218
*ELEGANT AND DYNAMIC KEN HUNT ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID JAMES PURDEY “QUAIL GUN” WITH CASE.
SN 28926. Cal. 12 ga. Finely struck 27″ chopper lump bbls with slightly raised, flat, matted game rib are engraved “J. Purdey & Sons” and “Audley House. South Audley Street. London. England.” on tops. Bbl flats are stamped with 1986 London nitro proofs for 2-3/4″ chambers. Bottoms of bbls are stamped with SNs, and bottom of left bbl is stamped with barrel makers initials “E.C” (Ted Combin). Tube nos. 75419 and 75420 are on loop. Case hardened, Beesley patent, self-opening, sidelock action features automatic safety (SAFE inlaid in gold), raised rib tumbler end cocking indicators, bushed strikers, and double triggers (front articulated). Action is engraved with exceptionally well cut and shaded miniscule scroll with rose bouquet highlights in typical Purdey house style. “J. Purdey & Sons” is gold inlaid in Old English script at the front of each lockplate. Bottom of action is engraved with exceptional gold inlaid portrait of on-coming quail with finely detailed engraved background, along with “Quail” “Gun” in gold. This truly fine engraving is by the renowned Ken Hunt, formerly exclusively a Purdey engraver, working freelance since the late ’50’s. His signature appears on trigger plate along with date ’87. Single beaded trigger guard is also scroll engraved and has SN on tang, which extends to composition cap with large inset gold oval. Exceptional dark marbled, stump figured, red-toned, European walnut capped pistol grip buttstock measures 15″ over black leather covered pad. Typical drop points are behind locks. Standard point pattern checkering with mullered borders is at grip. “LARRY” in individually inlet gold letters, is on toe line. Matching splinter ejector forend has Anson release. Iron is stamped with actioners initials “PB” (Phil Butcher). Bore diameter: left -.729, right -.729. Bore restrictions: left -.020 (mod), right -.016 (Lt mod). Wall thickness: left -.032, right -.033. Drop at heel: 1-7/8″, drop at comb: 1-1/2″. Weight: 7 lbs 2 oz. LOP: 15″. Makers brown leather motor case with stitched leather corners is lined in scarlet cloth, and has small paper Purdey “Graham Rust” label in lid, along with charge card for this particular gun. Case contains 2-pc cleaning rod, still in its orig wrapper, along with other implements including broken case extractor, spare striker bottle with spare strikers, oil bottle, and pair of snap caps, all still in their wrappings. Also included is Purdey instruction and maintenance booklet. PROVENANCE: Email to owner from James Purdey outlining specifications of this gun, including Ken Hunt’s engraving, “Spring bladed” front trigger, and gold letters LARRY. This gun was made especially for Larry Sheerin, renowned sportsman, rancher, investor, Colt collector, adventurer, and publisher of the “American Gun” 1961-1962, and “Antique Arms Annual 1971”. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, showing evidence of light field use. Bbl blue is slightly thinning at breech ends, and silvered at muzzles, with scratches on bottoms. Case hardening of action is thinning and silvering on beads and fences, but is mostly vibrant. Top lever is slightly silvered at thumbpiece. Trigger guard is silvered on bead. Stocks are very dry, but retain nearly all their orig Slackum finish, with some very light marks and spotting. Leather on pad shows some rubs. Bores are excellent. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Drop shows little wear. Ejectors are in time. Case leather shows some light scuffs. Interior cloth is excellent, a bit musty. Labels are excellent. Accessories still unwrapped. A lovely late Purdey gun engraved by one of the all time masters. 49467-2 MGM203 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 2261
SN 10476. Cal. 10 GA. Beautiful medium grade Colt shotgun with 30″ Damascus bbls, tapered concave rib with single brass bead marked with the makers name & address. Mounted with very nicely figured European walnut with checkered, black insert, Schnable tip, splinter forearm & round knob pistol grip stock that has Rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. Receiver, lockplates, hammer & forend iron are nicely engraved in light foliate arabesque patterns with simple line borders. Colt introduced this model in 1878 and continued in production until about 1889 with about 23,000 having been produced in three gauges before cheap European competition forced them to stop production. These shotguns were of very high quality and usually saw hard service both with hunters and law enforcement. They are frequently found with cut bbls from having served as coach guns or guard weapons. CONDITION: Extremely fine+, all matching (stock not removed to check for matching numbers). Bbls retain most of their orig brown pattern, lightly faded. Lockplates, hammers & receiver retain virtually all of their brilliant orig case colors. Trigger guard retains about 90% fire blue. Stock has a tiny chip back of left lockplate, otherwise wood is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig oil finish. Mechanics crisp. Bright shiny bores. 48568-13 JR (7,500-12,500) – Lot 3248
VERY RARE CASED PAIR COLT ENGRAVED LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 28318/28324. Cal. 36. This pair of guns were made in 1855 in the standard configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbls marked “ADDRESS.COL.COLT, LONDON” with long dashes. Typical English powder proofs are found on bbl housing and each cylinder chamber. Guns are profusely engraved in full coverage with typical English scrolls and floral design including rarely seen coverage on first 2″ of muzzles and full length of loading arm and pivot. The fine silver plated trigger guard and backstrap contain a beautiful pair of varnished burl grips. This is a beautiful pair of guns in an orig English oak Colt case fitted for two revolvers, rare “COLTS NAVY FLASK” marked Dixon bag flask. Two L-shaped gun tools and an iron “COLTS PATENT”, 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter and a paper wrapped orig tin of Eley percussion caps. One fitted compartment contains a couple internal gun parts and a frame screw. A functional case key and several loose bullets are also contained in case. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Guns appear all matching including wedges which contain only last 2 numbers of SN. Stocks were not removed but they are so well fit, retaining most of their orig varnish with only edge wear, they appear orig to these guns. Guns are crisp and grey/white overall with old cleaning to metal and small areas of pinprick pitting especially seen on muzzles and cylinders. Markings are all well discerned and crisp though engraving thin on extremities of bbl. Cylinders retain 60-70% of their naval fight cylinder scenes. Guns have clean, smooth bright bores. Neither gun will index and the two hands found in compartment apparently removed from these guns a long time ago and not replaced, one hand is missing its spring found in compartment. Backstraps and trigger guards retain about 90% orig silver plating with well discerned crisp engraving with slightly less finish on 28324 on inside of grip showing this gun used slightly more than the other. Accompanying Colt English oak casing is brass bound with a folding handle in top of case and a typical round presentation plaque that is blank. Green baise lining is replaced in lid (or at least trimmed as color seems to match the wear and color to lining in bottom of case). Compartmentalized lining has light fading, soiling and wear and reductions where hammers and front sights have cut through. Accompanying flask is very fine retaining over 90% bright lacquer. Flask top has adjustable measurements from 4/8s to 6/8s dram. Mold and L-shaped tools retain much of their orig finish though dull. Cap tin is very fine and still retained in its blue sealed paper wrap with good labels. 49614-1 JS (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3168
SN 283927. Cal. 45 LC. 4-3/4” bbl, blue finish, checkered hard rubber grips. CONDITION: Very fine as refinished after engraving. Revolver retains 90% blue finish on bbl, grip straps, and cylinder. Muted case colors on frame and hammer hidden by engraving. Grips are good with no chips. Engraving is done in a very fine style with almost full coverage. Engraving is scroll type and very tight. Even the hammer and front sight are engraved. This a very attractive engraved single action. 49492-2 TEP C&R (3,500-5,000) – Lot 1054
SN 57160. Cal. .44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and one line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” etched panel on left side. Bottom of bbl under ejector housing has last 4 digits of matching SN and a tiny “44” just forward of the frame. Ejector housing is 2nd type with bullseye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has three line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 C.F.”. Mounted with one piece “certifiable antique ivory” grip that has raised, carved ox head on right side. Revolver is custom, after market engraved. With about 90% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with a small sunburst on recoil shield and loading gate. Each side of bbl boss is engraved in diamond patterns. Left side of frame has the unusual feature of a dog’s head incorporated within the pattern. Engraving extends nearly full length of each side of the bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Outer radius of ejector housing is engraved to match with a long arrow pattern. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger bow are also engraved to match. Cyl is engraved with matching patterns on lands between flutes with a border pattern around rear edge. Base pin is a modern replacement. A beautiful representative piece with nice engraving. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine, to extremely fine, all matching (grip not checked). Overall retains 99% plus crisp custom nickel finish. Grip is sound with a few age lines in bottom edges and shows a fine Ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 49254-18 JR IVORY (7,500-10,500) – Lot 3219
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED 3RD MODEL HARTFORD ENGLISH DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 57. Cal. 44 Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, that has nickel silver front sight and 1-line New-York City address with dashes. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a small ribbon. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Frame, bbl lug, backstrap & buttstrap are beautifully engraved with light foliate & floral English style engraving. Rammer pivot and sides of the hammer are engraved to match. Accompanied by an orig mahogany, blue velvet lined English casing with empty rnd medallion in the lid and swinging latches on the front. Front of the case is installed with a dummy brass lock. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a Sykes patent bag-shaped flask with adjustable spout, a blued two cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on the right side “44H” and a small “T” inspector mark. Also accompanied by a small tin of Joyce caps and a pewter & crystal oiler. Also included is an L-shaped nipple wrench. Two compartments have lids with “certifiable antique ivory” turn finials. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there are a total of only about 700 of these revolvers manufactured in the period 1853-1857, with only a few engraved. In 1860 Colt returned 200 Hardford-English dragoon revolvers to the U.S. to supply the demand of the looming U.S. Civil War and by 1861 were all sold. While a higher percentage of English dragoons than those made for the American market were cased & engraved, they are still a very rare commodity and seldom encountered today. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching. Bbl retains 25-30% glossy English blue with the balance a mottled silver/brown patina; rammer, rammer pivot & handle retain smoky case colors, stronger and brighter on the left side; frame retains 30-35% faded case colors, mostly turned silver; cyl retains 30-40% thin orig blue and shows 60-70% Dragoon-Indian fight scene roll marking; hammer retains strong case colors turned silver on top edge; trigger guard retains about 80-85% strong orig silver and the backstrap about 50%. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains traces of orig finish, being mostly a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong sharp bore with fine pitting. Case is sound with handling & use nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the top lining and moderately faded in the bottom with moderate to heavy soiling; flask has a couple small dents on one side otherwise is sound and retain about 65% orig finish; mold is extremely fine and retains most of its orig blue; other accessories are fine. 49254-4 JR IVORY (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3130
FINE PRESENTATION 1ST MODEL MERWIN & HULBERT ARMY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER.
SN 6379. Cal. 44 M&H. Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl, integral front sight and 1-line Merwin & Hulbert address on top with Hopkins & Allen manufacturer’s address on left side. It has square butt grip frame with lanyard swivel and is mounted with red & black marbled, checkered hard rubber grips. This is the 1st type revolver with open top frame and scooped flute cylinder. Back strap is engraved in period script “A.H.B. to F.C.B. 12/25.78”. The SN is found on butt strap and assembly “3850” is on the left side of butt strap under the grip, also on cyl spindle, rear face of cyl and rear face of bbl lug. Production figures for the Merwin & Hulbert are unknown but Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms states that production is estimated at only a few thousand. Merwin & Hulbert were not themselves manufacturers but dealers & promoters who contracted the manufacturing process to established firearms makers, in this case Hopkins & Allen. These revolvers were very popular on the American frontier with lawmen & others for their rapidity of unloading & reloading. Once all the cartridges were fired, a simple twist & pull of the bbl/cyl assembly emptied the cyl which could then be re-closed and rapidly reloaded through the loading gate on right side of frame. Unfortunately by the time the Merwin & Hulbert emerged on the scene Colt had a 3-year head start with their distribution system and in government contracts. In addition the early Merwin & Hulbert revolvers were introduced in their proprietary calibers such as found here. That ammunition was not always readily available which depressed sales until the company began chambering their revolvers in standard calibers. Merwin & Hulbert marketed these fine revolvers in several different models and calibers only from 1876-1880. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with only some very fine pin prick flaking on sides of frame. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, turned a little dark. Grips are crisp, mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 49450-12 JR (17,000-25,000) – Lot 3264
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER MANUFACTURED AT BEGINNING OF CIVIL WAR.
SN 106032. Cal. 36. Based on SN this particular gun was made in the early months of the Civil War with the early New York address with long dashes. Gun exhibits classic Gustav Young attributed style factory engraving with signature “dog head” on left bbl housing along with floral designs with punch-dot backgrounds. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc. This is a nice honest example of a presentation grade gun that was among the most popular sidearms among Union and Confederate officers during the Civil War. This gun shows honest use and was well cared for. CONDITION: Very good overall. All matching SNs noted on metal parts, though stocks were not removed as they are so well fit with hand worn patina. Engraving is all sharp & crisp and gun has crisp edges. No orig finish is retained and metal overall is grey. Cylinder scene is mostly discernible and other markings are crisp and well defined. There are scattered areas of light pitting especially at muzzle & face of hammer. Pistol functions mechanically well with crisp, well discerned rifling in bore. 49613-3 JS (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3172
SN 128656. Cal. .44 WCF. 4-3/4″ bbl, full nickel finish, engraved. CONDITION: 95% of nickel refinish done at the time of engraving, slightly trimmed front sight, no grips present. A good set of grips would make this one shine. Comes with a Colt Factory letter confirming all features before refinish. Ship to: Meacham Arms Company St. Louis, MO., on July 13th 1889, in a twenty five gun shipment. Engraving is very elaborate and deeply cut. 49433-94 TEP C&R (2,500-4,000) – Lot 1059
ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 127186. Cal. .44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, altered front sight, two line address with the outline of the etched panel on left side. Ejector housing is 3rd type with half-moon ejector rod head. Mounted with smooth, 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 60% coverage on the frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Left recoil lug is engraved with a wonderful American Shield surmounted by a flying American eagle clutching a spear in his talons. Loading gate is engraved in a sun-burst pattern, with hunters stars on each side of front frame. Top strap is engraved in leaf and vine patterns. Matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbl with leaf and vine pattern in top gullet and a hunter’s star on outer radius. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s typical fan pattern with foliate, arabesque and geometric patters down the backstrap and on the buttstrap. Cyl is engraved in alternating patterns on lands between flutes with a leaf and vine pattern around rear edge. Base pin and cyl bushing are replacements. This revolver was produced about 1888 while the West was still wild and daily carrying a gun was a way of life. Very likely this revolver had been a gift to or at least the possession of someone of reasonable importance. It is unlikely that this common working man or cowboy could have afforded such a fine revolver. CONDITION: Good, overall retains 10-15% orig nickel with the balance a dark gray metal patina showing heavy muzzle edge wear on the left side and on the cyl. Only the outline of the etched panel remains. Hammer screw is a replacement. Left grip has a fine crack by the escutcheon, otherwise grips are fine showing light wear and probably are old replacements. Hammer will not catch in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong frosty bore. 49254-20 JR (7,500-10,500) – Lot 3220
EXTREMELY RARE CASED DOUBLE SET OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 159780/159793. Cal. 44 Revolvers are virtually identical with 8″ rnd bbls, nickel silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. Left side of frames, about center are engraved with “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Left front web of trigger guards have the caliber marking. Frames are 3-screw type with usual rebated cylinders that have Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guards and iron backstraps contain old replacement, varnished burl walnut 1-pc grips. Revolvers are identically engraved by Gustave Young in late vine pattern with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background shading on the frames. Matching engraving extends up both sides of bbl lugs and terminates just forward of the addresses. Trigger guards & backstraps are matching engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern on the top flats. SNs on the bottom of both revolvers are all accompanied by the small letters “I.P.” which signifies that they were to have ivory grips and receive special polishing for engraving. Trigger guard on No.159780 has been thinned & beveled. Accompanied by what is probably their orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany double casing with brass reinforced corners and a brass plaque in the lid that is engraved “JJS”. Interior is compartmented for the two revolvers, a presentation style silver plated trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT” flask with long straight spout, a bow-legged brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter that has had the cavities polished which heavily beveled edges of cavities, a soft packet of waterproof cartridges dated “March 18, 1862”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and two lacquered tins of Eley’s caps. Engraved Model 1860 revolvers, while not uncommon, are still scarce and are seldom encountered. Double cased sets are extremely rare. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Revolvers are both all matching except grips, as noted. They are virtually identical in condition, being mostly grey metal patina with fine pitting around the muzzle of 159780. Cylinders are matching patina and show about 50% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. No. 159793 has a replaced hammer screw and backstrap screws are battered. The replacement grips are extremely fine with sharp edges and retain about all of their fine custom hand rubbed oil finish. Mechanics are fine; bore on 159793 is bright & shiny; bore on 159780 has strong rifling with some shine and moderate pitting. Case has a couple of cracks in the top with some lifted veneer and some grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound and retains most of a very old restored finish; lining in the lid is lightly faded with light soil; bottom is heavily faded with cleaned heavy soil; partitions are solid; flask has some small dents in the back and overall retains 65-70% thin orig silver finish; mold has pitted sprue cutter and has been heavily polished including the cavities in the left arm which have dished the edges effectively ruining the mold; cartridge packet is still sealed with one small tear on the top and missing parts of the label, but still a very rare packet; nipple wrench is fine; cap tins are flaked with soiled labels. The two compartment lids utilize 10.5mm turned “certifiable antique ivory” finials. 49254-1 JR160 IVORY (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3144
RARE CIVIL WAR CASED ENGRAVED METROPOLITAN ARMS NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 2046. Cal. 36. Metropolitan Arms is a very close copy of Colt Navy revolvers and most schools of thought believe there was cooperation between Colt and Metropolitan as so many of the parts are interchangeable. Engraved Metropolitan’s are quite rare and this gun is engraved much like a factory Colt of the Civil War era. This example most likely being engraved by a good New York shop such as Nimschke, exhibiting fine scroll and punch dot patterns on bbl housing, muzzle, loading arm pivot, frame, backstrap & trigger guard. The cylinder has the most unusual rolled engraved scene titled “NEW ORLEANS APRIL 1862”. Several of Farragut’s ships along with a prominent Confederate Ironclad with Confederate flag are seen; this is a scarce cylinder scene. This gun overall is an honest, very good used condition where markings are all crisp and discernible. CONDITION: Gun is overall very good and all matching. Engraving and cylinder scene are all very discernible. Metal overall is grey with strong traces of bright blue finish, especially in protected areas such as bottom of bbl. Gun appears orig and complete though latch is possibly a contemporary replacement or at least trimmed from its orig wider configuration. Backstrap and trigger guard retain traces of silver plate in protected areas. Stocks are well fit with strong traces of orig varnish with scattered small nicks & bruises. Gun is functionally fine with one nipple broken. Bright, crisp, well defined bore with light pitting. Accompanying casing is in matching very good condition containing a brass flask with double-sided panoply of arms and eagle, an L-shaped Colt gun tool which is refinished, and a 2-cavity Colt bullet mold with rare military inspector marks. Round cardboard box of New York patented caps is retained along with a 1863 dated store card which reads “JOHN SCHUH’S SALOON 88 FIRST AVENUE NY”. 49254-14 JS (12,500-17,500) – Lot 3307
FACTORY ENGRAVED AND INSCRIBED COLT NEW MODEL 1861 NAVY REVOLVER COL. COLT PRESENTATION TO CAPT. J.C. COMSTOCK OF THE HARTFORD LIGHT GUARD.
SN 18670 IE. Cal. 36. 7-1/2″ bbl, full silver finish, “certifiable antique ivory” grips, engraved by C.F. Ulrich, iron backstrap inscribed “Col. Colt to Capt. J.C. Comstock / Hartford Light Guard”. Capt. John C. Comstock of Company A 1st Regiment Connecticut Volunteers was a personal friend of Sam Colt and was a member of the Hartford Militia. He led his men at the First Battle of Bull Run in June 1861 and was at the point of the spear in the first Union advance of the war, which turned into a rout of Union forces known as the “Great Skedaddle”. Comstock became consumptive and died in early 1862, about one month after his friend Col. Colt died. PROVENANCE: Accompanying this gun is a 12 pg letter from noted Colt authority and author R.L. Wilson touting the importance of this significant revolver. Also included are service records and muster roll records for Captain Comstock. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fine. Pistol retains 60% silver finish overall with some loss of finish on the bbl lug, frame and cyl. Cyl retains 60% of a clear cyl scene with visible engaged date. Six safety pins are intact on cyl. “M 53” stamped on the webs at the rear of the cyl. Ivory grips are orig and numbered to gun. SNs are matching on frame, bbl, trigger guard, backstrap, cyl, wedge and arbor. Engraving is of the late vine style with fine scroll work lacking any punch dot background. “Colt’s Patent” engraved left side frame. Bbl shows fine scroll with a beaded pattern, common to other Ulrich engraved revolvers. Inscription on the very rare iron backstrap is perfectly accomplished. “No more exotic and appealing Colt firearms were made than those used as presentations by the Colonel himself”. (R. L. Wilson) 49514-2 TEP C&R; IVORY (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3174
*INSCRIBED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 2ND GENERATION CUSTOM ENGRAVED WITH SCRIMSHAWED ONE-PIECE IVORY GRIP ACCOMPANIED BY AN ORIGINAL GOLD-WASHED CINCO PESO TEXAS RANGER CAPTAIN’S BADGE WITH “JACK DEAN” ON TOP OF CIRCLE. PAPERWORK TO SUPPORT OWNERSHIP OF BOTH ITEMS BY RANGER DEAN.
SN 12071 SA. Cal. 44 SPECIAL 4-7/8″ bbl, satin nickel finish, scroll engraved, one-piece scrimshawed ivory grip. Badge is made from a cinco peso Mexican silver coin that has been gold-washed. Badge was made at Haltom’s Jewelry in Fort Worth, Texas. Badge bears the name of Jack Dean above Captain on star and Texas Rangers on bottom of circle. “Certifiable pre-ban ivory” grips are scrimshawed “JML” on left side, and on right side with a banner saying “Obedience to the Law is Liberty” over an eagle’s head. Included is a letter from Captain Dean to Phil Bleakney dated July 14, 1983 describing this revolver and badge. Captain Dean states that he personally had the custom work done on the revolver, and that he used the revolver on dress occasions. It was his “parade gun”. However, the badge was his personal badge that he used in the Ranger service. Also included are two photographs taken at Ranger headquarters in Waco–one showing Captain Dean with Company D, and another showing Captain Dean that is autographed to Phil Bleakney. PROVENANCE: The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very fine. Revolver retains 95% satin nickel finish overall. Revolver has been scroll engraved by Jimmy Riggs of Boerne, Texas. Engraving is of very good quality with about 50% coverage. Backstrap is inscribed “Capt. Jack Dean/CO. D. Texas Rangers”. Badge is in very good condition and shows wear to support its use in service. This cataloger is a personal friend of Captain Dean, and can state that this is a wonderful opportunity to obtain a Colt Single Action owned and used by a Texas Ranger along with a real Ranger badge that was used in his service as a Ranger Captain. 49059-193 TEP C&R; IVORY (4,000-8,000) – Lot 1067
SN 63271. Cal. .45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, replaced front sight, bbl address obscured by engraving. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has cal. marking. Mounted with two piece, smooth burl grips. Revolver is after market engraved by an unknown engraver with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque pattern on the frame, recoil shield & loading gate. Bbl, ejector housing, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cyl is also engraved to match on lands between flutes. Frame screws, loading gate & hammer are gold washed. CONDITION: Fair to good, overall retains about all of its custom nickel and gold finish showing light muzzle edge wear with plating over the pitting on the hammer & front part of the frame. Trigger & base pin are replacements. Hammer will not catch in safety notch & is not solid in half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 49254-19 JR (7,500-10,500) – Lot 3221
CASED ENGRAVED & GOLD-PLATED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 5252. Cal. 44. Gold finish with 8″ rnd bbl, altered front sight with most of bbl address worn away. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has brass trigger guard with iron backstrap that contains a 1-pc “certifiable antique ivory” grip with deep relief Mexican eagle on left side. Buttstrap has a lanyard stud & ring. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with stock screws replaced. Cylinder is of the early full fluted type. Revolver is engraved by Nimschke with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on the frame. Sides of hammer nose are engraved with a wolf’s head with fish scales on the spur and foliate arabesque patterns down the sides. Engraving extends over sides of bbl terminating well in front of the bbl address with patterns around muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with a rope pattern around rammer handle. Top of backstrap is engraved with a fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near top at the heel, on buttstrap & trigger guard. Cylinder is beautifully engraved with diamond & dot patterns in front of flutes and foliate arabesque patterns in rear of flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter that identifies this revolver in 44 caliber with an 8″ bbl, “blue/brass” finish with wood stocks and shipped to the U.S. Navy Yard New York on May 9, 1861 in a shipment of 250 guns. Accompanied by a fine English style green velvet lined mahogany casing with concealed handle in the lid with center medallion engraved “LB”. Interior is compartmented, English style for the revolver, a blued bullet and ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “44 H”, a replacement brass eagle and stars flask, a tin of W. & C. Eley caps, a soft packet of six waterproof cartridges by Hazard Powder, a pewter oil bottle, an all steel cleaning rod and inside the covered compartment additional Eley combustible cartridges. Also accompanied by a letter signed Max H. Preusler dated June 29, 2009 wherein he states that this revolver has belonged to his family since Mr. Thord Hallstrom-Gray (Ivor Thord-Gray) received it during the Mexican Civil War 1913-14, when he fought under Pancho Villa’s command. My maternal grandfather, Brig. Arne Hallstrom, received it as a gift from Thord (his father’s brother), and Mr. Preusler inherited it from his grandfather. Additionally included is a letter dated Aug. 2009 from Claes Andersson, Arms & Armour Department, Stockholm Auction house, wherein he states that he could confirm that he first saw the revolver in 2001 and that the Stockholm Auction house had sold at least seven items from the Ivor Thord-Gray Collection which came from other parts of the Hallstrom Family. He states that he confirms Mr. Preusler’s statement in the above letter. Additionally accompanied by Mr. Thord-Gray’s book Gringo Rebel published 1960, a first edition with original dust cover. Also accompanied by 2 books in Swedish Ivor Thord Gray, Soldat Under 13 Fanor (English translation: Soldier under 13 Banners) and Mannen Som Hittade Tarzan (English translation: The Man Who Found Tarzan). Consignor states that he obtained this revolver from the family of Ivor Thord-Gray who was a Swedish-born U.S. citizen and soldier of fortune who fought in thirteen wars on four continents from 1897 thru WWI and the Russian Revolution. He was a linguist and scholar and an author. He also authored an 1,100 page dictionary of English to the native tongue of the Tarahumara Indians. Mr. Thord-Gray, spent his military service in various countries, but the one we are most concerned with here is his time spent fighting in the Mexican Revolution, 1913-1914 which he memorialized in his book Gringo Rebel: Mexico 1913-1914, a copy of which accompanies this lot. Mr. Thord-Gray earned many honors during his military career along with honors for scholarship including membership in the Royal Academy of Sciences of Uppsala and a degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the same university for his work in linguistics. He became a trustee of the American Classical League, 1930; a member of the Royal Geographic Society; The Geological Society of London and the Archeological Institute of America. Mr. Thord-Gray inadvertently was the impetus for Edgar Rice Burroughs’ fictional character, Tarzan of the Apes. Apparently in the early 1930’s Mr. Thord-Gray wrote a letter from Stockholm to the President of the Adventurer’s Club of New York relating an incident that occurred while he was on patrol with a mounted police unit in South Africa. He heard the story of a child who had been kidnapped by a band of baboons who frightened the servant/babysitter into running back to the parents who came immediately but could find no trace of the young boy. Although the parents searched diligently they were never able to locate the child. About ten years later Mr. Thord-Gray was in the area of the Drakensberg Mountains when his group of surveyors inadvertently trapped a band of baboons in a box canyon. One of the baboons was blond and very agile and took off up the mountainside with the others. About half way up the cliff he lost his footing and fell to his death. This was apparently the child that had been stolen by the baboons. Eventually Mr. Burroughs somehow heard the story and created his fictional character on that basis. Mr. Thord-Gray states in his book and apparently in notes left with the above mentioned Brig. Arne Hallstrom that he obtained this beautiful revolver when he was fighting in the Mexican Revolution, probably in 1914 under Gen. Blanco and Carranza. When the situation among the Revolutionaries, for whom Thord-Gray was fighting, came to a standstill with in-fighting among the various groups, Mr. Thord-Gray suggested that Carranza & Blanco send an emissary to Emiliano Zapata to try to patch things up. At first they said it would be impossible but when Mr. Thord-Gray volunteered to lead with a squadron of 100 mounted Yaqui Indian warriors as an escort, they agreed to the plan. He states as he was preparing to leave Gen. Blanco “handed me a very handsome 44 Colt revolver, exquisitely chased with gold inlay” and asked him to give it to Zapata with 200-rds of ammunition as a token of friendship. After a perilous journey over 13,000 foot mountains and skirmishes with various other revolutionaries he reached what he thought was Zapata’s camp. When he became nearly trapped he sent a scout ahead to contact Zapata who was able to meet a Col. Morales who Mr. Thord-Gray had met previously in Mexico City. Initially he and his men were disarmed and taken into custody but when he was informed of the purpose of the “mission” he left right away to try to find Zapata. Before Col. Morales left Mr. Thord-Gray gave him the gun & ammunition that he had brought as a gift to Zapata. Late the next day Col. Morales returned with the news that he had been unable to contact Zapata and returned the revolver to Mr. Thord-Gray. And, as the saying goes, the rest is history. Apparently Mr. Thord-Gray kept the revolver for himself as is evidenced by the letters from his descendants, although there is some conflicting information in Mr. Thord-Gray’s book. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl lug SN has been re-stamped. Overall shows heavy wear with most of the engraving still visible, sharp in some places. One of the frame stock screws is a replacement and wedge screw is missing. Cyl spindle is a little loose in frame. Grip is sound with age lines, showing heavy wear and retains a cleaned ivory patina. Mechanics are a little stiff, the hand having been replaced (the orig accompanies), otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. Book is very fine with slightly worn dust cover. Case has a crack in the lid, otherwise it is extremely fine with light handling and storage nicks and scratches and retains 96-98% orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil. Mold retains about 75% orig blue. Flask, a replacement, has a couple of small dents with replaced spring and slightly damaged spout. Flask slot in the case is for a Dixon style bag-shaped flask. Other accessories are fine. 49254-15 JR378 IVORY (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3145
VERY RARE CASED AND INSCRIBED LOUIS HOFFMAN, VICKSBURG, MISS AGENT MARKED LARGE FRAME TRANTER ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 20848. Cal. 45, This is the largest of the popular Tranter patent revolvers that saw service from the late 1850’s through the 1860’s. This example conforms to other large frame double action revolvers of this configuration with 6″ octagonal bbl, with various Tranter patent marks on loading assembly, frame and cocking trigger. Small British proofs appear on each cylinder chamber and bbl. This is the only example we are aware marked “LOUIS HOFFMAN, VICKSBURG, MISS” on top strap. Gun is elegantly engraved with scrolls and has one piece checkered grips, nickel plated. Gun is cased in English mahogany box, compartmentalized with brass and steel “Tranters Patent” 2-cavity mold, three varnished tins, each with Tranters Patent for caps, lubricating composition and “Patent Lubricating Bullets”. Also accompanying is James Dixson pewter oiler, five extra nipples, and a James Dixson bag flask and ebony handled cleaning rod. Doug Eberhart and R L Wilson in their text The Deringer in America, Volume 1 state “The son of a Prussian Army officer, Louis Ferdinand Alexander Hoffman was born in Stettin, Germany on November 23, 1823. He emigrated to New York in 1852, settling first in Paterson, New Jersey, moving on to St. Louis, and arriving finally in Vicksburg in 1853. He worked initially at the machine shops and foundry of Cimmerman and Reading, but as soon as he had saved enough money, opened his own gun shop. In the Vicksburg Weekly Whig of October 7, 1857 Hoffman advertised that “He will make new rifles to order; stock guns and pistols in a superior manner; and do all the repairing in the shortest notice.” Four years later the Vicksburg Daily Evening Citizen of May 2, 1861 carried an ad listing Hoffman as a “Wholesale dealer in guns, pistols, revolvers, gun materials, sporting apparatus, fishing tackle, & all kinds of repairing in this line done by the best workmen at the most reasonable rates”. The Civil War saw Hoffman repairing guns for the Confederacy until the fall of Vicksburg, when he became a Master Armorer for the Union Army. However, his considerable fortune had been lost and he was deeply in debt when the War ended. Unwilling to renege on his debts, he once again built up his guns and hardware business and proved an astute real estate entrepreneur as well. By 1868, he had expanded his business to include farm implements and household appliances as well as “every variety of pistols, including single barrel, double barrel, four barrel, five barrel, six barrel, Derringer, Allen, Colt, Smith & Wesson, Remington, pepper box & guns of every price and style, single barrel shot guns, muskets, double barrel guns with one barrel rifle and the other smooth bore, English… and American, Mississippi, Kentucky, western, or any other kind of rifle…” Plaque on top of casing “E.T. GOODE”. This is a unique offering of most likely the only known Mississippi agent marked fancy Civil War era English import Army revolver and this is a beautiful example in original casing. PROVENANCE: Ex Norm Flayderman Collection. CONDITION: Gun overall, is very good to fine. Retaining strong traces of original nickel with balance polished steel with light pitting in areas, engraving and other markings are well discerned as can be seen in photos. Grips retain traces of original bright varnish and diamond point checkering is very good with light edge wear. Casing is sound and solid, missing lock though brass keyhole escutcheon plate is found in casing. Casing retains much of its original varnish with scuffs, dings, dents and scratches associated with 150 years. Case lining is worn, soiled and faded. There are several chips to compartments but sound and solid. Pewter oiler, bag flask and mold are all fine retaining original finish. Tins are all very good with chipped labels on cap tin and lubricant tin. The wood and brass cleaning rod is broken and should be repaired. Mechanically gun functions well, which is often not the case in this complex multi-piece cocking mechanism and cylinder locking mechanism. Bore exhibits well defined rifling though dirty and pitted. 48993-1 JS (12,500-17,500) – Lot 3368
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 23868. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address. Left side of frame is marked “Colt’s Patent” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the cal marking. Cyl is half fluted with five chambers and it is mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that are hand scratched on the inside “BFY”. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by L.D. Nimschke in beautiful New York style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend onto the bbl lug, around the address and around the muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with spiral & foliate patterns on the handle. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with a deep relief foliate panel at top of backstrap. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined Colt mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an early double-sided eagle flask, a steel Colts Patent mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of six combustible cartridges and an empty Eley’s cap tin. Few of this model Colt were ever cased and engraved. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except wedge & grips which are unnumbered. Cyl has only one number visible. No orig finish remains on the revolver being an overall dark blue/brown patina. Trigger guard retains about 70% orig silver and the backstrap/buttstrap about 40%. Grips have a hairline above the left escutcheon and a small repair on the right side at the frame, otherwise are sound with good fire. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case has two or three grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded with moderate soil and a couple of slightly loose partitions; flask is extremely fine; mold is battered and worn; other accessories are fine. 49254-7 JR134 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 3181
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY LEGEND MODEL REVOLVER INSCRIBED “PROFESSIONAL RODEO COWBOYS ASSOCIATION”.
SN LEGEND0122. Cal. .45 LC. 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish. 2-pc simulated horn grips, with medallions containing the initials “NFR”. CONDITION: Nearly new, shows little or no wear and appears unfired. Engraved at the muzzle, on the cylinder, backstrap and right side of frame. Engraving is well executed and highlighted in gold. “NFR/1996” on right side of frame. Backstrap inscription is original for the “PRCA”. Included is a glass top display case with PRCA markings and a custom belt and holster rig made by Galco of Phoenix, AZ. Holster and belt are in very good but used condition. The Legend is the first Colt firearm to be sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Comes with a Colt factory letter confirming all features including engraving, presentation case, and gold accents, letter also shows each revolver was furnished with a Galco holster and belt. Date of shipment May 9th, 1997. 49433-112 TEP C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1071
*COLT ENGRAVING SAMPLER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN SA65240. Cal. 44-40. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line early style script letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates. Left side of front and back straps, under the grip are marked with matching SNs. Mounted with smooth 2-pc “certifiable pre-ban ivory” grips with Colt custom shop 150th Anniversary silver medallions, matching numbered to this revolver. Left grip is inscribed in 4 lines with the 4 different styles of engraving and the dates they were employed at Colt. Revolver is engraved in 4 different styles in “B” coverage. Backstrap is engraved “Colt Engraving Sampler”. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, smooth Ivory stocks and shipped to Service Armament Co., Ridgefield, NJ, on Aug 22, 1988. Remarks section details the 4 different styles of engraving and states that the records show the engraving was done by John Adams. Mr. Adams was a master engraver at Colt for many years. Letter further states “In addition, it is interesting to note that subject revolver is one of 8 single action army revolvers produced in the Sampler Edition in the above noted configuration”. Accompanied by its orig gray velvet lined custom shop walnut casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a pearl bits box with the “Colt” logo on the lid, a pearl oil bottle with the same logo on top of the dipper knob, a gold washed turn screw with pearl handle, a brush with pearl handle and gold ferrule and a gold washed, pearl handled cleaning rod. Additionally accompanied by its orig wood grain, Styrofoam lined, 1-pc cardboard box containing; instruction manual, a couple of other small booklets and hang tag. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, new and unfired. Walnut case is equally fine and new. Cardboard box is missing the custom shop end flap and shows considerable edge wear with some tears. 49432-111 JR C&R; IVORY (6,000-10,000) – Lot 3222
SCARCE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 142783. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is rebated with usual six chambers and Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. All six safety pins are somewhat serviceable. The brass trigger guard and iron backstrap contain a 1-pc checkered “certifiable antique elephant” ivory grip with deep relief, raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Grip is of early construction which consists of two slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory spacer. Grip does not fit well and is not orig to this revolver. Revolver is spectacularly engraved in L.D. Nimschke style with the most elaborate and fabulously detailed foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on the frame. Engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug and onto the bbl and rammer pivot. Backstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Buttstrap is unusually engraved in diamond & dot patterns. Rebated area of the cyl is engraved in diamond patterns. The number “3” in the serial numbers on the bbl lug, frame & trigger guard appear to have been stamped over a “2”, possibly at the factory. Trigger guard is engraved by another hand. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a double sided trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT”, angle spout flask, a steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter and a most elaborate Gutta Percha cap box with the deep relief medallion of “ARTHUR DUKE OF WELLINGTON” with image of Wellington in uniform on top. The bottom has a similar medallion of Wellington’s tomb depicting a trophy of arms with a warrior, an angel and a subservient male lion. Caption of this medallion is “BRITANNIA MOURNS HER HERO NOW AT REST” and the bottom of this medallion is marked “WATERLOO / JUNE 18, 1815”. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grip. No orig finish remains, being a cleaned dark grey metal patina with pitting on each side of the muzzle. The “U.S.” in the bbl address apparently was defaced and now re-stamped; the brass trigger guard was never silver plated and now retains a light mustard patina; backstrap is grey metal patina matching the frame; cyl is also a matching patina and shows 20-30% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Grip has numerous age lines with chipped toes and a small crack on the left side and shows moderate wear, retaining a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has a grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains an old restored finish; flask has several nicks, dings & dents with an open seam and missing spring; mold has fine pitting and an artificially aged patina; cap box is extremely fine. 49254-6 JR158 IVORY (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3150
*INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1911 BLACK ARMY SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 240869. Cal. 45 ACP. Usual configuration with 5″ bbl, that has “P” & “H” on the skirt parallel to the bore. Slide has usual markings with Rampant Colt at left rear. Right side of slide has standard 1911 U.S. Army markings and is engraved “L.S. GERBER”. Left front side of frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” and it has the “JMG” (Lt. Col. J. M. Gilbert) inspector initials above the magazine release button. Mounted with diamond checkered walnut grips and accompanied by one orig two-tone military magazine. This pistol was produced late in 1918 shortly before the war had ended. Very likely it would have been issued during that conflict. Regardless, these pistols remained in service through the 1920s and 1930s, through WWII, Korea & Viet Nam, well into the 1970s & 80s, until replaced by the Beretta 9mm. The brushed blue/black finish of these pistols is rather soft and easily worn with simple handling and carrying in a holster and are rarely found today with high orig finish. Once the 1911 was declared surplus, a large majority of them were sold either to foreign governments or to American sportsman through the DCM (Division of Civilian Marksmanship) / NRA. Most of those pistols sold to the American public were altered into target pistols, further reducing the number of remaining orig pistols. CONDITION: Very fine, plus. Slide shows light muzzle end wear and faint sharp edge wear with some scattered surface discoloration and a series of fine scratches on the top right in front of rear sight. There are also a couple of small dings in the right slide serrations. Front strap has three small nicks and the straight spring housing has a small spot of wear, otherwise frame retains about all of its orig factory finish. Grips are sound showing very light diamond point wear, a little heavier on the bottom right. Magazine in equally fine. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore, shows very little, if any use. 49432-149 JR C&R (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3491
SCARCE CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH ROYALTY-STYLE CREST.
SN 20353. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked 36 cal. Cyl is half fluted & rebated with five chambers. The silver plated trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. All the SNs on the bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which usually indicated to the polishing room that this item was to receive extra polish for engraving. The only engraving is at top of backstrap which is a family crest consisting of a rearing lion with a five pointed star inside a belt with buckle which is engraved “FAIRE MON DEVOIR” which loosely translates to “do my duty”. Left side of bbl and cyl in flutes are marked with British proofs. Accompanied by a mahogany English casing that may be from another revolver. Case has a brass plaque in the lid which appears to be a replacement. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented for a slightly larger revolver, a bag shaped Hawksley flask, a bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” steel mold, a double end L-shaped screwdriver in the nipple wrench hole, a small metal oil bottle, a tin of Eley’s caps and six 36 cal Eley’s combustible cartridges, along with a supply of bullets & balls. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge which is properly unnumbered. Numbers on cyl are illegible from battering on rear face. Overall the metal retains a smooth even dark brown patina with traces of orig finish showing through; trigger guard & backstrap are a dark mustard patina. Grip has a tiny chipped right toe with usual light nicks & scratches and retains about 85% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is sound with a couple grain checks in the bottom and usual handling & storage nicks & scratches with moderate soil and retains a cleaned finish on top with bright varnish on the edges; lock escutcheon is missing; interior is lightly to moderately faded with solid partitions. Flask has a couple small dents and retains about 50% dull finish; mold is moderately pitted and has an overall dark brown patina; cartridges and other accessories are fine. 49432-50 JR (4,000-7,000) – Lot 3185
COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY CARTRIDGE CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 3758. Cal. 38. 6-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish. Varnished walnut grips. Rolled engraved cylinder, silver plated grip straps and “FC d CR” engraved on backstrap, possible Hispanic presentation, needs further research. SN’s match on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. PROVENANCE: The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. CONDITION: Fine, bbl retains 80% nickel finish with some marring around wedge on either side and wear on ejector rod housing and head. Sharp bbl address, bore is good with some pitting and sharp rifling. Cylinder retains 75% nickel finish with a very sharp cylinder scene, a few small spots of corrosion. Frame retains 75% nickel with most wear on left side near the Colt’s patent mark. Good screws, trigger shows trace of blue, hammer shows 50% case color. Backstrap and trigger guard retain 50% silver plate. Grips retain 90% varnish with some handling marks and high point wear. Mechanics are fine. A very nice Colt Pocket Navy Conversion that would compliment any collection. 49059-71 TEP C&R (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1080
INTERESTING PERIOD INSCRIBED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH HOLSTER AND CASE.
SN 163823. Cal. 45. COLT Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, very slightly altered front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head with red eyes on right side, missing its right eye stone. Buttstrap is engraved in period block letters “J B FOX”. Right side of front and back straps, under the grip, are stamped with a small 6-point star. Rear face of cyl, bottom of bbl and inside ejector housing are also marked with the same star and assembly number “823”. All this indicates that this revolver was refinished at the factory. Accompanied by a late 19th/early 20th Century mail order holster with sewn toe and impressed decorations. Holster has a belt loop on back attached with harness rivets. Accompanied by a reworked walnut silverware box with empty plaque on lid. It has green velvet lining and is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver and three other compartments, one of which contains a full, sealed packet of 12 Frankford Arsenal Cartridges bearing the date 1878. The front of the case has a cartridge block containing two 44 cal Henry Rimfire cartridges & six 44 short rimfire cartridges with seven additional empty holes. Inside the lid has a copied Colt advertisement. Accompanied by a packet of information entitled “Jubilee B. Fox /Confederate Soldier and Texan”. Fox was enlisted in the 28th Tenn Infantry and fought for the Confederacy. After the war he migrated to Texas where he died in 1924. The owner of this revolver was very likely a law enforcement officer or cattleman who later in life had it restored, probably during the period of use. A Colt Factory letter may provide additional information on who J.B. Fox was. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains traces of factory blue and ejector housing about 50% blue in the gullets. Frame retains faded case colors in the front gullets with smoky colors on the hammer and frame, being mostly a gray metal patina. Grip frame is a gray metal patina, as is the cyl. Grips have small chips near the frame, otherwise are sound, showing great fire. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good shine and fine pitting. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear and is sound, retaining strong orig brown finish. Box has a crack in lid, otherwise is fine. Cartridges are fine. 49254-8 JR198 (7,500-10,500) – Lot 3229
VERY EARLY AND SPECIAL CASED SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER PRESENTED TO THE ORGANIZER OF THE WORLD FAMOUS CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION IN LONDON.
SN 36651. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and two line “New York City” address with brackets. Left side the frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT” and the small guard silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a one piece walnut grip with last four digits of matching serial number in the back strap channel. Back strap is engraved in old English and period script “Presented To Mr. G. Whiting / by Col. Saml Colt 1851”. Mr. Whiting was the organizer of the world renowned Crystal Palace Exhibition. Accompanied by a rare, special made brown velvet lined English oak casing with brass medallion in lid and swinging English latches on the front, with a mortised brass lock and round escutcheon in the front. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver with a recess for the cylinder, a single sided revolver flask, a two cavity brass Colt’s Patent mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and an early lacquered tin of Ely’s caps. Covered right rear compartment contains cast lead bullets and balls. This exact cased set is pictured in color as Fig. 3 on pg. 252 of COLT’S POCKET ’49, Jordan & Watt. Back strap of this revolver is pictured as Fig. 2 on pg. 231 of the referenced publication. This casing is a special made for presentation at the London Exhibit at the Crystal Palace and is one of the first known uses of the “Col. Saml Colt” wording on a firearm presentation, possibly even before he used the title in the US. CONDITION: Revolver is very good, all matching including wedge and grip. Bbl retains 60-70% thin, orig blue turning plum over the top. Rammer retains smoky case colors, stronger on the left side of the pivot. Frame retains smoky, thin, faded case colors with unusual polishing marks. Trigger guard and back strap retain strong orig silver plating with the exposed areas a medium mustard patina. Cylinder is a gray-brown patina and retains about 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with light nicks and scratches and retains about 85% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with usual handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with moderate to heavy soil in the bottom, partitions are sound. Flask is fine and retains about 50-60% orig finish. Mold is crisp and appears unused with a few minor nicks and scratches. Cap tin is good. 49564-6 JR (20,000-30,000) – Lot 3154
*CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF COLT 1911 GOVERNMENT MODEL PISTOLS WITH “MARINA ARGENTINA” MARKING ON THE SLIDE. WOODEN TWO-PISTOL DISPLAY CASE WITH COLT LABEL.
SN C6300 / C6301. Both pistols are in the same configuration. Cal. 45 ACP. 5″ bbl, blue finish, checkered walnut grips. “MARINA ARGENTINA” roll engraved on right side of slide. “C” prefix SNs are stamped on right side of frame under Government Model. Other markings are standard for this model except that the cal marking on right side of slide is further back than normal making room for the “MARINA ARGENTINA” mark. Both pistols exhibit standard internal inspector’s marks. CONDITION: # C6300 very fine to excellent as professionally refinished. Slide retains 98% bright blue finish with only slight muzzle wear and a few tiny scratches. Slide markings are sharp. Bbl has a dark bore with visible rifling. Frame shows 98% bright blue finish with some high point wear on trigger guard in front of frame. Hammer and trigger show 90% dark blue. Grips are very good with sharp checkering and some slight wear. Grips may be replacements. Magazine is two-tone with a distinct temper mark and a lanyard loop in base. # 6301 fine as professionally refinished. Slide shows 95% bright blue finish with some high point wear at muzzle and few miniscule scratch marks on top of slide. Bore is dark with visible rifling. Frame shows 95% bright blue finish with high point wear on front of frame and trigger guard and some slight thinning of blue on forestrap and spring housing. Hammer and trigger retain 95% dark blue finish. Grips are very good with some small dents and scratches. Grips may be replacements. No magazine with this pistol. A chance to obtain a consecutive pair of Colt M 1911s made expressly for the Argentine navy. 49029-3 TEP C&R (12,000-16,000) – Lot 3495
Please Note: As cataloged this beautiful Colt is factory engraved and is certainly Nimschke shop engraving. Please note, L.D. Nimschke was an extraordinary, gifted engraver but Colts that were engraved in his shop were not all personally engraved by him. The gifted engravers that worked for him executed a large quantity of engraved Colts that came out of his shop. Some Colt collectors have stated that they felt this Nimschke Colt was not engraved by Nimschke personally and we do not disagree. None the less it was produced in his shop.
EXCEPTIONAL EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 103901. Cal. 45. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight & 2-line address. Frame has 3-line patent dates & left front web of trigger guard is marked with Cal. Mounted with distributor supplied 1-pc “certifiable antique ivory” grip that has an extraordinary, very deep, raised carved ox head on right side. Grip is constructed in early style consisting of 2 slabs of ivory attached to 2 wooden spacer blocks and has the matching SN in the backstrap channel. Ejector housing is third type with half-moon ejector head & bottom of bbl has last 4 digits of matching SN under ejector housing. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Left recoil shield and loading gate have Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive sunburst patterns. Topstrap is engraved in his snake & dot patterns with fine snake & dot patterns in the bottom front gullets. Base pin boss & ejector boss are engraved with hunter’s stars. Matching engraving extends about 3/4s up the sides of the bbl with snake & dot patterns continuing to the muzzle. The address has fine snake & dot & geometric patterns around the address, extending nearly to the front sight. Cylinder is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with sunburst patterns back of the flutes. Rear face of cylinder is marked with last 4 digits of of matching SN. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved with very fine zig-zag & dot patterns. Outer radius of ejector housing is engraved in geometric patterns. top of backstrap & backstrap ears are engraved in distinctive Nimschke patterns with foliate arabesque & geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Screw heads are all fire blued and all engraving patterns have pearled background. Cylinder pin is a later replacement. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type stocks not listed, factory engraved & shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, NY, NY on Oct 1, 1884 in a 3-gun shipment. Additionally accompanied by a modern custom made, red velvet lined oak casing that is compartmented for the revolver with a covered compartment containing a functioning key with a cartridge block containing 18 rounds of modern ammunition. PROVENANCE: The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including bbl, cylinder and grip. Overall retains 98-99% crisp orig nickel showing only minor dulling near the muzzle. Screws retain about all of their orig fire blue. Grip is sound & has minor age lines on the bottom edges & overall shows a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid & safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple scattered spots of pitting. Box is extremely fine. 49059-86 JR IVORY (40,000-60,000) – Lot 3207
SN 7230. 12 Ga. 30″ Damascus bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Choked: MOD/IMP MOD. Full length matted Damascus rib with brass front bead, marked “COLT’S PT FA MFG CO HARTFORD CT USA”. Double triggers, extractors, automatic safety. Honey colored full pistol grip stock with 14-1/4″ LOP over Colt’s checkered buttplate with nickel shield in stock. Checkered in classic 2-point checkering. Splinter forearm with Deeley latch, checkered in classic 2-point pattern, with ebony tip. Frame is border engraved and bottom of frame marked “PATENTED AUG.22,SEPT.19,1882”. Bbl lug with geometric design. Light border engraving on trigger guard. Screw heads engraved. Weight: 7 lb 9 oz. PROVENANCE: The Estate of B.E. “Andy” Anderson. CONDITION: Excellent, as partially refurbished. Bbls retain 98-99% strong Damascus pattern. Receiver retains 40% orig case color, starting to tone on bottom of frame. Forearm iron has toned gray. Trigger guard retains around 40% orig blue, mostly on bow, toned on tang. Buttstock and forearm retain 98-99% beautiful restored finish with repaired chip on left side of safety. Checkering recut and sharp. Brilliant shiny bores. Mechanics are excellent. 49531-41 JSL137 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1084
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY MODEL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH TWO-PIECE MOTHER-OF-PEARL GRIPS.
SN 238201. Cal. 44 RUSSIAN & S&W spcl. 7-1/2″ bbl, blue and case hardened finish, two-pc mother-of-pearl grips. This revolver was orig manufactured in 1902 as a 4-3/4″ 32-20 plain blue revolver shipped to Kansas City, MO on December 29, 1902. At later date during engraving career of Wilbur A. Glahn (Circa 1919-1950)this revolver was returned to Colt factory to be re-barreled and re-chambered for 44 cal Russian/Special. The bbl was changed to a 7-1/2″ version and the cyl was replaced. Backstrap and trigger were finely checkered. At the same time, this revolver was masterfully engraved by Colt factory engraver Wilbur Glahn creating one of the most rare of all Bisley single action Colt revolvers with only 90 Bisley models manufactured in this cal. The engraving is “B Coverage” and exhibits all of the characteristics of Glahn’s engraving including flowers in scroll work and a Chevron on recoil shield and loading gate. Revolver also shows factory re-work marks “1220” on frame, grip straps, and cyl. PROVENANCE: Accompanying this revolver is a letter from Colt historian Beverly Jean Haynes showing the orig shipment to J. F. Schmelzer and Sons Arms Co., Kansas City, MO December 29, 1902 in a four-gun shipment. There is no record of the return and re-work. Also included is a 15-page letter from noted Colt authority R. L. Wilson touting the importance of this significant revolver and attributing the engraving to Wilbur A. Glahn. CONDITION: Very fine to excellent. Bbl retains 95% bright mirror blue finish with slight muzzle wear on left side and front sight. Cal mark and bbl address is sharp. Engraving is sharp. Bore is bright with sharp rifling. Cyl retains 95% bright blue finish with only minimal high point wear and slightest of drag marks. Frame retains 90% case color that is vivid in protected areas. Patent mark and Rampant Colt are clear. Trigger guard and backstrap retain 95% bright blue. Right rear bow of trigger guard shows remnants of factory re-work stamp. Hammer retains 90% bright case colors with some scratching on either side. Pearl grips are very good with only a few miniscule chips off bottom with a small repair to left bottom grip. Left grip needs to be re-fit. An opportunity to purchase a rare and unique Bisley remodeled revolver. 49506-1 TEP C&R (9,000-14,000) – Lot 3237
RARE CASED SILVER-FINISHED AND ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER W/POSSIBLE GARABALDI GUARD CONNECTION.
SN 187177. Cal. 31. Nickel finish with 6″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight with 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl has stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking and six chambers. The brass, large guard trigger guard and backstrap contain a spectacular 1-pc “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip that has the raised, carved head on the left side of a man who appears to be that of Guiseppe Garabaldi for whom a unit called the Garabaldi Guard was named. It was raised in May of 1861 and mustered into service Jun. of 1861 and fought completely through the war and was mustered out July 1865. They had a very distinguished career and fought in a number of significant battles including Gettysburg and several other hotly contested battles. They had eight officers and 107 enlisted men killed and mortally wounded during their service along with one officer and 158 enlisted men died from disease. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which has several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and rammer pivot with Mr. Young’s trademark dogs head on the left side and flower blossoms on the right side. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with wolfs heads on each side of the hammer nose. Accompanied by a rare burgundy velvet lined Colt maple or applewood casing that has the colorful figure of a man in very early style clothing applied to the lid. Interior is compartmented, probably for a 6-1/2″ Colt Model 1862 Police percussion revolver, a silver plated double-sided eagle & stars flask, a silver plated “Colts Patent” mold without sprue cutter, a silver plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a partial packet of combustible cartridges, a “certifiable antique elephant ivory” screw-top bits box with Eley cap tin label on top, a pair of dice and an ivory pendant. All of the serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “I” which indicates it was to receive ivory grips. Several of the screw heads are engraved, as are ends of wedge. There is a drawing in the accompanying pages which shows the Garibaldi Guard marching past Pres. Lincoln in 1861. Their uniforms resemble the colorful figure on top of the case. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except grip. Overall retains most of an old silver finish with some scattered fine pitting; cyl retains most of its plated finish and shows about 30% stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking; hammer screw, wedge screw, trigger guard and top of the backstrap screws are replacements. Grip has a couple of age lines but is completely sound with a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and a few more in the bottom, otherwise is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of what appears to be it’s orig finish; interior is lightly faded & soiled with solid partitions; flask retains about all of its orig silver finish; mold retains most of its silver finish; cartridge packet has been opened and repaired; other accessories are fine. 49254-2 JR145 IVORY (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3155
**COLT 1921/28 US NAVY OVERSTAMP THOMPSON SUB-MACHINE GUN (CURIO & RELIC).
SN 3352. Cal. .45 ACP. 12-1/2″ smooth replacement bbl with “Cutts” marked compensator with bullet logo on left side. US Navy marked overstamp Thompson with “U.S. NAVY” lightly engraved over “MODEL OF 1921” with an “8” overstamped on the “1” of “21”. Also marked on both upper and lower with British proof mark of a crown over “BM”. This proof mark appears right next to the inspector’s “JHB” marking found on the right side of the upper receiver and also just above the full-auto markings near the selector on the lower. Otherwise, typical Colt and Auto-Ordnance manufacturer’s markings. Correct 1928 internal parts consistent with Navy retrofit. Includes one US Cartridge Co 30-rnd magazine and one Auto-Ordnance, Bridgeport marked 20-rnd magazine. Wooden buttstock has appropriate anchor cartouche at leading edge. One additional bbl, remnant of saw cut receiver included in this lot. Firing mechanism moves smoothly when operated by hand. This weapon appears fully functional. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval for transfer. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance very fine to near excellent refinished. There are some slight scratches and scuffs both under and over the refinish. Bbl is a replacement with a “5” proof marks on right side with no index mark. Bolt has some very light pitting visible at the actuator slot. Bolt face somewhat dark with crisp edges. Wood has numerous light handling marks and some very minor gouges. Buttplate bluing thinning and revealing mostly grey metal. Magazine finish is very good with some scuffing and thinning at the high edges. Good tension of the springs evident. Bore is good with some slight pitting turning dark in the grooves. 49296-18 JWK21 C&R (25,000-35,000) – Lot 3748
Please Note: As catalog indicates this Colt was factory engraved. Some collectors feel that the engraving is likely Helfrecht engraving rather than Wilber Glahn and we do not disagree.
*FINE ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 261251. Cal. 44WCF. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl. Full front sight & 2-line address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marking on left side. Bottom of bbl at the frame is marked with a tiny “44”. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3 patent dates and “Rampant Colt” in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc distributor supplied pearl grips that has a raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Left recoil shield and front frame are engraved with hunter stars. Topstrap is stamped with small dots. Engraving patterns extend nearly full length both sides of the bbl and top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in a snake pattern. Cylinder has matching engraving patterns on lands between flutes and it has a dash & dot border around rear edge. top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Glahn’s distinctive fan pattern with central “V”. Backstrap & trigger bow are engraved in geometric patterns. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies the revolver in Cal. 44-40 with 3-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved & shipped to H&D Folsom Arms Co., NY, NY on Dec 17, 1904 in a 2 gun shipment. PROVENANCE: The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 95% orig nickel showing holster wear around the muzzle and tip of ejector housing. Nickel overall is slightly dulled, brighter on the backstrap & buttstrap. Frontstrap & trigger bow show wear. Grips are sound with an old age line at the top left & show great fire with good color on right side. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 49059-89 JR C&R (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3211
SN 10774. 12 Ga. 30″ laminated steel bbls. 2-3/4″ chambers. Choked: IMP CYL/MOD. Full length twist steel rib with brass front bead, marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT USA”. Double triggers, extractors, no safety. Full pistol grip buttstock with 13-7/8″ LOP over full steel buttplate with nickel oval on bottom. Splinter forend with Deeley latch and ebony tip, checkered in 2-point pattern. Buttstock with 3-point checkering. Receiver nicely line engraved, marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO.” on both lockplates. Straight top lever. Weight: 7 lb 9 oz. PROVENANCE: The Estate of B.E. “Andy” Anderson. CONDITION: Very good. Bbls retain 75% laminated pattern, which has darkened brown, with handling marks and a couple of repaired dents. Receiver retains 25-30% orig case color, mostly on left lock, the remainder having toned. Trigger plate and trigger guard bow retain approx 40% orig blued finish. Forearm metal has turned gray. Top lever retains approx 45% orig high polished blue. Buttstock and forearm retain approx 75-80% orig finish with light scratches and dents, particularly towards toe of stock and buttplate. Mechanics are excellent. Bores are fair with scattered pitting throughout. 49531-40 JSL138 (750-1,250) – Lot 1085
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER.
SN 6751. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 6″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line Hartford address and crisp “COLT D.A. 41″ etched panel on left side. All the screws, base pin, trigger & edges of hammer are bright fire blued. Mounted with orig, factory, smooth pearl grips that are matching numbered on the inside. Frame is beautifully engraved in flowing foliate arabesque patterns with about 80% coverage. Top strap is engraved with leaf & vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl with a geometric pattern forward of the address on top. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in a snake & dot pattern. Back of the hammer slot on the backstrap and down the backstrap are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved on lands between the flutes with foliate arabesque patterns and a snake pattern in the flutes with a chip & dot pattern border around rear edge. Left rear web of trigger guard is stamped with the caliber marking. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 with 6” bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to B. Kittredge Arms Co., Cincinnati, OH on June 10, 1878 in a 2-gun shipment. Model 1877 revolvers are rarely found with high orig finish as they were very popular in their day and usually saw very hard service on the American frontier with infrequent or no maintenance. History records numerous individuals on both sides of the law carrying this model of revolver including Billy the Kid and others. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig nickel finish with no evidence of ever having been fired; all the screws, base pin, trigger & hammer retain most of their orig bright fire blue, somewhat thinned on the trigger. Grips have one tiny chip in left rear edge, otherwise are completely sound with a yellowed stain near the top edges and otherwise retain great fire & iridescent colors. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 49450-15 JR (37,500-57,500) – Lot 3240
VERY FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER.
SN 59664. Cal. 31. Blue & color cased hardened with 6″ oct bbl, pin front sight & engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of the frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a double arc shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a nicely figured varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of matching SN in the backstrap channel. Cylinder is 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Revolver is beautifully engraved in 1853 when famous engraver Gustave Young was first working with Colt. Gun exhibits full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug & top side flats with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. One scroll on the left side of frame terminates in stylized eagle head, other on recoil shield terminates in eagle and a snake or serpentine head,and others terminate in flower blossoms. Matching pattern engraving is also on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, an eagle’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spur & top edge with a hand checkered spur. SN’s on the bottom of the revolver and buttstrap are accompanied by a small punch mark which is thought to signify extra polishing for engraving. Accompanied by an orig blue velvet lined mahogany casing compartmentalized in the bottom for a “COLTS PATENT” eagle and stars pocket sized flask, a brass 2 cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, wood handled cleaning tool, L-shaped gun tool, paper wrapped wood block pack of cartridges and a small cap tin. PROVENANCE: The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “0472” but has matching patina and engraving. Bbl retains over 80% strong blue with some flaking & thinning. Rammer & handle retain dark case colors. Frame & hammer are finished bright with matching color to silver plated backstrap & trigger guard which is 98% intact. Cylinder retains 90% of its cylinder scene with traces of thin blue in protected areas. Cylinder has been polished bright overall with areas of flash pitting especially on one side. Grip has good edges with light wear and a few nicks & scratches and retains most of its varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. English style mahogany case is sound & solid with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is very good overall with areas of soiling & wear. Paper label glued inside case has several small reductions, tears & cuts but text for loading is all discernible. Partitions are solid. Flask is average condition retaining traces of varnish and yellow brass patina. Mold is average condition with good patent markings and traces of thin finish. Cartridge pack is sound. Cap tin has reproduction label. About a dozen orig balls, and bullets are retained under partition. There is a non-functional key included for display. 49059-84 JS (10,000-20,000) – Lot 3156
**COLT 1921/28 US NAVY OVERSTAMP THOMPSON SUB-MACHINE GUN.
SN 12090. Cal. .45 ACP. 12-1/2″ bbl with “Cutts” marked compensator. Classic US Navy marked overstamp Thompson with “U.S. NAVY” lightly engraved over “MODEL OF 1921” with an “8” overstamped on the “1” of “21”. Typical and correct Colt and Auto-Ordnance markings. Correct 1928 internal parts consistent with Navy retrofit. Stenciled light numeral “2” on buttstock along toe line of buttstock consistent with Navy issue. Includes one Parkerized, blued steel 50-rnd drum marked with “NEW YORK N.Y., U.S.A.” address which is again consistent with military issue. Wooden buttstock has appropriate anchor cartouche at leading edge. Included in this lot is the orig deactivated bbl with weld plugging the chamber and forend iron which was damaged where joint meets receiver upon its removal. Firing mechanism moves smoothly when operated by hand. This weapon appears fully functional. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval for transfer. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is fine to very fine. Orig blue finish, turning to a brown patina and thinning on the compensator along high edges. There are also some scratches and scuffs to be expected with normal use. Bbl is a replacement as is the forend iron. There is a noticeable heat discoloration half-moon mark 3/8″ long on both sides of the forward edge of the receiver. Bluing also thinning to bare metal at the rails where the magazines are inserted, both vertically and horizontally. Bolt has some very light pitting visible at the actuator slot. Bolt face is very fine. Wood has numerous light handling marks and very minor gouges. Buttplate bluing thinning to a brown patina revealing mostly grey metal. Magazine finish is very good with some scuffing and thinning at the high edges. Good tension of the springs evident. Bore is good with some slight pitting in the grooves. 49370-1 JWK20 C&R (17,500-25,000) – Lot 3750
SN 251744. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved stooping eagle on right side. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame that have fine pearled background. Topstrap is lightly engraved with border patterns and foliate arabesque patterns. Bbl boss has matching patterns with geometric pattern on ejector boss. Bottom front gullets are each engraved with a small flower blossom with a rosette around the cross bolt. Matching engraving patterns extend nearly full length on each side of the bbl with geometric and foliate patterns around the address which extend to the front sight. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot pattern with fine zig zag borders and outer radius with leaf & vine patterns. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with geometric patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger bow. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with snake & dot and line border patterns around rear edge. This revolver was produced in about 1904 when carrying a side arm was a daily way of life. Very likely this revolver belonged to a wealthy cattleman or law enforcement officer. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains about 30% blue in sheltered areas and the frame case colors in sheltered areas with the balance a light grey patina. Hammer & top strap retain faded case colors turned silver. Cyl show faded blue in the flutes being a grey patina on the outer diameter. Grips are sound with some old fault lines and show great fire. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 49611-3 JR (10,000-20,000) – Lot 3212
LOT OF TWO PISTOLS 1) COLT MODEL 1855 ROOT REVOLVER 2) BELGIAN OVER AND UNDER TURNOVER PERCUSSION PISTOL.
SN 14475/NSN. Cal. 28/40. 1) 3-1/2″ oct bbl, blue finish. Walnut grips. Side hammer. Indian and cabin scene engraved on cylinder. Visible SN’s match. 2) 2-3/4″ rnd bbls, with crowned muzzles. Belgian over and under two shot percussion turnover pistol. Engraved frame. Checkered wood grip, with presentation plaque, folding trigger. CONDITION: 1) Good, revolver has a cleaned gray finish overall, no remaining blue. Bbl address is sharp. SN are sharp on bbl, backstrap and cylinder. Cylinder retains 30% cylinder scene with brown spots and corrosion, Colt’s patent is visible. Trigger retains traces of blue. Hammer retains traces of dark case color. Grips have been refinished. Mechanics are fine. A good example of a Root revolver for a beginning collector. 2) Fine, bbls show a blue/gray patina finish with sharp proof marks, some engraving at breech. Frame shows gray/blue patina, smooth overall with sharp engraving. Hammer shows traces of case color. Nipples are not battered. Grip is very good with fine checkering and burl grain. Functions well. Nice Belgian over and under. 49550-2 TEP C&R (1,500-2,500) – Lot 1100
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT HARTFORD LONDON MODEL 1877 DA LIGHTNING REVOLVER.
SN 18662. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 3-line Hartford – Pall Mall London address. Left side of bbl has the cal engraved in a ribbon. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of trigger guard has cal marking. Mounted with wonderful, 2-pc, smooth pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Herman Ulrich with about 65% coverage, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Left recoil shield, both sides of bbl boss and top of backstrap are engraved in very fine shell patterns. Loading gate is also engraved in a shell pattern. Front edge of recoil shield and loading gate are marked with circle & dot borders. Matching engraving extends about half way up the bbl, on the ejector housing , backstrap & trigger bow. Cyl also has matching engraving on lands between flutes with a fine circle & dot border around rear edge. Back edge of hammer and top edge of hammer nose are also engraved. There is also a fine wavy border around the muzzle with an elliptical pattern of fine pearling around the front sight. This rare revolver is one of only about 1,500 ever made with this bbl address. Being a reasonably rare revolver with limited production, it can be speculated that this is one of the very few of this model engraved by Herman Ulrich, or for that matter factory engraved at all. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal. .38 with 4-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips, factory engraved with the special features “Furnished with an ejector”, shipped to W.H. Wentworth address unavailable Oct 3, 1881 in a 1 gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 80-85% strong orig nickel with light losses around the muzzle, tip of ejector housing and bottom gullet of ejector housing. Front edge of cyl and corresponding area of the frame also have light losses with some minor flaking on trigger bow. Trigger retains about 50% fire blue and the hammer traces of fire blue, being mostly a silver grey patina. Left grip has an age line, otherwise grips are sound and show great fire. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with one spot of pitting. 49611-2 JR (7,000-10,000) – Lot 3241
CASED AND ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL WITH 6″ BARREL AND IVORY GRIPS.
SN 75258. Cal. 31. This beautiful silver plated engraved Colt Pocket conforms to other examples with 6″ bbl, 5 shot, smooth cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene & typical engraved scrolls seen on other contemporary engraved guns made in 1853. Gun has 2-line New York address and plating appears contemporary to time of use. 2-pc smooth ivory grips are “certifiable antique elephant ivory” that are well fit to this gun. The accompanying blue velvet lined case is compartmentalized and holds a 2 cavity brass bullet mold, a “Colts Patent” powder flask with eagle, a pair of composition dice are found in compartment along with paper cap container with New York label. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Gun is very good to fine overall. Appears all matching with a re-numbered wedge. Stocks are not SNd but are well fit, matching gun well, have the typical Colt beveling & appear orig to time of plating and engraving which was done after orig manufacture. Safety pins are all intact. Stagecoach hold up scene is about 80% visible where polished & plated over as is typically seen. Mechanically gun functions well with crisp bright bore. Mahogany casing is sound & solid. Velvet cushion on top is replaced & re-glued. Rest of lining is worn with soiling, staining & light fading. Flask has traces of orig lacquer, is dented on reverse. Brass bullet mold has no patent marks, with scattered small blemishes and mustard colored patina. Cap container very good with bright labels. 49254-34 JS IVORY (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3157
SN 130149. Cal. .38 Colt. 4-1/2″ bbl, blue finish. Mother of Pearl grips. CONDITION: Good overall. Traces of blue finish in protected areas, casecolor on frame has silvered, Mother of Pearl grips appear original and fit perfectly. Front sight has been reshaped. Engraving appears original and is of a very high quality, possibly presentation grade. Presentation panel on backstrap remains blank. Very fine example of high quality engraving on a Colt revolver. 49433-106 TEP C&R (3,500-5,000) – Lot 1039
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 146146. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl. 1-line block letter address roll marked on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with uncarved two piece mother-of-pearl grips. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Cuno Helfricht with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. This is one of the most elaborately Helfricht engraved Colts ever examined by this cataloger. Left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in sunburst patterns with snake & dot patterns each side of hammer slot. Top strap is also engraved with snake & dot patterns with the addition of fine border patterns. Ejector boss is engraved with a sunburst pattern on each side and has matching foliate arabesque patterns on each side of bbl boss. Most unusually, the bottom front gullets are engraved in partial flower blossoms. Bbl is engraved nearly full length with matching foliate arabesque patterns and has fine geometric patterns around the address which extend almost to the slightly trimmed front sight. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot and geometric patterns in the top gullet and outer radius. Ejector rod head is a replacement as is the base pin. Cyl is engraved in typical alternating Helfricht patterns on lands between flutes with wide borders around rear edge. Shoulders of trigger guard & backstrap are engraved with partial flower blossoms with a very detailed fan pattern at top of backstrap that also has two border patterns, most unusual for Mr. Helfricht. Backstrap, buttstrap, frontstrap, trigger bow & trigger plate are engraved in geometric patterns. This revolver was produced in about 1892 when the west was still pretty wild with lots of outlaws and other nefarious characters which necessitated the daily carrying of a firearm. These arms usually saw very hard service and are rarely found today with high orig finish. Most likely, given the elaborate extra engraving, this revolver was for someone of rather high status or importance, probably in the American Southwest or Mexico. PROVENANCE: Colt factory letter confirms all features. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 75-80% strong orig nickel showing heavy holster wear around the muzzle with finish losses in that area. The forcing cone area also shows finish losses as well as about the front 1/3 of the cyl. Loss areas are a dark grey brown patina. Mechanics are fine. Mother of pearl grips fit well, probable period and have nice iridescence. Left grip has very small chip out of heel. Strong bore with good shine and scattered, moderate pitting. 49611-1 TEP (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3213
EXTREMELY FINE WARNER POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 3149. 28 Cal. James Warner, Springfield, Massachusetts, circa 1860. 3-3/4″ rnd bbl. Warner has the distinction of being sued for patent infringement by Samuel Colt; first in the percussion era, second in the cartridge era losing both lawsuits and ceasing production. Engraved frame and etched cylinder with panoplies of arms adorn this beautiful small gun which is in near new condition orig in the premier pistol collection of Sam E. Smith, author of a couple of the early texts on U.S. pistols. PROVENANCE: Sam E. Smith Collection, Greg Martin Auctions, Lot 286, Feb 5, 2007,;The Estate Collection of Phil A. Bleakney, Jr. CONDITION: Very fine to excellent overall. Bbl retains 90% of its orig finish with scuffing on left side. Gun appears matching throughout with crisp fine, well-fit stocks retaining 95% of their orig varnish. Markings on top strap easily discerned “JAMES WARNER SPRINGFIELD, MASS. U.S.A.” Mechanically gun is sound with crisp bore. 49059-124 JS (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1116
LOT OF THREE ANTIQUE REVOLVERS, BELTS, HOLSTERS AND A BOWIE KNIFE WITH SHEATH USED BY ANJELICA HUSTON IN THE MOVIE BUFFALO GIRLS.
SN 174426/23688/597. 1) SMITH & WESSON NEW MODEL NUMBER 3 SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. .44 Russian. SN 597. Nickel finish with 6-1/2″ ribbed bbl, pinned half-moon front sight and fixed rear sight in the bbl latch. Top rib has 2 lines of Smith & Wesson address and patent numbers. Buttstrap has a factory sling swivel and is without SN. SN is found on rear face of cyl, bbl & bbl latch. Mounted with 2-piece smooth walnut grips, matching numbered to this revolver. Bottom of frame is marked in 2-lines “Ejercito Argentino”. This revolver was 1 of 2,000 purchased by Argentina through Hartley & Graham January 1881 and were stamped by the factory as noted above. Accompanied by a brown single loop holster that has the cartouche of “Garret W. Roberts, Camp Verde Arizona, US”, holster is on a 3-1/2″ x 38″ single fold money/cartridge belt that has the Roberts cartouche on the buckle billet. Both billets are sewn and riveted. Belt has 18 sewn and riveted handgun cartridge loops with dummy .44 cartridges and 6 empty rifle cartridge loops. CONDITION: Fine, overall retains about 60-70% orig nickel with the loss areas mostly from flaking. Grips are sound showing moderate wear with a hand worn patina. Mechanics are crisp. Bright, shiny bore. Holster rig is fine with some crackling to the belt surface and light to moderate soil. Belt and holster show light soil and are fine. 2) ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. .45 Colt. SN 174426. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, altered front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 1-piece Ivory grip. Revolver has about full coverage, modern engraving, in a variety of styles consisting of foliate arabesque pattern with pearled backgrounds, diamond and dot patterns and shell patterns. Backstrap is engraved with a small heart on a pair of cupid wings engraved “LOVE A H”. Trigger bow is engraved “RPG”. Accompanied by a tooled black leather single loop Buscadero holster with 7 silver conchos and the makers cartouche on the loop “C. Martens / Tucson, AZ”. Holster is accompanied by a matching single fold money/cartridge belt that is 3″ wide x about 40″ long with the same makers cartouche. It has 2 large silver conchos and 28 small tooled conchos. Center portion of the belt has 25 tooled, sewn cartridge loops containing 24 dummy .45 Colt cartridges. CONDITION: Revolver retains virtually all of its custom nickel finish. Grip has a number of fine age lines and is sound. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. Base pin is a replacement. Belt and holster are fine, showing light to moderate wear. 3) ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 DA FRONTIER REVOLVER. Cal. .44 WCF (44-40). SN 23688. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, altered front sight and 2-line address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marking on left side. Left front web of trigger guard is marked 44 CAL. Mounted with 2-piece smooth pearl grips and it has a lanyard loop in the butt. Revolver is very nicely engraved by an unknown artist with about full coverage on the frame of fine, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Sides of the bbl, top strap, trigger bow and cyl are engraved to match. Accompanied by a black double loop Buscadero holster that has 5 small conchos on the loops. Holster is on a black leather belt that is 2-1/2″ x about 38″ with a very fancy bow-tie shaped nickel silver buckle with 2 raised gold colored 5 point stars. The tongue billet is a replacement and has been relocated to shorten the belt. Both billets have a large tooled concho with gold colored centers and there are 17 small conchos with gold colored centers, 1 has lost its center piece. CONDITION: Overall retains most of its custom nickel finish. Grips are fine. Mechanics are a little loose. Strong frosty bore. Belt and holster are solid showing light wear. 4) REPRODUCTION WOSTENHOLM STAG HANDLED BOWIE KNIFE WITH INDIAN-STYLE FRINGED BUCKSKIN SHEATH. Knife has 7-13/16″ slight drop point flat ground blade, marked on left ricasso “IXL”. It has a 1/8″ thick elliptical brass hand guard and 2-piece stag grips. Accompanied by a custom made hard leather backed and buckskin sinew sewn sheath with red trade cloth spacer and brass tack outline on the front. The entire edge has buckskin fringe. Belt loop on the back has the Roberts cartouche like one of the holsters above. CONDITION: Knife is very fine, retaining 30-40% orig polish, never having been sharpened. Sheath is extremely fine. Lot is accompanied by video cassette of the movie. Also accompanied by a letter on Anjelica Huston letterhead over her signature wherein she states that she used these 3 guns in the role of Calamity Jane in the CBS Entertainment Productions award nominated television movie Buffalo Girls which premiered April 30, 1995. All 3 revolvers are fully identified including serial numbers. Additionally accompanied by a signed photograph of Ms. Huston dressed in buckskins sitting in a chair holding the Smith & Wesson number 3. Also accompanied by a poster of the movie picturing 6 of the stars. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: As noted above. 49617-3 JR IVORY (5,000-9,000) – Lot 3243
RARE CASED AND ENGRAVED LONDON COLT POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 2850. Cal. 31. This is a very scarce and beautifully engraved Colt Model 1849 London Colt in fine matching condition with a scarce English bird’s eye maple Colt casing. This revolver conforms to other Pocket Models made in 1854 with 2-line London address with 5″ bbl with small English proofs on bbl lug and each chamber. The gun is profusely engraved with fine English style scrolls for almost full coverage on this gun. The silver plated trigger guard and backstrap hold a beautiful burled walnut grip that retains most of its orig varnish. The casing holds a near new Dixon bag flask with virtually all of its orig varnish,a 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold, L-shaped gun tool, wood tipped cleaning rod, orig pack of caps with Eley Brothers paper label and numerous loose shot in the covered compartment. CONDITION: This gun is fine overall, all matching with strong traces of finish in protected areas, especially on bottom of bbl. Case colors are also found in protected areas facing bbl on loading arm. Cylinder retains 5 safety pins with discernible finish and grey/white overall but markings are crisp and well discerned though “C” in “COLTS PATENT” was only partially stamped and worn. Cylinder scene of stagecoach holdup is mostly discernible with good highlights, with some staining and light pinprick pitting. Backstrap & trigger guard retain about 60% of their orig silver plate and engraving is crisp with some pitting on rear of backstrap. Stocks are well fit retaining most of their orig varnish with edge wear and were not removed as they appear orig to this revolver. Mechanically gun functions well with crisp well defined bore. Maple casing is sound with good orig varnish with a blank brass plaque on top and ebony keyhole escutcheon. Red velvet lining shows light fading, light soiling and wear. L-shaped tool and bullet mold are average good condition with smooth surfaces with traces of thin finish being overall dark grey. Flask is extremely fine retaining about 98% of its bright red lacquer and fairly bright brass top with some streaking and fire blued spring. Cap tin is missing portion of its paper label with 2 or 3 letters missing in text. Paper label for loading is in good condition with some soiling and inked addition of London gun maker and address. 49183-9 JS (5,000-12,500) – Lot 3159
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO ELMER KEITH.
SN 90592. Cal. .36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ octagon bbl, scarce dovetailed blade front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Top flat of bbl between the address & front sight is lightly engraved “Elmer Keith”. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cylinder is usual six chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and has last two digits of SN “66”. Cyl also has military inspector initials. The large guard silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain 1-pc certifiable antique ivory grip built in the orig manner of two pieces of ivory attached to two wooden spacer blocks. Left side of grip has a deep relief carved ox head. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe coverage of very fine foliate & floral arabesque patterns that has fine pearled background. Frame has about full coverage engraving which extends over the bbl lug & top side flats of bbl and onto rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug has a scroll which terminates in Mr. Young’s mythical bird’s head & another on the right side which terminates in a flower blossom. Back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern at the top with foliate arabesque patterns at the top, heel, buttstrap and trigger bow. All of the SNs on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small punch mark which indicates extra attention to polishing for engraving. Screws are domed head English style. Grips are original and unchanged since this gun was originally manufactured in 1860. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: About good, all matching except cyl as noted. No orig finish remains, being an overall dark grey/brown patina showing moderate to heavy wear. Cyl retains a blue/grey patina with all six safety pins crisp & serviceable and shows about 95% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain traces of orig silver, being mostly a light mustard patina. Grip has numerous small age lines but is sound and shows heavy wear, retaining a fine mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid at half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Wedge screw is a replacement. 4-47991 JR251 (4,000-7,000) – Lot 1013
FINE AND RARE CASED COLT NEW LINE .22 REVOLVER ENGRAVED WITH FACTORY DEGRESS PATENTED GRIPS.
SN 1463. Cal. .22 Nickel 2-1/4-inch oct bbl, the left side etched panel “COLT NEW 22”. Scroll-engraved frame stamped “22 CAL” on left side lower strap. Long fluted cylinder engraved similarly to frame and bbl with blue finish as is knurled cylinder pin. Grips are silver plated cast brass patented Wexell & DeGress deep relief horsehead motif on right, left grip marked: “PAT APR 28 / 1874. Note that in Colt’s ledger 1875-1879 that payment was made to DeGress for grips and screws. This is only new lines noted with Colt serial numbered DeGress grips. This is a beautiful little gun in a custom casing. Overall an exceedingly rare gun with engraving that is attributable to Nimschke. CONDITION: Extra fine overall, all matching serial numbers on bbl, cylinder, frame and grips. Retaining about 90% finish overall with wear to frame in front of cylinder and some relief edges. Case hardened hammer with some fading. Mechanically gun functions well with well discerned bore. Accompanying fruit wood custom case is sound and displays pistol nicely with compartment for cartridges. Lid is slightly warped. 4-55194 JS (4,500-7,500) – Lot 1280
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH BLUE FRAME.
SN 12058. Cal 36. All blue bbl & frame with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is usual six chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. All six safety pins are crisp & serviceable. The silver plated small oval brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a spectacular 1-pc certifiable antique ivory grip. Grip is constructed with two slabs of ivory attached to a wooden spacer block. Revolver is beautifully engraved with about full coverage donut scrolls on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and onto top side flats. Backstrap is engraved to match with matching patterns on buttstrap & trigger bow. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern usually associated with Colt master engraver Gustave Young. Accompanied by an incredible brass bound rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, an unmarked smooth replacement flask, a straight legged brass bullet & ball mold marked “COLTS PATENT” on the bright steel sprue cutter, a packet of combustible cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label. This revolver is a companion piece to a nearly identically cased & engraved Colt Model 1849 pocket percussion revolver being sold elsewhere in this auction. According to an eminently knowledgeable Colt collector/dealer orig blued frame percussion Colts are extremely rare with only a very few produced for a very short period of time. Blued frame percussion Colts are more commonly associated with revolvers having gold and special presentations. The companion piece Model 1849 Colt revolver mentioned above is pictured on p.64 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable, identified by serial number, and was part of the prestigious R.E. Hable Collection. On p.65 of the referenced publication is a 4″ pocket revolver, SN 82380 which also has a blued frame. Pgs.52-53 of referenced publication illustrates a cased pair of blued frame 3rd Model Colt Dragoons, serial numbers 13128 & 13551. This same pair of Dragoons is pictured on p.51 of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson, with credit to the Jack A. Dutton Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge which has numbers “31147” & “227”. Grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains 90-92% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium patina; rammer handle & pivot retain faded case colors, strong on left side of pivot; frame retains 97-98% glossy orig blue with slight thinning on sharp edge of recoil shield; hammer retains typical of the era light case colors, faded on top edge; cyl retains 75-80% thin orig blue and shows about 98% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and all of the Ormsby signature line; trigger guard & backstrap retain 96-97% strong orig silver, thinning on the heel of backstrap and a small area near the top with some flaking along the edges. Grip is sound with no discernible flaws and retains a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore, may have been fired but if so very little. Case has a crack in the lid and another in the bottom otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its bright orig varnish, showing moderate wear on finial of brass corners. Interior of the lid is bright burgundy with one stain from contact with cyl. Both compartment lids are affixed with orig polished bone finials. Bottom of the interior is lightly faded with moderate soil under the revolver & flask. Flask has a series of dents on one side, otherwise is sound and shows 97-98% strong orig finish. Flask is probably an old replacement. Mold is crisp & clean with bright metal sprue cutter. Nipple wrench and other accessories are fine. 4-48084 JR219 (40,000-60,000) – Lot 1307
LOT OF THREE BOHLIN BELT/HOLSTER RIGS, ONE SPARE BOHLIN HOLSTER & SINGLE ACTION HOLSTER THAT ALL BELONGED TO ELMER KEITH.
Three spectacular lined, tooled brown leather buscadero belt & holster rigs made by the famous Hollywood empresario Edward H. Bohlin Co. All three rigs are tooled nearly identical, with full coverage on the belts, holsters and holster skirts. All have thirty, caliber .44-45 tooled cartridge loops. 1) 3″ belt with a short drop, open toe holster, tooled to match, with a spring-loaded thumb latch and matching strap that has sterling Bohlin buckle set engraved “EK” on the buckle. The buckle billet on the belt is mounted with a matching sterling engraved Bohlin buckle set, also engraved “EK” with matching tip on the tongue. Holster is for a 7-1/2″ Colt Single Action Army revolver or possibly Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver. 2) 2-1/2″ belt that has the drop part of the belt wider than usual and supports the matching tooled brown leather holster with engraved flat sterling silver Bohlin buckle. The buckle billet is mounted with an engraved flat sterling Bohlin buckle. Holster also has the spring-loaded thumb tab and is for a 4-3/4″ Colt Single Action Army revolver or short barreled Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver. 3) 2-1/2″ belt that has a slot within the belt, not on a drop, and supports a matching tooled, brown leather holster for 4-3/4″ Colt Single Action Army or short barreled Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver. Belt has a fine engraved Bohlin flat buckle set with “EK” engraved on the buckle. Tongue billet has a Bohlin sterling silver tip & a matching tip at the attached end of the tongue. Holster has a matching miniature buckle set on the strap with “K” engraved on the buckle. 4) Extremely beautiful tooled, brown leather holster with full tooled skirt and an engraved Bohlin sterling buckle set on the strap with “EK” engraved on the buckle. Holster has the spring-loaded thumb tab. Each of the belts & holsters are marked with the cartouche of the Bohlin Co. #3 above has the small cartouche and all the others have large cartouche. These belts & holsters were all presented to Mr. Keith at one time or another over his career. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Extremely fine, slightly dusty, shows very little use, completely supple & usable. 2) Extremely fine, slightly dusty, shows light use with some green verdigris by the cartridge loops from long term contact with brass cartridge cases, supple & usable. 3) Very fine, overall retains most of its original finish, showing moderate to heavy use with green verdigris in the cartridge loops from long term storage contact with brass cartridge cases, supple & usuable. 4) Extremely fine, shows very little use and retains virtually all its orig brown finish. 4-48038 JR266 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 1032
RARE AND FINE COLT 3RD MODEL LONDON DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 612. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Bbl and cylinder both have standard London proofs consistent with other English assembled Colts. Frame has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” about centered on the left side. Cylinder has usual 6-chambers with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLT’S PATENT” cartouches surrounding the SN. All 6 safety pins are crisp and prominent. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut stock. There were only about 700 of these rare revolvers produced 1853-1857, primarily from Hartford made parts assembled & finished in England. These revolvers are rarely encountered today especially with high orig finish. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching and orig. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with small areas of flaking and pin-prick pitting. Loading arm, frame and hammer retain much of their orig muted case colors with balance silver/grey. Cylinder is plum overall with crisp, well discerned rolled Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll markings with both cartouches crisp and legible surrounding SN. Trigger guard and backstrap retain traces of thin orig silver finish. Grip is sound, well fit with most of its bright orig varnish with edge wear and minor small nicks, bruises and scratches. Mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 4-55345 (40,000-60,000) – Lot 1285
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH PROVENANCE.
SN 28071. Cal 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, nickel silver front sight and 1-line New York U.S. America address. The cyl is usual six chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a fancy, select grade, 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching serial number in backstrap channel. Revolver is engraved in late vine style, probably by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate & floral arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over sides of bbl and terminate forward of the address. Muzzle has a light border pattern. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque pattern on the shank, wolfs head on each side of hammer nose and fish scale patterns on top edge and sides of spur. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s light fan pattern at the top and foliate arabesque patterns at the top & heel, on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Accompanied by a small envelope which has the handwritten ink message “Colt History” / “I bot (sic) this ‘Navy Revolver’ in 1863 when houses of all Republicans were threatened by some ‘Mob’ – It was a 1 – up to date – pistol then. Now a curiosity”, and signed “I.C.”. A pencil note at the top states “I.C. is Issac (sic) Coles dead many years formerly of Glen Cove L.I.N.Y.”. Also accompanied by a rare orig birds-eye maple, brown velvet lined Colt casing. Case is compartmented, American style for the revolver, a double sided trophy of arms, flags, eagle & stars flask, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” English style bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36H”, an orig paper wrapped lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with blue label, an L-shaped nipple wrench, three spare nipples and a spare hammer spring. Only about 39,000 of these scarce revolvers were produced 1861-1873, of which several hundred were sold to the U.S. Military. The majority of production were private purchase by the U.S. Military and saw service throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier. Very few were cased and extremely few were engraved. This revolver was produced in about 1866, just after the Civil War when repeating arms were in great demand for the Westward Expansion of Manifest Destiny. The fact that few were engraved lends credence to the thought that this revolver was a presentation to someone of high political office or an award for valor or service. PROVENANCE: Issac (sic) Coles. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching incl wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with thinning holster wear on both sides of the muzzle; rammer handle & pivot retain bright case colors, faded near the front end; frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas; cyl retains about 80% strong orig blue thinning toward the front and shows about 97-98% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking with the Ormsby signature line partially visible; trigger guard retains about 60% strong orig silver with wear on the front strap; backstrap retains strong silver at the top and on buttstrap showing brass patina in the center. Grip is sound with light to moderate edge wear with a few light nicks and overall retains about all of its orig varnish, a little dull from hand wear. Mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore, shows very little use. Case has a couple cracks in the bottom otherwise is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with moderate to heavy soil in the bottom; partitions are sound. Flask has one small dent, otherwise is sound with the body showing about 95% orig finish. Collar is a dark brass patina with some traces of gold still on the spout & thumb lever. Spring is mostly bright blue. Mold has some pitting on both arms and inside flats show fine pitting. Cavities are fine and overall retains a restored blue finish. Cap tin has some minor paper losses but it is still sealed. Label is lightly faded. Other accessories are fine. Envelope with note is yellowed with some light foxing. 4-48085 JR220 (40,000-55,000) – Lot 1308
RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON MODEL 1890 SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 373. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Silver finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line address. Mounted with checkered hard rubber grips, embossed with Remington’s trademark at the top on each side. Butt strap has a factory swivel stud & ring. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style which consists of about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background on the frame. Front gullets are engraved with hunter’s stars. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend up the sides of the bbl and onto the ejector housing. Back strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with matching patterns on lands between the flutes on the cyl. Recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in fan patterns. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 2,020 of these revolvers were produced in the period 1891-1896. The 1890 was the successor to Models 1875 & 1888 and could have been strong competition for the Colt Single Action Army revolver. Arguably the Remington was a superior revolver with its ease of removing the cyl for cleaning & maintenance, but by the time of the introduction of the Model 1875, Colt was well-established with military contracts and was a favorite of the buying public. The quick release cyl pin of the Remington was a superior feature that was not introduced by Colt until about 1892 and did not become a standard feature until about 1896. Remington was never able to generate military contracts so their sales lagged and by 1896 they large bore revolver was no longer a viable product. PROVENANCE: The Elliott Burka Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of its strong silver finish, possibly an old restored finish. Grips are sound showing moderate to heavy wear and are beginning to turn chocolate. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. 4-56370 JR125 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1075
Important Additional Information: This Colt revolver is accompanied by a 20-page letter by noted Colt scholar and author R.L. Wilson detailing its history and significance.
EXTREMELY RARE CASED SPECIAL ENGRAVED COLT BABY DRAGOON MADE FOR THE 1851 CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION IN LONDON.
SN 13538. This Colt baby dragoon conforms to other examples with 5″ oct bbl, 2-line New York address and is among the last of these Model 1848 pistols manufactured in 1850. This gun however is among only a handful of Colt revolvers identified as being on display at Colt’s display at “The Great Exhibition of 1851” at the Crystal Palace in London. This exhibition was in short the first “World’s Fair” with some of the greatest displays of technology from all over the globe. In an accompanying letter of provenance from noted Colt authority and expert R.L. Wilson; he convincingly attributes this gun as to one of nine serial numbers known of specially prepared decorated revolvers for exhibition purposes at this event. Samuel Colt himself in a July 1849 letter spelled out to “have made show pistols, put up in the most elegant style possible”. Among these guns were gifts to Prince Albert and Prince Edward who was later King Edward VII. These particular pistols are highly engraved with detailed floral scrolls and feathered borders with almost total coverage on frames, bbl housings, muzzles, loading arm pivots, hammers, trigger guards and backstraps. Factory engraving is thought to have been performed by Joseph Delaney who was employed at the Colt factory circa 1849-1851 in Hartford and later at the Colt London factory 1852-1858 (Herbert Houze, Colt Factory Engravers of the 19th Century 2012). Pistol is retained in a contemporary mahogany Colt casing with fine flask and cartridge pack along with other accessories. This gun is to be pictured in upcoming R.L. Wilson book Sam Colt and his Legacy: Chronicling the Legend, Art and History. Engraved baby dragoons are quite scarce and exhibition grade guns like this with well figured burl stocks rarely come to market. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun appears orig and matching throughout. It is interesting that the screws are engraved in two distinct styles where frame and loading assembly screws have a flower design, backstrap, trigger guard and wedge screws are starburst design. About 20% bright blue is found on bbl especially in sheltered areas with the balance gray/plum with areas of staining and pitting. Engraving is especially crisp overall. Top line in address is weakly struck. Frame and hammer exhibit traces of muted case colors with balance crisp and sharp silver gray patina. Cylinder is a matching gray with areas of pitting, rolled stagecoach hold up cylinder scene is about 90% discernible. Safety pins are present though two are smashed. Backstrap and trigger guard retain virtually all of their orig silver. Plating and grips retain about 98% of their orig bright varnish with only reductions at edges. Mechanically gun functions with crisp well discerned bore. Accompanying casing is sound, with glued repair to top right slat in lid. Purple velvet lining is faded and worn in areas where gun contacts. Partitions are complete, though the cloth coverings are scuffed and worn through in areas. Brass 2 cavity mold has numerous small dents and dings, Colt patent markings are well struck and easily discerned. Eagle flask is fine, retaining much of its orig finish. Cartridge pack is also fine as is “L” shaped tool which retains most of its orig dull blue finish. Japanned cap tin has reproduction label. 4-55192 JS (25,000-45,000) – Lot 1289
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE NEW AND UNFIRED CASED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 152329. Cal 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, nickel silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Cyl is rebated with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and five of the six safety pins serviceable. The un-plated brass trigger guard & blued steel backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip. No disassembly was effected to check for matching SNs. Frame is 3-screw type cut for shoulder stock with rnd head hammer screw. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing with an engraved plaque in the lid bearing the crest of an armored arm clutching an arrow in its hand, all over a six section rope-like ribbon. A quick Google search initially turned up this exact crest as belonging to David Fletcher. Additional search was enormously extensive. With time and resources undoubtedly additional information could be developed. Interior, in the bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a double sided trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT” flask with long angle spout, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bow-legged bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked with a “C” on right side, a brass mushroom head steel cleaning rod, an L-shaped nipple wrench and an orig paper sealed tin of Eley’s caps with tan label. The Model 1860 Colt was the most widely used sidearm in the Civil War with about 200,000 manufactured 1860-1873. A total of about 127,000 of these revolvers were purchased by the U.S. Government and virtually the entire production saw service throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier where they remained equally popular. They continued in service well into the late 1870s even after the advent of self-contained cartridge revolvers. By the end of the Civil War nearly 156,000 of these revolvers had been produced most of which had been sold to the U.S. Government leaving very few for civilian purchase. Even those were mostly private purchase by military personnel for use in the Civil War. This revolver was produced in 1864 while the Civil War was still raging and therefore must have been a present for a departing soldier, a high ranking military officer or someone of political importance or great wealth. That it has remained in pristine unfired condition with an equally pristine presentation case is the ultimate find for a Civil War era firearm. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching (grip was not checked). Overall retains 99%+ orig factory finish with brilliant charcoal blue and crisp case colors. Cyl is equally new & unfired although it has been “played with” and shows light front edge wear, a small ding and some slight thinning with minor flaking and shows 99% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Chambers of the cyl & bore retain virtually all of their orig factory blue; trigger guard is a medium mustard patina with crisp, sharp edges; backstrap shows light wear on the heel with some scattered light flaking. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks and one small spot of wear on left side and overall retains about 98% crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny, unfired bore. Case is sound with a few minor, light nicks & scratches, a small chip from bottom front edge and overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig varnish; plaque in the lid retains about all of its orig gold wash. Interior is crisp & bright with only a small impression from the revolver cyl and all partitions are solid. Flask retains about 96-97% strong orig finish. Mold has some fine pitting on left arm, otherwise is crisp and unused. Cleaning rod & nipple wrench are equally new. Cap tin has some minor paper losses but is still sealed with lightly faded label. An incredible find, the equivalent of which probably never to be seen again. 4-48086 (85,000-100,000) – Lot 1313
VERY RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON MODEL 1875 SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 25. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, pinched post front sight and 1-line left hand address. Butt strap has a factory swivel stud and ring. Mounted with smooth 2-pc certifiable antique ivory grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop with about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Front gullets of the frame are engraved in geometric patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over the top strap on to the ejector housing web and bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Top of the back strap is engraved in diamond & dot patterns with geometric patterns down the back strap and on the butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved with a very fine hunter’s star. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between he flutes with a fine wavy line at the rear edge. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearmsthere were 25,000-30,000 of these revolvers produced 1875-1889. Of that total about the first 16,000 revolvers were produced in Remington’s proprietary caliber, 44 Remington, after which they began chambering revolvers for the more popular and available 44-40 cartridge. This was Remington’s response to the Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army Revolver and was, arguably, a better firearm. The Remington had the advantage of a readily removable cylinder for cleaning & maintenance vs. the Colt which required tools to accomplish the same function. Colt did not offer this feature until about 1892, which became standard for them in about 1896. Unfortunately for Remington they were late on the scene after Colt had become well-established with the military and buying public. Remington was never able to gain sufficient traction to generate government contracts or wide distribution of this model. Two subsequent changes in 1888 & 1890 were insufficient to keep their large bore revolver in production and in 1896 they ceased production altogether. Given the limited production of this model only a few were factory engraved and with that limited number very few survive today in any configuration. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elliott Burka Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains about 80% strong orig nickel showing holster wear on left side with some scattered fine pitting; ejector housing & frame retain most of their strong orig nickel, as does the grip frame; cyl retains 85-90% orig nickel and hammer strong case colors, turned dark on top edge. Grips have numerous age lines but are sound and retain a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-56542 JR124 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1078
RARE AND IMPORTANT CASED ENGRAVED INVENTOR PRESENTATION COLT MODEL TWO 1855 ROOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CHARTER OAK GRIP, PRESENTED TO FAMOUS BOSTON DEALER WILLIAM READ.
SN 4442. Cal. .28. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & pointing hand motif address. Cyl is unfluted with five chambers and cabin/Indian fight scene roll marking. Mounted with rare Charter Oak grip with matching number in backstrap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with nearly full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Matching engraving extends up the side & top side flats of the bbl and onto the rammer pivot. Hammer shank and sides of the spur are engraved to match with matching patterns at top of backstrap, heel & buttstrap. Screw heads are also engraved. Backstrap is factory engraved in period script “To Wm Read from the Inventor / Charter Oak stock From J.W. Stuart”. William Read was a prominent Boston gunsmith and a major importer & distributor of firearms & accessories and a large Colt customer. Mr. Stuart was the owner of the Charter Oak tree. The Charter Oak was a very historic tree that played an instrumental part in the founding of the State of Connecticut. Prior to the Revolutionary War, on the night of a State Charter meeting, the British sent troops to confiscate the new Connecticut charter. However, patriots learned of the forthcoming raid and after the British arrived the lights were mysteriously extinguished and when they were re-lit the charter had disappeared. One of the committee members spirited the constitution out of town and hid it in the large hollow of the venerable old oak, saving the charter. Thereafter the tree was referred to as the “Charter Oak”. In 1856 this old tree was destroyed in a wind storm and at the time it was estimated to have been 800-1,000 years old. Local Indians venerated the old tree. Numerous souvenir articles were produced from the wood and sold, but Samuel Colt obtained enough of the wood to produce a number of special grips for his presentation firearms, this being one of them. Accompanied by a rare dark green & burgundy velvet-lined rosewood casing with the center plaque in the lid missing. Inside the lid is lined with dark green velvet and the bottom French fitted with dark green & burgundy velvet, for the revolver, a double-sided eagle & stars flask, a bowlegged brass bullet & ball mold with bright “COLTS PATENT” steel sprue cutter, a wood-handled turn screw and a covered compartment in the right rear containing lead balls. Also accompanying is a very rare packet of .28 caliber combustible cartridges. Inventor presentations are extremely rare and come along only one in a lifetime, especially those with Charter Oak grip. This very well be one of the last, if not the last, Charter Oak stocked Colt to be discovered and presented for sale. PROVENANCE: This Colt is consigned by the great great grandson of William Read of Wm Read & Sons, Boston, MA, and has been handed down directly through the Read family. The pistol and has never been shown or made available for sale until this auction. Notarized affidavit from Read family stating the chain of possession and history of the pistol as known to them. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine, all matching. Bbl & frame retain about 90% glossy orig blue with light sharp edge wear and a spot of rust on right side of muzzle. Backstrap shows moderate wear with thinning blue. Cyl retains about 70% dull orig blue with some flaking around the rear edge. Grip is sound, showing very light edge wear and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some fine pitting. Case has crack in lid with some veneer losses on two of the bottom corners and as noted, is missing the plaque. Interior is lightly faded & soiled with some light wear around muzzle area & other recesses. Accessories are very fine. Cartridge packet has one broken corner with wire still intact. 4-54038 (65,000-95,000) – Lot 1290
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 191675. Cal. 44. Gold & silver finish with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is rebated with usual 6-chambers and Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Five of the six safety pins are serviceable. The brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain a certifiable antique ivory 1-pc grip with matching SN inside each grip panel. Grip is constructed in the orig manner with two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacers creating a 1-pc grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and each side of the muzzle with dbl border & geometric patterns at the top. Shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with matching patterns in the center of the engraving on bbl lug. Top of the back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the heel and geometric patterns on the butt strap which match those on top of the bbl. Trigger bow is engraved in foliate & floral patterns and all of the engraving has a fine pearled background. This revolver was produced in 1871, near the end of production of this model which had about 200,000 total production. This was a period of great demand for repeating arms for use on the American frontier. Undoubtedly this revolver was for presentation to someone of high position. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including grip, except wedge which is properly unnumbered. Overall retains about all of its strong restored finish showing wear only on the back strap; there are a few small scattered spots of very fine pitting under the finish on the bbl, cyl & frame. Grip is sound showing light wear with a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered very fine pitting. 4-49875 JR184 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1315
RARE CASED ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 51246. Cal 44. Full gold finish with 8″ oct bbl, dovetailed nickel silver cone front sight and 3-line address. Mounted with smooth 2-pc rosewood grips matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 75% coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns that has pearled background. Top strap is engraved in double chip & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of the bbl, sides of the muzzle and around the address. Bbl also is engraved in geometric patterns in other areas. Rammer handle web is engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Top of backstrap is engraved in a diamond & dot panel with foliate arabesque and geometric patterns down the backstrap and the buttstrap. Trigger bow is engraved to match and bottom front of frame has a very finely detailed hunters star. Cyl has a full band of engraved foliate arabesque patterns with chip & dot border around front edge. Accompanied by an orig green velvet lined mahogany casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a large size double sided Remington flask, a two cavity Remington bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, a Remington L-shaped nipple wrench, a soft packet of combustible cartridges, a tin of Goldmark’s caps and lead bullets & balls. This model revolver was one of the most popular side arms of the Civil War and later with the Army and Civilian populous on the American frontier. It was very desirable for its ease of changing cylinders wherein someone could carry loaded spare cylinders and change them out quickly to continue firing versus the complicated operation required to change a Colt cyl which required partially dismantling the pistol. These pistols remained in service well into the 1870s and were in use by various famous cavalry units fighting Indians on the frontier. Cased examples are rare, engraved and cased sets are very rare and cased, engraved and plated specimens are exceedingly rare. PROVENANCE: The Elliott Burka Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching incl cyl & grips. Overall retains about 98% strong restored gold finish. Grips are slightly shrunken with a hairline grain check in the left heel, otherwise are sound and retain a smooth, hand-worn oil finish. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. Cyl shows no evidence of having been fired. Case is sound with few light nicks & and scratches and retains all of a restored finish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded with moderate soil in the bottom. A couple of partitions have been re-glued. Flask has a dent on one side and retains about 80% strong orig finish. Mold is cleaned to bright metal with pitting inside the arms. Other accessories are fine. 4-56308 JR198 (20,000-35,000) – Lot 1085
SN 7446. Cal. 31. This Colt root model entered production in 1855 with eight changes over course of manufacture. This being the fifth change or “Model 5”. Colt Roots were among Col. Colt’s favorite presentation guns and this gun is presentation grade with fine engraving on frame, bbl, cylinder, grip strap and hammer. This particular gun was made at the height of the Civil War in 1863 with round 3-1/2″ bbl and 2-line New York address. Engraved Roots in high condition are quite scarce and this is a very fine example retaining much of its orig finish. Pistol is cased with fine flask, mold and tin of caps with Eley Brothers label. CONDITION: Bbl retains strong traces of bright blue finish with balance plum/brown. Bbl housing and frame retain 60-70% bright blue finish with balance plum. Cylinder retains about 30% bright blue finish with balance plum. Loading arm and engraved hammer retain areas of case colors with balance muted to silver/gray. Deluxe burled walnut grips retain virtually all of their orig glossy varnish with small nicks, dings and edge wear. Mechanically gun is functional with crisp well defined bore. Accompanying Colt casing is sound with an interesting lighter colored contrasting wood lid that is orig. Outside of casing retains much orig varnish. Interior of case is light faded and soiled from an orig burgundy red color. Eagle flask is very fine, retaining much of its orig varnish. Two cavity iron “Colt’s Patent” mold is marked “31PKT” and retains about 90% orig blue though thin. Jappaned cap tin is fine with orig green paper label that has 1/4″ chip. 4-55346 JS (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1292
FINE AND EXTREMELY RARE CONFEDERATE “C.L.DRAGOONS” COLT NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 94814. The only Colts that were actually sold to a Confederate unit were a group of model 1851 navies and 3rd model dragoons which were sold to John J. Crocheron; therefore the name “CROCHERON LIGHT DRAGOONS”. These guns are engraved on the bbls “C.L.DRAGOONS”. There are only three known “C L Dragoon” Colt navy revolvers all in similar serial range and this example is no doubt the finest retaining strong traces of finish, crisp markings and all matching. There is an excellent article by Walter Anderson published in the January 1991 Gun Report which gives a detailed history of this unit, which became a part of the 3rd Alabama Calvary which most of its command was utilized to protect commanding generals as escorts. The C L Dragoons were the personal escorts of Gen. Braxton Bragg early in 1862 en route to his command in Corinth, Mississippi just prior to the Battle of Shiloh; where this unit saw action and Capt. Robert W. Smith as commander was cited for “personal gallantry and intelligent execution of orders, frequently under the heaviest fire”. This unit continued as escorts and couriers for Bragg in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga. When Gen. Joseph Johnston replaced Bragg as Commander of the Army of Tennessee, this unit continued as his personal escort. Late in 1864 when Confederate President Jefferson Davis impatient with Johnston’s actions he placed Gen. John Bell Hood in charge of the Army, again the “C. L. Dragoons” remained as Hood’s personal escort. It is thought by the author of the Gun Report article that since so few Navy revolvers are extant and more than a dozen 3rd model dragoons are known that the Navy revolvers were most likely given to officers. It’s of note that Samuel Colt presented an inscribed Colt Navy revolver to Alabama Gov. Andrew Moore (SN 95844) which is only thirty numbers different than this gun. Mr. Anderson in his article also notes that he can document 25 Alabama officers receiving Colt Navy’s from Gov. Moore. It’s of interest that “C.L. Dragoon” marked dragoon revolvers are engraved in block letters where officer’s Navies are engraved in italics. If you are interested in the finest Confederate purchased Colt revolver, this may be your only chance. PROVENANCE: Damon Mills Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is brown/grey with traces of blue finish in protected areas and areas of thin plum over much of bbl. Iron surfaces overall are crisp with edge wear and small dings and scratches, especially on right side around wedge slot. Brass post front site appears complete but has been smashed flat. Cylinder has crisp and discernible patent markings and SN with about half of cylinder scene still visible, top edge of cylinder has wear and “naval engagement” legend is only partially discernible. Markings are very good and discernible, including a one line Hartford address, matching SNs are found on loading arm, bbl, frame, arbor, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Stocks also match with last four digits found in grip channel. Wedge is not numbered, though it appears correct. Lever attaching screw and wedge screw are replaced as is bbl latch. Other than these minor restorations gun appears all original. Stocks are well fit with good patina, retaining about 70% of their original varnish with edge wear. There is an indiscernible name scratched on bottom of buttstrap that is partially scratched away as can be seen in photos. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 50% of their original silver with balance a light mustard colored patina. Gun functions well with good, discernible rifling. 4-54459 JS (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1412
VERY RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 45138. Cal. 38 RF. Silver & gold finish with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pinched post front sight and 3-line address. Cyl is an orig factory conversion item with conversion number “14” on rear face and matching number on bottom of bbl by the rammer stud. Right side of frame has an attached ejector housing and right recoil shield has a loading gate. Cylinder, rammer handle & hammer are gold plated with the balance of the revolver silver plated. Mounted with smooth 2-pc certifiable antique ivory grips matching numbered to this revolver. Left heel of grip frame, under the grip, also has the assembly number “14” which is also found inside each grip in pencil and on front face of recoil shield. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style by L.D. Nimschke with about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Top strap is engraved in chip & dot patterns with a beautiful flower blossom on top front of frame. Foliate, floral & geometric patterns extend over the bbl. Rammer handle is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns and the web with snake & dot patterns down the sides. Edges of recoil shield are also engraved in snake & dot patterns. Top of back strap is engraved in diamond & dot patterns with beautiful shell patterns on the back strap and geometric patterns on the butt strap. Cyl is engraved with a full band of matching foliate arabesque patterns with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were about 28,000 of this model revolver produced 1863-1878 with many of them leaving the factory as cartridge revolvers and were in fact not conversions. Such is probably the case with this revolver. These revolvers were a very strong & direct competition with Colt’s conversion revolvers and remained popular well into the 1870s until supplanted by the more efficient & powerful center fire cartridges. They usually saw very hard service and are rarely found in high orig finish. Undoubtedly this revolver would have been ordered by someone of great wealth or as a special presentation to someone of importance or high esteem. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elliott Burka Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cyl & grips. Overall retains about 99% strong orig finish with only light wear on the trigger bow which has exposed the underlying brass. Grips are extremely fine with a couple of minor age lines and show a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore; appears to be new & unfired. 4-56316 JR127 (35,000-50,000) – Lot 1092
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER IN AN EXTRAORDINARILY RARE BOOK CASING.
SN 90389. Cal. .31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & engraved “Sam’l Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver-plated brass, small guard trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished, select, burl walnut, 1-pc grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cylinder is unfluted with five chambers and a very deep, crisp stagecoach holdup scene roll marking, with all five safety pins serviceable. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his extra deluxe coverage of extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine pearled background. Left recoil shield incorporates Mr. Young’s mythical bird head in a scroll with a flower blossom on the right side. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug & top side flats of bbl with a dog’s head incorporated in a scroll on the left side and a flower blossom of the right side. Rammer pivot has full coverage matching engraving. Top end & heel of backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard also have matching engraving with a very fine detailed fan at the top. Hammer is deluxe engraved with matching engraving on the shank, a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with fish scales on top edge & sides of the spur. All visible screws are engraved as are ends of wedge. Accompanied by the incredibly rare book casing with unmarked, gold embossed, brown leather spine with marbled paper sides & edges and a mortise lock in the front, lock tab is broken from the lid. Interior is purple velvet-lined & French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a double sided eagle & stars flask, a brass straight-legged “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label, and a sealed packet of combustible cartridges. While casings such as this have been seen in various publications, they very rarely ever come to market. This revolver was produced in about 1854 and given that is has the extra coverage deluxe engraving and the extra special casing it almost surely would have been for a special presentation to someone of great importance, a high ranking government official or military officer. Finding such a complete set is extraordinarily rare and only comes along once in a lifetime. PROVENANCE: Rettig Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine to extremely fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with very light muzzle end & sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot retains strong case colors turned silver on handle. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, heavily faded on left side, stronger on right side. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cyl retains 50-60% orig blue and shows 96-98% crisp stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver. Grip is sound with one or two tiny nicks & retains about all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. Case shows edge wear on spine & hinge and leather retains about 75% orig brown finish. Covers & edges are fine with bright marbled colors. Interior is solid, heavily faded in the lid & bottom with bright purple under revolver & accessories. Altogether an extraordinarily rare and fine set. 4-54473 JR269 (40,000-70,000) – Lot 1295
Please note: We have just learned of a very interesting in-depth article about this gun maker which features images of a very similar rifle. This information will accompany the gun.
HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT ANTEBELLUM RIFLE MADE BY LOUIS HOFFMAN VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI FOR J. CULBERTSON, CAPTAIN CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA.
Cal. 50. 49-3/4″ overall. 4-3/4″ x 1-1/4″ buttplate. 33-1/2″ full oct rifle bbl marked “LOUIS HOFFMAN VICKSBURG MISS.” This rifle has six engraved silver inlays, one of which is the “running deer” cheekpiece inlay. In addition, two inlays are missing, one a shield inlay behind the bbl tang and a second one at the bottom of the forestock. The two ramrod pipes are silver as are the engraved nosecap, trigger guard, toeplate and buttplate. The elegant silver capbox is finely engraved and features the name “J. CULBERTSON”. The stock is checkered at the wrist and the percussion lockplate is profusely engraved and includes the date 1859. The rifle has double set triggers and the bbl tang extends 5-1/2″ into the wrist. (Genealogy of the Culbertson and Culberson Families Louis R. Culbertson, 1923) “Jacob Culbertson graduated as #7 in his class from West Point, serving as a cadet from 1 July 1846 to 1 July 1850. He served in Key West, Florida, in 1850 and became Second Lieutenant of the 4th Artillery 11 December 1850. From 1850-51 he served at Ft. Columbus, New York; from 1851-1852 at Ft. Mackinac, Michigan; from 1852-53, 1853-56 at West Point, New York, being assigned as Assistant Professor of Natural and Experimental Philosophy in the Military Academy. He was First Lieutenant, 4th Artillery, 14 February 1856, and resigned 10 January 1857. Culbertson served with the Confederate forces from 1861-1866. He served as a Lieutenant at Bowling Green, Warren County, Kentucky, during the Civil War. He served in the defense of Fort Henry and in the absence of a superior officer, commanded the batteries which engaged the federal gunboats at the siege of Fort Donaldson, where he was captured and held prisoner at Camp Chase and Johnson’s Island until exchanged. A commission as Major was issued to him early in the war, but did not reach him until near the close of the war. Capt. Culbertson fired the first shots in defense of the small village of Coffeeville, Mississippi. According to Tilghman’s report, “The first shot fired from the Parrott guns of Captain Heddon’s battery, under the direction of Capt. Culbertson, chief of artillery of my division, wounded Colonel Mizner and killed his orderly and three men, …” He then was a farmer and school teacher near Jackson, Mississippi, 1866-1884. Jacob and Caroline were farming in Rankin County, Mississippi, in 1870 and in Livingston, Madison County, Mississippi, in 1880. Their farm in south Jackson, Hinds County, Mississippi, was known as “Strawberry Hill””. Louis Hoffman, the maker of this rare Civil War era rifle, was a well known gun maker in antebellum Vicksburg and after. Doug Eberhart and R L Wilson in their text The Deringer in America, Volume 1 state “The son of a Prussian Army officer, Louis Ferdinand Alexander Hoffman was born in Stettin, Germany on November 23, 1823. He emigrated to New York in 1852, settling first in Paterson, New Jersey, moving on to St. Louis, and arriving finally in Vicksburg in 1853. He worked initially at the machine shops and foundry of Cimmerman and Reading, but as soon as he had saved enough money, opened his own gun shop. In the Vicksburg Weekly Whig of October 7, 1857 Hoffman advertised that “He will make new rifles to order; stock guns and pistols in a superior manner; and do all the repairing in the shortest notice.” Four years later the Vicksburg Daily Evening Citizen of May 2, 1861 carried an ad listing Hoffman as a “Wholesale dealer in guns, pistols, revolvers, gun materials, sporting apparatus, fishing tackle, & all kinds of repairing in this line done by the best workmen at the most reasonable rates”. The Civil War saw Hoffman repairing guns for the Confederacy until the fall of Vicksburg, when he became a Master Armorer for the Union Army. However, his considerable fortune had been lost and he was deeply in debt when the War ended. Unwilling to renege on his debts, he once again built up his guns and hardware business and proved an astute real estate entrepreneur as well. By 1868, he had expanded his business to include farm implements and household appliances as well as “every variety of pistols, including single barrel, double barrel, four barrel, five barrel, six barrel, Derringer, Allen, Colt, Smith & Wesson, Remington, pepper box & guns of every price and style, single barrel shot guns, muskets, double barrel guns with one barrel rifle and the other smooth bore…” Pre-Civil War era Mississippi made rifles are quite rare and this is a honest silver mounted example identified to a prominent Confederate artillery officer. CONDITION: 4 plugged holes on muzzle end of bbl suggests that rifle at one time had a false muzzle or bullet starter. There is a sliver of wood missing above the lock and a small sliver behind the nosecap on the right hand side. The silver spur on the rear of the trigger guard has been badly bent and poorly restored. Silver 7/8″ rectangle inlet into the top bbl flat forward of the rear sight. The middle screw in the bbl tang may be in place of an orig post sight. 4-55303 JS (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1415
RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL NAVY REVOLVER FACTORY CONVERSION.
SN 44851. Cal. .38 RF. Blue finish with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pinched post front sight & 3-line address. Bottom left flat of bbl, at the frame has tiny British proofs with matching proofs on the cyl & frame. Trigger guard is unplated brass and it is mounted with smooth, 2-pc walnut grips. Right forward side of frame is mounted with an ejector rod housing and cyl pin has had the right ear removed to accommodate the ejector. Frame is lightly engraved in foliate and snake & dot patterns on the sides. According to FLAYDERMAN’S GUIDE TO ANTIQUE FIREARMS, there were about 28,000 New Model Navy revolvers produced 1863-1878, many of which were converted to metallic cartridge. A large number of those were actually not conversions but left the factory as cartridge revolvers. These revolvers were very popular and were stiff competition to their Colt counterparts but finally succumbed to the superior centerfire cartridge of the late 19th century. Until then however, they saw hard service on the frontier in everyday life under harsh circumstances usually with limited maintenance. The fact that this revolver is English proofed lends credence to equally hard use in England’s far flung empire of that age. PROVENANCE: The Elliott Burka Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains 60-70% orig blue mixed with flaking. Frame retains faded blue in sheltered areas being mostly a blue-grey patina. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cyl is a blue-grey patina turning brown. Grips show moderate to heavy wear & a hand-worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine & moderate to heavy pitting. 4-56315 JR121 (3,500-5,000) – Lot 1100
RARE EARLY CASED AND ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 66163. Cal 31. Rare all blue finish with desirable 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City address with brackets. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl has five chambers with the stage coach holdup scene roll marking and all five safety pins prominent & serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain an orig 1-pc certifiable antique ivory grip that is made in the early style consisting of two slabs of ivory attached to a wooden spacer block. Pistol is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in donut-style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats of bbl. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap and on the buttstrap. Trigger bow is engraved with a small oval American shield surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and bottom front screw of trigger guard is surrounded by a sunburst pattern. Accompanied by a very rare, burgundy velvet lined, brass bound rosewood casing that has plaque in the lid engraved “F.C.”. Bottom is covered in orig black oil cloth. Interior in the bottom is french fitted for the revolver, a single sided flying eagle with “E. Pluribus Unum” ribbon in its beak and clutching an American shield in its left talons, a straight legged orig “COLTS PATENT” brass bullet & ball mold, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a paper box of caps. Covered compartment in left front corner contains five spare nipples. This pistol was produced in about 1853 during the height of the early Westward Expansion when virtually any firearm, especially repeating arms was in great demand. According to an extremely knowledgeable Colt collector/dealer orig blued frame percussion Colts are extremely rare with only a very few produced for a very short period of time. Blued frame percussion Colts are more commonly associated with revolvers having gold and special presentations. This revolver is the companion piece to a Colt Model 1851 Navy produced in 1852, that is identically engraved with blued frame being sold elsewhere in this auction. This revolver is pictured on p.64 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable, and was part of the prestigious R.E. Hable Collection and is identified by serial number. The photograph shows this revolver in the case as it is found today. On p.65 of the referenced publication is a 4″ pocket revolver, SN 82380 which also has a blued frame. Pgs.52-53 of referenced publication illustrates a cased pair of blued frame 3rd Model Colt Dragoons, serial numbers 13128 & 13551. This same pair of Dragoons is pictured on p.51 of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson, with credit to the Jack A. Dutton Collection. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Robert E. Hable Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, rammer & cyl. Number in grip backstrap channel is illegible. Bbl retains about 60% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium patina; rammer handle & pivot retain traces of orig case colors having been cleaned to nearly bright metal; frame retains about all of its glossy bright blue; hammer retains dark case colors; cyl retains most of its thin orig blue and shows about 98% stage coach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig finish, slightly dulled on front strap. Grip is sound with no discernible flaws and shows a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. Case has exceptional grain and is completely sound with light storage and handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish on the wood and lacquer on the brass. Interior is lightly faded in the lid and bottom with light soil in the bottom. Flask is extremely fine showing about 95% strong orig finish with bright gold on the collar, spout & thumb lever. Mold is equally fine with some minor battering on left side. Nipple wrench is fine, as is cap box. 4-48088 JR218 (40,000-55,000) – Lot 1296
*THE MOST FAMOUS OF ALL ELMER KEITH’S HANDGUNS, COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, “THE LAST WORD – OLD NO. 5”, CUSTOM DESIGNED BY MR. KEITH & HAROLD CROFT.
SN M5. Cal. .44 Special. All blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl that has 1-line address & dual caliber markings on left side. Bore is 6 lands & grooves with left hand twist. Muzzle is fitted with a sleeve that is mounted with a Colt double action style adjustable front sight. Top strap has been reworked & redesigned into a flat top style which extends over the hammer slot and has a Colt style, windage adjustable rear sight. The base pin is of custom design that has a ribbed hourglass shaped head and is secured with a swinging latch replacing the screw or spring-loaded crossbolt and is retained by a spring-loaded detent. Hammer is Bisley style that has a widened & extended spur. The trigger is also wider & a little longer than a standard single action trigger. Backstrap is an altered Bisley part attached to a single action frontstrap/trigger guard. The hammer spring is a custom design between the originator of this design and Mr. Keith. Mounted with 2-pc pre-ban African ivory grips, custom built to fit this frame with a raised, carved Mexican eagle on right side. The orig customized single actions that led to the final development of this revolver “Old Number 5” was begun by S. Harold Croft who, having heard of Mr. Keith’s legendary long range handgun shooting skills, traveled to Durkee, Oregon with “a box full of guns” for a demonstration of Mr. Keith’s long range shooting. He was so impressed with Mr. Keith that he began working with him to re-design the single action army revolver. The No. 5 Colt was as its name suggests the fifth iteration of Harold Croft’s highly modified Colt revolvers. The first four were Croft’s designs and called “Featherweights.” After experimenting with these Elmer made final design changes to create what was in his mind the perfect revolver. The final design became No. 5, being sold here. In an April, 1929 American Rifleman article, titled “The Last Word”, Mr. Keith details the specifics surrounding the concept, and manufacture of the revolver including those who assisted on the project. In a side note, he states that the orig walrus ivory grips had shrunk, and so he had a new pair made from elephant ivory carved with a Mexican eagle which are mounted on the gun today. The engraving on this revolver was commissioned by Mr. Croft for Mr. Keith and consists of flowing foliate & floral patterns with about full coverage on the frame, bbl, cyl, frontstrap & trigger guard. Top strap is engraved with the Masonic symbol of a square & compass. Backstrap is engraved “Elmer Keith” and buttstrap is engraved “Durkee, Oregon”. This revolver is pictured on p. 103 of Mr. Keith’s book Six Guns and on p. 169 in the accompanying Keith designed Lawrence holster. Holster is beautifully tooled with a light buckstitch edge and has a thumb strap with snap. It also has Mr. Keith’s designed integral leg strap. This storied revolver has been the subject of numerous articles over the last 80 years. More recently on the cover of the May, 2003 edition of Guns & Ammo magazine. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong custom blue showing holster wear & sharp edge wear. Grips are sound showing light wear on eagle and retain light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Holster is crisp showing only very light wear & retains about all of its orig brown finish. This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to own handgun history, the iconic “Last Word” from Elmer Keith. 4-47801 JR244 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 1005
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ENGRAVED & GOLD-PLATED STEVENS LORD SINGLE SHOT TARGET PISTOL 3-BARREL SET & ACCESSORIES THAT BELONGED TO RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL SHOOTER IRA PAINE WITH LARGE ARCHIVE.
SN 19. SN 19. Cal. 22 & 32 RF. Fantastic pistol with two 12″ 22 caliber bbls and an 11″ 32 caliber unnumbered bbl that has been reduced from a longer length. Pistol and one 22 bbl and the 32 bbl are spectacularly engraved by one of the finest master engravers of the age, probably one of the Ulrichs. The engraving is full coverage on the frame, trigger guard and both bbls with very little undecorated space. Engraving consists of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background. There are fleur-de-lis style borders behind the raised area of the frame with a full checkered trigger and checkered finger rest. Front strap is engraved with a checkerboard of fleur-de-lis patterns and the buttcap with four heart-shaped devices. Hammer, which is in the white, is engraved with fine feather patterns on the sides and has a hand-checkered spur. Screw heads are all engraved. Mounted with full checkered pearl grips and has full gold wash on the frame, the engraved 22 bbl and the 32 bbl. The second, matching numbered 22 bbl is blue and is missing its front sight. This gun, SN 19, is purportedly the lowest serial number presentation of its type known and its engraving is far superior to the Annie Oakley or Buffalo Bill example. Appletons’ Annual Cyclopedia and Register of Important Events 1890: Ira Albert Paine (1837-1889) first trained as a vocalist and musician when he appeared in the area of Hebronville, MA near where he was born. His keen interest in shooting and hunting soon came to the attention of local shooters who enticed him to enter local shooting contests. He soon became a local celebrity and before long went on tour to various shooting contests around the country, winning most that he entered. He shot against some of the leading champion shooters of the day including Ward and Bogardus. His fame and celebrity soon led him to the stage where he gave shooting demonstrations with not only shotgun and rifle, but evolved into an incredible pistol shot. From about 1882 to 1889, Mr. Paine was on tour in Europe and Russia. Mr. Paine was known as the most famous of all shooters of his day and is one of the pioneers of exhibitionist shooters. During his career, he invented a feather-filled glass target ball and adjustable target sights for his pistols. During his tours in Europe he performed for virtually all of European royalty as well as the common masses. Mr. Paine died in September 10, 1889 in Paris while on tour. Mr. Paine’s career was short but brilliant. He became a national champion shooter with both shotgun and handgun but was equally skilled with the Winchester rifle. Accompanied by five of Mr. Paine’s original glass target balls, two large scrapbooks filled with press clippings of Mr. Paine’s contests and appearances until the time of his unexpected death. Several deal with the Parisian firearms firm of Gastinne-Renette where he broke several shooting records and won a prestigious gold medal. There are several targets bearing the certification signature of Gastinne Renette. Also included are two 7″x5″ pamphlets dated 1887 entitled “CHEVALIER IRA PAINE, MASTER SHOT OF THE WORLD/A SKETCH OF HIS WONDERFUL CAREER WITH DIRECTIONS HOW TO BECOME A MARKSMAN”. Also included are two wonderful original photographs of Mr. Paine; one from Budapest with him dressed as a nobleman in long coat, jewels and a plumed hat, wearing a sword and having a hand-written inscription on the back in Hungarian dated August 9, 1885; the other, a 9″ x 6 3/4″ studio image of Mr. Paine standing beside an elaborately carved table upon which rests a Colt sgl action Army revolver, an engraved Winchester Model 1866 and a European dbl bbl shotgun. Mr. Paine is in full-length button puttees and wearing what is probably a suede or velvet jacket with a medal on his left chest, wearing a hunting cap and holding this very Steven’s Lord pistol in a shooting stance. Also included is an envelope with a raised gold-embossed cartouche on the flat bearing his name and a Smith & Wesson revolver. Also included is an original issue The Rifle magazine dated April, 1887, which includes a large article about Ira Paine. There are also seven steel engravings of Mr. Paine in formal attire with a medal at his throat. In addition, there are two small leather covered containers, one with a beautiful gold “Portuguese Order of Christ, Knight Medal” (Paine was Knighted by the King of Portugal in 1883 and is seen wearing the neck order in photographs). The other case contains a large bronze medal commemorating King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. In addition, there are 22 hand-written letters from Ira Paine with postmarks throughout Europe from 1882 through 1885. Most are addressed to his sister Jennie and Mrs. Ira Paine. In addition, there is a small tin candy box containing 30-40 original square-corner playing cards that are gold-embossed with Ira Paine’s cartouche. The steel die for this cartouche is enclosed. In addition, there are 10 more of these cards in one of Mr. Paine’s envelopes which is marked on the front “Shot by Ira A. Paine“. These cards all have bullet holes in various locations. There is also a roll of targets, one of which has been shot. Most importantly, is an original poster of Ira A. Paine in multi-color with his image as the centerpiece surrounded by gold geometric borders and his various firearms in the corners including this very engraved Stevens pistol with pearl grips and gold finish. The bottom center pictures a stack of six multi-colored balls over a ribbon inscribed “PAINE’S PAT FILLED GLASS BALLS”. And finally, there are two appearance posters, in Cyrillic writing, for Ira Paine and his wife, dated 1883. There are two large scrapbooks, one measuring 10″ x 12″ the other about 8″ x 9″ containing hundreds of clippings from all over the world dating from the 1870’s until his death in 1889. There is a copy of his last will and testament; there appears to be sufficient information for an informative biography on this most interesting American. This is an extraordinary grouping for an incredible international shooting champion. PROVENANCE: Ira Paine, Family of Mrs. B. R. (Paine) Allen. CONDITION: Pistol and engraved 22 bbl are very fine with the bbl retaining 60-70% original gold wash, strong and bright in sheltered areas, somewhat worn in the center area of the bbl. Frame retains 40-50% strong original gold wash, mostly in sheltered areas and on the butt cap with the balance a dark mustard patina. Grips have a crack and a chip by the right escutcheon, otherwise are sound showing light wear with great fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some light roughness in front of the chamber. The spare .32 caliber barrel is fine and retains traces of dark gold wash, being mostly a gray metal color. Bright shiny bore. The blued .22 bbl with matching SN, retains about 90% strong original blue turning dull over the mid-part of the barrel. Bright shiny bore. The leather covered medal box has a detached lid, otherwise both boxes are fine. Letters, targets, scrapbooks and contents are generally fine but yellowed and brittle with age. The Ira Paine poster is wrinkled with a few holes and edge damage with some light water staining and all three posters are shrink-wrapped to foam board. Target balls are all fine. Interested parties should read the large volume of paper material in this archive as it is too large to further detail. 4-54481, 37579 (45,000-65,000) – Lot 1460
INCREDIBLE FACTORY ENGRAVED GOLD & SILVER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT WAS PART OF THE 1876 COLT EXHIBIT AT THE PHILADELPHIA WORLD’S FAIR.
SN 11089. Cal. .45 Colt. Silver & gold finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line script address. Left side of frame has the 2-line September 19, 1871 and July 2, 1872 patent dates. Mounted with smooth, 1-pc certifiable antique ivory grip. The first type ejector rod housing has a bull’s eye ejector rod head and is gold-plated including the spring. Cylinder, hammer, trigger guard & backstrap are gold washed over silver plating with the bbl & frame strong bright silver. Screws & base pin are fire blued. Revolver is spectacularly engraved, probably by Herman Ulrich, with about 80% coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the top strap onto the bbl around the address and around the front sight with a fine scalloped border around the muzzle. Hammer, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger bow are engraved to match and all of this engraving is without shading or background. Cylinder is engraved in matching patterns on lands between flutes with a partial, very fine pearled background. The area behind five of the flutes are engraved in delicate flower blossoms with the other flute having the last four digits of matching SN enclosed in a stylized ring. Front edges of the cyl and around the flutes are engraved in a single line border with a triple line border around the rear edge enclosing an incredibly fine circle & dot border. The area of the cyl forward of the rear borders has very fine reeded engraving. Hammer spur has a large oval panel with hand-cut checkering and sides of hammer are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. That this revolver was part of the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Expo (World’s Fair), is indisputable, although no records exist to positively establish this. The renowned Colt historian, researcher & author R.L. Wilson has studied this revolver & one or two others which were positively identified as having been displayed in 1876 by Colt on their huge “wheel” of firearms and has identified many of the revolvers in that display as being identically engraved like this one. The likelihood is that this revolver was sold directly from the display as the close of the Expo and no record exists. This cataloger has also carefully studied and examined two of the Colt Single Action revolvers that were positively identified as having been on the 1876 “wheel” display and has reached the conclusion that there is no doubt whatsoever that this revolver was engraved by the same hand as those other two. It is documented that Colt loaned the Henry Folsom & Co. a large number of arms from the Expo display after the Expo closed. While examining & describing another of the Expo single actions, this cataloger was able to also examine a 2-page invoice from the Henry Folsom Co., dated St. Louis October 15, 1877, returning a long list of these revolvers including SN 11086 which is only three numbers away from this revolver. #11086 is described on the invoice as “Colt Army 45 Cal Ivory Nickel Eng Gold”. With that information, the identical engraving & plating leaves little doubt that this Colt was also on the display. Accompanied by a fine brown leather covered, green velvet-lined Arno Werner casing that is French fitted in the bottom for the revolver. Case has removable, fitted lid that is gold embossed with very decorative border and inscribed in the center “PHILADELPHIA CENTENNIAL / 1876 / COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER / NO. 11089”. Also accompanied by an 11-page letter from Mr. Wilson wherein he extols the quality of this revolver and relates its history as he knows it. This revolver appears in full color on pgs. 172-177 & 178 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable; several times in Mr. Wilson’s Colt engraving books, the original and Volume I; in color on pgs. 174, 181 & 305 The Colt Heritage, Wilson; again in Colt An American Legend, Wilson; and on p. 28 Buffalo Bill’s Wild West An American Legend, Wilson & Martin. Also accompanying is a framed, poster size, copy of a photograph of the Colt “wheel” display at the 1876 Expo which includes the 18 engraved & ivory-gripped Colt single actions in the center, one of which is undoubtedly this revolver. Additionally accompanying is an orig book, Leslie’s Historical Register of the Centennial Exposition 1876, Frank Leslie; Colt’s Pistols, Wilson & Hable, Deluxe slip cover edition; the book Souvenir of the Centennial, Curtis; the book Centennial Exposition, Ingram (leather bound); Industrial and Fine Arts Illustrated, Sandhurst et al (with flyleaf titled “The Great Centennial Exposition”); 1876 Centennial small picture booklet; an orig James Creamer stereoview of the interior of the exhibit hall showing the United States booth, showing back side of Colt’s display; and one orig admission ticket to the 1876 Philadelphia Expo. This revolver won “MOST OUTSTANDING WEAPON” as a 1-gun display at the 1981 Texas Gun Collectors Spring Show. The display incorporated a large framed photo of the 1876 Colt’s Exhibit Case as a back drop. This is perhaps the last opportunity anyone will have to purchase a genuine 1876 Centennial Expo Single Action revolver in this lifetime, and this is one of the best. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: Dr.Gianfranco Spellman Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine+. Overall retains about 99%+ orig silver finish on bbl & frame. Ejector housing retains about 65-70% orig gold wash with the loss areas showing silver. Cyl retains virtually all of its strong orig gold wash with only faint sharp edge wear. Hammer also retains virtually all of its orig gold wash. Trigger guard & backstrap retain thin gold wash in sheltered areas being mostly silver. Screws are all completely intact & appear to be unturned showing virtually all of their bright fire blue. No disassembly was affected to check for matching numbers as there is no doubt of the authenticity of this revolver. Case is extremely fine+ showing no flaws. Books are generally fine with one or two showing loose spines, yellowed pages & light soil. The Colt Pistols book in its slip case is extremely fine. The Leslie’s book is fine, showing only light wear & moderately yellowed pages. Small articles are also very good to fine, small picture booklet has a slightly loose spine. 4-54040 JR267 (175,000-225,000) – Lot 1267
EXTREMELY RARE DOUBLE PANEL SCENE FACTORY EXHIBITION ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 31113. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl & brass pin front sight. Top flat of bbl has the unusual engraved address of “SAML COLT” with no additional decorations. Left side of frame has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a ribbon. The small guard silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe burl walnut varnished 1-pc grip with matching SN in back strap channel. First four digits of SN are visible with the last digit obscured by oil & wear. Serial numbers on bbl lug, frame & trigger guard are accompanied by a small punch dot indicating that this revolver was to receive extra polish for engraving. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Gustave Young with full coverage, rare transitional vine style foliate arabesque patterns without background. Exhibition engraving patterns extend over bbl lug & top side flats of bbl and on rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug is engraved with an early style spread-winged American eagle clutching arrows in its right talons and an olive branch in the other. Eagle has rays emanating from the background. Right side of bbl lug is engraved with a classic recumbent lion also with rays emanating from the background. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger bow are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. Hammer is engraved with a small foliate arabesque pattern on the sides with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scales on sides of spur. Hammer spur has hand checkered panel. In the period 1850 to about 1873 there were in excess of 300,000 Model 1849 revolvers produced with a portion of those factory engraved. Few, however, were panel scene engraved and are almost unknown. It is extremely unusual to find such an early made Pocket model with exhibition double panel scene engraving. This revolver is completely authentic in all respects and one of the most rare of all the Pocket models. Similar examples of exhibition engraved 1849s from this time period (1852-53) are illustrated in the Colt Engraving Book, Vol 1, Wilson, on pgs. 49,55,59. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 50-60% thin orig blue with the balance a blue/brown patina, showing only sharp edge wear. Frame retains traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas being an overall gray/brown patina. Cylinder is matching mottled gray/brown patina and retains about all of the stagecoach holdup scene with all five safety pins intact. Grip is sound showing moderate wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of light pitting. 4-48060 JR224 (35,000-40,000) – Lot 1299
CUSTOM COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH BRIDGEPORT STYLE BELT RIG THAT BELONGED TO ELMER KEITH.
SN 81965. Cal. .45 Colt. This was originally a U.S. property Cavalry Colt that has been customized with an all blue finish and bbl altered to 4-7/8″ with a sleeve-mounted thick front sight. Top strap is rounded & fitted with an adjustable early Smith & Wesson style rear sight. Hammer has been altered with a wide checkered spur and the trigger is checkered to match the hammer. The hammer screw is a long stud with mushroom head like the orig Bridgeport rig from the late 19th century. Frame was polished & blued which has obliterated the patent dates & “U.S.” Ejector housing is first type with bull’s eye ejector rod head and base pin is a later replacement. Mounted with pre-ban African 1-pc ivory grip with a hexagonal panel on left side carved “EMK” and the right side carved with the Masonic square & compass with “G” in the center. Mr. Keith was a well known member of the Masonic Order. Bbl, frame & cyl are orig to this revolver with “DFC” David F. Clark sub-inspector initials and last four digits of matching SN on cyl. Bbl is not serial numbered and trigger guard is without SN. Accompanied by a beautifully tooled 2-1/2″ wide cartridge/money belt with engraved, scalloped edge silver buckle that has space for 38 large caliber cartridges in adjustable laced loops. Right side of the belt, behind the tongue billet is a 3-5/8″ x 2-1/4″ flat steel plate riveted to the outside with a fork attached at an up angle to accommodate the hammer stud on the revolver. Page 167 of Mr. Keith’s book Six Guns shows Mr. Keith demonstrating the fast draw with this exact rig which he refers to as the “Jesse Thompson S.A. Colt Belt Clip” with the statement that it is the “Fastest of all gun rigs”. This revolver was also pictured on p. 160 of Mr. Keith’s book Gun Notes Volume II. This is another example of Mr. Keith’s continued experimentation with all forms of firearms and especially cartridge, handgun use & development. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our“Ivory Position Statement”and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 75% fine custom blue with most of the losses on bbl from holster storage & holster wear. Grip is sound with a couple small age lines & retains golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine with a smooth, tuned action, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Belt is supple & flexible and retains most of its orig brown leather finish. 4-48018 JR243 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1006
*EXTREMELY RARE SPECIAL ORDER COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL ONE OF ONLY 2 KNOWN TO EXIST WITH SILVER FINISH.
SN c144603. Cal. 45 ACP. Rare full silver finish and standard configuration, 5″ bbl, orig fixed sights and full checkered walnut grips. Pistol is stamped “G” on top of frame near the disconnector hole. This indicates a post contract unfinished frame originally designated for military production which was put into the commercial production line and marked externally as commercial Government Model. Pistol has all 1911A1 features with finger relief cutouts by the trigger, short hammer spur, long grip safety spur and checkered, arched spring housing. Slide is matching numbered to the frame and the one accompanying magazine is also silver finished. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this pistol in cal. 45 with 5″ bbl, silver finish, type of stock is not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Murta Appleton & Co., Philadelphia, PA on Sep. 23, 1925 to factory order #10395/1 in a 1-gun shipment. Civilian Government Model pistols are not especially rare but those with special order features are exceedingly so. Although the factory letter states that this pistol was engraved, it is not, obviously a clerical error which was confirmed by the Colt Historian. Many special order and engraved Colts have been recorded as being shipped to Murta Appleton in the 1920s. We are aware of only one other Government model with this rare silver finish. PROVENANCE: Colt Factory Letter CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains about 98-99% bright silver finish with some fine pimpling on the front strap and on the magazine. Grips show faint diamond point wear. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore shows very little use. 4-54022 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2149
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 198011. Cal. .45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Cylinder has last two digits of matching SN on rear face. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a deep relief carved ox head on right side that has ruby red eyes. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about C coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Top strap, front frame gullets & rear edge of cyl are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in flower/sunburst patterns with a light sunburst pattern at top of backstrap. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up sides of the bbl with a foliate spray forward of the address. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in a zigzag snake pattern. Cyl has Mr. Helfricht’s typical foliate patterns on lands between flutes. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved in geometric patterns & trigger bow has a large hunters star. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber .45 with nickel finish, 5-1/2″ bbl, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on August 6, 1900 in a shipment of three same-type revolvers. This revolver was purchased when most business was still being conducted from the back of a horse, wagon or buggy and carrying a sidearm was a daily way of life. Most of these revolvers saw hard service and are frequently found with little or no finish, showing hard use. This exact gun is pictured on full page page 430 of R. L Wilson’s The Colt Engraving Book Volume One Finding one today with such high orig finish is a great rarity. CONDITION: Extremely fine+, all matching. Overall retains 97-98% crisp orig nickel with slight holster wear on left muzzle edge & tip of ejector housing, with some minor flaking on ejector housing. Frontstrap & heel of backstrap also show light flaking. Cylinder retains about 98% crisp orig nickel with one small area of fine flaking. Hammer retains most of its orig nickel & screws most of their orig fire blue. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-48065 JR230 (55,000-65,000) – Lot 1268
EXCEEDINGLY RARE CONSECUTIVE PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1849 FACTORY ENGRAVED & IVORY GRIPPED PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 173268, 173269. Cal. 31. Both revolvers have blued and case hardened finish with 5″ bbls and deluxe small German silver blades mounted on dovetailed iron front sights with engraved “Saml Colt” on top flat. They have silver plated brass trigger guards and backstraps with fine, 1-pc certifiable antique ivory grips. Both are engraved in style often associated with Gustav Young. They have Mr. Young’s deluxe coverage of foliate arabesque engraving with SN 173269 having a dog’s head incorporated in two of his fine scrolls on the left side of bbl housing. SN 173268 is engraved “in suite” but not identical with incorporation of eagle’s head on left side of bbl housing. Both have “COLTS PATENT” engraved on the left sides of the frames in kidney-shaped panels. This is a beautiful pair of matching Colt revolvers made near the end of 1860 at the height of tensions at onset of Civil War. This pair appear completely orig and matching in every regard. According to our consignor and other knowledgeable Percussion Colt Collectors, this is the only known pair of 5 inch 1849 Pocket Models that are consecutively serial numbered, factory engraved, and ivory stocked. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our“Ivory Position Statement”and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. CONDITION: Both guns are very good-fine overall with strong traces of bright finish in protected areas. Engraving is crisp and sharp on both guns. Both guns are all matching including their “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grips. Safety pins are intact and serviceable on 173268, safety pins on 173269 are all smashed. Mechanically, both guns are functional and both guns exhibit crisp, discernible bores 4-55196 (19,500-28,000) – Lot 1300
RARE KEITH LONG RANGE CUSTOM COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 134626. Cal. .44 Special. All blue finish with 5-3/8″ bbl that has 1-line address & dual caliber “Russian and S&W Special” markings on left side. Top strap has been altered by Neal Houchins to flat top style which extends out over the hammer slot and has a dovetailed, Keith Long Range 3-leaf sight that has one standing & two folding leaves. Front sight is mounted to a sleeve with serrated back edge and is Partridge style 1/8″ wide. Top flat of frame is engraved “KEITH LONG RANGE COLT”. Left side of frame is engraved “AUG. 23-1928” and right side of frame “OCT. 24-1929”. Left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Backstrap is engraved “Theodore Roosevelt” and buttstrap “NORTH DAKOTA”. Mounted with a rare, raised carved & checkered 1-pc rosewood grip. Hammer is customized with the addition of a checkered Bisley spur and it has a custom, serrated wide trigger. It also has a custom base pin with very large serrated head and the retaining screw in the frame has a large head with coin slot and reeded edge. Hammer screw is replaced with a long stud that has a mushroom head for use in the Thompson quick draw rig being sold elsewhere in this auction. This feature very closely resembles the orig 19th century Bridgeport rig. This revolver is a composite of an 1890 frame with a more modern bbl & cyl. Trigger guard & backstrap had their SNs obliterated during the refinish process. Accompanied by a hand-printed manila tag which states that this revolver is “Theodore Roosevelt’s gun / his name engraved on / back stap (sic) / Philadelphia Pawn Shop / $5.00”. This revolver is pictured in Mr. Keith’s book Six Guns on p. 103. Caption for this picture states that the 1-pc rosewood grip was by Pachmayr. No indication as to what the two engraved dates on the frame represent. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-98% strong custom blue with only light muzzle & sharp edge wear. Cyl retains about 99% fine blue. Hammer retains strong case colors & trigger jeweling on the edges. Grip is sound showing very light diamond point wear & retains about all of its fine custom oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-47995 JR247 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1007
VERY NICELY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 133167. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with bbl trimmed to 5-3/8″, relocated full front sight and 1-line Hartford/Pall Mall London address. Left side of bbl is marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a large raised carved Mexican eagle on the right side and intertwined script initials that appear to be “EGC” on the left side. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Cuno Helfricht with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the frame with large fan patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap, ejector housing gullet and outer radius are engraved in snake & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length on both sides of the bbl with fine border patterns around the address and on the side around “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Top of the backstrap is engraved with a very fine fan pattern with geometric patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is typically Helfricht engraved with alternating patterns on lands between flutes with a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. CONDITION: Very good, overall retains about 96-98% restored nickel finish with fine pitting around the forcing cone area. Backstrap & buttstrap show heavy wear; left grip has a chipped toe and right grip has chips on the snake, eagle’s breast and eagle’s right wing, otherwise they are sound, showing great fire. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-54746 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 1269
RARE INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 WELLS FARGO POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 100475. Cal. .31. Long frame Wells Fargo with 3″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & 2-line New York City address with brackets. Bbl is made without rammer. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT”. Cylinder has five chambers with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking & three of the five safety pins serviceable. Cylinder spindle has grease grooves & a cupped tip to be used as a loading tool. The silver-plated small guard brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Buttstrap is inscribed in period script “A.J. Knisely”. When the inscription was engraved, the SN on the buttstrap was obliterated during the finishing process. According to COLT’S POCKET ’49 IT’S EVOLUTION by Jordan & Watt, there were an estimated 4,200 long frame Wells Fargo revolvers produced from about 1853-1860. These little revolvers were extremely popular as hideout & backup guns and usually saw very hard service and are rarely found today with any orig finish. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, cylinder & grip, buttstrap number as noted. Bbl retains 60-70% thin orig blue with scattered surface spotting & sharp edge wear. Frame retains faint traces of case colors, being mostly a grey metal patina with scattered spots of light surface rust. Hammer retains faded dark case colors on sides & rear edge with top edge turned silver. Cylinder is grey metal patina & shows about 90% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard retains 70-75% strong orig silver showing wear on frontstrap & edges of trigger bow. Backstrap retains strong silver at top & on buttstrap with thin silver & brass patina in the middle. Grip is sound with moderate edge wear & a few light nicks & scratches and overall retains about 90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, sharp bright bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-48059 JR225 (4,500-5,500) – Lot 1304
*CUSTOM COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO ELMER KEITH.
SN 335426. Cal. .44 Special. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, 1-line address and “RUSSIAN AND S&W SPECIAL 44” on the left side. Front sight is the Keith long range model on a sleeve with three silver bands on rear face of the Partridge blade. It has a Smith & Wesson long base, white outline adjustable rear sight milled into the top strap. Hammer has a Bisley spur attached to the single action shank. Trigger is extra wide & checkered. Mounted with orig Colt 2-pc pre-ban African ivory grips that has a raised carved ox head on right side and silver “COLT” medallions. Inside each grip has the hand-scratched initials “EMK” and right grip is also marked “VIIII”. Left side of buttstrap & front strap under the grip is marked “1120B” which number is also found on bottom of frame, and inside gullet of ejector housing. Ejector housing also has the number “71688” scratched on the inside. Bbl is otherwise unmarked other than as noted above. Left side of hammer is stamped “KING / COCKEYED / HAMMER”. Right side of frame is lightly engraved “Elmer Keith”. Accompanied by a Lawrence 120F tooled, brown leather belt holster with Mr. Keith’s designed brown leather leg strap. This revolver is pictured in Mr. Keith’s book Six Guns on p. 103 with the caption “King Short Action Job, 7-1/2 inch Barrel”. Hammer, while fully functional, is a very short throw and without safety notch. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our “Ivory Position Statement” and the “Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object”. This information is located in our catalog on pages 30 and 31. PROVENANCE: The Elmer Keith Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains about 93-95% custom blue with most of the losses on sight ring & muzzle. Frame retains strong case colors in front gullets with the balance turning silver. Hammer retains bright blue on edges, polish bright on sides. Trigger guard retains strong custom blue with front & back straps a blue/grey patina. Cyl retains about 60% orig blue. Grips are sound with a few age lines & show a fine ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Holster is extremely fine showing very light wear. 4-47800 JR249 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 1009
SN 71372. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 5″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of trigger guard has caliber markings. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style from the L.D. Nimschke shop. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque scrolls with pearled background on the frame, bbl and lands between the flutes on the cylinder. Sides of the trigger guard are engraved in snake & dot patterns with a fan at top of backstrap and geometric patterns down the backstrap and on the trigger bow. Ejector housing is probably an old replacement with half moon ejector rod head replacing the bulls-eye ejector rod head. The ejector rod screw hole in the stud has been drilled through into the bore. Base pin is a replacement. Although the Model 1877 was produced in fairly large numbers in three calibers with the 41 cal had rather low production and of those very few were engraved. The 1877 was a very popular revolver in its day and usually saw very hard frontier service with the famous & infamous. These are rarely found today in orig configuration with much orig finish. PROVENANCE: Thomas W. Connally Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 93-95% nickel finish showing muzzle and high point wear. Cyl retains about 70% orig nickel; right grip has a repaired break with a small chip near the top otherwise grips are fine with great fire and color. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with fine pitting. 4-55691 JR35 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1277
VERY RARE CASED & ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER PRESENTED TO CHARLES A SHEFFIELD.
SN 21519. Cal 36. Blue & color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight & 1-line New York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is rebated and half fluted with five chambers. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a highly figured select walnut varnished 1-pc grip with last four digits of matching number in backstrap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the sides of the bbl and around in front of the address. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap, trigger bow and trigger plate. All of the SNs on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that this revolver was to receiver special polishing and attention to detail for engraving. Backstrap is period engraved “Charles A. Sheffield” by Mr. Young. The sale of this revolver by another auction house reported the following: Charles Amos Sheffield was reportedly a cousin to Mrs. Samuel Colt who likely presented this cased set to Mr. Sheffield. Charles Sheffield’s brother, F.W.H. Sheffield, was presented a shoulder stocked Model 1851 Navy Revolver inscribed from Col. Colt and their sister, Amelia, was presented a copy of Armsmear inscribed from Mrs. Colt “With the devoted love of her friend and cousin, Elizabeth H. Colt, Armsmear Christmas 1866”. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with empty scalloped edge plaque in the lid and a matching escutcheon around the keyhole on the front. Interior is compartmented, American style for the revolver, a single sided eagle & stars flask, a blued bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps with green label. There were about 28,000 of this model revolver produced 1861-1873. They were an extremely popular side arm during the Civil War and later on the American frontier. Given the Civil War circumstance and demand for repeating arms post Civil War, very few were engraved and of those extremely few were cased. Colt family presentations are some of the most rare of Colt revolvers. PROVENANCE: Charles A. Sheffield. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching, cyl number could not be determined. Bbl retains about 95% glossy high polish blue with light flaking around the muzzle and a couple of other small spots on the bbl. Rammer handle & pivot retain bright case colors; frame & hammer retain brilliant case colors with the frame colors of a lighter tone than normal but absolutely orig; cyl retains 30-40% orig blue with the balance flaked to a light patina and the rear face heavily battered from hammer strikes. Trigger guard & backstrap retain 75-80% strong orig silver with most of the losses on the backstrap. Grip is sound with one small chip in the left bottom edge and overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore. Appears to have had very little use. Case has a crack across the lid otherwise is sound with usual light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded with light to moderate soil. Two areas of the dust seal rail have been repaired. Flask has a small dent on the front and overall retains about 90% strong orig finish. Mold is fine with crisp cavities and shows about 90% orig blue. Nipple wrench & cap tin are fine. 4-48090 JR215 (45,000-55,000) – Lot 1306
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED MODEL 1862 COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSIONS.
SN 19972,20099. 36 Cal. Both of these guns were orig made in percussion in 1863 but converted and engraved after the Civil War. Though both guns are quite similar they are engraved by a different hand and as can be seen in photographs there are many differences in design but coverage is roughly the same and condition is matching. Note SN 19972 has blued screws and blue wedge whereas 20099 has plated screws and plated wedge. 19972 has “IE” with SN meaning ivory and engraved and 20099 only has “E” attached but it too as we see is mounted with smooth ivory stocks. Orig pair purchased by Lewis Yearout in 1966 mounted in the contemporary case you see them in now. PROVENANCE: Joe Brown Kalispell, MT. Lewis Yearout 1966. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Both guns retain 95%+ orig nickel overall with small scratches and dents especially around wedge slot on SN 19972. Both functional and both guns have crisp rifling and 19972 has bright shiny bore. Both guns appear orig and complete with possible exception of replaced wedge and wedge screw which are unengraved and blued on SN 19972. 41841 is found inked inside stocks on 19972 and no markings on stocks on SN 20099. 4-53810 JS37 (5,000-7,000) – Lot 3069
RARE ENGRAVED COLT LONDON THIRD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 159. 44 Cal. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and stamped “ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY”. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. There were only 700 Hartford-London dragoons, very few engraved. This gun was made in 1853. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a burl walnut deluxe 1-pc grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLTS PATENT” legends partially visible. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Revolver is engraved in English style with about 60-70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns & beautiful foliate & floral patterns on the recoil shields, frame and bbl lug. The rammer pivot is engraved to match with rosettes around each side of the pivot link screw. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with line borders. This revolver is pictured on p. 147-148 of the book Colt Engraving, by R.L. Wilson. PROVENANCE: Charles Maris Great Falls, MT. Lewis Yearout 1964. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Matching SNs except grip which is unnumbered. Overall the steel parts retain a medium to dark gray metal patina with a few scattered spots of fine pinprick surface pitting. Etching is quite crisp overall and edges of gun are sharp with traces of orig blue finish in protected areas of well. Cyl retains 25-30% faint Dragoon/Indian fight scene with the legends partly visible. Trigger guard retains about 30% orig silver plating and the back strap about 20%. Grip is sound and solid with 3/8″ X 3/4″ chip on right side at frame, typical nicks & dings, shows moderate edge wear and a couple small chips at inside toes; retains 50-60% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, crisp rifling with scattered pitting. 4-53945 JS45 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3010
RARE ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 8819. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” and a tiny “44” on the bottom. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CF”. Mounted with replacement, 2-pc, smooth pearl grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style from the Nimschke shop in L.D. Nimschke patterns with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend up the sides of the bbl and sides of the muzzle with geometric, snake & dot patterns around the address. Top of backstrap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s typical shield pattern. Cyl has matching engraving on lands between the flutes with a zig-zag & dot pattern around the back edge. Ejector housing is 3rd type with half moon ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44-40 with bbl length and types of stocks not listed, finish “soft”, and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Feb. 17, 1883 in a 25 gun shipment. Remarks section states that “the word ‘soft’ which appears with the finish indicates subject revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory”. Hartley & Graham was one of Colt’s major distributors who contracted with several of the New York area engravers to embellish various firearms, of which this is one. They were one of Mr. Nimschke’s major customers. PROVENANCE: Collection of John Montague. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 98-99% crisp restored nickel finish with a completely legible etched panel which may also be restored; grips are sound with great fire & color; hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong frosty bore. 4-54335 JR177 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 3104
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): The ivory on this item is one hundred years old or more and is accompanied by an ESA attesting to this. When you purchase this firearm inclusive of ivory, we will receive the ESA statement. As per the President’s Executive Order of 2014, provided the ivory is over one hundred years old and can be proven by an ESA certification, it is legal to sell, buy, and export.
YOU ARE BUYING THIS GUN COMPLETE WITH ITS IVORY WHICH IS ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD AND AN ESA “ANTIQUE CERTIFICATION” WILL ACCOMPANY THIS.
DOUBLE CASED BRACE OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 187301/185376. Cal. 44. Revolvers are virtually identical with 8″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frames are marked “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guards have the cal marking. The silver plated brass trigger guards and iron backstraps contain wonderful full checkered ivory grips with last three digits of matching numbers to their respective revolvers. All of the serial numbers on the bottom of the revolvers are accompanied by a small “E” indicating they were to receive extra polish for engraving. Cyl on No. 187301 is unnumbered but has engraved borders identical to the backstraps. Revolvers are engraved identically in a previously unknown New York style of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background on the frames. Engraving extends over the sides of the bbls and terminates forward of the address. Backstraps, buttstraps and trigger guards are engraved to match with deep Nimschke-style fans at top of backstraps. Backstraps & buttstraps have dash & dot borders. Hammers are also engraved with matching patterns on the shanks, wolfs heads on each side of hammer noses and fish scale patterns on top edges and sides of spurs. Accompanied by a beautiful, probably distributor supplied, rosewood casing with empty brass shield in the lid missing its lock escutcheon in the front. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted, recessed for both revolvers, a double sided trophy of arms & flags, eagle & stars angle spout flask, a blued steel bow-legged “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “44H”, a pewter oil bottle, an orig full paper sealed tin of Eley’s caps with faded orange label, a wood & steel cleaning rod with brass ferrule and a functioning key. Bottom front edge inside the case is compartmented for four cartridge packets. Engraved Model 1860 Army revolvers are scarce and a double cased set is extremely rare. CONDITION: Revolvers are virtually identical in condition, all matching including cylinders & grips; wedges are unnumbered. Overall both revolvers are grey metal patina showing light but authentic wear on the engraving with light pitting around the hammer noses; pitting is down in the engraving on the hammer noses which indicates they were engraved before they were fired, or at least they were engraved during the period of use; trigger guards retain traces of orig silver; backstraps & buttstraps are grey metal patina; cylinders are a grey metal patina and show 15-20% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking with two areas of pitting on No. 187301. Grip on No. 187301 has a chipped right toe and a few age lines but is otherwise sound, showing moderate wear with a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Grip on No. 185376 has a sliver missing from the left toe and a chip in the right heel and some minor age lines, shows light to moderate wear and has a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bores with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is missing corner pieces from all four of the bottom corners and has some chipped veneer in the same areas, otherwise case is sound with raised grain on the lid and retains most of its orig finish with a couple spots of touch-up; lining in the lid is moderately faded & soiled; lining in the bottom is heavily faded, brighter under the revolvers and implements with wear and damage from the hammer spurs and front edges of cylinders; covered compartment lid has a repaired edge; flask is a smooth brass patina with three or four small dents, missing its spring; mold retains 60-70% orig blue with sharp cavities; cap tin is missing a little of its paper wrap but is still sealed; other implements are fine. 4-51262 JR161 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 3045
*BEAUTIFUL FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SERIES-70 GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 70N13828. Cal 45 ACP. Bright blue finish with 5″ bright bbl with the marking “COLT 45 AUTO. N.M. / MK.IV/SERIES’70”. Slide has usual series 70 markings along with “GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH” on the left side. Right side is also marked with the Gold Cup designation and the outline of a trophy cup. Pistol has about “A” coverage fine foliate arabesque pattern engraving with pearled background. Slide has the orig thick partridge front sight and Elliason adjustable rear sight. Frame has flat spring housing with long spur grip safety and short spur hammer. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips that have three series of 5-incised lines. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this pistol in cal 45 ACP with 5″ bbl, royal blue finish, wood stocks and class “A” engraving, furnished with flat mainspring housing and shipped to Big Bear Stores, Billings, MT, on June 27, 1975 in a 1-gun shipment to order #10158. Pearl grips were obviously added at a later date. While the series 70 Gold Cup is not exceedingly, rare factory engraved examples are nearly unknown. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to never have been fired. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig bright blue finish with only some light wear from the bushing on the bbl from having been retracted several times. Grips are very fine with light fire and light color. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant, shiny bore. 4-53875 JR281 (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3167
RARE ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 53308. Cal. 22. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat sided bbl with half moon front sight, 2-line address and “COLT NEW 22” etched panel on the left side. Cyl is 7 chambers with long flutes & rear face stop notches. Mounted with 2-pc smooth birdhead pearl grips. Revolver is lightly engraved in New York style with about 50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Top strap & top of bbl have double dot patterns and sides of the bbl have zig-zag patterns. Back strap is engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved on lands between flutes in a geometric zig-zag pattern. Screws & edge of the hammer are fire blued. PROVENANCE: Ex William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus as restored. Overall retains about 99% crisp, factory quality nickel and bright fire blue. Grips are crisp and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, brilliant, shiny bore. 4-87757 JR365 (3,250-5,250) – Lot 3072
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): The ivory on this item is one hundred years old or more and is accompanied by an ESA attesting to this. When you purchase this firearm inclusive of ivory, we will receive the ESA statement. As per the President’s Executive Order of 2014, provided the ivory is over one hundred years old and can be proven by an ESA certification, it is legal to sell, buy, and export.
YOU ARE BUYING THIS GUN COMPLETE WITH ITS IVORY WHICH IS ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD AND AN ESA “ANTIQUE CERTIFICATION” WILL ACCOMPANY THIS.
SN 9278. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & 2-line New York City address with brackets. Left side of frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT”. The square back, silver plated, brass trigger guard & backstrap contain what appears to be its orig 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is built in the orig manner with 2 slabs of ivory attached to 2 wooden spacers. Revolver is engraved in vine style without background shading and has a double chip border around the frame, rear edge of the bbl lug and around the muzzle. Engraving extends over the bbl lug, on to the back strap, buttstrap & trigger guard. It has the additional very rare feature of an engraved cylinder in matching patterns, never having had the roll marking applied. Accompanied by an orig rosewood casing with brass plaque in the top that has had an inscription removed. Interior is burgundy velvet lined & partitioned in the bottom for the revolver, a replacement Hawksley stag head & oak leaf double sided flask with graduated spout and a lacquered Eley cap tin. Baby dragoons in and of themselves are very rare with only about 15,000 having been produced in the period 1847-1850 in 4 different bbl lengths. Extremely few were engraved and of those very few retain their orig casing. PROVENANCE: Andy Palmer Collection; Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains a medium plummy brown patina. Trigger guard retains strong orig silver with the front strap a medium brass patina. Backstrap retains traces of orig silver. Hammer spring may be a period of use replacement. Wedge screw appears to be a replacement. Grip is sound with a couple of very minor age lines and overall retains a fine, mellow ivory patina. Case is sound with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about 80% orig varnish. Bottom green velvet covering is faded & worn with a few small holes. Interior is very faded with moderate soil in the bottom. Flask is near new. Cap tin is fine. 4-51180 JR116 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 3013
SN 195339. 44-40 Cal. All blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, brass target front sight in a rectangular base with 1-line block letter address and the left side marked “(BISLEY MODEL)” above “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Bbl is marked on bottom with small “44”. Matching SN 195339 is found on bottom of frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in broken circle. Frame is flat top style with dovetailed fixed rear sight. Mounted with rampant Colt hard rubber grips. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia by Keith Cochran, John Parsons compiled from careful examination of Colt shipping records that there were 977 Target Model Bisley revolvers produced in the period 1894-1913 of which only 78 are listed in 44-40 caliber. PROVENANCE: Gene Coats, Forks, WA. Lewis Yearout 1982. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Very fine overall as refinished. Gun overall retains about 60% bright blue refinish. Bbl markings are fairly crisp and discernible, patent dates on frames crisp and discernible, rampant Colt motif on frame is light barely discernible from polish when refinished. 2-pc rubber stocks fit gun poorly with overlap and gaps with discoloration to an olive drab especially on left stock where it enters frame. Stocks are numbered internally “0607” and exhibit several small dents and scratches and other small blemishes as can be seen in photos. Mechanically gun is fine with bright shiny bore. SNs on trigger guard and backstrap are not orig and appear engraved not stamped. 4-53946 JS63 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 3118
Please note: The compartments are missing their tiny ivory handles in the case.
EXTREMELY RARE CASED DOUBLE SET OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 159780/159793. Cal. 44. Revolvers are virtually identical with 8″ rnd bbls, nickel silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. Left side of frames, about center are engraved with “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Left front web of trigger guards have the caliber marking. Frames are 3-screw type with usual rebated cylinders that have Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guards and iron backstraps contain old replacement, varnished burl walnut 1-pc grips. Revolvers are identically engraved by Gustave Young in late vine pattern with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background shading on the frames. Matching engraving extends up both sides of bbl lugs and terminates just forward of the addresses. Trigger guards & backstraps are matching engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern on the top flats. SNs on the bottom of both revolvers are all accompanied by the small letters “I.P.” which signifies that they were to have ivory grips and receive special polishing for engraving. Trigger guard on No.159780 has been thinned & beveled. Accompanied by what is probably their orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany double casing with brass reinforced corners and a brass plaque in the lid that is engraved “JJS”. Interior is compartmented for the two revolvers, a presentation style silver plated trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT” flask with long straight spout, a bow-legged brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter that has had the cavities polished which heavily beveled edges of cavities, a soft packet of waterproof cartridges dated “March 18, 1862”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and two lacquered tins of Eley’s caps. Engraved Model 1860 revolvers while not uncommon, are still scarce and are seldom encountered. Double cased sets are extremely rare. CONDITION: Revolvers are both all matching except grips, as noted. They are virtually identical in condition, being mostly grey metal patina with fine pitting around the muzzle of 159780. Cylinders are matching patina and show about 50% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. No. 159793 has a replaced hammer screw and backstrap screws are battered. The replacement grips are extremely fine with sharp edges and retain about all of their fine custom hand rubbed oil finish. Mechanics are fine; bore on 159793 is bright & shiny; bore on 159780 has strong rifling with some shine and moderate pitting. Case has a couple of cracks in the top with some lifted veneer and some grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound and retains most of a very old restored finish; lining in the lid is lightly faded with light soil; bottom is heavily faded with cleaned heavy soil; partitions are solid; flask has some small dents in the back and overall retains 65-70% thin orig silver finish; mold has pitted sprue cutter and has been heavily polished including the cavities in the left arm which have dished the edges effectively ruining the mold; cartridge packet is still sealed with one small tear on the top and missing parts of the label, but still a very rare packet; nipple wrench is fine; cap tins are flaked with soiled labels. 4-51228 (30,000-40,000) – Lot 3046
*CUNO HELFRICHT FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE REVOLVER WITH WYOMING HISTORY.
SN 66672. 32 Cal. 4″ bbl with 3-line address, fixed front sight, left side roll engraved “COLT NEW POLICE 32” and right side marked “POLICE POSITIVE” in 2-lines. Frame is marked on left side with rampant Colt surrounded by COLT’S NEW POLICE in circle. Left top of trigger bow has Colt proof of “VP” in triangle and rear bow has Colt inspector “3”. Engraving on this gun includes a special ordered monogram “BC”. Cuno Helfricht was Colt’s master engraver at time of manufacture and no doubt was engraved in his shop. There is a wonderful letter accompanying this lot written in 1962 that details the history of the gun (this letter should be read and is pictured online). “Pistol was ordered in 1906 by Charles Carlson of Newcastle, WY. He special ordered this gun for his wife, “Bess” for her protection when alone at the “AU7″ sheep ranch on the south fork of the Cheyenne River. Accompanying Colt factory letter states 32 PC, 4” bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks, “BC” factory engraved on sideplate, sold to Wyeth Hdwe. & Co., St. Joseph, MO., shipped to J.L. Baird Mercantile. Company address not available on October, 23 1908 in a 1-gun shipment. J.L. Baird is a listed Merchant in Newcastle, WY in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This gun is pictured on p. 338 Colt Engraving R.L. Wilson. PROVENANCE: Bess Carlson 1908. W.A. Donaldson 1927. Joe Myers, Colfax, WA 1962. Eve Morgan, Clarkston, WA. Lewis Yearout 1965. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Gun is extremely fine overall retaining 98% of its orig nickel, small reductions at inside edge of frame with scattered scratches and small blemishes as can be seen in photos. Hammer has muted case colors on its sides and exhibits about 50% bright fire blue on top side. Trigger also retains about 60% bright fire blue with loss as expected where finger meets trigger. Numbers match throughout including last 4-digits of number on bottom of bbl and rear of cyl with full SN on frame and folding breech. Mother of pearl grips are well fit and fine overall with about a 1″ x 1/8″ chip repair on back of left grip at butt. Mechanically gun functions well with bright, crisp, mirror-like bore. 4-53942 JS68 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3168
MATCHED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS.
SN 95521, 111471. Cal 45 Colt. Revolvers are virtually identical with 7-1/2″ bbls and 1-line block letter addresses. Left side of frames have 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guards have caliber markings. They are mounted with 2-pc pearl grips, left and right hand, incise carved with a shaggy face-on buffalo head on one side and a naked lady on the other side. Both sets of grips have foliate arabesque patterns at tops and bottoms with a fine line borders. Right grip on #111471 is broken and repaired. Revolvers are identically engraved by L.D. Nimschke with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frames and elaborate shell patterns on the recoil shields and loading gates. Top straps are engraved in feather patterns. Almost identical matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbls, over the tops between the addresses and front sights, and each side of the muzzles. Backstraps are engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive fan patterns with foliate arabesque and geometric patterns down the backstraps. Buttstraps and trigger bows are also engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with fine pearled panels in between and a wide square & stars border around the back edges. Ejector housings are engraved with geometric patterns in the top gullets and snake and dot patterns on the outer radii. Accompanied by a large packet of information which includes several Colt Factory letters for both revolvers. These letter identify these revolvers in cal 45 with 7-1/2″ bbls, silver finish, pearl grips, and factory engraved, shipped to William Nelson, address unavailable, on September 30, 1884, in a 2 gun shipment. The early letters list his name as “William Nelon” and the later letters show his name as “William Nelson”. These later letters also list both serial numbers in the same shipment. Additional research accomplished by previous owners disclose that Major William Nelson came from Indiana along with Judge J.B. Shackleford to Muscogee, OK, in April 1889 to establish the first court in Oklahoma, Indian Territory. Judge Shackleford was the presiding judge and he appointed Major Nelson as Clerk of the Court. The records show that Major Nelson was from Evansville, IN, a retired officer who had served in the immediate county (around Muscogee) and “in Arizona”. There is very little additional information regarding Major Nelson in this large volume of research other than he is mentioned on pps 458 & 462 of the Chronicles of Oklahoma. A copy of an article which appeared in the April 23, 1988 Oklahoman & Times newspaper is a story about the Guthrie, OK, Old Blue Belle Saloon being back in business. The article relates that on April 23, 1889 John Sampsel opened the first Blue Belle Saloon in Guthrie on a lot that he purchased from Major William Nelson for $30. Since Major Nelson was a member of the court and in Oklahoma, Indian Territory, prior to the Great Oklahoma Land Rush it is elsewhere speculated that he might have used his position to stake claims “a little early” as did many other sooners. A search of a Civil War personnel data base disclosed several hundred Union soldiers named William Nelson, so no conclusive evidence could be found that Mr. Nelson had served in the Army. Regardless of Major Nelson’s status, it is apparent that he had fine taste in firearms. PROVENANCE: Larry Scherrin Collection; Jack Slaughter; Lang Spraggins; Tom Seymour Collection; Dr. S.H. Janes Collection. CONDITION: 1) Serial number 95521: Extremely fine. Overall retains about 97-98% strong orig silver finish with only faint losses inside the cyl opening. Cyl shows equal amount of coverage and very little use, if any. Grips are extremely fine, showing very little to no wear, with good crisp carving showing and great fire and are possibly more modern replacements, carved to match. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered very fine pitting. 2) Serial number 111471: Overall retains about 60-70% orig silver finish with loss areas barely distinguishable gray metal. Both left and right edges of muzzle show extremely heavy holster wear, as does the recoil shield and outer radius of ejector housing. Cyl is a gray metal patina, showing moderate to heavy wear on the engraving. Grips show moderate wear with a chipped left toe and the aforementioned repair of right grip. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. It is readily apparent that Mr. Nelson used revolver #1 and not #2. 4-51263 JR217 (60,000-80,000) – Lot 3088
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE CASED SILVER-FINISHED AND ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER W/POSSIBLE GARABALDI GUARD CONNECTION.
SN 187177. Cal. 31. Nickel finish with 6″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight with 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl has stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking and six chambers. The brass, large guard trigger guard and backstrap contain a spectacular 1-pc ivory grip that has the raised, carved head on the left side of a man who appears to be that of Guiseppe Garabaldi for whom a unit called the Garabaldi Guard was named. It was raised in May of 1861 and mustered into service Jun. of 1861 and fought completely through the war and was mustered out July 1865. They had a very distinguished career and fought in a number of significant battles including Gettysburg and several other hotly contested battles. They had eight officers and 107 enlisted men killed and mortally wounded during their service along with one officer and 158 enlisted men died from disease. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which has several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and rammer pivot with Mr. Young’s trademark dogs head on the left side and flower blossoms on the right side. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with wolfs heads on each side of the hammer nose. Accompanied by a rare burgundy velvet lined Colt maple or applewood casing that has the colorful figure of a man in very early style clothing applied to the lid. Interior is compartmented, probably for a 6-1/2″ Colt Model 1862 Police percussion revolver, a silver plated double-sided eagle & stars flask, a silver plated “Colts Patent” mold without sprue cutter, a silver plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a partial packet of combustible cartridges, an ivory screw-top bits box with Eley cap tin label on top, a pair of dice and an ivory pendant. All of the serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “I” which indicates it was to receive ivory grips. Several of the screw heads are engraved, as are ends of wedge. There is a drawing in the accompanying pages which shows the Garibaldi Guard marching past Pres. Lincoln in 1861. Their uniforms resemble the colorful figure on top of the case. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except grip. Overall retains most of an old silver finish with some scattered fine pitting; cyl retains most of its plated finish and shows about 30% stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking; hammer screw, wedge screw, trigger guard and top of the backstrap screws are replacements. Grip has a couple of age lines but is completely sound with a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and a few more in the bottom, otherwise is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of what appears to be it’s orig finish; interior is lightly faded & soiled with solid partitions; flask retains about all of its orig silver finish; mold retains most of its silver finish; cartridge packet has been opened and repaired; other accessories are fine. 4-51230 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 3016
VERY RARE ENGRAVED COLT BURGESS LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 1913. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Standard grade rifle with post-market engraving, 25-1/2″ rnd bbl, full magazine, nickel silver Rocky Mountain front sight and Colt semi-buckhorn rear sight. Mounted with uncheckered, slab sawed American walnut with straight stock and crescent buttplate with trap. Receiver is very nicely engraved in New York style contemporary to the age of the rifle. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background and flourishes over the top & bottom edges and top tang along with the buttplate tang. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this rifle in caliber 44 with round bbl, shipped to J.P. Moores Sons, New York, NY on Jun. 13, 1885. The letter also notes “no mention was made in our records that this rifle was engraved when originally shipped from our factory”. Also accompanying is Mr. Yearout’s inventory record which identifies this rifle and states that he purchased it from Roger Tice of Mayock, NC in Apr. 1965. Another Yearout note reiterates the above information. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Fair to good. The metal retains a smooth, even, plummy/brown patina, lightly cleaned over the engraving on the sides of the receiver. The buttstock was apparently shattered and now shows extensive repair with areas of wood putty fill; forearm is missing a sliver from the right bbl channel and has a small crack on the left side but is sound over the loading gate spring area and overall the wood is a cleaned finish. Mechanics are fine; strong dark bore. 4-53910 (6,000-9,000) – Lot 3139
IMPORTANT CIVIL WAR PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO COL. W.S. TRUEX.
SN 112018. Cal. 44. Fine Civil War revolver with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard “44CAL” upside down. Mounted with exceptional, highly figured, smooth flame & burl grain walnut 1-pc grip with serial number in backstrap channel, mostly obliterated by oil stain. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style, probably by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame, several scrolls of which terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends up each side of the bbl, also with flower blossoms. Hammer is engraved with wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on top edge & sides of spur. Top panel of backstrap is engraved in a foliate pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Center of backstrap is engraved with the inscription “Col. W.S. Truex / from the Enlisted Men of his Reg’t”. All the serial numbers on the bbl, frame, trigger guard and buttstrap are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that this revolver was to be engraved. Accompanied by a large volume of research materials which disclose that William Snyder Truex was born in 1819 in New Jersey, and attended the U.S. Military Academy from 1837-1838, at which time he resigned and enlisted in the 10th U.S. Infantry in Mar. 1847 to fight in the war with Mexico. Before that wars end, he had risen from the rank of Private to 1st Lt. and was discharged in Aug. 1848. He returned to New Jersey and took up farming. When the Civil War broke out Truex was commissioned Major in the 5th New Jersey Infantry in Aug. 1861. In Mar. 1862 he acccepted commission as Lt. Col. in the 10th N.J. Reg’t and four months later was appointed Col. of the 14th Reg’t of the N.J. Volunteer Infantry. He remained in command of the 14th until May 1864 when he assumed command of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 6th Corps, which command he held until the end of the war. During the Battle of Cold Harbor, Col. Truex was wounded in his left hand, permanently damaging three of his fingers. The 14th participated in the Siege and Capture of Peterburg and Richmond, and then, although defeated at great cost, were instrumental in thwarting the advance of Confederate Gen. Jubal Early who was intent on capturing Washington D.C.. Col. Truex’s one day delaying action allowed reinforcements to arrive and drive Gen. Early’s army South. For his meritorious service at The Battle of Cold Harbor, Col. Truex, in Apr. 1865 was Breveted Brig. Gen.. He was mustered out with his unit in Jun. 1865 and returned to farming in New Jersey. He died Sept. 1889. Included in this research material are Gen. Truex’s muster rolls, biographies, Unit histories and copies of photographs of him in uniform, one of which shows his wounded left hand. CONDITION: Good, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip; overall retains a cleaned metal patina with scattered pitting; cyl has matching patina and shows 65-75% Ormsby Battle scene roll marking; rammer handle & pivot show faded case colors and trigger guard traces of silver; grip has a gouge near the right heel with nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of an old refinish. Mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-53516 (20,000-25,000) – Lot 3048
*VERY RARE COLT HEAVY BARREL OFFICER’S MODEL DA REVOLVER SHIPPED TO FAMOUS QUICK DRAW ARTIST AND AUTHOR ED MCGIVERN.
SN 431531. Cal. 38 Special. Blue finish with 6″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front and rear sights, marked on left side “COLT OFFICERS MODEL 38 / *HEAVY BARREL*”. Left sideplate is pantograph engraved through the blue “TO / W.R. WILCOXSOM / BY ED McGIVERN / OF MONTANA / STATE SHOOT 1923 / GT. FALLS MONT”. Right side of frame is engraved in larger letters “W.R. WILCOXSOM”. Mounted with 2-pc diamond checkered walnut grips with deep left and right Colt silver medallions, matching numbered to this revolver. Accompanied by an old Colt Factory Letter dated 1966 which identifies this revolver in cal 38 with 6″ bbl, blue finish, type of stock not listed, sold and shipped to Ed McGivern, Montana, on July 19, 1919 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by a hand printed letter by Mr. McGivern titled “Certificate”. Body of letter states “I hereby certify that the “Colt Officers Model” caliber .38 Revolver serial number 431531 was originally shipped direct to me while in Lewistown, Montana during the year 1919. Shipment was courtesy of the Colt Factory end at no cost to me, through a mutual friend Leonard C. Davis of Colt’s Patent Firearms Company. I gave the gun to my friend R. Wilcoxsom at the state shoot held in Great Falls, Montana in the year 1923. The gun was engraved on the right side of the frame with his name “W.R. Wilcoxson” on the left frame panel it was engraved: To / W.R. Wilcoxson / By Ed McGivern / of Montana / State Shoot – 1923 / Great Falls, Mont.” Also accompanied by a type-written note from Mr. Yearout which states that Mr. McGivern had the revolver engraved locally in Lewistown, Montana. Ed McGivern was a merchant in Montana with an interest in shooting who developed rapid draw and fire techniques which are still being taught today. He became the world’s fastest and most accurate handgun shooter, establishing records, some of which still stand today. He became an exhibition shooter and authored several books and numerous papers about quick draw and shooting, the most well-known of which is Fast and Fancy Revolver Shooting in 1938. While Mr. McGivern was given numerous firearms throughout his career very few are known today, especially available on the open market. Mr. McGivern is recorded in old movies demonstrating his shooting with double action revolvers, perhaps this one may have been in one or more of those movies. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Fine, bbl and frame retain 92-94% strong orig blue with only light sharp edge wear and a couple of small dings. Cyl retains 30-40% orig blue in the flutes with the outer diameter a blue gray patina. Trigger and hammer retain about all of their bright fire blue with sides of the hammer polished bright. Grips are sound with a bruise on the left bottom edge and show moderate diamond point wear, retaining about 75-80% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. 4-53957 JR191 (3,000-4,000) – Lot 3171
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): The elephant ivory mounts on this item were in the country long before the January 8th, 1990’s CITE appendix. As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this gun accompanied by an appropriate ESA Antique Certificate, it is legal to sell and buy.
THIS GUN WILL BE SOLD WITH ITS IVORY AND A CERTIFICATE TESTIFYING THE IVORY IS PRE-BAN AND THAT THE IVORY IS ORIGINAL TO THE GUN.
*MINTY LATE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER BY WILBUR GLAHN.
SN 353453. Cal 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with model and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame is marked with 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with factory 2-pc ivory grips that have silver Colt medallions and raised carved steer head with red eyes on right side. Revolver has about D quality engraving by Colt master engraver Wilbur Glahn with about 85-95% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the sides of the bbl and ejector housing. Backstrap is engraved to match with matching patterns on buttstrap and trigger guard. Backstrap is also engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Cyl has full coverage matching patterns, except in the flutes which are a fine counterpoint. There are numerous examples of virtually identical engraving pictured in color in The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two, Wilson on pgs. 559, 570, 578 & 580. This is some of Mr. Glahn’s finest work. Accompanied by two Colt factory letters, one dated 1967 and the other 2010. Both identify this revolver in Cal 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish with ivory stocks carved with steer head motif, factory engraved and that it was sold/shipped to the famous Phil B. Bekeart Co. of San Francisco, CA for Charles H. Duke, address not listed on, Sept 22, 1930 in a 1-gun shipment. SN was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front and backstraps under the grip. Rear face of cyl has last 2-digits “73” and also has the hand- numbered “53” which is matching to this revolver. One would speculate that this is probably a mix up in the engraver’s shop and two revolvers had their cylinders inadvertently swapped. This minor mix up is inconsequential to this revolver as it is readily apparent that the cyl was engraved simultaneous with the revolver. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching, cyl as noted above. Overall retains all of its crisp orig factory finish with only the faint hint of a cyl line. Shows no evidence of ever having been fired. Grips are crisp and show a fine ivory patina. Top Shelf! 4-53686 JR284 (35,000-55,000) – Lot 3089
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 105638. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl has 5 chambers with fine deep-rolled Stagecoach Holdup Scene and all 5 safety pins crisp and serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished, highly figured burl walnut 1-pc grip with last 4 digits of matching serial number in backstrap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in deluxe full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with one scroll on the right side terminating in a flower blossom. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and top slide flats with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. One scroll on left side of bbl lug terminates in a flower blossom and another on the right side terminates in Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s head. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank and a wolf’s head on each side of nose with fish scales on sides of shank and top edge. Top of the backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Screw heads are all engraved, as are ends of wedge. Buttstrap screw hole is surrounded by a sunburst pattern. The ’49 pocket revolver was the successor to the Baby Dragoon with only minor improvements and was Colt’s largest production of percussion revolvers with about 325,000 produced 1850-1873. This revolver was made in about 1861, probably after the onset of the Civil War, a time when any handgun was in great demand. Given the deluxe engraved features of this revolver, it most probably was a special presentation to a young officer leaving to fight. That it remains in such little used condition is a testament to the esteem in which it was held. The strong likelihood is that it was that it was returned to Colt shortly after the Civil War for restoration. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Overall retains virtually all of its factory quality restored silver finish. The restoration is extremely well done, without softening the engraving or cyl roll markings. Grip is equally new looking with sharp edges and one small spot on left side. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore with a few small spots of very fine pitting and one larger spot. Altogether an extremely fine, high condition ’49 pocket. 4-47888 JR240 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3019
*RARE ENGRAVED DELUXE SMALL FRAME COLT LIGHTNING PUMP ACTION RIFLE.
SN 75807. Cal. 22. Usual configuration with 24″ tapered oct bbl, half magazine, Marbles #6 front sight missing it’s bead, Lyman 6A 2-leaf rear sight and a Lyman combination tang sight. Mounted with checkered, slab-sawed American walnut with single Schnable forearm and straight stock that has Colt hard rubber buttplate. Receiver is beautifully period engraved in very elaborate style with full coverage on the receiver consisting of the vignette of a national capitol building that may be the U.S. Capitol with flag flying from the dome, a church building with two turrets on the right side of the Capitol Building and what is probably a parliament style office building on the left side. There is a fountain and pool in the foreground. Each end of this vignette is engraved with an elaborate flower blossom with leaves and all surrounded by incredibly fine foliate arabesque patterns. Right side of the receiver is similarly engraved with the vignette of an ocean going steam ship, a sail boat and small fishing boat with a small house on the shore in the left background. The nickeled brass loading gate is very nicely engraved also. Matching engraving patterns extend over the top of the frame and dustcover along with both top & bottom tangs. Bottom of the receiver is engraved with the small vignette of a body of water with hills in the background. Chamber area of the bbl is engraved with large “V” patterns. Left side of the upper tang, under the wood is marked with matching serial number. Buttstock has the number “6105” on it’s front edge. Bottom of the stock and bottom flat of the bbl have sling swivel stud screw holes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this rifle in caliber 22, bbl length not listed, blue finish and walnut stocks shipped to M. Hartley Co. / NY, NY on Mar. 24,1903 in a ten gun shipment. No mention is made of the checkered wood or engraving. Also accompanied by a copy of Mr. Yearout’s inventory record card which shows that he purchased this rifle in Apr. 1970 from renown dealer/collector James Goergen of Austin, MN. Another note from Mr. Yearout states that this rifle was reputed to have been purchased from the estate of Senor Fillippi Lopez Netto who was the Brazilian minister to the U.S. in the 1880s. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl & magazine tube retain about 90% blue/brown finish with freckles & spots of light rust; receiver retains virtually all of its orig blue turned plum; stock is missing a couple of slivers near the top tang, otherwise wood is sound; stock, probably an old replacement retains most of its orig finish showing dulling from handling & use. Forearm is sound and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are a little stiff but functional, bright shiny bore with a ring about 4″ from the muzzle that is only slightly visible on the outside. 4-53909 JR29 (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3146
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
SCARCE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 142783. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is rebated with usual six chambers and Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. All six safety pins are somewhat serviceable. The brass trigger guard and iron backstrap contain a 1-pc checkered ivory grip with deep relief, raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Grip is of early construction which consists of two slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory spacer. Grip does not fit well and is not orig to this revolver. Revolver is spectacularly engraved in L.D. Nimschke style with the most elaborate and fabulously detailed foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on the frame. Engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug and onto the bbl and rammer pivot. Backstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Buttstrap is unusually engraved in diamond & dot patterns. Rebated area of the cyl is engraved in diamond patterns. The number “3” in the serial numbers on the bbl lug, frame & trigger guard appear to have been stamped over a “2”, possibly at the factory. Trigger guard is engraved by another hand. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a double sided trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT”, angle spout flask, a steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter and a most elaborate Gutta Percha cap box with the deep relief medallion of “ARTHUR DUKE OF WELLINGTON” with image of Wellington in uniform on top. The bottom has a similar medallion of Wellington’s tomb depicting a trophy of arms with a warrior, an angel and a subservient male lion. Caption of this medallion is “BRITANNIA MOURNS HER HERO NOW AT REST” and the bottom of this medallion is marked “WATERLOO / JUNE 18, 1815”. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grip. No orig finish remains being a cleaned dark grey metal patina with pitting on each side of the muzzle. The “U.S.” in the bbl address apparently was defaced and now re-stamped; the brass trigger guard was never silver plated and now retains a light mustard patina; backstrap is grey metal patina matching the frame; cyl is also a matching patina and shows 20-30% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Grip has numerous age lines with chipped toes and a small crack on the left side and shows moderate wear, retaining a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has a grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains an old restored finish; flask has several nicks, dings & dents with an open seam and missing spring; mold has fine pitting and an artificially aged patina; cap box is extremely fine. 4-53594 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 3050
*LOT OF THREE SMITH & WESSON REVOLVERS THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS FAST DRAW QUICK SHOT ARTIST AND AUTHOR ED MCGIVERN.
The following three revolvers were owned and presumably used by world renowned fast draw and trick shot artist Ed McGivern of Montana. Mr. McGivern developed the technique of fast draw with accurate shooting which for years he taught to law enforcement officers around the country. He was also an exhibition shooter, traveling the country giving shooting demonstrations. He was the author of several books, the most famous of which was published in 1938, Fast and Fancy Revolver Shooting, two copies of which accompany this lot. One copy is inscribed to Walt Morris and signed by Mr. McGivern. The other is inscribed to Jack Sawlor with a long sentiment and signed by Mr. McGivern. Mr. McGivern began his shooting career in the late 1920’s/early 1930’s and found that he was an exceptional shot with uncanny speed. At that time there were no devices capable of timing his actual shooting speed so he invented his own which allowed him to positively demonstrate just how fast he was. In 1932 he set a new record which still stands today. He emptied two revolvers in less than two seconds and another record of 5 shots in 2/5 of a second from 15 ft and could cover the group with his hand. At still another demonstration he twice fired 5 shots in 45/100 of a second from 15 ft and the group could be covered by a silver dollar. Mr. McGivern was the most unlikely looking quick draw artist one could imagine. He was short and rather portly and looked like someone’s kindly grandfather. 1) SCARCE EARLY CENTENNIAL CHIEF’S SPECIAL DA REVOLVER. SN: 1719. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 2″ bbl, fixed sights and smooth 2-pc, silver medallion magna grips numbered to this revolver. Accompanied by its orig 2-pc Chinese red box with blue and white end label which is over-stamped in two places “CENTENNIAL”. Also accompanied by a 2-pg Smith and Wesson Factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found here and shipped January 20, 1954 to Ed McGivern, Great Falls, MT. These revolvers were manufactured 1952-1974 in two different serial series with 30,160 produced in this serial range. From 1952-1957 it was simply known as the Centennial Model. Then in 1957 it became the Model 40. 2) OUTSTANDING SMITH AND WESSON COMBAT MASTERPIECE DA REVOLVER. SN: K168189. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 4″ ribbed bbl, partridge front sight with “McGivern” gold bead & target rear sight, standard trigger & hammer and is mounted with 2-pc smooth walnut maga grips with blank brass medallions numbered to another revolver. Although not matching, these grips fit well. Accompanied by a mismatched blue and gold Smith and Wesson 2-pc box that has a blue and white end label. Label is applied over the orig box marking, which is for a 6″ revolver. Also accompanied by a Smith and Wesson Factor letter which identifies this revolver as a pre-model 15 in cal 38 Special which was shipped February 25, 1953 to Ed McGivern, Great Falls, MT with 4″ bbl and “smooth magna stocks”. 3) SMITH AND WESSON MODEL 1917 COMMERCIAL FINISH TARGET DA REVOLVER. SN: 23703. Cal. 45 ACP and 45 Colt. Blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, pedestal mounted partridge front sight with “McGivern” gold bead and adjustable target rear sight. Right sideplate is engraved “ED McGIVERN / OF MONTANA / 1938”. Mounted with smooth walnut magna grips, identical configuration to the grips on #2 above. Buttstrap has the hole for a Lanyard stud and ring, which is missing. Also accompanied by a spare cyl and crane. Both cyls are matching numbered to this revolver. Both cyls have Mr. McGivern’s modifications, having had their rear edges rounded. SN on buttstrap is accompanied by a 5-pointed star which indicates factory restoration. Left side of frontstrap, under the grip, has the tiny numbers “3.43” and the backstrap with a small diamond. These numbers and symbols further indicate that this revolver was refinished at the factory in March 1943. Bottom flat of bbl is marked with a tiny Springfield Armory eagle and number “S34”. Additionally accompanied by two of Mr. McGivern’s stopwatches. One watch, with nickeled case, is marked Sterling and the other is Swiss with nickeled case engraved on the back “ED McGIVERN / OF MONTANA / 1920”. Top of the box, which contains this watch, is marked “MASTER STOP WATCH” and has Mr. McGivern’s name and address in Great Falls, MT. Additionally accompanied by a 2-pg Smith and Wesson Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 ACP, shipped March 21, 1918 to Springfield Armory, MA in standard configuration. Undoubtedly Mr. McGivern obtained this revolver as surplus or a gift, added the second cyl, and had it refinished at the factory. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: 1) Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains about 99% crisp orig blue, appears to have been used very little. Grips have a few minor nicks. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore. Box is intact, slightly yellowed label and is missing a small patch of red covering on the top, otherwise is intact with light soil. 2) Extremely fine plus, overall retains 98-99% crisp orig factory blue with faint muzzle edge wear and a light cyl line. Trigger and hammer retain brilliant case colors. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore. May have been fired but if so very little. Box is fine, missing a couple spots of paper on top. 3) Extremely fine plus, all matching including both cyls, grips are unnumbered. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig factory restored finish with slight muzzle edge wear and a cyl line. Grips are fine. Crisp mechanics. Bright shiny bore. Swiss stopwatch appears to be running and functioning. The other watch, also Swiss, is not running. The two books are fine. 4-53988 JR194 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3172
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE EARLY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 42722. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, thinned front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of bbl has a fully legible “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” etched panel and bottom of bbl, under ejector housing, has last 4 digits of matching SN along with a tiny “44”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “44 CF”. Screws are all sharp and retain most of their orig blue, hammer is color case hardened. Mounted with distributor supplied 2-pc ivory grips with a relief carved ox head on the right side. Revolver is beautifully engraved from the L.D. Nimschke Shop, probably by the master himself, with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the sides of frame of snake and dot pattern on top strap and hunter stars on the front sides of frame and on the trigger bow. Foliate arabesque patterns extend 3-1/2″ up the bbl and on each side of the muzzle with geometric patterns around the address, on the back strap and butt strap. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes and has a snake and dot pattern around the rear edge. Ejector housing is 2nd type with bullseye ejector rod head and has snake and dot pattern in top gullet and on outer radius. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. The nickel finish was also applied by the distributor, probably on special order. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40 with bbl length and type of stocks not listed, blue finish and shipped to J.P. Moores Sons, NY NY, on February 18, 1878 in a 50 gun shipment. J.P. Moores Sons was one of Colt’s major distributors who was contracted with most of the engravers of that era and furnished numerous engraved firearms to the buying public. J.P. Moores was one of the major contractors to the L.D. Nimschke Shop. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl, frame and grip frame retain 95-97% orig nickel with muzzle end wear and light wear on recoil shield and loading gate. Trigger retains dull blue and hammer faded case colors. Cyl retains about 70-75% orig nickel and ejector housing about 80% bright nickel. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with sharp rifling and fine pitting. 4-47885 JR185 (20,000-35,000) – Lot 3090
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
FINE DELUXE ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 237728. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Sam’l Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a ribbon. The brass small guard trigger guard and backstrap contain a smooth 1-pc ivory grip with intricately carved bottom edges. Revolver is beautifully deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage, very fine, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the frame that has very fine pearled background and scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over sides of the bbl lug and rammer pivot with a dogs head & flower blossom on the left side and a flower blossom on the right side. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top. Cyl has six chambers and hand engraved stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking with engraved borders and blank panels between the stop notches. All the serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “I” which indicates it was to receive extra polish and ivory grip. Several of the serial numbers appear to have been re-stamped with the last two digits on the cyl having been engraved. Wedge is a replacement, engraved to match with the re-stamped number “7718”. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a small double sided, all brass eagle & stars flask, a brass “Colts Patent” two cavity mold without sprue cutter, a tin of caps, a packet of five combustible cartridges and a non-functioning key. CONDITION: Very good. Overall revolver retains a cleaned silver finish with a few light nicks & dings that may have been polished out; cyl has been cleaned to bare metal with fine pitting and shows about 90% stagecoach hold-up scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain traces of orig silver being mostly a medium mustard patina. Grip has a few age lines, but is completely sound and shows a beautiful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple grain checks in the bottom and is missing a small chip around a knot in the right end with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the top & bottom with moderate soil in the bottom and solid partitions; flask has a few small nicks & dings with a partially open seam; mold has light nicks & dings with sharp, clean cavities and a dark mustard patina; other accessories are fine. 4-47894 JR147 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 3020
SN 112933. 32 Cal. 4-1/2″ rnd bbl with 2-line address and roll engraved on left side “COLT DA 32”. Proper blade front sight has been slightly trimmed. Colt Lightnings made in 32 Cal. are quite rare with no more than 200 estimated in total production of almost 167,000 guns marketed originally as “Lightnings” in 38 Cal, “Thunderers” in 41 Cal and the rarely seen “Rainmaker” in 32 Cal. This gun appears orig and complete with matching SNs found on frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Bbl is stamped with a small “32” on bottom at base of bbl. Left side of frame is stamped with 3-lines of patent dates and rampant Colt motif in circle. Gun is fitted with 2-pc mother of pearl grips which fit gun nicely with no gaps. Based on SN this gun was made in 1899. PROVENANCE: Donn Heath, Ft. Worth, TX. Lewis Yearout 1974. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Gun overall is gray/brown with pitting overall and scattered scratches and blemishes as can be seen in photograph. There are traces of finish found in protected areas of backstrap, trigger guard, bbl and frame. Markings are all well defined and discernible. Front sight has been trimmed in height to about 2/10″ high as can be seen in photos. Mechanically functioning with crisp well discerned bore with pitting. 4-53937 JS71 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3148
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): The ivory on this item is one hundred years old or more and is accompanied by an ESA attesting to this. When you purchase this firearm inclusive of ivory, we will receive the ESA statement. As per the President’s Executive Order of 2014, provided the ivory is over one hundred years old and can be proven by an ESA certification, it is legal to sell, buy, and export.
YOU ARE BUYING THIS GUN COMPLETE WITH ITS IVORY WHICH IS ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD AND AN ESA “ANTIQUE CERTIFICATION” WILL ACCOMPANY THIS.
SN 23642. Cal. 36. Silver & gold finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of the frame has a tiny “Colts Patent”. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain an outstanding 1-pc ivory grip, matching numbered to this revolver. Grip has a very deep relief carved eagle on a nest with two eaglets. Cyl is half fluted with five chambers and all five safety pins serviceable. All the serial numbers on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “P”, which indicates that it was to have received special polishing for engraving & plating. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with matching patterns 3-1/4″ on each side of the bbl and around the muzzle. Top of the bbl is engraved with a long arrow pointing at the front sight. Cyl is engraved with matching patterns on the raised areas over the chambers. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard have matching patterns with Mr. Young’s trademark fan at the top. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with a wolfs head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Cyl, trigger & hammer are gold washed with all the other parts silver plated. Screws are fire blued. Accompanied by an outstanding, orig red velvet lined, Colt rosewood casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a presentation quality “Colts Patent” single sided eagle & stars silver plated flask, a silver plated “Colt’s Patent” bullet mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, an orig tin of Eley’s caps still sealed in its orig paper wrapping and a packet of five combustible cartridges. Also in the case is a silver plated, L-shaped nipple wrench, a spare hammer spring and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in 1863 at the height of the Civil War and was undoubtedly was intended as a gift or presentation to someone of great importance or a high ranking official or military officer. It apparently was so highly regarded it was never used. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains most of its orig silver plating with about 70% dull gold on the cyl, about 80% on the hammer and 60% on the trigger; the two upper backstrap screws are slightly battered, as are two of the trigger guard screws from someone using an improper tool. Grip is outstanding with sharp edges and a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with one small spot of pitting. Case is sound with some fine grain checks in the lid and retains most of its orig varnish; lining inside the lid is heavily faded but unsoiled; bottom is moderately faded with light soil; flask retains about 60-65% thin orig silver and the mold about 98% orig silver, unused; other accessories & equipment are fine. 4-53518 JR140 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 3054
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 114470. Cal 44. Silver finish with 8” oct bbl, pinched post front sight and usual 3-line address on top bbl flat. Mounted with smooth, well patinated 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in the New York style quite possibly by L.D. Nimschke with about 50% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Engraving patterns extend over the side flats of the bbl, down the backstrap with geometric patterns on the buttstrap. Cylinder has full circumference engraving in matching patterns. Lever is engraved in about 2″ matching pattern. Very fine condition and like a handful of martial Colts seen engraved in New York after the war this Remington falls in that same genre as a sub-inspector letters can still be discerned externally on a few parts. Appears orig and authentic in every regard and is a beautiful example of a Civil War issued sidearm being custom engraved possibly by Nimschke circa 1870. There is accompanying notarized letter stating the purported history back to 1934 which is possible, letter should be read in online catalog. PROVENANCE: Larry Larom, Cody, WY. Don Nichols 1968. Lewis Yearout 1990. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, overall retains about all orig silver plating, engraving crisp and well discerned. This gun was not engraved or plated on a brand new gun but was done on a gun that had seen some use as there is light pitting seen under plating especially on bbl but this would be expected as is seen in other New York style engraved guns of Civil War martial pistols. Grips are fine and well fit with numerous small scratches as expected; there is a glued repair internally to left grip such that a new screw escutcheon is retained. Right grip has a 1″ chip repair and another large sliver chip in same grip near frame as can be seen in photos. Right grip has less patina and may be a replacement or simply was displayed with right side down and not exposed to light. Right grip has an internal scratched marking “DL SPACKMAN 1925”. Mechanics are fine. Strong sharp bore with crisp rifling. 4-53949 JS47 (2,000-4,000) – Lot 3185
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH MONTANA HISTORY.
SN 105737. Cal 44-40. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, sgl line Hartford address and rolled on left side of bbl “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Full front sight. Left side of frame stamped with 3-line 3-patent dates. Mounted with smooth pearl grips. Factory letter states gun was shipped nickel plated and factory engraved August 28, 1884 to Simmons Hardware in St. Louis, MO. and states gun originally had 7-1/2″ bbl and mounted with carved Mexican eagle ivory grips. Engraving on frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder and ejector housing is all by master engraver Cuno Helfricht while the barrel, probably a replacement, is engraved by another hand. There are several letters to Lewis Yearout and newspaper article concerning the possible connection of Harvey Monroe to early Montana settlers and cowboys John, Hugh and Angus Monroe. On Mr. Yearout’s orig file card on this gun he states this gun is pictured on p 103 of the book Colt Engraving by R.L. Wilson and he bought this gun from Harvey Monroe of Cutbank, MT in 1974 and “related to Hugh Monroe perhaps first white man to stay in Montana Territory, married into Blackfoot Tribe”. PROVENANCE: Harvey A. Monroe. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Bbl and ejector housing retain over 90% orig finish. Frame retains about 80% orig nickel and cylinder about 70% orig nickel. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 30-40% orig finish. Hammer is not engraved and retains most of orig nickel plate is possibly a later replacement. Pearl grips fit quite well with large chip at left heel. Machine engraved on inside of trigger frame on left side under stock reads “Harvey A. Monroe”. There are also a pair of scratched initials “HS” behind trigger bow, possibly denoted more contemporary owner to the guns time of use. 4-53890 JS22 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3091
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 266837. Cal 31. Silver finish with 5″ oct bbl, replacement nickel silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “Colts Patent” and the caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Cyl has stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking and six chambers. The large guard silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a smooth, 1-pc ivory grip made in the orig style consisting of two slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory spacer. Front strap, under the grip is drilled for a 2-pc grip locator pin. All serial numbers on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that it was intended for engraving and should receive extra polish. Revolver is engraved in late vine style by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Two scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and top flats with one scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s trademark birds head and two scrolls on the other side terminating in flower blossoms. Rammer pivot and ends of the wedge are engraved to match. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with wolfs heads on each side of the nose and other standard patterns. Accompanied by a purple velvet lined Colt mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single sided eagle & stars flask, a brass two cavity “Colts Patent” bullet mold without sprue cutter, a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a non-functioning key. This revolver was produced in about 1864, during the Civil War and was probably intended as a reward for valor or a presentation to a high ranking officer or official. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except grip which is unnumbered and may be an old replacement. Revolver retains about all of an old re-nickel, showing muzzle end wear and thinning on left side of bbl. Grip is fine and retains a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; worn dark bore. Case has a couple grain checks in the bottom with reattached right end, possibly replaced parts; exterior has areas of stain with nicks & scratches and retains about 85% orig varnish; interior is moderately to heavily faded in the lid and heavily faded in the bottom with heavy soil; flask has a couple of small dents and retains a medium to dark copper patina; mold is fine with a few, very light nicks & scratches; cap tin in fine. 4-53592 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 3021
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 SHERIFF’S MODEL DA REVOLVER.
SN 5942. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4″ bbl, made without ejector, full front sight and 2-line address. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips and has a lanyard swivel in the butt. Revolver has full coverage engraving, probably by master engraver Cuno Helfricht in foliate arabesque and geometric patterns. Top of the backstrap hump is engraved with a foliate pattern. Lands between the flutes on the cyl are engraved in matching patterns. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver with 4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips and factory engraved, shipped to J. P. Lower Co., Denver, CO. May 28, 1881 in a two gun shipment. Also accompanied by Mr. Yearout’s Collection Inventory card which shows that he purchased this revolver from Jack Dron Jr. of Ojai, CA on Dec. 1971. A type written note by Mr. Yearout states that Mr. Dron apparently was going to sell him two such engraved guns but one was stolen. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only about 200 of these rare revolvers were factory engraved. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains 50-60% orig nickel with the loss areas a grey metal patina; trigger & hammer retain strong fire blue on the rear edges. Left grip has a large chip near the toe, otherwise grips are sound showing great fire. Mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with a couple of spots of pitting. 4-53877 JR84 (10,000-20,000) – Lot 3149
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 23868. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address. Left side of frame is marked “Colt’s Patent” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the cal marking. Cyl is half fluted with five chambers and it is mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that are hand scratched on the inside “BFY”. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by L.D. Nimschke in beautiful New York style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend onto the bbl lug, around the address and around the muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with spiral & foliate patterns on the handle. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with a deep relief foliate panel at top of backstrap. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined Colt mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an early double-sided eagle flask, a steel Colts Patent mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of six combustible cartridges and an empty Eley’s cap tin. Few of this model Colt were ever cased and engraved. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except wedge & grips which are unnumbered. Cyl has only one number visible. No orig finish remains on the revolver being an overall dark blue/brown patina. Trigger guard retains about 70% orig silver and the backstrap/buttstrap about 40%. Grips have a hairline above the left escutcheon and a small repair on the right side at the frame, otherwise are sound with good fire. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case has two or three grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded with moderate soil and a couple of slightly loose partitions; flask is extremely fine; mold is battered and worn; other accessories are fine. 4-53595 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 3055
MASSIVE GROUPING OF MUSEUM DISPLAYED CIVIL WAR AND COLUMBUS HISTORY ARTIFACTS AND EPHEMERA.
SN NSN. This wonderful diverse grouping comprises various displayed items from the Greene Museum of Southern History. If you pick through the orig pictures taken in museum you can find most all of these items on the walls or in display cases that helped tell the story of the history of Columbus, GA especially during the Civil War. Many personal items are included in this group including 1) a hand sewn Civil War housewife of private C.H. Estes, a wartime CT button has been turned into a pin contained within. 2, 3 & 4) Three telescopes one being small personal one still contained in cardboard sleeve, a rare pair of twin telescopes marked “QUINN & CO PHILADELPHIA” these measure over 15″ fully extended with main lenses being 1-1/2″; lastly is a two stage telescope measuring just over 30″ extended which is inscribed “LT.S.W. NICHOLS 1862 USN”. Inscription appears commemorative and not contemporary to the war, however telescope has lead soldered repair and lacks leather cover. 5 & 6) Two surgical kits, one being English and a 2-tier amputation kit still retaining large saw, 2 lg knives, tourniquet and three other small tools. The other surgical kit is missing compartmentalization on bottom compartment, has three knives and small saw marked “CHARRIERE” also contained is a circular multi-bladed fleam marked “BREVETE S.G.D. GOLVERNEMt”. This second kit has name engraved on top brass plaque “DR. ELLISON”. Tools in both kits are rusted with some orig polish and at least one broken handle. 7) Small leather case with eight small medicine bottles all with full or partial labels of druggist in Petersburg or Richmond VA. Case has no top and one handle is loose, several bottles are chipped but rare Southern labels are mostly intact as can be seen in photos. 8) Regulation Civil War silk officers sash. 9 & 10) 2-pcs decorated china with registry numbers found on the Confederate Blockade runner “GEORGIANA”. Saucer appears complete with no chips, large mug has large base chip and glued repairs. 11) South Carolina Secession badge woven from palm frond mounted with pin in the shape of a palmetto tree on 4-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ pc of cotton with indiscernible text. Thread used to sew this device is consistent with the early Civil War and this appears to be an orig piece circa 1861 as opposed to a reunion item. 12) Deck of patriotic Union Civil War playing cards with eagles, shields, stars, flags, Goddess of Liberty and soldiers in place of suits and ranks of cards. There are only 50 cards remaining but there is a partial card case. Cards are obviously well used but still retain good color and detail and several are chipped and bent and box is insect damaged. 13) Fancy circa 1850 military stirrup with eagle rosettes with tag which reads, “GEN. BURNSIDES COMMAND US STAFF OFFICERS STIRRUP LOOKOUT MTN TENN”. 14) Folding camp chair. 15) Framed drawings of soldiers, one of a charging “rush lancer”. 16)Two wartime pencil drawings, one of a Confederate Captain sitting in front of a tent smoking a pipe with artillery in the background signed by artist April 4, 1865, an additional partial pasted typed tag gives partial ID. The other drawing of camp scene in woods with soldier on picket. 17 & 18) Two Civil War manuals one being 1861 NY edition of Rifles and Rifle Practice by C.M. Wilcox, US Army. Wilcox appears complete with several large folding plates though book was not collated. Second manual is a Confederate imprint Calvary Tactics by Major General Joseph Wheeler, Mobile 1863. This volume too appears complete with foldout plates though end papers are missing and no doubt used by Confederate in need of paper that was so rare in the Confederacy. Bindings on both books are mostly complete with chipping on spines, cracked hinges and other reductions. Both these manuals appear well used during the war. 19) Navy battle rattle. 20) 6″ stamped brass patriotic plaque of Goddess of Liberty. 21, 22 & 23) Three pieces of camp tin ware including coffee pot and small personal cooker with lid. 24) Group of toys soldiers used in camp including a pair of dice, dominoes and clay marbles. 25) Group of soldiers personal items including ink well inclosed in wooden case, folding pewter shaving mirror, shaving brush and tin soap container. 26 & 27) Cigar cutter and small carved pipe with a soldiers head as the bowl with glass eyes. 28, 29 & 30) Three bullet molds one being for Colt pistol and so marked. 31 & 32) Two brass powder flasks, one is USN marked with anchor dated and inspected “AMES, 1843” missing spring. Other flask is florally decorated marked “BATTIE PATENT”. 33) Frame showing Columbus Georgia maker or agent marked watch mechanism and dial and an excavated Columbus maker marked 4-screw button. 34, 35, 36, 37) Four Civil War era canteens including two regulation US style both with partial covers and slings, a small canvas covered flask with a pewter screw top with cloth sling which was marked as Confederate in the museum and a large barrel type canteen with bale handle measuring about 10″ x 7″. 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44 & 45) Group of Civil War era photography including 4 CDV albums which contain mostly civilians though there are a few soldiers scattered and a CDV of Abraham Lincoln. There is a large oval framed paper image of a US Drummer with painted eagle drum which is about 18″ high. There is also an image framed of a soldier with rifle and bayonet that has been tinted and colored, a ninth plate ferrotype of a Confederate enlisted man wearing a shell jacket and a loose 6-plate tin type that is quite sharp showing Union Calvary men seated with sword belt, carbine sling and carbine. 46 & 47) Two Civil War accoutrements boxes one being US cap box, the other being a fuse box marked “NAVY YARD NY 1861”. 48) Orig Confederate buck and ball cartridge with photograph of orig box and pack it came out of which is dated October 1862 and an orig label for 58 Cal. cartridge pack from Columbus Armory dated 1864. 49, 50, 51, 52 & 53) Five artillery related items including an 1865 dated hammer, a reaming tool thought to be for fuses, a forged tool thought to be a vent pick or powder bag implement, tin container for friction primers still retaining a couple and a pewter plunger from a Confederate percussion projectile. 54) Box of nine Civil War era brass cartridges including Maynard, Burnside & LeFaucheaux. 55 & 56) Two sword mounts one being a throat for an Officers sword, second being drag for a Model 1852 Navy Officer’s sword (possibly post-war) 57) USA intertwined rosette with leather backing. 58) Civil War billfold identified to Daniel Southerland of the 8th North Carolina CSA Senior Reserves. Billfold contains 2-pc of NC currency, envelope with Confederate stamp and a document concerning Southerland. 59) Unusual fabric and bullion studded “belt” with tag which reads “Parade Sinched Waist Belt from the Eightenth Corp. Retrieved after the Battle of Cold Harbor by Pvt. Grisham June 1, 1864 Union General Meades’ Troops cat.#55899.9”. 60) 7-star hand sewn “sash”. Museum thought 7-stars represented the first 7 Confederate states and textile does indeed appear of the era, totally hand sewn but we have never seen anything else like it. 61) State of Alabama $500 confederate bond, framed. 62) Framed Confederate Charleston newspaper dated October 6, 1863 showing Robert E. Lee’s official report of the Battle of Gettysburg and campaign in Pennsylvania. 63) Colton framed map of Alabama, 1855. Map measures about 12″ X 15″ and is hand colored. 64) Two military documents from 1857 & 1859 dealing with the Columbus Guards. Both documents signed in text by later Confederate general killed at Gettysburg, Paul Semmes. 65) Rare framed 1836 map showing “part of ALABAMA & FLORIDA showing the route of the proposed COLUMBUS & PENSACOLA RAILROAD”. Map measures about 20″ X 22″ and is in very good condition with some staining and acid burn apparent at several folds. 66) Enfield angular bayonet with British proofs. 67) Rare rifle stock blank from the Dickson-Nelson Confederate Rifle Factory. There was a small quantity of these gun blanks found in the 1950s and they rarely show up today. 68) “Wounded” Enfield rifled musket. This is an earlier Model 1853 with thick front band and clamping springs. Gun is broken at wrist missing buttstock, ramrod and trigger guard otherwise gun is intact though forestock broken between front bands, a segment of the sling still remains. The interesting characters and SNs stamped on this gun make me believe it was British Colonial. 69 & 70) Two fine Confederate images one being a CDV of a confederate officer taken by A.J. Riddle, Macon, GA. Second image being post war copy on salted paper by Rome, GA photographer of Confederate Officer with cavalry saber, a Model 1860 fluted Colt Army revolver and he is wearing an extremely rare Georgia state seal rectangular saber belt plate (upside down). Both images are in good, average condition, CDV has yellowing and soiling but quite discernible as can be seen in photos. 71) Very rare war time advertising pamphlet for Spencer Repeating Rifle Company showing everything they offered in this 12 page 9-1/2″ x 5-3/4″ with peach covered illustrated covers. This pamphlet is full of accounts of the Battle of Hoover’s Gap and testimonials from various soldiers including Wilder himself. We have not seen this rare booklet before and a large blow up on reader board was prominently displayed in museum with the Spencer carbine also being sold in this sale. 72) And lastly, the final lot in this collection is a 100 pound anvil with embossed eagle in anchor. PROVENANCE: Greene Museum of Southern History. CONDITION: Objects in this grouping range from fair to excellent, perspective buyers should examine these objects personally as they are quite diverse and conditions vary greatly. 4-54301 JS268 (3,000-4,000) – Lot 3293
**COLT MODEL 1914 DIGGER MACHINE GUN IN 303 BRITISH (C&R).
SN 1427. 303 British. 25-1/4″ bbl. This is a Colt model 1914 digger equipped with side cocking steel cable lanyard assembly as manufactured by Colt for Canadian Forces. Includes an orig brass headed tri-pod with leather covered rear seat, an orig wooden ammunition box with green 250 round cloth belt which has unmarked steel tabs. This exceedingly fine specimen is marked “MODEL 1914 COLT AUTOMATIC GUN MANUFACTURED BY COLT’S P.T.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT USA”. Bbl is clearly marked “CAL. 303” “BROWNINGS PATENTS PATENTED IN THE UNITED STATES JULY 30. AUGUST 20.1895”. On left side of receiver just below rear sight the following is engraved “JPL T AZ85653″, which indicates that at one time this arm was in the possession of a noted firearms enthusiast in Arizona. Mechanism functions smoothly when operated by hand. Cable and cocking system are in good, functioning order. Feed lever articulates properly however belt indexing mechanism does not turn. Chamber is welded shut. Without actually performing the work it is difficult to determine if this chamber can be made serviceable again, but this cataloger is confident chamber can be restored to a firing condition. PROVENANCE: Ex-Dolf Goldsmith collection; The class III weapons formerly on loan to Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is extremely fine. Over 90% lustrous blue finish, thinning to bare metal at high points with some spots of corrosion on interior lever of action and some slight pitting at gas port ring. Cocking cable and action in extremely fine condition. Wooden grips have pleasing brown color and some nicks and handling marks. Bolt face appears to have been partially ground and firing pin is protruding and mushroomed due to striking welded chamber, all restorable. Ammunition box is cracked on left side about 6″ horizontally from where it attaches to tripod but this could be glued. Opposite side has a brass plate riveted to inside which would protect inside of box from pointed ends of cartridges. Orig slide on wooden cover has lost about 2” of its slotted retaining ridge but this does not affect its functionality. Slides loosely into retaining recesses. Cloth belt is in good, serviceable condition. Tri-pod retains 70% of its orig olive green paint with balance being dark patina. Bronze head in extremely fine condition with some green verdigris at forward edge. Mechanism articulates properly. Black leather seat is cracked and a portion of left side is broken and missing yet seat is still serviceable. These extremely rare specimens with “cable cocking” mechanisms are examples of efforts to minimize exposure of soldiers to enemy fire. Guns so equipped afforded the soldier the ability to cock weapon without exposing his upper torso. With appropriate restorative effort this gun could become the centerpiece of an early automatic arms collection. 4-51793 JWK9 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1028
IMPORTANT COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER AND RIG BELONGING TO DEPUTY U.S. MARSHAL HENRY SPENCE MILLER.
SN 163113. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a broken circle. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “41” (actual bore diameter for caliber 38-40) under the base pin. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Backstrap is engraved in period script, probably by a local jeweler, “H. Miller”. Henry Spence Miller was born in 1859 in Clay County, Missouri, one of five brothers in that family. One of the brothers, Clelland Miller, became very famous or rather infamous, as a member of the James Gang and was killed Sept. 7, 1876 by a medical student named Henry Wheeler. From all reports Henry Spence Miller was also fairly wild but did not cross the line against the law. He became Assistant U.S. Marshal for the District of Western Missouri in 1893, a position he apparently held for about four years. Accompanied by a notarized statement from Christopher Riley Wise who states that he is the great-grandson of Henry Spence Miller and lists seven items that were the property of his great-grandfather. Included in this inventory is this revolver, identified by serial number, Deputy Marshal Miller’s gold badge, 16 orig photographs of outlaws captured by Marshal Miller, a gun belt & holster, a leather covered blackjack, a wrist cuff and a small metal savings bank, all of which are included in this lot. Additionally accompanying is a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on Oct. 1, 1895 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanying is an orig parchment deed for the sale of property in Clay County, Missouri in the name of Moses Miller, Henry Spence Miller’s father, dated 1835 and bearing the Seal of the United States and the signature of President Andrew Jackson in two places. Additionally accompanying is a notarized Bill of Sale over the signature of Christopher R. Wise, selling this lot of merchandise to Tommy Rholes. Also accompanying is the Jan. 1954 issue of The Texas Gun Collector (the official publication of the Texas Gun Collectors Association) which includes a 4-page article about James S. Wise, the father of Christopher, and part of his firearms collections. The photographs, blackjack, wrist cuff & bank (with key) are self explanatory and the revolver has been described above. Badge appears to be about 14 karat gold, made of two flat pieces with the top bar about 1-1/2″ long x 3/8″ wide marked “DEPUTY”. Suspended from two 4-link chains is a small shield 1-5/8″ x 1-3/8″ marked “U.S. / MARSHAL / WESTERN DIST. / MISSOURI” with some light engraved decorations. The belt & holster rig are made of fine tooled leather consisting of a single loop mail-order holster with Cheyenne plug that is highly decorated. Belt is also mail order, made of 1-pc soft leather, sewn at the top, in money belt style with nickeled steel rectangular buckle, about 4″ x 3″, that has been trimmed on the tongue end with the tongue reattached. Belt has 40 sewn-on cartridge loops which contain twelve 38-40 cartridges. All together this lot is very inclusive of part of what would have been worn & carried by a U.S. Marshal in the late 1800s. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Tommy Rholes. CONDITION: Revolver is fine. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with most of the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium/dark patina, shows holster wear around the muzzle and left side; ejector housing retains about 40% orig blue showing wear on the outer radius and flaking in the top gullet; frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, bright in the front gullets, faded elsewhere, thin and turning silver on recoil shield, loading gate & top strap; hammer retains bright case colors, turned dark on top edge; cyl retains about 85-88% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and a medium cyl line; trigger guard & backstrap retain strong blue in sheltered areas being mostly a dark brown patina. Grips are sound showing great fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. Blackjack retains about 50% orig brown finish with broken wrist strap; wrist cuff retains traces of orig nickel being mostly a brown patina; bank retains most of its orig nickel; holster shows light wear and retains most orig finish; belt shows moderate wear with a few damaged and reattached cartridge loops; photos are yellowed & faded; badge is extremely fine. 4-50661 JR490 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 3093
RARE ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 6285. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pinned front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Cyl is rebated with 5 chambers and has Stagecoach Holdup Scene roll marking and all 5 safety pins mostly serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with backstrap channel obscured by dark staining. All the serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that it was to receive extra polishing for engraving. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young in late leaf and vine patterns with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background shading on the frame. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug, top side flats and rammer pivot with fine border around the muzzle. Top of backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top, with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger bow. The pocket Navy revolver had production of about 18,000 revolvers during the period 1861-1873. This revolver was produced in 1861, at the onset of the Civil War, a time when any firearm was in great demand and few special orders were allowed. Most special orders of that time were for high ranking military officers and other officials or for special presentations to recognize acts of valor. Undoubtedly one of those would have been the situation for this revolver. Most of the revolvers of that era saw continued hard service throughout the Civil War and later on the American Frontier, well into the 1870’s until they were supplanted by the advent of cartridge firearms. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching, including rammer, wedge and cyl, grip as noted. Bbl retains blue in sheltered areas, being mostly a plummy brown patina with matching patina on the rammer head. Frame is mostly a lighter plummy brown patina. Cyl retains blue in rebated area with the larger diameter a light plummy brown patina and shows 75-80% Stagecoach Holdup Scene roll marking. Grip is sound, showing heavy wear and retains about 20% orig varnish, all on the left side. Timing needs adjustment, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. 4-47882 JR242 (5,000-8,000) – Lot 3033
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
*COLT MODEL 1878 FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER DA REVOLVER AND ITHACA DOUBLE BARREL SHOTGUN THAT BELONGED TO DEPUTY SHERIFF T.J. CAHILL OF JOHNSON COUNTY, WYOMING WHO ASSISTED AT THE HANGING OF NOTORIOUS RANGE DETECTIVE TOM HORN.
These two firearms belonged to Johnson County, Wyoming Deputy Sheriff Thomas Joseph “T. Joe” Cahill who was a family friend of infamous Indian scout, tracker and range detective Tom Horn. Cahill was born in 1877 in Wyoming Territory and died in 1965 in Cheyenne. On November 20, 1903 Tom Horn was hanged for shooting a 14 year old boy named Willie Nickell, a crime which to this day is still disputed in Wyoming and other circles. It was never proven that Horn actually killed the boy but his reputation was so fearsome that the jury found him guilty anyway. He was reputed to have killed 30 to 50 men in a short period time, all homesteaders who were accused of cattle rustling by the large ranchers. Horn was employed by the Cattlemen’s Association and, in particular, the Iron Mountain Ranch and John Coble. Horn had requested that his friends, Deputy Sheriffs Proctor and Cahill escort him to the gallows, which they did and Horn was hanged with a rope he had braided himself in his cell while waiting for the appeals process to be completed. Cahill went on to become the Executive Secretary of the Dude Rancher’s Association headed up by Larry Larom who owned Valley Ranch outside of Cody, WY and was the first dude rancher in the country. Cahill was also very active in the rodeo circles, including the Madison Square Garden Rodeo 1928-1933. He then became Chief of Police in Cheyenne, 1934-1940. As of this writing no additional information is available regarding T. Joe Cahill. At one time these firearms were part of a large display of Cahill’s badges and accouterments, including a letter on Iron Mountain Ranch Company letterhead, a pair of boots inlaid “T Joe” and a small piece of the rope with which Tom Horn was hanged. The location of those articles are currently unknown but may have been destroyed in the Yearout house fire. 1) SN 22083. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Blue finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly reduced front sight and 2-line address with etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on the left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Butt of grip has a factory lanyard swivel. Mounted with 2-pc Rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Backstrap is engraved “T.J.C.”, the initials of Deputy Cahill. 2) SN 123611. Cal. 16 ga. A-grade Ithaca double bbl boxlock hammer shotgun with 28″ Damascus bbls & double ivory beads with extractors. Mounted with straight grain American walnut with checkered splinter forearm and Prince of Wales round knob stock with Ithaca Gun Co. monogrammed hard rubber buttplate. Top tang is engraved identically “T.J.C.” as the revolver. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: 1) Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl & ejector housing retain about 92-93% strong orig blue with sharp, completely legible etched panel. Frame retains about 80% orig blue, showing edge wear and the rest of the losses from chemical staining. Backstrap is mostly a gray patina. Cyl is a blue gray patina. Grips are sound, showing light diamond point wear, turned chocolate on left side. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore, shows very little actual use. 2) Very fine, all matching. Bbls retain 97-98% strong orig Damascus pattern with some slight thinning and light surface rust over the forearm area. Receiver retains about 60% strong case colors turned silver on the bottom and on the fences. Wood is sound with a couple small dings and retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bores. 4-53939 JR273 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3151
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 3911. Cal. 36. Silver and gold finish with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT”. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a full checkered 1-pc ivory grip constructed of two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer block. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and sides of bbl, terminating at the front end of the bbl address with a fleur-de-lis. Matching patterns are on the rammer pivot. Bbl has scalloped border patterns around the muzzle and checkered patterns on each side of the rammer latch stud. Cyl is rebated and half fluted with 5 chambers and matching foliate arabesque patterns on the raised areas & in the rebated area. Cyl also has a star pattern on each land between the nipple recesses and all 5 safety pins are crisp and prominent. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap and on the buttstrap. Trigger bow is engraved in feather patterns with elaborate feather patterns around the front trigger plate screw hole and bottom of frame. Hammer is typically deluxe engraved. Screws are all also engraved. According to The Book of Colt Firearms there were about 25,000 of these revolvers produced in the period 1861-1873 with this revolver having been made in 1861. They were produced in four bbl lengths. Having been produced during the Civil War, when any firearm was in great demand, obviously limited the availability for fancy presentation quality guns except those for high ranking officials or for presentation to recognized acts of valor. That this revolver was so wonderfully engraved and with special plated finishes attests to the strong probability that this was such a presentation. It seems likely that after the war the owner returned it to the factory for restoration. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except wedge and grip. Overall retains virtually all of its fine factory silver finish with minor, light wear on the backstrap. The gold finish on the rammer, cyl, trigger and hammer is virtually intact except for a small wear spot on side of hammer. Grip is sound with a couple of minor age lines and shows light wear and retains a fine ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore, frosty in the grooves. Appears to be unfired since restoration. 4-47887 JR241 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 3057
EXTREMELY RARE SPECIAL ORDER DELUXE ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 1886 LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 110270. Cal. 50-100-450. Rare rifle in a rare caliber with 26″ oct bbl, full magazine, Lyman ivory bead hunting front sight, missing the ivory, 3-leaf carbine express rear sight and a sporting vernier tang sight with 3″ staff. Mounted with 3-4X, center crotch, feather & flame grain American walnut with H-style checkered forearm and capped pistol grip stock with Winchester hard rubber buttplate. Buttplate & toe of stock are missing a large chip that was damaged during the period of use. Heel of the buttplate has a couple of repaired cracks. Receiver is beautifully engraved, probably by one of the Ulrichs in #6 pattern which consists of the very large vignette of a walking bull moose in a forest scene on the left side and a bull caribou on the right side. Balance of the receiver is engraved in very nice foliate arabesque scrolls with fine pearled background and snake & dot border. Engraving extends over the top & bottom of the receiver and top tang. Top flat of the bbl is fully matted with the caliber marked on the top left flat and the bbl address rolled throughout the matting. Left side of lower tang, under the wood, is marked with the assembly number “921” and an “S”. Matching assembly number is found in top tang channel of buttstock. Accompanied by a Winchester Gun Museum letter which identifies this rifle in caliber 50-100-450 with oct bbl, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, shotgun butt, matted bbl, Lyman hunting front sight and $6 engraving with a moose on one side, a caribou on the other and “plenty of scroll work”. Shipped Sept. 3, 1896. Also accompanied by Mr. Yearout’s inventory record which identifies this rifle and shows that he purchased it Jul. 28, 1968 from C.S. Ramsey of Great Falls, MT. The back of this record card has the notation that Mr. Ramsey bought this rifle in 1967 from Jim Aplen of South Dakota who had purchased it at a farm auction in Wagner, South Dakota. Conversation with Mr. Ramsay revealed that Mr. Aplen actually bought the rifle in a bar in South Dakota, along with a Colt revolver. PROVENANCE: Jim Aplen; C.S.(Stonewall) Ramsey; Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains about 75-80% blue turning brown; magazine tube retains about 95% orig blue with brown overtones; receiver shows traces of orig case colors being mostly a cleaned metal patina; lever & hammer retain traces of case colors; buttstock & buttplate have the aforementioned damage, otherwise wood is sound and retains about 90% orig varnish on the stock and about 70% on the forearm. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with good shine and scattered pitting. 4-53804 JR20 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2067
INTERESTING PERIOD INSCRIBED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH HOLSTER AND CASE.
SN 163823. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, very slightly altered front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head with red eyes on right side, missing its right eye stone. Buttstrap is engraved in period block letters “J B FOX”. Right side of front and back straps, under the grip, are stamped with a small 6-point star. Rear face of cyl, bottom of bbl and inside ejector housing are also marked with the same star and assembly number “823”. All this indicates that this revolver was refinished at the factory. Accompanied by a late 19th/early 20th Century mail order holster with sewn toe and impressed decorations. Holster has a belt loop on back attached with harness rivets. Accompanied by a reworked walnut silverware box with empty plaque on lid. It has green velvet lining and is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver and three other compartments, one of which contains a full, sealed packet of 12 Frankford Arsenal Cartridges bearing the date 1878. The front of the case has a cartridge block containing eight 44 cal Henry Rimfire cartridges with seven additional empty holes. Inside the lid has a copied Colt advertisement. Accompanied by a packet of information entitled “Jubilee B. Fox /Confederate Soldier and Texan”. Fox was enlisted in the 28th Tenn Infantry and fought for the Confederacy. After the war he migrated to Texas where he died in 1924. The owner of this revolver was very likely a law enforcement officer or cattleman who later in life had it restored, probably during the period of use. A Colt Factory letter may provide additional information on who J.B. Fox was. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains traces of factory blue and ejector housing about 50% blue in the gullets. Frame retains faded case colors in the front gullets with smoky colors on the hammer and frame, being mostly a gray metal patina. Grip frame is a gray metal patina, as is the cyl. Grips have small chips near the frame, otherwise are sound, showing great fire. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good shine and fine pitting. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear and is sound, retaining strong orig brown finish. Box has a crack in lid, otherwise is fine. Cartridges are fine. 4-53600 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3096
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 63817. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight and an added rear sight at the breech end of the top flat with 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.”. The 3rd Model silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain an outstanding varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of matching serial number in backstrap channel. All serial numbers on bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small punch mark that indicates that it was to receive special polish for engraving. Cyl has usual six chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins serviceable. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young with his deluxe treatment of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame that have three scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over the bbl flats and top side flats and onto the rammer pivot. Left bbl lug is engraved with a foliate & flower pattern and Mr. Young’s trademark bird’s head. Right side has a scroll terminating in a flower blossom. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top and, what appears to be the initials “TJS” engraved near the toe but have been defaced. All the engraving is in semi-relief with fine pearled background. Screws are all engraved. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing with shield shaped escutcheon on the front. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a double sided, angle spout, trophy of arms & flags, “COLTS PATENT” flask, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter and “36H” on the right side, a packet of six combustible cartridges, a lacquered Eley’s cap tin and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in about 1856 at a time when any revolver was in great demand. They usually saw very hard service under harsh conditions with little or no maintenance and are rarely found with any orig finish. The fact that this revolver has remained with such high orig finish attests to the fact that it probably belonged to a wealthy individual or rancher who used it very little. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue and the rammer faded case colors on the pivot; frame retains about 60% faded case colors and the hammer is a brown patina with light pitting around the nose; trigger guard & backstrap retain about all of their orig silver plating, turning dark with light wear at the heel. Grip shows light edge wear and retains about 75% orig varnish. Cyl is a grey patina and shows about 60% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Mechanics are fine; strong sharp bore with light pitting. Case has a few grain checks in the bottom otherwise is sound with nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded with soil & stain from contact with the revolver; partitions are solid; flask is very good to fine and retains about 65-70% orig finish; mold retains about 80% orig blue with light battering on both sides; cartridge packet and cap tin are fine. 4-53523 JR154 (17,500-27,500) – Lot 3034
This florally tooled buck stitched gun rig is signed on holster “HEISER DENVER” with part number “724”. Extra wide 3-1/2″ tooled belt contains a single row of 37 rawhide reinforced 45 cal bullet loops. Belt and holster are fully tooled and large silver plated 2-1/2″ square buckle is fully engraved with flowing geometric design. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Holster is sound and solid retaining most of its orig brown color with storage scuffs and scratches; gun strap is intact with a Heiser logo-ed snap button; male portion of snap attached to holster is broken off. Belt is decorated with similar full coverage with crazing and cracking; internal leather veneer is mostly intact with worn and torn areas; tongue has wear and scuffing but is still supple and complete. Buckle is detached. Belt is unsigned. 4-50776 JS203 (1,000-2,000) – Lot 3156a
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE CIVIL WAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 5563. 36 Cal. Conforms to other revolvers of this series with 5-1/2″ oct bbl, 5 shot rebated cylinder with Ormsby stage coach holdup scene. Most unusual that this gun actually has a factory letter as most percussion Colt records were destroyed in the fire of 1864 at the Colt factory. Shipped to JP Moore in New York City September 18, 1862 and was one of 20 gun shipment. Factory letter states bbl length was 6-1/2″ which is a typo as this gun has always been 5-1/2″ and unaltered. Finish on stocks are not listed or that gun was engraved but under SN on this gun is marked “IE” which we know means factory ivory and engraving. Beautifully engraved with floral scrolls in the past attributed to Gustav Young, but newer insight and recent scholarly text on Colt engravers by Herbert House states this may not be the case. Regardless of Colt engraver, gun is factory engraved in the Germanic style made famous by Young starting in about 1853. Carved ivory stocks are beautifully patinaed with Lady Liberty carrying a large American Flag. Can’t get much more patriotic than this for a gun being sold in the summer of 1862 at the height of patriotic fervor during the Civil War. Appears orig, authentic and all matching including the incredible 1-pc carved ivory grips with inked SN in channel. Must have been a real show stopper in its day as it was gold and silver plated though only remnants of plating are retained today. Gold and silver plated Colt percussion revolvers are quite rare and this is a wonderful example, no doubt carried by a Union officer in the war. PROVENANCE: John Fox, Missoula, MT. Lewis Yearout 1973. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Overall very good, mechanically sound with good discernible bore. Metal surfaces are gray overall with staining and pitting. Traces of silver plate are found on bbl, frame, backstrap and trigger guard in protected areas. Gold plating is visible in trace in one stop on cylinder and about 20% of surface of loading assembly in protected areas as can be seen in photos. All matching including wedge and stocks. SNs on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap are all followed or preceded with “IE”. Full SNs are found on every part normally numbered except for loading arm which contains the last 3 digits. 4-53941 JS36 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3058
FABULOUS SILVER-PLATED AND ENGRAVED COLT 1855 FIRST MODEL SIDEHAMMER SPORTING RIFLE.
SN 906. Cal. 36. A wonderful and rare antique Colt recently discovered in Italy. This 1st Model Sporting Rifle has the patent oiler mounted on left side of frame. Round steel cleaning rod mounted on eyelet on left side of barrel at muzzle and on eyelet on frame to rear of cylinder breech. It has the ball & detent rammer lever and 6-shot cylinder with cylinder scene of a hunter shooting at running stag with two downed and on the ground. Cyl has the etched panel “COLT’S PATENT / SPORTING RIFLE” and on the center bar “ENGRAVED BY W.L. ORMSBY N.Y.” 21-inch round bbl with standard octagonal breech. Standard barrel marking with “COLT’S PT/ ADDRESS COL COLT/ 1856/ HARTFORD CT USA”. Dovetailed German front sight with mouse ear rear sight mounted on the top strap of the receiver. Trigger guard has the sporting rifle style “ears” front & back. The sides of receiver, top strap, octagonal transition of bbl, top & bottom tangs, trigger guard, buttplate tang, patchbox mountings, web of the rammer handle & hammer are and beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The serial number was observed on bottom of frame, on bottom tang, and cylinder. Mounted in fancy honey-brown uncheckered walnut has a sculpted steel patchbox on right side and features the “Hartford Stag” engraved on the lid. Plain steel buttplate with elongated top tang, a sneaking fox engraved at the tang base. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 80% of its strong orig silver plating with some thinning at sharp edges and pimpling on backstraps w/ few scattered spots and flakes on frames along with some minor flaking on cyl. Barrel, patchbox and buttplate smooth gray patina, with light pitting. Fading case-hardening on hammer and loading lever. Retains most original varnish with scattered light nicks and mars. Sharp rifling w/areas of pitting, nipples unbattered. 4-53700 JWD101 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 3003
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY WITH FACTORY CARVED PEARL GRIPS WITH TEXAS HISTORY.
SN 161641. 45 Cal. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl with 2-line Hartford address. Full front sight. Left side of frame stamped with 2-line 3-patent dates. Mounted with carved American eagle pearl grips. Factory letter states gun was sold April 5, 1895 to Simmons Hardware in St. Louis, MO but shipped to Matthews & Royalty. Factory letter states correct cal. bbl length, finish and “carved pearl with American eagle” though there is no mention that gun was engraved. Other Simmons Hardware guns often lack this mention though this gun was no doubt engraved contemporaneous to shipping. According to 1963 letter from Brunelle R. Moon a Major in the US Air Force certified that he inherited this gun from his uncle Jack Moon in 1934 and that his uncle had related a story that the gun had come from a gambler who had “hocked” it and never returned as he died a violent death in a card game somewhere in Texas in the early 1900s. Jack Moon retained the revolver and carried it as a side arm when he served as a law enforcement officer in Gatesville, TX. It was used to apprehend several horse thieves and two persons who attempted a train robbery. Brunelle also stated he carried the gun through all of WW2 but, “there was no special glory attached to it as nearly all my duty was stateside”. It is interesting to note the progression of the price of this gun. When this gun left the factory in 1885 its total cost was $25.37. Then early in the 20th century it was pawned for $100.00 and then sold in 1963 to Lewis Yearout from descendent of orig owner. This gun has not been offered since that date over 50 years ago. PROVENANCE: Jack Moon. Brunelle Moon, 1934. Lewis Yearout, 1963. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Bbl and ejector housing retain about 90% orig finish. Frame, trigger guard and backstrap retain about 50% finish. Hammer which is un-engraved matches gun well with 80-90% orig nickel. Cylinder retains traces of orig nickel in flutes and stops. Grips fit gun well. Small chips on right rear toe and left forward toe, two 1/2″ glued chip repairs made to each grip where they meet frame and grip straps as can be seen in photographs. 4-53891 JS20 (7,000-9,000) – Lot 3097
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this item with its ivory is legal to sell and buy provided there is an ESA “Antique Certification” document proving the age. You must purchase an ESA in order to take possession of the ivory. If you wish to acquire the ivory after you purchase this gun, you must hire John Sexton, who is an independent consultant with the appropriate qualifications to prepare ESA certifications accepted by government agencies. John’s address is: 1962 Portage Landing North, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. ESA statements prepared by John Sexton can be acquired for a cost of $1,500.00/each. It is the buyer’s responsibility to make payment to John for the ESA statements. The documents are prepared by John and not by James D. Julia Auctioneers. Once the ESA statement is prepared and provided to Julia’s, you can have the ivory mounts. Be sure to keep a copy of your ESA certificate for your records also.
THIS GUN IS BEING SOLD WITHOUT THE IVORY MOUNTS. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE IVORY AT THE TIME OF YOUR PURCHASE. IF YOU WISH TO ACQUIRE THE IVORY ITEMS, YOU MUST PURCHASE AN ESA “ANTIQUE EXEMPTION” CERTIFICATE. NO EXCEPTIONS!
RARE CASED ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 91918. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dove tailed front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with checkered bottom edges that has last four digits of matching SN in back strap channel. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with several scrolls on the frame terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with geometric patterns around the address. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot. Wedge screw is surrounded by an engraved rosette and one scroll terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized bird’s head while two others on the right side terminate in flower blossoms. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with the back strap inscribed in period script “H.B. Allen”. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on sides of the spur & top edge with a V-shape pattern below the hand-cut checkered panel on the spur. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a brass “COLTS PATENT” flask with angled spout, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36B”, an open packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. A search of the personnel directory of the Civil War disclosed a listing of 473 Union soldiers named “Henry Allen” of which eight were named “Henry B. Allen”. While it is likely that the inscription was to a Union soldier, no determination could be made as to the actual owner. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 30-40% thinning orig blue with the balance flaked to a medium patina; rammer pivot retains faded case colors; frame retains silvered case colors turned a little dark, as does the hammer which has light pitting around the nose; cyl is a cleaned gray metal patina with fine pitting around the rear edge and shows 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard & back strap retain orig silver in sheltered areas with the balance a medium mustard patina. Grip has chipped toes, otherwise is sound and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains 85-90% orig varnish; interior is heavily faded inside the lid with light soil; bottom is moderately to heavily faded with light soil and one partially loose partition; flask has been cleaned and is fine; mold is fine, slightly battered on the bottom; other accessories are fine. 4-51227 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 3035
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 1908 AUTO PISTOL WITH MONTANA HISTORY.
SN 8428. 380 ACP. 3-3/4″ bbl. This is an intriguing gun with Colt factory inscription to “Otto Woge”. This gun has affidavit from grandson where it descended in the family from Judge Jere B. Leslie who was Superior Court Judge in Grand Rapids, MT for 29 years (and son of Territorial Governor Preston Leslie). This gun was given to Judge Leslie by Sheriff Robert “Bob” Gordon who was longtime sheriff of Cascade County. A quick search of court records shows that Sheriff Gordon was often in Judge Leslie’s court. How the sheriff obtained this gun might make an interesting research project. Otto Woge is found in North Dakota obit 1874-1958 and it would be interesting to find out how this custom factory Colt got from Mr. Woge to Sheriff Gordon to be later given to Judge Leslie. Regardless this is a wonderful first year production factory engraved gun with Colt pearl grips though not specifically mentioned in factory letter are undoubtedly orig. This gun conforms to other Colt model “M” hammerless 38 auto pistols with a 7-shot magazine marked “CALIBRE 380”. Slide is marked with 2-patent dates and address on left side slide and right side slide reads, “AUTOMATIC COLT” above “CALIBRE 380 HAMMERLESS”. Accompanying factory letter states 380 Cal. finish and stocks not listed, factory engraved “on the grip safety Otto Woge”, shipped to Woge Brothers address not available on March 19, 1912 in a 1-gun shipment. Gun is pictured on p. 343 of Colt Engraving by R.L. Wilson though photo states ivory grips which is a typo because grips are obviously pearl. PROVENANCE: Otto Woge 1912. Sheriff Robert Gordon, Cascade County, MT. Judge Jere B. Leslie, Great Falls, MT. Mrs. Charles R. Lowery 1925. Robert Lowery. Lewis Yearout 1973. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Gun retains about 95% of its orig bright blue finish with losses mostly at muzzle where there is some filing and repair at face of bottom of slide around recoil spring guide and tool marks are seen at end of flared bbl when slide is retracted. Rampant Colt logo at rear of slide is light where originally polished before engraving and there are numerous small scratches on left side of slide as can be seen in photograph. Mechanics are fine and bbl exhibits crisp, well defined rifling. 4-53887 JS69 (6,000-8,000) – Lot 3159
EXTREMELY RARE ORIGINAL COLT TRIPLE REVOLVER CASING.
Rare burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing for three Colt revolvers which include an 1851 Navy, an 1849 pocket revolver with 4″ bbl and a compartment in the right front for a Model 1855 Root revolver. Other compartments are for flasks and molds, cap tins and bullets. Outside corners of the case are rounded and it has a brass shield in the lid engraved with the intertwined initials “ET”. It also has a small shield shaped lock escutcheon on the front. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Lid has a repaired crack above the hinge and a long grain check toward the front with another couple in the bottom and overall retains about 90% orig varnish with nicks, scratches and dings. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid, a little more heavily faded in the bottom with moderate soil. A very rare casing seldom ever offered on the open market. 4-54295 JR285 (6,000-10,000) – Lot 3059
SCARCE CASE ENGRAVED 3RD MODEL HARTFORD ENGLISH DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 57. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, that has German silver front sight and 1-line New-York City address with dashes. Left side of frame is engraved “Colt’s Patent” in a small ribbon. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Frame, bbl lug, backstrap & buttstrap are beautifully engraved with light foliate & floral English style engraving. Rammer pivot and sides of the hammer are engraved to match. Accompanied by an orig mahogany, blue velvet lined English casing with empty rnd medallion in the lid and swinging latches on the front. Front of the case is installed with a dummy brass lock. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a Sykes patent bag-shaped flask with adjustable spout, a blued two cavity Colt’s Patent mold with sprue cutter, marked on the right side “44H” and a small “T” inspector mark. Also accompanied by a small tin of Joyce caps and a pewter & crystal oiler. Also included is an L-shaped nipple wrench. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there are a total of only about 700 of these revolvers manufactured in the period 1853-1857, with only a few engraved. In 1860 Colt returned 200 Hardford-English dragoon revolvers to the U.S. to supply the demand of the looming U.S. Civil War and by 1861 were all sold. While a higher percentage of English dragoons than those made for the American market were cased & engraved, they are still a very rare commodity and seldom encountered today. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching. Bbl retains 25-30% glossy English blue with the balance a mottled silver/brown patina; rammer, rammer pivot & handle retain smoky case colors, stronger and brighter on the left side; frame retains 30-35% faded case colors, mostly turned silver; cyl retains 30-40% thin orig blue and shows 60-70% Dragoon-Indian fight scene roll marking; hammer retains strong case colors turned silver on top edge; trigger guard retains about 80-85% strong orig silver and the backstrap about 50%. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains traces of orig finish, being mostly a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong sharp bore with fine pitting. Case is sound with handling & use nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the top lining and moderately faded in the bottom with moderate to heavy soiling; flask has a couple small dents on one side otherwise is sound and retain about 65% orig finish; mold is extremely fine and retains most of its orig blue; other accessories are fine. 4-53591 JR133 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 3008
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 41 CALIBER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH PEARL GRIPS.
SN 146148. 41 Cal. Silver finish with 5-1/2″ bbl with sgl line Hartford address and Cal. markings on left side of bbl. Front sight ground slightly as can be seen in photos. Left side of frame stamped with 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt motif. Mounted with factory pearl grips. Factory letter states gun was sold June 15, 1892 to J.P. Lovell Arms, Boston, MA and shipped to A. L. Chester Co. Factory letter states 41 Cal. 5-1/2″ bbl length, silver finish, factory engraved and pearl grips. Gun appears all orig and unaltered, fully functional and crisp with strong traces of orig silver finish in protected areas. Gun is engraved in a style most often attributed to Cuno Helfricht with large coverage of foliate scrolls with punch dot backgrounds and characteristic fan on recoil shields and top of backstrap. This gun was purchased by Lewis Yearout in 1966 from Jerry Marsh of Kalispell, MO. This gun has not been offered on market in 48 years. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Functionally sound. Engraving and other markings are crisp and well defined with good edges. Silver plating is present on maybe 5% of gun especially on protected areas of bbl, ejector housing, trigger guard, backstrap and frame. No real finish can be seen on cylinder thought its gray/silver color is consistent with overall color of gun. Front sight has been ground slightly and slenderized near top and a small copper inset has been meticulously fitted near its rear as can be seen in photos. Ejector latch is bent about 10 degrees but still functions. Pearl grips are very well fit with minor discoloration where abutting backstrap. 4-53880 JS21 (7,000-9,000) – Lot 3102
SCARCE DOCUMENTED ENGRAVED COLT THIRD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 29720. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl is usual six chambers and Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking. The small round silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a checkered 1-pc walnut grip with last 4-digits of matching serial number in backstrap chamber. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. One scroll terminates in a flower blossom on the left recoil shield and another on the right side terminates in his signature dog’s head. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug, top side flats & rammer pivot. One scroll on each side terminates in a flower blossom and another on the left side in his trademark dog’s head. Ends of wedge are engraved by another hand. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, wolf’s head on each side of nose and fishscale patterns on sides of spur & top edge. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Screws are engraved, with a sunburst pattern around the buttstrap screw. Accompanied by a beautifully matted and framed handwritten list titled “Engraved Pistols / No 2”. This revolver is listed by serial number under the heading “Navys”. There are a total of 76 handguns listed of which 24 were Navy models and 52 were “Small”. Mr. Young apparently charged for 8 days of work to engrave these revolvers and is dated “3rd June 1854” over the initials “R.L.P.” Bottom of the frame has a signature of Gustave Young and the same date. This revolver was produced in about 1853 during the period of the Great Western Expansion when any firearm was in great demand and sidearms were a daily use tool exposed continuously to harsh climate, usually with little or no maintenance. They remained in service throughout the Civil War under similar circumstances and back on the Frontier well into the 1870’s before being supplanted by the advent of cartridge firearms. The silver plating is somewhat soft and those revolvers so finished are rarely ever found with any orig finish remaining. The checkered grip is also a great rarity. These revolvers were highly sought after by citizens of all walks of life and are known to have been used by such notables as Wild Bill Hickock, W.F. (Buffalo Bill) Cody, and many others on both sides of the law. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “709” and has had its ends engraved by another hand. Overall retains about 93-95% strong, very old restored silver finish with some fine pitting on the cyl. Cyl shows about 70% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking with the Ormsby signature about half visible. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 60% silver with loss areas a dark mustard patina. Grip is sound, showing moderate diamond point wear, and retains most of a fine restored finish. This restoration is not recent but likely around the period of use. The polishing was very careful and is only noticeable on close examination. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-47884 JR229 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3037
James D. Julia Auctioneers complies with all federal laws and regulations (Please review our Ivory Position Statement): The elephant ivory mounts on this item were in the country long before the January 8th, 1990’s CITE appendix. As per the President’s Executive Order of February 2014, this gun accompanied by an appropriate ESA Antique Certificate, it is legal to sell and buy.
THIS GUN WILL BE SOLD WITH ITS IVORY AND A CERTIFICATE TESTIFYING THE IVORY IS PRE-BAN AND THAT THE IVORY IS ORIGINAL TO THE GUN.
*EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT PRE-WAR GOVERNMENT MODEL 38 SUPER MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN 17109. Cal. 38 Super. Blue finish with 5″ bbl, standard thick fixed front sight and Stevens adjustable rear sight. Left side of slide has standard markings with last patent date 1913. Right side of slide is marked “MATCH / COLT SUPER .38 / AUTOMATIC” along with the Rampant Colt. SN is in usual place on right side of frame. Trigger is checkered as are the slide stop, thumb safety and arched spring housing. It has its orig long spur grip safety and short wide hammer spur. Hammer appears to be nickel finished, which has been previously observed on other factory automatics. This pistol is elaborately engraved from the factory, probably by Wilbur Glahn with about 70-75% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Mounted with factory smooth ivory grips and accompanied by one orig two-tone magazine with marked baseplate. Also accompanied by its orig hinged-lid, burgundy cardboard box with black and white end labels and a black and white over-label marked “ENGRAVED” and another tiny red and white over-label marked “IVORY”. Interior has a yellow and black over-label inside the lid “INSTRUCTION FOR ADJUSTING STEVENS REAR SIGHT”. Also included in the box is the orig gold and white with black lettering hang tag. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter which identifies this pistol in cal 38 Super with 5″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks, and factory engraved, shipped to The Colt Company at the Camp Perry National Matches, Camp Perry, Ohio on August 26, 1935 in a one gun shipment to order #14359/2. Super 38 pistols in match configuration are very rare to begin with and engraved ones are extraordinarily rare. This may be a once in a lifetime chance to own such a pistol. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching, as new. Retaining virtually all of its crisp orig finish. May have been fired but if so very little. Grips are crisp, as are the mechanics. Bright shiny bore. Box has a compression fracture and repair in the top left front corner, shows edge wear with some minor burgundy paper losses. Interior is yellowed and lightly soiled. 4-51439 JR179 (40,000-60,000) – Lot 3160
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED KLAY-COLT 2ND GENERATION MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 24960. Cal. 36. Spectacular 2nd Generation 3rd Model Navy stocked & finished by Frank Klay of Rockland, Mass. This is one of 150 cased sets that he produced in the early 1990s on special order only. This revolver is blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address with “COLTS PATENT” on left side of the frame engraved in a ribbon. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a spectacular flame grain, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip, matching numbered to this revolver. This revolver was engraved by former Colt Master Engraver and restoration specialist, Dan Cullity, for Mr. Klay. Engraving consists of full coverage donut-style patterns with fine shaded background on the frame. Engraving extends over the bbl lug, onto the rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Hammer is deluxe engraved with matching patterns on the sides of the shank and spur with a wolfs head on each side of the nose. Left side of bbl lug has a small oval vignette of a fouled anchor. Backstrap is engraved “R.J. MESSER”. Accompanied by its orig Colt-style, burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing, compartmented in orig style configuration in the bottom for the revolver, an outstanding reproduction dbl-sided, silver plated, eagle & stars flask with angle spout, a silver plated brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a silver plated L-shaped nipple wrench and a reproduction lacquered Eley Bros. cap tin with caps. Also in the case are cast lead bullets & balls and the orig functioning key. Top of case has a rectangular brass plate with matching engraving patterns and engraved with the initials “R.J.M.” Also accompanied by a reproduction pamphlet advertising “COLT’S PATENT REPEATING PISTOLS” along with loading and cleaning instructions. These revolvers were sold on special order only with the purchaser being able to have his own name engraved on the backstrap and initials in a brass plate on the lid of the case. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all visible numbers matching, new & unfired. Blue & case colors are in orig Colt style with bright blue and brilliant colors. Case is exceptional also and retains virtually all of its orig varnish with bright, clean orig lining; accessories are also equally new. 4-54298 JR286 (4,500-7,500) – Lot 3062
ENGRAVED LATE 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CASE AND ACCESSORIES INSCRIBED TO A CIVIL WAR OFFICER.
SN 18927. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line right hand New York City address. Top flat of bbl, at the breech end is fitted with a 3-leaf folding sight graduated to 200 yds. Frame has “COLTS PATENT” on the left side. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with extended stock screws and flat head hammer screw. The silver plated brass trigger guard and iron backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip that is probably an old replacement, created from two slabs of walnut attached to a center spacer. Bottom right edge of grip is stamped “LT. L. STILLWELL” and left side is stamped “61ST. ILL. VOL. INF.” which translates to Lieutenant L. Stillwell of the 61st Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Revolver is engraved in doughnut scroll style with full coverage, large foliate arabesque scrolls on the frame, sides of the bbl lug and rammer pivot. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved to match. Edges of trigger plate are engraved in feather patterns with foliate arabesque patterns and an American shield on the trigger bow. Cyl has a complete band of matching engraving over the area what would normally be the Dragoon Indian Fight scene roll marking. Accompanied by a reworked oak silverware case with brass plaque in the lid engraved “Lieutenant / Leander / Stillwell”. Interior of the lid is blue felt lined and the bottom is lined with black felt with blue trim, recessed for the revolver, a bow-legged steel “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a reproduction Peace Flask for Mississippi rifles, a small cap tin and a functioning key. In a front compartment is a small pewter fob embossed with a bulldog and stamped on 4-lines “LEANDER STILLWELL 219 W. 2ND ERIE. KAN”. Embossed around the top hole is “Please return to”. Accompanying this lot is a large packet of information which shows that Leander Stillwell enlisted as a private in Company D, 61st Illinois Infantry on Jan. 7, 1862 at Carrollton, IL and was promoted through the ranks to 1st Sergeant, then to 2nd Lt. and was mustered out with his unit Sept. 8, 1865 as a 1st Lt. The 61st Illinois had a fine service record having fought in numerous battles from early 1862 right until Dec. 1864. They remained in Arkansas & Tennessee, seeing no more action until they were mustered out. Lt. Stillwell apparently became a judge in Erie, KS where he died Aug. 1934. CONDITION: Good to very good. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth cleaned grey metal patina. Cyl is matching patina; trigger guard retains about 60% orig silver with the backstrap being a matching grey metal patina. Grip is sound with nicks & dings and retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine; worn dark bore. Case is sound and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly soiled; accessories are fine. 4-51229 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 3009
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 48136. 45 Cal. Nickel plated sgl action with 7-1/2″ bbl with sgl line Hartford address. Left side of frame has 3-line, 3-patent dates and is mounted with smooth pearl grips. Left side of rear web of trigger bow is marked “45CAL”. Gun is all matching with last 4-digits of SN found on bbl. Cylinder has two assembly letters “C” and “P”, bbl has assembly letter “C”. Pistol is factory engraved by Eugene Young in his minimalist style without background similar to those Single Action Revolvers he engraved for the 1876 World Expo. It has foliate scrolls and shells on bbl. and matching series of circles with dots decorate the mating area of cylinder and recoil shields. Accompanying factory letter states the gun is in the configuration described here; factory engraved, nickel, pearl grips, shipped June 25, 1878 to Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, OH. This gun appears orig and authentic throughout from its time of use including orig pearl grips. PROVENANCE: Butch Hestekin, Vaughn, MT 1988. Lewis Yearout, 1989. Estate Collection of Lewis & Leyton Yearout. CONDITION: Fine overall. All matching numbers. Bbl retains about 70% orig nickel with muzzle wear and largest loss of nickel in area of left side of muzzle, consistent with its use. Ejector housing retains 50%, frame retains about 10% especially in protected areas and top strap. Cylinder retains traces of orig nickel in stops and flutes. Trigger guard retains traces of orig nickel in protected areas and backstrap retains about 20% especially on buttstrap. Pearl grips are well fit with minor small chips on left side at frame. German silver front sight appears replaced contemporarily and has lower profile and thicker blade than produced at Colt. Mechanically gun functions well. Bore has well defined rifling that is overall lightly pitted. 4-53879 JS19 (7,000-9,000) – Lot 3103
Please note: A gun historian has contacted us noting that guns with these markings and in this serial number range were distributed to the Rhode Island Militia prior to the Civil War, so this presents two trains of thought regarding thie inscription. We sell these guns with the understanding that it could be either.
RARE DOUBLE CASED BRACE OF COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS INSCRIBED TO A CONFEDERATE GENERAL.
SN 44250/44871. Cal 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, brass pin front sights and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frames have a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cylinders are usual 6 chambers, unfluted with Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking. The large guard iron trigger guards and backstraps contain 1-pc walnut grip with number 44871 having last 3-digits of matching SN visible in backstrap channel. Grip on number 44250 is without a number. Backstrap of number 44871 is engraved in period block letters, “MAJOR 8TH REGT.”. Backstrap of number 44250 has had an inscription obliterated during the period of use and the buttstrap cleaned, almost completely obliterating the SN. Accompanied by a fantastic, orig, brown velvet lined rosewood Colt casing with brass plaque in the lid inscribed identical to the backstrap of number 44871. Interior is compartmented for the two revolvers an angle spout, double sided panoply of arms & flags, eagle & stars flask, a blued “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36B”, an L-shaped nipple wrench, two lacquered cap tins, one with label, one without and a packet of 5 combustible cartridges. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson these revolvers were produced in 1855 in a serial range that indicates that they were in the 3rd model series but have the 4th model style large iron trigger guards. It is likely that these revolvers were part of an order from the US Government for 16,962 model 1851 revolvers delivered between May 2, 1855 and November 3, 1859. Accompanying this lot is a large volume of research material relating to James Patrick Major (1836-1877). Major entered West Point in July 1852 and graduated 23rd in the class of 1856. He was brevetted 2nd Lt. in the 1st US Cavalry and served a year at Carlisle Barracks, PA before being promoted to 2nd Lt. in Co. K of the 2nd US Cavalry and sent to duty on the Texas frontier. He was engaged in fighting the Comanche and in 1858 was cited for conspicuous gallantry at the Battle of Wichita Village. In March 1861 he resigned from the US Army and enlisted in the Confederate Army as a Lt. Col. of the Missouri State Guard. He fought in several battles throughout the trans-Mississippi theatre and was promoted to Brigadier General in July 1863. He commanded the defense at Galveston and played a key role in the Red River Campaign of 1864. By the end of the war he had been promoted to Major General. After the war he was paroled in Louisiana and in 1865 went to France then returned to Louisiana and died while on business in Austin, TX May, 1877. During most of the Civil War Major commanded cavalry regiments to good effect. CONDITION: Number 44871. Fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains a mixed blue/brown patina with light scattered pin prick pitting. Flaked areas are a dark patina. Frame retains most of a restored finish which nearly obliterated “COLTS PATENT” on the left side. Trigger guard and backstrap are also a smooth, dark patina. Cyl is matching patina with areas of rust on opposite sides and shows 50-60% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking. Grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear with a few nicks and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. Number 44250. All matching except grip, as noted. Buttstrap number is nearly obliterated along with what was probably an inscription and now only a “3” is visible. Backstrap inscription has been obliterated. Bbl retains a plummy, brown patina with scattered, light surface rust. Rammer handle has a blued finish turning plum. Frame also has a blued finish turning plum/brown with a nearly obliterated “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is a gray/brown metal patina with scattered spots of surface rust and shows about 75% Ormsby Navel Battle Scene roll marking and has 5 of the 6 safety pins serviceable. Trigger guard and backstrap are a gray metal patina. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy edge wear and retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine. Bright, shiny bore. Case has a crack and several small grain checks in the top & in the bottom and overall retains most of a an old restored finish. Interior is lightly faded with moderate to heavy soil from contact with the revolvers and implements. Flask has one small dent near the collar and shows a dark, brass patina. Mold is heavily battered on both sides and retains about 50% orig blue. Other accessories are fine. 4-54297 JR291 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 3038
*PRESENTATION COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL FROM SAVAGE ARMS PRESIDENT A.C.BORIE IN 1917.
SN C88494. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ military bbl and orig fixed sights. Lower left side of bbl is marked “COLT 45 AUTO” & has a small “P” proof on left side of lug with a “G” proof on bottom of bbl. Slide and frame have usual markings. Pistol is mounted with diamond checkered walnut grips and accompanied by one 2-tone, lanyard loop, orig military magazine. Also accompanied by a private purchase brown leather swivel holster. Holster has a short drop with brass flap closure stud and is missing the leg strap. Right side of slide is engraved in very fine script “Arthur T. Rush Q.M.C.N.A. / From A.E. Borie / Aug. 1917.” This is a rather important presentation by a man directly involved in the role of the Lewis machine gun to the U.S. Military. Mr. Borie was at that time, and in the preceding years the head of Savage Arms Corp. and for several years had been working on developing the Lewis machine gun to accommodate U.S. Military ammunition. Finally after substantial testing and intense demand of the military for machine guns at the beginning of WWI, Savage was awarded large contracts to manufacture these guns. Mr. Rush was a member of the U.S. Army Quartermasters Corps but we have yet to learn his involvement, if any, with the Lewis gun contracts. However, Rush was Mr. Borie’s son-in-law. Consignor is a direct descendent of Mr. Rush with middle name of “Borie”. Colt records indicate 1917 shipment to Schoverling, Daly & Gales in NYC. Accompanied by a late period 1860 pattern Staff & Field Officer’s sword and scabbard bearing the initials “A.T.R” and marked with the Francis Bannerman, New York logo, which consignor states as belonging to Capt. Arthur Temple Rush. CONDITION: Very fine. Slide retains about 90% strong orig blue with muzzle end and sharp edge wear. Frame retains 90-92% strong orig blue with holster wear on bottom front and sharp edge wear. Front strap is lightly freckled over strong blue. Spring housing is a plummy/brown patina with light surface rust. Grips are sound showing light diamond point wear with wear on bottom right edge. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore, shows very little use. Magazine retains about 97-98% orig finish. Holster is flexed on flap and toe showing moderate wear and soil with a compression bulge near top front and overall retains about 75% orig brown finish. Sword and scabbard are fine. 4-53683 JR279 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 3163
This florally tooled buck stitched gun rig is signed on holster “HEISER DENVER” with part number “724”. Extra wide 3-1/2″ tooled belt contains a single row of 37 rawhide reinforced 45 cal bullet loops. Belt and holster are fully tooled and large silver plated 2-1/2″ square buckle is fully engraved with flowing geometric design. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Holster is sound and solid retaining most of its orig brown color with storage scuffs and scratches; gun strap is intact with a Hieser logo-ed snap button; male portion of snap attached to holster is broken off. Belt is decorated with similar full coverage with crazing and cracking; internal leather veneer is mostly intact with worn and torn areas; tongue has wear and scuffing but is still supple and complete. Belt is unsigned. 4-50776 JS203 (2,000-3,000) – Lot 1322
Please Note: the cylinder Serial Number is “3883”. The revolver Serial Number is “163833”. Obviously an assembly mistake. Cylinder is original to revolver.
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 163833. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Rare dovetail front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. “PATENT” on the frame is a very light strike. The brass trigger guard and back strap contain a replacement 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. Revolver is engraved in late vine style probably by Gustave Young. Three of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms which is one of Young’s trademarks. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Matching engraving patterns extend over the bbl lug, top side flats and around the address on the top flat with additional matching patterns on the rammer pivot. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. All the visible serial numbers on bottom of the revolver are accompanied by a small punch mark which indicates that this revolver was to receive extra polishing for engraving. Trigger screw and lock bolt screw appear to have been changed, an easily rectifiable situation. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 80-85% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a dark patina with some fine pitting. Rammer handle & pivot retain bright case colors with pitting on the handle. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig case colors turning a little dark. Cylinder retains about 50% orig blue with a large area of fine pitting. Trigger guard & backstrap are a medium brass patina. Grip has a few age lines, shows light wear and retains a golden ivory patina. Timing needs attention otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with 2 or 3 small spots of pitting. 4-51178 JR115 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2092
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER INSCRIBED “BVT. MAJ. / EDWARD S. CONVERS / OHIO VOLS. AUGUST. 26, 1865”.
SN 197746. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved address “Saml Colt”. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a very highly figured, deluxe, flame grain 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in back strap channel. Back strap is engraved in period script “Bvt. Maj. / Edward S. Convers / Ohio Vols. Aug. 26, 1865”. Cylinder is 6-shots with all six safety pins crisp & original. Revolver is extra deluxe engraved by renowned engraver, Gustave Young, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields. One of the scrolls on left side incorporates Mr. Young’s mythical bird’s head and another on the left recoil shield and right side terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats with one of the scrolls terminating in Mr. Young’s mythical dog’s head and another of his birds on the right side. Bbl has extensive patterns around the muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and the rammer handle is deluxe checkered, a feature found on only the most elaborate of Mr. Young’s engraved guns. All the screw heads are engraved. Each side of the hammer nose is engraved in a wolf’s head with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on top edge and sides of the spur. Tip of the spur is hand checkered. Cylinder is engraved in matching foliate arabesque scrolls on the rear 1/3 with borders around the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, at the butt strap and trigger guard. Accompanied by a rare burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with empty brass plate in the top and brass sliding latches on the front along with a mortised brass lock. Bottom of the interior is French fitted with dark edged velvet for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a blued “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “31 PKT”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a functioning key. Right rear corner has a covered compartment with ivory pull containing lead bullets & balls. Front center rectangular covered compartment is missing its pull. Edward Stanley Convers enlisted as a 20-year old 1st Lieutenant on Oct. 5, 1861 and was commissioned 1st Lieutenant into the field & staff of the Ohio 62nd Infantry. He was discharged for promotion on July 16, 1862 and the same day commissioned into the U.S. Volunteers Commissary Dept. and was mustered out on Oct. 9, 1865. He was promoted to Captain July 16, 1862 and Brevet Major Aug. 20, 1865, just six days before the presentation of this revolver and just a few days before he was mustered out. PROVENANCE: Robert H. Haskell, III Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 96-98% crisp orig blue with faint sharp edge wear, a small scratch down the left side flat and a couple of small chemical spots; rammer handle & pivot retain strong case colors; frame retains case colors in sheltered areas, mostly having turned silver, as has the hammer; trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver; cyl retains 95-96% strong orig blue with 99% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip is crisp with a few tiny handling nicks and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, pitted in the grooves. Case is sound with light storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded and moderately soiled in the bottom with a couple of stains inside the lid; flask retains about 75% orig finish with most of the losses on the back side; mold retains about 50% orig blue having flaked to a medium patina; nipple wrench is fine. 4-50183 JR108 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2214
VERY RARE 1ST MODEL DELUXE WINCHESTER 1894 LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 4176. Cal. 38-55. Rare 1st model ’94 in very rare deluxe configuration with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, button magazine Sheared front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. Receiver has the exposed guide screw heads found only on the very early ’94s. These screws retaining the cartridge guides were attached toward the rear end of the guide that proved to be not very effective which allowed the guides to loosen. After a short production run the guide screws were inserted internally at about midpoint on the guide rails which system remains in production today nearly 120 years later. Left side of receiver is factory engraved with the intertwined initials “AJS” in Old English style. Mounted with 2-3X center crotch, flame grain American walnut with H-style checkered forearm and capped pistol grip buttstock that has Winchester hard rubber buttplate. Left side of lower tang, under the wood is marked with the assembly number “1820”, “XX” and “RB”. Matching assembly is also found in top tang channel of buttstock. Left side of upper & lower tangs, under the wood are also stamped “R.F. ENEWOLD” in tiny letters and again in larger letters on rear face of buttstock under the wood. Accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum letter and a Cody Firearms Museum records office worksheet which identifies this rifle in caliber 38-55 with 24″ oct bbl, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, stock 1″ short, 1/2 magazine, shotgun butt with rubber buttplate and engraved “AJS” on frame, received in warehouse April 8, 1895 and shipped the next day to order #9338. These early ’94s are rarely found with high orig finish. They were the first Winchesters chambered for the “new” higher velocity cartridges in a handy, lightweight rifle. They saw immediate acceptance from the buying public and have been employed as hunting & self defense arms ever since. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, R.F. Enewold was Robert F. Enewold of Reno, NV who was known to have regularly stamped firearms that passed through his shop with his name. A picture in the referenced publication on page 141 shows an identical stamping tothe one on this rifle. A Google search disclosed reports of several other firearms bearing the identical stamps. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 95% orig blue with sharp edge wear, a few small nicks & slight dulling. Receiver retains 65-70% orig blue with candy striping on the sides and thinning over the top & bottom. Hammer retains bright case colors and the lever bright case colors in sheltered areas. Wood is sound with usual nicks & scratches, a few light bruises in the checkering & overall retains about 95% orig varnish. Buttplate has a couple small chips in the toe not affecting the wood. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 4-50558 JR45 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1070
*BRACE OF SMITH & WESSON 44 HAND EJECTOR 3RD MODEL DA REVOLVERS THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS TEXAS SHERIFF JESS SWEETEN.
SN 41281 & 41258. Cal. 44 Special. Revolvers are nickel finish with 3-1/4″ bbls, relocated half moon front sights and fixed sight in top straps. Both revolvers are mounted with 2-pc stag grips. Both revolvers are marked on left side of front strap with tiny numbers “7 53”. This signifies that these revolvers were factory refinished in Jul. 1953. Revolver #41258 has bbl marked with serial number “4358”, apparently installed by the factory before restoration. Both revolvers are engraved on the right side plate “JESS SWEETEN”. These revolvers were the property of very famous Henderson County, Texas sheriff, Jess Sweeten. Jess Sweeten became constable of Trinidad, TX in 1929. Trinidad, at that time was a real rough and tumble town and Constable Sweeten cleaned it up in short order. Mr.Sweeten was elected Henderson County Sheriff at age 24 in Nov. 1932, a job he held until 1954. Sheriff Sweeten, by all accounts was an outstanding lawman and criminal investigator. He was also Texas state pistol champion. He solved numerous high level robbery & murder cases including the kidnapping of a used car salesman and theft of an automobile in Jul. 1943 which resulted in a 25 mile, high speed chase reaching speeds of 90mph through Athens, TX with the convicted murderer Gerald Johnson shooting at him all the way. Sheriff Sweeten was shooting back with two Colt 45 Automatics and two “44 snub-nosed specials”. He emptied both Colts and both revolvers with no effect, reloading one of the revolvers several times one handed while chasing Johnson, until he was down to his last cartridge. Sheriff Sweeten was able to force Johnson’s car off the road, which flipped over in a huge cloud of dust. He stopped and approached the wrecked car, which he could not see through the dust, and observed a figure coming toward him through the dust, which he correctly assumed to be Johnson. He took careful aim and fired his last bullet, but Johnson kept coming for about another 30 steps and fell dead, shot through the heart. Sweeten states that the revolver he killed Johnson with, was SN 41258. He noted that the end of the bbl is scratched and cut from where he used it to break out a hole in his windshield during the chase large enough to shoot through. Sheriff Sweeten’s law enforcement life & exploits are commemorated in two books: 1). Jess Sweeten Texas Lawman, Lindquist published in 1961 and 2). A Trail is Never Cold, The Life and Times of Sheriff Jess Sweeten, Melton published in 1995. Both books devote an entire chapter to the Gerald Johnson shooting. Three copies of book #1 (two of which are autographed) and one copy of book #2 accompany this lot. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are virtually identical condition with bbls having been reduced, as noted, and both factory refinished as noted. They retain virtually all of this factory restored finish showing heavy wear prior to the restoration. Grips are all sound. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bores. 4-50662, 4-50663 JR489 (5,000-8,000) – Lot 1407
RARE DELUXE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 180011. Cal. 44. Silver & gold finish with 8″ bbl, German silver front sight and New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. The silver plated brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain what is probably, its orig 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Gustave Young shop with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the sides of the bbl with geometric patterns on top of the bbl and star bursts around the front sight. Top of the back strap has a fine spider web panel with geometric patterns on the back strap. Cyl is rebated with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins are crisp. Shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved with the left side engraved over “44 CAL”. Right shoulder is over-stamped “W.Y. DE G.” which stands for “Wexell & DeGress”, major Colt distributors & dealers in New York and primarily in Mexico City. Accompanied by an extraordinary, brass bound, mahogany casing with empty brass plate in the lid, four narrow brass bands across the top and sliding brass latches on the front. It also has a mortised brass lock. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom in modified English style for the revolver, a scarce dbl sided, “COLTS PATENT” trophy of flags & arms angle spout flask, a silver plated “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter that has a large “C” on the right side, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a full sealed packet of six combustible cartridges, an empty packet of the same type cartridges, a tin of Eley’s caps and an all-steel cleaning rod. Undoubtedly this revolver was created for presentation to a high ranking Mexican government official or military officer. PROVENANCE: Dick Young; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge & cylinder, grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains 60-70% orig silver with the losses showing rust, not wear; rammer & handle retain about 75% orig gold wash and the cyl about the same; hammer shows about 50% gold wash; frame retains most of its orig silver finish, turned dark; trigger guard retains 60-70% orig silver, worn to gray metal on the front strap; back strap & butt strap retain orig silver in sheltered areas with the body of the back strap gray metal patina. Grip has a number of age lines and some rust spotting which corresponds to rust on the back strap and overall retains a wonderful golden ivory patina showing moderate wear on the eagle. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. Case has a couple of repaired cracks in the lid with some grain checks in the bottom and retains about all of a restored finish; interior is moderately faded showing light wear in a few spots; flask, probably not orig to this box, is a copper & brass patina; mold retains virtually all of its orig silver finish with some fine pitting on the edge of the sprue cutter and left side, appears to be unused; cartridge packets are fine as are the other accessories. 4-49646 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 2154
RARE MEXICAN NATIONAL RAILROAD MARKED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 174271. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marked on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” under base pin. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with a very deep, raised carved Mexican eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved: “Yes – Mexican National RR on backstrap”, shipped to Mexican National Railroad, c/o J.M. Nixon, address unavailable, on Nov. 23, 1897 in a 3-gun shipment. Non-standard markings such as this on Single Actions are quite rare and when encountered are usually not factory applied. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 40-50% orig blue in sheltered areas, mostly around front sight and ejector housing with the balance a blue/gray patina; frame retains strong case colors in bottom front gullets with traces of silvered case colors, being mostly a gray metal patina; hammer retains traces of faded case colors; trigger guard & back strap are mostly a gray metal patina; cylinder retains strong blue in the flutes with the outer diameter a blue/gray patina. Grips have a chipped right heel and another chip on the right side at the frame with part of the snake missing above the eagle’s head, otherwise grips are sound showing great fire with strong colors on left side. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; bore has a small pit, possibly a small ring near the muzzle. 4-50710 JR83 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1214
RARE ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SMALL BORE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 45678. Cal. 22. Standard model with sloping hammer spur nickel finish with 2-3/8″ bbl, tiny front sight and 2-line Hartford address. Frame is open top style with “22 CAL” on left side below the cyl. Mounted with 2-pc birdhead smooth pearl grips that are matching numbered to this revolver. Cyl has 7 chambers with last 2 digits of matching SN on rear face. Although this little revolver was produced in large numbers very few were engraved and of those extremely few remain today with any orig finish. They were extremely popular with ladies & gentlemen who required a small, easily concealable short range revolver. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including bbl, cyl & grips. Overall retains 99% plus orig nickel, appears to be unfired. Crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. (WG-036) 4-51078 JR366 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 2047
SN 24. Cal. .32RF. Scarce Belgian copy of a belt model Paterson with 5-1/8″ oct bbl, pinched post front sight, folding trigger & smooth 2-pc homemade walnut grips. Frame & backstrap, along with bbl lug are lightly engraved. Cylinder is quite unusual in that it appears to be a fluted cylinder inserted into steel tube with stop notches on outer diameter. Accompanied by a black velvet-lined homemade walnut case. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains being an overall blue-gray patina with light pitting on bbl & bbl lug. Cylinder is matching patina. Mechanics are weak and may need adjustment. Grips are crude & poorly finished. Case is fine. 4-49642 (2,000-4,000) – Lot 2165
VERY NICELY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 133167. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with bbl trimmed to 5-3/8″, full front sight and 1-line Hartford/Pall Mall London address. Left side of bbl is marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a large raised carved Mexican eagle on the right side and intertwined script initials that appear to be “EGC” on the left side. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Cuno Helfricht with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the frame with large fan patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap, ejector housing gullet and outer radius are engraved in snake & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length on both sides of the bbl with fine border patterns around the address and side around “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Top of the backstrap is engraved with a very fine fan pattern with geometric patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is typically Helfricht engraved with alternating patterns on lands between flutes with a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. CONDITION: Very good, overall retains about 96-98% restored nickel finish with fine pitting around the forcing cone area. Backstrap & buttstrap show heavy wear; right grip has a chipped toe and left grip has chips on the snake, eagle’s breast and eagle’s right wing, otherwise they are sound, showing great fire. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-51570 JR462 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 1336
Please Note: There is a typographical error in the title. It reads “Navy Arms” which is INCORRECT. It should read “Colt Model 1851 Navy-Army…”
SPECTACULAR COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY ARMS PERCUSSION REVOLVER ENGRAVED “H.Y. EVANS 1861, “F.J.P.C.C.”.
SN 104910. Cal 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. The unplated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain an oil finished 1-pc walnut grip with last 4-digits of matching serial number in backstrap channel. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins crisp & prominent. Backstrap is very nicely amateur inscribed “H Y Evans 1861” and the buttstrap “F J P C C”. Finish on this revolver is military style with satin blues & not so bright case colors with the unplated grip frame & oil finish grip. This was an expedient by Colt to fill government contracts. A search of the American Civil War Research Database disclosed 227 individuals named Evans with first initial “H” and about half that many Confederates. None, however showed a middle initial “Y”. Regardless this is a scarce, very high condition military revolver that apparently was issued during the Civil War. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Bbl retains 96-97% crisp orig satin blue with the only loss areas faint sharp edge wear and an area of surface rust with fine pitting on the right side toward the muzzle. Rammer & handle retain bright case colors. Frame & hammer also retain brilliant case colors, lightly faded on left recoil shield with a small area of wear at the highest point. Hammer retains brilliant case colors on the sides, faded on top edge. Cylinder is a dull blue/brown patina and shows about 97-98% Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking with one small area of fine pitting. Grip frame is a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound with sharp edges and retains about 99% of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, billiant shiny bore. May have been fired, but if so, very little. Chambers of the cylinder & bore retain most of the orig blue. 4-51141 JR134 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2094
FINE ENGRAVED ENCASED COLT POCKET MODEL INSCRIBED TO “K. HEINZEN’.
SN 124,506. This is a beautiful deluxe engraved 5″ Colt Pocket Model made in 1856. We are not positive who the inscription is to but a very prominent Karl Heinzen was a prominent American abolitionist and publisher of a German radical newspaper in Louisville, KY called “The Pioneer” at time of manufacture. Regardless who the recipient is of this gun, this is a lavishly engraved example with the typical German engraving style of Gustav Young and other Colt factory engravers with intricate foliate swirls terminating and animal heads of the highest quality and coverage found. Engraving on this gun exhibits three dog’s heads, one on left side of bbl housing, one on left side of frame, and the third on top of backstrap. This gun retains much of its orig finish and most all of its orig silver and varnish. The rolled cyl scene of a stagecoach robbery is vibrant and all discernible. The gun appears much better than the orig casing which contains orig brass Colt mold, flask, gun tool, and caps. CONDITION: Gun retains strong bright blue finish in protected areas including cyl with much of the balance turning plum. Metal surfaces exhibit light staining and fine pin prick pitting in some areas especially top of bbl flat near muzzle. Case colors are still visible on unengraved portions of frame. Stocks are of higher grade and burl retaining most all of their orig varnish though worn around edges of butt with small dings and dents. Backstrap and trigger guard, which are also finely engraved as can be seen in photographs, retain 95% plus orig silver plate. Accompanying casing is fairly sound and solid. The lid is warped and bottom has a longitudinal crack running full length. Compartment holding mold is broken and loose. Mold is in very good to fine condition with scattered dents where used as tack hammer. Eagle flask is not Colt marked, has no finish and one seam separation. L-shaped gun tool is very good with no finish. An old match safe has been utilized to hold caps and a green paper labeled brass cap tin is also present. Case lining is worn, frayed, and soiled. Locking mechanism in case is missing. 4-51020 JS20 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2215
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 127099. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER.” in an etched panel on the left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “44”. Left side of frame has 3 line patent dates and left front web of trigger bow is marked “44 CAL”. Ejector housing is 3rd type with half moon ejector rod head. Mounted with exceptional 2-pc pearl grips with an outstanding raised carved flying American eagle and American shield on the right side. Revolver has full coverage New York style engraving on frame, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop. Matching engraving patterns extend nearly full length of the bbl on each side with a triple border around the address terminating in fine foliate & arabesque patterns. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s typical large fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and has an unusual chain border around the rear edge that has 6-pointed stars in each link. Hammer is nickel finished. Screws, trigger & base pin are fire blued. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 44-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks with a “carved Mexican eagle motif”, factory engraved and shipped to Western Arms & Cartridge Co. Chicago, Illinois on Aug. 23, 1888 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by a typed Bill of Sale for this revolver, transferring ownership to Tommy Rholes over the signature of Michael Eric Ecton of Blue Springs, Missouri. Additionally accompanying is a second Colt Factory letter dated March 4, 1969, with identical information to the previous factory letter addressed to Mr. W.F. Bradford of La Plata, Missouri. PROVENANCE: Michael Eric Eaton; W.F. Bradford; Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, has been fired but very little. Overall retains about 98-99% strong orig nickel finish with slight dulling on the left side of the muzzle and tip of the ejector housing. Front face of cylinder has 2 or 3 small spots of flaking with light pitting under the grips. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue, showing wear on the trigger & lock bolt screws. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-50687 JR66 (75,000-125,000) – Lot 1190
*SCARCE EARLY COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL.
SN C4625. Cal. 45 ACP. Usual configuration with a 5″ military all-blue bbl. Slide has usual markings on left side with last patent date “1911”. Left rear of slide has the rampant Colt and right side the usual commercial markings. It also has its orig rnd top rear sight and thin front sight blade. SN is in the usual position back of the slide lock pin hole with “GOVERNMENT MODEL” on right front side. Left rear end of slide and top left rear of frame have tiny British proofs with matching proofs on the bbl skirt. Mounted with large diamond checkered walnut grips. Front strap is engraved “A1282”. Accompanied by an orig lanyard loop 2-tone military-style magazine. This pistol was produced in 1913, just about the change in slide markings which added the patent date “1913”, changed the sights and other minor changes. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Slide retains about 95% glossy orig blue with front & sharp edge wear and a few light scratches; frame retains 95-96% glossy orig blue with a small scrape near the toe on each side of the front strap and another longer scratch on bottom front of the frame with just sharp edge wear elsewhere. Grips are sound showing light diamond point wear and retain most of their orig finish. Mechanics are fine; bbl retains about 95% orig finish with bright shiny bore; magazine retains about 60% orig finish. Altogether a fine, early commercial Government Model with a British history. 4-50719 JR89 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 3338
RARE COLT MODEL 1849 LONDON POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 618. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line London address with brackets. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. Cyl is usual 5-chambers with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The silver plated steel trigger guard & back strap contain a varnished fancy burl walnut 1-pc grip with matching SN in back strap channel. Screws are rnd head English style. Revolver is lightly engraved in English style with about 50-60% coverage light foliate arabesque patterns without background. Engraving extends over the bbl lug, top side flats and completely around the muzzle. Hammer spur is matching engraved on the sides and has fish scale patterns on the top edge with hand checkered spur. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were about 11,000 London-made Pocket Model revolvers manufactured in the period 1853-1857. Of that number he estimates that about 1,000 were engraved. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Traces of orig finish remain in the most sheltered areas on the bbl with the balance a cleaned, smooth, gray metal patina; frame retains about 30% faded case colors being mostly a silver patina; hammer retains faded case colors on the sides, a little stronger on the back edge; cyl retains traces of orig blue, being mostly a gray patina and shows about 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard retains about 90% orig silver and the back strap about 65-70%. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains about 95% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-49708 (5,000-7,000) – Lot 2155
SN 107183. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips from another revolver. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, with wide sweeping foliate arabesque scrolls on the frame, a fan or flower blossom pattern on recoil shield & loading gate with snake & dot pattern on the top strap. Each side of bbl boss is engraved with a sunburst. Foliate arabesque patterns extend about 2/3 up the bbl and has snake & dot patterns that extend to the muzzle. Top of the bbl is engraved in snake & dot patterns around the address with geometric patterns to the front sight. Top of back strap is engraved in a sunburst pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot patterns in the top gullet & outer radius. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on March 11, 1884 in a 6-gun shipment. Base pin appears to be a period of use replacement with dimpled ends. Looking at this Colt leaves absolutely no doubt that it saw continuous hard use on the frontier, probably by a long serving law enforcement officer. The wear is consistent with that posit. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair to good. Traces of nickel finish remain in the most sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned gray metal patina showing heavy wear with fine pitting on front of frame and front of top strap. Grips are sound and show very heavy wear with a few nicks on bottom left edge. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered very fine pitting. 4-50540 JR85 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1217
VERY FINE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 111060. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly dinged full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Mounted with 1-pc Ivory grip that is constructed in the orig factory manner of 2-pcs of Ivory attached to 2 wooden spacers to create the 1-pc grip. Engraved in New York style by Cuno Helfricht with about “B” coverage well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Engraving extends over the top strap, both sides of the bbl, and each side of the muzzle. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s fan panel with matching foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap and at the heel. Screws, trigger and base pin are all fire blued. Hammer is color case hardened. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter which identifies this revolver in cal. 45 with 5-1/2″ bbl “soft” finish, type of stocks not listed, and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, New York, on July 14, 1884 in a 6 gun shipment. Under remarks the letter states that the word “soft” indicates that the frame and loading gate were not case hardened before it was shipped so that it could be engraved outside of the factory. This revolver was produced in 1884 at a time when the West was still wild and firearms were daily use working tools. Most likely this revolver was a special presentation to someone of importance or belonged to a wealthy individual. The fact that is shows very little use, lends credibility to the latter speculation. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Shows very little use, having been fired, but not very much. Overall retains 95-96% strong orig nickel with a small flaked area left side of bbl and dulling on the ejector housing and backstrap. Cylinder shows light nickel loss from holster wear around the front edge, otherwise retains most of its strong orig nickel. Grip has several age lines but is sound with a smooth mellow Ivory patina. Screws, trigger and base pine retain about all of their orig fire blue. Hammer retains about all of its strong orig case colors. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore, with some fine frosting. (WG-005) 4-51099 JR352 (35,000-50,000) – Lot 2052
SN 7212. Cal. 41 CF. Nickel finish with 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbl, with half moon front sight, 2-line address and rear sight in hammer spur. Mounted with bird head pearl grips. Pistol is engraved from the L.D. Nimschke shop with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame & back strap with matching patterns on sides of the bbl. Left side of the front strap, under the grip, is stamped “R.F. ENEWOLD”. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, Robert F. Enewold was a dealer out of Reno, NV who stamped the guns he sold in the manner found here. This pistol has been converted from 41 rim fire to 41 center fire by removing the rim fire firing pin and installing a center fire firing pin further down the hammer to strike through another hole which has been drilled into the recoil shield. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl retains about 60% orig nickel and the frame about 30% nickel with the balance cleaned metal patina with fine pitting. Grips are very fine with strong fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong frosty bore. 4-49698 (1,500-3,000) – Lot 2168
SN 129317. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfrecht style but after-market and probably not period. Frame has nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and Mr. Helfrecht’s style of fan pattern on recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl and on each side of muzzle with geometric patterns around the address. Top of backstrap is engraved also in Mr. Helfrecht’s fan pattern with snake & dot and geometric patterns down the backstrap, geometric patterns on buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in alternating foliate arabesque & geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with smaller patterns back of the flutes and a feather border around the rear edge. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in the gullet and geometric patterns on the outer radius. This is a beautiful, well-executed engraved Colt but not by Mr. Helfrecht or from his shop. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains just about all of its custom nickel finish with minor pimpling in a couple of spots on the frame, front & backstraps; cyl also has fine pimpling with the front face being polished metal; screws retain faded blue and the hammer strong case colors. Grips are outstanding with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with dark fine pitting. 4-51571 (10,000-20,000) – Lot 1338
SCARCE CASED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 17113. Cal 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl. German silver front sight and one line block letter address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last 4-digits of matching serial number in the backstrap channel. Buttstrap is engraved in elaborate Old English “TU.C. Staines”. Cylinder is normal 6-shots with very light Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and all of the 6 safety pins serviceable with 4 of the 6 pins crisp and prominent. Accompanied by an orig, dark green velvet lined, mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a double sided trophy of arms & flags, “COLTS PATENT” flask with sloping spout, a blued 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36B”. This revolver was produced in about 1864 during the height of the American Civil War when any firearm was in great demand. Arms of that era are rarely found today with high orig finish. Also accompanied by a large packet of information compiled by The Horse Soldier Research Service attempting to identify anyone associated with this inscription. This research disclosed that there is a town in England, a suburb of London named Staines and that the initials “TUC” stand for “Trade Union Congress” which was formed in about 1860. However, nothing is disclosed regarding a person with those exact initials. Research did disclose that a gentlemen by the name of William C. Staines 1818-1881 immigrated from England to the U.S. under the auspices of the Mormon Church in 1842. He became a prominent businessman and politician in Salt Lake City. Mr. Staines returned to England 1860-1863 on a mission for the church. It is unclear if this information has any relevance to this revolver. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains 97-98% glossy orig blue showing only light muzzle edge wear and a few fine scratches. Rammer handle & pivot retain brilliant case colors. Frame & hammer retain brilliant case colors with only slight dulling on the left recoil shield and a couple of small nicks. Cylinder, with the afore noted light roll marking, retains 93-95% glossy orig blue with a light cylinder line and light sharp edge wear. Chambers of the cylinder & bore retain strong orig blue. Trigger guard & front strap retain 95-96% strong orig silver. Backstrap & buttstrap retain about 60% orig silver. Grip shows very light wear and retains about 80% orig finish simply from handling. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches, retains most orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light to moderate soil in the bottom. Flask, an obvious replacement, retains traces of orig finish and has a cracked collar and shows a dark copper & brass patina. Mold is fine, battered on the left side & bottom with light surface pitting and bright cavities. 4-51170 JR129 (15,000-20,000) – Lot 2098
EXTREMELY RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED 1855 COLT MODEL 7 PERCUSSION REVOLVER PRESENTED TO EDWARD M. BUNCE, BANKER FOR COLT FIRM.
SN 16321. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line address. Mounted with 1-pc checkered ivory grip with borders, matching number to this revolver. Cylinder is usual five chambers with hand engraved stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking and has the cylinder pin retaining screw through the side. When initially examined it was discovered that two of the chambers in this cylinder still had orig loads, which have been drawn. Revolver is spectacularly deluxe factory engraved with nearly full coverage late vine style patterns without shading or background, probably by Gustave Young. Hammer is engraved to match with patterns on the shank and both sides of the spur. Matching engraving patterns extend over the top strap, onto the bbl lug, sides of the bbl and around the muzzle with additional matching patterns on rammer pivot. Cylinder has the rear 1/3 engraved in matching patterns. Back strap has matching patterns at the top & heel and on the butt strap. Center of back strap is engraved in a period script factory presentation inscription “EDWARD M. B—- / With compliments of / Colt’s P.F.A.M.Co. / June 12th 1867”. A faint U and N can also be made out within the last name of the engraving. Accompanied by one of the most spectacular, deluxe, pink velvet lined rosewood casings to be encountered. The case is constructed of matching rosewood on all exposed surfaces and has spectacular streaky honey & chocolate grain patterns with an empty brass shield in the lid and mortised brass lock in the front. Interior is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver in reverse, a single sided, “COLTS PATENT”, eagle & stars Root sized flask, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, marked on the right side “31 PKT”, an empty packet for five combustible cartridges from Colt’s cartridge works and four complete and partially complete combustible cartridges. Accompanied by a two page letter from renowned Colt researcher, historian and author, R.L. Wilson, verifying most of the above information with the additional statement that the presentation was to Edward M. Bunce of Hartford, CT, who was the chief cashier at the Phoenix bank in Hartford, Colt’s company bank and a very important person to the Colt company. Mr. Wilson states that the presentation on the back strap was partially defaced by a family member “embarrassed to have been disposing of this prized heirloom”. This revolver is listed on p.72 of Colt Presentations From the Factory Ledgers 1856-1869, Houze, which shows that page 466 of the ledger, dated Thursday, June 20, 1867, “For 1. 3 1/2 in N.M.Pkt Pistol Ex Engraved / ivory with all Appendages in / Rosewood Case presented to / Edwd. M. Bunce Hartford Conn. 29.31”. That sum of $29.31 was an extraordinary amount for a handgun in 1867 and showed the value that Mr. Colt placed on the relationship with Mr. Bunce. Such elaborate presentations as this one are exceedingly rare, especially when found in such high orig finish, both case & revolver. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine, all matching including bbl, cyl & grip; bbl retains about 60-70% orig blue turning a little plumy with bright metal on both sides; frame, back strap & butt strap retain about 90% glossy orig blue with a small cleaned area on the right side of the bbl lug and sharp edge wear; back strap has the small cleaned area where the name was defaced; cylinder retains a thin blue/brown patina and shows about 98% stagecoach hold-up scene; front edge of the cylinder has some very fine pitting; rammer & hammer retain bright case colors; grip has a small chip in the toe and 2-3 tiny age lines and shows crisp diamond checkering and has a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case has some fine grain checks in the lid with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains almost all of its orig varnish with what appears to be a wet glass circle on the lid; bottom retains nearly all of its orig green oil cloth covering with applied red leather corners; interior is lightly faded with very light soil in the bottom; partitions are all solid; flask is crisp and retains about 95-96% orig finish; mold appears to be unused and retains virtually all of its orig blue with fire blued sprue cutter screw; empty cartridge packet is fine. 4-50311 (75,000-95,000) – Lot 2219
FINE INSCRIBED HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 160281. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with outstanding, factory, 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief carved ox head on the right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in about “C” coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Left recoil shield has Mr. Helfricht’s trademarks fan pattern and the loading gate his typical starburst pattern. Top strap is engraved in snake and dot patterns which run down the back by the hammer slot. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up each side of the bbl with snake & dot patterns in top gullet and outer radius of ejector housing. Cylinder is engraved in alternating patterns on lands between flutes and has a snake and dot pattern around the rear edge. Top of back strap has Mr. Helfricht’s starburst panel with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Center of backstrap is engraved in zigzag lettering, probably by the same hand who engraved the backstrap, “J.H. WEAVER”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 44-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, carved steer head pearl stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO, c/o Sellers & Cennally on Dec. 22,1894 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Frame, bbl and ejector housing retain about 90% strong orig nickel, turning a little milky. Outer radius of ejector housing shows holster wear; backstrap, buttstrap and about half of the front strap are cleaned bright metal, as is most of the trigger bow & trigger plate; screws & base pin are fine and retain strong fire blue; cyl retains about 70% orig nickel with one area polished bright metal; right grip has a small chip in the heel otherwise grips are sound showing great fire. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. 4-50688 JR335 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 1191
SN GG6000. Cal. 12 x 12 x 30-06. 25″ Bbls are marked with Colt / Sauer information, model and steel information on tops of bbls, fitted with full length matted rib with pop-up U-notch rear sight. Bbl flats are stamped with German proofs for 2-3/4″ chambers and 30-06. Coin finished scallop-backed Blitz action features rifle/ shotgun selector button on tang, Greener type side safety, pin type cocking indicators, Greener crossbolt third fastener, side clips, and double triggers (front set). Action is engraved with light flourishes of scroll surrounding Colt / Sauer logo on trigger plate, with game scenes of bounding deer in woodland on left, and bugling stag walking in woods on right side of action. Relatively plain European walnut capped pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/2″ over Sauer marked black white line pad. Point pattern checkering is at grip. Sling swivels are attached to bottom bbl, and at toe line. One piece beavertail forend has Deeley release. Drilling comes with “Levy’s” brown leather sling with black suede lining. Bore diameter: left-.719, right -.719. Bore restrictions: left -.025 (IMod), right -.013 (Mod). Drop at heel: 2-5/16″, drop at comb: 1-1/2″. Weight: 8 lbs. 0 oz. LOP: 14-1/2″. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain over 90% of their orig blue, and action nearly all of its orig coin finish. Stocks retain most of what is likely their orig finish with considerable oil rubbed over. Some oil is in checkering which is slightly worn. All bores are excellent. Action is tight. Sling is fine. 4-49731 MGM48 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 3414
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH RAMMER.
SN 11670. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with desirable 6″ bbl that has brass pin front sight and 2-line right hand New York City address with dashes and its orig, matching numbered 2-pc rammer. Address has been dbl struck. Frame has a tiny “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated square back brass trigger guard & back strap contain what is probably its orig 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Cyl is usual 5-chambers with rectangular stop notches and six crisp safety pins. Cyl also has the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Revolver is engraved in late vine style without shaded background. Frame has nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the bbl lug, top side flats and rammer pivot. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Accompanied by what is probably its orig green velvet lined mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a 1-sided brass flying eagle & shield flask. Eagle has a ribbon in its beak inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Also accompanied by an early brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold without sprue cutter, a packet of five combustible cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a functioning key. It also has a cap tin with homemade Eley Bros. label. There were a total of about 15,000 Baby Dragoon revolvers produced during the period 1847-1850 with the attached rammer first appearing around the 11,600 range making this one of the very earliest to have this feature. At about the same serialization the cylinders had rectangular stop notches and the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Mr. Leff’s notes indicate additional provenance of Leon C. (Red) Jackson. PROVENANCE: Leon C. (Red) Jackson; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge & cyl; grip is unnumbered; bbl retains about 80% of an old restored finish which might explain the dbl struck address; rammer & handle are a gray patina; frame is also a gray patina; cyl retains about 50% thin orig blue and shows about 85% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard retains most of its re-silvered plating and the back strap about 80% restored plating. Grip has a chip on the right heel and another small chip on the right side, otherwise is sound showing light to moderate wear and retains a beautiful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; worn bore with strong rifling and moderate pitting. Case has a repaired crack in the lid with another diagonal grain check and a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound and retains most of an old restored finish; interior is lightly faded & soiled with solid partitions; accessories are all fine. 4-49638 (7,500-10,000) – Lot 2156
SCARCE EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 111066. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly reduced front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking is on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips that are likely not orig to this revolver. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop, with flowing foliate arabesque patterns on frame & top strap with a hunter star on the ejector boss and a sunburst on left side. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up the sides of the bbl and on each side of the muzzle. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with light foliate arabesque patterns on the back strap. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with foliate patterns back of each flute and a dbl line border around rear edge. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake pattern on outer radius. Butt strap & trigger guard are not engraved. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, soft finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on July 14, 1884 in a 6-gun shipment. Soft finish indicates that this revolver was shipped without the frame & loading gate having been color case hardened for engraving & finishing outside the factory. Hartley & Graham were closely connected to L.D. Nimschke during this period. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains about 20% milky nickel in sheltered areas; frame, grip frame & cylinder retain traces of nickel in the most sheltered areas with all of the loss areas a very dark brown patina; revolver shows only moderate use which does not account for the finish loss which, in the estimation of this cataloger, resulted from poor storage in a holster. Grips have a chipped left heel, otherwise are sound showing great fire and light iridescent colors. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-50530 JR86 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1218
EARLY FINE ORIGINAL CONDITION COLT 1878 HAMMER GUN WITH TUBE SET AND CASE.
SN 261. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 30″ Fine twist bbls are marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” on concave rib. Case hardened top lever action is fitted with front action sidelocks that have serpentine high spurred rebounding hammers. Action is engraved with line borders. Lockplates are marked “Colt’s Pt. F. A. Mfg. Co.” Top lever, trigger plate and trigger guard are charcoal blued. Trigger guard has SN at grip. Plain European walnut round knob pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over blued steel buttplate. There is point pattern checkering with mullered borders at grip. Matching splinter forend has inset ebony tip and Deeley type release. Bore diameter: left-.734, right -.731. Bore restrictions: left -.025 (I Mod), right -.019 (Mod). Minimum wall thickness: left -.034, right -.032. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 1-7/8″. Weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz. LOP: 14-1/4″. Gun is accompanied by aluminum Nasco case lined in green velvet, with bottom compartment for action and bbls, with Briley tube sets for 20 ga. and 28 ga. in top compartment. Case also contains choke tubes and wrench for the tube set, and a leather hand protector. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain 80 – 90% orig brown, darkening overall. Action retains approx 50% orig case hardening color, silvered on fences, and browning on bottom. Lockplates and hammers retain approx 70% of their orig vibrant case color. Top lever is silvered at thumbpiece. Trigger plate is excellent, with some flaking. Trigger guard retains a considerable amount of its blue, most loss due to flaking. Stocks have a number of light marks, and scratches in their orig oil finish. Buttplate retains over 80% of its orig charcoal blue. Bores are excellent with some light frosting. Action is tight. Locks are crisp. Left hammer retaining nut is missing. Case is very fine with some soiling and bumps. Interior cloth is excellent, near new, as are choke tubes and accessories. A fine early ’78 Colt, most saw exceptionally hard use. 4-51083 MGM291 (8,000-15,000) – Lot 2053
UNUSUAL AND RARE PARTIALLY ENGRAVED COLT CIVILIAN 2ND MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER BELIEVED TO BE MADE AS A DISPLAY PIECE.
SN 9923. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, slightly altered German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLT’S PATENT”, about centered on the side. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with “MODEL USMR / COLT’S PATENT” cartouches surrounding the SN. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Most unusually the rammer pivot is engraved on both sides in early donut style and the hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on shank and fish scale patterns on side of spur & top edge. Tip of hammer spur is hand checkered with a scalloped border. All of the screw heads are very nicely engraved with the screw tips checkered. A most unusual configuration and the first ever encountered by this cataloger. It is believed that the gun was prepared this way for exhibition purposes to show that the gun could be a) finished plain, b) partially engraved, c) standard engraved, or d) deluxe engraved. Certainly a most unusual piece. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were only about 2,700 of these 2nd Model Dragoon revolvers produced in the period 1850-1851. Sidearms of this era, especially the Dragoons, were in great demand on the American frontier and usually saw hard & continuous service under adverse circumstances with little maintenance. They continued in service throughout the Civil War and well into the 1870s until they were supplanted by the advent of self-contained cartridge side arms. With that length & degree of service it is a rarity today to find one with any orig finish or special order features. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Fine plus, all matching except the wedge which is numbered “046”. Bbl retains 65-70% orig blue, strong over front half, thinning over rear half and flaked on sides of lug; rammer pivot & handle retain strong case colors fading to silver toward the end of the handle; frame has been cleaned to a light gray metal patina; hammer retains dark case colors on left side, faded to silver elsewhere; cyl is a mottled silver/brown patina with one area of fine pin prick pitting and overall retains about 50% Dragoon/Indian fight scene; cyl has a light pressure ridge and all six safety pins are serviceable; trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their strong, orig silver plating with one flaked spot on front strap & some thinning in middle of backstrap and on the heel; screw heads & tips retain most of their orig engraving. Grip is sound, showing light edge wear with a few minor nicks & retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. 4-51563 (15,000-20,000) – Lot 2181
*VERY RARE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN A RARE CALIBER.
SN 188511. Cal. 32 S&W. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips which are inscribed on inside “George Hartsell Feb 1, 1933” in left side and the initials “GSH” and “George Hartsell 8/19/27″ in right side. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were only 32 of these rare revolvers produced in this caliber of the approx. 357,859 Single Actions made from 1873 thru WWII, making this one of the most rare of all the Colts. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 32 with 7-1/2” bbl, finish “soft”, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, on Aug. 17, 1899 in a shipment of six same type revolvers. Under Note: “the word soft which appears with the finish, indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened when this arm was shipped. These parts were left in a soft condition for engraving outside of our factory.” This revolver is, obviously, not engraved but appears to have been nickel finished, probably by Hartley & Graham. It retains traces of nickel finish on sides of trigger guard & back strap under grip. This is truly an extraordinarily rare single action and the first one in this caliber ever examined by this cataloger. CONDITION: Good to very good. Traces of nickel finish remain on sides of grip frame, otherwise the entire revolver is a cleaned metal finish showing moderate to heavy wear. Given that the frame was never hardened it is surprising that it retains as much orig shape as it does. Grips are sound showing heavy wear. Hammer is without safety or half cock notches and timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting near muzzle and some roughness & light pitting at forcing cone end. 8-87700 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 1338a
RARE CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF HARTFORD/LONDON 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVERS- NRA SILVER MEDAL No. 283.
SN 135 & 136. Cal. 44. Revolvers are virtually identical with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbls, German silver front sights and New-York City right hand addresses with brackets. Left sides of frames are engraved “COLTS PATENT” in ribbons. The silver-plated brass trigger guards and backstraps contain highly figured, 1-piece oil finish walnut grips. Cyls and bbl lugs have English proofs. They are similarly engraved in English style with light foliate arabesque patterns in about 50% coverage without background shading. Hammer screws are engraved with large rosettes, recoil shields are engraved with foliate and floral patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over the bbl lugs and top side flats, onto the rammer pivot and leaf and vine patterns on rammer handles. The 2 rammer screws also have engraved rosettes. Rammer screw on #135 enters from the left and on #136 from the right. Cyls have usual 6 chambers with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking. The “MODEL U.S.M.R. AND COLT’S PATENT” panels appear to have been hand enhanced. Accompanied by an original, brass-bound, green felt lined, English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid and swinging latches with a mortised lock in the front. Period original casing originally designed for 8″ revolvers, now housing these 7 1/2″ guns. Inside the lid has an original Colt’s directions for loading and cleaning label. Bottom is compartmented for two revolvers, a Barlow bag shaped flask with graduated spout, a brass Colt’s patent 2-cavity mold with bright sprue cutter and bowed handles with an “S” inspector mark on the right side, 2 large tins of Joyce caps, 2 L-shaped nipple wrenches, a sealed packet of 6 combustible cartridges, a pewter oil bottle, a military-style steel oil bottle, a wood handle cleaning rod, 7 spare nipples and a small turn screw. Also accompanied by an NRA sliver medal awarded for one of ten best arms displayed at an NRA meeting. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were only about 700 Hartford/English Dragoons produced in the period 1853-1857. He speculates that there were about 150 of those 700 that were engraved. It is well recorded that there were 73 engraved English dragoons returned to the US in September, 1861, just at the onset of the Civil War. Simple extrapolation of the estimated numbers shows that probably fewer than 80 English dragoons were sold in England. This pair of revolvers is pictured on pg. 149 of Colt Engraving, Wilson; pg 236 The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson; pg 62, plate 35 Samuel Colt Presents, Wadsworth Atheneum; pg 70 of Colt’s History & Heroes, Hamilton and pg 98 The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson. None of the illustrations show a case. PROVENANCE: Johnie Bassett Collection; J.P. Altmeyer Collection; George Allen Collection; Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; Arnold Marcus Chernoff; Michael Leff Estate Collection; Mr. Leff’s notes show also the William M. Locke Collection. CONDITION: Revolvers are in virtually identical condition, all matching except grip on #135 which number is obscured. Overall both revolvers retain a smooth, cleaned gray metal patina. Cyl on #135 shows 80-85% strong dragoon Indian fight scene with clearly legible cartouches. Grip on #135 has been repaired with what appears to be a screw and re-gluing with a plug in the left side. This grip retains a fine hand worn patina. Cyl on #136 also retains 80-85% strong dragoon Indian fight scene with sharp, slightly enhanced cartouches. Grip also shows a glued repair and retains a smooth, hand worn patina. Neither grip shows much wear. Mechanics are fine on both revolvers. Bore on #135 is bright with scattered pitting. Bore on #136 is bright and shiny with a few scattered spots of pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound with usual handling and storage nicks, scratches and a few small gouges and retains about 80% original varnish. Interior is moderately faded with yellowed label and light soil in the bottom. Flask has a small dent otherwise is fine with traces of original finish. Mold has a few light nicks and dings with bright sprue cutter and has sharp cavities. Cap tins show spots of rust with one label showing wear with a couple of missing spots. Cartridge packet is crisp and clean, still sealed. Other accessories are fine. Altogether a fine and rare set. 4-49622 (75,000-100,000) – Lot 2146
SN 6. 28 Cal. Rare Colt transitional prototype model 1855 side hammer revolver. SN 6 is found on cyl. This gun has characteristics mostly of the model 2 range, but SN and hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in script in place of bbl address is unique and no doubt this is the only gun in this configuration we are aware. Otherwise gun is a fairly standard model 2 which should have had a Hartford bbl address and serial range starting at #476. Interestingly there is a similar model shown in The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, Page 147. According to our consignor this could be the lowest serial number known for this rare prototype. CONDITION: Gun retains 20% orig blue finish, mostly on left side and top strap of frame; bbl has good finish in protected areas, with balance plum/gray; Cyl has good discernible rolled scene of “Indians & Burning Cabin”; stocks have oiled finish not typically encountered of standard varnish; mechanically gun does not index; good discernible rifling in bore; accompanying mahogany case is sound and solid with a longitudinal crack in lid retaining most of its original varnished surface; interior of case is faded, soiled and worn without wooden insert typical of Colt Casings however casing appears contemporary and original to this gun. 4-50402 JS239 (15,000-20,000) – Lot 2222
HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS ASSOCIATION.
SN 153161. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved stooping eagle on the right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in about “C” plus coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on sides of the frame, sides of the bbl boss and extend over sides of the bbl. Left recoil shield and loading gate are engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe fan pattern. Top strap, back edge of frame by hammer slot, top gullet & outer radius of ejector housing and rear edge of cyl are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Top of bbl, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved with geometric patters. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s fan patterns. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive alternating patterns on lands between flutes. Screws & base pin are fire blued. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal. 45 Colt, with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to Charles Hummell & son, San Antonio, TX, Aug. 29, 1893 in a 2-gun shipment. Undoubtedly this revolver and another (SN 153007), identically engraved and the other gun in this shipment were for the same individual, probably a local Texas rancher or wealthy person in Mexico. Given that this revolver has an American style eagle grip and the other a Mexican eagle grip, they could have been simply for close friends or business associates on each side of the border. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 50-60% milky orig nickel with the exposed metal a gray patina and some fine pin prick pitting on front sides of frame; cyl retains 60-65% orig nickel; grips have a few fine chips on the toes & heels, otherwise are sound and show great fire & iridescent color; hammer is not solid in the half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-50528 JR337 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1192
Please Note: The correct Serial Number is 123, not 125 as noted in the catalog.
VERY RARE CASED COLT 3RD MODEL LONDON DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 125. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Frame has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” about centered on the left side. Cyl has usual 6-chambers with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLT’S PATENT” cartouches surrounding the SN. All 6 safety pins are crisp and prominent. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with SN “124” in the backstrap channel. Buttstrap is also numbered “124”. While all other serial numbered parts on the revolver are numbered “125”. It has been reliably reported that a major Colt collector in the U.S. England has an engraved 3rd Model Dragoon with backstrap numbered “125” which lends credibility to the hypothesis that this was simply an assembler mistake in switching the grips & backstrap before “124” was engraved. Attempts to contact this individual have thus far been unsuccessful. Accompanied by a rare, orig, blue velvet lined, English oak casing with empty brass plaque in the lid, swinging latches on the front and a mortised lock. Interior is compartmented for the revolver, a Dickson bag shaped flask with adjustable spout, a brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, an “L” shaped nipple wrench and an early tin of Eley’s caps with black & white label. Right rear covered compartment contains a new spare hammer spring, 3 spare nipples and a functioning key. Also included is a pewter Dickson oil bottle and a crisp sealed packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges. There were only about 700 of these rare revolvers produced 1853-1857, primarily from Hartford made parts assembled & finished in England. These revolvers are rarely encountered today especially with high orig finish and cased examples are extremely rare. PROVENANCE: Pete Holder; Ron Romanella; The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grip and backstrap as noted. Bbl retains about 70% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a light patina; rammer and handle retain virtually all of their orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot; frame retains virtually all of its brilliant orig case colors, somewhat muted on the left side; hammer retains about 50% faded case colors; cyl retains 30-40% thinning orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a light patina and shows about 95% Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll markings with both cartouches crisp and legible; trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver finish with only slight sharp edge wear; grip is sound with crisp edges, a couple small nicks & bruises and retains virtually all of its brilliant orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may have been fired, but if so, very little. Case is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its bright orig varnish; interior shows little fading with only light soil in the bottom from contact with the bbl, cyl & edge of grip; accessories are crisp and new. Cartridge packet is also crisp. (WG-016) 4-51089 JR509 (60,000-100,000) – Lot 2005
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 8065. Cal. .31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 2-line, left hand, NY city address, made without rammer. Usual 5-shot cylinder with rnd cylinder stop notches and orig single safety pin. Squareback silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc varnished walnut grip matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is engraved in early vine style with about 70% coverage which also extends down the backstrap, over the buttstrap and trigger guard. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet-lined mahogany casing with shield shaped brass lock escutcheon. Case is compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a dbl-sided early “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, orig brass loading tool, brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold without sprue cutter that has a tiny “W” inspector mark. Also accompanying is a lacquered Ely’s cap tin, lead bullets & balls & functioning key. This revolver is of a transitional type with the earlier style left hand bbl address with capping cutout in right recoil shield. Cylinder is usual 5 shots and appears to have remnants of dragoon & Indian fight scene roll marking. There were only about 11,600 Baby Dragoons produced without rammers which certainly makes them one of the more rare Colts. Cased and engraved examples are exceedingly rare. This was Colt’s first attempt at a small bore revolver after the collapse of the Paterson enterprise. They were readily accepted by the American buying public who carried them to the far reaches of the world but especially on the American frontier and Northwest Territories where they saw extensive and continuous service under harsh circumstances usually with very limited maintenance. They continued in service throughout the Civil War into the 1870’s until superseded by the advent of the cartridge revolver. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall retains a gray metal patina showing moderate wear with scattered surface erosion. Engraving remains reasonably sharp showing expected wear. Cylinder is matching gray patina with scattered pitting and traces of dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap retain just about all of their orig silver-plating. Grip has a chipped right toe & left heel, otherwise is sound and retains about 70% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong, lightly worn bore. Case is sound with small grain check in bottom and light handling & storage marks and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded & stained with light to moderate soil in the bottom. Accessories are all fine. 4-49640 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2157
IDENTIFIED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH INSCRIBED GRIP “COL. CHAS. S. RICHE / C.E.S. & A.A.D. / MAY 20TH, 1898”.
SN 160499. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates & Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with the left side lightly engraved with a bull elk head & inscribed “Col. Chas. S. Riche / C.E.S. & A.A.D. / May 20th 1898”. Accompanied by copies of pp. 169-172 of the Annual Report, June 11, 1926 of what is probably from the U.S. Military Academy, but is not identified. It lists Charles Swift Riche as a graduate of the class of 1886. Col. Riche was born July 19, 1864, graduated US Military Academy July 1882, number three in his class. He was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers where he served variously in Galveston and the Upper Midwest building canals, levees and fortifications. In 1896 he was in charge of the defenses of New Orleans, constructing fortifications. From June 1897 – July 1903 he was the assistant to the District Engineer in Galveston, then in charge of the district except when he was appointed Colonel commanding 1st U.S. Volunteer Infantry, May 20, 1898. This date corresponds with the date on the grip. He was mustered out on Oct. 28, 1898 and commissioned back into the army as a Captain and back to Galveston. He continued with the Corps of Engineers at various stations, alternating between Texas and the Upper Midwest. From July 1918 to January 1921 he was assigned as Chief Engineering Officer constructing fortifications in Panama. He retired in Jan. 1921 and died March 20, 1926. This revolver was presented to Col. Riche when he was in command of the 1st Volunteer Infantry. Although Col. Riche was a commander of the 1st Volunteer Infantry from May to Sept. 1898, they never left the United States, simply being shipped from Galveston to New Orleans in May and back to Galveston in Sept. where they were mustered out. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 80-90% strong original nickel; ejector housing retains about 95% original nickel with 3 or 4 small dings on the outer radius; frame retains about 85% original nickel with the loss areas mostly on the recoil shield and loading gate with some fine flaking elsewhere; cylinder retains 75-80% original nickel. Grip frame retains about 90% orig nickel with a spot of pitting on the back strap; screws are all fine and retain most of their orig fire blue, turned a little dark; right grip has a couple of small chips at the heel and both grips have spotty rust staining which correspond to spots and areas of rust on the grip frame; both grips have a hairline from the screw escutcheon. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-50656 JR227 (7,500-12,500) – Lot 1219
SN 18191. Cal. 10 ga. 2-7/8″ Chambers. 32″ Fine Damascus bbls are marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” on concave rib with unusual doll’s head extension (per factory letter). Case hardened top lever action is fitted with front action sidelocks that have serpentine high spurred rebounding hammers. Action is engraved with line borders and sprays of unusual broad bodied scroll. Lockplates are marked “Colt’s Pt. F. A. Mfg. Co.” Top lever, trigger plate and trigger guard are charcoal blued. Trigger guard has scroll on bow and SN at grip. Nicely figured and lightly marbled European walnut round knob pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over checkered hard rubber buttplate with rampant Colt logo. There is point pattern checkering with mullered borders at grip, and a vacant silver oval on toe line. Matching splinter forend has inset ebony tip and Deeley type release. The doll’s head extension, engraving, and fancy wood were furnished at a cost of an additional $85.00 (per factory letter). Bore diameter: left-.790, right -.785. Bore restrictions: left -.020 (Mod), right -.018 (Mod). Minimum wall thickness: left -.048, right -.048. Drop at heel: 3-1/2″, drop at comb: 2-3/16″. Weight: 9 lbs. 15 oz. LOP: 14-1/4″. PROVENANCE: Factory letter confirming configuration and stating that gun was shipped Oct. 8, 1890. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain over 90% brilliant orig Damascus finish, silvering lightly overall, and with a few areas showing cleaning over some pinprick pitting. Action retains approx 80% orig case hardening color, silvered on fences, and on bottom, which has considerable browning. Lockplates and hammers retain nearly all of their orig vibrant case color. Top lever is silvered at thumbpiece. Trigger plate is excellent, with some scratches. Trigger guard retains a considerable amount of its blue, most loss due to flaking. Stocks have a number of minor marks, bumps, and scratches in their orig oil finish. A 3/8″ x 5/8″ chip is missing from toe of buttplate, with some damage to wood. Bores are excellent with some light frosting. Action is tight. Locks are crisp. A very fine ’78 Colt, most saw exceptionally hard use. 4-51118 MGM261 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 2054
SCARCE MAHOGANY CASED DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL HARTFORD-LONDON DRAGOON.
SN 18. Cal. 44. Cased & profusely engraved (one of only six known to be deluxe engraved) Hartford-London Dragoon SN 18 mfg ca. 1853. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight. Hand-engraved barrel address “COLN COLT. LONDON” reading from breech to muzzle (one of five known) and also hand-engraved “COLTS. PATENT.” within an unfurled banner on left side of the profusely engraved frame. It has usual 6-shot cyl with the Dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking and five of its six safety pins mostly serviceable. It has a silver-plated brass back-strap, small rounded silver-plated brass trigger-guard and select burl walnut one-piece grips. Loading lever entering from the right side of the loading lever assembly, no bevel on the cut-out, short trigger (one of nine recorded), vertical loading lever catch and stacked British proof-marks on the barrel. Frame has full coverage, wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns on sides with fine shaded background and foliate & floral engraving on recoil shields. Hammer is lightly engraved on sides of spur with dolphin motif on top edge. Bbl lug has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with British proofs on sides and a nice border around the address on the top flat. There is a scalloped border on the bbl at the transition and around the muzzle. Top of backstrap has a wonderfully executed fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns, a fine border pattern down the backstrap with engraving patterns at top & heel, also on buttstrap & trigger bow. Wedge & rammer are engraved to match. Wedge is unnumbered and rammer handle has the number “37”. Accompanied by a rare orig mahogany English casing with empty brass panel in the lid. It is blue velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a silver plated Sykes Patent bag flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with steel sprue cutter, a Hawksley pewter oil bottle, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an all metal English cleaning rod and a rosewood screw-lid bits box containing one spare nipple. This exact revolver is pictured on p 148 of “Colt Engraving” by R.L. Wilson, and on p 234 of “The Colt Engraving Book” Vol.1 by R.L. Wilson and p 137 of “Colonel Colt London” by Joseph G. Rosa. Engraved dragoon revolvers are quite rare and cased examples are extremely rare. It has been estimated from collated research, that fewer than 10% of Hartford-London Dragoons were factory engraved and this one, with deluxe engraving, perhaps only 1% of the 700 produced. PROVENANCE: Arnold M. Chernoff Collection. Chester Bonoff Collection. Pete Holder Collection. Damien Scattizi Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 60% orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a medium patina; rammer handle is a gray/brown patina; frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a silver/brown patina; cyl is mostly a silver/brown patina with a large area of light pitting, some dents & dings around the front edge that were dressed out; two of the British proof marks on the cyl appear to have been double struck and overall retains about 25-30% Dragoon/Indian fight scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain 30-40% thin silver plating. Grip is sound, a little undersized for the frame and overall retains a smooth oil finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains 80-85% orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded with moderate soil in the bottom; flask retains most of its fine silver plating with bright blue spring; mold has a few light nicks & dings with fine cavities and a crisp light mustard patina; other accessories are fine. 4-51555 (30,000-40,000) – Lot 2188
SN 220717. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a raised carved ox head on right side. Apparently the right side blind escutcheon was either damaged or stripped and someone installed an escutcheon through the ox head. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably by Cuno Helfricht in about “D” coverage with foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, a shell pattern on the left recoil shield and rope patterns on top strap. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of the bbl, nearly to the muzzle with geometric patterns on top. Backstrap is engraved with a shell pattern at the top with various other patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved to match on lands between flutes. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal 38-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to E.K. Tryon, Jr. and Co. Philadelphia PA on Jan. 28, 1902 in a 3-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains about 75-80% restored nickel showing wear on left side of bbl, ejector housing, top strap and right side of frame; nickel is mostly turned milky and the loss areas a dark patina. Mechanics are fine; strong dark bore with moderate pitting. 4-50370 (9,000-14,000) – Lot 1339
VERY RARE CASED SET OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 79929 & 79956. Cal. 36. Revolvers have identical configuration, blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, scarce dovetailed front sights and Hartford bbl addresses. Left sides of frames are engraved “COLTS PATENT” in pillow shape. The silver-plated brass trigger guards and backstraps contain fancy burl walnut 1-piece grips that have last 4 digits of matching SNs in their respective backstrap channels. Cyls have usual 6 chambers with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. They both have rnd head English style screws. Both are engraved by Gustave Young. #79929 has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with 2 scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl and onto the rammer pivot. One scroll on the left side of the bbl lug terminates in Mr. young’s mythical dog’s head and two others on the right side terminate in flower blossoms. Backstrap has typical Young engraving of a starbust panel at the top with foliate arabesque patterns at the top, on the heel, buttstrap and trigger bow. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Spur is hand checkered. Screw heads and tips are engraved. #79956 is nearly identically engraved with virtually identical patterns, including flower blossoms in the same places and a much more detailed dog’s head on the bbl lug. Screws are not engraved. Accompanied by an extraordinary, burgundy velvet lined, rosewood double casing that is French fitted in the bottom for the revolvers, two brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” molds with bright steel sprue cutters, one of which has an “H” inspector mark on the right side, 2 L-shaped nipple wrenches, a copper and brass 3-compartment flask and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Case has gold-washed hinges with a mortised lock with shield-shaped escutcheon. Right rear and left front covered compartments are black leatherette covered with ivory pulls. Mr. Leff’s notes state that these revolvers were “Cased and sold by F. H. Clark & Company, 290 Main Street, Memphis TN” who were in business 1841-1876. These revolvers were produced in about 1857 when any repeating arm was in great demand by the pioneers traveling west. The model 1851 Navy was one of, if not the, most widely used revolver of that period. They remained in service from their inception right through the Civil War and later on the American frontier well into the 1970s when they were finally supplanted by the advent of self-contained cartridge arms. Their use is well-documented by many notable lawmen, outlaws and general citizens. William B. (Wild Bill) Hickock was known to carry a pair of ’51 Navies. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedges, cyls and grips. #79929 is very fine. Bbl retains traces of original blue having flaked, not worn, to a medium patina with a few scattered spots of surface rust; rammer handle and pivot are a grey metal patina, also with a a few spots of rust; frame retains faint traces of case colors having mostly faded to metal patina; cyl is a light grey/brown patina with one area of fine pitting and shows about 50% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver and the backstrap about 60%; grip is sound showing light to moderate wear and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine; moderate to heavily pitted strong bore. #79956. Bbl retains 50-60% flaked original blue with loss areas a dark patina; rammer pivot retains traces of case colors being mostly a dark patina; frame retains case colors in sheltered areas having mostly faded to a light patina; cyl is a grey./brown patina and shows 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene with the 6 safety pins mostly serviceable; trigger guard and backstrap retain 60-70% orig silver. Grip has a bruise on the left side, otherwise is sound showing light to moderate wear and retains about 70% orig varnish; mechanics are fine, bight shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is sound with most of the oilcloth covering on the bottom intact. It has light handling and storage marks and retains about 95% orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the top with light soil from contact with the revolver cyls. Bottom is lightly faded with moderate soil at various contact points with revolvers; flask is fine showing about 50% orig finish; molds are also fine showing moderate battering; other accessories are fine. 4-49637 (55,000-80,000) – Lot 2147
NATIONAL FIREARMS CO. BROOKLYN, N.Y. 1ST MODEL DERINGER.
SN 5034. Cal.41 Short RF. 2-1/2″ blue bbl. The brass frame was engraved over breech in banner for presentation, which was never filled out. Standard engraving and the very rare blue bbl and silver plated frame finish. National Firearms made approximately 5,000 guns between 1865 and 1870 when purchased by Colt and continued manufacture with their name. Most guns in this series are iron frame and brass frames such as this are quite scarce, especially in high condition. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Blue bbl retains 80% of blue and silver frame retains 80%+ of orig silver plate. Hammer retains 50% case color. Mechanics are crisp, bore exhibits crisp rifling with pitting. 4-50381 DE22 (2,500-3,500) – Lot 2233
HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS ASSOCIATION.
SN 153007. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved Mexican eagle on the right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in about “C” plus coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background on sides of the frame, sides of the bbl boss and extend over sides of the bbl. Left recoil shield and loading gate are engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe fan patterns. Top strap, back edge of frame by hammer slot, top gullet & outer radius of ejector housing and rear edge of cyl are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Top of bbl, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved with geometric patters. Top of backstrap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s fan pattern. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive alternating patterns on lands between flutes. Screws are fire blued. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal. 44-40, with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to Charles Hummell & son, San Antonio, TX, Aug. 29, 1893 in a 2-gun shipment. Undoubtedly this revolver and another (SN 153161), identically engraved and the other gun in this shipment were for the same individual, probably a local Texas rancher or wealthy person in Mexico. Given that this revolver has an Mexican eagle grip and the other an American style eagle grip, they could have been simply for close friends or business associates on each side of the border. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 50-60% orig nickel turning milky with the exposed metal a gray patina and some fine pin prick pitting on front sides of frame; cyl retains about 30% orig nickel; grips have a chipped left toe, otherwise are sound and show great fire & iridescent colors; hammer is not solid in the half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 50528-1 JR338 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1193
EXTRAORDINARY CASED BRACE OF COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS THAT BELONGED TO SPANISH GENERAL DON CARLOS GARCIA TASSARA.
SN 1264 & 1311. Cal. 44. Revolvers are virtually identical, blue and color case hardened with scarce 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1 line Hartford address. Left side of frames have small “COLTS PATENT”. Frames are 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screws. Cylinders have 6-chambers and are full fluted. They each have a matching SN in one flute and a patent date in another. The silver plated brass trigger guards and silver plated steel backstraps contain smooth, Army sized, 1-pc ivory grip. Buttstraps are engraved in period script “C.G. Tassara”. Accompanied by a fantastic, burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with a brass plaque in the lid, inscribed identically to the revolver butt straps “C.G. Tassara”. Interior is French fitted with black velvet lining around the edges of the recesses for the revolvers, a dbl sided, angled spout flask with repoussed decorations of birds and a bird dog, a 2-cavirty blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with bowed legs and sprue cutter marked on the right side “44H” and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Right rear open compartment contains a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and left compartment contains a functioning key. These pistols were purchased from Colt’s New York office in 1861, which is probably where they were inscribed, cased and accessorized. They remained with the General until his death in February 1889 and then with his family until the 1970s when they were discovered by a friend of Dr. Chester P. Bonoff of Los Angeles, CA, who helped him buy them from the family. General Tassara was born September 1823 and entered the Spanish Army in 1839 at age 16. He served the remainder of his life, dying while still on active duty in 1889. He served at a variety of commands from artillery to Cavalry, lancers and staff & field. Over his career he fought in several wars and numerous battles being wounded on one occasion fighting Spanish rebels. In 1860 after heroic service in Africa, he was, by Royal decree, declared a National hero. Some of his major decorations included; the Military order of San Hermenegildo; Cross of San Fernando 1st Class; Military Great Cross of Merit; Plaque and Grand Cross of San Hermenegildo; Great Cross of Military Service and Medal of Alfonso XII. He reached the rank of Lt. General and was appointed director General of Artillery and President of General Defense Board of the Kingdom and Director General of Cavalry. General Tassara was a very distinguished and brave soldier his entire life and the condition of this set of pistols reflects the thought and care of a soldier. Accompanying this lot are two authentic medals similar to those awarded to General Tassara. One is the Grand Cross of San Hermenegildo and the other is the Grand Red Cross of Military Merit. Additionally accompanying is a 2-pg letter from renowned Colt author & historian R.L. Wilson which authenticates this set of pistols. Mr. Wilson begins his letter with the statement that General Tassara was an ambassador to the States, which is incorrect. This set was awarded a silver medal, #153 and a Top 10 Best Weapons Award at the April 20, 1975 NRA meeting in San Diego, CA to Dr. Bonoff. Medallion has been misplaced, however the original certificate and plastic plaque accompanies this lot. This set also was awarded Best of Show Honors at both the American Society of Arms Collectors meeting and The Texas Gun Collectors Association annual show in 2011. Also accompanying this lot is a Colt Factory Letter for each revolver which identifies them in cal. 44 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Colt’s New York office on January 16, 1861, together, in the same 50-gun shipment. Also accompanying is a very large volume of copies of documents in Spanish with translations detailing General Tassara’s career and awards. Additionally accompanying is a copy of a picture of General Tassara. PROVENANCE: Dr. Chester Bonoff; The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Revolvers are very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. #1264). Bbl retains about 85% glossy orig blue with a large flaked area on right side of lug and scattered flaking elsewhere; rammer and handle retain about all of their orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot; frame and hammer retain virtually all of their orig brilliant case colors, showing fading only on left recoil shield; trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver; grip is sound showing no flaws and retains a fine mellow ivory patina; cyl retains about 80-85% glossy orig blue with the loss area flaked to a medium patina, 4 of the 6 safety pins are serviceable; appears to be unfired. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. #1311). Bbl retains 75-80% thin orig blue mixed with flaked areas and some scratches on the right side with the loss areas a medium patina; rammer and handle retain brilliant case colors; frame and hammer retain brilliant case colors, showing light fading only on left recoil shield; trigger guard has a small chemical spot and backstrap some fine pimpling, otherwise overall retains virtually all of its orig silver plating; grip has an age line, otherwise shows no flaws and retains a fine mellow ivory patina; cyl retains about 90% glossy orig blue and all 6 safety pins are serviceable. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. Case is sound showing numerous handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains about 75% orig varnish with most of the losses on top of the lid; interior is bright and clean, showing light soil under the revolvers; flask and mold appear to be new; cap tin is nicked & dinged with a very faded label; nipple wrench is also new with light, fine pitting. Altogether an extraordinary set the likes of which never to be encountered again. (WG-003) 4-51090 JR522 (250,000-350,000) – Lot 2008
FINE ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 148032. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, thinned front sight and 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marked on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with exceptional, smooth, 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully after-market engraved in L.D. Nimschke style with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, feather patterns on the top strap and matching foliate arabesque patterns over about 3/4 of the bbl and around the muzzle. Top of the bbl, forward of the address and around the front sight is engraved in geometric patterns. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in leaf & vine patterns with matching foliate arabesque patterns on the outer radius. Back strap, butt strap & trigger plate are engraved in matching patterns with Nimschke style crossed ribbons centered on the back strap and a small ribbon on the butt strap. Bottom of the trigger bow and bottom of the bbl at the muzzle are engraved in geometric patterns matching those on top of the bbl. Cyl has nearly full coverage matching foliate arabesque patterns. Nearly all the engraving has a fine pearled background. Trigger, screws, ejector rod head and base pin are all fire-blued. This is very high quality engraving by a very talented engraver using patterns from the master. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish and pearl stocks, shipped to James Dodds, Dayton, Ohio on Oct. 13, 1892. No mention of the engraving. According to our consignor, noted Colt Collector and Dealer, Ron Dean, sold this gun to Michael Leff many years ago. Ron has stated that he feels the engraving is factory original to the gun and done at the time of sale and plating and that the notation for engraving could simply be missing from the factory records. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains 96-98% crisp orig nickel finish with some minor pimpling in the front gullets of the frame, heel of the back strap, hammer & flutes of the cylinder; screws, trigger & base pin retain most of their fine fire blue; ejector rod head shows light wear on the outer edge. Grips are exceptional with great fire and fantastic iridescent colors. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-49699 (45,000-55,000) – Lot 2158
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS TEXAS RANGER ROBERT G. GOSS.
SN 344215. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl that has full thick front sight, 2-line address and cal marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc, silver medallion ivory grips with raised carved ox head on the right side. Right side of front & back straps, under the grips are marked with the serial number & rear face of cylinder has last 4-digits of matching serial number. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks is not listed, factory engraved & shipped to Wolf & Klar, Fort Worth, TX June 24, 1923 in a 2 gun shipment. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Wilbur Glahn in rather unusual patterns consisting of about 75-80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with very fine shaded background. Each side of the frame has a very unusual elliptical shaped pattern which incorporates feather patterns and Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” pattern. Top strap & front sides of the frame are engraved to match with matching patterns extending over the sides of the bbl & outer radius of ejector housing. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in a light snake pattern. Top of the back strap, at the heel, on the butt strap and trigger guard are lightly engraved to match. Cylinder has matching engraved patterns on lands between the flutes with a small hunters star at the rear of each flute. Also accompanied by a notarized letter from Harry F. Goss dated Nov. 24, 1987 wherein he states he is the nephew of his late uncle Robert G. Goss and that this revolver, identified by serial number, was one of his uncle’s guns. Also accompanying is a letter, dated July 3, 2000, by Mr. Rholes stating that he purchased several of Mr. Goss’s guns from Jim Clark, the famous custom target pistol maker of Shreveport, LA who had purchased 50 guns from Mr. Goss’s widow upon his death. Also accompanying are copies of Mr. Goss’ enlistment papers in the Texas Rangers dating from 1924. Mr. Goss remained a Ranger apparently until April of 1933 when he became Chief of Police of Kilgore, TX, an office he held apparently for about 3 years, then returned to serve in the Rangers. Additionally accompanied by a large packet of copies of newspaper clippings and photographs which relate incidents of Ranger Goss enforcing the law. One such article also states that Ranger Goss was the Texas State Pistol Champion for 5 consecutive years, 1926-1930. Apparently throughout his career Ranger Goss comported himself in a most respectful but authoritative manner and was always impeccably dressed. During much of his 40-year Ranger career he was partnered with famous Ranger Captain Manuel T. Gonzaullas who was also known as “Lone Wolf Gonzaullas”. Ranger Goss, according to the various newspaper articles, was involved in numerous arrests and shooting incidents where he frequently “shot first and asked questions later”. He died March 5, 1978 in Kilgore, TX. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered; has been fired, but very little. Overall retains about 98-99% crisp orig nickel finish with only slight holster wear on the left side of the muzzle & tip of ejector rod housing. Grips have numerous age lines and are sound retaining a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. 4-50676 JR72 (50,000-100,000) – Lot 1261
SN 9278. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & 2-line New York City address with brackets. Left side of frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT”. The square back, silver plated, brass trigger guard & backstrap contain what appears to be its orig 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is built in the orig manner with 2 slabs of ivory attached to 2 wooden spacers. Revolver is engraved in vine style without background shading and has a double chip border around the frame, rear edge of the bbl lug and around the muzzle. Engraving extends over the bbl lug, on to the back strap, buttstrap & trigger guard. It has the additional very rare feature of an engraved cylinder in matching patterns, never having had the roll marking applied. Accompanied by an orig rosewood casing with brass plaque in the top that has had an inscription removed. Interior is burgundy velvet lined & partitioned in the bottom for the revolver, a replacement Hawksley stag head & oak leaf double sided flask with graduated spout and a lacquered Eley cap tin. Baby dragoons in and of themselves are very rare with only about 15,000 having been produced in the period 1847-1850 in 4 different bbl lengths. Extremely few were engraved and of those very few retain their orig casing. PROVENANCE: Andy Palmer Collection; Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains a medium plummy brown patina. Trigger guard retains strong orig silver with the front strap a medium brass patina. Backstrap retains traces of orig silver. Hammer spring may be a period of use replacement. Wedge screw appears to be a replacement. Grip is sound with a couple of very minor age lines and overall retains a fine, mellow ivory patina. Case is sound with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about 80% orig varnish. Bottom green velvet covering is faded & worn with a few small holes. Interior is very faded with moderate soil in the bottom. Flask is near new. Cap tin is fine. 4-51180 JR116 (20,000-35,000) – Lot 2063
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON THIRD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 129. SN 129. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and engraved address “COL. COLT. LONDON.” Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. There were only 700 Hartford-London dragoons, very few engraved and even less cased and engraved. This gun was made in 1853. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a burl walnut deluxe 1-pc grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLTS PATENT” legends partially visible. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Revolver is engraved in English style with about 60-70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns & beautiful foliate & floral patterns on the recoil shields. Sides of bbl lug and top three flats are engraved to match with feather & line border patterns around the address. Both sides of bbl lug have braided rope border patterns. The rammer pivot is engraved to match with rosettes around each side of the pivot link screw. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with line borders. Center of backstrap is hand engraved with a sharp pointed instrument “Capt. Brown” and the front strap engraved in the same hand “U.S.A.”. This style of inscription done with single points from a tool making up letters is not uncommon among maritime inscribed items or other pieces of folk art from the mid-19th century.The use of “U.S.A.” after name with rank most typically refers to regular U.S. Army officer’s. Rammer handle is the early type with vertical latch and is engraved on bottom radius with a running leaf & vine pattern. Accompanied by an orig, blue velvet lined, English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Interior is compartmented in bottom for revolver, a bag shaped Barlow copper & brass flask, a scarce brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with steel sprue cutter and locator pin in the right arm. Also accompanied by an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin for Eley bros. caps, a rnd brass capper with screw lid marked “S. ALLPORT” and a Hawksley pewter oil bottle. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were approx 700 of these Dragoons made from Hartford parts, finished & assembled in Colt’s London factory in the period 1853-1857. It further states that at least 20% of the Hartford English Dragoon production was engraved. It is further states that in 1861 about 200 of these revolvers (many of them engraved) were returned to Hartford for use in the Civil War. This would explain the inscription on the grip frame. Also accompanied by a large black & white photograph showing the bbl address of this revolver with the notation that it is “one of 10 known”. This revolver is pictured on p. 149 of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson and identified by serial number. It is also pictured on p. 61 as plate XXXV of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson with credit to Harry C. Knode. PROVENANCE: Harry C. Knode Collection; L.C. Jackson; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered, and wedge which has the number “6819″. Overall the steel parts retain a medium to dark gray metal patina with a few scattered spots of fine pinprick surface rust. Hammer nose & sides of hammer are lightly pitted. Cyl retains 25-30% faint Dragoon/Indian fight scene with the legends partly visible. Trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver plating and the back strap about 60%. Grip is sound with light handling & use nicks & dings, shows moderate edge wear and retains 50-60% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered spots of pitting. Case has a sliver missing from the lid with a few shrunken loose seams and a couple of grain checks in the bottom and overall retains a cleaned finish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with a couple of repaired partitions. Flask retains about 75% orig finish. Mold has a few light nicks & dings with a dark mustard patina and bright clean cavities. Cap tin, capper & oil bottle are fine. 4-51556 JS (25,000-50,000) – Lot 2191a
ANTIQUE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 129197. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, altered front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips that have a very nicely incise carved horse head on right side. Revolver is engraved in New York style with about “D” coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, sunbursts on the recoil shield & loading gate and leaf & vine patterns on top strap. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length on each side of the bbl with geometric patterns on top. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in top gullet and outer radius. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with diamond & dot center. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on lands between flutes and snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber grips, factory engraved and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY,NY on Apr. 3, 1889 in a 2-gun shipment. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 95-96% strong restored finish showing holster wear on left side of muzzle and tip of ejector housing. Left grip has a chipped toe and another at the top with a chipped heel at the right side and both grips show great fire and iridescent colors; hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches otherwise mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. 4-50368 (9,000-14,000) – Lot 1340
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED TWO GUN SET OF COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER AND MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 8783 & 49773. Cal 31 and 36. These revolvers are engraved nearly identically in doughnut scroll patterns, probably by Gustave Young. The ’51 Navy was produced in late 1851 and the ’49 pocket was produced in mid-1852. These revolvers were almost certainly engraved in about 1852, as stated on pg 22 of Colt Engraving, Wilson where he states that this style of engraving “would be introduced by Gustave young in 1852″ and had a brief lifespan of only a couple years. (1) 1851 Navy 3rd model with 7-1/2” oct bbl brass pin, front sight and New York City address. Left side of frame is engraved diagonally “COLTS PATENT”. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a nicely figured 1-piece walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver has full coverage doughnut scroll engraving on the frame with extremely fine cross hatched background shading and engraved screws. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug, top side flats and rammer pivot. Matching patterns are also found on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. In addition, the trigger guard has a small engraved elliptical shield and top of the backstrap is engraved with a spider web panel. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, small flower blossoms on the shank and ribbed ears on the sides of the spur. Cyl has usual Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. (2) Model 1849 pocket with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved address “Saml. Colt”. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon. This revolver is engraved nearly identically to #1, also with engraved screws and hammer. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a highly figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip with last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl has 5 chambers with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Accompanied by an original Colt mahogany 2 gun casing with brass plate in the lid engraved with a Masonic square and compass. It has a mortised lock with cut corner rectangular escutcheon. Interior is compartmented for the 2 revolvers, a rare Navy-sized double-sided trophy of flags and arms angle spout flask, a double-sided pocket-sized early eagle flask, a brass Navy 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with bright sprue cutter that has an “H” inspector initial on the sprue cutter, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” pocket-sized mold without sprue cutter that has an “R” inspector initial on top, a paper wrapped tin of Eley caps, one full and an empty packets of six 31 cal combustible cartridges and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Mr. Leff’s notes state that this set has provenance to Leon C. (Red) Jackson. This set is similar to a number of other known sets which were presented to various high ranking officers in the Union Army. Several of these officers later joined the Confederacy during the civil War. PROVENANCE: Leon C. (Red) Jackson; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are all matching, including rammers, wedges, cyls and grips. #1. ’51 Navy. Fine. Bbl retains 75-80% original blue with a few small spots of fine surface rust; rammer and handle are mostly a grey patina; frame is also faded to a grey patina with strong, sharp engraving; some of the screws are slightly battered; cyl is a blue/brown patina with some small dings on the front edge and shows about 75% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig silver with wear only on the heel and toe; grip shows moderate wear with a few small nicks and a hand-worn patina; mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with fine pitting. #2. ’49 Pocket. bbl retains 50-60% orig blue with loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina with sharp edge wear; rammer and handle are grey metal patina; frame is also a grey metal patina with pitting on the hammer nose; cyl is a blue/grey patina with a few nicks and dings and shows 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene; trigger guard and backstrap retain about all of their orig silver plating, showing wear on the heel and toe and a small thin spot on the front strap; grip show light wear with a few small nicks and retains about 80-90% orig varnish; timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple small grain check in the bottom and retains about 80% of its oil cloth covering; top has a couple other grain checks with numerous small storage and handling scratches and overall retains about 95% orig varnish; interior is moderately faded inside the lid with light soil and a couple small chemical spots; bottom is lightly to moderately faded with moderate to heavy soil in the areas of the cyls, muzzles and edges of the grips; partitions are all solid with some minor fabric loss. Navy flask retains about 70% orig finish with one small dent between the crossed pistols; pocket flask retinas about 90% strong orig finish; molds show a few small dings with strong bright finish; cap tin paper wrapping is missing about 30% of the sides and shows heavy rust, top label is faded; other accessories are fine. Altogether, a fine original set. 4-49635 (40,000-65,000) – Lot 2148
VERY RARE CASED PAIR OF PRESENTATION DERINGER PERCUSSION PISTOLS.
Cal. 50. Fine cased pair of deringer pistols with 3-1/4″ ovoid shaped bbls with German silver dovetailed front sights & fixed rear sights in the top tang. Breech plugs & lock plates have the “DERINGER / PHILADELA” markings. Breech plugs also have two wide silver bands & “P” proof marks with zigzag decorations surrounding. Bbls have iron rails on the bottom with orig ramrods and are mounted in one piece walnut stocks with checkered bird head grips. Pistols are German silver mounted with engraved bow tie escutcheons for the single keys. Lock plates, hammers, top tangs & German silver furniture are all very nicely engraved to match. Trigger plate finials are elongated pineapple shape with matching engraving. Butt caps are also engraved and have tiny trapdoor cap boxes. Thumb plates on top of the wrists are engraved “A.J. McKimmin / 1866”. Accompanied by their orig, burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the pistols, a double sided Colt style, pocket sized, early eagle flask, a small nutcracker ball mold with sprue cutter marked “50” on one arm. Also accompanying a small brass mushroom handle steel cleaning rod, a decorated brass ramrod/jag, a lacquered tin of Eley’s double waterproof caps and a functioning key. Top of the case has a rectangular brass plate engraved in period script “A.J. McKimmin / from / N.K. Griffin / AD 1866”. Consignors notes state that Mr. McKimmin was from Polaski (sic), TN and Mr. Griffin was from Davidson County, TN. Consignor’s notes also state that in 1876 Mr. Griffin willed his estate & papers to county archives. A search of the Civil War archives disclosed no identifiable entry for either man. Single pistols are in and of themselves somewhat scarce and those with presentations are rare and pairs are extremely rare. Double cased examples are extraordinarily rare. As of this writing nothing else is known about either of these gentlemen but some judicious research in and around Nashville (Davidson County), TN probably will disclose something of interest. Undoubtedly Mr. Griffin was a man of means to afford such a lavish gift in such an austere time. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. CONDITION: Pistols are in near identical condition with cleaned bright metal bbls, lock plates & hammers; stock on one pistol has a small crack at the tip of the pineapple finial which extends to the nose cap, otherwise wood on both pistols is sound showing only moderate wear with a hand worn patina; German silver furniture is all intact and in nice condition. Mechanics are fine. Case has a slightly shrunken lid and slightly open front corners on the bottom, otherwise case is sound with normal handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid with light soil. Upper edges of the bottom, dividers, etc., are moderately faded with bright color in the pistol recesses and accessories. Accessories are fine. 4-49937 JR319 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 2404
FINE ENGRAVED COLT SA ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY INSCRIBED “FROM THE BOYS 1895” (POSSIBLY TO JUDGE JOHN L. SHEPPARD, MOUNT PLEASANT, TEXAS).
SN 163605. Cal 45 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with cal. marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame including Mr. Helfricht’s trademark flower blossoms on the recoil shield & loading gate. Front gullets of the frame also have his trademark patterns. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length over sides of bbl with fine snake & dot patterns around the address & geometric patterns all the way to the muzzle. Top radius of the ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot patterns with full length geometric & floral patterns on the outer radius. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Center of the backstrap is engraved in block letters “From the Boys 1895”. Cylinder is also deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes, a snake & dot pattern with other border patterns around the rear edge and most unusual, fully shaded panels around the stop notches. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal. 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, pearl grips, factory engraved and inscribed “From The Boys 1895” on the back strap and shipped to H.S. Bettes Hardware Co. Paris, Texas December 20, 1895 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by a large packet of information including a copy of a letter dated 11, October 1988 over the signature of H.H. Miller wherein he documents this revolver back to 1950. Mr. Miller states that a gentleman named Lee Greenly of Manitou Springs, Colorado purchased this revolver who related that it had been ordered by several citizens of Mount Pleasant Texas, Titus County, as a gift to a Judge in that area who was thought to be John L. Sheppard who was Judge of the 5th district and had presided over court cases in Mt. Pleasant. It was thought that the gift was in relation to his resigning from the bench in 1896 to enter politics to run for the U.S. Congress, and was elected. Judge Sheppard died in Hot Springs, AR in 1902. Mr. Miller states that in 1952 this revolver was obtained by A.E. Dyer, a rancher and later County Judge of Callahan County Texas. It remained in Judge Callahan’s collection until 1988 when he apparently agreed to sell it to Mr. Miller. Since that time Mr. Miller has spent considerable effort attempting to document Judge Sheppard’s activities and life. Judge Sheppard’s brief biography appears on pg 238 of History of Titus County Texas, Russell. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains nearly all of its restored silver finish, showing light wear and scattered fine pitting under the new finish. Grips have chipped left toe & heel & chipped right heel, otherwise are sound showing great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore; base pin is a replacement. 4-50752 JR71 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1194
Additional Information: This double cased set of revolvers was part of a special grouping of approx. 60 special revolvers consisting of several double-double and even fewer double cased sets given by Colonel Colt to select military dignitaries as “Presents to Officers” in late 1861. Lot is accompanied by an original handwritten letter to Col S. Colt dated 1/23/1860 from Thornton requesting a quantity of pistol barrels be sent to affect repairs at the New York Arsenal, and signed W.A.T.
EXTRAORDINARY RARE PRESENTATION DOUBLE CASED SET OF COLT 1860 ARMY AND 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS PRESENTED TO GENERAL WILLIAM A. THORNTON BY COL. COLT.
Both revolvers have a period engraved inscription on backstraps “Col. W. A. Thornton / with Compliments of Col. Colt”. Both revolvers are blue and color case hardened with deluxe 1-pc varnished walnut grip. Accompanied by their spectacular, orig, purple velvet lined, brass bound walnut casing with empty brass plaque in the lid. Corners have mortised brass reinforcements and its has English style sliding latches in the front with a mortised brass lock and large escutcheon. Interior is compartmented for both revolvers, a sgl sided, angle spout, “COLTS PATENT”, trophy of flags & arms, Army sized and Navy sized flasks, blued “COLTS PATENT” bullet molds with sprue cutters in both 36 & 44 cal, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Eley’s caps. Left front corner has a small tube of spare parts and a functioning key. Col. William A. Thornton, later Brigadier General Thornton, graduated West Point in 1825 and became Captain of Ordnance in 1838. Over 41 years of service he commanded Ordnance depots at New York, Watervliet and St. Louis and was chief inspector for Military Arms at Springfield beginning with the Paterson revolver and continuing through the Dragoon series. There were many sub-inspectors who worked for him until 1861. General Thornton was highly regarded and very ingenious and was instrumental in the development of the Dragoon models of Colt revolvers. He died in 1866. It is evident that Sam Colt regarded General Thornton very highly or at least wished to influence his decision making with this presentation. According to preeminent Colt Historian & author R. L. Wilson there were only a very few dbl case sets, such as this one, presented by Col. Colt in late 1861. Several of them are know today, with this one being one of the most important. 1). Model 1860 Army. Serial number 11682. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Frame is 4-screw type, cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. The silver plated brass trigger guard and blued steel backstrap contains a highly figured 1-pc walnut grip with last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. 2) Model 1861 Navy. Serial Number 1822. Cal 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a tiny “COLTS PATENT”, and left shoulder trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Cyl has usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a highly figured 1-pc varnished walnut grip with matching serial number in backstrap channel. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 75% orig blue mixed with dark brown patina; rammer handle retains about 95% orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot; frame and hammer retain about 90% orig case colors, strong & bright on the sides, turned a little dark on recoil shields and edge of hammer, showing light wear on left recoil shield; cyl retains about 50-60% thin orig blue and shows about 75% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. 2) Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% orig blue, strong & bright in sheltered areas, mixed with light patina elsewhere; rammer and handle retain most of their orig case colors, brilliant on pivot; frame and hammer retain about 90% orig case colors, lightly to moderately faded; cyl retains about 50-60% orig blue with balance a brown patina and shows about 80% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard and backstrap retain about 98% strong orig silver; grip is sound with a few nicks in the edges and retains about 93-95% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with 3 or 4 small spots of pitting. Case has a couple grain checks in the lid and couple more in the bottom with usual handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains 95-96% strong orig varnish; interior is very lightly faded in the lid with some light staining from revolvers and implements, bottom is moderately faded showing wear from the front sights and hammer spurs with light soil; flasks are very fine with the Army model retaining about 93-95% orig finish with one small dent on the back side; Navy model also has a sgl dent and retains about 95-98% orig finish; molds and other accessories are fine. This is an extraordinary rare set. (WG-004) 4-51091 JR524 (200,000-300,000) – Lot 2009
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 59042. Cal. 38 CF. Nickel & gold finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates which is apparently rolled over the orig “COLTS PATENT” and partially obscures “U.S”. This is apparently one of the 1,000 revolvers returned by the U.S. Navy for conversion and was later engraved. The steel trigger guard & back strap contain an early style, full checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is constructed in the orig manner with two slabs of ivory attached to two ivory spacer blocks creating a 1-pc grip. SNs on bbl lug, frame & trigger guard are accompanied by a small “E” which indicates it was to receive extra polish for engraving. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style from the L.D. Nimschke shop with about full coverage on the frame, loading gate & conversion ring, consisting of well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Matching patterns extend over most of the bbl and around the muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved in a spiral pattern. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. The spur tip has been hand checkered. Top of the back strap is engraved in a spider web panel with “V” center. It has geometric patterns at the heel with foliate arabesque patterns on the butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is an orig percussion cylinder that had the rear shoulder machined away to expose the chambers leaving only the star wheel extended. It has the orig SN “89491” with the secondary number “9042” below which matches the last four numbers of the SN of this revolver. Loading gate & cyl spindle are also matching numbered. Wedge is a replacement with numbers stamped upside down. It is apparent that this revolver was engraved, probably at the time of conversion or shortly thereafter, and had the ejector housing, cyl, hammer & trigger re-gilded likely at the same time. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were only about 2,200 of these revolvers converted, of which 1,000 were for the U.S. Navy during the period 1873-1876. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany Colt casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an L-shaped screwdriver and a lacquered tin of UMC #2 primers. Front of the case has a mahogany cartridge block with holes for seventy five 38 caliber cartridges which contains 43 tin plated military cartridges. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including replacement, renumbered wedge, grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains traces of orig nickel in sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned metal patina; frame is matching patina and both bbl & frame have scattered fine pitting; ejector housing retains 60-70% gilding, thin on outer radius; cyl retains about 80% gilding and shows about 50% thin Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger & hammer retain strong gilding; trigger guard & back strap are mostly gray metal patina with traces of nickel. Grip has a few age lines and is sound showing a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple of spots of pitting. Case is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded & moderately soiled, relined at the time of conversion. 4-49652 (30,000-60,000) – Lot 2159
*EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH LONG FLUTE CYLINDER.
SN 331474. Cal. 44 Russian and S&W Special. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with dual caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with deep medallion, left & right, fleur-de-lis & diamond checkered walnut grips. Cylinder is long flute style found on only a few Single Action revolvers in the 330000 & 331000 serial range. In 1913 Colt produced 1,379 single action revolvers with the long flute cylinder. When Colt ceased production of the Model 1878 Double Action Frontier revolver they had a residual quantity of cylinders for that revolver. Those cylinders were dimensionally the same as the Single Action cylinder, just with the longer flutes and no externally visible stop notches. The 1878 model utilized stop notches on rear face of their cylinders which, in this case, had not yet been machined. Colt simply machined Single Action style stop notches and installed them on these few revolvers in six different calibers. Extremely few of them are known to be factory engraved. This revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Helfricht shop with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, snake & dot patterns on top strap and a hunter’s star on the ejector boss. Foliate arabesque patterns extend a little over half way up the bbl with a large hunter’s star on top of the bbl. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot patterns. Top of back strap has a small sunburst with zig-zag geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved in zig-zag geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes and a snake pattern around rear edge. Rear face of cylinder has last four digits of matching SN. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 S&W Special with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, checkered walnut stocks, factory engraved, special features: “furnished with double action cylinder of long flute configuration and a 3 lb. trigger pull” and shipped to Birmingham Arms & Cycle Co., Birmingham, AL, on Sept. 11, 1915 in a 1-gun shipment. While long flute Single Actions are occasionally encountered, a factory lettered engraved model is an extreme rarity. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong, orig factory nickel with only light muzzle edge wear and slight holster wear on tip of ejector housing. Grips are sound showing light diamond point wear and retain most of their orig factory varnish. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with fine pitting. 4-50677 JR78 (35,000-50,000) – Lot 1262
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 62710. Cal 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & engraved address “Saml. Colt”. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. Mounted with distributor supplied 1-pc pearl grip constructed of 2 slabs of pearl attached to a center wooden spacer that has a pin through both sides. Cylinder is usual 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe full coverage patterns consisting of foliate arabesque scrolls, one of which terminates in his mythical bird’s head on the frame. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug with another mythical figure incorporated into one of the scrolls. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of the back strap is engraved in his typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Screw heads are all engraved as are the ends of the wedge. Hammer is also engraved in Mr. Young’s deluxe patterns with a wolf’s head on both sides of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & sides of the spur. Spur is hand checkered. Accompanied by a patterned blue velvet lined Kidder case with Kidder’s markings on the top rear edge of the bottom. Corners are brass reinforced. Bottom inside is partitioned for the revolver, an early “COLTS PATENT” double sided eagle case with Dixon spout, a small lacquered tin of Goldmark’s caps and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in about 1853 and likely was a presentation for someone of reasonably high position. These early pocket models are rarely found with any orig finish given that they usually saw hard service on the American frontier and later throughout the Civil War. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “2717” but is engraved so undoubtedly has been with this revolver its entire existence. Bbl retains about 98% glossy orig blue with faint sharp edge wear and some very minor spots of flaking. Rammer pivot & handle retain dark case colors. Frame & hammer retain about 97-98% strong orig case colors that are typically muted for this period of production. Cylinder retains 93-95% glossy orig blue and shows about 99% crisp stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. All 5 safety pins are prominent & serviceable. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver. Grips are fine with good fire and light iridescent colors. Case has a small grain check in the lid and a stress crack vertically through the lock escutcheon, which is missing. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with all partitions intact. One partition has an old repair. Flask has been replated. 4-51136 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2068
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 191675. Cal. 44. Gold & silver finish with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is rebated with usual 6-chambers and Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Five of the six safety pins are serviceable. The brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain an orig ivory 1-pc grip with matching SN inside each grip panel. Grip is constructed in the orig manner with two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacers creating a 1-pc grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and each side of the muzzle with dbl border & geometric patterns at the top. Shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with matching patterns in the center of the engraving on bbl lug. Top of the back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the heel and geometric patterns on the butt strap which match those on top of the bbl. Trigger bow is engraved in foliate & floral patterns and all of the engraving has a fine pearled background. This revolver was produced in 1871, near the end of production of this model which had about 200,000 total production. This was a period of great demand for repeating arms for use on the American frontier. Undoubtedly this revolver was for presentation to someone of high position. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including grip, except wedge which is properly unnumbered. Overall retains about all of its strong restored finish showing wear only on the back strap; there are a few small scattered spots of very fine pitting under the finish on the bbl, cyl & frame. Grip is sound showing light wear with a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered very fine pitting. 4-49875 JR184 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 2197
*FINE PRE-WWII ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 349732. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc Colt medallion ivory grips with a raised carved eagle & American shield on the right side. SN was observed on the frame and right sides of the front & back straps, under the grip. Rear face of cyl has last two digits of matching SN. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about C+ coverage consisting of about 65% coverage flowing foliate & floral arabesque patterns that have fine stippled background. Recoil shield, loading gate, top of back strap and butt strap have Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” shaped patterns incorporated into the engraving. Matching patterns extend over the top strap, sides of the bbl and outer radius of ejector housing. Additional matching patterns are on the heel, butt strap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in matching patterns on the lands between the flutes. Outer radius of ejector head is engraved with a hunter star. Altogether a fine example of Mr. Glahn’s engraving, probably from the factory. PROVENANCE: Robert H. Haskell, III Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl retains 97-98% strong orig blue with only faint muzzle edge wear; ejector housing retains about 92-94% strong orig blue; frame retains bright case colors in sheltered areas, moderately faded elsewhere; hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, bright on the sides & rear edge, faded on top edge; cyl retains about 95% strong orig blue with sharp edge wear and some thinning on the front face; trigger guard retains most of its strong orig blue with thin front strap; back strap retains strong blue at the top being a gray patina down the back strap. Grips have several age lines with the left grip a golden ivory patina and the right grip a white ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore; shows very little use. 4-50228 JR166 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 1345
EXCEEDINGLY RARE CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS-NRA SILVER MEDAL NO. 110.
SN 20322 & 20422. Cal 36. Revolvers are identical except for variations in engraving patterns. They have 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. The silver plated trigger guards & backstraps contain 1-pc checkered ivory grips with raised carved Mexican eagles. Revolvers are engraved by L.D. Nimschke in his distinctive flowing foliate arabesque patterns with “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon on the frame of #20422 while that marking on #20322 was obscured by the engraving. Matching engraving patterns extend over the bbls with some of the scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Rammer pivots are also matching engraved with spiral patterns on the rammer handles. Backstraps, buttstraps and trigger guards are matching engraved in very deep patterns with identical fan patterns at tops of backstraps and on the ears. Hammers are deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer noses, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spurs and top edges with small hand checkered panels on the spurs. Cylinders are engraved in matching patterns around the circumferences and both cylinders retain all 6 functional safety pins. Rammer handles, cylinders and hammers are gold washed with the balance of the metal silver plated. Front straps of both revolvers are engraved “From / Dart & Watkinson, / New Orleans.” Accompanied by a 2-tone burgundy & green velvet lined rosewood casing, French fitted in the bottom for the revolvers, a single sided trophy of flags and arms “COLTS PATENT” silver plated flask with angle spout, a silver plated steel 2 cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on the right side “36B”, a silver plated “L” shaped nipple wrench, 3 packets of combustible cartridges, a pewter oil bottle and a tin of Goldmark’s caps. Rear edge of the case also has a silver plated brass and hickory cleaning rod. The lid is inlaid with a large silver shield, engraved in large intertwined letters “TAS”. This set is illustrated on page 151 of The Wm M.Locke Collection, Sellers and page 208 as item 131 plate # CXXXXVI in the book Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson. Both illustrations show 4 packets of cartridges. PROVENANCE: William M. Locke Collection; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Revolvers are in nearly identical condition, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Period grips show very little wear or staining. Cylinders, rammers & hammers retain traces of gold wash, while the balance of the revolvers retain 30-40% silver plating mixed with cleaned bright metal. Mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bores. Left toe on the grip of #20422 has a repair. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded to an orangish color with strong burgundy color in the revolver recesses and under the implements. All together a beautiful and rare set, probably presented to a high ranking Mexican official or military officer. 4-49630 (60,000-75,000) – Lot 2149
*FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH KANSAS ASSOCIATION.
SN 185132. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with cal. marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style, possibly from the Cuno Helfricht shop with about “D” coverage on the frame that has fine pearled background. Matching engraving is on each side of the bbl boss with a flower blossom on the ejector boss. Top strap is engraved with a double rope pattern. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length on each side of the bbl with elaborate geometric patterns on top. Top of backstrap is engraved with a very detailed fan pattern that has a “V” center. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved with geometric patterns and the trigger bow with matching foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes and has elaborate border patterns around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal. 38-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl-ox head stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Louis Earhardt c/o J.A. Rose Atchison, KS on Jan. 2,1900 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a copy of pp. 104-105 from the 1899-1900 Atchison, KS city directory which lists Louis Earhardt as Louis Earhardt & Co. on Commercial St. Additionally accompanied by a double loop, lightly decorated right hand holster for 5-1/2″ Single Action. Holster has a large cartouche at the top marked “L. Kiper & Sons / Makers / Atchison, Kas.” Both top & bottom loops have the hand carved brand that appears to be JF Bar brand along with the number “15”. Belt is an unmarked money belt about 38″ long by 3″ wide made of 1-pc pebble grain leather, folded and sewn at the top with nickeled steel, rectangular buckle. Belt has 32 large cal., sewn-on cartridge loops. With shipment of this revolver to Kansas at the turn of the 20th century when that area was still fairly wild lends credence to the thought that this revolver might have been used by someone in law enforcement. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good. Overall retains 30-35% orig nickel showing light use with holster wear on the muzzle and ejector housing tip; nickel on the front & back straps has turned milky; cyl retains traces of orig nickel being mostly a dark brown patina; right grip has a chipped heel and a chip at the frame with an age line, and shows light to moderate wear. Mechanics are fine; strong bore with scattered pitting. Holster shows moderate to heavy wear with an open rear seam and a hand stitched closed toe, but overall is strong & serviceable. Belt shows heavy wear with and open seam and is supple with a number of detached cartridge loops. 4-50673 JR343 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 1195
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 41943. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and 5 of the 6 safety pins completely serviceable. The silver plated, small rnd guard, brass, trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished, deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip that has last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Two of the scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats. One scroll on left side terminated with Mr. Young’s mythical dog creature and another scroll on the right side terminates in a flower blossom. Rammer pivot has matching engraving. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and a wolfs head on each side of the hammer nose. Top edge and sides of the spur are engraved in fish scale patterns and the spur is hand checkered. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard also have matching engraving patterns with Mr. Young’s fan pattern on the top panel. Screw heads are all engraved. Accompanied by a burgundy velvet lined Colt mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms and flags, angled spout flask, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, an early brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, a spare hammer spring, 6 spare nipples, a spare lock bolt and a paper wrapped, sealed tin of Eley’s caps. This revolver was produced in 1859 during the time of America’s great Westward expansion of Manifest Destiny, when any repeating arm was in great demand. The Model 1851 was a tremendously popular sidearm on the Frontier and was used by such notables as Buffalo Bill Cody and Wild Bill Hickock, who was known to have carried a pair of Navies, along with and many others. These revolvers remained in service throughout the Civil war and then returned to the Frontier, remaining in service well into the 1870s & 1880s until supplanted by cartridge revolvers. Engraved examples are rare and cased, engraved examples are very rare. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 75% orig blue with the loss areas mostly flaked, not worn, to a medium patina and shows light, sharp edge wear; rammer and handle retain dark case colors; frame and hammer also retain even dark case colors; cyl retains traces of orig blue being mostly a dark brown patina and shows about 95% Ormsby Naval battle scene with Ormsby signature still visible; trigger guard and backstrap retain 96-98% strong orig silver with wear only at the heel and toe; grip is sound showing very light edge wear with very few, very fine, light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with pitting near the breech end, probably from snapping caps without cleaning afterword. Case is sound with fine nicks & scratches and retains about all of an old refinish; interior is moderately faded inside the lid with staining from contact with the cyl; bottom is heavily faded with heavy soil, partitions are solid. Flask is extremely fine and retains about 95% orig finish; mold has a few nicks & dings with orig bright metal sprue cutter; nipple wrench and cap tin are fine. (WG-025) 4-51049 JR511 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 2011
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1871-72 OPEN TOP REVOLVER.
SN 100. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Silver finish with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl has straight sides and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Mounted with 1-pc checkered ivory grip that has raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Grip is orig style with two slabs of ivory attached to two wooden spacers to create a 1-pc grip. Grip is numbered inside the right top edge with what appears to be “196” or “190”. Revolver is engraved in Gustave Young style with full coverage on the frame of foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled background. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and around the front sight with geometric patterns down the top of the bbl. Ejector housing is engraved in a spiral feather pattern. Back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical fan or spider web pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the back strap, at the heel, butt strap & trigger bow. Frame is slightly undersized. Wedge is a matching numbered replacement and SNs appear to have been re-stamped before restoration. Hammer spring is a replacement with roller groove in the tip. Firing pin is attached to the hammer nose with two rivets. The engraving is very old and appears to have been done during the period of use. Very few Open Top Revolvers were produced and even fewer were engraved making this revolver indeed rare with a unique serial number of 100. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 80-85% strong silver finish with some light flaking and small losses on the bbl & cyl. Cyl shows 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene. These revolvers are known for having light cyl rolls. Grip has some fine chips on the right rear edge and some light rust staining in the back strap channel which does not correspond to the current back strap. Grip shows moderate wear. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, lightly frosted in the grooves. 4-49702 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2160
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY.
SN 288677. Cal 32 WCF (32-30). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly reduced front sight and 1-line block letter address with cal marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame including his trademark flower blossom on recoil shield and a sunburst on the loading gate. Front sides of the frame also have Mr. Helfricht’s typical patterns, including a hunter’s star on the ejector boss. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with foliate arabesque patterns extending about 2/3 up the bbl. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern. Top of the back strap is engraved with a sunburst & the back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cylinder is lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by 2 Colt Factory letters, one dated 1972 and the other 1979, both with identical information which identifies this revolver in cal 32-20 with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved, sold to Roberts, Sanford & Taylor, Sherman, TX and shipped to C.P. Hollum, address not available, on Jan 18, 1907 in a one gun shipment. These small caliber Single Actions were often favored by lawmen and other citizens for their short range effectiveness and light recoil. PROVENANCE: Douglas Ellison Collection; Stan Shapiro Collection; Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 60-70% orig nickel showing wear around the muzzle and down the left side of the bbl along with wear on tip of ejector housing. Sides of the front part of the frame are mostly gray metal patina. Cylinder retains about 75% strong orig nickel except on the front which is gray metal patina. Grips are extremely fine with no visible flaws showing great fire and light color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with only a couple of small spots of pitting. 4-50685 JR75 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 1263
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 48528. Cal 31. Blue & color case hardened with desirable 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & engraved address “Saml. Colt” with very small “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon on left side of frame. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe varnished 1-pc walnut grip with the last 4-digits of matching serial number in the backstrap channel. Cylinder is 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. All 5 safety pins are servicable, 4 of which are crisp. Revolver is engraved in donut scrolls without shaded background, probably by Gustave Youn, with about 75-80% coverage. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug & rammer pivot with sunburst patterns on the bbl lug tang. Hammer is engraved to match with a wolfs head on each side of hammer nose and fish scale patterns on top edge & sides of spur. Spur is checkered. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical sunburst pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Screw heads & tips are all engraved. Accompanied by a purple velvet lined, mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a double sided eagle & stars flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, an early tinned container for Eley’s caps, a sealed packet of 5 combustible cartridges, an open packet for 6 combustible cartridges and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in about 1852 and was almost certainly a presentation to someone of importance. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including rammer, wedge, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear & light chemical staining on each side of the muzzle. Rammer pivot & handle retain strong orig case colors. Frame & hammer retain about 98% muted case colors. Cylinder retains about 93-95% orig blue with sharp edge wear thinned around the rear 1/3 and shows about 98% stage coach holdup scene. Chambers retain strong blue. Trigger guard & backstrap retain about 98% crisp orig silver plating that has oxidized to black. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Lining in the lid has a few scattered pin head size chemical spots, otherwise is strong & bright. Bottom is lightly faded with moderate to heavy soil and chemical spotting around the cylinder & muzzle areas. Flask retains about 95% orig finish. Mold is crisp & near new with a couple of small dings. Other accessories are equally fine. 4-51144 JR128 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2069
CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 17174. Cal. 44. Nickel finish with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. Mounted with exceptional, very deep relief carved, 1-pc pearl grip with a spread-winged American eagle on each side. Revolver is recently engraved with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with large rosettes around two of the screws. Matching patterns extend full length of the bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger bow, all with pearled background. Matching patterns are also on the rebated area of the cylinder. Major diameter of the cyl is engraved, in reverse, with the scene depicting two Indians attacking a stagecoach being pulled by four horses. Accompanied by a black leatherette covered carrying case with buckskin lined bottom recessed for the revolver. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grip which was not checked for matching numbers. Overall retains about all of its custom bright nickel finish; trigger guard is a light mustard patina. Grip is sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Case is fine. 4-50123 JR185 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 2204
*PAIR OF ELABORATE CASED GOLD WASHED COLE AGEE STYLE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS.
SN 214590 & 230941. Cole Agee was a famous Texas engraver from the 1930s until his death in 1955. He was famous for simulating famous Texas cattle brands into his patterns and this pair are classics. Guns are SN 214590 and 230941 made originally in 1901 and 1902. Guns currently have 6 1/2″ barrels which is customary for the guns. Guns are mounted with gold and silver Mexican style 2-pc grips. Both guns have fairly full coverage with foliate swirls, stipple background, longhorn heads and various brands including his repeated signature brand “2 lazy 2 P” on every other panel between flutes on each cyl. This lot is accompanied by a book on Cole Agee engraving, published in 2004 by Jink Howard. CONDITION: Gold wash is almost totally intact with few minor areas of wear. The guns were worn before they were refinished so there are scattered areas of pitting beneath the plate and engraving. Stocks are fairly well fit but there are gaps between frame and topstrap. Grips each have 15 or 16 gold braised inlays of various content including connected flowers, horseshoe and horse head and Indian heads. Casing seems contemporary with guns with blue felt lining. 4-50318 JS196 (12,500-22,500) – Lot 1361
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE PROTOTYPE OR EXPERIMENTAL COLT 1ST MODEL 1851 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER- A TRUE ONE OF A KIND ’51 NAVY!.
SN 7.. Cal. 38 CF. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and early New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has small “COLT’S PATENT”. The silver plated, square back, brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a a varnished 1-piece walnut grip with matching number in buttstrap channel. Cyl is usual 6 chambers with Ormsby Naval battle roll marking and has been converted in the Richards type conversion wherein the rear shoulder of the cyl was machined away to expose the chambers, leaving about a 5/16″ long star wheel extension. The conversion ring is also Richards type with loading gate. Wedge is first type also, mounted upside down, with retaining screw on the bottom, and fits in a groove on top of the cyl spindle. The bbl of this revolver was apparently created especially for this conversion with a very unusual set of plugs in the rammer and rammer pivot slots. Further evidence that is was a specially created bbl is that there was never a dovetail for the rammer handle latch stud. Left side of the front strap is stamped with the number “47”. This number was not observed anywhere else on the revolver. Some of the screws are round head English type. Revolver is engraved in early scroll style with about 75% coverage, very well executed foliate arabesque patterns without background shading or pearling. Conversion ring, loading gate and hammer are not engraved. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length over the bbl lug and side flats of bbl with matching patterns on the top and top side flats. Muzzle is engraved in a scallop pattern with a double chip pattern around the bbl lug. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved to match. Trigger bow is also engraved with a small elliptical shield shape observed on other early engraved Colts. This revolver is pictured on pg 112 of The WM M. Locke Collection, Sellers. Mr. Leff’s note also gives provenance to the Harry Thomas Collection. Undoubtedly this is a one of a kind prototype for the later factory conversions of the ’51 Navy and others that followed. An exceptional and exceedingly rare gun that is an important piece of Colt History. PROVENANCE: William Locke Collection; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered; bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with losses on both sides of the muzzle, probably from long term holster storage; frame retains 75-80% orig case colors, strong in sheltered areas mostly fading elsewhere, worn to metal patina on left edge of conversion plate and loading gate; hammer retains about 70% faded case colors; cyl retains about 50-60% thin orig blue with 2 areas, opposite each other, that are metal patina apparently caused by long term holster storage; cyl shows about 50% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard and backstrap retain about 98-99% strong orig silver plate; grip shows heavy wear on the sides with a few light nicks and scratches and retains 50-60% orig varnish; mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-49709 (75,000-200,000) – Lot 2150
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 149805. Cal. 41 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on the left side. Bottom of bbl is marked “41” under the base pin. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent date and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips that are probably not orig to this revolver. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and his trademark flower blossom patterns on the recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap has snake & dot patterns with other typical Helfricht patterns in the front gullets of frame. Engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbl with snake & dot border around the address. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s fan pattern and geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved in typical alternating Helfricht patterns on the lands between the flutes with snake & dot patterns around the rear edge. Base pin is a period of use replacement. Accompanied by a very unusual, late 1800s period black Moroccan leather, doe skin lined small holster that fits this revolver perfectly. Right outside of the holster is fitted with a spring clip riveted to the holster. Also accompanied by a letter dated June 21,1994 to Mr. David Jackson of Dallas, TX over the signature of Martha Ann Reading of Dallas, TX. She states that this revolver, identified by caliber, was used by Mr. Albert A. Kochan when he was a brand inspector at the Houston Stockyards and she speculates he was a city marshal at that time. She states he later lived in Richmond, TX where he died in the 1940s and is buried there. She states that the accompanying holster was his original utility holster which he wore inside the waistband of his pants. The last paragraph, in part states “Mr. Albert was my husbands grandfather and was very proud of that particular gun–“. Additionally accompanied by 2 Colt Factory letters, each advising Mr. Rholes that there was no record of this revolver. According Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran there were an estimated 1000 single action sheriffs model revolvers produced in the period 1882-1911. Of that number he estimates that 350 had standard black powder frames and only about 8 had barrels longer than 4 inches. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 70-75% orig blue turning plum on the right side with a few scattered spots of light pitting toward the muzzle. Frame & grip frame retain traces of orig finish in the most sheltered areas being mostly a plum/brown patina. Cylinder is matching patina. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Grip locator pin is a replacement. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. Holster shows heavy wear with some stitching losses around the edges. It appears that this holster was made for a 4″ bbl but it is extremely evident that this revolver has been used in this holster extensively. The toe is open showing heavy wear in the correct areas around the toe. 4-50691 JR68 (40,000-60,000) – Lot 1197
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 6291. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. left side of frame as a small “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Cyl is rebated with 5-chambers and stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc ivory grip that has matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved in donut style, probably by Gustave Young, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background shading on the frame and with matching patterns about 3/5 up the bbl and on the rammer pivot. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved to match with a fan pattern at top of backstrap. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, fish scale patterns on top edge & sides of spur with hand checkered spur. All 4 SN’s on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies this revolver was to receive special attention for engraving. Accompanied by a spectacular orig, brass bound Colt casing that has an empty plaque in the lid with mortised brass corners, brass reinforcements on the bottom corner and a mortised brass lock in the front. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a blued steel 2-caivty “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “36P”, a sgl sided eagle and stars, “COLTS PATENT” flask, a packet of 5 combustible cartridges, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, and a functioning key. Bottom is originally oilcloth covered. There were about 19,000 of these fine revolvers produced 1861-1873. They were mostly produced during the Civil war and remained in service throughout the war well into the 1870’s & 80’s until supplanted by cartridge revolvers. They generally saw hard service and are rarely found today with high orig finish. Cased examples are very rare and engraved cased examples are extremely rare. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip, cyl spindle is unnumbered or perhaps has had the number obliterated by cleaning. Bbl retains about 85% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer and handle retain faint case colors in sheltered areas. Frame retains traces of case colors, being mostly a gray metal patina. Cyl retains about 25% blue in the rebated area with the balance a gray/brown patina and shows about 75% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap are mostly a medium brass patina with silver on the trigger plate. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has grain check in the lid and a couple more in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains about 85% orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil under the revolver and damage from the front sight. Flask retains 65-70% strong orig finish and the mold about 90% orig blue. Cartridge packet and cap tin are fine, other accessories are fine. (WG-029) 4-51058 JR502 (25,000-35,000) – Lot 2020
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 85608. Cal. 38 RF. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, small dovetailed blade front sight and 1-line Hartford block letter address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig type 1-pc ivory grip with last four digits of matching SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage on the frame foliate arabesque patterns with very fine pearled background. A scroll on the left recoil shield and another on the right side terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug and on to the top side flats of the bbl. One scroll terminates in Mr. Young’s mythical dog’s head. Hammer is engraved to match with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank with fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Spur is hand checkered. This revolver was engraved, probably from the factory, prior to being converted. The firing pin is attached to the left side of the hammer nose with two rivets through the wolfs’ heads. Cyl is modified from an orig percussion cyl and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. It has the SN “85609”, one number away from this revolver. It seems likely that there may have been a pair of revolvers returned for conversion at the same time and their cylinders switched during the process. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 90% factory style restored blue; frame retains 50-60% fading case colors, a little stronger on the right side; hammer retains strong case colors on the sides, bright on the rear edge; cyl retains about 75% thin restored blue and shows about 65% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard & back strap retain about 60-65% orig silver. Grip has a number of age lines but is sound showing light edge wear and retains a light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-49656 (17,500-30,000) – Lot 2161
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS RANGER AND TEXAS COUNTY SHERIFF HISTORY.
SN 352587. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in an engraved oval. Mounted with 2-pc, silver medallion, smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn with about “B” coverage, foliate & floral patterns with fine stippled background. Cylinder is engraved to match on lands between the flutes with a zigzag pattern around the rear edge. Left recoil shield, loading gate, butt strap and top panel of the back strap are engraved with Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Serial number was observed on the frame and right side of the front & back straps, under the grip and cyl has last two digits of matching serial number on the rear face. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, grade “2” factory engraving and shipped to Toepperwein Hardware Co., San Antonio, TX on May 23, 1929 in a one gun shipment on order #16529/1. Also accompanied by a notorized letter over the signature of W.G. Chapman wherein he states that his father, George W. Chapman was a Texas Ranger in Company “A” in Alice, TX,1917 and Company “C” in Laredo, TX 1920-1921. Letter also states that Ranger Chapman owned this revolver, identified by serial number. The last paragraph states “he was a deputy sheriff in LaSalle County, Texas from about 1926-1935 and purchased this Colt single action in 1929 and carried it as a deputy sheriff.” This letter is dated April 39,1991. Additionally accompanied by a form letter signed by Homer Garrison, Jr., director of Texas Dept. of Public Safety which verifies the service of Ranger Chapman. Letter is dated September 1959. Additionally accompanied by several pictures of Mr. Chapman on horseback. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 95% strong orig nickel, turned a little milky. Left edge of muzzle and tip of ejector housing show heavy holster wear with light holster wear on left side of bbl; cyl shows holster wear around the front edge; grips are sound with no visible flaws and show great fire. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. 4-50668 JR328 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1264
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 113248. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved address “Saml Colt”. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain what may be its orig, factory 1-pc smooth ivory grip. All the SNs on the bottom of the revolver, bbl lug and buttstrap are accompanied by a small “I” which indicates that it was to have ivory grips from the factory. Grip is constructed of 2 slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory spacer. Cyl has 5 shots with Stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage very fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with pearled background. A scroll on the left recoil shield and another on the right side of frame terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats with one scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s mythical dog’s head and another on the right terminating in a flower blossom. Rammer pivot is engraved in matching patterns. Top of the backstrap is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical sunburst pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & sides of the spur. Tip of the spur is hand checkered. Screw heads and tips are all engraved except the wedge screw which is probably a replacement. The model 1849 pocket pistol was Colt’s most prolific percussion product with over 300,000 produced in the period 1850-1873. This model was an improvement on the model 1848 baby dragoon and, if anything, was more wildly successful for Colt. This model continued with great success during the Great Westward migration and saw continued hard service on the American frontier, throughout the Civil War and into the 1870s. Although they were produced in the greatest numbers and are frequently encountered with factory engraving they are seldom found with deluxe coverage and high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge & cyl, grips are not numbered. Bbl retains 65-70% strong orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a dark patina. Rammer pivot and handle retain traces of case colors having mostly faded to silver. Frame & hammer retain traces of case colors having mostly turned dark. Cyl retains 50-60% blue turning brown. Trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plate with only sharp edge wear. Right side of grip has an age line, otherwise grip is sound and retains a fine, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with moderate pitting. 4-51137 JR143 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2072
MAGNIFICENT NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH GOLD & SILVER FINISH.
SN 20399. Cal. 36. Exceptional ’61 Navy with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, full front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard “36 CAL”. Cyl, rammer & hammer are gold washed with the remainder of the revolver silver plated. The brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a spectacular checkered 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved American eagle & shield on the left side. Revolver and grips are carefully cut, most certainly by L.D. Nimschke, featuring full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame & recoil shields, all with fine pearled background. A scroll on the left side terminates in a flower blossom. Matching engraving patterns extend about half way up each side of the bbl with a flower blossom on each side of bbl lug. Matching engraving patterns are on each side at the muzzle and on top of the bbl. Rammer is engraved with diamond & dot patterns on the pivot and spiral foliate patterns on the handle. Cyl is also fully engraved on the front 2/3, with the appearance that the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking had been carefully removed to facilitate embellishment. Hammer also received deluxe engraving with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard all have full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with a very elaborate fan pattern on the top flat. Front strap is engraved in gothic letters with the inscription “Aloys Seinem Johann.” This exact revolver is illustrated on p 170 of The Book of Colt Engraving . The mate to this gun, with its unique inscription, is on display at the Gene Autry Museum. Accompanied by a copy of an appraisal of this item done by R.L. Wilson describing its history, attributes, and condition. PROVENANCE: Ex. Sutherland Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 80-85% orig silver with light freckles of dark patina; rammer pivot retains strong gold wash and the handle about 40% strong gold; frame retains about 50% silver with the balance gray metal; cyl retains traces of gold, being mostly a gray/brown patina; hammer retains gold on the shank and rear edge with the balance brown patina; trigger guard & backstrap retain about 75% orig silver. Grip has a chipped left toe and one age line, shows very light wear and retains a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-50382 JR527 (100,000-125,000) – Lot 2206a
*SPECTACULAR BEN LANE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER MADE TO LOOK LIKE AN ORIGINAL OWNED BY SHERIFF JEFFERSON FARR.
SN 2563AM. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, relocated front sight and 2-line address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patnet dates and Rampant Colt. Left side of front & back straps, under the grip, has matching serial number. Right side of front & back straps have the assembly number “264”. Front face of cyl around the bushing hole has last three digits of matching serial number. Bottom of bbl, under ejector housing, is marked “B.G.L.-11/01”, the initials of master engraver, Ben G. Lane and what is apparently the date he engraved this revolver. Mounted with an unusual, modern, 1-pc pearl grip made to resemble an orig Colt 1-pc grip, consisting of 2 slabs of pearl attached to a wood spacer block. This grip additionally has a screw in the left side simply threaded into the wood block and has a slightly raised carved Mexican eagle on the right side. Revolver is wonderfully engraved by Mr. Lane to duplicate a Single Action Revolver. Formerly owned by Sheriff Jefferson Farr of Walsonburg, CO, serial number 256058, which appeared on the cover of the fall 1995 issue of The Texas Gun Collector, the publication of the Texas Gun Collectors Association. Pages 16-17 had a short article from the editor about this revolver with three additional photographs. A note with this revolver indicates that Mr. Lane was commissioned to create this copy from a revolver with 7-1/2″ bbl. Mr. Lane reduced the bbl to its current length, relocated the front sight and engraved it. The grip was created by Raj Singh and it was finished by Doug Turnbull Restorations. This revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfricht style with full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, shell patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate with foliate arabesque patterns extending up each side of the bbl and at the muzzle. It also has geometric patterns on top of the bbl. Both sides of the frame are inlaid with flush gold arabesque patterns and there is a narrow gold band around each end of the bbl. Backstrap is engraved to match with an elaborate fan pattern at the top that also has flush gold wire worked into the pattern. Cyl is engraved to match with gold wire decoration around the rear edge. Trigger plate is engraved “BL” intertwined, the initials of the engraver. Accompanied by a copy of the referenced magazine and a target shot by this revolver. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Has been fired, as noted. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp factory style finish with bright blues and brilliant case colors; grip is sound showing great fire. Mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore. 4-50378 JR464 (6,500-9,500) – Lot 1362
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 159800. Cal. 44. Nickel finish with 8″ rnd bbl, full front sight and 1-Line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape and left rear web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. The brass trigger guard and steel backstrap contain an original 1-pc ivory grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Grips are of the period. SNs on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard and buttstrap are all accompanied by the initials “I E”. This signifies that this revolver was to receive extra polishing for engraving and that is was to receive ivory grip. Revolver is engraved in late vine style, probably by Gustave Young with about full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame without shaded background. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Matching engraving patterns extend over the bbl and onto the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger bow. Top of the backstrap has Mr. Young’s style of starburst panel. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s had on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque pattern on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge and sides of the spur. Spur is hand checkered. Cyl is rebated and has usual 6 chambers and has 3 of the 6 safety pins serviceable. Accompanied by an orig, brass bound, rosewood Colt casing with empty brass plaque in the lid. Interior is green velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided trophy of arms & flags “COLTS PATENT” flask with angle spout, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with a sprue cutter, marked on the right side “44H” and with a “C” inspector initial. Also containing 2 full sealed packets of combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with orange label and band. This exact revolver in its current configuration and case appears on pg 180 of Colt Engraving, Wilson with what appear to be identical accessories but additional includes an L-shaped nipple wrench, with credit to the John B. Solley, III Collection and Ronald Ogan Collection. PROVENANCE: R.L. Wilson Letter of authentication; John B. Solley, III Collection; Ronald Ogan Collection; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine to extremely fine, all matching including grip, as noted. Bbl, receiver and cyl retain 97-98% strong orig nickel; trigger guard and front strap retain about 70% orig nickel with the exposed areas a dark mustard patina; backstrap retains about 60% orig nickel with the exposed metal having very fine pinprick pitting; grip has a number of natural age lines with a couple of small chips on bottom edges and overall shows a beautiful golden ivory patina; mechanics are fine, strong bore lightly pitted in the grooves. Case has a crack in the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual light handling and storage nicks and scratches and retains about 95% orig varnish; brass corners and reinforcements are a dark brass patina; interior is lightly faded and soiled with some minor fabric loss to top edges of a couple of the partitions; flask is fine and retains about 75% orig finish; mold retains about 90% orig blue; 1 cartridge packet is taped on one end, the other packet is crisp; cap tin shows light soil and minor damage to the top label and is missing about half the band. Altogether an outstanding set with great provenance. 4-49628 (38,000-65,000) – Lot 2151
*LOT OF THREE FIREARMS, WATCHES, PHOTOGRAPHS & EPHEMERA THAT BELONGED TO TEXAS RANGER & COUNTY SHERIFF LEE QUEEN.
1) Colt Single Action Army. SN 151191. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about “C” coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and his fan patterns on recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns and foliate arabesque patterns extend about 3/4 of the length on each side of the bbl. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in top gullet and outer radius. Cyl is typically engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on lands between flutes with snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger guard. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips, factory engraved and shipped to J.F. Schmelzer & Sons, Kansas City, Kansas on Nov. 28, 1893 in a 2-gun shipment. 2) Smith & Wesson Hand Ejector DA Revolver. SN 585252. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 5″ bbl and fixed sights. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have deep relief carved eagle with red stone eye on right side. Right sideplate is jeweler engraved, through the blue, “LEE QUEEN. / CHANNING / TEX”. Accompanied by a tooled brown leather holster. 3) Winchester Model 1894 Saddle Ring Carbine. SN 585069. Cal. 30 WCF (30-30). Standard carbine with 20″ bbl, full magazine, square base front sight and 3-leaf carbine express rear sight. Receiver has a stud & ring. Mounted with uncheckered gum wood with straight stock & carbine buttplate. This lot is accompanied by a large volume of printed material relating to Ranger Queen. Robert Lee Queen was born Sept. 1869 in Williamson County, Texas and grew up near Round Rock. He moved to the Amarillo area as a child and in 1893 joined the Texas Rangers and served until 1897. After that he ranched and became a cattle inspector. In 1902 he was elected Sheriff of Hartley County and served a total of seven terms, nearly twenty years in two different sessions. He died in 1933. Among this large volume of material are several originals & copies of photographs of Ranger Queen and some of his company of Rangers. Included is a notarized statement from Tom O. Collins who states that he is the grandson of Lee Queen and that the firearms being sold here belonged to his grandfather which he used as a Ranger and Sheriff. Also included is a notarized letter from Atty. Rick McGarrey who states that the Colt Single Action being sold here belonged to his grandfather and was used during his term as a Ranger. Additionally included is an Elgin 18 size, silverode cased pocket watch that belonged to Lee Queen and a 14 kt. 3-color gold Hampton lady’s hunter case watch that belonged to his wife, Maggie Queen, that was sold to Mr. Rhodes by Virginia Queen Ayers, their daughter, signed receipt included. Additionally accompanying is the miniature badge of Ralph Queen, Lee Queen’s son, who succeeded him as Hartley County Sheriff and a campaign matchbook for Ralph Queen. Also accompanying is an unmarked cartridge/money belt, 36″ x 2-3/8″ with nickeled cut-corner steel buckle and forty 45 caliber cartridge loops, two of which are broken and contain thirty-one 45 caliber cartridges. And finally accompanied by a bronze statue of a western man wearing a cowboy hat & boots with gun belt & Bowie knife reloading his Colt revolver. It is titled “Lee Queen / COMPANY B TEXAS RANGER”. Artist signature is indecipherable but this statue is 1/10. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very good to fine. Overall retains 50-60% orig nickel showing heavy holster wear on left side of muzzle and tip of ejector housing with heavy wear on front of cylinder; loss areas are a gray metal patina; screws are fine and retain most of their orig fire blue, turned a little dark. Grips are fine and may be old replacements. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 2) Fair to good. Overall retains 50-60% dull orig blue showing heavy holster wear on bbl & cyl. Right grip has chipped heel & toe with chipped heel on left grip and another chip at the frame and show great fire & iridescent colors. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Holster is fine. 3) Good. Bbl & magazine tube retain about 85% orig blue; receiver retains traces of orig blue being mostly a worn gray metal patina. Forearm has 3 gouges and the stock a few more and overall retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Pocket watches appear to be running as of this writing. Badge is fine. Cartridge belt shows moderate to heavy wear with crackled finish and worn tongue billet. Ammunition is oxidized. Bronze is extremely fine. 4-50653, 4-50654, 4-50655 JR492 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1199
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF HOUSE PISTOL.
SN 1809. Cal. 41 RF. Silver and gold finish with 3″ rnd bbl, pinched blade front sight and 4-chamber cloverleaf shaped cyl. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips, matching numbered to this pistol. Frame and bbl are silver finish and cyl & hammer are gold finish. Frame and bbl are matching numbered, cylinders in these early cloverleafs are not marked with serial numbers but do carry an assembly number. This one carries an assembly number 1719. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with nearly full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with a fine zig-zag border and dot & diamond patterns on the front of the frame and trigger sheath. Bbl is matching engraved with a diamond & dot border around the muzzle. Backstrap is engraved with a spider web pattern at the top and geometric patterns down the backstrap. Accompanied by an orig Colt rosewood casing, that is blue velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a wire cleaning rod in a slot in the back edge and a functioning key. Left front has a Mahogany cartridge block containing 22 orig cartridges. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were only about 7500 cloverleaf pistols produced 1871-1875. Very few were engraved and even less of those were cased. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its orig silver finish on the frame and bbl, thin and showing brass on the backstrap. Cyl and hammer retain virtually all of their orig gold wash, a little thin on the hammer. Grips are crisp with no visible flaws and show great fire and iridescent colors. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is sound and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with stronger colors under the revolver and shows staining and soil from contact with the revolver inside the lid. Ammunition is fine. (WG-031) 4-51073 JR505 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 2043
RARE ENGRAVED POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER WITH TIFFANY GRIP.
SN 5712. Cal. 38 CF. Usual configuration with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has the July 25, 1871 and July 2, 1872 2-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Mounted with a spectacular cast brass Tiffany grip with spread winged eagle clutching olive branches in its talons on the back strap. This is an American Eagle Grip which is more rare than the Mexican Eagle variation. Top of the back strap has an empty initial oval. Body of the grip has raised foliate arabesque patterns. Butt of the grip is flared with flower blossom cap. Under the butt cap has the assembly number “00” with matching number inside the cap. Butt of the grip also has the matching SN to the revolver. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. One of the scrolls on the left recoil shield terminates in a large flower blossom. Edge of the conversion ring & loading gate are engraved in feather patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of the bbl, foward of the address and on each side of the muzzle. Ends of the wedge are also engraved. Trigger guard has matching pattern engraving. Cyl has full coverage matching foliate arabesque patterns around the major diameter and appears to have never had the standard cyl roll marking. Cyl spindle and loading gate have matching assembly numbers. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were approx. 6,500 of these revolvers produced in the period 1873-1875 in three bbl lengths, two calibers and with two styles of cylinders. Engraved examples of this model are quite rare and those with Tiffany grip are doubly rare. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, no orig finish remains being an overall dark brown patina showing heavy wear on the bbl and moderate wear on the cyl & frame; trigger guard & front strap show traces of orig silver, being mostly a dark brass patina. Grip shows moderate wear with only traces of orig silver on the inside. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-49711 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 2162
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY.
SN 241874. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a relief carved ox head on the right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 60-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with matching patterns on each side of the front of the frame and a hunter’s star on the ejector rod boss. Recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in sunburst patterns and top strap in leaf & vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend about 3/4 of the length of the bbl on each side with geometric patterns around the address. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern. Top of back strap is engraved in a matching sunburst with geometric patterns down the back strap on the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with alternating patterns on lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved & shipped to Krakauer, Zork & Moye, c/o S.D. Tipton, El Paso, TX on July 22, 1903 in a one gun shipment. This revolver could have been for a local law enforcement officer, wealthy local citizen or rancher or someone of importance in Mexico. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains 60-65% strong orig blue showing heavy holster wear on the left side with thinning around the muzzle. Ejector housing retains blue in the gullets, showing metal patina on the outer radius. Frame retains 40-50% orig case colors, bright on the front part of the frame, fading to silver elsewhere. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Front strap & trigger guard retain about 70% orig blue, thin on the front strap & butt strap. Back strap retains thin blue at the top being a gray patina on the back. Cylinder retains 60-70% orig blue, strong in the flutes. Grips have a chipped right heel, otherwise are sound, showing great fire and light color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-50686 JR77 (25,000-40,000) – Lot 1265
SN 12695. Cal 31. Blue finish with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight & 2-line address. Mounted with 1-pc varnished walnut grip that has last 4 digits of matching serial number in top of backstrap channel. Cylinder has the stagecoach hold up scene roll marking & a set screw in the side which retains the cylinder pin. Backstrap is engraved in period script, through the blue, “Capt. Chas. Deering / Aug 3-5, 1869.” Heel of the backstrap & buttstrap appear to have been heated, probably to assist in removing the hammer spring tensions screw, which is slightly battered. Buttstrap also has a sharp gouge through the “2” of the serial number. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined Colt casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle and stars flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “31 PKT”, 2 open & empty packets for 31 caliber cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench & a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, missing about 1/3 of its label. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only 2,925 of models 7 & 7A were produced with the model 7A being most rare. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cylinder & grip. Overall retains about 95% glossy orig blue with only faint sharp edge wear & the heated area on the heel. Cylinder retains about 98% glossy orig blue with about 99% stagecoach hold up scene. Rammer & hammer retain brilliant case colors. Grip has some small chips at the frame, otherwise is new, retaining about all of its orig varnish. Hammer nose drags a little in the slot, otherwise mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with one small spot. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil in the bottom and solid partitions with damage only from the front sight. Flask, mold & nipple wrench are as new. Cartridge packets are fair. Cap tin is missing about 1/3 of its label as noted. All together a rare & desirable cased pistol. 4-51171 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2080
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PROTOTYPE OR EXPERIMENTAL PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 28208. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2 rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. The trigger guard & backstrap are steel and are color case hardened and contain an extraordinary, carved, 1-pc walnut grip. Grip is beautifully carved with foliate arabesque patterns at the top & bottom on each side with the center section an intricate basket weave pattern. Back strap channel of the grip is marked with the full matching serial number to this revolver. Frame is most unusual, without “COLTS PATENT” marking on the left side. Cylinder is usual six chambers with the Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and has all six safety pins prominent & serviceable. Bbl address & cylinder roll marking are very light strikes as is normally found on the ’61 Navy. Accompanied by a one page letter from Colt Historian, researcher and author, R.L. Wilson, where in he verifies most of the above information. Mr. Wilson states that the grip on this revolver is carved similarly to the grip found on a cased Colt pocket navy about which Mr. Wilson had also written a letter attributing the carved grip to Charles J. Helfricht, father of Colt master engraver Cuno A. Helfricht. In the letter accompanying the revolver being sold here he attributes the carved grip to Colt craftsman J. Grosch. Regardless of the attribution these carved grips are extraordinarily rare and only found on equally rare revolvers. Consignor states that this revolver has never previously been offered for sale after it was discovered in a small estate sale in Connecticut several years ago. Consignor further states that when this revolver was purchased from that estate sale it was accompanied by an elaborately engraved Colt Single Action Sheriff’s Model revolver with ebony grip. An additional rare feature on this revolver are the very fine checkered ramrod handle & hammer spur. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue, thin on each side, turning a little plum with spots of surface discoloration; left side of bbl lug has three scratches and right side has nicks & dings around the wedge slot; frame & hammer retain bright case colors, slightly more faded on the recoil shields and top edge of hammer; trigger guard retains bright case colors in sheltered areas, moderately faded on the trigger bow and turned gray on the front strap; back strap retains strong case colors at the top and bright colors on the butt strap, lightly to moderately faded in center of back strap; cyl retains about 70-80% thin blue and shows about 90% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking; grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear with a few light scratches in the finish and overall retains about 95% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine; bright shiny bore. 4-50310 JR325 (30,000-40,000) – Lot 2207
*UNUSUAL PAIR OF SPECIAL ORDER 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS BY BEN SHOSTLE.
SN 004-FBF & FBF-004. Cal. 44-40 & 45 Colt. Both revolvers are virtually identical in configuration and engraving with one having all blue finish and the other blue & color case hardened. Both have 7-1/2″; bbls, fixed front sights, 1-line addresses and model & caliber markings on left sides. Left sides of frames are marked differently and they are mounted with different styles of wood grips. Engraving consists of 35-40% coverage, well executed foliate scroll patterns with stippled background and Cuno Helfricht style sunbursts on left recoil shields. Top straps have fine border patterns. Engraving extends about 3″; up the bbls with a sgl gold band at the frame ends and wide & narrow gold bands at the muzzle ends. They have a deep relief panel on the left sides near the muzzles with raised inlaid gold plaque inscribed “THE FIRST BANKERS” with what is apparently the bank’s logo. An identical raised gold logo is at the top of each back strap and the back straps are engraved in script “First Bankers Corporation of Florida”. The butt straps are inlaid with three gold, 5-pointed stars. Cyls are identically engraved with a continuous flowing foliate scrolls that run from flute to flute with small one-directional star bursts by each stop notch. Rear edge of cyls have wide & narrow gold bands. The work is signed by the late Master Engraver Ben Shostle at the base of the left recoil shield on SN 004-FBF. They each are accompanied by their orig custom shop, burgundy velvet lined, oak casings. The lids of the wood cases are impressed in black letters with the bank’s logo and “THE FIRST BANKERS” in the centers, the “COLT” logo in right front corners and the caliber marking in left front corners. Interior is recessed for the revolver and a brass plaque with similar information and a gold plated cartridge along with the orig keys. 1) SN FBF-004 is all blue with conventional transverse pin and varnished oak grips with gold Colt medallions, numbered to this revolver. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt. Last three digits of SN are hand engraved on rear face of cylinder. 2) SN 004-FBF is blue & color case hardened with black powder style frame having 3-line patent dates. Mounted with 2-pc oil finished walnut grips with gold Colt medallions which are numbered to this revolver. CONDITION: Both revolvers appear to be new & unfired and unturned retaining virtually all of their orig factory finish. Cases are equally new. 4-50975 JS194 (4,500-7,500) – Lot 1365
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 3547. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight and New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain its orig, matching numbered,1-pc, Army-sized ivory grip. Cyl is full fluted style with all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Frame is 4-screw style with flat head hammer screw and cut for shoulder stock. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with about full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with one scroll terminating in a flower blossom on the left recoil shield. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend over the bbl and terminate just forward of the address. Top of the back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s minimal starburst panel with foliate arabesque pattern on the back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger guard. Raised areas of the cyl, over the chamber areas are engraved to match. Hammer is also engraved to match with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & sides of the spur. It is well recorded that there were about 4,000 of these revolvers with fluted cylinders produced out of the first 8,000 or so revolvers made. Many of these fluted Army revolvers were shipped to southern dealers on the eve of the Civil War and are sometimes considered secondary Confederate arms. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined, Colt mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” trophy of flags & arms angle spout flask, a blued “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a small tin of Eley’s caps and a functioning key. Given the very limited number of these revolvers produced, and the time frame in which they were produced, it is statistically safe to say that extremely few were engraved and even fewer were cased. This is an orig casing built for the 7-1/2″ bbl revolver with Army grip vs. the 8″ standard production revolver. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 70% thinning orig blue, glossy & bright in sheltered areas; rammer pivot & handle retain about all of their dark orig case colors; frame retains traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas having faded mostly to gray; hammer is a gray patina; cyl retains 60-70% orig blue, mostly in the flutes & rebated area; trigger guard retains 40-50% orig silver and the back strap is a cleaned gray metal patina. Grip has a few age lines, shows very little wear and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine; strong sharp bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and another in the bottom, otherwise is sound with handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about 75-80% orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the lid with one area of soil from contact with the cylinder; bottom is moderately faded & soiled with light damage from the front sight and some slight loose material in the rear edge; flask is mostly a dark brass patina; mold is very fine, other accessories are fine. Altogether an extremely rare & desirable set. 4-49633 (55,000-75,000) – Lot 2152
IMPORTANT COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER AND RIG BELONGING TO DEPUTY U.S. MARSHALL HENRY SPENCE MILLER.
SN 163113. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a broken circle. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “41” (actual bore diameter for caliber 38-40) under the base pin. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Backstrap is engraved in period script, probably by a local jeweler, “H. Miller”. Henry Spence Miller was born in 1859 in Clay County, Missouri, one of five brothers in that family. One of the brothers, Clelland Miller, became very famous or rather infamous, as a member of the James Gang and was killed Sept. 7, 1876 by a medical student named Henry Wheeler. From all reports Henry Spence Miller was also fairly wild but did not cross the line against the law. He became Assistant U.S. Marshall for the District of Western Missouri in 1893, a position he apparently held for about four years. Accompanied by a notarized statement from Christopher Riley Wise who states that he is the great-grandson of Henry Spence Miller and lists seven items that were the property of his great-grandfather. Included in this inventory is this revolver, identified by serial number, Deputy Marshall Miller’s gold badge, 16 orig photographs of outlaws captured by Marshall Miller, a gun belt & holster, a leather covered blackjack, a wrist cuff and a small metal savings bank, all of which are included in this lot. Additionally accompanying is a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on Oct. 1, 1895 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanying is an orig parchment deed for the sale of property in Clay County, Missouri in the name of Moses Miller, Henry Spence Miller’s father, dated 1835 and bearing the Seal of the United States and the signature of President Andrew Jackson in two places. Additionally accompanying is a notarized Bill of Sale over the signature of Christopher R. Wise, selling this lot of merchandise to Tommy Rholes. Also accompanying is the Jan. 1954 issue of The Texas Gun Collector (the official publication of the Texas Gun Collectors Association) which includes a 4-page article about James S. Wise, the father of Christopher, and part of his firearms collections. The photographs, blackjack, wrist cuff & bank (with key) are self explanatory and the revolver has been described above. Badge appears to be about 14 karat gold, made of two flat pieces with the top bar about 1-1/2″ long x 3/8″ wide marked “DEPUTY”. Suspended from two 4-link chains is a small shield 1-5/8″ x 1-3/8″ marked “U.S. / MARSHALL / WESTERN DIST. / MISSOURI” with some light engraved decorations. The belt & holster rig are made of fine tooled leather consisting of a single loop mail-order holster with Cheyenne plug that is highly decorated. Belt is also mail order, made of 1-pc soft leather, sewn at the top, in money belt style with nickeled steel rectangular buckle, about 4″ x 3″, that has been trimmed on the tongue end with the tongue reattached. Belt has 40 sewn-on cartridge loops which contain twelve 38-40 cartridges. All together this lot is very inclusive of part of what would have been worn & carried by a U.S. Marshall in the late 1800s. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is fine. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with most of the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium/dark patina, shows holster wear around the muzzle and left side; ejector housing retains about 40% orig blue showing wear on the outer radius and flaking in the top gullet; frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, bright in the front gullets, faded elsewhere, thin and turning silver on recoil shield, loading gate & top strap; hammer retains bright case colors, turned dark on top edge; cyl retains about 85-88% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and a medium cyl line; trigger guard & backstrap retain strong blue in sheltered areas being mostly a dark brown patina. Grips are sound showing great fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. Blackjack retains about 50% orig brown finish with broken wrist strap; wrist cuff retains traces of orig nickel being mostly a brown patina; bank retains most of its orig nickel; holster shows light wear and retains most orig finish; belt shows moderate wear with a few damaged and reattached cartridge loops; photos are yellowed & faded; badge is extremely fine. 4-50661 JR490 (50,000-100,000) – Lot 1201
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 1ST MODEL NEW LINE 32 SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 9801. Cal. 32 RF. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight with 2-line address. Base pin, trigger, screws & edges of hammer are fire-blued. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver has nearly full coverage New York style, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with very fine pearled background, probably by Gustave Young. Accompanied by an extremely rare, leather covered, trunk style factory casing that is pale blue velvet lined with blue satin hinge covering, recessed in the bottom for the revolver. It has a sculpted cartridge block in the left front containing 25 cartridges. In the back it has its orig steel, L-shaped cleaning rod/screwdriver. Although this revolver was the second highest production of the New Line series. It is very rarely encountered engraved and is exceedingly rare with orig case. They were very popular during their day in the 1870s & 1880s and usually saw hard service. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including bbl, cyl & grips. Overall retains 97-98% crisp orig nickel with only one small spot on the bottom of frame and a couple of tiny spots on top strap; trigger, hammer, cyl pin & screws retain bright fire blue. Grips are sound, showing no visible flaws and have great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. May have been fired but if so, very little. Case is extremely fine with a few minor scuffs and a couple of minor scratches and retains about all of its crisp, russet brown finish; interior is heavily faded with stained areas from contact with the revolver; cartridges are dark copper color. (WG-032) 4-51074 JR497 (15,000-20,000) – Lot 2043a
RARE DELUXE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 11635. Cal. 38 RF. Gold finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates of July 25, 1871 and July 2, 1872. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips that are probably are not orig to this revolver as there is no locator pin or locator pin holes for the grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and about 7/8 up the side of the bbl. Outer radius of ejector housing is engraved in geometric patterns. Top of back strap is engraved in a borderless fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with a variety of border patterns around the rear edge & rebated area. Cyl has the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Loading gate has the assembly number “1815” which is also found on the cyl arbor. Wedge, a replacement, is not engraved or gold washed and has the SN “15851”. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined, mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a walnut handled cleaning jag/ramrod with cupped end & brass ferrule and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Front of the case is fitted with a mahogany cartridge block with holes for 38 cartridges containing 25 copper cased rimfire cartridges. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were about 2,000 of these revolvers produced 1873-1875. Bbl has the unusual slightly rounded bottom contour vs. the later type with the large loading cutout of the Police Models. PROVENANCE: John Gangel; Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge as noted. Bbl retains 30-40% orig gold plating with the balance showing exposed, dark silver, and gray metal patina; ejector retains about 50% gold wash; frame, trigger guard & back strap retain 75-80% strong gold wash with bright case colors on sides and rear edge of hammer; cyl retains 50-60% thin gold wash on the major diameter, stronger in the rebated area and shows about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Grips are crisp with great fire. Mechanic are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case has a repaired crack in the lid, otherwise is sound and retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish; interior is lightly faded inside the lid, heavily faded in the bottom with moderate to heavy soil; accessories are fine; ammunition is oxidized. 4-49655 (8,500-12,000) – Lot 2163
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 FRONTIER “OMNIPOTENT” DA REVOLVER.
SN 1505. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl. Full front sight & 1-line block letter address with crisp etched panel “OMNIPOTENT” on the left side. Serial number is found on the butt and on rear face of cylinder with last 2 digits of serial number on bottom of bbl under base pin. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Mounted with 2-pc smooth bird head ivory grips, matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is lightly engraved with intertwined foliate arabesque patterns that is without background. Top strap, back strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Matching patterns also extend up the bbl with an unusual oval around the front sight. Cylinder is engraved with matching patterns on lands between the flutes with a fine chain pattern border around rear edge. Screws, trigger & edges of hammer are fire blued. Butt of the revolver has a factory sling swivel & left front web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, plain ivory stocks, factory engraved, special features; “Omnipotent” bbl marking & shipped to B. Kittredge & Co. Cinncinnatti, OH on Dec. 24, 1878 in a 2 gun shipment. The “OMNIPOTENT” bbl marking was created by Benjamin Kittredge who ordered the markings applied to 45 caliber model 1878 revolvers only sold by his firm and is the only non-caliber marking every etched on any Colt model other than “Colt Frontier Six Shooter” on Single Actions. This marking was applied for The Kittredge Co. from Aug. 1878 to May 1882 with an estimated 154 revolvers so marked. It is believed that only 2 of these revolvers were ever factory engraved and this one is believed the only surviving example on the open market. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including grips. Overall retains 88-90% orig nickel turning a little milky, showing wear around the muzzle with flaking in the forcing cone area and on the front & back straps. Cylinder retains 65-70% nickel. Trigger & screws retain strong fire blue with bright blue on edges of hammer. Grips have a couple of minor age lines, show light wear and retain a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-50766 JR76 (30,000-50,000) – Lot 1303
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER.
SN 101030. Cal 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetail front sight and 1-line block letter Hartford address with dashes. Frame has full coverage engraving from the Gustave Young shop, probably by the master himself, with 2 scrolls terminating in flower blossoms, 1 on recoil shield & 1 on the right side. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug with a scroll terminating in Mr. Young’s mythical bird head & another in a large flower blossom. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the top edge & sides of the spur with hand checkered spur. Top of the backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap, on the buttstrap and trigger bow. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain, what appears to be, an orig, full checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. The fan pattern at the top of the backstrap has the engraved tiny initials “S.C.”. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered but appears orig to this revolver. Bbl retains about 50% thin orig blue, strong in sheltered areas turning plum and turning to patina elsewhere. There are a couple of small dings on the left side. Rammer & handle are mostly faded case colors. Frame & hammer are mostly light plummy brown patina with case colors in the capping cut out. Cylinder is a light brown patina showing about 75% Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and has 5 or 6 small dents. Trigger guard retains about 60% orig silver. Backstrap retains about 25% orig silver with the appearance of something having been filed away from the center of the backstrap. Grip has a couple small age lines otherwise is very fine. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore for the front 2/3 with rear 1/3 fine pitting, probably from having had caps fired and not cleaned afterward. 4-51154 JR131 (8,000-12,000) – Lot 2091
DELUXE CASED AND ENGRAVED CIVIL WAR COLT NAVY REVOLVER.
SN 169624. Cal. 36. This gun made at the height of the Civil War in 1863 has a rarely seen Patriotic double panel scene on either side of bbl housing which read “UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL”. The factory ivory stocks have high raised relief American Eagle standing with olive branch and arrows in either talon atop a patriotic American shield with star burst in background. This gun is in wonderful “as found” condition showing honest use where carried during war with no abuse with a unique engraved panel motif and patriotic grips. The accompanying case is English mahogany with plain brass plaque with red lining with accessories. This gun is unique as far as we know in a Colt Civil War factory Engraved Gun that must have belonged to a prominent Union officer. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall, all matching, retaining 20% bright blue on bbl especially in protected areas with balance plum/gray with scattered staining and pitting. Frame is silver/gray overall. Cylinder is plum/silver nicely matching frame and bbl in patina with staining and pitting. The Ormsby Naval battle scene is about 90% discernible. Open scroll and figural engraving fully covers frame, hammer, bbl housing and pivot of loading arm. Trigger bow, buttstrap and top of backstrap also engraved and SN’s are framed with engraving. Ivory grips have aged patina and wear to high spots especially Eagle’s breast and tops of wings. The left rear toe is chipped. Mechanically, gun will not index but that is easily fixed. Bore has well defined crisp rifling. Accompanying case is in average condition. Outside of case has typical scratches & blemishes from handling. Case retains most of its varnished finish. Case contains a Dixon bag flask in fine condition retaining about 85% of its orig varnish. A “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity iron mold with no finish, an L-shaped gun tool retaining about 50% of the finish, a pack of caps, several loose balls and an all metal cleaning rod. 4-51557 JS221 (20,000-30,000) – Lot 2208a
*COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER WITH BRITISH PROOFS.
SN 70777. Cal 455 Eley. Glossy blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, fixed sights and 2-line address with model & cal marking on left side. Left side of bbl, frame and cylinder have British proofs. Top strap is engraved “WESTLEY RICHARDS & CO / LONDON. W.”. Side plate has the Rampant Colt logo and butt strap has a lanyard stud & loop. Mounted with 2-pc checkered hard rubber grips with “COLT” in an oval at the top. Lanyard loop has a British olive colored, braided cloth lanyard. These revolvers generally saw hard service with the British military and are rarely found with high original finish. PROVENANCE: Robert H. Haskell, III Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains 96-97% glossy original blue with only light sharp edge wear and some small spots of very minor flaking on cylinder. Grip frame is strong and bright with light wear on the toe. Left grip has a small chip otherwise grips are crisp, showing light diamond point wear, turned a little chocolate. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may have been fired, but if so very little. 4-50248 JR220 (1,500-2,000) – Lot 1382
RARE CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS.
SN 154299 & 154304. Cal. 44. Revolvers are virtually identical with silver finish, 8″ round bbls, full front sights and 1 line New-York U.S. America addresses. The brass trigger guards and iron backstraps contain 1-pc ivory grips with left and right hand, very detailed, raised carved Mexican eagles. Revolvers are engraved in vine style, probably by Gustave Young with small “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape on the frames. Caliber marking is found on the left rear web of the trigger guards. Engraving consists of full coverage vine patterns without shading on the frames with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Sides of the hammers are deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer noses, fish scale patterns on sides of the spurs and top edges. Matching engraving patterns extend over sides of the bbls terminating over the top, forward of the addresses. Ends of the wedges are matching engraved. It appears that the cylinders may have been gold washed. Screws are blued. Frames are 3-screw type cut for shoulder stock. When consigned it was discovered that #154304 was still loaded, but probably never fired. The loads were drawn and the orig bullets are included. Accompanied by an original Colt casing, compartmented in the bottom for the two revolvers, a silver plated, double sided trophy of flags and arms “COLTS PATENT” flask with angle spout, a silver plated 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” steel mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side “44H”, a silver plated “L” shaped nipple wrench, 2 orig, blue paper wrapped, green label Eley Brothers cap tins, a small screw lid ivory bits box and a functioning key. A true pair being only 5 numbers apart. Undoubtedly this set was a presentation to some high ranking Mexican government official or military officer. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) SN 154299. Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, grip is unnumbered. Overall retains 95-96% strong orig silver plating with the only losses on the front and backstraps. Cylinder shows faint gold wash in the rebated area with some light pimpling and thin Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. Screws retain most of their orig blue, slightly thinned. Grip is sharp and crisp, showing only light high point wear and retains a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore probably never fired. 2) SN 154304. Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, grip is unnumbered. Overall retains 95-96% strong orig silver plating with the only losses on the front and backstraps. Cylinder shows faint gold wash in the rebated area with some light pimpling, some scattered wear spots and thin Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. Screws retain most of their orig blue, slightly thinned. Grip is sharp and crisp, showing only light high point wear and retains a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore, probably never fired. Chambers of the cylinders show light rust from black powder corrosion from when it was loaded, probably in excess of 100 years or more. Although it was loaded, it appears to have never been fired. Both cylinders retain all 6 of their safety pins. Case has a couple of cracks across the lid and others in the bottom with numerous handling and storage nicks and scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is faded to a golden color with bright burgundy under the revolvers and accessories and the bottom compartments. Accessories are fine with the mold showing nicks and dings and the cap tins minor paper wrapping losses. Altogether a spectacular and desirable set. 4-49625 (60,000-100,000) – Lot 2153
SCARCE COLT FLAT TOP TARGET SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.
SN 128387. Cal. 450 Boxer. All blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, German silver target front sight and scarce 1-line Hartford/Pall Mall London block letter address. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “45” and tiny British proofs which are also found on the cylinder. Frame is flat top style with target rear sight in the top strap. Top strap is also engraved “COGSWELL & HARRISON / 226 STRAND, LONDON”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL / B”. Mounted with Rampant Colt/Eagle hard rubber grips. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 450 Boxer with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish and rubber grips, shipped to Colt’s London Agency on Dec. 17, 1888 in a sixteen gun shipment. Additionally accompanied by what is probably its orig distributor supplied, red felt lined English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Front of case has a mortised brass lock with rnd escutcheon. Inside the lid has its orig Cogswell & Harrison paper label. Bottom of the case is compartmented for the revolver, a wood handled brass cleaning rod, an L-shaped screwdriver, an ebony handled turn screw and a rnd socket for a pewter oil bottle which now has a military brass oil bottle. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, only 914 Single Actions were produced in target style, and out of those only 89 were in Cal. 450 Boxer. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 95-97% glossy orig blue with slight muzzle edge wear and some very fine flaking; ejector housing retains about 60-65% orig blue being a silver/brown patina on the outer radius; frame retains 85-88% glossy orig blue with some light candy striping and light flaking; cyl retains strong blue in the flutes, having flaked to a medium patina on the outer diameter; trigger guard & back strap retain 65-70% glossy orig blue with thin blue/brown front & back straps; grips are sound showing light wear, turned just a little chocolate. Mechanics are crisp; strong bright bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is very lightly faded with light soil and solid partitions. Ammunition & accessories are fine. 4-50757 JR333 (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1207
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER.
SN 53308. Cal. 22. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat sided bbl with half moon front sight, 2-line address and “COLT NEW 22” etched panel on the left side. Cyl is 7 chambers with long flutes & rear face stop notches. Mounted with 2-pc smooth birdhead pearl grips. Revolver is lightly engraved in New York style with about 50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame. Top strap & top of bbl have double dot patterns and sides of the bbl have zig-zag patterns. Back strap is engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved on lands between flutes in a geometric zig-zag pattern. Screws & edge of the hammer are fire blued. PROVENANCE: The William Gerber Family Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains about 99% crisp, orig nickel and bright fire blue. Appears to be new & unfired. Grips are crisp and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, brilliant, shiny bore. (WG-033) 4-51075 JR365 (3,000-5,000) – Lot 2044
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER.
SN 6410. Cal .38RF. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of frame has tiny engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Mounted with orig Colt 1-pc ivory grip in its silver-plated brass grip frame. Cylinder is rebated and usual 5 shots with factory conversion, without loading gate in the recoil shield. Hammer nose has factory rimfire conversion secured with 2 rivets. Revolver is very nicely engraved in late vine style with about full coverage on frame which extends over bbl lug and top flats. Backstrap is engraved to match with fine fan pattern at top and sunbursts on each ear. Accompanied by an orig mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a 2-pc box of Winchester Stetson’s patent .38 short rimfire cartridges and a lacquered cap tin. Orig engraved examples of this model are very rare. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching except grip which is not numbered and wedge which is numbered “2591”. Bbl retains about 60% thinning orig blue with scattered light surface rust and a few small nicks. Frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, strong in sheltered areas. Hammer retains brilliant case colors on sides. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 60-70% thinning silver-plate. Cylinder retains strong blue in the rebated area and shows about 80% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip is sound showing light wear and retains fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is sound showing light handling and storage marks. Interior is re-lined and lightly faded with light soil. Cartridge box is good and cartridges are heavily oxidized. 4-49639 (10,000-12,000) – Lot 2164
*BEAUTIFUL VIRGIL GRAHAM ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA13072. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of bbl has the model & caliber marking. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with beautiful 1-pc pearl grip. Revolver is wonderfully engraved by the late Virgil Graham and signed on front of frame. Engraving consists of sparse geometric & foliate arabesque patterns with checkerboard patterns on each side of the bbl boss. Frame is outlined in flat gold wire and the cylinder has four wide gold bands around the rear edge. Top strap & recoil shields are inlaid with flat gold wire as is the trigger bow. Each side of the muzzle is engraved with a triangle pattern outlined in gold wire connected to a gold band. Ejector housing is engraved in a scallop pattern with arrows and the outer radius is inlaid in 2-color gold with Nimschke style crossed ribbons that has a gold star in the center over a gold inlaid arrow with wavy gold wire inlay. Top of back strap is engraved in a Nimschke style flower blossom and the back strap is inlaid in flat gold “Walker Patterson Inman”. The late Walker P. Inman was an inveterate collector who lived in Star Valley, Wyoming who passed away a few years ago. Robert Virgil Graham was a fine artistic engraver who passed away in 2003 leaving a legacy of numerous beautifully engraved firearms. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be new & unfired since engraving. Overall retains about all of its crisp custom blue finish. Grips are sound showing great fire & color. 4-48925 JR76 (5,000-8,000)
Correction: The full serial number is 41384, not 4134 as listed in the catalog.
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 4134. Cal. 38CF. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl. Brass pin front sight and one line New-York U.S. America address. Cylinder is usual 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Frame has a loading gate with external spring in the right recoil shield and the firing pin is secured in the hammer nose with two rivets. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with #3375 in the back strap channel which corresponds to the SN 43375 on the buttstrap. Revolver is engraved in late vine style probably by Gustave Young with engraved “COLTS PATENT” on the left side of the frame. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf head on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on the spur and top edge. Matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbl with different style patterns on the backstrap and buttstrap. SN on all of the other major parts of the revolver is 41384, while the backstrap/buttstrap is numbered as noted above and the wedge is numbered 38888. Small letters I.E. are adjacent to the SN’s on the bbl lug, frame and trigger guard indicating ivory grip and engraved which was so marked to indicate to the factory workers that this revolver’s parts were to receive extra polish. The buttstrap SN has an adjacent “E”. Accompanied by a beautiful, orig, purple velvet lined rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid. Interior is French fitted in the bottom for the revolver and an empty space for a box of cartridges. Also accompanied by a 1 page letter from renowned Colt historian and author R.L. Wilson, wherein he states that this revolver was apparently sold by famous dealer Arnold M. Chernoff to famous collector John B. Solley III in June 1975. He quotes Mr. Chernoff’s letter “As you know, very few of these conversions were engraved and the ones that were, were mostly nickel plated. I only know of three or four guns of this model that were engraved and blued and case hardened”. Mr. Wilson explains that the mismatched numbers are simply end of production clean up of parts. Although there are mismatched parts it is this catalogers opinion that Mr. Wilson is correct with his statement regarding the numbers and that no special significance should be attached to this fact. Mr. Wilson additionally addresses the disparity in the engraving patterns stating that the mix of engraving patterns is from the factory and again relates to the clean up of left over parts. Regardless this is a truly rare Colt in superb condition. PROVENANCE: Arnold M. Chernoff Collection; John B. Solley III Collection; Jack Malloy Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. The frame and hammer retain virtually all of their bright, orig case colors. Cylinder retains thin blue in the rebated area with the major diameter a blue grey patina which shows about 75% stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap contain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks and scratches and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp. Strong sharp bore with scattered pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid otherwise is sound and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded and soiled inside the lid with severe fading and light damage in the revolver recess, moderately faded and soiled elsewhere. 4-49650 JR17 (15,000-25,000)
Please Note: This spectacular and rare Colt revolver is illustrated in the book “Colt Engravings” by R.L. Wilson on page 396. It is also illustrated in “A Study of the Colt SA Revolver” by Graham Kopec Moore and can be found on page 105.
It was previously in the esteemed Robert Peterson Collection of magnificent firearms and before that in the renowned Collection of iconic collector, John Peck.*ULTRA RARE & SPECTACULAR PRESENTATION GLAHN ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 354396. Cal. 38-40. Extraordinarily rare single action with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address on top which is slightly off-center and the usual bbl marking & caliber on left side. Frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with rampant Colt in a partial circle. Fitted with rampant Colt medallion pearl grips which have a carved ox head on right side and the inscribed initials “ALS” on left side. The bbl has an engraved presentation which accounts for the offset address, which reads “To Arthur / from a Grateful County”. The balance of the revolver, sides of bbl, ejector rod housing, cylinder, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are typically Glahn engraved with some of his very finest work consisting of foliate & floral patterns with an extremely fine punch dot background. Top strap has intertwined leaves & vines and back strap has acanthus leaves. Cylinder is, unusually, fully engraved except for the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found and showing that it was sold to Kleins Hardware, address unavailable and shipped to the George Worthington Co., Cleveland, Ohio, May 2, 1931 to order #19866/1 in a shipment of one revolver. Also accompanied by a fine tooled Heiser belt & holster rig; tooled in Heiser’s trademark style of leaves & blossoms, buckstitch lacing on the holster which has a sewn-in plug and has Deputy Stuckert’s initials near the right end of the decorations. His initials are also on front of the holster near the top. This revolver, lest we lose sight of an important aspect of its existence, was presented to a 33-year old deputy sheriff, Arthur L. Stuckert, by the citizens of Bucyrus Township, Crawford County, Ohio, for his heroic service in the line of duty. Accompanied by copies of several newspaper articles primarily from the Bucyrus, Ohio, Telegraph-Forum regarding the presentation of this revolver to Deputy Sheriff Arthur Stuckert for his bravery and services on January 23, 1931 when his sheriff was killed in an attempted arrest of a chicken thief. Apparently Deputy Stuckert, upon hearing the shot that killed the sheriff, rushed into the house and kept assailants at bay until the sheriff could be removed. He died shortly thereafter. One of the articles dated May 22, 1931 details the presentation along with the photograph of the revolver itself. Another copy of a page of a newspaper is a thank you letter from Deputy Stuckert for the “beautiful gun, and holster”. This note also has a picture of the gun. Additionally accompanied by copies of pp. 45-48 of the Winter 2007 The Rampant Colt magazine which is an article by Corky Ullom, dealing with gold plated engraved & gold inlaid Colts. He states that there are only a total of twelve gold engraved Colt single actions of the total 357,859 single actions manufactured in the first generation and only one of them was in 38-40 caliber, making this one of the most extraordinarily rare Colt single action revolvers extant. Additionally accompanied by a 3-1/2 page hand written letter from noted Colt authority, Ron Graham, authenticating the originality of this fabulous revolver. Mr. Graham states that it is one of only three and possibly a fourth known in nearly 50 years of research. Additionally accompanied by a fine Arno Werner blue leather covered case embossed in gold on the lid and lined on the inside with gold embossed satin inside the lid and blue velvet in the bottom, French fitted for the revolver. It also has another gold embossed blue leather patch inside the front cover. Deputy Stuckert served in WWI with honor and died Jan. 21, 1971 at age 71. Certainly additional research should be able to provide additional history regarding Deputy Stuckert. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 92-94% strong orig gold plating with some thinning to the silver underplating in the area of the bbl address & presentation, over the top strap, back strap & butt strap with some additional thinning in trigger guard. Front strap retains about 20% silver with balance gray metal. It has been fired and shows slight burn on cylinder face but only a little and there is still gold plating in the bore. Is not solid at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Belt & holster rig are slightly dry with the holster lining worn & torn but completely solid & usable. Box is as new. 4-48712 JR68 (100,000-150,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT 4TH MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 142557. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare German silver blade front sight that is probably a period of use replacement for the orig brass pin. Top flat has the 1-line New-York U.S. America address and left side of frame has a tiny “COLTS PATENT”, with both left side, front & rear webs of trigger guard marked “36 CAL”. The silver plated large 4th Model brass trigger guard & backstrap contain an orig style Colt 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved Mexican eagle in a raised scalloped frame on left side. Grip is made in the orig manner of two slabs of ivory attached to a central ivory spacer block. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Frame is engraved by Gustave Young in full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with two scrolls on left side terminating in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over bbl lug and rammer pivot with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over top side flats and the top flat has a dash & dot border pattern around the address. Backstrap has Mr. Young’s style of foliate fan pattern at the top with foliate arabesque patterns at the top, on the heel, buttstrap & trigger bow. Hammer is engraved in his deluxe patterns of foliate arabesque scrolls on the shank, wolf’s head on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on sides & spur & top edge. These revolvers were Colt’s answer to the demand for a smaller, lighter revolver for use as a holster pistol, especially on the frontier where they saw extensive and continuous service. They remained in service throughout the Civil War until about 1873 when they were supplanted by the advent of self-contained cartridge revolvers. Even after that they were still in use to some extent on the American Frontier, in Mexico & South America. Wild Bill Hickock and other notables of that era are documented as using the ’51 Navy. This revolver was undoubtedly produced for a Mexican dignitary or military officer. CONDITION: Very good. No orig finish remains on the frame, bbl or rammer handle, being mostly a smooth gray/brown patina with some scattered fine pitting; cylinder retains an overall thin blue/gray patina and shows 80-85% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Grip has numerous fine age lines and retains a light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-48748 JR371 (10,000-15,000)
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 193469. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with wonderful 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved eagle & American shield on right side. Grip locator pin in front strap has been moved from its orig position apparently to make these grips fit a little better as the orig locator pin holes in both grips are elongated which would have allowed the grips to shift. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame with his trademark fan pattern on left recoil shield and a sunburst pattern on loading gate. Bottom front gullets have a snake & dot pattern. Top strap is engraved in snake & dbl dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns are on each side of the bbl boss which patterns extend up both sides of bbl with geometric patterns around address and a hunter star toward the front sight. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap and on buttstrap with a detailed hunter star on trigger bow. Lands between the flutes on the cyl are engraved in unusual patterns for Mr. Helfricht with leaf & vine patterns around the rear edge. All visible SNs are matching with last three digits of matching SN on rear face of cylinder. This revolver will letter in caliber 45 with 4-3/4″ bbl, factory engraved, shipped Aug. 14, 1900 to Simmons Hardware, St. Louis, MO in a 3-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of a fine factory style restored silver finish over a copper under plating, showing only light muzzle edge wear and wear to the tip of the ejector housing; cyl has fine pitting on front face. Grips are sound with a couple of very minor chips and overall show great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting. 4-48779 JR342 (12,000-15,000)
EXTREMELY RARE LIMITED EDITION RAMPANT COLT BRONZE STATUE COMPLETE WITH LEATHER BOUND BOOK, THE RAMPANT COLT, BY R.L. WILSON. SN 30 of 100. Statue is cast bronze of the very famous Colt trademark of a rearing stallion produced by the late Tommy Haas in 1968. Mr. Haas, the ultimate craftsman and reproduction artist faithfully copied the orig lead casting formally in the Colt archives and, at that time owned by famous Colt researcher, author & publisher R.L. Wilson. These new castings faithfully followed the orig and exactly 100 castings were made from the orig mold under the supervision of Mr. Haas. Statue measures 21″ high including a 1-1/2″ thick base by about 21″ long. Mounted on a cast bronze oval base that is also 21″ long by about 11″ wide. The base is somewhat domed with cast foliate and rock patterns with a pair of crossed Paterson revolvers towards the front center above the attached 3-5/8″ by 1-1/2″ brass plaque which is engraved “The / Rampant Colt / 30 of one hundred”. The horse as noted, is rearing in the posture representing a war horse holding a spear in it’s mouth and another between it’s front legs as though breaking it. There were only of 100 these bronzes cast in 1968 from the original Cold lead mold pattern of the Rampant Colt that was in the colt factory originally in 1855. The bronze is cast with an embellished base that exhibits two crossed Colt Texas Paterson revolvers. It has a brass escutcheon: The Rampant Colt/ #30 of One Hundred. It is being sold complete with the leather bound book by R.L. Wilson, “The Rampant Colt” which is also #30 matching the number on the bronze. The book comes in its original slip case. The book relates the history of the Rampant Colt and how it is synonymous with the excellence of The Colt Company and its weapons. This bronze is in excellent condition and is complete with two arrows as originally produced. The size is 21 inches high and 10 inches deep and 21 inches wide. Weight about 35 lbs. A wonderful highlight to any colt collection. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains virtually all of its orig antique bronze finish. Book is equally new with slight wear on the spine of the slip cover. 4-49717 JR421 (6,000-10,000)
*SCARCE VIRGIL GRAHAM CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 6479SA. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 7 1/2″ bbl slightly altered front sight with 1-line block letter address and model & caliber marking on the left side. Left side frame has 2-line, 3 patent dates & rampant Colt. Mounted with smooth 2-pc gold medallion ivory grips. Left side of the front strap and backstrap, under the grip is marked with the SN. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Virgil Grayham & has his signature on the bottom front of the frame. Engraving consists of 80-90% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and recoil shields with Nimschke-style feather patterns on the top strap. Matching engraving patterns extend over the bbl and around front sight with leaf & vine pattern in top gullet of ejector housing. Top of backstrap is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern with a braided pattern down the backstrap that has alternating bands of foliate arabesque and inlaid gold stars. Buttstrap is engraved in a Nimschke-style crossed ribbon pattern and trigger plate is engraved in leaf & vine patterns with inlaid gold foliate arabesque patterns on trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with incorporated gold wire inlays. Sides of frame are outlined in gold wire with incorporated gold foliate arabesque patterns. Cylinder has double gold and silver bands around the rear edge with a gold band around the muzzle & at the frame with beautiful geometric patterns on top outlining the address. Hammer is also outlined in gold wire. Robert Virgil Graham was a fine artistic engraver who passed away in 2003 leaving a legacy of numerous beautifully engraved firearms. CONDITION: Appears to be unfired since engraving retaining virtually all of its crisp dark blue. Brilliant shiny bore. 4-48935 JR77 (4,000-7,000)
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE D.A. REVOLVER. SN 66531. Cal. 38 Spcl. Gold finish with 4″ bbl, half moon front sight and grooved top strap rear sight. Mounted with 2-pc deep left & right hand rampant Colt gold medallions. Revolver is beautifully engraved from the Cuno Helfrecht shop, probably by the master himself, in foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Matching patterns extend over both sides of the bbl and it has leaf & vine patterns on the top strap with snake & dot patterns and a sunburst around the hammer slot. Sides of the frame are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with geometric patterns down the backstrap on the buttstrap, trigger guard and front of the frame. Side plate is engraved with the rampant Colt and stylized “C” along with a small oval engraved with the initials “JRW”. Cylinder is engraved in Mr. Helfrecht’s distinguished style of alternating foliate arabesque and geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes and a snake pattern around the rear edge. Screws are all gold plated. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 38 Special with 4″ bbl, gold finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved with “J.R.W.” on side plate. Shipped to Shelton-Payne Arms Co, El Paso, TX on Oct 21, 1912 in a 2 gun shipment. Police Positive revolvers were produced in fairly large numbers however very few are known engraved and of those this may be the only one with gold plating. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: New and unfired, retaining 99% plus strong orig gold plating with only the hint of a drag line on the cylinder. Grips are crisp with great fire and color. 4-49705 (10,000-15,000)
FINE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 126414. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking is on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with full coverage on the frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on sides, sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate with small sunbursts on each side of the ejector boss and cyl pin boss. Bottom front frame gullets have zig zag and snake & dot patterns. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with extensive foliate arabesque patterns over both sides of bbl and around front sight at the muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in the top gullet & outer radius. Cyl is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive alternating sunburst and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake & dot border around rear edge. Cyl is gold plated. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive fan pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger bow. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish with gilt cyl, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co., St. Louis, MO on June 28, 1888 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks the company reports that there is another revolver with the same SN listed as caliber 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish & rubber stocks shipped to the San Francisco Agency on May 31, 1888. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl, frame & ejector housing retain virtually all of their strong orig nickel finish with some slight sharp edge & high point losses; trigger guard & buttstrap retain most of their strong orig nickel with some fine flaking on the front strap; backstrap is a gray metal patina; cyl retains about 93-95% gold plating. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-48350 (35,000-40,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 128281. Cal. 36. Fine engraved ’51 Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” rolled mark. Cylinder is standard with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The 4th Model large guard silver plated trigger guard & backstrap contain its orig 1-pc smooth ivory grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Orig factory matching numbered 1-pc ivory grip is extremely rare with not very many known. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with full frame coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Three scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over the bbl lug, top side flats and rammer pivot. Four of those scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger bow are engraved to match, with Mr. Young’s foliate fan pattern at the top of backstrap. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank, wolf’s head on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on the spur & top edge. All visible numbers are matching and the numbers on the frame, bbl lug & buttstrap are accompanied by a small “I” which indicates ivory grip. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 20-25% thin orig blue in sheltered areas and on the right side with the balance a medium blue/brown patina; rammer pivot & handle retain dark case colors; frame & hammer also retain dark case colors with fine pitting around the hammer nose; cylinder is a thin silver/brown patina and shows 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain thin silver in sheltered areas being mostly a medium mustard patina. Grip is extremely fine plus showing very little wear with much orig polish and retains a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-48815 JR378 (8,000-12,000)
*FINE WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 350108. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with roll marking on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40”. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc silver medallion ivory grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Right side of front & backstraps, under the grip, are marked with matching SNs and rear face of cyl has last two digits of matching SN. Revolver is engraved in Mr. Glahn’s distinctive style of intertwined foliate & floral patterns which also incorporate his distinctive “V” patterns. Frame has about 60% coverage with matching patterns extending up both sides of the bbl and on the outer radius of the ejector housing with a snake pattern in the top gullet. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cyl has matching patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake pattern around rear edge. This revolver will letter in caliber 44 with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, Grade 2 engraving with ivory stocks, carved steer head motif, shipped to Richards & Conover, Kansas City, MO, Oct. 18, 1926. It appears that the screws & hammer may be nickel finish while the balance of the revolver is silver. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 95% strong orig silver finish showing holster wear on left muzzle edge of the bbl and tip of ejector housing; front face of cyl has lost most of its silver; front & back straps have some light pimpling. Grips have several age lines, show light wear and retain a fine ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with fine frosty pitting. 4-48784 JR348 (10,000-20,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 2ND DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 9646. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1 line New York City address. Frame is marked with a tiny “COLT’S PATENT”. Cylinder is usual 6 chambers with dragoon/indian fight scene and “MODEL U.S.M.R. / COLT’S PATENT” and 2 panels around the SN. The silver plated brass square back trigger guard and backstrap contain an exceptional, highly figured, burl walnut 1-pc grip matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is engraved in vine style scrolls with a wolf’s head on either side of the hammer nose and fish scale patterns on the top edge and hand checkered spur. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats with zig-zag border. Matching engraving is also on the rammer pivot with wide borders at the muzzle and on the transition. Screw heads and ends to the wedge are also engraved. Accompanied by an early English style, orig, brass-bound walnut casing with a brass medallion in the lid engraved with old English initials that appear to be “F.J.” Case is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an early double sided COLTS PATENT trophy of flags and arms, flask with plunger spout, adjustable to 35 to 40 grains of powder with a swinging lid ball compartment on top. Flask has low mounted triangle shaped hangers. Also included is an orig brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter and “L” shaped nipple wrench, a tin for Joyce caps with red top & side labels and a pewter oil bottle. Case is English style, however revolver does not have English proof marks. This revolver is illustrated on page 48 of Colt Pistols, Hable & Wilson. Also accompanied by a letter from renowned Colt authority, historian and author R.L. Wilson wherein he states that only about 2,700 2nd model Dragoons were produced and that “The 2nd model is one of the most difficult of dragoons for the collector to acquire, and of those specimens known today only a handful are engraved”. He relates that Colt dragoon #9623 is in the Windsor Castle Armory Collection and is believed to have been presented by Col. Colt to H.R.H. Prince Albert. He states “It is possible that No. 9646 had been a display revolver used by Col. Colt at the Great Exhibition in 1851, in London, where his products were introduced—“. In a following paragraph Mr. Wilson relates that in addition to dragoon #9623, that #9625, identically engraved, is in the Tower of London Armouries and that this revolver #9646 is identically engraved to both of them in style, quality and other details and he believes that they were all done by the same hand. The Second Model Dragoon is of greater rarity than either the First or Third Models. And to find an engraved one is almost an impossibility. PROVENANCE: R.E. Hable Collection; John B. Solley III Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge and grip. Overall the steel parts retain a even grey metal patina with some scattered fine pitting on the bbl and cyl. It appears that this revolver may have suffered poor storage in the very distant past and was carefully cleaned. Cylinder is a matching patina with all 6 safety pins intact and shows 60-70% dragoon/indian fight scene. Trigger guard retains virtually all of its orig silver and the backstrap about 60-70% orig silver. Grip is sound with good edges and a few light nicks and scratches and retains about 60-70% bright orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. Case is extremely fine with usual storage and handling nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded with wear and soil from contact with a revolver. Flask has a few small nicks and dings and retains a medium mustard patina. Mold is very fine as are the other accessories. Altogether an exceptional and rare, desirable set suitable for the most advanced collection or museum exhibit. In a unique historical joint project, The Royal Armouries H.M. Tower of London authorized The Royal Armouries Colonel Samuel Colt Dragoon to be issued as a limited edition commemorative by the United States Historical Society in 1989. Because of the scarce vine style engraving, the U.S. Historical Society requested the use of Michael Leff’s revolver. In another letter from Mr. R.L. Wilson, Chairman at that time of the Antique Arms Committee, he states,”This is to express the thanks of the U.S. Historical Society, and myself, for the loan of your Second Model Dragoon, with its fine early vine style factory engraving, NO. 9646. The engraving of the Society prototype revolver has been completed by Alvin White- the results were superb!” No one can dispute that this is truly a remarkable revolver with an undeniable history, comparable in stature to only two other Engraved Second model dragoons that were owned by the English Royalty. 4-49623 (55,000-90,000)
*WONDERFUL CUSTOM CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA52448. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 5 1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address with model & caliber markings on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and rampant colt. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc smooth ivory grips that have gold medallions. Left side of front and backstraps, under the grip have matching SN. Grips are numbered “41482”. Front strap is missing the grip locator pin. Revolver is beautifully engraved with extremely fine, semi-relief, foliate arabesque patterns that has a fine shaded background. Left recoil shield is engraved with a very detailed longhorn steer. Revolver is also engraved with about 32 different Texas cattle brands inlaid in silver on the frame, bbl, cylinder, front & backstraps & buttstrap. Cylinder additionally has 2 narrow inlaid gold wire bands. Bbl is inlaid with gold bands & a simple geometric pattern near the frame and around the muzzle. Ejector housing outer radius is beautifully inlaid in gold with a “Colt” logo & “45” along with “Riding for the Brand”. The 3 frame screws are also engraved. Front flat of the frame, below the base pin is engraved “DRH”, the initials for the engraver, Don Henderson. This cataloger has not previously knowingly encountered Mr. Henderson’s work but it certainly ranks near the top for modern custom work. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be unfired, retaining virtually all of it’s beautiful custom finish. Grips are sound, bright shiny bore. 4-48940 JR80 (4,000-6,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL POLICE DA PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 152. Cal. .36. Blue finish with 4-3/8″ oct bbl. German silver half moon front sight and usual 3-line address. Engraved specimens are rarely encountered, with cased examples very rare. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips matching numbered to revolver. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style from the Nimschke shop with about 75% coverage on frame, backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Trigger guard is silver-plated brass. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with etched scene of Confederate & Union Cavalrymen charging each other, separated by large trees. Accompanied by an orig blue velvet-lined mahogany casing, compartmented in bottom for revolver, single-sided Colt style eagle & shield flask, blued steel 2-cavity Remington mold with sprue cutter, packet of 5 combustible cartridges marked “Police Pistols”, and tin of UMC caps. There were approximately 18,000 of these scarce revolvers produced in the period 1865-1873. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including grips. Bbl retains 96-98% strong orig blue with frame retaining about 80% strong blue. Trigger guard and backstrap are mostly a gray patina. Trigger guard retains about 90% orig silver. Cylinder is mostly a thin blue patina with sharp etched markings. Grips are sound with good edges and show a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is sound with a series of deep scratches and small grain check in lid. Overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded and soiled. Flask and accessories are all fine. 4-49644 (18,000-24,000)
RARE AND EXCEPTIONAL ENGRAVED ETCHED PANEL COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92101. Cal .44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, nearly full front sight and 2-line address with “COLT. FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” etched panel on the left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CF”. Trigger, screws and base pin are fire blued and hammer is color case hardened, which is the normal configuration for early factory, nickeled Single Actions. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 44-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, finish “soft”, type of stock not listed, and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on March 5, 1883 in a 10 gun shipment. Under remarks the letter states that the word “soft” indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened when shipped from the factory, left in soft condition for engraving outside the factory. Revolver is engraved in New York style from the L. D. Nimschke shop with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbl, surrounding the etched panel and were obviously engraved after the panel was originally applied. Top of the backstrap is engraved in a foliate fan pattern. Cylinder is engraved with matching patterns on lands between the flutes and has a small punch dot fluer-de-lis behind each flute, with a very fine zig-zag border around the rear edge. Mounted with Hartley & Graham supplied thick, 2-pc pearl grips that have a very deep carved ox head on the right side that is fitted with gold bezels around diamond eyes. This is one of the finest engraved black powder, etched panel Single Actions known and certainly the finest this cataloger has ever had the privilege to examine. CONDITION: Very fine, all external serial numbers match. Overall retains most of its strong, bright nickel finish with only slight muzzle end wear and a small spot of pitting on the right front end of the top strap. Cylinder retains approximately 95% strong orig nickel with losses mostly from the front face and front edge with some very fine flaking elsewhere. Screws and base pin retain most of their orig blue. Trigger retains strong fire blue on sides and rear edge and the hammer, strong case colors on the sides and rear edge with the top edge turned silver. Grips are outstanding with no visible flaws and show great fire. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with sharp rifling, frosty in the grooves. A truly exceptional etched panel Single Action that very likely was special ordered for someone of importance on the American frontier. 4-49402 JR307 (50,000-75,000)
FINE CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO J.H. WHEELER. SN 19111. Cal. 36. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” with the caliber on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip which is engraved on left side “J.H. WHEELER / 1864. N.C.”. Buttstrap is engraved in period script “C. Sully Wheeler / A 5864”, possibly the date May 8, 1864. The “A” may refer to “Anno Domini” (AD). Serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are accompanied by a small “E” which, indicates special polishing for engraving, or in this case, for plating. Last four digits of SN were observed on the rear face of cyl on two lands between nipple recesses. Backstrap channel of grip is numbered “5982”, most likely the order number for this revolver. Wedge has the number “5240”. Bbl & cyl have British proofs. Accompanied by an English oak casing with brass disc in center of lid. Case is green baize lined and has the Colt directions label inside lid. This label is overwritten in old red ink “NO. 19111”. Bottom of case is fitted for the revolver, a 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter and “36P” on right side. Also contains a nickel-plated Dixon bag flask marked on top “COLTS POCKET FLASK”, a Dixon pewter oiler, a nickel-plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a wood handled cleaning rod and a metal tin of Eley’s caps with green & black label marked “W. & C. ELEY”. A compartment in the right rear is missing its cover. J.H. Wheeler (1806-1882) was a lawyer, a diplomat and author who was also the Minister to Nicaragua (1854-1856). He returned to the U.S. at the expiration of that appointment and lived in Washington, D.C. until the outbreak of the Civil War. He then returned to North Carolina to offer his services to his state but apparently was too old to serve. In Sept. 1863 he left North Carolina aboard a Confederate blockade runner and traveled to Bermuda where he then booked passage through Nova Scotia to England. For several weeks in early 1864 Mr. Wheeler spent copying records at the public records office and in April 1864 returned to Bermuda. By that time the Union victory was apparent so he returned to Washington where he remained until his death. It almost certainly was during his time in England that he purchased this revolver and had it inscribed to his son. Very likely there is another. similarly inscribed to his other son. The purpose of his records search was to gather historical information for a second history of North Carolina residents which he was preparing to publish to follow his earlier History of North Carolina which was published in 1851. Mr. Wheeler married twice and with his second wife, Ellen Sully, daughter of Thomas Sully, one of the most distinguished artists of Philadelphia, produced two sons, one of whom was Charles Sully Wheeler who served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War and the other Woodbury Wheeler was a Captain in the Confederate Army. Charles Sully Wheeler was born Nov. 1839 and died May 1916 and is listed as having served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War for eight days in Dec. 1864 as a common seaman. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge & grip as noted above. Overall retains about all of its fine London nickel plating with only slight signs of use. Left side of frame has a few minor scratches and rear face of cyl shows evidence of having been “played with” as all of its safety pins are battered. Grip is sound showing moderate wear on engraving with a few minor age lines and retains a wonderful golden ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some very minor light pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks and a crack in bottom and is missing a small sliver from right rear bottom edge, otherwise is sound with normal handling & storage marks and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded & soiled with soiled & yellowed label that has light damage. Mold is fine and retains about 75-80% orig blue. Flask & nipple wrench retain most of their orig nickel finish. Other accessories are fine, missing compartment cover as noted. 4-49195 JR499 (8,000-12,000)
*SCARCE COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 328461. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight with very large brass bead and 1-line block letter address with left side marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 45 COLT”. Left side of frame has the 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without circle. Trigger & screws are fire blued. Mounted with custom diamond checkered walnut grips that have a small oval initial plate on left side engraved “RLJR”, the first “R” is backwards. Right grip has a similar silver oval engraved with the image of a mustachioed man wearing hunting clothes. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were 44,350 Bisley revolvers produced in the period 1894-1915 of which 8,005 were in caliber 45 Colt making it the third most common caliber in the Bisley line. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Paul L. Haines, address not available on Feb. 27, 1914 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine, all visible numbers are matching. Bbl retains about 98% glossy orig blue with a small ding on left edge of muzzle; frame retains about all of its strong, orig case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas, thin on recoil shield & loading gate; hammer retains 65-70% brilliant case colors; trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig blue, showing some thinning especially at the heel; cyl retains 95-96% glossy orig blue with bright blue in the chambers & bore. Custom grips are sound with a couple of small dings and shows light diamond point wear with good oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. May have been fired but if so very little. 4-48760 JR322 (6,000-10,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED AND ENGRAVED COLT FIRST MODEL SQUAREBACK MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 344. Cal. .36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight & 1-line New York City address. Frame has tiny “COLT’S PATENT” on left side. Silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain varnished 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cylinder is usual 6 chambers with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking & all 6 safety pins mostly serviceable. Revolver is engraved in earliest vine style pattern with wavy border around both sides of frame & recoil shield. Bbl, bbl lug & rammer pivot, along with backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Ends of wedge are also engraved & there is a border around the muzzle. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of nose, dbl line border & long ear-like projections. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale patterns & has small hand-checkered oval on spur. Accompanied by orig blue velvet-lined mahogany casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an angle spout trophy of flags & arms “COLTS PATENT” flask, brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, full tin of Ely Bros. caps with partial paper wrapping & a few lead bullets & balls. First model Navies are in and of themselves extremely rare, there having been only about 1,250 produced in 1851 with very few surviving today in any configuration or condition. Only a small handful of engraved examples are known & of those, a miniscule number are cased. This revolver, identified by SN appears on pg. 28 of Colt Engraving and again on pg. 20 of The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson. This revolver has been in several of the finest Colt collections in the country. PROVENANCE: Dr. Robert J. Nelson Collection; Johnny Bassett Collection; George Allen Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except wedge which is a proper bottom screw wedge but is not numbered and may be a replacement and retains appropriate orig finish commensurate to the rest of the gun. Bbl retains about 75% strong orig blue with sharp edge wear and thinning on right side. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors. Frame & hammer are mottled gray patina mixed with silvered case colors. Cylinder is gray-brown patina & shows about 95% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver-plating. Grip shows light edge wear with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, sharp dark bore. Case has crack across lid & another on bottom, otherwise is sound with handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with solid partitions. Flask is very fine, retaining about 90% orig finish. Mold has been cleaned with restored finish on sprue cutter. Cap tin has rust on lid & is missing about 30% of paper wrapping. 4-49634 (80,000-100,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 39559. Cal. 41 Colt. Silver finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Left side of bbl has a sharp etched panel “COLT DA 41″ and the left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates. Left rear web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Frame is beautifully engraved in New York style with about 60-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, sunbursts on left recoil shield and loading gate with leaf & vine patterns on bottom front of the frame. Engraving patterns extend up the sides of the bbl with geometric pattern in top gullet of ejector housing and a snake & dot pattern on outer radius. Top of back strap is engraved with a fan pattern with geometric, snake & dot patterns down the back strap. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with zig-zag patterns in the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 Colt with 4-1/2” bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, Oct. 24, 1882 in a 2-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains nearly all of its fine factory restored finish; trigger & hammer retain strong fire blue. Left grip has a chip at the top rear, otherwise grips are sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scuffing in the grooves. 4-47865 JR75 (6,000-10,000)
RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON MODEL 1890 SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 1601. Cal. 44WCF(44-40). Nickel finish with 5-3/4″ bbl. Orig front sight and 1 line address. It is mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, with about 80% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame recoil shield and loading gate. Front gullet of the frame and ejector boss are engraved with hunter’s stars. Matching engraving patterns extend up the sides of the bbl, onto the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Top of the backstrap is engraved in a beautiful flower blossom with cross hatching on the bottom front of the frame. Cylinder is engraved with matching patterns on the lands between the flutes and around the rear edge. Buttstrap has a factory lanyard loop. Accompanied by a purple felt lined English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Bottom of the interior is compartmented for the revolver, a cartridge block containing 20 44-40 cartridges, an “L” shaped screwdriver, a cleaning rod and a functioning key. It is apparent that this case was altered from another revolvers use to fit this revolver. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were only 2020 of these rare revolvers produced in the period 1891-1896. This was Remington’s last effort to produce a revolver and was an improvement over the model 1875. Remington revolvers were certainly the equivalent or even superior to the Colt model 1873. Unfortunately by the time Remington’s big bore cartridge revolver appeared on the scene Colt was already well established with extensive military contracts and a two year head start in distribution. Remington simply never could catch up and therefore never became a viable competitor to Colt in this area. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel with some minor dulling and wear on the left side of the muzzle and on the backstrap. Grips are sound showing great fire. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong, sharp bore with scattered fine pitting. Case is sound with light handling and storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded and soiled. 4-49653 (38,000-50,000)
*VERY RARE ENGRAVED LONG FLUTE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 331111. Cal .45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates mounted with exceptional 2-pc pearl grips that have deep left and right rampant Colt medallions. Left grip is carved with a very deep relief ox head. Revolver has about 75-80% coverage wonderful, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with exceptionally fine, even pearled background by master engraver Cuno Helfricht. Engraving also consists of extraordinary patterns on the left recoil shield and loading gate with feather patterns down the top strap and diamond patterns on each side of the bbl boss. Bottom front gullets are engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive flower blossoms. Foliate arabesque patterns extend completely up the sides of the bbl with geometric patterns over the top of bbl. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in a very fine snake and dot pattern with unusual zig-zag edge patterns. Outer radius of the ejector housing is engraved in leaf and vine patterns. Backstrap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and on the trigger guard. Cylinder is extensively engraved with unusual patterns on the lands between the flutes, a line border around the flutes with scalloped border around the rear edge. Rear face of the cylinder is marked with last four digits of matching serial number. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were only two long flute revolvers that were engraved. One was silver plated, the other nickel plated. He identifies the silver plated one but does not identify the nickel plated one. The long flute Single Action revolver was produced beginning in 1913 with about 1,379 manufactured between serial numbers 328915 & 329925, in six Calibers in all three bbl lengths plus two ejector-less models. The long flute cylinders are left-over model 1878 DA Frontier revolver cylinders. Colt, being the ultra-frugal company that it was, never disposing of anything that might be useful, recycled these cylinders by having stop notches cut on the outer diameter and installing them in these Single Action revolvers. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal. 45 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips with carved steer head motif, factory engraved and under special features, “furnished with a double action cylinder of long flute configuration” and shipped to Praeger Hardware Company, San Antonio, TX on Sept. 23, 1914 in a one gun shipment. This is one of the most elaborately Helfricht engraved Colt’s ever examined by this cataloger, undoubtedly from the hand of the master himself. CONDITION: Very fine, overall retains about 95% strong, orig nickel finish with the majority of the losses on the left side of the bbl and top strap with slight loss just behind the trigger guard. Cylinder retains most of its strong orig nickel with front face mostly dark patina and some very fine, minor flaking in the flutes. Outer diameter shows thinning and wear on the lands between the flutes. Grips have chipped toes otherwise are sound showing great fire and strong color. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with scattered and very fine pitting. This is one of the finer, more exciting 4-3/4″ Single Actions to come to market in some time. 4-49413 JR310 (70,000-90,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 13612. Cal 36. Blue and color cased hardened with 5 1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of the frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT”. The blued steel trigger guard and backstrap contain a highly figured, burl walnut, varnished 1-pc grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style with full frame coverage sweeping foliate arabesque patterns that has very fine pearled background. Matching pattern engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats, onto the rammer pivot and around the front sight. Rammer handle has an extremely fine checkered panel. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on each side of the spur and top edge. Top of the backstrap is engraved in a floral and fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the heel and on the trigger guard. Center of the backstrap is engraved “Capt Home. R.H.de Montmorency / 32nd FOOT”. Screw heads are all engraved as are the ends of the wedge with light flourishes by each nipple recess shoulder on the cylinder. Bbl lug and cylinder have British proofs. All SN’s on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “L” & a tiny punch mark indicating that the revolver was destined for the London Agency and that it was to receive extra finish in the polishing room which generally indicates that it was to be engraved. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined English mahogany casing with empty plaque in the lid and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a fine bag shaped Dixon “COLTS POCKET FLASK”, a blued two cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on the right side “36P”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Joyce caps. Revolver bears an English style finish and it has been engraved in England and finished there as patterns on the left side of bbl lug are cut around the British proofs which would not have been the case had the revolver been engraved prior to shipment to England. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Revolver retains virtually all of it’s English style finish with bright blues and muted case colors. Backstrap and buttstrap are flaked to about 65% blue. Grip is sound and retains most of a beautifully restored finish showing light edge wear on the right side. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with one ring of pitting. Case has 3 or 4 grain checks in the lid and a crack across the rear edge leaving it slightly sprung. Interior is lightly faded and soiled with damage from the front sight. Flask has a few small dents and retains about 90% orig finish. Mold is very fine and retains about 95% orig blue. Other accessories are very fine. 4-47861 JR48 (35,000-50,000)
FINE COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92096. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with clear, fully legible etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “44” just forward of base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web is marked “44 CF”. It is mounted with a 1-pc walnut grip that has 2 matching numbers “96” legible in the backstrap channel. Revolver has 3rd type ejector housing with half-moon ejector rod head. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “J. FITCH.”. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40 with bbl length and type of stocks not listed, nickel finish and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY, on June 14,1883 in a shipment of 200 same type firearms. Given that this revolver was shipped in 1883, which was the height of a great Manifest Destiny westward expansion in America, it is very likely that this revolver would have been used probably by a lawman or an outlaw as it is unlikely that an ordinary cowboy would have gone to the extra expense of the nickel finish. Regardless, it is rare to find a single action Colt from this era with high orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 75-80% strong orig nickel with a clear, legible etched panel; ejector housing retains about 60% orig nickel; frame retains about 60% orig nickel, lightly cleaned on top strap and right front side; trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig nickel with nicks and dings on buttstrap and corresponding spots on the bottom edges of grip; cyl retains about 40% orig nickel with the balance flaked to metal patina; trigger guard retains about all of its strong orig nickel and backstrap/buttstrap about 80% orig nickel; grip is sound with the aforementioned nicks and dings on bottom edges and overall retains a hand worn patina; mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with scattered light pitting; hammer spring is a replacement. 4-47550 (10,000-12,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH MATCHING NUMBERED DELUXE SHOULDER STOCK. SN 94441. Cal. .36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetailed blade front sight & 1-line “ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON” with dashes. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT”. Frame is 4-screw type with extended stock screws. Silver-plated 4th model brass trigger guard & iron backstrap contain a 1-pc deluxe burl walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cylinder is usual 6 shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Cylinder SN appears to have been stamped over another number which had been mostly removed. Font of cylinder SN has matching characteristics to other numbers on revolver indicating that it was probably done at factory. Cylinder has standard English proofs while bbl does not appear to have been English proofed. Revolver is beautifully deluxe engraved by Gustave Young in his fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background. Hammer nose is engraved with wolf’s head on each side. Matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of bbl lug & top side flats with scrolls terminating in flower blossoms & 1 scroll terminating in Mr. Young’s stylized bird’s head. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern at top. Screw heads are domed English style. Accompanied by matching numbered orig shoulder stock with deluxe burl walnut & silver-plated yoke & buttplate. Both yoke & buttplate are matching, numbered and engraved to match revolver. Accompanied by an orig red velvet-lined, English oak casing with brass bulls-eye handle in top engraved “FRANCIS BENNOCH, ESQ. RE”. Interior is compartmented for revolver & buttstock along with Dixson bag flask, 2-cavity blued steel Colt’s patent bullet mold, L-shaped nipple wrench & orig all metal cleaning rod, packet of 6 Syms combustible cartridges & lacquered tin of Ely’s caps with partial paper wrapping. Engraved Navy revolvers are somewhat rare in their own right. Cased examples are still more rare and those with deluxe matching numbered shoulder stocks are most rare. The U.S. Historical Society thanked Michael for loaning this engraved shoulder stock as the model for the engraving on the commemorative issue of the Jefferson Davis Revolver. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine, all matching including wedge & grip, cylinder as noted above. Bbl retains about 50% thinning orig blue with fine pinprick pitting. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors. Frame retains traces of dark case colors as does hammer. Cylinder retains about 30% thin orig blue & shows about 95% Ormsby Naval battle scene rolled marking. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver-plating. Grip has a chipped right toe & scrape on right side from stock and overall retains strong orig oiled finish. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with a couple small spots of pitting. Shoulder stock retains about 95% bright orig varnish with light nicks & scratches. Buttplate and yoke retain most of their orig silver-plating. Case is sound with very light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig finish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil around revolver. Flask has couple of dents & retains most of its orig finish. Mold is nicked & dinged with scattered light pitting. Other accessories are fine. 4-49624 (29,000-40,000)
*VERY RARE ENGRAVED EARLY COLT OFFICER’S MODEL FLAT TOP TARGET DA REVOLVER. SN 252863. Cal. 38 Spcl. Nickel & gold finish with 6″ rnd bbl, adjustable target front sight and 2-line address with last patent date “1905”. Left side of bbl is marked “OFFICERS MODEL 38” with Maltese cross at each end. Flat top frame is inscribed “Dr. W.C. Lyon / U.S. Navy”. Mounted with, 2-pc left & right, deep rampant Colt medallion smooth pearl grips. Right grip is numbered in pencil “955” which is the assembly number inside the crane and “252863” which is the SN. This marking may or may not be factory. Left side of butt strap is marked with assembly number “1N” and a square symbol which number & symbol are also found on rear face of cylinder under the star wheel. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on rear sides of frame, snake & dot patterns on sides of top strap, diamond patterns on sides of bbl boss with foliate arabesque & floral patterns in the gullets. Foliate arabesque & geometric patterns extend over the bbl, on butt strap & trigger guard. Top of the hump behind the hammer is engraved in a partial flower blossom with feather patterns around the hammer slot. Cylinder is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s alternating patterns of foliate arabesque & geometric designs with a line border around the flutes and a scalloped border around the rear edge. Back strap & trigger are checkered. Trigger, edges of hammer and sights are fire-blued. Cylinder is gold washed. Right rear web of trigger guard is stamped with a small 6-point star which indicates factory restored finish which is probably when the revolver was engraved. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38 Colt with 6″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to E.K. Tryon, Jr. & Co., Phila., PA, Nov. 28, 1905 in a 2-gun shipment. Cylinder is early type with dbl cylinder stop notches and it has the early hook cyl latch. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, grips numbered as noted. Overall retains virtually all of its factory style finish, slightly thinned on the cylinder. Right grip has a sliver missing from the heel, otherwise grips are fine with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-48907 JR74 (10,000-15,000)
MAGNIFICENT RENWICK-LOCKE AMERICAN GOLD INLAID FLINTLOCK DUELING PISTOLS BY JAMES HASLETT, BALTIMORE, CIRCA 1810. Certainly the most luxurious pair of American flintlock dueling pistols in private hands, these pistols first appeared and are illustrated in October, 1929 in the Antiquarium magazine. Described as a “Pair of very rare early American pistols made by James Haslett of Baltimore in 1800. They have superb gold inlay and are finely chased”. It is presumed that they were acquired by William Goodwin Renwick (1886-1971) at this time. Mr. Renwick was one of the few collectors whose collections were acquired prior to World War II. Renwick owned some of the finest guns in the world and the Hasletts together with a splendid over under flintlock pistol by Simeon North were sold at Sotheby Parke Burnett Los Angeles on October 1, 1972. They were purchased at the sale by the legendary William Locke for the then incredible price of $20,000. Mr. Locke had coveted these pistols since before the second World War and would have paid whatever it took to acquire them. It is interesting to note that lot 112 in the same sale, a Colt Paterson revolving carbine presented by the State of Rhode Island to Henry Clark, sold for $12,000 to Herb Glass. This Paterson Carbine was sold at Butterfield & Butterfield in 1993 for $165,000 plus 10%. James Haslett opened his gun shop in Baltimore at the “Sign of the Golden Gun in 1803”. Having trained under the Irish gunsmith Robert McCormick, Haslett brought many of the Irish refinements to America. It is highly unusual to find extensive use of gold inlay on English dueling pistols. The inlay on the Haslett duelers can only be described as exuberant for the period. The sunburst on the top jaws is gold inlaid. The front sight is of solid gold and bordered with two heavy gold inlaid feathers. The breeches are inlaid with a stand of arms and a riband engraved Haslett, Baltimore. Breech end of the bbls is inlaid with a lightning bolt or an arrow and a flaming bomb. Locks are inlaid with a golden spray over a deeply sunken gold filled makers mark Haslett. Trigger guard has an acorn finial inlaid with gold and a further stand of arms inlaid in gold on the trigger guard itself. Steel buttcaps are inlaid with a large silver urn and flowers in gold and silver. The touch holes are lined in gold as are the pan covers. Case hardened bolt and locks are superbly made in the finest English tradition with roller bearing frizzens, push-on safeties and tilt-down pans which are refinement found only on the finest Irish flintlock dueling pistols. The wedge escutcheons, forend cap and thumb piece are of silver. The half stocks are of the finest and most highly figured walnut of characteristic American form with finely checkered butts. Octagonal bbls are heavy and highly sophisticated with a full channel for sighting. These duelers have set triggers and are of the finest quality throughout. There are only two sets of American flintlock dueling pistols known that are finer than these. They were by Simeon North, commissioned by the State of Connecticut for presentation to Thomas McDonough and Isaac Hull which are solid gold mounted and are in the USS Constitution Museum and the Smithsonian Institution respectively. The Hasletts are cased in a very fine quality French fitted walnut case with full accessories. Case appears to be of a slightly later period but fits the pistols well and compliments them. NOTES: The Renwick-Locke Haslett dueling pistols are quite simply the finest American flintlock duelers James D. Julia has ever offered and represent a unique opportunity to acquire the very best American flintlock pistols in private hands today. PROVENANCE: Clapp & Graham Company, 1929; William Goodwin Renwick, 1929-1972; William Lock, 1972-1973; Tom Seymour, 1973-1987; Exhibited National Portrait Gallery, 1980-1981, cover illustration; William Locke collection, pg. 407, Connoisseur Magazine, March 1981; Steel Canvas, R.L. Wilson, pg. 78. Frank Sujansky Collection. CONDITION: Locks retain all orig small parts including finely engraved hammer screws and retain virtually all orig bold and vivid color case hardening. Bbls retain nearly all their orig striped brown finish with much orig lacquer brown on top. Finely engraved breeches retain nearly all of their color hardening. Trigger guards retain much orig blue finish. Buttcaps have some extremely minor erosion around edges of one pistol; the other with very minor staining. Stocks are virtually pristine retaining nearly all their orig high polish varnish finish. One pistol with extremely minor age crack around locks screw escutcheon. Both ramrods are orig to the pistol; one plain, the other with worm. 4-49501 MRZ50 (75,000-125,000)
*SUPERB HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH WONDERFUL AZ HISTORY. SN 335045. Cal .38 WCF (38-40. Spectacular silver finished Single Action with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has the 2-line, 3-patent dates and is mounted with spectacular 2-pc, Rampant Colt deep silver medallion pearl grips. Right side has a deep relief carved stooping eagle. Rear face of cylinder has last 4 digits of matching serial number. Revolver is engraved probably from the hand of the master himself, Cuno Helfricht, with about 80% coverage, very fine, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine pearled background. Left recoil shield is engraved in Mr. Helfrichts typical fan pattern with feather patterns on the top strap, diamond patterns on each side of bbl boss and his distinctive flower blossoms in the bottom front gullets. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend the entire length of both sides of bbl with fine snake & dot patterns in the top gullet of the ejector housing along with fine zig-zag borders and leaf and vine pattern on the outer radius. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive fan pattern at the top with geometric patterns downs the back and buttstraps with another of his distinctive patterns on the trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes, a line border around the flutes with a small sunburst at the rear end of the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder is beautifully engraved in scallop and snake & dot patterns. This is one of Mr. Helfricht’s more elaborately engraved Single Actions. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal 38-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, pearl grips with carved eagle motif, factory engraved and sold to Globe Hardware Co., address unavailable, shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on January 24, 1917 in a one gun shipment. The Globe Hardware Co. in the letter, is located in Globe, AZ, and has been in business from 1898 to the present. Contact with a granddaughter of the orig owner of the company disclosed that some of the old records are still available. A search of those records disclosed that this revolver was received January 30, 1917 from Simmons Hardware Co. and was sold the same day to Alvin Booth. Contact with the Gila County, AZ Historical Museum revealed that Alvin Booth, a “colored” man, was born April 1, 1868 in Hillsboro, TX, settling in Globe to do handyman and janitorial services around town. Booth was a well known and respected figure in Globe, being employed by several prominent bankers and businessmen in town. Booth was very frugal, saved his money and purchased several investment properties in the area, becoming somewhat well-to-do. In 1913 he was chosen to attend the Emancipation Convention in Philadelphia to represent the Arizona colored population at the convention. His appointment was made by Governor George W. P. Hunt, who Booth had worked for when the governor was a businessman in Globe. He was also a delegate in 1920 to the convention of the Industrial and Commercial Council of People of African Descent. He was mentioned in “Arizona’s Black Pioneers” and several other publications noting prominent people of early Arizona. Booth died March 16, 1937 in Globe, AZ, and was laid to rest in the “white man’s cemetery” next to his father who had joined him in Globe in his later years. PROVENANCE: Fax correspondence from Gila County, AZ Historical Museum. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus and all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig silver finish which is lightly oxidized, showing no wear. Revolver appears to be new and unfired. Grips are crisp with no visible flaws. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore shows no evidence of having ever been fired. An absolutely spectacular example of the engravers art and finisher’s polishing skills. This revolver is nearly identical to another Single Action from the same time frame, being sold elsewhere in this auction. 4-49405 JR311 (65,000-85,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 109082. Cal 31. Blue and color cased hardened with 4″ oct bbl, pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of the frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a nicely figured varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of matching SN in the backstrap channel. Cylinder is 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug and top side flats with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. One scroll on the left side of the bbl lug terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized dog’s head and others terminate in flower blossoms. Matching pattern engraving is also on the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spur and top edge with a hand checkered spur. SN’s on the bottom of the revolver and buttstrap are accompanied by a small punch mark which signifies to the polishing room to do extra polishing for engraving. Accompanied by an orig green velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for a double sided eagle and stars pocket sized flask, a brass 2 cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter and a small cap tin with applied Eley Bros label. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge and grip. Bbl retains 93-95% strong blue with some thinning over the top flats and sharp edges. Rammer and handle retain dark case colors. Frame and hammer also retain dark case colors. Cylinder is a medium brown patina and shows 96-98% stagecoach hold up scene roll marking. Trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Buttstrap and bottom edges of the grip are moderately battered. Grip has good edges with light wear and a few nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light rust. Case has 3 or 4 grain checks in the bottom otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid, moderately to heavy faded with heavy soil in the bottom. Partitions are solid. Flask is extremely fine retaining 97-98% orig finish. Mold has nicks, scratches & dings with bright cavities. 4-49604 JR51 (7,500-12,000)
*RARE WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 282422. Cal. 44 Russian & S&W Special. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl. Full thick front sight & one-line block letter address with left side marked “(BISLEY MODEL) RUSSIAN AND / S&W SPECIAL 44”. Left side of the frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-piece Rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn in his typical flowing foliate and floral patterns that have very fine pearled background with the frame having about 70% coverage. Matching engraving patterns extend up both sides of the bbl, top of the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Recoil shield, loading gate, top of the backstrap & buttstrap have Mr. Glahn’s distinctive V-shape patterns. Front strap, backstrap and trigger are beautifully checkered. Left side of the buttstrap, frontstrap and inside ejector housing are marked with the assembly No. 1074B. This indicates that this revolver was returned to the factory for restoration which is likely the time that Mr. Glahn was commissioned to engrave it. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter which identifies this revolver as a Bisley Model in Cal. 44 with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stock not listed and shipped to Schovering, Daly & Gales, NY, NY on Oct. 4, 1906. While this revolver was not originally factory engraved, it certainly was engraved by a factory engraver at the time it was returned for restoration. The bbl and cylinder were probably replaced at the same time. The bbl is quite rare with its dual caliber marking. CONDITION: Pristine, new and unfired. Retains virtually all of its crisp factory finish with bright blues and brilliant case colors. Grips are sound, showing light to moderate diamond point wear, and the right side turned a little chocolate. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-49404 JR302 (30,000-50,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED PAIRING OF ENGRAVED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY & MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 19060 & 2144. Cal. 36 & 31. Both revolvers are high polished blue and color case hardened with rare special factory checkered 1-pc walnut grips, domed screw heads with blued steel trigger guards & backstraps. 1) Model 1851 Navy, 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and London address with spears. Frame is engraved “Colts Patent” in a ribbon on the left side. Cylinder is usual 6 chambers with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins crisp. Bbl lug and cylinder have British proofs. 2). Model 1849 Pocket Model 4″ oct bbl with pin front sight and 2 line London address with small brackets. Cylinder is usual 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking and all 5 safety pins crisp. Left side of the bbl lug and cylinder have British proofs. Both revolvers are identically engraved with reduced size patterns on the pocket model. They are engraved in English style foliate arabesque scrolls that have lightly shaded background and about 60% coverage on the frames with matching engraving patterns on the bbl lugs & bbls, rammer pivots, backstraps, buttstraps and trigger guards. Hammers have matching patterns on the sides of the spurs with dolphin patterns on the top edges and hand checkered spurs. Backstraps are inscribed “T.C.” Accompanied by an outstanding English mahogany casing that has bulls eye lifting handle in the top with center medallion engraved in a family crest. Front of the case a round lock escutcheon and swinging latches. Interior is green baize lined and compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, a fine Dixon bag shaped flask with adjustable spout, graduated 3/8, 1/2 & 5/8 drams, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter for each caliber, 2 “L” shaped nipple wrenches, a fine brass and ebony cleaning rod, a lacquered 500-count tin of Eley’s Caps and an orig functioning key. Undoubtedly this set was produced on special order for someone of importance or a high ranking government official or military officer. This pair of revolvers is illustrated on page 84 of Colonel Colt London, Rosa and a full page illustration on page 64 of Colt an American Legend, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are all matching including wedge and grip. 51 Navy. Very fine. Bbl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with the balanced having flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer handle and pivot retain strong case colors. Frame & hammer retain bright case colors, lightly faded. Cylinder retains 60-70% thinning orig blue and shows about 95% Ormsby naval battle scene. Trigger guard and backstrap are mostly a blue brown patina. Grip is sound showing very light wear and retains about all of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 49 Pocket Model. Very fine. Bbl retains 92-93% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer and handle retain strong case colors. Frame retains faded case colors in the most sheltered areas seemingly having been cleaned and now a dark metal patina with some very fine scattered surface rust. Hammer retains bright case colors. Cylinder is cleaned to a light grey brown patina with some scattered old surface rust and shows about 95% stagecoach hold up scene. Trigger guard retains about 50% thinning orig blue with the balance a blue brown patina. Backstrap is a grey metal patina. Grip is sound showing very light wear and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case is extremely fine with a small grain check in the lid, slightly shrunken lid, with a few minor light nicks and scratches and overall retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded in the lid with some scattered spotting. The bottom is moderately faded with light soil and light damage from the 51 Navy hammer and front sight. Accessories are all extremely fine. A truly wonderful set worthy of the most advanced collection. 4-49636 (45,000-60,000)
*VERY RARE CASED AND ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE DA REVOLVER. SN 403755. Cal. 38 Spcl. All blue finish with 4″ bbl. Integral half moon front sight and 2-line address with model and cal. marking on the left side. Mounted with beautiful Colt silver medallion 2-pc smooth pearl grips inscribed on the left side “EAF”. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Wilbur Glahn. Engraving consists of about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and fine border line engraving around rear sides of the frame. Sides of the top strap are engraved in leaf and vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over both sides of the bbl, onto the top strap, rear edge of the frame, backstrap and trigger guard with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” device on the buttsrap. Cylinder is engraved to match with fine line borders around the flutes. Accompanied by its orig blue velvet lined, black Moroccan leather covered casing which is form fitted in the bottom for the revolver. Top of the case is inlaid with a 3-3/4″ X 2-1/2″ silver plated brass plaque engraved “TO / IMPERIAL POTENTATE / ESTEN A. FLETCHER / FROM / THE NOBILITY OF / SPHINX TEMPLE / AAONMS / HARTFORD, CONN. JUNE 10, 1931 / MERTON W. BASSETT / POTENTATE”. Esten Fletcher (1864-1941) was elected Imperial Potentate of the Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine June 1930 for a 1 year term into June 1931, which coincides with the date on the presentation plaque. Mr. Fletcher was active in local politics and charities and was even considered as a candidate for national politics, which he apparently declined. He was very active in the Masonic order, rising to the 33rd degree to which very few attain or even pursue. In order to become a 33rd degree Mason one must have impeccable character and a history of service, not only to the Masonic order but to the local community. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in Cal. 38 with 4″ bbl, blue finish, type of stock is not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Sphinx Temple, Hartford, Conn on June 19, 1931 in a 1 gun shipment, under factory order 3275, delivered by “Mr. Penfield”. PROVENANCE: Esten A. Fletcher. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Overall retains virtually 100% of its crisp orig factory blue with no visible flaws. Grips are equally new. Case shows nicks and scratches on the outside and retains strong orig black finish. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid and moderately faded with light soil in the bottom. 4-47860 JR101 (12,500-17,500)
*SCARCE, CUSTOM ENGRAVED VERY EARLY COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 1060. Cal. 380 ACP. Spectacular Gino Cargnell engraved pistol with 3-3/4″ bbl, bbl bushing at the muzzle end of slide, fixed sights and custom, smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Pistol is wonderfully engraved by Gino Cargnell and signed on left front web of trigger guard. Frame and slide are very tastefully engraved with highly detailed raised gold inlays of grape leaves, vines and clusters of grapes along with flat gold wire inlays on both sides on the grip safety and over the slide. Leaf & grape cluster inlays are in 2-color gold. Top of slide is also inlaid with a spectacular 3-color gold tiny goldfinch. Left rear side of the slid has the Rampant Colt and circle inlaid in 2-color gold. Accompanied by a spare bbl that has British proofs and is probably the orig bbl to this pistol as left rear side of the frame also has a tiny British proof. Apparently the proof mark on the slide was covered by the gold inlay. Gino Cargnell was an engraver employed at Fabrique Nationale in Belgium when his friend and mentor Angelo Bee immigrated to the United Sates and set up his own business. Mr. Bee convinced Mr. Cargnell to also come to the U.S. and work with him, which he did, to great success. Mr. Cargnell is one of the premier engravers in recent years and has created numerous, fantastic works of art on firearms. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually of its fine custom blue. Grips are extremely fine, mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore in both bbls. 4-49181 JR248 (3,000-5,000)
FINE ANTIQUE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 136939. Cal .45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, one line block letter address with Cal marking on the left side. Screws and base pin are fire blued and the hammer is color case hardened. Left side of frame had 2-line 3-patent dates. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style from the Nimschke shop with about 65-75% coverage, deep foliate arabesque pattern with fine pearled background. Top strap is engraved in snake and double dot patterns and has a hunters star on the right front side with snake patterns in the bottom gullets. Matching engraving patterns extend nearly the full length of both sides of the bbl and top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved with a snake pattern. Top of the backstrap is nicely engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s foliate fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap and on the trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved in matching patterns on lands between the flutes and has snake and dot pattern around the rear edge. Engraving on left side of bbl covers about half of the caliber marking which indicates that the engraving was probably not done by the master himself but by one of the engravers in his shop. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in Cal .45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, type of stock not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on December 12, 1890 in a two gun shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all visible numbers match. Overall retains about 96-98% crisp nickel showing wear on the left front edge of the bbl and minor losses on front face of cylinder. Screws retain virtually all of their bright fire blue with dulling on face of trigger. Base pin, which is probably orig, retains most of its orig fire blue, turned a little plummy. Hammer retains faded case colors on the back edge, turned silver on the sides, and turned dark on the top edge. Grips are sound with no visible flaws and show great fire and color. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shinny bore with very few, scattered small spots of pitting. A truly beautiful engraved Single Action in high orig condition. 4-49403 JR308 (45,000-65,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 182327. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight & 2-line Hartford address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. The silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain an unnumbered, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip. Cylinder is 5 shots with stagecoach hold up scene roll marking & 4 of the 5 safety pins serviceable. Buttstrap is period script engraved “H. F. Chappell”. Hiram F. Chappell of New London, CT enlisted in Union Army at age 27 as a 2nd Lt on May 7, 1861 & was commissioned into Company E, CT 2nd Infantry, where they were engaged in the first Battle of Bull Run, Feb. 21, 1861. He was mustered out on Aug 7, 1861 & commissioned into Company D, CT 12th Infantry on Jan 1, 1862 and was transferred out on Nov 26, 1864 into Company D, 12th CT Infantry and mustered out on Aug 12, 1865. He was promoted to 1st Lt on Oct 14, 1861 & to Capt on Apr 19, 1863. He was born on Sept 21, 1833, survived the war & died Oct 5, 1915. Capt Chappell’s 12th CT was engaged in the Louisiana area from Oct 1862, participating in several battles there, most notably the Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana May 25-July 9, 1863. In 1864, they were in the Shenandoah in the battles of Winchester Sept 19, 1864, Fishers Hill Sept 22, 1864 & the very costly battle of Cedar Creek Oct 19, 1864 where they suffered heavy casualties. Cedar Creek was their last battle. They participated in the Grand Review in 1865 and were mustered out in Aug 1865. This revolver was listed as item #1833 in a Flayderman catalog. Accompanying this revolver are numerous reprints of histories of the 2nd & 12th CT along with reprints of muster roles for Capt Chappell dating from 1861-1863 and numerous pages of pension applications and supporting documentation. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman, Marlan Polhemus Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge & grip which are unnumbered. Bbl retains about 85% thinning orig blue & the rammer dark case colors. Frame & hammer retain smoky case colors, lightly cleaned. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plate with light wear on front strap. Grip is sound with lightly worn edges & retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting. Cylinder is gray metal patina and shows 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. 4-48745 JR83 (3,000-4,000)
*THE LONE RANGER’S COLT! SCARCE BEN SHOSTLE ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO THE LATE ACTOR JOHN HART. SN 32395SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickle finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line three patent dates and the Rampant Colt. Bottom of the bbl is stamped in tiny letters “SHOSTLE”. Mounted with orig 1-piece ivory grip with raised buffalo skull motif on left side. Inside each ivory slab has the SN in pencil along with “TD ’83”. Left side of the front and back straps, under the grip, is marked with the SN. Revolver has nearly full coverage, very deep relief engraving in leaf and vine patterns. Ejector housing, backstrap, buttstrap, and trigger guard are engraved to match. Both sides of the front sight are engraved. Cylinder has matching engraving with a feather border pattern around the rear edge which is also found in the top gullet of the ejector housing. This revolver is pictured on page 251, as well as on the cover and identified by serial number, in the book Guns That Talk, LaFever & Root, in a grouping of 5 single action colts, captioned “A few of the Colt Single Actions owned and used by John Hart, the Lone Ranger”. Inside the cover is the inscription to Herb Wilmers over the signature of Nick LaFever, the author. This inscribed copy of this book accompanies. Also accompanied by a cook book by John Hart with an autographed color picture of Mr. Hart kneeling by his star on the Hollywood walk of fame. Also included in the lot is a fabulous black and white photo of John Hart signed and inscribed to our consignor and also identifies the gun by serial number. John Hart was born December 13, 1917 and died December 20, 2009. He grew up in California and as a youngster worked as a cowboy on two different California cattle ranches. He was mostly a western movie actor but appeared in a variety of films beginning in 1937. He was drafted into the Army in WWII and rose to the rank of 1st Sgt and served in the Philippines. After the war he returned to acting and in 1953 replaced Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger for one year in the T.V. series by the same name. He also continued acting in supporting roles in various movies and in 1957 portrayed “Hawkeye” in the syndicated western series Hawkeye and The Last of The Mohicans. He also continued to appear in various T.V. shows. Accompanied by a fine glass topped, burgundy velvet lined Colt custom shop showcase. CONDITION: Appears to be new and unfired retaining virtually all of its custom finish after engraving. Grip has a few age lines and retains a light ivory patina. Case is equally new. 4-48384 (12,500-27,500)
RARE PAIR OF CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 128369 & 128372. Cal. 36. Both revolvers are identical configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, pin front sights and New-York U.S. America addresses. Both are marked “COLTS PATENT” on the left side of the frames. They have usual 6 shot cylinders with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll markings. The fourth model large guard silver plated trigger guards and backstraps contain very nicely figured deluxe varnished 1-pc walnut grips, matching numbered to their respective revolvers. Revolvers are blue and case colored and are nearly identically engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frames which extend over the bbl lugs, top side flats of the bbls and rammer pivots. Hammers are deluxe engraved with wolf heads on each side of hammer noses and fish scale patterns on the spurs and top edges. Matching engraving extends down the backstraps over the buttstraps and trigger guards. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms and one scroll on the left side of the bbl lug of #128372 terminates in a very detailed eagle’s head. Backstraps are engraved in period script “COL. GEO. BOWLER / 46TH MASS REGT / FROM MORNING STAR CHAPTER”. Accompanied by what is probably their orig red velvet lined mahogany 2 gun casing which is compartmented in the bottom for the 2 revolvers, a rare double sided eagle and trophy of flags & arms flask with angle spout, a blued 2 cavity Colt’s patent mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side 36B, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a packet of sage combustible cartridges, a lacquered tin of Ely’s caps, lead bullets and balls and a functioning key. The 46th Mass was raised in Hampden County, Mass in September & October 1862 by Reverend George Bowler who was elected the units first Colonel. Colonel Bowler was commissioned October 27, 1862, mustered in October 30,1862, resigned on December 23, 1962 and was discharged January 23, 1863 for disability. The regiment left camp on November 5th for Boston and was transported to Newbern, NC arriving there November 15th where they were assigned to Col. Lee’s brigade. Initial duties were guarding the railroad station at Newport barracks. They saw their first active duty and were present at the battles of Kinston, Whitehall and Goldsboro December 14-17, and were only slightly engaged suffering little loss. By December 20, they were encamped near the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers, about which time Col. Bowler resigned and subsequently was mustered out. Col. Bowler was ill during the December 14-17 campaign and although he did accompany the regiment in the field, it is unknown what his participation may have been. This pair of revolvers is pictured as figure 12 on page 12 of the May 1963 issue of The Gun Report in an article by John G. Hamilton wherein he gives credit to the Jay P. Altmayer Collection. PROVENANCE: Jay P. Altmayer Collection; C.G. Johnson Collection; Johnny Bassett Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) SN 128369. Very fine, all matching including wedge and grip. Bbl retains 90-92% glossy orig blue with some sharp edge loses and minor flaking. Rammer and handle retain dark case colors as does the frame and hammer. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 85% orig silver. Cylinder is a light brown patina with scattered light pitting and shows 40-50% Ormsby naval battle scene. Grip is sound showing light edge wear, a few nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Wedge spring is broken. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 2) SN 128372. Very fine, all matching. Bbl retains 30-40% thin orig blue with the balance flaked to a light patina. Remainder of revolver is nearly identical condition as above. Grip retains about 98% crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a couple of spots of pitting. Case has a repaired crack across the lid and another in the bottom and retains most of a restored finish. Interior is moderately faded with light soil inside the lid and heavier soil in the bottom. Flask is extremely fine with a couple of small dents and retains most of its orig lacquered finish. Mold has a few small nicks on the sides and bottom with good sharp cavities and strong blue. Other accessories are fine. 4-49629 (58,000-90,000)
Correction: The photo in the catalog contains the wrong tin. The correct and original tin to this set is photographed online and will be sold with the gun.
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE EARLY CASED COLT HARTFORD-LONDON 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and ultra rare hand engraved left hand address “SAML COLT, LONDON.” Left side of frame is hand engraved “COLT’S PATENT”. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and “MODEL U.S.M.R. / COLT’S PATENT” panels surrounding the SN. Left side of frame & cyl have English proofs. The hammer is, most unusually, matching numbered on the right side. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an extremely rare, varnished deluxe burl walnut 2-pc grip with blued steel escutcheons and a steel transverse screw. Accompanied by an orig, rare, burgundy velvet lined English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid, a rnd lock escutcheon on the front with swinging latches. Interior is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a fine Barlow bag flask with adjustable spout graduated 3/4, 7/8 and 1 dram, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked with an “H” on right side, a lacquered tin of Eleys caps with repoussed brass medallion on top and marked on right side “NO.26”, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a pewter oil bottle and a full sealed tin of orange label Eley Bros. caps. Covered right rear compartment contains bullets & balls. Also accompanied by two letters dated July & August 2002 from renowned Colt historian & author, Joseph G. Rosa, wherein he discusses this revolver and its extreme rarity and that only a very few are known with the engraved bbl address and frame marking as well as the extremely rare 2-pc grip. Additionally accompanied by a 3-page letter from renowned Colt researcher, historian & author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he states that this revolver is “one of the rarest of percussion Colt revolvers”. He also comments that only a handful of 3rd Model Hartford English Dragoon revolvers used the grip escutcheons with transverse grip screw that “This likely reflects a concern that the one-piece grips might not hold up under the stress of a four pound two ounce revolver, particularly with recoil of firing.” He also states that this is the second lowest numbered Hartford English Dragoon known. According to the records of Pete Holder, firearms dealer/collector, who has surveyed 235 of the 700 (more than 33%) Colt Hartford-London Dragoons production, only three revolvers (#2, #3 and #125) have the hand engraved “SAML COLT, LONDON” address and also that only three revolvers (#2, #3 and #125) are known with the grip escutcheon. Also Pete Holder states that serial number 3 is the second lowest number known because he found serial number 2 in England more than twenty years ago. PROVENANCE: Dr. John M. Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% orig blue mixed with flaked areas that are a medium patina; rammer & handle retain dark case colors; frame retains faded case colors, turning silver, stronger on the right side; hammer also retains faded case colors with pitting around the nose; cyl is a medium to dark patina with a ding near the front edge and scattered pin prick pitting and shows 60-70% Dragoon/Indian fight scene with both panels completely legible; trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their strong orig silver finish with only slight wear at the heel. Grip has a series of bruises on left side at the frame with a few light nicks & scratches and retains about all of its deluxe varnish finish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case lid is slightly shrunken and overall has light handling & storage nicks & scratches with some staining on the lid and retains about 80% orig varnish; inside the lid is heavily faded with light soil; bottom is moderately to heavily faded with moderate soil; flask is extremely fine with bright brass & bright blue spring; mold is lightly nicked & dinged with bright blue remaining on the sprue cutter; other accessories are very fine. 4-46455 (40,000-70,000)
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 22249. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, 1-line script address with serifs. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and it is mounted with an original 1-pc ivory grip with very deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Grip is made in orig style from two slabs of ivory affixed to a central wooden spacer block to create the 1-pc grip, or they may have been added by the Nimschke shop. They are definitely period to the gun. Ejector housing is first type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Front strap, under the grip, was drilled for a 2-pc grip locator pin and now has that hole plugged. This revolver was produced in 1876 and the 2-pc hard rubber eagle design grips were not introduced until 1882. Revolver is engraved by the L.D. Nimschke shop with about 80-85% frame coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with a diamond & dot pattern on each side of bbl boss and a hunter’s star on the sides of the ejector housing boss & base pin boss. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend 4-1/2″ on each side of bbl and on each side of muzzle with a dash & dot border pattern around the address which terminates in a foliate arabesque pattern. Ejector housing is exceptionally engraved with a large diamond & dot panel on the outer radius with dash & dot borders and a sunburst at each end. Top gullet is engraved in a leaf & vine pattern. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive sunburst pattern with diamond center and foliate arabesque patterns elsewhere. Trigger bow & cyl are engraved to match with feather patterns on back edge of cylinder and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with bbl length & type of stocks not listed, blue finish and shipped to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Dec. 31, 1875 in a 67-gun shipment. Engraved early single actions are quite rare and are seldom encountered especially in an unaltered state. Only a few deluxe engraved revolvers in the Nimschke style are known and all are in the 22,000 serial number range, except the few that are thought to have been on the centennial wheel. Multiple experts think that because of the extra-deluxe engraving and the extra deluxe grips this gun may have been on the centennial wheel. A copy of a letter from noted Colt authority, Dick Burdick, accompanies the gun. In part it states “This fine revolver remains today very much in the state it was finished in circa 1876. It retains the majority of the original nickel finish, which was applied after the engraving in the L.D. Nimschke shop in New York. The Colt markings are sharp and distinct, and do not show evidence of later polishing or abrasion post finishing circa 1876. There is some finish loss and fine pitting in the engraving cuts which have the hammer and graver progression cuts that demonstrate age and method of engraving. The engraving is classic L D. Nimschke, quite profuse, and orig in all respects. It is noteworthy to observe the broken italic barrel address die. This example is very near the end of the use of this die. The block letter die marked barrel has been observed as early as the 19000 serial number range. Along with this style of die change, an improved method of attaching the ejector tube to barrel was adapted. The hammer is the proper early long knurling with case hardened finish and the trigger is blue, which is proper for the outside factory New York engraved revolvers. The last four digits of the matching serial number are on the barrel underneath the ejector tube and on the periphery of the cylinder. The three full serial numbers match, and are authentic stamping by Colt. The front sight is full and has its original configuration. The grips are of the same age as the revolver and could have been installed by the Nimschke shop at time of engraving. The carving is finely executed and the ivory is in excellent condition for its age, showing little use. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains 80-90% strong bright original nickel with flaking on the cyl with wear & loss of nickel on the top strap, backstrap, right side of frame & loading gate & ejector housing; front strap is dulled and the cyl is moderately to heavily flaked and retains most of its nickel plating on front face; hammer retains faded case colors, mostly on left side and rear edge with balance turned silver; grip is sound with a couple of minor age lines and overall retains a wonderful mellow dark ivory patina; hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting; inside top strap & recoil shield are moderately pitted; firing pin hole in the bushing is enlarged and the firing pin retaining pin has been staked; firing pin appears to be of later vintage. 4-48812 (35,000-55,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 63816. Cal. 36. Third Model Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetailed front sight with German silver blade and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.”. The silver plated brass 3rd Model small rnd trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautiful 1-pc varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip that has last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and a groove around the circumference about 1/4″ from front edge. Revolver is engraved in deluxe Gustave Young style with full coverage on frame foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled background. Three scrolls on frame terminate in flower blossoms. Matching patterns extend over bbl lug and top side flats with one scroll incorporating Mr. Young’s dog’s head. Each side has a fountain-like flower blossom spray. Rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Both ends of matching numbered wedge are also engraved. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with fish scale patterns on spur & top edge. Frame, bbl, cylinder, rammer & handle have been chemically cleaned to a gray patina. Hammer spring has been replaced by a thin sheet of spring steel, hammer spring screw is changed, hand & hand spring are missing, lock bolt is missing, wedge screw is missing and lock bolt/trigger return spring is also replaced with a thin sheet of spring steel CONDITION: Poor to fair, all matching including wedge & grip. Metal condition as noted above; trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their strong orig silver plating; cylinder shows 50-60% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Grip is very fine plus showing light wear and a few small nicks and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are non-functioning because of missing parts; dark bore with rifling 4-48751 JR369 (4,000-7,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS CONNECTIONS. SN 164018. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel and gold finish with 4 3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight & 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and rampant colt in a partial circle. It is mounted with modern replacement 2-pc ivory grips with raised carved ox head on the right side. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York-style, probably from the Nimschke shop, possibly by the master himself. Engraving consists of about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, bbl, buttstrap & trigger guard. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with triangular center. Backstrap is engraved in snake and dot patterns with matching patterns on top strap & in top gullet of ejector housing. Outer diameter of the ejector housing is very nicely engraved in geometric patterns & a flower blossom. Cylinder is beautifully engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes, a beautiful double line swag pattern from flute to flute with border patterns at the rear edge. Cylinder, hammer, trigger & base pin are gold plated with the balance of the revolver nickel finished. Ejector housing is 2nd type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel & gold finish, pearl stocks with carved American Eagle motif, factory engraved & shipped to J. Bielenberg, Brownsville, Texas on December 21, 1895 in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by the book Colt Factory Engravers of the Nineteenth Century, Houze which is furnished simply as a reference for engraving. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of it’s fine, factory-style restored finish. Replacement grips are sound with a dark artificially aged patina. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half-cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bore is worn with fine pitting and a ring near the muzzle which has caused a slight bulge. Book is near new. 4-48291 JR82 (8,000-12,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 63849. Cal. .36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl. Scarce dovetailed blade front sight with 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT” over a tiny “US”. Silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap are mounted with a spectacular Colt 1-pc checkered ivory grip that has a raised carved, highly detailed American eagle & shield on left side. Grip is numbered to another revolver. Revolver is wonderfully engraved by Gustave Young in deluxe full-coverage patterns consisting of foliate arabesque scrolls, some of which terminate in flower blossoms. Frame has full coverage engraving which extends over sides of bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with matching patterns on the ramrod pivot. English style round head screws are also engraved. Cylinder is usual 6 shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins are prominent and serviceable. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved in matching patterns with light fan at top of backstrap. Although rammer handle is numbered 7912, and does not match the numbers on the gun, it absolutely was engraved at the same time as rest of revolver by the same hand. SN’s are all accompanied by small punch dot which indicates a special order for finer polish and finish. Accompanied by a wonderful, orig, green velvet-lined rosewood casing with empty gold-washed bass plate in lid. Interior is French-fitted for revolver, a dbl-sided floral Hawksley flask, which appears to be a replacement, 2-cavity blued “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold, L-shaped nipple wrench, packet of 6 combustible cartridges, small tin of UMC caps and cast lead bullets and balls. This set is pictured on Pg 98 in the book THE WM M. LOCKE COLLECTION, Sellers, as published in 1973. It appears that the bullet mold has been changed from the one pictured. Set also appears as Fig. 90 in the JAMES ELWOOD JONES JR. ARMS COLLECTION. PROVENANCE: William M. Locke Collection; James Elwood Jones Jr. Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except rammer handle & grip, as noted above. Bbl retains 95-96% glossy orig blue with some very minor sharp edgewear and light flaking. Rammer handle and pivot retain strong, bright case colors. Frame & hammer also retain most of their strong orig case colors. Cylinder retains about 30% orig blue with front 2/3 flaked to a light patina & overall shows about 95% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking with some minor scattered pitting. Trigger guard retains about 75% strong orig silver and backstrap about all orig silver. Grip is sound with fine age lines and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is sound with usual handling & storage marks & scratches and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Inside lid shows very little fading while bottom is lightly faded and soiled. Cartridge packet shows broken bottom edge, otherwise is crisp. Mold is crisp & current flask is very fine. Other accessories are fine. Altogether an exceptional set that has had an outstanding grip added. 4-49643 (40,000-60,000)
BREVETTE COPY OF COLT MODEL 1855 REVOLVING SHOTGUN. Cal. 65. This is a most interesting gun which has engraved bbl, frame, trigger guard and hammer, and nickel plated cylinder. Two bbl bands are friction and screw fit over a straight 17″ apparently walnut stock with pewter nosecap. The buttstock is over sized, apparently made from a wide grain wood not normally seen on American guns. Buttstock is pistol gripped and is much wider than the frame, about 1-3/4″ at its thickest with the frame just less than 1″. Bbl shows more wear than rest of gun and engraving appears Mediterranean. Proof marks on bbl are 2 square cartouches with only partially discernible markings. Engraving on frame and trigger guard are definitely in a different hand and a different “flavor” than remainder of gun. A dog pointing to a bird is engraved on bottom of trigger bow and the same dog is seen on top of frame tang. No idea as to origin of this gun, but it appears all orig and well made. CONDITION: 26-3/8″ smooth bore bbl is part oct, changing to rnd with 3 rings as interface. Bbl is overall brown with staining and pitting. Frame is brown with traces of blue finish, is engraved with various floral and geometric designs and 1-3/4″ panel of dog. German silver trigger guard is engraved with dog and bird. Hammer is florally engraved with traces of blue finish. Cylinder is nickel plated and retains 95% of its nickel with areas of bubbling, rust and pitting. Stocks are sound and solid with a 1-1/4″ German silver star inset into bottom of pistol grip with a central brass stud. Mechanically gun functions well. 4-48624 JS45 (4,000-5,000)
SCARCE MAHOGANY CASED & DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL HARTFORD-LONDON DRAGOON, SN 18. SN 18. Cal. 44. Cased & profusely engraved (one of only six known to be deluxe engraved) Hartford-London Dragoon SN 18 mfg ca. 1853. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight. Hand-engraved barrel address “COLN COLT. LONDON” reading from breech to muzzle (one of five known) and also hand-engraved “COLTS. PATENT.” within an unfurled banner on left side of the profusely engraved frame. It has usual 6-shot cyl with the Dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking and five of its six safety pins mostly serviceable. It has a silver-plated brass back-strap, small rounded silver-plated brass trigger-guard and select burl walnut one-piece grips. Loading lever entering from the right side of the loading lever assembly, no bevel on the cut-out, short trigger (one of nine recorded), vertical loading lever catch and stacked British proof-marks on the barrel. Frame has full coverage, wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns on sides with fine shaded background and foliate & floral engraving on recoil shields. Hammer is lightly engraved on sides of spur with dolphin motif on top edge. Bbl lug has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with British proofs on sides and a nice border around the address on the top flat. There is a scalloped border on the bbl at the transition and around the muzzle. Top of backstrap has a wonderfully executed fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns, a fine border pattern down the backstrap with engraving patterns at top & heel, also on buttstrap & trigger bow. Wedge & rammer are engraved to match. Wedge is unnumbered and rammer handle has the number “37”. Accompanied by a rare orig mahogany English casing with empty brass panel in the lid. It is blue velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a silver plated Sykes Patent bag flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with steel sprue cutter, a Hawksley pewter oil bottle, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an all metal English cleaning rod and a rosewood screw-lid bits box containing one spare nipple. This exact revolver is pictured on p 148 of “Colt Engraving” by R.L. Wilson, and on p 234 of “The Colt Engraving Book” Vol.1 by R.L. Wilson and p 137 of “Colonel Colt London” by Joseph G. Rosa. Engraved dragoon revolvers are quite rare and cased examples are extremely rare. It has been estimated from collated research, that fewer than 10% of Hartford-London Dragoons were factory engraved and this one, with deluxe engraving, perhaps only 1% of the 700 produced. PROVENANCE: Arnold M. Chernoff Collection. Chester Bonoff Collection. Pete Holder Collection. Damien Scattizi Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 60% orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a medium patina; rammer handle is a gray/brown patina; frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a silver/brown patina; cyl is mostly a silver/brown patina with a large area of light pitting, some dents & dings around the front edge that were dressed out; two of the British proof marks on the cyl appear to have been double struck and overall retains about 25-30% Dragoon/Indian fight scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain 30-40% thin silver plating. Grip is sound, a little undersized for the frame and overall retains a smooth oil finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains 80-85% orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded with moderate soil in the bottom; flask retains most of its fine silver plating with bright blue spring; mold has a few light nicks & dings with fine cavities and a crisp light mustard patina; other accessories are fine. 4-48352 (37,500-47,500)
UNUSUAL PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 32920. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with last four digits of SN on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and is mounted with replacement checkered ivory 1-pc grip. Ejector rod housing is a replacement and is second type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. SN was observed in the usual places on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with last four digits of SN on bottom of bbl and outer diameter of cylinder. The SNs are noted on frame, trigger guard & butt strap there are also small “E”, which was added later. This revolver is engraved with full coverage on frame consisting of a large panel on left side depicting a setter and two birds in a field scene and a man laying prone in a mountain scene shooting at a standing grizzly bear with a six-shooter. Balance of engraving is wonderful foliate arabesque patterns, most of which terminate in flower blossoms, all of which have a fine, meticulous punch dot background. Engraving extends over top strap and onto the sides of bbl terminating forward of the address and again around the muzzle and front sight. Replacement ejector rod housing has been engraved to match the foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius and three small patterns in top gullet with an unusual border pattern at top of outer radius. The edge of the ejector rod head is also engraved with a simple line border and dots. Cylinder has full coverage matching engraving on outer diameter with flutes left unengraved for artistic contrast. Rear edge of cyl is engraved in a border pattern matching the ejector rod housing. Top of back strap is engraved with a third panel depicting an Indian in full headdress holding a spear & shield astride a horse. This panel is surrounded by light foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and the tops of the ears of the back strap are engraved in tiny flower blossoms. Back strap itself is engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns as are the butt strap and trigger guard. The screws on the frame have engraved heads. The trigger guard & back strap screws are replacement screws and not engraved. Replacement hammer has deluxe, full-coverage engraving on sides consisting of matching foliate & floral arabesque patterns with punch dot background and elaborate, fierce wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Accompanied by two Colt factory letters, one dated 1965 and the other 2006 with both reporting identical information: caliber 45 Colt, 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Kennedy Bros., Minneapolis, MN on May 11, 1886 in a 1-gun shipment. The 2006 dated letter, however has a special remark indicating that this gun is listed twice in the factory records. The first record shows this exact same gun being shipped in a 50 gun shipment to Schuyler, Hartley and Graham, in NY on November 28th, 1876. This of course is 10 years earlier and the factory records also note that the gun when shipped to S,H&G Company was with a blue finish. From this information, one would usually deduce that the gun shipped in the blue to S,H&G was engraved and nickeled then eventually went back to Colt for some reason then later in 1886 shipped to Kennedy Bros. The fact that Colt records do not mention “engraved” is not unusual, such details were occasionally mistakenly ommited as has been verified on many past occasions. What’s a mystery is how a gun shipped to S,H&G in 1876 would reappear at Colt to be later shipped to Kennedy in 1886, possibly an interesting story there. The reason we refer to this as an unusual panel scene is as follows, the overall foliate engraving on the gun, so wonderfully executed was unquestionably done by an engraver other than the one that did the panel scene engraving. Two different people were involved in the engraving of this gun. The quality of the panel scene engraving in no way equals the craftsmanship of that found on the rest of the gun! Certainly an unusual circumstance and as was mentioned earlier, there is possibly an interesting story there. PROVENANCE: Colt Factory Letters. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 90% strong old nickel finish with losses from the front face of cyl and light flaking in some of the flutes which has turned to dark patina. Replaced ejector rod housing shows wear around the tip with some minor flaking on outer radius and top gullet. Front strap & trigger guard retain strong nickel on trigger plate & trigger bow with the front strap mostly gray metal with pin prick pitting. Back strap is light gray metal patina with the butt strap retaining most of its old nickel. Grip has a chip in left front edge, a repaired left toe and chipped right toe, otherwise is sound showing shrinkage with numerous extremely fine age lines and moderate diamond point wear and retains a lovely golden ivory patina. Replacement hammer is not solid in safety notch and timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-87726 (50,000-100,000)
TWO CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 101989 & 121437. Cal 36. Revolvers are virtually identical with nickel and gold finish, 7 1/2″ oct bbls, pin front sights and one line New-York U.S. America addresses. Left side of the frames are marked with a small “COLTS PATENT”. Rammers, cylinders, hammers and trigger guards were gold washed and revolvers are mounted with beautiful, custom, 1-pc ivory grips. They are accompanied by 2 fine custom 1-pc walnut grips. Revolvers have full coverage flat foliate arabesque engraving with pearled background. Frames, bbls, cylinders, backstraps, buttstraps, trigger guards and rammer pivots are all matching engraving. Hammers are engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer noses. It seems likely that these revolvers were custom built for a stage performer or Wild West show performer, probably someone re-enacting the life Wild Bill Hickok who was known to have carried a pair of Colt 51 Navy revolvers. CONDITION: Very good, as custom finished. Overall retain most of their orig nickel finish with traces of gold wash on the aforementioned areas. Ivory grips are extremely fine with sharp edges and wonderful ivory patina. Wood grips are fine and retain about all of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine although one hammer spring is a little weak. Number 121437 has been bored smooth while the other has a strong bore with scattered pitting. 4-48621 JR39 (4,000-5,000)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED PRE-WWII COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 319236. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with left side ROLL marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40”. Left side of frame has the 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth, 2-pc, silver medallion ivory grips. Revolver is very nicely engraved in very deep relief foliate arabesque patterns with nearly full coverage on frame & top strap. Matching patterns extend nearly full length of the bbl & around front sight with additional matching patterns on ejector housing. Cyl also has nearly full coverage matching patterns with only the flutes not engraved. Top of backstrap has a very nicely detailed snarling grizzly bear head with matching foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Altogether a very nice custom engraved Single Action. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all visible numbers are matching. Overall retains virtually all of its custom finish with crisp bright blues and strong, bright case colors with one small scratch on left side of barrel. Grips are sound with a few light age lines and retain a fine medium ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired since custom finishing. 4-48772 JR330 (5,000-7,000)
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 41291. Cal. .36. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl. Brass pin front sight & 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. Silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc orig ivory grip, matching numbered to revolver. Revolver is beautifully engraved in late vine style, probably by Gustave Young, with some scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over sides of bbl and around address, on backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Both sides of hammer nose are engraved in wolf’s head patterns. Cylinder is 1/2 fluted with 5 chambers. Accompanied by orig, spectacular, brass-bound green baize-lined rosewood casing with brass plaque in top engraved with initials “C.A.”. Interior is French-fitted for revolver, fine dbl-sided eagle & shield flask, presentation quality highly polished blued steel 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36P”, L-shaped nipple wrench and lacquered tin of Goldmark’s caps. Covered compartment in right rear contains lead, bullet & balls. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms, there were only about 28,000 of these scarce revolvers produced in the period 1861 through 1873 when they were supplanted by the advent of cartridge revolvers. Engraved & cased examples of this model are extremely rare with only a few known and surviving examples are rarely found with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching inc. wedge, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains about 50% glossy orig blue with balance having flaked, not worn, to a dark patina. Rammer handle retains strong case colors, bright on pivot. Frame & hammer retain strong, bright case colors. Cylinder retains about 70% orig blue, strong & bright in flutes with strong blue in chambers. Trigger guard & backstrap retain thin orig silver-plating. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and wonderful dark ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Screws are crisp and retain most orig blue. Case is sound with usual storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with light soil inside lid & moderate to heavy soil in bottom. Accessories are all fine. A wonderful & rare set. 4-49641 JR7 (25,000-40,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 528. Cal 41 RF. Nickel finish with 2 1/4″ rd bbl, half moon front sight with 2-line address that has a Maltese cross at each end. Left side of the frame below the cylinder opening has the caliber marking. The bird head grip frame is mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips that are matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is spectacularly engraved in very fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and beautiful leaf and vine patterns on the front of the frame and bbl. Bottom front of the frame and right side, below the cylinder opening are engraved in diamond patterns. All the engraving has an extremely fine pearled background. Cylinder is engraved to match with a very fine dimpled oval border around the rear edge with line engraving around the cylinder stops and flutes. Screws, hammer and trigger are all blued. Accompanied by a beautiful, nickeled brass bound rosewood casing with empty rectangular plaque in the lid. It is purple velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver and has a cartridge block in the rear edge containing 11 orig rounds of ammunition and a covered compartment in the left front corner containing 3 more rounds of ammunition. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson there were about 7,000 of these revolvers produced in the period 1874-1879. Another New Line revolver with nearly identical engraving, certainly by the same hand is pictured on page 302 of the referenced publication. Very few of these little revolvers were so elaborately engraved and of those, extremely few were cased with surviving examples nearly unknown. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including grips. Overall retains virtually all of it’s crisp orig nickel finish with bright blue on the screws and faded blue on the trigger and hammer. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with fine pitting. Case has a crack across the lid and a grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling and storage nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Top metal corners of the case show moderate nickel wear. Interior is lightly faded. Altogether a wonderful and near unique New Line revolver. 4-47789 JR49 (15,000-25,000)
LATE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 188946. Cal. 44. Late 1870 production, near the end of this model run. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame had “COLTS PATENT” in a small oval which is now worn away with only the “C” visible. Mounted with a very early 1-pc ivory grip inscribed on the side ” ’72”. Grip is constructed of two slabs of ivory attached to an ivory spacer block in the orig style. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage on the frame of flowing arabesque patterns with pearled background and has his sunburst on left recoil shield with matching sunburst on top of backstrap. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over the sides of the bbl and each side of the muzzle with geometric patterns around the address. Backstrap & buttstrap are engraved to match with a fine hunter star on trigger bow. Cyl has usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. All visible SNs are matching and are accompanied by “I.P.” which stands for Ivory and Plated, which were signals to the finishing department to give extra attention to the process. CONDITION: Good, all matching except wedge which is a period of use replacement and grip which is unnumbered but original. No orig finish remains except on the trigger guard & front strap which retains about 50% orig silver plating; balance of revolver is a gray metal patina; cyl has matching patina and shows about 70% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Grip has a few age lines and is completely sound retaining a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-48816 JR367 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED EARLY PRODUCTION COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 45589. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with etched panel on left side partially visible. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear shoulder of trigger guard is stamped “44 CF”. Ejector housing is second type with half moon ejector rod head and base pin is orig with dimpled ends. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Grip is constructed in the orig manner with two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacers in the center. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, with about 60-70% coverage in a variety of patterns including foliate arabesque, fan & feather patterns, diamond & dot patterns and leaf & vine patterns on the top strap. Front gullets are stamped with a series of decorative dots. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl, on both sides of muzzle with geometric patterns around front sight. Ejector housing is engraved with leaf & vine pattern in top gullet and a zigzag & dot pattern on outer radius. Top of back strap has a Nimschke style fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap and on the trigger guard that also has a hunter star. Butt strap is hand scratched “W H NESBITT”. Cyl is engraved in unusual foliate patterns on the lands between the flutes, a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge and two straight line borders, one on each side of the stop notches. Engraving is over the SN on the cylinder. All visible numbers are matching with the bbl & cyl having last four digits of matching number. Some of the trigger guard & backstrap screws have been changed. This revolver was produced in 1878, the same year that the etched panel bbl marking was introduced. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 60-70% nickel with losses mostly from frame & cyl; bbl retains most of its nickel with some flaking on the bottom and shows about 3/4 of the etched panel; ejector housing retains about 75% nickel showing wear on front of outer radius. Grip has a chipped left toe with numerous age lines, shows moderate to heavy wear and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina; grip has shrunk over the years and now has very old oil soaked spacers at the frame. Hammer will not hold in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and scattered light pitting. 4-48763 JR325 (10,000-15,000)
Gun has an additional R.L. Wilson letter that is not listed in the provenance.
US HISTORICAL SOCIETY SECOND MODEL FACTORY ENGRAVED DRAGOON REVOLVER. SN 4234. This is a beautiful and pristine Commemorative of a Second Model Colt Dragoon that was put on display at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. The Second Model Dragoon is of greater rarity than either the First or Third Models. And to find an engraved one is almost an impossibility. This gun exhibits panel scene of “double eagles” (US Historical Society official logo) on left side of frame and the wonderful scroll engraving typical of early Colt revolvers. This gun is marked on the top bbl flat “US HISTORICAL SOCIETY RICHMOND VA” and on left side of bbl “THE ROYAL ARMORIES-H.M. TOWER OF LONDON”. These guns were orig sold by subscription for $2250 in 1989. In a unique historical joint project, The Royal Armouries H.M. Tower of London authorized United States Historical Society in 1989 to produce and issue “The Royal Armouries Colonel Samuel Colt Dragoon” as a limited edition commemorative. Because of the scarce vine style engraving, the U.S. Historical Society requested the use of Michael’s revolver. In another letter from Mr. R.L. Wilson, Chairman at that time of the Antique Arms Committee, he states, “This is to express the thanks of the U.S. Historical Society, and myself, for the loan of your Second Model Dragoon, with its fine early vine style factory engraving, NO. 9646. The engraving of the Society prototype revolver has been completed by Alvin White- the results were superb!” No one can dispute that this is truly a remarkable revolver with an undeniable history, comparable in stature to only two other Engraved Second Model Dragoons that were owned by English Royalty. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection CONDITION: Gun is like new retaining virtually all of its orig finish with bright case colors, silver plating, and brilliant bright blue. Gun is mechanically perfect with shiny crisp bore. 4-49712 (1,000-2,000)
*SCARCE JOHN ADAMS ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN JA453. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 4 3/4″ bbl, full front sight & 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates with rampant colt. SN is in a special range numbered especially for master engraver John Adams. Left side of front and backstraps are matching numbered and also have the additional SN of “S07820A”. Front strap and buttstrap also have the date “6.23.95” along with Mr. Adam’s signature. It is mounted with smooth 2-pc gold medallion ivory grips, matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is beautifully engraved with about 60% coverage Nimschke-style foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and a hunter star on each side of the front of the frame. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Bbl, cylinder, backstrap, buttstrap, trigger guard & ejector housing are all engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Sides of the front sight are engraved. Top of the backstrap is engraved in a Nimschke-style fan pattern with checkerboard center. John Adams is a self-taught engraver who worked for many years as a master engraver at Colt, producing over 3,000 engraved pieces for them. He then became an independent engraver and has continued, with his son as Adams & Adams Engraving, producing numerous, wonderful pieces of art for the firearms collecting fraternity. All together an exceptional & beautiful single action revolver. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its wonderful custom finish with bright blue & brilliant case colors. Grips are also extremely fine. Brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-48919 JR79 (4,000-7,000)
RARE CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 33612 & 33633. Cal. 31. Both revolvers are virtually identical, blue and color case hardened with 6″ oct bbls, engraved “Saml Colt” addresses, pin front sights with #33612 having a right hand address and #33633 having a left hand address. Both revolvers have silver plated trigger guards and backstraps containing highly figured, burl walnut 1-pc grips matching numbered to their respective revolvers. Both have 5 shot cylinders with stagecoach hold up scene roll markings and all 5 safety pins intact on both cylinders. They are engraved virtually identical with “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon on the frames with the frames having about full coverage large scroll patterns with very fine shaded background. One of the scrolls on the recoil shield of #33633 terminates in a very detailed flower blossom. Matching engraving patterns extend over the bbl lugs and rammer pivots, on the backstraps, buttstraps and trigger guards. Top of the backstraps are engraved differently with #33612 having a fan pattern and #33633 leaf and geometric patterns. Trigger bows are engraved with small American shields and edges of the trigger guards are in feather patterns. All screw heads are nicely engraved. Hammers are deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer noses, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spurs and top edges. Accompanied by a beautiful brass bound rosewood casing that has a gold washed plaque in the lid, hand scratched “W. THOMSON / Canada 1851” Interior is dark blue velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, a double sided eagle and shield pocket size flask, a brass 2 cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps, along with lead bullets and balls and a functioning key. This set is illustrated on page 73 of the book The Wm M. Locke Collection, Sellers. It appears that the mold and cap tin have been changed from this photograph, though they are from the period of this set. Pistols also appear on page 79 as item 46 plate XXVIII in the book Samuel Colt Presents and page 39 of Colt Engraving both by Wilson. PROVENANCE: William Locke Collection; Arnold Marcus Chernoff Collection. Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Revolvers are nearly identical in condition, both all matching except the wedge on #33633 is unnumbered. Both retain about 98% glossy orig blue on the bbls and dark case colors on the rammers and handles. Frames retain most of their orig muted case colors as is typical of the Colts of this era. Cylinders retain virtually all of their bright orig blue and about 99% stagecoach hold-up scene roll markings. Cylinder on #33612 has a large “Z” shaped scratch. Trigger guards and backstraps retain virtually all of their orig silver plating with some minor edge wear. Grips are sound with good edges and light nicks & scratches and retain most of their strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case has a crack across the lid, otherwise is sound with handling and storage nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly soiled inside the lid and bottom with light to moderate soil in the bottom. Partitions are all solid. Flask is as new. Mold is of the correct period with casting flaws in the brass, otherwise is extremely fine. Other accessories are equally fine. A truly spectacular set worthy of the most advanced collection. 4-49626 (70,000-80,000)
FINE AND IMPORTANT CUNO A. HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER, SILVER- AND GOLD-PLATED WITH ONE-PIECE IVORY GRIPS , WITH EXHIBITION GRADE EMBELLISHMENTS. SN 56286. .45 cal, 7-1/2″ bbl with one-line maker and Hartford address marking on top; “45 CAL” on left side of front bow of triggerguard; three-line three patent date marking on left side of frame; silver-plated with gold-plated cyl, hammer and ejector rod housing; blued screws, cyl pin, ejector rod head and trigger; one-piece ivory grips. Profusely and finely scroll and border engraved on barrel, ejector rod housing, cyl, frame and gripstraps; ejector rod housing also with zig-zag lines and punched dot motifs; sunburst motif on top flat of backstrap. Note last four digits of serial number, 6286, on cyl within riband, in line with one of the flutes. Included is a Colt factory letter stating revolver left factory with silver finish and gold-finished cyl, ejector and hammer. Ivory grips. It was shipped on July 5, 1880 in a shipment of one gun to C.E. Gildea. CONDITION: Fine. 85% silver-plating, with tarnish, blemish near muzzle; light wear and spots patina; 75% gold,light wear and patina;50% blue; engraving sharp; grips very good to fine, rich, mellow patina; minor chipping and wear at butt and cracks visible on butt of grips. See R.L. Wilson, The Colt Engraving Book, volume I, chapter 10, page 416, where this revolver is pictured in color, with detailed description, identifying the work as by Cuno A. Helfricht himself. Wilson’s The Colt Engraving Book, volume I, page 416, notes: “Considered one of the finest prewar Single Action Army revolvers known.” 4-48349 (60,000-70,000)
RARE COL. COLT PRESENTATION ENGLISH ENGRAVED CASED COLT 2ND MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 207. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and New-York City address. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in an ellipse. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and has all six safety pins serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautiful burl, deluxe, 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Trigger guard is very small and square back and is a 2nd type revolver with screw over the wedge and a slotted cyl spindle with a thin lug. This beautiful revolver is wonderfully English engraved with very fine foliate arabesque patterns in full coverage on both sides of frame with foliate & floral patterns on recoil shields. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with matching patterns on rammer pivot and around muzzle. Bottom of rammer handle is engraved in leaf & vine patterns. Top of backstrap, backstrap ears and heel of backstrap, along with buttstrap & trigger bow are engraved to match the frame. The trigger guard is stamped with a small “2” below the SN. Accompanied by its orig English oak casing with brass medallion inlay engraved in period script “Presented / to / Park Pittar Esqr. / by / Col. Colt”. Inside is lined in burgundy velvet and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a Barlow bag shaped flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a pewter oil bottle, two combustible cartridges, a spare hammer spring and cast lead bullets & balls. It also has an orig functioning key. Items presented from “Col. Colt” are the most rare of the presentation Colts and are extremely rare on English items. Park or Parke Pittar was born in Dec. 1814 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and died in 1884 at age 69. He was a businessman, entrepreneur and investor in a variety of companies; one of which was the Charles, Nephew & Co. in Calcutta, India which he and his uncle Charles Pittar founded in 1848 assuming the business of an older uncle. They were jewelers, watch makers, gold and silversmiths and became extremely prominent for high quality goods. They opened an additional shop in Simla, India and were also agents for the famous London firm of Elkington & Co. According to research material provided by the consignor, it seems likely that Col. Colt probably became acquainted with Park Pittar during the 1851 Crystal Palace World Exhibit in London. It is known that Col. Colt either sold or provided Dragoon revolvers numbers 10222 and 10223 which were also in the exhibit, to Charles, Nephew & Co. which is inscribed on the rear of the trigger guard. It is speculated that Col. Colt, not wanting to have his approx. 500 firearms inspected and marked by the Tower of London, possibly defacing or damaging them, agreed not to sell any of his displayed firearms within England, but it is believed that he sold and presented a number of those arms to high ranking political persons, military officers and other important people who could aid in promoting his company outside of England. Charles, Nephew & Co. of Calcutta was just such an entity and it is known that they did distribute firearms. So, the logical conclusion is that once the exhibit was finished Col. Colt presented the 1851 Navy being sold here to Mr. Pittar, probably in about 1853. Included in the information provided is a list of seven 1851 London Navy revolvers that are engraved and/or presented, including this revolver with only two having the square-backed trigger guards and the other 5 having small rnd trigger guards. SN 209 is listed as being engraved and nearly identical to this revolver and it also has a small square-back trigger guard. This information is compiled by renowned English collector and dealer Pete Holder. There is also a 1993 dated letter from renowned collector/dealer Joseph G. Rosa wherein he discusses the nearly identical similarity between this revolver and SN 209. He states that the use of the square-back trigger guard intermittently in these early English Navys was simply cleaning up old parts. Additionally accompanied by a handwritten letter from renowned Colt researcher and author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he describes the gun and states that it was presented in 1853. There is a plethora of information regarding the family and history of Park Pittar and some of his business dealings. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with some light cleaning on both side flats; rammer & handle retain about all of their orig case colors, moderately faded; frame retains about 50-60% faded case colors and the hammer smoky case colors; cyl retains 60-70% strong English blue and about 95% Ormsby Naval Battle scene with one cleaned area and one thin spot; trigger guard & backstrap retain just about all of their orig silver plating, a little thin on the heel with brass showing through on trigger guard. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & dings, showing light edge wear and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case is extremely fine with only a few minor nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig varnish; interior is heavily faded to a light rose color with moderate soil; flask retains most of its orig. finish on the body and about 60% gold wash on collar & spout; mold is crisp with balance of accessories fine. A truly exceptional & rare set. 4-48355 (70,000-90,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 129317. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfrecht style but after-market and probably not period. Frame has nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and Mr. Helfrecht’s style of fan pattern on recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl and on each side of muzzle with geometric patterns around the address. Top of backstrap is engraved also in Mr. Helfrecht’s fan pattern with snake & dot and geometric patterns down the backstrap, geometric patterns on buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in alternating foliate arabesque & geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with smaller patterns back of the flutes and a feather border around the rear edge. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in the gullet and geometric patterns on the outer radius. This is a beautiful, well-executed engraved Colt but not by Mr. Helfrecht or from his shop. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains just about all of its custom nickel finish with minor pimpling in a couple of spots on the frame, front & backstraps; cyl also has fine pimpling with the front face being polished metal; screws retain faded blue and the hammer strong case colors. Grips are outstanding with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with dark fine pitting. 4-48801 JR354 (10,000-12,000)
BELGIAN COPY OF COLT PATERSON REVOLVER. SN 24. Cal. .32RF. Scarce Belgian copy of a belt model Paterson with 5-1/8″ oct bbl, pinched post front sight, folding trigger & smooth 2-pc homemade walnut grips. Frame & backstrap, along with bbl lug are lightly engraved. Cylinder is quite unusual in that it appears to be a fluted cylinder inserted into steel tube with stop notches on outer diameter. Accompanied by a black velvet-lined homemade walnut case. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains being an overall blue-gray patina with light pitting on bbl & bbl lug. Cylinder is matching patina. Mechanics are weak and may need adjustment. Grips are crude & poorly finished. Case is fine. 4-49642 JR9 (2,000-4,000)
*FINE VIRGIL GRAHAM ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 90152SA. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 7 1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line block letter address and model & caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt inlaid in flat gold. It is mounted with beautiful 1-pc pearl grip. Left sides of front and backstraps have the matching SN. Revolver is beautifully engraved with about 95% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and recoil shield. Bbl is engraved nearly the full length on both sides in a variety of mixed patterns. Outer radius of the ejector housing is engraved to match with scallop & arrow patterns in the top gullet. Cylinder is engraved to match with a feather border pattern around rear edge. Hammer is also engraved to match. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard also have full coverage engraving with the backstrap in a braided pattern with alternating foliate arabesque & stars. Buttstrap is engraved in a Nimschke crossed ribbon pattern with gold stars. Frame is outlined in rose gold with silver accents. Recoil shields are outlined in yellow gold as are the front sides of the frame. Bbl is inlaid with gold wire around the address & beautiful geometric patterns on top & around the front sight. Each side of the bbl, about center is engraved in a stylized cornucopia that has 7 gold stars on one side & 6 on the other. Cylinder is inlaid with 2 gold wire bands around the rear edge & around the flutes and front edges. Lands between the flutes are also engraved with the cornucopia style flag motif inlaid in gold with 6 stars each. A truly spectacular example of the engravers art. Robert Virgil Graham was a fine artistic engraver who passed away in 2003 leaving a legacy of numerous beautifully engraved firearms. CONDITION: Appears to be unfired since engraving. Grip is crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-48933 JR78 (5,000-8,000)
Provenance should state: Michael Leff Estate Collection. (correct in online description)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 6410. Cal .38RF. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of frame has tiny engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Mounted with orig Colt 1-pc ivory grip in its silver-plated brass grip frame. Cylinder is rebated and usual 5 shots with factory conversion, without loading gate in the recoil shield. Hammer nose has factory rimfire conversion secured with 2 rivets. Revolver is very nicely engraved in late vine style with about full coverage on frame which extends over bbl lug and top flats. Backstrap is engraved to match with fine fan pattern at top and sunbursts on each ear. Accompanied by an orig mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a 2-pc box of Winchester Stetson’s patent .38 short rimfire cartridges and a lacquered cap tin. Orig engraved examples of this model are very rare. PROVENANCE: Michael Leff Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching except grip which is not numbered and wedge which is numbered “2591”. Bbl retains about 60% thinning orig blue with scattered light surface rust and a few small nicks. Frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, strong in sheltered areas. Hammer retains brilliant case colors on sides. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 60-70% thinning silver-plate. Cylinder retains strong blue in the rebated area and shows about 80% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip is sound showing light wear and retains fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is sound showing light handling and storage marks. Interior is re-lined and lightly faded with light soil. Cartridge box is good and cartridges are heavily oxidized. 4-49639 JR4 (4,000-7,000)
RECENTLY DISCOVERED EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED NICKEL & GOLD COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 32922. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel & gold finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has small 2-line patent dates and caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Mounted with 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Revolver appears to have been manufactured in late 1876 and was engraved by Eugene Young in his minimalist style similar to engraving on two other important gold & nickel revolvers sold by Julia’s in the recent past. Bbl, frame, trigger guard & back strap are nickel finish while the cyl, hammer, trigger & front sight are gold washed. All screws are fire blued. SN is found on bottom of frame, trigger guard & buttstrap, which are all accompanied by a small “E” which indicates that this revolver was destined for factory engraving. Last four digits of matching SN are found on the cyl & bottom of bbl under ejector housing. Engraving consists of light coverage on frame, recoil shield, loading gate, bbl, ejector housing, cyl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Top of back strap, back of hammer slot is engraved in an oval pattern with cross hatching and a similar pattern on each side of the hammer nose with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of shank & hammer spur. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt, bbl length not listed, nickel with gold cyl, hammer, trigger & screws, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved & shipped to B. Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, OH, on Dec. 18, 1878 in a 20-gun shipment. It is apparent that the gold screws mentioned are either a data entry mistake in the records or a transcription mistake when the letter was printed. Screws are all fire blued but it has a gold sight which is probably what the orig entry was supposed to be. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated July 10, 2009 over the signature of George R. Dullnig, wherein he states that this revolver, identified by SN, “Has been in our family since a few years after the 1776-1876 Centennial celebration.” In the next paragraph he states “My grandfather, Richard E. Rolle, wanted one of the beautiful guns of Colt’s centennial wheel display. He purchased the gun from the Colt Manufacturing Co. for, I’m told, around thirty plus dollars which he considered a significant amount of money, although he owned a successful clothing company.” He goes on that his family moved from Philadelphia to Houston, TX and left this revolver to his father, George E. Dullnig, who then bequeathed it to George R. Dullnig. Mr. Dullnig’s statement above corresponds with the probably date of manufacture of this revolver which appears to have been late 1876, probably too late for the 1876 exposition but would correspond with an order generated from the 1876 expo. This revolver is nearly identically engraved to two other Single Actions previously sold by Julia’s, SNs 47135 & 48206, which were both manufactured in 1878 and absolutely engraved by the same hand. They also had fully engraved hammer shanks & spurs with slightly different motifs. Information provided by the consignor of #47135 states that the combination of nickel & gold was originated by collaboration between Colt and well known Colt dealer J.P. Lower of Denver, Colorado, who was in business in the 1870s and was a major Colt sales outlet. SN 48206 was also shipped to B. Kittredge & Co. The style of engraving found on this revolver is unlike any other known master engravers at Colt, although it has stylistic similarities to some of the engraving by Oscar & Eugene Young at Smith & Wesson. Very few Eugene Young engraved Colts are known and when encountered are probably not recognized for their simple beauty. Also accompanied by a 6-page letter from renowned Colt authority & author, Ron Graham, wherein he authenticates this revolver as being absolutely real & original and states that it was “factory assembled, engraved and finished expressly to be one of Colt’s exhibition firearms”. He also states that these revolvers “were displayed at centennial exhibits, world fairs, state fairs, distributor marketing promotions—for many years”. He states that after examining and studying many engraved Colts he speculates that this revolver was engraved in the Cuno Helfricht shop and the engraver may have been influenced by master engraver, Gustave Young, or his immediate family who were also master craftsmen. He additionally states that “During the entire first-run Single Action production, only three ‘A’ style, factory embellished, SA revolvers are known that have nearly full hammer coverage.” He further states “As of this writing there are only two known first-run SAs having factory gold plated front sights.” Additionally accompanied by a letter on Cullity & Son letterhead over the signature of Daniel Cullity. Mr. Cullity is a renowned restoration artist for all things firearm, a former master engraver at Colt and recognized authority on Colt firearms. He authenticates this revolver as being “genuine in every respect including the grips.” He states “It is unfired, and it had no indications that it had ever been disassembled.” He also states that it has never been refinished. He additionally states that “The elegant engraving is identical in style and execution with other Colt revolvers that are believed to have been engraved for the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibit of 1876.” He further states “This pistol may have been on the ‘wheel’ display.” We however have no proof of this gun being in the exhibition and so cannot affirm Mr. Cullity’s statement, however it is the most compelling documentation for a wheel gun we have seen. This is an extraordinary Colt Single Action in astounding orig condition with engraving patterns known on only a very few, very rare Colts from that era. PROVENANCE: Richard E. Rolle & descendants. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, new & unfired retaining virtually all of its crisp, bright orig factory nickel and brilliant fire blued screws & base pin; cyl retains bright gold wash in the flutes with the outer diameter showing about 75% orig gold, partially exposing the silver underplating. Gold wash on face of trigger is a little thin; hammer & front sight retain about all of their orig gold wash; top edge of front sight has a couple of tiny nicks with a small ding on the shank of the hammer. Grip has a tiny chip in right front toe, otherwise is sound showing very light edge wear and slight dulling from handling. Simply an extraordinarily beautiful revolver that is a pleasure to behold, suitable for the highest level of collector or museum. 4-49414 JR313 (175,000-300,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 91918. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dove tailed front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with checkered bottom edges that has last four digits of matching SN in back strap channel. Screw heads are domed English-style, probably from left over English parts returned to the U.S. when the London Armory closed. Revolver is deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with several scrolls on the frame terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with geometric patterns around the address. Matching patterns are also on the rammer pivot. Wedge screw is surrounded by an engraved rosette and one scroll terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized bird’s head while two others on the right side terminate in flower blossoms. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with the back strap inscribed in period script “H.B. Allen”. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scale patterns on sides of the spur & top edge with a V-shape pattern below the hand-cut checkered panel on the spur. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a brass reproduction, “COLTS PATENT” flask with angled spout, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36B”, an open packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. A search of the personnel directory of the Civil War disclosed a listing of 473 Union soldiers named “Henry Allen” of which eight were named “Henry B. Allen”. While it is likely that the inscription was to a Union soldier, no determination could be made as to the actual owner. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 30-40% thinning orig blue with the balance flaked to a medium patina; rammer pivot retains faded case colors; frame retains silvered case colors turned a little dark, as does the hammer which has light pitting around the nose; cyl is a cleaned gray metal patina with fine pitting around the rear edge and shows 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard & back strap retain orig silver in sheltered areas with the balance a medium mustard patina. Grip has chipped toes, otherwise is sound and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains 85-90% orig varnish; interior is heavily faded inside the lid with light soil; bottom is moderately to heavily faded with light soil and one partially loose partition; flask has several dents & dings and partially open seam; mold is fine, slightly battered on the bottom; other accessories are fine. 4-48330 JR52 (20,000-30,000)
RARE EXTREMELY EARLY ENGRAVED RIMFIRE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 1891. Cal .44 RF Henry. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. It is mounted with wonderful, old 1-pc ivory grip that has a raised, carved Mexican eagle on the right side. Revolver is engraved in New York style with about 50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that have fine pearled background. Top strap is engraved in light foliate patterns with diamond and dot patterns on each side of the bbl boss. Left side of the base pin boss and right side of the ejector boss along with the trigger bow are engraved in fine hunters stars. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of the bbls with geometric patterns on both sides of address and towards front sight, terminating in a fluer-de-lis. The first type ejector housing has been converted to 2nd type, has bull’s eye ejector rod head and is engraved in a snake pattern in the top gullet and leaf patterns on the outer radius. Top of the back strap is engraved in a starburst pattern and had a light zig-zag pattern down the backstrap and buttstrap with also a small fleur-de-lis at the heel pan & the buttstrap. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Bottom of bbl, under ejector housing has last three digits of matching serial number, also added text. This revolver is pictured on p. 277 of Colt Engraving, Wilson, accompanied by a wonderful studded period dbl loop holster. The caption states that it was shipped March 1880 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, bbl length & stocks not listed. Mr. Wilson states that it was engraved & finished on Hartley & Graham order and fitted with the Mexican eagle grips. He was unable to specifically identify the engraver. Caption credits the Tom Seymour Collection. According to various publications including The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson and Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran there were 1,863 Colt Single Action revolvers produced in 44 rimfire caliber in which case this revolver is 28 numbers higher than the last one listed, making it possibly the last 44 rimfire produced. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in 44 rimfire with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on March 20, 1880 in a 10-gun shipment. When the 44 rimfire was introduced in 1875 the cartridge was already obsolete and was not pursued by the buying public. Colt, being the enterprising company they were, made arraignments to ship the majority of the production run to Mexico and South America where the Henry and Winchester Model 1866 rifles and carbines were still in active use. The vast majority of those revolvers returned from Mexico and South America have usually been found to be in less than desirable condition with a majority of them having had their bbls cut. Very few are known to be engraved. PROVENANCE: The Tom Seymour Collection. CONDITION: Fair and all matching. Overall retains traces of orig nickel finish, approximately 20% being mostly a very worn dark, plummy brown patina with scattered rust spotting. Both sides of the muzzle edge shows long & hard wear. Most of the screws are fine and may be old replacements. Cylinder shows equal hard wear and matching patina. Grip has losses on the left front and right rear edges that correspond to heavy rust on the front and back straps. Grip shows heavy wear and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Dark bore with god rifling with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-49407 JR312 (27,500-37,500)
LOT OF 12 REPRODUCTION PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. 1) Walker, Cal. 44 SN 26740. Brass plaque on side “DISPLAY AWARD / P.P.B.G.C.A.”; 2) Rogers & Spencer by Euroarms Cal. 44 SN 003938; 3) Lyman Remington New Model Army Cal. 44 SN 137; 4) Lyman Remington New Model Navy Cal. 36 SN 30122; 5) Unmarked Italian Remington New Model Army with engraved brass frame, Cal. 44 SN 7156; 6) Unmarked Italian Baby Dragoon Cal. 31 SN 2968; 7) FIE Italian Colt Baby Dragoon with rammer, Cal. 31 SN 13248, engraved; 8) FIE Italian Colt Baby Dragoon with rammer, Cal. 31 SN 9244. 9) FIE Italian Confederate Brass Frame Copy 51 Navy, Cal. 36 SN 5553; 10) EIG Italian Confederate Copy Brass Frame Cal. 36 SN 27581; 11) EIG Italian Confederate Copy Brass Frame Cal. 36 SN 10420; 12) Non firing die cast engraved 51 Navy with checkered white grips; 13) Five pair miscellaneous hand gun grips including Colt Government Model, checkered Colt Bisley, 1-pc Colt walnut, 1-pc Colt extended grip and dbl-action faux ivory. CONDITION: 1) New unfired; 2) new unfired, ding in grip; 3) New unfired; 4) New unfired; 5) New unfired with rust spots; 6) New unfired; 7) New unfired; 8) New unfired; 9) Polished metal, unfired; 10) New, unfired; 11) Has been fired, brown cylinder, drag line, refinished grips; 12) New; 13) Generally good, 1-pc walnut grip has chipped toes and shows heavy wear. Dbl-action grips have chipped material around escutcheon. 4-49716 JR413 (2,000-3,000)
Correction: Condition should read 97% overall. Accompanied by Colt letter which indentifies this revolver in .45 cal with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to H & D Folsom Arms Co, New York, NY on June 18, 1906 in a shipment of 1.
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 278777. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and cal marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. It is mounted with 2-piece pearl grips that has a spectacular and very deep relief carved eagle head with gold and diamond eye. Revolver is engraved in about C coverage by Cuno Helfricht. Engraving consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the frame, a large flower blossom on the left recoil shield and a sunburst on the loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns and in top gullet of ejector housing. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of the bbl and it has a large hunter star back of front sight. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns with a sunburst at the top of the backstrap. Cyl is engraved in alternating foliate arabesque and geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake and dot pattern around the rear edge. SN was observed in the usual places, bottom of frame, trigger guard and buttstrap, with last 4-digits of matching SN on rear face of cyl. Screws are all fire blued and the hammer is nickel finished. Unusually, the grip locator pin is missing and the grips have been super-glued to the frame. This revolver was produced about 1906, during a time when the west was still wild and law enforcement officers were still carrying the Single Action Colt. It seems likely this revolver would have been ordered by or for a law enforcement officer or someone of reasonable wealth and position. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 95-96% strong, bright, orig nickel with some minor muzzle edge wear and light flaking,especially on the backstrap. Cyl shows light bubbling in the flutes and a small area on the outer diameter. Right grip has a repaired chip in the heel with another tiny chip in the right side, otherwise grips are sound showing light wear and retain great fire and color. Mechanics are crisp. Bright, shiny bore. 4-48204 JR371 (40,000-70,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 3RD VARIATION. SN 6225. Cal. .41 Short RF. Imported into England by Holland & Holland, Proof marks are on side of frame and bbl instead of the normal stamping on bottom of bbl. Blued bbl, silver plated frame and burl walnut grips. PROVENANCE: C.W. Selgle Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Orig finished with blued bbl and silver plated frame with case colored hammer and trigger and blued screws. Only brief traces of silver remaining in protected areas and no markings other than proofs both on bbl over ejector housing and on frame on right hand side just under housing. Probably this gun was one that Von Oppen had complained about for Colt selling to dealers that he normally sold to thus cutting into his business. Colt soon ceased and all Colts were then sold to other dealers through the 14 Pall Mall agency. The engraved backstrap markings of Holland & Holland are rare and to Mr. Eberhart’s knowledge only one other with these markings is known. Bbl retains no orig blue finish but is smooth, gun metal gray. The high hammer has 50% case color with fading as does the trigger. Deluxe walnut grips have normal nicks and dings from use and still retains 75% orig varnish. A truly rare dealership gun. 4-47477 DE97 (1,500-2,500)
RARE NEW SOUTH WALES NAVAL BRIGADE COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 168274. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard the caliber marking. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene. Bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. The silver plated large guard brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a replacement 1-pc walnut grip. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “NAVAL BRIGADE N.S.W. / NO 27”. According to ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze, at the time of writing this book in 1967 there was only one other Colt Navy so marked and that was SN 168323. There is another one known, SN 167425. The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, also shows that the New South Wales Naval Brigade purchased Colt ’51 Navies but has no additional information. Undoubtedly revolvers so marked should be considered very rare. The New South Wales Naval Brigade was formed in 1854 at the outbreak of the Crimean War for the defense of Sydney. Initially they had no ships and didn’t get one until 1855. In 1863 they had 120 men assigned and in 1864 the brigade consisted of five companies with an overall strength of 200 men. Their only ship was sold in 1859 and they had no ships until the late 1870s when the government built two torpedo boats and another was acquired in 1882. The Naval Brigade continued to add members reaching a total strength of 614 men when they were federalized for the Boxer Rebellion. 300 men of the Brigade were sent to China but arrived mostly after the action was over. PROVENANCE: Dr. John M. Pickup Collection. CONDITION: About good, all matching except grip which is unnumbered; bbl and rammer retain a dark plummy brown patina with lightly worn edges; frame retains dark case colors, faded to a brown patina on recoil shields and hammer; cyl is also a plummy brown patina and shows about 30% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene; trigger guard and backstrap are a medium mustard patina with traces of orig silver; engraved inscription on backstrap shows heavy wear; grip is nicked and dinged and retains most of its custom finish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. 4-46419 JR90 (7,000-14,000)
MATCHED PAIR OF COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 4TH VARIATION WITH ORIGINAL HOLSTERS. SN 22271 & 22432. Cal. .41 Short RF. Matched pair of 4th Variation Deringers with English proofs and the very rare dealership markings of “WILLIAMS & POWELL., LIVERPOOL,” who imported and sold them. They have “G” inspector initials under grips on each piece. The specially made holsters have sterling Irish Crowns on them with the shamrock high center on each. Englishmen make fun that Liverpool is the largest city in Ireland because it is so close and there are so many Irish there. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: SN 22271: Frame orig finished in nickel has retained 99% of the orig nickel on the frame This finish may be a very old re-nickel as the mated gun in this pair retains only 50% of its orig silver plate. Bbl, which was orig blued has proof marks on side of bbl rather than on bottom as well as on rear portion of frame underneath firewall. These guns were imported directly from Hartford to this dealership never having passed through the 14 Pall Mall agency. Bbl which retains no blue has a brownish patina overall and bears the very rare dealership markings as stated above on top left portion of bbl. Fire blued screws still retain nice portions of color. Hammer retains 50% of case color with some fading as does trigger. Fancy grade walnut grips have normal use, small scratches and dings but no gouges and retain 75%-85% of orig varnish. SN 22432: Frame finished for some reason with silver plate with blue bbl and screws. Blued bbl retains 70% of orig blue with some small pitting over the ejector housing portion of bbl. Bbl is also engraved as described above and has English proofs. Hammer retains 80% of orig case color as does trigger. Walnut grips have normal wear, very little scarring and retain 80% of orig varnish. This pair either by the individual purchaser or the dealer were fitted with two holsters, one for each gun, with spring loaded belt hooks to slide over belt so that the wearer does not have to take off belt to mount. They are done in black leather and retain most of their orig luster. Both equipped with an Irish crown at top of holster with center portions being a shamrock indicating that the original purchaser was Irish. 4-47479 DE99 (4,500-7,500)
VERY RARE COLT OPEN TOP SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER FROM THE U.S. CARTRIDGE COMPANY COLLECTION. SN 3570. Cal. 44 RF. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight, 1-line block letter address and fixed rear sight integral with the rear of the bbl. Right side of the bbl lug is mounted with an ejector housing that has a half moon ejector rod head engraved with a bull’s eye. Bottom of bbl is hand-stamped “#91.” Frame has 2-line patent dates and a loading gate in the right side with assembly number “421”. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has three digits of a SN “848” in the back strap channel and “91” stamped on left side of the grip. Top of back strap is hand stamped “U.S.C. Co.” which stands for the U.S. Cartridge Company Collection. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 7,000 of these scarce revolvers were produced in the period 1872-1873. These first big bore cartridge revolvers are the predecessor to the venerable Model 1873 Single Action Army. They were immediately accepted by the buying public and usually saw extensive hard service on the American frontier usually under extreme harsh conditions with little or no maintenance and are rarely found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: U.S. Cartridge Company Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grip, as noted. This grip has been in place since the late 1800s when it became part of the U.S. Cartridge Co. Collection. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with a series of very fine scratches and some minor flaking with light muzzle edge wear; ejector housing retains about 70% glossy orig blue with the outer radius a blue/brown patina; frame retains brilliant case colors, moderately faded on the loading gate; hammer retains bright case colors turned dark on top edge; cyl is a gray/brown patina and shows about 98% sharp Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard retains about 60% strong orig blue with the area inside the trigger bow a brown patina and flaking on the front strap; back strap retains bright blue at the top with the back strap & butt strap a blue/gray patina. Grip has tiny chipped toes and shows moderate edge wear with nicks & scratches and retains about 70-75% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. A truly rare, high condition open top. 4-48207 JR315 (25,000-40,000)
3RD MODEL 5TH VARIATION DERINGER. SN E48012. The “E” was Colt’s designation for the gun to be engraved; however, the gun retains the original hammer which is a high hammer which is normally seen on much earlier guns in the 1st and 2nd and 3rd variation styles. It has factory pearl grips which are perfect. The engraving which is class C style in all probability was done in New York City and has full silver plate over the entire frame. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection CONDITION: The blued bbl has full coverage also and retains 99% original style blue; however, that could have been retouched sometime earlier, but it is a very pleasing gun. The high hammer retains 85% of the original case color. 4-47427 DE46 (3,500-5,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED SAVAGE MODEL 1899 EXHIBITION RIFLE. SN 40243. Cal. 303. 26″ full rnd bbl, Beech’s front sight, Lyman 2-leaf rear sight and folding tang sight. Gun is fitted with factory installed brass chamber plug – for use in public displays. This is one of the left over frames from the 95’s that Marlin had manufactured for Savage. Featuring 7 different engraving vignettes that Marlin was known to use. The scroll work is also typical of one of Marlin’s engravers, probably Ulrich. Blue on gun is also very similar to what Marlin would have used. Savage’s factory records are blank on this SN, leaving one to presume assembled from parts and not for resale. Orig straight stock checkered deluxe wood stocks have most orig lacquer remaining and sharp checkering, what appears to be a Rampant Colt style hard rubber shotgun style buttplate, which cataloger is positive is correct and original to gun. Gun would prove to be the most elaborate Model 1895 based guns ever produced. This gun was supposedly part of the Alan Mabe collection in the 1950’s Mr. Mabe’s collection of Savage arms was the most extensive collection of its type in private hands done at that time. This very gun is listed in the magazine article discussing Savage Model 99 rifles. In this article it listed 21 special firearms from the Mabe collection. This firearm was one of the ones mentioned. PROVENANCE: Alan Mabe; Leroy Merz; Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Overall gun in excellent plus condition, 98-99% bright orig Marlin style blue, wood is excellent with the exception of minor stress fracture extending back 1″ from upper tang. Bore is plugged. 4-44767 LM41 (15,000-20,000)
*FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 307680. Cal. 38 WCF. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved, probably from the shop of Cuno Helfrecht, in about B-level consisting of about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with a fine flower blossom on left recoil shield and a sunburst on the loading gate with matching sunburst at top of back strap. Engraving extends over the top strap & bbl with geometric patterns on back strap & butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved in a hunter’s star. Cyl has a sunburst pattern on the lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to H & D Folsom Arms Co., New York, NY, April 14, 1909 in a 3-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of a fine factory style restored finish with some slight dulling on the bbl that may clean better. Right grip has a tiny chip out of the heel, otherwise grips are sound with great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, slightly frosty bore. 4-48157 JR281 (10,000-15,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER COPY. SN 1. Cal. .41 Short RF. This piece is a faithful copy except for the indentation at the top of the walnut grips like a 2nd Model Colt Deringer. It was finished in nickel overall. SN 1 appears on right grip frame under grips and Spanish proofs and import #349 are stamped on the bbl and frame side. Manufacture is uncertain, but probably Ebar Bros., Spain. There are two more examples of this very uncommon Deringer. Both are engraved and one has ivory grips . One has a 2 digit SN and the other 3 digits. PROVENANCE: Malcolm Aterburn Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Gun orig finished in overall nickel and an attempt to manufacture a fairly close copy of American Colt 3rd Model to be sold in Europe. Unlike the Colt this gun has an iron frame. The iron frame has probably 50% of orig nickel still remaining. All screw heads were nickeled with most still present. Large Colt which appears on top of bbl, similar to American Colt, is the same size but instead of being stamped it is engraved. Hammer spur is somewhat different as is the grip shape which is also somewhat smaller and with an indenture like 2nd Model Colts. Bbl does have some small pitting on ejector housing portion and some small amounts up over ejector housing portion but very minor. Also some minor pitting underneath ejector housing on frame, which is very fine. At one time, in the past, someone has attempted to drive a nail with the bottom portion of the grip frame and resulting in scarring that portion of the grip frame and the wooden grips. It is chambered for the orig .41 cal. Short RF cartridge, 4-47478 DE98 (1,000-2,000)
RARE AUSTRALIAN VICTORIA POLICE COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 166008. Cal. 36. Fourth Model Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1 line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of the bbl lug and cyl have British proofs and all of the SN on the bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “L” indicating that this revolver was designated for the British market. Bottom of bbl lug, forward of the SN, is hand engraved “G.20”. This is a designation of the Richmond District of Victoria State, which is at Melbourne, the location of the police depot and stables. Left side of frame has a lightly struck Colts patent with the cal marking on the left shoulder of trigger guard. The large guard iron trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Right side of grip stamped “300”. Cyl is usual 6 shots with Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking. Accompanied by an orig, heavy brown leather, flap holster with belt loop riveted to the back and a brass stud for the flap closure. It has a Cheyenne toe plug. Inside the flap is stamped with what is probably the SN of the orig revolver with which it was issued “168518”. This number corresponds to the known serial range of Victoria Police Navies and is consecutive to 168519 as listed on plate 127, pg 189 of ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze. According to the reference notation, the colony of Victoria, Australia contracted for 250 of these revolvers and 10,000 rounds of ammunition on June 9, 1864. The few revolvers of this contract known today are rarely found with high orig finish as they were issued to mounted police to patrol the gold fields in their district and, like the Western American frontier contemporaries, served under continuous and hard circumstances with limited maintenance. PROVENANCE: Dr. John Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 60-70% blue with the loss areas flaked to a medium patina. Rammer pivot retains strong case colors and the handle dark case colors. Frame is mostly a gray brown patina. Hammer retains dark case colors. Trigger screw is a replacement. Cyl is a gray brown patina with scattered fine pitting and retains about 50% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene. Trigger guard and backstrap are also a gray brown patina. Grip has a chipped right toe, otherwise is sound, with small chips on left edge and overall retains 60-70% orig varnish. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. Holster has a lightly crackled flap, otherwise is sound and intact, retaining most of its orig brown finish. 4-46400 JR93 (6,500-10,000)
EXTREMELY RARE GOLD FINISHED COLT 3RD MODEL 5TH VARIATION DERINGER. SN 14811. 41 cal. short rim fire. This special order piece was finished in the rarest of all finishes, overall gold gilt over silver plate. It appears to have been Class “C” engraved in the Nimschke style, maybe in their shop. PROVENANCE: Robert Lippincott, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The hammer & trigger still retain portions of the orig case color. The screw heads still retain some of their orig fire blue. The overall gun retains 85%+ of the orig gold wash with slight wear on the ejector housing from storage but no pitting. On the left side of the bbl, over the engraving, the gold wash is missing from storage & handling. The factory pearl grips are in orig condition and have bright luster. This is an extremely hard to find gun in this style of decoration. 4-47438 DE58 (3,000-5,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 55032. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with a partially visible etched panel on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 70-75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame which extend up both sides of the bbl. Top strap has a circle & dot pattern with snake & dot patterns down both sides of trigger plate. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s fan pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap and on trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains 65-70% nickel turning milky with the loss areas a dark patina. Right grip has a pinned repair, otherwise grips are sound with great fire. Mechanics are a little balky, with perhaps the trigger return spring broken, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore that should clean better. 4-47518 (6,000-8,000)
EXTREMELY NICE SPECIAL ORDER ENGRAVED BY THE FACTORY COLT 3RD MODEL DERINGER 3RD VARIATION. SN 7539. 41 cal. short rim fire. Third variation of the high hammer made towards the mid-range of the high hammer era, circa 1873 – 1874. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The brass frame retains 90%+ of the orig silver plate. The high hammer retains 90%+ of its case color, some fading, as does the hammer. The factory ivory grips which are checkered panel style have some age cracks but are perfect in every way other than some mellow toning from handling. The bbl which has in years gone by laid in storage on its left side, still has some salt & pepper pitting on the flat. The rest of the bbl is overall gun metal gray with the nice deluxe engraving still being very sharp in the basic Nimschke class C style engraving. Screw heads do show some abuse. Otherwise a very scarce and desirable 3rd Model high hammer. 4-47434 DE54 (2,500-3,500)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 231851. Cal. 357 Mag. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ custom bbl with thick Partridge type front sight and cal marking on left side. Barrel address has been engraved over. Top strap sight groove has been widened to accommodate the custom front sight. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. Frame has been altered by having the firing pin hole plugged with a frame mounted, spring loaded firing pin and the hammer face altered to accommodate this modification. Revolver is nicely custom engraved with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background and a raised gold longhorn steer head on each side of frame. Each side of bbl boss and ejector boss are engraved in flower blossoms with foliate arabesque patterns on top strap and top of bbl. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in feather patterns. Back strap has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is nicely engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a wide band of feather patterns around the rear edge. Cyl is custom made with rebated chambers. Right front web of trigger guard has what is probably the engraver’s initials “RD”. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish, probably unfired since engraving; hammer retains strong case colors; grips are sound with fine age lines and retain a mellow ivory patina; right grip has a plugged hole; mechanics are fine; brilliant shiny bore. 4-44720 (2,000-3,000)
SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY. SN 170804. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with what are the orig smooth 2-pc pearl grips with matching serial number penciled inside grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht in fine flowing foliate arabesque patterns with his sunburst patterns on the recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with snake & dot patterns in the bottom front gullets. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up the sides of the bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Ejector housing is engraved with geometric patterns on outer radius & with snake & dot pattern in the top gullet. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s minimal fan pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Cyl is engraved with alternating foliate arabesque & sunburst patterns on the lands between the flutes with an unusual scalloped line engraving around the stop notches and a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Roberts, Hardwick & Taylor Co., Sherman, TX on July 16, 1897 in a 1-gun shipment. Sherman, TX is just north of Dallas in the heart of ranching country but around the turn of the century, when this revolver was shipped, it was also outlaw country. Undoubtedly this revolver was ordered by a well-heeled rancher, an outlaw or by a lawman, possibly as a presentation. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about all of a fine, professionally restored nickel finish showing only light muzzle edge and ejector housing tip wear; front face of cyl shows light nickel losses from firing; right grip has a repaired break through the middle with a small chip missing and a chipped heel, otherwise grips are sound with some rust stains and retain good fire and iridescent colors. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered very light pitting. 4-47338 JR124 (8,000-12,000)
*LOT OF 3 COLT MODEL 1902 CUSTOM ENGRAVED SEMI-AUTO PISTOLS. SN 5462; 5295 & 5650. Cal. 38 ACP. Beautiful set of 1902 sporting pistols with 6″ bbls, fixed sights and colt hard rubber grips. Pistols are all nearly identically engraved by master engraver Robert B. Burt. Engraving consists of about 40% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with gold inlay in the main branches. Two of the pistols have round hammers and the third has a spur. Pistols are accompanied by a custom made walnut stand on a rotating base with a fitted plexiglass cover. Bottom front of the base has an engraved plaque engraved in script “Colt Model 1902 Sporting / Automatic Pistol / Serial No. 5650,5295,5462 / Type A,B,C Engraving / With Gold Inlay / Accomplished By / Colt Master Engraver Robert B. Burt”. Robert Burt is a well-known Colt Master Engraver who also worked at Smith & Wesson for a number of years and is well respected for his artistry and confirmation. CONDITION: Very fine as completely restored after engraving. Overall all three pistols retain about all of their strong, bright restored blue and brilliant case colors. Grips on two of the pistols show moderate wear and have turned chocolate. Grips on #5295 show light wear on the left side, heavier on the right side and has turned chocolate on the right side. Right side also has a hairline below the bottom escutcheon. All three pistols are missing their magazines. Stand and cover are fine. 4-47187 JR272 (4,500-6,500)
Please Note: Gun as described is nicely restored also barrel is refinished and markings are re-cut. Also the cylinder is a replacement, marks on left side of frame are re-engraved.
Please Note: Estimate should be $110,000-175,000
RARE COLT WALKER PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN B COMPANY 163. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 9″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line left hand New York City address. Left side of bbl lug is marked with SN and the right side “US / 1847”. Left side of frame & buttstrap are also marked with the full SN. Trigger guard & cyl are marked “B COMY NO 163”. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with oval stop notches and the Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking. Cyl also has the legible “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLT’S PATENT” panels surrounding the SN. Rear face of cyl retains its one orig serviceable safety pin. Left side of front strap, under the grip, is marked “163”, which number is also found on bottom of cyl arbor and inside the toe of the grip. Wedge is a period of use replacement bearing the number “29”. It appears that the rammer handle & latch spring are replacements, along with a couple of miscellaneous screws, however most screws are original. This revolver was part of the famous William M. Locke Collection and is pictured as the bottom revolver on p. 43 of the book, The William M. Locke Collection, Sellers. It was also offered for sale by Great Guns Inc. of Durham, NC in an ad in the July 1980 edition of The Gun Report, a copy of which page accompanies this revolver. As is well known, only 1,000 martially marked Colt Walker revolvers were produced in 1847 to arm American troops fighting in Mexico. These revolvers were designed by Samuel Colt at the persistent instigation of Texas Ranger, Capt. Samuel H. Walker, for whom the model was named. For his help Colt presented Capt. Walker with a pair of civilian Walkers which were with Capt. Walker when he was killed at Humantla, Mexico on Oct. 9, 1847. It is well recorded that only 500 of the orig 1,000 Walkers were ever issued to troops in Mexico. Apparently the other 500 arrived after the cessation of hostilities and were never issued in Mexico. All of the issued Walkers were to have been returned by the troops upon embarkation from Mexico, although it is speculated that a few were retained by some of the troops and others lost in battle. So it is unclear just exactly how many did return to the U.S. where they were stored at San Antonio Arsenal, Texas. Some of those revolvers in Texas were issued to Texas Rangers and frontier troops where they saw extensive and hard service. Most of these Walkers remained at San Antonio until the outset of the Civil War when they were confiscated by the Confederacy and it is believed they were issued to Texas Cavalry troops, again seeing hard service under adverse conditions with very little maintenance. It is extremely rare to find a completely orig Walker with any orig finish or cyl scene roll marking. PROVENANCE: William M. Locke Collection CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge as noted. No orig finish remains, being an overall smooth gray brown patina with very fine pinprick pitting; rammer handle & latch spring, replaced as noted; cyl is a matching patina with a few scattered spots of pitting and shows 50-60% Dragoon/Indian fight scene with the Ormsby signature still visible and the two panels surrounding the SN completely legible; the finish on the cyl may be slightly enhanced; trigger guard is a medium mustard patina and the backstrap an artificially aged blue/brown patina; frame is a matching patina with fine pitting and lightly enhanced finish. Grip is sound showing heavy wear with a dark hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with light frosting. 4-47559 JR180 (110,000-175,000)
BOXED PAIR OF MOORE’S PATENT. F.A. CO. BROOKLYN N.Y. FIFTH VARIATION DERINGERS. SN 4253 & 4343. Cal. 41 Short RF. Cased pair of deluxe engraved 5th Variation. In the SN ranges from 3750 to 4339 there were approximately 20 to 24 pairs of these guns made with the patriotic motif of a spread eagle holding a shield on backstrap of each gun and frames were all finished with deluxe engraving and gold wash and all bbls were silver plate with extra engraving. It is theorized by several advanced Moore collectors as well as Mr. Eberhart that these guns were made by Moore for presentation to high ranking military officers as this SN range of guns were produced in 1864 during the Civil War. Moore was probably trying to emulate Samuel Colt by presenting these guns in order to gain contracts for his other line of guns. Only 2 of these rarely seen 2nd Type cardboard boxes are known to exist today. PROVENANCE: C.W. Slagle, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: SN 4253 also has flower pattern with leaves engraved over breech it retains approximately 15% of original gold plate, which consists mainly in the engraving. Bbl has standard arrows down each side, it was originally silver plated and retains only traces of plating. Otherwise, all original. SN 4343 has same engraving overall and retains only traces of original gold plating on frame but 90% of silver on bbl Cardboard box has some repair but is all there with all labels intact and shows some scuffing. 4-47393 DE15 (15,000-20,000)
Correction: Condition should read 98% overall nickel.
RARE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 136939. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and caliber marking on the left side. Frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and bottom of the bbl has a tiny “45” under the base pin. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved from the shop of Cuno Helfricht in about C-coverage well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with pearled or punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with a hunter’s star on the ejector housing boss and a foliate pattern on the base pin boss on the left side. Engraving extends nearly full length both sides of the bbl and the top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in a zig zag snake pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with a fine fan pattern and the back strap & trigger are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Screws are fire-blued with a color case hardened hammer. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 wiwth 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish and type of stocks not listed, shipped to Hartley & Graham NY, NY on Dec 12 1890 in a 2 gun shipment. Also accompanied by a letter from renowned restoration artist, engraving authority and former Colt master engraver, Daniel Cullity, wherein he states that this revolver is engraved in the “New York School” during the period of manufacture of this revolver. He cites several distinctive features which support his thoughts that it was engraved outside the factory. This revolver was produced in 1890 at a time when the west was still wild and it is likely that it was ordered for or by a person in law enforcement or a rancher of some means. It appears to have had a little use and some carrying but no extensive use or abuse. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 96-98% strong orig nickel with light holster wear on left edge of the muzzle, ejector rod tip, left recoil shield and loading gate; cyl also shows light front edge wear; hammer retains faded case colors. Grips are sound showing little or no wear and retain wonderful fire & iridescent colors. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few tiny scattered spots of pitting. 4-48201 JR319 (60,000-80,000)
3RD MODEL 3RD VARIATION COLT DERINGER & ITS EXTREMELY RARE MOROCCAN LEATHER PIPE CASING. SN 4616. 41 cal. short rim fire. This 3rd variation gun is engraved with many of the patterns of the L.D. Nimschke shop. It has factory pearl grips & was finished with a blued bbl & gold wash over silvered frame, a rarely seen special order feature. It is also in its orig brown Moroccan leather covered pipe casing, which is extremely rare. The casing was made for this tight curved grip & high hammer style gun. The interior is purple velour on one side & purple satin on the other, which was common in that period circa 1875. PROVENANCE: Peter Holder Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The brass gun frame still retains about 30% of the orig gold plating over the silver plate. The rest of the brass frame still retains most of the silver plate, up to about 80% coverage. The gun is profusely engraved in the Class “C” style, all over, with many of the Nimschke style patterns being present. The large “COLT” ltrs on top of the bbl are very nicely encompassed by an oval chasing & dotted pattern of the Nimschke style. The high hammer & the trigger both still retain some case color. The bbl itself has only traces of orig blue & a nice even coloration overall which is very pleasing. The gun has seen use but no abuse. The factory pearl grips are nearly perfect, still retaining most of their luster. They have turned, at the very bottom, a brown coloration as pearl will do from aging but does not detract from the overall very nice appearance of the gun. It is accompanied & cased in its orig Moroccan leather covered pipe casing which is considered by most Colt collectors as the rarest of all styles of Colt cases. It is estimated that less than 6 of these very rare cases are known today. This casing is made to fit only the high hammer type gripped style gun which is housed in it now. 4-47443 DE63 (4,000-5,500)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE HERMAN LESLIE ULRICH SIGNED DELUXE ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE. SN 38542. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Spectacular and unusual ’66 rifle with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full mag, half nickel front sight and 900 yd Henry style ladder rear sight. SN was observed on the bottom tang with last 4 digits of the matching number in the top tang channel of buttstock and inside toe of buttplate. Left side of upper tang is engraved with the initials “H.L.U.” (Herman Leslie Ulrich, 1846-1937). Left side of lower tang, under the wood, is stamped with an “S” and “XX”. Rifle is mounted with very nicely figured, center crotch, flame grain, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and crescent brass buttplate with trap containing an orig 4-pc brass and iron cleaning rod. Bottom of stock and forend cap have factory sling swivels. Rifle is beautifully engraved with Near Eastern style motifs consisting of a panel depicting a prone hunter shooting at a crouching tiger on the left side and a Sambar stag leaping over a log in an extremely fine detailed woodland scene on right side. Both panels are surrounded by extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns that have an extremely fine pearled or punch dot background. Front side panels are engraved in India or Moorish style motifs, also with the same fine background. Both sides are surrounded by a double chipped border. Engraving extends over the top of the receiver, top tang and bottom of the receiver with a small panel around the lower tang screw hole and around the SN. Both sides of the forend cap, along with the buttplate tang, are engraved to match. At one time this unusual rifle was silver plated. Herman Leslie Ulrich was a member of the famous family of engravers, the son of Conrad Ulrich. Herman, along with his more famous brothers, Conrad F. and John, were all engravers employed by Colt who later all worked for Marlin and Winchester as well as having their own enterprise. Some of the most famous and beautiful American engraving was accomplished by these brothers. According to Winchester Engraving, Wilson, Herman Leslie Ulrich is the only one of the three brothers who returned to engraving for Colt after having joined Winchester and in later years returned to Colt. According to the referenced publication, as of that writing, none of Herman’s works had been positively identified because “no signed examples are known”. Careful examination of the engraved initials on the upper tang of this rifle disclosed that they are authentic of the period and there is little or no doubt that these are the engraved initials of Herman Leslie Ulrich. This is believed to be the only known signed example of his work. CONDITION: Fine plus, all matching. Bbl and mag tube show light wear with only a couple of nicks on sharp edges and overall retain a smooth, dark plummy brown attic patina with clear, legible bbl address. Receiver retains 10-15% orig silver plating with the exposed brass a dark mellow mustard patina. Buttplate and forend cap are matching patina. Stock has a small band of damage near toe, otherwise wood is sound with nicks, scratches and dings and overall retains 80-90% strong orig piano varnish finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered moderate to heavy pitting. 4-47345 JR129 (50,000-90,000)
FINE COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92096. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with clear, fully legible etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “44” just forward of base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web is marked “44 CF”. It is mounted with a 1-pc walnut grip that has 2 matching numbers “96” legible in the backstrap channel. Revolver has 3rd type ejector housing with half-moon ejector rod head. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “J. FITCH.”. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40 with bbl length and type of stocks not listed, nickel finish and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY, on June 14,1883 in a shipment of 200 same type firearms. Given that this revolver was shipped in 1883, which was the height of a great Manifest Destiny westward expansion in America, it is very likely that this revolver would have been used probably by a lawman or an outlaw as it is unlikely that an ordinary cowboy would have gone to the extra expense of the nickel finish. Regardless, it is rare to find a single action Colt from this era with high orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 75-80% strong orig nickel with a clear, legible etched panel; ejector housing retains about 60% orig nickel; frame retains about 60% orig nickel, lightly cleaned on top strap and right front side; trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig nickel with nicks and dings on buttstrap and corresponding spots on the bottom edges of grip; cyl retains about 40% orig nickel with the balance flaked to metal patina; trigger guard retains about all of its strong orig nickel and backstrap/buttstrap about 80% orig nickel; grip is sound with the aforementioned nicks and dings on bottom edges and overall retains a hand worn patina; mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with scattered light pitting; hammer spring is a replacement. 4-47550 JR160 (10,000-12,500)
*VERY RARE COLT MODEL 1911 COMMERCIAL/MILITARY GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN C202741. Cal. 45 ACP. Nickel finish with 5″ bbl, orig fixed sights and last patent date “1913”. Pistol is factory engraved, probably by Cuno Helfrecht, in about D-coverage foliate arabesque patterns with pearled or punch-dot background. Mounted with orig, smooth, 2-pc ivory grips and has a platinum & gold set of intertwined initials “RB” or “BR” in the right side. Slide has standard markings and the frame has “GOVERNMENT MODEL” over the SN which is preceded by a small “C”. Accompanied by an orig lanyard loop magazine that it also nickel plated. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this pistol in caliber 45 with 5″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Dykes H and F Co., address unavailable, on March 6, 1919 to Order #1018 in a 1-gun shipment. Remarks state “Subject pistol was originally produced as a military model and is one of a number of pistols which were stamped with duplicate serial numbers. It was converted to a Government Model by adding a ‘C’ prefix and offered for sale commercially.” Also accompanied by a copy of a page from a book which lists this pistol, by SN, with much of the above information. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains 95-96% strong post-factory nickel finish with slight muzzle end wear on the slide and some very minor freckling on the bottom front of the slide and bottom front of the frame. Top of the slide also shows some minor pinprick pitting and engraving shows some softening of the sharp edges. Grips are sound with some minor age lines and retain a dark honey ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with some minor roughness 4-48165 JR287 (25,000-35,000)
FINE FIRST MODEL COLT DRAGOON REVOLVER. SN 6093. Cal. 44. This is a fine example of a scarce civilian first model Colt Dragoon revolver retaining much of its orig finish. This gun conforms to other first model Dragoons having 7-1/2″ round bbl with half oct bbl housing. Bbl is correctly marked with New York City address and SN 6093 is found on most major parts including bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, arbor and cylinder. The cylinder seen on this gun is crisp, showing all of the Ormsby rolled Dragoon/Indian fight scene. Cylinder is also engraved with the more desirable “U.S. Dragoons/Colts Patent” marking. This is a beautiful first model Dragoon that functions perfectly and appears unfired with a like new shiny bore. This gun is accompanied by an unusual custom made brown leather holster which fits gun poorly and was probably made for a longer single shot pistol as there is about a 1 or 2 inch gap between plug and muzzle. There are remnants of an old tag with indiscernible partial text, along with a more modern tag which says “Modele 1848 Colt”. CONDITION: Bbl and cylinder retain over 50% of their blue finish with much of the balance plum with scattered areas of rust and light pitting. Cylinder retains the entire Dragoon/Indian fight scene though there are scattered areas of staining and pitting. There are a few light dents in frame near wedge slot. Frame which is marked on the left side “COLTS/PATENT/US” retains much of its muted case colors with balance silver/gray. Backstrap and trigger guard have a yellow brass patina with small inspector letter “KT” stamped. Wedge appears orig though there is no SN. Frame screws retain much of their bright blue finish as can be seen in photos. Stocks retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanically gun functions well and has a bright crisp bore. Cylinder chambers still retain traces of bluing and cones appear sharp though 5 of 6 safety pins have been smashed flat. Trigger screw is broken and missing half, as can be seen, in hole on right side of frame. 4-48120 JS12 (35,000-45,000)
CASED MATCHED PAIR OF COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION. SN 6628 & 6604. Cal. .41 Short RF. This English proofed set is cased in their orig 14 Pall Mall oak box with the label. These guns have seen little or no use and retain all the silver and blue finish as well as all of the varnish on the select grade walnut grips. Casing also has the combination screwdriver and cleaning rod. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: SN 6604: Gun is Class C engraved all over with many of the L.D. Nimschke style motifs. Stamped “41 Cal” on left side of frame. Gun is in as issued condition retaining 99% bright blue and nearly 100% bright nickel. Nearly 100% case color remains on hammer and 90% blue on trigger. All screws were fire blued color and 4 out of 5 have nearly 100% remaining. Walnut grips, which are deluxe grain have no bruising and retain nearly 100% of orig varnish. SN 6628:In exact same condition as its mate with the exception of two small patches of discoloring on left side of bbl, just forward of the proof mark. This is one of the most extraordinary cased pairs known and in near perfect condition for the most discriminating collector. They are housed in their orig 14 Pall Mall oak casing with the interior label in the blue velour lining. Label has some small staining but in same condition as guns. Two compartments with ivory pulls where orig key is housed and the orig cleaning rod combination turn screw screw. Exterior of case is just like the guns and lock works. 4-47459 DE79 (45,000-65,000)
RARE EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 87320. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and the left front web of the trigger guard is marked with the caliber. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame, a large flower blossom on left recoil shield and a smaller version on the loading gate. Sides of the ejector housing boss and base pin boss are engraved in hunter’s stars with snake & dot patterns in the front gullets. Top strap is engraved in a leaf & vine pattern. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend about half way up the sides of the bbl with the forward half engraved in snake & dot patterns and geometric patterns around the address. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in snake & dot pattern. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in zig zag geometric patterns with a fan pattern at the top of the back strap. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and zig zag patterns in the flutes with a snake & chip border pattern around the rear edge. Base pin is first type with dimpled ends and screws are fire-blued. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45, bbl length not listed, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Wexell & DeGress, Mexico City, Mexico on Feb. 7, 1883 in a 6-gun shipment. Undoubtedly this revolver would have been intended for presentation to a high ranking official in Mexico or was purchased by a wealthy ranch owner down there. It is very rare to find any firearm returning from Mexico with high orig finish such as this one. PROVENANCE: John Stewart Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl & ejector housing retain 90-92% strong orig nickel with a dark area on right side of front sight at the muzzle and some wear on the outer radius of the ejector housing; frame retains virtually all of its strong orig nickel with the loading gate showing a gray metal patina; hammer retains virtually all of its orig nickel; cyl also retains about all of its orig nickel turned a little milky; trigger guard retains about all of its orig nickel with some dulling on the front of the trigger plate & trigger bow; back strap is mostly a light gray metal patina with bright nickel at the top. Right grip has a repaired heel, otherwise grips are sound and retain great fire & iridescent color. Mechanics are crisp, sharp bore with good shine and scattered pitting that may clean much better. 4-48149 JR306 (50,000-75,000)
CASED COLT 3RD MODEL 4TH VARIATION DERINGER. SN 26454. 41 cal. short rim fire. This 4th variation Colt 3rd Model has the sloping hammer spur & tight grip curve. The piece is deluxe Class “C” engraved with factory ivory grips. It was finished with a full gold plated frame & nickel bbl & blue screws. The case which in all probability is early 20th century is made of a rare exotic South American wood which is stunning in color & grain in its own right. It houses the gun & 19 orig 41 cal. short cartridges by various manufacturers. The interior is lined in blue blaze & has an ivory-turned pull on a compartment probably made for cleaning materials. English-style open casing that houses the gun. The gun itself, which was probably made around 1900, is period engraving by a master jeweler & then cased in this casing. PROVENANCE: Kurt House Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The gun was orig gold washed completely over the brass frame & generous amounts, up to about 30%, remain in the engraving & protected areas. The fire blue screws retain most of their color. The trigger retains most of its orig blue. The hammer retains 75% of its orig color. The bbl retains nearly 100% of its orig nickel with the engraving having been performed through the nickel but not into the metal. The ivory grips which show some shrinkage with nice mellow yellow aging have only one age crack on the right grip at the escutcheon & is a very pleasing example of this 4th variation model. 4-47448 DE68 (3,500-5,000)
EXTREMELY RARE HERMAN L. ULRICH ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE. SN 38549. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Wonderfully rare ’66 rifle with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full magazine with special German silver Rocky Mountain front sight and 900 yard Henry ladder rear sight missing its slide. Mounted with uncheckered, straight grain American walnut with straight stock & crescent buttplate with trap containing an orig 4-pc brass & iron cleaning rod and has the matching SN inside the toe. Receiver and presumably the other brass parts were all originally silver-finished. Left side of lower tang is marked “S” and “XX”. Left side of upper tang, under the wood, is hand engraved “H.L.U” (Herman Leslie Ulrich, 1846-1937). Receiver is beautifully engraved in broad, sweeping, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with very fine pearled or punch dot background. Center of each sideplate has a large open panel with scrolled edges on left side and a chimera head incorporated into the scrolls on left side. Front side flats have matching fleur-de-lis and geometric patterns with all the engraving surrounded by a fine dbl chip border. Additional patterns extend over the top & bottom of the receiver, top tang, forend cap & buttplate tang. Lever is of the early style with small finger loop. Stock & forend cap have factory sling swivels. This rifle is pictured, both sides, on Pg. 65 of the 1985 edition of The Winchester Book, Madis with credit to Purple Sage Guns. Until very recently there were no known signed examples of Herman Leslie Ulrich engraving. Mr. Ulrich was one of the very famous Ulrich brothers, the son of Conrad & Anna Ulrich, who were all variously employed by Colt, Winchester & Marlin as engravers. According to The Book of Winchester Engraving and Winchester Engraving, both by Wilson, “Herman’s firearms work has yet to be identified positively, because no signed examples are known”. Mr. Wilson also states that Herman is the only one of the three brothers to return to Colt after joining Winchester and later again left Colt for Winchester. Herman’s work, as seen here, has similarities to both John & Conrad’s work but is slightly more bold with a finer background. Accompanied by a 3-page letter from renowned Winchester historian & author, George Madis, who details some of the above information and notes that the buttstock & forearm are replacements. Mr. Madis notes that this is only the third Herman Ulrich signed gun that he had seen.The Winchester Book, Madis PROVENANCE: Barnes Family Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good. Bbl & magazine tube retain thin orig blue in the most sheltered areas being mostly a mottled plummy brown patina with a few nicks, dings & scratches and some scattered fine pinprick pitting; receiver, forend cap & buttplate show moderate wear with a few nicks & scratches and retain traces of orig silver in the most sheltered areas. Lever & hammer are a light plummy brown patina. The replacement buttstock & forearm are sound with light nicks & scratches and retain most of their custom finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good rifling with fine pitting and a few spots of deeper pitting. Cleaning rod is fine. 4-47655 JR211 (30,000-50,000)
*VERY RARE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN A RARE CALIBER. SN 188511. Cal. 32 S&W. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips which are inscribed on inside “George Hartsell Feb 1, 1933” in left side and the initials “GSH” and “George Hartsell 8/19/27″ in right side. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were only 32 of these rare revolvers produced in this caliber of the approx. 357,859 single actions made from 1873 thru WWII, making this one of the most rare of all the single actions. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 32 with 7-1/2” bbl, finish “soft”, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, on Aug. 17, 1899 in a shipment of six same type revolvers. Under Note: “the word soft which appears with the finish, indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened when this arm was shipped. These parts were left in a soft condition for engraving outside of our factory.” This revolver is, obviously, not engraved but appears to have been nickel finished, probably by Hartley & Graham. It retains traces of nickel finish on sides of trigger guard & back strap under grip. This is truly an extraordinarily rare single action and the first one in this caliber ever examined by this cataloger. CONDITION: Good to very good. Traces of nickel finish remain on sides of grip frame, otherwise the entire revolver is a cleaned metal finish showing moderate to heavy wear. Given that the frame was never hardened it is surprising that it retains as much orig shape as it does. Grips are sound showing heavy wear. Hammer is without safety or half cock notches and timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting near muzzle and some roughness & light pitting at forcing cone end. 8-87700 JR310 (12,500-17,500)
*RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT JUNIOR SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 14007CC. Cal 22 short. Blue finish with fixed sights and silver medallion, checkered walnut grips. Accompanied by one orig nickel finish magazine. Pistol has a rnd hammer spur and is engraved with about C-coverage by Colt engraver Earl Bieu. Accompanied by a red velvet lined Colt Custom Shop walnut casing with a bronze Colt medallion in the lid. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this pistol in cal 22 short with blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved, 3/4 coverage and sold to Al DeJohn at the Colt Factory in Hartford on Feb 24, 1960 in a 1 gun shipment. Remark section states “Records also indicate that this pistol is the first Colt handgun engraved by Colt engraver Earl Bieu during his apprenticeship”. Al DeJohn was a Colt employee for over 40 years, beginning as an assembler. During his tenure as a lead assembler, Mr. DeJohn was one of the people primarily responsible for the development of the Python revolver in about 1954. In 1965 he became the supervisor of the custom shop, retiring in 1989. Also accompanied by a 3 page article by Horace Greeley IV about Mr. DeJohn which appeared in the Sept. 1989 American Rifleman. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Juniors owners manual and a small information sheet about the Colt Junior. PROVENANCE: Al DeJohn; Albert Brichaux; W.F. McLaughlin. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, appears to be new and unfired. Case is equally new with a few light scratches on the lid. 4-47102 JR381 (2,000-3,000)
VERY RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 48055. Cal 36. Spectacular Gustave Young engraved Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and one line New York City address. Left side of the frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Revolver has received Mr. Young’s special deluxe engraving consisting of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the barrel lug and top side flats with a scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s distinctive dogs-head pattern and another on the right side terminating in a flower blossom. Barrel address is bordered by a chip & dot pattern. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s distinctive sunburst at the top of the backstrap. It is mounted with a wonderful varnished burl walnut 1-piece grip with a spectacular relief carved American eagle on the left side. The eagle is clutching an olive branch & arrows in its talons, over an American shield. The entire vignette is surmounted by relief carved foliate patterns. Backstrap channel of the grip is covered by a very old piece of paper inscribed in India ink “J.Grosch”. There appears to have been possibly a date which has been obliterated. Any number that may have been in the backstrap channel has been covered by the paper. Cylinder is usual six shots with Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins are crisp and serviceable. All the screw heads & tips are engraved. Accompanied by a scarce, orig, purple velvet lined mahogany casing with shield shaped escutcheon in the front and English style swinging brass latches that were probably added during the period of use. Interior is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a scarce dbl sided Eagle and Stars, angle spout, army sized flask, a 2-cavity bullet & ball Colt’s Patten mold with sprue cutter that is marked on the right side “36B”, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and cast lead bullets & balls. Also accompanying in the case is a small card weight ticket stub upon which is printed “SUNDAY SCHOOL EXHIBITION / OF THE / CLINTON AVE. M.E. CHURCH / WEDNESDAY EVE’NG, MARCH 4, 1868 / TICKETS 25 CENTS”. Another small card weight paper is hand written in India ink “1st Prize / Navy Revolver / given by D W Colton”. A quick Internet search disclosed no information D. W. Colton, however the Clinton Ave M.E. Church has been in existence on Long Island, NY since the 1700s. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge and cylinder; grip is most certainly original however the number is obscured as noted; bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue with only faint sharp edge wear and some fine flaking; rammer and handle retain faded case colors; frame retains faded case colors on the right side having turned silver elsewhere; hammer retains smoky case colors; cyl retains about 80% orig blue and shows about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating with some minor thinning & edge wear on the backstrap; grip is sound with only a couple of minor nicks and retains virtually all of its strong original varnish; mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be new and unfired. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded inside the lid with some light staining from contact with the revolver. Bottom is lightly faded with light to moderate soil and has solid partitions. Flask is sound with a few small dents and retains about 75% orig finish; mold is crisp and new, retaining virtually all of its orig blue; nipple wrench & cap tin are fine; flask is probably not orig to this set. Cards are oil stained, yellowed, and brittle with one broken corner and a small tear. 4-48118 JR277 (40,000-60,000)
CASED MATCHED PAIR COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 3RD VARIATION. SN 10101 & 11367. Cal. .41 Short RF. This matched pair was sold in England by Boss & Co,. 73 St. James St,. London. They are cased in their orig leather over wood casing with the orig oil can and turn screw. Both Deringers are Class C+ engraved and British proofed and fitted with fancy walnut grips. Cased pairs by this dealer are almost never seen. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: SN 11367: Finished with blued bbls and silver frames, blue screws and case colored triggers and high hammers. Retains, in area where proof marks are on bottom of bbl very strong blue, fading overall to the top of bbl but has faded to a very nice, deep gun metal gray which does not detract from the gun. Silver plating on frame has 99% coverage. Case color on hammer and trigger are about 95%+ and all screws retain portions of the orig fire blue. The deluxe, striped walnut grips have only small storage marks and retain nearly 100% of orig varnish. SN 10101: Finished in same manner as its mate has 90%+ of orig blue, fading in some areas. Silver plate on frame is about 99% and blue screws still retain most of the fire blue and hammer and trigger are both 90%+ case color remaining. Grips are deluxe walnut with only light storage marks and retain nearly 100% of orig varnish. The very rare leather covered wood case that the guns were fitted to by Boss & Co. bears their label on the interior of the top lid affixed to the red blase which covers the entire interior. Guns are fitted in a most unusual way as evidenced by the pictures. There are ribbons under each gun to extract them from the casing. Interior of case contains: orig turn screw; 9 orig 41 short RF cartridges; orig “L” shaped cleaning rod and turn screw combination and pewter oil can. This is a unique, magnificent and very rare casing with super guns. Exterior of case has initials “J.B.G” in gold leaf on top lid. Some scuffing and dings over the years, but leather is sound. Leather hinge that holds lid on does have some cracking and damage but is still complete. At one time there was a strap present holding top tight but it is not present. The two keepers, one on front and one on back are present and complete with orig screws. 4-47462 DE82 (25,000-35,000)
Correction: Condition should read bbl 80% cyl 80%.
RARE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92503. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and one line block letter address. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. It is mounted with extraordinary 2-pc ivory grips that have a relief carved ox head that have ruby eyes & nostrils on the right side. SN was observed in the usual places, on frame, trigger guard and buttstrap. Bottom of bbl, under the ejector housing and rear face of cylinder are marked with last two digits of matching SN. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Revolver is engraved in about “D” coverage by master engraver L. D. Nimschke with nearly full coverage of fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and left recoil shield with a sunburst pattern on the loading gate. Bottom front gullets are engraved in geometric patterns with hunters stars on each side. Top strap is also elaborately engraved and matching engraving extends up both sides of the bbl with chip and dot borders around the address, terminating in geometric patterns. Top of the backstrap has an elaborate sunburst pattern with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger bow. Ejector housing has elaborate geometric & dot patterns in the top gullet with leaf & vine patterns on the outer radius. Cylinder is elaborately engraved with alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes with double border patterns around the rear edge, accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 45 with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, ivory stocks, factory engraved and shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. St. Louis, MO. Nov 30, 1887 in a 6 gun shipment. The Meacham company was a known supplier to westward bound travelers as well as small shops through out the west. It is very likely that this revolver was purchased by or for a wealthy rancher or someone in law enforcement. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 75-80% strong orig nickel with wear around the muzzle and left side. Ejector housing retains about 60% orig nickel. Frame retains about 75% strong, bright nickel and the grip frame about all of its strong orig nickel. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue showing some slight thinning. Cylinder retains 85-90% strong orig nickel with some minor flaking in the flutes. Grips have a few light age lines and a small chip, otherwise are sound, showing light to moderate wear and retain a wonderful, mellow golden ivory patina. Hammer will not catch in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-48202 JR369 (55,000-75,000)
SCARCE COLT 3RD MODEL 4TH VARIATION FACTORY ENGRAVED IVORY GRIPPED DERINGER. SN E26426. 41 cal. short rim fire. 4th Variation with SN E26426 with “G” where grip screw goes through the frame. The “E” in the SN indicates it was sent out for factory engraving. It has NYC Nimschke style engraving in the Class “C” coverage. The factory ivory grips are also rare in that they are checkered. This feature is seldom seen. This gun was orig finished in all silver and blued screws, hammer and trigger. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The gun retains 85%+ of the orig case color on the hammer & trigger and some fire blue on the screws. It does not retain any of its orig overall silver plating but is a very nice, sharp light patina gun with excellent Class “C” style factory engraving. The factory ivory grips have some mellowing from handling and minor age cracks. Other than that they are nearly perfect in every respect with very sharp checkering. 4-47435 DE55 (2,000-3,000)
EXTREMELY RARE COLT EARLY PRODUCTION FIRST MODEL 1855 SPORTING REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 60. Cal. 36. All blue finish with 27″ oct to rnd bbl, tiny blade front sight and squirrel ear rear sight in top strap. Top flat is hand engraved “Address S. Colt Hartford C.T. U.S.A.”. Left side of frame & at the muzzle contain a full length orig steel cleaning rod with knurled end. Cyl is unfluted, 6-shots with roll marking of a hunter shooting at running deer. Trigger guard is distinctive to this model with finger rests before & after the trigger bow. This model is also distinctive in its lack of a forearm and the oiler device that is mounted to the left side of the bbl lug. Mounted with very nicely figured, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock & crescent buttplate. Bottom of stock, below the bottom tang is stamped with the cartouche “J.R.H., JR.” in an oval. Only 1,000 of these scarce rifles were produced in the period 1856-1859. These rifles are scarce today and rarely encountered with any orig finish, especially orig roll marking. No disassembly was effected to check for matching SNs. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, appears to be new & unfired. Bbl retains about 75-80% glossy orig blue with areas of flaking, not wear, about mid-point; frame retains 95-97% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a light patina, also with some light candy striping; top tang retains glossy bright blue and the bottom tang is flaked to about 50% orig blue; hammer retains about all of its bright orig case colors; cyl is equally new with about 96-97% glossy orig blue and about 99% crisp roll marking; buttplate is mostly flaked to a blue/gray patina. Stock has a few, scattered small bruises on left side and overall retains about all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. One of the finest of its type extant. 4-48154 JR334 (75,000-125,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 33217. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 6″ bbl, relocated German silver front sight and 1-line address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard has caliber marking. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Receiver is engraved, probably from the Nimschke shop with about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with leaf & vine patterns on the top strap and hunter stars on each side of the front frame. Engraving extends up both sides of the bbl with stylized hunter stars on each side near the muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in the top gullet with foliate arabesque & geometric patterns on the outer radius. Top of the back strap is engraved in a beautiful spade shaped fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap and on the trigger guard. Cyl is lightly engraved by another hand in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Cyl & hammer are modern replacements. Cyl is lightly gold washed CONDITION: Good. Bbl, frame, trigger guard & back strap are matching numbered, cyl is unnumbered; bbl is cut as noted above; overall retains about 70-75% orig nickel on the frame, bbl & grip frame; cyl retains about 90% nickel with gold wash in the flutes and rear face. Grips have several chips but are basically sound showing heavy wear and good fire. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with frosty pitting. 4-48244 JR361 (7,000-10,000)
*RARE GOLD INLAID PRESENTATION COLT NEW SERVICE TARGET DA REVOLVER. SN 18491. Cal. 44 Russian. Blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, adjustable front & rear target sights with flat top frame. Mounted with 2-pc fleur-de-lis checkered & carved walnut grips that are numbered to this revolver. Trigger, front & back straps are checkered. Top of flat frame is inlaid in flat gold “WILLIAM LOEB JR.” Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 Russian with bbl length, finish & type of stocks not listed. Under factory engraved “The name William Loeb Jr. is inlaid in gold on top of the frame”. It was charged to the advertising account and shipped to William Loeb, Jr., address unavailable on Aug. 3, 1907. Also accompanied by a 15″ x 14″ lithograph depicting a cartoonish-type person in Theodore Roosevelt-style hunting garb, festooned with various game, a rifle and holding a net containing a small bear, captioned “WHERE’S YOURS?”. The name “LOEB” is written on the front brim of his hat. This character is confronting a cartoonish Theodorer Roosevelt with the mounted head of a bear in the background and an astonished small bear in the foreground. It is inscribed in the bottom right corner “To Mrs. Wm. Loeb, Jr. / With Compliments of C.K. Berry / 1908”. Bottom left corner has the printed number “66065”. Additionally accompanied by copies of two old photographs which appear to be from the same era depicting Mr. Loeb seated with five other distinguished gentlemen in formal attire with six others standing behind. The second photograph depicts Mr. Loeb with a group of gentlemen all in formal attire on what appears to be, a reviewing stand. Mr. Loeb was born in 1866 in New York and after high school became a newspaper correspondent where he became active in politics and later served as Secretary to the Albany County, NY Republican County Committee. In 1888 he became Official Stenographer of the Lower House of the New York Legislature where he gained political experience & acquaintances serving as private secretary to several highly placed New York politicians. When Theodore Roosevelt became Governor of New York Mr. Loeb was appointed as one of his official stenographers and became Roosevelt’s private secretary in 1899. He remained with Pres. Roosevelt throughout the remainder of his political career, becoming extremely powerful and Mr. Roosevelt’s defacto Presidential Press Secretary. He was instrumental in the nomination of William H. Taft to succeed Mr. Roosevelt in 1908 and from 1909-1913 he was appointed by Pres. Taft as the Collector of the Port of New York after which he retired to Oyster Bay, NY and died in 1937. It seems likely that this revolver was a presentation from Pres. Roosevelt although at this writing that cannot be verified. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with some light flaking on left side and storage wear on left side of muzzle; frame & cyl are moderately to heavily flaked, with the frame retaining 75-80% glossy orig blue and the cyl about 85% orig blue. Grips are sound showing storage wear on left bottom edge, otherwise only a few small nicks on right side and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 4-48153 JR302 (30,000-50,000)
RARE & UNUSUAL CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 117089. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.s. America address. Left side of the 3-screw frame cut for shoulder stock is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver-plated brass trigger guard and blued steel back strap contain an exceptional flame grain American walnut grip made in three pieces with two slabs of walnut attached to a central spacer like Colt ivory grips. Back strap channel of grip is marked in pencil, left hand, last four digits of matching SN. Revolver is spectacularly engraved with full coverage, extremely well-executed, very fine foliate arabesque patterns with fine pearled or punch-dot background. A scroll on each side terminates in a flower blossom similar to that used by Gustave Young. Matching engraving extends over the sides of the bbl with fantastic intertwined foliate arabesque patterns which are also found around the front sight and bottom of the bbl lug. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with the tip of the rammer handle beautifully checkered and sides of the rammer latch stud engraved in diamond patterns. Both ends of the wedge are engraved. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved by another hand with more simple foliate arabesque patterns and a fine shield shaped pattern at the top of the back strap with a diamond engraved center. Sides of the ears of the back strap are engraved to match with flower blossoms above the screw holes and on rear edges of frame. All screw heads are engraved with matching flower blossoms and have sculpted edges. Hammer is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and sides of the spur with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose and feather patterns on the top edge. Spur is hand checkered with a short pattern and line similar to a Single Action Army. Rebated area of the cyl has full coverage matching foliate arabesque patterns and the major diameter has a very deep, crisp Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The six safety pins on the cyl have rnd tips rather than the usual flat tips found on Colt revolvers. The rammer pivot screw enters from the right side. This revolver is pictured in color on pp. 119-120 of Colt Factory Engravers of the Nineteenth Century, Houze. Mr. Houze speculates that the engraving on the frame, bbl & cyl are from the hand of Conrad Ulrich and that the engraving on the back strap, butt strap & trigger bow are by Gustave Young. Accompanied by a copy of this book. This beautiful Colt is a true enigma and has many unusual characteristics not noted by this cataloger before. A possible explanation is revealed in a 3-page letter from renowned Colt researcher, historian & author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he discloses that this revolver was sold to the U.S. Government and shipped to the Commanding Officer, New York Arsenal, Governor’s Island, New York, on May 22, 1863 in a 1,000 gun shipment. He speculates that this revolver was rejected by the Army, returned to Colt and subsequently engraved for presentation. He makes the comparison of this revolver to two pairs of 1860 Army revolvers which were presented to Gen. George B. McClellan and Gen. William S. Rosecrans, both pairs of which were also shipped to Governor’s Island, New York in March & May of 1863 respectively. The unusual engraving, such as found on this revolver, has never been previously encountered by this cataloger. Accompanied by an orig, purple velvet lined, Colt mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a reproduction angle spout flask, a blued steel 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “44H”, a packet of six combustible cartridges, a small pewter oil bottle and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine, bright blue with some light flaking & candy striping on the bbl; rammer pivot & handle retain lightly faded case colors; rear face of bbl & bbl lug show fine pitting; frame is slightly undersized and retains dark case colors with fine pitting on each side of the hammer slot and in the hammer slot; hammer retains lightly faded case colors; cyl retains about 50% strong orig blue with the balance flaked to a medium patina and overall shows about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard retains about 70% orig silver plating and the back strap traces of blue in sheltered areas having mostly faded to gray patina. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its crisp, bright varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. Cyl spindle has been hand-filed and it appears that the last four digits of the matching SN may have been re-stamped. Case has several grain checks in the lid, a few more in the bottom, otherwise is sound with small plugged holes from having had something removed and retains most of a restored finish on top and orig finish elsewhere; interior is lightly faded and moderately soiled with light damage from the front sight & hammer spur; mold retains about 75% thinning orig blue with crisp cavities; flask is fine; cartridge packet is missing a small chip but still sealed; other accessories are fine. 4-47562 (50,000-150,000)
CASED COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 3RD VARIATION. SN E7533. Cal. .41 Short RF. Gun is British proofed and fitted in English Dealer’s rare cigar style casing. Markings on backstrap read “F.T.Baker, 88 Fleet St. LONDON” engraved down the backstrap and stamped in the top interior lid of case. Piece is finished in full nickel with blued screws, hammers & trigger and has factory ivory grips. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection, Peter Holder Collection. CONDITION: Very rare casing contains an early high hammer model which is finished in full nickel overall with fire bright screws and blued hammer and trigger plus factory ivory grips. Gun retains 99% of orig nickel overall. Fire blued screws retain 90%+ of their color. Hammer and trigger have 100% of their bright blue coloring. Gun is English proofed in normal manner. Orig ivory grips show very nice patina coloring. Gun would be exceptionally hard to improve upon. Orig cigar purse casing contains blue-green velour in bottom section where gun rests. The top interior of casing is a green satin over cotton padding retaining the F.T Baker stamp and address. Exterior of brass casing retains nearly 100% of orig diamond patter, snake skin style leather covering and orig initial plate. All hinges are perfect as orig. Bottom of case has normal wear patterns and some scratches, but otherwise nearly perfect. There is one pull up lid compartment for approximately 3 or 4 cartridges with a brass pull. No cartridges are included. 4-47465 DE85 (8,500-12,500)
*SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 349941. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 1-line block letter address and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with rampant colt. Mounted with 2-pc silver medallion ivory grips with raised carved ox head on right side. SN was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front and backstraps under the grip. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about C coverage of his distinctive intertwined foliate and floral arabesque patterns with fine pearled or punch dot background. He also incorporated his distinctive V-shaped patterns into the engraving on the recoil shield, loading gate, top of backstrap and buttstrap. Cyl is engraved to match with a wavy border around rear edge. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 32-20 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, carved steer head ivory stocks, factory engraved grade 2 and shipped to R.S. Elliott Arms Co., Kansas City, Mo, October 12, 1926 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Richard Garvis (1994); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 99% crisp orig factory finish with glossy blue and brilliant case colors. Grips are sound with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 4-48205 JR314 (40,000-60,000)
3RD MODEL 3RD VARIATION COLT DERINGER WITH LEATHER HOLSTER, CUT AWAY STYLE. SN 36999. 41 cal. short rim fire. This gun is factory engraved in the “C” class overall and has the orig ivory grips. The “E” in the SN shows it was chosen at the factory for engraving. It includes a British Proof mark on the bottom of the bbl. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The gun which was overall silver plated retains only traces on the interiors only. The gun has seen use but no abuse. It has the “E” classification in front of the SN which denotes that it was sent out for engraving. The engraving patterns denote many of the characteristics of the Nimschke shop. A good bit of the hammer & trigger case color is still remaining. The ivory grips which are factory orig to the piece have mellow yellow age patina with age cracks but no separations. The gun is a rare variation, very highly engraved & exceptional for its 3rd variation. It is accompanied by a period leather holster which is suede-lined on the inside & smooth brown leather on the exterior with white thread stitching. It is a cut-away type holster which only a 3rd Model will fit. It is in excellent condition with slight scuffing on the rear of the holster loop. 4-47444 DE64 (3,000-4,500)
VERY RARE SPECIAL ORDER FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING SLIDE ACTION RIFLE. SN 80940. Cal. 32 CLMR (32 WCF, 32-20). Beautiful special order deluxe rifle with 26″ oct bbl, blue finish, with full pistol grip sycamore stock, factory engraved and shipped to A.G. Spalding & Brothers, Chicago, Il. on April 30, 1897 in a one gun shipment. Rifle is second type with patent marked bbl address. Receiver is beautifully engraved in grape leaf, vine and clusters of grapes pattern with the Rampant Colt logo on left side and a squirrel sitting on a grape vine eating grapes on right side. Engraving extends over top of receiver, dust cover, trigger bow and trigger plate with snake patterns down the bottom edges and around the bottom tang. Tip of bottom tang is engraved with a grape leaf with another at tip of top tang. Top tang and rear edge of receiver have a double line border which also surround the hammer slot. Bolt opening is surrounded by an engraved rosette. Side front edges of receiver are engraved in a half flower blossom. Buttplate tang is engraved with a matching grape leaf. This work appears to be by master engraver Conrad Ulrich. Mounted with most unusual and rare, very highly figured sycamore wood consisting of a 2-pc checkered, single schnable forearm and pistol grip stock with crescent buttplate. Bottom of grip is a checkered oval. Left side of upper tang is marked with matching SN along with a tiny “6.” and identical “6”. is also on lower tang. Matching SN is also found on the front edge of the buttstock, under the metal, and inside the toe of buttplate. Buttplate additionally has an old SN which appears to have been an assembler’s mistake that was corrected. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were about 89,777 medium frame rifles produced in the period 1884-1902 in several different styles. Very few of these were deluxe and most rarely were any of those engraved. The special order wood adds an additional rare dimension almost never encountered. Consignor states only 19 medium frame Lightnings were shipped to A.G. Spaulding. PROVENANCE: Colt Factory Letter. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl and mag tube retain 95-96% strong orig blue turning a little plummy over the chamber area of bbl and with a few scattered spots of fine rust. Receiver retains about 50% blue turning plum, stronger in sheltered areas. Wood is sound with a few chips on edge of forearm and a few other scattered light nicks and scratches and overall retains about all of an old restored finish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with good shine, frosty and dark in grooves. 4-47341 JR158 (17,500-27,500)
*CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 337791. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, thinned front sight with cal marking on left side. The 2-line bbl address was obliterated during the custom finishing process. Left side of frame has partially visible 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Revolver has full coverage Texas Cattle Brand engraving in the style of Cole Agee. Buttstrap is engraver signed “D W Harris”. Frame, bbl and cyl have full coverage engraved patterns with fine pearled or punch-dot background, backstrap and buttstrap are equally engraved with engraved Hunter Star on trigger bow. mounted with a 1-pc ivory grip with a wonderful raised carved steer head on right side. This style of engraving is credited to Mr. Cole Agee beginning in the mid-1900’s. The style was continued by Mr. Weldon Bledsoe and now continued by Mr. Harris who studied under Mr. Bledsoe. The Cattle Brands incorporated in this engraving are some of the most famous Texas brands and some of the authentic, whimsical brands, including the famous “2 Lazy-2 P” brand almost always found on the left side of the bbl at the muzzle on Mr. Agee’s work. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains virtually all of its custom nickel finish; grip is sound with several age lines and retains a fine mellow ivory patina; hammer is not solid in half cock notch; otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-47549 JR172 (5,000-8,000)
*RARE AND EXTRAORDINARY ENGRAVED STAR SUPER MODEL-A SEMI-AUTO PISTOL THAT BELONGED TO FRANK SINATRA. SN 309916. Cal 9mm Largo & 38 Super. Extraordinary star pistol that resembles a Colt government model with 5″ bbl, fixed sights and appointments almost exactly like a model 1911A1 pistol. It is mounted with solid silver grips and the entire pistol is inlaid with gold and silver in fantastic geometric designs, some of which are inlaid gold and others are damascened. The gold patterns are bordered by very fine silver wire that has been beaded. Both sides of the slide are inlaid with relief tooled silver dragons, tiny demon heads and flower blossoms. Flower blossoms also appear on the grips and other areas of the pistol. Right grip is inlaid in gold with the initials “MFG” and the left grip is inlaid in gold and silver with the crest of the nation of Cuba, surrounded by laurel leaves. It is well documented that in 1946 the Cosa Nostra had a convention in Cuba to attempt to determine the Capo di Tutti, the leader of the entire Mafia. History records that Mr. Sinatra was the entertainment for the convention. It seems likely that this pistol was probably gifted to him at some time before the Castro Revolution in the mid-1950’s. It will be interesting to see the what research develops in the way of a name to go with the initials on the right grip because it is almost certain that this pistol would have belonged to a high ranking Cuban military officer or government official. It is well known that entertainers such as Mr. Sinatra frequented the casinos and nightclubs of Havana right up until the Revolution. This pistol was produced 1946-1989. This pistol was gifted by Mr. Sinatra to Mr. Henry (Hank) Cattaneo. Mr. Cattaneo has provided an notarized letter wherein he states that he began working as Mr. Sinatra’s production manager in about 1980, culminating in Mr. Cattaneo’s co-producing Mr. Sinatra’s last 3 musical albums. He states that they had a mutual interest in collecting toy trains and firearms. He further states that Mr. Sinatra toured exclusively by private jet, most often accompanied by his longtime housekeeper, Ms. Vine Jourber, not only was she his personal assistant she was also his private chef. He states that on arriving at “one of the theatrical venues in the Metro area (NY, CT, NJ) Frank said: ‘Vine needs you’. It was Vine who presented me with the box and said: ‘Frank wants you to have this’.” He states that this pistol was in the carton. A rare and unique property to own a firearm from a very famous singer, movie star and actor. PROVENANCE: Frank Sinatra; Mr. Henry Cattaneo. CONDITION: Extremely fine with some slight toning to some of the gold and light wear on the gold of the take down lever shaft and face of the trigger. A few of the flower petals are missing otherwise all the inlays are intact. Mechanics are crisp. Bright, shiny bore. 4-48217 JR386 (2,500-4,000)
EXTREMELY RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 15260. Cal. 44. Nickel finish with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1 line New-York US America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT”. Frame is 4 screw type, cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw and rnd head stock screws. The silver plated brass trigger guard and iron backstrap contain a modern 1-pc smooth ivory grip constructed in the old method of two slabs of ivory attached to two wood spacers in the middle. Revolver is beautifully, deluxe engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, with full coverage matching patterns on the major diameter of the cyl. Matching patterns extend over sides of bbl, on each side of muzzle, and on top between the front sight and bbl address. Hammer is engraved with matching patterns on shank, wolf’s head on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on top edge. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fan pattern with matching foliate patterns down backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Left side of bbl is engraved “Frank I. O’Hanlon / Portadown”. Left side of front strap and left side of buttstrap are stamped with assembly number “76”, which number is also found on the front face of cyl and rear face of bbl lug. No further disassembling was effected to check for additional matching numbers. Accompanied by a beautiful black leatherette covered, red and white satin lined Arno Werner handmade presentation case. Inside the lid is overlaid with a red and white ribbon embossed in gold “COLT ARMY”. Also accompanied by the first page of an undated letter on the letterhead of Arnold Marcus Chernoff, well known late 20th century dealer/collector. Mr. Chernoff states that this is one of the finest Nimschke engraved Model ’60 Army Colts. He also states that it was accompanied by its orig factory casing, complete with accessories,now lost to history. Additionally accompanied by another Chernoff letter dated April 13, 1983 where he is discussing this revolver and the presentation. Also accompanied by a letter from the Belfast (Ireland) Education and Library Board, to R.L. Wilson dated 24 March 1977, which states that Francis Ignatius O’Hanlon was the Post Master on Market Street in Portadown 1877-1898. And a note from Wilson to Chernoff dated 11 April, forwarding the B.E.L.B. information. In 1898 he apparently became a Justice of the Peace. Portadown is a small town in Northern Ireland just outside Belfast. A handwritten note on the bottom of a Little John Auction Service letter to the consignor states “the gun was found inside a wall of a house being torn down in Northern Ireland per John Gangle and accounts for its original, exceptional condition per John Gangle.” PROVENANCE: Arnold Marcus Chernoff. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Wedge is numbered “4807” and is engraved on both ends, cyl and grip are unnumbered. Overall retains 96-97% strong nickel finish with a few scattered spots of light flaking and minor sharp edge wear with dulling on backstrap. Grip is extremely fine with crisp edges, numerous age lines in bottom edges and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is as new. 4-47094 (14,000-20,000)
CASED COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION. SN 39247. Cal. .41 Short RF. This 5th Variation has a “P” where the grip screw goes through the frame. Finished in 100% nickel with blued screws, hammer and trigger. Has factory ivory grips. Orig imported by Von Oppen and has the Rampant Colt & “C”. Probably sold by them to E.M.Reilly & Co. of London as it also has their dealership marking. Cased in rare single gun casing with also rare double dealership markings. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Gun is full nickel plate with nearly 100% remaining on frame with “41 Cal.” along with Rampant Colt and “C” on left hand side of frame. All fire blued screws retain most of their color as does the trigger. Bbl has about 80% of orig nickel still remaining with some losses through flaking showing dark patina in those areas. The engraved “E.M. Reilly” is nearly perfect and appears on right side of frame and is normal for this gun. Factory ivory grips are 95% have some chipping on left side where the top of grip meets frame. Hammer retains 85% strong case color. Factory casing is lined in blue blase and is totally there but contains 100+ years dust and some scraping from bbl sight and hammer spur. Orig label is complete on inside lid with some oil staining and foxing, but is otherwise as issued. Casing has orig oil can,turn screw and combination cleaning rod still in evidence along with key which does not work the lock. Also included are 5 old, 41 short RF cartridges. Ivory pull has a small piece missing. Case is a nice patina brown mahogany and has 10 brass screws around the outer edges of the top which is normal on most English style cases, however the shield shaped initial plaque on top of lid, we feel has been replaced with a later piece of brass. It has been there many years as it is tarnished almost black. This may have been removed by the orig owner to prevent someone from knowing they had sold the gun. A truly rare single casing by a well known English dealer. 4-47461 DE81 (4,500-6,500)
SCARCE ETCHED PANEL COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 115797. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned front sight, 1-line block letter address and a faint but legible etched panel on the left side. Bottom of the bbl has a tiny “44” just forward of the base pin. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and is marked “44 CAL” on left front web of the trigger guard. Mounted with an old, orig style Colt 1-pc ivory grip constructed of two slabs of ivory attached to wooden spacers. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the frame, a flower blossom on left recoil shield with a smaller version on the loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with sunbursts on each side of the bbl boss and geometric patterns in the gullets. Engraving extends up each side of the bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot pattern in the top gullet with sunbursts at each end of the outer radius. Cyl is engraved with sunbursts on the lands between the flutes and a snake & star pattern around the rear edge. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in zig zag geometric patterns. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40, with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish type of stock ot listed, factory engraved and shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. St. Louis, MO on Nov 12, 1885 in a 5 gun shipment. It is well established that the Meacham company was a distributor for all types of firearms to smaller operations throughout the west from Texas to Montana.Etched panel single actions are in and of themselves somewhat rare, engraved examples very rare. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 60-65% orig nickel with the loss areas gray metal patina, with fine pinprick pitting around the muzzle area; ejector housing retains traces of orig nickel, being mostly a gray metal patina; frame retains traces of nickel in sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned gray metal patina; screws are all fine; trigger guard & back strap also retain traces of orig nickel with moderate pitting on back strap; cyl retains about 40% orig nickel with a couple of areas of light to moderate pitting. Grip has several age lines at the bottom edges, otherwise is completely sound and retains a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-48203 JR318 (25,000-40,000)
EXCEPTIONALLY ENGRAVED, PROBABLY BY L.D. NIMSCHKE HIMSELF, COLT 3RD MODEL 3RD VARIATION WITH LEATHER HOLSTER. SN 4754. 41 cal. short rim fire. Standard “COLT” in lg ltrs on bbl top. This piece is of the tight grip style with high hammer. It is Class “C”, totally factory engraved with factory pearl grips. It is one of the finest engraved Colt Deringers known, finished with blued bbl & silver plated frame. It may have been made as an exhibition piece. It is accompanied by its custom-made leather holster. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: The case color on the high hammer has 85% remaining with very little remaining on the trigger. The screws which were all fire blued still have some of that feature remaining. The grips which are factory pearls are nearly perfect in every respect with good luster & very little wear. The brass frame which was orig silver plate overall still retains about 40% of its orig finish. The bbl which is profusely engraved on both sides & at the muzzle retains about 40% of its orig blue on the bottom of the bbl & top of bbl. The gun is accompanied by its orig English-style leather holster which is of the period & in very nice condition other than age cracks in the leather flap. 4-47442 DE62 (4,000-6,000)
FINE COLT MODEL 1883 SHOTGUN. SN 380. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 30″ Fine two stripe Damascus bbls are engraved “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” on concave game rib with dolls head extension. Case hardened boxlock action features automatic safety (SAFE relief engraved) and double triggers. SN is on water table. Action is engraved with line and geometric borders with patent information on floorplate. Factory letter indicates this engraving was valued at $3.00. Nicely marbled, stump figured European walnut round knob buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over Colt hard rubber checkered buttplate with rampant colt embossed. Grip is nicely checkered in point pattern with thin mullered borders. Matching splinter forend has inset ebony tip and Colt’s rendition of a Deeley release. Bore diameter: left-.724, right -.727. Bore restrictions: left -.035 (Full), right -.036 (Full). Wall thickness: left -.036, right -.029. Drop at heel: 3-1/4″, drop at comb: 1-15/16″. Weight: 8 lbs. 4 oz. LOP: 14-1/4″. PROVENANCE: Factory letter with specifications of this gun. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain approx 80% of their striking black and white Damascus finish, with considerable amount of orig varnish where protected. Action retains approx 60% orig case hardening color, browned and silvered somewhat at bottom from normal handling and wear. Top lever has traces of orig bright blue, most loss due to flaking. Trigger guard and forend iron retain a considerable amount of their orig blue. Stocks retain approx 90% of their orig French polish, worn through and oil darkened on sharp edges, with numerous minor marks and scratches overall. Checkering is slightly worn and dark. Small piece has chipped out of and been glued back into left side forend toward tip. Bores are fine with some scattered light pitting, and two very minor pings. Action is tight. 4-47767 MGM205 (7,000-10,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY PAIR OF CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS ENGRAVED BY ARNOLD GRIEBEL. SN 29360SA & 29361SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Revolvers are virtually identical with all blue finish, 5-1/2″ bbls, thick front sights, 1-line block letter addresses with model & caliber marking on left sides. Left side of frames has 2-line, 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt. SNs were observed on bottom of frames and left sides of front & back straps. Front face of cylinders have the last three digits of matching SNs. Revolvers are identically engraved with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with very fine stippled background. Left recoil shields are engraved with the very detailed vignette of a bull buffalo. Top of back straps are engraved with a wonderful scallop shell pattern with matching engraving at the heel & toe, on the trigger bow and trigger plate. Center of back strap is inlaid in flat gold “Mc LALLEN”. Cylinders are engraved to match with gold wire continuous around the flutes and rear edges. Muzzles also have a dbl gold wire inlay. Butt straps are engraved “ENGR. BY A. GRIEBEL”. All screw heads are beautifully engraved. Revolvers are mounted with 2-pc walnut grips that are identically carved in relief with the vignettes of a standing buffalo, a teepee, a tomahawk, a lance & feathers on left sides with an Indian on a galloping horse, an Indian head, a knife, a lance & feathers on right sides. Bottom edges are relief carved with a revolver on left side and a rifle on right side. This is truly an exceptional set by one of America’s premier modern engravers. CONDITION: Both revolvers remain unfired since engraving. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Grips are equally crisp. 4-48167 JR285 (17,500-27,500)
SCARCE PRESENTATION GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 109084. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAMUEL COLT” address. Left side of the frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an upside down pillow shape. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and all five safety pins crisp & serviceable. The silver plated brass small guard trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Revolver has received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving with full coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the bbl lugs with one scroll on the left side terminating in Mr. Young’s distinctive dog’s head and another on the right side terminating in a flower blossom. Both ends of the wedge and all the screws are engraved. Back strap is inscribed in very fine period script “Lieut. Wm. Dickinson / from W.O. Gish & T.W. Perkins”. William Dickinson enlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant on Feb. 21, 1857 in the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Regiment and retired Oct. 3, 1863. He was listed as POW, date & place not indicated, and was exchanged Dec. 31, 1861. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant May 1861, breveted major after Bull Run, July 21, 1861 and made permanent Captain July 31, 1861. Records also indicate that he was born in Connecticut and died Aug 1887. A quick Internet search disclosed little additional information except that Lt. Dickinson may have been in Company “D”, 3rd Regular Infantry. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue with some light thinning on the left side flat toward the muzzle; rammer pivot retains strong case colors with the handle mostly turned silver; frame & hammer retain strong case colors turned dark; cylinder retains about 40% orig blue and shows 97-98% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. All five safely pins are crisp and serviceable; trigger guard and backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating showing wear only at the heel; grip has an age crack on the rt side and a few age lines in bottom edges and overall retains a wonderful, mellow ivory patina; mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 48150 JR292 (20,000-30,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION WITH LEATHER HOLSTER. SN 44864. Cal. .41 Short RF. British proofed and sold by “COGSWELL & HARRISON, Ltd, 141 New Bond St & 226 Strand, London” which is engraved on backstrap. Finished with nickel plated frame and blued bbl with walnut grips. Made towards end of production of this type Deringer. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Finished in standard nickel framed and blue bbl with blued screws with British proof marks on bottom of bbl. Has rare dealership engravings on backstrap as noted above as well as “.41 CAL” on left side of frame. Frame retains 90%+ of orig nickel with only one portion of small flaking on left side just underneath ejector housing on frame and one small bit at back of ejector housing on firewall. Blue screws retain 90%+ of orig fire blue. Hammer retains 90%+ of orig case color. Trigger retains 75% of orig blue with some fading on face. Bbl retains 50%+ of orig bright blue with fading over portions on both sides, but still a very pleasing looking gun. The bright colored, nicely grained walnut grips have very few scratches or dings and retain 95%+ of orig varnish. Gun is accompanied by an orig period, English style holster which has seen very little use and pieces like this are seldom seen. 4-47480 DE100 (1,800-3,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 155469. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight with some minor damage, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “41” under the base pin. “41” is the actual bore diameter for the 38-40. Left side of the frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is factory engraved from the shop of Cuno Helfricht with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the frame, a very large half flower blossom on left recoil shield and a smaller version on the loading gate. Sides of hammer slot & top strap are engraved in snake & dot patterns with geometric patterns in the front gullets. Matching engraving extends nearly full length of the sides of the bbl, with geometric patterns around the address. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in the top gullet with a large flower blossom centered on the outer radius. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s style of alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes and multiple borders around the rear edge. Trigger guard & back strap are extensively engraved in geometric patterns with a large fan pattern at the top of the back strap. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO “for: L.L. Neel” on Sept. 21, 1894. Most likely this revolver was ordered for or by someone in law enforcement or a wealthy rancher out west. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grips & cyl, which are unnumbered. Bbl retains 60-70% orig nickel with the balance a gray metal patina with dark patina around the muzzle and some fine pinprick pitting; front sight dinged as noted; frame retains nickel in sheltered areas and on the top strap being mostly gray metal patina; trigger guard & butt strap retain about 80% orig nickel and the back strap about 30% with the balance gray metal patina; ejector housing retains about 90% strong orig nickel and the cyl about 75%. Left grip has a tiny chip at the top by the frame, otherwise grips are sound showing great fire. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with moderate pitting. 4-48158 JR305 (25,000-35,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION. SN 43601. Cal. .41 Short RF. English proofed and sold in London, England by F.T. Baker, 88 Fleet St. It has an unusual marking, in that it has engraved on the backstrap ” F.T. Baker GUN MANUFACTURER LONDON” along with the standard dealership address. Finished in standard nickel and blue with walnut grips. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Gun was orig finished with blued bbl and screws and nickel frame. Marked “41 Cal” on left side of frame and has English proofs and the rare backstrap marking. Normally the engraving would have the Fleet St. address. Both are correct. Bbl retains only traces of orig blue in protected areas. Has nice overall patina over rest of bbl with some salt and pepper pitting at the muzzle end on right side. Brass frame, which is overall nickel, does have some flaking around trigger housing area area on right side and some wear to edges on left side of recoil shield and edge of trigger housing area. The F.T. Baker markings are nearly perfect in every respect but do have some flaking on “Baker” because of the engraved address, in every instance, was cut through the finish. Walnut grips have minor wear but retain 90%+ of orig varnish. A very hard dealership marking to obtain. 4-47467 DE87 (900-1,500)
EXTREMELY RARE PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH IMAGE OF THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE MADE FOR CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBIT OF 1851. SN 10223. Cal. 44. Extraordinary dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1 line New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a panel. The brass, silver plated square back trigger guard and backstrap contain an extremely rare 1-pc rosewood grip. Revolver is exhibition quality engraved, probably by W.L. Ornsby. The frame has full coverage large donut scroll patterns with very fine shaded background and tremendous shading on the engraving. Left recoil shield is engraved with a large scallop shell and both recoil shields are edged by a wide border. The hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank with very fine shaded background, wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, fish scale patterns on each side of spur with leaf & fish scale patterns on top edge. Matching engraving patterns extend over bbl lug and top side flats with a large oval panel portrait of the Marquis de LaFayette on the right side. Left side of bbl lug is engraved with two cornets incorporated into the engraving pattern. Bbl address is bordered by dash and foliate patterns with short scollop patterns at the aft end of the top side flats and the entire bbl lug is bordered by straight lines. Rammer pivot is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns and continuous diamond borders. Muzzle of bbl has feather border pattern and each end of the wedge is also engraved. The vertical rammer lever latch is checkered. Backstap, buttstrap and trigger guard are elaborately engraved to match with a small shield centered on the backstrap and a large double flourish on the top of the backstrap. All screw heads and tips are engraved except the buttstrap screw which is probably an old replacement. Front strap is engraved in period script “Charles Nephew & Co., Calcutta”. Charles Nephew was a silversmith, firearms dealer and outfitter in Calcutta 1848-1870 and were known to have purchased a number of firearms from the Crystal Palace Exhibit. Since this revolver was not being sold on the market in England there was no requirement for British proofs. According to a 10-pg article by Pete Holder, which appeared in the June 2005 edition of Man at Arms for the Gun Collector magazine, this revolver was created for the 1851 Chrystal Palace Exhibit in London that began in October 1851. This revolver and its consecutively numbered mate, SN 10222 (as of 2005 on exhibit at the Museum of the American West collection, Autry National Center, in California), were part of Colt’s extraordinary display at the Exhibit. This revolver is a 2nd Model with square back trigger guard and its similarly engraved mate is a 3rd Model with rnd trigger guard. SN 10222 has the engraved panel of George Washington on the left side of the bbl lug, so it is conceivable that these revolvers were displayed muzzle to muzzle in the exhibit. Col. Colt’s ostentatious display of over 500 firearms included 50 revolvers with exhibition quality engraving as per a letter from Col. Colt to his brother, Elisha, in July 1849. The 1851 Crystal Palace Exhibit was a prelude to the opening of the Colt Factory in London in 1853 and was a grand opportunity for Colt to establish his product in England and Europe. It is believed that these two revolvers, and possibly others, were engraved by W.L. Ornsby as the portrait of LaFayette on this revolver is virtually identical to the bust of LaFayette which appeared on a New Orleans $5 bank note which was illustrated in the Ormsby book on Bank Note Engraving and Counterfeiting. This image was apparently copied from a well known painting by French artist Ary Scheffer (1795-1858) who painted LaFayette in 1822. The life-size portrait hangs in the House of Representatives in Washington. Mr. Holder speculates in his article that these two revolvers with portraits of LaFayette and Washington being displayed prominently side by side were a small thumb in the eye to the British. History records that LaFayette, with his 6000 French troops, was strongly responsible for the independence of the United States during the Revolutionary War. He and Washington became close and dear friends, infact Washington eventually regarded LaFayettes as his surrogate son. During the war, LaFayette was appointed Major General in command of part of Washington’s army and participated in cornering General Cornwallis, resulting in his surrender at Yorktown, thus ending British rule in America. PROVENANCE: Dr. John M. Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip which does not appear to have a number in backstrap channel, or if there is one it is simply not visible on the dark wood. Faint traces of orig finish remain in most sheltered areas, being mostly a cleaned gray metal patina with some fine pinprick pitting. Engraving is all still sharp and clean with no appreciable wear. Cyl is a matching patina with a couple of small dings on front edge and overall retains about 60% Dragoon Indian Fight Scene with the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” panel mostly visible and the “COLT’S PATENT” panel completely legible. All 6 safety pins are serviceable. Trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating, showing light wear on the heel of backstrap. Grip has lightly chipped toes, otherwise is sound, showing moderate wear and most of its dark oil finish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. This is truly a magnificent and one of a kind exhibition piece, the like of which will probably not come to market again in this lifetime. 4-46429 JR113 (100,000-150,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 35513SA & 35514SA. Cal. 38 Spcl. Revolvers are virtually identical, blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbls, full thick front sights, 1-line block letter addresses and left sides marked with the model & caliber. Left side of frames has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant colt. Both revolvers are mounted with spectacular raised carved left & right hand ox head pearl grips that were probably carved by Alvin White for these revolvers. The left hand grip is pencil-numbered to #35514. The grips on #35513 simply have a “3” engraved inside each grip. Revolvers are wonderfully engraved with about D-coverage, spectacular, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns which extend onto the bbls and around the front sights. Cylinders are matching engraved with a wide serrated border & flower blossoms. Hammers are also matching engraved on the sides & top edges. Ejector housings are matching engraved in the top gullets and outer radii. SN 35513SA has the assembly number “21” on the right side of the front & back straps, front face of the cyl, inside ejector housing & bottom of the bbl. This type of number usually indicates factory refinish, however in this instance it is probably only to keep the parts together after engraving. Both revolvers are engraved “A.A.W.” (Alvin A. White) on the right side of the front straps under the grips. This pair of Colts is some of Mr. White’s finest work and are unusual as a pair. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies #35513SA in 38 Special with 5-1/2″ bbl, “in-the-white”, type of stocks not listed, shipped to Herb Glass, Bullville, NY on Jan. 21, 1963 to Order #10641, shipped as a pair. Under remarks “The records further note subject revolver was originally shipped from the factory as one of a consecutively serialized pair. In addition, the finish is described as ‘in-the-white’, indicating it was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory.” A letter for 35514SA was not ordered. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching, new & unfired. Grips are equally new. An extraordinary pair. 4-48166 JR286 (30,000-50,000)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 91998. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cylinder is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The small guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig 1-pc smooth ivory grip that has matching SN in both back strap & butt strap channels. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver, Gustave Young, in Mr. Young’s deluxe patterns with full coverage, extremely well-executed foliate arabesque scrolls on the frame with a scroll on the left recoil shield terminating in a flower blossom and another on right side of the frame terminating in his distinctive bird’s head pattern. Matching patterns extend over bbl lug & rammer pivot with a scroll on left side terminating in a very detailed dog’s head and another on the right side in a flower blossom. Bbl address is surrounded by fine geometric patterns with a dbl wavy line border around the muzzle. Back strap & butt strap are engraved in matching patterns with Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern at top of back strap. Hammer has received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with engraved shank, a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and fish scale patterns on the sides of the spur & top edge. Spur has hand cut checkering. All screw heads & tips are engraved. Accompanied by a rare, early, blue velvet lined, coffin lid walnut casing compartmented in bottom and French-fitted for the revolver, a dbl sided flying eagle flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, a packet of five combustible cartridges and a small quantity of caps & cast lead bullets. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 88-90% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and the majority of the losses from chemical staining around the muzzle, probably from old cleaning fluid; rammer pivot retains dark case colors with the handle cleaned to bare metal with a few spots of light pitting; frame & hammer retain dark case colors, stronger & brighter on right side; cyl is mostly a gray metal patina with very fine pinprick pitting and shows 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard & back strap retain most of their strong orig silver plating with wear at the heel & toe. Grip is sound showing little or no wear and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. The hand has a broken spring, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting in the grooves. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches, a couple of spots of water stains on top and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded in the top with a bleached area from contact with the revolver cylinder; bottom is moderately faded with some bleaching around cyl area and around the muzzle with damage from the front sight; flask is extremely fine, retaining most of its orig finish; mold is fine. Altogether a beautiful & orig engraved ’49 pocket with a fine rare case. 4-47367 JR183 (17,000-27,000)
FRAMED ORIG INVENTORY LEDGER SHEETS FROM THE 14 PALL MALL COLT AGENCY. Five ledger sheets measuring about 12 7/8″ x 7 7/8″ showing inventory of all the Colt firearms at 14 Pall Mall that were in inventory dated December 31st 1877. Inventory shows hundreds of guns, including 419 Colt Derringers, 10 gold-plated National Derringers along with more than 20 other Colt models which included 76 Percussion Army revolvers, 593 Navy Percussion revolvers & 32 cartridge Navy revolvers. Single action Armies are listed as new model Armies of which 2 are listed with carved black walnut stocks, inlaid gold & engraved & gold-plated mountings. There are accessories listed including fancy cases for Derringers including cigar cases. Ledger also shows 60 or 70 vendors who owe money for guns purchased including many of the agents who are known to have agent-marked Colts & casings, many of which are being sold in this catalogue. There is lots of interesting information written on these ledger sheets which are reproduced on our website for interested bidders. This is a must have for any collector of English-marked Colt guns! PROVENANCE: Anthony Stone Collection, L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Ledger sheets overall are in very good condition with 3 folds on each sheet with minor cracking & small losses at edges & where pin has been removed from corners. Ink is dark & easily discernible. The last two pages have damp stains & areas of acid burn which can be seen in photographs which do not affect text. 4-47450 JS151 (700-1,500)
SCARCE BROWNING BROTHERS ASSOCIATED ENGRAVED FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 82296. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” etched panel on left side. Bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “44” above the base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips with an early raised carved ox head on left side. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame that has very fine pearled or punch-dot background. Left recoil shield is engraved with a large flower blossom and diamond & dot patterns with a matching flower blossom on loading gate. Top strap is engraved in leaf & vine and geometric patterns with sunbursts & foliate arabesque patterns on both sides of the front frame. Engraving extends up both sides of the bbl and each side of the muzzle with snake & dot patterns around the address and on each side of the bbl between the engraving patterns. Ejector housing is third type with half moon ejector rod head and has snake & dot patterns in top gullet & on outer radius. Bottom edge of the outer radius is hand-filed with seven small notches. Cyl is engraved in alternating foliate arabesque & geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with light decorations in the flutes and a snake & chip pattern around the rear edge. Back strap & butt strap are engraved in geometric patterns with a beautiful fan pattern at the top of the back strap and a small sunburst on the trigger bow. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which lists two single action revolvers with the same SN, one of which is this revolver in caliber 44-40, with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Browning Bros., Ogden, Utah on May 18, 1887 in a 1-gun shipment. Given the time frame and the destination of the shipment of this Colt leaves no doubt that it saw service, probably with a lawman or wealthy rancher, on the western frontier. CONDITION: Very good. Bbl retains 40-50% orig nickel with the balance cleaned to bright metal; etched panel is completely legible; frame retains traces of orig nickel, having been cleaned to a gray metal patina and shows heavy wear on the recoil shield & loading gate; cyl is a matching patina showing moderate to heavy wear; trigger guard & front strap retain about 40-50% orig nickel with the balance gray metal patina; back strap & butt strap retain 92-93% strong orig nickel. Left grip has a repaired toe and chipped heel, otherwise is sound and retains great fire & color; right grip is possibly a more recent replacement showing very little wear with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a slight ring about 1-1/2″ from muzzle. 4-48277 JR376 (13,000-18,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION. SN P37561. Cal. .41 Short RF. “H” assemblers’ stamp on grip frame. Piece was finished with silver plated frame and blued bbl, and burl walnut grips. Piece was imported by Von Oppen and has the “.41 CAL” and Rampant Colt and “C” in left side of frame. Sold to E.M.Reilly & Co. London, as evidenced by dealership name on right side of frame. This double dealership stamping is seldom seen. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Orig finished with silver plated frame and blued bbl. Traces of silver only under grips on frame. Frame retains “C” and Rampant Colt denoting sale at 14 pall Mall agency. Right side has engraved standard “E.M. Reilly & Co. LONDON” markings showing bought at 14 Pall Mall then resold by Reilly. Bbl retains only traces of blue on right side where ejector housing is. Remainder of bbl is gun metal gray and smooth. Deluxe grade walnut grips are completely all present except one small gouge measuring approx. 5 or 6 mm x 3 mm on back side of right grip near frame. Otherwise they are nearly perfect and retain 50% of orig varnish with normal use and wear markings. A hard example to obtain. 4-47470 DE90 (1,500-2,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT THIRD MODEL ENGLISH DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 125. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in ribbon. Cyl is usual 6 shots with Dragoon Indian Fight Scene roll marking. Left side of the bbl lug and cyl have British proofs and 5 of the 6 safety pins are serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a spectacular burl walnut 1-pc grip with matching number in the backstrap channel. Grip also has the unusual feature of a screw through diamond shaped steel escutcheons. Revolver is beautifully engraved in English scrolls on sides of frame with foliate and floral decorations on recoil shields. Hammer spur has matching foliate arabesque patterns on sides with fishtail engraving on top edge and hand cut checkering on spur. Matching foliate arabesque patterns are engraved on bbl lug and rammer pivot with feather borders around bbl lug and a rosette around the pivot screw. Top of backstrap is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down the backstap, on the butt strap and trigger guard. According to information recently read by this cataloger, there is no known reason for the diamond shaped escutcheons in the grip although several have been observed in English dragoon grips. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined English oak casing with brass medallion in lid and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a Hawksley adjustable spout, bag shaped flask, a rare brass 2-cavity bullet and ball mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Joyce’s caps with repoussed brass top, a small screw-top bone bits box, a Dixon pewter oil bottle and a functioning key. This exact revolver, identified by serial number, is pictured in its case, on pp. 232 and 233 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume 1, Wilson. Mr. Wilson makes note of the “rare reenforcing bolster and screw” in the grip. This is the only single revolver that received a 2-pg color spread in this book. An identically engraved Third Model English Dragoon, serial number 129,also cased identically, appears as plate 34 on pg 61 of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only about 700 of these English dragoons were produced, mostly from Hartford-made parts, in the period 1853-1857. In 1860 Col. Colt ordered that “many thousand arms” be shipped to the US (from the London Armory) to supply the looming Civil War, among which were approximately 200 dragoons, several of which were engraved. These revolvers were then sold on the American market, primarily to the government and also private sales. PROVENANCE: Dr. John M. Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very good to fine, all matching, with bbl retaining 20-25% orig blue and the balance a cleaned gray metal patina with a few scattered spots of light rust and light pinprick pitting on the bbl lug. Frame retains dark case colors on the sides with the recoil shields faded to silver. Hammer is a matching silver patina. Cyl is a cleaned, mottled silver gray patina with scattered fine pitting and shows 20-25% faint Dragoon Indian Fight Scene. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about all of their strong silver plating. Grip is sound with a few light handling and use nicks and scratches and overall retains nearly all of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case has a few grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual light handling and storage nicks and scratches, showing wear around the edges, and retains about 80% orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with moderate soil from contact with cyl and bbl, with light damage from front sight and hammer spur. Flask is fine with a couple of tiny dents; mold has light nicks and scratches with crisp cavities and heat colored sprue cutter; other accessories are fine. 4-46454 JR112 (30,000-50,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 49146AS. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight, one line block letter address with model and cal marking on the left side. Left side of the frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with very deep and rugged stag grips. Revolver is engraved in about “B” coverage consisting of about 40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns which extend up both sides of he bbl onto the ejector housing, back strap and trigger bow. Top of the back strap is engraved in a minimalist sunburst, cylinder is engraved to match. SN was observed on the bottom of the frame, left side of the front & back straps with the last 3 digits of matching SN on the front face of cylinder. This revolver is one of only a very few engraved 2nd generation single actions. Accompanied by an orig 2-pc stagecoach box with fitted interior. CONDITION: New and unfired; grips are equally new. Box has three broken corners in the lid and a taped tear on back top edge, otherwise is lightly soiled and yellowed. 4-48209 JR370 (4,000-6,000)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 68745. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, rare German silver dovetailed front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. Cyl is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The silver-plated small guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain a spectacular burl walnut 1-pc grip with last two digits of matching SN visible in back strap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young with his deluxe treatment of full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with a fine pearled or punch-dot background. One scroll on right side terminates in Mr. Young’s mythical bird head. Engraving extends over the bbl lug with a scroll on the left side also terminating in a bird head and another on the right side terminating in a dog’s head with still another terminating in a flower blossom. Rammer pivot is matching engraved as are the trigger guard & back strap. Top of back strap is engraved with a beautiful spider web pattern. Accompanied by an orig Colt mahogany casing that is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for an early dbl sided pocket-sized eagle flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. It is very likely that this revolver was a presentation to a high ranking military officer or person of some importance. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue, strong on the bottom flats, faded elsewhere; rammer & handle retain dark case colors; frame & hammer also retain faded dark case colors with fine pitting on hammer nose; cyl is mostly a gray/brown patina and shows 50-60% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard retains about 75% orig silver plate, thin on front strap; back strap retains about 75% orig silver plate, thin on butt strap. Grip is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with light pitting. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is heavily faded with light soil with three loose, but not detached, partitions in the bottom; flask has a few small dents and is a medium mustard patina; mold has a few nicks & scratches with crisp clean cavities; tin is fine. 4-48156 JR299 (8,000-12,000)
PAIR OF MOORE’S PATENT. F.A. CO. BROOKLYN N.Y. FIRST VARIATION DERINGERS. SN 9 & 10. Cal. 41 Short RF. Cased in ONLY KNOWN original cardboard box, note the wooden dowels which hole the guns in place. This is a feature which Colt would later use in their cardboard boxes. This matched pair of First Variations are consecutive SN. Also in accompaniment are the original turn screw cleaning rod combination, which is the only original tool of its type known to the author, and a brass cleaning rod. Also included are the three styles of original ammunition used in these guns including the inverted nipple percussion cartridge, only 3 are known to be in existence by the author, which will fit either gun in this early series. Also included is early center fire shell casing of the very rare Goldmark Cartridge Company (fulminate) of mercury centerfire, which there are only 2 known specimens of, and 1 original short RF cartridge to illustrate the differences between the ammunition. Both guns have the bbl release button on left hand side of frame. Only the first 48 examples of this gun have that special feature. To the author’s knowledge there are less than 15 of these guns known to exist today. Both of these guns were deluxe engraved. At the time of production almost every one of the first 48 had some variation of address. SN 9 has an engraved company legend on bbl flat “D MOORE,S PATENT” and SN 10 has 2 line stamp of “PATENT APPLIED FOR” in an oval engraving covering entire bbl flat. These First Variation Moore’s, which are all centerfire, have a see through vent between bbl and frame recoil shield so that the owner can see, at a glance, if the piece is loaded. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Both guns are engraved alike, even to the starburst over breech, except for company legend. It should be noted here that in these first 48 guns almost every one is different from each other in some form or fashion. At that early stage they were trying to put out guns as quickly as possible and very little standardization was used. The guns retain none of the original, overall silver plate finish. Accompanying box is all original and has had some restoration; labels are all complete both interior and exterior. It should be noted that the label on top of box, the top line started off with “UNION.” It is unknown why this was done and some Southern gentleman did try to mark that out with a pencil, otherwise it is fine. 4-47385 DE7 (25,000-35,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 159928. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marking on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” below the base pin. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. Mounted with spectacular 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side that has diamond eyes and a gold nose ring. Revolver is deluxe engraved by master engraver, Cuno Helfricht, with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the sides of the frame, a large flower blossom on left recoil shield and a smaller one on the loading gate. Sides of hammer slot, top strap & front gullets are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Engraving extends full length on the sides of the bbl with geometric and snake & dot patterns around the address & front sight. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in the top gullet and has a flower blossom centered on the outer radius. Back strap is engraved in a fine fan pattern at the top with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating patterns on the lands between the flutes with a swag pattern between the flutes and multiple border patterns around the rear edge. Accompanied by a wonderful Huey burgundy ultra-suede lined oak & leather trunk casing with brass furniture. Interior is French fitted for the revolver, a fine circa 1849 woodhead cutlery handle clip point California Bowie with 7-3/4″ blade, 11-3/4″ overall, four brass & rosewood implements including a cleaning rod, two turn screws and brush. Also a gold plated oil bottle. Two covered end compartments contain cleaning brush & mop and a small sterling silver demitasse spoon. Inside the lid has a rectangular leather maker’s label embossed in gold. Also accompanied by a Colt factory leather which identifies this revolver in caliber 44-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Andrew Solmon, Agt., W.S.&T. Company, address unavailable, on Dec. 19, 1894 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 97-98% strong professionally restored silver finish, probably by Colt, with only light muzzle end wear and some minor wear on the heel. Grips are crisp with high polish and great fire. Mechanics are fine; strong, bright bore. 4-48169 JR284 (25,000-35,000)
COLT PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 3RD MODEL DERINGER 5TH VARIATION. SN 39391. Cal. .41 Short RF. Gun has “H-3” inside of grip frame. Piece was finished with a silver plated frame and blue bbl and walnut grips. “.41 Cal” stamp on left side frame and Rampant Colt & “C” on right side frame denoting sold in London by Von Oppen to T.W. Watson at #4 Pall Mall, London and these markings are engraved down the backstrap showing it was sold by them. Double dealership markings like this are seldom seen. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: Gun orig finished with silver plated frame and blue bbl. Frame retains only traces of silver in protected areas. Blue bbl, which has normal proofs on bottom, retains 65% or orig bright blue with losses on ejector housing and above due to improper storage. Some wear to muzzle end on left hand side. Hammer retains 75% of orig case color. Trigger retains 50% of orig blue finish but does have some pitting probably cause by finger perspiration years ago. Walnut grips have some small nicks and scratches but are mostly as issued and nearly 100% or orig varnish and bright in color and not oil stained. 4-47472 DE92 (1,400-1,800)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE, POSSIBLY ONE OF A KIND, ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER CUT FOR FIRST TYPE SHOULDER STOCK. SN 59482. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetail front sight with German silver blade and an unusual dovetailed 3-leaf rear sight in the aft end of the top flat which partially obscures the New York City address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. It has usual 6-shot cyl with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated iron large guard trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautiful oil finished, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, two of which terminate in flower blossoms. Hammer also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scales on the top edge & sides of the spur. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. Scrolls on each side of lug terminate in flower blossoms. The top flat is engraved with dash & dot borders around the address and around the muzzle. Top of backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with matching foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Screw heads are all engraved. The backstrap is cut in about the center with two rectangular slots that are about 7/16″ long x 5/32″ wide for the first type shoulder stock, unfortunately the whereabouts of which is currently unknown. The backstrap channel of the grip has corresponding cuts in the wood and the hand scribed matching SN is located near the heel. This may be the only known surviving engraved ’51 Navy revolver cut for first type shoulder stock. Accompanied by a small binder of information regarding this revolver. PROVENANCE: Dr. John M. Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 50-60% mottled blue mixed with flaked, not worn, medium patina; rammer & handle retain dark case colors; frame & hammer also retain dark case colors; cyl is mostly a blue/gray patina and retains 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking; trigger guard & backstrap retain nearly all of their orig silver plating, showing a little wear around the slots in the backstrap. Grip is sound with sharp edges showing light wear and retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. This is truly an exceptional & rare Navy unlikely to ever be encountered again. 4-46435 JR104 (40,000-70,000)
MASTERFUL ARNOLD GRIEBEL ENGRAVED COLT DRAGOON REVOLVER. SN 2484. Cal. 44. Reproduction percussion revolver representing a 2nd Model Colt Dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City right hand address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the square back gold plated trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip. Revolver has full coverage, spectacular foliate engraving with fine pearled or punch dot background on the frame and cyl with nearly full coverage on the bbl & bbl lug. The rammer pivot, trigger guard & backstrap are engraved to match. Screw heads & tips are also engraved. Frame & recoil lugs are outlined in gold wire inlay as are both sides of the bbl lug and flats of the octagonal section with two gold bands around the muzzle. There is also gold wire inlay on rammer pivot. Cyl has a gold band at front & rear edges with gold wire outline around the lands between the nipple recesses. Trigger guard & backstrap are beautifully gold plated. Bottom of frame is engraved with the following inscription “ENGR. BY / A. GRIEBEL / CHICAGO”. Accompanied by a custom mahogany casing with brown velvet lining compartmented in bottom for the revolver, spaces for a flask, mold & cap tin. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Retains all of its wonderful bright custom blue and brilliant gold plating. Grip is equally new. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, moderately pitted. Case is sound, missing one brass corner of the lid with usual nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of its custom red finish; interior is crisp & clean. 4-46215 (5,500-8,500)
EXTREMELY RARE COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 8875. Cal. 38 CF. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left front web of the trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. Revolver is a Richards-Mason style conversion that has a loading gate in the conversion ring and ejector housing attached to the right side of the bbl lug. Ejector rod head is half moon shape and probably a period of use replacement. Revolver is mounted with orig Tiffany grip that has Civil War battle scene vignettes on each side with a large shield & trophy of arms on the back strap and an empty initial oval near the top. Butt cap is a wonderful bas-relief American eagle clutching arrows in its talons. Grip cap & grip have last three digits of matching SN. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend onto the bbl and each side of the muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved in a rope & foliate pattern and the cyl in matching foliate arabesque patterns with a running vine border around the rear edge. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. SN on the bbl lug & trigger guard are accompanied by a small punch dot indicating that this revolver was to receive extra polish for engraving and/or plating and it appears that this revolver was originally silver plated. Accompanied by two pages copied from a Jackson Arms catalog which illustrate this revolver as one of a pair, the other of which is SN “9200”. The description of this pair states that they “went out of the factory as a pair”. The description also states “At the moment we can think of only one other such pair of guns in existence”. A note from a subsequent owner indicates that this catalog was from the 1965-1975 period. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 2,200 of these rare revolvers were produced in the mid-1870s and it appears that this one was one of the civilian model 1861 Navy percussion revolvers which was returned to the factory for conversion. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered. Traces of orig silver remain, being mostly a smooth gray metal patina overall; hammer nose is lightly pitted on both sides; trigger guard retains about 25% orig silver with the balance a medium mustard patina. Tiffany grip retains about 75% silver plating in the sheltered areas with the raised areas showing brass & copper finish; buttcap retains most of its orig silver turned dark. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. A truly exceptional & rare Colt. 4-48162 JR304 (30,000-40,000)
2ND VARIATION 3RD MODEL COLT, SN 994. SN 994. 41 cal. short-rim fire. This style Deringer was manufactured up to serial number 2400, then the frame-style was changed to make it stronger. (A copy of Eberhart’s article which appeared in “Man At Arms” magazine can be furnished to show how this transition came about. Subtracting the first style variations, which numbered 500 total, that leaves 1,900 of this rare second variation. This variation also retains the very rare pot-bellied or ‘bubble’ frame and high hammer as well as the tight-curve grip. Through Mr. Eberhart’s research we can find no other engraved gun of this variation. PROVENANCE: L.D. Eberhart Collection. CONDITION: This gun which is New York style, class C engraved bears a number of the L.D. Nimschke-style engraving patterns. The frame retains 70%+ of its orig silver plate, screw heads and trigger retain traces of their orig blue. The high hammer retains 50% of its orig case color. The bbl retains 50% of its bright blue. The ivory grips which are orig to the gun are panel checkered. The screw-head and end tip both have bright fire blue. The ivory grips are perfect as issued and have mellowed over the years, more so on one side than the other because of storage. This gun is reputed to be by most advanced Colt Deringer collectors to be the finest example known of this variation. 4-47429 DE49 (12,000-15,000)
EXTREMELY RARE & UNUSUAL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 48487. Cal. 45 Colt. Unusual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl with a rare special order silver front sight and 1-line small block letter address. It has 2nd type ejector housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard the caliber marking. Grip frame & grips are extremely unusual, resembling a Model 1878 DA revolver grip with a large hump at top of backstrap with rounded heel. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap with four digits of matching SN “8486” on bottom of bbl under ejector housing which is probably an assembler’s mistake. Cyl has the last three digits of SN “486”, the “6” has been overstamped with a “7”. Grips are equally unusual. They are highly figured, checkered walnut with matching hump near top back edges and a swelled heel area. Inside right grip is the pencil number “8” with balance of numbers obscured. The backstrap is engraved in period script “Mountaineer”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt, bbl length & type of stocks not listed, blue finish, under special features: “equipped with a silver sight 1/8″ higher than usual and stocks same as the double action”, shipped to William Crapo, address unavailable on June 10, 1878 in a 4-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a short note which is not related to this revolver, over the signature of “Wm. W. Crapo”. Additionally accompanied by a photograph purported to be of Mr. Crapo and two pictures of Mount Whitney in the Sierra Nevada Mtns of CA. The competition to be the first to climb Mount Whitney, at the time the highest peak in the United States, was fierce in the early 1870s. Crapo is said to have been one of the first, if not the first, to stand at the summit in late August 1873 and also guided the first woman to reach the summit in August 1878. Twenty years later, William Crapo’s character again appeared in a news item, but this time under less favorable circumstances. On January 5, 1893, the Inyo Register reports that Crapo had been charged with murdering the postmaster at Cerro Gordo. Apparently the murder was the result of a minor election dispute. Perhaps this Colt was the murder weapon. CONDITION: About good, bbl & cyl numbers as noted above. No orig finish remains being an overall mottled gray/brown patina with scattered surface rust and some fine pitting; cyl has some scattered nicks & dings and moderate pitting. Grips are sound showing heavy wear with a dark hand worn patina. Hammer will not hold in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with good rifling and very fine pitting. It is thought that the 4 guns in this order are the only examples of the DA frame application to the SAA revolver. 4-46363 JR194 (7,500-12,500)
Correction: The catalog estimates should read (20,000-30,000).
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 110384. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contains a fine, varnished, burl walnut 1-pc grip whose number is obscured in the backstrap channel. Frame has full coverage, very fine Gustave Young engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. One of the scrolls on the right side terminates in a flower blossom. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug, top side flats of the bbl and rammer pivot. One scroll on the left side of the bbl lug terminates in a dog’s head and another on the right side terminates in a flower blossom. Hammer has received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with an engraved wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scales on the spur and top edge. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard have matching engraving with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern at the top of the backstrap. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and four of the five safety pins serviceable. Accompanied by a very rare, brass bound Kidder mahogany casing with brown velvet lining, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a dbl-sided eagle & stars flask, a brass 28 caliber 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, L-shaped screwdriver, a packet of combustible cartridges and several cast lead balls. The top back edge of the case bottom is marked “MANUFACTURED / SOLELY BY W. KIDDER” and “PATENT APR 1854”. Kidder cases closely resemble Colt casings with the addition of a compartment in the front for a cleaning rod. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip, as noted, however there is little doubt that this is the orig grip to this revolver. Bbl retains about 94-95% glossy orig blue with only sharp edge wear; rammer & handle retain faded case colors, mostly on the pivot; frame retains traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas, mostly having faded to silver, as has the hammer; cyl retains traces of blue being mostly a silver/gray patina and shows about 95% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking; trigger guard & backstrap retain about 98% strong orig silver plating with sharp edge wear on trigger plate & heel. Grip is sound with light edge wear, a few light nicks & scratches and retains nearly all of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case has a hole in the bottom in opposite corners with a couple of small gouges in the lid, otherwise is completely sound with usual storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded with moderate soil in the bottom and with damage from the front sight, hammer spur and rammer pivot; flask retains about 90% orig finish on the body with the collar & spout a dark mustard patina; mold has a few nicks & dings, otherwise is fine; cartridge packet is very fine as is the screwdriver. 4-46696 JR173 (20,000-30,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE DA REVOLVER. SN 36012. Cal. 38 Spcl. Nickel & gold finish with 4″ bbl, half moon front sight with 2-line address and model & caliber markings on left side. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Cuno Helfricht, in about 50-60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns with a leaf & vine pattern on lower left side of frame below cyl opening. Foliate arabesque patterns extend on each side of bbl boss and up both sides of bbl. Rear edge of frame has dot patterns on each side of hammer slot with a sunburst back of hammer slot & geometric patterns on backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes. Cyl, hammer, trigger & ejector rod are gold washed making this a truly very rare Colt revolver. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38 Spcl. with 4″ bbl, nickel finish with “gold plated cyl, hammer & trigger”, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Powell & Clement Co., Cincinnati, OH on Jan. 18, 1911 in a 2-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig nickel with some very minor flaking on front strap and backstrap. Cyl, trigger & hammer retain 50-60% orig gold wash. Right grip has a tiny chip in the heel, otherwise grips are sound with good fire and color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-46065 JR200 (7,500-12,500)
*NIMSCHKE STYLE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 188022. Cal.41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with modern replacement 2-pc ivory grips with Colt silver medallions and lightly carved foliate arabesque patterns on heels. Revolver is engraved in L.D. Nimschke style patterns with about “B” coverage having foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on sides with a wonderful fan and foliate pattern on recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake and dash patterns with foliate arabesque patterns extending over sides of bbl. Ejector housing has snake and dash pattern in top gullet with wonderful foliate arabesque and diamond pattern on outer radius. Top of backstrap is engraved with a fan pattern like Mr. Nimschke’s typical style with geometric patterns down backstrap. Trigger bow is engraved with very fine detailed Hunter’s star. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with feather and straight line border on rear edge. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, overall retains about all of its modern, custom, bright nickel finish, probably unfired since engraving; grips are sound with an artificially aged patina; hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-44718 JR273 (4,000-6,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT THIRD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA18992. Cal 45 Colt. Bbl 7-1/2″. This desirable custom shop revolver is ornamented with class D factory engraving having full nickel finish. Stocks are of ivory with gold “Colt Custom” medallions. Original box with foam liners has chartreuse custom shop label and contains congratulatory letter, warning tag and paperwork. Accompanying the gun is a Colt Industries Firearms Division letter confirming features of the gun as described and stating shipped to Cherrys Sporting Goods, Geneseo, IL. Date of shipment, April 19, 1982. CONDITION: This custom revolver is in as new condition and appears to be unfired. 4-46589 (4,000-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT WELLS FARGO MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 115960. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 3″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver has full frame coverage spectacular Gustave Young engraving in his most deluxe patterns of foliate arabesque scrolls with fine punch dot background. Large scroll on left side of frame terminates in a dog’s head with a flower blossom in a scroll on left recoil shield and another flower blossom on right side of frame. Engraving extends onto the bbl lug with very fine foliate arabesque scrolls, one of which on each side terminates in Mr. Young’s dog’s head and another on each side with a flower blossom. There is a zig zag border around the muzzle. Sides of hammer have received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on each the shank and fish scale patterns on the of spur and top edge. Tip of hammer spur is hand checkered. Top of backstrap, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard have Mr. Young’s typical engraving patterns. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and four of the five safety pins serviceable. Accompanied by an extremely rare, orig Colt mahogany casing for this model of revolver. It is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a very early dbl sided American eagle flask, a very early, Baby Dragoon style 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” brass mold without sprue cutter, a orig brass & iron cleaning rod, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps & several cast lead bullets & balls. According to Colt’s Pocket ’49, It’s Evolution, Jordan & Watt, there were a total of about 8,000 Wells Fargo style revolvers produced in a variety of serial ranges with an extremely rare few engraved, and of those, extraordinarily few were cased. Information on pp. 66 & 67 states that research for this book disclosed that the authors had encountered only two engraved pieces and had only examined five Wells Fargo revolvers with cases. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains traces of blue in sheltered areas being mostly a dark plum/brown patina; frame, hammer & cyl are matching patina with cyl retaining about 93-95% stagecoach holdup scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their strong, black oxidized silver finish. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & scratches showing light edge wear and retains most of its orig varnish. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig finish; interior is moderately to heavily faded in the lid with moderate soil and one chemical stain; bottom is heavily faded & soiled with partitions intact; flask is a medium brass patina; mold is extremely fine with a dark brass patina; other accessories are fine. Altogether an extraordinarily rare set, unlikely to ever be encountered again. 4-46697 JR151 (20,000-35,000)
FINE AND IMPORTANT CUNO A. HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER, SILVER- AND GOLD-PLATED WITH ONE-PIECE IVORY GRIPS , WITH EXHIBITION GRADE EMBELLISHMENTS. SN 56286. .45 cal, 7-1/2″ bbl with one-line maker and Hartford address marking on top; “45 CAL” on left side of front bow of triggerguard; three-line three patent date marking on left side of frame; silver-plated with gold-plated cyl, hammer and ejector rod housing; blued screws, cyl pin, ejector rod head and trigger; one-piece ivory grips. Profusely and finely scroll and border engraved on barrel, ejector rod housing, cyl, frame and gripstraps; ejector rod housing also with zig-zag lines and punched dot motifs; sunburst motif on top flat of backstrap. Note last four digits of serial number, 6286, on cyl within riband, in line with one of the flutes. Included is a Colt factory letter stating revolver left factory with silver finish and gold-finished cyl, ejector and hammer. Ivory grips. It was shipped on July 5, 1880 in a shipment of one gun to C.E. Gildea. CONDITION: Fine. 85% silver-plating, with tarnish, blemish near muzzle; light wear and spots patina; 75% gold,light wear and patina;50% blue; engraving sharp; grips very good to fine, rich, mellow patina; minor chipping and wear at butt and cracks visible on butt of grips. See R.L. Wilson, The Colt Engraving Book, volume I, chapter 10, page 416, where this revolver is pictured in color, with detailed description, identifying the work as by Cuno A. Helfricht himself. Wilson’s The Colt Engraving Book, volume I, page 416, notes: “Considered one of the finest prewar Single Action Army revolvers known.” 4-46567 JDJ52 (75,000-85,000)
OUTSTANDING RARE EARLY EXHIBITION QUALITY ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 PERCUSSION REVOLVER BELIEVED TO BE PART OF THE CRYSTAL PALACE ADMINISTRATION OF 1851. SN 5597. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetail front sight with bead and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in an unusual position. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautifully figured, burl walnut, varnished 1-pc grip with last three digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Revolver is engraved in donut style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns and a small cross-hatched panel on each side, all with shaded background. Engraving extends over bbl lug and onto the rammer pivot with a fine border around the muzzle. Hammer is engraved to match. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match. All screw heads are lightly engraved in matching patterns. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and five of the safety pins mostly serviceable. Cylinder has the SN “5279” (this is possibly a workman error when the stamps were applied?), the cyl arbor is unnumbered and the wedge is numbered “471”. Accompanied by an 1851 London Expo large bronze medal and a smaller 1851 silver Expo medal. The Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations of the Great Exhibition or also known as the Crystal Palace Exhibition took place in Hyde Park London, from May 1 to October 15, 1851. The SN implies that this would have been done in time for that and it is generally believed by a number of Colt aficionados that some of these Model 51’s ended up in the British empire as a result of the Crystal Palace Exhibition. It is known that the Colt 1851 Exhibition guns were not required to be British proofed if they were exported after the Exhibition. According to Dr. Pickup this specific gun was purchased from an eminent Australian family who before selling the gun removed the owners name, not wishing for anyone to be aware that their family was “now hard up”. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 80-85% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and light flaking; rammer retains faded case colors in sheltered areas being mostly turned silver; frame & hammer are a gray metal color; cyl is a cleaned gray metal color with a few large scratches and overall retains 65-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene; trigger guard retains about all of its strong orig silver and the backstrap about 60% silver. Grip is sound with light edge wear ad retains about all of its crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. The large bronze medal has several dings around edges and shows moderate wear; silver medal has a hole in the top edge showing very light wear. 4-46441 JR144 (22,500-32,500)
FINE ARNOLD GRIEBEL ENGRAVED PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 2484. Cal. 44. Reproduction percussion revolver representing a 2nd Model Colt Dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City right hand address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the squareback gold plated trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip. Revolver has full coverage, spectacular foliate engraving with fine punch dot background on the frame and cyl with nearly full coverage on the bbl & bbl lug. The rammer pivot, trigger guard & backstrap are engraved to match. Screw heads & tips are also engraved. Frame & recoil lugs are outlined in gold wire inlay as are both sides of the bbl lug and flats of the octagonal section with two gold bands around muzzle. There is also gold wire inlay on rammer pivot. Cyl has a gold band at the front & rear edges with gold wire outline around the lands between the nipple recesses. Trigger guard & backstrap are beautifully gold plated. Bottom of frame is engraved with the following inscription “ENGR. BY / A. GRIEBEL / CHICAGO”. Accompanied by a custom mahogany casing with brown velvet lining compartmented in bottom for the revolver, space for a flask, mold & cap tin. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Retains all of its wonderful bright custom blue and brilliant gold plating. Grip is equally new. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, moderately pitted. Case is sound, missing one brass corner of the lid with usual nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of its custom red finish; interior is crisp & clean. 4-46215 JR233 (8,000-12,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 268350. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with an outstanding factory 1-pc pearl grip with raised carved eagle & shield on right side. Grip is constructed from two pieces of pearl attached to a wooden spacer block. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with full coverage on the frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on sides, Mr. Helfricht’s typical sunburst on left recoil shield and a large flower blossom on loading gate. Bottom front gullet is engraved in diamond & dot patterns with a flower blossom around the crossbolt on left side and a foliate spray on ejector housing boss. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with foliate arabesque patterns on bbl boss with matching patterns extending 4/5 of the length of bbl on each side. Top of bbl is engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with multiple borders around rear edge. Backstrap is engraved in typical Helfricht patterns. Left side of front strap & backstrap, under the grip, bottom of bbl, under ejector housing, inside radius of ejector housing and front face of cyl are stamped with assembly number “189”. This signifies that this revolver was returned to Colt for refinishing. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, carved American eagle motif pearl grips, factory engraved and sold to “Morgan Company” and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on May 26, 1905 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its bright factory restored finish with only slight softening of the engraving. Grip is extraordinary with no visible flaws retaining great fire. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-46066 JR192 (20,000-30,000)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 14787. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, replaced German silver front sight with 1-line New York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with small “COLTS PATENT”. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a replacement, spectacular burl walnut 1-pc grip that has the SN spuriously penciled in backstrap channel. Revolver is engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke, in his distinctive large scrolls with full coverage on the frame which extends over the sides of bbl lug and on top of bbl with light flourishes on each side of muzzle. Top of backstrap has Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive fan pattern with diamond & dot center. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The last four digits of SN on the cyl appear to have been re-stamped or changed to their current number. “COLT” in “COLTS PATENT” on the frame is also re-stamped. Wedge is numbered “2075”. Accompanied by a fine, orig, blue velvet lined, mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a silver plated stars & trophy of arms and flags Navy size flask with angled spout, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an open packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a wonderful sealed mottled paper coverd tin of 250 Eley’s caps, a pewter oil bottle and a wooden screw-top bits box containing five spare nipples. CONDITION: About fine, matching except as noted above. Bbl retains traces of silver finish in sheltered areas, being mostly bright polished metal; frame also retains traces of silver finish; cyl has been polished and retains about 70-75% refinished silver and about 30% thin Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain thin silver finish with brass tone showing through. Grip is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its custom finish. Mechanics are fine, dark heavily pitted bore. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and a couple of small gouges in the lid and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is moderately faded with light soil; flask has several tiny nicks & scratches and a dent and retains strong silver, possibly an old restoration; mold is fine with verdigris on inside; cap tin is extremely fine; cartridge packet & other accessories are also fine. 4-46515 JR104 (7,500-12,500)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 312463. Cal. 357 Mag. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ custom bbl with thick Partridge type front sight and cal marking on left side. Top strap sight groove has been widened to accommodate the custom front sight. Left side of frame has 2-line patent date and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. Frame has been altered by having the firing pin hole plugged with a frame mounted, spring loaded firing pin and the hammer face altered to accommodate this modification. Revolver is nicely custom engraved with about 75% coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background and a raised gold longhorn steer head on each side of frame. Each side of bbl boss and ejector boss are engraved in flower blossoms with foliate arabesque patterns on top strap and top of bbl. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in feather patterns. Back strap has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is nicely engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a wide band of feather patterns around the rear edge. Cyl is custom made with rebated chambers. Right front web of trigger guard has what is probably the engraver’s initials “RD”. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish, probably unfired since engraving; hammer retains strong case colors; grips are sound with fine age lines and retain a mellow ivory patina; mechanics are fine; brilliant shiny bore. 4-44719 JR267 (3,000-5,000)
*FINE HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA06284. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. SN was observed on the frame & left sides of front & backstraps, under the grip. Left side of buttstrap is engraved “HOWARD M DOVE ENGR.” following Mr. Dove’s name is an engraved “2v”. Mounted with 2-pc rampant Colt eagle grips numbered to this revolver. Engraved in about B-coverage of well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with very detailed foliate patterns on top strap and in the ejector rod housing top gullet. Engraving extends over the bbl and each side of muzzle with matching patterns on the outer radius of the ejector housing, on backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Cyl is engraved on the lands between the flutes, also with matching patterns and has a foliate border around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved “YES, CUSTOM BY COLT MASTER ENGRAVER HOWARD DOVE”. The recipient and address are unavailable. It was shipped on June 15, 1979 in a 1-gun shipment. A second Colt factory letter, over the signature of Marty Huber Colt Historian Emeritis, states also that this revolver was engraved by Howard Dove, “HIS SECOND ENGRAVED GUN IN THE EMPLOY OF THE COLT COMPANY, AS NOTED NEXT TO HIS SIGNATURE”. Additionally accompanied by a fine custom shop, red velvet lined Colt casing, French fitted in bottom for the revolver with a small covered compartment containing a functioning key. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains nearly 100% crisp orig factory finish with bright blues & brilliant case colors. Grips are sound and show no wear. Revolver is new and unturned. 4-46595 JR210 (7,500-12,500)
CASED INSCRIBED EARLY COLT BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 171. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and having incorrect or restamped bbl markings 2-line New-York City address with brackets. Frame has forward located “COLT’S PATENT” on the left side and the silver plated square back brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last three digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “H.F. BISSELL”. Cyl is usual 5-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene, rnd cyl stop notches and one safety pin which is battered. Cyl arbor is early type with cupped tip and no grease grooves. Right recoil shield has a capping cutout and it has a Type I hammer face. Hammer is early style without roller and it has a flat hammer spring with Type I Boss. Accompanied by an extremely rare casket burl walnut casing with empty silver shield in the lid. Interior is brown velvet lined with Paterson style recesses in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided “COLTS PATENT” early eagle flask, a “COLTS PATENT” brass 2-cavity bullet & ball Baby Dragoon bullet mold, an L-shape nipple wrench and a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Bottom front edge of case has an iron mortised lock with wooden shield shaped escutcheon. Bottom of case is covered in dark paper. Henry F. Bissell was a Union soldier who enlisted as a Corporal in Company C, Connecticut 14th Infantry on 30, July, 1862 and was mustered in on 20, August, 1862. On 13, July, 1863 he transferred to Company F, 3rd Veteran Reserve Corps, and was discharged on July 6, 1865. He was promoted to Sergeant on February 9, 1863. The 14th Connecticut participated in the Battles of Antietam, MD on September 17, 1862; Fredricksburg on December 13, 1862 and was the first division to charge the stone wall at Marye’s Hill. It fought again on May 1 through 3, 1863 at Chancellorsville and again at Gettysburg July 2nd and 3rd. On the July 2 they were stationed at the center of the 2nd Corps and on July 3 repulsed Longstreet’s Charge, capturing 5 battle flags and over 200 prisoners. In the afternoon of July 3, 1863 this 8 companies of this regiment captured the large brick barn and house of William Bliss which were nearly half a mile forward of the Union lines and held them until ordered to burn the buildings, during which time they suffered several casualties. On July 6 the regiment began the pursuit of Lee’s army and were engaged at Falling Waters, Maryland. It was during this time that Sgt. Bissell was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, which means that during one of the early July battles he was severely wounded and unfit for active service. PROVENANCE: Jim Handy (2004); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip, cyl spindle is not numbered. Bbl retains about 85% thinning orig blue. Frame retains dark orig case colors, more faded on the recoil shields. Hammer retains dark case colors on sides and rear edge with the top edge turned brown and light pitting around hammer nose. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating with some slight losses on trigger bow and light bubbling on backstrap. Cyl is a medium gray patina and retains 80-85% Ranger/Indian fight scene roll marking. Grip is sound with some hammer marks on bottom edges and a large bruise on left side at the frame and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with dark pitting in the grooves. Case has a few grain checks in bottom otherwise is sound with usual storage & handling light nicks & scratches and overall retains a cleaned varnish finish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with some staining in the lid & bottom from the revolver and flask. Flask retains most of its orig finish on the body with 60-70% orig polish on collar and about 50% on spout, which is a Dixon & Sons replacement. Mold has numerous light nicks & dings but is completely sound with clean cavities and retains a dark mustard patina. Nipple wrench is lightly pitted and cap tin is fine. As noted above, the bbl markings are incorrect. 4-45371 (10,000-20,000)
FINE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 126414. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking is on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with full coverage on the frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on sides, sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate with small sunbursts on each side of the ejector boss and cyl pin boss. Bottom front frame gullets have zig zag and snake & dot patterns. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with extensive foliate arabesque patterns over both sides of bbl and around front sight at the muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns in the top gullet & outer radius. Cyl is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive alternating sunburst and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake & dot border around rear edge. Cyl is gold plated. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive fan pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger bow. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish with gilt cyl, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co., St. Louis, MO on June 28, 1888 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks the company reports that there is another revolver with the same SN listed as caliber 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish & rubber stocks shipped to the San Francisco Agency on May 31, 1888. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl, frame & ejector housing retain virtually all of their strong orig nickel finish with some slight sharp edge & high point losses; trigger guard & buttstrap retain most of their strong orig nickel with some fine flaking on the front strap; backstrap is a gray metal patina; cyl retains about 93-95% gold plating. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-46067 JR198 (40,000-70,000)
RARE NEW SOUTH WALES NAVAL BRIGADE MARKED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 167425. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, blued steel squared post front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard the caliber marking. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene. Bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. The silver plated large guard brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip that has an illegible number in backstrap channel. Grip fits near perfect so there is little doubt that this is the orig grip. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “NAVAL BRIGADE N.S.W. / NO 43”. According to ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze, at the time of writing this book in 1967 there was only one other Colt Navy so marked. The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, also shows that the New South Wales Naval Brigade purchased Colt ’51 Navies but has no additional information. Undoubtedly revolvers so marked should be considered very rare. The New South Wales Naval Brigade was formed in 1854 for the defense of Sydney with the outbreak of the Crimean War. Initially they had no ships and didn’t get one until 1855. In 1863 they had 120 men assigned and in 1864 it consisted of five companies with an overall strength of 200 men. Their only ship was sold in 1859 and they had no ships until the late 1870s when the government built two torpedo boats and another was acquired in 1882. The Naval Brigade continued to add members reaching a total strength of 614 men when they were federalized for the Boxer Rebellion. 300 men of the Brigade were sent to China but arrived mostly after the action was over. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except rammer handle which is unnumbered and probably a period of use replacement; bbl retains about 75% orig blue with scattered spots of moderate pitting; rammer retains smoky case colors on the pivot; frame is a cleaned metal patina with scattered pitting; hammer retains dark case colors; cyl is a gray/brown patina with scattered fine pitting and overall retains about 60% Naval battle scene; exposed areas of trigger guard & backstrap are a medium to dark mustard patina. Grip has a chipped left toe and shows moderate edge wear with light nicks & scratches and overall retains 65-70% dark orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-46409 (12,000-18,000)
Additional Information: We believe this is a Tommy Haas gun.
ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 12406. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, 1-line New-York City address and German silver front sight. Frame engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in diagonal ribbon. Silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is usual 6-shots with dragoon Indian fight scene and “MODEL U.S.M.R. / COLT’S PATENT” panels surrounding the SN. All 6 safety pins are crisp and serviceable. Frame is beautifully engraved in early style large donut scrolls with fine shaded backgrounds and feather borders around the recoil shields and hammer slot. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top flats with a matching pattern on top of bbl and matching patterns on rammer pivot and each end of the wedge. Hammer is also beautifully engraved with donut scrolls on the shank and a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Sides with hammer spur and top edge are engraved in fish scale patterns with hand checkered spur. Flat behind hammer slot is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern that has diamond and dot center and donut scrolls down backstrap and on the buttstrap with matching patterns on trigger guard. Screw heads and tips are also engraved. This is a really beautiful, master engraved revolver. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl and cyl retain most of their fine strong blue, lightly thinned on bbl. Frame, hammer, rammer and handle retain about all of their brilliant case colors. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about all of their silver plating, beginning to oxidize. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks and scratches and retains virtually all of its strong varnish finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-46059 JR396 (5,000-10,000)
*RARE PRE-WAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 357177. Cal. 357 Magnum. Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with spectacular 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved steerhead on right side that has red stone eyes. Revolver is factory engraved by master engraver, Wilbur Glahn, in his distinctive foliate & floral patterns with his trademark “V” on the left recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in foliate patterns with a flower blossom on right side of bbl boss. Bbl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the sides with foliate patterns around address and on ejector housing. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved with leaf & vine patterns. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are lightly engraved. Cyl is engraved with foliate & floral patterns on the lands between the flutes. SN was observed on bottom of frame & right side of front & backstraps under the grip. Rear face of cyl is stamped with last two digits of matching SN. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which states that there is no shipping record on this revolver, however the production book shows that it was manufactured as a 357 Magnum and factory engraved on Feb. 27, 1940 and sent to the shipping room on March 30, 1940. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl & ejector housing retain 96-97% strong orig factory blue with light muzzle end wear; frame retains about all of its strong orig case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas, faded on recoil shield & top strap; trigger guard & buttstrap retain about all of their strong orig blue with backstrap lightly thinned; cyl retains 96-97% strong orig blue with only sharp edge wear. Grips are crisp and show great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-46565 (25,000-30,000)
Correction: The catalog estimates should read (25,000-35,000).
CASED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER PRESENTED TO “GEN. G. GARCIA”. SN 790. Cal. 44. Silver finish with 8″ rnd bbl, altered German silver front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT” that is hand engraved. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with short stock screws. The silver plated trigger guard & iron backstrap contain a 1-pc ivory grip with relief carved Mexican eagle on left side. Backstrap is engraved “Gen. G. Garcia” in a geometric panel. Cyl is full fluted with all six safety pins crisp and are probably replacements. Accompanied by an orig burgundy lined mahogany Colt casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an orig “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms Kriegs Marine ’51 Navy flask furnished to the Austrian Navy in the 1859/1860 order of 1,000 Navy revolvers, a “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball blued steel mold with sprue cutter stamped with a “C” on right side, a packet of skin cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Gen. Guadeloupe Garcia was commandant of the line of the Bravo Matamoroas, Mexico in 1860, and at that time was in communication with Capt. John Ford of the Texas Rangers and Robert E. Lee who was stationed in Texas, (prior to the Civil War). Communications involved a matter concerning a notorious outlaw from Mexico by the name of Juan N. Cortinas who had been crossing the border, robbing and pillaging American citizens. CONDITION: Revolver retains about 95% restored silver finish with wear around muzzle, front & back straps; hammer retains strong case colors on right side, faded & turning silver elsewhere; chambers of the cyl have been cleaned and show no evidence of having been fired; trigger guard retains strong silver with front strap dark brass patina; backstrap & buttstrap retain about 50% silver with the exposed metal a dark patina; buttstrap screw is a replacement with cold blued head and appears to be glued in place, cannot be removed. Grip has a repaired crack on right rear edge with numerous age lines and retains a fine worn patina with one small chip in the carving. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and a couple more in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded and soiled with a few spots of damage in the lid lining with solid partitions; flask has a few small dents and a repaired seam and overall retains a dark mustard patina; mold retains 65-70% orig blue; other accessories are fine. 4-46662 JR410 (25,000-35,000)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 231851. Cal. 357 Mag. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ custom bbl with thick Partridge type front sight and cal marking on left side. Top strap sight groove has been widened to accommodate the custom front sight. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. Frame has been altered by having the firing pin hole plugged with a frame mounted, spring loaded firing pin and the hammer face altered to accommodate this modification. Revolver is nicely custom engraved with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background and a raised gold longhorn steer head on each side of frame. Each side of bbl boss and ejector boss are engraved in flower blossoms with foliate arabesque patterns on top strap and top of bbl. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in feather patterns. Back strap has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is nicely engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a wide band of feather patterns around the rear edge. Cyl is custom made with rebated chambers. Right front web of trigger guard has what is probably the engraver’s initials “RD”. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish, probably unfired since engraving; hammer retains strong case colors; grips are sound with fine age lines and retain a mellow ivory patina; right grip has a plugged hole; mechanics are fine; brilliant shiny bore. 4-44720 JR266 (3,000-5,000)
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 6751. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 6″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line Hartford address and crisp “COLT D.A. 41″ etched panel on left side. All the screws, base pin, trigger & edges of hammer are bright fire blued. Mounted with orig factory smooth pearl grips that are matching numbered on the inside. Frame is beautifully engraved in flowing foliate arabesque patterns with about 80% coverage. Top strap is engraved with leaf & vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl with a geometric pattern forward of the address on top. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in a snake & dot pattern. Back of the hammer slot on the backstrap and down the backstrap are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved between the flutes with foliate arabesque patterns and a snake pattern in the flutes with a chip & dot pattern border around rear edge. Left rear web of trigger guard is stamped with a caliber marking. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 with 6” bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to B. Kittredge Arms Co., Cincinnati, OH on June 10, 1878 in a 2-gun shipment. Model 1877 revolvers are rarely found with high orig finish as they were very popular in their day and usually saw very hard service on the American frontier with infrequent or no maintenance. History records numerous individuals on both sides of the law carrying this model of revolver including Billy the Kid and others. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig nickel finish with no evidence of ever having been fired; all the screws, base pin, trigger & hammer retain most of their orig bright fire blue, somewhat thinned on the trigger. Grips have one tiny chip in left rear edge, otherwise are completely sound with a yellowed stain near the top edges and otherwise retain great fire & iridescent colors. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-46387 JR110 (30,000-50,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1855 NO. 2 ROOT SIDEHAMMER PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 2016. Cal. 28. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, pointing hand motif address with 5-shot cyl that has the cabin/Indian fight scene roll marking. Mounted with deluxe, burl walnut, varnished, 1-pc grip matching numbered to this revolver. SN is on the buttstrap, bottom flat of bbl & cyl. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided Root sized eagle & stars flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with bright steel sprue cutter, an L-shaped screwdriver, a wood handled steel cleaning rod/ramrod with brass ferrule, a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, bullets & balls. Revolver is very nicely engraved by Gustave Young in somewhat unusual patterns with about 40% coverage, very fine, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in wavelet patterns. Engraving extends over the bbl lug area & onto rammer pivot. Backstrap, buttstrap & bottom of frame are engraved to match. This revolver with its case & accessories is pictured, in color, on p. 140 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson, with credit to the Gregory A. Lampe Collection. PROVENANCE: Gregory A. Lampe Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Revolver retains 92-94% glossy orig blue on bbl & frame with the hammer retaining dark case colors; cyl is a smooth light brown patina and retains about 95% cabin/Indian fight scene; grip is sound with a couple of very minor chips in the finish and overall retains about all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and a couple more in bottom with usual handling & storage light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded inside the lid with light to moderate soil in the bottom with solid partitions; flask retains about 90% strong orig finish; mold appears to be new & unused; other accessories are fine. 4-47012 (10,000-17,500)
Additional Information: The corrected estimate should be $100,000-$150,000.
RARE ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 117074. Cal. 45 Colt. Rare black powder frame, blue & color case hardened single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, front sight with an added German silver blade and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. It has 3rd type ejector housing with half moon ejector rod head and is mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a large raised carved steer head on right side along with the initials “JSD”. Revolver is engraved from the Cuno Helfricht shop with about 65-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and Mr. Helfricht’s fan patterns on the left recoil shield, loading gate and top flat of backstrap. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns which are also in the top gullet of ejector housing and on outer radius. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over sides of bbl with geometric patterns around address. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger bow are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved on the lands between the flutes in typical Helfricht patterns of alternating foliate arabesque patterns and sunbursts with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to J.P. Lower & Sons, Denver, CO, on April 9, 1886 in a 1-gun shipment. Any engraved black powder frame single action with blued finish surviving today is a great rarity and to find one with strong orig finish is an extreme rarity. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, grips & cyl are unnumbered. Bbl retains about 60% orig blue showing holster wear on the sides that is a smooth medium to dark patina; ejector housing retains bright blue in the gullets with a matching patina on outer radius; frame retains about 60% orig case colors, strong in sheltered areas, turned dark elsewhere; hammer retains strong, bright case colors on sides and rear edge, turned dark on top edge; trigger guard & front strap retain 75-80% orig blue turned plummy on toe & trigger bow; top flat of backstrap retains bright blue with backstrap & buttstrap plum patina; cyl retains strong blue in the flutes with one spot of pitting in one flute; outer diameter retains a thin plummy blue patina with one area of fine pin prick rust; grips, probably not orig to this revolver, have a chip in each rear edge and a chipped left heel with rust stains on top left side, otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Engraved Black Powder Colts w/blue finish are very rare. 4-46945 (100,000-150,000)
VERY FINE CASED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY HARTFORD/LONDON THUER CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 154425. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the caliber marking. The blued steel trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. All SNs on bottom of revolver & buttstrap are accompanied by a small “L” which indicates this revolver was destined for the London market. The cyl is a standard Thuer conversion with the assembly number “42” on both pieces. Accompanied by an orig Model 1860 percussion cyl that has the SN “4556”. Bbl & both cyls have British proofs. Also accompanied by an orig oak casing with brass medallion in the lid, engraved in period script “J.R. Morewood, Esq.”. Interior is green baize lined with a “COLT’S PALL MALL AGENCY” directions label in the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, the spare cyl, a 2-cavity blued steel “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “44H” and a small “W” proof, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a 4-pc set of Thuer 44 caliber reloading tools, a Dixon pewter oil bottle, a spare hammer spring & lockbolt/trigger spring, two Eley cap tins – one w/orange label, a fired 44 caliber Thuer cartridge case, a loaded 44 caliber Thuer cartridge with damaged bullet and the rear compartment contains an all metal cleaning rod. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge & percussion cyl. Wedge is numbered “4561”. Bbl retains 92-93% glossy orig blue with some light flaking which has turned a medium patina; rammer handle retains faded case colors, strong & bright on the pivot; frame retains 50-60% faded case colors with the balance a smooth medium patina; hammer retains faded case colors; Thuer cyl retains glossy blue in the rebated area with the larger diameter and conversion ring a medium silver/brown patina with a few spots of pitting around front edge of cyl and overall retains 95-96% strong Naval battle scene; trigger guard retains about 65% flaked glossy blue with front strap mostly a plum/blue patina; backstrap & buttstrap retain about 90-92% strong orig blue. Grip is sound with a couple of minor nicks and retains virtually all of its crisp orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, very bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting; percussion cyl retains traces of blue and about 50-60% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; Thuer tools, nipple wrench & mold are very fine; other accessories are also fine. Case is sound with a scratch in the lid and retains about all of a restored finish; interior is lightly to moderately faded in the lid with light soil and yellowed label; bottom is moderately to heavily faded with moderate to heavy soil, a loose partition and a small partition missing from the front with some minor moth damage. 4-46412 (25,000-35,000)
UNMARKED COLT/METROPOLITAN STYLE NAVY SIZE PRESENTATION PERCUSSION REVOLVER SERIAL NUMBER 19 TO “LIEUT. G.N. WILLIAMS FROM CITY OF CANANDAIGUA”. SN 19. Cal. 36. This revolver appears to be a Colt or Metropolitan Navy revolver without bbl or frame markings except the SNs. It has 7-1/2″ oct bbl with brass pin front sight. Rammer appears to be from a Colt ’51 Navy with the rammer pivot screw entering from the right side. The bbl lug rammer screw is replaced with a rivet that appears to have been made from a nail. Frame & hammer appear to be correct for a Colt revolver with silver plated small guard brass trigger guard & backstrap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is usual 6-shots without roll marking and only the SN on outer diameter. Five of the six safety pins are serviceable. SNs are found in all of the proper places and are matching except for wedge which is unnumbered. Backstrap is engraved in period script with the presentation “To Lieut. G.N. Williams from the citizens / of Canandaigua Jan. 12th 1862”. Mr. Williams was apparently a banker in Canandaigua and enlisted as a Private on Oct. 10, 1861 and was commissioned into Company K, 98th NY Infantry, promoted to Captain May 22, 1862 and discharged June 2, 1863. CONDITION: Fair, all matching except wedge. No orig finish remains with the bbl a smooth plum/brown patina; rammer & handle are silvered case colors; frame is a silver/gray patina with traces of silvered case colors; cyl is a smooth silver/brown patina; trigger guard retains 50-60% thin silver and the backstrap about 50% thin silver. Grip is sound showing light to moderate wear and retains about 50% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with heavy pitting. 4-46689 JR167 (4,000-7,000)
*FINE WILBUR A. GLAHN ENGRAVED NICKEL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER HAVING RELIEF CARVED PEARL STEERHEAD GRIPS. SN 347911. Cal. 38-40. 4-3/4″ bbl with top marked “COLT’S PT F.A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”, left side of frame with three patent dates in two lines to the left of rampant Colt motif. Wilbur Glahn engraving on bbl, cylinder, ejector rod housing, back strap and trigger strap. The gun fitted with two piece mother of pearl carved steerhead grips. Accompanied by Colt Manufacturing Factory letter confirming gun as described and indicating it was shipped to Albert Steinfeld and Company, Tucson, Arizona, October 14, 1925, Colt order #10388/1. Gun was originally from the Robert Howard Collection. CONDITION: Fine with approximately 99% orig nickel plating, grips are beautiful color and small chips from panel at butt as well as at top of right panel. 4-46564 J23 (25,000-30,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 162977 & 162978. Cal. 44. These spectacular revolvers are identical in all respects with 8″ bbls, German silver front sights and gold inlaid “ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON.” on top of bbls. Left side of bbls are inlaid with a flying American eagle clutching arrows and a ribbon engraved “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Right sides of bbl lugs are inlaid in gold with the image of seated Lady Liberty holding a shield which is inscribed “LIBERTY”. In her left hand she is holding a staff with a Liberty cap. Both sides of bbls are inlaid with extremely fine gold foliate & vine patterns with extremely fine gold wire inlay around address on both bbls. End of rammer handles is very nicely checkered with gold wire outline on the pivots and a gold wire outline around the rammer slot. Frames are color case hardened with gold wire outline around the sides and recoil shields. Cyls are rebated, usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking & gold wire bands front & rear with foliate arabesque patterns between the cyl stop notches and gold wire outline around the stop notches. Left side of frames are inlaid in gold “COLT’S PATENT”. Hammers are engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose with gold wire borders around shanks & spurs with foliate & vine patterns. Wolf’s heads have gold inlaid tongues & eyes. Trigger guards & backstraps are also beautifully engraved & gold plated. They are mounted with 1-pc walnut grips that are wonderfully relief carved with the image of Lady Liberty and a shield holding a staff with Liberty cap and an eagle in the foreground, standing in front of a relief carved tree with oak leaves & acorns which probably represents the venerated “CHARTER OAK”. Right grips are raise carved with an anchor surrounded by acanthus vines & leaves. All the SNs on bottom of both revolvers are accompanied by a small “E”. This pair is accompanied by a fine custom brass bound walnut casing that is red & green felt lined and French fitted for the two revolvers, a gold plated “COLTS PATENT” trophy of arms & flags flask with angle spout, a gold plated 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter that is marked on right side “44 H” and with a “C” inspector mark. Also accompanied by a gold plated L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Eley’s caps with repoussed brass top. In addition there is a sealed packet of combustible cartridges. Right rear covered compartment has cast lead bullets & balls and the left front covered compartment has six spare nipples. Accompanied by the book Gold Colts A Tribute to Gustave Young, Perry. Chapter 4 of the referenced publication is about gold inlaid Model 1860 Army revolvers. Pages 132-150 concern this pair of revolvers. Pages 132-139 are a reprint of a letter of documentation and authentication from noted Colt historian & author, R.L. Wilson. Mr. Wilson states that these revolvers are the only two Colt percussion revolvers identified by SN in the records as being gold inlaid. He states that they are listed in the “Civil War Ledger Book No. 3” under the date March 11, 1867 with the entry “gold inlaid, gold mounted straps and guards”. Mr. Wilson states that revolver #162977 was discovered in 1966 in Turkey in an altered state with about a 5-1/2″ bbl, showing much use with the finish reduced to patina. #162978 has yet to be discovered. He identifies the engraving and gold inlay as the work of master engraver Gustave Young and the carved stocks attributed to Charles J. Helfricht. Mr. Wilson identifies the first known American owner as the former well known and rspected Johnie Bassett of Fayetteville, Arkansas. The revolver was purchased by Mr. Glenn Gierhart of Indianapolis, Indiana who lived in the close proximity of master gunsmith & creative artist Tommy Haas, Sr. Mr. Gierhart contracted with Mr. Haas to restore #162977 to its orig configuration and finish and to create #162978 to match. Mr. Haas accomplished the work very admirably and created a pair of masterpieces that would make Samuel Colt proud. These revolvers are then pictured in full color on pp. 141-150 of the referenced publication. They are also pictured in numerous other publications. PROVENANCE: Johnie Bassett Collection; Glenn Gierhart Collection; R.L. Wilson Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, pristine new retaining all of their crisp Tommy Haas finish with bright Colt blue and brilliant case colors. The orig grip on #162977 shows moderate wear while the other is crisp & sharp. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its custom finish; interior & accessories are also crisp & clean. 4-45686 JR197 (35,000-75,000)
*CASED CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 93118SA & 93119SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Both revolvers are identical, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbls, standard sights & markings. They are factory Class “C” engraved with 70-75% coverage well-executed foliate arabesque patterns. Cyls have the additional flourish of a band of foliate arabesque patterns around rear edges along with engraving on the lands between the flutes. SNs are on the bottom of the frames and on left sides of the front & backstraps under the grips. Left sides of front strap are stamped “COLT ENG.” Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying SN 93118SA in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, blued finish, type of stocks not listed, Class “C” factory engraved and shipped to Pacific International Merchandising Corp., Sacramento, CA on April 25, 1978 to Order #10723 in an 8-gun shipment. Under remarks the letter states that this revolver was returned to the factory and reshipped to Howco Distributors Inc., Laurel, MD on Feb. 25, 1982. Also accompanied by a fine Colt Custom Shop, red velvet lined casing recessed in bottom for the two revolvers. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are new, unfired & unturned. Case is equally new. 4-44701 JR337 (4,000-6,000)
RARE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 DA STOREKEEPER’S LIGHTNING REVOLVER. SN 87154. Cal. 38 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 3-1/2″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address with “COLT D.A. 38” on left side. Revolver is engraved in typical Helfricht style of foliate arabesque patterns on frame, sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate with zig zag patterns around front gullets. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns and foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length up each side of bbl and there are geometric patterns over the top. Top flat behind the hammer, backstrap & trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is typically Helfricht engraved with alternating patterns on lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern border around rear edge. Mounted with beautiful, smooth, 2-pc pearl grips. Backstrap is period engraved, probably by a local artisan, with the name “A. WILSON”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38 Colt with 3-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Bandle Arms Co., Cincinnati, OH, Dec. 17, 1891 in a 2-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Ex Hugh Hayes Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 95% strong orig blue with light muzzle edge wear and some fine pin prick pitting on sides of muzzle; frame retains 20-30% fading case colors with the balance faded to silver; trigger guard retains strong blue in sheltered areas with the front strap & trigger bow a blue/gray patina; top flat of backstrap retains bright blue and the backstrap a gray metal patina. Grips are sound showing great fire. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. 4-46753 JR224 (8,000-12,000)
CASED INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED COLT 1855 ROOT MODEL 7 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 112321E. Cal. 31. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, 2-line New York address and mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. Engraved in early vine style with light coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background. Back strap is engraved in period script “J.N. Burgess”. It has 5-shot cylinder with screw through side retaining the cylinder pin. Serial number on butt is unusual in the extreme in that it is six digits followed by an “E” when the highest recorded serial number observed by this cataloguer is approx. 30,000 which was for the Model 3 with oct bbl. Apparently the workman applying serial numbers got carried away or had one too many beers for lunch and whacked an extra “1” while applying the number. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a scarce brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter having an “H” on right side, a 2-sided early eagle flask and two other compartments containing bullets & balls. The lock escutcheon is replaced with light colored wood. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains 30-40% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, blue/gray patina elsewhere. There is a small gouge on bbl and moderate wear elsewhere. Cylinder has light to moderate pitting, front & rear and retains about 50% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip has a couple of very minor age lines and may be an old replacement as it does not fit perfectly and overall retains a wonderful golden mellow ivory patina. Hammer will not catch in half cock or full cock notches and the hand jams in one of notches. Strong bore, dark in the grooves. Case has had lid reglued, otherwise is sound with heavily faded interior and soil in bottom with damage from front sight. Mold & flask are fine. 4-35920 JR36 (4,000-6,000)
SCARCE NEW YORK STYLE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 73248. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved, in New York style with about 80% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine shaded background. Recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in fan patterns with a large zig zag & dot pattern on left side by hammer slot. Top strap is engraved in zig zag & leaf patterns with unusual zig zag engraved foliate arabesque & dot patterns extending about 2/3 the way up the bbl. Cyl is engraved to match the frame and backstrap is engraved in geometric patterns with a sparse fan pattern at the top. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in top radius with a leaf & vine pattern on outer radius. Screws & trigger are fire blued. Grip frame is for a 1-pc grip, never having been fitted for a 2-pc grip locator pin. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with bbl length & type of stocks not listed, finished soft and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, on Oct. 12, 1881 in a shipment of 25 same type guns. Under remarks the letter states that the word “soft” indicates that this revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside the factory. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 94-96% strong orig nickel with some slight losses around muzzle and some flaking on cyl. Nickel on bbl, top strap & grip frame has turned a little milky from handling; screws retain about all of their orig fire blue. Grips have a chipped left toe and left heel with a minor chip on rear edge of right side and retain great fire & color. Hammer will not catch in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a few small spots of pitting. 4-46064 JR195 (20,000-30,000)
SCARCE MAHOGANY CASED & DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL HARTFORD-LONDON DRAGOON, SN 18. SN 18. Cal. 44. Cased & profusely engraved (one of only six known to be deluxe engraved) Hartford-London Dragoon SN 18 mfg ca. 1853. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight. Hand-engraved barrel address “COLN COLT. LONDON” reading from breech to muzzle (one of five known) and also hand-engraved “COLTS. PATENT.” within an unfurled banner on left side of the profusely engraved frame. It has usual 6-shot cyl with the Dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking and five of its six safety pins mostly serviceable. It has a silver-plated brass back-strap, small rounded silver-plated brass trigger-guard and select burl walnut one-piece grips. Loading lever entering from the right side of the loading lever assembly, no bevel on the cut-out, short trigger (one of nine recorded), vertical loading lever catch and stacked British proof-marks on the barrel. Frame has full coverage, wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns on sides with fine shaded background and foliate & floral engraving on recoil shields. Hammer is lightly engraved on sides of spur with dolphin motif on top edge. Bbl lug has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with British proofs on sides and a nice border around the address on the top flat. There is a scalloped border on the bbl at the transition and around the muzzle. Top of backstrap has a wonderfully executed fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns, a fine border pattern down the backstrap with engraving patterns at top & heel, also on buttstrap & trigger bow. Wedge & rammer are engraved to match. Wedge is unnumbered and rammer handle has the number “37”. Accompanied by a rare orig mahogany English casing with empty brass panel in the lid. It is blue velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a silver plated Sykes Patent bag flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with steel sprue cutter, a Hawksley pewter oil bottle, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an all metal English cleaning rod and a rosewood screw-lid bits box containing one spare nipple. This exact revolver is pictured on p 148 of “Colt Engraving” by R.L. Wilson, and on p 234 of “The Colt Engraving Book” Vol.1 by R.L. Wilson and p 137 of “Colonel Colt London” by Joseph G. Rosa. Engraved dragoon revolvers are quite rare and cased examples are extremely rare. It has been estimated from collated research, that fewer than 10% of Hartford-London Dragoons were factory engraved and this one, with deluxe engraving, perhaps only 1% of the 700 produced. PROVENANCE: Arnold M. Chernoff Collection. Chester Bonoff Collection. Pete Holder Collection. Damien Scattizi Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 60% orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a medium patina; rammer handle is a gray/brown patina; frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a silver/brown patina; cyl is mostly a silver/brown patina with a large area of light pitting, some dents & dings around the front edge that were dressed out; two of the British proof marks on the cyl appear to have been double struck and overall retains about 25-30% Dragoon/Indian fight scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain 30-40% thin silver plating. Grip is sound, a little undersized for the frame and overall retains a smooth oil finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains 80-85% orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded with moderate soil in the bottom; flask retains most of its fine silver plating with bright blue spring; mold has a few light nicks & dings with fine cavities and a crisp light mustard patina; other accessories are fine. 4-46514 JR99 (40,000-70,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED REMINGTON NEW MODEL POLICE CONVERSION & PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1146. Cal. 36 Percussion & 38 RF. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, half moon front sight and 3-line left hand bbl address. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips with rare, deep relief, raised carved liberty cap over a sunburst on left side. Inside left grip is scratched “EB 1864”. Accompanied by an orig, mahogany, green velvet lined casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl-sided eagle & foliate flask, a steel 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a Remington L-shaped nipple wrench, a small tin of caps with reproduction Eley’s label, some cast lead balls and its orig factory conversion cylinder. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop, with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with feather decorations and punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather decorations with foliate arabesque patterns over top front of frame and side flats of bbl with matching patterns on both cyls, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Although this model revolver was produced in fairly large quantities in the period 1865-1873 very few are found to be engraved and of those only an extreme few are cased with both orig cyls. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except cyls & grip which are properly unnumbered. Frame & both cyls retain about all of their strong orig nickel with some light flaking & wear around the muzzle; some slight losses on left side of frame & with some hammer marks on each side of the rammer boss; hammer retains dark case colors. Grips are sound with fine age lines and retain a mellow ivory patina. Case has some minor grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish; interior is moderately faded and heavily soiled; flask shows moderate use and retains a medium brass patina; mold has a dark brown attic patina with dirty cavities; cartridge packet is very fine; other accessories are fine. 4-46702 JR159 (10,000-15,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 262020. Cal. 44 WCF. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, standard front sight with 1-line address and left side marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips with high relief-carved ram’s head on right side. Inside of each grip carved w/roman numeral “XVII”. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame with a hunter’s star on ejector rod boss. Engraving extends the length of the ejector on each side of bbl with a snake pattern border around address which terminates in geometric & floral patterns. Muzzle has a snake pattern border. Ejector rod housing has scroll and star patterns and snake & dot pattern in the gullet. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns. Top of back strap is engraved in a classic fan pattern with w/ scrolls at terminus. Trigger guard is lightly engraved in geometric & floral patterns. Cylinder is engraved with foliate & geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern at rear edge of cylinder. All of foliate arabesque patterns have a light punch dot background. Serial number was observed in usual places on bottom of frame, trigger guard & back strap. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 44-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Simmons Hdwre Co., St. Louis MO, c/o Shelton Payne Arms on January 19, 1905 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very good, all matching, grips are unnumbered. Overall retains 30-40% orig nickel finish, mostly in sheltered areas with balance showing honest wear and some bubbling of finish on hammer. Engraving is still fine, showing moderate wear with fine pitting. Cylinder and inside of top strap show moderate usage wear. Both grips are sound and show great fire and color. Screw heads are fine. Mechanics are fine. Bore has scattered moderate pitting. 4-46575 (18,000-25,000)
RARE FUNCTIONING MINIATURE GOLD INLAID COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 162878E. Precise scale miniature of the cased pair of 1860 Army revolvers being sold elsewhere in this auction. It has 3-3/4″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line address inlaid in gold “ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON”. Frame is beautifully color case hardened, 3-screw style, cut for shoulder stock that has “COLTS PATENT” in inlaid in gold on left side. The brass trigger guard & steel backstrap are gold plated and contain a 1-pc ebony grip that is very delicately raise carved with an eagle & shield along with Lady Liberty and a tree on left side that is probably symbolic of the Venerable “Charter Oak”. It has a raised anchor surrounded by acanthus leaves and vines on right side. Bbl is inlaid in gold with a flying eagle on left side clutching arrows and a ribbon inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Right side has seated Lady Liberty with a shield & staff topped by a Liberty cap. Both sides of bbl, top of bbl and around muzzle have foliate arabesque patterns inlaid in gold. Cyl is rebated with six chambers and has the Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking with foliate arabesque patterns and gold wire borders. Frame & recoil shields are outlined gold wire with the hammer having gold wire outline and an engraved wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose inlaid with a gold eye & tongue. Top edge of hammer is inlaid with a gold arrow. Accompanied by its orig rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid and French fitted in bottom for the revolver, a miniature Dixon bag flask that is marked on the top, a miniature packet of combustible cartridges, a miniature tin of Eley’s caps, a miniature L-shaped nipple wrench and a miniature 2-cavity bullet mold without sprue cutter. Inside lid has a miniature reproduction of the Directions for Loading label. Accompanied by an NRA silver club medal, #63, for one of the ten best miniature weapons. CONDITION: Crisp & new, retaining virtually all of its brilliant orig finish. Case & contents are also new. 4-45696 JR189 (10,000-20,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. SN SA63629. Cal. 44-40 & 44 Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 3″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL” on left side and “COLT S.A.A. 44 CAL.” on right side. Revolver is mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips with gold Colt medallions. Revolver is Class B engraved with about 50-60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the top of the bbl, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard. Both cyls are engraved to match on the lands between the flutes. Left recoil shield is inlaid in flat gold with the stylized “COLT” logo. Bbl has two gold bands at the frame. Top of backstrap is engraved in a fine fan pattern with cross hatched center. Left side of buttstrap under the grip is engraved “SPRINGS”, the signature of Colt master engraver George Springs. SN is on the bottom of the frame and left side of front & back straps under the grip. Accompanied by a dark maroon 1-pc cardboard box with identifying information on the end flap. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found, with smooth ivory grips & gold rampant Colt medallions, class B master engraved by George Springs with gold bands on the bbl & “flush serpentine Colt on the recoil shield”. It was issued with a glass top walnut presentation case which is now missing. It was sold to recognized Colt authority & dealer, Kevin Cherry of Greensboro, NC, at the 1987 Los Vegas Antique Arms Show and was shipped March 11, 1987. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Box is fine. 4-44740 JR334 (4,000-7,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 55032. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with a partially visible etched panel on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 70-75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame which extend up both sides of the bbl. Top strap has a circle & dot pattern with snake & dot patterns down both sides of trigger plate. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s fan pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap and on trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains 65-70% nickel turning milky with the loss areas a dark patina. Right grip has a pinned repair, otherwise grips are sound with great fire. Mechanics are a little balky, with perhaps the trigger return spring broken, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore that should clean better. 4-46274 (6,000-8,000)
Correction: The catalog estimates should read (40,000-60,000).
VERY RARE CASED COL. COLT PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO “WILLIAM G. MOORE WITH COMPLIMENTS OF COL. COLT”. SN 7289. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with a tiny “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the caliber marking. It has usual 5-shot half fluted cyl and the silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip, matching numbered in the backstrap channel. Backstrap is engraved in period script “William G. Moore / with compliments of Col. Colt”. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sgl-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask and a blued steel 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36 P”. Also accompanied by a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and several cast lead bullets & balls. William G. Moore was a native of the District of Columbia, residing in Washington, D.C. who, in his early career, was a newspaper man covering congressional debates. He went on to serve in the Dept. of Public Works until the outbreak of the Civil War at which time he joined the National Rifles. He enlisted April 15, 1861 as a Private and was mustered out on July 15, 1861 when he was requested to serve as the private secretary to the Secretary of War, receiving a promotion to the rank of Major and Adjutant-General of Volunteers. After the war he was appointed to the position of private secretary to Pres. Johnson. He was commissioned a Colonel and Paymaster of the Army. In 1870 he returned to Washington and was made Commander of the Washington Light Infantry and became a Colonel of the 1st Regiment of the District Militia. He was then appointed Superintendent of Police for the District of Columbia and became the longest serving Superintendent in the department’s history. He was responsible for numerous innovations in the department’s enforcement of laws, some of which are still in effect today. He died in office on July 12, 1898. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grip, only the number “89” is visible on the back of the cylinder. Bbl retains about 50% strong orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a dark patina; frame retains bright to brilliant case colors on the sides, turned dark on recoil shields; hammer retains bright case colors on sides, dark on top & back edges; cyl retains about 50% thin orig blue with the balance flaked to dark patina; trigger guard & backstrap retain about 75% orig silver with exposed brass a dark reddish brass patina. Grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine, frosty in the grooves. Case is sound with storage & handling nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is faded to a rose color with moderate soil and light damage inside the lid and moderate to heavy soil and heavy fading in bottom; flask retains 70-75% orig finish on the body with the collar & spout a medium mustard patina; mold retains 75-80% orig blue with clean cavities; cap tin is fine. 4-46707 (40,000-60,000)
FINE ANTIQUE NICKEL ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SA ARMY. SN 76643. 44-40 cal., 7-1/2″ round bbl, having nickel finish and ivory grips; made in 1882. This is a long-bbl 44-40 Colt SAA and was shipped from Colt in the soft and subsequently likely engraved by one of their engravers. The work is in the style of Nimschke’s hand, but we cannot be certain of this. There is an accompanying factory letter confirming the SN, cal. and lists the finish as soft. Soft of course means that it was shipped from the factory without final finishing for the sole purpose of being engraved outside of the factory. The letter indicates that the revolver was shipped to Schoderling, Daly & Gales in New York, NY on January 9, 1882, and was part of a shipment of 10 guns. CONDITION: Fine. Having approx. 50% of its orig nickel and balance metal in a nicely patinaed gray. The metal in in these areas were likely cleaned many years ago, and have since aged back. The grips are excellent with a very nice aged appearance and appropriate age lines on the bottom. This is an authentic and very scarce nickel engr black powder Colt and difficult to find in this condition. 4-46572 JDJ53 (25,000-40,000)
Correction: The catalog estimates should read (100,000-150,000).
RARE ENGRAVED PRESENTATION CASED PAIR OF COLT 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS TO “ADJT CHAS A. CLARK” MEDAL OF HONOR WINNER. SN 15147 & 15139. Cal. 36. Revolvers are virtually identical with 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights, slightly altered, with 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. Left side of frames are marked with small “COLTS PATENT” and the caliber marking on the left rear web of the trigger guards. Cyls are usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guards & backstraps each contain a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief raised carved Liberty head and flag motifs. Revolvers are engraved by the same hand although not identically, probably by Gustave Young, with full frame coverage foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Engraving extends over sides of bbl lug and on each side of muzzle with light feather patterns on rammer pivots. Backstraps, buttstraps & trigger guards are engraved to match with different patterns at the top of backstraps. Backstraps are engraved in period script: “To Adjt. Chas A. Clark / Nov 9th 1864”. Accompanied by their orig, oak American casing with empty shield plaque in the lid. Interior is blue velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolvers, a silver plated dbl sided Navy size eagle & stars flask with angled spout, a fine brass capper with American eagle & stars top, a silver plated 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36 P”, a small gutta percha screw top bottle, a packet of combustible cartridges, two lacquered tins of Eley’s caps, a small oval cardboard pill box, an L-shaped nipple wrench and two 6th Maine Veteran Association Reunion ribbons from Aug. 1900 & Aug. 1908. These revolvers were presented to Charles Armory Clark, a Medal of Honor winner from the 6th Maine Volunteer Infantry. He enlisted as a 21 year old corporal from Sangerville, Maine when the unit mustered into service on July 15, 1861 and was discharged for disability on Feb. 11, 1864. On May 18, 1864 he was commissioned into the U.S. Volunteers Adjutant General Dept. and resigned on Oct. 26, 1864. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant Feb. 1862, up through the ranks to Brevette Lt. Colonel March 1865. He was the adjutant for the regiment and then the Assistant Adjutant General. He earned the Medal of Honor for his action in the assault on Marye’s Heights outside of Fredericksburg, VA and for his leadership in saving his regiment in the absence of his commanding officers by leading the regiment down a precipitous height at Banks’ Ford, VA, in the process repulsing an entire brigade of Confederates. Lt. Col. Clark’s 6th Maine is one of the storied units of the Civil War. From early 1862 at the Battle of Manassas right through their mustering out on July 10, 1864 they participated in just about every major battle including Gaines’ Mill, Savage Station, Malverne Hill, Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Franklin’s Crossing, Maryes’ Heights, Salem Heights, Banks’ Ford, Brandy Station, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, Mine Run, The Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Spotsylvania Courthouse, the “Bloody Angle”, Cold Harbor & Petersburg. They were to be mustered out on July 10, 1864 but as a unit volunteered for 30 days service for the defense of Washington and were engaged in the repulse of Gen. Jubal Early’s attack on Washington July 12 & 13. Col. Clark was severely wounded at Rappahannock Station. After the war he moved to Iowa where he died Dec. 22, 1913 and is buried in Cedar Rapids. Col. Clark was apparently a true leader who, as a very young man, assumed the mantle of leadership expected only of soldiers of vastly more experience. CONDITION: Revolvers are fine, all matching with the grip on #15147 having the SN in backstrap channel and #15139 mostly illegible. #15139 bbl retains about 50% orig nickel with dark patina and surface rust on sides; frame retains 50-60% orig nickel and cyl about 50% nickel and about 75-80% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains about 75-80% orig silver and backstrap about 70%. Grip has a repaired sliver on right side with age lines in the bottom and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. #15147 bbl retains 88-90% strong orig nickel and the frame about 70% nickel with pitting on sides of hammer nose; cyl retains 65-70% nickel and 40-50% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains about 85% orig silver and backstrap 40-50% silver. Grip is sound with a few age lines in bottom and retains a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is moderately faded & soiled but completely intact with solid partitions; flask has a couple of small nicks & retains most of its orig silver; mold retains most of its orig silver; other accessories are fine. 4-46660 JR175 (100,000-150,000)
VERY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED GOLD & NICKEL MERWIN & HULBERT DOUBLE ACTION POCKET ARMY REVOLVER 2-BARREL SET. SN 7367. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7″ and 3-5/16″ rnd bbls with integral front sights. It has a bird head grip frame with skull cracker and lanyard hole and is mounted with 2-pc checkered hard rubber grips. Cyl is gold plated. Frame & bbls are factory engraved in their sparse style of leaves & vines with two panels on left side showing a very nicely detailed bird in flight and a butterfly. Right side has a geometric pattern. Cyl is engraved to match frame with geometric & flower patterns. Revolver is later type with top strap and cyl with conventional flutes. Left side of front strap under the grip is marked with assembly number “5487” which is also found on rear face of cyl, and rear face of both bbl lugs and inside the right grip. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 9,000 of these Pocket Army revolvers were produced in the 1880s in three different models, one of which is dbl action. These revolvers, although in several ways superior to both Colt & Remington large bore revolvers, were not well distributed and therefore could not compete. They were initially sold in proprietary Merwin & Hulbert caliber which was not readily available which further hindered their sales. Merwin & Hulbert were not manufacturers but were entrepreneurs and distributors who obtained patents and had the product manufactured for their distribution. CONDITION: Very fine. Frame & bbls retain most of their strong orig nickel with slight muzzle edge wear and minor flaking around top edge of front sight with a little flaking on top strap. Skull cracker of grip frame is also lightly flaked. Hammer & trigger guard retain faded case colors turned gray on trigger bow. Grips are sound showing light wear and turned a little chocolate. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bores with scattered pitting. 4-46998 JR388 (7,500-12,500)
ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 102974. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, fixed sights, and 1-line bbl address, 3-line patent dates and is fitted with beautiful 2-pc carved ox head pearl grips. Frame has about 90% coverage, New York style, probably Nimschke foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background. Engraving extends up the bbl about 3″ with flourishes on each side of the muzzle. Cylinder has additional flourishes on the islands between the flutes with a scallop & circle pattern at the rear edge. Back strap has Nimschke’s trademark fan at the top with arabesque flourishes at the top & bottom. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped Dec. 5, 1883 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of 10 similar arms. Finish is listed as “soft”. Under remarks they make the statement that being shipped “soft” indicates that it was without final finish for engraving outside the factory. CONDITION: Fine plus. Overall retains about 50% orig nickel with the balance nearly matching the gray metal color. Overall showing moderate wear. Grips have a chip in the left toe and a replaced chip at the right heel, otherwise are very fine with bright & vivid fire. Will not hold in the safety notch & the half cock notch is missing, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with very fine pitting 4-46560 JL1 (12,000-18,000)
Correction: The medallion in the lid is inscribed “ICH DIEN” (not ICH DIEM) which translates to “I Serve.”
CASED HARTFORD LONDON COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 154543. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has small “COLTS PATENT” with caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. The blued steel trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in the buttstrap channel. Cyl is rebated with six chambers and Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. SNs on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are all accompanied by a tiny “L”, signifying that this revolver was destined for the London market. The bbl lug is numbered “154488” as is the wedge. All of the other visible numbers are “154543”. Accompanied by an orig English distributor casing with a brass medallion in the lid that is beautifully engraved with a crest which consists of a crown with three feathers and ribbon inscribed “ICH DIEM” over the dates “1875-76”. Interior is scarlet velvet lined with the distributor’s label of “James Dalziel Dougall”. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a Dixon style brass bag flask, a blued steel “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “44H”, a packet of combustible cartridges and a lacquered Eley’s cap tin. Also included is a pewter oil bottle and an L-shaped nipple wrench, probably from a Starr revolver. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 65-70% strong blue with balance turned plum; rammer & handle retain smoky case colors; frame & hammer have faded to silver; cyl is a thin plummy brown patina and shows about 75% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains about 80% strong orig blue with front strap gray metal patina; backstrap retains most of its orig blue, strong at the top and on buttstrap, thin in the middle. Grip has tiny chipped toes and shows light edge wear with a few minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore. Case is sound with storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded with yellowed label; bottom is lightly soiled; flask has a few small dents and is mostly a brass patina; mold is nicked & dinged and retains thin orig blue with refinished sprue cutter; other accessories are fine. 4-46091 JR232 (6,000-8,000)
*ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA23273. Cal. 44 Spcl. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl and mounted with smooth, silver medallion rosewood grips matching numbered to this revolver. SN is on bottom of frame and left side of front & backstraps under the grip. Left side of butt strap is also stamped “COLT ENG”. Engraving is Class “C” which consists of about 65-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that are nicely executed, probably by one of the master engravers. Accompanied by its orig Styrofoam lined, maroon 1-pc cardboard box with owner’s manual and other papers. Box has orig yellow custom shop label matching numbered to this revolver. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Box is fine. 4-44739 JR336 (2,500-4,000)
RARE SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 954. Cal. 41 RF. Blue & nickel finish with 2-7/8″ rnd bbl, nickel plated brass frame with fire blued hammer & trigger. Both sides of the frame are lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns, Cyl is blued with 4 chambers in cloverleaf pattern. Mounted with smooth 2-pc birdhead walnut grips matching numbered to this revolver. Left side of bbl & cyl have tiny British proofs. Accompanied by an orig blue velvet lined English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Inside the lid has a Colt’s Pall Mall paper label and is compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an orig wire cleaning rod/screwdriver and has a cartridge block in the left front for 13 cartridges. Right rear corner has a covered triangular compartment containing an extremely rare, orig, fire blued, 3-pc screwdriver/punch. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were about 7,500 revolvers produced in this configuration in both 3″ and 1-1/2″ bbls with the majority being 3″. It is likely that only a few of that number were engraved with very few being sold in England and the orig casing makes it even more rare. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection; formerly of Raymond Kendall (Secretary General of Interpol, retired). CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except cyl which is numbered “455”. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp, orig, glossy blue with only slight muzzle edge wear. Frame retains about all of its orig nickel with light edge wear. The screws, hammer & trigger retain about all of their orig fire blue. Grips are sound with a few minor, very light nicks & scratches and retain about all of their orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a couple of small spots of pitting. This is purported to be the finest English proofed specimen known. 4-46410 (10,000-15,000)
CASED BALTIMORE CITY POLICE COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 319917. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “31 CAL”. Buttstrap is engraved in script “Balt. City Police”. Mounted with 1-pc varnished walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Accompanied by an orig Colt, burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided eagle & stars flask, a 2-cavity bullet & ball blued steel “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a tin of UMC caps and a functioning key. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip except rammer which is properly unnumbered. Bbl retains 90-92% glossy orig blue with some light hammer marks on top flat and right side of lug; rammer & handle retain about all of their brilliant case colors; frame retains about all of its lightly to moderately faded case colors and the hammer bright case colors turned silver on top edge; cyl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue and shows about 85-90% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound with a carved initial on bottom left edge with a few minor nicks & scratches showing light to moderate wear and retains about 90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior is moderately faded with some chemical staining inside lid and moderate to heavy soil in the bottom; flask retains traces of orig finish with a dent in the neck and retains a very dark copper patina; mold shows numerous small nicks & dings and retains 50-60% orig blue; cap tin is fine. 4-46519 JR178 (5,000-7,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IDENTIFIED TO TEXAS SHERIFF H. M. HOSKINS OF JACK COUNTY, TX IN 1890. SN 111059. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with caliber marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved steerhead on right side. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, with about 60-65% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with hunter stars on sides of front frame. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up each side of bbl & at the muzzle. Top of backstrap is engraved with a fine fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down backstrap. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a foliate spray back of each flute. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake pattern on outer radius. Accompanied by a packet of information, mostly letters & court records about the man who owned this revolver, H.M. Hoskins, who was the Sheriff of Jack County, TX. Hoskins was born in Hardin County, KY in Nov. 1856 and became Sheriff in late 1890. In late May 1890 Sheriff Hoskins walked into a local saloon where several of the local bar flies goaded him into going after a young man named Byron Cope who had been drinking in the saloon, waving his gun around and threatening to kill the Sheriff. The Sheriff mounted his horse, took off after Mr. Cope and caught up with him about a mile out of town. In the ensuing shoot-out Sheriff Hoskins killed Mr. Cope and was himself shot in the stomach and died June 9,1891 and is buried in Jacksboro, TX. Included in this packet of information is a signed & notarized letter from Sheriff Hoskins’ daughter, Irene Hoskins Hilburn wherein she states that this revolver described as above and identified by SN was in the possession of her father at the time of his death and that it was the one he carried while in office and that he was carrying when fatally wounded while attempting to make an arrest. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, “soft” finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on July 28, 1884 in a shipment of 15 guns. Under remarks section “The word ‘soft’ which appears with the finish indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened when this arm was shipped from the factory, and these parts were left in a soft condition for engraving outside the factory.” This revolver was pictured in Colts From Texas and the Old West. PROVENANCE: Charlie Schreiner Collection; R. Michael Kammerer Estate Collection CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 95-96% strong orig nickel with the only losses on each side of the muzzle; frame retains 60-65% orig nickel with losses around front of frame, top strap and ejector housing boss; trigger guard retains about 75-80% orig nickel with the backstrap & buttstrap bright metal; cyl retains traces of nickel in the flutes being mostly a gray metal patina. Grips have a chipped right toe and a couple of other small nicks, otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Hammer will not catch in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with light frosty pitting with a fine ring about 2″ from the muzzle that has caused a nearly unnoticeable bulge. 4-46574 (35,000-45,000)
RARE COL. COLT PRESENTATION ENGLISH ENGRAVED CASED COLT 2ND MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 207. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and New-York City address. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in an ellipse. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and has all six safety pins serviceable. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautiful burl, deluxe, 1-pc walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Trigger guard is very small and square back and is a 2nd type revolver with screw over the wedge and a slotted cyl spindle with a thin lug. This beautiful revolver is wonderfully English engraved with very fine foliate arabesque patterns in full coverage on both sides of frame with foliate & floral patterns on recoil shields. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with matching patterns on rammer pivot and around muzzle. Bottom of rammer handle is engraved in leaf & vine patterns. Top of backstrap, backstrap ears and heel of backstrap, along with buttstrap & trigger bow are engraved to match the frame. The trigger guard is stamped with a small “2” below the SN. Accompanied by its orig English oak casing with brass medallion inlay engraved in period script “Presented / to / Park Pittar Esqr. / by / Col. Colt”. Inside is lined in burgundy velvet and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a Barlow bag shaped flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a pewter oil bottle, two combustible cartridges, a spare hammer spring and cast lead bullets & balls. It also has an orig functioning key. Items presented from “Col. Colt” are the most rare of the presentation Colts and are extremely rare on English items. Park or Parke Pittar was born in Dec. 1814 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and died in 1884 at age 69. He was a businessman, entrepreneur and investor in a variety of companies; one of which was the Charles, Nephew & Co. in Calcutta, India which he and his uncle Charles Pittar founded in 1848 assuming the business of an older uncle. They were jewelers, watch makers, gold and silversmiths and became extremely prominent for high quality goods. They opened an additional shop in Simla, India and were also agents for the famous London firm of Elkington & Co. According to research material provided by the consignor, it seems likely that Col. Colt probably became acquainted with Park Pittar during the 1851 Crystal Palace World Exhibit in London. It is known that Col. Colt either sold or provided Dragoon revolvers numbers 10222 and 10223 which were also in the exhibit, to Charles, Nephew & Co. which is inscribed on the rear of the trigger guard. It is speculated that Col. Colt, not wanting to have his approx. 500 firearms inspected and marked by the Tower of London, possibly defacing or damaging them, agreed not to sell any of his displayed firearms within England, but it is believed that he sold and presented a number of those arms to high ranking political persons, military officers and other important people who could aid in promoting his company outside of England. Charles, Nephew & Co. of Calcutta was just such an entity and it is known that they did distribute firearms. So, the logical conclusion is that once the exhibit was finished Col. Colt presented the 1851 Navy being sold here to Mr. Pittar, probably in about 1853. Included in the information provided is a list of seven 1851 London Navy revolvers that are engraved and/or presented, including this revolver with only two having the square-backed trigger guards and the other 5 having small rnd trigger guards. SN 209 is listed as being engraved and nearly identical to this revolver and it also has a small square-back trigger guard. This information is compiled by renowned English collector and dealer Pete Holder. There is also a 1993 dated letter from renowned collector/dealer Joseph G. Rosa wherein he discusses the nearly identical similarity between this revolver and SN 209. He states that the use of the square-back trigger guard intermittently in these early English Navys was simply cleaning up old parts. Additionally accompanied by a handwritten letter from renowned Colt researcher and author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he describes the gun and states that it was presented in 1853. There is a plethora of information regarding the family and history of Park Pittar and some of his business dealings. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with some light cleaning on both side flats; rammer & handle retain about all of their orig case colors, moderately faded; frame retains about 50-60% faded case colors and the hammer smoky case colors; cyl retains 60-70% strong English blue and about 95% Ormsby Naval Battle scene with one cleaned area and one thin spot; trigger guard & backstrap retain just about all of their orig silver plating, a little thin on the heel with brass showing through on trigger guard. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & dings, showing light edge wear and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case is extremely fine with only a few minor nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig varnish; interior is heavily faded to a light rose color with moderate soil; flask retains most of its orig. finish on the body and about 60% gold wash on collar & spout; mold is crisp with balance of accessories fine. A truly exceptional & rare set. 4-46513 JR100 (75,000-125,000)
VERY RARE WEBLEY THIRD MODEL LONGSPUR PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CASE AND ACCESSORIES. SN 1469. Cal. 470. This unusual revolver produced in the late 1850’s or 1860’s, with a total production of only a few more than 600 in all frame sizes, has 6-3/4″ octagonal bbl fitted with compound bullet rammer, which screws to cylinder pin, and fastens to frame with thumbscrew. Pistol is engraved on left side of frame “Webley’s Patent”. Each chamber of cylinder is marked with a numeral from 1 to 5. Both sides of frame are engraved with very nicely cut large foliate scroll with flourishes of scroll on case hardened mostly exposed longspur hammer. Fully checkered walnut grips end in engraved steel cap with lanyard ring. Back strap, with SN at hammer base, is engraved “By Her Majesty’s Royal Letters Patent”. Mahogany case with key lock has inlet brass shield on top. Interior is lined in green cloth with E. M. Reilly & Co. paper label. Case is fitted for pistol and a number of accessories, including: ebony handled nipple wrench with pricker, Colt type double cavity mold marked “No 54” has steel sprue cutter casting conical bullets, ebony and brass cleaning/ loading rod, small round pewter oil bottle, James Dixon marked plain copper-bodied powder flask, and a tin with illegible label containing grease. PROVENANCE: Dr. John and Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbl retains 95% + orig lustrous blue with slight edge wear. Frame retains most of its orig blue, loss due to flaking on sides of action and slight wear on grip straps. Cylinder retains most of its orig case hardening color, slightly fading to silver overall. Hammer retains nearly all of its orig vibrant case hardening color. Bore is excellent. Action is crisp. Perhaps never fired. Case is excellent, retaining nearly all of its orig exterior finish with a few spots darkening, with two repaired cracks toward rear of top. Interior cloth is excellent with some minor marks and rubs. Label has silverfish damage and is partially obscured. Accessories are fine. 4-46490 MGM249 (7,000-9,000)
*WOLF & KLAR ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE-ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 346840. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant colt. It is mounted with extraordinary 2-pc pearl grips with fabulous deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Revolver is engraved through the nickel with zigzag Wolf & Klar style engraving with leaf and vine patterns and diamond and dot patterns on top strap. Cyl is engraved in geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes. SN is on bottom of frame and right side of front & back straps. Last 2-digits of matching SN are on rear face of cyl. Wolf & Klar are distributors and jewelers in Ft.Worth, TX and have supplied firearms to numerous Texas Rangers and Texas law enforcement officials for many years. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains about all of its strong, orig factory nickel with the aforementioned engraving through the finish. Grips are sound, possibly from another revolver and show tremendous fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-46969 JR291 (4,500-5,500)
COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY WITH “ANCIENT IVORY” STOCKS. SN 166440. Cal. 44. This Model 1860 Colt Army was made in 1867 with all matching numbers and an interesting pair of grips that consignor feels are “mastodon”. They do indeed have a most unusual patina, they are no doubt ivory and consignor could be correct, but we make no guarantees other than they are indeed well patinaed old ivory. This gun conforms to other Model 1860 Civilian Army Colts with 8″ rnd bbl, one line New York address, “COLTS PATENT” stamped on left side of frame and a small “44CAL” stamped on left side of trigger guard. This gun is in fine overall condition as refinished and functions well with good, crisp bore. CONDITION: Bbl retains about 20% of its refinished blue, especially around bbl housing. Loading assembly, frame and hammer retain traces of muted case color which is possibly orig with balance being gray/silver-blue with areas of staining and pinprick pitting. All numbers match on bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cyl. There is no serial number on the replaced wedge made without spring. Cyl retains all of its re-rolled and engraved naval battle scene with scattered dents and areas of pitting. The “44CAL” marking on side of trigger guard has been freshened such that it is easy to read. The 2-pc grips have a newer glued wood block holding them together. There is about a 1-1/2″ chip reglued on left grip on inside toe. Grips fit fairly well with some gaps at edges as can be seen in photos. 4-46199 JS159 (3,000-5,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA65176. Cal. 44 Spcl. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl and mounted with smooth, silver medallion rosewood grips matching numbered to this revolver. SN is on bottom of frame and left side of front & backstraps under the grip. Left side of front strap is also stamped “COLT ENG”. Engraving is Class “C” which consists of about 65-70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns that are nicely executed, probably by one of the master engravers. Accompanied by its orig Styrofoam lined, maroon 1-pc cardboard box with owner’s manual, warranty card and other papers. Box has orig yellow custom shop label matching numbered to this revolver. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Box is fine. 4-44738 JR335 (2,500-4,000)
ENGRAVED COLT THIRD MODEL THUER DERRINGER. SN 11747. Cal. 41 RF. Old replated silver finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, slightly altered half-moon front sight with “COLT” on top. Mounted with 2-pc smooth birdhead ivory grips. Pistol is very nicely engraved with about 75-80% coverage New York style engraving, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and feather patterns on each front side of the frame. While this little derringer was produced in fairly large quantities few were so nicely engraved and of those only a few were plated. Mr. Howard’s collection notes include a letter from renowned dealer/collector Tommy Rholes who authenticates this pistol, noting that the grips are not orig. PROVENANCE: Roger Muckerhide Collection; Butterfield Auction (2001); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its strong silver replating with some very minor, very fine pin prick pitting on bottom of bbl; grips are fine, probably not orig to this pistol and retain a light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-45334 (1,500-2,500)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 54579. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl with brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame is engraved in a ribbon “COLTS PATENT”. The large guard silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc deluxe varnished burl walnut grip that has last three digits of matching SN visible in backstrap channel. Frame & recoil shields have full coverage deluxe Gustave Young engraving which consists of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl lugs and onto the rammer pivot with one scroll on right side terminating in a dog’s head. Top side flats of bbl are engraved to match. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger guard. All screw heads & tips are engraved. Cyl is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and all five safety pins serviceable. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains a smooth blue/brown patina showing sharp edge wear; rammer handle is a matching patina with dark case colors on pivot; frame & hammer retain dark case colors with some fine pitting by the hammer slot and on the hammer nose; cyl is a light brown patina with an area of light hammer marks and shows about 50% stagecoach holdup scene; trigger guard retains most of its orig silver plating, a little thin on trigger bow; backstrap retains about 88-90% silver plating showing wear at the heel and a little thin in the middle. Grip is sound showing light edge wear and retains about all of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-46521 JR223 (7,000-9,000)
FINE ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY WITH TEXAS HISTORY, 1895. SN 159909. Cal 45, 5-1/2” barrel with one line address. Left side of frame has Colt patent markings in two lines and Rampant Colt in a circle. Gun is mounted with two-piece mother-of-pearl grips that are well fit to gun. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his typical foliate, sunburst, snake & dot, and punch dot background. This gun was shipped to Charles Hummel & Son, San Antonio, Texas, January 5, 1895 and factory letter shows matching configuration of this gun with exception of type stocks which were not listed. Since the mother-of-pearl stocks are not numbered, it is quite possible that Hummel supplied and fit these. Other guns shipped to San Antonio in this era are known to have been used by Texas Rangers, outlaws and famous figures of the West. This is a beautiful example of a factory engraved Single Action Colt Army that saw use in Texas at the end of the 19th century. CONDITION: This Colt is fine overall, all matching SN except cylinder and grips which are unnumbered. Gun overall retains virtually all of its fine restored nickel finish. Markings are all crisp and easily discerned; though patent markings on frame have a couple week characters as can be seen in photos small areas of pitting can be found with close scrutiny on barrel and frame under finish. There are scratches and tool marks on the exposed end of cylinder pin as can be seen in photos. The loading door has dissimilar brighter color when viewed from inside frame; engraved sunburst is in same style as sunburst on top of backstrap but appears possibly executed by a different hand. Pearl grips are well fit with several small chips on back of left grip and at back toe of left grip. Action is fine and gun functions mechanically well. 4-46561 JS174 (17,500-22,500)
CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO “RICHARD GREEN ESQR FROM THE INVENTOR”. SN 2719. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address with spears. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. Revolver is engraved in English style with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over sides of bbl lug, top side flats of bbl, around the muzzle, on rammer handle & pivot and hammer spur. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. The silver plated steel trigger guard & backstrap contain a highly figured 1-pc European walnut grip with matching SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene and all six safety pins serviceable. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have English proof marks. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Richard Green Esqr / From the Inventor”. Accompanied by an extraordinarily unusual & rare, orig birds-eye maple casing with fancy brass plaque in the lid engraved the same as the backstrap. Interior is scarlet velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a Dixon bag flask, a blued steel 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, an early tin of Eley’s caps and a Dixon pewter oil bottle. Covered right rear compartment contains several cast lead bullets & balls. Bottom front of case has a mortised brass lock with rnd escutcheon. Also accompanying is an orig sgl fold large advertisement titled “COLT’S PATENT REPEATING PISTOLS, ARMY, NAVY, AND POCKET SIZES MANUFACTURED AT HARTFORD, CONN.” The front page has a line drawing of a 2nd Model Dragoon and the second page directions for loading & cleaning Colt’s pistols. Maple or other exotic wood cases, aside from mahogany, rosewood & oak, made for Colt revolvers are extraordinarily rare and this is the first birdseye maple case ever encountered by this cataloger. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were approx. 42,000 London Navy Colts produced in the period 1853-1857, 2,000 of which were 1st Models with brass trigger guard & backstraps made at Hartford or from Hartford parts. The remaining approx. 40,000 were all made in England with iron trigger guard & backstraps. Very few of that number were engraved and of those cased examples are not at all common. A quick Google search disclosed a number of listings for Richard Green, Esq. in England, one of which appears to have been from the right time frame for this presentation. Mr. Green was involved in ship building, tobacco and other trades. It’s likely that through these businesses he could have met Samuel Colt. Certainly an extended search may disclose substantially more reliable information. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered, probably correct as it is matching engraved. Bbl retains 60-70% flaked orig blue with some of the loss areas cleaned to gray metal; rammer & handle retain strong case colors in sheltered areas with the handle cleaned to bright metal; pivot has moderately faded case colors; frame retains strong case colors on the recoil shields and in sheltered areas with sides of frame cleaned to bare metal; hammer retains dark case colors; cyl is a thin blue/gray patina with a streak of light pitting and overall retains about 93-95% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains 75-80% orig dull silver; backstrap is mostly cleaned to bare metal. Grip is sound with two or three small bruises on right side, a couple more on left side with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright strong bore with fine pitting in the grooves. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is sound with handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish; interior is lightly to moderately faded with a couple of spots of soil inside the lid and in the revolver recess; flask is very fine, retaining about 90% crisp orig finish with bright gold wash on collar, top & spout; mold retains 35-40% flaked blue mixed with light patina; other accessories are fine. 4-46703 JR160 (30,000-50,000)
RARE HISTORIC AND IMPORTANT SURRENDERED WALTHER PPK RECEIVED FROM REICH MARSHALL HERMANN GOERING AT THE TIME OF HIS CAPTURE BY JEROME SHAPIRO OF THE 142ND INTELLIGENCE AND RECONNAISSANCE PLATOON. SN 408111k. Cal 32. This cased gold washed engraved 32 cal. Walther PPK together with spare clip and three rounds of ammunition were surrendered by Herman Goering at the time of his capture in early May of 1945, at the conclusion of WWII. Details of the circumstances are enthralling, and are outlined in a declaration made by a Major Ronald W. Lane, Major U.S. Air force retired (a photocopy of which is included in this lot). In the statement Lane indicates that he was a flying officer in the U.S. Air force for 22 years. In 1961 he was stationed at Dover Air force base, and all during that time was an avid collector or Military memorabilia. In 1961 he was stationed at Dover Air Force base in Delaware and it was here that he met 1st Lt. Jerome Shapiro. He indicates that he knew Shapiro had been the officer who captured Goering at the conclusion of WWII and while in Dover struck up a relationship with Shapiro which evolved into a long term relationship. In 1968 as he was preparing to leave and verbally expressed to Lt. Shapiro that should Shapiro ever wish to sell the Goering surrender pistol he would very much like to have it for his collection. It was at that time Shapiro needing money for his daughter who was going to college made a deal and shook hands. Major Lane left a $1000.00 down payment and agreed to future payments over a period of time. Shortly afterwards Lt. Shapiro unfortunately passed away, but his wife fortunately kept the bargain and after final payments were made turned over the pistol (a photocopy of which is included), and a document relating to this pistol provided by Mrs. Shapiro relating to this exact pistol. Major Lane also acquired a number of other things at the same time with the pistol, some of which were Jerome Shapiro’s including his bronze star (not included in this lot) together with some small artifacts, an ivory handled dagger and some other artifacts supposedly acquired from Goering (none of which is included in this lot). The story involving the capture of Goering is unquestionably enthralling. Lane goes on to state that after he acquired the items, he personally visited with 1st Lt. Gordon Sill who was formally of the 636 Tank Destroyer battalion of the 36th Infantry division and also later visited with Sgt. Lester Leggett who served in a platoon of the 636th. Both of these army men were present when Lt. Jerome Shapiro brought in Reich Marshall Hermann Goering. The information that Maj. Lane obtained from Lt. Shapiro and these other two officers in part are the source of information for the following story. He goes on to state that: “early May of 1945, General Robert L. Stack, Asst. Div. Commander of the 36th Infantry Division was contacted by a German officer and was advised the Reich Marshall Hermann Goering wished to surrender. Gen. Stack contacted first Lt. Gordon Sill of the 636th Tank Destroyer Battalion and requested that any available unit or units that could possibly be made available should immediately assist Stack in capturing a “high ranking German officer”. A Platoon Sgt. Lester Lugit of the 636th and 1st Lt. Jerome Shapiro attached to the 142nd Intelligence and Reconnaissance patrol were some of the men provided for this purpose. When Gen. Stack and the rest of the staff arrived at the castle where they assumed the Goering to be, Goering was not present. Units were then sent out in different directions to locate Goering. Lt. Shapiro and the men under his command discovered Goering on a congested road overrun with weaponry and soldiers. Goering and his entire entourage were stuck in traffic and within a mass of people. He was in his bulletproof Mercedes limousine with his wife and daughter. There were approximately 11 other vehicles together with several of Goering’s officers and a large number of suitcases. Lt. Shapiro approached Goering with his Colt .45 drawn which was unnecessary as Goering was anxious to surrender. Shapiro requested Goering’s sidearm. Goering asked to empty the Smith & Weston pistol and keep it with him. The purpose of which was to personally surrender to Gen. Eisenhower. Goering offered not only to unload the Smith & Wesson pistol but to give Lt. Shapiro the gold plated Walther PPK as a symbol of his surrender which Shapiro accepted. He then accompanied Goering back to the castle where Gen. Stack and his staff awaited. Shapiro told me that the first night he was one of the guards to watch Goering. Shapiro spoke four different languages, German being one, and he could easily converse with Goering. Shapiro indicated that he developed a sort of rapport with him and during the Nuremburg Trials; Goering had specifically requested that Lt. Shapiro be one of his guards. That was not totally to Shapiro’s liking because he wanted to return home. The Nuremburg Trials resulted in him staying longer than he had anticipated. During the time, Shapiro guarded Goering on many occasions and either as a personal favor or as a trade, Goering gave Lt. Shapiro various items of his personal possessions; including a typewriter, stickpin, parts of his army uniform, opera glasses, ivory handled dagger/sword, and a wristwatch that was engraved and given to Goering by Adolf Hitler, also a watch fob. These items were all part of Shapiro’s collection when I met him in the early 1960’s.” Maj. Lane goes on to state: “that sometime after the war Gen. Stack forwarded a letter to Lt. Shapiro that had been sent to Stack by the Boy Scouts of America. The Boy Scouts were requesting the signature of the man who had captured Goering. In forwarding the Boy Scout letter, Gen. Stack included his own cover letter requesting Lt. Shapiro to respond to the Boys Scouts and to provide a signature since it was Shapiro that had captured Goering and not Stack: who is in some cases is mistakenly given credit.” Lane goes on to state in his declaration that his assignment of finding Goering was a particularly scary one. He and his men in a single jeep had to drive some 80 miles behind enemy lines and despite the fact that this was the ending days of the war, SS troops were everywhere. It was without question an exceedingly dangerous mission. In addition, Shapiro being of Jewish decent behind enemy lines in the country where responsible for one of the greatest holocaust in history added another dimension to concern. At this point in time, Hitler had already committed suicide but before doing so reportedly he had a falling out with Goering who suggested he should be put in charge. Reportedly Hitler was enraged at this and directed the SS to kill Goering. It does explain one very strong reason why Goering would want to surrender immediately, but whether it is true or not the fact that the Russian troops were advancing and soon would have Goering within their possession, he most definitely did not want to befall that fate. He well knew what might become of him and his family. He figured his odds were better with the Americans and thus wanted to surrender. We were told that Eisenhower staunchly refused to receive Goering or accept or Smith & Wesson pistol but we have also been told that Goering’s Smith & Wesson pearl handled revolver eventually did find its way into the West Point Museum. Shapiro received the Bronze star for the courageous actions of going behind enemy lines during this very dangerous period to find Goering. June of 2005, long after Shapiro’s death, the Wiesenthal Center presented a Medal of Valor for individual acts of heroism, one of which they presented posthumously to Lt. Jerome Shapiro. It was received by the last surviving member of his platoon, Alfred Frye. An image of Shapiro guarding Goering and his family is available on the internet, stock footage of U.S. Soldiers guarding Mrs. Emmy Goering and her daughter, Edda. In the video, Lt. Jerome Shapiro 36th Division Guard is seen. This can be accessed at www.criticalpast.com/video/65675046982_Emmy-Goering_daughter-Edda_Lieutenant-Jerome-Shapiro_36th-Division-guards Sometime during the 1960s, one of the television networks featured a program entitled the “20th Century”. In it Walter Cronkite was the spokesperson and one such session was an excerpt of Hermann Goering capture by Lt. Jerome Shapiro. Shapiro understandably was extremely proud of what he accomplished and after the war on numerous occasions he lectured about his involvement in the war and specifically the capture of Goering. On these occasions, he always brought the pistols with him on display and over the years literally thousands of people handled this historic gun. (Please note: In October 2001, we sold this exact pistol together with numerous other artifacts that were consigned by Maj. Lane. The lot was sold as a package and an agent representing the buyer attended the auction and purchased the entire package. Most recently we were contacted by a law firm on the West Coast and asked if we would be interested in selling the pistol again. This lot however does not include the various things described and outlined in our package offered in October of 2001. The only thing offered in this lot is Goering PPK Walther cased pistol with spare clip and cartridges together with photocopies of some of our original documentation and copies of other information that we acquired from research. CONDITION: The Walther is possibly unfired but has been handled excessively, wearing away much of the gold with 30 -35% remaining. The worn areas have a natural old dark brown patina. The gun has a bright shiny bore. The red leather case has numerous chips and dings and is missing some small spots of leather. The spare magazine retains perhaps 65-75% of the original gold wash and still retains the 3 cartridges. The interior of the case is soiled and shows appropriate wear for the condition of the gun. This is a truly historic item and surrender guns of officers of such great notoriety rarely ever make it into public hands but usually go directly to museums and thus this represents an extraordinarily rare opportunity to acquire a truly important historical surrender gun. 4-46319 JDJ55 (30,000-90,000)
VERY EARLY HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 39597. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Mounted with a very early 1-pc ivory grip. Ejector rod housing is 2nd type with bull’s eye ejector rod head and the base pin appears to be orig with dimpled ends. Revolver is engraved by master engraver, Cuno Helfricht, with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame & recoil shield with a small sunburst on loading gate and hunter stars on the front sides of frame. Top strap is engraved in leaf & vine patterns with foliate arabesque patterns extending up sides of bbl and each side of muzzle. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and has a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Top gullet of ejector housing is engraved in a leaf & vine pattern matching the top strap. Top of backstrap is engraved in a sparse sunburst with geometric patterns down backstrap and on buttstrap. Trigger bow is engraved with a hunter star. CONDITION: Very good. Orig finish remains in the most sheltered areas being mostly a gray metal patina with heavy wear on each side of the muzzle; cyl retains nickel in the flutes and rear face being mostly a gray metal patina on outer diameter; trigger guard retains about 50% orig nickel with front & backstraps a gray metal patina. Grip shows heavy wear with numerous age lines and has a couple of small chips in back edges and retains a spectacular golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and scattered pitting. 4-46577 JR212 (12,000-15,000)
RARE UPPER CANADA MARKED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 34812. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address with short spears. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” and the iron trigger guard & back strap containing a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with any numbers in the back strap channel covered in dark stains. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Left side of grip is stamped, upside down, “U.C / 61 / 33”. Prior to 1854 the Canadian Military was supplied arms by the British Gov’t. but at about that point the British Military was so heavily embroiled in the Crimean War that they were hard pressed to maintain their own military forces and therefore asked Canada to become more active in supplying their own arms. Canada accepted and in 1855 a commission was sent to England to purchase arms for the militia. Among other purchases, they bought 800 Colt Model 1851 Navy revolvers with 556 going to Upper Canada, the area of Canada now known as the Province of Ontario and 255 being issued to Lower Canada, the area known today as the Province of Quebec. Routinely these revolvers are stamped on the grip “UC” with a company letter and the rack number of the revolver. This revolver with the number “61” in place of the company designation apparently is an abnormality and the meaning of which is unknown. Reference information obtained from the book ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze. Accompanied by an English mahogany casing with scalloped brass plate in the lid which is engraved in script lettering “T.H. Bolton”. Interior is red velvet lined with a Colt’s directions label inside the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a Hawksley bag shaped flask, a “COLTS PATENT” blue steel 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter and the locator pin in the left arm, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of five combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps. Right rear compartment is covered and contains lead bullets & balls and an all metal cleaning rod. Also in the front compartment is an 1854 Bank of Upper Canada one penny bank token. All edges of the lid & bottom are rounded. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & cyl, grip as noted. Bbl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a light patina. Rammer & handle retain strong case colors, bright on the pivot. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig case colors, brilliant on sides of frame, dark on left recoil shield and turning dark on hammer. Cyl retains 75-80% strong orig blue and about 95% Ormbsy Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig blue, strong on trigger guard & front strap and at the top of the back strap & butt strap, thin on body of back strap. Grip is sound showing edge wear and a few nicks & scratches in the finish and overall retains 85-90% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. Case is sound with normal handling & use nicks, scratches & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with yellowed label inside the lid and damage from the front sight & hammer spur. Flask is fine with about 75% orig finish. Mold is lightly pitted & slightly battered on outside, nipple wrench is fine, cartridge box is crisp, coin is fine. 4-41068 JR365 (12,500-17,500)
VERY RARE COLT DOUBLE RIFLE. SN 11. Cal. 45-70. Very rare dbl rifle built on a reduced size Colt Model 1878 shotgun style action with 28″ Damascus bbls that have a German silver front sight on a pedestal and a rear sight with screw locking toggle elevation. Top flat of the raised rib is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.”. Lockplates are similarly marked. Bbls have opposing rifling being left hand in the left bbl and right hand in the right bbl . Mounted with very nicely figured American walnut with checkered black insert schnable tip splinter forearm and rnd knob pistol grip stock with smooth steel buttplate. Bottom of stock & bottom of bbl have non-factory sling wires. Bottom of stock also has an empty German silver initial oval. Lockplates, hammers, bottom of receiver & trigger guard are very lightly engraved with geometric and simple line patterns. Forend iron is engraved to match. It is well documented that these dbl rifles were the brainchild of Samuel Colt’s son, Caldwell. Only about 35 of them were ever produced in the period 1879-1885 and the majority were gifts to Caldwell’s friends. These rifles are indeed great rarities in the Colt collecting field. CONDITION: Fine. Very little finish remains on the metal being a cleaned silver metal color with traces of Damascus pattern on the bbls and faint smoky case colors around the hammers. Wood is sound showing heavy wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains traces of orig finish on the buttstock, being mostly a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores. 4-46810 JR (30,000-40,000)
COLT 3-1/2″ CONVERSION REVOLVER FROM QUINCY POLICE. SN 5415. Cal. 38 CF. Usual configuration with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address. Left side of bbl is engraved in block letters “QUINCY POLICE No 3”. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and the caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip. There is no indication of which state this Quincy Police revolver is from but Police marked arms of this era are extremely rare. CONDITION: Fair. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth gray/brown patina showing heavy wear; all visible numbers are matching except wedge which is numbered “16388”; trigger guard & backstrap retain a light mustard patina. Grip is sound showing heavy wear with a dark hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with light pitting 4-46675 (3,000-6,000)
FINE INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 202263. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with desirable 6″ bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Cyl is 6-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll-marking. Back strap is engraved in period lettering “JOHN.W.BOWERS. Hamilton Square N.J.”. First Lieutenant, John W. Bowers of the 21st Regiment, New Jersey Infantry. Bowers was enrolled September 2nd, 1862 as a First Lieutenant. He was mustered in on September 15th, 1862 and on June 20th, 1863 he was dismissed. His dismissal was as a result of a Court Martial. He was accused of cowardice on the field of battle in Virginia in early May 1863. The results of the Court Martial found him guilty, thus he was dismissed. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except rammer handle which is numbered “2269” (probably an assembler’s error). Bbl & cyl retain factory quality restored blue with the bbl retaining about 90-92% and the cyl about all of this fine blue. Cyl also retains about 75% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer also retain factory quality restored color case hardening with moderately faded colors. Trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver plating and back strap silver plating at the top and on butt strap with exposed brass a light mustard patina. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & dings and some battering on bottom right edge and retains most of a restored finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-41071 JR363 (3,000-5,000)
FINE ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER, CARRIED BY SHERIFF IN DUVAL COUNTY, TEXAS, 1888-1890. SN 127579. Cal. 45 Colt, Nickel finish with 4-3/4” barrel with 2-line address, patent markings on left side of frame. This gun is mounted with a beautiful pair of two-piece smooth pearl grips with “rampant colt” medallion inset in each. Revolver is factory engraved by Cuno Helfricht with his typical foliate, sunburst, snake & dot and punch-dot backgrounds. According to accompanying provenance and historical documents; this gun was made in 1888 was given to Linton Lafayette Wright who was Sheriff of Duval County, San Diego, Texas from 1880 to 1890. Gun was refinished at colt in 1912 where the well fit mother-of-pearl grips were added. One of the most famous Colt collectors, Robert Q Sutherland purchased this gun in 1943 from Sheriff Wright’s son-in-law. This gun is in beautiful condition though it no doubt saw use during an important time in Texas history. Gun is accompanied by a large folio of documents including factory letter detailing its provenance and history. PROVENANCE: Sheriff LL Wright, his son-in-law, Robert Q Sutherland, pictured in Wilson &Sutherland’s Book of Colt Firearms, page 252, Alan Kelley, Doug Carlson, CD Terry, Bill Porterfield, pictured in January 3, 2001 The Picture, San Diego, Texas newspaper article concerning Sheriff Wright CONDITION: Gun is very fine overall retaining over 95% nickel, losses of nickel to back of trigger guard and back strap as can be seen in photographs account for most of the nickel loss (where expected from holding gun) and these areas show dark patina. Muzzle wear to left side with nickel worn away in about ½” x ¼” area. Serial numbers match overall with no serial number on cylinder or grips. MOP grips are fine and well fit with chip at right outside toe, action is crisp, and markings are all crisp and discernible with exception of “45 cal” mark on left side of triggerguard that is weak but mostly discernible. “332 N” markings are found internally on most pieces probably associated with Colt factory refurbish as denoted by “hollow star” marking on right side of trigger guard. 4-46566 JS172 (25,000-35,000)
OUTSTANDING CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT FACTORY PRESENTATION MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 14303. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and New-York U.S. America 1-line address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” and the left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”, which is dbl stamped. Mounted with beautiful smooth pearl grips, matching numbered to this revolver. Grips were originally 1-pc made from two slabs of pearl attached to an ivory spacer block but apparently became separated and someone added escutcheons and a screw through the center from the right side. The exposed side of the ivory spacer block has the date “2/15/14” and also has some other pencil notation inside left grip which is illegible. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young in his extra deluxe patterns of fine foliate arabesque scrolls with fine punch dot background. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top of bbl with small flourishes on bottom sides of lug and additional patterns around muzzle & front sight. Engraving on bbl lug has several flower blossoms and the largest scroll on left side terminates in Mr. Young’s mythical bird head. Quite unusually the cyl is also engraved completely around the rebated area with additional flourishes on raised areas over the chambers. Hammer is deluxe engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose, feather patterns on each side of spur and fish scale patterns on top edge. Top of backstrap, top end & heel of backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Center of backstrap is also engraved by Mr. Young in period script “Prof. J.D. Butler / from Colts P.F.A.M. Co”. Accompanied by its spectacular presentation rosewood case with beautiful light shell grain veneer top and sides and has an empty brass shield inlay. All of the exposed edges are of rosewood, with a mortised brass lock and diamond shaped escutcheon. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in American style for the revolver, a dbl-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36 P”, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, two packets of Colts Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a tin of Eley’s caps, several cast lead balls and its orig functioning key. A quick Google search disclosed a number of entries for Prof. J.D. Butler who apparently worked at the State University of Wisconsin and somehow became closely associated with Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Colt in the development of Armsmear, the Colt Mansion in Hartford. He is mentioned in the book, Armsmear, published in 1866. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 95% strong orig blue, thinning a little on the sides; rammer handle retains most of its strong orig case colors; frame retains about all of its orig light case colors as is typical of these revolvers; cyl retains blue in the flutes with the balance a light patina; the iron trigger guard & backstrap are a plummy/brown patina. Grips, as noted above, have a couple of natural flaws in left side and a small chip near left heel, otherwise are sound with great fire. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has several cracks in the veneer on the lid, otherwise is sound retaining most of its orig varnish; interior is lightly faded with light soil and minor damage from the front sight and hammer spur; flask is crisp & near new as are the mold & nipple wrench; cartridge packets are fine with cap tin lightly soiled. Altogether a spectacular factory presentation revolver with an unusual & rare case. 4-46381 JR103 (80,000-125,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1908 POCKET PISTOL. SN 240713. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/4″ bbl, standard markings and mounted with full checkered, silver medallion walnut grips. Accompanied by 1 orig 2-tone magazine with marked base. Pistol is very nicely engraved in leaf, vine and berry patterns, through the blue. The rear side edges of frame, right rear edge of slide, front & rear webs of the trigger guard and bottom front sides of slide are engraved in diamond and dot patterns. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter indicating this gun, SN 240713 was shipped to Geller, Ward & Hasner Hardware Co., St. Louis Missouri, June 23, 1920. CONDITION: Very good, overall retains 70-75% orig blue with 4 or 5 spots of rust on left side of slide and a couple of others on right side. Trigger, grip safety and thumb safety retain faded colors. Grips are sound and show moderate wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-46980 (1,500-2,500)
ULTRA-RARE EXTREMELY EARLY PINCHED FRAME COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SN 2. SN 2. Cal. 45 Colt. Yes, that’s correct! This revolver is the second production sgl action Colt Army revolver made in the line of this famous model of which there were over 250,000! It has the rare pinched frame with nickel finish. Bbl has been reduced to 5-1/2″ & it currently has wonderfully carved raised ox-head 1-pc ivory grip with ruby eyes (one missing) & gold covered horns with a small oval plaque at the top of the right side inscribed “NO.2”. When the bbl was reduced in length the sight was relocated and has been slightly altered with notches cut in the front & rear. The serial number “2” is clearly visible on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder and bbl. Bbl has 1-line address in small slant letters with a serif at each end & it has 2-line “JULY 25 1871” and “JULY 2 1872” patent dates on the left side of the frame. It has its orig 1st type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. There is no evidence that the caliber was marked on the trigger guard. It is readily apparent that this revolver has seen hard service. It spent virtually all of its life in Mexico & possibly the southwest. This revolver was previously sold by the Julia Auction Co. in 2005 at which time it was shown to be accompanied by several Colt Factory letters identifying this revolver as having been shipped Oct. 1, 1877 to Wexel & DeGress, Mexico City, Mexico in a shipment of 30 like revolvers. Also accompanied by a letter dated Jan. 18, 1992 from prominent collector Enrique E. Guerra of Linn, TX wherein he states that in about 1952 he purchased this revolver from a detective of the City of Monterey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, named Jose Medina for about $650.00, which was a considerable amount since Colt single actions with little finish could be purchased for $20 – 25. He also states in the letter that at the time it had wood grips. Mr. Guerra states that he replaced the wood grips with the carved steer heads with the gold oval and later sold it to someone he can’t recall. He states that he did not have the “NO.2” engraved on the plaque. Also accompanied by a 1968 dated collection sheet from the collection of Robert Q. Sutherland fully identifying this revolver. He states that the plaque on the grip was engraved for Gerald G. Fox by A.A. White & that it was item #22 on pg 27 of Evolution of the Colt and was displayed at a number of shows in 1966 & 67. The revolver is also pictured in The Book of Colt Firearms by R. L. Wilson, page 238. Also included is a note from Ron Wagner, former curator of the Winchester Museum, listing a few of the serial numbers which accompanied this revolver when it was shipped. Also accompanying is a copy of the Nov. 1955 issue of Modern Man magazine which on p. 32 features three Colts from the Gerald Fox Collection which includes #1 & #2. And finally accompanying are copies of the cover & pages from The Texas Gun Collector, Fall 1987 which has an article regarding serial #2 and also the collection of Charles Schreiner III which included #2. This revolver is well-known, having passed through many famous collections to the Wes Adams Collection. PROVENANCE: Enrique E. Guerra Collection; Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; Gerald G. Fox Collection; Dave Stauble Collection; Charles Schreiner III Collection; Bob Dean Collection; Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good, as noted, all matching including the bbl & cylinder. Retains 20-25% orig nickel with the balance a very dark attic patina. Some of the screws are battered & the cylinder pin is pretty chewed up but probably orig. Cylinder pin screw is an old replacement. Hammer has a crack by the firing pin on each side. Mechanics are fine, with a strong dark bore that may clean better. This revolver is completely authentic as found in Mexico with period modification of shortened bbl (from 7-1/2” to 5-1/2”) and replaced grips of carved elephant ivory. A truly rare single action revolver. 4-44686 JR208 (40,000-60,000)
EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 31427. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with bbl cut to 6-3/8″, replaced front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and the caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Ejector rod housing is 1st type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Mounted with very old, replacement, 2-pc smooth ivory grips that are not orig to this revolver. Revolver was built for 1-pc grip and although there is a hole, ostensibly for a grip locator pin, the pin is not present. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably by L.D. Nimschke, with about 75-80% coverage bold foliate arabesque patterns with dot & diamond patterns on each side of the bbl boss and a hunter’s star on sides of the cyl pin boss & ejector boss. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Bbl is engraved on sides and by front sight in foliate arabesque patterns. Top gullet of the ejector housing is engraved in a snake & dot pattern with a bold sunburst pattern on outer radius. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Top of backstrap has a fine fan pattern with triangle shape center and geometric patterns down the backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger guard. CONDITION: Fair. Traces of orig nickel remain in the most sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned gray metal patina. Grips have numerous heavy age lines and are basically sound with a deep golden ivory patina. Hammer will not hold in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. The ejector rod screw hole extends into the bore. 4-46217 JR207 (3,000-5,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NAVY REVOLVER. SN 48115. Cal. 36. This is a honest example of an all original and complete ivory stocked and Gustave Young engraved Navy revolver made in 1856. This gun exhibits classic Gustave Young engraving including two dog’s heads on left side of gun on bbl housing and frame. This gun conforms to standard configuration with 7 1/2 oct. bbl and one line New York address. The “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of frame however is engraved – not stamped. Revolver saw honest use as holster wear at muzzle and worn safety pins attest. This Navy was well cared for as it still retains strong traces of original finish and an easily seen and the nearly complete rolled naval scene. Edges of gun are still crisp and sharp as is the engraving. All screws are original and retain their engraved heads. The front sight has been contemporarily altered from a brass pin to a dovetailed 3/8″ slot with tapered pedestal with blade. This is a beautiful, all original and authentic engraved and ivory stocked Colt Model 1851 that would display well in many collections. CONDITION: Bbl retains about 5% of its bright blue finish, especially on bottom of bbl and protected areas. The balance is gray/plum with sharp edges and crisp engraving. There is an additional engraved border around muzzle which is worn on left side where holster has caused slight reduction of metal as can be seen in photos. Balance of surface has scattered scratches, small dents and dings. There are file marks in area where front sight has been added, but no doubt they appear contemporary to gun’s time of use. Rifling in bore is still deep and discernible. Frame and hammer have tiny traces of muted case colors with balance being dark silver/gray with pitting around face and top edges of hammer. Full coverage engraving on hammer and frame is crisp and sharp as can be seen in photos. Cylinder is gray overall with about 90% of Naval engagement rolled scene present. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 40% of their original silver plating with engraving worn on backstrap, otherwise crisp and well discerned. Ivory stocks are sound and complete and well fit though there are slight gaps. Ivory shows patina with numerous age cracks which do not affect the integrity of the grips. 4-46130 JS144 (10,000-15,000)
SPECTACULAR, HIGH CONDITION, EXCEPTIONALLY RARE, GOLD INLAID COLT HAMMERLESS 1883 SHOTGUN WITH EXTRA BARRELS. SN 7654. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. This truly exceptional high grade special order Colt hammerless shotgun has exceedingly rare gold inlaid bands around breech ends of bbls with corresponding bands on fences, along with gold inlaid name on trigger guard bow. It is also engraved with a large amount of scroll and beautifully rendered hunting dogs and game birds, a product of the Helfricht Shop. This gun is illustrated on pages 488 and 489 of THE COLT ENGRAVING BOOK, Volume I, by R. L. Wilson, and on page 348 of COLT ENGRAVING, also by R. L. Wilson. It has two sets of fine two blade Damascus bbls with concave matted game ribs fitted with two ivory beads, marked “COLT’S P T F. A. MFG CO HARTFORD CT USA” at rear of ribs. 30″ Set is marked “1”, and 28″ set is stamped “2”, on splinters. Case hardened boxlock action features automatic safety (SAFE relief engraved) and double triggers. Along with the gold inlay are exceptional quality and fine game scenes (setter and flushing partridge on left, pointer with alert quail on right), the patent dates on bottom of action are also hand engraved. Beautifully marbled, stump figured European walnut semi pistol grip buttstock measures 13-5/8″ over rampant Colt logo checkered hard rubber buttplate. Grip and side panels are checkered at about 20 LPI with arced and cyma curved borders with uncheckered arrowheads in side panels. Side panels also have lozenge shaped drop points. Stocks are finished with high gloss French polish. Matching splinter type forends have inset ebony tips and Colt’s adaptation of the Deeley release, and are stamped “1” or “2” on inside of irons. 30″ BBLS: Bore diameter: left -.724, right -.722. Bore restrictions: left -.020, right -.016. Wall thickness: left -.026, right -.022. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 1-9/16″. Weight: 7 lbs. 6 oz, LOP 13-5/8″. 28″ BBLS: Bore diameter: left -.722, right -.719. Bore restrictions: left -.012, right -.002. Wall thickness: left -.030, right -.032. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 1-9/16″. Weight: 7 lbs. 4 oz, LOP 13-5/8″. CONDITION: Truly exceptional. Bbls retain 95 – 98% orig dramatic black and white Damascus finish, with some minor spotting, and silvering at muzzles. Action retains 90% + orig bright case hardening color, only slightly silvered on high edges, and thinned at bottom. Nearly all orig case hardening color remains on forend latches. Tumbler end sear pins retain nearly all of their brilliant fire blue. Top lever and trigger guard retain most of their orig charcoal blue, with some flaking and thinning to silver on thumbpiece and grip. Stocks retain nearly all of their orig French polish finish with numerous marks and small spots chipped through on left butt. Checkering is very slightly worn, with a few small areas “cleaned up”. Bores are excellent, bright and shiny throughout. Action is tight. Most probably the finest high grade Colt hammerless in existence. 4-46380 MGM83 (55,000-65,000)
UNUSUAL AND RARE PARTIALLY ENGRAVED COLT CIVILIAN 2ND MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER BELIEVED TO BE MADE AS A DISPLAY PIECE. SN 9923. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, slightly altered German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLT’S PATENT” about centered on the side. Cyl is usual 6-chambers with “MODEL USMR / COLT’S PATENT” surrounding the SN. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with SN in backstrap channel. Most unusually the rammer pivot is engraved on both sides in early donut style and the hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on shank and fish scale patterns on the spur & top edge. Tip of hammer spur is hand checkered with a scalloped bottom border. All of the screwheads are very nicely engraved with the screw tips checkered. A most unusual configuration and the first ever encountered by this cataloger. It is believed that the gun was prepared this way for exhibition purposes to show that the gun could be a) finished plain, b) partially engraved, c) standard engraved, or d) deluxe engraved. Certainly a most unusual piece. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were only about 2,700 of these 2nd Model Dragoon revolvers produced in the period 1850-1851. Sidearms of this era, especially the Dragoons were in great demand on the American frontier and usually saw hard & continuous service under adverse circumstances with little maintenance. They continued in service throughout the Civil War and well into the 1870s until they were supplanted by the advent of self-contained cartridge side arms. With that length & degree of service it is a rarity today to find one with any orig finish or special order features. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Fine plus, all matching except the wedge which is numbered “046”. Bbl retains 65-70% orig blue, strong over front half, thinning over rear half and flaked on sides of lug; rammer pivot & handle retain strong case colors fading to silver toward the end of the handle; frame has been cleaned to a light gray metal patina; hammer retains dark case colors on left side, faded to silver elsewhere; cyl is a mottled silver/brown patina with one area of fine pin prick pitting and overall retains about 50% Dragoon/Indian fight scene; cyl has a light pressure ridge and all six safety pins are serviceable; trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their strong orig silver plating with one flaked spot on front strap & some thinning in middle of backstrap and on the heel; screw heads & tips retain most of their orig engraving. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with a few minor nicks & retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. 4-46431 JR120 (20,000-30,000)
COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER TO “LIEUT GEO. BALLOU”. SN 196737. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. Cyl is 6-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The large guard brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with obscured number in backstrap channel. Buttstrap is engraved in period script “Lieut. Geo. Ballou” and the backstrap is engraved “89th Regt, N.Y.V.”. Mr. Ballou enlisted on Dec. 18, 1861 at Norwich, NY as a 1st Lieutenant in Company E, 89th Infantry. He was dismissed on June 11, 1862 and enlisted as a 1st Sergeant in Company B of the 114th New York Infantry on Aug. 18, 1862. He was wounded April 14, 1863 at Bisland, LA, and died of his wounds on June 7, 1863 at Brashear City, LA. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except wedge which is a replacement and grip as noted above. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal patina with possibly some old cold blue; cyl retains about 20% stagecoach holdup scene with a series of dents in one area; grip frame is a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy wear and overall retains most of an old refinish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine dark pitting. 4-46691 JR169 (3,000-4,000)
FINE ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY, 1892. SN 143955. Cal 45, Nickel finish, 4-3/4” barrel with two-line address. Left side of frame has two line patent dates and rampant colt in a circle and gun is mounted with pair of smooth mother-of-pearl grips. Engraving is typical of Cuno Helfricht foliate, sunburst, snake & dot, and punch dot backgrounds. Left side of barrel is marked “45 COLT” in banner panel surrounded by foliate Helfricht engraving. This gun was made in 1892 as is a similar Helfricht engraved gun SN 147,144 is identified to the outlawed “Kid Curry” in RL Wilson’s book The Peacemakers. CONDITION: This gun is very good to fine overall with all matching serial numbers except grips which are unnumbered. Overall gun retains most of its restored nickel finish with holster wear around muzzle. Scattered pitting is visible in protected areas under grips and under nickel plating. Markings and engraving are worn in areas though all easily discerned. Caliber marking on trigger guard was buffed away during refinishing, but “45”at bottom of barrel under cylinder pin is still discernible. Left grip has two glued repairs, one at top edge next to frame and one at inside toe which can be seen in photos, otherwise grips fit gun well. Action and mechanics are good. For retains good discernible rifling. 4-46553 JS176 (15,000-20,000)
RARE ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 309559. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a pillow shape and left rear web of the trigger guard is stamped with the caliber. There is a small “E” stamped adjacent to the SNs on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap signifying that the parts to this revolver were to receive extra polish for engraving. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a beautiful burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Frame is engraved in late vine style pattern, probably by Gustave Young with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over both sides of bbl lug, the top side flats of bbl and on to the rammer pivot. Hammer is engraved in Mr. Young’s distinctive deluxe patterns of a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on the shank and fish scale patterns on the spur & top edge. Top of backstrap is engraved with his distinctive sunburst pattern and the backstrap, heel, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match the frame with a sunburst pattern around the buttstrap screw. Cyl is 5-chambers with three serviceable safety pins and the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Accompanied by a wonderful brass bound rosewood casing with small brass panel in the lid, engraved with the initials “GLL”. Interior is purple velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a replacement 3-compartment flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of combustible cartridges, a 250-count lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a functioning key. This revolver was produced in 1868 during the height of the great Westward Expansion post-Civil War where arms of this era generally saw hard service on the western frontier with little or no maintenance. While engraved examples of this model Colt are not uncommon they are rarely found in such high condition and the French fitted case is extraordinarily rare. It is very likely that this revolver was a presentation to someone of high office or great importance. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip, appears to be new & unfired. Overall retains nearly all of its crisp, glossy orig blue and bright case colors showing only light edge wear and a few, very minor fine scratches on the bbl; cyl has a couple of thin spots, otherwise is equally new retaining virtually all of its orig factory blue in the chambers; trigger guard & backstrap retain thin silver plating with exposed brass a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound with a very few, very minor nicks in the finish and retains virtually all of its crisp, orig high-gloss varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore retaining about all of its orig blue. Case is extremely fine with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish; interior is moderately faded with moderate soil in the revolver recess; flask is fine, mold appears to be new with the other accessories equally fine. This is truly a magnificent and one of a kind set. 4-46385 JR106 (40,000-60,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED PRE-WWII COLT WOODSMAN TARGET PISTOL W/ORIGINAL BOX. SN 102094. Cal. 22 LR. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd bbl and adjustable front & rear sights. Left side of the frame is marked “THE WOODSMAN” and slide has standard markings. Mounted with full checkered walnut grips and has high speed housing. Accompanied by one orig 2-tone magazine with marked base. Pistol is engraved in B to C coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frame, slide, top of frame & bbl with matching patterns on the front & back straps and trigger bow. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol in caliber 22 with 6-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved level B, shipped to Loan Account, Frank J. Budge Co., Miami, FL on Nov. 6, 1936 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks it states that this pistol was returned to the factory Jan. 14, 1938 and re-shipped five more times on Loan Account. Remarks also state that the records do not disclose final disposition. Also accompanied by its orig hinged lid dark maroon box with black & white, top & bottom end labels with two over-labels, one marked “ENGRAVED” and the other “B”. Bottom of box has the matching SN in pencil. Box contains an owner’s pamphlet and a “Shooting Suggestions” paper. This pistol was purchased by Harry Franklin Vickers from Abercrombie & Fitch, where he was a regular customer, in about 1940, along with two engraved Colt revolvers also being sold in this auction. Mr. Vickers was an American inventor & industrialist known as “The Father of Industrial Hydraulics” by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He was a close friend & colleague of Gen. Douglas MacArthur, who was the Chairman of Remington-Rand when Sperry & Remington merged in the early 1950s, forming Sperry-Rand. When Gen. MacArthur retired, Mr. Vickers became the Chairman of the Board of the company. This pistol has remained in the Vickers family until being consigned to this auction. PROVENANCE: Harry F. Vickers Family Collection. CONDITION: When consigned, pistol was completely sealed in “Nox-rust” cellophane dated 11/61 and remains new & unfired retaining 99%+, of its crisp orig factory finish. Grips are crisp showing no flaws or wear; engraving is equally crisp; pistol shows no evidence of ever having been loaded or fired. Magazine is equally new with bright white top and crisp blue. Box lid is detached with two broken corners and a torn edge while the bottom is solid with one small compression break. 4-46813 JR420 (12,500-17,500)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.`. SN 23641. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel and gold finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Mounted with fine, smooth, Colt 1-pc ivory grip. Ejector housing is 2nd type with bullseye ejector rod head. SN was observed in the usual places, on bottom of frame, trigger guard and buttstrap. Last 4 digits of matching SN are on bottom of bbl under the ejector housing. Cyl has the 4 digits “3541”, obviously an assembler’s mistake which should have read “3641”. Cyl, hammer and ejector housing were originally gold washed over silver plating. Bbl, frame and grip frame are nickel plated. Revolver is beautifully engraved by renowned master engraver L.D. Nimschke with about B to A coverage of foliate arabesque patterns on frame and recoil shield with diamond and dot pattern on each side of bbl boss and hunter’s stars on the sides of the base pin boss and ejector boss. Top strap is engraved in circle and square patterns. Loading gate is engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s fan pattern with diamond and dot patterns on the frame below the loading gate and on each shoulder of trigger guard. Foliate arabesque patterns extend on sides of bbl and terminate just forward of the address. There are smaller foliate arabesque patterns on each side of muzzle. Ejector housing is engraved on outer radius with a long diamond panel that has dash and dot borders with a foliate spray at each end. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s trademark fan pattern with diamond and dot center at the top with geometric patterns down backstrap and buttstrap. Trigger bow is engraved with a Hunter’s star with foliate arabesque pattern around the front screw and diamond and dot pattern on bottom of frame. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes and has a straight line and chip borders at rear edge. This an elaborately engraved, presentation quality Single Action from one of the best known engravers. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except cyl, as noted above, and grip, which is unnumbered; frame and bbl retain virtually all of their bright, strong orig nickel and the screws all of their orig fire blue; grip frame retains virtually all of its orig nickel; cyl retains most of its orig gold wash on the front and rear faces and in the chambers with strong gold in the flutes and stop notches, with exposed silver plating on the outside diameter; ejector housing retains strong gold on the inside radius, next to bbl, with traces of gold in the top and bottom gullets with exposed silver elsewhere; hammer retains 40-50% gold wash in hidden areas with the balance tarnished exposed silver; base pin retains gold wash on the inside end and in the grooves at front tip; grip has a couple of tiny chips in left edge, otherwise is completely sound with one age line and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina; mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 4-44694 JR272 (30,000-50,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 291733. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Bbl & cyl are modern replacements. Mounted with exceptional, very high quality, reproduction, silver Tiffany style, 1-pc grip with relief American eagle & shield on left side and a crouching cougar on right side with a deep relief Lady Liberty on buttcap. Balance of grip has raised foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background. There is an empty initial panel at top of grip. Revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfricht style by Eagle Art Works of St. Louis, MO. Frame is engraved with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on sides and Helfricht-style trademark sunburst patterns on left recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap & top gullet of ejector housing are engraved in snake & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque engraving extends over sides of bbl with geometric patterns on top and outer radius of ejector housing. Cyl is engraved in alternating Helfricht-style sunburst & foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a snake & dot border around rear edge. Cyl, hammer & ejector housing are gold washed. CONDITION: Frame retains about all of its fine silver plating, thin on top strap and sides of frame. Outer radius of ejector housing and trigger guard are bare metal. Grip is very fine showing light wear. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-46259 JR199 (4,000-6,000)
VERY RARE FACTORY PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 6358. Cal. 36. Early 3rd Model with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. It has usual 6-shot cyl with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. The silver plated small guard brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a nicely figured 1-pc varnished walnut grip that has last three digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Frame has full coverage donut style engraving with “COLTS PATENT” hand engraved in a panel on left side. Bbl lug & rammer pivot are engraved to match with the small vignette on right side of lug of the bust of a large cat. Top of backstrap is engraved in an unusual and beautiful panel. The backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match the frame with an empty presentation panel in center of backstrap. All screw heads and screw tips, along with the ends of the wedge are engraved to match. While engraved ’51 Navy revolvers are not overly rare, those engraved with panel scenes are extremely rare. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. No orig finish remains being an overall mottled gray/brown patina showing some wear on the engraving; cyl retains 40-50% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains nearly all of its orig silver plating and backstrap about 50-60% silver plating. Grip is sound showing a small chip on right edge and moderate wear and retains most of an old restored finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-46298 JR94 (10,000-15,000)
COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING SADDLE RING CARBINE. SN 50216. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Standard grade carbine with 20″ rnd bbl, full magazine, barleycorn front sight & reverse mounted orig carbine ladder rear sight. Left side of receiver has rampant Colt roll marking and a staple & ring. Carbine is without manual safety, utilizing only the safety notch in the hammer. Mounted with very nicely figured, uncheckered, shell grain American walnut buttstock with checkered dbl schnable forearm & straight stock with carbine buttplate. Right side of buttstock has an empty 3″ x 1-1/8″ brass plaque, apparently for a presentation which was never engraved. SN is on bottom tang, left side of top tang under the wood, on the face of buttstock under the metal and last four digits of matching number inside the buttplate. This carbine appears to have hung over a fireplace because when it was taken in consignment it was covered with a heavy coating of soot which we have partially cleaned. There also appears to have been a coating of shellac over the metal in years past. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Metal retains what appears to be a very old refinish under the coating of shellac. Stock has an old crack in the wrist, a plugged sling swivel hole in bottom of stock and a repaired crack in the forearm and overall the wood retains about all of an old restored finish. Mechanics are fine, sharp bore with good shine that may clean a lot better. 4-47009 JR358 (2,000-3,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 23687 & 23647. Cal. 36. Identical pair with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, brass pin front sights and 1-line London addresses with arrows. Frames are identically engraved, probably by the same hand, with “Colts Patent” engraved in a ribbon on left side of frames. Frames are engraved in very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with shaded backgrounds and about 60-65% coverage. Engraving extends over bbl lugs, top side flats of bbl, around muzzles and on the rammer pivots. The silver plated large guard iron trigger guards & backstraps are identically engraved with matching patterns which extend over the buttstraps, toe of frontstraps & trigger bows. Each revolver is mounted with beautiful, highly figured, varnished walnut grip with respective matching SNs in backstrap channels. Sides of hammer spurs are also engraved and top edges of hammers are engraved in dolphin patterns. Cyls are usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll markings. Sides of bbl lugs and cyls have British proofs and revolvers have the typical English domed screws. All of SNs on the bottom of each revolver are accompanied by a small punch mark signifying extra polish for engraving or presentation. Accompanied by a beautiful brass bound, green baize lined mahogany casing with bull’s eye lifting ring in the lid, a mortised brass lock in bottom front with sliding latches on each end of the front. Inside the lid has the Colt “Directions for Loading Colt’s Pistols” label. Bottom is compartmented for the two revolvers, a Dixon Navy sized bag flask, two blued “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball molds in the English style with locator pin in the left arm, two 500 count lacquered Eley cap tins, two L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdrivers, two all-metal cleaning rods and a Dixon pewter oil bottle. Right center covered compartment contains six spare nipples. Given the luxurious presentation dbl casing and fine engraving with deluxe burl walnut grips, it is readily apparent that this set was a presentation intended for a high ranking British officer or someone of equal importance. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Revolvers are in nearly identical condition, all matching, showing very little evidence of ever having been used and are possibly unfired. #23647 bbl retains 93-95% glossy orig blue with light sharp edge wear and flaking on right side of bbl lug; rammer & handle retain about all of their orig case colors, brilliant on pivot; frame retains about all of its subtle English case colors, moderately faded on left side, brighter on right side and brilliant in sheltered areas; cyl retains 65-70% glossy orig blue with the losses flaked to a light patina; chambers retain about half their orig blue and all six safety pins are crisp; trigger guard retains about 65% orig silver with the front strap a gray/brown patina; backstrap is a silver/brown patina. Grip is sound with a couple of minor scratches and a few chips in the finish and overall retains about all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. #23687 bbl retains about 60% glossy orig blue with losses flaked, not worn, to a medium patina; rammer & handle retain about all of their strong case colors, faded on handle, brilliant on pivot; frame retains virtually all of its orig case colors, lightly to moderately faded; cyl retains 65-70% glossy orig blue with the flaked areas a light patina; chambers retain about half their orig blue and all six safety pins are crisp; trigger guard retains virtually all of its strong orig silver and backstrap about 60% silver. Grip is sound with a very few, very light nicks in the finish and overall retains about all of its brilliant orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is completely sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches with a couple of gouges in the lid and overall retains most of its orig varnish; interior is moderately faded inside the lid with yellowed label, missing a few small pieces; bottom is crisp & clean showing very little use; flask is crisp & new retaining all of its orig factory finish; molds appear to be unused with one showing some light flaking; nipple wrenches & cleaning rods are fine as are cap tins & oil bottle. Altogether this is an extraordinary set that would add to any collection. 4-46408 (75,000-125,000)
ORIGINAL COLT FACTORY CASE FOR MODEL 1851 PERCUSSION NAVY REVOLVER. Fine solid case appearing original and unaltered that would house a fine Model 1851 Colt Navy Revolver with small trigger guard and accessories. Early Colt Navy cases for small trigger guard guns are scarce and this would be a perfect compliment to a fine Gustaf Young engraved Colt Navy. SIZE: 14-1/4″ x 6-1/4″ x 2-1/4″. CONDITION: Box is sound, solid and complete. Box retains much of its original varnish finish with normal dings, dents, scrapes and scratches on surface. Base, which is made of pine has several large cracks extending most of the length of the box though it doesn’t affect soundness or stability of the box. There is a slight warp to lid such that when closed there is a 1/16″ gap at edges. Dark burgundy red velvet lining in box is complete with wear and soiling present where components originally sat in this case. Partitions are sound and complete with one glued repair to partition, which is barely discernible. This box retains an original contemporary functioning key. 4-45679 JS142 (7,500-9,500)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 117011. Cal. 45 Colt. Rare fluted frame Sheriff’s Model with 4″ (3 7/8″) bbl with slightly thinned front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and the left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfrecht in foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Frame has nearly full coverage with a zig zag border around rear edges and recoil shields. Left recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in Mr. Helfrecht’s sunburst pattern and the front gullets are engraved in snake patterns with very unusual tiny Maltese cross stampings. Each side also has a small half sunburst. Bbl is engraved on both sides with matching foliate arabesque patterns and there is a dbl line geometric pattern around the address. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with a snake & large dot pattern at rear edge. Revolver is mounted with a beautiful custom 1-pc pearl grip made in the orig style with two slabs of fine pearl attached to a wood spacer. Back strap channel has the number “6212” on the wood spacer. Accompanied by three different dated factory letters to three different parties with all three letters furnishing exactly the same information, identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on Jan. 12, 1886 in a 1-gun shipment. The earliest dated letter (1974) is to a gentleman whose address was Tallulah, Louisiana. If, in fact, Louisiana is where this fine single action was discovered it would explain the lack of orig finish. Also accompanied by a 3-page letter from renowned Colt authority, author & collector, Ron Graham, who completely authenticates this revolver as an original factory Sheriff’s Model with fluted frame. Mr. Graham states that research of the factory records has disclosed that there are only nine known factory engraved blue finished Sheriff’s Models, seven of which had 4″ bbls. He also states that it is not unusual to find a Colt Single Action whose bbl does not measure to the exact inch or half inch. He refers to this revolver as “The Four Aces” Sheriff’s Model. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were probably fewer than 1,000 Sheriff’s/Storekeeper Model ejectorless single action revolvers produced in the pre-WWII period. Of those very few pieces he estimates that approx. 350 or about 35% were of the fluted frame variety as found here. Page 370 of this publication states that about 40 of the production of Sheriff’s Models were factory engraved and as of the writing of the book only 18 were known and lists this revolver by serial number. CONDITION: Good plus. No orig finish remains being an overall dark attic patina with fine surface pitting and some nicks & dings to the bottom of the bbl. Grip is sound with good edges and lots of fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-40351 JR3 (20,000-30,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 67771. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is a tiny engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an engraved rectangle. Revolver is engraved in donut style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over bbl lug and top side flats with matching patterns on rammer pivot. Hammer is engraved in deluxe patterns of a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns on shank and fish scales on sides of spur & top edge. Backstrap is engraved with a typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Screw heads & tips are engraved. Cyl is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and all five safety pins crisp & serviceable. Trigger guard & backstrap are silver plated and contain a deluxe varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip that has last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Accompanied by a fine brass bound mahogany casing with a brass plate in the lid engraved with initials “CA”. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in bottom with blue cloth borders for the revolver, a coffin shaped copper & brass flask with slight angle spout, a 2-cavity bullet & ball brass “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Also accompanying is a quantity of caps & lead balls. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 96-98% glossy orig blue with only faint sharp edge wear and a couple of small spots of flaking on the right side flat; rammer & handle retain virtually all of their orig case colors, strong & bright on the pivot; frame retains about all of its bright, strong case colors; hammer retains about 75% strong case colors; cyl retains 88-90% bright blue and shows about 98% stagecoach holdup scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a couple of very minor handling & storage nicks, mostly on right side and retains about all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. Case has a crack in the bottom, otherwise is completely sound with usual storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; lining in the lid is lightly to moderately faded with soil from the oxidized lead bullets and chemical staining from contact with the cyl & grip; bottom is moderately faded & soiled with light damage from front sight and hammer spur; flask is fine with the body a dark mustard patina while the collar & spout retain about 75% gold wash; mold appears to be new & unused; nipple wrench is fine. 4-46698 JR155 (20,000-30,000)
*RARE CASED PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL DA REVOLVERS. SN 625164 & 16437. 1) Cal. 38 Spcl. Heavy bbl Officer’s Model with blue finish, 6″ bbl, adjustable partridge front sight and adjustable rear sight on the flat top frame. Mounted with 2-pc smooth silver medallion pearl grips. Revolver has checkered backstrap & trigger and hammer with bright polished sides. Revolver is beautifully engraved in C to D coverage spectacular, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Frame has full coverage with special patterns on the flat top of the frame with matching patterns extending the full length of the bbl and the entire circumference of the cylinder. Buttstrap, front strap, trigger bow and front of the frame are engraved to match. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 38 with 6″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved in Level C, shipped to Loan Account, Honeyman Hardware Co., Portland, OR on May 24, 1938 in a 1-gun shipment. Remarks section states that it was returned to the factory on May 1, 1939 and re-shipped on Loan Account four more times on May 8, 1939, Jan. 8, 1940, March 11, 1940 and finally Oct. 10, 1940 to Abercrombie & Fitch, New York, NY. 2) Cal. 22. Blue finish with 6″ bbl, adjustable partridge front sight and adjustable rear sight on the flat top frame. Hammer has bright polished sides and it has checkered backstrap & trigger. Mounted with smooth silver medallion pearl grips. Revolver is factory engraved in C to D coverage virtually identical to its mate, #1 above. Acompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 6″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved, level C, shipped to Loan Account, Frank J. Budge Co., Miami, FL on Nov. 6, 1936 in a 1-gun shipment to Order #16361/2. Under remarks the letter states that this revolver was returned to the factory Nov. 14, 1938 and re-shipped six more times between March 29, 1939 and Oct. 10, 1940 when it was shipped to Abercrombie & Fitch, New York, NY. As with its mate, #1 above. Accompanied by their orig A & F supplied brown leather case with full brass hardware and a leather carrying handle on the front. Interior is gold velvet lined and recessed in the bottom for the two revolvers, a 2-pc cleaning rod with two bore brushes, two boxes of Remington caliber 22 LR and one box of Remington 38 Spcl. ammunition. It is known that these revolvers were purchased by Harry Franklin Vickers from Abercrombie & Fitch, where he was a regular customer, in about 1940, along with a Colt Woodsman pistol also being sold in this auction. Mr. Vickers was an American inventor & industrialist known as “The Father of Industrial Hydraulics” by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He was a close friend & colleague of Gen. Doughlas MacArthur, who was the Chairman of Remington-Rand when Sperry & Remington merged in the early 1950s, forming Sperry-Rand. When Gen. MacArthur retired, Mr. Vickers became the Chairman of the Board of the company. These revolvers have remained in the Vickers family until being consigned to this auction. PROVENANCE: Harry F. Vickers Family Collection. CONDITION: 1) Extremely fine plus. Does not appear to have been fired beyond factory test firing. Overall retains 99% plus crisp orig factory blue on all surfaces. Grips are equally crisp & new with great fire. 2) Equally as new & beautiful and unfired as #1. Case is equally new with a few light nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its orig finish; interior is also new with green verdigris around most of brass fittings & hinges. 4-46812 JR421 (22,500-32,500)
INSCRIBED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 105747. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and cal is marked on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with wonderful 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved spread winged eagle on right side. Revolver is engraved in about “C” coverage by L.D. Nimschke with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame and snake and dot pattern over top strap. Recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in sunburst patterns with Hunter’s stars on each side of the bbl boss. Base pin boss and ejector boss are engraved with snake and dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up each side of bbl with a Hunter’s star back of the front sight. Top of backstrap has a foliate spray with geometric patterns down the backstrap, on the buttstrap and trigger bow. Buttstrap is inscribed in period script “ABA”. Ejector housing is engraved with snake and dot pattern on the outer radius with a series of dots in top gullet. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns in lands between flutes and has a snake and dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, on August 21, 1884 in a 2 gun shipment. Grips were apparently supplied by Hartley & Graham or a dealer. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine; bbl retains 96-98% strong orig nickel with some minor losses around front sight and slight holster wear around muzzle; frame retains about 60% strong orig nickel with the cleaned and worn areas a dull patina; trigger guard retains about 70% orig nickel and the backstrap about 20%; cyl retains about 70% orig nickel with light flaking; ejector housing retains 60-70% strong orig nickel; grips are sound with great fire and color; hammer is not solid in half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-44697 JR275 (17,500-27,500)
*ENGRAVED .22 CONVERSION FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 345262. Cal 22 LR. Bbl 4-34″ in length. This unique revolver is fitted with custom 22 cal cyl and bbl having hand matted top ventilated rib with adjustable rear sight and square pinned blade front sight. Consignor states modification by Kings Gunworks, Los Angeles, CA. Bbl, cyl and frame have blued finish. Bbl, cyl and ejector housing have 75% coverage of deeply cut foliate scroll engraving. Nickel finished backstrap and trigger guard fine foliate scroll engraving with elaborate borders. Synthetic stag grips. This custom built gun is housed in a walnut display box with brass corners having a blue velour fitted interior. CONDITION: Bbl, frame and cyl retain over 95% re-blued finish. Action screws have slight distortion. Grip straps have excellent nickel finish. Very good grips. Tight smooth mechanics. Bore is very good and bright. 4-46271 DS49 (2,500-3,500)
BEAUTIFUL GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 109049. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and “Saml Colt” engraved address. Left side frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape. Small guard silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a beautiful, varnished, burl walnut 1-pc grip with last 4 digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. SN is found on frame, bbl lug, trigger guard, buttstrap and cyl with last 5 digits of matching SN on wedge and last 4 digits of matching number on rammer handle and grip. Frame is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns and very fine punch dot background. One scroll on left recoil shield and another on right side of frame terminate in flower blossom. Hammer has also received his deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on shank, wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, fish scale patterns on the sides of the spur & top edge. Tip of spur is hand checkered. Deluxe coverage extends onto bbl lug with 1 scroll on left side terminating in Mr. Young’s dog’s head and another on the right side terminating in a flower blossom. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. The area behind the hammer slot has Mr. Young’s sparse sunburst pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. Screw heads and tips are also engraved, indicating that this is one of Mr. Young’s more elaborate presentations quality pieces. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach hold-up scene roll markings, 4 of 5 safety pins are serviceable. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl and grip. Bbl retains 97-98% glossy orig blue with very light muzzle and minute sharp edge wear. Rammer and pivot retain strong, bright orig case colors with handle faded to gray. Frame and hammer retain about all of their strong, orig case colors, a little dark on hammer. Cyl retains 30-40% orig blue with the balance flaked to a light patina and overall shows about 98% stagecoach hold-up scene that was probably enhanced by Mr. Young. Grip frame retains virtually all of its strong orig silver. Grip is crisp, showing very minor handling and use with faint sharp edge wear and retains about 98-99% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-47042 JR389 (25,000-40,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER OF LEGENDARY LAWMAN JEFF MILTON. SN 333342. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, made without ejector housing. It has full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc factory deep silver medallion pearl grips with a relief carved eagle on right side. Revolver is factory engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 80% coverage on frame consisting of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Left recoil shield is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern with foliate patterns in the center. Each side of bbl boss is engraved in his checkerboard pattern with small flower blossoms in bottom gullets. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Both sides of bbl are engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns that extend nearly to the muzzle and it has geometric patterns on top around the address. Backstrap is engraved in matching geometric patterns with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern at the top/ Trigger guard is engraved in foliate arabesque pattern. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with tiny sunbursts back of each flute. Rear edge of cyl is engraved in a fine scallop pattern with two additional border patterns. Left side of front strap, under the grip is scratched with the name “SPENCE” and the right side is also scratched with the name “SPENCE” and the SN of this revolver. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks with carved eagle motif, factory engraved and under special features: “furnished without an ejector”, sold to J.D. Milton and shipped to A. Steinfeld & Co., Tucson, AZ on Aug. 7, 1916 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks section it states that there is another listing for this same SN in caliber 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, shipped March 26, 1920 to Elmira Arms, Elmira, NY. Also accompanied by a reprint of an article about Mr. Milton by Skeeter Skelton which appeared in the Nov., 1978 Shooting Times magazine. One paragraph in the article states “The .45 single action was his handgun for the rest of his life, and during most of his later years, he carried a second gun, a cut-down .45 (probably this rare Sheriff’s Model) in a shoulder holster under his shirt. This second gun was destined to get him out of many tight places.” Consignor states that he purchased this revolver 11 years ago from the grandson of the Head of the Tucson, AZ Water Works who had been given the revolver by Mr. Milton. Jefferson Davis Milton was born on November 7, 1861, near Marianna, La., on a plantation called “Sylvania.” He was named for the President of the Confederacy who was a personal friend of his father, General John Milton, Civil War Governor of Florida. His father would commit suicide as it was evident that the Confederacy was doomed. Jeff would move to Texas at the age of 16 to try his hand at cowpunching. At 18, he joined the Texas Rangers. During his three years as a Ranger, Milton acquired a reputation for speed and accuracy with a six-shooter. In 1884, he went to New Mexico as a cowboy detective for a cattle association and was Deputy Sheriff in Socorro County, NM. In the 1890s, he worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad and for the Pullman Company. By 1894, he became chief of police in El Paso, Tex., and in 1895, became the deputy U.S. Marshall. He worked as an agent for Wells Fargo (1895-1900). In 1904 he was commissioned directly by President Theodore Roosevelt into the newly formed Immigration Service(USIS), where for the next 28 years he patrolled the southwestern border apprehending smugglers and illegal aliens and is recognized as being the first Immigration Border Patrolman. In March 1915, Congress authorized a separate group of inspectors called mounted guards or mounted inspectors who operated from El Paso, Tex. These guards, who never numbered more than 75, rode on horseback and patrolled as far west as California with Milton leading the way. In 1932, he retired to Tombstone, AZ and died in Tucson in May, 1947. Mr. Milton was the subject of a book Jeff Milton A Good Man With a Gun, Haley, 1948. A quick scan of the book reveals that Mr. Milton was a true western law man who was involved in more gun fights than the other much more famous gun fighters of his day. He is credited with making the statement “I never killed a man that didn’t need killing.” During his career Mr. Milton made numerous contacts with various wealthy men who, reportedly, tried to give him the opportunity to become rich which he steadfastly refused. As head of the AZ Mounted Guards in 1915, he was sent to represent the Immigration Service at the World’s Fair held in San Francisco. It seems likely that it was during that time that Mr. Milton would have seen the Colt exhibit at the World’s Fair and could have placed an order for this single action Colt. Accompanying this lot is a copy of the book on Milton’s rich legacy and a partial newspaper page from the Philadelphia Enquirer, dated 1933, with several photographs and a lengthy article about Mr. Milton, in a modern frame. CONDITION: Very fine, cyl & grips are unnumbered. Bbl retains about 85% strong orig blue with light muzzle edge wear and thinning on sides. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, strong in sheltered areas, fading elsewhere; cyl retains strong blue in the flutes with thin blue on outer diameter; hammer retains faded case colors; trigger guard retains strong blue, thin with two worn spots on front strap; backstrap retains strong blue at the top and on the buttstrap with the center a blue/gray patina. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, very bright shiny bore. This is a rare opportunity to own a true piece of western American history. 4-46362 JR187 (150,000-250,000)
Correction: The catalog indicates there is a mold with this lot. There is no mold included.
EXTREMELY RARE PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT 1ST MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 613. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York City address with dashes. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT”. The wedge screw on the 1st Model Navies is under the wedge and the square back silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with SN twice in backstrap channel and again in buttstrap channel. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene and five of the six safety pins serviceable. Cyl has a large dent over one chamber. Frame is nicely engraved in vine style with about 60-65% coverage. The scroll on left recoil shield terminates in a large flower blossom. Engraving extends over bbl lug and rammer pivot with a nice scalloped pattern around the muzzle. Hammer is engraved with a dog’s head on each side of the nose and has long ears toward the spur. Top edge of the hammer is engraved in fish scale & geometric patterns. Front strap is engraved in period script “JNP to EAR”. Cyl arbor is 1st type with a notch in the top rather than slot of the models later. According to ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze, the serial range for 1st Model ’51 Navies is 1 to 1250, however on p. 35 he states that there are 2nd Model revolvers within this serial range which indicates that there are fewer 1st Models than previously thought. Accompanied by an early brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter. Sprue cutter has a small “R” inspector initial with “COLTS PATENT” on right side. PROVENANCE: Dr. John & Margaret Pickup Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth medium brown patina showing light to moderate wear on the engraving; cyl, with the previously noted large dent, is matching patina and retains 35-40% Ormsby Naval Battle scene; trigger guard retains about 60% orig silver with the front strap mostly a medium mustard patina; backstrap & buttstrap retain about 40% thin orig silver. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks & scratches and shows moderate wear, retaining about 70% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and light to moderate pitting. Hammer screw is a replacement. Mold is bright & clean, possibly cleaned, with a series of dings on right side. 4-46476 JR145 (25,000-40,000)
LOT OF 2 ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 1) 5351 & 2) 8209. Cal. 36. Both revolvers have 7-1/2″ oct bbls. 1).One of only 6 silver finished out of a total of 50 of these beautiful revolvers engraved by Alvin White, the remaining 44 are blue and color case hardened. This spectacular revolver is built as a 2nd Model with square back trigger guard and is mounted with an orig style 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is engraved in early vine style with about full coverage on the frame which extends over the bbl, bbl lug and rammer pivot. There is beautiful scalloped boarder around muzzle. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank and wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are beautifully engraved to match frame. Left side of buttstrap, under the grip, has assembly number “A151”, which is also found on the front strap, rear face of bbl lug, rear face of frame and cyl. Hammer is marked with assembly number “666”. Cyl has the standard Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking with all 6 safety pins crisp and new. Trigger and screws are all high polished royal blue, as are the nipples. Bottom flat of bbl, under the rammer handle, is marked “WE” & is also engraved “W.W.”. Accompanied by a mahogany Colt custom shop casing that has a bronze Colt medallion in lid and is purple satin lined inside lid with gold embossed Rampant Colt. Bottom is royal blue velvet lined and compartmented for revolver, a spectacular 2nd Generation, “Dixon & Sons” trophy of arms, “COLTS PATENT” flask with angle spout and engraved collar; a gold plated 2-cavety bullet and ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with color case hardened sprue cutter and engraved on sides to match revolver; an “L” shaped nipple wrench and a reproduction Eley cap tin. This revolver is pictured in full color, in its case, on pg 375 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which states that this revolver was shipped to “A.A. White Engravers, Inc. in Manchester, CT”. 2).This revolver is blue and color case hardened and is one of the 44 of 50 pieces engraved by Alvin White. Built as a 3rd Model with small rnd trigger guard, blue and color case hardened with large engraved “SAML COLT” address. Has usual 6-shot cyl with standard Omsby Naval Battle scene and all 6 safety pins crisp & new. The silver plated trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip, matching numbered to this revolver. Left side of the buttstrap, under the grip, is stamped with the assembly number “M909” which number is also found on the rear face of the frame, hammer, rear face of bbl lug and cyl. Left side of front strap, under the grip, is stamped with another number “E420”. Right side of front strap at the frame, under the grip, is engraved “A.A.W.” Revolver is engraved by Alvin White with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has fine punch dot background. Engraving extends over the bbl lug and top flats with the large image of an Indian’s head and a flower blossom on left side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Cyl is engraved with matching patterns around the rear 1/3rd. Hammer is beautifully engraved with Gustave Young style foliate arabesque patterns on shank with a wonderfully detailed wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Sides of spur and top edge are engraved in fish scale patterns. Flat behind hammer slot is engraved in Gustave Young style fan pattern with scalloped edge and has matching foliate arabesque patterns on backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard. This exact revolver, identified by SN, is pictured on pg 376 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable, laid over the case of item #1 above. CONDITION: 1).New and unfired, retains all of its crisp, orig, slightly oxidized silver finish. Grip is sound with a fine mellow ivory glow. Lid has a grain check in top, otherwise case is sound with a few light nicks and scratches. Interior is bright and clean. Accessories are all new. 2).New and unfired, retaining all of its crisp, orig factory finish with brilliant blue and case colors. Trigger guard and backstrap retain all of their orig silver plating, oxidized to black. Grip is sound with all of its orig finish. 4-46801 JR395 (8,000-12,000)
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED BOXED COLT MODEL 1877 DA LIGHTNING REVOLVER. SN 19807. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish with scarce 2-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with etched panel on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Trigger, screws & edges of hammer are bright fire blued. Mounted with extraordinary checkered 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver has full coverage New York style engraving, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop, consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with fine stippled background. Top strap is engraved in running vine patterns with foliate arabesque patterns over each side of bbl. Top of backstrap is engraved in a diamond shaped geometric pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap. Trigger guard is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns as is the cyl on the lands between the flutes. SN was observed on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap with last three digits of SN on rear face of cyl. Accompanied by an orig, dark burgundy, hinged lid cardboard box with very faded pink & white top label that has a line drawing of this revolver, a cartridge and the rampant Colt along with identifying information for this revolver. Box is probably not orig to this revolver. Mr. Howard’s collection notes state that this revolver once belonged to Jefferson Davis and was part of his estate after his death. Notes also state that the box was acquired separately. PROVENANCE: Herb Glass (1998); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp factory finish with slightly worn but completely sharp & legible etched panel and bright fire blue on the correct parts; grips are sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright bore with fine pitting. Box has one broken corner in the lid, otherwise is sound showing moderate wear with heavily faded & stained top label. 4-45359 JR119 (4,000-7,000)
PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 103618. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap is mounted with a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of SN in backstrap channel. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins serviceable. SN was observed on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, buttstrap & cylinder. Last four digits of SN are on the rammer handle & cyl spindle with five digits of SN on wedge. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Melzar Dunbar, Jr. / From his Friends, May 1st 1861”. Mr. Dunbar mustered in as a 1st Lieutenant in Company B, Mass 11th Infantry on June 13, 1861. He resigned his commission and was discharged on Sept. 7, 1861 due to a continuing back injury. He apparently attempted to re-enlist and was commissioned Captain in Company F Mass 47th Infantry on Oct. 9, 1862 but his commission was cancelled and he was discharged on Nov. 24, 1862. While he was in the Army, on his first enlistment his unit fought in the Battle of First Bull Run on July 21, 1861, where the 11th Massachusetts had one officer and seven enlisted men killed, two officers and thirty-eight enlisted men wounded with the same number of officers and enlisted men missing. Following the fight at Bull Run his unit was stationed at Bladensburg, Maryland where it was assigned picket duty on the Potomac. By the time the unit was reassigned on Oct. 1st, Lt. Dunbar had already been discharged. Although Lt. Dunbar did not have an exemplary Civil War record, he was a legitimate Army officer and the presentation is genuine. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip; bbl retains 30-40% flaked orig blue, being mostly a very dark attic patina with one small cleaned spot on left flat at the muzzle; rammer handle retains strong case colors throughout with some light surface spotting; frame retains faded case colors on the sides & recoil shields; cyl retains 20-30% blue having flaked, not worn, to a blue/brown patina with one spot of heavy rust and some scattered pinpricks of rust and overall shows about 80% Ormsby Naval battle scene; trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating, oxidized to black on the trigger guard & trigger plate, at the top of the backstrap and on the buttstrap; grip is sound with some battering on bottom edges and moderate wear on sharp edges with a few nicks & dings and retains most of its orig varnish; wedge screw is missing; mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting. 4-45189 JR484 (5,000-7,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED, INSCRIBED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 39112. Cal. 22 Short. Nickel & gold finish with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line Hartford address. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips with matching SNs scratched on inside. Left grip is professionally inscribed in period script “Little Duke / 1885”. Revolver has full coverage New York style engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with snake & dot patterns on side flats of bbl. Top of backstrap is engraved in a large flower blossom with geometric patterns down backstrap. The 7-shot cyl is gold-washed and engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl pin is also gold washed. Accompanied by its orig burgundy leather covered, hinged lid case with blue satin lining in lid and blue velvet lining in bottom. Bottom is French fitted for the revolver with an additional compartment containing a period pair of tortoise shell cufflinks with gold buttons, a gold revolver inlay on each face and gold inlaid Greek key design around the edges. Revolver is 2nd type with a 1st type bbl without patent date. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including bbl, cyl & grips. Frame & bbl retain virtually all of their orig nickel finish with some minor hammer marks on butt; cyl retains about 80% gold wash, strong in flutes, thin on outer diameter; cyl pin retains about 70% gold wash. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case shows light corner wear with a few nicks & scratches, otherwise is sound & functional; interior is lightly faded & soiled with some minor damage from the front sight & hammer spur and also near the muzzle end. Cufflinks are fine. 4-45364 JR66 (4,000-6,000)
RARE COLT BLACK POWDER FRAME SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 122399. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4″ bbl, full front sigh, 2-line address & cal marking on left side. Left side frame has 3-line patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Cal is marked on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with Rampant Colt, eagle hard rubber grips. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, he speculates that there were fewer than 1,000 Sheriff’s model revolvers manufactured throughout the entire production and further reports that there are 10 known Sheriff’s model revolvers in the 122,000 serial range. In volume 2 of Mr. Cochran’s publication he lists this revolver, as found, by SN, with the notation “No record”(As per the Colt Factory letter dated October 18, 1995, “As the records on this arm were lost, damaged, or destroyed many years ago and research is not possible”). Mr. Howard, in his collection notes, has several pieces of correspondence between himself, noted historian and author R.L. Wilson and noted authority and dealer Herb Glass. Reviewing this correspondence discloses this rare revolver was in the famous John R. Hegeman Collection and the Robert Q. Sutherland Collection. He also states that it is pictured on p. 188 of Colt Firearms, Wilson & Hable. He also references a letter of authentication from noted authority Eric Vaule, which is missing. He notes that in the photograph of this revolver in the referenced publication that this revolver is fitted with ivory grips which were made by engraved John Warren for Mr. Sutherland. He further states that when Mr. Hable acquired the revolver he reinstalled the orig hard rubber grips. He states he purchased this revolver from George Jackson, who had purchased it from the Butterfield Auction in 1991. He also states that this revolver is pictured as item B on p. 252 of The Book of Colt Firearms, Sutherland & Wilson and that it is mis-identified as SN 222399 instead of SN 122399. PROVENANCE: John R. Hageman Collection; Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; Hable Collection; George Jackson; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all orig factory nickel with only very minor nicks and scratches. Screws retain most orig blue. Grips are sound with a couple of minor chips and show light diamond point wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-45234 JR14 (15,000-30,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED DELUXE MAPLE STOCKED COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING RIFLE. SN 81109. Cal. 38 CLMR (38-40). Blue finish with 26″ oct bbl, full magazine, German silver blade Rocky Mountain front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. Top flat of bbl has 2-line Colt address & patent markings and caliber marking over chamber area. Rifle is mounted with beautiful maple wood with checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with checkered cap and crescent steel buttplate. Receiver, dust cover, trigger guard & trigger plate are beautifully engraved with grape vines, leaves & clusters of grapes and has the rampant Colt on left side. Top tang and buttplate tang are engraved to match. Rear of frame opening for the bolt is engraved with a rosette. SN was observed on bottom tang, left side of top tang under the wood, front face of buttstock under the metal and inside the buttplate. Buttplate also has an additional obliterated number. Rifle is made without a safety except the half cock notch in the hammer. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this rifle in 38 caliber, oct bbl, length not listed, blue finish, maple, fancy pistol grip stock and factory engraved, shipped to A.G. Spalding & Bros., Chicago, IL on April 30, 1897 in a 1-gun shipment. The medium frame Lightning was the first pump action rifle produced by Colt and was manufactured in fairly substantial numbers although not nearly so much as the Winchesters of the same era. Lightning rifles are rarely found with deluxe features with engraved examples very rare and maple stocked pieces are exceptionally rare. This rifle is mentioned by SN on p. 351 of Colt Engraving, Wilson, as being one of a group of known rifles engraved by Cuno Helfricht. This exact rifle, identified by SN, is pictured in color on p. 494 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, Wilson, with credit to the George S. Lewis, Jr. Collection. PROVENANCE: George S. Lewis, Jr. Collection; Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 95% strong orig blue with two or three small spots of cleaned surface rust with the blue commensurately thinned in those areas; magazine tube retains 95-96% strong orig blue with a thinned area on bottom center; receiver retains 95-97% glossy orig blue showing light sharp edge wear; top & bottom tangs are lightly thinned with the bottom tang turning a little plum; hammer retains about all of its strong orig case colors; buttplate is cleaned bare metal; wood is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches with the buttstock having been lightly cleaned; forearm retains most of its orig varnish with the checkering showing light to moderate diamond point wear. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-44528 JR332 (25,000-40,000)
EXCEPTIONALLY RARE AND VERY FINE COLT DOUBLE RIFLE. SN 32. Cal. 45-70. Based on the Colt 1878 model double shotgun action, it is estimated that there are fewer than 40 examples of this pinnacle of Colt’s production of long guns ever produced. There are one or 2 known examples numbered in the serial range of the 1878 shotgun but most are in their own range from no. 1 to approximately 35. This particular example has nicely browned 28″ laminated Damascus bbls with full length flat rib engraved “Colt’s PT F. A. Mfg. Co. Hartford. CT. U. S. A.” toward breech end. German silver blade front sight is dovetailed through ovoid base. SN is on bbl flats, and a wide sling loop is screwed to bottom rib. It is interesting to note that the right bbl has right hand twist rifling, where as the left bbl has left hand twist. Original rear bbl sight has been removed with well fitted flush blank set into dovetail. Lyman adjustable tang sight marked “M 84” is fitted on stock at top of grip. Case hardened action has uniquely filed fluted fences. SN is stamped on water table. Bar locks with tall serpentine flat-faced hammers are border engraved with some fine scroll and tendrils. Colt’s patent “PT FA MFG. CO” is on each lockplate. There is geometric engraving on bottom of action and on blued trigger plate, which extends through to grip. SN is at grip. Border engraved steel trigger guard attaches to trigger plate with screw at front of grip. Blued top lever has matching engraving. Very fine, nicely marbled European walnut semi-pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/8″ over steel buttplate with widow’s peak. Sling loop is fitted on toe line along with vacant silver oval. Well cut flat top 20 LPI point pattern checkering has mullered borders. Matching splinter forend has inset ebony tip with Colt style Deeley type release. SN is on iron. Drop at heel: 2-7/16″, drop at comb: 1-5/8″. Weight: 9 lbs.8 oz. LOP 14-1/8″. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. Acquired from Herb Glass, and listed in his catalog of April 1986. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain 80 – 90% orig brown with very fine definition to pattern, thinning at normal carry points around forend, silvering on sharp edges. Action retains 40 – 50% orig case hardening color, remainder a pleasing silver. Lockplates retain 60 – 70% color, silvering at fronts and slightly on tails. Hammers retain most of their case color. Front portion of trigger plate retains most of its blue with traces at tail of grip. Top lever retains 80 – 90% of its blue, thinning slightly, and silvered on thumbpiece. Buttplate is a mottled silver. Stocks retain most of their orig oil finish with numerous marks and minor dents commensurate with the condition of the remainder of the rifle. Checkering is slightly worn. Right front of forend is missing a few slivers in the thinnest portion of wood. Bores are excellent with a few minor pits, mostly in right bbl, but for the most part, sharp, bright, and shiny. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Locks are crisp. Overall an excellent unabused specimen of this American classic, inspired by Caldwell Colt’s interest in the British made doubles he saw being used by visiting sportsmen. Flayderman states that “the major share of double rifle production is believed to have been for Caldwell and his friends.” 4-45446 MGM26 (25,000-45,000)
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 52868. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 5” oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has tiny “Colts Patent” engraved in a ribbon. The silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching serial number in the back strap channel. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach hold-up scene roll marking. Revolver is elaborately engraved in early donut style with full coverage on the frame, bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap and trigger guard. Sides of the hammer are also deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. Top of the back strap is engraved in a fan pattern typical of the pattern used by famous Colt engraver Gustave Young. The ends of the wedge are also engraved. Serial number was observed in the usual four places; bbl lug, frame, trigger guard and butt strap. Cylinder is numbered “43121”. Wedge, rammer handle and cylinder spindle have the last four digits of the matching serial number. Early ’49 pocket revolvers are seldom found engraved and nearly always show hard service with little original finish. Those early revolvers were in use throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier, under harsh circumstances with limited maintenance. They continued in service well into the 1870s when they were supplanted by the advent of cartridge arms. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except cylinder which is numbered “43121”. Bbl retains about 75% original blue, thin on the top with light surface rust and fine pitting, strong and bright in the sheltered areas. Frame and hammer retain an even dark patina that may reveal case colors with a good cleaning. Grip frame retains about 90% original silver with some pimpling on the front strap and light edge wear. Grips are fine and retain about 90% original varnish with some crackling. Cylinder is mostly a cleaned gray patina with light to moderate pitting in spots and retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene and traces of old nickel plating. Handspring is broken otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with some shine and moderate to heavy pitting. 4-45618 (3,000-5,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SERVICE MODEL ACE PISTOL WITH MATCHING 45-22 CONVERSION UNIT. SN SM710. Cal. 45 ACP & 22 LR. Wonderful Wilbur Glahn engraved pistol & conversion unit, blue finish with 5″ bbls. Slides have thick front sights and fully adjustable rear sights. Pistol is mounted with outstanding smooth pearl grips. The 45-22 conversion unit is numbered “U5” on the top and is matching numbered to the Ace pistol frame on the inside along with the numbers “12 93”. The service model Ace slide is matching numbered to the frame under firing pin retainer and has the military style floating chamber. Both slides have standard markings on the sides and are factory engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about B+ coverage with foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Frame is engraved to match with the thumb safety, slide lock & grip safety also engraved to match. Frame has a checkered, arched mainspring housing. Accompanied by one orig all blue 45 magazine with commercial marked base and one orig 2-tone caliber 22 magazine with civilian “ACE” marked base. Pistol has recoil springs, spring guides & spring caps along with a slide lock for each slide. Additionally accompanied by a Colt factory letter for the Ace pistol identifying it in 22 caliber with 5″ bbl, blue finish, pearl grips, class “B” engraved, engraver’s name not listed and shipped to “loan account”, A.F. Stoeger, Inc., New York, NY on Nov. 15, 1938 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by another Colt factory letter for the 45-22 conversion unit which identifies it as SN U-5 in caliber 45-22, blue finish, Class “B” engraved, engraver’s name not listed with identical shipping information as the pistol. Page 599 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson, states that there were eight Service Model Ace pistols engraved and only three 45-22 conversion units engraved, numbers “U4”, “U5” and “U6”. Of course “U5” is the conversion unit being sold here with its matching pistol. This is an extraordinary set unlikely to ever be encountered again. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its bright orig factory blue with no discernible flaws, appears to be new & unfired; the Ace slide appears to have never been mounted. The 45 slide functions perfectly; grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. 4-45190 JR377 (40,000-50,000)
ENGRAVED MERWIN & HULBERT POCKET ARMY DA REVOLVER. SN 8362. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 3-5/16″ bbl, integral front sight and top strap of the later production. It has 6-shot cyl with conventional flutes and birdhead grip with skull cracker buttstrap, mounted with checkered hard rubber grips. Hammer has a folding spur. Left side of bbl has the 2-line Hopkins & Allen address & patent numbers. Right side of frame has the Merwin & Hulbert company name & address and “POCKET ARMY”. Left side of frame is marked “CALIBRE 1873 WINCHESTER”. Revolver is typically engraved with foliate & floral and geometric patterns with a deer on left sideplate. Engraving extends over sides of bbl and bbl lug and on cyl on the lands between the flutes. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were approx. 9,000 Pocket Army revolvers produced in the 1880s in three configurations with most of production in single action versions. Merwin & Hulbert were distributors, not manufacturers, who purchased patents and contracted various companies for production. Their handguns were produced by Hopkins & Allen. The Merwin & Hulbert design was superior to other handguns of the period with their ease of unloading & ejecting empty casings with the push of a button and simple full forward. Returning the bbl and cyl to battery allowed the cyl to be reloaded through the sliding loading gate in the right recoil shield. Unfortunately Merwin & Hulbert came to the scene long after Colt and to some extent, Remington, were already in production and widely distributed. With the lack of government contracts and a weak distribution system they simply could not compete. A majority of Merwin & Hulbert revolvers were sold in Mexico and are rarely found today with high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Dick Reyes (1984); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including grips. Overall retains virtually all of its strong orig factory nickel with some minor flaking on top strap. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-45336 JR99 (4,000-6,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 53371. Cal. 45 Boxer. Nickel finish with blued screws and 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line Hartford/Pall Mall London address. Mounted with factory orig 1-pc pearl grip made with two slabs of pearl attached to wooden blocks to create the 1-pc configuration. Bottom of bbl has the last four digits of SN under ejector housing and also on the outer diameter of the cyl. Bottom of bbl & cyl also have tiny British proofs. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL / B”. Engraving is in New York style by master engraver L.D. Nimschke or one of the craftsmen in his shop. Engraving consists of nearly full coverage on the frame of foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Top strap & sides of bbl are engraved to match. Bbl boss on each side is engraved in foliate & floral patterns with a foliate pattern in left side gullet. Ejector housing is engraved to match with a snake & dot pattern in top gullet. Hammer is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on sides with a foliate spray on top of the hammer nose. Top of back strap and loading gate are engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive sunflower pattern with fine punch dot background. Backstrap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel with dash & dot border patterns. Buttstrap is engraved in geometric patterns and trigger guard with foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with simple geometric patterns in the flutes. Rear edge of cyl is engraved with a wide feather pattern band and a very fine zig zag band at rear edge. Accompanied by its orig English oak casing with empty rectangular silver plate in the lid. It is lined in green felt with a Pall Mall address label inside the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver and a pewter top glass oil bottle with an oak cartridge block for twenty-eight 45 caliber cartridges containing 27 Eley & Kynoch cartridges. Right rear covered compartment is empty with a steel cleaning rod in the rear edge. Also accompanied by a functioning case key. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were a total of 4,738 Single Action Army revolvers produced in British calibers of which only 729 were in 450 Boxer caliber. Of those very likely only a small handful were American engraved and an even fewer number were cased. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying revolver as: .45 Eley, nickel finish, pearl stock, factory engraved, with Special Notation “Short Barrel”, shipped to Colt’s Patent Fire-Arms Mfg. Co, London Agency, London England, January 22, 1880 with 10 guns of same type in this shipment. PROVENANCE: Tony Smith (2004); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains 75-80% strong orig nickel with the loss areas a gray metal color. There is some fine, light pitting around forcing cone area and front edge of frame. Most of losses are from flaking rather than wear. Cyl retains about 90% orig nickel with some very fine pitting on front face. Trigger guard retains most of its orig nickel with front strap lightly flaked. Back strap is a cleaned gray metal patina with some fine pitting at the heel. Grip is sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with a few small spots of pinprick pitting. Case has a few grain checks in the bottom and a couple of fine grain checks in lid and overall retains most of its orig varnish with a few light handling & storage marks. Interior is moderately faded with the label turned yellow. Bottom interior is moderately soiled with some chemical staining to the felt. Oil bottle, cleaning rod & ammunition are fine. 4-45256 JR51 (15,000-25,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SMALL FRAME LIGHTNING MAGAZINE RIFLE. SN 36389. Cal. 22. Very well known and extremely rare Lightning rifle with 24″ tapered oct bbl, ivory bead hunting front sight, semi-buckhorn rear sight and Lyman combination tang sight. Top flat of bbl has the 2-line Colt company name & address with patent markings. Top left flat of bbl, over chamber area, has the hand engraved caliber marking. Rifle is mounted with beautiful, deluxe maple stock & forearm with checkered sgl schnable forearm and pistol grip stock with checkered grip cap and rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. Receiver is, most unusually, engraved with stick, grape vine, leaf & clusters of grape motif with grape vines & leaves over the top & bottom of receiver, trigger bow and both tangs. Rear face of receiver is engraved in a rosette around the bolt opening. SN was observed on bottom tang, left side of top tang under the wood and on front face of the buttstock under the metal. This exact rifle, identified by SN, is pictured in color on p. 495 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson, with credit to the George S. Lewis, Jr. Collection. It is also pictured on p. 502 of The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, with credit to the Robert Q. Sutherland Collection, at which time it was accompanied by a deerskin carrying case. A similarly engraved rifle with a small bear on right side is pictured on p. 356 of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this rifle with oct bbl, blue finish, fancy pistol grip maple stock, factory engraved, charged to “Account of Lewis C. Grover, President of Colt Company”, delivered to Mr. Cyrus D. Skinner on Dec. 21, 1904 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Cyrus D. Skinner; Robert Q. Sutherland Collection; George S. Lewis, Jr. Collection; Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains 97-98% glossy orig factory blue with only light sharp edge wear; forearm has a hairline from the front tip to the screw hole, otherwise wood is sound with a few light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-44530 JR333 (25,000-40,000)
FINE CONDITION COLT MODEL 1883 SHOTGUN. SN 8164. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 28″ Fine Damascus bbls are rolled “Colts PT F A MFG Co Hartford CT U S A” on finely matted concave game rib with doll’s head extension. Bbl flats are stamped with SN and splinter with “12”. Case hardened boxlock top lever action features automatic safety (SAFE engraved), and double triggers. SN is in recessed water table. Action is engraved with line wiggle and V-cut borders with some looped scroll, and bursts around screw heads. Floorplate is engraved “Patented Aug. 22. Sep. 19. 1882″. Top lever and trigger guard are blued. SN is at grip. Relatively plain dense walnut semi-pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/8″ over checkered composition buttplate with rampant Colt logo. Standard 20 LPI checkering has beaded border. Splinter forend has inset ebony tip with distinctive Colt Deeley type latch. Bore diameter: left-.728, right -.728. Bore restrictions: left -.013, right -.002. Wall thickness: left -.035, right -.037. Drop at heel: 2-7/8″, drop at comb: 1-5/8″. Weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz. LOP 14-1/8”. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Chris Anderson in 1993. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain 95% of their very fine black and white Damascus finish, thinning slightly near forend, and with a few minor marks. Action retains 65 – 75% orig case hardening color, silvering around bottom, on fences, and has some small areas of discoloration. Top lever and trigger guard retain 70 – 75% orig bright blue, silvering at grip and on thumbpiece. Stocks retain nearly all of their French polish finish with numerous minor marks, and finish is thinning on sharp edges. Buttplate has browned. Bores are excellent, bright and shiny. Action is tight. There are a couple of minor dents on face of muzzle. Well preserved example of this finely crafted American gun. The star of the Colt line. 4-45439 MGM23 (4,000-6,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: SN 22249. Cal 45 Colt. This fine Colt is accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies it in caliber 45 with blue finish, barrel length and type of stocks not listed and shipped to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on 31 December 1875 in a shipment of 67 same type arms.
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 22249. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-15/16″ bbl, 1-line script address with serifs. Bottom of bbl, under ejector housing, has the last four digits of matching SN which are also found on the cylinder. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and it is mounted with an original 1-pc ivory grip with very deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Grip could be orig Colt product with two slabs of ivory affixed to a central wooden spacer block to create the 1-pc grip, or they may have been added by the the Nimschke shop. They are definitely period to the gun. Ejector housing is first type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Front strap, under the grip, was drilled for a 2-pc grip locator pin and now has that hole plugged. This revolver was produced in 1876 and the 2-pc hard rubber eagle design grips were not introduced until 1882. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 80-85% coverage on the frame of foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with a diamond & dot pattern on each side of bbl boss and a hunter’s star on the sides of the ejector housing boss & base pin boss. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend 4-1/2″ on each side of bbl and on each side of muzzle with a dash & dot border pattern around the address which terminates in a foliate arabesque pattern. Ejector housing is exceptionally engraved with a large diamond & dot panel on the outer radius with dash & dot borders and a sunburst at each end. Top gullet is engraved in a leaf & vine pattern. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s distinctive sunburst pattern with diamond center and foliate arabesque patterns elsewhere. Trigger bow & cyl are engraved to match with feather patterns on back edge of cylinder and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Engraved early single actions are quite rare and are seldom encountered especially in an unaltered state. Only a few deluxe engraved revolvers in the Nimschke style are known and all are in the 22,000 serial number range, except the few that are thought to have been on the centennial wheel. Multiple experts think because of the extra-deluxe engraving and the extra deluxe grips this gun may have been on the centennial wheel. A letter from noted Colt authority, Dick Burdick, accompanies the gun. In part it states “This fine revolver remains today very much in the state it was finished in circa 1876. It retains the majority of the original nickel finish, which was applied after the engraving in the L.D. Nimschke shop in New York. The Colt markings are sharp and distinct, and do not show evidence of later polishing or abrasion post finishing circa 1876. There is some finish loss and fine pitting in the engraving cuts which have the hammer and graver progression cuts that demonstrate age and method of engraving. The engraving is classic L D. Nimschke, quite profuse, and orig in all respects. It is noteworthy to observe the broken italic barrel address die. This example is very near the end of the use of this die. The block letter die marked barrel has been observed as early as the 19000 serial number range. Along with this style of die change, an improved method of attaching the ejector tube to barrel was adapted. Our example has the first style ejector tube and barrel address. The hammer is the proper early long knurling with case hardened finish and the trigger is blue, which is proper for the outside factory New York engraved revolvers. The last four digits of the matching serial number are on the barrel underneath the ejector tube and on the periphery of the cylinder. The three full serial numbers match, and are authentic stamping by Colt. The front sight is full and has its original configuration. The grips are of the same age as the revolver and could have been installed by the Nimschke shop at time of engraving. The carving is finely executed and the ivory is in excellent condition for its age, showing little use. At some point in time, a grip pin has been installed on the trigger guard to accommodate 2-piece grips. This hole for the pin is now plugged. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 80-90% strong bright original nickel with flaking on the cyl and wear & loss of nickel on the top strap, backstrap, right side of frame & loading gate and ejector housing; front strap is dulled and the cyl is moderately to heavily flaked and retains most of its nickel plating on front face; hammer retains faded case colors, mostly on left side and rear edge with balance turned silver; grip is sound with a couple of minor age lines and overall retains a wonderful mellow dark ivory patina; hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting; inside top strap & recoil shield are moderately pitted; firing pin hole in the bushing is enlarged and the firing pin retaining pin has been staked; firing pin appears to be of later vintage. 4-46058 (50,000-90,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE COLT MODEL 1908 FACTORY ENGRAVED SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WITH FACTORY CHECKERED IVORY GRIPS. SN 100012. Cal. 380 ACP. Blue finish with 3-3/4″ bbl, fixed sights and mounted with full checkered, silver rampant Colt medallion ivory grips. Pistol is factory engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about “C” coverage with foliate arabesque patterns and the initials “C.C.” on left front side of frame. Rear of frame and rear of slide are engraved with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” shaped pattern. Grip safety & thumb safety are engraved to match. Accompanied by one orig 2-tone magazine with marked base. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter authenticating this pistol, as found, in cal. 380 with 3-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, checkered ivory stocks, Level 3 engraved with initials “C.C.”, shipped to T.R. Armstrong, address unavailable, on Nov. 26, 1927 in a 1-gun shipment to factory order #13702/1. Additionally accompanied by a copy of a page from The Colt Pocket Hammerless Automatic Pistols, Brunner. This page lists five pistols which were factory fitted with checkered ivory grips, three of which were in caliber 380 including this pistol. Also accompanied by a red oilcloth covered metal case with red satin & velvet lining fitted for this pistol in the bottom. Box has the rampant Colt in a circle embossed in gold in the lid and the “COLT” logo inside the lid. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Overall retains about 99% crisp, orig, factory blue with only faint sharp edge wear and one tiny wear spot on the heel of grip safety; grips are crisp with no discernible flaws. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-45831 JR235 (7,000-10,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED MANHATTAN 36 CALIBER MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 34528. Cal. 36. Series III revolver, nickel finish with scarce 6-1/2″ oct bbl, thin half moon front sight blade and 1-line “MANHATTAN FIRE ARMS CO. NEWARK N.J.”, with 5-shot cylinder. The nickel plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip matching numbered to this revolver in backstrap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably from the Gustave Young shop with full coverage on the frame, flowing foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Matching engraving extends over bbl lug and top flats of bbl and onto the rammer pivot. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on sides and a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in feather patterns with a hand checkered spur. Top of backstrap and shoulders of backstrap are engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with sunbursts on shoulders. Backstrap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns at top, heel & buttstrap with matching patterns on trigger guard. Cyl has the usual 5-panel roll marking depicting military battle scenes and a Naval scene. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined, mahogany casing with empty brass plate in the top and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a Manhattan style powder flask with Gutta Percha body, brass collar & spout, a “MANHATTAN” marked blued steel, 2-cavity, bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, a packet of six Sage combustible cartridges and a cardboard container of Goldmarks caps. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms about 78,000 of these revolvers were produced in the period 1859-1868. They were an obvious takeoff from the Colt ’49 Pocket & ’51 Navy models and therefore were readily accepted by the military. Given the period they were produced and being a quality firearm, they were used extensively throughout the Civil War and later on the American western frontier usually under harsh conditions with little or no maintenance. Very few were engraved and of those only a few cased examples are known. PROVENANCE: Archer Collection; Jackson Arms (1982); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except rammer handle which is correctly unnumbered. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel finish with one large flaked spot on left side of bbl at the muzzle and some losses from the face of the cyl, otherwise the nickel is strong & bright. Grip has a chipped left toe with four scratches in the varnish on left side and a few light nicks & scratches elsewhere and retains most of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, moderately to heavily pitted bore. Case has a grain check in bottom, otherwise it is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains strong orig finish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled with damage from the front sight & hammer spur and one loose divider. Flask is sound with a few small scratches on body. Collar & spout are a dark mustard patina. Mold appears to be crisp & unused with slight high point wear. Cartridge packet has paper tape over the top; cap box is fine. 4-45277 JR63 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 155296. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his usual foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot backgrounds. Recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in his trademark sunburst patterns. Top strap and each side of the hammer slot are engraved in snake and dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl with snake and dot patterns around address. Ejector rod housing also is engraved with snake and dot patterns in top gullet and on the outer radius with a flower blossom in the center. Top strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern with a geometric panel on the backstrap engraved in period block letters “F.H. LANCASTER” with the date “18” near the top of the backstrap and “90” at the heel. Buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating sunburst and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with wavy and snake & dot patterns. Bottom of bbl, under base pin, is marked “W 45”. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 45 with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish and type of stock not listed, sold to Charles Hummel & Son, San Antonio, Texas, and shipped March 19, 1894. Special features are listed as “engraved”. No mention is made of the backstrap inscription or grips. The Mexican eagle motif grips were extremely popular in Texas during this period and it is likely they were supplied by the Hummel Company. It is also likely that the inscription was applied by a local San Antonio jeweler. Fred H. Lancaster was a famous Texas lawman of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries and may be the only lawman who, at various times throughout his career, held the positions of Deputy Sheriff, Deputy Federal Marshall, Chief of Police of San Antonio, Texas, and Texas Ranger. Also accompanying are copies of pp. 458-460 of A 20th Century History of Southwest Texas, Volume 1, Lewis Publishing, dated 1907. Page 458 begins a biography of Fred H. Lancaster, who was born in Stone County, Arkansas, March 30, 1862. In 1881 Fred H. Lancaster moved to Colorado City, Texas where he engaged in the cattle business, working for the Champion Cattle Company, an extremely large ranch in that area with about 60,000 head of cattle. Shortly afterwards he was appointed Deputy Sheriff under the famous Sheriff Dick Ware who is the Sheriff that killed desperado Sam Bass. During his service as Deputy Sheriff well early 1890’s Mr. Lancaster was involved in and usually was instrumental in the capture of numerous dangerous outlaws and fugitives, many of which culminated in bloody shootouts. In 1893 Sheriff Ware was appointed United States Marshall for the Western District of Texas, headquartered at San Antonio. He brought along Mr. Lancaster as his Deputy. During his tenure he was instrumental in capturing a famous counterfeiting ring and numerous other outlaws, desperadoes and prison escapees, many of which resulted in bloody shootouts. Another of his exploits involved the arrests of many members of the Garza Revolutionaries, a gang of Spanish-Americans from Texas who attempted to invade Mexico. Mr. Lancaster remained in that office under two successive U.S. Marshalls, until he was appointed Chief of Police of San Antonio in 1912, a position he held until May 1919. After leaving the office of Chief of Police, Mr. Lancaster served as a Special Investigator to the San Antonio’s Mayor’s Office into the 1920’s. Also accompanying is a letter from noted Colt authority and dealer Tommy Rholes who speaks of Mr. Lancaster’s exploits and authenticates this revolver. Additionally accompanying is a copy of “ENLISTMENT, OATH OF SERVICE AND DESCRIPTION RANGER FORCE” dated 21, April, 1934 appointing Mr. Lancaster, at age 72, a Private in the Texas Rangers. Mr. Lancaster died at age 74 in 1936. Also accompanying is a copy of a photograph of the “Patrol Platoon of the San Antonio Police Department. Circa 1914” with Chief Lancaster center front. It is unknown why Mr. Lancaster had the date “1890” engraved on his revolver since it was not manufactured until 1894. It can only be speculated that 1890 was the date he went to work for Sheriff Ware or some other momentous date in his storied career. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of a fine restored silver finish with holster wear on left edge of muzzle and tip of ejector housing. Cyl shows heavy holster wear. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 50% silver plating with the balance metal patina. Grips have a chipped right toe and slightly chipped heels, otherwise they are sound, showing great fire and color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-45275 JR21 (15,000-20,000)
RARE COLOR CASE HARDENED COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTING PUMP ACTION RIFLE. SN 41940. Cal. 38 CLMR (38-40). Beautiful deluxe rifle with 26″ oct to rnd bbl, half magazine, German silver Rocky Mountain front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. Top of bbl has the 2-line Colt name & address with patent numbers and has the caliber marking on the top left flat over the chamber area, made without safety except the half cock notch & the hammer. Mounted with extremely beautiful, streaky, honey & chocolate French walnut with checkered dbl schnable 2-pc forearm and straight stock with crescent steel buttplate. Bottom of stock has a small rnd German silver plate engraved in period script “S.P. GUION”. SN was observed on bottom tang and inside top tang under the wood, in pencil inside top tang channel of the buttstock and inside buttplate. Receiver, trigger plate & bottom tang are beautifully color case hardened. The medium frame Colt Lightning rifle was produced in fairly large numbers although not so much so in comparison to comparable Winchesters of the same era. Extremely few are known with color case hardened receivers and of those very few have deluxe checkered wood. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Bbl & magazine tube retain virtually all of their strong, orig, factory blue with one small area of scattered rust on left side of bbl about 4″ from the muzzle, otherwise it shows only faint sharp edge wear; receiver, hammer, trigger plate & trigger guard retain just about all of their strong orig case colors, very bright in sheltered areas, lightly to moderately faded elsewhere; top tang is fading with some light surface rust; bottom tang is lightly to moderately faded; wood is sound with a few, very light handling & storage nicks & scratches and a couple of small bruises on each side of buttstock and overall retains about all of its brilliant factory finish; buttplate retains about 50% orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-44531 JR334 (15,000-25,000)
EARLY COLT FIRST MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1728. Cal. 44. Civilian version with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York City left hand address. Left side of frame has small “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.”, however there are no inspector marks on the various other parts. The brass square back trigger guard & backstrap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with the SN in buttstrap channel. Buttstrap has crudely engraved initials “JDH” or “DDH”. Cyl is usual 6-shots with rnd stop notches and a battered sgl safety pin. Cyl has the Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and a light but distinct pressure ridge. The “W.L. ORMSBY” signature is still visible as is the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLT’S PATENT” legends. Fitted with early style rammer with vertical latch which is marked with assembly number “129” which number is also found in the bbl lug rammer slot. PROVENANCE: Bill Spicer (2004); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including cyl & grip. Bbl retains traces of orig blue with smoky case colors on rammer pivot, mostly on right side. Frame retains traces of case colors, mostly in sheltered areas with some fine scattered pinprick pitting. Cyl is a gray metal patina with scattered fine pinprick pitting around front edge and overall retains about 40-50% Dragoon/Indian fight scene. Trigger guard & backstrap, which were never silver plated, are a medium mustard patina. Grip has slightly chipped toes, otherwise is sound with a smooth hand worn patina and a couple of small gouges. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-45298 JR57 (12,500-17,500)
*RARE CASED ENGRAVED FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, THE VERY LAST ENGRAVED PRE-WAR COLT SINGLE ACTION. SN 357600. Cal. 357 Mag. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Engraved by Wilbur Glahn in his distinctive foliate & floral vine style with fine stippled background. Frame has nearly full coverage with matching patterns extending the full length on each side of bbl, in top gullet and outer radius of ejector housing, on sides of front sight, the entire length of backstrap and buttstrap. Also engraved on front strap with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive V-shaped patterns with additional matching engraving on trigger bow and trigger plate. Fitted with fine 2-pc ivory grips that have silver Colt medallions. The right grip has a nicely detailed, raised carved ox head. SN was observed on bottom of frame and on right side of front & backstraps, under the grip. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 357 Magnum with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish with ivory stocks, carved steer head motif, Class C engraved, engraver’s name not listed, sold to Eddie Bauer, Seattle, WA; shipped to Phil B. Bekeart Co., San Francisco, CA on March 19, 1941, Factory Order #9639, in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a wonderful black leather covered Otto Werner casing with beveled edged lid. Lined with purple & white satin in the lid and purple satin in the bottom with braided purple & white cord borders and a purple & white diagonal ribbon inside lid embossed in gold “COLT ARMY”. Right front corner of the case is fitted with a blue leather covered box whose lid is embossed in gold “THE LAST KNOWN PRE-WAR COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. THE HIGHEST SERIAL NUMBER 357600 SHIPPED MARCH 19, 1941 TO SAN FRANCISCO, CA”. The Eddie Bauer of Seattle, WA, to whom this revolver was sold, is probably the same Eddie Bauer of the Eddie Bauer Corp., a major outfitter & outdoor clothing supplier currently located in Bellevue, WA. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered but original to gun; overall retains 99%+ of its crisp orig factory finish with strong bright blue and brilliant case colors, made subtle by the engraving; sides of hammer retain most of its orig bright polish with bright blue on edges; grips are sound and retain a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is sound with a couple of minor impressed marks in the leather on the lid, otherwise retains virtually all of its orig black leather finish; interior is crisp & clean with some minor yellowing of the white satin lining in the lid; inside leather box is crisp. 4-46139 JR489 (45,000-75,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE DA REVOLVER. SN 335524. Cal. 32-20. Blue finish with 4″ bbl, half moon front sight and fixed rear sight groove in the top strap. Revolver is factory engraved by master engraver Wilbur Glahn in about “B” coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine patterns on the lands between the flutes of the cylinder. Buttstrap, top strap & bottom front of frame are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” patterns. Revolver is mounted with smooth ivory grips that have silver rampant Colt medallions and are probably factory original to this revolver. Also accompanied by an orig, dark burgundy, hinged lid, cardboard box with black & white end label for a 4″ Police Positive, cal. 38, with wood grips & blue finish numbered “402151” on bottom. Although this revolver is not accompanied by a factory letter there is no doubt that this is Wilbur Glahn’s engraving and Mr. Glahn was the Colt factory engraver during the time frame this revolver was produced. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 93-95% crisp orig factory blue with muzzle edge wear and some light touchup around the muzzle; overall revolver appears to be unfired with virtually all of the orig factory blue remaining in chambers of cyl & bore. Apparently the revolver suffered poor storage which removed orig finish around muzzle which was subsequently touched up. Box has some repaired corners & edges, otherwise is fine. 4-45832 JR236 (4,000-6,000)
HENRY HUMBERGER (THORN TOWNSHIP, PERRY COUNTY, OHIO) PERCUSSION KENTUCKY RIFLE. SN NSN. Cal. 36. 7-Groove rifling. 41″ Octagon barrel fitted with semi-buck horn standing rear sight, and German silver blade front, is engraved “H * Humberger” on top flat behind sight, with sunburst stamped decoration behind. Flat lock and flat-faced percussion hammer, are engraved with scrolled acanthus. Lock has been converted from flint, but it is not apparent that this bbl was anything other than percussion with drum and nipple. Trigger plate is fitted with set triggers. Very finely figured curly maple full length stock with brass nose piece, ramrod pipes, trigger guard, crescent butt, and nicely detailed scrolled and engraved sideplate, also has German silver decoration of punch dot outlined ellipse at top of grip, crescent moon above molded right hand cheekpiece, and six very fine German silver inlays of fish, along bbl. Stock attaches to bbl with broad side nails with large rectangular German silver heads. Ramrod is of hickory with brass tip. Very fine and ornate patchbox has large open scroll pierced sideplates, flanking domed spring loaded rectangular cover. Engraving is very nicely cut. Gardner in SMALL ARMS MAKERS relates that Henry Humberger was born in 1811 and was the finest workman of the three Humberger gunsmiths. In 1832, father and the two sons came up with a design for a double action pepperbox pistol. Many people visited the shop to watch the work in progress of this very interesting design. Col. Colt heard of the design, and sent one of his workman out to buy one. It didn’t take Col. Colt long to apply for a patent. During a law suit brought between Colt and Allen for patent infringements on pepperbox revolvers, the two Humberger brothers were witnesses. The result was that as Colt had first applied for the patent, it belonged to him, even though it was proven that Henry Humberger was the true inventor of the design. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Jackson Arms in 1987. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good. Bbl is a fine even brown patina, engraving is strong. Lock is also brown patina with rear of bbl and top of lock showing considerable fairly deep pitting. A new drum and nipple have been fitted. Stock exudes a warm glow from hand worn patina over what appears to be mostly orig finish. Area at top above lock and top front have been expertly repaired. Brass is a pleasing golden brown. Bore is fine, strong rifling throughout, with some slight pitting. Lock and trigger are crisp. 4-45423 MGM117 (4,000-7,000)
FINE EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 32900. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly reduced front sight with 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and is mounted with wonderful 1-pc ivory grip. Ejector housing is 3rd type with bullseye ejector rod head. Bbl has had a plug installed for the ejector rod screw. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard and backstrap with last 4 digits of SN on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and on cyl. Engraving is in the style of Cuno Helfricht and probably from his shop. Engraving appears to have been applied after the revolver had been used and possibly was returned to factory for engraving and restoration. Engraving is about D+ coverage consisting of full coverage on frame of fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Loading gate is engraved in a floral pattern with tiny flower blossoms in gullets on bottom front of frame. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. Engraving extends over sides of bbl with chip and dot border patterns around address terminating in foliate arabesque patterns at forward end. There are additional foliate arabesque at top near the front sight and on each side of the muzzle. Top of backstrap is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top and heel of backstrap, on the butt strap and trigger bow. Bottom front of frame is engraved in fan pattern that matches top of backstrap. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes, at the back of each flute with geometric patterns in flutes and a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in top gullet and vine and leaf patterns on outer radius. Mr. Howard, in his collection notes, references a factory letter which showed shipment to Kittridge & Company in 1878. Letter was not provided. He also references X-rays of the revolver which he states were ordered to dispel a rumor that this revolver had been re-numbered. The X-rays disclosed “no evidence of filling of metal or serial number change”. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains about all of its fine restored nickel finish, showing little or no wear externally with minor fine pitting in top strap and around forcing cone. Grip has numerous age lines with good edges and retains a dark golden patina, probably not orig to this revolver. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-45274 JR26 (4,000-6,000)
Additional Information: This beautiful Colt Single Action Revolver is accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identified this revolver in caliber 45 with 4-3/4″ barrel, nickel finish, wood grips, factory engraved, shipped to Hartley and Graham, New York, NY, on 21 August 1886 in a shipment of 12 same type arms.
FINE CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 117617. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent date and cal marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips that are probably factory. Revolver is engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht and is about B coverage foliate arabesque patterns on side of frame and sides of bbl with his typical sunburst patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap is engraved in snake and dot patterns with starburst on each side of the bbl boss. Ejector boss and base pin boss are engraved in snake and dot patterns. Top of backstrap has a sparse starburst pattern with geometric patterns on the back strap, butt strap and trigger guard. Cyl is engraved with sunburst patterns on lands between flutes and a snake and dot pattern around rear edge. Ejector housing is engraved with snake and dot patterns in the top gullet and outer radius. Base pin and screws are fire blued. Engraved early black powder frame single actions are quite scarce, especially in high orig finish. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 96-98% strong orig factory nickel with some minor losses around the muzzle and face of cyl and some fine pimpling on the front sides of the frame, otherwise nickel is strong and bright; grips are sound with great fire and color; mechanics are crisp; brilliant shiny bore. 4-44696 JR265 (20,000-45,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON THIRD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 129. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and engraved address “COL. COLT. LONDON.” Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. The silver plated brass trigger guard & backstrap contain a burl walnut deluxe 1-pc grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and the “MODEL U.S.M.R.” and “COLTS PATENT” legends partially visible. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Revolver is engraved in English style with about 60-70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns & beautiful foliate & floral patterns on the recoil shields. Sides of bbl lug and top three flats are engraved to match with feather & line border patterns around the address. Both sides of bbl lug have braided rope border patterns. The rammer pivot is engraved to match with rosettes around each side of the pivot link screw. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with line borders. Center of backstrap is crudely hand engraved with a sharp pointed instrument “Capt. Brown” and the front strap engraved in the same hand “U.S.A.”. Rammer handle is the early type with vertical latch and is engraved on bottom radius with a running leaf & vine pattern. Accompanied by an orig, blue velvet lined, English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Interior is compartmented in bottom for revolver, a bag shaped Barlow copper & brass flask, a scarce brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with steel sprue cutter and locator pin in the right arm. Also accompanied by an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin for Eley bros. caps, a rnd brass capper with screw lid marked “S. ALLPORT” and a Hawksley pewter oil bottle. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms there were approx 700 of these Dragoons made from Hartford parts, finished & assembled in Colt’s London factory in the period 1853-1857. It further states that at least 20% of the Hartford English Dragoon production was engraved. It is further states that in 1861 about 200 of these revolvers (many of them engraved) were returned to Hartford for use in the Civil War. This would explain the inscription on the grip frame. Also accompanied by a large black & white photograph showing the bbl address of this revolver with the notation that it is “one of 10 known”. This revolver is pictured on p. 149 of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson and identified by serial number. It is also pictured on p. 61 as plate XXXV of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson with credit to Harry C. Knode. PROVENANCE: Harry C. Knode Collection; L.C. Jackson; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered, and wedge which has the number “6819”. Overall the steel parts retain a medium to dark gray metal patina with a few scattered spots of fine pinprick surface rust. Hammer nose & sides of hammer are lightly pitted. Cyl retains 25-30% faint Dragoon/Indian fight scene with the legends partly visible. Trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver plating and the back strap about 60%. Grip is sound with light handling & use nicks & dings, shows moderate edge wear and retains 50-60% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered spots of pitting. Case has a sliver missing from the lid with a few shrunken loose seams and a couple of grain checks in the bottom and overall retains a cleaned finish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with a couple of repaired partitions. Flask retains about 75% orig finish. Mold has a few light nicks & dings with a dark mustard patina and bright clean cavities. Cap tin, capper & oil bottle are fine. 4-45383 JR59 (15,000-20,000)
ENGRAVED 1ST GENERATION COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 96175. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 5-7/16″ bbl, 1-line block letter address and etched panel on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is stamped “44 CF”. Mounted with nice 2-pc pearl grips (which are not numbered) that has a relief carved ox head with red jewel eyes on right side. Revolver is engraved in New York style, ostensibly from the Nimschke shop with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with punch dot background. Engraving patterns extend up both sides of bbl, on backstrap & buttstrap with hunter stars on trigger bow and both sides of front frame. Cyl is engraved in sunburst patterns on the lands between the flutes. This gun is further described in a letter from noted Colt authority and collector, Richard Burdick, wherein he states, “The Colt Historical records show this firearm as having been shipped in 1888 as a standard blue non-engraved 5 1/2” barrel, 44-40 Single Action Army to Schoverling, Daly, and Gales in New York. The revolver has been refinished at some point and shows rounding to the metal edges. The ejector housing does not fit tight to the frame. The acid etched panel “Colt Frontier Six Shooter” appears redone. The engraving lacks the progression cuts left by hand engraved hammer and graver execution suggesting the engraving was done in the last fifty years. The hammer and trigger are nickel and not the case color hammer and blue trigger as used on New York engraved guns. The front sight appears to have been replaced. The muzzle of the barrel is not square and does not have the correct crowning.” CONDITION: As noted above, all matching except grips which are unnumbered; overall retains 60-70% strong nickel with the balance bare metal; grips have a chipped right heel, otherwise are fine with strong fire and good color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-46057 (12,000-18,000)
*CUSTOM RUGER OVER-UNDER SHOTGUN ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID BY BRYSON J. GWINNELL WITH BRILEY TUBE SET AND CASE. SN 410-13762. Cal. 12 Ga. 3″ Chambers. 28″ Mono-block ventilated rib bbls are ported and fitted with Briley thin wall choke tubes. Briley Ultimate Ultralight 3 gauge tube set is included. Nicely polished Ruger red label action features selective single trigger and non-automatic safety (Bbl selector and toggling safety button are on top tang, and stamped “S” “B” and “T”). Bottom of action is stamped “Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc.” and “Southport. Conn. USA”. Action is engraved with a mix of scroll and ribbons outlining vignettes of gold inlaid dogs and game rendered in high relief; setter pointing pair of woodcock on left; pointer flushing pheasant on right. These scenes are highlighted by other feather motifs at corners of action and at fences. Bottom of action shows a drumming grouse in front of trigger guard, with single grouse feather under company name. Bbls have gold bands at muzzles, and continue the feather motif behind the bands. Top sides of mono-block show gold inlaid running squirrel and rabbit within gold wire ovals flanked by relief scrolled acanthus flourishes. Quality of this work is very fine, and nicely detailed, done by Bryson Gwinnell, who began his career at Smith & Wesson, and was later at the Colt custom shop for ten years. He then worked as an engraver for the U. S. Mint before doing freelance engraving on firearms. His signature and completion date is on top tang to left of lever. Very fine, flame-figured American walnut, full pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over leather-faced brown “Old English” pad. Stock features horn sunburst grip cap, 18 LPI point pattern borderless checkering, and adjustable comb. Matching one piece forend has inset Ruger logo, and Deeley release, and continues the engraving theme with gold inlaid falling grouse losing feathers, and has obviously just been shot. Bore diameter: top -.729, bottom -.727. Bore restrictions: SC. Wall thickness: top -.045, bottom -.048. Drop at heel: 2-5/16″, drop at comb: Adjustable. Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz, LOP 14-1/4″. Aluminum Briley case has Ruger and Briley logo decals on exterior. Briley tube set is held in top compartment of blue velvet lined interior. Case contains 13 various choke tubes for different bbls, and wrench, along with Briley care and maintenance pamphlet. CONDITION: Excellent, nearly new. Bbls showing a few minor marks from contact with fore arm. Action is a bit dirty from firing. Stocks have only one or two minor marks. Case and tubes are excellent. 4-42068 MGM152 (2,500-3,500)
RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON MODEL 1875 SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 1296. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line left hand Remington address. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved in New York style with about 40-50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Ejector rod boss is engraved with a hunter star which is also found on the trigger bow. Backstrap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel and has zig zag border patterns. Cylinder is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 25,000-30,000 of these revolvers were produced in the period 1875-1889 when they were succeeded by the Model 1888 and later the Model 1890, which were simple modifications to this model. These Remington revolvers were popular with their users however they arrived late on the market and given Colt’s advanced head start with their Model 1873 and Government contracts along with Colt’s advanced distribution system, the Remingtons were never plentiful on the frontier. Neither was Remington successful in obtaining Government contracts although there was a reported contract with Egypt for 10,000 of these revolvers and another 1,000 purchased by the Government of Mexico. Not many Model 1875s were engraved and few are known today, especially with high orig finish. Given their usual hard service on the American frontier under adverse conditions usually with little or no maintenance very few survive today with any orig finish at all. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains about 96-97% strong orig nickel finish with losses from the cyl face and flaking on the hammer. Bottom front of trigger guard is nicked & scratched around screw hole with some light hammer marks on buttstrap. Cyl has a drag line. Grips are sound and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with fine pinprick pitting. 4-45225 JR46 (12,000-17,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED PRE-WAR COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 354968. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with 1-line block letter address and model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with smooth 2-pc silver Colt medallion ivory grips. SN was observed on the bottom of frame and right side of front & back straps under the grip and the cyl has last two digits of SN on the rear face. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn with C+ or D quality engraving of foliate & floral patterns with fine stippled background. Frame has near full coverage with a large floral pattern on the ejector rod boss. Matching engraving extends the full length of each side of the bbl with foliate patterns around the address. Ejector rod housing is engraved to match in the top gullet and outer radius. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are also engraved to match with the backstrap having a panel engraved “H.F. Hirte”. Cyl is also engraved to match with full coverage on the outer diameter with the flutes undecorated in counterpoint. A nearly identical engraving pattern is found on Colt SAA SN 355459 as pictured on p. 397 of Colt Engraving, Wilson. Accompanied by an orig unnumbered, dark maroon, hinged lid box with a black & white end label on the top marked only “ENGRAVED”, with no label on the bottom. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 38 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks and factory engraved, with special feature “H.F. Hirte engraved on backstrap”, sold and shipped to Hans F. Hirte, San Diego, Ca on October 27, 1933 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Jim Fuqua (1994); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cyl, except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 98% strong orig factory finish with glossy strong blue and brilliant case colors. Hammer retains most of its strong orig case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas, turned silver on top edge. Top strap & left recoil shield are lightly faded. Cyl shows sharp edge wear, otherwise retains strong dark blue. Grips have a couple of minor age lines and retain a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may have been fired but if so, very little. Box is near new. 4-45367 JR47 (30,000-45,000)
*FINE ARNOLD GRIEBEL ENGRAVED COLT BANKERS SPECIAL DA REVOLVER. SN 320264. Cal. 38 Colt. Blue finish with 2″ bbl, integral half moon front sight with 2-line address on right side and caliber & model on left side. Revolver has beautifully executed full coverage flowing foliate pattern engraving with fine stippled background which extends down backstrap, on frontstrap, trigger bow and front of frame. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes with a fine, wide feather pattern around rear edge. Left sideplate is inlaid with gold initials “HMG” and the right rear side of frame is inlaid with a wonderfully detailed raised gold boar’s head. Buttstrap is inscribed “ENGR. BY A. GRIEBEL”. Mounted with smooth 2-pc, after-market ivory grips. Given the deluxe treatment, even to engraved screw heads, and the inlaid initials, it seems likely that this revolver was engraved for one of Mr. Griebel’s family members. Accompanied by a Safariland brown leather holster. PROVENANCE: Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom blue finish; grips are sound with a light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-44866 JR292 (3,000-5,000)
Additional Information: The markings on the barrel are incorrect.
RARE CASED INSCRIBED EARLY COLT BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 171. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New-York City address with brackets. Frame has forward located “COLT’S PATENT” on the left side and the silver plated square back brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last three digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Backstrap is engraved in block letters “H.F. BISSELL”. Cyl is usual 5-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene, rnd cyl stop notches and one safety pin which is battered. Cyl arbor is early type with cupped tip and no grease grooves. Right recoil shield has a capping cutout and it has a Type I hammer face. Hammer is early style without roller and it has a flat hammer spring with Type I Boss. Accompanied by an extremely rare casket burl walnut casing with empty silver shield in the lid. Interior is brown velvet lined with Paterson style recesses in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided “COLTS PATENT” early eagle flask, a “COLTS PATENT” brass 2-cavity bullet & ball Baby Dragoon bullet mold, an L-shape nipple wrench and a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Bottom front edge of case has an iron mortised lock with wooden shield shaped escutcheon. Bottom of case is covered in dark paper. According to Colt’s Pocket ’49 It’s Evolution, Jordan & Watt, only an estimated 4,650 of these rare revolvers were produced with right hand addresses that have brackets. Of that number only an estimated 500 had the Type I hammer face. That information coupled with the extremely rare casing makes this a truly very rare Baby Dragoon. Henry F. Bissell was a Union soldier who enlisted as a Corporal in Company C, Connecticut 14th Infantry on 30, July, 1862 and was mustered in on 20, August, 1862. On 13, July, 1863 he transferred to Company F, 3rd Veteran Reserve Corps, and was discharged on July 6, 1865. He was promoted to Sergeant on February 9, 1863. The 14th Connecticut participated in the Battles of Antietam, MD on September 17, 1862; Fredricksburg on December 13, 1862 and was the first division to charge the stone wall at Marye’s Hill. It fought again on May 1 through 3, 1863 at Chancellorsville and again at Gettysburg July 2nd and 3rd. On the July 2 they were stationed at the center of the 2nd Corps and on July 3 repulsed Longstreet’s Charge, capturing 5 battle flags and over 200 prisoners. In the afternoon of July 3, 1863 this 8 companies of this regiment captured the large brick barn and house of William Bliss which were nearly half a mile forward of the Union lines and held them until ordered to burn the buildings, during which time they suffered several casualties. On July 6 the regiment began the pursuit of Lee’s army and were engaged at Falling Waters, Maryland. It was during this time that Sgt. Bissell was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, which means that during one of the early July battles he was severely wounded and unfit for active service. PROVENANCE: Jim Handy (2004); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip, cyl spindle is not numbered. Bbl retains about 85% thinning orig blue. Frame retains dark orig case colors, more faded on the recoil shields. Hammer retains dark case colors on sides and rear edge with the top edge turned brown and light pitting around hammer nose. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their orig silver plating with some slight losses on trigger bow and light bubbling on backstrap. Cyl is a medium gray patina and retains 80-85% Ranger/Indian fight scene roll marking. Grip is sound with some hammer marks on bottom edges and a large bruise on left side at the frame and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with dark pitting in the grooves. Case has a few grain checks in bottom otherwise is sound with usual storage & handling light nicks & scratches and overall retains a cleaned varnish finish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with some staining in the lid & bottom from the revolver and flask. Flask retains most of its orig finish on the body with 60-70% orig polish on collar and about 50% on spout, which is a Dixon & Sons replacement. Mold has numerous light nicks & dings but is completely sound with clean cavities and retains a dark mustard patina. Nipple wrench is lightly pitted and cap tin is fine. 4-45371 JR45 (20,000-30,000)
EXTRAORDINARY PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1877 LIGHTNING DA SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. SN 13022. Cal. 38 Colt. Rare Colt Lightning with 3-1/2″ bbl, without ejector, half moon front sight and 2-line address with sharp etched panel “COLT D.A. 38” on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Mounted with rampant Colt hard rubber grips, matching numbered to this revolver. Screws, trigger, base pin & edges of hammer are fire blued. Sides of hammer are polished bright. Backstrap is engraved in period script “H.F. Bennett / with compliments of / L.B. & S.P. Colt / Jan’y 1st 1879”. L.B. and S.P. Colt were brothers, the nephews of the firearms inventor, Samuel Colt and stockholders in Colt’s Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co. LeBaron Bradford Colt was a Senator from Rhode Island and a judge. Samuel Pomeroy Colt was an industrialist and politician, also from Rhode Island. H.F. Bennett was a friend of LB & SP Colt. This exact revolver is pictured in R.L. Wilsons “Colt Engraving Book”, pg 453 and as described by Wilson as “documented as shipped to Samuel P. Colt, December 31st 1878 and presented on January 1, 1879. Appears to be first presented from the exclusive group ordered over the years by the brothers LeBaron B. & Samuel P. Colt”. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cyl & grips, appears to be unfired. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp orig nickel with minor losses on left side of muzzle around front sight; cyl appears to be unfired; etched panel is crisp and the blued parts retain virtually all of their crisp, brilliant fire blue; grips are crisp with no discernible flaws. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-45085 (18,000-22,000)
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1908 IN SPECIAL PRESENTATION BOX. SN 373893. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/8″ bbl, color case hardened trigger, thumb safety & grip safety and mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips with silver rampant Colt medallions. Accompanied by one orig 2-tone magazine. Pistol is lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with running leaf & vine borders down each side of slide. Rear of slide & frame, along with the grip safety, front strap & trigger guard, are matching engraved. Also accompanied by an orig, black leatherette covered, blue velvet lined hard presentation box. Interior of lid is lined in blue satin with the stylized “COLT” logo embossed in gold. Bottom is recessed for the pistol. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter identifying this pistol in cal 25 with 2″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory grade 3 engraving, shipped to “Lone Account”, Wolf & Klar, Ft. Worth, Tx on June 5, 1928, in a 1-gun shipment. Remarks section state that this pistol was returned to the factory August 1, 1929 and reshipped on Lone Account to Abercrombie & Fitch, NY, on January 22, 1930 and was sold to Abercrombie & Fitch on July 19, 1930. PROVENANCE: Tommy Rholes (1993); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be new & unfired retaining virtually all of its orig Colt factory finish with bright blue and brilliant case colors that have thinned on grip safety; grips are extremely fine with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case shows moderate to heavy wear with a repaired hinge; interior is moderately faded & soiled. 4-45365 JR89 (3,000-6,000)
LOT OF 2 BEN LANE ENGRAVED REMINGTON REVOLVERS. 1) Model 1875 Single Action Army Revolver. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 2919. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, replacement thick front sight and 1-line “E. REMINGTON & SONS” left hand address. Mounted with custom 2-pc ivory grips with left side having a wonderfully detailed raised carved Mexican eagle. Rear face of cyl is stamped “45”. Revolver is engraved identically to a Model 1890 being sold elsewhere in this auction. It has nearly full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background and hunter stars on each side of the ejector bosses. Sides of bbl have three panels of matching engraving and there is a zig zag band at muzzle and frame ends. Top edges of ejector housing have matching zig zag panels. Left side of ejector housing is engraved in vine & leaf patterns with geometric patterns on each side of ejector web. Top of frame is engraved with a deep fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top end, on heel, buttstrap, trigger bow and bottom of frame. Loading gate is engraved in a sunburst pattern reminiscent of master engraver, L.D. Nimschke. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. 2) Belt Model Percussion Revolver. Cal. 36. SN 1542. Nickel finish with 6-1/2″ oct bbl, pinch post front sight and 2-line address. It has 6-shot full fluted cyl with 2-pc smooth ivory grips. Wonderfully engraved by renowned master engraver, Ben Lane, with about 70% coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frame. It has feather patterns on top strap. Side flats of bbl have matching engraving with geometric patterns on other flats of bbl. Bbl has zig zag bands at muzzle and frame ends with matching patterns on front end of frame and each side of top strap. Top of backstrap is engraved in a shell pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on buttstrap & trigger bow. Bottom front of frame is engraved in a shell pattern. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. PROVENANCE: 1) Jackson Arms 1983; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its custom nickel finish; grips have small age lines and are sound with a wonderful ivory patina; hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with fine pitting. 2) Very fine. Overall retains about all of its fine custom nickel finish, unfired since engraving; grips are extremely fine with a light ivory patina. Hammer spring is a little soft, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-45450 JR125 (4,000-7,000)
*ENGRAVED FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 349941. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 1-line block letter address and cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with Rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc silver medallion ivory grips with raised carved ox head on right side. SN was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front and backstraps under the grip. Revolver is engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about C coverage of his distinctive intertwined foliate and floral arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. He also incorporated his distinctive V-shaped patterns into the engraving on the recoil shield, loading gate, top of backstrap and buttstrap. Cyl is engraved to match with a wavy border around rear edge. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 32-20 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, carved steer head ivory stocks, factory engraved grade 2 and shipped to R.S. Elliott Arms Co., Kansas City, Mo, October 12, 1926 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Richard Garvis (1994); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 99% crisp orig factory finish with glossy blue and brilliant case colors. Grips are sound with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-45290 JR25 (20,000-30,000)
RARE MODEL 1890 GATLING GUN. SN 497. Cal. 45-70. Fine 10-bbl Gatling with 32″ rnd bbls of which the last 5″ are hexagonal-shaped. Bbls are numbered 1 through 10 with “RAC” (Rinaldo A. Carr) sub-inspector initials and the “V”, “P” and eagle Springfield inspection marks. Bbls are mounted in a 1″ thick x about 6″ diameter brass carrier numbered to match the bbls, also with “RAC” initials. The fluted feed wheel has a gun metal with socket for a Bruce feed and is marked on rear face “PATENTED FEB. 11. 1890”, also with “RAC” initials. The gun metal mechanism housing cover is engraved “Gatling Gun / Patented / Manfd. at / COLT’S ARMORY / Hartford Conn. U.S.A. / MODEL 1890 / No 497 CAL. .45 / S.E.B.”, the initials of the government inspector, Capt. Stanhope E. Blunt. The rest of the housing is also of gun metal with knurled cascable and disconnector knob. The bolts are all matching numbered to the bbls. Bbls & mechanism are mounted on an orig iron frame with an orig front sight and a replacement rear sight. Handle lock is also a modern replacement. Yoke, mount & tripod, along with the tiller are also modern replacements. Magazine is a stick type for an earlier model and is a modern reproduction. Page 119 of the book The Gatling Gun, Wahl & Toppel, states that the Army purchased 18 Model 1889 Gatling Guns in the serial range 492 to 509 which includes this gun. Obviously this gun was produced in 1890 and marked. As per the consignor, this gun was originally purchased from Bannermans in 1914 and had remained under the same ownership until purchased by the consignor. CONDITION: Fine. No orig finish remains with the bbls & frame being a cleaned gray metal patina; housing is partially cleaned and retains a medium to dark mustard patina and all of the engraving on the housing is recently re-cut; yoke, housing, tiller & tripod are extremely fine retaining about all of their custom finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bores with fine pitting. 4-45027 JR513 (85,000-120,000)
Additional Information: There are two cartridges. One is antique and other is marked. Cartridge packet marked with Racine, Wisconsin address is modern made. Serial Number on barrel lug has been re-stamped.
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 67899. Cal. 44. Silver & gold finish with 8″ bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. The brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain a checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Cyl is rebated with usual 6-shots and all six safety pins serviceable. Cyl is numbered “066” and the wedge is unnumbered but has engraved ends. Frame is 3-screw type cut for shoulder stock with round head hammer screw. Revolver is engraved by renowned master engraver L.D. Nimschke, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns that has punch dot background on the frame, which patterns extend over the sides of the bbl with smaller patterns at the muzzle and a knurled band around the muzzle. The address has chip & dot borders which terminate in geometric patterns. Hammer is engraved with deluxe foliate arabesque patterns and a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in a “V” and feather patterns with hand checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved with a distinctive fan pattern with checkered triangular center. Backstrap has foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel and on trigger guard. Buttstrap is engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved around the major circumference with matching foliate arabesque patterns and has chip & dot borders front & rear. Rammer pivot also is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl, hammer & rammer handle are gold plated with the balance of revolver silver plated. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a fine sgl sided angle spout “COLTS PATENT” silver plated flask, a blued steel “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “44H”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a cardboard container for caps. Also included is a functioning key, along with two lead balls and two packets of six combustible cartridges, one by the Mount Pleasant Cartridge Co. of Racine, Wisconsin. Given that the cyl is mismatched but engraved to match the rest of the revolver and that the wedge is an unnumbered replacement but also engraved, it seems likely that this revolver was after market engraved by Mr. Nimschke after it had seen an amount of service. The chambers of the cyl retain virtually all of their silver plating indicating that it is unfired since engraving however the bore is moderately pitted indicating a period of use. Since this revolver was produced during the Civil War the likely scenario is that post-Civil War it was sent to Mr. Nimschke for engraving and then presentation. PROVENANCE: Bobby Smith Collection; Bill Sisney (2005); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge and cyl as noted above. Grip could not be removed. It appears that the bbl is also renumbered and probably is a replacement at the time of restoration or rebuilding. Bbl retains 60-70% strong silver plating with the exposed areas a gray metal color. Rammer handle & pivot retain about 50% thin gold wash. Frame retains most of its fine silver plating. Cyl retains about 90-92% thin gold wash. Hammer retains strong gold wash on sides and rear edge with top edge somewhat more worn. Trigger guard retains 92-93% strong silver plating and the backstrap about 50% silver. Grip is sound with fine age lines and a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Wedge spring tip is broken. Case is sound with a heavy crease across the lid and light handling & storage marks and retains most of a fine restored varnish finish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled with sound partitions. Flask retains most of its orig silver plating and the mold most of its orig dark blue with a few light nicks & scratches. Cartridge packets & cap box are fine. 4-45369 JR50 (12,500-17,500)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED PAIR OF TRYON GOLD INLAID PHILADELPHIA PERCUSSION DERRINGERS. Cal. About 36. Spectacular pair of derringers with 3-5/16″ ovoid shaped bbls with flat tops and iron rails on bottoms with single guides containing ebony ramrods with German silver tips and concealed worms. Top flats of bbls have tiny dovetailed sights with German silver blades and 15/16″ x 1/4″ elliptical shaped gold inlays marked “PHILADELPHIA”. Breech plugs are color case hardened with two wide gold bands and two narrow platinum bands and have shielded nipples with gold blow-out plugs. They are mounted in 1-pc walnut stocks with raised side panels that have checkered grips and German silver furniture with scallop shell engraved cap boxes in the butts. Bases of cap boxes are engraved with acanthus leaf patterns. Locks are short American style, 2-3/4″ long with rounded back edges and flat-sided hammers. Lockplates & hammers are wonderfully engraved in American-style foliate arabesque patterns with fine stippled & shaded backgrounds. Lockplates have a 5/8″ x 3/16″ elliptical shaped gold inlay engraved “TRYON”. The breech plugs have long tangs that are engraved to match, secured by two screws. Stocks have German silver tips on forestocks that are wonderfully engraved with a sunburst pattern around the ramrod opening and foliate patterns on the tangs. Trigger guards are beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with long pointed finials engraved in shell & foliate patterns with rosettes around front screws. Each pistol has an empty elliptical shaped thumbplate. Accompanied by their orig German silver mounted reinforced mahogany casing with an elaborate, empty plate in the lid. Interior is burgundy velvet lined & French fitted for the pistols, an ivory handled ebony cleaning rod with German silver tip, a German silver tipped ebony bullet starter/ramrod with barrel shaped mallet head, an orig nutcracker style single ball mold with blued steel sprue cutter, a tiny red leather covered brass flask, an ivory implement handle with German silver ferrule and all of the bits & pieces for the cleaning rod and implement handle plus a German silver powder measure. Case has two tiny covered compartments, one containing a non-functioning key and the other several cast lead balls. These pistols are cased nearly identically to a cased pair of Dragoon pistols that belonged to James Janeway-Van Sickle and obviously made by the same casemaker. The quality & workmanship of these pistols is extraordinary and certainly are comparable to the Van Sickle Dragoons. It is known that in Mr. Van Sickle’s will he bequeathed a pair of Dragoons or cased Colts and two other sets of cased pistols. Given the similarity of the casings there is a strong possibility that these pistols were also part of the Van Sickle estate. High quality American made gold inlaid cased sets of pistols are a great rarity and seldom encountered, especially those from Philadelphia makers such as Tryon. The Tryon Company was established in Philadelphia in about 1811 and remained a family business, manufacturing firearms well into the 20th century. CONDITION: Very fine. One pistol is extremely fine, retaining most of its orig brown bbl finish and case colors on breech block; stock is sound with sharp edges and retains most of its orig varnish; German silver furniture is fine with sharp engraving. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting toward chamber end. Second pistol is very fine with the bbl brown lightly faded with sharp edge wear and some thinning; breech block case colors have turned dark; lockplate, hammer & top tang retain most of their orig bright metal finish; stock is sound with a few light chips in the finish and retains most of its orig varnish with light diamond point wear on checkering. Hammer will not hold at full cock; strong bores with moderate pitting toward chamber ends. Both pistols show rust around the nipples probably from having had caps fired without cleaning afterward. Case is sound with scattered stains on lid and normal handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; interior of the lid is moderately faded and stained from contact with the pistols and a few other spots; bottom is heavily faded to a pink shade with light soil; implements are all fine with the mold sprue cutter retaining about 75% bright blue; flask is very fine. 4-45570 (65,000-125,000)
*LOT OF 3 COLT REVOLVERS AND ONE SMITH & WESSON. SN 289613, 236, 826206, 26045. Colt no. 1. COLT NEW NAVY DOUBLE ACTION. 2nd Issue. SN 289613. Cal. 38 LC. 4-1/2″ Bbl. Blue with rubber grips. Correct maroon box with this guns configuration on blue paper label. Colt no. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Bill Spicer in 1995. 2. COLT EARLY NEW SERVICE. SN 236. Cal. 44-40. 7-1/2″ Bbl. Blue finish. Lanyard loop on butt. Hard rubber grips. Probably first year of production. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Bill Spicer in 2004. Colt no. 3. Official Police SN 826206. Cal. 38 Special. 6″ Bbl. Nickel with genuine elephant ivory grips, carved bull’s head on right, with Colt medallions. Engraved with large open shaded scroll on sides of action and bbl, with highlights of scroll as accents. Gun appears to have left factory as is, (a letter may reveal this). Smith & Wesson. Gun no. 4. SN 26045. Scarce Caliber .455 Mark II. Hand ejector, second model. 6-1/2″ Bbl. Blued. Checkered rosewood grips with medallion. Lanyard loop on butt. Stamped with Canadian proofs. Sideplate is engraved “W. H. Purvis. The Rifle Brigade”, remaining bright. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Colt no. 1. Excellent, near new with only the slightest silvering at muzzle, and on some sharp edges. Light drag line on cylinder. Box is very fine. Corners and edges rubbed, with some repairs. Blue label has some chips. Colt no. 2. Excellent, retaining 90% + orig blue, silvered at muzzle and high edges, and thinning on frame. Grip straps are mostly silver. There are 3 notches on bottom rear strap. Bore is excellent. Action is crisp. Colt no. 3. Excellent. Near new, with only a very few minor marks in nickel. Appears essentially unfired. Smith & Wesson: gun no. 4. Excellent, retaining nearly all of its blue over numerous marks. Bore is excellent. Action is crisp and tight. 4-45475 MGM41 (4,000-6,000)
LOT OF 3 – DERRINGERS. TWO COLTS AND ONE NATIONAL. SN 639, 4355, 5732. 1. Colt. Cal. 41 RF. SN 639. Colt purchased National Firearms Co, original manufacturers of this type of derringer, in 1870 after taking over Moore Firearms, and kept it in their line until about 1890. Nearly all were scroll engraved. This particular example, with standard Colt markings on top of blued bbl, has silver-plated frame. Hammer case hardened. Trigger blued. Bottom of bbl is stamped with British proofs in front of SN. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Dennis Levett in 1995. 2. Colt Cal 41. SN 4355. Blued bbl. Frame appears never to have been plated. British proofs in front of SN on bottom of bbl. Otherwise standard production. 3. National Arms no. 1 Derringer. Cal. 41. SN 5732. Company name and Brooklyn address on top of bbl with “Pa’d Feb 24 1863” on bottom. Large arrows pointing at stars toward muzzle on each side. Standard production, identical to the Moore no. 1. This pistol appears to have had blue bbl with silver-plated solid brass frame, and is engraved with large shaded open scroll. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Al Kelly in 1987. PROVENANCE: Dennis Levett 1994; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1. Colt. Cal. 41 RF SN 639. Very fine. Bbl retains most of its orig blue, considerably flaked. Action retains 90% silver-plate, rubbed through in a few spots, showing copper under plate. Hammer retains most of its case hardened color. 2. Colt. Cal 41 SN 4355. Bbl retains 80 – 90% orig bright blue, with rubs on sides, silvered on sharp edges, with scattered flaking and flecking. Frame retains a good deal of what appears to be orig polish with some cleaning overall, and some pinprick pitting. 3. National. Cal. 41. SN 5732. Bbl retains traces of orig bright blue, under SN on bottom of bbl and is mostly a light brown. Frame retains most of its nickel-plating, worn through on sides, and on high edges. Bore is fine. Traces of case color are on hammer. 4-45488 MGM71 (4,000-7,000)
*ENGRAVED FIRST GENERATION COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 309679. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Bright, high luster blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address, roll marked on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of the frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in broken circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips with deep left and right Colt medallions. This revolver is unusual with a nicely engraved bbl and cyl with no engraving on frame, grip frame or ejector housing. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on both sides of bbl and both sides at muzzle. Bbl address is surrounded by a line border that terminates in geometric patterns with additional geometric patterns around front sight. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes and at rear of each flute. There is a fine zig-zag pattern and snake and dot pattern at the rear edge of cyl. Mr. Howard’s collection notes imply that he had a factory letter which is currently not available. The notes state that this revolver was shipped in 1909 in a 1-gun shipment. He reports that the letter states the “barrel and cylinder are engraved and the finish is “SP finish”.” (which means special finish). With verification by factory letter, this is certainly one of the most rare engraved Single Action Army Revolvers. PROVENANCE: Bill Spicer (1996); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Rear face of cyl is stamped with last digit of SN. Bbl, ejector rod housing, cyl & grip frame retain about all of their fine high luster factory blue. Frame retains most of orig case colors, bright in sheltered areas, moderately faded elsewhere. Hammer case colors are mostly faded. Grips have numerous age lines and are sound with a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-45288 JR17 (15,000-25,000)
FINE MODERN ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL HARTFORD/LONDON DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 473. Cal. 44. Wonderful modern engraved 3rd Model Dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, slightly reduced brass front sight and 1-line hand engraved New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in an arc. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Mounted with beautiful checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved in English style with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background on the frame. Bbl lug, rammer pivot, hammer, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cyl is usual 6-shots with re-rolled Dragoon/Indian fight scene and hand-engraved Ormsby name & address. The SN on cyl is re-stamped over the original. The “MODEL U.S.M.R. / COLT’S PATENT” panels are hand-engraved with a hand-matted background. Cyl has all six safety pins. Cyl appears to be new and may be a modern replacement. Regardless, it is a beautiful representative piece. CONDITION: Fine. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal patina; engraving is sharp; grip frame retains a medium mustard patina with traces of orig silver in sheltered areas; grips are sound with one age line in bottom, showing light diamond point wear and retain a fine mellow ivory patina; Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with light pitting. 4-45627 JR481 (5,000-8,000)
LOT OF 3 COLT THIRD MODEL THUER DERRINGERS. SN 5598. All are Cal. 41 RF. 1) SN 5598. Engraved blue & silver with about 60% coverage New York style foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background, engraving style is attributed to Cuno Helfricht, having a large “COLT” on top of bbl. Mounted with matching numbered smooth 2-pc walnut grips. Accompanied by a green velvet lined leather covered form fitting pipe style case. 2) SN 27468. Standard Model with blue & silver finish and 2-pc smooth walnut grips numbered to this pistol. 3) SN 10710. Standard Model with blue & silver finish and 2-pc smooth walnut grips numbered to this pistol. PROVENANCE: 1) Dean Williams 2002; 3) Tony Smith 2004; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 95% orig blue, thinned on sides; frame retains about 95% orig silver with a few thin spots; grips are sound with light wear retaining most orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. 2) Very fine. Bbl retains 95-96% glossy orig blue; frame retains 93-95% bright orig nickel with losses flaked to a medium mustard patina; grips are sound showing light wear and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered small spots of pitting. 3) Extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Overall retains almost all of its bright orig factory finish, slightly dulled on ejector housing with a few small scattered spots of nickel loss on right side of frame; grips are crisp with light edge wear and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-45487 JR150 (4,000-8,000)
UNIQUE 14 BORE BREECHLOADER BY SAMUEL HART OF MENASHA, WI & TOMBSTONE, AZ. SN NSN. Cal. 14 ga. Chamber diameter: .770. Bore diameter .670. 29″ Damascus bbls converted from percussion by the addition of a heavy shoe lump and extractor system. Bbls still retain two plain ramrod pipes holding ebony ramrod with brass head and tail. Hand-filed top lever action with Purdey type dual under lugs incorporates orig muzzleloaders bar locks, fitted with high serpentine carved hammers with sculpted eagle heads marked “S.L.Hart” on right lockplate, and “Menasha” on left, both in scrolled ribands. Action is engraved with line and diamond borders with simple foliate flourishes. Orig muzzleloaders trigger guard has shore bird engraved in central oval flanked by acanthus. Lockplates have open scroll shaded engraving, possibly done by Mr. Hart. Water table is stamped w/ trademark “SL” over Hart logo on one side, and “Menasha” on the other. Dense, stump figured American walnut semi-pistol grip buttstock measures 14″ over steel buttplate with long top spur, engraved with open shaded scroll. Coarse flat top checkering extends past pistol grip and has broad mullered borders. Matching stubby splinter forend attaches to bbl with side nail through oval silver escutcheons and retains orig muzzleloading thimble. The work performed in the conversion of this muzzleloader shows a high degree of skill and workmanship. Bore diameter: left-.767, right -.768. Wall thickness: left -.021, right -.020. Drop at heel: 3-3/8″, drop at comb: 2-5/16″. Weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz. LOP 14″. Samuel Lombard Hart was born in 1830 in Solon, Ohio. At a young age he apprenticed to a local gunsmith and later opened his own gunsmith shop with his father in Menasha, Wisconsin. He continued in the trade until July 1861 when he enlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant in Company C Wisconsin 10th Infantry. He resigned on Sept. 14, 1862 and re-enlisted on June 9, 1864 as a Captain in Company D 41st Wisconsin Infantry and was mustered out in Sept. 1864. Family legend states that he also served as an Assistant Signal Officer for the 4th Division of the Army of the Tennessee seeing action in several battles including Pittsburgh Landing, The Siege of Corinth and Forest’s Raid into Memphis. At Pittsburgh Landing he was under heavy fire as a bearer of dispatches to Gen. Buell. Upon leaving the Army Mr. Hart resumed his gunsmith trade and with his brothers moved west, eventually settling in Tombstone in about 1880 opening his gunsmith shop on Fremont St. in Tombstone. He witnessed the famous Gunfight at the OK Corral and undoubtedly repaired and sold firearms to all the local residents. He remained in Tombstone until 1889, moving to Tucson, AZ, where he died in 1893. Mr. Hart is more famously known for his alteration of surplus Colt Cavalry single action revolvers, some of which have recently come to the market. They all show his fine gunsmithing skills which are certainly apparent in this shotgun. PROVENANCE: Letter of provenance from family member who inherited this fine shotgun, relating its history, and that it was Hart’s personal shotgun, regimental history of the 41st Infantry and Capt. Samuel L. Hart. “Find a Grave” documentation with history of finding tombstone for S. L. Hart in Tucson, AZ. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbls retain some of their orig Damascus brown with a number of areas of cleaning, and darker brown. Action is mostly silver to brown. Locks retain considerable amount of what appears to be orig case hardening color. Stocks retain most of their orig oil finish, some grain raised, checkering showing some slight wear. Bores are very good to fine with some slight pitting toward breech and numerous light longitudinal hairlines. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Locks are good. 4-45025 MGM203 (6,000-10,000)
*LOT OF 2: COLT 1908 AND REMINGTON MODEL 51 PISTOLS. SN 71138, PA36291. 1)COLT. SN 71138. Cal. 38 ACP. Standard configuration and markings. Blued frame, with Colt marked hard rubber grips, with rampant Colt at bottom (pre-1924). Right side of slide is marked “Colt Automatic” (post 1915). With its orig type box marked on bottom with SN 97857, with blue label on exterior, correct interior labels, and instruction sheet. 2) REMINGTON MODEL 51. SN PA36291. Cal. 380. Blued with hard rubber grips. Ribbed top of bbl marked with Remington name and address as well as “Pedersen’s Patents Pending”. Rear of slide has 9 vertical grooves. “Remington Trade Mark” is on right side of frame. Original type black box with paper labels, is marked in ink with SN 50567. Interior label is printed “The Safe Automatic”. PROVENANCE: 2) Jackson Arms 1978. Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) COLT. Excellent. Retains nearly all its orig blue, slightly silvered on sharp edges, and a bit thin on rear grip frame. Right side of frame is engraved “John R. Miller”. Grips are excellent. Bore is excellent. Box is fine, with restoration and recoloring to edges. Interior labels are good, slightly foxed and marked. Instruction sheet is somewhat oil soaked, and marked. 2) REMINGTON. Excellent, near new, with only a very few minor marks on metal, and some slight silvering at muzzle. Bore is excellent. Action is crisp. Box is chipped and slightly worn on high edges, has had some cloth tape repair and recoloring where chipped. Exterior label is good, somewhat chipped and foxed. Interior is somewhat dirty. Label is slightly foxed. 4-45480 (3,000-4,000)
LOT OF 3 EARLY AMERICAN HANDGUNS. 1) Colt New Line Spur Trigger Revolver With Box. Cal. 22 Short. SN 33686. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat side rnd bbl with half moon front sight. Left side of bbl has a clear etched panel “COLT NEW 22”. Mounted with 2-pc birdhead burl walnut grips that have the last 3 digits of SN in pencil in right side. Accompanied by an orig 2-pc burgundy colored cardboard box with pink top label. Bottom of box is numbered to another revolver. 2) Moore Patent front loading revolver. Cal. 32 Teatfire. SN 3735. Blue & silver finish with 3-1/4″ rnd bbl, German silver half moon front sight and is fitted with 2-pc birdhead walnut grips that have the last two digits of SN inside each grip. The frame & cyl are also numbered identically. Frame is lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. It has 6-shot unfluted cyl. Accompanied by its orig 2-pc green & red cardboard box that has a line drawing of the revolver on top label. Matching SN is in pencil on bottom. 3) Colt No. 2 Deringer. Cal. 41 RF. SN 5242. Blue finish with 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbl, German silver half moon front sight and mounted with 2-pc checkered birdhead walnut grips matching numbered to this pistol. Accompanied by an orig mahogany veneer, burgundy velvet lined casing compartmented in bottom for the pistol, a steel wire cleaning rod and two compartments, one of which contains nine orig cartridges. PROVENANCE: 1) Dick Littlefield (2002); 2) Dick Littlefield (1984); 3) Denis Levett (1994); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: 1) Fine. Overall retains about all of its orig nickel on bbl & cyl with frame retaining 85-90% nickel; grips show moderate edge wear and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Box has one broken and two repaired corners in lid, otherwise is fine showing moderate wear with light soil. 2) Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge & grips. Overall retains about 85% of its bright, glossy, orig, factory blue on bbl and about 75% on cyl; frame retains all of its orig silver; grips are sound showing little or no wear. Box has one broken bottom edge and interior partition is loose, otherwise box is sound showing moderate wear & soil. 3) Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue; frame is a gray metal color; grips are sound showing moderate wear and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting. Box has some loose veneer on one end with chips on other end showing light storage & handling nicks; interior is lightly faded & soiled; cleaning rod is rusted; cartridges are fine. 4-45501 JR140 (3,500-5,000)
*SCARCE ENGRAVED KING ALTERED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 355127. Cal. 32-20. Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address and model & caliber markings on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt. Front sight has been replaced with a red ivory bead mirrored King front sight and top strap has been machined to accept a white outline adjustable King rear sight. Hammer spur has been altered to the King “Cockeyed” configuration with the spur widened to left side for right hand use. SN was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front and backstraps under grip. Last 2 digits of SN are on rear face of cylinder. Revolver has full coverage Wilbur Glahn foliate arabesque engraving with fine punch dot background. Ejector housing, cylinder, front and backstraps are engraved to match. Sides of front sight and ejector rod head are also engraved to match. This is certainly one of Mr. Glahn’s most elaborately engraved pieces. Mounted with Colt medallion 2-pc ivory grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Grip frame is missing grip locator pin. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter dated January 2003 advising that the factory is unable to provide the usual documentation on this revolver. Production book indicates gun was mfg 8-16-33 and sent to shipping 9-6-33. Additionally notation that this gun was factory engraved. Along with the statement indicating shipping records on SAA’s during the period 1933 to 1944 were lost or destroyed. Further details pertaining to this revolver and its shipment are not available. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all orig factory finish with only slight muzzle edge wear. Grips have several age lines, mostly on left side, and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-45242 JR7 (6,000-10,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 12389. Cal. 44. Beautiful modern engraved Colt Dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is engraved in small letters “COLT’S PATENT”. The silver plated trigger guard & backstrap contain a burl walnut 1-pc grip constructed of two slabs of burl walnut glued to a spacer block, making the 1-pc grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene roll marking and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Frame is beautifully engraved in old donut style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background on the frame and bbl lug with another, unusual, pattern on top center of the bbl. There are fine scalloped borders at the base of the rnd part of the bbl and at the muzzle. Rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. This is an exceptional recreation in orig style by a very talented engraver. SN was observed in the usual places, on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, buttstrap & cylinder. Last four digits of SN are on the rammer handle, cyl spindle & in backstrap channel of the grip. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of its custom finish with bright blue on the bbl & bbl lug with some fine flaking on right side; rammer & rammer handle retain strong case colors; frame & hammer also retain strong, subtle case colors; cyl retains about 95% blue and about 97-98% stagecoach holdup scene; the “MODEL U.S.M.R. / COLT’S PATENT” legends are thin but mostly visible; the Ormsby signature is also visible; trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their strong silver plating, slightly thinned on center of backstrap and at the heel; grip is sound showing light wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its strong varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-44905 JR483 (5,000-8,000)
BOXED PAIR OF COLT NO. 3 THUER DERRINGERS. SN 4563 & 12739. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish with 2-1/2″ bbls, tiny half moon front sights and marked “COLT” on the tops. Left sides of frames have the caliber marking. #4563 has tiny British proofs on bottom of bbl. Both are mounted with 2-pc, smooth, birdhead pearl grips with #4563 having matching numbered grips. #12739 grips are unnumbered. Accompanied by an extremely rare 2-pc, dark burgundy, cardboard box with pink top label marked “COLT’S / 41 CAL. / BREECH LOADING / DERRINGER” and a line drawing of the rampant Colt. Interior has two small wooden blocks used as rests for the pistols. Bottom of box is hand written in pen & ink “Ebony / Engraved & E. Plated / Colts / 9/78” along with two sets of letter codes. This indicates that these pistols did not originate in this box. PROVENANCE: Bill Spicer (2003); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: #4563: Very fine. Overall retains about 95-97% strong orig nickel with bright fire blue on screws and strong case colors on hammer. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered light pitting. Grips are sound with good fire. #12739: Very fine. Overall retains 94-95% bright orig nickel with strong fire blue on screws and case colors on hammer; grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with pitting. Box is fine. Box label is lightly faded. Interior is lightly soiled. 4-45358 JR120 (3,000-4,000)
SCARCE EARLY ENGRAVED ETCHED PANEL COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 53117. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked with cal. Mounted with fine 1-pc ivory grip. SN was observed in usual three places, on the frame, trigger guard and buttstrap with last 4 digits of SN on bottom of bbl under the ejector rod housing and on cyl. Bottom of bbl is stamped with tiny “44” just forward of base pin. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, in about B coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and large snake & dot patterns on top strap. Each side of bbl boss and trigger bow are engraved with hunter’s stars. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over sides of bbl with a double wavy line border around the address which terminates in geometric patterns and two different sizes of punch dots. Matching geometric patterns and dots are on each side of muzzle. Backstrap is engraved with matching geometric patterns and a small foliate spray at the top. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with fine snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying revolver as 44/40 cal, nickel finish, ivory stocks, factory engraved, shipped to B. Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, OH on May 3, 1880, with 10 guns of same type. Also, included, a copy of an article from Gun Report indicates this revolver was in a 10 gun shipment in May 1880 and that this revolver and another from the same shipment, SN 53073, both are pictured in this article. PROVENANCE: Tony Smith; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains about 95% strong orig nickel with slight losses around muzzle and cyl. Face of cyl has very fine pitting. Grip has a chip on right edge with a few age lines and overall retains a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Base pin is orig type but may be a replacement. 4-45239 JR28 (20,000-35,000)
LOT OF 4 REVOLVERS. SN 1786, 3717, 12512, 78170. 1) METROPOLITAN NAVY REVOLVER. STANDARD MODEL SN. 1786. Cal. 36. 6-Shot. Close copy of the Colt Navy with 7-1/4″ blued bbl marked “Metropolitan Arms Co New-York” on top. Case hardened frame and loading lever. Silver-plated brass frame. Battle of New Orleans engraved scene on cylinder. One piece walnut grips. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Floyd Everhart in 1981, with note “this revolver is possibly the first of the late models.” It appears that he purchased it again at the Las Vegas show in the 1990’s. 2) METROPOLITAN NAVY STANDARD MODEL. SN 3717 Cal. 36. METROPOLITAN ARMS CO. NEW-YORK. is on top of blued bbl. Cylinder with New Orleans battle engraving. Case hardened frame and loading lever. Silver-plated brass grip straps. One piece walnut grips. Mr. Howard’s notes indicate that he acquired this item from Dick Littlefield in 1987. 3) REMINGTON MODEL 1861 ARMY REVOLVER AKA “OLD MODEL ARMY”. SN. 12512. Cal. 44. 8″ Octagonal bbl with large cone shaped German silver front bead, is marked “Patented Sept. 14. 1858” and with “E. Remington & Sons Ilion, New York, U. S.” on top flat. Bbl frame and loading lever are blued. Case hardened hammer is of low spur type, as found on the New Model Army. Trigger guard is brass. Two piece walnut grips have inspector’s cartouche on left side. 4) GUNSMITH CARTRIDGE CONVERSION OF REMINGTON NEW MODEL ARMY REVOLVER. SN. 78170. Cal. 44 CF. 8″ Bbl. Blued frame, bbl, and loading lever. Walnut grips with inspectors cartouche. PROVENANCE: 3) Floyd Everhart (1983); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: NO. 1. METROPOLITAN. SN 1786. Excellent. Bbl retains 70 – 80% orig bright blue, silvered on sharp edges, at muzzle, and on left side of bbl. Cylinder retains most of its blue. Engraved scene is sharp with spiral scratches from something being jammed between cylinder and frame. Frame and loading lever retain most of their very muted case hardening color, mostly gray. Grip straps retain traces of silver-plating in protected areas. Grips are excellent, retaining most of their orig finish, with numerous light marks, and small dents. Action is crisp, but hammer is slightly short seared. NO. 2. METROPOLITAN SN. 3717. Very fine. BBl retains most of its bright blue, silvered and flaked considerably with minor marks from prying on wedge. Matching cylinder is mostly flaked to brown. Engraved scene is strong. Frame and loading lever retain most of their case hardening color, silvered on recoil shield and sharp edges, and on handle of lever from use. Grip straps retain traces of silver in protected areas. Wooden grips retain most of their orig varnish finish, rubbed through on high points, with numerous minor marks. Action is crisp. NO. 3. REMINGTON. SN. 12512. Fine. Retains considerable amount of orig blue on bbl, frame, and loading lever. Matching numbered cylinder is mostly silver gray. A considerable amount of case hardening color remains on hammer. Trigger retains most of its fire-blue. Grips are good, with some scratched in initials, grain raised around inspector’s initials, so they are hard to read. NO. 4. REMINGTON. SN 78170. Very fine as refurbished, retaining most of its re-blue from time of conversion, over numerous marks and dings. Grips have been refinished, under metal. Cartouche is faint. Action is good. Bore is rough. 4-45508 MGM88 (4,000-7,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY SECOND GENERATION REVOLVER. SN 16605SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, thick front sight w/1 line block letter address. It has two line three patent dates along with Rampant Colt on left side of frame. Mounted with smooth 2-pc silver medallion Colt ivory grips, pencil numbered to this revolver. SN was observed on bottom of frame and left sides of the front and backstrap under the grips. Last two digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Revolver engraved in about C coverage foliate arabesque pattern which extend over sides of bbl and onto ejector rod housing. Also has matching patterns at top of backstrap and on trigger bow. Accompanied by its original, matching numbered, hinged lid black cardboard box with gold and black end label. Mr. Howard, in his notes, states that this revolver is identified by SN on p. 23 of Post War Colt Single Action Army Revolvers, Wilkerson, as being engraved with its orig box. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying revolver as: .45 cal, 7-1/2″ bbl, case hardened/blue, factory engraved, ordered by the State Coach in Shakopee, MN, sent to shipping room on October 24, 1958, Colt Factory Order No. 9104, with 4 guns in this shipment. PROVENANCE: Bill Spicer; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, new and unfired. Grips are equally new. Box lid is detached, otherwise is sound, showing moderate edge wear with some repair to lid. 4-45241 JR1 (5,000-7,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COL. COLT PRESENTATION 1855 ROOT SIDEHAMMER MODEL 2 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 2462. Cal. 28. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line address with pointing hand motif. Cyl is unfluted, 5-shots with cabin/Indian fight scene. Mounted with 1-pc select burl walnut grip, matching numbered to this revolver. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with wonderful, small arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background, having nearly full coverage on the frame. Scrolls on each side of the frame terminate in Mr. Young’s distinctive mythical dog’s heads. Engraving extends onto the bbl lug and two flats on each side of the bbl. Rammer pivot, backstrap, buttstrap, bottom of frame & the entire hammer are all engraved to match. Backstrap is engraved, probably from the hand of Gustave Young, in period script “Willis Thrall Esqre / From Col Colt”. Right rear side of frame, under the hammer, has an extended slot which exposes the hammer pawl (hand) its full length. This slot allows the pawl to extend outside the frame and will bind the hammer when an attempt is made to fire. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with an empty rectangular plate in the lid and mortised brass lock in bottom front. Inside bottom of case is compartmented for the revolver, a dbl sided eagle & stars flask, a 2-cavity blued steel bullet & ball mold with “COLT’S PATENT” marked sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Willis Thrall was the Director of the Exchange Bank of Hartford, Conn. where Elisha Colt was the cashier. Mr. Thrall was also a publisher of maps, prints & engravings plus he was a manufacturer & dealer of hardware & folding rules. He was also the President of the Screw Company of Hartford, plus he apparently dealt in land & mortgage transactions. From 1836-1855 he was with Kellogg’s of Hartford, Conn. His hardware & tool manufacturing company was founded in 1833 and was still in business as of 1871. They were manufacturers of 2-fold and 4-fold rules, board measures, bench & shoemaker measures, yardsticks, gauging rods, tri-squares, sliding bevel squares, base knobs, file & chisel handles plus other tools. This revolver is pictured in color on p. 142 in The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson. The caption to the photographs states that Mr. Thrall “was a prominent Hartford businessman and hardware merchant, known to have had business connections with Samuel Colt and the Colt’s Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co.”. The nipple wrench is not included in this photograph. This revolver is also mentioned, and identified by SN, on p. 93 of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson, but not pictured. PROVENANCE: King Hussein of Jordan Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl & bbl lug retain about 90% glossy orig blue; frame retains about 85-90% strong orig blue turned plum on backstrap and dark on buttstrap; cyl is a blue/brown patina and retains about 95% cabin/Indian fight scene; inside the frame, around the hammer nose slot, is heavily pitted; grip is sound showing light edge wear, a couple of small scratches and retains most of its orig varnish; Hammer pawl, as noted, otherwise mechanics are fine; strong bore with moderate pitting; Case has a couple of cracks in the lid and another in the bottom with light handling & storage nicks & scratches along with some circular chemical spotting, otherwise retains about all of its orig varnish; interior is moderately faded with moderate to heavy soil in the bottom with damage from the front sight and one reattached partition and one loose partition; flask retains about all of its orig finish, bright & strong on one side, dull on the other; collar, tab & spout retain most of their bright orig gold wash; mold is equally new, retaining most of its orig blue; cap tin & nipple wrench are fine. 4-45191 (55,000-75,000)
ENGRAVED COLT THIRD MODEL THUER DERRINGER. SN 11747. Cal. 41 RF. Silver finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, slightly altered half moon front sight with “COLT” on top. Mounted with 2-pc smooth birdhead ivory grips. Pistol is very nicely engraved with about 75-80% coverage New York style engraving, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and feather patterns on each front side of the frame. While this little derringer was produced in fairly large quantities few were so nicely engraved and of those only a few were plated. Mr. Howard’s collection notes include a letter from renowned dealer/collector Tommy Rholes who authenticates this pistol, noting that the grips are not orig. PROVENANCE: Roger Muckerhide Collection; Butterfield Auction (2001); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its strong orig silver plating with some very minor, very fine pin prick pitting on bottom of bbl; grips are fine, probably not orig to this pistol and retain a light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-45334 JR147 (3,000-4,000)
ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY. SN 150668. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address & cal marking on left side. Left side frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in circle. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc smooth pearl grips numbered to revolver. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunburst patterns with snake and dot patterns on top strap. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up both sides of bbl with geometric patterns around the address. Top of back strap is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern with geometric patterns down back strap, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating foliate arabesque and sunburst patterns on the lands between flutes. Cyl also has a decorative engraved wavy border pattern near rear edge along with a snake and dot pattern. Screws on frame and grip frame are blued along with a blued trigger and nickel finish hammer. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter identifying this revolver in cal 45 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to J.C. Petmecky, Austin, Tx, March 22, 1893 in a 1-gun shipment. Mr. Petmecky was a gun maker and dealer in Austin whose shop was in business for over 75 years supplying all manner of arms to local Texans. It is well documented that Mr. Petmecky supplied Colt Revolvers to any number of Texas Rangers, other lawmen, outlaws and many famous figures. PROVENANCE: Don Littman; Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except cyl which is unnumbered. Overall retains 96-98% strong, bright orig nickel with only slight muzzle edge wear and losses from face of cyl. Cyl shows some light scuffing and wear in one area on the outer diameter. Bottom of bbl and adjacent ejector rod housing are lightly nicked and dinged from careless individuals using a tool to remove the base pin. Screws retain most of their orig blue, moderately faded. Grips have an age line on each side, otherwise are sound and retain great fire and color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. Altogether a beautiful Helfricht engraved revolver. 4-45285 JR16 (25,000-35,000)
LOT ABOUT 68 POCKET & STRAIGHT KNIVES, MOSTLY BUCK. Two orig Buck glass top wood display cases containing about thirty new old stock Buck pocket knives; two steel clad sharpening stones and two washita stones; one glass top wood display case containing eight miscellaneous American Hunting Club belt knives; a Buck Classic Model 111 with engraved aluminum scales with a tooled belt sheath all new in its orig box; a Buck 317, new in its orig box with sheath; a Buck 105 straight knife, new in its box with orig sheath; a Buck 119, used with sheath; a Buck 112, 1984, one of 300 “Rattlesnake” with box & stand; a Buck Akonua, new in box with sheath; two other Buck straight knives, #103, no sheath and a #123 filet knife with sheath, both new; a rare Colt Barry Wood folding knife, new in box with belt sheath; a Colt straight knife, new in box with belt sheath; an Alexander stag handle Bowie knife in black leatherette, purple velvet lined presentation case, near new; two Smith & Wesson Texas Ranger commemorative knives, new in wooden boxes with sheaths; a Smith & Wesson folding knife, new in box with belt sheath; a Winchester/D.H. Russell straight knife, new in box with belt sheath; a box containing five Winchester commemorative Model 37 tiny 2-blade pocket knives; seven more straight hunting & butcher knives, five with sheaths; a leather working knife and two Alaskan ulu knives; a Cherokee folding knife, new in box. This lot is accompanied by boxes & sheaths for most of the knives. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Nearly all new in boxes and/or sheaths. 4-45536 JR224 (2,500-3,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92877SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips matching numbered to this revolver on the inside. SN was observed on bottom of frame and left side of the trigger guard & backstrap under the grip. Left side of trigger guard, under the grip, is also marked “COLT ENG”. Revolver is engraved with “A” coverage light foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Accompanied by its orig hinged lid brown leatherette covered, orange velvet lined, custom shop case and the orig end label from its orig box along with a booklet & Colt form letter. PROVENANCE: Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: New, unfired and unturned. Case shows a couple of nicks on lid, otherwise is equally new. 4-45261 JR54 (3,000-5,000)
RARE CASED PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 14538 & 14543. Cal. 36. Silver & gold finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left sides of frames are marked “COLTS PATENT” and the left rear webs of trigger guards are marked “36 CAL”. They have brass trigger guards & back straps that contain spectacular 1-pc ivory grips with raised carved standing Lady Liberty on left sides. Cyls have usual Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Revolvers are engraved, although not identically, by master engraver Gustave Young in his wonderful deluxe style consisting of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frames with several scrolls that terminate in flower blossoms. Hammers are also full coverage engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer noses. Engraving extends about half way up both sides of bbls with several scrolls that terminate in flower blossoms and one scroll on #14538 that incorporates a fish. Tops of back straps are engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern and foliate arabesque patterns on back straps, butt straps & trigger guards. Hammer and cyl notches on #14543 retain traces of orig gold wash. SNs on bbl lugs, frames, trigger guards & back straps are all accompanied by a small “E” signifying that these revolvers were destined to be engraved and were to receive special polishing. Accompanied by an English style dbl oak casing with empty scallop edge plate in lid. Interior is green baize lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolvers, a dbl sided Colt style Navy sized angle spout flask, a 31 caliber “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an unmarked pewter oil bottle, a packet of reproduction combustible cartridges, two wonderful tins of Joyce caps, an ebony handled metal wiping rod in its compartment in the back edge. There are two covered corner compartments. Also included is an orig Kriegsmarine brass capping tool marked with a “KM” on the back. Inside lid has an orig directions label. Engraved ’61 Navys are quite rare and to find a cased pair is most rare and an extraordinary find. CONDITION: Both revolvers are all matching. #14538 is fine. Bbl retains 30-35% bright silver with balance gray metal patina. Frame & hammer retain traces of silver in sheltered areas with the balance gray metal patina. Grip frame retains traces of orig silver being mostly a bright yellow mustard patina. Grip has four professionally installed pin repairs and numerous fine age lines, showing heavy wear and retains a fine ivory patina. Cyl is a gray metal patina and retains 35-40% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. #14543 is fine to very fine. Bbl retains 75-80% strong silver with the balance flaked to bare metal. Frame retains 60-65% strong silver with the balance flaked to bare metal. Hammer retains about 50% silver with about 20% gold wash. Cyl retains 10-15% silver with traces of gold wash in stop notches and around rear face and shows 30-40% Ormsby Naval battle scene with four serviceable safety pins. Grip frame retains strong silver around trigger guard with the balance a light mustard patina. Grip has several light age lines, showing heavy wear, with a wonderful light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with some light, fine scattered pitting. Case has one crack in bottom with slightly shrunken top panel, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage marks and retains most of a very old added finish. Interior is heavily faded and moderately soiled with two loose partitions and a couple of others that have been repaired, with light damage from front sights & hammer spurs. Flask is fine with a couple of minor dents and retains 30-40% orig finish. Cap tins are crisp & bright. Mold is cleaned to bright metal, other accessories are fine. 4-45211 (30,000-50,000)
RARE ENGRAVED EARLY PRODUCTION COLT OPEN TOP POCKET MODEL REVOLVER. SN 247. Cal. 22 Short. Nickel finish with 2-7/8″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight and 1-line address with ejector housing on right side. It has high spur hammer with the extremely rare feature of a tapered rnd firing pin which strikes through a rnd hole in frame vs. the slot type firing pin found on the majority of production. Mounted with smooth 2-pc birdhead ivory grips. Revolver is nicely engraved with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with geometric patterns down backstrap. Engraving extends over sides of bbl with an arrow pointing from front sight toward the cyl. Cyl is engraved to match. Although this model was produced in fairly large numbers this particular variation is extremely rare and seldom encountered. PROVENANCE: Harrison Carroll (2003); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl & cyl retain virtually all of their strong orig nickel finish; frame retains 88-90% nickel finish with the loss areas flaked, not worn, showing a medium mustard patina; grips are sound with wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a couple of scattered spots of light pitting. 4-45335 JR146 (3,000-5,000)
SCARCE EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92049. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and etched panel on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “44 CF”. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips which have raised carved intertwined initials which appear to be “TCE” or a combination of those three initials. Revolver is engraved by renowned master engraver L.D. Nimschke in about D coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame which extends over both sides of bbl and each side of muzzle. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns. The base pin boss and ejector boss are engraved with hunter’s stars. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a geometric pattern at front and back ends. Top of backstrap is engraved in a beautiful shell pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top and near heel with hunter’s star on the trigger bow. Cyl is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with foliate sprays at the rear edge behind each flute and also has a double border. This is a fine early Nimschke engraved single action. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt Factory Letter which identifies this revolver in cal 44-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, finish “soft”, type of stock not listed, shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on May 9, 1883 in a 5-gun shipment. Under remarks they report “the word “soft” which appears with the finish indicates subject revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory”. PROVENANCE: Bill Spicer (2005); Robert Howard Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 80-85% strong orig nickel, showing cleaned metal on left side of bbl with the etched panel mostly legible. Left side of frame and recoil shield are also cleaned metal with some thinning on front strap. Cyl shows cleaned metal in two of the flutes and overall retains about 70% orig nickel on the outer diameter. Left grip has a repaired chip in its toe, otherwise grips are sound with great fire and color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-45280 JR24 (15,000-25,000)
EXTRAORDINARY, ONE OF A KIND, RELIEF ENGRAVED, GOLD & NICKEL WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE. SN 96741. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Spectacular rifle, gold & nickel finish with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full magazine, gold washed Beech’s combination front sight and a reproduction Henry 900 yard ladder rear sight. Mounted with spectacular center crotch, flame grain, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and gold plated brass crescent buttplate with trap containing an orig 4-pc brass & steel cleaning rod. Left side of lower tang, under the wood, is stamped “XXX” and a “V”. SN is in an engraved rectangle on the outer face of lower tang, inside the top tang channel of the buttstock and inside toe of buttplate. Receiver & forend cap have full coverage engraving, probably by John Ulrich which consists of ten large & small game scene vignettes all in semi-relief. The left sideplate is engraved with the large oval vignette of a standing hunter in a forest scene shooting two bull elk. To the rear of this large vignette are smaller vignettes of a standing bird dog, a partridge and below the large vignette is a tiny panel of a bear’s head. Forward of the large vignette is a small squirrel holding a nut and in the left front side panel is the rnd vignette of two feeding doe deer. Right sideplate is engraved with the large vignette of a standing bull elk, a reclining hind and a feeding fawn. To the rear are two smaller vignettes of a cougar and flying duck. In the right front side panel is the large rnd vignette of Diana the Huntress and her leaping hound. The remainder of the receiver has full coverage, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine punch dot background. The various scenes & panels are divided with counterpoint bright borders and decorative engraved borders. Forend cap has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with a fine scalloped border around rear edge. Forend cap has a factory sling swivel with corresponding swivel in buttstock. The buttplate tang is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns surrounding a bright round counterpoint panel with decorative borders around the front edge. The bbl, magazine tube, lever, hammer & loading gate are nickel plated. Close examination of the receiver and tangs of this rifle disclosed no engraver’s signature. This rifle was discovered several years ago by well-known dealer/collector, LeRoy Merz in Spain. He personally traveled to Spain and purchased it from the great-great grandson of the former King of Spain. The family history of this rifle was that it was presented personally to the king by Oliver Winchester. Mr. Merz also purchased two other firearms from this direct descendant of the King of Spain, one being a Winchester Model 1873, SN 13, which was sold through the Julia Auction Company recently and a Colt Lightning Magazine rifle. It is almost without question that this rifle was created for a special presentation and given the elaborate and extensive engraving coverage, it certainly is of the quality one would expect for a royalty presentation. PROVENANCE: LeRoy Merz; Wes Adams Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Bbl retains 94-95% orig nickel with some flaked losses and fine freckling; magazine tube retains 96-97% restored nickel finish; receiver retains most of its bright orig gold wash with some light wear on right rear and right front sides of receiver; forend cap & buttplate retain virtually all of their orig factory gold wash; lever & hammer retain most of their orig nickel finish with a few small spots of flaking; wood is sound with numerous small nicks & scratches in the varnish and overall retains virtually all of its orig factory piano varnish finish; toe screw of buttplate is rusted which has stained the buttplate, but may clean; buttstock swivel is also lightly rusted; cleaning rod appears to be new & unused. 4-44554 JR299 (200,000-300,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 156357. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2” oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a ribbon. It has usual 6-shot cyl with Ormsby Naval Battle Scene roll marking and British proofs. All six safety pins are prominent & serviceable. Left side of bbl lug also has British proofs. Left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. The blued steel large guard trigger guard & back strap contain a fine burl walnut 1-pc grip whose back strap channel is mostly obscured by dark oil stains leaving only partially visible numbers. Frame, hammer, bbl lug, rammer handle, back strap & trigger guard are very nicely engraved in light English style consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with about 35-40% coverage. Bottom of rammer handle has full length engraving and there is a band of engraving around muzzle. SN was observed in the usual places, on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap. All SNs on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “L” indicating this revolver was for the English market. Rammer handle & cyl have the last four digits of SN as does the cyl arbor & wedge. Accompanied by a fine English mahogany casing with an empty scalloped edge rectangular brass plate in the lid. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet with a “DIRECTIONS FOR LOADING COLT’S PISTOLS” label inside the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a Dixon bag flask, a blued steel 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, not marked “Colt’s Patent” but probably of English make on Colt’s Patent, an all steel cleaning rod, a tin of caps and a Dixon pewter oil bottle. The covered compartment in right rear contains lead bullets & balls and felt wads. There is also an L-shaped nipple wrench. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including cyl, wedge & grip. Bbl retains 88-90% orig blue, strong & bright in sheltered areas, slightly thinned elsewhere. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig factory case colors, bright in sheltered areas, fading elsewhere. Cyl retains 60-70% thin orig blue & about 97-98% Ormsby Naval Battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong blue in sheltered areas with front & back straps thinning blue. Grip is sound with sharp edges and a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, dark in grooves with pitting. Case is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with some light soil, moderately faded on compartment cover in bottom. Flask retains a dark mustard patina with a few light dings. Mold retains about 80% strong orig blue with crisp cavities. Other accessories are fine. 4-38851 JPC (20,000-30,000)
VERY EARLY COLT MODEL 1878 HAMMER GUN “FANCY” GRADE WITH CASE. SN 210. Cal. 12 ga. 2-3/4″ Chambers. 31″ Very unusual pattern laminated/ Damascus bbls have broad concave rib engraved “Colt’s PT. F. A. Mfg. Co. Hartford Ct. U. S. A.” Rear lump is stamped with SN and “k”. Bottoms of bbls are stamped “4 D”. Typical Colt top lever action with rebounding locks and nicely filed high spur hammers, is engraved with well cut scroll with floral and shell highlights surrounding vignettes of game birds and animals. Fox and flushing grouse (?) are on left lockplate; pointing dog and turkey (?) on right; rabbit nestled into meadow on trigger plate and a crane on trigger guard bow. Bottom of each lockplate is engraved “Colt’s PT. F. A. Mfg. Co.” on raised scrolled tablet. Dark, lightly marbled and slightly figured European walnut semi-pistol grip buttstock measures 14-3/8″ over engraved steel buttplate. 18 LPI checkering has scalloped pattern at grip and point pattern toward action. Matching splinter forend has ebony tip and typical Colt latch release. Bore diameter: left -.735, right -.738. Bore restrictions: left -.021, right -.013. Wall thickness: left -.026, right -.028. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 2″. Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz. LOP 14-3/8″. Leather trunk case has brass corners and central brass medallion on lid. Interior is lined with green cloth and contains 3-pc BGI cleaning rod, Hawksley crystal oil bottle, and some BGI loading implements. PROVENANCE: Colt factory letter confirming all specifications of this gun, being shipped on Jan. 9, 1880, with $15.00 worth of factory engraving, and fancy grade. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain nearly all of a professional re-brown over light pitting and staining, but giving excellent definition to the very fine and unusual patterning. Action retains a considerable amount of orig case hardening color, silvered on fences, and around bottom, with areas of cleaned oxidation, some of it fairly heavy. Lockplates retain 70% of their orig case hardening color, which is quite vivid. Trigger plate and top lever retain most of their orig charcoal blue. Trigger guard retains a considerable amount of its blue, but is mostly silver with some brown stains. Stocks retain most of their orig oil finish with numerous marks and rubs from handling and use over the years. Checkering is slightly worn. Bores are good, mostly shiny, with scattered light pitting throughout. Action is loose. Locks are crisp. Rear trigger is repaired blade. Case leather is still brown, with many marks, rubs, and abrasions. Handle is intact, but tired. Straps are missing. Interior cloth is good with numerous stains, and some rubs. Partitions are loosening, but intact. Accessories are good. 4-42452 MGM180 (10,000-15,000)
RARE PROBABLY ONE OF A KIND BERDAN SPORTING RIFLE. SN 1. Cal. 42 Berdan. This rifle was built by Colt in the period circa 1868 when every manufacturer was scrambling to produce a sporting rifle for the “Manifest Destiny” westward expansion. Undoubtedly it was built by Colt’s master gun makers under the direct supervision of Hiram Berdan, perhaps even by Mr. Berdan himself. This fine rifle utilizes the Type 3 breechblock and has a 26-1/2” medium weight, rnd bbl, globe front sight, no provision for rear sight and an unusual tang sight mortised into top of wrist. It has a 2-1/2” long thick staff with a Sharps type eye cup that is dovetailed onto the beveled staff with a delicate windage knob & bar built in. The slide is secured only by the friction of the dovetail. Mounted in a highly figured, uncheckered, flame grain, American walnut half stock with straight grip, secured with a single wedge through the forearm and a screw through the top tang. It has a pewter nosecap with triangle shape that has a ball at the apex. Wedge is through two German silver escutcheons and it has a fancy, German silver, serpentine triggerguard/finger rest. It also has an unusual single set trigger. Buttplate is of nickeled brass, crescent in shape with a thick toe and stepped tang. This is a Model 1874 Sharps type S-20 (Target) buttplate, possibly procured by Hiram Berdan from Sharps, as he had close ties with that company as well as Colt. The back action lock is mortised into wrist with a wood screw at back end and is attached to receiver at the front end with a short machine screw. It is case colored and very nicely engraved as is the hammer with a dolphin style engraved nose. This exact rifle is fully illustrated in three photographs and discussed in some detail on p. 183 of Hiram Berdan Civil War Chief of Sharpshooters Military Commander and Firearms Inventor, Marcot. It is well known that Berdan was employed at Colt as a firearms designer in the period immediately following the Civil War. This rifle may have been Mr. Berdan’s personal possession, although at this time no documentation is available. The serial number is in pencil on the inside of various parts and there is a small “1” stamped on the small breechblock parts. CONDITION: Fine. The bbl retains thin orig brown finish in very sheltered areas, very strong brown under forearm & breechblock with balance a cleaned gray/brown patina. Stock is sound with minor handling & storage marks and retains about all of an old restored finish. Lockplate & hammer have dark case colors, very bright on inside . Breechblock retains most of its orig case colors, fading to patina over the top, stronger & brighter on inside. Breechblock base retains 75-80% orig blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. A truly rare & one of kind rifle. 8-87280 JJ1 (9,000-14,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT 3-1/2″ CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 17627. Cal. 38 RF. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc and pillow shape. Left rear web of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. The nickel plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Conversion of this revolver was accomplished by machining down the rear face of the 5-shot pocket Navy rebated cyl exposing the chambers, adding a spacer recoil plate with loading groove in the frame and adding a firing pin to left side of hammer nose secured by two rivets. SN was noted on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap with last four digits of SN on cyl & wedge. SNs on those four locations are all accompanied by a small “E” indicating this revolver was to be factory engraved. Revolver is engraved in late vine-style, probably by Gustave Young with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with scrolls terminating in flower blossoms on frame & bbl lug. Hammer is engraved in Mr. Young’s typical style with foliate arabesque patterns on sides, wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose with fish scales on sides of spur and top edge of hammer with a hand checkered spur. The conversion ring & cyl are not engraved although cyl has the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains about 98% strong orig nickel finish with a couple of small pinprick plates on bbl and a couple of small spots of discoloration on conversion ring. Cyl retains about all of its nickel finish and about 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Hammer retains strong bright case colors with some light wear on left side. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with light nicks & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered moderate pitting. 4-36675 JR27 (6,000-9,000)
MATCHED PAIR OF PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT NAVY REVOLVERS TO COL. OF THE 5TH OHIO CALVARY. SN 100896/93332. Cal. 36. Both guns bear an inscription “Col. WHH Taylor/From his Cincinnati Friends, 1861”. Though SN’s are about 7000 apart, the inscriptions on backstraps are both in the same hand and both guns appear to be factory engraved, and the two guns date late 1860 or very early 1861 both with Hartford addresses on bbls. The earlier gun SN93332 appears typical of Gustave Young’s shop. The second gun is engraved very similar in style and coverage though obviously done at a different time because motifs and hands are different as can be seen in pictures, but the year difference in manufacturing may account for this. The lower SN gun retains traces of original bright blue finish whereas the later gun shows more use and only tiny traces of finish in protected areas, though engraving is still crisp but only 80% cylinder scene is easily discernible. Ivory stocks appear original and fit both guns well. These guns have a very interesting history and are being offered by direct family descent of Col. Taylor. In a March, 1956 Gun Report article, SN100896 is pictured on pg. 21. The author quotes in this article “Col Taylor, my great-grandfather, was born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1813, and was the grandson of Benjamin Harrison, “the signer”. Col. Taylor commanded the 5th Ohio Cavalry regiment during the Civil War. When the regiment left Ohio, some of Col. Taylor’s friends presented him with a pair of Colt Navy revolvers and a set of saddle holsters. The fortunes of war carried Col. Taylor to Louisiana, and during this period the revolvers were stolen from him. After the war Col. Taylor returned North where he recounted his experiences to members of the family, including my father. Col. Taylor later moved from Cleves, Ohio, to Minnesota, where he was state librarian for seventeen years. He died in February, 1894, at St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1895 my father received a letter from a woman then living in the Arizona Territory, asking him if he were related to the late Col. Taylor. Apparently this woman had read of Col. Taylor’s death or had become aware of it in some manner. Father replied that he was Col. Taylor’s grandson. After an exchange of correspondence the woman sent to my father the revolver illustrated. All efforts to learn the circumstances under which the woman had required the revolver, or if she had its mate, were fruitless.” Both guns appear complete with all matching SN’s with exception of wedge on the lower numbered gun, which is unnumbered. The ivory stocks on these guns are very well fit and only one was removed and it has an ink matching SN internally under backstrap. The Fifth Ohio Cavalry was a hard-fought unit being recruited originally around Cincinnati, OH. Col. Taylor, a farmer and former postmaster of Cincinnati, his only military qualification being his kinship to Gen. William Henry Harrison, the hero of Tippecanoe, and later President of the United States. Early action of the 5th Cavalry was at Corinth, Mississippi and western Tennessee. The regiment engaged Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, December 18, 1862 and like other units, sent out to intercept him, were easily repelled with many casualties. Col. Taylor resigned his commission August 11, 1863 and returned home. Also included in this grouping are numerous family objects concerning lineage of President William Henry Harrison and President Benjamin Harrison. This is a wonderful set of original ivory stocked, factory engraved, Colt Navy revolvers in fine, “as found” condition. CONDITION: SN93332 is fine overall. Metal is brown with areas of original blue finish, especially in protected areas. Engraving is crisp as are markings. Cylinder scene is complete and discernible. Safety pins are worn but still discernible. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 80% of silver finish. Stocks are complete with a couple age cracks expected on old ivory. SN100896 is very good overall. Overall brown with traces of blue finish in protected areas. Engraving overall is all discernible. There is a broken ear that is missing on the left side of loading arm below screw as can be seen in photos. Silver plating on backstrap and trigger guard is only present in small areas in protected areas. Ivory stocks are sound and solid exhibiting one 1/2″ cut to right stock and age cracking as is typical to old ivory. Both guns are mechanically fine and function well. 4-42403 JS17 (12,500-25,000)
VERY RARE L.D. NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 121828. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with right side having an extremely fine, very detailed relief carved ox head probably carved by Mr. Nimschke himself. Revolver is engraved, again probably by Mr. Nimschke himself with about 60-65% coverage extremely well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with very finely shaded & punch dot background. The recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in sunburst patterns with spider web pattern centers. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with large sunburst circles. Top strap is engraved with a snake & dot pattern with very unusual large dots with smaller dots stamped in center. Matching dbl dot patterns are also found on the left & right recoil shields. The left side of the base pin boss and right side of the ejector rod housing boss are engraved in sunburst patterns with zig zag & dot patterns in bottom gullets. The foliate arabesque pattern engraving extends about 4″ up both sides of bbl with fine incised lines at the bbl root and snake & dot patterns surrounding the bbl address which terminate in Moorish zig zag pattern near front sight. Ejector rod housing is also engraved with zig zag Moorish & dot patterns in top gullet and outer radius is engraved in a snake pattern with very unusual tiny stamped 5-point stars. The back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are all engraved with zig zag Moorish patterns & dots. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns having fine punch dot background on lands between flutes and a chip & dot pattern near rear edge also with a fine incised border line. This beautiful revolver also has the rather unusual feature of a color case hardened hammer. All screws, trigger & base pin are fire blued. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, finish “SOFT”, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on April 15, 1887 in a 4-gun shipment. Under remarks section it is reported “The word “soft” which appears with the finish indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened and these parts were left in a soft condition for outside engraving.” Also accompanied by a letter from renowned firearms authority, author & collector, John Malloy, wherein he verifies most of the above information and states, “In my opinion, one of the finest engraved black powder Colt Single Action Army revolvers I have seen.” Additionally accompanied by a 5-page letter from noted Colt authority, historian & author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he also verifies, in great detail, most of the above information and states that this revolver will be featured in an upcoming book on engraved Colt firearms that he is to publish. This revolver certainly qualifies as one of the finest & most rare engraved Colt Single Actions to come to market in recent years. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except cyl & grips which are unnumbered. Although they are unnumbered it is readily apparent that the cyl is orig to this revolver and grips are rare authentic Nimschke engraved and one of his finest examples. Overall retains virtually all of its strong orig nickel finish with some slight dulling on ejector rod housing, undoubtedly from simply laying on its right side. The screws, trigger & base pin retain virtually all of their bright fire blue and the hammer strong, bright case colors on sides & rear edge with top edge turned dark. Grips have a chipped right toe, otherwise are sound and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered tiny spots of pitting. Revolver may have been fired, but if so, very little. Certainly one of the finest examples extant. 4-42390 JR11 (125,000-175,000)
BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 4248. Cal. 38 CF. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and hand-engraved 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has crisp 2-line patent dates and “36 CAL” on left shoulder of trigger guard. Mounted with a crisp new 1-pc walnut grip. SNs were observed in the correct positions and have been reapplied. Revolver, overall bears a wonderful & complete professional restoration on the order of Doug Turnbull or Tommy Haas at his best. Blue is smooth & crisp and correct and case colors are vivid & bright. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “283”. Grip was not checked. Overall retains all of its strong crisp restored finish. Grip is sound and retains a fine hand rubbed finish. Cylinder has also been re-rolled with the Ormsby Naval battle scene of which all remains. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. 4-42698 JR46 (3,000-5,000)
RARE & INSCRIBED MODEL 1851 COLT NAVY, ADAMS & CO., SACRAMENTO. SN 18823. Cal. 36. This gold rush era Colt navy revolver with early small guard and inscription on backstrap “ADAMS & CO., SACRAMENTO”. This early model Navy exhibits 7-1/2″ oct bbl marked on top bbl flat correctly “ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY”. “COLTS PATENT” is found on left side frame. Cylinder is marked “Engraved by W.L. Ormsby New York”, with full discernible cylinder scene. This is a fine condition gun retaining crisp edges and traces of finish. SN’s are matching and found on every component normally numbered. This gun is mechanically fine and possibly unique for provenance and condition. The spark that ignited the gold rush occurred in May 1848 when Sam Brannan, a storekeeper in Sutter’s Creek, brandished a bottle filled with gold dust around San Francisco shouting ‘Gold! Gold! Gold from American River!’ The residents of the city now had proof of the discovery and the stampede to the gold fields was on.Adams & Company Express was established in San Francisco in Sep, 1849 as an extension of the east coast Adams Express Co.. Adams & Co operated primarily as a forwarder, banker, and gold dust buyer serving Sacramento and the upstream gold camps. Expansion of locations and functions began with the acquisition of Freeman & Company’s Express in Nov, 1851 and Newell’s Express in late 1851 or early 1852. This gun dates near its heyday in 1852. PROVENANCE: Previously in the renowned CA Gold Rush collection of Hugh Hayes. CONDITION: Overall gun is very good. Gun retains blue finish in protected areas. Ormsby engraved cylinder retains all its scene of naval battle. Stocks retain most of their original varnished finish with scuffing at edges, numerous small dings and dents, especially in butt of stocks and buttstrap. 4-42261 JS14 (25,000-30,000)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 117011. Cal. 45 Colt. Rare fluted frame Sheriff’s Model with 4″ (actually 3-7/8″) bbl with slightly thinned front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and the left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL”. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfrecht in foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Frame has nearly full coverage with a zig zag border around rear edges and recoil shields. Left recoil shield and loading gate are engraved in Mr. Helfrecht’s sunburst pattern and the front gullets are engraved in snake patterns with very unusual tiny Maltese cross stampings. Each side also has a small half sunburst. Bbl is engraved on both sides with matching foliate arabesque patterns and there is a dbl line geometric pattern around the address. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with a snake & large dot pattern at rear edge. Revolver is mounted with a beautiful custom 1-pc pearl grip made in the orig style with two slabs of fine pearl attached to a wood spacer. Back strap channel has the number “6212” on the wood spacer. Accompanied by three different dated factory letters to three different parties with all three letters furnishing exactly the same information, identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on Jan. 12, 1886 in a 1-gun shipment. The earliest dated letter (1974) is to a gentleman whose address was Tallulah, Louisiana. If, in fact, Louisiana is where this fine single action was discovered it would explain the lack of orig finish. Also accompanied by a 3-page letter from renowned Colt authority, author & collector, Ron Graham, who completely authenticates this revolver as an original factory Sheriff’s Model with fluted frame. Mr. Graham states that research of the factory records has disclosed that there are only nine known factory engraved blue finished Sheriff’s Models, seven of which had 4″ bbls. He also states that it is not unusual to find a Colt Single Action whose bbl does not measure to the exact inch or half inch. He refers to this revolver as “The Four Aces” Sheriff’s Model. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were probably fewer than 1,000 Sheriff’s/Storekeeper Model ejectorless single action revolvers produced in the pre-WWII period. Of those very few pieces he estimates that approx. 350 or about 35% were of the fluted frame variety as found here. Page 370 of this publication states that about 40 of the production of Sheriff’s Models were factory engraved and as of the writing of the book only 18 were known and lists this revolver by serial number. CONDITION: Good. No orig finish remains being an overall dark attic patina with fine surface pitting and some nicks & dings to the bottom of the bbl. Grip is sound with good edges and lots of fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-40351 JR3 (25,000-35,000)
VERY FINE AND RARE COLLIER FLINTLOCK REVOLVING PISTOL. SN 33. Cal. .470 Bore diameter. This extremely well made and complex pistol, said to have inspired Samuel Colt in the design of his revolvers, was designed and patented by Elisha Haydon Collier of Boston, MA in 1818. Pistols are said to have been produced in London by John Evans and Son. This particular pistol (patent use no. 33) has 6-1/4″ octagon twist bbl with under-rib and full length concave top rib, breech end of which has deep U-notch rear sight and stand-of-arms engraving. Remainder of rib is engraved “E. H. Collier 33 London”. Five shot revolving deeply fluted cylinder must be pulled back and rotated to fire the next shot with the cock in back position. Frizzen with original internal powder magazine is set in place priming the pan which is filed integral with shield at rear of cylinder. This magazine is operated by a long rod which rotates a drum which metes out each subsequent priming charge. Powder is loaded into top through opening under swivel cover. Frizzen is fitted with friction roller and is affixed to side of top strap, and is bridled. Rounded front portion of frizzen/ magazine is engraved “E.H.Collier 33 Patent”. Back action lockplate and reinforced cock with squared top jaw, have feather border engraving. Lockplate is engraved with flowing scroll and stand-of-arms and is also marked “E H Collier 33 Patent”. Trigger plate/ frame and trigger guard are blued. Stand-of-arms is engraved on trigger guard bow. Figured European walnut stock is checkered around grip with flared butt. Vacant silver crest plate is at top of grip. Brass tipped horn ramrod is held by plain pipe and socket tailpipe which is front of cylinder pivot pin. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl and cylinder retain most of what appears to be their orig brown finish, somewhat faded. Magazine/ frizzen retains traces of its orig case hardening color, as do lockplate and cock. Frizzen spring and magazine actuating arm retain most of their heat blue. Frame and trigger guard retain most of their orig charcoal blue which has silvered at high edges, and has slightly flaked. Removable cylinder cover is missing. Ramrod is possible replacement. Rear tip has been wrapped with copper. Stock does not appear to have been sanded, but is finished in a high gloss varnish. There is a large brown epoxy repair on left side. (In another known example -SN 64- there is an inlaid silver star in this area.) As there is no reason to expect any damage to this particular piece, this “repair” may have been done to fill in where there once was a decorative inlay. Bore and chambers are excellent and shiny. Lock and frizzen are crisp. It’s possible this pistol has never been fired. The overall condition of this pistol certainly warrants that the shiny stock finish be removed and a correct repair be done on left side, which would certainly enhance the appearance of this very fine and historically important firearm. 4-42240 MGM64 (20,000-35,000)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 24534. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap are mounted with a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. It has usual 6-shot cyl with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and all six safety pins serviceable. SN was observed on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last four digits of SN on cyl arbor and last three digits of SN on wedge & cyl. The frame, bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are wonderfully engraved by Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke in foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background, having full coverage on frame and recoil shields with engraving extending up both sides of bbl, with a pattern on top of bbl and around muzzle. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s deep relief spider web pattern that has a checkered triangle center and has foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Back strap & butt strap are outlined in chip & dash patterns. Hammer has received Mr. Nimschke’s deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of shank, wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose and fish scale patterns on sides of spur and top edge. Cylinder is engraved with chip & dot patterns around both edges of the roll marking. Unfortunately at some time in the recent past the steel parts of this revolver were stripped of all finish leaving clean bright bare metal & crisp engraving making this a candidate for professional restoration. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. The finish as noted above. Cylinder retains about 95-97% Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking. Grip is sound with a couple of age lines on bottom edges and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-36670 JR35 (9,000-12,000)
Additional Information: A knowledgeable dealer in Colt firearms has indicated that he believes this period black leather covered double casing is Factory supplied. While Julia’s cannot substantiate this at present, we wanted to share this information with prospective buyers.
Correction: First paragraph, line six, should read “Inlaid in BLOCK lettering, not Black lettering.
*EXTREMELY RARE CASED SET OF GOLD INSCRIBED COLT BISLEY DELUXE SINGLE ACTION REVOLVERS. SN 278384 & 280121. Cal. 44 Russian. Extraordinary set of Bisleys with one revolver a flat top target and the other a standard revolver, both with 7-1/2″ bbls, 1-line block letter addresses and the left side marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 44 RUSSIAN CTG.”. Left sides of frames have 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Both are fitted with deluxe 2-pc diamond and fleur-de-lis carved & checkered walnut grips that are pencil numbered on the inside to their respective revolvers. Both revolvers are factory browned with “NELSON R. JESUP” inlaid in block lettering in gold in the back straps. Both have blued screws and triggers with color case hardened hammers and blued base pins. Back straps are satin rust blued. The flat top target model has a tall German silver target front sight with flat top strap that has a blued, fixed target sight near the rear end. Standard model has a full front sight with grooved top strap. SNs were observed in the usual places on the bottoms of the frames, trigger guards & butt straps with the last three digits of the SNs on rear faces of their respective cylinders. Both have a tiny “44” stamped on bottom of bbls under the base pins. The bbl of the standard model, under ejector rod housing has a partial marking “ELE)L)”. The target model has a partial marking that appears to be a “G.”. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, and The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, there were a total of 45,326 Bisley revolvers produced in the period 1894-1915 and of that total only 976 were Target Models. Of that small number only about 91 were produced in caliber 44 Russian and of those only 62 were Target Models. Both revolvers are each accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying them individually in caliber 44 Russian with 7-1/2″ bbl, brown finish and checkered walnut stocks, factory engraved “FRANK M.M. STANTON” inlaid in gold on the strap, shipped to John Thomson, New York, NY on July 23, 1906 in a 2-gun shipment. The discrepancy between the name listed in the factory record and what is actually inlaid on the back strap is almost certainly result of clerical error when recording in the shipping record. It appears that the most likely scenario is that the revolvers were finished brown as indicated in the record and the back straps were sent out in the white to the engraver for the gold inlay and the engraver, not knowing that the guns were browned, simply blued them before returning them or possibly returned them to the factory still in the white where they were blued. Regardless, this pair of revolvers are, as of this writing, the only known set of browned Bisleys extant. Also accompanied by hand written letters from renowned Colt historian, author & collector, Ron Graham, a 6-page letter on SN 278384 and a 5-page letter on SN 280121. In both letters Mr. Graham states, unequivocally, that both revolvers are absolutely factory orig in all respects. He states that “Present day research indicates that Frank McMillan Stanton had placed an order for two revolvers – a Bisley Target Model and a Standard Model that were to have browned finishes, checkered walnut stocks, light triggers, gold inlaid Nelson R. Jesup back straps and maybe a leather double casing; there is no known factory record of single actions shipped from Colt’s in a leather case.”. Mr. Graham states that both revolvers have all the correct and proper Colt markings and proofs of 1906 revolvers and that the back straps are not replacements and have not been filed, re-polished or re-finished. Mr. Graham explains that the partial marking on the bottom of the bbl of the Standard Model is the tail end of the roll die marking of “Bisley Model”, partially stamped twice. He assumes that “A Colt’s gunsmith was testing the die—before properly stamping this special order Bisley Model barrel.”. He explains the partial marking on the bottom of the Target Model as the letter “G” in the roll die of “Russian Ctg.” and that “Colt’s gunsmith was adjusting the die in preparation for stamping the barrels’ caliber marking.”. He further states “In fifty plus years, this writer has only seen a similar situation stamped on one other gun; the standard Bisley of this ‘Special order’ assembly. Additionally accompanied by a period black leather covered double casing with purple velvet & satin lining, recessed in the bottom for the individual revolvers, a tiny wood handle turn screw and a bore brush with twisted wire handle. Center of compartment has three brass studs and a small rotating lever where something was apparently secured, which is now missing. Front of case has an external brass lock with carrying handle. Whether this case is factory original or is a distributor supplied case is up for speculation. Regardless it most assuredly is period to these revolvers and has been with them their entire existence. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, both revolvers are all matching including cyls & grips. Both revolvers retain about 98-99% strong orig brown finish on bbls, ejector housings, frames, cyls & trigger guards. Back straps retain virtually all of their fine factory blue finish. Hammers retain bright case colors on sides & rear edges, faded in top edges. Grips are crisp showing only very light diamond point wear and retain most of their strong orig varnish. Triggers & screws retain about all of their orig fire blue. Hammer of the Standard Model is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine on the revolver with brilliant shiny bores. Case shows heavy wear with major losses of black finish and some losses of leather covering. Interior is lightly faded and soiled with wear and impressed outlines from the revolvers. 4-42704 JR60 (150,000-300,000)
EXCEEDINGLY RARE SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION CASED 3-GUN SET, ONE OF ONLY TWO OR THREE KNOWN. 1) Cal. 36. SN 41936. Model 1851 Navy 3rd Model Percussion Revolver. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and New York City address. Left side of frame is hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc in a pillow shaped panel. It has usual 6-shot cyl with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and all 6 safety pins mostly serviceable. The silver plated small guard trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. SN was observed in the usual places, on rammer handle, cyl, bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap. Last four digits of SN are found on wedge & cyl arbor. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe presentation coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns, very nicely shaded with extra fine punch dot background. Frame has full coverage with a scroll on left recoil shield terminating in a flower blossom. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with one scroll on left side terminating in Mr. Young’s distinctive dog’s head pattern and another on right side terminating in a flower blossom. Hammer has also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on shank & wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Sides of hammer spur & top edge are engraved with fish scale patterns and the spur has a hand cut checkered panel. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, at the butt strap & trigger guard. Center of back strap is engraved in period script “To Hugh Rose / From Saml Colt”. All screwheads and ends of wedge are also engraved. 2) Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver. Cal. 31. SN 62131. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved address “Saml Colt”. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc in a pillow shape. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene and 4 of the 5 safety pins serviceable. The small guard silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a nicely figured varnished 1-pc walnut grip with the SN in back strap channel. SN was additionally observed on cyl, bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & back strap. Last four digits of SN are found on rammer handle and last three digits of SN are on cyl arbor. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. One scroll on left recoil shield terminates in his distinctive dog’s head pattern. Engraving extends over bbl lug & rammer pivot with a scroll on left side terminating in a matching dog’s head pattern. Hammer also received his deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of shank and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Sides of spur and top edge are engraved in fish scale patterns with hand cut checkering on the spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Screw heads are also engraved. 3) Root Model 1855 Model 2 Percussion Revolver. Cal. 28. SN 5523. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, 2-line address with pointing hand motif. It has 5-shot unfluted cyl with cabin/Indian fight scene roll marking. Mounted with a varnished deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip that has the SN in back strap channel. SN was observed on bottom of bbl, cyl, & butt strap. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in about 40-50% coverage extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Rammer pivot, hammer spur & hammer shank are engraved to match and the screw heads are also engraved. Accompanied by this set’s ultra-rare orig deluxe rosewood triple casing with scalloped edge plate in the top inscribed in period script “Hugh Rose Esqre / Compliments of / Col. Colt”. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet with bottom compartmented for the three revolvers; a dbl sided Navy sized angle spout flask; a sgl sided eagle & stars “COLTS PATENT” pocket sized flask and a dbl sided eagle & stars Root sized flask; a blued steel “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36B”; a blued steel bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “31 Pkt”; a brass bullet & ball caliber 28 mold with steel sprue cutter marked “H” on right side; two tins of Eley’s caps, both with green & black top labels and one with blue paper wrapping; a central compartment contains a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works 36 caliber combustible cartridges and a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works caliber 31 combustible cartridges. Also accompanying is an L-shaped nipple wrench, six spare nipples and a quantity of lead bullets & balls. Additionally accompanied by a 3-ring binder of provenance & information about this fabulous set and the man to whom it was presented. Hugh Rose was from South Carolina and appears to have been a sea captain prior to the Civil War but having been too elderly to participate in active combat, Capt. Rose became a volunteer aide to several Confederate Generals throughout the war including Brig. Gen. Thomas Drayton during the Federal bombardment of Forts Walker & Beauregard; under Maj. Gen. Daniel R. Jones during the Maryland Campaign of Sept. 1862 at the Battle of Antietam; and under Gen. Richard B. Garnett throughout South Carolina & Maryland and back to Richmond. All mentions of his service to these Generals was very favorable in executing orders with great coolness, courage & gallantry. It is not clear just how Mr. Rose & Col. Colt became acquainted or what service he may have rendered to Col. Colt to warrant such a fabulous presentation, but that they were apparently very close is demonstrated by the fact that Mr. Rose was a witness to Samuel Colt’s last will & testament dated June 6, 1856 along with three other individuals, all from New York. A certified copy of Samuel Colt’s will accompanies this lot. It is interesting to note that a codicil to the orig will dated Jan. 12, 1858 and a second codicil dated Feb. 2, 1859 are not witnessed by Mr. Rose. Also accompanying is Mr. Rose’s orig passport, issued in 1849 and signed by James Buchanan, the then Secretary of State under Pres. Polk and later who became the 15th President of the United States. This passport indicates that Mr. Rose was a member of the U.S. Legation and who traveled extensively throughout Europe including Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium & England with the last entries being 1857. Unfortunately this passport is not anything like the modern passport as there is no personal identification data included. Additionally accompanying is a deluxe slip cover edition of Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson, the Colt Exhibit at the Wadsworth Athaneum, Hartford, CT, Nov. 1961 – Jan. 1962. Pages 120 & 121 of this publication pictures this set, as found, missing one packet of cartridges with a full page description of the set & contents. It was on loan to the exhibit from renowned firearms authority, dealer & collector, Herb Glass. CONDITION: 1) Very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 60-70% orig factory blue, glossy & bright in sheltered areas with balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer, pivot & handle retain dark case colors. Frame & hammer also retain dark case colors being mostly a dark brown patina. Cylinder is a mottled brown patina & retains about 85-90% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard retains nearly all of its strong orig silver plating with slight edge wear. Back strap is slightly thinned at the heel and over inscription and overall retains 70-75% orig silver plating. Grip is sound with light edge wear and a few scattered minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig deluxe varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. 2) Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 50% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, thinning to a blue/gray patina elsewhere. Frame & hammer are darkened case colors with light pitting around hammer nose. Cylinder is a silver/brown patina & retains about 70-75% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig strong silver plating with only minor thinning on engraving of back strap and at the heel. Grip is sound with light nicks & scratches and light edge wear and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. 3) Fine to very fine, all matching as noted. Overall retains about 85% strong orig blue with sharp edge wear & thinning on left side of frame & recoil shield. Back strap is also slightly thinned. Cyl is a blue/gray patina with some minor fine pitting and retains about 75% cabin/Indian fight scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good rifling & moderate to heavy pitting. Case has a crack across the lid and several light grain checks with most of its canvas covering on bottom intact. It has very light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its deluxe varnish finish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded in the lid and moderately faded & soiled in bottom with a few reattached partitions. Navy flask retains 70-75% orig finish with a couple of small dents. Pocket flask retains about 90% strong orig finish. Root flask retains 95-96% strong orig finish on body with one small dent and about 60-70% gold wash on collar & spout. Navy mold appears to be unused and retains 95-96% strong orig brushed blue. Pocket mold retains 99% plus strong orig blue and also appears to be unused. The Root mold has a couple of small dings & scratches, also appears to be unused and retains most of its orig polish. The wrapped cap tin retains about 88-90% blue paper covering with a strong top label. The other tin has a worn top label and retains most of its orig lacquer. The two cartridge boxes are still sealed and extremely fine. Nipples & nipple wrench are also fine. 4-36685 JR38 (250,000-350,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT POLICE POSITIVE WITH KING SIGHT & HAMMER. SN 460826. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 4″ bbl and King front sight with large full length gold bead. Grooved top strap rear sight has been altered to a wider U-shape. Hammer spur has been widened and hand checkered. Pistol is mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips with silver rampant Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved in “B/C” coverage by the Wilbur Glahn shop with about 60% foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Bbl has nearly full length coverage matching patterns and the lands between the flutes are also engraved to match. The rampant Colt on the sideplate is in a diamond shaped engraved panel. Top of back strap is engraved in a floral pattern with elliptical center and the back strap is engraved with an empty presentation ribbon panel with foliate arabesque patterns above & below. Trigger guard & bottom & front of frame are engraved to match as is the toe of the front strap. Butt strap is engraved in a geometric pattern. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found in caliber 38 Spcl. with 4″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved Grade “B” and shipped to “Loan Account”, Abercrombie & Fitch Co., New York, NY on March 17, 1941 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by an article about the King Gun Sight Company. Additionally accompanied by the findings of an appeal in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals of a law suit brought by the King Gun Sight Co. against Micro Sight Co., Inc. and employees. Mr. King claimed patent infringements and unfair trade practices regarding his “cockeyed” hammer. The court found that King’s patent was invalid and he was due no relief. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be new & unfired retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. Grips are sound and retain great fire & color. Action is tuned, smooth & crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-42099 JR95 (4,000-7,000)
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 20317. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a beautiful factory checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke in fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background having full coverage on frame with matching patterns extending over sides of bbl, terminating over the top forward of the address. Each side of muzzle also is engraved in light arabesque patterns with a band around the muzzle. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s trademark spiderweb pattern with triangle shaped center. Top of back strap, heel & trigger guard are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a geometric pattern on butt strap. Back strap & butt strap are outlined with chip & dot borders. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and has chip & dot borders at each edge. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge & cyl, grip is unnumbered but there is no doubt that it is orig to this revolver. Bbl & cyl retain no orig finish being mostly a medium to dark mottled brown patina with some light scattered surface rust on bbl. Frame, trigger guard & back strap retain traces of orig silver plating with balance a gray/brown patina. Grip is sound with several age lines and retains a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and scattered pitting. Hammer screw is a replacement. 4-42611 JR36 (6,500-9,500)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 333587. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips with a large relief carved Mexican eagle on left side. The heel of both grips are chipped with a gold filler in left heel. SN was observed in three places on bottom of revolver with last four digits on rear face of cylinder. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. A nearly identically engraved single action is pictured on p. 300 of Colt Engraving, Wilson. Top of back strap, left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved with light sunbursts. Left side of bbl boss on frame & ejector rod housing boss are engraved with hunter stars. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns and the top gullet of ejector rod housing is engraved in a snake pattern. Cyl is engraved with light arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a light snake pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found in 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Stauffer, Eshleman & Co., New Orleans, LA, c/o: A.J. Anderson Co., Fort Worth, TX on Aug. 17, 1916 in a 2-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a hand written note from consignor stating that this revolver has never been offered for sale publicly or privately until the consignor purchased it from the family of the person who had purchased it new. He states that the revolver was initially purchased by a Mr. Atkinson who worked for the railroad in Waco, TX and bequeathed it to his daughter of Gatesville, TX. Her husband’s name was Thomas R. McClellan who was a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral with a long Texas history dating back to Coryell County, TX to at least 1864. This then will make the purchaser of this revolver only its third owner from 1916. Very likely some minor historical research around Gatesville & Coryell County, TX will produce additional historical information on Mr. Atkinson and the McClellan Family. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered and probably were added by the owner in Texas. Overall retains about 95-96% strong orig nickel finish with light holster wear on left side of bbl and left edge of muzzle with some light wear on front sight, otherwise shows little evidence of having been fired. Revolver is not solid in half cock notch and the safety notch is missing, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-38717 JR10 (25,000-35,000)
FANTASTIC CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 5543 & 5544. Cal. 36. Identically engraved pair,nickel & gold finish with nearly identically raised carved 1-pc ivory grips numbered to their respective revolvers. They have 6-1/2″ oct bbls with brass pin front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. Left sides of frames are hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc and left rear webs of trigger guards are marked “36 CAL”. They have 5-shot rebated cylinders with stagecoach holdup scene. The silver plated brass trigger guards & back straps contain the aforementioned 1-pc ivory grips, both of which are engraved with Lady Liberty motifs. #5543 has the large motif of a standing Lady Liberty holding an American flag on a staff in her right hand and a document, probably the Declaration of Independence or Constitution in her left hand. #5544 depicts the figure of seated Lady Liberty with an American shield under her right hand and holding a staff with Liberty Cap in her left hand. Both revolvers are engraved, probably by Gustave Young in late vine style with full coverage on frames of foliate arabesque patterns having several scrolls that terminate in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over bbl lugs and top side flats and on to the rammer pivots. Tops of back straps are engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan patterns with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heels, on the butt straps & trigger guards. SNs were observed in all the usual places with the numbers on the bbl lugs, frames, trigger guards & butt straps having the letters “IE” stamped just below each serial number, indicating they were to be engraved with ivory grips. Accompanied by their orig fine rosewood casing with empty silver plate in the lid. Lined with burgundy velvet and compartmented in bottom for the revolvers; a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars pocket sized flask; blued steel bullet & ball 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold marked on right side “36P”; an L-shaped nipple wrench and two lacquered tins of Eley’s caps. This fabulous set of revolvers is pictured in color on p. 179 of Colt Engraving, Wilson, with a caption crediting them to the Buddy Hackett Collection. This is truly an exceptional & rare set. PROVENANCE: Buddy Hackett Collection; Ken Schindler; George Repaire; Henry Guerra. CONDITION: SN 5543. Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl & frame retain 70-75% orig nickel finish with the flaked areas a dark patina and some spots of loose nickel on bbl. Rammer, cyl & hammer retain about 80% strong orig gold plating. Cyl also retains about 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene with the loss areas a dark patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain generous amounts of thinning orig silver plate. Grip is sound with a few age lines in bottom edges and a small chip on right edge and shows light wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. SN 5544. Very fine plus, all matching including rammer handle, wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 90% strong, bright orig nickel with some losses around forcing cone area and some light bubbling on bbl lug. Frame retains about all of its strong orig nickel with a couple of small spots of flaking. Rammer retains traces of orig gold with strong bright gold on pivot and thin gold on handle. Cyl retains 88-90% strong orig gold plating with strong gold in chambers and front face. Rear face of cyl also retains about 50% gold plating with all five safety pins serviceable. Hammer retains about 90% orig gold with some pitting around nose and a wear spot on the shank. Trigger guard retains traces of silver plating with balance a medium mustard patina. Back strap is a medium mustard patina. Grip has a chipped left heel, otherwise is sound and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina with light to moderate wear on carved area. Case has a few chips in veneer on the lid, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and some light raised grain and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid with moderate fading and light soil in the bottom and light damage from front sights and hammer spurs. Flask retains about 92-93% strong orig finish on the body with the losses from case wear on th eback side. Top & spout retain most of their orig gold wash. Mold is crisp and probably unused with numerous small nicks & dings on the sides and retains most of its orig blue. Cap tins & nipple wrench are fine. 4-36668 JR39 (40,000-50,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT ARMY SPECIAL DA REVOLVER. SN 335589. Cal. 38 Spcl. Blue finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, integral half moon front sight and grooved top strap rear sight. Mounted with 2-pc silver Colt medallion smooth ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in about “A” coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Left side of frame below the cyl opening is engraved in a wavy zig zag & foliate pattern. Top & heel of back strap and butt strap are engraved in geometric patterns. Top strap of frame is stamped with large dots. Bbl boss of frame on each side is engraved in a starburst pattern with matching patterns at front edges of lands between the flutes of cylinder. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over each side of bbl. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38 with 4-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to Norvell Shapley Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on July 15, 1912 in a 25-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a 1-page letter from noted Colt authority, author & researcher, R.L. Wilson, which verifies some of the above information and additionally states that it was engraved by the company’s engraving shop and that it was entered into the production book on Jan. 16, 1912. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 90-95% strong orig factory blue with muzzle & sharp edge wear. Front & back straps are a blue/gray patina. Grips are sound and retain a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-42098 JR94 (3,000-5,000)
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT FACTORY MODEL 2 ROOT 1855 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 6738. Cal. 28. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl and brass pin front sight. Hartford address with pointing hand motif. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with about 60% coverage with fine foliate pattern engraving with punch dot background. Screw heads are engraved to match. The backstrap is inscribed through the blue in fine script “To Capt. Pleasanton U.S.A. with Col Colts Compliments”. Revolver is mounted with deluxe 1-pc walnut grip. SN was observed on buttstrap, bottom of bbl and cyl. Cyl is 5-shot with Indian/cabin fight scene. Accompanied by its original red velvet lined Colt factory mahogany case compartmented in bottom for revolver, 2-cavity brass Colt patent mold with sprue cutter marked “COLTS PATENT” on top, Colt pistol flask marked “COLTS PATENT” over 13 stars with a patriotic American eagle and crossed revolvers above ribbon reading “E PLURIBIS UNUM”. Capt. Alfred Pleasanton graduated West Point in 1844, had a gallant war record during the Mexican war and served as General of the Cavalry during the Civil War. George Armstrong Custer was a member of his staff and Pleasanton was one of the first to see Custer’s special abilities as an officer and promoted him to Brigadier General. The Town of Pleasanton, CA was named in honor of Gen. Pleasanton. On the Pennsylvania Memorial at the Gettysburg battlefield stands a full-life statue of Gen. Pleasanton. At the time of the presentation of this gun, about 1855 or 1856, Pleasanton was serving as regimental adjutant with rank of Captain. CONDITION: Very fine overall. This gun retains 80-90% of its bright blue finish over bbl, frame and backstrap. Cyl is crisp and sharp with almost 100% of cyl scene discernible but no finish remains. Gun is mechanically functional. Stocks are sound and solid retaining 95% of their original varnish with scattered scrapes and scratches especially on right side. Casing internally is sound though velvet surfaces are scraped and scuffed especially where in contact with gun and components. Area where sight has sat in case has dug a sizable hole through the velvet as can be seen in pictures. Original caps are found in one compartment as are original round and conical balls in another. A screwdriver with wooden handle appears original to case and fits compartment well, as seen in photos. Colt flask still retains powder and much of its original varnish, though worn, especially on reverse side. Original brass mold is well patinaed. Iron sprue cutter is mostly bright with areas of rust. Colt’s patent marking on sprue cutter is mostly discernible. 4-38846 JS18 (15,000-30,000)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY AND WOLF & KLAR ENGRAVING. SN 353418. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight and 2-line address with left side of bbl roll marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Serial number was observed on bottom of frame and right side of front & back straps, under the grip. Mounted with fine 2-pc pearl grips that have a large raised carved ox head with ruby or garnet eyes on right side. Revolver has a 40-50% coverage Wolf & Klar style zig zag engraving patterns on the frame, top strap, bbl & back strap. Cylinder is engraved to match. Engraving is through the nickel. Grips were undoubtedly supplied by Wolf & Klar. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, shipped to Wolf and Klar, Fort Worth, Texas on July 12, 1930 in a 3-gun shipment. Wolf & Klar was a major Colt distributor for Central Texas and employed a number of local engravers to do special order engraving for the local populace. Family legend states that the revolver initially belonged to R.A. Stuart who was a Texas state senator, a lawyer and for a brief time, a Texas Ranger. It was passed to R.A. Stuart, Jr. of Fort Worth and Paris, Texas who was an Air Force veteran and a rancher and from there to Jeb Robert Stuart of McKinney, Texas, who is a golf pro. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 92-93% strong orig nickel turned slightly milky with only slight holster wear on left edge of muzzle and tip of ejector rod housing. There is a small chemical spot on front of the frame. Grips have chipped heels and a small chipped right toe, otherwise area sound with great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch and half cock notch is missing, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-42716 JR131 (4,000-6,000)
EXTREMELY RARE DOUBLE PANEL SCENE FACTORY EXHIBITION ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 31113. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl & brass pin front sight. Top flat of bbl has the unusual engraved address of “SAML COLT” with no additional decorations. Left side of frame has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a ribbon. The small guard silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with varnish finish and the SN in the back strap channel. First four digits of SN are visible with the last digit obscured by oil & wear. Serial number was observed in usual places on bottom of bbl lug, cyl, trigger guard & butt strap. Last four digits of SN are on the rammer handle & wedge with the last three digits of SN on cyl spindle. SN on bbl lug, frame & trigger guard is accompanied by a small punch dot indicating that this revolver was to receive extra polish for engraving. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene. Revolver is beautifully engraving, probably by Gustave Young or at least from his shop with full coverage rare transitional vine style foliate arabesque patterns without background, as is observed during this time period. Exhibition engraving patterns extend over bbl lug & top side flats of bbl and on rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug is engraved with an early style spread-winged American eagle clutching arrows in its right talons and an olive branch in the other. Eagle has rays emanating from the background. Right side of bbl lug is engraved with a classic recumbent lion also with rays emanating from the background. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger bow are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. Hammer is engraved with a small foliate arabesque pattern on the sides with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, fish scales on sides of spur and, most unusually fish scales down the entire top edge of the hammer. Hammer spur has hand checkered panel. Trigger guard & back strap have the early heavy silver plating with the bbl & frame having the early “soft” finish. In the period 1850 to about 1873 there were in excess of 300,000 Model 1849 revolvers produced with a portion of those factory engraved. Few, however, were panel scene engraved and are virtually unknown. It is extremely unusual to find such an early made Pocket model with exhibition double panel scene engraving. This revolver is completely authentic in all respects and one of the most rare of all the Pocket models. Similar examples of exhibition engraved 1849s from this time period (1852-53) are illustrated in the Colt Engraving Book, Vol 1, pp.49,55,59. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 50-60% thin orig blue with the balance a blue/brown patina, showing only sharp edge wear. Frame retains traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas being an overall gray/brown patina. Cylinder is matching mottled gray/brown patina and retains about all of the stagecoach holdup scene with all five safety pins intact. Grip is sound showing moderate wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of light pitting. 4-42710 JR123 (50,000-80,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE SET OF FACTORY ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID PRE-WAR COLT PRE-WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOLS. SN 6170 & 36686. 1)Cal. 22 LR. SN 6170. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd Type 1 bbl with adjustable front & rear sights and mounted with most unusual deluxe burl smooth walnut grips with diamond checkered panel in the center around the screw escutcheons. Mainspring housing has the checkered thumbprint indicating for use with standard velocity ammunition only. Accompanied by one orig Type One 2-tone magazine with properly marked base and bronze follower. Pistol is beautifully engraved by William H. Gough, famous Colt engraver, in flowing foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background and has about “B” or “C” coverage which consists of about 40% overall coverage. Engraving extends over sides of bbl and around muzzle with geometric patterns forward of the bbl address. Rear of slide is shaded and rear of frame is engraved in a target form. Back strap is engraved with a small foliate arabesque pattern surrounded by zig zag borders. Zig zag borders are also engraved on front strap, trigger bow and bottom front of frame. Left side of frame is engraved in a small rnd panel and inlaid with intertwined gold initials “EM”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol in caliber 22 with 6-1/2″ bbl, finish “green (soft)” with wood grips, sold to the Murta Appleton & Co., Philadelphia, PA and shipped to W.H. Gough, Utica, NY on March 19, 1917 in a 7-gun shipment. Under remarks section “The words green or soft which appears with the finish indicates subject pistol was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory. As noted above, this particular pistol was sent to W.H. Gough, who was an engraver for Colt’s during this time period.” 2) Cal. 22 LR. SN 36686. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd Type 2 bbl with adjustable front & rear sights and mounted with most unusual deluxe burl smooth walnut grips with diamond checkered panel in the center around the screw escutcheons. Mainspring housing has the checkered thumbprint indicating for use with standard velocity ammunition only. Accompanied by one orig Type Two 2-tone magazine with properly marked base. Pistol is beautifully engraved by William H. Gaugh nearly identically to #1 in flowing foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background and has about “B” or “C” coverage which consists of about 40% overall coverage. Engraving extends over sides of bbl and around muzzle with geometric patterns forward of the bbl address. Rear of slide is shaded and rear of frame is engraved in a target form. Back strap is engraved with a small foliate arabesque pattern surrounded by zig zag borders. Zig zag borders are also engraved on front strap, trigger bow and bottom front of frame. Left side of frame is engraved in a small rnd panel and inlaid with intertwined initials “AM”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which states that they were unable to locate any shipping information pertaining to this particular pistol. However the production book indicates that this revolver was manufactured on March 26, 1923 and sent to the shipping room on April 26, 1923. Letter further states “In addition, there is a notation that this pistol was factory engraved.” It is readily apparent that pistol #1 was ordered by the individual with the initials “EM” in 1917, probably for himself. Then in 1923 he ordered the second pistol with the initials “AM” probably for his son or another member of the family. These pistols and two others similarly engraved being sold in this auction represent a lifetime of collecting. Very few pre-war Pre-Woodsman pistols are known and rarely ever come to market. PROVENANCE: Ned Schwing Collection. CONDITION: 1) Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 97-98% strong, orig bright factory blue with light muzzle edge & sharp edge wear. Bolt face & breech face retain most of their orig factory blue indicating little or no use. Grips are extremely fine with a few light surface mars. Magazine is equally new. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 2) Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 98-99% strong glossy orig factory blue with only faint sharp edge wear around muzzle. Bolt face & breech face retain most of their factory blue indicating little or no use. Magazine is crisp & new with no evidence of having been loaded. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-42594, 4-42595 (60,000-90,000)
EXTREMELY RARE EARLY INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH FLUTED CYLINDER. SN 3. Cal. 36. Rare early ’61 Navy with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and it has the extremely rare fluted cylinder with 5 of the 6 safety pins prominent & serviceable. The 6th one is missing. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a nicely figured 1-pc walnut grip with SN in back strap channel. Back strap is engraved in period script “E.A. WALLAZZ” and butt strap is inscribed “RINGGOLD / 104 P.V.”. The SN was noted on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, butt strap, wedge, rear face of cyl & cyl spindle. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only approx. the first 100 1861 Navy revolvers had the fluted cylinders making this a very rare & collectible Colt. Edmund A. Wallazz (1834-1893) enlisted as a private in Company A 104th Pennsylvania Infantry, also known as the “Ringgold Regiment”, on Sept. 6, 1861. He was promoted to Sergeant Major of the Regiment on Oct. 31, 1861 and to 1st Lieutenant and Adjutant in Jan. 1863. The 104th, upon mustering in were assigned to Washington and on May 31st & June 1st, 1862 participated in the Battles of Savage Station and Fair Oaks. At Fair Oaks, AKA Seven Pines, they stood alone during the initial assault by the Confederates but were ultimately forced to retreat, nearly having their colors captured. A courageous charge by a small number of Union troops rescued the colors just as they were about to be captured. In Dec. 1862 they were ordered to Beaufort, NC and from there to Hilton Head to join in the operations against Charleston. From that point until June 1864 they occupied various positions on several different islands and participated in the siege of Fort Wagner. In June 1864 they participated in the attack on Charleston, unsuccessfully. They retreated to Hilton Head where they remained until the end of July and were ordered to Florida on railroad guard duty. On Sept. 1st they returned to Alexandria and those members who had not re-enlisted were mustered out on Sept. 30, 1864. This information was extracted from several searches on the internet. Accompanying this revolver is a large lot of information & provenance relating to Lt. Wallazz and his application for pension. Also included are numerous muster rolls listing his different promotions and assignments. Lt. Wallazz, in his petition for pension, claimed to have contracted severe illnesses while assigned on the various islands around Hilton Head and also had his eye sight & hearing severely affected. Numerous witness statements confirmed this fact. Lt. Wallazz lived the last years of his life in San Francisco where he was employed as a printer, editorial writer and editor of newspapers. Also accompanying is a copy of a photograph of Lt. Wallazz in his uniform as the adjutant of his unit. Additionally accompanying are several pages copied from an unidentified book which depict a painting entitled “Rescue of the Colors” by William T. Trego. This painting is a rendition of the recapture of the colors of the 104th Regiment at Fair Oaks/Seven Pines. These pages also include the speeches at the presentation, one by Gen. W.W.H. Davis, who had been in command of the 104th at the Battle of Fair Oaks/Seven Pines. During his speech he recounted the beginning of the battle wherein at the preparation to fire the first volley, a command was given “Ready. Aim.” at which time “Sgt. Major Wallazz, a former pupil of Gen. Stonewall Jackson, at the Virginia Military Academy, stepped up and said “Let me say ‘fire'”. Permission was given and he commanded fire. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains finish in sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned metal patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain 25-30% orig silver plating with balance a light mustard patina. Grip has a chipped right toe & shows light to moderate edge wear with a few light nicks & scratches and retains 80-85% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with good shine and scattered pitting. 4-36678 JR42 (35,000-50,000)
*FINE COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID BY HOWARD DOVE. SN SA61851. Cal. 44 Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line address. Left side of bbl is inlaid in gold “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .44 SPECIAL”. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and a very detailed rampant Colt in gold. Mounted with outstanding gold Colt medallion 1-pc ivory grip, scrimmed on left side with a very finely detailed rampant Colt. Grip is factory 1-pc made from a set of 2-pc grip panels attached to a wood spacer block as early grips were made. Both panels have the 5-digit SN on the inside and the 5-digit number is also on spacer block. This 1-pc grip was probably created by Howard Dove himself. SN was observed on bottom of frame and left side of front & back straps under the grip. Left toe of butt strap, under the grip is engraved “HMD”, the initials of the engraver Howard M. Dove. Revolver has full coverage extraordinary engraving by Mr. Dove consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frame, wonderful Helfrecht style foliate rosette on recoil shield and a gold outline shell pattern on loading gate. Both sides of bbl boss are engraved in alternating smooth diamond patterns and punch dot patterns. Left side of frame around the cross bolt is engraved in a flower blossom with another flower blossom on the ejector rod boss. Both bottom front gullets are engraved in tiny flower blossoms. Bbl has about 75% coverage matching engraving with shell patterns at each end of left side bbl markings with diamond patterns in center and matching patterns on right side. Top of bbl is engraved in beautiful zig zag border & geometric patterns. Muzzle is inlaid with wide & narrow gold bands and engraved border patterns with matching gold bands at bbl root. Top gullet of ejector rod housing is inlaid in a gold wire snake & dot pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius. Top of back strap is engraved in an extraordinary shell pattern outlined in gold wire. Back strap is engraved in foliate arabesque and diamond & dot patterns, outlined in gold wire with foliate arabesque patterns outlined in gold wire on butt strap. Trigger bow is engraved in diamond patterns with additional foliate arabesque patterns on trigger plates. Sides of hammer are engraved in diamond & dot patterns and sides of spur in foliate arabesque patterns, outlined in gold wire and hammer spur is hand checkered. Cylinder has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns around major diameter with offsetting unengraved flutes which are outlined in gold wire. Rear edge of hammer is inlaid with two fine gold wire bands surrounding a deep, fine zig zag pattern. All screw heads are beautifully engraved with a zig zag rosette around hammer screw on both sides. Altogether an extraordinarily beautiful example of the engraver’s art. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including grip, unfired since engraving. Overall retains deep orig style Colt blue and brilliant case colors. Grip is equally fine with a light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-42562 JR54 (6,000-12,000)
RARE CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 109089. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in an arc inside a pillow shape. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap with small trigger guard contains a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved Dragoon’s bust. Back strap is engraved in period script “D.L. Stone / from Colts P.F.A. Mfg. Co.” Revolver has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe presentation quality consisting of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving patterns extend over bbl lug & top side flats with one scroll on left side terminating in Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s head and another scroll terminating in a flower blossom on right side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque scrolls near top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Screw heads are also engraved. SNs were observed on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard, butt strap & cyl with last four digits of SN on rammer handle flat and last five digits of SN on wedge. Accompanied by an orig Colt deluxe rosewood casing with empty rectangular plate in lid. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver; a fine sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars pocket sized flask; a brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity pocket sized mold; a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges; an L-shaped nipple wrench; a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a functioning key. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including rammer handle, wedge & cyl, grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer, handle & pivot retain dark case colors. Frame & hammer also retain dark case colors with some light wear on hammer. Trigger guard & back strap retain 85-90% strong orig silver plating. Cyl is a cleaned gray metal patina & retains about 90% stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Grip has a repair on right rear edge and some chips on right front edge and has several age lines on bottom edges and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with some scattered spots of pitting in the grooves. Case has some minor grain checks in the lid and a crack along rear edge and retains about 85% green paper on the bottom. Interior is lightly faded & soiled with solid partitions. Flask retains about 95% strong orig finish with almost all of the wear on back side from the case. Mold has a couple of small nicks on left handle, otherwise is crisp & clean. Cartridge packet is crisp. L-shaped nipple wrench & cap tin are equally fine. 4-36684 JR44 (30,000-40,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED PRE-WAR COLT WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WITH ORIGINAL BOX. SN 99614. Cal. 22 LR. Blue finish with 6-5/8″ tapered Type 3 bbl with adjustable front & rear sights and mounted with full checkered walnut grips. Pistol is engraved by Wilbur Glahn with about B or C coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Frame has about 50% coverage and the slide about 60% coverage. Engraving patterns extend up both sides of bbl with patterns around front sight. Back strap, front strap, thumb safety & trigger bow are engraved to match. Spring housing has the small serrated panel at the top indicating that this pistol is safe to shoot high speed ammunition. Accompanied by one orig Type 2 two-tone magazine with correctly marked base plate. Also accompanied by this pistol’s orig hinged lid dark maroon box with matching SN on bottom. Bottom end label is standard for the Woodsman with the black & white top label marked “TARGET PARTRIDGE SIGHT”. There is a diagonal black & white over-label over the end flap and across the top marked “ENGRAVED”. There is also a small rectangular label on the end flap with a large “B”. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming factory Grade B engraving and shipped on loan to A&F 7-27-36, returned and reshipped to LA Sportsmen Show 3-9-37, and finally shipped on loan to Sidney B. Roby Co. Rochester, NY 3-31-37. Truly a well traveled arm used for exhibition purposes. Engraved Woodsman pistols are rarely ever offered for sale. This pistol and three others similarly engraved being sold in this auction represent a lifetime of collecting. PROVENANCE: Ned Schwing Collection. CONDITION: Pistol is extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Pistol appears to be new & unfired retaining virtually all of its orig factory blue with no discernible flaws. Toe of the magazine base plate shows a minor amount of light edge wear. Bolt face & breech face retain virtually all of their orig factory blue indicating never having been fired. Magazine is near new with some minor surface discoloration. Grips are sound showing light to moderate diamond point wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Box is worn & tattered with the lid detached, missing front & right flaps on the lid. Bottom has three broken corners. Bottom label is fine with light edge wear. Top label is soiled and turned yellow with the “engraved” diagonal over-label also turned yellow and missing 15-20%. 4-42597 (12,500-18,000)
RARE COLT CIVILIAN MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH SHOULDER STOCK. SN 151814. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “44 CAL”. It has usual 6-shot rebated cyl with Ormsby Naval Battle scene roll marking and 5 of the 6 safety pins are serviceable with the 6th partially serviceable. Frame is 3-screw type cut for shoulder stock with rnd head hammer screw and a stock dimple in butt strap. The silver plated brass trigger guard & blued steel back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip serial numbered to this revolver. SNs were observed on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last five digits of SN on wedge and last four digits on cyl & cyl spindle. The SN on frame is accompanied by a small “S”, indicating that the frame was to be cut for shoulder stock. Front strap is engraved in period script “J.A.R.”. Accompanied by an orig Colt 1860 Army stock with brass yoke & buttplate bearing the SN “150722” on the yoke and “128033” on buttplate. Last four digits, “8033”, are in ink on the buttstock, under buttplate. Stock has a beautiful varnish finish with a lanyard stud & ring in bottom tang. Also accompanied by what appears to be an advertisement for a similar stocked 1860 Army with SN 151313 from noted Colt authority, collector & dealer, the late Alan S. Kelley wherein that revolver also has a mismatched stock and he states in the ad, “This discrepancy common on shoulder stocks of the period.”. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Stock numbered as noted above. Bbl retains 95-96% strong glossy orig factory blue with faint muzzle edge wear and a few scattered chemical spots. Rammer & handle retain most of their orig case colors, turning dark. Frame & hammer retain brilliant case colors on sides with recoil shields faded. Rear edge of hammer has brilliant colors. Cyl retains strong bright blue in rebated area with major diameter a blue/brown patina and one small chemical spot, probably from a holster, and retains about 85% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Chambers are crisp & clean with traces of orig blue. Trigger guard retains traces of silver plating being mostly a light brass patina. Back strap & butt strap retain glossy orig blue at top of back strap and on butt strap with body of back strap a thin blue/gray patina. Grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear, a gouge on right side and light handling & use nicks & scratches and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with lots of orig blue. Stock yoke retains traces of silver plating in sheltered areas with balance a medium mustard patina. Buttplate is also a medium mustard patina. Stock has a few scattered very light nicks & scratches and retains virtually all of its brilliant orig varnish, a superb specimen. 4-36672 JR37 (25,000-40,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY SHERIFF’S MODEL COMMEMORATIVE SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 29-35 SHERIFF/SA45127. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with left side marked “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL .45” inlaid in gold. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt in gold. Trigger guard & back strap are gold plated and are mounted with fine 2-pc diamond & fleur-de-lis carved & checkered ivory grips numbered to this revolver. SN on bottom of frame is “29-35 SHERIFF” and the orig SN “SA45127” is on the left side of front & back straps under the grip. Left side of front & back straps are also stamped “29”. Left side of butt strap is stamped the engraver’s name “B J GWINNELL” (Bryson J. Gwinnell). Revolver is beautifully engraved in about “B” coverage with well executed foliate arabesque patterns on frame, recoil shield, bbl, back strap & butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved in a running leaf pattern and the top strap in feather patterns. Frame, top strap & sides of hammer are outlined in gold wire as is the marking on left side of bbl. Both sides of bbl boss on frame are engraved in a checkered diamond pattern which is outlined in gold. Right side of frame is inlaid in gold “1 OF 35”. Recoil shield has a relief gold inlaid 6-point star/badge engraved “SHERIFF”. Loading gate is inlaid with a raised gold pair of handcuffs. Cylinder is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and each land has a gold inlaid fleur-de-lis with a gold wire band around rear edge. Base pin is also gold plated. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found, with 3-1/2″ bbl, in caliber 45, blue finish, ivory grips and engraved by Bryson Gwinnell with gold inlay. It was shipped to Davidson Supply Co., Greensboro, NC on May 21, 1982 to Custom Shop Order #1842 and is listed as one of its type. Accompanied by its orig yellow octagonal hang tag. This is truly a spectacular commemorative rarely encountered today. CONDITION: New & unfired, all matching. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with bright blue & gold. Grips are equally new. 4-41900 JR192 (4,000-6,000)
CASED PAIR GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION PISTOLS. SN 97160 & 97170. Cal. 31. These guns have the usual configurations of Colt pocket model revolvers made late in 1860 as war fever in the United States was on the move. These guns have the desirable 6″ oct bbls with brass pin front sights and “SAML COLT” engraved on bbl flats. Left side of frames are engraved “COLTS PATENT” in block letters. The silver-plated trigger guard and backstrap contain 1-pc varnished wood grips. Revolvers have received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving treatment with full coverage of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frames and bbl housings extending onto top flat sides of bbls. Rammer pivots are also engraved as are hammers, backstraps and trigger guards. Top of backstraps are engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern. All the engraving has a fine punch-dot background with several scrolls terminating in flower blooms. The right side bbl housing right side of frame on #97160 terminates in bird’s head. Case overall is very good and solid containing a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” marked mold, a silver-plated “COLTS PATENT” marked powder flask and 2 cap tins. A partial label for loading Colt’s pistols is pasted inside lid. CONDITION: Guns overall are very good and functional. SN 97160 appears original and complete with all matching SN’s including wedge but back of cyl has had safety pins replaced with back of cyl milled to accept these inserted steel pins. Engraving and markings are all discernible and well struck. There are traces of blue finish in protected areas under bbl. The stocks are well fit retaining about 60% of their original varnish. Trigger guard and backstrap retain 60-70% of their original finish. SN 97170 appears original with exception of cyl and wedge which are SN’d to match but appear to be replacements. SN’s on bbl housing and frame have been re-colored but SN’s could be original here. The metal overall on this gun is gray/brown with scattered areas of rust and pitting. Engraving and other markings are all easily discernible though there is more scattered pitting on this gun than on #97160. Stocks on this gun are well fit and retain about 50% of their original varnish. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 80% of their silver-plating. Both guns are mechanically functional. The accompanying flask retains between 10-20% of its original silver-plate over patina. Brass mold has numerous small nicks and dents with “COLTS PATENT” about 70% discernible. Labels on cap tins are probably modern. Case overall is very good. Lining is well worn and label missing about 15-20% of text as can be seen in photos and may be replaced. 4-44268 JS32 (6,000-9,000)
*RARE FACTORY GRADE C ENGRAVED COLT WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 87623. Cal. 22 LR. 1st Model Woodsman with blue finish, 6-5/8″ 2nd type tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front & rear sights and mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Left forward side of frame is marked “THE WOODSMAN” and left side of frame has usual markings with the rampant Colt. Spring housing has the serrated panel at the top indicating it is okay to use high speed ammunition. Accompanied by one orig 2nd type 2-tone magazine with properly marked base plate. Pistol is beautifully engraved by Wilbur Glahn with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background. Slide has full coverage matching engraving patterns with a tiny flower blossom on the sides of slide at rear end. Top rear edge and rear end of slide are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark triangle patterns. Front strap, back strap & trigger bow are all engraved to match as is the thumb safety. Bottom front of frame is engraved in a foliate pattern and top of frame, over chamber area, is engraved in a large flower blossom. Foliate & floral arabesque patterns extend over both sides of bbl, about 2/3 of the distance toward the muzzle. The address has a simple line border with a fleur-de-lis pattern at the forward end. Front strap has had the SN filed or ground away and restamped with larger numbers. Restamped number matches the orig number inside the slide and on the spring housing. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming Grade C engraving as shipped to Hopkins Sporting Goods, Des Moines IA, 2-22-33. Engraved Woodsman pistols are extremely rare and seldom ever come to market. This pistol and three others being sold in this auction represent a lifetime of collecting. PROVENANCE: Ned Schwing Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 88-90% strong orig factory blue showing wear on both sides of muzzle and sharp edges of frame with front strap mostly gray patina and back strap moderately thin. Bolt face & breech face retain generous amounts or orig blue but has been used. Magazine is crisp, retaining most orig factory finish. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-42596 JR90 (5,000-10,000)
EXTRAORDINARY ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 113487. Cal. 44. Spectacular custom engraved & finished ’60 Army with 7-13/16″ bbl, slightly reduced from orig 8″ with slightly altered orig German silver front sight and gold inlaid in 1-line “ADDRESS-COL-SAML COLT-NEW-YORK-US-AMERICA”. Both sides of frame are inlaid in gold “COLTS PATENT”. Bbl & cyl are beautifully browned with the rammer & handle, frame, hammer & back strap beautifully bone charcoal color case hardened. Trigger guard & front strap are gold plated brass. Mounted with extraordinary, highly figured 1-pc walnut grip, fully checkered with about 24-lines per inch and carved oak leaves at the top. Frame is engraved in full coverage extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine shaded background. Left side of frame is inlaid with a raised gold setter on point and an elaborate dbl fleur-de-lis raised gold pattern around “COLTS PATENT”. Left recoil shield has two raised gold pheasants and the right recoil shield another. Right side of frame is inlaid with a raised gold setter on point with matching raised gold fleur-de-lis patterns around “COLTS PATENT”. Both sides of bbl lug are engraved with equally gorgeous matching fine foliate arabesque patterns with a raised gold dog or fox on each side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Gullets of the bbl lug have flowing shaded panels and the sides of bbl and over top of bbl are inlaid with intricately intertwined raised gold foliate arabesque patterns with matching patterns over top of forcing cone. There are flat gold inlaid arabesque patterns in two fine gold vines around muzzle. Cylinder is almost indescribably engraved with eleven panels of very intricate, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the major circumference and with matching raised gold foliate arabesque patterns around rebated area and on lands between the nipple recesses. The 12th panel on the cyl is inlaid with large flat gold lettering “COLT PATENT” (sic)/ NO 113487″. Back strap, butt strap & trigger bow are all engraved with intricate matching foliate arabesque patterns and almost every surface on the bbl, frame, cyl, hammer, back strap & butt strap are outlined in fine gold wire. All of screws are gold plated. Bottom of bbl lug is inlaid in flat gold “DEWIL LIEGE”, Rene Dewil, Master Engraver for Fabrique Nationale/Browning Arms. Right side of the front strap under the grip is hand stamped “T. KIRKLAND / UNION CITY / TENN. / 1961 REFINISHED” with a small “5”. Left side of butt strap under the grip is stamped “T. KIRKLAND”. The late Turner Kirkland was the patriarch of the Kirkland Family who owns Dixie Gun Works of Union City, TN. Serial numbers on bottom of bbl flat & bottom of frame are hand engraved while the numbers on the trigger guard are orig stampings. Serial number on butt strap has been obliterated by engraving. This cataloger has examined & described many extraordinary custom engraved firearms in the past 20 years, but this one ranks as one of the most beautiful ever examined. CONDITION: Extremely fine, retains all of its fine custom finish with lovely browns on bbl & cyl and brilliant case colors on rammer & handle, frame, hammer, back strap & butt strap. Grip is sound and retains about all of its fine varnish finish. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-42659 JR146 (12,500-17,500)
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED NICKEL & GOLD COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 3508. Cal. 41 Colt. Rare nickel & gold finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, most unusual long gold plated front sight with scallop cutout of the back edge. It is made without ejector housing and has 2-line address with “COLT D.A. 41.” stamped in a ribbon on left side. Left side of frame has usual 3-line patent dates with caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc rampant Colt birdshead hard rubber grips. This revolver is engraved by Eugene Young in his minimalist style with about 40% coverage wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns without background. Top of back strap is engraved in a beautiful fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on back strap, trigger guard and top edge of hammer. Butt of revolver is engraved in period script “W.L. Berg”. Cylinder is engraved in matching patterns on the lands between the flutes and with a zig zag border around the rear edge. Cylinder, hammer, trigger, base pin & front sight are all gold-plated while the frame, bbl & grip frame are nickel plated. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 Colt, bbl length illegible, nickel & gold finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, sold to H.O. Berg, address unavailable, shipped to W.S. Berg, address unavailable on May 13, 1893 in a 1-gun shipment. Interpretation of period script in the Factory ledger may account for the discrepancy between Colt letter and engraved initials observed on gun. Hart O. Berg (1865-1941)was an American, an engineer, a businessman, entrepreneur, automobile manufacturer and at one time the Director of External Affairs for the Belgian firm of Fabrique Nationale (FN). In 1897 FN sent Mr. Berg to Hartford, CT to investigate U.S. techniques of bicycle manufacturing. By happenstance while visiting Colt Mfg, Berg encountered John M. Browning, the world’s most prolific firearms inventor, and convinced him to allow FN to manufacture Browning’s .32ACP semi-auto pistol. Additionally in 1902, he established the Berg Automobile Co. in Cleveland. His model, the Euclid, was first shown at the 1903 New York Auto Show. The Euclid was produced only in 1904-05 with a European design flair. Subsequently, Berg sold out to the Worthington Automobile Co. of NY and joined up with Orville & Wilbur Wright as their business agent. Through his foreign contacts he arranged for Wilbur Wright to give demonstrations to the French government. On Aug. 8, 1908 Wilbur Wright made a flight in France and became an instant hero throughout Europe with front page articles in virtually every European newspaper. Then on Sept. 3, 1908 Orville Wright gave the demonstration to the Signal Corps at Fort Meyer, VA. So while it is likely that the world’s governments would eventually come to realize the importance of aviation, it is certain beyond all reasonable doubt that Mr. Berg is responsible for its early introduction. Berg’s wife, Edith, in Sept. 1908, became the first American woman to fly as a passenger in an airplane when Wilbur Wright took her up for a 2-minute 7-second ride during one of his demonstrations in LeMans, France. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Bbl & frame retain virtually all of their orig bright nickel finish with only very slight losses on the toe of the butt strap. Cylinder retains about 50% bright gold plating, mostly in the flutes and front & back faces. Major diameter of the cyl has the gold worn away to expose the nickel underneath. Hammer retains strong gold plating on the sides & rear edge with a couple of small flaked spots on left side and traces of gold on top edge. Front sight retains most of its orig gold as does the base pin. Trigger retains strong bright gold on rear face, worn thin on front face & edges. Grips are sound with light diamond point wear and moderate sharp edge wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-42717 JR124 (15,000-25,000)
CASED COLT MODEL 1849 FACTORY PRESENTATION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 189167. Cal. 31. This standard model Colt pocket revolver is in beautiful condition retaining most of its original bright blue finish and case color. The cyl has a complete and easily discernible stagecoach hold up engraved scene. The gun is housed in an original Colt factory case with components in very nice condition matching the condition of this arm. This gun was made early in 1861 and factory inscribed on backstrap “D.H. Pond From His Friends in Hartford, CT”. This 4″ oct bbl gun conforms to typical configuration and markings in 1861 including rare 2-line Hartford bbl address. Sgt. David H. Pond enlisted in the 1st Connecticut volunteers at the start of the Civil War and fought at the first battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861. David Pond is found in Hartford city directories as a painter between 1852 and 1870. Sgt. Pond was only in the service for 3 months. He was probably one of the early enlisting soldiers who thought the war would be over after only one battle and he did not re-enlist. It is likely that David Pond was part of the family of Charles Pond, owner of the Hartford & New Haven railroad and an original stockholder in the Colt Patent Arms Company. This is a fine example of an original and authentic cased, early Civil War factory presentation Colt Model 1849 revolver in beautiful condition. PROVENANCE: Accompanied by a bound folder of research and historical information regarding the gun and soldier compiled by Tom Lopiano, Jr. CONDITION: Bbl retains 90%+ original bright blue finish. Loading assembly retains about half its case color. Frame and hammer retain strong traces of case color though mostly muted on frame. Cyl retains traces of bright blue, especially in cyl stops. Safety pins are sharp and intact. Gun is possibly unfired. Backstrap and trigger guard retain 70-80% of their original silverplate and stocks retain 95% of their original varnish. Eagle flask retains most of its varnish on reverse and about 50% on obverse. Steel mold with attached sprew cutter is crisply marked “COLTS PATENT” and retains 40-50% of its blue finish. Brass cap tin has red paper label with Eley’s maker’s mark in very good condition. Casing overall is sound and fits well with only very slight warpage when closing. Accompanying key will not operate case. 4-38850 JS20 (8,000-12,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE WINCHESTER FAMILY PRESENTATION DELUXE CONRAD ULRICH ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE. SN 104140. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Spectacular ’66 rifle with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full magazine and thin blade German silver front sight with 900 yard Henry style ladder rear sight. Top flat of bbl has the usual 2-line Winchester Repeating Arms address. Rifle is mounted with very highly figured center crotch burl & flame grain uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and crescent brass buttplate with trap. Bottom of stock & forend cap are fitted with factory sling swivels. Receiver, forend cap & buttplate tang are beautifully engraved by Master Engraver Conrad F. Ulrich with a large panel presentation on left side which is inscribed in period script “Presented by W.W. Winchester / To Stephen T. Babcock / for the best three shots at the / Annual Target Match of the / Collegiate & Commercial Institute / New Haven May 6th 1872”. Engraving is surrounded by wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns that have very fine very well executed punch dot background. Right side of receiver and sideplate are engraved with the deep relief vignette of the Book of Knowledge surrounded by eight various symbols of the arts industry, military & medicine. This vignette is surrounded by identical foliate arabesque patterns as found on the left side. Both front side flats of the receiver are engraved with a triple scroll foliate arabesque pattern surrounded by most unusual diamond & dot patterns. Top of receiver forward & aft of ejection port, over the top of the firing pin slot and back of hammer slot are engraved with small foliate arabesque patterns. There is also a small pattern just above the top tang screw. Bottom of receiver and carrier are engraved in near mirror image foliate arabesque patterns. The dimpled brass forend cap is engraved with a flower blossom on each side around the screw hole. Top tang of buttplate is engraved with a single foliate arabesque pattern. Receiver was originally gold plated, now with only traces of gold visible, mostly in the engraving on the sides. Trigger is slightly longer and thinner with a more pointed tip than normal as found on deluxe rifles. Left side of lower tang, under the wood is stamped “O / XXX”. Top tang channel of buttstock is stamped with the entire SN as is the inside of the toe of the buttplate. Unlike Samuel Colt, Oliver Winchester was not prone to making presentations of his products and there are only a few known Winchester presentation rifles including several Henry rifles and a few Models 1866 including this one. This may be the only Winchester family presentation coming directly from the factory. William Wirt Winchester was the only son of Oliver F. Winchester and was a graduate of the Collegiate & Commercial Institute of New Haven. He was born in 1837 and became the Secretary of Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1869, a position he held until 1871 when he was made Vice-President, a position he held until his death from tuberculosis in 1881, just a few months after his father’s death in 1880. William’s widow, Sarah, is noted for building the famed “Winchester Mystery House” near San Jose, CA. A copy of one of the few known photographs of him is included with the provenance for this lot. The winner of this spectacular rifle, Stephen T. Babcock, was born Sept. 1854 in Stonington, CT and after about a year of failing health, took his own life in Nov. 1890 never having married. Mr. Babcock apparently graduated from the Collegiate Commercial Institute in 1872 and enjoyed a successful career in the insurance business in New York City. This rifle was awarded to Mr. Babcock as the best shot at the annual Shooting Competition at the school and so recorded in an article appearing in the New Haven Daily Morning Journal & CourierMay 7, 1872 as follows: “PRIZE SHOOTING. The annual prize shooting of the cadets at Gen. Russell’s took place yesterday, at Miller’s Garden, East Rock. After each company had taken its turn firing, the best marksmen were selected to try for the prize. The following were the cadets chosen for this purpose: Babcock, Howland, Pendelton and Restrapo of 1st Co.; Powell, Sinclair and Strickland of 2nd Co.; Barnum, Edmonson and Reyes of 3rd Co., and Miles, Ray and Redfield of 4th Co. Babcock on the last trial made the best shots, putting 2 balls through the bullseye and one into the ring. The other contestants did finely, shooting with an accuracy that would have been a credit to older and more practiced marksmen. Mr. Winchester, of the Winchester Rifle Manufacturing Company, who had formerly been a pupil at the Institute, furnished the rifles and offered the prize, which was to be any style of rifle in the factory which the successful competitor might select. Mr. Babcock will therefore have the privilege of choosing from Mr. Winchester’s magnificent selection of fire arms. A more generous prize could not have been offered, nor one more appropriate. The firing was done under the superintendency of Mr. Sinclair, the O.S. Inspector of Arms, to whose skillful management the success of the excursion is to be attributed. Everything was done by Gen. Russell, Mr. Fabrique and Major Stowe to make the day pass off pleasantly, and a more enjoyable time has seldom been experienced by the students”. Apparently, William Wirt Winchester, the recently appointed Vice-President of Winchester Repeating Arms Co., who made the generous offer, created the beautiful presentation Model 1866 rifle being sold here that Mr. Babcock chose as his just reward. No other known presentation rifle has such a detailed provenance documenting the event that led to the presentation. The Collegiate Commercial Institute, also known as the Russell School, was located in New Haven and founded in 1836 primarily as a 3-year prep school for Yale College. Their education curriculum spanned a wide variety of subjects but concentrated on military subjects such as military drill, musketry & artillery. During the Civil War graduates of this school furnished more officers to both the Union and Confederacy than all other schools except West Point. The school continued in business until the death of its founder, Col. Russell in the 1880s. Accompanying this lot is a large volume of research material on both Mr. Winchester and Mr. Babcock and includes a 5-page article by Dr. Edmund Lewis which appeared in the November/December 1993 issue of Man at Arms magazine and also in Vol. 28 No. 1, 2006 Man at Arms for the Gun Collector. This rifle is also pictured in full color on the cover of both referenced magazines and twice in each article. PROVENANCE: Stephen T. Babcock; Norm Flayderman Collection; Thomas Coulton Collection; Dr. Edmund Lewis Collection CONDITION: Very fine plus. Bbl retains 93-95% strong orig factory blue with only sharp edge wear and a couple of minor thin spots. Magazine tube retains 97-98% strong orig blue. Receiver & buttplate retain traces of orig gold plating being mostly a medium mustard patina. Stock has a couple of hairline grain checks, otherwise wood is sound with light nicks & scratches. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with good rifling and moderate pitting. 4-40355 (150,000-250,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE WITH TIFFANY GRIP. SN 23643. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S.A. America address. Frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” on left side. Mounted with a fine orig silver Tiffany grip with large relief spread-winged American eagle on back surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and acanthus leaves with stippled background. Top of back strap has a raised oval panel engraved in block letters “JOHN SLOAN”. Butt cap is matching silver with tapered radiating rays from the central hole. Bottom of grip, under the cap, bears the last three digits of SN along with the Roman numerals “XL” and “III”. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably by Nimschke, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with fine punch dot background which engraving extends up sides of bbl & terminates forward of the address. Each side of muzzle also are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and engraved bands. Cylinder is engraved in matching patterns on lands between the flutes. SN was observed on bottom of bbl lug, frame & trigger guard, which numbers are accompanied by a small “P” signifying that this revolver was to be plated. Last four digits of SN are found on wedge, cyl arbor and rear face of cyl. All five safety pins are prominent & serviceable. Accompanied by what appears to be its orig British style walnut casing with empty brass medallion in center of lid. Case is lined in burgundy velvet and French fitted in bottom for revolver, a “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars sgl-sided flask, a “COLTS PATENT” blued steel 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Right rear covered compartment with bone pull is empty. Also accompanied by a letter signed “Mrs. Arnold Marcus Chernoff” dated June 11, 1987 stating that this revolver, identified by SN, was purchased from her husband in the spring of 1985. Additionally accompanied by the Sept. 1973 issue of Arms Gazette magazine which contains a 3-page article about Arnold Marcus Chernoff, one of America’s most colorful and knowledgeable firearms dealers of the 20th century. Additionally accompanied by a small booklet of 26 pages by Arnold Marcus Chernoff titled American Indians. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains about all of its fine silver plating that may be a very old restoration. Tiffany grip is very fine showing only light wear. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a crack in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly soiled & faded. Flask retains 95-96% strong orig finish with one small dent on the front. Mold is fine & retains about 80% strong orig blue with balance flaked to a light patina. Nipple wrench & cap tin are fine. Case may not be authentic. 4-44152 JR33 (15,000-25,000)
RARE ENGRAVED EARLY COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 154. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel & gold finish with 2-1/4″ tapered rnd bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address. It has usual 5-shot cyl and is mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl bird head grips numbered on the inside to this revolver. SN was observed on left side of grip frame under grip, bottom of bbl & rear face of cylinder. Revolver is engraved, probably by Cuno Helfrecht with about 50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns, diamond & dot patterns with dash & dot borders and punch dot background. Top strap is engraved with chip borders with dots down the center. Sides of bbl are unusually engraved with bowtie and chip & dot patterns with a foliate spray at muzzle end on each side. Top of bbl is engraved with snake & dot patterns on both sides of address which terminate at front sight. Back strap is engraved in geometric patterns. Bottom sides of frame, below cyl opening, are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a chip & dot border at the rear edge. Most unusually the left side of frame below the cyl opening is marked “32 CAL”, obviously an assembler’s mistake. Accompanied by its orig fine black leatherette covered casing that has purple satin lining in the lid with a purple satin diagonal ribbon and Navy blue velvet lining in the bottom. Bottom is French fitted for the revolver and has a 5-rd cartridge block in left front along with a cleaning rod in the back. The circumference of the bottom interior of the case is outlined in blue & white cord. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cyl & grips, appears to be new & unfired. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory nickel finish on the frame with most of its orig gold wash on cyl & hammer. Grips are sound with a couple of very minor chips on the edges and retain great fire & color. Altogether a rare set suitable for the most discerning collector. 4-42560 (7,500-9,500)
CASED PRESENTATION GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 113261. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 5″ bbl, brass pin front sight, “SAML COLT” engraved bbl. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in large block letters. Revolver has received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving treatment with full coverage, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame which extends to bbl, over bbl lug and top side flats. Rammer pivot is also engraved to match and hammer has deluxe treatment of same foliate patterns terminating in the head of an animal. Top of backstrap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern and foliate patterns near the top at the heel on buttstrap and trigger guard. All engraving has a fine punch-dot background with several scrolls on frame and bbl lug terminating in flowers and right side terminating in birds head and left side terminating in Mr. Young’s trademark dogs head. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene marking. This gun is accompanied by a Colt custom-made mahogany casing with a painted inscription on cover which reads “J.C.D.”/from/”R.G.”. It would be interesting to know who the presenter and recipient of this fine gun were which was made in 1856. The case is stamped on bottom top edge “PATENT APR 1854”. The accompanying blue steel two-cavity mold is marked “31 PKT”. A large tin of pistol caps is maker marked by Eley. There is an accompanying “COLTS PATENT” marked eagle pistol flask and an L-shaped Colt pistol tool along with scattered loose .31 Cal balls. This is a fine, “as found” cased Colt with no problems. CONDITION: Gun overall is in fine condition retaining 20-30% of the original blue finish to bbl with another large percentage thinning and turning plum with scattered areas of rust and pitting. Cyl retains tiny traces of blue finish with 4 complete safety pins and 1 that is mostly smashed flat. One cyl is still loaded! Cyl scene is all discernible with small areas of pitting. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 50% of their original silver-plating. Burled stocks are sound and solid retaining 90%+ of their original varnish. Patented Colt case is solid though slightly warped and a gap especially on right front is seen when closed. Metal binding on edges is complete though one pc in back left is a bit loose and a crack extends in corner of that case under that particular binding. Velvet interior of case still mostly sound and solid with considerable wear where pistol was in contact. One partition separating gun from bullet mold is broken and loose but still retained by lining. Pistol flask is solid retaining traces of original varnish and good yellow patina. Bullet mold is very fine retaining most of its original blue though mostly thin, “COLTS PATENT” mark on spruecutter and “31 PKT” on body are well struck and easily read. The accompanying Colt tool is in fine condition retaining about half of its original blue finish with scattered staining. 4-44266 JS29 (7,000-9,000)
RARE & SPECTACULAR COLT DOUBLE RIFLE. SN 26. Cal. 45-100-470 Sharps (2.6″ case). Wonderful double rifle by Colt with 27-7/8″ drawn steel bbls with flat matted rib, dovetailed ivory bead hunting front sight and a slot blank in the rear seat. Rib is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. Left bbl has left hand twist and right bbl right hand twist. Mounted with highly figured checkered Italian walnut with black insert schnable tip splinter forearm and Prince of Wales pistol grip stock with raised side panels 14″ over a smooth steel buttplate. Left side of buttstock is inlaid with a 2-3/8″ x 1-3/8″ oval silver plaque engraved in Olde English style block letters “Blair D. Taylor / U.S.A.”. Bottom of stock has an empty oval silver initial plate. Receiver is lightweight style manufactured specifically for the double rifle with fluted fences and dbl hammers. Lockplates are lightly engraved with fleur-de-lis patterns and the manufacturer’s name on both sides. Bottom of receiver & trigger guard are engraved with light geometric patterns as is the heel tang of the buttplate. Top of wrist is mounted with very early style tang sight with spiral knurled bbl that originally had a flip-out small peep which has been removed with the pin still in place. This sight is marked “PAT. MAY 6 / 84” and was probably installed at about the same time the rifle was made. According to an article by Raymond W. Barth, which appeared in the March 1933 American Rifleman, a copy of which accompanies this rifle, Blair D. Taylor was a Colonel (or more likely a Lt. Colonel) who was in the medical corps stationed in the west at the time of the Custer Massacre. Mr. Barth states that he purchased this rifle directly from Col. Taylor’s daughter who stated that her father had not used the gun in over 50 years. The article also states that Col. Taylor died about four years ago (before this article) at the age of 80. He also relates shooting it with 45-70 and 45-90 cartridges. Also accompanying is a copy of a picture of Col. Taylor in Indian Wars era uniform wearing the epaulets of either a Major or Lt. Colonel. Also accompanied by National Rifle Association Silver Medal #113 awarded to this rifle at the 1971 annual meeting. Medal is in its orig blue box with small wood base plastic stand and award certificate to Eldon J. Owens. Additionally accompanied by a copy of an article by Miguel Hughes which was presented at the 2010 annual Colt Collectors Association Convention. The article is entitled “Just a Pair of Doubles” and it is regarding Colt Double Rifles SNs “21” and “26”. In the article Mr. Hughes relates the history of Colt Double Rifles which is also found in The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson. Apparently the orig two Colt rifles SNs “293” and “397” were created on the heavier Model 1878 shotgun frame and were probably built in 1879 at the order of Caldwell Hart Colt, Samuel Colt’s son who first suggested the double rifle. After those two “prototype” rifles were produced and it was found they weighed in at around 13 lbs. a new receiver was designed specifically for the double rifle which reduced the weight to 9-1/2 to 10 lbs. and they were given their own serial range beginning with number “1”. It is generally believed that the double rifles known today were gifts to Caldwell Colt’s friends & associates but apparently were available on special order although there is only one known order for a double rifle and that is SN “26” being sold here. The highest known SN for a double rifle is “33” plus the two prototypes which brings the total to thirty-five. The referenced publication speculates that there were less than forty produced in the period 1879-1885. Additionally accompanying is a copy of a photograph of Caldwell Colt. This rifle was sold in October 2004 in the auction of The Eldon Owens Estate Collection by the Julia Auction Company. Information developed at that time disclosed that Blair Dabney Taylor was a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 1866, during the Civil War and fought at the Battle of New Market, 15 May 1864. After the war he finished his education, became a physician and spent the rest of his career as a Union military doctor. Apparently in about 1948 this rifle came into the possession of Mr. Fred P.L. Mills of Old Deerfield, Mass. which prompted him to conduct research on these rifles and in 1953 he published a 51-page booklet dealing with the information he learned. In the book Mr. Mills states that this rifle was made for a military officer who ordered it to shoot buffalo while stationed out west but was transferred to Atlanta before this could happen. Given the fact that Mr. Barth purchased this rifle in the Atlanta area gives a reasonably solid trail of provenance. Mr. Owens received “a Colt” under the provisions of Mr. Mills’ will and later, in 1962, Mr. Owens purchased the remainder of the estate. On the inventory of the estate collection this rifle was number one. PROVENANCE: Blair D. Taylor; Blair D. Taylor Family; Raymond W. Barth Collection; Fred P.L. Mills Collection; Eldon J. Owens Collection; Bob Everhart Collection; Miguel A. Hughes Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbls retain 98-99% strong orig rust blue with only faint muzzle edge wear and slight wear at the breech end of the bbls. Receiver retains about all of its orig case colors, mostly fading to silver with stronger colors in the most sheltered areas. Lockplates retain most of their orig brilliant case colors. Right hammer retains about all of its orig bright case colors with the left hammer fading to silver. Buttplate retains about 85% bright case colors showing wear around heel & toe. Wood is sound with a few light handling & use nicks & scratches with sharp edges around raised panels and checkering showing light diamond point wear and overall retains just about all of its orig hand rubbed oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Medal and other accompanying items are fine. 4-42282 JR170 (90,000-120,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED CIVIL WAR INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3433. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in an arc in a pillow-shaped panel. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a nicely figured varnished 1-pc walnut grip with SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe coverage & patterns consisting of foliate arabesque scrolls with fine punch dot background. Several of the scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms and one scroll on left side of bbl terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized bird’s head. Frame has about full coverage with engraving extending up the bbl and terminating forward of the address. Hammer has received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of foliate arabesque patterns on the shank with wolf’s heads on each side of the nose and fish scale patterns on sides of hammer spur and top edge of hammer with hand cut checkering on the spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Center of back strap is engraved in period script “Capt L.W. Page”. Accompanied by a Civil War period black Moroccan leather flap holster with doeskin lining and brass stud with a sgl belt loop on back and sewn toe. Capt. Lemuel W. Page was a Captain in Company C of the 12th Vermont Infantry. He enlisted in Sept. 1862 for 9 months and was mustered out as a Captain on 14 July 1863. The 12th Vermont was used primarily for guard duty around the Capitol and picket duty in Virginia. In June 1863 the unit was on railroad guard duty until June 21st at the beginning of the Gettysburg Campaign. During the Battle of Gettysburg in early July 1863 the unit was again on railroad guard duty and after the battle were detailed to guard 2,500 Confederate prisoners of war. The only battle action the 12th Vermont was engaged in was on Dec. 28, 1862 when it assisted in repulsing J.E.B. Stuart’s third Cavalry raid wherein Stuart suffered some losses but the 12th Vermont escaped without loss. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% orig blue, glossy & bright on top and in sheltered areas with the bottom of bbl having been cleaned under rammer area. Rammer retains most of its orig case colors, strong & bright on pivot. Frame retains virtually all of its orig case colors turned slightly dark on recoil shields. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cyl retains strong blue in the flutes turned to brown patina on outer diameter with thin blue in rebated area. All five safety pins are battered. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating showing edge wear and thinning on back strap. Grip is sound showing light edge wear and a few minor nicks and retains most of its brilliant orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered moderate pitting. Holster shows moderate heavy wear with damage to the liner on the tab and the seam around rear edge is open. Overall retains generous amounts of orig black finish. 4-42449 JR30 (20,000-30,000)
ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 78475. Cal. 22 Short. Nickel finish with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame is marked “22 CAL”. Mounted with 2-pc bird head ivory grips that are numbered “44299” on the inside of both grips. Bbl, cyl & frame are nicely engraved in NY style consisting of foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background. CONDITION: Good to very good. Bbl retains about 75% orig nickel and the frame about 95% strong orig nickel. Grips are sound, slightly undersized and retain a fine ivory patina. Hammer spring is a replacement and the trigger return spring is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-42393 JR5 (800-1,200)
DEBBIE TARSITANO PAPERWEIGHT. Design consists of a floral crescent bouquet having flowers in colors of yellow, pink, blue, amethyst and red with green leaves and stems. Signed with a “DT” signature cane on underside and engraved with a horse and colt scene. Sixteen side facets and one large top facet complete the weight. SIZE: 2-1/8″ t x 4″ dia. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of Bernard Piken; Boston, Mass. CONDITION: Very good to excellent. 5-62406 (500-700)
GROUP OF SIX SCHOOLROOM WALL MAPS. 1) Map of the State of Maine with the Province of New Brunswick by Moses Greenleaf, engraved by J.H. Young & F. Dankworth, Philadelphia. Published by Shirley & Hyde, Portland, 1829. Wall map showing Maine with colored counties. 2) United States 1921 map by the Dept. of Interior. 3) Topographical map of Hancock County, Maine by H.F. Walling, 1860. Wall map showing colored sections of the county surrounded by smaller maps of individual towns and engraved panels of important places. 4) Colton’s Map of the United States including the British provinces, inset map of Central America by D. McLellan, New York, and the West Indies. Wall map showing the United States. Published by J.H. Colton, 1854. 5) Map of Mt. Desert Island, Maine 1896 by Waldron Bates, Edward L. Rand, and Herbert Jaques. Map showing the island with its roads, lakes & surrounding islands. 6) Map of the City of Ellsworth, Maine by Roe & Colby, 1875. The colored city map showing the different wards with houses & streets, very colorful. SIZE: 1) 50″ h x 42″. 2) 62″ h x 85″ w. 3) 62″ h x 63″ w. 4) 54″ h x 60″ w. 5) 52″ h x 43-1/2″ w. 6) 48″ h x 43″ w. PROVENANCE: From an Ellsworth, Maine Estate. CONDITION: 1) Intact with toning, some stains, wrinkling with some tears, in need of some restoration. 2) Intact with some stains. 3) Some stains & yellowing, some tears at top center. 4) Some crease marks, tears & damaged edges. 5) Very good with some light stains at edges and a few tears at bottom left margin. 6) The top 12″ damaged with stains, creases, tears. The remainder very good with bottom stain. 9-21974 (1,000-2,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT HOUSE PISTOL. SN 7866. Cal. 41 RF. Usual configuration with a 5-shot round clip,2-5/8″ rnd bbl, integral pinched blade front sight and 2-line address with grooved top strap for rear sight. Sight groove is marked with the patent dates. The frame & grip frame are brass with caliber marking on left side below cyl and it is mounted with 2-pc smooth bird head walnut grips numbered to this revolver. Frame, cyl & bbl are engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop with about 50-60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and a starburst on each side of bbl boss. Both sides of bbl are engraved with heavy snake & dot patterns. Cyl is engraved with foliate & geometric patterns done with a zig zag style of engraving. SN was observed on bottom of grip and bottom of bbl under base pin. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only 2,150 of this 5-shot model were produced in the period 1871-76 of the total 9,952 revolvers produced. Of the 2,150 revolvers of this type produced, only a very few were engraved and few survive today. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including bbl & grips, cyl is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 30-40% orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a dark patina. Cyl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a dark patina. Frame retains traces of orig silver in most sheltered areas and under grips being mostly a dark mustard patina. Trigger, hammer, cyl pin, lock bolt & screws retain most of their orig blue with hammer screw bright metal. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore, may be unfired. 4-41236 JR50 (4,000-7,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED 2ND MODEL 2ND TYPE WHITNEY NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 7960M. Cal. 36. scarce engraved Whitney Navy with 7-9/16″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “E. WHITNEY N. HAVEN, USA.” address. Revolver has 6-shot cylinder with six safety notches in rear edge, brass trigger guard and 3-pc rammer with Colt style bayonet latch. Revolver is mounted with very old replacement, smooth ivory 2-pc grips. Frame is engraved in New York style with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Sides of bbl are matching engraved with geometric patterns on top side flats and around the address. Sides & top edge of hammer are also engraved and the top of back strap is engraved in a Nimschke style fan. Near the top of back strap, at the heel, on the butt strap & trigger guard are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. Cylinder is engraved to match around the center with engraving patterns on lands between the nipple recesses on rear edge. Accompanied by a modern mahogany casing with a small brass rectangular plate in top inscribed “U.S. NAVY”. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a large Navy/Army single sided flask w/Trophy of Arms decoration and crossed pistols & rifles above; a Whitney 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter; an L-shaped nipple wrench; a small English pewter oil bottle; a tin of Goldmark’s caps and a functioning key. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair to good. No orig finish remains being an overall heavily cleaned gray metal patina. Tip of the cylinder spindle part of the rammer is damaged. Grips show heavy wear with heavy rust stains on inside and evidence of added glue filler around the edges, and retain a very dark gold patina with some age lines. Mechanics are a little loose but functional, very worn dark bore. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its custom finish. Interior is lightly soiled with bright fabric. Flask has a couple of dents on back side and overall retains about 30% orig finish. Mold retains a dark brown patina; other implements are fine. 4-41383 JR61 (2,000-3,000)
*CUSTOM RUGER OVER-UNDER SHOTGUN ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID BY BRYSON J. GWINNELL WITH BRILEY TUBE SET AND CASE. SN 410-13762. Cal. 12 Ga. 3″ Chambers. 28″ Mono-block ventilated rib bbls are ported and fitted with Briley thin wall choke tubes. Briley Ultimate Ultralight 3 gauge tube set is included. Nicely polished Ruger red label action features selective single trigger and non-automatic safety (Bbl selector and toggling safety button are on top tang, and stamped “S” “B” and “T”). Bottom of action is stamped “Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc.” and “Southport. Conn. USA”. Action is engraved with a mix of scroll and ribbons outlining vignettes of gold inlaid dogs and game rendered in high relief; setter pointing pair of woodcock on left; pointer flushing pheasant on right. These scenes are highlighted by other feather motifs at corners of action and at fences. Bottom of action shows a drumming grouse in front of trigger guard, with single grouse feather under company name. Bbls have gold bands at muzzles, and continue the feather motif behind the bands. Top sides of mono-block show gold inlaid running squirrel and rabbit within gold wire ovals flanked by relief scrolled acanthus flourishes. Quality of this work is very fine, and nicely detailed, done by Bryson Gwinnell, who began his career at Smith & Wesson, and was later at the Colt custom shop for ten years. He then worked as an engraver for the U. S. Mint before doing freelance engraving on firearms. His signature and completion date is on top tang to left of lever. Very fine, flame-figured American walnut, full pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over leather-faced brown “Old English” pad. Stock features horn sunburst grip cap, 18 LPI point pattern borderless checkering, and adjustable comb. Matching one piece forend has inset Ruger logo, and Deeley release, and continues the engraving theme with gold inlaid falling grouse losing feathers, and has obviously just been shot. Bore diameter: top -.729, bottom -.727. Bore restrictions: SC. Wall thickness: top -.045, bottom -.048. Drop at heel: 2-5/16″, drop at comb: Adjustable. Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz, LOP 14-1/4″. Aluminum Briley case has Ruger and Briley logo decals on exterior. Briley tube set is held in top compartment of blue velvet lined interior. Case contains 13 various choke tubes for different bbls, and wrench, along with Briley care and maintenance pamphlet. CONDITION: Excellent, nearly new. Bbls showing a few minor marks from contact with fore arm. Action is a bit dirty from firing. Stocks have only one or two minor marks. Case and tubes are excellent. 4-42068 MGM152 (5,000-7,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL LONDON DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 52. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, slightly reduced German silver front sight and hand engraved “COL. COLT LONDON” address. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a replacement burl walnut 1-pc grip with the number “32” in back strap channel. Frame is engraved with 60-70% coverage sparse English style foliate arabesque engraving with flowers & leaves on recoil shields. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon. Engraving extends over both sides of bbl lug and on to the rammer pivot. Top of back strap is engraved in a wonderful fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near top & heel. Trigger guard is engraved to match. Accompanied by a wonderful, orig English Dragoon casing with brass bull’s eye concealed handle in the lid. Center of lid is inlaid with a rnd brass medallion engraved with a family crest which consists of a crown with a dragon on top under a very detailed crown. Interior is dark blue velvet lined with a high dust rail and compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a large Dixon bag shaped flask marked “COLTS NAVY FLASK” on the top; a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball American style mold with sprue cutter; a 500 count lacquered tin of Eley’s caps; an L-shaped nipple wrench and a pewter oil bottle. London Dragoons are somewhat rare and engraved ones are extremely rare with fine cases such as this one exceedingly rare. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except wedge which is numbered “149” and grip as noted. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray patina with moderate to heavy rust pitting on bbl and light pitting elsewhere. Cylinder is also heavily cleaned with a few spots of heavy pitting and retains about 50% Dragoon/Indian fight scene. Trigger guard & back strap have silver only under grip with the exposed brass a very dark patina. Grip is sound with sharp edges and retains about all of its fine varnished finish. Mechanics are fine, very worn dark bore. Case is very fine with handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is very fine with light soil, probably having been added to this set in recent years. However, it is an orig English casing. Flask is very fine retaining most of its orig dark finish, may be a reproduction. Mold is mostly a blue/gray patina with light surface rust & pitting. Bullet cavity has some minor rust, otherwise is fine. Cap tin is fine as are the other accessories. 4-41378 JR62 (6,000-10,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER – CUSTOM EDITION W/PRES CASE. SN 29-35 SHERIFF/SA45127. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with left side marked “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL .45” inlaid in gold. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt in gold. Trigger guard & back strap are gold plated and are mounted with fine 2-pc, diamond & fleur-de-lis carved & checkered ivory grips numbered to this revolver. SN on bottom of frame is “29-35 SHERIFF” and the orig SN “SA45127” is on the left side of front & back straps under the grip. Left side of front & back straps are also stamped “29”. Left side of butt strap is stamped the engraver’s name “B J GWINNELL” (Bryson J. Gwinnell), Colt Custom Shop Master Engraver for 10 years. Revolver is beautifully engraved in “A+” coverage with well executed foliate arabesque patterns on frame, recoil shield, bbl, back strap & butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved in a running leaf pattern and the top strap in feather patterns. Frame, top strap & sides of hammer are outlined in gold wire as is the marking on left side of bbl. Both sides of bbl boss on frame are engraved in a checkered diamond pattern which are outlined in gold. Right side of frame is inlaid in gold “1 OF 35”. Recoil shield has a relief gold inlaid 6-point star/badge engraved “SHERIFF”. Loading gate is inlaid with a raised gold pair of handcuffs. Cylinder is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and each land has a gold inlaid fleur-de-lis at the front end with a gold wire band around rear edge. Base pin is also gold plated. Housed in a custom walnut roll-top pres case and gold plated sheriff’s badge and hang tag. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter describing this gun on Custom Shop Order #1842 in detail as shipped to Davidson’s Supply on 5-21-1982. This is truly a spectacular commemorative rarely encountered today. PROVENANCE: Private Coll. of a Gentleman. Colt Factory Letter. CONDITION: New & unfired, all matching. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with bright blue & gold. Grips are equally new as is case and badge. 4-41900 JR192 (8,000-12,000)
CASED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 51784. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetail German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a dbl arc in a pillow shaped panel. The silver plated small guard brass trigger guard & back strap contains a wonderful smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Frame has full coverage Nimschke foliate arabesque patterns with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms, all with very fine punch dot background. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with a dash engraved border around address. One scroll on left side of bbl lug terminates in Mr. Nimschke’s stylized animal head and another on right side terminates in a large flower blossom. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and hammer is also engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank and Nimschke’s wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale pattern. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Screw heads & tips are all engraved except the hammer screw which is a replacement. Cylinder is standard with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Accompanied by a wonderful brass bound rosewood casing with empty brass plate in center of lid and brass corners and reinforcements. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in lighter colored cloth, compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a reproduction pocket size Dixon bag flask; a 2-cavity English style bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter; a packet of six Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges; an L-shaped nipple wrench; a tin of Eley’s caps with plain steel bottom & brass lid and an English pewter oil bottle. Case has two covered compartments and a triangular shaped compartment in right rear that is missing its cover. This revolver is somewhat rare with Nimschke engraving because at the time this revolver was produced Gustave Young was the primary Colt engraver and although this revolver is engraved in standard Colt patterns Mr. Nimschke’s engraving is very distinctive. This casing appears to be an orig Colt casing that may have had some areas very old, relined with the lighter colored material. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 30-35% flaked blue in sheltered areas with balance a very dark patina. Rammer handle is slightly sprung but will latch. Frame, hammer & cyl are also a dark patina with pitting around hammer nose and a few spots on cylinder. Cylinder retains about 50% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 95% strong orig silver plating, thin at heel. Grip is sound with minor chipped right toe and retains wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore, pitted in the grooves. Case has a grain check in lid and another in the bottom with numerous handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded inside lid with stains from cylinder contact and heavily soiled in bottom with damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is fine; mold is nicked & dinged and retains a thin blue/brown patina; cartridge packet is crisp with light soil; other accessories are fine. 4-41380 JR63 (10,000-15,000)
SCARCE COLT OPEN TOP POCKET SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER WITH BOX. SN 67968. Cal. 22. Late model, nickel finish with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address with sloping hammer. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips with the number “7” scratched inside each grip. Revolver is lightly engraved in New York style, probably from the Helfricht shop with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame and geometric patterns on back strap. Sides of bbl are engraved with a light chip border and rectangle & dot patterns on both sides with a foliate spray toward the muzzle. Cylinder is engraved in a continuous geometric pattern. Accompanied by its orig hinged lid cardboard box with pink & burgundy label and dark burgundy band. These little revolvers are not often found with engraving and almost never with their orig boxes. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains about all of its orig nickel finish with no visible wear, has been fired but cylinder shows very little actual use although the rear face shows that it has been frequently dry fired, probably by someone inexperienced with firearms. Grips are fine with good fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Box shows heavy edge wear with light repairs around edge of lid and one break in rear edge. Label is lightly soiled but completely intact with good vivid colors. Altogether a rare set. 4-42011 JR190 (4,000-6,000)
RARE BELGIAN BREVETE COPY OF A PATERSON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN NONE. Cal. 36. Very unusual early copy of a Colt Paterson holster pistol with 7″ oct Damascus bbl, mushroom pin front sight and Paterson shaped frame and hammer with folding trigger and a long, bag shaped, smooth burl walnut grip with German silver elongated octagonal cap box in the butt with scalloped shell hinged lid. An unusual feature of this revolver is its 8-shot cylinder, otherwise it mechanically strongly resembles a Colt Paterson. It differs slightly in width of frame and, of necessity, the recoil shield to accommodate the larger cylinder, with all of the frame screws and wedge entering from the right. Cylinder has a square rear shoulder and the bbl lug is quite thin with a wide flared bottom. Wedge is also small and of Paterson style without spring. Frame, recoil shields, back strap, top edge of hammer and sides of bbl lug are nicely engraved in early vine style similar to Colt revolvers. Screw heads & tips are also engraved in Colt style. Revolver, except for engraving, is completely unmarked with no proofs or serial numbers. The bore has eight lands & grooves of conventional rifling with right hand twist. Bottom flat of bbl, just forward of bbl lug, has the remains of what appears to be an obliterated Belgian proof. One back strap to frame screw is missing. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl & bbl lug retain a gray metal finish with the bbl showing most of its etched deluxe Damascus pattern. Frame retains dark case colors with brighter colors on the hammer. Cylinder is mostly a gray/brown patina with some fine pitting on front face. Right tip of hammer nose/rear sight is broken. Grip is sound with light nicks & scratches in the finish and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-41234 JR53 (10,000-15,000)
*CASED SET OF WINCHESTER / COLT COMMEMORATIVES. SN 225WC. Cal. 44-40. Set consists of a Winchester Model 94 and a Colt SAA with matching serial numbers. Both highly embellished with gold. The Winchester 94 is carbine configuration with 20″ rnd bbl, full magazine, pedestal front base with pinned gold plated blade sight, full buck horn rear sight with set screw. Left side bbl toward muzzle is engraved and gold filled with bold foliate scrolls surrounding script “WINCHESTER”. Right side has bold foliate scroll and the Winchester manufacturing plant all in gold. The left side bbl below rear sight is marked “WINCHESTER – MODEL 94 44-40 WIN./MADE IN NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A. WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL”. Top of bbl has “WP” proof mark. The receiver is engraved and gold filled on left side with oval shield and monogram “W/C”, bold foliate scrolls and Winchester horse and rider. Right side has bust of Oliver F. Winchester wearing top hat and bold foliate scrolls all in gold. Top tang has signature “O F WINCHESTER” in gold. Mounted with nicely figured walnut, F-style checkered straight grip, smooth, curved steel buttplate, F-style checkered forend with single retaining band. The Colt single action has a 7-1/2″ bbl. Left side with bold foliate scroll and Colt insignia in gold. Right side with bold foliate scroll and Colt factory in gold. Top of bbl marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The black powder frame has 3-line patent dates. Un-fluted cylinder has gold wire border at rear, bold foliate scrolls in gold, oval with “W/C” and oval with rampant colt in gold. Backstrap has signature “COL. SAM COLT” in gold, 1-pc wooden grips. The set comes housed in oak display case, brass plaque on top “WINCHESTER/COLT/COMMEMORATIVE SET” with signatures of O.F. Winchester and Col. Sam Colt. Maroon velvet interior French fit for firearms and two commemorative discs, one of Winchester horse and rider, one of rampant colt. Gun is accompanied with factory letters from U.S. Repeating Arms and Colt fully identifying guns and a suggested retail price in 1983 of $3,995. Guns also have their original factory boxes and shipping carton. CONDITION: New and test fired only. Guns retain all of their original factory finish. SA has small dent at bottom of left side of grip. 4-42131 BDT210 (3,500-4,500)
WONDERFUL GUSTAV YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER IN RARE FRENCH FITTED BEVEL TOP CASE. SN 91998. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame is engraved with “COLTS PATENT” in a dbl arc inside a pillow shaped panel. Frame & hammer have Mr. Young’s deluxe coverage engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. One scroll on left recoil shield terminates in a flower blossom and another on right side of frame terminates in his stylized bird head. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose. Bbl lug is matching deluxe engraved in foliate & floral patterns with one scroll terminating in a beautifully detailed dog’s head on left side and another terminating in a flower blossom on right side. Rammer pivot is full coverage engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate patterns at top & heel, on butt strap and trigger guard. All screw heads and screw tips are also engraved except the wedge screw which is apparently a replacement. Cyl is usual 5-shots with the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig 1-pc ivory grip, matching numbered to revolver. Accompanied by a fine beveled top, blue velvet lined oak casing, French fitted & compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a wonderful dbl sided flying eagle & shield flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold and a 5-cartridge packet of American powder combustible cartridges. The flask, with its wonderfully detailed eagle & shield motifs, depicts a flying American eagle with a ribbon in its beak which is inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Case has two covered compartments with ivory pulls, one containing cast lead bullets & caps and the other the packet of cartridges. Given that the majority of the ’49 pocket model revolvers found today show hard frontier service, it is very rare to find one retaining much orig finish. It seems likely that this deluxe engraved revolver was the property of a high ranking officer or some other individual of some importance or status. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 90-92% glossy orig blue showing muzzle end and sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors with handle & rammer a gray patina. Frame & hammer retain strong case colors in sheltered areas with balance fading to silver. Cyl retains an overall gray patina and about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their strong orig silver plating, slightly thinned at heel. Case has a couple of small grain checks in lid and a couple of others in bottom with a couple of minor water stains, otherwise is sound and retains most of its orig varnish. Inside lid lining shows a dark stain from the revolver cyl, otherwise is only lightly faded. Bottom shows light to moderate soil with some staining around cyl area and damage from front sight and hammer spur. Flask is extremely fine, retaining about all of it’s strong orig finish with only slight thinning on eagle’s breast. Mold shows slight oxidation on right side with some minor oxidation on steel hinge pin. Cartridge packet is crisp. Altogether a wonderful and complete deluxe set. 4-41738 JR18 (20,000-30,000)
FINE DELUXE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 15979. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 5″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address with etched panel on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of trigger guard has caliber marking. Mounted with beautiful smooth pearl 2-pc grips. Revolver is deluxe engraved by the Colt factory with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background on the frame and a foliate & vine pattern on top strap. Engraving patterns extend up both sides of bbl with a hunter star on top of bbl. The bbl is engraved with snake & dot patterns from the end of the foliate patterns to the muzzle. Ejector rod housing has a zig zag snake pattern in the gullet with snake & dot pattern on outer radius. Top of back strap is engraved with a zig zag diamond & “X” pattern with geometric patterns on back strap. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and a dash & dot border pattern at rear edge. Screws are fire blued with hammer polished bright on sides and fire blued on top & rear edges. Trigger is also fire blued. Fine smooth pearl grips fit perfectly, and have been with this revolver its entire life. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 Colt with 5″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks & factory engraved shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co., St. Louis, MO, on Dec. 24, 1884 in a shipment of 10 same type revolvers. The mention of rubber stocks in the ledger is likely a clerical error for this entry. Engraved Thunderer revolvers are quite scarce and factory engraved ones are the most scarce. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains virtually all of its strong orig factory nickel. Etched panel on bbl is crisp & bright. Front sight has a small ding on top edge. Screws retain most of their orig factory fire blue, slightly dulled. Trigger retains bright fire blue on sides and rear edge turned plum on front edge. Hammer is bright on sides with bright fire blue on rear edge turning plum on top edge. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-41895 JR135 (20,000-30,000)
CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED RARE 6″ COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 142553. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with very rare 6″ oct bbl, tiny dovetailed blade front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard has caliber marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a beautiful 1-pc ivory grip that has a deep relief carved goddess Minerva on the left side and the SN in back strap channel. Minerva was the Goddess of Wisdom & War. The serial numbers on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that this revolver was to be engraved. SN on cyl has been mostly obliterated by grinding & peening. Revolver has Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats of the bbl with a dash & dot border around address. One of scrolls on left side of bbl lug terminates in Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s head. Rammer pivot & hammer also have received his deluxe engraving treatment with foliate arabesque scrolls on hammer shank and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose with fish scale engraving on top edge. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top of the back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Toe of butt strap is engraved in a sunburst pattern around the screw hole. Accompanied by a custom made mahogany casing with a Civil War token in the lid and lined with rose colored velvet, compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a Navy-size eagle & stars dbl sided flask with 4-position adjustable spout; a Manhattan Navy-sized 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with “MANHATTAN” marked sprue cutter; a packet of American Powder Co. combustible cartridges; a tin of Eley’s caps and a small pewter oil bottle. It is evident that this revolver saw long & hard service, probably through the Civil War and later on the frontier. It, undoubtedly, was the property of someone of importance, possibly a high ranking military officer or law enforcement officer. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including grip except the cyl which is a replacement. Bbl retains about 20% blue on bottom flat, under the rammer handle with the balance a gray/brown patina and fine pin prick pitting. Frame is a gray/brown patina with some fine pitting on right side. Cyl is a medium plummy brown with one area of fine pitting. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating with some thinning on heel and trigger plate. Grip has a few minor age lines, shows moderate to heavy wear on raised carving and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore with heavy pitting. Case is sound, retaining most of its custom finish. Interior is bright & clean with some minor staining around cyl area. Flask & mold show heavy use with a couple of dents in the flask and light pitting on the mold. Cartridge packet & other implements are fine. 4-41372 JR58 (6,000-10,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP POCKET REVOLVERS. SN 90142 & 90143. Cal. 22 Short. Configured & engraved identically with silver finish 2-3/8″ rnd bbls, half moon front sights and 2-line addresses. #90142 has the early high spur hammer and #90143 has the later sloping spur hammer. They are mounted with 2-pc bird head pearl grips. Both revolvers are engraved in New York style, probably from the L.D. Nimschke shop with foliate arabesque patterns on the frames which incorporate a bird’s head in the pattern on the left side. Sides of bbl are engraved in a running vine & leaf pattern with dash & dot patterns on the cyl spindle bosses. Back straps are engraved in geometric patterns. Cylinders are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns back of each cyl stop notch with a connecting zig zag pattern around the circumference. Engraved open top revolvers are a rarity in their own right but to find a consecutively numbered pair engraved identically is extremely rare. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall both revolvers retain virtually all of a fine professionally restored silver finish showing only slight muzzle edge wear, probably unfired since restoration. Engraving remains strong & sharp with no evidence of having been polished. Left side of frame on #90143 has a few light scratches. Grips are sound and retain great fire & color. Grips on #91042 are probably period of use replacements. Mechanics are fine, strong bores with moderate pitting. A truly rare & unusual pair. 4-41405 JR154 (4,000-5,000)
DOUBLE CASED SET OF PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET & COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS TO COMMANDER 31ST MASS VOLS & 1ST U.S.COLORED CAV. SN 1) 182485; 2) 22082. 1) Model 1849 Pocket. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last three digits of SN visible in back strap channel. Any other numbers are obscured. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene roll-marking. This revolver is one of the pieces assembled from English parts returned from the London Armory and has the domed English style screws in the frame. Other screws are American style. Back strap is engraved in period script “Qtr. M Genl J Reed to Adgt C M Whelden” and the butt strap is engraved “April 25th 1861”. 2) Model 1851 Navy. Cal. 36. Third Model Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the left shoulder and left front web of trigger guard have tiny inspector initials. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and three of safety pins serviceable. Small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with three digits “208” visible in back strap channel with the fourth number obscured. Back strap is engraved in period script identically to the Model 1849 Pocket revolver above, “Qtr. M Genl J Reed to Adgt C M Whelden” and the butt strap is engraved “April 25th 1861”. Accompanied by a fine brass bound rosewood casing with brass reinforcing corners and an empty rectangular plate in the lid. Front has sliding brass latches and a mortised replacement lock with oval escutcheon. Interior is newly burgundy velvet lined with newly attached partitions. Bottom is partitioned for both revolvers, a Colt’s dbl sided eagle & trophy of arms angle spout Navy sized flask, dbl sided eagle & shield pocket sized flask, a 2-cavity blued steel “COLTS PATENT” 36 caliber mold with sprue cutter and a blued steel 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked “31 PKT” on right side. This casing did not originate with this pair of revolvers however consignor states that he purchased it in 1990 from old time dealer, Kenneth Schindler of Vero Beach, FL. Shindler had acquired the combination casing w/ one colt ’49 Pocket in it and stated the ’51 had been given to a family member. Consignor had previously seen a picture of this casing (without guns) before it was relined and all the partitions were loose in the bottom and since then it obviously has been restored. The consignor initiated the case restoration after having discovered the mate to the M1849. This pair of revolvers is accompanied by two 3-ring binders of information regarding the life & service of Lt. Col. Charles Moses Whelden of Pittsfield, MA and an article entitled “Reunited After 125 years-An Unusual Pair of Presentation Colt Revolvers”, illuminating the research and reunion of the Colt pair. In 1841 Mr. Whelden was a volunteer in the Washington Light Infantry, was also a Captain of the Pittsfield Fire Department, a pioneer in California in 1849 and an engineer. He was a druggist by trade, however devoted much of his time to the militia and became a member of the exclusive Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, the first organized military company in Massachusetts and the third oldest charter organization in the world. By the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 Mr. Whelden was a Captain in the Massachusetts Militia and was one of the first to respond to the call to arms. In April 1861 he volunteered as an unpaid officer on the Staff of Gen. Benjamin F. Butler and a week later was given authority to raise a regiment for service. Apparently to commemorate this event, Brig. Gen. John H. Reed, newly appointed Quartermaster General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, a friend of Whelden’s and also a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, presented Whelden with this pair of Colts. Whelden raised a regiment of troops which became the Massachusetts 31st Volunteer Infantry and Whelden was appointed Lt. Colonel commanding this regiment. Col Whelden served on the staff of Gen. Butler with his regiment in Louisiana 1861-62 and his regiment was the first to enter the City of New Orleans after its capture on May 1, 1862. In July 1862 he was on detached duty as the Commander of Fort Pike in Louisiana until December when he resigned his commission and again served as an unpaid volunteer officer under Gen. Butler until Dec. 7, 1863. At that time he was commissioned Lt. Colonel commanding the 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry and from that date until Aug. 15, 1864 he was the Provost Marshall for the States of Virginia & North Carolina. During this time the first U.S. Colored Cavalry participated in operations around Richmond and captured Bermuda Hundred & City Point on May 5, 1864. The unit next saw action on June 16-19, 1864 during the siege & assault on Petersburg. On July 27-28, 1864 they again saw action at Bottom Run. Shortly after that the unit was assigned to Fortress Monroe for detached service in Texas. At this time Col. Whelden resigned and became the Superintendent of the Government Gas Works at Norfolk, VA in which position he remained the rest of the war. After the war Col. Whelden returned to Pittsfield and died there Jan. 24, 1910 at age 88 years 29 days. Gen. Reed, who presented the revolvers to Col. Whelden, was also a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, whose Museum at Faneuil Hall still holds Whelden’s uniform and flag of the Mass 31st, had risen through the ranks from engineer in 1854 to Commander in Chief in 1858. He was commissioned Brig. General in the Massachusetts Militia in April 1861 as the Quartermaster General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts where he served throughout the war. After the war he was reappointed Brig. General in 1866 and served until 1869. The large lot of research materials accumulated by consignor contains muster rolls and extensive military history on Col. Whelden along with a photograph of him in later years in uniform with a GAR reunion medal on his uniform. The binders also contain numerous correspondence between consignor and various individuals involved in the acquisition and reuniting of these two revolvers. CONDITION: 1) Good to very good, all matching except rammer handle which is numbered “14”. Traces of blue remain on the bbl in the most sheltered areas with traces of case colors on rammer pivot. Bbl & rammer overall are a smooth medium gray patina. Frame & hammer are also a smooth gray patina with fine pin prick pitting over most of frame & hammer. Cyl is also lightly pitted and retains 50-60% stagecoach holdup scene and overall is a light gray patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong silver in sheltered areas with the front strap, body of the back strap & butt strap a medium mustard patina. Grip has chips along right edge and shows moderate to heavy wear with a gouge on left side and a bruise on right side and retains 75-80% strong orig varnish. Lock bolt is not functioning, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered pitting. 2) Good to very good, all matching including rammer, cyl & grip. Bbl & rammer handle show heavy wear with a smooth medium gray patina. Frame retains about 50% faded case colors, strong on right side. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with the exposed area on the shoulder of the back strap a blackish brass patina. Grip is sound with oil staining around frame and with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Case has a crack across the lid and a grain check with several grain checks in the bottom with normal handling & storage nicks & scratches along with a couple of gouges in the lid and retains most of its fine restored finish. Interior is crisp & clean with solid partitions. Molds are fine. Navy flask has several small dents but appears sound with a medium dark brass patina. Pocket flask has a couple of small dents with traces of orig finish in the repoussed areas and retains a dark brass patina. Altogether a fine and rare combination cased, presentation set that belonged to a Civil War officer. 4-42080 (12,000-15,000)
RARE HENRY MARKED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE. SN 21123. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Usual configuration with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, German silver Rocky Mtn. front sight and 900 yard Henry style ladder rear sight. It has full magazine tube and is mounted with uncheckered, nicely figured, slab sawed American walnut with very highly figured tiger-striped forearm and straight stock with crescent brass buttplate. Forend cap & buttstock are mounted with factory sling swivels. Receiver is beautifully Nimschke engraved with his typical sweeping intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on both sides with matching empty geometric panels on each side. Left sideplate also has a bird head and a demon head incorporated into the patterns and the right side a bird head in one pattern. The transition from the sideplate, to the front scalloped areas are engraved in geometric patterns with fine punch dot centers. Carrier is engraved with an elaborate hunter’s star and bottom of receiver with a foliate arabesque pattern. Top of receiver is engraved in geometric patterns on top flat with a crown shaped pattern back of ejection port. Front receiver ring is engraved with a hunter’s star. Forend cap and buttplate tang are also engraved to match. Few examples of Nimschke’s work survive today that have the bird’s head and/or demon’s head incorporated into the engraved panels. These patterns are more often found on Nimschke engraved Colts. The SN was observed on bottom tang with the last three digits of the SN in the top tang channel of butt stock and again inside toe of buttplates. It appears that this rifle was originally gold washed as the inside of the buttplate and sides of tangs under the wood retain some gold plating. PROVENANCE: Dr. Edmund Lewis Collection CONDITION: Fine, all matching including stock & buttplate. No orig finish remains with bbl & magazine tube being a cleaned & lightly refinished gray metal patina, with areas of light surface discoloration and cloth pattern etching. There appears to be a filled dovetail in top flat just back of front sight, probably from an old scope mount. Bbl address is very faint but almost completely legible. Receiver, forearm & buttplate are fine with lightly worn edges and overall retain a medium, mellow mustard patina. Lever is a gray metal patina with some old fine pitting. Hammer retains smoky case colors, mostly faded to gray. Stock has a repaired chip by the top tang, otherwise wood is sound with light handling & use marks and retains most of an old restored finish. Mechanics are a little stiff but functional, strong sharp bore with fine pitting. 4-41308 JR102 (17,500-27,500)
EXTREMELY FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 113517. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a dbl arc inside a pillow shape panel. Frame has full coverage Gustav Young deluxe engraving patterns consisting of foliate arabesque scrolls, two of which terminate in flower blossoms on left side. Bbl lug continues his deluxe engraving patterns with foliate & floral scrolls, one of which terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized dog’s head on left side and another in a flower blossom on right side. Bbl address is surrounded by geometric scrolls and the rammer pivot has full coverage engraving. All screw heads and screw tips are engraved. Cyl is typical 5-shots with the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and five crisp safety pins. The small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig Colt 1-pc ivory grip constructed of two slabs of ivory attached to two wood blocks glued together to form a 1-pc grip. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & bottom, on butt strap & trigger guard. Accompanied by an orig, dark purple velvet lined, mahogany Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a brass “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold without sprue cutter, a single sided “COLTS PATENT” marked eagle & stars over an “E PLURIBUS UNUM” ribbon flask, a sealed packet of six “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Altogether an outstanding complete & desirable engraved cased Colt. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains 92-93% strong, glossy orig blue with a few light thin spots and bright sharp edges. Rammer handle & pivot retain dark case colors. Frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas with balance fading to silver. Hammer is in identical condition. Cylinder, which appears to be unfired, retains about 90% glossy orig blue with five crisp safety pins and most of the orig factory blue on cyl face and in all the chambers and overall retains 98-99% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard retains 65-70% strong orig silver and back strap virtually all of its orig silver. Grip is sound and retains a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case has a couple of small grain checks in bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches. Flask retains 92-94% strong orig finish with some slight thinning on back & edges with bright orig brass top & spout and bright blue on spring. Mold is crisp & clean with a couple of minor dings on bottom. Cartridge packet is crisp, cap tin has some slight lacquer loss and light fading on label. Nipple wrench is fine. 4-41737 JR17 (25,000-35,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 41179. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight and 2-line address with the space for an etched panel on left side. Left rear web of trigger guard is stamped with caliber marking. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides, snake & dot pattern on right lower part of frame and on both sides of top strap. Front gullets of frame are also engraved in snake & dot pattern. Sides of bbl are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a foliate spray at the end of bbl address. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s economy fan pattern with geometric patterns down back strap and trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes, a snake & dot pattern around rear edge and three small dots in each flute. SN was observed on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last three digits on the rear face of the cylinder. Grip frame is missing the grip locator pin. Accompanied by an English mahogany casing with empty medallion in the lid. Interior is blue baize lined with compartment partitions relocated to accommodate this revolver. It also is compartmented for an orig Colt turn screw, a brass cleaning rod, a modern pewter oil bottle, a cartridge block containing 14 cartridges and a functioning key. Front of case has a mortised brass lock, missing the escutcheon. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of an old restored nickel finish. Etched panel on the bbl was apparently obliterated in the refinishing process. Grips have a chipped right toe and a small chip at right side at the frame with several age lines and retain a fine ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case retains most of its orig varnish on the outside. Interior is moderately to heavily faded and soiled in the bottom. Accessories are fine. 4-41370 JR152 (4,000-6,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 187309. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated brass trigger guard & steel back strap contain a 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved Mexican eagle on left side. Revolver is New York style engraved, probably from the Nimschke shop with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields which engraving extends over the bbl and terminates forward of the address. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on shank and Nimschke style wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top of back strap is engraved with a Nimschke style fan with a long scalloped border down the back strap with geometric patterns at heel and on the butt strap with foliate arabesque patterns near top of back strap and on trigger guard. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with rebated rear section and the Ormsby naval battle scene roll marking on major diameter. Accompanied by a custom made, purple velvet lined, walnut casing that is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver; a sgl sided Army sized Colt style orig flask with trophy of arms under crossed pistols & rifles; a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “44 H”; a packet of six American Powder Co. combustible cartridges; an L-shaped nipple wrench; a new English style metal oil bottle and a reproduction cap tin. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair to good. No orig finish remains being an overall very dark brown patina with fine pitting on bbl, heavy pitting on cyl with spots of heavy pitting on left recoil shield & hammer nose. Back strap is moderately pitted and butt strap heavily pitted. Cylinder retains about 15-20% thin Ormsby Naval battle scene. Grip has numerous age lines and retains a dark gold aged ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, dark pitted bore with good rifling. Case is sound with most of its custom finish. Interior is lightly to moderately soiled. Flask is sound and retains a dark copper patina. Mold is a blue/brown patina with clean cavities and a few nicks & dings. Cartridge packet is very fine; other accessories are fine. 4-41379 JR68 (2,500-4,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 1463. Cal. 22. Nickel finish with 2-1/4″ flat sided rnd bbl with half moon front sight and 2-line address. Mounted with rare nickel finish, cast metal grips that are nicely decorated with raised floral & foliate patterns on the left side with the panel at the top marked with the patent date “APR. 28, 1874” and the right side is decorated with a deep relief horsehead surrounded by foliate & floral patterns with a scallop shell at the top. Frame & bbl are nicely engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Both sides of the upper forward frame are engraved with hunter stars with another at the top of the back strap. Top strap is engraved with dbl dash & dot border patterns. Side flats of bbl are engraved with square & dot patterns and the left side has the etched panel “COLT NEW 22”. Left side of frame below cyl opening is marked “22 CAL”. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Accompanied by a wonderful blue velvet lined rosewood casing with empty brass rectangle in the lid and French fitted in the bottom for the pistol. Left rear corner has a covered compartment with ivory pull and the right front has an empty cartridge block for thirty-three 22 caliber cartridges and it has a mortised brass lock in the front. New Line 22s are, in and of themselves, somewhat scarce, but engraved ones are extremely rare and cased ones even more rare. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including grips which are numbered on the inside. Bbl retains virtually all of its orig nickel with the brass frame retaining 85-90% strong orig nickel with the loss areas flaked to a light brass patina. Grips are extremely fine, retaining most of their orig nickel finish. Hammer retains most of its bright orig case colors. Cyl retains about 95% thinning orig blue, strong & bright in the flutes. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is extremely fine with usual light storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with very light soil. 4-41973 JR240 (7,500-10,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED PAIR OF PHILADELPHIA HENRY DERINGER PERCUSSION PISTOLS. SN NONE. Cal. 45. Beautiful pair of Deringer pistols with 2-1/4″ ovoid shaped bbls, German silver front sights and fixed rear sights as part of the top tangs. Top of breech plugs & lockplates have the “DERINGER PHILADEL’A” manufacturer’s markings. Top left flats of breech plugs have the “P” proof and breech plugs have two wide gold bands. They are mounted in 1-pc walnut stocks with silver trim that is all nicely engraved in foliate & floral patterns with nicely detailed pineapple finials. Butts of stocks have teardrop shaped plates with cap boxes. Top of wrists of stocks are inlaid with engraved silver shield shaped thumbplates and grips are nicely checkered. Bbls are secured with a sgl wedge through engraved, silver, dog-bone shaped escutcheons and tips of stocks have triangle shaped silver inlays. Pistols are accompanied by an orig black leather covered, purple velvet lined casing with very nicely decorated and gold embossed lid. Bottom is recessed for the pistols, a 3-compartment American Flask & Cap Co. fluted, copper & brass charger; an ebony handled nipple wrench; a rosewood handled “Huber” turn-screw; a nutcracker style ball mold with sprue cutter marked “70” on left arm and wood handled cleaning rod with brass jag. Case also has covered compartments in left rear & right front, one with cast lead balls and the other containing a functioning key and an altered Colt nipple wrench. Altogether a wonderful & rarely encountered pair of Deringer pistols. CONDITION: Pistols are extremely fine with both retaining about all of their fine chocolate brown bbl finish with trademark silver streaks. Stocks are sound and retain most of their orig varnish with a few chips in the varnish on bottom of both forestocks. Lockplates & hammers retain most of their orig case colors, turning slightly dark. Silver furniture retains sharp engraving with some scattered, dark oxidation. One pistol is slightly soft in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are crisp, bores are sharp & clean with no evidence of having been fired. Flask & implements are extremely fine. Case has a small grain check in lid and a couple of others in bottom, otherwise is completely sound showing light handling & storage nicks & scratches. This is truly a rare & exceptional set. 4-41239 JR46 (35,000-50,000)
EXCEPTIONAL NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 181618. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt in a circle beneath the engraving. Mounted with outstanding relief carved ox head pearl grips with ruby eyes. Revolver is engraved in New York style from the Nimschke shop with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame and hunter stars on each side of the forward frame. Top strap is stamped with six sets of bullseye shaped designs. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly the full length of the bbl. Top of back strap is engraved in a Nimschke style fan pattern with geometric patterns down back strap, over the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and with a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. SN was observed in the usual places, on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last three digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Screws are all beautifully fire blued with a color case hardened hammer. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, rubber stocks and “soft” finish, shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Dec. 14, 1898 in a 2-gun shipment. Remarks section states that the word “soft” under finish indicates that this revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside the factory. Grips were obviously supplied by Hartley & Graham. CONDITION: Excellent plus, perhaps unfired. All matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its fine bright nickel finish with only slight muzzle edge wear. Screws retain about all of their bright orig fire blue with the trigger retaining most of its orig fire blue on both sides and back edge with front edge turned plum . Hammer retains about all of its strong orig case colors, fading on top edge. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-41894 JR134 (60,000-80,000)
SCARCE CASED GUSTAV YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 91584. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a 2-line arc in a pillow shaped panel. Revolver has received Mr. Young’s extra deluxe engraving attention with full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns on the frame having one scroll on the left side terminating in a dog’s head and another on the left recoil shield terminating in a flower blossom. The deluxe deep engraving continues over bbl lug & bbl with another dog’s head in the patterns on left side of the lug, Mr. Young’s stylized bird’s head in a scroll on the right side and another scroll terminating in a flower blossom on the right side. Bottom sides of bbl lug have half flower blossoms and the bbl address is surrounded by fine line geometric patterns with a dbl border pattern at the muzzle. Rammer pivot is also deluxe engraved. Hammer is matching engraved on it’s shank with wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. Top of the back strap has Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with half blossoms on sides of back strap ears. Near the top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard are matching engraved. Cyl is 5-shots with hand enhanced stagecoach holdup scene. All the screws & screw tips are engraved. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc ivory grip serial numbered to the revolver. Accompanied by an orig gold velvet, lined, brass bound Kidder mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an early dbl sided eagle flask with crossed revolvers and a packet of six Hazard’s Powder combustible cartridges along with lead bullets from five combustible cartridges. The top of the bottom rear edge of the case is marked “MANUFACTURED / SOLELY BY W. KIDDER” and “PATENT APR 1854”. This is an exceptional set of deluxe engraving that, although it has been fired, shows little use. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 95-96% glossy orig factory blue with only light muzzle edge wear and extremely fine sharp edge brightness. Rammer pivot retains smoky case colors with handle turned silver. Frame & hammer retain traces of case colors in the most sheltered areas being mostly turned silver. Cyl retains about 70-75% thinning orig blue with about 99% outstanding hand enhanced stagecoach holdup scene with four of the five safety pins serviceable. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating, slightly thin at the heel. Grip is outstanding with sharp edges and a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case is equally outstanding with a fine burl in the lid and light handling & storage nicks & scratches and is completely sound. Interior is moderately faded inside the lid with very light soil and lightly faded in the bottom with light wear at the cyl and heel of grip contact points. Flask is very fine, retaining about 93-95% strong orig finish. Mold is crisp with slight oxidation on hinge pin. Cartridge packet & cap tin are equally new. This is a fine rare Colt in an equally rare casing. 4-41736 JR31 (20,000-30,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT LIGHTNING DA REVOLVER. SN 61635. Cal. 38 Colt. Silver finish with 6″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with fine 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfricht style with nearly full coverage on the frame of fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and feather patterns on top strap. Engraving extends more than half way up sides of bbl with geometric patterns around address. There is a zig zag pattern around muzzle with foliate arabesque patterns on each side of muzzle. Front sight has been thinned & has a ding in top edge. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a leaf & vine pattern in gullet with foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius. Top of back strap is engraved with a fan pattern and has foliate arabesque patterns on back strap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with alternating foliate arabesque and geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with geometric patterns in the flutes. SN was observed in the usual places on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the number “190” on rear face of cylinder, indicating a replacement cylinder. Accompanied by an English oak casing with empty medallion in the lid. Interior is newly lined with green velvet and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a full box of Winchester 38 Colt long ammunition that has a faded green label & orange band with a 1st Model Lightning revolver on the label. Case also contains a modern turn screw, a brass cleaning rod and a nickeled brass oil bottle. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom silver finish showing some slight discoloration on front strap. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case is fine with a repaired crack on rear edge of lid and with moderate to heavy soil. Interior is bright & clean. Cartridge box label is faded with light soil. Other implements are fine. Cartridge box is sealed in plastic and was not opened to check the ammunition. 4-41366 JR143 (4,000-6,000)
SCARCE CASED BELGIAN BREVETE OF A COLT ’51 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 10416. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-7/16″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and left hand “COLT / BREVETE” two-line address. Receiver and sides of bbl lug, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are very nicely engraved with kidney shaped & floral patterns. The nickel plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a wonderful 1-pc smooth ebony grip. Cylinder is etch engraved with beautiful hunting scene of a dog and cranes in a woodland scene. Accompanied by its orig brass bound rosewood casing with empty brass panel in the lid, shield shaped lifting panel in front of top and a mortised brass lock with round escutcheon in bottom front. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in bottom for a tiny copper & brass bag shaped flask, its orig matching numbered brass 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter and marked on left side “COLT / BREVETE” and SN. Also accompanied by an ebony handled turn screw and nipple wrench. Right front corner has a covered compartment with ebony pull. The bore is conventionally rifled with eight shallow lands & grooves with right hand twist. Face of cyl is marked with what appears to be “N. / GILCN”. Altogether an exceptional & rare set seldom encountered in the U.S. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching; wedge, rammer & cyl are unnumbered. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with a few tiny freckles, slight muzzle & sharp edge wear. Frame retains faded case colors and has sharp engraving. Rammer & handle retain stronger faded case colors. Cylinder retains about all of its glossy orig blue and five of its six safety pins are serviceable. Trigger guard retains 90-92% strong orig silver and back strap is mostly a light brass patina. Grip is crisp, with no discernible flaws and retains virtually all of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a couple of small spots of pitting. Case has a grain check in lid and a couple more in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its beautiful hand applied finish. The wire inlaid border around lid is missing. Interior is moderately to heavily faded and lightly soiled. Mold, flask & tools are crisp & clean and appear to be unusued. 4-41238 JR36 (4,000-6,000)
*RARE IDENTIFIED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN C156706. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ match bbl that is stamped “MB” in a circle on left side of lug. Mounted with wonderful ivory grips, smooth on left side and with a raised carved ox head on right side. Pistol is very nicely engraved in “A” coverage by Colt Master Engraver, Wilbur Glahn. His engraving consists of foliate & floral patterns on sides & top of slide, sides of frame, front strap & heel of grip safety. Thumb safety & slide lock are engraved to match. Accompanied by a “Boyt 44” “US” marked flap holster that has an additional stud hole cut in the toe of the flap. Additionally accompanied by a South/Central American style holster constructed from 1-pc of chocolate brown leather with thumb strap and laced edge, beautifully decorated with cactus fiber stitching. Additionally accompanied by a large lot of black & white photographs with images of various military officers and Central American military officers & officials along with photographs of the owner of this pistol. Also accompanied by a grouping of 17 medals, badges & pins of both American & Guatemalan origin, one of which is a Guatemalan service medal inscribed on back “John A. Considine / General de Brigada / 1930-1934”. Included with these medals are two Mexican Service Medals, two WWI Victory Medals, several foreign service medals, a Guatemalan gold & enamel pin on a red, white & blue cloth rosette and a Brigadier General’s star on a red, white & blue cloth rosette and finally a U.S. Camp Perry National Matches pin with eight bars, six of which are 14K gold Distinguished Marksman pins dated 1912-1916 and 1918. In addition there is a bronze Rifleman’s Bar dated 1910 and a sterling Marksman’s Bar dated 1911, along with the orig top & bottom sections of the orig pin. And finally there is the crossed sabers with a “6” uniform collar pin indicating 6th U.S. Cavalry. One of the photographs is a small 2″ x 2″ black & white photo of Considine as a Major General in U.S. Army uniform wearing this exact pistol in the above decorated holster with the carved ivory grip of this pistol readily visible and identifiable. A brief search of the internet only disclosed Gen. Considine’s date of birth & death as March 10, 1889 and Aug. 21, 1960 and that he is buried in the National Cemetary in the Presidio of San Francisco. Undoubtedly Gen. Considine was a soldier of substantial merit to have been assigned to the important position of adviser to the Guatemalan military. Additional research on Gen. Considine is certainly warranted and would substantially add to the desirability and value of this pistol. Finally, accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol in caliber 45 with 5″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks, class A factory engraved with special features “Furnished with a 1/10″ partridge front sight and a 4-1/2 to 4-3/4 lb. trigger pull. This pistol was also targeted.” It was shipped to Harry D. Murray, address unavailable on Jan. 14, 1930, factory order 17705/1 in a 1-gun shipment. The date of shipment coincides with Gen. Considine’s transfer to Guatemala. It stands to reason that his transfer to the Central American military adviser status would have warranted the purchase of such an elaborate showpiece. CONDITION: Pistol is fine with matching numbered slide. Overall retains 85-90% thinning orig blue with two areas of very deep “blood” pitting on the top right edge of slide at the front & rear ends with a couple of other spots on the middle right side. Grips have a few minor age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, dark in the grooves. Holsters are fine, a little dry with the military holster moderately soiled. Photographs are mostly attached to album pages with their back sides not visible which could probably disclose some identification of the subjects of the photographs. Medals are also fine with some of the ribbon sslightly soiled. 4-41055 JR210 (8,000-12,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 DERRINGER.,. SN E48012. Cal. 41 RF. Blue & nickel finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver half moon front sight with large “-COLT-” engraved on top. Left side of frame has the caliber marking and is mounted with 2-pc smooth bird head walnut grips. Left side of grip frame, under the grip, is marked with the SN which is accompanied by a small “E” which indicates factory engraving. Pistol is engraved, from the Nimschke shop, with about full coverage on sides of frame of deep foliate arabesque patterns. Engraving extends over both sides of bbl and on each side of muzzle. Accompanied by a fine custom oak casing with brown velvet lining having embossed “-COLT-” inside the lid. Bottom is recessed for the pistol and it has holes containing nine orig copper case cartridges. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including grips. Overall retains virtually all of a fine restored finish. Grips are sound showing moderate edge wear and retain 92-93% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. Case & ammo are fine. 4-41368 JR160 (4,000-6,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY SET OF THREE KORNBRATH ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS OWNED BY THE PRESIDENT OF ARGENTINA, MARCELO T. ALVEAR. SN 343199, 343200 & 343202. Cal. 44 Russian and S&W Spcl. All three revolvers are absolutely identical with blue & color case hardened finish, 7-1/2″ bbls, full thick front sights and 1-line Hartford address with caliber marking “RUSSIAN AND / S&W SPECIAL 44” on the left sides. Left front side of frames has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. They are mounted with early, period of the revolvers, smooth 2-pc ivory grips with deep rampant Colt medallions that have left & right sides. Serial number 343200 is accompanied by its orig rampant Colt hard rubber grips numbered to that revolver. This fabulous set of revolvers, known as the “Triplets” are the only known set of three identically engraved by Rudolph J. Kornbrath, in his readily identifiable style of flowing floral, foliate & vine patterns. Frames have about 80% coverage with feather patterns on top straps. Top of back straps have a fine fan pattern with a cross hatch triangle in the center and small foliate arabesque patterns and zig-zag borders which extend completely down the buttstraps. Toe of buttstraps & trigger guards are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns which are also on the shoulders of the trigger guards and sides of the ears of the backstraps. Foliate patterns extend up the bbls and terminate in front of the addresses with matching patterns around the muzzles. Bbls have a fine gold band inlay in front of the frames which extend forward and terminate in a point ahead of the bbl addresses. Ejector rod housings are engraved with fine running leaf patterns. Cyls are engraved on the lands between the flutes with bowtie and foliate patterns and narrow a gold band around the rear edge of each cyl with adjacent snake & dot patterns. SNs were observed in the usual places on the bottom of the frames and right side of the front & backstraps under the grips. Last four digits of SNs are on the rear faces of the cyls. Screws are all high polish blue with SNs 343199 & 343200 showing no evidence of ever having been turned. SN 343202, the only used member of the Triplets, shows evidence of the screws having been removed. The orig, consecutive numbered pair, SNs 343199 & 343200 discovered in Argentina in the early 1990s and were returned to the United States where they were sold into the private collection of Dr. Joseph A. Murphy, where they remained until about 2000 or 2001 when they were sold through auction. Consignor purchased them at this auction and obtained a Colt factory letter which identified this pair as part of a shipment of three identical single actions having been shipped to Argentina. He immediately began a search for the third revolver of that shipment and through hard work and deductive reasoning discovered the SN of the third single action to be 343202, one number off from the above pair. With this information he began a grueling international search for the missing Triplet, which he successfully located on a remote ranch about 1,000 miles south of Buenos Aires in the Patagonia Region. In August 2008 consignor was able to purchase the third Triplet from this wealthy ranching family, arrange clearances and export permits, then flew to Argentina to conclude the sale. He was successful and returned the third Triplet to the United States to be reunited as we find them today. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter for SN 343200 which identifies it in caliber 44 S&W with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and factory special engraving with gold inlay, shipped to Don Alfredo Gottling, Buenos Aires, Argentina on Dec. 23, 1921 in a shipment of three same type revolvers. Obviously the ivory grips were installed at a later date, probably upon return to Colt after engraving. Don Alfredo Gottling was Argentina’s largest and most important firearms importer & dealer, who operated his shop “La Portena” in Buenos Aires. This shop was established in 1857 and remained in business until 1972. La Portena Gun Shop imported only the finest, highest quality firearms from all of Europe and the United States and catered to the highest rungs of Argentinian society. The shop was located at 611 Rivadavia which is almost at the corner of Florida Ave. and would have been very convenient for the soon to be president to stop by on his way to Government House, which he is reported to have done 15-20 days a month to see what new merchandise had arrived. President Alvear was a serious firearms collector and world champion pistol shooter. As of this writing it is not known whether these three revolvers were ordered by Pres. Alvear, presented to him by Colt or if Don Alfredo Gottling simply ordered them for stock and Pres. Alvear bought all three of them, or if they had been ordered specifically as a gift to Pres. Alvear. There are only 16 First Generation gold inlaid Colt Single Action revolvers and since most of the known pieces were presentations, simply due to the cost, it is likely that these three revolvers were intended as a presentation. SNs 343199 & 343200 were discovered in Argentina and purchased from the estate of Marcelo T. Alvear, who was the President of Argentina 1922-1928. Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear (1868-1942) was an Argentine statesman & diplomat who was the Ambassador to France (1917-1922), before becoming President of Argentina in 1922, leaving office in 1928. In 1931 he attempted to run for the Presidency once again, but for political reasons he was barred from the Presidency but was allowed to run again in 1937 and was defeated. It stands to reason that given the dates of Pres. Alvear ascension to office in 1922 and the shipping date of these revolvers of late Dec. 1921, it is very reasonable to assume that this set was an inauguration present for the new president. SNs 343199 & 343200 are pictured in full color on pp. 542 & 543 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume II, Wilson, and, also in full color on p. 146 of the book Steel Canvas, Wilson. Additionally accompanied by a 5-page letter from noted Colt historian & author, R.L. Wilson, wherein he extols the virtues of SNs 343199 & 343200. Apparently SN 343202 had not been discovered at the writing of this letter. He authenticates them as being engraved by Kornbrath. This exceptional and one of a kind set of three identically engraved and gold inlaid Single Action Army revolvers are being offered for the very first time in history as a complete set. Once they are sold it is unlikely they will ever be encountered again in this lifetime. Additionally accompanied by the following personal items from Pres. Alvear’s estate which include: 1) His personal Pampas Gaucho knife by famous Uruguayan knife maker J.M. Mailhos. It has 7-1/4″ x 1-5/16″ tapered flat ground blade with 2-3/4″ back grind marked with the maker’s name, address, logos and steel information on the left side. It is made without handguard and has an extremely elaborate silver & gold tapered handle with fluted gold pommel cap. Body of the handle is silver with three gold flower blossoms on top & bottom edges and elaborate inlaid gold, foliate & floral decorations on each side. Sheath is equally elaborate with beautifully laced rawhide body that has matching silver & gold mounts with a matching silver & gold belt tab that has gold intertwined initials that appear to be a horizontal “M” intertwined with a vertical “A”, the initials of Marcelo Alvear; 2) An extraordinary pair of Pampas Gaucho spurs that have 4-1/2″, forty-point rowels. The yokes & shanks are made of heavy silver covered steel with black cloissone inlaid engraving on both sides of the yokes, missing the straps. 3) Extremely ornate flat leather quirt with 14″ heavy silver handle and ornate leather wrist strap. The leather part is about 19″ x 1-1/2″ of two pieces of sewn leather, split at the end. Handle is elaborately decorated, of solid silver, marked near the toe “800”. Handle is deep repousse decorated in foliate & floral patterns with four gold flower blossoms and four gold leaves and a large, elaborate turban shaped pommel. 4) An extremely elaborate horse martingale made of round, buff colored leather covered in silver bands with nine small decorated silver conchos and one large matching decorated silver concho. 5) Extraordinary set of bolas constructed of three branches of braided rawhide leather attached to three ivory balls of graduated sizes with silver & gold trim. Ivory balls have silver top & bottom covers with silver bands mounted with gold flower blossoms which match the decoration on the knife & quirt. 6) A 3-1/2″ diameter x 3/16″ thick decorative medallion commemorating the installation of Pres. Alvear’s bronze statue which stands in Alvear Square in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The front depicts Gen. Alvear astride his horse in deep relief. Reverse is the commemoration of the statue which apparently was erected in 1923. 7) A 2-7/16″ diameter x 3/16″ thick silver medallion commemorating the founding of the Alvear Hospital in Oct. 1910. The front has the relief figure of Dr. Jose Alcorta and the reverse depicts three figures in the foreground with what is either the capital building or hospital in the background. PROVENANCE: Don Alfredo Gottling; Pres. of Argentina Marcelo T. Alvear; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Clark S. Ullom Collection. CONDITION: SNs 343199 & 343200 are virtually identical in condition with both appearing to be unfired retaining virtually all of their strong orig factory finish with bright charcoal blue and vivid case colors. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Grips are sound with a few minor age lines and retain a wonderful golden ivory patina. Orig hard rubber grips have a chipped right heel, otherwise are sound showing light diamond point wear. SN 343202 appears to be the only revolver of the Triplets that ever saw any use. It still remains in very fine condition with about 92-93% strong, bright orig blue on the bbl and about 75% on the ejector rod housing, mostly in the gullets. Frame retains brilliant case colors in the front gullets and in other sheltered areas with the majority lightly to moderately faded, silver on top strap, with bright colors in the sight groove. Hammer retains strong case colors on sides and rear edge with top edge turned dark. Cyl retains about 85% orig blue, dark in the flutes, thinning in the outer diameter. Trigger guard & backstrap retain blue in the sheltered areas with trigger bow, front strap, backstrap & buttstrap a plum brownish patina. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Grips are sound with a few age lines and retain a fine medium ivory patina. Pres. Alvear’s personal items: 1) Very fine. Knife blade has been used & sharpened and slightly tipped with some light pitting on right side at handle, otherwise blade is fine. Handle, sheath & fittings are extremely fine showing very little wear. 2) Very fine. Spurs show very little wear with some light rust on the rowels. 3) Fine. Handle is sound showing very little use or wear. Leather part of quirt is dry but completely intact. At one time the leather was probably dyed red but is now faded to a buff color. 4) Martingale is extremely fine. Shows very little use with minor sweat stains. 5) Extremely fine. Leather of the bolas is a little dry but completely intact showing no wear. Very likely these were simply a decorative present of a traditional Argentinian Gaucho’s tool. 6) Extremely fine plus. Shows no wear. 7) Very fine, slightly oxidized. 4-37553, 4-37554, 4-37555 JR261 (300,000-450,000)
VERY RARE CASED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 304043. Cal. 31. Nickel finish with desirable 6″ bbl & 6-shot cylinder. Bbl has brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. The silver plated brass large guard trigger guard & back strap contain a wonderful orig checkered ivory 1-pc grip. Revolver is engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with full coverage arabesque scrolls with punch dot background on frame which extends over bbl & bbl lug and rammer pivot. The two side flats of the bbl at the muzzle are engraved to match with a dbl border around the muzzle. Top of back strap is engraved in a wonderful fan pattern with very finely checkered center. Back strap is further engraved with a dash & dot border and foliate arabesque patterns at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. The cyl, most unusually, is matching engraved over the area where the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking would ordinarily be found. Five of the six safety pins are serviceable. Accompanied by an orig. burgundy, velvet lined, Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for revolver, a rare silver plated sgl sided eagle & stars “E PLURIBUS UNUM” pocket sized flask, a silver plated steel “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, a packet of six “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges, a scarce plain tin of Eley’s caps with yellow & black label and a functioning key. This is a rare Nimschke engraved revolver with fine accessories. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains most of its orig nickel on bbl & rammer handle with some light flaking & bubbling, primarily on right side. Frame has been lightly cleaned to a gray metal patina with traces of orig nickel. Cyl is a gray metal patina with sharp engraving and its five serviceable safety pins. Silver plated trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Hammer retains most of its strong factory case colors, slightly dark on top edge. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and light diamond point wear and a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case is completely sound with light handling & storage marks in finish and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded inside lid with light soil and bottom heavily faded with moderate to heavy soil and wear from the front sight. Flask & mold retain most of their orig silver plating with a spot of wear on back side of mold from the case. Cartridge packet is crisp, cap tin label is moderately faded. 4-41229 JR33 (15,000-25,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 STOREKEEPER’S DA LIGHTNING REVOLVER. SN 80613. Cal. 38 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with rare 2-1/2″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address with usual markings on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle and is mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Sides of trigger guard, back strap & sides of bbl are after market engraved in light foliate arabesque patterns with a beautiful fan pattern at top of back strap. Trigger guard is engraved in acanthus leaf patterns. Cylinder is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes with a light border at the rear edge. SN was observed in the usual places, on the frame, trigger guard & butt with the last three digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a fine rosewood case, recycled from another use. Lid has an empty rectangular brass plate inside a brass wire border. Interior is blue velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a partial box of Winchester 38 Long cartridges with green label that features a lined drawing of an early Colt Model 1877 revolver and is marked “FOR COLT’S DOUBLE ACTION AND SINGLE ACTION, AND OTHER 38 CALIBER PISTOLS”. Also accompanied by brass cleaning rod, a modern wood handled turn screw and a pewter oil bottle. Right rear covered compartment with bone pull contains a functioning key. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl retains traces of blue in the most sheltered areas being mostly a medium smooth brown patina. Frame retains strong case colors in sheltered areas, mostly having faded to silver. Hammer retains smoky case colors on sides, strong on rear edge. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong blue in sheltered areas being mostly a gray/brown patina. Cylinder is a gray/brown patina on outer diameter with thin blue in flutes. Grips are very fine with a minor chip in right toe and retain great fire & color. Timing is a little off, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is very fine with light soil. Accessories are very fine. 4-41389 JR146 (2,500-4,000)
Correction: Catalog states “hand is missing”. This is NOT TRUE. Hand is present and cylinder advances as it should.
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 133527. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-12″ oct bbl, rare Rocky Mtn. dovetail front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is roll marked “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated large guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain an outstanding checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Cylinder is unfluted with usual 6-shots and Ormsby Naval battle roll marking. SN was observed in the usual places with last four digits on various pieces. Serial numbers on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are all accompanied by a small “I E”, which indicates that this revolver was to be engraved with ivory grips. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe full coverage on frame of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. One scroll on each side and another on the left recoil shield terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with matching engraving on rammer pivot. Both sides of bbl lug have two scrolls each that terminate in flower blossoms around screw holes. Top flat has an engraved chip & dot border around the address which terminates in a fleur-de-lis. Shank of hammer is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with Mr. Young’s trademark wolf’s head & fish scale patterns on each side and fish scale pattern on top edge. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s fan pattern and foliate arabesque patterns near the top at the heel on buttstrap & trigger guard. This is a lovely old Navy which saw hard service over many years. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge & cylinder except grip which is unnumbered but obviously is orig to this revolver. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth gray metal finish with some smoky case colors on rammer handle. Hammer nose is lightly pitted, cyl has matching patina and retains 30-40% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Rammer screw in bbl lug appears to be a replacement. Grip has a small crack at left heel, otherwise is sound showing moderate to heavy edge wear and a few age lines with light diamond point wear. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch and hand is missing (a minor repair), otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong dark bore with a ring about 3″ from the cyl end. 4-42010 JR191 (8,000-12,000)
*ENGRAVED 1911A1 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WITH TEXAS RANGER HISTORY. SN 1310413. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ commercial bbl. Pistol SN falls within the range assigned to Remington Rand for production in 1943. It is apparent that it was somehow purchased or purloined from government service and transformed into the fine engraved pistol we see today. It is wonderfully engraved, probably by Wilbur Glahn with about “D” coverage foliate, floral & arabesque patterns on the slide. Left side of slide is inlaid with a platinum rampant Colt and the top of the slide and ejection port are outlined with platinum wire inlay. Sides of frame are engraved to match with foliate & geometric patterns on front strap, a running leaf pattern on trigger guard and foliate line patterns on bottom front of frame. Pistol is mounted with beautifully engraved Mexican-made sterling silver grip panels with the right side having a raised inscription panel pantograph inscribed “Capt. E.G. Albers / Texas Rangers”. Accompanied by a pair of orig Colt, nickel plated handcuffs in their orig box with two keys in their orig manila envelope. One side of handcuffs is pantograph inscribed “CAPT. E.G. ALBERS, JR. / CO. “F” TEXAS RANGERS”. Also accompanying is a fine reproduction Texas Ranger badge made from a Mexican one peso coin. It is slightly domed and pierced in the shape of a 5-pointed star and inscribed “TEXAS / RANGER” with foliate decoration on each side. Capt. E.G. “Butch” Albers served as a Texas Ranger 1961-1974. Also accompanying is a signed & witnessed letter from Capt. Albers dated Jan. 5, 1988, certifying that these handcuffs were his and used by him “while serving in the Texas Ranger service”. The letter was witnessed by a sergeant in Company F of the Texas Rangers, Waco, Texas. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom blue. Grips are very fine with sharp engraving. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Handcuffs are nearly new. Box has two broken corners in the bottom, otherwise is fine. Badge is equally fine with some minor tarnish. 4-41858 JR201 (4,000-7,000)
CASED PAIR OF COLT NO. 1 DERRINGERS. SN 1820 & 3106. Cal. 41 RF. Identical derringers with 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbls, German silver half moon front sights with usual 2-line bbl addresses. They have all metal frames with curved rnd grips engraved on sides of frame with light foliate arabesque patterns and three checkered panels on grips. There is matching engraving in back of hammer slot. #1820 has fine checkering in the panels on the grip while #3106 has coarse checkering. #1820 has a fine checkered bbl release button while #3106 has a coarse checkered release button. #3106 has the caliber marking below the release buttons while #1820 does not have a caliber marking. Accompanied by a beautiful burl walnut casing with a brass Mexican eagle medallion in the lid and a mortised brass lock in the front edge that has an ivory shield shaped escutcheon. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in bottom for the two derringers. Inside the bottom is a fine beveled dust rail. Although such a cased set has not previously been encountered by this cataloger, the casing has the appearance of being authentic. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: #1820: Very good to fine, all matching. No orig finish remains on bbl, being a cleaned gray metal patina. Frame retains 30-40% orig nickel finish with the balance a cleaned metal patina. The bbl lug that fits into the groove in the frame has been “tightened” making it very difficult to open & close. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with heavy pitting. #3106: Fine, all matching. Overall retains about 30% orig nickel, mostly on left side of frame with bbl & right side of frame cleaned to bright metal. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple of small spots of pitting. Case is extremely fine. 4-41382 JR161 (4,000-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER CONFIGURED FOR SHOULDER STOCK. SN 22950. Cal. 45 Boxer. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter Hartford address with last four digits of SN on bottom under ejector rod housing. Ejector rod housing is second type with bullseye ejector rod head. Bottom of bbl & cyl have tiny British proofs. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and the frame has extended hammer screw/stock lug. Left shoulder of the trigger guard is stamped with the caliber marking “45 CAL / B”. Hammer is the very early type with long checkered panel on the spur. Mounted with nicely figured 1-pc walnut grip with the 4-digit number “2730” in back strap channel. Accompanied by an extremely rare, green baize lined, English oak casing with medallion in the lid that is engraved “J.W.G.O.” Interior has the later style label inside the lid “COLTS PATENT FIRE-ARMS MANUFACTURING CO.” with Pall Mall address, a line drawing of a sgl action revolver with red overstamps on each side. Label is titled “DIRECTIONS FOR USING COLT’S NEW .450 BORE GOVERNMENT ARMY PISTOL”. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, an extremely rare 1st Type nickel plated brass skeleton stock, a Dixon pewter oil bottle, an L-shaped blued steel Colt single action wrench and a formed wire cleaning rod in its slot in the back. Center of the case has a cartridge block with holes for twelve 45 caliber cartridges. In addition there is an extremely rare full sealed box of Eley 450 cartridges. Box is 2-pc , made of Kraft colored cardboard with full wrapped green & black label with a line drawing of the cartridge. Rear edge of the box has a black & white overlabel “MADE EXPRESSLY FOR / COLT’S PATENT / Fire-Arms Manufacturing Co., / 14 PALL MALL, LONDON, W.”. Right rear corner of the case is a covered compartment with ivory pull containing a functioning key. The skeleton stock measures 16-7/8″ from center of buttplate to tip of yoke vs. 14-3/8″ of the earliest one found on the pinch frame Single Action being sold elsewhere in this auction. This difference in length, as found on this English proofed single action, confirms something recently read by this cataloger wherein Baron Fredrick Von Oppen, Samuel Colt’s Brother-in-law and Head of the Colt London Agency, had written to Colt requesting that future shipments of stocks for the Army pistol be made longer. It is unknown how many such cased stocked Single Action Revolvers were ever produced but it seems likely that there were very few with none having come to market in recent years. CONDITION: Revolver is fine to very fine, all matching except grip as noted above. Even though the grip is mismatched it is readily apparent from the fit and condition that this grip has been on this revolver most of its life. Bbl retains 60-70% orig nickel with the loss area cleaned to gray metal. Frame, hammer & cyl retain virtually all of their strong, orig factory nickel with strong bright orig blue on all the screws. Front strap and trigger guard have a few spots of pinpoint bubbled nickel, however most nickel is solid. Back strap also has some fine pin pricks of bubbling near the heel but overall has solid nickel. Mechanics are crisp, has been fired, but very little. Case is extremely fine with only a few minor handling & storage nicks & scratches on the lid and overall retains virtually all of its orig finish. Interior is lightly faded and soiled with a few chemical spots in the baize lining with all partitions solid. Stock appears to be near new, retaining virtually all of its strong, bright, orig nickel with strong blue on the screw & nut. Box of ammo is extremely fine with one small tear in the label, not affecting the image or seal, with light soil. Other accessories are equally fine. Label is yellowed with moderate soil. An extremely rare & complete set. 4-41971 JR255 (45,000-55,000)
WONDERFUL CASED GUSTAV YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 71773. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and “SAML COLT” engraved address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a dbl arc in a pillow shaped panel. Frame has full coverage Gustav Young engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The hammer also received his deluxe treatment with wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving extends over bbl & bbl lug with elaborate intertwined flowing foliate arabesque patterns with one scroll on right side terminating in a fine detailed dog’s head. Rammer pivot is engraved to match as is both ends of the wedge. Screw heads & tips are also engraved. The 5-shot cyl has the stagecoach holdup scene roll marking with all five safety pins serviceable. The small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern and also has foliate arabesque patterns near top & heel, on butt strap and trigger guard. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany Colt casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” ribbon at bottom, a brass 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered Eley Bros. cap tin filled with cast lead bullets & balls. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 92-93% strong orig blue with sharp edge wear and a couple of small thin spots in the blue. Rammer pivot retains strong, bright case with handle & rammer case colors faded. Frame retains faded in sheltered areas having mostly turned silver. Cyl retains 60-70% thin orig blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene with three of the five safety pins crisp and the other two serviceable. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound showing light edge wear, a couple of small nicks on each side and a few light scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. Case has a couple of small grain checks and slight shrinkage in the lid with a small grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded and soiled with wear from cyl & muzzle contact in the bottom with minor damage from the front sight and one slightly loose partition. Flask is extremely fine, retaining virtually all of its orig finish with bright blue on the spring. Mold is nicked & dinged with bright unused cavities. Nipple wrench & cap tin are fine. 4-41113 JR20 (7,000-10,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 DA STOREKEEPER LIGHTNING REVOLVER. SN 1548. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned half moon front sight and 2-line address with deep etched panel “COLT D.A. 38” on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and it is mounted with extremely rare 1-pc rampant Colt hard rubber grip. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with his wonderful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Frame has about 65-70% coverage with dash & dot borders around snake patterns on top strap with snake & dot patterns in the front frame gullets. Sides of bbl are engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved with a large hunter star with three more hunter stars and geometric patterns down back strap with a wavy border on each side. Trigger guard is engraved in geometric patterns. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with snake & dot patterns in the flutes. SN was observed on the frame, trigger guard & bottom of bbl with back strap & cyl unnumbered. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38 Colt, bbl length not listed, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved “no” and shipped to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on June 30, 1877 in a shipment of twelve same type revolvers. It is well known that Schuyler, Hartley & Graham were very closely associated with the Nimschke engraving shop and commissioned many Colt & Winchester firearms to be engraved outside the factory. Also accompanied by a custom built rosewood casing with empty brass plaque in the lid inside a brass wire rectangular. Interior is newly lined in green velvet and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an orig Colt turn screw and a cartridge block containing twenty-two cartridges. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish, applied after engraving. Screws retain most of their fine fire blue finish. Grip is sound showing light diamond point wear. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. Case & accessories are fine. 4-41390 JR151 (4,000-6,000)
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT FACTORY PRESENTATION MODEL 2 ROOT 1855 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 6707. Cal. 28. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and Hartford address with pointing hand motif. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background. Screw heads are engraved to match as is the rammer pivot. Sides of hammer & hammer shank are also engraved and the top edge is engraved in fish scale patterns. Back strap & butt strap also have foliate arabesque pattern engraving with back strap inscribed through the blue in fine script “To Edmund Freeman / From Colt’s P.F.A. Mfg. Co.”. Revolver is mounted with beautiful burl 1-pc walnut grip with the SN in back strap channel. SN was observed on butt strap, bottom of bbl and outer diameter of cyl. Cyl is 5-shots, unfluted with cabin/Indian fight scene roll marking. Accompanied by a brown velvet lined Colt factory mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a brass 2-cavity Colt’s Patent bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter marked on right side with a small “K”, a wonderful, special, dbl sided, peacock, root sized flask, Fig. 1272 in The Powder Flask Book, Riling and a small Eley’s cap tin. Engraved Roots are extremely rare and presentation Root revolvers are rarely ever encountered. At this juncture nothing is known of Edmund Freeman although a Google search disclosed that an Edmund Freeman had settled Sandwich, Massachusetts in about 1635. Very likely the presentee of this revolver is a descendant and further research may disclose the connection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, probably unfired. Bbl, frame & grip frame retain most of their fine glossy orig Colt blue with some light flaking on bbl & bottom of frame, which areas have turned to dark patina. Rammer retains strong case colors on pivot and part of the handle. Hammer retains faded case colors, turned silver on the shank. Cyl retains about 60-70% thinning orig blue with the rear 1/3 flaked to a medium patina. Cyl also retains about 98-99% cabin/Indian fight scene. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and one small nick and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Cyl pin latch is chipped and will not retain the cyl pin, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is completely sound with a small water stain on top and usual light handling & storage nicks & scratches. Interior is lightly faded with light soil and wear in the bottom from the cyl, hammer screw & muzzle with damage from the front sight. Flask is crisp & new retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. Mold is equally new with a few minor nicks. Cap tin is fine. Altogether a wonderful crisp presentation set. 4-42083 JR216 (8,000-12,000)
*SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 79708. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/4″ bbl, fixed sights and mounted with deep gold medallion factory pearl grips. Accompanied by one orig magazine and a hinged lid dark maroon box for a Model 1908 pistol with SN 169284 in pencil on the bottom. Box has a blue & black end label and contains an orig owner’s pamphlet and a second orig owner’s pamphlet pertaining to “a new safety device”. The front of the Safety pamphlet states that it applies to pistols over the SN 141,000. Pistol has about “C” coverage Cuno Helfricht engraving with foliate arabesque patterns and leaf & vine patterns on the slide & frame with diamond & dot patterns on both front sides of the frame. Factory engraved 1908 pistols are very rare. Factory records confirm the gun as factory engraved w/pearl grips and shipped to Nick Brown, 12-7-1912. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 80-85% thinning orig blue turning plum over top of slide. Trigger, grip safety & thumb safety case colors have turned dark. Magazine retains about 70% thin orig blue. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting in the grooves. Box has a repair on each end of the lid and shows light corner & edge wear and overall is sound. Pamphlets are fine. 4-42012 JR202 (4,000-6,000)
COLT NO. 2 DERRINGER IN AN UNUSUAL CASE. SN 6838. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish with 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbl, German silver front sight and usual markings on top flat. Frame is lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on both sides and back of hammer slot. Mounted with 2-pc checkered bird head walnut grips. Inside of grips are painted a light green. Accompanied by a most unusual long oval cardboard casing that is about 6-5/8″ long x 2-3/4″ wide x 1-7/8″ high with a fitted lid. Exterior is finished in black with a mottled yellow & black bottom. Top of lid has a small printed black & white label “COLT’S PT F.A. MFG. Co. / HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. / No 2”. Each end of label is imprinted with a small Maltese cross, representative of the bbl address. Inside the lid has an orange & black label imprinted “MARCH 6, 1883” in small letters & numbers over large “No 2”. Interior of box is green felt lined and fitted for the derringer and has a small cartridge block containing six orig 41 RF cartridges. The box & lining are extremely well made and while it all appears to be authentic, the box is unknown to this cataloger, and the authenticity cannot be guaranteed. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Pistol is fine to very fine. Overall retains 30-40% orig nickel, mostly on bbl, with frame & grip frame being a cleaned gray metal patina. Hammer retains strong case colors. Grips are sound showing light to moderate edge wear and retain most of their orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. Box has a couple of repaired breaks in the lid with the interior of lid appearing to have been repainted. Exterior shows edge wear around top and wear on bottom and overall retains most of its orig finish. Interior is lightly soiled and may have been relined. 4-41432 JR84 (3,500-5,000)
*HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SHIPPED TO TEXAS. SN 305448. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with extraordinary gold lip pearl 2-pc grips with relief carved ox head that has gold overlay horns, ruby eyes and a gold ring in its nose, on right side. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on both sides of frame and his trademark sunburst pattern on left recoil shield and loading gate. Ejector rod housing boss is engraved with a hunter star and snake & dot patterns are in the lower gullets. Foliate arabesque patterns extend about half way up the bbl with an engraved ribbon around caliber marking and a hunter star on the top. Gullet of the ejector rod housing is engraved with snake & dot pattern which pattern is also engraved on top strap. Cylinder is engraved with alternating foliate arabesque and geometric patterns on lands between the flutes and with a snake & dot pattern around the rear edge. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark economy pattern fan with geometric patterns at the top & heel of back strap, on butt strap & trigger guard. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks with carved ox head motif, factory engraved and shipped to Charles Hummel & Son, San Antonio, TX on Oct. 15, 1908 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains most of a fine restored nickel finish showing light muzzle edge wear and wear on the ejector rod housing and some slight dulling on bbl & cyl from holster wear. Grips have a chipped right heel, otherwise are sound without outstanding gold color with some slight dings on the gold overlay horns and overall retain tremendous fire & color. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch and mechanics need attention, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-41855 JR136 (7,500-12,500)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 4144. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line London address with brackets & short finials. Cylinder is 5-shots and left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Left side of frame is engraved in English script “Colts Patent” in a ribbon. The silver plated large oval steel trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc ivory grip with an illegible number in back strap channel. Frame is lightly engraved with foliate arabesque English scrolls which extend over recoil shields & hammer spur and also over bbl lug, top side flats and around muzzle. Rammer pivot & ends of wedge are engraved to match. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger guard are also engraved to match. Cylinder has the usual stagecoach holdup scene roll markings. Accompanied by a modern, burgundy velvet lined, mahogany casing, compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a reproduction dbl sided “COLTS PATENT” flask with early American eagle clutching a revolver in its left talons, facing to its right; a “COLTS PATENT” blued steel 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36 P” which obviously is not for this revolver but for either a Pocket Navy or 1862 Police revolver; an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of caps. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl & rammer retain strong orig silver plating with a few scattered spots of light pitting and some light dings on left edge of bbl lug. Frame retains most of its orig silver plating with hammer mostly gray metal with fine pitting. Cylinder is mostly a cleaned gray metal patina with fine pitting and retains about 65-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with a few small spots of pitting; grip is outstanding, completely sound with good edges and retains a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with pitting in the grooves. Case is sound and retains most of its custom finish. Interior is lightly soiled; accessories are fine. 4-41392 JR64 (5,000-7,000)
CASED RARE INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 STOREKEEPER THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 43049. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, half moon front sight and 2-line address with the area that ordinarily would be the etched panel inscribed “F.C. Schaub” which inscription is filled with black enamel. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his fine foliate arabesque patterns with about 60% coverage on sides of frame and with his stylized blossom patterns on left recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot pattern. Sides of bbl are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. Top of back strap is engraved with a light foliate fan pattern and back strap & trigger guard with geometric patterns. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes, a snake & dot pattern around rear edge and three small bull’s eye dots in each flute. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last two digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 with 3-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish and rubber stocks shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on April 30, 1883 in a shipment of ten same type revolvers. Also accompanied by a packet of letters & information relating to F. Carter Schaub. Mr. Schaub was an executive with Sears & Roebuck for about 36 years, 25 of which he spent as the head of the Philadelphia Mail-Order Plant. He retired in about June 1956 and died in October 1956. This revolver was purchased by well known dealer/collector, Ray Petrie, from a Philadelphia estate, apparently from the widow of Mr. Schaub. Mr. Petrie apparently sold this revolver to well known dealer, Arnold M. Chernoff, of Chicago who then resold it to the late Dr. Richard C. Marohn of Chicago, the well known Colt Model 1877 collector & historian, who sold it to dealer Tom Powers from whom Mr. McDonald purchased it. One of the notes states “Widow remembers it hanging on the bed post & he (Mr. Schaub) had been a Sheriff’s Deputy in Dallas County in 1930 and carried the gun under his clothing, under cover.” This note further states that the 1930 Dallas Directory disclosed that Frank C. Schaub was the Manager of Sears in Dallas. Also part of the package is a copy of an article that appeared in the Sept. 13, 1956 issue of the company newspaper, Sears News-Graphic, which is a lengthy article about Mr. Schaub’s career of 36 years with the company. It is apparent that some time after the revolver was shipped it was returned to the Helfricht shop for engraving. Additionally accompanied by a fine non-Colt mahogany casing with empty brass shield plate in the lid. It is lined with burgundy velvet and compartmented in bottom for revolver, an orig Colt turn screw and a brass cleaning rod. Cartridge block contains 19 cartridges. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of its custom nickel finish with some light wear around the muzzle and is turning milky over most surfaces. Engraving shows moderate polishing. Grips are sound showing great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. Case is sound with a few scratches in lid and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled. Accessories are fine 4-41393 JR149 (4,000-6,000)
SCARCE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT 1855 MODEL 5 ROOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 7020E. Cal. 31. Scarce engraved Root with 3-1/2″ stepped rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line “COL. COLT NEW-YORK” address. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with about full coverage on the frame, consisting of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top & heel of the back strap are engraved in matching foliate patterns with foliate patterns on the top strap. Hammer & butt strap are engraved to match. Sides of bbl & rammer pivot, along with raised areas on the fluted cylinder, are also engraved to match. Top edge of hammer is engraved in a dolphin pattern. Accompanied by a domed lid walnut casing with empty brass plate in the top. Interior is dark velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided Root sized “COLTS PATENT” early American eagle flask with the eagle clutching a revolver & powder flask in its talons; a Root “COLTS PATENT” brass 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with steel sprue cutter; a tin of Eley’s caps and a modern turn screw. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms about 5,600 of these revolvers were produced during the production period of 1855 to about 1870. Very few were engraved and fewer still were cased. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is fine having been cleaned to bare metal with fine pitting on the cylinder. Grip has a couple of small chips at the frame and a few age lines in the butt, shows light edge wear and retains a fine mellow ivory patina. Hammer screw has a broken head and mechanics need attention. Hammer spring is off the stirrup but all parts are intact & present, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled. Accessories are fine. 4-41396 JR157 (4,000-6,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 179969. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2-1/8″ bbl, fixed sights and mounted with smooth pearl grips with rampant Colt gold medallions. Pistol is engraved in about “A” or “B” coverage with fine foliate arabesque patterns on frame & slide with feather patterns on frame back of trigger guard. Rear of frame & slide, grip safety, front strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Sides of slide, around engraving & markings, are inlaid with gold wire band and frame is outlined in gold wire. Left rear end of slide is inlaid with a raised gold rampant Colt which panel is outlined in gold with a matching gold wire inlay on right side. Accompanied by one orig magazine with engraved base. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its glossy custom blue finish with bright custom case colors on trigger, grip safety & thumb safety. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, worn bore with fine pitting. 4-41105 JR198 (2,500-4,000)
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1883 SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN. SN 2007. Cal. 10 ga. 30″ Damascus bbls, tapered concave rib, with single ivory sighting bead, 3″ chambers, extractors, and dbl triggers. Top rib of bbl is marked “COLTS PT. F.A.MFG.CO.HARTFORD, CT.U.S.A.” The box lock receiver has $3 engraving, which is a fine border engraving outlining receivers and circular spoked wheel pattern around pins & screws. Trigger plate is engraved “PATENTED/AUG 22 SEP 1882″. Mounted with highly figured walnut, checkered splinter forend with ebony tip insert, checkered rnd knob pistol grip, and Rampant Colt logo checkered hard rubber buttplate. Bore diameter: left -.800, right -.795. Bore restrictions: left -.020, right -.028. Wall thickness: left -.039, right -.042. Drop at heel: 3-1/2″, drop at comb: 2″. Weight: 9lbs. 12oz. LOP 13-1/2”. Accompanied with Colt Factory Letter, identifying as 10 ga., 30″ bbls, blue with wood stock, 10lbs., $3 engraved, Grade 1, to Andrus Naedle, Hartford Connecticut, October 25, 1887, one gun in shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbls retain nearly all of their beautiful Damascus pattern with some minor thinning and brown spots near muzzle. Receiver retains 95% orig case colors, with some minor thinning blending with silver patina on bottom and across the fences. Trigger guard has 50% orig blue, flaking and blending with silver patina and worn through grip area to silver patina. Stock is sound with sharp checkering a minor dent on upper right side and typical nicks & scratches, but retains most of its orig finish. Forend is sound with sharp checkering, a few minor nicks & scrapes and retains most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp with auto-safety and nice shiny bores. 4-35282 BDT163 (5,000-7,000)
CASED SCARCE EARLY ENGRAVED COLT ETCHED PANEL FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 127008. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Usual configuration with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of bbl has the outline of an etched panel and bottom of bbl is marked with a tiny “44”. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver has nearly full coverage New York style engraving that consists of very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with foliate arabesque patterns the entire length of both sides of bbl and on outer radius of ejector rod housing. Top of back strap is engraved with a Nimschke style fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel and on the trigger guard. Butt strap is engraved with geometric patterns. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and in a continuous border pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 44-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, “soft” finish, with rubber stocks, shipped to Shoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY on Aug. 3, 1888 in a 2-gun shipment. Remarks section states “The word soft under finish, indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened and shipped from our factory in a soft condition for engraving outside our factory.” Also accompanied by a fine custom, purple velvet lined, mahogany casing, compartmented in the bottom for revolver; a new English style nickeled oil bottle and a wood handle cleaning rod; right center of case has a cartridge block containing fifteen 44-40 cartridges and the left rear has a covered compartment containing a functioning key. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good. Traces of orig finish remain in the most sheltered area on the bbl, otherwise the metal is a dark gray patina with scattered spots of very fine pitting. Grips, period of use replacements, are a little oversized but are fine. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with a few minor nicks in the finish and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly soiled, accessories are fine. 4-41373 JR70 (5,000-8,000)
CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 160891. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with desirable 6″ bbl, brass pin front sight and “Sam Colt” engraved address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT”. The silver plated large guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig, smooth, 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver has received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving treatment with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame which extends over bbl lug and top side flats. Rammer pivot is also engraved to match and hammer has his deluxe treatment of foliate arabesque patterns on shank, a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, fish scale engraving on top edge and a hand checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. All the engraving has a fine punch dot back ground with several scrolls on frame & bbl lug terminating in flower blossoms and one scroll on left side of bbl lug terminating in Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s head. Cylinder is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Accompanied by a custom made mahogany casing with empty brass shield in lid, dark green velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a dbl sided early eagle flask that is clutching a revolver in its left talons and facing to its right; a “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball blued steel mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “31 PKT”; an L-shaped nipple wrench; a new nickeled English style oiler and a tin of Eley’s caps. There is also a brown leather tag in front compartment, gold embossed “Captain Hoffmann / 4. Independent Ohio Battery / 1861”. Back of tag has hand written notations “CAPT. LOUIS HOFFMANN 4TH BATTERY OHIO LIGHT ARTILLERY, ORGANIZED 17 AUG 1861 AT CINCINNATI OH. BATTLES: PEA RIDGE, ARKANSAS POST, CHICKASAW BAYOU, SIEGE OF VICKSBURG AND JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI”. The notation continues “CAPT. LOUIS HOFFMANN BECAME A CASUALTY AND RESIGNED 28 JUNE 1863 (LIKELY AT VICKSBURG)”. Other than this notation, which apparently Mr. McDonald had known from previous information, there is no indication of any previous ownership. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Good, all matching except wedge which is an unnumbered replacement and the grip which is unnumbered. The steel parts of revolver all retain a cleaned gray metal patina with some very fine pitting. Cylinder is a matching mottled patina and retains 25-30% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with a couple of thin areas. Grip has a few age lines and some oil & rust staining at the frame but overall is sound and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with light pitting that may clean better. Case has a couple of chips on one front corner, otherwise is completely sound with usual light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its custom finish. Interior is fine with light soil. Flask has a couple of small dents on each side and overall retains a dark mustard patina. Mold is a blue/gray patina with nicks & dings and light rust with fine crisp cavities. Nipple wrench is fine as are the other accessories. 4-41374 JR60 (3,000-5,000)
CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 81284. Cal. 41 Colt. Gold & silver finish with 5″ bbl, slightly modified half moon front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Frame, bbl, trigger guard & grip frame are silver finish with the cyl, ejector rod housing, ejector rod head, trigger & hammer gold finish. Mounted with beautiful smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in about “B” style with about 75% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on frame with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark foliate sunburst patterns on recoil shield & loading gate. Front edge of frame is engraved in foliate patterns with snake & dot patterns in bottom gullets. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly to the muzzle on bbl with geometric & foliate patterns around address and top of bbl. Top of back strap is engraved in a large “X” pattern with geometric patterns down back strap and on trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with a foliate spray on the lands between the flutes. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in gullet and on outer radius. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver as caliber 38 (obviously a ledger entry error) with 5″ bbl, finish & type of stocks not listed, factory engraved in style “B” and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Feb. 4, 1891 in a shipment of two same type revolvers. Also accompanied by a fine mon-Coltmahogany casing with empty brass shield in lid, burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver with a modern turn screw and a formed wire cleaning rod in front compartment. Left center of the case is fitted with a cartridge block containing nineteen 41 caliber cartridges. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains about all of its restored silver & gold finish with slight muzzle edge wear and minor wear on the tip of ejector rod housing. Engraving shows heavy polishing and is thin in a few places. Grips have a chip on left side of frame, a fine crack through the left escutcheon and a large repair on right toe. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case & contents are fine. 4-41394 JR148 (4,000-6,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ENGRAVED REMINGTON MODEL 1890 SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 40. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40).Nickel finish with 5-3/4″ bbl, slightly reduced German silver blade front sight and 1-line Remington Arms Co. address. Left side of frame is marked “44. C.F.W.” Mounted with 2-pc, smooth, gold-lip pearl grips and the butt strap is mounted with a factory lanyard swivel. Revolver is engraved, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop, probably by the master himself with about 60% coverage wonderful foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine, regular, punch dot background. Left recoil shield is engraved in a large dbl flower blossom panel with matching pattern on loading gate. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with geometric & foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap. Engraving patterns extend over the top strap and sides of the bbl with geometric patterns and a dash & dot border around the address. Top gullet of the ejector rod housing is also engraved in a fine dash & dot border. Ejector rod housing boss, in the frame, is engraved on each side with a hunter star and there are geometric patterns engraved in the bottom gullet of the frame. Front edge of top strap is, unusually, engraved in a fan pattern that matches the recoil shield. Cylinder is matching engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a fine snake & dot pattern around rear edge. This engraving is some of the finest found on Remington revolvers. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 2,020 of these rare revolvers were produced in the period 1891-1896. This revolver evolved from the Model 1875 and retained features of the Model 1888 which included the slimmed-down ejector rod housing web. The blade front sight was also retained and the lanyard swivel again became standard as did the hard rubber grips. This is Remington’s last effort to gain a toe hold in the single action frontier market but by this late date the frontier was fading, the Indian Wars were nearly over and the need for large bore hand guns was greatly reduced. So, with Colt’s strangle hold on the market, Remington ceased production of this revolver in 1896 after only those few pieces were produced. So in spite of the fact that the Remington revolver was certainly equal to the Colt and in some small ways superior, they never became successful enough for the company to continue production. The Remington Model 1890 is a rare revolver with the shorter bbl models the most rare and engraved ones, exceedingly rare with only a handful known, perhaps as few as two or three. PROVENANCE: E.J. “Ted” Bell Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains most of its fine orig nickel finish with slight muzzle edge wear, the slightly altered front sight and a few scattered spots of pitting, mostly all on the left side, at the muzzle, side of bbl and left side of frame below recoil shield. Top strap has pitting on both edges with some other pitting on right side and bottom edge of frame and front web of trigger guard. This pitting appears to be poor storage from having remained in a leather holster in a damp climate. Back strap is lightly pitted with a clean spot about mid-point. Cyl has a few pimples of loose nickel in the flutes with a moderately pitted front face but overall retains most of its orig nickel. Grips have chipped heels with some fine chips on rear edges, otherwise are sound and retain wonderful fire & color. Hammer is not solid in the half cock or safety notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-41711 JR229 (40,000-60,000)
LOT OF TWO ANTIQUE EUROPEAN HAND GUNS. SN 1) T20156 & 2) 950. 1) Gaulois No. 3 Palm Pistol. Cal. 8mm Extra Short CF. Fine engraved French Squeezer Palm Pistol with 2-1/8″ ribbed bbl and silver bead front sight. Rib is marked “GAULOIS” and top of frame is marked “CAL. / 8MM” with the manufacturers logo on top of frame. Toe of dust cover is marked “NO. 3”. The entire frame & bbl are very nicely etch engraved in foliate & floral patterns and it has a checkered Gutta Percha palm piece. Accompanied by an orig, soft doeskin clutch purse holster. 2) B. Coirier “THE PUPPY” Folding Trigger Revolver. Cal. 38 Short Colt. Tiny vest pocket revolver with 1-9/16″ ovoid shaped bbl, half moon German silver front sight with articulated ejector rod & folding trigger. Mounted with black hard rubber grips. Cylinder is fluted, 5-shots. Top of frame is marked “B. Coirier a Paris / THE PUPPY / 4 Bould des Italiens”. Bbl & cyl are blue, frame is color case hardened. Rear face of cyl has the SN & “ELG” Belgian proof. CONDITION: 1) Very good. Thin blue remains in the recesses on sides of frame with the balance of pistol mostly a blue/brown patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with very fine pitting. Holster is fine. 2) Very good to fine, all matching including bbl & cylinder. Bbl retains traces of blue & cyl about 85% glossy orig blue, thining on outer diameter. Frame retains traces of case colors, bright in a couple of spots. Grips are sound. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-42063 JR206 (2,000-3,000)
*OUTSTANDING SMALL FRAME COLT LIGHTNING PUMP ACTION RIFLE. SN 88691. Cal. 22, 24″ oct bbl, dovetail fine bead front sight, dovetailed standing blade “V” notch rear sight. Top flat of bbl is marked “COLT’S PT.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A./PATENTED MAY 29.SEPT.18.83 MAY 26.85.JUNE 15.86. FEB. 22.1887”, left flat adjacent receiver is engraved “22 Cal.” Standard small frame receiver with “Rampant Colt” logo on left side. Mounted with straight grain walnut, uncheckered straight grip, checkered hard rubber buttplate with “Rampant Colt”, standard forend retained with sgl screw. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbl and mag tube retain 98% orig blue with some faint muzzle wear, some minor thinning on sharp corners of octagon and a few tiny nicks & scratches. Receiver retains 97-98% orig blue with some minor freckling blending with brown patina and a few usual small scratches. Hammer retains nearly all of its orig case colors and trigger most of its orig blue. Stock is sound with some minor handling marks, a few small nicks & scratches and retains a thin coat of added finish. Forend is sound with a short hairline crack from the front back to retaining screw, a few minor handling marks and outlined with double line border. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore, as gun appears to have seen very little use. 4-41037 BDT23 (4,000-6,000)
FINE CUSTOM COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CUSTOM ENGRAVING. SN 58258. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with unusual 8-3/8″ bbl, small front sight and 1-line block letter Hartford address. Mounted with exceptional 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Serial numbers were observed in usual places on the frame, trigger guard & back strap. Bbl & cyl are unnumbered. Revolver is spectacularly engraved in deep foliate arabesque scrolls with fine punch dot background. Frame has full coverage with small unengraved accent panels in front gullets on right side. Sides of hammer are engraved to match. Top strap is beautifully engraved in foliate & leaf patterns with a snake & dot pattern in the sight groove. The edges of cyl opening are outlined with a fine zig zag and running dot border pattern. Screws are engraved. Bbl is engraved to match with about 5-3/4″ matching foliate arabesque patterns on both sides with a fantasy wolf’s head incorporated into one scroll on left side. Bbl root, at the frame, is engraved with deep scallop border and the address framed with geometric patterns which terminate in an elaborate geometric pattern over the top. Cylinder is engraved to match with scalloped shell and foliate arabesque patterns around rear edge and geometric patterns in the flutes. Top of back strap is engraved in an elaborate deep relief fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top and at the heel with zig zag borders down each side. Butt strap is engraved in geometric patterns with a hunter star on trigger bow and fancy border on the trigger plate edges. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in the gullet and an elaborate intertwined woven pattern on outer radius. Altogether an extremely beautiful and well-executed piece of the engraver’s art. Accompanied by a custom green velvet lined mahogany casing. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains about all of its fine custom finish showing some light cleaning on sides of bbl. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case is fine. 4-41859 JR147 (4,000-6,000)
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 40431. Cal. 36. Nickel & gold finish with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” with caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an orig 1-pc ivory grip with last three digits of SN in back strap channel. Cylinder is rebated, half fluted with gold wash and a gold washed hammer. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame, which extends over the bbl, and the around muzzle. Both sides of bbl and top center of bbl are engraved with hunters’ stars with matching engraving on lands between flutes of cyl and a tiny starburst at the end of each flute. Back strap is engraved in a half flower blossom at the top with foliate arabesque patterns near the top. Back strap is engraved with a wavy line border and hunter star in the center. Butt strap & trigger guard are also engraved with border patterns and a hunter star on trigger bow. SN on trigger guard is within an engraved ribbon. Altogether a beautiful, rare, and nicely engraved ’62 Police. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars “E PLURIBUS UNUM” flask, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter that has a small “S” inspector initial on right side, a packet of five Colts Cartridge Works combustible cartridges and a tin of Eley’s caps. Given that most all of the Colt Models 1862 Police saw hard service throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier and further, that very few of this model were ever cased, it makes this an extremely rare find an engraved model with its orig case retaining much orig finish. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 60% strong orig nickel and the rammer about 75% gold wash. Frame is mostly a cleaned light patina with sharp engraving. Cylinder retains thin gold wash in flutes and rear face and about 75% nickel. Hammer retains about 75% thin gold wash. Trigger guard & back strap retain 80-85% orig silver plating with balance a light mustard patina. Grip has chip in left front edge and another on right bottom edge with a few age lines and overall retains a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered small spots of pitting. Case has a couple of small grain checks in bottom, otherwise is completely sound with usual light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig finish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with stains inside lid and in bottom around cyl area with damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is very fine, retaining about 95% strong orig finish. Mold retains most of its orig finish, somewhat thin on sides with crisp cavities & sprue cutter. Cartridge packet has a couple of small cracks in top but is still sealed and otherwise crisp. Cap tin is fine. 4-41226 JR34 (16,000-22,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 19960. Cal. 38 RF. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. It has 5-shot rebated cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Frame is engraved in late vine style, from the shop of Gustave Young with fine flowing foliate arabesque patterns over the frame & bbl lug with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Left side of frame has COLT’S PATENT engraved in a kidney shaped panel. Sides of hammer are engraved with Mr. Young’s typical wolf’s head pattern with fishscale pattern down both sides of the spur. Top of back strap is engraved with his typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. The silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with the last four digits of the SN in back strap channel. 36 CAL marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Accompanied by a rare factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38 Rimfire with 4-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to J.P. Moores Sons, New York, NY on Aug. 9, 1875 in a shipment of 57 same type revolvers. Although the factory letter states that the finish was blue, there is little doubt that this is a factory nickel finish applied after being engraved by the factory engraver with the conversion cylinder re-polished before plating, leaving the stagecoach holdup scene roll-marking somewhat thin. It is further apparent that this revolver is unfired since plating. All of the serial numbers on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & back strap are accompanied by a small “IE” which indicates special finishing for engraving. According to R.L. Wilson in Colt an American Legend, few Pocket Navies were engraved and conversions had a relatively high mortality rate as a substantial number found their way to to Mexico and South America. PROVENANCE: Consignor states gun has been in the same VT family since new. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall retains about 93-95% strong orig nickel finish with three or four spots of flaked nickel on bbl with other spots of loose nickel. The exposed metal is a dark brown patina. Cylinder, as noted above, appears unfired, retaining virtually all of its factory nickel and about 60-70% thin stagecoach holdup scene. Hammer retains virtually all of its brilliant case colors with some light rust on right side and top edge. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is crisp with lightly worn edges and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with one large spot of pitting. 4-41950 JR125 (4,000-6,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CANE PRESENTED TO PREEMINENT COLT ENGRAVER GUSTAVE YOUNG. Wonderful ebony cane about 36-1/2″ long with German silver & steel tip and black body with fabulous L-shaped gold-filled handle. Handle & collar are very beautifully engraved in sweeping foliate & floral arabesque patterns in very deep relief with fine stippled background. The area where the handle meets the collar is deep engraved in a swirl pattern. Right side of handle has a 1-1/2″ x 1″ oval curved presentation panel engraved “PRESENTED / TO Gustave Young / AT HIS 50TH / ART JUBILEE”. Butt of the handle is engraved “SPRINGFIELD / MASS. / MAY 6. 1891”. Gustave Young (1827-1895) was born in Germany and emigrated to the United States at age 19, arriving in New York in 1846. While it is unknown, it is believed that Mr. Young worked in New York until about 1852 when he moved to Hartford and joined Colt’s engraving staff. By 1854 he was Colt’s engraving contractor who handled most of Colt’s work well into the late 1860s. In addition to being an engraver, Mr. Young was also a die cutter, ie. he made the roll dies and stamp dies for marking bbls & frames, etc. In addition to Colt, in the 1860s, Mr. Young also did work for Sharps, Smith & Wesson, Parker, Connecticut Arms, Wesson Arms and Meriden Arms along with a few jobs for Winchester. In 1869 Mr. Young moved his family & shop to Springfield, Mass. on Broad Street where he continued engraving for various manufacturers but his primarily clients were Colt and Smith & Wesson. By all accounts Mr. Young was irascible and temperamental and once told Mr. D.B. Wesson, partner of the Smith & Wesson Company to “Get out of my shop you talk so much I can’t work.” In addition to his engraving he also continued die cutting for a variety of companies other than firearms. According to Colt Engraving, Wilson, p. 53, “May 6, 1891 marked the 50th anniversary of Gustave Young’s career as an engraver and die cutter. On this occasion he was presented with a gold mounted cane, suitably inscribed, and was feted at a special dinner celebration. Mr. Young remained active and engraved special guns for Smith & Wesson for the Chicago World’s Fair of 1892-93, one of which is the only known Gustave Young signed item of engraving. By 1894 Mr. Young had aged dramatically and likely did no more work until his death on Jan. 2, 1895. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. The handle has a couple of very minor nicks and one tiny dent on the presentation panel, otherwise the engraving is crisp & sharp with wonderful detail. The shaft has a few light nicks & scratches but retains most of its orig finish. Tip has a few small dings, shows very little wear. A very rare Gustave Young item. 4-41960 JR290 (15,000-25,000)
*EXCEPTIONAL KORNBRATH ENGRAVED WINCHESTER CUSTOM HIGH WALL SINGLE SHOT RIFLE. SN 139700. Cal. 22 LR. Fantastic Kornbrath engraved custom rifle by J. Oberlies of Dayton, Ohio, with 28″ about No. 2 weight oct to rnd bbl with custom matted ramp front sight and dovetailed Rocky Mtn. blade, no provision for a rear sight and mounted with an Oberlies marked, custom Soule-style vernier tang sight with 2-1/2″ staff. Built on a flat-side Model 1885 Winchester High Wall action and mounted with very highly figured, custom checkered wood with black insert schnable tip forearm and deep pistol grip stock with deep cheek piece, 13-1/2″ over a stippled custom brass buttplate. Stock is inlaid with a very detailed, flush-mounted silver, maple leaf on the serpentine grip cap, a raised silver acorn on the forearm and a nicely engraved, flush-mounted silver shield on bottom of stock that is engraved “MARVIN / RUTAN / DAYTON / O” with a light border engraving. Receiver is executed in what is probably Mr. Kornbrath’s “piece de resistance”. Over many years of examining engraved firearms, with a special affection for Mr. Kornbrath’s work, this cataloger has examined upwards of 100 or more Rudolph Kornbrath engraved guns, many of which were exquisitely engraved with gold inlays etc., etc., however none of the previously examined Kornbrath work remotely approaches the overallartistry & detail engendered in this work of art. Left side of receiver is engraved with a deep relief Rocky Mtn. Big Horn sheep descending toward the viewer down a steep rocky mountainside. There are fine pine trees in the background and mountainside in the foreground, all of which highlight the center focus of this Big Horn Ram. The panel is outlined in intertwined oak branches with oak leaves & acorns. Right side of receiver is similarly engraved with the vignette of an equally detailed Rocky Mtn. goat, also situated on a rocky escarpment with mountain slopes in the background. This billy is quartering away from the viewer but looking back over his right shoulder. This panel is also surrounded with identical oak branches, leaves & acorns. Remainder of entire receiver is completely covered in Mr. Kornbrath’s trademark, very fine, intertwined, deep foliate arabesque patterns. The Winchester proofs on top of receiver are left open and the tang sight base sits on its own unengraved panel. Screw heads & pins are also engraved. Breech block is hand scraped with the hammer polished bright and fine stippled spur. The lever & bottom tang are engraved to match with wonderfully detailed oak leaf & acorn panels and extremely fine hand cut checkering on the tail of the lever with the tip of the lever and tip of lower tang engraved in a foliate fan. Front bottom screw hole is engraved with a large rosette. Face of trigger is also stippled. Receiver end of the bbl is engraved with a wonderful foliate border pattern and inlaid with a wide silver band. Finally the item that sets this piece of Kornbrath engraving art above all others is the signature, which is located on bottom front of receiver, which states, in relief, “ENGRAVING / BY / KORNBRATH-HFD. CT”. This rifle was the subject of a small article by Herbert G. Houze that appeared on p. 20 of Vol. 52, Issue 27, 1998, Sept. The Shotgun News. Mr. Houze had access to the Kornbrath archives housed in the McCracken Research Library of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY which disclosed that Mr. Kornbrath had envisioned two earlier artistic renditions of this rifle’s engraving before he settled on the final product that we see today. Accompanying this rifle are copies of those earlier Kornbrath drawings. Also accompanying is an orig Kornbrath engraving brochure/advertisement of 1934 wherein he illustrates several pieces of his work including the right side of this rifle, labeled as item “G”. While some of the work is substantially more detailed, in near-Bulino, bank note style, only one or two others are deep relief engraved as on this rifle. Most of Mr. Kornbrath’s most famous work was accomplished on handguns. This exact rifle appears on p. 528, in full color in the book The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two, Wilson, as the lead in to the Kornbrath section of this book. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom finish with bright blue on the bbl, strong subtle case colors on receiver and bright hand rubbed finish on wood. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. A truly exceptional piece of work suitable for the most advanced collection or museum display of engraver’s art. 4-42052 JR215 (50,000-70,000)
SCARCE COLT PATTERSON NO. 2 RING LEVER REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 304. Cal. 44. 32-1/2″ oct bbl, German Silver front sight, finely contoured dovetail leaf rear sight with elevator. Top of bbl reading left to right with snake and star brackets reads “Patent Arms M’g. Co. Paterson, N.J. Colt’s Pt.” Right side of bbl at breEch is mounted with rammer and lever. Lower right side breech end is cut with groove for loading eight-shot cylinder is roll engraved with the Centaur, deer, hunter motif cabin scene. Recoil shield is grooved on right side for capping. Mounted with lightly figured walnut, uncheckered straight grip, crescent steel buttplate. Matching “304” serial numbers are found on right side of ring lever, toe of buttplate, inside flat of loading lever rammer. No dis-assembly was attempted to inspect for internal matching numbers. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbl retains traces of orig brown that has blended with silver patina, a few minor nicks & scratches and a couple small spots of fine surface pitting. Cylinder is a gray and brown patina with much of the cylinder scene visible, recoil shield and top tang are a silver and brown patina. Lower portion of receiver and ring lever show orig blue blending with silver patina. Stock is sound with a few normal small nicks & dings, cheek piece on left side and retains a dark open grain oil finish. Buttplate retains a smooth even brown finish. Mechanics are crisp, bore has distinct rifling, some shine and some dark spotting in grooves. 4-41242 BDT289 (13,500-17,500)
*WONDERFUL CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 60977SA & 60978SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Revolvers are identical with silver finish, 4-3/4″ bbls, thick front sights and 1-line block letter addresses with “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45” on left sides. Left sides of the frames have 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. They are mounted with wonderful, smooth, 1-pc ivory grips. Revolvers are very nicely engraved by master engraver Dan Cullity, with about “B” coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns on the frames, bbls, back straps, butt straps, trigger guards and ejector rod housings. Top of back straps are inlaid with large smooth gold shields that are engraved with the stylized Colt “C”. SN was observed on bottoms of the frames, on left sides of the front & back straps with the last two digits of the SNs in the butt strap channels of the grips. Bottoms of the bbls, under the ejector rod housings, inside the ejector rod housings and on faces of cylinders around the cylinder bushing holes are hand stamped with the last three digits of the SNs. Left sides of front straps are engraved “-WDC-“, the initials of W. Dan Cullity, former Colt master engraver who worked for Colt 1969-1972. A check with the Colt factory records disclosed that these pistols were shipped as a pair in 45 caliber with 4-3/4” bbls, blue finish and rubber stocks to Pete’s Gun Shop, Falmouth, MA, William Harvey on Nov. 19, 1971 in a 2-gun shipment. Note: Pete’s Gun Shop and Dan Cullity’s shop were near to each other and it is known that Mr. Harvey was a close friend of Mr. Cullity and frequently commissioned work by him. Conversation with Mr. Cullity disclosed that these two revolvers were the last work that he did for Colt on a special commission after he had retired from Colt. PROVENANCE: Private Coll. of a Gentleman. Colt Factory Letter. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including grips, both revolvers. They appear to both be new & unfired with only a faint hint of a cyl line. Grips are crisp with an age line or two and retain a light ivory patina. 4-41901 JR193 (9,000-14,000)
RARE CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3428. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has small engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a 2-line arc inside a pillow shaped panel. The silver placed trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip that is probably a period of use replacement. Frame is engraved in Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of wonderful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Two of scrolls on left side, one on left recoil shield, another on right recoil shield and still another on right side of frame terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl, terminating on top, forward of address. Three scrolls on bbl also terminate in flower blossoms. The hammer has also received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving treatment with foliate arabesque scrolls on the shank and a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and fish scale engraving on top edge. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. Ends of wedge are also engraved. Accompanied by an orig green velvet lined Colt casing with empty rectangular brass plate in lid, compartmented in bottom for revolver; a dbl sided eagle & stars “E PLURIBUS UNUM” flask; a blued steel 2-cavity bullet & ball “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36P”; a packet of five Colts Cartridge Works combustible cartridges; an L-shaped nipple wrench with broken ear; a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a formed wire cleaned rod. Given that this revolver was produced in 1861, early in the Civil War, it is amazing that it has survived intact and complete. Most of these revolvers saw continuous & hard service throughout the Civil War and later on the American frontier and today are rarely found in orig configuration with orig parts. Undoubtedly this revolver belonged to someone of reasonable importance such as a high ranking military officer or government official or someone of wealth & influence. PROVENANCE: Fred B. McDonald Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl, frame & cyl overall retain traces of orig finish being mostly a smooth gray metal patina. All markings & engraving are still sharp & clear. Cyl retains traces of blue in the flutes. Trigger guard & back strap retain traces of orig silver plating being mostly a light mustard patina. Grip is sound and although unnumbered and obviously a replacement, fits well and retains most of its orig. varnish finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Case has a grain crack in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is moderately faded with heavy soil in bottom with wear at cyl and muzzle end contact points and under the flask & mold areas. Flask has a few dents and overall retains about 75% orig finish. Mold has crisp clean cavities and retains about 60% orig glossy blue. Nipple wrench, with its broken ear, is fine. Cartridge packet is crisp. Cap tin is fine. 4-41391 JR56 (4,500-6,500)
ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 2713. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and fixed rear sight at the forcing cone end and a 1-line block letter address. It has usual 6-shot unfluted cyl with Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking and is mounted with checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard has the caliber marking. Revolver is beautifully engraved in Cuno Helfricht style with about full coverage on frame of fine foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Engraving extends over both sides of bbl, with border & geometric patterns around address on top and short foliate arabesque patterns on each side of muzzle. Ejector rod housing is engraved with rectangle & dot pattern and chip & dot borders. Right side of bbl lug is engraved in a diamond & dot pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfrict’s trademark fan pattern with chip & dot border and geometric patterns down the back strap and on the butt strap with foliate arabesque patterns and chip & dot borders on trigger guard. Altogether this is a beautiful after market engraved revolver. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 44 RF with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish and type of stocks not listed, shipped to Joseph C. Grubb & Co., Phila., PA, on Sept. 6, 1873 in a shipment of 70 same type revolvers. Also accompanied by three orig 44 RF Henry flat nose cartridges and two 44 RF blanks. The open top revolvers were a great innovation in the evolution of the Colt Single Action Army. Unfortunately by the time they reached the market the 44 RF cartridge no longer was popular on the American market. However several other regions of the world were still using the 44 RF cartridges in the Henry & Winchester Model 1866 rifles. Colt very actively pursued these markets and the majority of the open top revolvers were sold to markets in South American and other areas. Today it is rare to find an open top in orig configuration without the bbl having been cut. Examining the bore of this revolver shows chatter marks in the grooves at about mid-point leading to the speculation that this bbl may have been stretched. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of its fine custom finish with some slight dulling on the bbl. Frame and grip frame retain about all of their fine custom finish. Cyl is slightly dulled and overall retains about 98% of the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking which appears to have been re-rolled. Grip is sound showing light wear & soil and retains about all of an artificially aged patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Ammunition is fine. 4-41860 JR137 (4,000-7,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED MERWIN & HULBERT ARMY MODEL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 17696. Cal. 44 M&H (will also chamber 44-40, 44 Russian, 44 Remington & 44 American). Late production style with top strap and scooped flutes with square butt and lanyard loop in butt strap. Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl that has integral half moon front sight with Merwin & Hulbert markings on top and Hopkins & Allen markings on left side. Mounted with what appear to be orig 2-pc ivory grips that have a deep relief carved Mexican eagle & snake on right side. Left side of frame is marked “CALIBRE 44 M.H. & CO.”. Revolver is beautifully factory engraved with a stag on the sideplate and nearly full coverage foliate & floral patterns over the frame and about 60% of bbl. Cyl has foliate & floral and diamond & dot patterns on lands between the flutes. Merwin & Hulbert revolvers were very popular on the American frontier due to their simplicity and ease & speed of loading & unloading. A simple push of a button and twist of the bbl allowed the entire bbl unit & cyl to slide forward which automatically ejected empty cartridge cases. The unit was then closed and reloaded by means of the sliding loading gate on right side of the frame. Unfortunately the company was unable to compete with Colt’s & Smith & Wesson’s distribution system and with their early production revolvers being in proprietary calibers that were not chambered in other available firearms greatly inhibited their sales & distribution. A great majority of Merwin & Hulbert revolvers were sold in Mexico and are rarely found today with full length bbls and orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Bbl retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel plating as does the frame with only some minor thinning & losses on butt strap & toe of grip frame. Cyl retains about 60% strong orig nickel with loss area apparently from long term holster storage, not from wear. Hammer retains most of its orig case colors, strong & bright in sheltered areas, faded elsewhere. Trigger guard retains faded case colors in web areas having turned silver & brown elsewhere. Grips are sound and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina with a few minor age lines in left side. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-41233 JR24 (7,500-12,500)
*HEYM MODEL SR 20 LUXE BOLT ACTION RIFLE WITH ORIGINAL SCOPE AND BOX. SN 22705. Cal. 30-06. 20-1/2″ Tapered round light weight bbl has one folding leaf rear sight with adjustable U-notch dovetailed through rectangular island base. Matted front ramp is fitted with silver bead. Top of bbl is stamped “Krupp Special (3-ring logo)” “Laufstahl”. Rear boss on bbl is fitted with dovetailed through claw base. Left side of bbl is stamped with model, caliber and German proofs. Special made Heym/ Mauser action is push feed, with no guide rib on bolt. Toggle safety is mounted behind bolt handle, which is of flattened pear-shape, checkered, and swept back. Bottom metal has hinged floorplate with unique Heym straddle latch. Double set triggers are fitted. Action is coin finished, and has nearly full coverage of open shaded scroll, oak leaves and acorns. “Friedrich Wilh. Heym” is stamped on sidewall, and “Made in Germany” is on right receiver ring. Blued trigger guard continues engraving theme. Coin finished floorplate is also engraved with oak leaves, outlining well done quartering head of roebuck. Nicely fiddle-figured and streaked European walnut stock extends to muzzle with steel Schnabel tip. Butt is fitted with brown open-sided pad, and stock features Monte Carlo comb with right hand cheekpiece, right hand palm swell, and colt’s foot grip with rosewood cap inlaid with white celluloid. In place of checkering there is nicely relief carved scrolled oak leaves and acorns with stippled background which extends all the way to muzzle on fore piece. Same theme is repeated as a band around butt. Sling loops are installed fore and aft. Drop and heel: 2-3/4″. Drop at comb: 1-7/8″ Weight without scope: 7 lbs 4 oz. LOP: 14-1/2″. Hertel & Reuss Seclusiv (?) 3 – 10 X rail scope with three post and crosshair duplex reticle, has claw mounts. Rear mount has windage adjustment. Original green two piece box contains certificate and test target for this particular rifle, and a spare firing pin tip. PROVENANCE: Private Coll. of a Gentleman. CONDITION: Excellent, essentially as new. Close inspection finds two minor marks on front sight ramp, and a mark on adjustment cap of scope. O-ring of rear cap is not intact. Box is fine with numerous tape wraps. 4-41944 MGM130 (5,000-7,000)
INSCRIBED COLT 1ST MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER & DAGUERREOTYPE. SN 3644. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line block letter address reading from cyl to muzzle. Frame has small “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.” The square back silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking and scarcer variant “U.S. DRAGOONS / COLTS PATENT” in two panels with SN in center. Top of back strap is engraved in period script “P. Ford“. Accompanied by a 3-ring binder of information regarding the purported orig owner of this revolver, Sgt. Patrick Ford along with an article from the March 1986 Gun Report ” A Mystery Solved: A U.S. Regular’s “Civilian” Army Dragoon”. Patrick Ford was born in Ireland in 1831 and immigrated to the U.S. in 1851, immediately enlisting in the Army. His initial unit was Company K 5th Inf. at Louisville, KY. He was apparently transferred to Company K 3rd Inf. in April 1852 at Carlisle Barracks, Kentucky. However his unit by that time was being transferred to New Mexico Territory. He walked the 1,700 miles to Fort Webster, NM Territory to join his unit where he took part in the Apache Indian Campaign and in 1855 in an engagement with Mescalero Apaches is credited with killing Indian Chief Santa Ana for which he was decorated. He was apparently discharged in April 1857. In Jan. 1858 he re-enlisted in Company C 2nd Inf, Boston, Mass. During the Civil War his unit was engaged in a number of major battles including First Bull Run, the Siege of Yorktown, Gaines Mill and Savage Station. He was wounded in the leg & ankle at Gaines Mill and captured at Savage Station and was confined in Libby Prison and Belle Island for two months before being paroled, after which he was on recruiting duty in New York and was discharged in Jan. 1863. In March of 1862 he was a Provost guard in Washington, D.C. and was disabled by a kick in the testicles while trying to arrest a drunken soldier. He re-enlisted in Company F 2nd Artillery in Jan. 1866 in Fort Vancouver, Washington, and sailed to Cook’s Inlet, Alaska to establish a post. In July 1868 his transport ran aground with his family aboard and they were marooned for three weeks. He was discharged at Fort Kodiak in Sept. 1869. In Dec. 1869 he re-enlisted in Company D 23rd Inf. in Arizona under Gen. Cook and took part in another campaign against the Apaches and was promoted to Sergeant. He was discharged Dec. 10, 1874. On Dec. 11, 1874 he re-enlisted in Company F 12th Inf. and was posted to Alcatraz Island, CA. as Provost Sergeant over military prisoners. In June 1877 he fought in the Nez Perce Indian Campaign in Idaho Territory and in June 1878 against the Barranock Indians and was discharged and retired Dec. 10, 1879 at Whipple Barracks, Arizona. He died at the Soldiers’ Home in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 26, 1911. Also accompanying is a 4″ x 5-1/4″ daguerreotype of a bearded young soldier in uniform with frock coat, sash & cavalry saber holding a kepi in his left hand, purported to be Patrick Ford. When removed from case, image has “P. Ford- U.S. Army” inscribed in pencil. PROVENANCE: Ex Norm Flayderman Coll. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “512” and grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains a dark plum brown patina with fine pin prick pitting on left side of lug and right side of bbl. Rammer pivot has smoky dark case colors with handle & rammer a gray patina. Frame retains traces of smoky case colors being mostly a silver/gray patina. Cyl is a smooth medium brown patina and retains 70-75% dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking with dragoons & “COLTS PATENT” legends faint but legible, “US” is worn away. Trigger guard retains 88-90% strong orig silver plating. Back strap retains traces of silver plating at the top and thin silver plating on butt strap being mostly a medium mustard patina. Inscription is fine. Grip is sound showing heavy wear with traces of orig varnish and an overall hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with light to moderate pitting. Scarce half-plate Daguerreotype has some fading around top & side edges, not affecting the image. 4-42079 (12,500-17,500)
*CASED SET OF CUSTOM ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION & 4TH GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN SA06884 & S20846A. 1) Caliber 44 Special. SN SA06884. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Mounted with 2-pc Ajax checkered faux ivory grips. Revolver is beautifully panel scene engraved with a standing elk on left side of frame and a reproduction of the Colt hunter & grizzly bear panel on right side. Balance of frame has full coverage wonderful, intertwined, foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background. One of the scrolls on left recoil shield terminates in a Gustav Young style flower blossom. Engraving extends about 5″ up each side of bbl and again around the front sight with both sides of front sight engraved to match. Hammer is engraved in Gustav Young style with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Back strap, butt strap, front strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. There is also an engraved panel on bottom front edge of frame and outside radius of ejector rod housing. Cylinder is matching engraved on outer diameter with flutes an unengraved counterpoint. SN was observed on bottom of frame and left sides of the front & back straps with last four digits of SN on face of cyl around bushing hole. The engraver’s mark “TD” or “DT” is stamped on trigger guard. 2) Caliber 45 Colt & 45 ACP. SN S20846A. Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line block letter address with model & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt and it is mounted with a beautiful smooth 1-pc ivory grip with SN in back strap channel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by the same engraver as #1 above with about 90% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & sides of hammer. Engraving extends 2-1/2″ up each side of bbl and around muzzle with both sides of front sight engraved to match. Back strap, butt strap, trigger guard & cyl are engraved to match. Bbl has a dbl inlaid gold wire band at the frame end and a sgl gold band at muzzle end. Cyl has matching wide & narrow inlaid gold bands around rear edge. Engraver’s mark was observed on left side of front strap under grip. SN was observed on frame and left sides of front & back straps with last three digits of SN on the face of both cylinders, around cyl bushing holes. The 45 ACP cyl is stamped on rear face “ACP” and is engraved identically to the 45 Colt cylinder. Revolvers are accompanied by a custom olive green felt lined mahogany casing with mortised brass lock in bottom front edge and a fine dust rail. Inside lid is a disassembly instruction label. Bottom is compartmented for both revolvers and the spare cyl with two 6-rd cartridge blocks containing six each 45 Colt and 44 Spcl. cartridges. CONDITION: Both revolvers are as new, all matching except grips on #1 which are unnumbered. Both revolvers appear to be crisp & unfired retaining virtually all of their fine custom Colt style blue & color case hardened finish. Grips are equally new. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Case is equally new. 4-41720 JR44 (6,000-9,000)
SCARCE CASED COLT 4TH MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 103550. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked with a small “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated large guard trigger guard & back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Chambers of cyl retain virtually all of their orig blue and the bore also retains strong bright blue. Accompanied by an orig mahogany Colt casing with mortised brass lock with square brass escutcheon. Interior is brown velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver; a dbl sided eagle & stars, angle spout Navy flask; a blued steel 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet & ball mold with sprue cutter; a packet of Hazard’s Powder combustible cartridges; an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. The 4th Model Navy was the largest production of the Model 1851 and was produced throughout the Civil War into about 1873 when they were superceded by the advent of the cartridge revolver. These revolvers usually saw hard service throughout the Civil War, in a number of foreign countries’ militaries and later on the American frontier well in to the 1880’s, usually with little or no maintenance. They are rarely found with high orig finish. Unengraved cased ’51 Navies are even more rare. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 92-93% strong, glossy, orig factory blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a medium patina. Rammer & handle retain virtually all of their orig strong case colors. Frame & hammer retain about all of their strong orig case colors, lightly to moderately faded on right side, brilliant on the hammer. Cylinder, probably unfired, retains about 90% strong, glossy, orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a medium patina and overall retains about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their strong orig silver plating with some minor wear on trigger guard and at heel of back strap. Grip is sound with minor, very light handling & use surface mars with very faint edge wear and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with one small spot of rust. Case has a repair in bottom outside rear edge and slight lid shrinkage, otherwise is completely sound with very minor storage & handling nicks & scratches. Interior is moderately faded and moderately to heavily soiled in bottom with damage from the front sight & hammer spur and some reglued partitions. Flask has a couple of small dents and retains orig finish in the most sheltered areas only, being overall a fine, even medium brass patina. Cartridge packet is moderately soiled but completely intact & sealed. Mold has some dings on the sides and overall retains about 85% orig blue with crisp, clean cavities. Other accessories are fine. 4-41974 JR182 (22,500-27,500)
FINE GLAHN ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS RANGER & U.S. BORDER PATROL ASSOCIATION. SN 168641. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight with 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc left & right, deep medallion, pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved in Mr. Glahn’s typical style with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and his trademark “V” patterns on recoil shield, loading gate & top of back strap. Butt strap has an additional “V” pattern. Foliate arabesque patterns extend 2/3 up each side of bbl and on outer radius of ejector rod housing. Ejector rod housing also has a snake pattern in top gullet. Cyl has foliate arabesque patterns engraved on lands between the flutes and a snake pattern at rear edge. Heel of back strap & trigger guard are also engraved to match. SN was observed in usual three places on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with addition of the factory assembly number “643N” which is found on left side of the butt strap, front strap, bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing, inside ejector rod housing & face of cyl around bushing hole. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish & rubber grips, shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on Feb. 15, 1897 in a shipment of 25 same type revolvers. It is apparent, given the facts, that this revolver was manufactured in 1897 and that Mr. Glahn did not begin engraving for Colt until well into the 20th century, that this revolver was returned to factory for restoration & engraving with nickel finish applied at that time. It also appears that the bbl was either replaced or a new front sight added as it has the larger, thick front sight which was not instituted until about 1902. Additionally accompanied by a packet of information regarding the historical ownership of this revolver which is, according to a signed, notarized statement from Patrick L. Fleming, the son of William Adolph (Dolph) Fleming, who states that this revolver along with a number of other firearms was his father’s duty weapon during his law enforcement career, first in the Texas Rangers and then in the U.S. Border Patrol. Additionally accompanying is a letter from the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, Waco, TX, forwarding information regarding the service of W.A. Fleming as a Texas Ranger. Included in this information is Mr. Fleming’s Oath of Enlistment paper which enlisted him in Company G at Edinburg, TX on 17 Dec 1917. According to Patrick Fleming’s notarized statement Ranger Fleming left the Texas Rangers and joined the U.S. Border Patrol in 1924 where he apparently served until his death in 1948. Also accompanied by a 2-page letter from noted Colt authority, collector & dealer, Mike Clark of Collector’s Firearms, Houston, TX, indicating he purchased this revolver directly from Patrick L. Fleming. Also included in the packet of information are copies of two photographs of Ranger Fleming in uniform, one on horseback in a parade and the other a portrait style photograph. And finally there is a 4-page letter from noted Colt historian & authority, Ron Graham, authenticating this revolver as described above. Also in the letter he states that it was “common practice by lawmen of the Southwestern United States to have their long time service arms refurbished, and in instances such as this, engraved by those weapons’ respective manufacturers.” PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 97-98% strong factory nickel with only slight muzzle edge wear on left side and tip of ejector rod housing. Grips have a chipped left toe, otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36834 JR20 (17,500-27,500)
FINE PRESENTATION 1ST MODEL MERWIN & HULBERT ARMY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 6379. Cal. 44 M&H. Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl, integral front sight and 1-line Merwin & Hulbert address on top with Hopkins & Allen manufacturer’s address on left side. It has square butt grip frame with lanyard swivel and is mounted with red & black marbled, checkered hard rubber grips. This is the 1st type revolver with open frame and scooped flute cylinder. Back strap is engraved in period script “A.H.B. to F.C.B. 12/25.78”. The SN is found on butt strap and assembly “3850” is on the left side of butt strap under the grip and also on cyl spindle, rear face of cyl and rear face of bbl lug. Production figures for the Merwin & Hulbert are unknown but Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms states that production is estimated at only a few thousand. Merwin & Hulbert were not themselves manufacturers but dealers & promoters who contracted the manufacturing process to established firearms makers, in this case Hopkins & Allen. These revolvers were very popular on the American frontier with lawmen & others for their rapidity of unloading & reloading. Once all the cartridges were fired, a simple twist & pull of the bbl/cyl assembly emptied the cyl which could then be re-closed and rapidly reloaded through the loading gate on right side of frame. Unfortunately by the time the Merwin & Hulbert emerged on the scene Colt had a 3-year head start with their distribution system and in government contracts. Merwin & Hulbert marketed these fine revolvers in several different models and calibers only from 1876-1880. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with only some very fine pin prick flaking on sides of frame. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, turned a little dark. Grips are crisp, mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-40145 JR149 (13,000-18,000)
*UNUSUAL PAIR OF SPECIAL ORDER 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS BY BEN SHOSTLE. SN FBF-007 & 007-FBF. Cal. 44-40 & 45 Colt. Both revolvers are virtually identical in configuration and engraving with one having all blue finish and the other blue & color case hardened. Both have 7-1/2″ bbls, fixed front sights, 1-line addresses and model & caliber markings on left sides. Left sides of frames are marked differently and they are mounted with different styles of grips. Engraving consists of 35-40% coverage, well executed foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background and Cuno Helfricht style sunbursts on left recoil shields. Top straps have fine border patterns. Engraving extends about 3″ up the bbls with a sgl gold band at the frame ends and wide & narrow gold bands at the muzzle ends. They have a deep relief panel on the left sides near the muzzles with raised inlaid gold plaque inscribed “THE FIRST BANKERS” with what is apparently the bank’s logo. An identical raised gold logo is at the top of each back strap and the back straps are engraved in script “First Bankers Corporation of Florida”. The butt straps are inlaid with three gold, 5-pointed stars. Cyls are identically engraved with a continuous flowing foliate arabesque pattern that runs from land to land with small star bursts by each stop notch. Rear edge of cyls have wide & narrow gold bands. The work is signed by the late Master Engraver Ben Shostle at the base of the left recoil shields. They each are accompanied by their orig custom shop, burgundy velvet lined, oak casings and cardboard shipping boxes. The lids of the wood cases are impressed in black letters with the bank’s logo and “THE FIRST BANKERS” in the centers, the “COLT” logo in right front corners and the caliber marking in left front corners. Interior is recessed for the revolver and a brass belt buckle with similar information and a gold plated cartridge along with the orig keys. 1) SN FBF-007 is all blue with conventional transverse pin and varnished oak grips with gold Colt medallions, numbered to this revolver. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt. Last three digits of SN are hand engraved on rear face of cylinder with the number “0035” around the cylinder bushing hole. 2) SN 007-FBF is blue & color case hardened with black powder style frame having 3-line patent dates. Assembly number “W3380” is found on the left side of the grip frame under the grip, which number is also found around the cyl bushing hole. Mounted with 2-pc oil finished walnut grips with gold Colt medallions which are numbered to this revolver. CONDITION: Both revolvers appear to be new & unfired and unturned retaining virtually all of their orig factory finish. Cases are equally new. 4-40832 JR254 (4,000-6,000)
CORRECTION: This is a Factory engraved specimen not “New York Style” engraved as stated in the printed catalog. The estimate in the printed catalog is incorrect. The correct estimate is $12,500-17,500.
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 THUER DERRINGER WITH HOLSTER. SN 4912. Cal. 41 RF Short. Blue & silver finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, tiny German silver half moon front sight and large “COLT” on the top. Frame & bbl are beautifully Factory engraved with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Forward sides of frame, below bbl, are engraved in feather patterns. Top of back strap is engraved in geometric patterns with arabesque & geometric patterns down the back strap. The bird head grip frame is mounted with full checkered ivory grips and early type short, high hammer. Accompanied by a very rare Moroccan leather Slim Jim holster with sewn edge and black finish. Holster is a little long for the derringer and is made without belt loop. Obviously intended to be carried in a pocket. Although the 3rd Model Derringer is not uncommon they are rarely ever encountered engraved. These little derringers were favorites of gamblers for vest pocket guns and with ladies as garter & muff pistols. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue with balance flaked to a medium patina. Frame retains about 50% orig silver plating with the exposed areas a medium mustard patina. Hammer retains virtually all of its strong, bright case colors and the trigger about all of its orig blue. Right grip has a hairline age line through the escutcheon, otherwise grips are sound with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with fine pitting in two grooves near the muzzle. Holster is sound, soft & flexible and retains about 50% black finish. 4-39855 (12,500-17,500)
RARE EARLY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 117617. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with cal marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his deluxe coverage. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on sides of frame with zig zag border at rear edges and around recoil shields. Left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan patterns with snake & dot patterns over top straps. Each side of bbl boss is engraved in a foliate spray with snake & dot patterns on the base pin boss and ejector rod housing boss. Bottom front gullets are engraved with zig-zag & dot patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend to even with the front sight on each side with snake & dot patterns on each side of bbl address which terminate in a geometric pattern. Ejector rod housing has snake & dot patterns in top gullet & outer radius. Top of back strap has a simple foliate spray with geometric patterns down back strap, on butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with foliate sprays on the lands between the flutes with the front edge engraved in an elliptical pattern and five 6-pointed stars in each panel surrounding a simple arched pattern of five fine lines. This is the only time that this exact pattern has been observed by this cataloger. Rear edge of cylinder is engraved in a continuous snake & dot pattern. Screws are all fire blued and show little or no evidence of screwdriver contact. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, wood stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Aug. 21, 1886 in a shipment of 12 same type revolvers. Although the letter indicates this revolver was shipped with wood grip, which at that time would have been a 1-pc grip and the front strap would have been without grip locator pin that is apparently a mistake in the records as the grip locator pin. That entry is currently installed in this revolver is nickel finished and appears correct in all respects. Pearl grips may have been supplied by Hartley & Graham but also could have been supplied by Colt. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel finish with minor losses around the muzzle and face of the cyl from firing. Balance of nickel finish is strong & bright with a couple of minor dings on the top edge of the front sight and some minor losses in the bottom front gullets of the frame. Screws retain about all of their bright fire blue finish. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. This is one of the finest early engraved single actions come to market in recent history. 4-40138 JR332 (125,000-175,000)
WONDERFUL CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 14538 & 14543. Cal. 36. Silver & gold finish with 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left sides of frames are marked “COLTS PATENT” and the left rear webs of trigger guards are marked “36 CAL”. They have brass trigger guards & back straps that contain spectacular 1-pc ivory grips with raised carved standing Lady Liberty on left sides. Cyls have usual Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. Revolvers are engraved, although not identically, by master engraver Gustave Young in his wonderful deluxe style consisting of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frames with several scrolls that terminate in flower blossoms. Hammers are also full coverage engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer noses. Engraving extends about half way up both sides of bbls with several scrolls that terminate in flower blossoms and one scroll on #14538 that incorporates a fish. Tops of back straps are engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern and foliate arabesque patterns on back straps, butt straps & trigger guards. Hammer and cyl notches on #14543 retain traces of orig gold wash. SNs on bbl lugs, frames, trigger guards & back straps are all accompanied by a small “E” signifying that these revolvers were destined to be engraved and were to receive special polishing. Accompanied by an English style dbl oak casing with empty scallop edge plate in lid. Interior is green baize lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolvers, a dbl sided Colt style Navy sized angle spout flask, a 31 caliber “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an unmarked pewter oil bottle, a packet of reproduction combustible cartridges, two wonderful tins of Joyce caps, an ebony handled metal wiping rod in its compartment in the back edge. There are two covered corner compartments. Also included is an orig Kriegsmarine brass capping tool marked with a “KM” on the back. Inside lid has an orig directions label. Engraved ’61 Navys are quite rare and to find a cased pair is most rare and an extraordinary find. CONDITION: Both revolvers are all matching, except grips which are unnumbered. #14538 is fine. Bbl retains 30-35% bright silver with balance gray metal patina. Frame & hammer retain traces of silver in sheltered areas with the balance gray metal patina. Grip frame retains traces of orig silver being mostly a bright yellow mustard patina. Grip has four professionally installed pin repairs and numerous fine age lines, showing heavy wear and retains a fine ivory patina. Cyl is a gray metal patina and retains 35-40% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. #14543 is fine to very fine. Bbl retains 75-80% strong silver with the balance flaked to bare metal. Frame retains 60-65% strong silver with the balance flaked to bare metal. Hammer retains about 50% silver with about 20% gold wash. Cyl retains 10-15% silver with traces of gold wash in stop notches and around rear face and shows 30-40% Ormsby Naval battle scene with four serviceable safety pins. Grip frame retains strong silver around trigger guard with the balance a light mustard patina. Grip has several light age lines, showing heavy wear, with a wonderful light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with some light, fine scattered pitting. Case has one crack in bottom with slightly shrunken top panel, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage marks and retains most of a very old added finish. Interior is heavily faded and moderately soiled with two loose partitions and a couple of others that have been repaired, with light damage from front sights & hammer spurs. Flask is fine with a couple of minor dents and retains 30-40% orig finish. Cap tins are crisp & bright. Mold is cleaned to bright metal, other accessories are fine. 4-40251 JR141 (45,000-75,000)
RARE ENGRAVED AND SILVER PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH MONTANA ASSOCIATION. SN 162881. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his deluxe style with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame and his trademark sunburst patterns on left recoil shield & loading gate. Base pin boss & ejector rod housing boss have unusual spear point decorations. Both sides of bbl are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns about 3/4 the way up with snake & dot pattern borders around the address which terminates in arabesque & Moorish patterns which extend around the front sight to the muzzle. Outer radius of the ejector rod housing has similar engraving with snake & dot pattern in top gullet. Top strap has unusual feather & dot patterns with snake & dot patterns down rear edges by hammer slot. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe fan pattern with Moorish geometric patterns down back strap, on butt strap & trigger bow. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with most unsual intertwined patterns around cylinder stop notches and snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Shoulders of trigger guard and ears of back strap have received Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe fan patterns. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 caliber with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, carved pearl oxhead stocks, factory engraved and shipped to A.L. Babcock Hardware Co., Billings, MT on Aug. 5, 1895 in a shipment of two same type revolvers. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 75-80% strong orig silver finish with most of losses on left side of bbl near muzzle which also has some very fine pitting and around cyl outer diameter which has been lightly cleaned. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-40539 JR106 (17,500-27,500)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID PRESENTATION METROPOLITAN POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1822. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line “METROPOLITAN ARMS CO. NEW-YORK” address. It has a silver plated large guard trigger guard & back strap containing 2-pc pearl grips with most unusual German silver bottom edges. Cylinder is 5-shot and half-fluted like the Colt 1862Police. This Model Metropolitan is dimensionally identical to the Colt except for the rammer. The Metropolitan uses a jointed rammer instead f the rack & pinion, or creeping style, of the Colt. Back strap is engraved in period script “Commander Geo. B. Balch / U.S.S. Pawnee 1863”. Revolver is wonderfully engraved by master engraver Gustave Young with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background on the frame. The bbl is engraved to match with wonderful panel scenes toward the rear sides of the bbl which depict the motor-sailor sloop Pawnee, with sails furled and smoke coming from the stack on left side and a similar panel on right side with sails in the wind and the smoke stack conveniently omitted. The rear of the ship has an unfurled flag that appears to be the stars & stripes. Both panels show waves, with clouds in the sky. The foliate arabesque patterns surrounding the panels extend forward and terminate in front of the address. Muzzle end of the bbl has a dash & dot border with fine gold wire inlaid band. Rear edge of bbl also has a fine gold wire band. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes and has a fine gold wire band at the transition to the rebated area. Top of the back strap has Mr. Young’s deluxe fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns down back strap, on butt strap & trigger guard. Hammer has also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, fish scale patterns on sides of spur and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer also has fish scale patterns with a hand cut checkered panel on the spur. Accompanied by a fine mahogany English style casing with empty brass disc in the lid. Case is blue baize lined with red & gold distributor’s label in the lid, imprinted “ROBERT JONES, / GUN & PISTOL MANUFACTURER, / NO. 3, GREAT HOWARD ST., LIVERPOOL.” with other advertising below. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a fine 3-compartment flask with dbl sided oak leaf & ribbon decorations having a cap & ball compartment in the base. It also has a blued steel “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36P” and with the English style locator pin the right arm. Additionally accompanied by an ebony handled nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with orange label, an empty cap tin missing its lid and filled with tow. Right rear covered compartment contains two spare nipples and is filled with tow. Also found in the case is a Civil War era epaulet pin with brass frame and blue background with brass lieutenant’s/ensign’s bars. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 1,600 of these revolvers were produced with marked bbls in the period 1864-1866 in two serial ranges of numbers 1800-1950 and numbers 2400-3850. The U.S.S. Pawnee’s keel was laid in 1858 at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, she was launched 8 Oct. 1859 and commissioned in 11 June 1860. She was in service on routine Navy business off the coast of Vera Cruz, Mexico from Oct. to Dec. of 1860 and returned to Philadelphia. She was dispatched in April 1861 to relieve Fort Sumter but due to a severe storm was delayed and arrived after Fort Sumter had been surrendered to the Confederates. She returned to Washington and was immediately dispatched to Norfolk to secure the ships and stores of the Gosport Navy Yard, arriving on 20 April only to find that all the ships except the U.S.S. Cumberland had been scuttled so she attempted to destroy the Naval stores and the dry dock which efforts were largely unsuccessful. Pawnee took the Cumberland in tow and saved the frigate from capture. For the remainder of the Civil War Pawnee participated in blockade duty and patrolling the southern Atlantic coast capturing several blockade runners and two vessels that had previously been captured by the Confederates. Throughout the remainder of the war Pawnee remained in southern waters participating in numerous Naval engagements and land expeditions until June of 1865 when she sailed to Portsmouth, NH and was decommissioned in July. The crew, as of 1 January 1865, includes the name of George B. Balch as Commander. George Beall Balch was born 8 Jan. 1821 in Shelbyville, TN, and was appointed Acting Midshipman 30 Dec. 1837 and passed the Midshipman’s exam and was promoted in June 1843. He served during the war with Mexico and helped land Gen. Winfield Scott’s army at Vera Cruz. He remained in Naval service at various postings and was promoted to lieutenant Aug. 1850. In 1851 he was the executive officer on the sloop of war “Plymouth” and joined Commodore Perry’s expedition to Japan and remained in the Orient into 1854 when the Plymouth was assigned to Shanghai to help protect American property. When Chinese troops began attacking foreigners, looting warehouses and exacting tolls from ships transiting the nearby river, the commanders of two British ships and the commander of the Plymouth decided to drive off the Chinese troops. Lt. Balch led 60 sailors & Marines and 30 American Merchant seamen along with a force of 150 British sailors & Marines and attacked the Chinese and drove them out of the city. Lt. Balch was wounded during the action. He returned to Norfolk in 1855 and remained in Naval service at various postings until the outbreak of the Civil War. In April 1861 he was assigned to Portsmouth, NH and helped commission the frigate “Sabine”. In Nov. 1861 Balch assumed command of the steamer “Pocahontas” and participated in troop landings on Tybee Island and was promoted to Commander in July 1862. He was given command of the screw-sloop Pawnee at Philadelphia later that year. He remained in command of the Pawnee until she was decommissioned at Portsmouth in July 1865. During the occupation of Georgetown he helped land sailors & Marines clearing the way for Union supply ships for Gen. Sherman’s Army for which he was commended by Rear Admiral Dahlgren for his services during this operation. After the Pawnee was decommissioned Balch was assigned shore duty and was promoted to captain in July 1866. He commanded the flagship Albany in the North Atlantic squadron between 1868 and early 1870, then was assigned duty with the Bureau of Navigation and promoted to Commodore in Aug. 1872. He held various other postings and was promoted to Rear Admiral in June 1878 and became Superintendent of the Naval Academy 1879-1881. In June 1881 he took Command of the Pacific Squadron which posting he held until he retired in Jan. 1883. He died in Raleigh, NC 16 April 1908. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge & cyl, grips are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with strong dark blue on the bbl & cyl with one spot of pitting on left side of bbl and a couple of small spots of pin prick pitting on right side. Rammer & handle retain virtually all of their orig case colors, turned slightly dark. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig factory case colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain silver plating in sheltered areas with the exposed metal a medium mustard patina. Grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case is completely sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is lightly faded & lightly soiled with the label inside the lid faded to a rose pink but still completely legible. Flask appears to be nearly new retaining about all of its orig factory finish. Mold is also probably unused but has minor nicks & dings and a few spots of pitting on the arms. Other accessories are fine. Altogether an extremely rare and wonderful presentation set to a Naval hero. 4-36870 JR198 (15,000-25,000)
COLT 1883 GRADE 2 SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN WITH 2 SETS OF BARRELS. SN 6571. Cal. 12ga, 30″ & 26″ bbls both with matted, concave ribs, single brass sighting beads, 2-9/16″ chambers, extractors and dbl triggers. 30″ with FULL/MOD chokes and 26″ with MOD/IMP.CYL chokes. Top rib of each bbl is marked “COLT’S PT F A MFG CO HARTFORD CT USA”. The grade 2 hammerless receiver is engraved on left side with setter on point over grassy area with 2 flushing game birds, right side with pointer and sitting game bird. Trigger plate is marked “PATENTED / AUG. 22. SEP. 19. 1882″. Balance of engraving is a fine foliate arabesque scroll. Trigger guard is engraved with foliate arabesque scroll, oval with sculpted border with duck in flight. Mounted with highly figured walnut, checkered side panels, checkered pistol grip, sculpted hard rubber grip cap, checkered hard rubber buttplate with Rampant Colt logo. Each bbl has checkered splinter forend, slightly schnable tip with ebony insert. 30″ bbls Bore Dimensions: Bore diameter: left -..734, right -.731. Bore restrictions: left -.027, right -.018. Wall thickness: left -.031, right -.029. Drop at heel:3-1/8″ , drop at comb:1-9/16″ . Weight: 7lbs. 13oz. LOP 14″. 26″ bbls Bore Dimensions: Bore diameter: left -.730, right -.731. Bore restrictions: left -.010, right -.005. Wall thickness: left -.025, right -.024. Drop at heel:3-1/8″ , drop at comb:1-9/16″ . Weight: 7lbs. 9oz. LOP 14”. Gun is accompanied with a Colt factory letter identifying as 12ga, 30″ blue finish, wood stock, weighing 7lbs. 12oz., number 2 grade, furnished with a concave matte rib, shipped to F.F. Daverra, no address given. Shipped September 21, 1892, one gun in shipment. Remarks: the record on this shotgun also contains additional notations pertaining to a second set of bbls that were 26″ in length. However, they do not specify whether these were a replacement set of bbls or an additional set of bbls. Gun is housed in a modern green canvas luggage case with Colt label on inside lid. CONDITION: Fine. Both sets of bbls retain strong brown Damascus pattern. The 30″ bbls seem to be of a finer grade of Damascus. They have a few minor nicks & dings and a couple of dark spots. The 26″ bbls have some minor nicks & dings and a couple of dark spots. Receiver shows orig case coloring in protected areas with balance a silver blending with brown patina. Stock is sound with very good checkering, a couple of flattened points, normal nicks & dings and retains orig finish blending with hand-worn patina in grip area. Forends are sound with sharp checkering, some minor nicks & dings, retaining orig finish blending with some hand-worn patina. Mechanics are crisp with automatic safety, shiny bores in all bbls. 4-40619 BDT104 (4,500-6,500)
RARE COLT 4-3/4″ POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER WITH TIFFANY STYLE GRIP. SN 2370. Cal. 38 CF. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. The rammer handle slot & screw hole are plugged. Left side of frame is hand engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a ribbon and it is mounted with a wonderful silver plated metal Tiffany grip with raised cast foliate arabesque patterns with acanthus leaves around each side and a fine punch dot background. Back of grip has a deep relief Mexican eagle clutching a snake & cactus in its talons & beak, which is surmounted by an empty initial oval. Butt cap is a large oval sunburst. Cyl is usual 5-shots with rebated rear section which was machined to expose the chambers and a spacer screwed to recoil shield with loading notch in the frame without loading gate. Frame, bbl lug & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in late vine style by Gustave Young. A scroll on each side of the frame terminates in a flower blossom and a scroll on left side of bbl lug terminates in his stylized bird head. Two scrolls on right side of bbl lug terminate in flower blossoms. Both sides of hammer have full coverage engraving with foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, fish scale patterns on the spur and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose with fish scale patterns on top edge. Both ends of wedge are engraved. Bottom of grip, under the buttcap, is marked with a small stamped flower blossom. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard & bbl lug and are accompanied by a small “E” signifying that this revolver was destined to be engraved and was to receive special polishing. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms, only about 4,000 of these scarce revolvers were produced in the period 1873-1875. Even though their production coincided with the advent of the single action Army revolver, these little revolvers were popular as gentlemen’s concealment side arm and with ladies as purse & muff pistols. Given their hard & continuous use with minimal maintenance they are rarely found today with high orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including cyl, except wedge & grip which are properly unnumbered. Overall retains about all of its fine orig factory nickel with only light edge wear and some minor flaking on front strap. Cyl also retains about all of its orig factory nickel and about 80% stagecoach holdup scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting in the grooves. 4-40149 JR185 (10,000-15,000)
*MINTY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 351887. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with spectacular and most unusual 1-pc pearl grip with a raised carved Mexican eagle on right side and the initials “RGG” carved into left side and filled with black enamel. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Wilbur Glahn with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Both sides have tiny flower blossoms incorporated in engraving patterns. Recoil shield, loading gate and top of back strap incorporate Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” pattern. Both sides of bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with matching patterns on the lands between the flutes of the cylinder. The SN was observed in usual location on frame and on right sides of front & back straps under grip and last two digits of SN are on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks with “carved Mexican eagle motif” and initials “RGG” inlaid in black enamel on left stock, factory engraved and shipped to Shelton-Payne Arms Co., El Paso, TX on July 25, 1928 to factory order #14984/1 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cylinder. Grip is unnumbered, appears to be unfired. Left side of muzzle & tip of ejector rod housing show slight holster wear and there is some minor flaking on front face of cylinder. Front strap has had some restoration. Grip is crisp and retains virtually all of its orig factory polish with fine fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36835 JR15 (40,000-70,000)
CORRECTION: The estimate in the printed catalog is incorrect. The correct estimate is $75,000-100,000 .
RARE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 19484. Cal. 36. Extraordinary ’51 Navy, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. The silver plated small guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain a deluxe varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip with the SN in the back strap channel. Revolver has full coverage Gustave Young extra deluxe engraving on the frame which consists of elaborate, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. The left recoil shield incorporates Mr. Young’s stylized dog’s head in one of the patterns. The bbl lug & top side flats of the bbl are engraved to match and Mr. Young has incorporated a man’s head with protruding tongue and a snake biting his nose in one of the scrolls on left side and another scroll on the right side terminates in a flower blossom. Bottom sides of the lug are engraved in a delicate spider web pattern. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top flat of bbl has a dash & dot border around the address with another dash pattern around the muzzle, accompanied by a fine wave pattern border. Ends of wedge are also engraved. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with back strap, butt strap & trigger guard engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Sides of the ears of the back strap are engraved in spider web patterns. Hammer has also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of foliate arabesque patterns on the shank, fish scales on the spur and a most unusual stylized animal’s head on sides of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale patterns and the spur has hand cut checkering. The cyl has the usual Ormsby Naval battle scene with the entire Ormsby signature and “ENGAGED 15 MAY 1843” legends completely visible. Four of the six safety pins are crisp and the other two are serviceable. Accompanied by an extraordinary brass bound rosewood American casing with an elaborate empty brass plate in lid and brass reinforcements on the corners with other brass reinforcements around the corners of the bottom. Front of the case has a shield shaped brass escutcheon for the mortised brass lock. Interior is burgundy velvet lined compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a wonderful dbl sided angle spout eagle, shield & flags flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, two sealed packets of sage combustible cartridges, an empty lacquered Eley Bros. cap tin, four spare nipples and cast lead balls. This is truly an extraordinary set with a crisp, probably unfired Navy revolver. This early third variation is quite unusual in retaining its orig condition as it was produced in the early 1850s when firearms of all types were in great demand and usually saw hard use on the frontier under harsh conditions with little or no maintenance. Almost undoubtedly this revolver would have been the property of, and likely a presentation to, a high ranking military officer or notable civilian of substantial stature for it to have remained in unfired condition. Any Colt of this quality & age that remains in this condition is a true exception and very rarely does one have the opportunity to examine such a specimen. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Overall retains about all of its crisp orig factory finish with glossy blue on the bbl with only sharp edge wear and one small area of flaking on top left flat and another on the right side flat. Rammer & handle retain most of their orig case colors, turned slightly dark. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their orig case colors, turning dark, brighter on left side. Cyl retains a thin plum blue finish with a light cyl line and retains about 98% crisp Ormsby naval battle scene with the Ormsby signature completely visible. Grip frame retains virtually all of its orig strong silver plating with a small scrape on butt strap. Grip is sound with sharp edges and three or four minor dings and a few light handling marks and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a few minor grain checks in the lid and another in the bottom, otherwise is completely sound with light handling & storage marks and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with light damage from front sight and has solid partitions. Mold & flask are extremely fine with the sprue cutter on the mold having light pitting, cleaned to a gray patina. Screwdriver, cartridges and cap tin are extremely fine. Altogether a rare & exceptional cased Colt, unlikely to be encountered again. 4-39856 JR197 (75,000-100,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This lot is accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber .45, with 5-1/2” bbl, finish “soft”, type of stock not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Feb. 8, 1888 in a shipment of 3 same type revolvers.
FINE NEW YORK STYLE ENGRAVED BLACK POWDER FRAME COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 125503. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “45” under base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and caliber marking is on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with thick, very old, 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved steer head on right side. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop, with about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frame with matching engraving patterns extending most of the way to muzzle on each side. Top strap is engraved in snake & dot patterns with geometric & dot patterns on base pin & ejector rod housing bosses. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with cross-hatched triangle center and geometric patterns down back strap and on trigger guard. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with a dash & dot border pattern around rear edge. Shoulders of back strap are engraved in sunburst patterns with shoulders of trigger guard engraved in foliate patterns. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains 50-60% orig nickel finish with loss areas barely noticeable bare metal. Grips have numerous age lines with repairs on each side and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with light frosting. 4-40146 JR117 (15,000-20,000)
CORRECTION: The correct serial number for this gun is 3644, not 3844 as stated in the catalog description.
INSCRIBED COLT 1ST MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER & DAGUERREOTYPE. SN 3844. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line block letter address reading from cyl to muzzle. Frame has small “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.” The square back silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip. Cyl is usual 6-shots with dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking and scarcer variant “U.S. DRAGOONS / COLTS PATENT” in two panels with SN in center. Top of back strap is engraved in period script “P. Ford“. Accompanied by a 3-ring binder of information regarding the purported orig owner of this revolver, Sgt. Patrick Ford along with an article from the March 1986 Gun Report ” A Mystery Solved: A U.S. Regular’s “Civilian” Army Dragoon”. Patrick Ford was born in Ireland in 1831 and immigrated to the U.S. in 1851, immediately enlisting in the Army. His initial unit was Company K 5th Inf. at Louisville, KY. He was apparently transferred to Company K 3rd Inf. in April 1852 at Carlisle Barracks, Kentucky. However his unit by that time was being transferred to New Mexico Territory. He walked the 1,700 miles to Fort Webster, NM Territory to join his unit where he took part in the Apache Indian Campaign and in 1855 in an engagement with Mescalero Apaches is credited with killing Indian Chief Santa Ana for which he was decorated. He was apparently discharged in April 1857. In Jan. 1858 he re-enlisted in Company C 2nd Inf, Boston, Mass. During the Civil War his unit was engaged in a number of major battles including First Bull Run, the Siege of Yorktown, Gaines Mill and Savage Station. He was wounded in the leg & ankle at Gaines Mill and captured at Savage Station and was confined in Libby Prison and Belle Island for two months before being paroled, after which he was on recruiting duty in New York and was discharged in Jan. 1863. In March of 1862 he was a Provost guard in Washington, D.C. and was disabled by a kick in the testicles while trying to arrest a drunken soldier. He re-enlisted in Company F 2nd Artillery in Jan. 1866 in Fort Vancouver, Washington, and sailed to Cook’s Inlet, Alaska to establish a post. In July 1868 his transport ran aground with his family aboard and they were marooned for three weeks. He was discharged at Fort Kodiak in Sept. 1869. In Dec. 1869 he re-enlisted in Company D 23rd Inf. in Arizona under Gen. Cook and took part in another campaign against the Apaches and was promoted to Sergeant. He was discharged Dec. 10, 1874. On Dec. 11, 1874 he re-enlisted in Company F 12th Inf. and was posted to Alcatraz Island, CA. as Provost Sergeant over military prisoners. In June 1877 he fought in the Nez Perce Indian Campaign in Idaho Territory and in June 1878 against the Barranock Indians and was discharged and retired Dec. 10, 1879 at Whipple Barracks, Arizona. He died at the Soldiers’ Home in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 26, 1911. Also accompanying is a 4″ x 5-1/4″ daguerreotype of a bearded young soldier in uniform with frock coat, sash & cavalry saber holding a kepi in his left hand, purported to be Patrick Ford. When removed from case, image has “P. Ford- U.S. Army” inscribed in pencil. PROVENANCE: Ex Norm Flayderman Coll. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “512” and grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains a dark plum brown patina with fine pin prick pitting on left side of lug and right side of bbl. Rammer pivot has smoky dark case colors with handle & rammer a gray patina. Frame retains traces of smoky case colors being mostly a silver/gray patina. Cyl is a smooth medium brown patina and retains 70-75% dragoon Indian fight scene roll marking with dragoons & “COLTS PATENT” legends faint but legible, “US” is worn away. Trigger guard retains 88-90% strong orig silver plating. Back strap retains traces of silver plating at the top and thin silver plating on butt strap being mostly a medium mustard patina. Inscription is fine. Grip is sound showing heavy wear with traces of orig varnish and an overall hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with light to moderate pitting. Scarce half-plate Daguerreotype has some fading around top & side edges, not affecting the image. 4-40987 (17,500-27,500)
*JOSEF JUST SIDE-PLATED BLITZ ACTION EJECTOR DRILLING WITH SCOPE. SN V1181. Cal. 20 Ga. 3″ Chambers x .243 Winchester. 25-3/4″ Barrels are engraved “Josef Just – Ferlach” on matted full length rib with claw mounts, folding leaf rear sight, and crossbolt extension. Bottoms of bbls are stamped with Ferlach proofs, “Bohler Rasant”, and SN and caliber are on bottom of bottom bbl. Sling loop is soldered to bottom bbl. Coin finished Blitz action features decorative sideplates, gold-plated bushed strikers, reinforcing bolsters, crossbolt third fastener, sliding rifle cocking system on tang, Greener type side safety, and double triggers, (front set). Action and lockplates are engraved with shaded oak leaf designs, outlining vignettes of game; pair of turkeys on bottom of action; pronghorn antelope on left lockplate; and fox stalking covey of quail on right. Broadly streaked and nicely figured European walnut full pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/2″ over black “Old English” pad, and features right hand Tyrolean cheekpiece with fluted transition, and colts-hoof pistol grip with ebony cap (gold oval engraved “SIH” is inlaid in cap). There is a coin finished cartridge trap with oak leaf engraving on toe line, secured by sling loop. 24 LPI checkering has line border. Semi-beavertail ejector forend has Schnabel horn tip and Deeley release. Bore diameter: left -.619, right -.620. Bore restrictions: left -.024, right -.011. Wall thickness: left -.032, right -.029. Drop at heel: Approx 2-3/8″, drop at comb: Approx 1-1/2″. Weight without scope: 9 lbs. 10 oz, LOP 14-1/2″. Claw mounted Kahles Helia-Super 3-9 power scope with 3 post reticle has brown leather caps. CONDITION: Excellent, near new, with a few marks and dings toward breech of left bbl. Metal retains all of its coin finish. Stocks have only a few minor marks. Scope is also near new with only one or two very slight marks. 4-40949 MGM171 (6,750-9,750)
ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED COLT POCKET NAVY CARTRIDGE CONVERSION REVOLVER WITH TIFFANY STYLE GRIP. SN 27881. Cal. 38 RF. Silver finish with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a dbl ribbon. Rebated cyl is 5-shots with the usual factory conversion ring and loading gate with external spring. Mounted with a silver plated cast bronze Tiffany style grip with wonderful raised foliate arabesque patterns, acanthus leaves & a deep relief Mexican eagle along the back strap surmounted by an empty initial oval. Butt cap is an oval rosette. Frame, cyl & bbl are beautifully engraved in New York style with full coverage flowing arabesque patterns on the frame with punch dot background. Conversion ring is engraved in feather patterns around the outer edge. Hammer is beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque & feather patterns with hand-cut checkered hammer spur. Engraving extends up both sides of bbl with a fine dbl border around address which terminates in geometric patterns. There are matching foliate arabesque patterns on each side of muzzle. Outer radius of ejector rod housing is engraved in spiral foliate arabesque patterns. Cyl is also matching engraved in foliate arabesque patterns in place of the usual roll marking. The three frame screws and front trigger guard screw are all nicely engraved. Cyl arbor is numbered “163” and the loading gate “199”. No number was visible on the cyl or grip. CONDITION: Fine plus, all matching except wedge which is properly unnumbered and as noted above. Overall retains most of a fine professionally restored finish with some pin prick pitting inside trigger bow, on sides of front strap under grip and sides of hammer under the grip with a repaired hammer roller pin. Hammer spring is a replacement. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with fine pitting. 4-40150 (9,000-12,000)
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH EXTREMELY RARE ORIGINAL TIFFANY GRIP. SN 21742. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with brackets. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with the caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Ejector rod housing is 1st type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. SN was observed on frame & trigger guard with last four digits of SN on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and on outer diameter of cylinder. Mounted with an orig heavy silver plated cast metal “TIFFANY” grip that has very highly detailed vignettes of Civil War era military scenes on both sides with a trophy of flags & shield on back strap surmounted by an oval initial panel engraved with the initials “RYA” or some combination thereof. While Tiffany grips are not uncommon on percussion revolvers they are very rarely encountered on single action Army revolvers, especially authentic ones. This grip is authentic in all respects except for possibly having had the eagle butt cap replaced. Bottom edge of the front strap of this revolver has been notched to accommodate the cutout in base of grip. This revolver was produced in 1875 during a period when very few civilian revolvers were being produced with nickel plating only a recently offered process CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 90-92% milky orig nickel with losses turned to dark patina, especially around muzzle and on cylinder. Hammer retains dark case colors on sides. Grip shows moderate wear with some underlying plating or metal exposed in a couple of very high points. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-40148 JR100 (50,000-90,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Consignor states he had previously seen a picture of this casing (without guns) before it was relined and all the partitions were loose in the bottom and since then it obviously has been restored. The consignor initiated the case restoration after having discovered the mate to the M1849. This pair of revolvers is accompanied by two 3-ring binders of information regarding the life & service of Lt. Col. Charles Moses Whelden of Pittsfield, MA and an article entitled “Reunited After 125 years- An Unusual Pair of Presentation Colt Revolvers”, illuminating the research and reunion of the Colt pair. Gen. Reed, who presented the revolvers to Col. Whelden, was also a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, whose Museum at Faneuil Hall still holds Whelden’s uniform and flag of the Mass 31st.
DOUBLE CASED SET OF PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET & COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS TO COMMANDER 31ST MASS VOLS & 1ST U.S.COLORED CAV. SN 1) 182485; 2) 22082. 1) Model 1849 Pocket. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last three digits of SN visible in back strap channel. Any other numbers are obscured. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene roll-marking. This revolver is one of the pieces assembled from English parts returned from the London Armory and has the domed English style screws in the frame. Other screws are American style. Back strap is engraved in period script “Qtr. M Genl J Reed to Adgt C M Whelden” and the butt strap is engraved “April 25th 1861”. 2) Model 1851 Navy. Cal. 36. Third Model Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the left shoulder and left front web of trigger guard have tiny inspector initials. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and three of safety pins serviceable. Small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with three digits “208” visible in back strap channel with the fourth number obscured. Back strap is engraved in period script identically to the Model 1849 Pocket revolver above, “Qtr. M Genl J Reed to Adgt C M Whelden” and the butt strap is engraved “April 25th 1861”. Accompanied by a fine brass bound rosewood casing with brass reinforcing corners and an empty rectangular plate in the lid. Front has sliding brass latches and a mortised replacement lock with oval escutcheon. Interior is newly burgundy velvet lined with newly attached partitions. Bottom is partitioned for both revolvers, a Colt’s dbl sided eagle & trophy of arms angle spout Navy sized flask, dbl sided eagle & shield pocket sized flask, a 2-cavity blued steel “COLTS PATENT” 36 caliber mold with sprue cutter and a blued steel 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked “31 PKT” on right side. This casing did not originate with this pair of revolvers however consignor states that he purchased it in 1990 from old time dealer, Kenneth Schindler of Vero Beach, FL. Consignor had previously seen a picture of this casing (without guns) before it was relined and all the partitions were loose in the bottom and since then it obviously has been restored. The consignor initiated the case restoration after having discovered the mate to the M1849. This pair of revolvers is accompanied by two 3-ring binders of information regarding the life & service of Lt. Col. Charles Moses Whelden of Pittsfield, MA and an article entitled “Reunited After 125 years-An Unusual Pair of Presentation Colt Revolvers”, illuminating the research and reunion of the Colt pair. In 1841 Mr. Whelden was a volunteer in the Washington Light Infantry, was also a Captain of the Pittsfield Fire Department, a pioneer in California in 1849 and an engineer. He was a druggist by trade, however devoted much of his time to the militia and became a member of the exclusive Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, the first organized military company in Massachusetts and the third oldest charter organization in the world. By the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 Mr. Whelden was a Captain in the Massachusetts Militia and was one of the first to respond to the call to arms. In April 1861 he volunteered as an unpaid officer on the Staff of Gen. Benjamin F. Butler and a week later was given authority to raise a regiment for service. Apparently to commemorate this event, Brig. Gen. John H. Reed, newly appointed Quartermaster General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, a friend of Whelden’s and also a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, presented Whelden with this pair of Colts. Whelden raised a regiment of troops which became the Massachusetts 31st Volunteer Infantry and Whelden was appointed Lt. Colonel commanding this regiment. Col Whelden served on the staff of Gen. Butler with his regiment in Louisiana 1861-62 and his regiment was the first to enter the City of New Orleans after its capture on May 1, 1862. In July 1862 he was on detached duty as the Commander of Fort Pike in Louisiana until December when he resigned his commission and again served as an unpaid volunteer officer under Gen. Butler until Dec. 7, 1863. At that time he was commissioned Lt. Colonel commanding the 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry and from that date until Aug. 15, 1864 he was the Provost Marshall for the States of Virginia & North Carolina. During this time the first U.S. Colored Cavalry participated in operations around Richmond and captured Bermuda Hundred & City Point on May 5, 1864. The unit next saw action on June 16-19, 1864 during the siege & assault on Petersburg. On July 27-28, 1864 they again saw action at Bottom Run. Shortly after that the unit was assigned to Fortress Monroe for detached service in Texas. At this time Col. Whelden resigned and became the Superintendent of the Government Gas Works at Norfolk, VA in which position he remained the rest of the war. After the war Col. Whelden returned to Pittsfield and died there Jan. 24, 1910 at age 88 years 29 days. Gen. Reed, who presented the revolvers to Col. Whelden, was also a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Boston, whose Museum at Faneuil Hall still holds Whelden’s uniform and flag of the Mass 31st, had risen through the ranks from engineer in 1854 to Commander in Chief in 1858. He was commissioned Brig. General in the Massachusetts Militia in April 1861 as the Quartermaster General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts where he served throughout the war. After the war he was reappointed Brig. General in 1866 and served until 1869. The large lot of research materials accumulated by consignor contains muster rolls and extensive military history on Col. Whelden along with a photograph of him in later years in uniform with a GAR reunion medal on his uniform. The binders also contain numerous correspondence between consignor and various individuals involved in the acquisition and reuniting of these two revolvers. CONDITION: 1) Good to very good, all matching except rammer handle which is numbered “14”. Traces of blue remain on the bbl in the most sheltered areas with traces of case colors on rammer pivot. Bbl & rammer overall are a smooth medium gray patina. Frame & hammer are also a smooth gray patina with fine pin prick pitting over most of frame & hammer. Cyl is also lightly pitted and retains 50-60% stagecoach holdup scene and overall is a light gray patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong silver in sheltered areas with the front strap, body of the back strap & butt strap a medium mustard patina. Grip has chips along right edge and shows moderate to heavy wear with a gouge on left side and a bruise on right side and retains 75-80% strong orig varnish. Lock bolt is not functioning, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered pitting. 2) Good to very good, all matching including rammer, cyl & grip. Bbl & rammer handle show heavy wear with a smooth medium gray patina. Frame retains about 50% faded case colors, strong on right side. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with the exposed area on the shoulder of the back strap a blackish brass patina. Grip is sound with oil staining around frame and with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Case has a crack across the lid and a grain check with several grain checks in the bottom with normal handling & storage nicks & scratches along with a couple of gouges in the lid and retains most of its fine restored finish. Interior is crisp & clean with solid partitions. Molds are fine. Navy flask has several small dents but appears sound with a medium dark brass patina. Pocket flask has a couple of small dents with traces of orig finish in the repoussed areas and retains a dark brass patina. Altogether a fine and rare combination cased, presentation set that belonged to a Civil War officer. 4-40989 (20,000-30,000)
*LARGE GROUPING OF FIREARMS & KNIVES, THE PROPERTY OF GEN. MARK W. CLARK. SN 1) 363378; 2) 551637; 3) 2214959; 4) 25766. The following grouping of items all belong to and are from the estate of 4-star Gen. Mark Wayne Clark (May 1, 1896 – April 17, 1984). Gen. Clark was a graduate of Westpoint in April 1917 having entered the academy at age 17 but apparently missed time due to illness. Upon graduation he was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and was assigned duty in France in WWI with the 11th Infantry where he was wounded in action. Due to the rapidly expanding U.S. Army in WWI he rose rapidly through the ranks from being commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in April 1917 to 1st Lieutenant on May 15 and to Captain on Aug. 5, 1917. Between WWI and WWII he served in various capacities and was promoted to Major in Jan. 1933 and to Lt. Colonel on July 1, 1940. On Aug. 4, 1941 he was jump-promoted two grades to Brig. General and made Asst. Chief of Staff for the Army in Washington. In Jan. 1942 he was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff Army Ground Forces and became its Chief of Staff. In June 1942 he was assigned as Commanding Genneral II Corps in England and a month later became Commanding General, Army Forces European Theater of Operations and promoted to Major General. In Oct. 1942 Gen. Clark became the Deputy Commander in Chief of Allied Forces in the North African Theater where he planned and directed the training of units for the invasion of North Africa, known as Operation Torch. On Oct. 21-22, 1942 after having been landed by submarine in North Africa he negotiated the surrender and cooperation of the Vichy French after which he was promoted to Lt. General on Nov. 11, 1942. When the U.S. created its first Field Army overseas, the U.S. Fifth Army, Gen. Clark was made its Commanding General with the task of training units for the invasion of Italy in Sept. 1943. Gen. Clark was the one who gave the orders for the bombing and destruction of the Abbey at Monte Cassino, what was to become a very famous battle about which several movies were made. Although Gen. Clark and his Chief of Staff were unconvinced of the “military necessity” of this bombing & destruction they, nevertheless, carried out orders. In June 1944 Gen. Clark captured & liberated Rome in contravention of orders which allowed several German units to escape and reinforced the Gothic line. In Dec. 1944 Gen. Clark became the Commander of 15th Army Group which placed him in command of all allied ground troops in Italy. He was promoted to 4-star General on March 10, 1945, the youngest officer to reach both 3-star rank and 4-star rank. At the end of the war he was the Commander of Allied Forces in Italy then became the U.S. High Commissioner of Austria and later served as Deputy to the U.S. Secretary of State. Returning to the U.S. in June 1947 Gen. Clark was assigned to command the 6th Army at the Presidio of San Francisco. On May 12, 1952 Gen. Clark took over command of the United Nations forces in Korea and it was he who signed the cease fire agreement with North Korea in 1953. He retired from the Army in 1954 and served as the President of the Citadel, Charleston, SC until 1966. Gen. Clark earned a number of very high ranking U.S. Military medals, among which were the Distinguished Service Cross, Army Distinguished Service Medal, Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. He was also awarded many very high ranking foreign medals. It appears that the majority of the items being sold in this lot were gifts to Gen. Clark during his service in North Africa & Italy. 1) *Colt Model 1903 Semi-Auto pistol. Cal. 32 ACP. SN 363378. Blue finish with about 50% coverage after market engraving, undoubtedly by either a military person with engraving skills or a local Italian engraver. Engraving consists of heavy foliate arabesque scrolls with line borders and a diamond shape on top of the slide. Left side of slide has an open panel with the engraved signature “Mark W. Clark” and four gold inlaid stars. Right side of the slide, forward of the ejection port is a representation of the 5th Army Corps shoulder patch. Pistol is mounted with faux ivory grips and accompanied by one unmarked all blue magazine. Also accompanied by a blue/green baize covered gray satin lined hinged lid box with the Llama trademark embossed inside the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the pistol and a spare magazine with the cloissonne pin representing the 5th Army Corps. 2) *Colt Model 1903 Semi-Auto Pistol. Cal. 32 ACP. SN 551637. All blue finish with standard markings & fixed sights with rampant Colt/Colt eye hard rubber grips, missing its magazine. 3) *Standard Products M1 Carbine Semi-Auto Military Rifle. Cal. 30 Carbine. SN 2214959. Standard early carbine with 18″ Underwood bbl dated “2-44”, without bayonet lug and early features including flat bolt and push button safety. The sling cut in the buttstock has a small Ordnance wheel & flaming bomb with the number “10”. Bottom of grip has a “P” in a circle proof. The wood is very nicely varnished. Left side of stock, below rear sight, is inlaid with a 1-3/4″ x 7/8″ silver plaque inscribed with black enamel filled lettering “M.W.C.” over an inscription in what appears to be Arabic. Very likely this carbine was inscribed & presented to Gen. Clark during his tour of duty in North Africa. 4) *Scarce Mannlicher Schoenauer Model 1903 Carbine. Cal. 6.5 Norm. (6.5X54). SN 25766. Beautiful little carbine with 18″ tapered rnd bbl, ramp mounted, dovetailed front sight with German silver blade and 2-leaf express rear sight. It has dbl set triggers and the trigger bow is inlaid in heavy gold block letters “MWC”. Mounted in extra finish, very highly figured French walnut with full length stock that has raised side panels and checkered forestock with checkered pistol grip that has what appears to be a tortoise shell grip cap. Buttstock has a European cheekpiece and serrated steel buttplate with trap containing a 4-pc brass & steel cleaning rod and two other empty holes. Forestock has a sling loop with corresponding loop in the buttstock. Undoubtedly this was presented to Gen. Clark when he was the U.S. High Commissioner of Austria. 5) Medium sized Indian kukri with presentation. Indian kukri with 12-1/2″ curved blade with blade breaker near the handle. It has a brass ferrule and carved wood handle with flared butt and a brass grip cap. Accompanied by its orig leather covered wood sheath with steel tip and the two tiny sharpening knives in their pockets inside the sheath. Face of sheath has a 2-5/8″ x 2″ brass plaque inscribed “GENERAL MARK W. CLARK / commanding / ALLIED ARMIES IN ITALY / from / MAJ. GEN. D. RUSSELL / commanding / 8TH INDIAN DIVISION / 1944”. At the top of the plaque is what appears to be two shamrocks & a 4-leaf clover. Very likely this was a presentation to Gen. Clark, again during his tour in North Africa. 6) Small tourist kukri. Small kukri with 6″ curved blade, hand etched on right side “INDIA”. Accompanied by its orig leather covered wood sheath with two tiny sharpening knives in their small pockets. Large knife has nickeled brass fittings with a horn handle and a lion face pommel. 7) North African souvenir quality curved dagger. Fine Moroccan style dagger with 9″ narrow curved blade with wood handle & nicely decorated curved metal sheath with hangers and matching decorated ferrule with a matching engraved decorative pommel. One side of the sheath is engraved “AU. GENERAL / MARK W. CLARK” and the other side “SOUVENIR DE ZEMMAMA ET SBTI”, undoubtedly another North African souvenir obtained during his war duties there. 8) Another similar North African Dagger with 9-3/8″ curved blade. Metal sheath and wood & metal handle all highly decorated with hangers on the sheath. One side of the sheath is engraved “J.K. KOUJDA 1943”. One side of blade is engraved “M.L.L. / LONDON”. 9) Two 5th Army Corps shoulder patches. One is red, white & blue, probably WWII vintage, and the other is OD & black, modern vintage. CONDITION: 1) Very fine. Overall retains about all of a fine blue finish applied after engraving. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, dark in the grooves. Magazine has one small ding and some light surface etching. Box shows wear and light soil. 2) Extremely fine, near new, may be unfired. Overall retains about 98% crisp orig blue with a couple of minor scratches and faint sharp edge wear. Grips show moderate wear and may not be orig to this pistol. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 3) Extremely fine. Probably unfired, retains virtually all of its orig gray/green Parkerized finish on metal and fine custom varnish on the stock. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4) Very fine to extremely fine. Metal retains about 98% strong orig blue with only faint sharp edge wear. Wood is sound with a few minor handling & storage mars in the finish and overall retains about all of its fine orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 5) Fine to very fine. Knife shows sharpening but is fine. Sheath has small handling & storage nicks & scratches and light wear. Plaque is a medium brass patina. 6) Fair to good. Knife blades have light surface corrosion, horn handle has a couple of bug bites, sheath shows light wear. 7) Very fine. Blade has a couple of spots of light corrosion. Handle has lost most of its finish to flaking. 8) Very fine. 9) Both patches are new. 4-40892 JR322 (27,500-37,500)
*NEW YORK ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 319525. Cal. 38WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, one line block letter address and a tiny “41” on the bottom of the bbl underneath the base pin. Left side of frame has two line, three patent dates and the Rampant Colt in a circle. It is mounted with lovely, smooth, 2-piece ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop with about 70% covereage foliate arabesque patterns with fine paunch-dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns and each side of the bbl boss is engraved in diamond and dot patterns. Engraving extends about 4″ up each side of bbl with dash & dot borders around the address which terminate in a foliate arabesque pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on each side of the muzzle and a double line border around the muzzle. Ejector rod housing has a snake & dot pattern on the outer radius. Top of the back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with triangle center engraved in diamond & dot patterns. Ears of the back strap are engraved in spider web patterns and the back strap itself has a double wavy line border down each side, terminating in a geometric pattern at the heel. Butt strap and trigger bow are also engraved in geometric patterns. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and has a snake & dot pattern at the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, and shipped to Novell Shapleigh Hardware Co, St. Louis, MO on October 7, 1911 in a shipment of three same type revolvers. Under a remarks section it states “Records do not indicate factory engraving when arm originally left factory. We do not have records available on firearms returned for engraving or other modifications”. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except cyl and grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about all of its fine, factory-style nickel finish which was apparently applied after the revolver had been in service for some time as there are a few scattered spots of pin-prick pitting under the finish and a few tiny nicks & dings with nickel finish in them. Grips are sound with a couple of age lines on the bottom left edge and retain a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half-cocked notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-40915 JR271 (9,000-15,000)
J. HERMAN PERCUSSION REVOLVER PURPORTED TO BE A COPY OF A COLT. SN 7. Cal. 40. Unusual revolver with 6-11/16″ oct smoothbore bbl, secured with a Paterson style wedge and has an unusual rack & pinion, or “creeping”, rammer with the rammer handle mounted to the right side of the bbl lug. Right side of bbl lug also has a fingernail shaped loading cutout. Top flat of bbl has a tiny dovetailed front sight and a dovetailed fixed rear sight at the chambered end. It has a rebated 6-shot cyl that is about 2″ long with no frame top or bottom strap, the only support being the cyl spindle. Frame is short & round, about 1-3/4″ long x 1-1/4″ diameter with unusual ring trigger that when pulled retracts the hammer into the frame raising the front of the hammer and rotating the cyl to align the next chamber with the bore. Hammer nose cover is heart shaped with V-notch apparently to clear the sight notch on the bbl. Frame is engraved in large fan shaped elliptical panels on each side with a shell pattern behind the hammer slot with geometric patterns down back strap. Cyl is engraved with alternating foliate & floral, diamond checkered & elliptical shaped panels around circumference. Toe of front strap is stamped “J. HERMAN / BREVETE”. Mounted with very nicely figured saw handle walnut grips that have a fluted oval butt cap with lanyard stud & ring. Cyl has Belgian proofs on two lands between nipple recesses and a small Belgian proof on left side of bbl lug. Accompanied by a copy of what appears to be pages from Guns Review titled “Firearms Curiosa” which has a photograph of a nearly identical revolver with the exception that the one in the photograph has a cannon muzzle and a tall front sight. The caption reads “Belgian Copy of a Colt”. CONDITION: Good to very good. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal patina. Grips are sound with light handling & use marks and retain most of their orig varnish finish. Mechanics are fine, moderately pitted bore. 4-40184 JR349 (10,000-15,000)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVING SAMPLER. SN SA09388. Cal. 45 Colt. Scarce royal blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45” on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips with gold Colt 150th anniversary medallions. Left grip is inscribed with the names of three factory engravers and the dates they were employed at Colt along with “CONTEMPORARY”. Grips are matching numbered to the revolver. SN was observed on bottom of frame and on left side of front & back straps under the grip and last four digits of SN are around the cyl bushing hole on face of cylinder. Revolver is engraved by master Colt engraver Howard Dove in about 40-50% coverage various engraving patterns consisting mostly of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Left recoil shield & loading gate are engraved with Helfricht style sunbursts and the sides of the front frame are engraved with extremely fine hunter stars. Engraving extends over sides of bbl terminating in front of the address with additional patterns on each side of the muzzle and on outer radius of ejector rod housing. Top of back strap is engraved with the Colt 150th anniversary logo and the back strap is engraved in script “Colt Engraving Sampler”. Cylinder, butt strap & trigger bow are engraved to match. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined Colt custom shop walnut casing with branded Colt logo in right front corner of lid. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, finish: “Mirror brite with color cased frame”, type of stocks smooth ivory with 150th medallions, factory engraved: “Yes, by Howard Dove. See remarks section for details” with walnut presentation case shipped to Stacy Williams Co., Birmingham, AL on Oct. 24, 1987. Under remarks section: “The above mentioned firearm has the following special features: Type “B” scroll engraving in “Henshaw” on the bottom of the backstrap and on the trigger guard bow, “Nimschke” on the cylinder, “Helfricht” on the frame, and “Contemporary” on the barrel and ejector rod housing. The 150th Rampant Colt logo is linecut engraved on top of the backstrap, —“. Remarks section also states this revolver was processed on Colt Custom Shop Order #3225, and is 1 of only 8 Single Action Army revolvers produced in the sampler edition in the above noted configuration”. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated Aug. 23, 2010, from Robert Carradine, brother of David Carradine, certifying that “This Colt Single Action Army, serial number SA09388, is from the Colt Engraving Sampler series. I found this cased example in 1988 and presented it to David while he was filming ‘Kung Fu: The Legend Continues’ in 1992. I subsequently contacted the Colt historian and discovered this 5-1/2” .45 was engraved by Colt Master Engraver Howard Dove (Colt letter included). PROVENANCE: From the private collection of the late actor, David Carradine. CONDITION: New and unfired. Box has a few minor storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior is crisp & clean. 4-40807 JR262 (3,000-5,000)
RARE CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 232. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City address reading from cyl to muzzle. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has silver plated square-backed brass trigger guard & back strap containing a slim, deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “M M Rogers M.D. from D.M. Rogers / Savannah, Geo.”. Cylinder has five chambers with round stops and a tapered smooth cylinder pin with cupped end to use as a rammer for loading. Accompanied by an orig mahogany Colt casing with fluted beveled edge on top, lined with brown velvet and recessed in bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided early “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, a 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” brass mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Eley’s caps. The presentation on the back strap to M.M. Rogers from D.M. Rogers has been thoroughly researched by a previous owner with little information having been discovered about either man. It emerged that a Capt. Moses Rogers was the Captain of the steamship “Savannah” which was the first steam powered vessel to cross the Atlantic, which was accomplished in 1819 when she sailed from Savannah to Liverpool, England and on to Russia. It has not been firmly established that the M.M. Rogers in the presentation is a direct descendant of Capt. Moses Rogers, however a Dr. Moses Rogers was licensed to practice medicine by the Georgia Board of Physicians in Dec. 1834. It was also learned that Moses B. Rogers had been a graduate of the Medical College of Ohio in 1831 and that he was from South Carolina. Information from the Georgia Historical Society of Savannah revealed that Dr. Rogers was a delegate to a Union Party meeting in Savannah in 1841 and that in 1851 there was an advertisement in a local newspaper for medicines manufactured by Dr. Rogers. This revolver has a long and verifiable history dating back to at least 1942 when it appeared as Plate #38 in the exhibit of percussion Colt revolvers at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and was on loan from the world famous Albert Foster, Jr. Collection. It was also featured as Item #37 on p. 67 of the book Samuel Colt Presents, Wadsworth Atheneum, on loan from John E. Parsons, another world famous Colt collector. In addition it has also resided at one time or another in the collections of James E. Serven and Norm Flayderman. Also accompanied by the book S.S.Savannah The Elegant Steamship, Brainyard where on page 29 Capt. Rogers is mentioned regarding the sale of the Steamship Savannah. Capt. Rogers is an integral part of this book in that he was the master and captain of the Savannah on her successful trans-Atlantic voyage in 1819. PROVENANCE: Albert Foster Jr. Collection; John E. Parsons Collection; James E. Serven Collection; Norm Flayderman Collection; Dr. Robert A. Bettis Coll. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. No original finish remains being mostly a mottled heavy dark brown patina with light to moderate pitting. Cylinder is in matching condition and retains traces of orig Ranger/Indian fight scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 85% orig silver plating, thin on back strap. Grip is sound and moderately shrunken with minor nicks & scratches and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case has a repaired crack on hinged edge of lid, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is lightly faded with two hinge screws missing. Accessories are fine. 4-39298 JR100 (6,000-8,000)
*FINE WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS & LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSOCIATION. SN 352721. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. SN was observed on bottom of frame & on right side of front & back straps under grip. Last two digits of SN are on rear face of cylinder. Mounted with fine pearl grips with deep relief carved ox head on right side with ruby or garnet eyes. Revolver is engraved in Class B (2) style engraving by Wilbur Glahn with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns which incorporate flower blossoms on each side of frame. Recoil shield, loading gate, top of back strap & butt strap also incorporate Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Top strap & sides of bbl are engraved to match as is the trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a snake pattern near rear edge. Back strap is zig zag engraved, through the nickel, in a style known to have been used by engravers at Wolf & Klar with the inscription “W.M. PETERSON”. Accompanied by a 5-pointed silver star badge with ball points and engraved arms incorporating a flying American eagle clutching a U.S. shield as the centerpiece surrounded by a black cloissonne circle imprinted “CHIEF OF POLICE WINNETKA”. Rear of badge is engraved “W.M. PETERSON / APPOINTED / MAY 1-1913 / RETIRED / JAN.15-1945”. Badge is in its orig George Harold Police Equipment Co. black leather case. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber grips, factory engraved Grade 2, shipped to Wolf & Klar, Fort Worth, TX on Sept. 18, 1928 in a 2-gun shipment. Additionally accompanying is a telegram dated May 24, 1937 to “Sen. C.T. Baumrucker” and signed by Chief Peterson requesting the Senator’s assistance in passing pension bills. Also part of this package is a portrait of Chief Peterson in civilian coat & tie inscribed on back “W.M. Peterson / Winetka, Ill.”. There is also a photograph of 9 men in suits & ties, apparently a Police Chiefs’ meeting or award ceremony of some sort as they are all wearing the same style of badge on their lapel. Chief Peterson is standing at the left and photograph is inscribed “Milwaukee Wis. Sept. 9th to 12th 40”. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cyl, except grips which are apparently old period of use replacements. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory nickle finish with one small spot of flaking on inside of loading gate. Grips have a couple of small chips otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may have been fired but very, very little. Badge shows light wear although it appears to have been carried extensively. 4-36847 JR32 (30,000-50,000)
RARE UPPER CANADA MARKED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 34812. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address with short spears. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” and the iron trigger guard & back strap containing a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with any numbers in the back strap channel covered in dark stains. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Ormsby Naval battle scene and all six safety pins crisp & serviceable. Left side of grip is stamped, upside down, “U.C / 61 / 33”. Prior to 1854 the Canadian Military was supplied arms by the British Gov’t. but at about that point the British Military was so heavily embroiled in the Crimean War that they were hard pressed to maintain their own military forces and therefore asked Canada to become more active in supplying their own arms. Canada accepted and in 1855 a commission was sent to England to purchase arms for the militia. Among other purchases, they bought 800 Colt Model 1851 Navy revolvers with 556 going to Upper Canada, the area of Canada now known as the Province of Ontario and 255 being issued to Lower Canada, the area known today as the Province of Quebec. Routinely these revolvers are stamped on the grip “UC” with a company letter and the rack number of the revolver. This revolver with the number “61” in place of the company designation apparently is an abnormality and the meaning of which is unknown. Reference information obtained from the book ’51 Colt Navies, Swayze. Accompanied by an English mahogany casing with scalloped brass plate in the lid which is engraved in script lettering “T.H. Bolton”. Interior is red velvet lined with a Colt’s directions label inside the lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a Hawksley bag shaped flask, a “COLTS PATENT” blue steel 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter and the locator pin in the left arm, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of five combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps. Right rear compartment is covered and contains lead bullets & balls and an all metal cleaning rod. Also in the front compartment is an 1854 Bank of Upper Canada one penny bank token. All edges of the lid & bottom are rounded. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & cyl, grip as noted. Bbl retains 65-70% thinning orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a light patina. Rammer & handle retain strong case colors, bright on the pivot. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig case colors, brilliant on sides of frame, dark on left recoil shield and turning dark on hammer. Cyl retains 75-80% strong orig blue and about 95% Ormbsy Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig blue, strong on trigger guard & front strap and at the top of the back strap & butt strap, thin on body of back strap. Grip is sound showing edge wear and a few nicks & scratches in the finish and overall retains 85-90% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. Case is sound with normal handling & use nicks, scratches & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with yellowed label inside the lid and damage from the front sight & hammer spur. Flask is fine with about 75% orig finish. Mold is lightly pitted & slightly battered on outside, nipple wrench is fine, cartridge box is crisp, coin is fine. 4-41068 JR365 (20,000-30,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 70777. Cal. 455 Eley. High polish blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, fixed sights and usual markings with last patent date “1905” and British proofs on bbl, frame & cylinder. Rampant Colt is stamped on sideplate and it is mounted with “COLT” in an oval hard rubber grips, serial numbered to this revolver, and has a lanyard stud & loop in butt strap containing a braided OD colored cotton lanyard. Top strap is engraved “WESTLEY RICHARDS & CO / LONDON. W.”. Hammer has bright polished sides with royal blued top & back edges. Accompanied by a period commercial brown leather flap holster with strap & brass stud closure. Rear of holster has one wide belt loop and it has a sewn in toe plug. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including grips. Overall retains about 97-98% strong orig glossy factory blue with only slight muzzle edge and sharp edge wear. Grips are crisp with a few mashed diamonds on right side and a tiny chip on bottom left edge and are turning slightly chocolate. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Holster is equally new with slightly crackled flap and a few minor nicks & scratches. 4-40597 JR54 (2,000-3,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Grips are probably replacements, some touch-up on front strap.
*FANTASTIC ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 357723. Cal. 45 Colt. This revolver is a pre-war, post-war model assembled, apparently in 1950, from pre-war made parts. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with late first generation marking on the side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc ivory grips with phenomenal relief carved steer head on right side that has gold horns, ruby eyes and a gold ring through itsnose. Left grip is inlaid with the heavy gold initials “TD” and both grips have rampant Colt silver medallions. Left side of front strap, under grip, is inlaid with Mr. White’s silver cartouche marked “A.A. WHITE / ENG.” Revolver is wonderfully engraved by Mr. White with about 70% coverage on the frame consisting of extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background. Left recoil shield has a very large raised gold rampant Colt with a raised gold buffalo skull on the loading gate. Top of back strap has an incredible raised gold spread winged American eagle clutching arrows & olive branches in its talons and the back strap is inlaid with a raised, gold longhorn steer head with platinum horns & fantastic detail. Top of bbl, just behind front sight has flat gold inlay of cavalry crossed sabers. Sides of frame, back strap, butt strap, trigger plate, bbl, ejector rod housing & trigger guard are inlaid with flat gold wire as part of the foliate arabesque engraving patterns. Muzzle & root ends of bbl are inlaid with a narrow gold band as is the ejector rod housing. Sides of hammer are also engraved to match. In addition the screw heads on the side of the frame are nicely engraved and the ends of the transverse pin are checkered. Cylinder has full coverage matching foliate arabesque patterns with foliate patterns in the flutes. The flutes & lands between the flutes are inlaid with a fine continuous gold band and the back edge of cylinder also is inlaid with a fine gold band. SN was observed on bottom of frame and on right side of the front & back straps under grip. Cyl is unmarked. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, charged to “Arms Selling Expense” and shipped to Mr. John S. du Mont, Greenfield, Mass. on Sept. 27, 1950 in a 1-gun shipment. Alvin White was one of Colt’s premier master engravers for many years as well as engraving on his own under his own shop name. He produced some of the finest engraved Colts of the modern era that are in some of the finest collections in the world today. Mr. John du Mont was one of the deans of the firearms collecting fraternity for many years until his death late in the 20th century. Mr. du Mont amassed a very large collection of a great variety of firearms of very high quality and great value. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate collection; John S. du Mont Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except cyl & grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its wonderful post engraving custom finish probably by Colt. Blue is crisp & bright with strong case colors. Gold animals are executed in extreme fine detail and are a true example of Mr. White’s talent. Grips have a small repair in right heel, otherwise are sound and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-36854 JR250 (5,000-8,000)
*COLT 3RD GENERATION RONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVING SAMPLER. SN SA67180. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line script letter address with serifs at each end and the left side marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. There is a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl just above base pin. Frame is black powder style with screw-retained base pin and 3-line patent dates on left side and it is mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips, numbered to this revolver, with 150th anniversary Colt medallions. Left grip is inscribed in black letters with the names of three factory engravers and the dates they were employed by the company along with an entry “Contemporary”. Revolver is engraved in a variety of styles with about 30-40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and Cuno Helfricht style sunbursts on left recoil shield & loading gate. Each side of the forward part of the frame is engraved with a hunter star. Top of back strap is engraved with the Colt 150th anniversary logo and back strap is script engraved “Colt Engraving Sampler”. SN was observed on bottom of frame and left side of the front & back straps under the grip. Last four digits of SN are stamped around the bushing hole on cylinder and last three digits of SN are on the bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and inside radius of ejector rod housing. Accompanied by its orig burgundy 1-pc Styrofoam lined cardboard box with chartreuse custom shop label and its owner’s manual and other paperwork as supplied by the company along with the octagonal shaped orange hang tag. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated Aug. 23, 2010, from Robert Carradine, brother of David Carradine, certifying that “This Colt Single Action Army, serial number SA67180, is from the Engraving Sampler series. My brother always wanted a nickel 4-3/4″ in 44-40 and I purchased this example for him in 1988.” PROVENANCE: From the private collection of the late actor, David Carradine. CONDITION: Crisp, new & unfired and unturned. 4-40811 JR259 (3,000-5,000)
RARE COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH FACTORY ADDED RAMMER. SN 12228. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 2-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has center struck, tiny “COLTS PATENT”. Square back silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last three digits of SN in back strap channel. Butt strap and right bottom edge of grip are stamped “JHFB”. Cyl is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene and a crack over one chamber. Rammer has been added by the factory with the assembly number that is either “89” or “68” and is stamped on top flat of rammer handle and bottom flat of bbl inside the pivot slot. Incongruously the rammer pivot is very nicely engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. The Baby Dragoon revolvers were initially produced without rammers, which continued well into the 12,000 serial range when, with the advent of the Model 1849 and its attached rammer, Baby Dragoons were intermittently produced with attached rammers and an unknown number were returned to the factory for retrofitting of rammers. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. No orig finish remains being an overall dark plummy/brown patina. Cyl has matching patina with its crack over one chamber and overall retains about 60% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig factory silver plating with only slight wear on heel & toe. Grip shows moderate to heavy wear with some battering on bottom edges and retains a hand worn patina. Half cock notch is not functioning, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-40738 JR166 (5,000-8,000)
*WONDERFUL FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 295601. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with fire blued screws, 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking in a ribbon on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates in an engraved ribbon with shaded background and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc spectacular pearl grips with deep relief carved eagle with ruby or garnet eye on right side and left side inscribed “ROY NEBLETT”. Revolver is engraved from the Cuno Helfricht shop with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and a foliate spray on recoil shield & loading gate. The ejector rod boss is engraved with a simple hunter star and with foliate arabesque patterns on each side of bbl boss. Engraving patterns extend about half way up each side of bbl and there is a snake pattern in ejector rod housing gullet. Cyl is engraved in simple geometric patterns on lands between flutes with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Top of back strap is engraved with a simple foliate spray with geometric patterns that match the cyl on back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter that identifies this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved and shipped to H&D Folsom Arms Co., New York, NY on June 20, 1907 in a shipment of 6 same type revolvers. SN was observed in the usual places on frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last three digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Removing the grips for examination disclosed that the grip locator pin had been ground away and the right grip attached to the frame with some form of glue. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains 95-96% strong, bright, orig factory nickel with slight muzzle edge wear and wear on the tip of the ejector rod housing. Front & back straps are slightly dulled with losses of nickel around heel and on butt strap. Cyl retains 96-97% strong orig nickel with some minor flaking in the flutes. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Grips, as noted above, are otherwise fine with a repaired left heel and overall retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-36833 JR178 (35,000-60,000)
CASED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 28510. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address with spears at each end. Left side of frame has a small “COLT’S PATENT” and left side of bbl and cyl have British proofs. The large guard iron trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip whose numbers in the back strap channel are obscured by dark oil staining. Accompanied by an orig English style mahogany casing with scalloped corner brass plate in lid engraved with initials, one of which is an “S”. Case is black velvet lined with an early directions label in lid and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a Hawksley navy size bag flask, a “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter and locator pin in left arm plus an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tiny brass oiler. Left front compartment contains a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Covered right rear compartment contains one Eley paper cartridge and the orig functioning key. Case is unusual in that it has no provision for a cleaning rod as do most English cases. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge & cyl, grip as noted above. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with flaking over top flat and right side of bbl lug with scattered spots of light pitting. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors with handle & rammer a gray patina. Frame & hammer retain traces of orig case colors, being mostly a medium gray patina. Cyl is a medium gray patina and retains 40-50% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap are a blue/brown patina. Grip is sound with usual nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of an oiled applied finish. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with one small area of fine orange peel pitting. Case has one small grain check in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is moderately faded and lightly soiled with yellowed instructions label and solid partitions. Flask is a medium mustard patina with a few tiny dents. Mold shows heavy use with numerous nicks & dings on both sides and bottom. Other accessories are fine. 4-40737 JR181 (5,000-8,000)
*COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WITH BROWNING BROS. & WYOMING LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSOCIATION. SN C99049. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ bbl, standard fixed sights and mounted with smooth pearl grips that have a gold, military style, spread winged American eagle metal emblem applied to left side. Sides of slide & frame, along with top of slide, are very nicely engraved in light foliate & floral patterns with a light gold wash applied over engraving. Right rear of slide has the vignette of a bridge over an estuary with hills & birds in background. Top left of slide, opposite ejection port is engraved “SHERIFF CARROLL”. Accompanied by one unmarked 2-tone magazine. Additionally accompanied by a framed orig photograph of famous FBI Director, J. Edgar Hoover and inscribed on bottom in blue ink “To George Carroll / with all good wishes / J. Edgar Hoover” and dated “10/18/38”. Additionally accompanied by two 3-ring binders of information regarding Sheriff George J. Carroll who was the Sheriff of Laramie County, Cheyenne, Wyoming from 1921-1943. Included in this information is a signed notarized statement from John R. Ziemer who states that Sheriff Carroll was his great-grandfather and that this pistol was given to his great-grandfather by FBI Director, J. Edgar Hoover. He also states in the affidavit that Sheriff Carroll “sent the pistol to the Colorado State Prison, where he had sent many prisoners, and the pistol was engraved there,in the rather crude ‘Canyon City’ style.” Also included is a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol with type of stocks not listed, shipped to Browning Bros. Company, Ogden, Utah on July 10, 1917 in a shipment of 15 same type pistols. Included in one of the binders is a copy of what is apparently a page from a magazine article which includes a photograph of a gun case hanging on the wall reportedly in the basement of Sheriff George Carroll. In the lower left section of this case is what appears to be this exact pistol with the identifiable pearl grip and metal eagle emblem. The photograph, however, does not appear to show any engraving. The article and author are unidentified and undated. Sheriff Carroll reportedly was born near Topeka, Kansas and came to Cheyenne in about 1900. He worked in a variety of occupations including as a range cowboy. He started the newspaper The Wheatland Times which he operated for 2-1/2 years then moved to Cheyenne and gained employment with the Union Pacific Railway. In 1908 he became Deputy Sheriff which occupation he served until his election as Sheriff in 1921. He died May 18, 1961 in Cheyenne and one of his surviving grandchildren is listed as Mrs. Carol Anne Ziemer of Cheyenne. Sheriff Carroll, from the myriad of newspaper articles & various reports included in these two binders, became an extremely efficient law enforcement officer, participating in several nationally prominent cases involving murders, bank robberies, kidnappings and other high profile investigations which he apparently was instrumental in solving. Sheriff Carroll was the subject of a fictional novel The Valley of Grim Men, Clem Yore and which was dedicated to Sheriff Carroll. Another famous writer, Gene Fowler, included Sheriff Carroll in several of his books which were historical fiction. Sheriff Carroll was also featured in “at least 100 detective and crime magazine articles”. Sheriff Carroll was twice elected president of the Wyoming Peace Officers Association and on March 27, 1934 was awarded the Law Enforcement Medal of Achievement by the American Flag Association, a national organization which recognized outstanding law enforcement officers in each state. Additionally included in the binders are four personal letters to Sheriff Carroll signed by J. Edgar Hoover along with numerous other correspondence from various state & congressional personages including what is purported to be the last official signature of Gov. Alfred E. Smith of New York. And finally there are reprints of Sheriff Carroll as a young man in his Sunday best with large brimmed Stetson with hitched horsehair hat band and wearing a decorative neckerchief. CONDITION: Fine, engraved & gold washed as noted. The remaining blue is mostly strong with some thinning on the slide & front strap. Grips are extremely fine plus with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-40753 JR77 (3,500-5,000)
*VERY RARE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN A RARE CALIBER. SN 188511. Cal. 32 S&W. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips which are inscribed on inside “George Hartsell Feb 1, 1933” in left side and the initials “GSH” and “George Hartsell 8/19/27” in right side. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, there were only 32 of these rare revolvers produced in the caliber of the approx. 357,859 single actions made from 1873 thru WWII, making this one of the most rare of all the single actions. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 32 with 7-1/2″ bbl, finish “soft”, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY, on Aug. 17, 1899 in a shipment of six same type revolvers. Under Note: “the word soft which appears with the finish indicates the frame and gate were not case hardened when this arm was shipped. These parts were left in a soft condition for engraving outside of our factory.” This revolver is, obviously, not engraved but appears to have been nickel finished, probably by Hartley & Graham. It retains traces of nickel finish on sides of trigger guard & back strap under grip. This is truly an extraordinarily rare single action and the first one in this caliber ever examined by this cataloger. CONDITION: Good to very good. Traces of nickel finish remain on sides of grip frame, otherwise the entire revolver is a cleaned metal finish showing moderate to heavy wear. Given that the frame was never hardened it is surprising that it retains as much orig shape as it does. Grips are sound showing heavy wear. Hammer is without safety or half cock notches and timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting near muzzle and some roughness & light pitting at forcing cone end. 4-40183 JR123 (12,500-17,500)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY COWBOY ARTISTS OF AMERICA SPECIAL. SN CAA-6. Cal. 45 Colt. Royal blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips numbered to this revolver. Left side of bbl has a gold inlaid panel with fleur-de-lis at each end and inlaid in gold in the center “Cowboy Artists of America Special”. There is an additional gold fleur-de-lis at left side of muzzle. The left recoil shield is inlaid with the intertwined gold initials “CA” and right side of frame, below cyl opening is inlaid in gold “1 of 250”. SN is also inlaid in gold. Revolver is very nicely engraved with about 40% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the top strap and up the bbl terminating above the address with an additional pattern on right side of muzzle. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Ejector rod housing is also engraved to match on outer radius and in top gullet. Cyl has matching patterns on lands between the flutes and in a continuous flowing band around rear edge. Center of cyl is inlaid with a continuous fine gold band that scallops around flutes and around engraving on lands. SN was observed on bottom of frame with an assembly number or alternate SN “AO7871” on left side of front & back straps under grip. “7871” is stamped around the cyl bushing hole on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and inside radius of ejector rod housing. Accompanied by its orig gold velvet lined custom shop walnut casing with Colt medallion in right front corner and a mortised brass lock in front. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt, 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish with 2-pc ivory stocks without medallions and factory engraved “See Remarks for details”. The engraving vendor is listed as “R.L. Wilson Co. / Hadlyme, Connecticut”. It also lists a presentation case French fitted with gold colored interior and shipped to B.E. Hodgdon, Inc., Shawnee Mission, KS, with date of shipment unavailable and Colt Custom Shop Order #1225. Remarks section details all of the gold work as described above. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated Aug. 23, 2010, from Robert Carradine, brother of David Carradine, certifying that “This Colt Single Action Army, serial number CAA6 is The Cowboy Artists of America Special Edition. David was an artist and a cowboy and this fine cased Colt came to him while he was filming the History Channel Series, ‘Wild West Tech’. (Colt letter included). PROVENANCE: From the private collection of the late actor, David Carradine. CONDITION: New, unfired. Box has a few handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is crisp & clean. 4-40808 JR261 (3,500-5,500)
ENGRAVED COLT 1ST MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CASE. SN 4668. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.”. It has square back brass trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with the outline of a cartouche on left side. Frame & cyl have full coverage New York style engraving consisting of heavy foliate arabesque patterns over the entire surfaces. Hammer is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on shank and a wolf’s head on each side of the nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale patterns. Engraving extends over both sides of bbl lug with three of four heavy scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over top side flats with a small pattern just on round section. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are also engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a fan pattern at top of back strap. Accompanied by a homemade walnut case with brass corner reinforcements , green felt lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an orig “COLTS PATENT” dragoon flask, dbl sided with repoussed stand of flags & trophy of arms over crossed Paterson rifles which are over crossed Paterson revolvers, all of which surmounts a ribbon embossed “COLTS PATENT”. Flask has triangle hangers mounted low on body. Also accompanied by a fine brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter and a tin of Eley’s caps. Additionally accompanied by a dragoon sized 1-pc ivory grip which has had the left side come loose from the central ivory block. The inside of both grips is pencil inscribed “AT THIS WRITING SHOULD SAY I’M TV ANNOUNCER WHO’D RATHER DEAL STRICTLY IN ANTIQUE GUNS – THIS ONE IS FROM AUTHOR BEN AMES WINANTS COLLECTION” and “THIS DRAGOON IS THE PROPERTY OF – GORDON KIBBY 1532 LEWISON G’D RP’DS MICH. USA 1961 APRIL. COME IF YOU ARE THE OWNER PLEASE REMEMBR (sic) MYSELF, WIFE BETTY AND DTR ALVA RAE GOD BLESS YOU”. Also accompanied by a framed Aug. 1963 issue of Guns magazine which pictures this revolver in full color with the aforementioned ivory grips on the cover. Page 5 of the magazine states that this revolver is in the collection of Mr. Gordon Kibby of Grand Rapids, MI. And finally accompanying is an 8×10 black & white photograph of this revolver with wood grip and the caption “GORDON KIBBY COLLECTION”. This revolver was engraved post-production probably in the late 19th century. PROVENANCE: Gordon Kibby Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth plummy brown artificially aged patina with the metal showing moderate to heavy wear. Trigger guard & back strap are a dark mustard patina. Grip is sound also showing very heavy wear and retains a hand worn patina. Ivory grip has several age lines and is probably a very old reproduction with artificial aging. Flask is orig with a few minor dents and orig finish in the repoussed area on one side being overall a medium to dark patina. Mold is very fine, cleaned & artificially aged with light pitting on sprue cutter. Cap tin is fair. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Wedge spring is broken. Case is fine. 4-40975 JR360 (4,500-6,500)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The grips have been replaced.
*FINE WILBUR GLAHN ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED SILVER PLATED PAIR OF COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 356118 & 356293. Cal. 45 Colt. Revolvers are identical in virtually all respects with silver finish, 7-1/2″ bbls, full orig front sights, 1-line block letter addresses and standard, late, pre-war markings on left sides. They have 2-line 3-patent dates on left sides of frames and rampant Colts in a circle. They are mounted with very old 1-pc ivory grips that are two slabs of ivory attached to two wood block spacers that are attached together. These grips have a left hand and a right hand deep relief raised carved horse’s head with ruby or garnet eyes. They are identically engraved by Colt master engraver, Wilbur Glahn in his deluxe C+ coverage of his distinctive flowing foliate & floral arabesque patterns with extremely fine punch dot background. Frames have about 85% coverage with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends nearly the full length on both sides of bbls, also with a small flower blossom on right sides. Ejector rod bosses are engraved with a large flower blossom with back straps & top of back straps having full coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Trigger guards are engraved to match. Front straps & ears of back straps are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Cylinders have identical full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the outer circumference offset by the unengraved flutes. Back straps are engraved “Ray E. Hollinger” and butt straps “June 10, 1937 / Denison Texas”. SN’s were observed in usual place, on bottoms of frames & on right sides of trigger guards & back straps under grips. Last two digits of SN’s were observed on rear faces of cylinders and, unusually on the inside radii of ejector rod housings. In addition each revolver is stamped with a tiny “&”, on right side of number “356118” and on left side of number “356293” signifying factory restorative work. Left sides of trigger guards & back straps, inside radius of ejector rod housings & faces of cylinders around bushing holes are stamped with 3-digit assembly numbers used by factory to maintain order when reassembling revolvers after re-work. Accompanied by a 4-page letter from noted Colt historian & author, R.L. Wilson, who authenticates the engraving as having been done by Wilbur Glahn and states that this pair of revolvers appears on p. 304 of The Book of Colt Engraving and p. 400 of Colt Engraving both by Wilson. He states that the caption to these revolvers identifies them as having been shipped to Hoffman Hardware Co. in Jan. 1938 and that “By error the engraving and ivory grips were not included in the factory listing.” He credits this pair to the David S. Woloch Collection. He further states “It is highly unlikely the revolvers would have been returned to the Colt Factory for engraving and inscribing, especially in that the pair had already been silver plated. Furthermore, the butt strap inscriptions are of 1937 date [June 10, 1937/Denison Texas], and shipment was not until January 1938.” He speculates that the factory re-work ampersands on the trigger guards “could well have been simply a matter of internal parts repairs”. The letter continues that this pair of revolvers by Wilbur Glahn for Roy Hollinger is a true set and indicates they are the only known pair by Wilbur Glahn. He further states that Mr. Glahn seldom used silver plating in his embellishments and that there are only three such plated revolvers in Mr. Wilson’s books, this pair and a single. In light of the above, it is noted by this cataloger that the frame patent dates & rampant Colts are rather faint, indicative of restoration refinish while the adjacent engraving is sharp & crisp with numerous small areas of raised metal as one would find on any unrefinished engraved Colt revolver. Therefore it is this cataloger’s contention, given the assembly numbers and rework marks, that these revolvers were, in fact, returned to the factory for engraving & subsequent refinish. Close examination of the bbl markings leads this cataloger to believe that the bbls were replaced at the time of the restoration as there is still raised metal around the roll markings on the bbls. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Both revolvers are all matching as indicated above. They retain virtually all of their fine factory silver plating with only a couple of minor flakes on bbl of #356293. Both appear to be unfired since plating. Both revolvers have light abrasive marks on grip frames. Grips have numerous age lines with some light crystallization around edges and retain a smooth light ivory patina showing light wear to horse’s heads. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. 4-36832 JR30 (25,000-40,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 142551. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, replacement German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left rear web of trigger guard is stamped with caliber. The brass trigger guard & back strap contain a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved Mexican eagle in an oval on left side. Grip is of the earliest type with two slabs of ivory fastened to a central block of ivory which has the partial SN “142” in butt strap channel. This number matches the first three numbers of the SN of this revolver. SNs on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by a small “E” which signifies that this revolver was to be engraved and required special polishing. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage deluxe folite arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background over the frame with three scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Bbl lug and rammer pivot are engraved to match with a dog’s head incorporated into the patterns on left side and a scroll terminating in a flower blossom on right side. Hammer has received Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving with full coverage on sides with wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and fish scale patterns on top edge. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on butt strap & back strap along with the trigger bow. Ears of back strap are engraved in partial flower blossoms and shoulders of trigger guard in foliate patterns. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except wedge which is numbered “8102” but appears to have engraved ends. No orig finish remains being a worn, heavily cleaned, dark gray metal patina with moderate to heavy pitting on bbl and sides of hammer. Cyl retains only minor traces of the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking with several nicks, dents & dings. Grip frame is a cleaned light mustard patina. Grip is outstanding, showing light to moderate wear and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-40680 JR132 (4,500-6,500)
*ENGRAVED COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 316493. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig front sight with 2-line address with “NEW SERVICE 45 COLT” on left side. Mounted with beautiful smooth factory pearl grips with deep left & right Colt medallions. Revolver has about 40-50% coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving with elliptical foliate arabesque patterns on cylinder on lands between the flutes. Top of back strap, at the heel on butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with small hunter stars on each side of the ejector rod boss. Engraving appears similar to the Helfrecht style. Butt strap has a factory installed lanyard swivel. Left side of butt strap, under grip, is stamped “N 701” which number appears on front face of cylinder around cyl pin and on bottom of bbl, in addition to a small 6-pointed star inside the crane on the frame. The star on the frame indicates factory refinish and the number “701” is the refinish assembly number from the factory. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of its fine nickel finish with some light dulling from handling and a couple of tiny scrapes on back strap. Toe of front strap has some very fine pimpling and very minor losses of nickel. Grips are outstanding and sound, retaining great fire & color. Mechanics are a little cranky in double action, probably just a minor adjustment, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36746 (2,000-3,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 189856. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with extraordinary Chinese carved 2-pc ivory grips with deep relief, elaborately carved dragons that have pearl & blue gemstone eyes. The left grip has a Chinese signature at the toe. Revolver is engraved in Wilbur Glahn style, probably in the Orient, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Engraving covers most of the bbl with only a strip down the top and around the muzzle unengraved. Hammer, cyl, back strap, butt strap and trigger guard are matching engraved in nearly full coverage. Ejector rod housing is also engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns on the outer radius with feather patterns in the top & bottom gullets. All the screws are engraved in checkered patterns. Revolver may have been gold washed at one time over the nickel plating which was applied over copper plating which is now exposed in some areas. Altogether rather pleasing engraving with spectacular grips. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains 75-80% nickel finish with exposed copper on bbl, back strap & front strap with more exposed copper on cylinder. Grips are extremely fine showing light wear and retain a wonderful yellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch and timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-40843 JR180 (3,000-5,000)
*ENGRAVED 3RD MODEL DUAL CALIBER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA39187. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40) & 44 Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 3″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address with model number on left side and caliber on right side which only shows 44-40. Mounted with smooth ivory 2-pc grips with gold Colt medallions numbered to this revolver. Revolver is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with about 40% coverage on frame and each side of the bbl with a fan pattern at top of back strap and foliate arabesque pattern on the heel and a foliate pattern on trigger bow. Left recoil shield is inlaid with a flat gold 5-pointed Texas star with fine shaded engraving and there is a gold band inlaid around muzzle and frame end of bbl. Cyls are engraved identically with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. SN was observed on bottom of frame and on left side of the front & back straps under the grip. Last four digits of SN are stamped around the cyl bushing holes. Left side of butt strap under the grip is engraved “B. GWINNELL” (Bryson Gwinnell, Colt Master Engraver). Accompanied by a burgundy 1-pc cardboard box with both end flaps detached and the label end flap missing. Also accompanied by its owner’s manual and various small pamphlets. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as the “1987 Las Vegas Auction Firearm” in caliber 44-40 with extra 44 Spcl. cylinder, 3″ bbl, blue finish with smooth ivory grips with gold medallions, factory engraved “Class ‘B’ Master Level Engraving —” and describes the gold inlays. Letter also gives the engraver’s name as “Colt Master Engraver, Bryson Gwinnell” and that it was accompanied by a glass top walnut case. It was sold at auction to Mr. Kevin Cherry at the 1987 Las Vegas Antique Arms Show and shipped to Cherry’s Sporting Goods, Greensboro, NC, on March 11, 1987 in a 1-gun shipment to Colt Custom Shop Order #2380. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated Aug. 23, 2010, from Robert Carradine, brother of David Carradine, certifying that “This Colt Single Action Army, serial number SA39187, was originally auctioned by Colt at the 1987 Las Vegas Antique Arms Show. It was engraved by Colt Master Engraver Bryson Gwinnell. I acquired it for David in 1998 and he wore it at End of Trail (Colt letter included).” PROVENANCE: From the private collection of the late actor, David Carradine. CONDITION: New & unfired, unturned retaining virtually all of its orig factory blue & case colors. Cyl bushing of the 44 Spcl. cylinder is cracked at front edge. Box shows heavy wear with both end flaps detached and one missing. 4-40810 JR260 (4,000-6,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This is an Exhibition Quality Engraved Colt. The gun is known to have been in the private collection of Norm Flayderman for over 50 years.
CORRECTION: The estimate in the printed catalog is incorrect. The correct estimate is $35,000-55,000.
EXCEPTIONAL EXHIBITION QUALITY ENGRAVED & CASED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 105815. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape on left side. The small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain an outstanding 1-pc ivory grip with SN in pencil in back strap channel. Grip is made in the old fashioned way with two slabs of ivory attached to a center ivory block. SNs on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by a small punch mark and on the frame & trigger guard with a number “6”. Revolver is engraved, probably from the hand of Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. His deluxe engraving extends over the bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with a wonderful flower blossom and a mythical bird’s head incorporated into the patterns on left side. Right side has a similar foliate pattern with one scroll terminating in a flower blossom. Right side of lug also has a half blossom on bottom edge. The rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on the back strap, butt strap & trigger bow. An unusual feature is a sunburst around the butt strap screw hole. All screw heads and ends of wedge are also engraved. Cyl is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking and all five safety pins crisp & serviceable. Stagecoach holdup scene appears to have been hand enhanced by Mr. Young during engraving process as the roll marking is very deep & sharp. Accompanied by the original fine American style, brass bound mahogany casing with brass reinforced corners and an empty name plate in the lid. Bottom corners are also brass reinforced. Front of case has a shield shaped brass escutcheon for the mortised lock. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” / eagle flask, a very unusual “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity steel mold that is in the white, a lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a small nickeled tin of grease. Frequently in the day when these revolvers were carried, the owner, after the chambers were loaded, would cover the open mouths of the chambers with grease for water proofing, lubricating the bullet and to prevent chain fire. This presentation quality revolver was undoubtedly owned by someone of importance or high rank and saw little if any use. It may have been fired, but if so, very little. PROVENANCE: Ex Norm Flayderman Coll. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with one small wear spot on right flat at the muzzle and faint sharp edge wear. Rammer retains strong case colors on pivot with handle turned silver. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong orig factory case colors. Cyl retains 40-50% glossy orig blue with the balance flaked to a gray patina and retains virtually all of its fine hand enhanced stagecoach holdup scene. Grip frame retains virtually all of its strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound with sharp edges and retains a wonderful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a couple of cracks in bottom and some minor pry marks along front edge, otherwise is completely sound and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish with light handling & storage marks. Interior is moderately faded & soiled, primarily from lead oxide from bullets with light damage from front sight & hammer spur. One small partition is loose. Flask is crisp & near new with one small dent. Mold is in the white and appears to have never been blued. Cap tin, nipple wrench & grease can are fine. Altogether a wonderful high quality, high condition cased set suitable to the most discerning collector. Known to have been in the private collection of Norm Flayderman for over 50 years. 4-40021 (35,000-55,000)
EXTRAORDINARY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS PROVENANCE. SN 145346. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ bbl, rare dovetailed half moon German silver front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Revolver is black powder frame and made without provision for an ejector rod housing. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with replacement 2-pc smooth ivory grips. This beautiful revolver is factory engraved by Cuno Helfricht in his deluxe nearly full coverage presentation with flowing arabesque patterns on the frame, his deluxe sunbursts on the recoil shield and loading gate. It has snake & dot patterns on the top strap which extend down rear of the frame on each side of the hammer slot with foliate sprays on each side of base pin boss and snake & dot patterns in the gullets. Right rear side of the frame, below the loading gate is, unusually, engraved with a partial sunburst. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern with half blossom patterns on shoulders of the back strap and shoulders of the trigger guard. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in Moorish patterns with presentation panel on the back strap engraved in period script, “J.B. Pritchard” probably by Mr. Helfricht. Cylinder is engraved in typical Helfricht patterns of alternating foliate arabesque and sunbursts on the lands between the flutes with snake & dot and dbl wavy line borders at the rear edge. At some point during the working life of this revolver the orig 4″ bbl was apparently replaced with a 5-1/2″ bbl which accompanies this revolver. Still later in its life a replacement 4″ bbl was created and is currently installed on the revolver. This revolver is pictured on p. 203 & p. 205 in full color in Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable, near life size, with the caption that it was displayed in the Texas Ranger Museum, Waco, Texas for many years. Another similarly engraved 3″ Sheriff’s Model with German silver, half moon, dovetailed front sight is pictured on p. 432 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt with 4″ bbl, blue finish, ivory stocks, factory engraved and furnished with half moon silver sight, shipped to Dunlay & Geisler, Houston, TX on Aug. 5, 1892 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. 4″ bbl retains about 95% strong bright blue with light wear on each side of muzzle. 5-1/2″ bbl retains about 98% strong bright blue. Frame & cyl are mostly a medium blue/brown patina with case colors visible in front flutes of the frame, strong in a couple of spots. Cyl is matching patina with blue in the flutes. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong blue in sheltered areas with front & back straps a blue/gray patina. Replacement grips are sound with numerous age lines and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores. 4-36890 JR17 (30,000-50,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED ENGRAVED SPECIAL COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER, SWORD, SASH & BOOK. SN 151385. Cal. 44. Blue & color case hardened with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York US America address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape and it has the caliber marking on left rear web of trigger guard. The silver-plated brass trigger guard and iron back strap contain a 1-pc ebony grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved by Gustave Young in late vine style with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with several patterns terminating in flower blossoms. Hammer also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of the shank and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fishscale patterns and the spur is hand checkered. Mr. Young’s deluxe patterns extend about 4″ up each side of bbl, terminating forward of the bbl address. Left side of bbl lug has one scroll that terminates in Mr. Young’s distinctive dog’s head pattern and another in a flower blossom. Right side of lug has a scroll terminating in his distinctive bird head pattern and a scroll terminating in a flower blossom. There is also a dash & line pattern border around muzzle. Rammer pivot is lightly engraved to match. Cyl is usual 6-shots with rebated rear section and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking on the major diameter. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s deluxe fan pattern with flower blossoms on sides of back strap shoulders. Top of back strap, heel, butt strap & trigger guard are also engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. None of the screws are engraved although the frame screw holes are outlined with a narrow borders on both sides. The SN on bottom of bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all accompanied by a small “I” and “E” indicating that the revolver received special polishing for engraving and the “I” usually indicating ivory grips. However, in this case, it simply means special grips. Accompanied by a fine, orig, burl mahogany, Colt casing with green velvet lining, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a fantastic “COLTS PATENT” angle spout flask, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold marked on right side “44H” and a small “D” inspector mark. Also included is an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a sealed tin of Eley’s caps with marbled brown & Buff colored paper wrapping. Right front compartment contains cast lead bullets & balls. This revolver is engraved very similarly to a series of Models 1860 Army percussion revolvers that are extremely famous & well known, all with ebony grips, including the cased pair for Gen. Joseph R. Hawley and the one made for Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. All appear to be in the 151,000 serial range. The Hawley Armys are serial numbered “151388” and “151389” and are not quite so elaborately engraved as this one being sold here. The Grant Army is numbered “151718” and is substantially more elaborate than this revolver. There may be others similarly engraved in the same serial range that are currently not known to this cataloger. Also accompanied by a Model 1850 Foot Officer’s sword by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham with bright steel scabbard. Sword has a 32″ slightly curved blade with wide & narrow fullers, lightly etched about the center with “U.S.” on left side and a spread-winged American eagle on right side with a ribbon in its beak inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. The Schuyler, Harley & Graham marking is etched on right ricasso and the Clauberg marking on the left with “IRON PROOF” on the spine. It has a small, single-branch hand guard with filigree flowers & vines with fish skin & braided wire wrapped handle. Right side of scabbard is engraved “Lieut. H.F. Wolcott / FROM / His Schoolmates”. Also accompanying is a burgundy silk sash with long braided knots & tassles at each end. Additionally accompanying is a gold cloth sword knot. Also accompanying is a spiral bound self-published 119 page booklet titled “Family Jottings / Roger Wolcott”. It was apparently privately printed in 1939 and this is a reproduced copy. Also accompanying is a 3-ring binder of information including military records of Lt. Wolcott. This revolver was the property of 2nd Lieutenant Huntington Frothingham Wolcott, Company I, 2nd Mass. Cavalry. Lt. Wolcott enlisted as 2nd Lieutenant in March 1865 at age 19. Apparently he had attempted to enlist earlier but was rejected for being too young. He did volunteer as a surgeon’s assistant for two summers prior to enlisting. Upon his enlistment he was assigned as Aide de Camp to Brig. Gen. Gibbs (a relative) just in time to participate in Gen. Sheridan’s raids into Virginia. Lt. Wolcott was, by all accounts, a dashing & brave young officer who regularly participated in the thickest of the fighting and was part of the unit that captured 7,000 prisoners, 9 pieces of artillery and 10 battle flags as reported by Gen. Gibbs on May 9, 1865. Apparently young Wolcott had to be restrained by orders from superior officers from even more active & vigorous participation. The war ended in early June 1865 and Lt. Wolcott survived. He marched with his regiment in the grand review in Washington, seemingly in glowing good health, however the very next day he was stricken with camp fever and died on June 9, 1865. Among the information accompanying this lot is a signed Bill of Sale from Susan Dexter (nee Wolcott) of Ladue, MO, dated Jan. 20, 2000. The Bill of Sale is for this sword with belt & officer’s belt plate, a leather flap holster, sash & sword along with a revolver. Attached to the sword belt is a very old, very dark brittle tag, which accompanies, that reads “Belt and holster carried by Lt. H.F. Wolcott in the Civil War. The revolver also his but not carried in the Civil War.” The Bill of Sale states that the leather rig & holster are in poor shape. Apparently they have disintegrated and no longer accompany this grouping. The Bill of Sale further states “Lt. Huntington Frothingham Wolcott was my great uncle. My father, Roger Wolcott, Jr., mentions ownership of this item plus the Colt revolver, sword and sword belt sash in his book, Family Jottings, privately printed in 1939″. and signed “Susan Dexter”. Mrs. Dexter explains in another letter dated Jan. 6, 2000 that the reason Lt. Wolcott was using this sword was that it is a replacement for the orig that was lost when Lt. Wolcott was fording a stream. Additionally accompanying are two black faced brass plaques for both the revolver and sword from when it was on display somewhere. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge, cyl & grip. Bbl retains about 85-88% glossy orig Colt blue with the losses flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Top right side of bbl has a line of fine surface rust. Rammer & handle retain about all of their brilliant orig case colors. Frame retains about all of its orig case colors, brilliant on right side, moderately faded on left side. Hammer is about identical with strong bright colors on right side, brilliant on rear edge and lightly faded on left side. Cyl retains about 90% orig blue thinning & turning plum in the rolled areas, strong & bright with fine surface rust on rebated area and with five crisp safety pins. Trigger guard retains about 60% thinning orig silver with the exposed areas a light mustard patina. Back strap & butt strap are flaked to a medium steel patina with light rust on the heel & butt strap. Grip has a large chip on left heel with a couple of small dings in the left edge and a chipped right toe with light nicks & scratches and overall retains about 90-92% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case has two grain checks in bottom, otherwise is completely sound with only light handling & storage surface mars and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Flask is equally new, retaining 96-97% crisp orig finish. Mold appears to be unused retaining most of its orig blue with a few scattered spots of light surface rust. Nipple wrench is fine. Cap tin is faded with light water damage to the label and missing one edge of the label. Interior of case is dark & clean inside the lid with bottom lightly faded and soiled with minor damage from front sight. Sword is fine, retaining a cleaned metal finish on scabbard. Blade is bright & clean showing only faint scratches. Hand guard & pommel retain most of their orig gold wash. Fish skin wrap shows light wear. Sword knot is worn & soiled but intact. Sash has a few frayed spots on edges with a few minor holes & losses but basically intact. 4-41072 (135,000-165,000)
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 20146. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 2-line address with “NEW SERVICE CAL. 44” on the left side. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips and has a lanyard swivel in the butt strap. Revolver has 40-50% coverage well-executed foliate arabesque patterns, similar to the Cuno Helfricht style. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background and geometric patterns. Rear edge of cylinder has a snake pattern with a vine & leaf pattern on lower left side of frame. Lower front side of the crane has a small flower blossom with snake & dot patterns on top strap. Top of back strap has small sunburst patterns with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Serial number was observed in usual places on frame inside crane, on the crane and the last two digits are on rear face of cylinder. Engraved New Service revolvers are very rare. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of a fine factory quality restored finish with thinning blue on trigger and strong fire-blue on back edge of hammer. Grips have a chipped left toe with a few minor age lines and overall retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-36753 (1,500-2,500)
ENGRAVED EARLY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 23511. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Bottom of bbl, under ejector rod housing, has the last two digits of SN partially visible. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard stamped with caliber number. Left shoulder of trigger guard also has part of the caliber stamping visible. Ejector rod housing is 3rd type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Mounted with very old 1-pc ivory grip with a relief carved American eagle & shield on right side. Revolver is engraved, in New York style, probably from the Helfricht shop with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame, a shell pattern on loading gate, diamond & dot patterns on each side of the bbl boss and hunter stars on ejector rod boss on each side. Top strap is engraved in square patterns with foliate arabesque patterns up both sides of bbl and each side of muzzle. Ejector rod housing is engraved with snake & dot pattern on outer radius and in top gullet. Top strap is engraved in a fan pattern with light Moorish patterns down back strap & butt strap and a hunter star on trigger bow. Cyl has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a dash & dot border on rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 Colt, blue finish with bbl length & type of stocks not listed, shipped to Spies Kissam & Co., New York, NY on March 31, 1876 in a shipment of 50 same type revolvers. Obviously Spies Kissam ordered the engraving. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fair. Retains about all of a restored silver finish with most of the engraving severely polished, in some areas leaving only the outline of the engraving. Grip has two large repairs on left side and several age lines and shows very heavy wear, obviously having been with this revolver most of its working life. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-36845 JR10 (3,000-5,000)
WONDERFUL HEAVY TOOLED BROWN LEATHER DOUBLE BUSCADERO BELT & HOLSTER RIG. Custom made, one-of-a-kind, by John Bianchi from heavy dbl-layered brown belting leather with a 3-1/8″ wide x about 44″ long buscadero belt with sewn-on tongue & buckle billets containing a beautiful heavy Mexican silver buckle set with keeper & tab. All three pieces have heavy silver overlay foliate & floral appliques with a fine stippled background. The belt & billets are beautifully tooled with running foliate & floral patterns and about fifty-two 1/2″ domed conchos and sixty-six 3/8″ domed conchos which are all nicely hand engraved. Rear center of belt has twenty-five 44/45 caliber cartridge loops containing dummy 45 Colt cartridges. Each end of the cartridge loops, on the belt is mounted with an engraved silver diamond. The buckle end of the belt is marked “JOHN BIANCHI / CUSTOM MAKER”. Body of the belt, at the tongue end under the tongue billet, is mounted with a 4-5/8″ long x 1-1/4″ wide engraved silver plaque which is overlaid with an inscribed presentation “SPECIAL PRESENTATION / 1995 GOLDEN BOOTS AWARDS”. The holster drops on the belt contain a set of left & right holsters also of sewn dbl layered belting leather made from 1-pc with attached single swell-center loop. Face of holster & skirt are beautifully tooled with foliate & floral patterns and a fine shaded background and each have a hammer thong on the back side. Skirts of holsters are mounted with twenty-four 1/2″ engraved domed conchos around the perimeter and the face of the holsters are mounted with twenty 3/8″ engraved domed conchos around the top and back edges and around the toe. The loops are tooled to match and are mounted with eight 3/8″ engraved domed conchos and one 1/2″ concho in the center. The loops are attached with small engraved silver conchos through the back of the skirt and the rear face of holsters at the toe are marked identically to the belt. Accompanied by a notarized statement dated Aug. 23, 2010, from Robert Carradine, brother of David Carradine, certifying that “This John Bianchi Buscadero Presentation Double Gun Belt was presented to my brother at the 1995 Golden Boot Awards.” It includes a Bianchi Certificate of Authenticity and Phil Spangenberger article from Guns and Ammo dated 10/95 about Bianchi and the Golden Boots Awards. The Certificate of Authenticity is also included in the lot. PROVENANCE: From the private collection of the late actor, David Carradine. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Leather is soft & supple and retains about all of its orig finish. Holsters have carried revolvers but show very little wear. Right toe of the right holster has had some minor re-stitching, not noticeable from the front. 4-40813 JR258 (1,500-2,500)
FINE VERY EARLY CASED PRESENTATION COLT LONDON MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 154. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line address “ADDRESS. COL: COLT. / LONDON.” with brackets that have long finials. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” in the English-style roll mark. It has large iron trigger guard & backstrap containing a very nicely figured 1-pc walnut grip with SN in backstrap channel. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene. Bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Lieut. C.H. Bates from the Warren Club”. Buttstrap is engraved in the same hand “Salem Mass”. Lt. Charles H. Bates was commissioned 1st Lieut. on December 4, 1861 into Co. F of the 23rd MASS Vol. of the Salem Light Inf, serving in the Civil War until his discharge January 9,1863. Accompanied by an English-style oak casing with an empty scalloped edge brass plate in lid. Interior is lined in green baize with the Colt directions label inside lid. Compartmented in bottom for revolver, a Dixon bag flask, an iron “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a partial tin of W. & C. Eley caps. Right rear corner has an empty covered compartment and a wood handled cleaning rod in rear edge. Front of case has a mortised brass lock with brass escutcheon. This revolver is pictured in full color as Fig. 208 on p. 149 of Colt’s Pocket ’49 It’s Evolution, Jordan & Watt. It is also partially pictured several times in the same chapter on London-made Pocket 49’s. Also accompanied by copies of Soldier and Regimental historical data of the 23rd MASS Vol. During Lt. Bates service with the 23rd Mass Inf. his unit was with Burnside’s expedition to Roanoke Island, NC and participated in the Battle of Roanoke Island on Feb. 8, 1862. From then until November they were assigned to the Dept. of NC on Picket & Provost duty when they next saw action at Rawle’s Mill on Nov. 2nd then returned to Picket & Outpost duty when they joined Foster’s expedition to Goldsboro. They continued moving around NC until Lt. Bates’ discharge on Jan.9, 1863. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer latch lug & grip with the wedge numbered “21483”. Bbl retains 60-65% glossy orig blue with balance flaked, not worn to a light patina. Rammer & rammer handle retain faded case colors, bright on pivot. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, moderately faded, stronger in sheltered areas and on right side. Hammer retains about 50% orig case colors. Grip frame retains traces of blue in sheltered areas being mostly a gray metal color. Grip is sound with handling & use marks and light to moderate wear and retains about 75% orig varnish. Cyl retains 25-30% thin blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Two of safety pins are missing with the other three battered. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with fine pitting at cyl end. Case is extremely fine with a couple of small cracks in lid and a grain check in bottom with light handling & storage marks and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Interior is very slightly faded with very light soil and light damage from front sight. Label has a couple of cracks and is yellowed and stained but mostly all legible. Flask & mold are fine with other accessories also fine. 4-40771 JR344 (6,500-8,500)
*HISTORIC FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER USED BY ARIZONA TERRITORY U.S. MARSHALL CHARLES A. OVERLOCK. SN 324695. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Fine historic single action, silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt. The SN was observed in the usual three places, on the frame, trigger guard & butt strap with last four digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips with left & right, deep, rampant Colt medallions and a deep relief carved American eagle & shield on right grip. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and his trademark sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate. There is a hunter star engraved on ejector rod boss and snake & dash patterns on top strap with foliate arabesque patterns extending down both sides of bbl and Moorish patterns forward of bbl address. Ejector rod housing has a snake & dot pattern in gullet along with a fine zig zag border pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern with Moorish patterns down back strap, butt strap and on trigger bow. Back strap is engraved, probably by Mr. Helfricht in period script “C.A. Overlock”. Shoulders of back strap are engraved in half blossom patterns. Cyl is engraved in alternating patterns on lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern at rear edge. Accompanied by a large packet of information regarding the life of Charles Alton Overlock who was born in Bangor, Maine in 1859, worked as a carpenter in Boston and thence to Portland, Oregon in 1881. In 1882 he relocated to Tombstone, AZ where he engaged in business as a carpenter and in 1883 the cattle business in Sulpher Spring Valley about 25 miles outside of Tombstone. In 1892 he opened a butcher business in Tombstone which he sold in 1896 and then went to Bisbie, AZ where he remained until 1900 when he disposed of all his business interests and founded the town site of Douglas, AZ where he built the first house an developed the community water system. In 1901 he formed the Douglas Lumber Co. and also built a Post Office, becoming the first Postmaster and the first Mayor of the city. He sold the Douglas Lumber Co. in 1907 and then with his son, Harry, started a real estate & brokerage enterprise which made him a wealthy man. In 1909 Mr. Overlock was appointed U.S. Marshall for the Territory of Arizona with residence in Tucson. When the territory was admitted to the Union in 1912 he was reappointed U.S. Marshall for the District of Arizona which he served until Feb. 1914 when he was politically removed from office by the new incoming president, Woodrow Wilson, a Democrat who apparently removed all serving Republicans from the previous administration. Mr. Overlock apparently returned to Douglas becoming the Mayor from 1919-1922 and died in Douglas in 1926. Also accompanying this packet are copies of several pictures of the Overlock residence in Douglas and Mr. Overlock in various positions as Mayor & Marshall as well as copies of numerous newspaper articles regarding law enforcement activities involving Marshall Overlock. Additionally accompanying is a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 32/20 with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, factory engraved with pearl stocks that have carved “American eagle motif”, shipped to A. Steinfeld & Co., Tucson, AZ on Nov. 20, 1912 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 70% slightly oxidized orig silver finish, showing holster wear around muzzle, left side of bbl and outer radius of ejector rod housing. Back strap is gray metal color with about 50% orig silver on front strap. Frame has some light pimpling in gullets in front of cylinder. Cyl retains about all of its orig silver on outer circumference, in the flutes and rear face with front face dark and moderately pitted. Grips have a chipped right toe, otherwise are extremely fine showing moderate wear to the shield on the eagle’s breast and retain great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-36858 JR11 (25,000-40,000)
FINE CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 19111. Cal. 36. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” with the caliber on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip which is engraved on left side “J.H. WHEELER / 1864. N.C.”. Buttstrap is engraved in period script “C. Sully Wheeler / A 5864”, possibly the date May 8, 1864. The “A” may refer to “Anno Domini” (AD). Serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are accompanied by a small “E” which, under ordinary circumstances would mean “engraved” but also indicates special polishing for engraving, or in this case, for plating. Last four digits of SN were observed on the rear face of cyl on two lands between nipple recesses. Backstrap channel of grip is numbered “5982”, most likely the order number for this revolver. Wedge has the number “5240”. Bbl & cyl have British proofs. Accompanied by an English oak casing with brass disc in center of lid. Case is green baize lined and has the Colt directions label inside lid. This label is overwritten in old red ink “NO. 19111”. Bottom of case is compartmented for the revolver, a 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter and “36P” on right side. Also contains a nickel-plated Dixon bag flask marked on top “COLTS POCKET FLASK”, a Dixon pewter oiler, a nickel-plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a wood handled cleaning rod and a metal tin of Eley’s caps with green & black label marked “W. & C. ELEY”. A compartment in the right rear is missing its cover. Additionally accompanied by a letter from the State of North Carolina, Dept. of Cultural Resources wherein apparently someone (whose name is removed), had inquired regarding J.H. Wheeler of North Carolina. The writer of the letter responded that “The gun might have been given to Charles Sully Wheeler by his father John Hill Wheeler of North Carolina.” J.H. Wheeler (1806-1882) was a lawyer, a diplomat and author who was also the Minister to Nicaragua (1854-1856). He returned to the U.S. at the expiration of that appointment and lived in Washington, D.C. until the outbreak of the Civil War. He then returned to North Carolina to offer his services to his state but apparently was too old to serve. In Sept. 1863 he left North Carolina aboard a Confederate blockade runner and traveled to Bermuda where he then booked passage through Nova Scotia to England. For several weeks in early 1864 Mr. Wheeler spent copying records at the public records office and in April 1864 returned to Bermuda. By that time the Union victory was apparent so he returned to Washington where he remained until his death. It almost certainly was during his time in England that he purchased this revolver and had it inscribed to his son. Very likely there is another. similarly inscribed to his other son. The purpose of his records search was to gather historical information for a second history of North Carolina residents which he was preparing to publish to follow his earlier History of North Carolina which was published in 1851. In his earlier life Mr. Wheeler had graduated from the Columbian University (now George Washington University) in 1826 and studied law under Chief Justice Taylor, was licensed in 1827 and that same year was elected to the State Legislature. He served 1827-1830 with some notable successes. He was nominated for Congress but was defeated. In 1831 Mr. Wheeler was appointed by the President for a treaty commission with France which lasted three years. In 1837 he was appointed Superintendent of the Branch Mint at Charlotte, which position he held until 1841. In 1842 he was elected Treasurer of the State of North Carolina, a position he held until 1844. From then until 1853 Mr. Wheeler was involved in writing his first History of North Carolina and in local politics. In 1854 he was commissioned Minister to Nicaragua and arrived in December 1854. At that time Nicaragua was in political turmoil, as was most of Spanish Central America, and in May 1855, at the invitation of one of the warring factions, recruited a small band of armed mercenaries which he led to capture Grenada and secured the election of his sponsor as provisional President. He was subsequently arrested and imprisoned under order of execution but his friends attacked the city and freed him. He was apparently disciplined by the Secretary of State but was able to convince the President to leave him at his post. He returned to the U.S. in 1857 and resigned. It was his last public service. Mr. Wheeler married twice and with his second wife, Ellen Sully, daughter of Thomas Sully, one of the most distinguished artists of Philadelphia, produced two sons, one of whom was Charles Sully Wheeler who served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War and the other Woodbury Wheeler was a Captain in the Confederate Army. Charles Sully Wheeler was born Nov. 1839 and died May 1916 and is listed as having served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War for eight days in Dec. 1864 as a common seaman. Apparently after the war he returned to Washington and became a successful lawyer. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge & grip as noted above. Overall retains about all of its fine orig nickel plating with only slight signs of use. Left side of frame has a few minor “screwdriver” scratches and rear face of cyl shows evidence of having been “played with” as all of its safety pins are battered. Grip is sound showing moderate wear on engraving with a few minor age lines and retains a wonderful golden ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some very minor light pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks and a crack in bottom and is missing a small sliver from right rear bottom edge, otherwise is sound with normal handling & storage marks and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded & soiled with soiled & yellowed label that has light damage. Mold is fine and retains about 75-80% orig blue. Flask & nipple wrench retain most of their orig nickel finish. Other accessories are fine, missing compartment cover as noted. 4-40772 JR351 (14,000-20,000)
*FABULOUS HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED AND GOLD & SILVER INLAID 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA92660. Cal. 45 Colt. Incredible example of the highest of the engraver’s art form, this spectacular single action is blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of bbl is inlaid in gold “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. Mounted with Colt gold medallion 2-pc smooth ivory grips numbered to this revolver on the inside and beautifully scrimshawed on the outside with the left side showing an Indian in full feathered headdress riding a running Appaloosa and brandishing a tomahawk. The right grip depicts a huge bull buffalo upending a horse and its Indian rider. The entire revolver is incredibly engraved with multi-colored gold & silver inlays. The engraving consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with fine punch dot background. Left recoil shield is inlaid with a raised gold Indian holding a silver buffalo skull aloft. The left forward side of frame bbl boss has raised gold & silver tomahawk & knife in a sheath. Loading gate has a raised gold & silver bow & quiver of arrows while the right bbl boss is inlaid with raised multi-color gold tomahawk & war club. The inside of loading slot is fully engraved with a feathered flower pattern. Bbl & ejector rod housing have nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with two gold bands at the root end and a sgl gold band at the muzzle. Left side of bbl depicts a large fan pattern and right side an Indian in full feathered headdress. Bbl address is outlined in gold wire with a silver foliate spray at forward end. Ejector rod housing has a triple ribbon pattern at forward end and matching dbl gold wire bands at the frame end with foliate arabesque patterns all down outer radius. Center of outer radius has a raised silver cavalry hat pierced with a rose gold arrow. The top gullet of the ejector rod housing is engraved in a wonderful rope pattern wrapped around an arrow and even the bottom gullet of ejector rod housing is engraved in feather & foliate arabesque patterns. Top of back strap is inlaid with a fantastic raised silver bull buffalo with a gold wire border. Back strap is inlaid with a rose gold spear that has a silver point and feathers, also surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and gold wire borders. Butt strap is inlaid with a raised gold & silver peace pipe with gold & silver feathers, surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and gold wire border. Trigger bow is inlaid with a silver document inscribed “INDIAN / TREATY / U.S. WAR / DEPT.” and overlaid with a 2-color gold broken arrow surrounded by a gold wire border. SN on frame is inlaid in gold and the hammer has nearly full coverage feather & foliate arabesque pattern engraving on sides with gold wire edges. Cylinder has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with gold wire at front of each land between the flutes, an Indian pattern border around rear edge with twin gold wire inlays. This revolver is, most unusually, signed by the artist in two places, once on left side of the butt strap under the grip and again at frame end of bottom gullet of the ejector rod housing. Both signatures are “HMDove COLT ENGR.” Frame is black powder style with 3-line patent dates. Accompanied by an orig Colt Custom Shop burgundy velvet lined oak casing and its orig cardboard shipping cover. CONDITION: New & unfired retaining all of its orig factory finish. Case is equally new. 4-40600 JR75 (7,000-12,000)
*COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS TEXAS RANGER JOHN R. HUGHES. SN 112944. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with left side of bbl marked “NEW SERVICE 38 W.C.F.”. Sideplate has the rampant Colt slightly offset towards rear and is engraved, probably by pantograph in simple lines with a 5-pointed star and the letters spelling “TEXAS” at each point of star. Center of star is engraved by hand “JRH”. Back strap is very nicely engraved in period script “Capt. John R. Hughes / TEXAS RANGER – AUSTIN”. Mounted with 2-pc silver medallion pearl grips with a deep relief carved eagle on right side and has a lanyard swivel in butt strap. Accompanied by two small badges, one marked “UNITED STATES MARSHAL” with an American eagle over the top, an American shield in the center and the other a rnd silver badge like the orig Texas Ranger badges made from Mexican one peso coins. This badge is 1-11/16″ in diameter with an early style pin-back marked on front “TEXAS RANGER/SPECIAL AGENT” with a “3” in the center of the star. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 38-40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to Abercrombie & Fitch Co., New York, NY on March 4, 1916 in a 1-gun shipment. Remarks section states “Records do not indicate any inscription on firearm when originally shipped.” John Reynolds Hughes, one of the most famous Texas Rangers in the illustrious history of that famous organization, was born in 1855 in Henry County, Illinois. When he was small they moved to Kansas where he learned to ride and by age 10 was an accomplished horseman. He received little education and by the time he was 14 left home for the Indian Territory (Oklahoma) where he lived with the Choctaws, Osages and later the Comanche where he became a close friend of Quanah Parker, Comanche Chief. He learned the Indian ways of tracking & hunting along with the languages and at age 17 was shot and severely injured in right arm & hand basically rendering that arm useless. Undaunted, Hughes taught himself to shoot left handed and became a noted expert with both rifle & handgun. He trailed the cattle over the Chisholm Trail and then bought a small ranch in Travis County, Texas where he trapped and broke & sold wild horses, building up a substantial herd of valuable stock. In 1886 rustlers stole much of his horse herd along with that of his neighbors and drove them off to New Mexico. Hughes gave chase, trailing the thieves & horse herd for over 1,000 miles until he located them. He enlisted the aid of a local sheriff and together they wiped out the thieves and recovered the stolen horses. Upon his return to Texas with his now recovered horses, he learned that the gang had been part of the Butch Cassidy Gang who had put out a contract on Hughes. When the contract assassin tried to kill Hughes the attempt failed and he & Texas Ranger Ira Aten tracked the killer and when the guy opened fire he missed but the ranger & Hughes didn’t. Ranger Aten persuaded Hughes to join the Rangers, which he did, becoming one of the most successful & brilliant crime solvers on the border earning the sobriquet “Border Boss”. He served with the Rangers for 28 years, the longest individual career in the history of the Rangers solving many crimes and preventing many others along the way. Capt. Hughes lived to age 92 and committed suicide with his trusty Colt 45 that he had carried throughout his career. Accompanied by reproduced copies of several pages from a book A Pair of Texas Rangers: Bill McDonald and John Hughes, Baugh, as furnished by the Texas State Archives. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 95% strong glossy orig factory blue with a few minor scattered spots and slight muzzle & sharp edge wear. Back strap is mostly a blue/gray patina with front strap turning slightly plum. Hammer retains mostly bright finish on sides and about 95% fire blue on top & back edges. Grips are sound showing little or no wear and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Badges are fine. 4-36836 JR34 (6,000-10,000)
*CASED KEN WARREN ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT 3RD GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER REX ALLEN TRIBUTE. SN 87423SA. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber markings on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt. Mounted with fine custom 1-pc ivory grip with carved diamond brand at top left side. Revolver is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background and about full coverage on frame & outer diameter of cylinder. Engraving extends over the bbl and terminates about 1″ in front of the address with another band of engraving around front sight. Top of the back strap is engraved with the intertwined initials “RA” and a fine shaded background. Butt strap & trigger plate are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap has the signature of Rex Allen inlaid in gold and the butt strap “13 of 20” inlaid in gold. Left recoil shield is inlaid in a raised gold diamond brand identical to the one on the grip, with another identical brand inlaid in flat gold on trigger bow. Loading gate is inlaid in a flat gold music note. Sides of frame, front sides of frame, loading gate, shoulders of trigger guard, ears of back strap, top strap, butt strap & trigger plate are all outlined with gold wire border. Bbl has two gold bands at each end with two matching gold bands at rear end of ejector rod housing and a sgl gold band at front end. Initials at top of back strap have a gold wire shield shaped inlay with a geometric gold inlay in the heel. Front flat of frame, below base pin, is engraved “K.W. WARREN”. Accompanied by an 8×10 color photograph of Rex Allen & Ken Warren in an orange grove with Mr. Warren holding one of the cased sets and Rex Allen holding the engraved revolver. Also accompanied by a a Ken Warren made, elaborate walnut casing with very decorative molded lid and edges with a brass plaque on top imprinted “MOUNTAIN STATES ENGRAVING / PAYS TRIBUTE TO / REX ALLEN”. Interior is red velvet lined with a brass plaque inside the lid that has the oval vignette of a picture of Rex Allen with the same heading as is on the plaque on the lid on the outside which is followed by a short biography of Rex Allen and is signed “Kenneth W. Warren / Mountain States Engraving” and is dated “1983”. The bottom is fitted for the revolver, two ivory handled, gold plated turn screws, a bristle cleaning brush with ivory handle & gold ferrule, an ivory handled & gold plated cleaning rod, a small rectangular ivory box and an ivory oil bottle. All of the hand implements have the scrimshawed diamond brand as is found on revolver. Lid of box is scrimshawed with Rex Allen’s signature and the diamond brand. The top of the oil bottle knob is srimshawed with the diamond band. Right front of the case has a small gold plaque engraved “Engraved for / Kenneth W. Warren / by Ken Warren”. Consignor states that this is one of two identical sets created by Ken Warren, one of which was given to Rex Allen for his museum and the other, this set, retained by Mr. Warren. CONDITION: Extremely fine, unturned & unfired since engraving. Grip has several fine age lines and retains a light ivory patina. Case & all accessories are extremely fine. 4-40950 JR280 (4,000-6,000)
EXTRAORDINARY GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 71621. Cal. 31. Blue and color cased hardened with 5″ oct. bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” bbl address. Left side of the frame has “COLTS PATENT” hand engraved in a kidney shaped panel. It has small guard silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap containing a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with the last four digits of the serial number in the backstrap channel. Cyl is usual 5 shots with hand enhanced stagecoach holdup scene. This fantastic revolver is engraved from the hand of the master engraver Gustave Young himself in his most elaborate and deluxe presentation quality coverage. The engraving consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and recoil shields which extend over the bbl and sides of the bbl lug with matching patterns on the rammer pivot. Top flat of the bbl has fine geometric patterns at each end of the address with dbl scalloped lines on each side. The rear edge of the bbl lug has a beautiful dbl border with zigzag and straight lines. Even the edge of the forcing cone has a chip and dot border which is also found at the muzzle end. Top of the backstrap has Mr. Young’s elaborate floral fan pattern with engraved ears and fan patterns on each side of the ears. The left ear has been repaired. Top end of the backstrap, at the heel, on the buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved to match with fine foliate arabesque patterns. Shoulders and front end of the trigger guard are also engraved to match with deep zigzag patterns down each edge. Front end of the frame, around the serial number, is engraved in an extremely fine quintuple line and cross hatch patterns. All of the engraving has extremely fine and, unusual for Mr. Young, a shaded background rather than the more common punch dot background. All of the screw heads, except the wedge and buttstrap screws, are beautifully engraved on both ends. The wedge also is deluxe engraved on each end. The hammer has Mr. Young’s extraordinary and most unusual deluxe treatment with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on both sides and the top edge with his extremely high-detailed wolf heads on each side of the hammer nose. In addition the hammer spur has extremely fine hand cut checkering in an extraordinarily long pattern with a triple band transition that has a series of eight punch dots in the center. In addition to the above described engraving Mr. Young has included within these patterns no less than nine of his stylized bird and animal heads, all with excruciating detail showing fine hairlines and eye detail. There are also twenty-nine full and partial flower blossoms incorporated within the engraving patterns, all of which constitutes one of Mr. Young’s most elaborate and extraordinary dlx revolvers fully comparable to his gold plated and gold inlaid royalty presentation pieces. The trigger guard is a replacement from another engraved 1849 pocket of lesser quality engraving. The serial number has been added with vestiges of the orig serial number still partially visible. Given the repair to the backstrap it is reasonable to speculate that the grip frame was damaged during some long forgotten incident. This exact revolver is pictured on page 90 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson, wherein Mr. Wilson describes it as “Fanciest grade of Gustave Young’s own scroll work; the same style as used on gold inlaid revolvers by Young.” The trigger guard in this picture does not appear to be engraved and has almost certainly been replaced by the one currently mounted on this revolver. Trigger guard screws are not engraved. CONDITION: About very good, all matching including wedge and grip except the trigger guard as noted. Traces of orig finish remain, mostly in the very sheltered a reason the bbl with minor vestiges of faded case colors on the frame. Metal is mostly a silver gray patina showing very light edge wear with crisp clean engraving showing very little wear. Cyl is a matching patina with a couple of small nicks on the front edge and overall retains 65-70% stage coach holdup scene. Trigger guard is a medium mustard patina. Backstrap retains 70-75% orig silver plating. Grip has a very old chipped right toe otherwise is sound showing moderate wear and retains about 20% orig varnish. Hammer spring is a little weak otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple of spots of heavier pitting and fine pitting near the forcing comb. This is an extremely rare Gustave Young engraved ’49 pocket and is one of the finest pieces ever produced by Gustave Young. 4-39702 (12,500-20,000)
*MINTY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH TEXAS HISTORY. SN 353118. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight, 2-line address and standard late markings on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with spectacular 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved by master engraver Wilbur Glahn in his deluxe full coverage flowing foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine punch dot background. Top of back strap, top of back strap ears & corresponding area of frame are engraved in Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Back strap is full coverage engraved in tulip patterns with acanthus leaf patterns on butt strap & foliate arabesque patterns on trigger guard. Foliate arabesque patterns extend 3/4 of the way up each side of bbl with a snake & dash pattern in ejector rod housing gullet and foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius. Ejector rod housing boss on frame is engraved with a large flower blossom. Cyl has full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving around the outer diameter, strikingly offset by the bright nickel flutes. SN was observed in the usual place on bottom of frame and on right sides of front & back straps under grip. Last two digits of SN are found on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 45 Colt, 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks, factory engraved in Class “C” coverage, shipped to “Loan Account” Wolf & Klar, Fort Worth, TX on July 15, 1929 to Account #16671/1 in a 1-gun shipment. Under remarks section it states that “This revolver was purchased by Wolf & Klar on Jan. 16, 1931.” PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cylinder, grips are unnumbered. Has been fired, but very little and retains virtually all of its fine orig factory nickel with possible re-polishing & touch-up on front & back straps which is not detectable. Replacement grips are also extremely fine retaining virtually all of their orig polish, showing little or no wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36852 JR19 (20,000-30,000)
CASED INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED COLT 1855 ROOT MODEL 7 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 112321E. Cal. 31. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, 2-line New York address and mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. Engraved in early vine style with light coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background. Back strap is engraved in period script “J.N. Burgess”. It has 5-shot cylinder with screw through side retaining the cylinder pin. Serial number on butt is unusual in the extreme in that it is six digits followed by an “E” when the highest recorded serial number observed by this cataloguer is approx. 30,000 which was for the Model 3 with oct bbl. Apparently the workman applying serial numbers got carried away or had one too many beers for lunch and whacked an extra “1” while applying the number. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a scarce brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter having an “H” on right side, a 2-sided early eagle flask and two other compartments containing bullets & balls. The lock escutcheon is replaced with light colored wood. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains 30-40% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, blue/gray patina elsewhere. There is a small gouge on bbl and moderate wear elsewhere. Cylinder has light to moderate pitting, front & rear and retains about 50% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip has a couple of very minor age lines and may be an old replacement as it does not fit perfectly and overall retains a wonderful golden mellow ivory patina. Hammer will not catch in half cock or full cock notches and the hand jams in one of notches. Strong bore, dark in the grooves. Case has had lid reglued, otherwise is sound with heavily faded interior and soil in bottom with damage from front sight. Mold & flask are fine. 4-35920 (4,000-6,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We have been advised that Paul H. Mobley, the engraver of this gun, was actually a Colt Master Engraver.
*SPECTACULAR CUSTOM ENGRAVED CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH GOLD. SN 98693SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with the model and caliber inlaid in gold on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and Rampant Colt in gold. Screws, trigger and base pin are all high polish fire blued and the hammer is color case hardened. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips with gold Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved by Paul H. Mobley with about 70% coverage, fine foliate, arabesque patterns with extremely fine, well executed, punch-dot background. Left recoil shield has a flat gold inlaid Rampant Colt standing on a globe with platinum broken spear in its mouth and between its front legs. Loading gate is engraved in a floral spray with full coverage punch-dot background. Left side of frame has an engraved rosette around the hammer screw hole with matching rosette on the right side. Right side of frame, below the cyl opening, is engraved with a diamond pattern surrounded by tiny punch dots. The same diamond patterns are engraved on both sides of the bbl boss at the front of the frame, with triangle-shaped patterns on each side below the bbl boss. The bbl has nearly full length coverage engraving with diamond and punch-dot patterns about the central portion with foliate fans at each end. The root of the bbl is inlaid with a wide and narrow flat gold band and there is a fine gold band around the muzzle. The bbl address is outlined in an extremely fine gold wire border. Ejector rod housing is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the outer radius and has an extremely fine gold vine & leaf inlay in the top gullet. Top of the back strap is engraved in a very fine fan pattern with diamond and dot pattern in the center of the back strap with foliate, arabesque patterns at the top and at the heel, across the butt strap and on the trigger plate. Sides of the frame and rear edges of the sides of the hammer are outlined in very fine gold wire. The fan at the top of the back strap, the entire back strap and butt strap are also outlined in very fine gold wire. Front of the trigger plate is outlined in a fine gold wire border with leaves at each end and the SN is inlaid in gold. Bottom front of frame is engraved in a wonderful Fleur de Lis pattern with punch-dot background and outlined in fine gold wire. Cylinder has full coverage foliate, arabesque patterns over the entire outer circumference with artistically open, un-engraved bright blue flutes. The front edges of the lands between the flutes have a fine, double gold wire inlay and there is a running gold wire border around the flutes. Rear edge of cyl has a deep zig-zag engraved border with double, wide gold bands. A truly incredible piece of work. SN was observed on the bottom of the frame and the left side of the front and back straps under the grip with the last four digits of the SN around the bushing hole on the face of the cyl. Right side of the front strap, under the grip is engraved “PAUL H MOBLEY. ENG.’96”. Accompanied by a fine Colt custom shop, gold velvet lined, walnut casing with branded Colt logo in the right front corner of the lid. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stock not listed and shipped to D.E. L. Supply, 58 Highland Ave, Tewksbury, MA on March 8, 1978 in a one gun shipment. Additionally accompanied by a letter on Nutmeg Sports letterhead and signed by Jim Alaimo, Former Superintendent of the Colt Custom Gun Shop. The letter details the work described above and states that it was engraved by the late Secret Service Agent, Paul Mobley who was an engraving student of Colt Master Engraver, Ken Hurst. From the gist of the letter, it appears that this revolver was owned by Mr. Mike Noe of Lancaster, KY who apparently commissioned Mr. Mobley to engrave it for him. Mr. Alaimo states that Mr. Mobley engraved very few pieces and that this is one of, if not the single finest and most lavishly engraved pieces that he ever did. Mr. Alaimo also gives a little background on Secret Service Agent Mobley. He was a member of the Secret Service, assigned to guard President Ronald Reagan traveling to the Washington Hilton for a press conference. As the President and his entourage exited the hotel, John Hinkley fired six shots in about 2 seconds from his .22 caliber revolver, wounding President Reagan, his press secretary James Brady, a Washington D.C. police officer and a Secret Service agent. Mr Alaimo states that Agent Mobley jumped Hinkley and pinned his gun hand to the ground. Agent Mobley is one of the Special Agents in a suit holding Hinkley against the wall, which image has become a very famous photograph. A copy of that photograph accompanies this lot and is autographed “FOR JIM ALAIMO / I HAD BETTER DAYS!”, and signed “Paul H. Mobley”. In the photograph the presidential limousine can be seen leaving the area with police officers and men in civilian suits laying on the ground and a person who appears to be James Brady, behind the limo just visible over the trunk. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains all of its bright, factory style blue and brilliant case colors, apparently unfired since engraving. Grips are crisp and retain a fine, light ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in the safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore. Case is equally new. 4-40914 JR272 (7,500-12,500)
EXTREMELY RARE & NEARLY UNIQUE CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED NICKEL & GOLD COLT MODEL 1889 NAVY DA REVOLVER. SN 21029. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with gold plated cyl, 6″ tapered rnd bbl, 2-line address with last patent date “1888” and left side of bbl marked “COLT. D.A. 41”. Revolver is mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that have a very deep relief carved Mexican eagle on left side and an amateur carved Mexican eagle on right side. Revolver is probably from the bench of Mr. Helfricht himself with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frame. Left rear end of frame has rampant Colt in a circle. Matching engraving patterns extend 3/4 the way up each side of bbl with snake & dot patterns over top strap and around the bbl address terminating in geometric patterns just behind front sight. Both sides of frame below cyl opening are engraved in feather patterns with snake & dot patterns and sunburst patterns in gullets at front of frame. Sides of top strap are engraved in snake patterns which also appear at rear of frame around hammer slot. Top of back strap, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cyl is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating foliate geometric patterns and sunburst patterns on lands between the flutes with snake & dot and simple snake border patterns around rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 41 Colt with 6″ bbl, nickel with gold cyl, pearl stocks “with Mexican eagle motif on left side”, factory engraved and shipped to “A. Combaluzier”, Mexico City, Mexico on Aug. 9, 1892 in a shipment of two same type revolvers. It is very likely that this revolver was intended for Mexican president, Porfirio Diaz, who had a penchant for nickel & gold revolvers having at least four others nearly identical to this one, SNs 12403, 12404, 19351 & 19354, and all were shipped to the same address in about the same time frame. Three of these revolvers are pictured in full color on p. 464 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson. The three pictured revolvers are somewhat more elaborate leading one to speculate that this revolver may have been intended as a presentation from Pres. Diaz. Regardless, it is an extremely rare, highly decorated, early dbl action revolver and reportedly is the only one of this series of revolvers that retains its orig finish, the others having been restored. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel with the only losses a small circle of missing nickel around muzzle. Cyl retains about 88-90% strong orig gold plating with most of losses around face & front edge of cylinder with some minor flaking in two flutes. Grips have chipped heels and some other minor flaking but overall are sound with great fire and color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few minor scattered spots of light pitting. 4-40151 JR134 (45,000-65,000)
*KEN WARREN ENGRAVED CASED RUGER VAQUERO SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 56-41341. Cal. 45 Colt. French gray finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and enhanced 1-line address with re-engraved caliber marking on left side. Mounted with fine Ruger medallion stag grips. Revolver is engraved in heavy foliate arabesque patterns with about 75% coverage on the frame with feather patterns over the top strap and top edges of back strap. Engraving extends about 3-3/4″ up each side of the bbl with geometric patterns on the outer radius of the ejector rod housing. Bbl address has a zig zag engraved border. Outside shoulders of back strap and bottom front of the frame are engraved in spider web patterns with foliate arabesque patterns engraved at top & heel of back strap and geometric patterns on butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved with matching patterns on lands between the flutes and around the rear edge. Bottom of bbl is engraved “K.W. WARREN”. Accompanied by a fine burgundy velvet lined walnut presentation case, French fitted in bottom for the revolver. CONDITION: Appears to be unfired since engraving, retaining virtually all of its fine custom French gray finish. Case is equally new. 4-40952 JR278 (1,000-2,000)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Information provided to us by the consignor indicates that the former owner of the gun, was First Lieutenant, John W. Bowers of the 21st Regiment, New Jersey Infantry. Bowers was enrolled September 2nd, 1862 as a First Lieutenant. He was mustered in on September 15th, 1862 and on June 20th, 1863 he was dismissed. His dismissal was as a result of a Court Martial. He was accused of cowardice on the field of battle in Virginia in early May 1863. The results of the Court Martial found him guilty, thus he was dismissed. Copies of military records affirming the above will accompany the pistol.
FINE INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 202263. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with desirable 6″ bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. Left side of frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Cyl is 6-shots with stagecoach holdup scene roll-marking. Back strap is engraved in period lettering “JOHN.W.BOWERS. Hamilton Square N.J.”. No information is currently available on Mr. Bowers, however there are two John W. Bowers that appear on the Civil War roster from NJ, one as a private and the other as 1st Lieut, neither of which have an enlistment address listed. Given the age of this revolver and the inscription it is most likely that this was a Civil War used side arm. Obviously additional research is required. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except rammer handle which is numbered “2269” (probably an assembler’s error). Bbl & cyl retain factory quality restored blue with the bbl retaining about 90-92% and the cyl about all of this fine blue. Cyl also retains about 75% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer also retain factory quality restored color case hardening with moderately faded colors. Trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver plating and back strap silver plating at the top and on butt strap with exposed brass a light mustard patina. Grip is sound with a few light nicks & dings and some battering on bottom right edge and retains most of a restored finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-41071 JR363 (3,500-5,000)
*CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 331254. Cal.45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates & rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with silver Colt medallion 2-pc pearl grips with raised carved ox head on right side. Engraved in Cuno Helfricht’s deluxe style with nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with fine punch-dot background. Both sides of bbl boss have diamond patterns with tiny flower blossoms in bottom front gullets. Loading gate has Mr. Helfricht’s trademark flower blossom and top of back strap is engraved with his trademark fan pattern. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with foliate arabesque patterns extending about 3/5 of the way down each side of bbl. Bbl address is surrounded by wave & dot and dbl line borders terminating at the forward end in Moorish patterns with more foliate arabesque patterns on each side of muzzle. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in top gullet and a snake & leaf pattern on outer radius. Cyl is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with simple borders around flutes and a scallop & line border at rear edge. Back strap & butt strap have Moorish zig zag patterns with inscription on back strap “John McKenney”. Trigger guard is engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Right rear web of trigger guard is stamped with a small 6-pointed star indicating factory re-work. SN was observed in usual places on frame, trigger guard & butt strap and last four digits of SN are found on rear face of cylinder, bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and inside radius of ejector rod housing. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Colt with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl stocks with carved ox head motif, factory engraved in level 2 with the inscription as found on the backstrap. Under “special features” it lists “furnished with dbl action cyl of long flute configuration”, sold to Wm. McKenney, address unavailable and shipped to R.H. Shearer, address unavailable on Jan. 11, 1915 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching as noted above. Grips are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its fine factory restored finish with no evidence of having been fired since restoration. Face of cyl has very fine pitting and is missing cyl bushing. Grips have a chip on right side at the frame, otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-36855 JR31 (12,500-22,500)
REMINGTON SUPERPOSED DERRINGER INSCRIBED TO FAMOUS TEXAS RANGER JOHN R. HUGHES. SN 987. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish with 3″ bbls that have 1-line block letter address and checkered hard rubber grip panels. Back strap is engraved in period-style lettering “J.R. Hughes, Texas Rangers”.Accompanied by an extremely rare “S.C. GALLUP SADDLERY / PUEBLO” ankle holster with strap. Holster is extremely well made with red trade cloth lining with dbl stitched rear edge and bound top edges and Cheyenne plug. Leg strap is about 17-1/2″ long x 2-1/2″ wide with simple roller buckle and light border decorations. The strap has the Gallup cartouche and a large “20”. It also has two sewn-on loops containing two 41 rimfire cartridges. Also accompanied by 10 loose rounds of 41RF Short ammo. John Reynolds Hughes, one of the most famous Texas Rangers in the illustrious history of that famous organization, was born in 1855 in Henry County, Illinois. When he was small his family moved to Kansas where he learned to ride and by age 10 was an accomplished horseman. He received little education and by the time he was 14 left home for the Indian Territory (Oklahoma) where he lived with the Choctaws, Osages and later the Comanche where he became a close friend of Quanah Parker, Comanche Chief. He learned the Indian ways of tracking & hunting along with the languages. At age 17 was shot and severely injured in right arm & hand basically rendering that arm useless. Undaunted, Hughes taught himself to shoot left handed and became a noted expert with both rifle & handgun. He herded the cattle over the Chisholm Trail and then bought a small ranch in Travis County, Texas where he trapped, broke & sold wild horses, building up a substantial herd of valuable stock. In 1886 rustlers stole much of his horse herd along with that of his neighbors and drove them off to New Mexico. Hughes gave chase, trailing the thieves & horse herd for over 1,000 miles until he located them. He enlisted the aid of a local sheriff and together they wiped out the thieves and recovered the stolen horses. Upon his return to Texas with his now recovered horses, he learned that the gang had been part of the Butch Cassidy Gang who had put out a contract on Hughes. When the contract killer tried to kill Hughes the attempt failed and he & Texas Ranger Ira Aten tracked the killer and when the guy opened fire he missed but the ranger & Hughes didn’t. Ranger Aten persuaded Hughes to join the Rangers, which he did, becoming one of the most successful & brilliant crime solvers on the border earning the sobriquet “Border Boss”. He served with the Rangers for 28 years, the longest individual career in the history of the Rangers, solving many crimes and preventing many others along the way. Capt. Hughes lived to age 92 and committed suicide with his trusty Colt 45 that he had carried throughout his career. Accompanied by reproduced copies of several pages from a book A Pair of Texas Rangers: Bill McDonald and John Hughes, Baugh, as furnished by the Texas State Archives. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Pistol retains about 60% orig nickel with loss areas a medium to dark patina and pitting on right side of trigger sheath. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bores. Holster & belt are soft & supple, having been treated. Ammo is lightly oxidized, but fine. 4-36873 JR133 (4,000-7,000)
*ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID FACTORY PRESENTATION CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 001BUCK. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line script address with brackets and etched panel on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Bottom of bbl is stamped “44” just forward of base pin. Frame is black powder style with 3-line patent dates and without rampant Colt. The factory assigned special SN is found in usual place on bottom of frame and on left side of front & back straps under grip. Three digits of SN are also found on front face of cyl around bushing hole, on the inside radius of ejector rod housing and bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing. Left side of butt strap, under grip, is marked “COLT ENGRAVING”. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved Mexican eagle on left side that has SN on wood block in back strap channel. Engraving consists of 40-50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns which extend over top strap & both sides of bbl. Ejector rod housing has feather patterns in top gullet and foliate arabesque patterns on outer radius with a gold band at frame end. Bbl has gold bands inlaid around muzzle & root end. Cyl is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and has a gold band at rear edge. Back strap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns at top & bottom and at butt strap, along with trigger guard. Center of back strap is engraved in script “Gracias Buck / Tu Amigo Colt”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter with lengthy remarks section. Letter identifies this revolver in cal. 44/40 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, 1-pc ivory stocks with carved Mexican snake & eagle on left side, factory engraved, Type A scroll with inscription on back strap as stated above. Letter also lists a standard walnut presentation case and shows that it was shipped to Buck’s Trading Post, Rt. 1, Box 146, R.R. 12, Wimberley, TX 78676, on May 6, 1993 in a 1-gun shipment. Remarks section states the following: “The above gun has the following special features; blackpowder style frame, inlaid bands on front and rear of barrel, gold inlaid band on rear of ejector tube, gold inlaid band at rear of cylinder, fire blue screws, etched barrel, serial number on back strap and trigger guard, special serial number assigned (001 Buck)”. On page 2 of the letter is a personal note from Marty Huber, Historian Emeritus of Colt Firearms: “Buck, it is interesting to note that I am a life member of the following collectors groups, Texas Gun Collectors Association, Colt Collectors Association and the Connecticut Gun Guild, and been with Colt Firearms for 57 years, 21 of them with the Historical Department. I have researched and mailed thousands of letters. This letter on your personal gun, serial number 001 Buck, presented to you by Colts Firearms in appreciation of your services rendered is the last letter signed in my official position as a Colt employee serving as Colt Historian Emeritus. We trust the information supplied above will be of interest.” and signed M.S. Huber, Historian Emeritus. Also accompanied by its orig blue 2-pc cardboard box and 1-pc white cardboard sleeve in addition to the beautiful, green velvet lined, footed, walnut presentation case. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including cyl & grip. Appears to be new & unfired with bright royal blue & brilliant case colors. Grip is sound with a light ivory patina. Cardboard box label is missing. Presentation case is extremely fine. 4-36872 JR43 (4,000-7,000)
FINE NEW YORK STYLE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 DA LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. SN 42692. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish, mat cut for ejector rod housing, with 3-1/2″ bbl, half moon front sight, 2-line address and etched panel on left side of bbl. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked with caliber. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips numbered on inside “16089”. Revolver is very nicely engraved in New York style, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop, with about 85% coverage on frame consisting of sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. One scroll on left side terminates in a large flower blossom. Engraving extends over top strap, both sides of bbl and around muzzle with a large foliate spray at the top of back strap. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with 3-1/2″ bbl, shipped “soft” to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on April 3, 1883 in a shipment of 25 same type revolvers. Shipped “soft” indicates that it was to be engraved & finished outside the factory. PROVENANCE: David Crocker Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains 98-99% strong nickel with some dulling on top strap and sides of bbl. Cyl retains 96-97% strong nickel with some minor flaking & fine pitting on front face. Grips are fine with several fine age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-36839 JR2 (6,000-10,000)
EXTREMELY RARE BURGESS PUMP ACTION MAGAZINE RIFLE. SN NONE VISIBLE. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Rare Burgess rifle with 24″ oct bbl, full tube magazine with half-nickel front sight and Winchester style semi-buckhorn rear sight. Receiver has relief milled sides with brass inlaid sighting plane over the receiver ring. Bolt is hand engraved on the top “BURGESS GUN CO. / BUFFALO, N.Y.U.S.A.” with small foliate arabesque engraved patterns to the front & back. Top of bolt is actually a dust cover cleverly mortised into the top edge of the receiver and attached to the bolt with a small screw at rear end. Mounted with very nicely figured American walnut with very fine checkered forearm and uncheckered straight stock with crescent steel buttplate. This buttplate is obviously something recycled as there is a welded up butt trap cover hole in the center and a welded up screw hole in the tang. This appears to be probably from a Winchester rifle, or possibly a Burgess lever action rifle. The operating mechanism of the pump action is released by firing or by means of a small lever in front of the trigger guard. The operating rod is the floorplate of the receiver and linked to the bolt, and to a sliding grip made of checkered gutta percha attached to a stamped sheet metal sleeve over the grip area. This pump action is unique among firearms and is only one of the over 500 firearms & improvements upon firearms patented by Andrew Burgess. Mr. Burgess was born Jan. 16, 1837 in Dresden, NY and died Dec. 19, 1908. As a young man he & his brother were hired by Matthew Brady, the renowned photographer in about 1855. Brady’s eyesight was failing and most of the famous Brady photographs known today were taken by Andrew & his brother, William, including some of the more famous Lincoln photographs, especially the one on today’s $5.00 Bill. The Burgess brothers were photographers under the Brady name through the Civil War until war between the French & Mexico broke out in late 1864. Andrew traveled to Mexico to photograph that conflict and returned to the U.S. in 1867 resuming his partnership with Brady. In 1870 he was the photographer for a team of scientists sent to Sicily to observe a solar eclipse where he became seriously ill but still managed to do the photography. He remained in Italy for a length of time after the Sicilian expedition and toured Europe extensively during which time he probably filmed the Franco-Prussian War. During his tours he visited and discussed firearms design with a number of European manufacturers and upon returning to the U.S. in 1871 began seriously designing and re-designing firearms. His first patent, an improvement on the Peabody rifle, was issued Sept. 19, 1871. From that point forward the tremendous volume of his patents all involved magazine rifles and primarily lever action and pump action rifles. On Jan. 7, 1873, Mr. Burgess was issued patent #134,589 which was to have great repercussions throughout the firearms world which was incorporated into a number of different designs, including the now famous Marlin Model 1881. That patent is still in use in Marlin firearms today. Mr. Burgess also had patents that were incorporated in a number of Whitneyville rifles and the Colt-Burgess Lever Action rifle, all of which, in one manner or another, were either purchased or persuaded to stop production by the overbearing Winchester Company. One of the designs Mr. Burgess had patented was the locking mechanism used in the 1881 Marlin and a similar lock, apparently redesigned by prolific inventor John M. Browning was being introduced by Winchester as their Model 1893 pump action shotgun. With the acquisition of Mr. Burgess’ designs when Winchester purchased the Whitneyville Company, Mr. Burgess’ income was greatly reduced so he organized & built the Burgess Gun Co. of Buffalo, NY and began manufacturing in 1893. His first product was a 12 ga. shotgun based on the design found in this rifle which was extremely efficient & fast. When the shotgun, or in this case the rifle, is fired, just at the instant before the gas pressure in the bore is relieved, the breech block unlatches and the pressure forces the slide to the rear ejecting the empty and all the shooter has to do is move the slide forward for the next shot making this rifle/shotgun a sort of manual semi-auto. The rifle on this design was introduced in 1896, initially in calibers 30-30, 44-40 and 30-40 Burgess. Winchester, apparently feeling the pinch of competition to their new Model 1893 shotgun, and later the model 1897 by the Burgess shotgun, began negotiating to purchase the Burgess Gun Company and, with Mr. Burgess’s ill health, ultimately were successful in buying him out in 1899. Winchester may have produced a few more Burgess firearms out of leftover parts but quickly shelved the design and this great Burgess product ceased to exist. The saga of Andrew Burgess does not stop there however. His designs continue in almost every Marlin lever action firearm produced to this day. Conversation between this cataloger and several rather senior dealers and collectors has disclosed that none of us had previously seen a Burgess rifle with an oct bbl. Only a few had ever seen any Burgess rifles and they had all been with rnd bbls. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl & magazine tube retain strong orig blue with a few spots of moderate pitting on the side flats that have been cleaned with touch-up blue added. Magazine tube has only a couple of small spots. Receiver retains 65-70% thinning orig blue with a few spots of moderate pitting, deeper in a couple of spots. Steel slide retains 15-20% orig blue with balance cleaned to a light patina. Gutta percha grip is extremely fine. Wood is sound with minor storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig piano varnish finish. Mechanics are crisp, very bright shiny bore. 4-40259 JR314 (12,500-17,500)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 23660 & 23671. Cal. 36. Pair is identical, blue & color casehardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, brass pin front sights and “ADDRESS, COL: COLT, LONDON” with spears at each end. Left sides of frames have “COLTS PATENT” hand engraved in a ribbon, silver-plated iron trigger guards & back straps contain dlx varnished, burl walnut, 1-pc grips with matching SNs in back strap channels. Left sides of bbl lugs & cyls have British proofs. They are identically engraved in London style with fine English foliate arabesque scrolls with about 50-60% coverage on frames which extends over onto bbl lugs and rammer pivots. Hammers have light patterns on sides of spurs with top edges of hammers engraved in dolphin patterns. Ends of wedges are also engraved. Back straps & trigger guards are engraved with matching patterns. Altogether a wonderful brace of Navys owned by a gallant American Civil War officer. They are accompanied by their orig, English, brass-bound mahogany casing with bull’s eye medallion in the lid and brass reinforced corners. Front of case has sliding latches and a mortised brass lock with round escutcheon. Lock accompanies the case, however it has been removed. Interior is green baize lined and compartmented in the bottom for the pistols, a fine Dixon bag flask marked on top of the collar “COLTS NAVY FLASK”. Also contains two, blued steel, 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” molds with sprue cutters, one of which has a tiny “S” on the sprue cutter. Both have the locator pin in the right arm. Also accompanying are two L-shaped nipple wrenches and a large laquered tin of Eley’s caps with repoussed brass label on the lid. Left front covered corner contains five orig spare parts including a trigger, two hands with attached springs, a trigger/lock bolt spring and a lock bolt. Left rear compartment contains lead bullets. Inside the lid is mounted with a 7″ x 3″ brass plaque inscribed “THESE COLT REVOLVERS WERE USED DURING THE CIVIL WAR OF 1861-1865 / BY / HENRY STURGIS RUSSELL / WHO SAW ACTIVE SERVICE WITH THE 2ND MASSACHUSETTS INFANTRY / THE 2ND MASSACHUSETTS CAVALRY AND / AS COLONEL OF THE 5TH MASSACHUSETTS CAVALRY / AFTER THE WAR HE WAS MADE BRIGADIER GENERAL BY BREVET FOR / FAITHFUL AND MERITORIOUS SERVICE DURING THE WAR AND PARTICULARLY / FOR DISTINGUISHED GALLANTRY AND GOOD CONDUCT AT BAYLOR’S FARM / BEFORE PETERSBURG. JUNE 15, 1864 / THE PISTOLS WERE GIVEN TO THE / MILTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY / IN MAY 1941 BY HIS SON / JAMES SAVAGE RUSSELL.”. This plaque has obviously replaced the orig Colt directions label which is folded & rolled in the right rear covered compartment. Both cleaning rods are missing from the case. Henry Sturgis Russell was born June 21, 1838 in Dorchester, MA and died Feb. 16, 1905 in Boston. Mr. Russell had been employed in MA when on May 25, 1861 as a 23 yr old, with the outbreak of the Civil War, he became one of the first volunteers and enlisted as a 1st Lieut. and was commissioned into Company G of the MA 2nd Inf. He was promoted to Capt. on Jan. 6, 1862 and to Lt. Col. on Jan. 22, 1863 (probably a Brevet promotion). On March 19, 1863 he was commissioned into the Field & Staff of the MA 2nd Cav. and on March 2, 1864 he was commissioned Lt. Col. into the Field & Staff of the MA 5th Cav. and on April 5, 1864 was promoted to Col. & Commander of the MA 5th Cav. Regiment. On March 13,1865 he was promoted by Brevet to Brig. Gen. Mr. Russell, with the MA. 2nd Inf, was mustered into service May 25, 1861 and performed various duties until early 1863 when they became part of the Army fighting in the Shenandoah and took part in several skirmishes and battles. Russell was taken POW at Cedar Gap with no indication of whether he escaped or was exchanged. In late 1862 a group of 100 Californians with eastern roots had enlisted, equipped themselves and paid their shipboard transportation to the east coast and arrived at Camp Meigs, Readville, MA, on Jan. 4, 1863 and became Company A of the 2nd Regiment of Cav, MA Vol, along with seven companies of troops from MA. The regiment, along with Lt. Col. Russell, took to the field in July 1863 near Yorktown, VA and from July 1863 to July 1864 continually skirmished with John Mosby’s partisan rangers and later served as part of the Army of the Shenandoah under Gen. Sheridan during the campaigns of 1864. The regiment participated in numerous other actions throughout the remainder of the war. Then on March 7, 1864, Lt. Col. Russell was transferred to the MA 5th Cav. Regiment and became Col. & Commander of the regiment. Col Russell had an excellent record in his previous assignment with the 2nd Regiment MA Vol. Inf. and the 2nd regiment MA Cav. The 5th MA Cav. was the only black American Regiment of Cavalry raised in the northern states during the Civil War. The white officers were chosen not only for their military skills but also for their abolitionist beliefs and family connections. The 5th MA Vol. Cav. was raised in the winter of 1863 and participated in various garrison & picket duties until Spring of 1864 when they took part in the battle at Baylor’s Farm leading up to the siege of Petersburg. Col. Russell was wounded in this battle and out of action until Sept. 30, 1864 when he resumed command of the regiment where he remained until Feb. 14, 1865 when he resigned his commission and returned to civilian life. Then in March of 1865 he was retroactively Breveted Brig. Gen. for gallantry in action at Baylor’s Farm. No additional information is readily available regarding Col. Russell, however the website (escholarship.bc.edu/dissertations) will lead to a site called “Crossed Sabres: A history of the Fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry, an African-American regiment in the Civil War” by John Dwight Warner, Boston College. In the brief abstract of that dissertation Mr. Warner states that the dissertation looks at the prior service of the officers & men of this regiment and also traces the careers of several officers & men after the war. CONDITION: Revolvers are very fine to extremely fine, both are all matching including rammers, cyls & grips. 1) SN 23660. Bbl retains 60-70% glossy orig factory blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium to dark patina. Rammer & handle retain most of their lightly faded case colors. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong, bright orig case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas. Cyl is flaked to mostly a light gray/brown patina with small patches of brilliant shiny blue and retains about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene with five of the six safety pins crisp and the other serviceable and the Ormsby signature visible. Grip frame retains about 95-96% strong orig silver with some fine pimpling on front & back straps. Grip is sound with a very few, very scattered, tiny nicks in the finish and retains virtually all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 2) SN 23671. Bbl retains 88-90% glossy orig factory blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn to a dark patina. Rammer & handle retain about all of their brilliant orig factory case colors. Frame & hammer retain about all of their brilliant orig factory case colors. Cyl, inexplicably, is factory refinished with all six safety pins crisp & sharp, unfired, and retains about all of its dark factory blue with some light flaking and retains about 90% Ormsby Naval battle scene with Ormsby’s signature legible. Grip frame retains about all of its orig silver plating, strong & bright on trigger guard & front strap with heavy pimpling on back strap. Grip is sound with no discernible flaws and retains virtually all of its brilliant orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case has four grain checks in bottom, otherwise is sound with normal handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is lightly soiled with very minor damage from front sights and retains its dark green color. Flask has two small dents in body, otherwise retains virtually all of its brilliant orig factory finish. Molds are moderately flaked but appear to be unused with the remaining blue dark & strong & flaked areas a smooth dark patina. Nipple wrenches are unused and brilliant. Cap tin & spare parts are also extremely fine. Detached label from inside the lid is lightly yellowed and quite brittle with one small tear in the fold and need conservation but is completely legible. This is a wonderful unused brace of Navys that belonged to a courageous & gallant Union officer. 4-40636 JR337 (30,000-50,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 278568. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, address is engraved over with left side of bbl marked in an arc “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER / BISLEY MODEL”. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt. Mounted with two piece silver Colt medallion modern ivory grips with a raised carved stooping eagle on the right side. Inside right grip is marked “Gunmart Lakewood N.J.”. Revolver has full coverage deep relief engraving in Cuno Helfricht style with modifications consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with sunbursts on the recoil shield and loading gate with a hunter star on the ejector rod boss and flower blossoms on each side of bbl boss. Top strap has chip & dot borders with inner feather patterns. Bbl is full length engraved on each side with foliate arabesque patterns and a flower blossom on the top. Muzzle has zig zag border and the cyl end chip & dot border. Ejector rod housing is engraved to match with dbl borders. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are also beautifully engraved. Cylinder is engraved on the lands between the flutes and completely around the cylinder behind the flutes with three borders at rear edge. Top of hammer is also engraved. Serial numbers have been re-stamped. Bottom front of frame is engraved with a small ribbon and the initials “BJ”, apparently those of the engraver. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its custom nickel finish and does not appear to have been fired after engraving. Grips are sound with a fine ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. 4-39252 JR357 (3,500-5,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 LONDON POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 6487. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line “ADDRESS COL:COLT/LONDON.” with brackets. Left side of frame is without “COLTS PATENT” and unusually it has a small guard silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap containing a 1-pc walnut grip without numbers in backstrap channel. Backstrap is engraved “THOMAS COOK”. Cylinder is typical 5-shot with stagecoach holdup scene. According to COLT’S POCKET ’49, Jordan & Watt, only about 650 London pocket models were produced in London with small guard brass trigger guards, all under SN 1000. The missing “COLTS PATENT” stamp from the frame,no number in the grip backstrap channel, different style of numbering on the bbl lug & wedge and lack of British proofs on bbl lug lead to speculation that this revolver is probably one that was returned to the factory for replacement parts or possibly a lunchbox special. Even though the grip is not numbered it fits perfectly and obviously is a factory installed part. Altogether a most unusual pocket ’49. Supporting the replacement part theory is the fact that the rammer handle numbers are identical to the numbers on the frame, trigger guard, buttstrap and cylinder. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grip as noted. Bbl retains traces of orig blue in sheltered areas, being mostly a smooth, even, plum brown patina. Rammer and handle retain smoky case colors. Frame appears to have been blued rather than color case hardened and retains traces of blue in sheltered areas. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cylinder is a light brown patina with a spot of pitting and overall retains 70-75% stagecoach holdup scene with all 5 safetypins serviceable. Grip frame retains virtually all of orig silver plating. Grip is sound with light edge wear and a few nicks in varnish and overall retains most of orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple tiny spots of pitting. 4-39433 JR203 (1,500-2,500)
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 96469. Cal. 36. Fine engraved 4th Model 51 Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetailed front sight and 1-line Hartford address. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap containing a checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe patterns with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields with some scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Bbl lug and rammer pivot are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s signature bird head incorporated into one scroll on left side of lug and flower blossoms on right side. Engraving extends over top two side flats with a border pattern around address terminating at muzzle end in a heart shaped pattern. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with matching foliate arabesque patterns near the top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap and trigger guard. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” hand engraved in a pillow shaped pattern. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Wedge is engraved on both ends. Screw heads are not engraved. The 51 Navy was one of the most popular side arms prior to and throughout the Civil War and was extremely popular on the frontier during the great westward expansion with citizens from all facets of frontier life, including lawmen, outlaws & cowboys. It remained popular until the advent of the large bore cartridge revolver in the 1870’s. Some of the more famous lawmen and outlaws are recorded as having carried & used the 51 Navy to great effect. One of the more prominent personalities known to have used the 51 Navy was Wild Bill Hickock who allegedly carried a matched pair even after the Single Action Army was introduced. This revolver is a fine example of presentation quality, undoubtedly intended for someone of importance. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains an even light to medium blue/brown patina with scattered light pitting on the bbl & cyl. Frame & hammer retain identical condition. Cyl is a smooth gray/brown patina and retains 60-65% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating, thin on trigger bow and center of back strap. Grip has a chipped left toe and a repair in right side with numerous fine age lines. Grips show heavy wear and retain a wonderful aged ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-36787 JR56 (6,000-10,000)
WONDERFUL CASED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92080. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has three patent dates and the caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. It is mountedCuno with a spectacular 1-pc pearl grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by H. D. Nimschke in his trademark foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Frame has about 70% coverage with hunters’ stars on the base pin and ejector rod bosses. Top strap has light foliate patterns with chip & dot borders. Sides of bbl are engraved about 2/3 of the way to the muzzle with matching foliate arabesque patterns and a chip & dot border with dbl line borders around the address, which terminates in Moorish patterns at the front end. Each side of muzzle is engraved to match. Ejector rod housing has a wonderful climbing leaf & vine pattern on outer radius with a snake & dot pattern in the gullet. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s deluxe fan pattern with sunbursts on each side of back strap ears. Main portion of back strap & butt strap are engraved with zig zag borders and Moorish patterns. Trigger bow is engraved with a deep flower blossom. Cylinder is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes and a chain & dot pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by an extremely rare orig Colt mahogany casing, burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver with bbl rest and a separate compartment for a box of ammunition. While Nimschke engraved single actions are not uncommon, early examples such as this are scarce and are rarely found with high orig condition. These early single actions usually saw hard frontier service in extreme conditions, generally with little or no maintenance. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains about 95% strong, bright orig factory nickel with only slight losses around muzzle and on cylinder. Flaked areas are clean gray metal patina barely distinguishable from the nickel finish. Majority of losses are on the cylinder face and in one small area on the body of cylinder. Grip is outstanding, showing little or no wear and retains great fire on both sides. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some scattered very fine pitting toward the cyl end. Case has a couple of grain checks in the lid and another in the bottom with a small gouge in the lid, usual light handling & storage marks and retains about all of its wonderful varnish finish. Interior is faded to gold with light soil. Partitions are solid. 4-39943 JR352 (70,000-100,000)
FINE CASED & ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 89376. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a kidney shaped panel. It has small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a very nicely figured burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Revolver is wonderfully engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe patterns consisting of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on frame. Left side of frame has a scroll terminating in a dog’s head and right side has a scroll terminating in a flower blossom. Both sides of bbl lug and top side flats are matching engraved with fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with another scroll terminating in a dog’s head on the left side of bbl lug and another with a flower blossom on right side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Hammer has Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on sides, a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and hand-checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with sunburst patterns on sides of shoulders. Top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match receiver. Cyl is typical 5-shot with stagecoach holdup scene. Accompanied by an orig Colt burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided standing eagle flask with short spout, a 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” brass bullet mold, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a packet of Colt’s Combustible Cartridges. Right rear corner compartment has bullets & balls. This gun appears on the list of guns which were engraved in Gustave Young’s shop on June 3, 1854. This list appears in The Book of Colt Engraving,p.55 and in Colt Engraving,p.69. PROVENANCE: Dr. Robert A. Bettis Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish with a coating of lacquer over frame & hammer. Consignor states that an old index card obtained with the gun’s purchase many years ago stated:”Possible old refinish by R.F. Sedgley” of Philadelphia. Cylinder is an artificially aged plum/brown patina and retains about 65-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. Altogether a very pleasing and fine restoration. Case has a slightly warped lid with a couple of grain checks in the lid and three more in bottom and has usual storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of a professionally restored finish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded in lid with light soil and moderately faded in bottom with light to moderate soil. All partitions are solid. Accessories are fine. 4-39309 JR150 (5,000-8,000)
*SCARCE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT TEXAS GUN COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION SPECIAL EDITION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA73010. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, 1-line script address with serifs at each end. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Frame is black powder style with screw retainer for the base pin. Mounted with beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with the left side having a raised carved longhorn steer head over the 5-point Texas Lone Star. Receiver has style B engraving on frame and style A engraving on bbl & cylinder, consisting of 25-35% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with a sunburst and foliate patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate. Cylinder has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a wide inlaid gold band at rear edge. Bbl has a wide inlaid gold band at frame end with a narrow gold band around the muzzle. Top of back strap is inlaid in gold with the 5-point Texas star engraved “TEXAS”. Back strap is engraved in script “Texas Gun Collectors Assn.” Butt strap is engraved “10 of 30”. Ejector rod head is early donut style and base pin is dimpled on each end. Ejector rod housing has an engraved hunter’s star in center with sunbursts at each end and trigger bow has an engraved hunter’s star on bottom. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found, shipped to McBride’s Guns, Inc., Austin, Texas, Attn: Joe McBride, on March 26, 1987. The production of these limited edition single actions coincided with the 150th anniversary of Colt Firearms and the 150th year of Texas’ independence. Additionally accompanied by the orig inspection certificate signed by noted Colt historian and author, R.L. Wilson. Also accompanied by its orig brown suede lined oak casing with laser etched long horn steer head and 5-point star on lid. Case is French fitted in bottom for revolver and has a gold plated brass plaque in the front inscribed “Presented to the / Texas Gun Collectors Association” which surmounts a long-horn steer head and 5-point star which in turn surmounts ” 10 of 30″. Finally accompanied by its orig Styrofoam lined burgundy 1-pc custom shop cardboard box with custom shop label and owner’s manual. Case also includes its orig functioning key PROVENANCE: Dr. Robert A. Bettis Collection. CONDITION: New & unfired. Case is equally new. 4-39323 JR170 (4,000-7,000)
SCARCE CASED EARLY COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 202. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 6-1/2″ oct bbl, German silver blade front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of frame has small “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder & trigger guard has caliber marking. Silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with SN in back strap channel. Top of back strap is engraved “F.W.B.” with a small snake pattern below. Cylinder is usual rebated 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene and three of five safety pins serviceable. Accompanied by a modern red felt lined casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a sgl sided eagle & stars flask and a 2-cavity blued steel “COLTS PATENT” mold. Left front compartment contains lead balls and right rear compartment contains a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms, only about 19,000 of these scarce revolvers were produced in period 1861-1873. Obviously this revolver is from the first few days of production and very likely saw service through the Civil War and later on the American frontier. There is no indication as to who the initials on the backstrap belong to. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except rammer which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to medium patina with muzzle & sharp edge wear. Rammer & handle retain faded case colors, stronger & brighter on pivot. Frame & hammer retain about 50% fading case colors, stronger in sheltered areas. Cylinder retains about 35-40% orig blue in the rebated area with outer diameter a blue/brown patina and retains 50-60% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard retains about 60% orig silver with back strap a medium to dark mustard patina. Grip is sound with a couple of gouges on right side showing moderate to heavy wear and retains about 60% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting. Case has a loose corner and replaced lock & escutcheon, otherwise is sound and retains most of its custom finish. Interior is lightly soiled with sound partitions. Flask has a couple of small dents on each side and is a dark brownish brass patina. Mold is a mottled silvery/black patina. Cap tin is fine. 4-39448 JR246 (4,000-7,000)
RARE CASED SECOND MODEL COLT 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1701. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York City address. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” and it has a small square back silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with the first three digits of SN visible in back strap channel. Trigger guard & back strap are engraved with a heavy zig zag border with a small engraved cartouche in the form of an oval inscribed “PRO DEO ET REGE” (Translation: For God and King) at the top. The center of the cartouche is inscribed with what appears to be “W R” in Old English and there is a figure above the cartouche that may be a fist or some other indistinguishable character. Center of backstrap is engraved with light foliate & floral patterns. Accompanied by an English oak casing with the lid medallion missing. Interior is purple velvet lined with a Colt directions label in the lid and compartmented in bottom for a Dixon “COLT’S NAVY” bag-shaped flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Right rear covered compartment contains a wood handled cleaning rod with broken tip. CONDITION: About fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall retains virtually all of a fine professionally restored finish to bbl & frame. Cylinder was reblued but not polished. Cylinder retains 85-90% Ormsby Naval battle scene with an area of pitting. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their post engraving silver finish. Wedge screw is a replacement. Grip is sound with moderate edge wear and numerous small nicks & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a few minor chips in the edge of the lid, otherwise is sound with handling & storage nicks, dings & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is strong & bright with light soil in bottom and light damage from front sight and hammer spur. Mold, flask and cap tin are very fine, screwdriver tip of tool is slightly reshaped and cleaning rod with its broken tip is fine. 4-39102 JR97 (5,000-8,000)
*WONDERFUL WILBUR GLAHN FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 351428. Cal. .45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line, block letter address with cal marking on left side. Left side of the frame has 2-line three patent dates and Rampant Colt without circle. It is mounted with beautiful, silver Colt medallion, smooth ivory grips. Engraving is about “C” quality with about 75% coverage intertwined foliate, arabesque patterns with a scroll on each side of the frame terminating in a flower blossom. Top of the backstrap, sides of the bbl and outer radius of the ejector rod housing are engraved to match. Heel of the backstrap, buttstrap and trigger guard are also engraved to match. Loading gate, top of the backstrap and heel of the buttstrap are engraved with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” patterns. Additionally the shoulders of the trigger guard and sides of the backstrap ears are incorporated into the engraving patterns which is another trademark of Mr. Glahn. Cyl has matching engraved patterns in the lands between the flutes and a wavy line border at the rear edge. Serial number was observed in the usual place on the bottom of the frame and on the right side of the front- and backstraps. Last two digits of the serial number are stamped on the rear face of the cyl, as well as having the last two digits hand scratched on the rear face. Accompanied by an orig hinged lid, dark burgundy box, numbered “354682” on the bottom, with black & white end label that has the “rubber” grip marking overlayed with a red & white label that reads “IVORY”. Top end of the box has a black & white overlabel “ENGRAVED.” Box is covered in plastic wrap with a reproduced envelope from Colt addressed to “Mr. Bill Cabral” of Sacramento, California, with a postmark of Feb.’65 and has handwritten note “45 x 7 1/2 Engraved / Ivory Grips Case & Blue / 351428 Mint”. Front edge of the wrapping bears the note “SAME COLLECTION SINCE 1965”. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in Cal. 45 with 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish and ivory stocks, sold to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett Co., Chicago, IL, shipped to F.G. Seaman & Co, address not available, Factory engraved and shipped Nov 26, 1927 in a 1 gun shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching numbers. Overall retains about 99% strong, orig factory finish with strong, bright, blue and bright, orig case colors on the frame & hammer, brilliant in sheltered areas. Grips are sound showing no wear and retain virtually all of their orig polish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant, shiny bore. Box is moderately soiled on the bottom with slightly fuzzed corners. 4-39764 JR374 (55,000-75,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSISON REVOLVER. SN 62714. Cal. 31. Fine engraved pocket with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. Frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a kidney shape panel on left side. It has silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a fancy varnished burl walnut 1-pc grip that has the SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe patterns, probably by the master himself. Engraving consists of full coverage on frame of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. One of the scrolls on left side terminates in Mr. Young’s stylized dog’s head. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with another scroll terminating in a flower blossom. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Hammer has Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of matching foliate arabesque patterns with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and hand cut checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with sunbursts on each side of shoulders. Top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger bow are engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Screw heads and ends of wedge are also engraved. Serial numbers in the four locations on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small punched dot indicating that this revolver was to receive special polishing for engraving & deluxe finish. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined Colt mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle & stars flask. Also accompanied by a 2-cavity brass “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Right rear compartment contains bullets & balls. PROVENANCE: Dr. Robert A. Bettis Collection; Stagecoach Museum Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains glossy orig blue on bottom three flats and beveled edge of lug with balance a plum patina with light muzzle & sharp edge wear. Cylinder is mostly a plum patina with front edge wear and retains 85-90% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors, mixed with dark patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain strong orig silver on trigger guard with the back strap & butt strap showing brass through the silver. Exposed brass is a dark patina. Grip is sound with a series of pressure creases on right side and a ding on left side and overall retains about 90% orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with good shine and very fine pitting. Case has a small crack in lid and another in the bottom with usual light handling & storage marks in finish and overall retains most of its orig piano varnish finish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded with light to moderate soil on bottom and has solid partitions, flask has a small dent in the bottom and is missing collar screws, otherwise is fine. Mold is very fine with a few nicks & dings but appears unused. Other accessories are fine. 4-39304 JR147 (8,000-12,000)
*COLT US BICENTENNIAL COMMEMORATIVE THREE GUN SET WITH CASE. SN SN0352DG/SN0352PM/SN0352PY. Set consists of 3 Colt revolvers, a 44 cal black powder Dragoon, a 45 cal. SAA, and a 357 Python. All guns are marked on the left side of bbl “1776-U.S.A. BICENTENNIAL-1976”. All other bbl markings would be standard for model. The unfluted cylinder of Python is engraved “PROCLAIM LIBERTY” and with picture of Liberty Bell, then “THROUGHOUT ALL THE LAND”. Next scene, “E PLURBIUS UNUM”, capitol building, WASHINGTON.D.C.”, 3rd scene “GIVE ME LIBERTY”, the statue of Liberty and “OR GIVE ME DEATH”. Single Action Army is engraved “DELAWARE/PENNSYLVANIA/NEW JERSEY/GEORGIA/CONNECTICUT/MASSACHUSETTS/MARYLAND” a full field of stars flag, “SO. CAROLINA/NEW HAMPSHIRE/VIRGINIA/NEW YORK/NO. CAROLINA/RHODE ISLAND” and a 13 star flag. The Dragoon is engraved with a “W.L. ORNSBY”, “S” Indian fight scene. All guns have smooth walnut grips, with inlaid circle of the Great Seal of the United States of America. This set of guns comes with their orig cardboard boxes and three-drawer walnut display case, complete with orig outer shipping carton. The Armsmear book, and accessories for the Dragoon as still sealed in plastic in their orig box. CONDITION: Guns appears new since manufacture with extra fine high polished blue, case colored frame on SA and Dragoon, and Dragoon as silver backstrap and trigger guard that is showing some tarnish from age. Display case appears new and unused. 4-39294 BDT164 (2,000-3,000)
RARE PROBABLY ONE OF A KIND BERDAN SPORTING RIFLE. SN 1. Cal. 42 Berdan. This rifle was built by Colt in the period circa 1868 when every manufacturer was scrambling to produce a sporting rifle for the “Manifest Destiny” westward expansion. Undoubtedly it was built by Colt’s master gun makers under the direct supervision of Hiram Berdan, perhaps even by Mr. Berdan himself. This fine rifle utilizes the Type 3 breechblock and has a 26-1/2” medium weight, rnd bbl, globe front sight, no provision for rear sight and an unusual tang sight mortised into top of wrist. It has a 2-1/2” long thick staff with a Sharps type eye cup that is dovetailed onto the beveled staff with a delicate windage knob & bar built in. The slide is secured only by the friction of the dovetail. Mounted in a highly figured, uncheckered, flame grain, American walnut half stock with straight grip, secured with a single wedge through the forearm and a screw through the top tang. It has a pewter nosecap with triangle shape that has a ball at the apex. Wedge is through two German silver escutcheons and it has a fancy, German silver, serpentine triggerguard/finger rest. It also has an unusual single set trigger. Buttplate is of nickeled brass, crescent in shape with a thick toe and stepped tang. This is a Model 1874 Sharps type S-20 (Target) buttplate, possibly procured by Hiram Berdan from Sharps, as he had close ties with that company as well as Colt. The back action lock is mortised into wrist with a wood screw at back end and is attached to receiver at the front end with a short machine screw. It is case colored and very nicely engraved as is the hammer with a dolphin style engraved nose. This exact rifle is fully illustrated in three photographs and discussed in some detail on p. 183 of Hiram Berdan Civil War Chief of Sharpshooters Military Commander and Firearms Inventor, Marcot. It is well known that Berdan was employed at Colt as a firearms designer in the period immediately following the Civil War. This rifle may have been Mr. Berdan’s personal possession, although at this time no documentation is available. The serial number is in pencil on the inside of various parts and there is a small “1” stamped on the small breechblock parts. CONDITION: Fine. The bbl retains thin orig brown finish in very sheltered areas, very strong brown under forearm & breechblock with balance a cleaned gray/brown patina. Stock is sound with minor handling & storage marks and retains about all of an old restored finish. Lockplate & hammer have dark case colors, very bright on inside . Breechblock retains most of its orig case colors, fading to patina over the top, stronger & brighter on inside. Breechblock base retains 75-80% orig blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. A truly rare & one of kind rifle. 8-87280 JJ1 (8,000-12,000)
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1903 SEMI-AUTO POCKET PISTOL. SN 436466. Cal. 32 ACP. Blue finish with 3-5/8″ bbl, fixed sights and mounted with beautiful deep left & right Colt medallion pearl grips. Accompanied by one orig 2-tone magazine with marked base. Pistol is engraved by Wilbur Glahn with about 25-30% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Both sides of slide are engraved to match with leaf & vine borders around roll markings. Rear edge of slide & frame are engraved with Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” patterns. Grip safety, trigger guard, bottom of frame and bottom of slide are also engraved to match. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol in caliber 32 with a 3-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Loan Account, A. Baldwin & Co., New Orleans, LA on Nov. 15, 1923 to Order #8008/1 in a one gun shipment. While the Model 1903 was produced in large quantities very few were ever engraved. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good plus. Overall retains 70-75% orig blue, strong on sides with holster wear on slide & frame with gray grip safety. Magazine is very fine plus. Grips are sound with a couple of minor age lines on right side and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-39479 JR134 (2,000-4,000)
CASED AND INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 22402. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address with dashes. Left side of frame is without “COLTS PATENT” but has the caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard and the blued steel trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc varnished burl walnut grip. it has the usual 6-shot cylinder with Ormsby Naval battle scene. Back strap is engraved in period Olde English script “Arthur N. Hollister / From His father. Dec. 28th 1865”. Accompanied by an orig mahogany Colt casing with burgundy velvet lining compartmented in the bottom for revolver, a dbl sided angle spout eagle & stars Navy size flask, a blued steel 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, marked on right side “36 B”. Also accompanied by an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an empty packet for Colt’s Combustible Cartridges, a large Dixon pewter oil bottle, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with scarce orange label and a functioning key. Steel trigger guards & back straps are not unknown on the 1861 Navy, however there are usually found only on those revolvers cut for shoulder stock in earlier serial ranges with probably less than 100 ever produced. This revolver was produced in 1864 in the last half of the year and now exhibits all the attributes of having been returned to Colt in 1865 and refinished with the inscription applied at that time. The bbl address is extremely light and in one area several of the letters are nearly obliterated. Serial numbers are also very light as is the caliber marking on the trigger guard shoulder with butt strap SN being extremely thin on one edge. An internet search of the Biographical Record of the Yale University Class of 1858 disclosed the following: Arthur Nelson Hollister was born Dec. 1835 in Andover, CT. He entered Yale University in July 1854 and graduated 1858. While at Yale he was a member of the Skull & Bones Society and several other clubs at Yale. Apparently he had delicate health and from 1858-1859 he was living in Hartford recuperating. From about 1859-1869 he taught school in the Hartford area and briefly was the principal of Hartford Grammar School. Due to his ill health he frequently spent long periods of time in the Adirondack Mountains to recuperate. He was associated with the Charter Oak Life Insurance Co. until about 1877. Then in 1878 he was persuaded to resume teaching and continued until 1883 when he again resigned due to ill health. For the rest of the time until his death, in Jan. 1897, he spent the winters in Hartford, the spring seasons fishing in the north and summers in Keene Valley, NY. He was married briefly from Aug. 1863 to Dec. 1864 when his wife died, possibly during the birth of their daughter. Mr. Hollister & his father were reportedly very close and were “inseparable companions” and his father died two months after Arthur passed away. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except wedge, which is a replacement without spring, & grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains about 95% glossy factory blue with some minor flaking and light surface rust on bbl lug. Rammer handle has been cleaned to bright metal with brilliant case colors on pivot. Wedge screw is broken. Frame & hammer retain strong bright case colors in sheltered areas having been cleaned to bright metal. Interior of frame retains brilliant case colors as does the hammer under grip frame. Cylinder retains about 85% glossy factory blue mixed with flaked patina and overall retains about 90% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 90% glossy orig blue. Grip is sound with crisp sharp edges and a few minor nicks & scratches and retains about all of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with fine pitting in the forcing cone area. Case is completely sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with a spot of staining at about the cylinder area with light to moderate soil in bottom and damage from the front sight and hammer spur, with two partially loose partitions. Flask is sound with one minor dent and is a dark mustard patina. Mold retains about 80% orig blue. Other accessories are fine. 4-39098 JR290 (7,500-12,500)
*FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 342403. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl and mounted with deep relief carved eagle ivory grips with silver Colt medallions. Grips may be later replacements. Left side of the frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle with caliber marking on left side of bbl. Serial number was observed on left side of the grip frame, underneath the grip. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in New York style with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with small flower blossoms in the lower front gullets. Each side of the bbl boss is engraved in a checkerboard pattern with feather patterns down the top strap. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend most of the length of the bbl with a well-executed fan pattern at top of the back strap. Cylinder is engraved in Helfricht style with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and a foliate spray at rear edges of flutes and a scalloped border around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in .45 cal. with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, sold to G.D. Willis and shipped to Bronson & Townsend, New Haven, CT on March 6, 1922 in a one gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with one small pencil eraser sized spot of pitting on left side of muzzle. Appears to be new & unfired. Grips fit well and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-36596 (22,500-27,500)
SCARCE COLT HARTFORD/LONDON MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 233. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved 1-line “SAML COLT. LONDON.” with engraved serifs at each end. Left side of frame has the English style “COLT’S PATENT” with the “P” and the “A” only partially visible. It has Hartford style hammer spur checkering with Hartford flat screws and loop small brass trigger guard and back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with SN partially visible in back strap channel. Left side of bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. According to Colt’s Pocket ’49, Jordan & Watt, only about 250 of these scarce revolvers were ever produced and that less than 50 had this engraved address. Altogether making this a very rare variation. PROVENANCE: Dr. Robert A. Bettis Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 25-30% flaked orig blue with balance a smooth blue/gray patina. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors, stronger & brighter on right side. Cylinder retains a smooth flaked blue/gray patina with a small ding on front edge and overall retains about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig strong silver plating with only light edge wear. Grip is sound with light nicks & dings and a couple of small gouges on right side and retains 75-80% orig varnish under a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with fine pitting. 4-39307 JR158 (3,500-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 DA REVOLVER. SN 22945. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address with a tiny “45” on bottom under base pin. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips and has a lanyard swivel in the butt. Left side of grip frame under the grip has the assembly number “253” which number was also observed on the loading gate. Cylinder, which is usually matching numbered to the revolver has four or five different sets of three numbers, none of which match. Engraving, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop, possibly by the master himself, consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with a flower blossom on right side around hammer screw and a large geometric rosette on left side. Foliate arabesque patterns extend nearly full length on each side of bbl with a wavy border pattern around the bbl address terminating in geometric patterns. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns on each side which extend down the rear edge of frame by hammer slot. Top of back strap and rear of recoil shield are engraved in various geometric patterns as are the back strap & trigger guard. Cylinder has Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: About good. Overall retains 30-40% orig nickel finish with balance gray metal color. Engraving on left side of bbl shows heavy wear with pitting on ejector rod housing. Cylinder also shows heavy wear with fine pitting. Grips are sound showing great fire & color. Hammer spring has been lightened and cylinder doesn’t lock tight, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-36759 JR132 (2,500-4,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1908 POCKET PISTOL. SN 61542. Cal. 25 ACP. Blue finish with 2″ bbl, fixed sights and mounted with Colt deep gold medallion smooth pearl grips. Frame & slide are lightly engraved, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop, with foliate arabesque patterns that have punch dot background. Left side of slide has a wavy line border below and a wavy zig zag border above the slide markings. Rear of slide is engraved in a fan pattern with a foliate arabesque pattern on rear of frame and grip safety. Trigger bow is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a foliate spray on toe of front strap. Right rear side of frame has a flower blossom around the thumb safety stud hole. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this pistol as found, in 25 caliber with 2″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Abercrombie & Fitch, New York, NY on Dec. 23, 1911 in a one gun shipment. Few of these little pocket pistols were ever engraved. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains 93-94% strong orig blue, slightly thinned over slide with muzzle & sharp edge wear. Grip safety, thumb safety & trigger are mostly gray metal patina with traces of case colors. Left grip has a repaired crack through escutcheon with a large chip missing from front edge. Right grip is fine.Magazine is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-39713 (3,500-4,500)
VERY EARLY INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY USED BY A CONFEDERATE OFFICER. SN 104. Cal. 44. First year fluted Army with 8” rnd bbl, German silver front sight and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT” and the silver-plated trigger guard and back strap contain a beautiful, solid, one piece ivory grip with the serial number in two places in the back strap channel. The back strap is inscribed in period script “T.K. Jackson U.S.A.”. This revolver was either presented to or purchased by Jackson when still a US Army officer, and carried by him after he resigned his commission and served in the Army of the Confederacy. This being the very earliest model, the outside of the cylinder does not have the patent date or serial number. Serial number is on the rear face of the cylinder between two of the nipples. It also has the serial number on the left side of the rammer handle. It additionally has inspector’s initials “JT” on the butt strap with a “T” on various other parts, including the bottom of the grip. The cylinder was dbl-struck with “TT”. These marks are for the inspector John Taylor, who only inspected 1860 revolvers from 1861-1862. Accompanied by seven page letter by noted Colt researcher, historian and author R.L. Wilson detailing much of the above information. Mr. Wilson speculates that Mr. Jackson was someone of importance or had connections at the Colt plant in order to obtain one of the very first 1860 Army revolvers produced, with the hand engraved “Saml Colt” address and inscribed back strap. Mr. Wilson states that this revolver is a hand-built specimen as were most of the very earliest of each Model Colt revolver. Mr. Wilson thought so highly of this earliest of Models 1860 that he featured the back strap inscription of this revolver in color on page 155 of THE COLT ENGRAVING BOOK VOLUME ONE, Wilson. Mr. Wilson, in his letter, speculates that this revolver could not have been delivered any later than April 15, 1861 and was likely delivered late in 1860. Thomas K. Jackson was born in South Carolina and appointed to West Point for the Class of 1848. He attended West Point from July 1, 1844 until July 1, 1848, graduating 25th in his class. He was promoted to 2nd Lt. in the 5th Infantry and served throughout the south and southwest, being promoted to 1st Lt. in 1855. He was an instructor at West Point from Dec. 1857 to Jan. 1858 and returned to frontier duty until 1861 when he resigned his commission and joined the Confederate army. It appears that Jackson became a captain in the commissary department under Gen. Albert Johnston where he served at various postings until his unit, under Gen. Buckner, surrendered at Ft. Donelson, TN. Apparently he remained a prisoner until the end of the war, after which he has been shown to have been a farmer and merchant in Gainesville, AL after 1866. PROVENANCE: Charles Radcliffe Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge, rammer, hammer and grip. Metal retains an even light gray patina overall, having been cleaned a long time ago. Cyl. has traces of gold wash in the cyl. stop notches. Four of the 6 safety pins are intact. Frame retains traces of smokey case colors in the sheltered areas, otherwise is a light gray patina also. Grip frame retains about 80% original silver plating with light pimpling on the butt strap and loose silver-plating with dark patina on the back strap. Grips have a couple of age lines and a very old scratch near the frame and a minuscule chip at the heel. They are a beautiful light “streaky” mellow gold color. Strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-39638 JR382 (15,000-20,000)
SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 87334. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 3-line patent dates on frame and caliber marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with extraordinary 2-pc pearl grips with carved ox head on the right side that has red ruby or garnet eyes. The area of the grip that meets the frame is lined with silver plating, pinned in place. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are engraved by Cuno Helfricht with large sunbursts on left recoil shield & loading gate. Balance of the frame is covered with foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and has snake & dot patterns in the lower front gullets and both sides of top strap. Each side of the bbl has a large spray of foliate patterns emanating from a blossom. The third type ejector rod housing, with its bull’s eye ejector rod head, is engraved with snake & dot pattern in the gullet and geometric patterns on the outer radius. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with snake & dot patterns in the flutes and around rear edge. Incorporated in the engraved designs are the crenulated, circular punch-marks in two different sizes. These are unique to Helfricht’s work. These marks are exhibited in examples of Helfricht’s works on pp 439 of Vol I of R.L. Wilson’s book of Colt engravings, as well pp. 448 & 445. Rear face of the cyl is stamped with the last three digits of the serial number. In addition the last three digits of serial number are on bottom of the bbl, under the ejector rod housing. Accompanied by a modern blue-velvet lined oak casing, French fitted in the bottom for the revolver. Right front corner has a triangular shaped cartridge block containing 6 fired cases. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in .45 cal. with 5-1/2″ bbl, Nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved, shipped to Simmons Hardware Company, St. Louis, MO, on Feb. 10, 1883 in a shipment of 10 same type guns. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains what appears to be virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish, the gun appears to be in spectacular condition, edges are sharp, engraving has appropriate high points, marks are strong, however if you remove the cylinder and look at the inside of the top strap and recoil shield there are a couple of very small spots of pitting under the nickel, which leads on to believe it is re-plated. It’s possible that the inside of the frame was not completely finished down before the orig nickeling was applied, otherwise the gun has all the appearances of being an untouched, orig, plated gun? There are a few small discoloration spots, one on left side of bbl and another on the cyl, that with careful attention may polish out. There are a couple of small spots on cyl that are the beginnings of some slight bubbling in the nickel. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-36620 (30,000-40,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1855 ROOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 26778. Cal. 28. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address without pointing hand motif. It has 5-shot fluted cylinder matching numbered to this revolver and is mounted with 1-pc fancy burl walnut grip. Revolver is beautifully factory engraved with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap is engraved in period script “Wm Mure Esq / with Col Colt’s Compliments”. A brief internet search disclosed that there was a William Mure (1799-1860) who was a politician and scholar and the Laird of Caldwell in North Ayrshire, Scotland. Samuel Colt’s only son was named Caldwell. Accompanied by an orig blue velvet lined mahogany Colt casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, an early dbl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, a 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” brass mold with sprue cutter, a tin of Goldmarks caps and a reproduction packet of cartridges. While Model 1855 Root revolvers are not uncommon, they are rarely found cased and even less common are engraved models but a Samuel Colt presentation piece is one of the most rare of all Colt revolvers. PROVENANCE: Col Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Fine, matching including cylinder. Overall retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish to both metal & wood. Grip is sound with a gouge in right side and a few minor nicks & scratches. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case has loose left rear & right front corners, a hairline in the lid and slightly warped lid, otherwise is sound with a series of scrapes across the front edge. Interior is lightly faded and moderately to heavily soiled in the bottom with a couple of loose partitions. Flask is fine, mold is extremely fine. 4-39446 JR95 (6,000-10,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 SHERIFF’S MODEL FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER DA REVOLVER. SN 12926. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side with a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl just forward of base pin. Left front web of trigger guard is stamped “44 CF”. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips without lanyard swivel whose hole has been plugged at the factory prior to finishing. Serial number was observed in the usual place on toe of grip frame, however there is no corresponding number on rear face of cylinder although there is no doubt this is the orig cylinder. Left side of grip frame under the grip has the assembly number “104” which number is partially visible on loading gate. Revolver is engraved by the Cuno Helfricht shop with about 75% coverage on frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with geometric and snake & dot patterns. Left side of frame has a fine detailed rosette on sideplate with spider web and snake & dot patterns. Top strap has snake & dot patterns with hunter’s stars on each side of bbl boss. Engraving extends about 3/4 up the bbl on each side with snake & dot patterns the rest of the way. There are snake & dot patterns around bbl address which terminate in geometric patterns. Back strap & trigger guard are engraved in geometric patterns. Cylinder is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating sunbursts and foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Revolver apparently had suffered poor storage and had become rusted and some unknowing individual has cleaned it with a wire wheel. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal color with scattered spots of light to moderate pitting. Etched panel, although cleaned, is still completely legible. Left grip has a repair at the heel, otherwise they are sound with a few minor age lines and retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with sharp rifling & moderate pitting. 4-36775 JR133 (2,500-4,000)
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 20146. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 2-line address with “NEW SERVICE CAL. 44” on the left side. Mounted with smooth 2-pc pearl grips and has a lanyard swivel in the butt strap. Revolver has 40-50% coverage well-executed foliate arabesque patterns, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Engraving consists of foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background and geometric patterns. Rear edge of cylinder has a snake pattern with a vine & leaf pattern on lower left side of frame. Lower front side of the crane has a small flower blossom with snake & dot patterns on top strap. Top of back strap has small sunburst patterns with geometric patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Serial number was observed in usual places on frame inside crane, on the crane and the last two digits are on rear face of cylinder. Engraved New Service revolvers are very rare. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of a fine factory quality restored finish with thinning blue on trigger and strong fire-blue on back edge of hammer. Grips have a chipped left toe with a few minor age lines and overall retain great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-36753 JR128 (2,500-4,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED INVENTOR PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 2 1855 ROOT SIDE HAMMER POCKET REVOLVER TO JAMES E. BIRCH OWNER OF THE “JACKASS MAIL”. SN 830. Cal. 28. All blue finish with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, usual address on top flat with pointing hand motif. It has 5-shot unfluted cylinder with cabin & Indian fight scene. Mounted with fancy burled walnut 1-pc grip. Revolver is factory engraved with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Back strap is engraved in period script “James E. Birch / From the Inventor / Saml Colt”. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided correct size E Pluribus Unum eagle flask, a 2-cavity blued “COLT’S PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a rare wood handle flat blade screw driver and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. While Root revolvers are not uncommon, cased ones are quite rare and engraved inventor presentation pieces are extremely rare. James E. Birch was owner of the “Jackass Mail” (the first real “fast” mail in the West)a stagecoach line that ran from San Antonio, TX to San Diego, CA from July 9, 1857 to December 1858. He of course predated the famous Pony Express which is generally given credit as the first “fast” mail. A very nice gun presented to a historic figure of the old West. CONDITION: Very good to fine, matching including cylinder. Overall retains 50-60% orig blue, stronger in sheltered areas turning plum elsewhere with some minor surface etching on the bbl. Cylinder is a gray/brown patina and overall retains 60-70% Cabin/Indian fight scene. Grip shows light edge wear with a tiny chip in the toe and retains most of its orig varnish. Cyl pin crossbolt retainer screw and spring are missing and the cascable from the cylinder pin is also missing. Some of the screws are slightly battered. Mechanics are fine, dark pitted bore. Case has a repaired crack by the left rear hinge and a small crack in right front corner of lid, otherwise is completely sound with light storage & handling marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with moderate soil in the bottom and damage from the front sight. Partitions are solid. Flask has a few minor dings & dents and retains 25-30% orig finish. Other accessories are fine. 4-39105 JR94 (10,000-15,000)
FINE ANTIQUE HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 130504. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, very slightly altered front sight, 2-line address with left side roll-marked in a ribbon “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”, and there is a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl under base pin. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with a deep relief carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s deluxe patterns with full coverage on frame consisting of his sunburst patterns on recoil shield and loading gate with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame and a snake & dot pattern on each side of top strap. Cylinder pin boss and ejector rod boss are engraved in hunters’ stars with zig-zag and snake & dot patterns in lower gullet and foliate arabesque patterns on bbl boss. Engraving extends nearly full length on sides of bbl with a dbl wavy line border around bbl address which terminates in Moorish geometric patterns. Top flute and outer radius of ejector rod housing are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Cylinder has alternating foliate arabesque patterns and sunbursts on lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern at rear edge. Top of back strap has Helfricht’s typical fan pattern with Moorish geometric patterns down back strap, on butt strap & trigger guard. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 44-40, 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Jan. 10, 1890 in a shipment of five same type guns. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: About fine. Overall retains about 90% orig factory nickel finish with exposed areas bare metal barely distinguishable from nickel finish. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue, slightly dulled with evidence of having been removed at least once. Grips are sound with an internal escutcheon repair and retain great fire & color. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good rifling and moderate pitting. 4-36821 JR84 (15,000-25,000)
RARE GUSTAVE YOUNG DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 210552. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with desirable 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and large guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Cylinder is scarce 6-shots with stagecoach holdup scene. Engraving consists of full coverage, extra fine detailed & shaded Gustave Young foliate arabesque patterns with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Right side of frame has a scroll terminating in his stylized dog’s head. Matching extra fine & extra detailed engraved extends over bbl lug and top side flats with a scroll on left side terminating in another dog’s head with others on right side terminating in flower blossoms. Top flat is engraved in chip & wavy line borders on each side of bbl address which terminate in delicate geometric patterns. Muzzle end of bbl has a very fine chip border pattern. Rammer pivot, back strap & trigger guard have matching fine foliate arabesque patterns with top of back strap also having fine foliate arabesque patterns with a scroll terminating in Mr. Young’s dog’s head pattern. Tips of ears of back strap are engraved to match and sides of ears engraved with his light sunburst patterns. Butt strap is engraved with delicate arabesque pattern that matches the one on the bbl. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on sides, a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose with foliate patterns down top edge and standard checkered spur. Screw heads are also deluxe engraved and engraving all has a very fine punch dot background. This is the style of engraving that Mr. Young reserved for his special presentation pieces, obviously requiring substantially more time to accomplish. The back strap engraving is most unusual and certainly out of the norm for Mr. Young’s patterns. According to Colt’s Pocket ’49, Jordan & Watt, there were only about 300 5-shot 1-line New York address revolvers ever engraved, this one having received deluxe treatment makes it extremely rare. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: About very good, all matching including wedge & grip. Steel parts overall retain a smooth plummy/brown patina with traces of blue in most sheltered areas on bbl and some fine pitting around muzzle. Frame & hammer are matching patina with none of engraving showing much wear. Hammer nose has been slightly dressed. Cylinder is a thin plum/brown patina with a few spots of light pitting and retains about 65-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap are without exposed silver and retain a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-39427 JR244 (5,000-8,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 78278. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with “COLT. D.A. 41″ in a ribbon on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with beautiful thick pearl grips with deep relief carved ox head on right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in 41 caliber, 4-1/2” bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips, factory engraved and shipped to J. Petmecky, Austin, TX, on Sept. 11, 1898, in a shipment of two same type guns. A preliminary Google search disclosed that Joseph Carl Petmecky first appeared in Texas in about 1845 and by 1860 was an established gunsmith and gun dealership at 507 Congress Ave. in Austin. One of the sites had a picture of an aged man titled “J.C. Petmecky at his shop in 1925”. Revolver has nearly full coverage Cuno Helfricht engraving consisting of full coverage on the frame with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunbursts on recoil shield and loading gate, with the balance foliate arabesque and geometric patterns. Engraving extends most of the length of the sides of the bbl with chip border patterns around the address terminating in beautiful foliate & geometric patterns just behind front sight. Top of back strap has a zig zag cross pattern with snake pattern in the bars and geometric patterns down back strap and on trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with alternating geometric and foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes and has a snake & dot pattern at rear edge. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including cylinder, except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains about 93-95% of its orig factory nickel on the frame, bbl & grip frame with some minor losses on front & back straps and the very tip of muzzle end of bbl and some minor pitting on tip of ejector rod housing. Cylinder retains about 80% orig nickel with some pimpling in the flutes. Grips are outstanding with a couple of minor age lines and are completely sound retaining great fire. Screws retain most of their orig fire blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-36773 JR123 (4,000-7,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 316493. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig front sight with 2-line address with “NEW SERVICE 45 COLT” on left side. Mounted with beautiful smooth factory pearl grips with deep left & right Colt medallions. Revolver has about 40-50% coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving with elliptical foliate arabesque patterns on cylinder on lands between the flutes. Top of back strap, at the heel on butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with small hunter stars on each side of the ejector rod boss. Engraving appears to be from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Butt strap has a factory installed lanyard swivel. Left side of butt strap, under grip, is stamped “N 701” which number appears on front face of cylinder around cyl pin and on bottom of bbl, in addition to a small 6-pointed star inside the crane on the frame. The star on the frame indicates factory refinish and the number “701” is the refinish assembly number from the factory. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains most of its fine factory nickel finish with some light dulling from handling and a couple of tiny scrapes on back strap. Toe of front strap has some very fine pimpling and very minor losses of nickel. Grips are outstanding and sound, retaining great fire & color. Mechanics are a little cranky in double action, probably just a minor adjustment, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36746 JR127 (3,000-5,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 30076. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, 1-line New-York U.S. America address with “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon on left side of frame. Left rear web of trigger guard is stamped with caliber marking and silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a beautiful deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. It has usual 5-shot fluted cylinder that has the last four digits of SN on rear face on lands between the nipple recesses. Frame & bbl lug are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in late vine pattern consisting of very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with plain background. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Sides of bbl, over the lug have matching engraving with sweeping ribbons terminating in foliate patterns, with one scroll on left side terminating in a bird’s head and others in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over bbl and terminates on top in front of address. Muzzle is engraved with a dbl chip pattern. Hammer has Mr. Young’s treatment with foliate arabesque patterns on sides, a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose with fish scale patterns down sides of spur and top edge of hammer and a hand cut checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with sunbursts on sides of backstrap ears and foliate arabesque patterns near top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. The SN’s on bbl lug, frame & butt strap are accompanied by a small “E” indicating extra polish for engraving. This revolver was Exhibit #85 in the 1942 Metropolitan Museum of Art Exhibit of Colt Percussion Firearms. At that time it was on loan from the very famous Parsons Collection. PROVENANCE: John Parsons Collection; Metropolitan Museum Exhibit. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 88-90% strong glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer & handle retain all of their orig case colors, strong & bright. Frame & hammer retain about all of their strong, bright orig case colors with some slight thinning on left side. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 90% strong orig silver plating. Cylinder retains about 60% glossy orig blue, strong & bright in flutes & rebated area, thin on raised lands between the flutes. Grip is sound showing light edge wear and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-39940 (30,000-40,000)
WONDERFUL CASED ETCHED PANEL COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 108483. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter Hartford address and the etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” forward of base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and “44 CF” on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with highly figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip that has four digits of SN that appear to be “4047” inside the backstrap channel. Inside frontstrap channel of the grip is the pencil name “L.A. BRASH” or possibly “LA BRASH”. Although this grip appears to be numbered to another revolver there is no question that it fits perfectly and has been installed about the lifetime of the revolver. Bottom of bbl & cyl have tiny British proofs. Top strap is engraved “COGSWELL & HARRISON / 226 STRAND. LONDON.”. Accompanied by a red baize lined leather trunk case with decorated lid and an empty scalloped-corner brass plaque in the center. Inside the lid has a paper Cogswell & Harrison label. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a brass & ebony cleaning rod, an ebony handled turn screw, a pewter Dixon oil bottle and in the front is a small leather label gold embossed “HUW D. WALTERS”. Two covered compartments with ivory pulls are empty. Front center compartment has a leather cartridge block for 32-rds, which contains twenty-one loaded rds and eleven fired cases. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with nickel finish shipped to Colt’s London Agency, Pall Mall London on Aug. 20, 1885 in a shipment of twelve same type guns. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of its orig factory nickel finish with some fine pimpling on right side of bbl and front of frame with some areas turning milky. Recoil shield & loading gate are slightly dulled with some spotting on frame. Trigger guard & backstrap are milky. Cylinder has some minor discoloration in flutes with dulling on about 30% of circumference. Face of cyl is gray metal color. Grip is sound with moderately worn edges and a small gouge by left heel and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case is very fine with light scuffing. Interior is lightly faded. 4-38591 JR205 (18,000-23,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 155002. Cal. 31. Nickel finish with desirable 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Sam. Colt” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a kidney shaped panel and the large guard silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc ivory grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene. Engraving consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving patterns extend over bbl lug & top side flats with one scroll on left side terminating in a dog’s head with others on right side terminating in flower blossoms. Rammer pivot, back strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s standard fan pattern with sunbursts on sides of back strap ears. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on sides and a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Hammer spur has an extended hand checkered pattern with dbl V-shaped lines below. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 70% strong orig nickel with some fine pimpling. Loss areas are on bbl lug and top flats which are a cleaned gray metal patina. Frame retains 70-75% orig nickel with cleaned area on right recoil shield. Hammer retains about 65-70% orig nickel with hammer nose having been dressed. Cylinder retains traces of orig nickel being mostly a cleaned metal patina and retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their orig silver plating. Grip is outstanding and sound with good clean edges and retains a light ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. 4-39415 JR243 (5,000-8,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 12774. Cal 44. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and no bbl address. Left side of the frame has a small “COLTS PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.” The silver plated trigger guard and backstrap contain a checkered 1-pc walnut grip with matching serial number in the backstrap channel. Grip is very nicely checkered with single line border and a small oval silver plaque on the right side with what appears to be a brand or combined initials that are either “KL”, “LK” or some other unknown symbol. Cyl is usual 6-shots with Dragoon/Indian fight scene and usual markings. Three of the safety pins are completely serviceable. Bbl lug is very nicely engraved in early doughnut patterns, probably by master engraver L.D. Nimschke or at least from his shop. Sides of the lug have full coverage engraving which extends onto the top three flats with a simple line border. Muzzle has a double chip border. Backstrap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s spider web fan pattern at the top with foliate arabesque patterns near the top and at the heel. Sides of the backstrap ears are engraved in sunburst patterns. Trigger guard is engraved with light foliate arabesque patterns on the bow and shoulders. This most unusual Dragoon appears to have been either a special order piece or possibly a practice piece as the serial numbers on the trigger guard and buttstrap are nearly obliterated which was done prior to silver plating. Engraving is definitely period as is the silver plating on the grip frame. Altogether an unusual and very different Dragoon. This revolver was featured on pg. 64 of the book COLT FIREARMS, Serven. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge, which is un-numbered. Bbl retains 30-35% bright, high-polish blue with the balance a mottled silver-brown patina. Rammer and handle retains smoky case colors somewhat stronger on the rammer. Frame is a cleaned silver-gray patina with very fine pin prick pitting. Cyl is a thin blue-gray patina with a few light nicks on the front edge and retains 75-80% Dragoon/Indian fight scene with the Ormsby signature still visible. All other legends on the cyl are also still visible. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy wear and retains a dark hand-worn patina. Trigger guard and backstrap retain thin silver plating in the most sheltered areas being generally a medium mustard patina. Left end of the wedge is cracked around the spring rivet area. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with fine scattered pitting. 4-39686 JR394 (25,000-35,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT NEW SERVICE DA REVOLVER. SN 332204. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with gold inlaid bead and fixed groove rear sight in top strap. Left side of bbl is inlaid in gold “NEW SERVICE 45 COLT” and is mounted with faux pearl grips with gold Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved with about 40% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with very fine stippled background. Sideplate is inlaid with a small, flat gold rampant Colt. Both sides of frame have a gold wire inlay completely around cylinder opening. Cylinder has gold wire inlay around flutes and front edges of the lands between the flutes and has a gold wire band back of the flutes. Bbl has a wide and a narrow gold wire band inlay around the muzzle and also at the chamber end. The narrow gold wire band at the chamber end extends over the top of the bbl, around the address and terminates in a geometric pattern. Heel of back strap, butt strap & trigger bow have gold wire inlaid geometric patterns. Buttstrap has a factory lanyard loop. Right side of frame, below the cylinder opening, is engraved “Glimm Engr.” Jerome Glimm, Conrad, MT, is a self taught engraver who has been working full time since 1987. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains about all of its deep custom blue, does not appear to have been fired since engraving. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-39270 JR286 (2,000-3,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED METROPOLITAN POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3240. Cal .36. Silver finish with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl and tiny dovetail front sight with 1-line “METROPOLITAN ARMS CO NEW-YORK” address. It has 5-shot fluted, rebated cyl with safety recesses on the lands between the nipples. Silver plated brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a one piece smooth ivory grip. Only about 2,750 of these revolvers were produced in the period 1864-1866, and of that total only about 1,600 had marked bbls. Obviously only a minute portion of that small number were cased and even fewer were engraved and plated, making this a truly rare specimen. These revolvers are almost identical to the Colt Model 1862 Police with the exception of the rammer, which on this revolver is articulated, in two pieces with the Colt Model 1862 rammer of the rack and pinion type. Engraving is by master engraver L.D. Nimschke and consists of full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over the sides of the bbls and terminates in front of the address, with matching engraving on the rammer pivot and lands between the flutes on the cylinder. Top of the back strap has Mr. Nimschke’s typical fan pattern with matching foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap, on the butt strap and trigger guard. Hammer also received his deluxe treatment of foliate arabesque pattern on the sides with fishscale patterns on the sides of the spur and top edge of the hammer, with highly detailed wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, double sided flask with foliate pattern, a two cavity blued steel Manhattan Arms marked mold with sprue cutter, L-shaped nipple wrench, an open packet of five combustible cartridges and a lacquered tin of Ely’s caps. Case has a mortised brass lock in the front edge with the locking tang removed and is loose in one compartment. Accompanied by a large volume of research material compiled by the consignor and his family regarding the provenance of this revolver and his family history as relates to the famous scout Kit Carson having given this revolver to Lt. E.F. Beale and its descendancey down to the consignor. That Lt. Beale and Kit Carson were close personal friends is of absolutely no doubt and it is well documented that Mr. Carson also gave Lt. Beale his Hawken plains rifle which Lt. Beale’s son, Truxton, presented to Theodore Roosevelt who in turn presented it to the Boone & Crockett Club where is it currently on display. Edward Fitzgerald Beale was born Feb. 1822 in Washington, DC into a military family and, through family connections was appointed to the Naval Academy by President Andrew Jackson, graduating in 1842. In Oct. 1845 as acting sailing master of the frigate Congress under the command of Commodore Robert Stockton, he sailed for California, but 20 days out Stockton dispatched Beale back to Washington with important dispatches, reaching Washington in March 1846. He was promoted to the grade of Master and in May of 1846 overtook and rejoined the “Congress”, reaching Monteray, CA on July 20. By that time the war with Mexico had begun and Commodore Stockton dispatched Beale to serve with the land forces. He and a small body of men under Lt. Archibald Gillespie joined Gen. Stephen Kerney’s column just before the disastrous Battle of San Pasqual on Dec. 6, 1846. The Mexican army had surrounded the small American force and threatened to destroy it when Beale, Kit Carson and his Delaware Indian’s servant crawled through the Mexican lines and made their way to San Diego for reinforcements, which saved the American force. Over the next two years Beale made six or seven more journeys across country frequently in company with Kit Carson, carrying dispatches and along with Kit Carson brought proof to the federal government of the discovery of gold in CA. Beale resigned in 1851 and returned to CA as the manager for a company owned by Commodore Stockton and a Mr. Aspinwall, in the new territory. Beale became superintendent of Indian affairs for CA and NV and later surveyed the route for the Trans-Continental Railroad. In 1856 he was appointed Brigadier Gen. of the CA state militia. In 1857 President Buchanan appointed Beale to survey a wagon road from Ft. Defiance New Mexico territory to the Colorado River. That survey also incorporated the experimental use of camels in crossing desert regions. The camels performed well but they scared the horses and mules so the army abandoned the experiment. Descendants of those camels still roam the Arizona desert today. In 1861 President Lincoln appointed Beale surveyor General of CA and NV. After the Civil War Beale retired to Rancho Tejon, part of the 270,000 acres he had acquired near present-day Bakersfield, CA and later purchased the Decatur house in Washington, DC. In 1876 President Grant appointed Beale minister to Austria-Hungary, a post he held for a year. Grant also suggested Beale to be Secretary of the Navy under President Arthur, but President Arthur preferred someone else. Beale died at the Decatur house in April 1893. Accompanied by a book which is inscribed to “Harold Marsh Sewall from his friend Truxton Beale”, which is a biography of Lt. Beale, Edward Fitzgerald Beale, A Pioneer in the Path of Empire 1822-1903, Stephen Bonsal published in 1912. According to a signed and notarized statement from the consignor, this revolver was given to Lt. Beale by Kit Carson who then passed it to Mr. Y.S. Walter who founded the Delaware County Republican newspaper in Chester, PA who then passed it down through his granddaughter’s family, the Stiner’s where in about 1960 it was given as a gift from Marie Stiner to consignor’s father, Wendell G. Shaw (1925-1988), from whom the consignor inherited it. Both the Walter’s and the Beale’s had a long family history in Chester, PA and were involved in Republican politics at the same time. Also accompanied by a very old and brittle yellowed piece of paper about 9″ x 4-3/4″ which bears the handwritten in ink historical information “owned by Kit Carson; the great scout / Presented to Lt. E.F. Beal —– Presented to the Hon YS Walter —– Who was the grandfather of my wife / Now the property of Edw. Stiner”. Also accompanied by an 8″ x 10″ b/w photo of consignor’s father displaying this revolver and case. The same photo appears in a newspaper clipping from the Portland Press Herald of March 28, 1964. Beale Air Force Base in CA is named after Lt. Beale. CONDITION: Revolver is fine to very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 75-80% strong orig silver plating with the loss areas a medium to dark patina. Frame, cylinder, hammer and grip frame retain most of their orig silver plating, somewhat thin and oxidized on the cylinder. Grip is sound showing little or no wear and retains crisp edges and a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks at the bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling and storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with moderate soil in the bottom with damage from the front sight and hammer spur. Flask has a few minor dents, otherwise is sound with a dark brass patina. Mold is very fine, retains most of its orig factory blue. Cartridge packet is soiled and missing top. Cap tin is very fine. 4-39672 JR380 (6,000-10,000)
HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 145117. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with cal marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle and is mounted with fine 1-pc ivory grip. Engraving consists of nearly full coverage Cuno Helfricht foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame and Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on recoil shield and loading gate. Front of frame has a foliate spray on left side of base pin boss and outside of ejector rod boss. Top strap has snake & dot pattern on each side with a very fine rope pattern around sight groove. Engraving extends up sides of bbl with a wavy line & dot pattern around the bbl address that terminates in a geometric pattern. Ejector rod housing has a snake & dot pattern in the gullet and on outside radius. Cyl is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark alternating foliate spray and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. Rear edge of cyl has a snake & dot pattern with another very fine chip border pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s trademark fan pattern with sunbursts on outside of back strap ears. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in fine line geometric patterns. Grip has been repaired inside using Fiberglas on the spacer block and base pin is a replacement. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks not listed and factory engraved, shipped to Roberts, Willis & Taylor Co., Sherman, TX on Feb. 29, 1892 in a 2-gun shipment. Consignor requested that we note that the members of the Dalton gang ordered and received engraved Colts thru Roberts, Willis & Taylor that same year. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching incl cyl except grip which is unnumbered. Overall retains most of a restored nickel finish with holster wear around muzzle and end of ejector rod housing. Front sides of frame by the forcing cone and front face of cyl are moderately pitted. Repaired grip is sound showing very little wear, has small age lines in bottom edges and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-39753 JR361 (11,500-17,500)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 205978. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, rare dovetailed front sight with small German silver blade and “Saml Colt” engraved bbl address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard brass trigger guard & back strap contain a fine, smooth, 1-pc ivory grip with last four digits of SN in back strap channel. It has the scarce 6-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. Engraving consists of Mr. Young’s foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background in full coverage on frame & sides of hammer with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms and the hammer having a wolf’s head on each side of nose with checkered hammer spur that has a straight line below. Engraving patterns extend over sides of bbl lug and top side flats with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s minimal fan pattern with sunbursts on each side of back strap ears. According to Colt’s Pocket ’49, Jordan & Watt, this revolver falls in the 1-line New York address serial range and in that series only about 3,100 were estimated to have been engraved. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except wedge (#5526). Bbl retains a plummy/blue patina with blue in the most sheltered areas. Rammer & handle retain mottled dark case colors. Frame is an even plum/blue patina as is the hammer which also has light pitting on each side of hammer nose. Cylinder is a plum/gray patina with a couple of small spots of pitting and a few small nicks around front edge and overall retains 70-75% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain silver in sheltered areas being mostly a light mustard patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with some shine and moderate pitting. 4-39426 JR241 (4,000-6,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ROSEWOOD CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 147666 &147677. Cal. 36. Nearly identically engraved, this beautiful pair of 51 Navys has 7-1/2″ oct bbls, number 147677 has a brass pin front sight and number 147666 has a dovetailed Rocky Mountain front sight and small fixed rear sight at breech end of the bbl. Both have 1-line New-York U.S. America addresses. Serial numbers on both revolvers, in the four locations on bottom, are accompanied by small “E”‘s indicating they were to be engraved. They have large silver plated rnd brass trigger guards and back straps with extraordinary checkered 1-pc ivory grips with both left sides deep relief carved with the scene of an eagle feeding its young in the nest. Both grips have their matching full SN’s in pencil in back strap channels. It is the opinion of this cataloger that these grips were carved by Gustave Young. Both revolvers are silver finished with fire blued screws and are nearly identically engraved by Colt master engraver Gustave Young in his extra deluxe coverage with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frames. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. The frame on #147677 is engraved over the “COLTS PATENT”, which remains on #147666. The bbls are nearly identically engraved with full coverage on the lugs which extends onto the top side flats with a chip & dot borders around the addresses. Left side of lugs each have a scroll which terminates in a dog’s head. Rammer pivots are engraved to match. Unusually for Mr. Young, these revolvers also have his intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the cylinders. Both revolvers have deluxe coverage on the hammers with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer noses and hand cut checkering on hammer spurs. Tops of back straps have Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the tops and at the heels, on butt straps & trigger guards. Centers of back straps are open presentation panels. Accompanied by their orig deluxe brass-bound rosewood double casing with an empty diamond panel in the lid. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, a beautiful silver, dbl-sided angle-spout Navy-sized flask with trophies of arms & flags surmounted by an American eagle & shield with thirteen stars & crossed revolvers over the top. Compartments also contain a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, two lacquered tins of caps, a packet of combustible cartridges and a small silver plated pewter oil bottle. There is also a functioning key for the mortised brass lock which has a diamond shaped brass escutcheon. This is truly an exceptional and rare set that should be researched further in hopes of determining for whom it was created. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedges, cylinders & grips. Both revolvers are nearly identical in condition retaining 60-70% orig silver plating, thin on frames. Cylinders are mostly silver/brown patina. Grip frames have thin front & back straps with exposed brass a medium to dark mustard patina. Grips are sound with a few age lines, showing light wear and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. The wedge spring on #147677 is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores with a few very small scattered spots of pitting. Case has a couple of small hairlines with crackled surface on the lid and a few cracks in the bottom with handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded in the lid, moderately faded in bottom with moderate soil and one loose partition. Flask has a couple of small dings in the bottom edge, otherwise is extremely fine and retains virtually all of its orig silver. Other accessories are also fine. 4-39109 JR102 (50,000-60,000)
STRIKING COLT 1883 HAMMERLESS SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN. Cal. 12 ga. 30″ Damascus steel bbls, concave rib with sgl brass sighting bead, MOD/MOD choke, 2-3/4″ chambers, extractors and dbl triggers. Top rib is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.”. The box lock receiver is minimally engraved with various border styles and circular border around pins. Bottom bbl lug through frame has a diamond checkered pattern. and trigger plate is marked “PATENTED/AUG.22,1882, SEP,19,1882,”. Mounted with extremely colorful walnut, checkered rnd knob pistol grip, checkered hard rubber buttplate with Rampant Colt, checkered splinter forend, slight schnabel with triangular ebony insert. Bore diameter: left -.734, right -.737. Bore restrictions: left -.025, right -.030. Wall thickness: left -.029, right -.028. Drop at heel: 2-3/16″, drop at comb: 1-13/16″. Weight: 7lbs. 13oz. LOP 14-3/8″. The 1883 hammerless shotgun was generally a custom ordered gun with no standard grades being designated. Quality was extremely high, as well as cost of manufacturing keeping production low, it was one of the most expensive shotguns during its day. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain virtually all of their beautifully Damascus pattern with just a few minor nicks & scratches. Receiver retains thinning orig case colors, strong on sides and protected areas, thinning on trigger plate and blending with silver patina across bottom. Trigger bow retains much of its fine niter blue with some minor nicks & scratches across bow and worn and blending with silver patina through grip. Stock is sound with sharp checkering, with a couple minor flattened points, retaining orig finish, with numerous minor small nicks & handling marks and a serious of faint button or zipper scratches on left side. Buttplate is in extremely fine condition. Forend is sound with very good checkering, a few minor flattened points, some minor nicks & dings and retaining most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp with auto-safety, shiny bores with a couple very shallow pits in each bbl. 4-39799 BDT103 (3,000-5,000)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 11215. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard has the caliber marking, which has been engraved over. It has usual rebated 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. Silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a wonderful checkered ivory 1-pc grip. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame & recoil shields with a heavy dbl chip border around the lower right side. Engraving extends over bbl lug with fine diamond patterns in the center and a feather pattern on right side below the loading notch. Top three flats are engraved in fine line Moorish patterns with a chip & dot border on each side of the address. Both muzzle & breech end of the bbl have a dbl line border. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with a spider web pattern around the screw hole. Ends of the wedge are also engraved. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the sides and extremely detailed wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose with fish scale patterns down sides of spur. Top edge of the hammer is engraved in a running leaf pattern with a hand cut checkered spur. Top of back strap is engraved in Mr. Nimschke’s deep fan pattern with beautiful sunbursts on sides of back strap ears. Top of back strap and at the heel are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns with chip & dot borders on edges of the back strap. Butt strap is engraved with matching Moorish patterns and a chip & dot border. Trigger bow exhibits Mr. Nimschke’s trademark pattern found on numerous other examples of his engraving, particularly Winchester rifles. Screw heads are all engraved. Altogether a very rare example of Nimschke’s engraving. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 60-70% thin orig Colt blue, strong & bright in the most sheltered areas. Frame & hammer retain traces of faded case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a gray patina of faded case colors. Cylinder retains about 30% faded blue in the rebated areas with all five safety pins crisp and also retains about 65-70% stagecoach holdup scene with the large diameter cleaned bright. Trigger guard & back strap retain thin silver plating with back strap mostly a light mustard patina. Grip is sound showing light wear and soil and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with a couple of very small spots of very fine pitting. 4-39947 JR349 (18,000-22,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 191851. Cal. 44 WCF. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address and left side marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc pearl grips with carved steer head on right side. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame with small flower blossoms in bottom front gullets and a hunter’s star on ejector rod boss. Engraving extends nearly the full length on each side of bbl with a snake pattern border around address which terminates in beautiful Moorish geometric & floral patterns. Ejector rod housing has a straight zig zag border and snake & dot pattern in the gullet. Top strap is engraved in snake & feather patterns. Top of back strap is engraved in a fan pattern with Moorish geometric patterns down back strap and across butt strap. Trigger guard is lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. Cylinder is engraved with foliate & geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes with a dbl straight line border on each side of a snake & dot pattern at rear edge of cylinder. All of foliate arabesque patterns have a light punch dot background. Serial number was observed in usual places on bottom of frame, trigger guard & back strap with last three digits of SN on rear face of cylinder. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in caliber 44-40 with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, carved steer head pearl stocks, factory engraved and shipped to E.K. Tryon, Jr. & Co., Philadelphia, PA, c/o F. Dunn on April 24, 1900 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including cylinder, except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 20-25% orig nickel, mostly in sheltered areas with balance cleaned bare metal. Engraving is still fine, showing moderate wear with fine pitting. Cylinder shows moderate to heavy wear. Right grip has a repaired large chip at the toe with internal repairs and a second added locator pin through the front strap. Both grips show great fire and color. Screw heads appear to have been dressed and refinished. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches , otherwise mechanics are fine. Cylinder pin is a replacement. Bore is sharp & strong with scattered light pitting. 4-36765 JR81 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 138571. Cal. 31. Fine Gustave Young engraved ’49 pocket with desirable 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “Saml Colt” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” hand engraved in a kidney shaped panel. Small guard silver plated trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc smooth ivory grip with last 3 digits of SN in backstrap channel. Revolver has Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving consisting of full coverage on the frame of foliate Arabesque patterns with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over the bbl lug with 1 scroll terminating in a well detailed dog’s head and another with the unusual pattern of 2 acorns and 3 oak leaves. Another scroll on the right side terminates in a flower blossom. Engraving patterns extend over the top side flats with fine line geometric borders around the address and chip and dot borders around the muzzle and at the breech end. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Hammer also received Mr. Young’s deluxe treatment of full coverage foliate Arabesque patterns on sides with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Sides of hammer spur and top edge of hammer have fishscale engraving with hand cut checkered spur. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with sunburst patterns on each side of backstrap ears. Near the top of backstrap, at the heel on the backstrap and trigger guard are all engraved to match. All the screws are engraved on both ends. Cylinder is a scarce 6-shot style with stagecoach holdup scene roll marking. The bbl, rammer handle and wedge are all matching numbered, 138567, while the other numbers on all of the other parts are numbered 138571. Whether a mix-up in the factory or two identically engraved revolvers having their front ends switched will never be known, but it is apparent that these parts have been together for the life of the revolver. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Very good, front end mismatched as noted with the balance of revolver matching including cylinder and grip. Overall the steel parts retain a dark gray metal patina showing light to moderate wear. Cylinder shows heavier wear with possibly an old cleaning and retains 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard and backstrap retain silver in sheltered areas, being mostly a medium mustard patina. Grip has chipped heels and sows moderate wear and retains a wonderful, mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-39411 JR213 (4,000-6,000)
RARE ROSEWOOD CASED ENGRAVED EARLY COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER POSSIBLY ORMSBY ENGRAVED. SN 12058. Cal. 36. All blue finish with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT” and a small silver plated oval brass trigger guard and back strap containing an orig style 1-pc ivory grip. Grip is constructed of two pieces of smooth ivory glued to a wooden block. Revolver has full coverage early donut style engraving on frame which extends over bbl lug and onto the top side flats of bbl. Top flat has a chip & fine line border around address. Back strap & ears of back strap are nicely engraved with a fan at the top and foliate arabesque patterns down the back strap, on butt strap & trigger guard. Accompanied by an orig brass bound rosewood casing with empty plaque in the lid. Interior is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in bottom for the revolver, a plain copper & brass flask and a blued 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold. It has two covered compartments with ivory pulls with the front left compartment containing a packet of combustible cartridges and the rear a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Very few early 51 Navys are known factory engraved and rosewood casings are extremely rare. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except wedge which has two different numbers “227” and “3147” and the grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 92-93% glossy orig blue with loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer & handle retain strong case colors, faded on the handle, brighter on pivot. Frame retains virtually all of its glossy orig factory blue with trigger screw slightly battered. Cylinder retains most of its orig factory blue, moderately thinned, with all six crisp safety pins. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 95% strong orig silver showing only a little brass. Grip is sound, crisp & clean with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with three or four small spots of pitting. Case has a couple of hairlines in the lid and a couple of others in the bottom, otherwise is sound with minor handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is strong & clean in the lid with one spot of chemical fading. Bottom is lightly faded with light soil. Flask has four or five small dents on one side, otherwise is very fine with most of its orig finish. Mold retains about 75% flaked blue and the nipple wrench/screwdriver is slightly modified. Cartridge pack & cap tin are fine. 4-39099 (30,000-40,000)
EXTRAORDINARY COLT LIGHTNING MEDIUM FRAME CARBINE. SN 43944. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Half nickel finish with 20-1/4″ bbl, full magazine, barleycorn front sight and reverse mounted 900 yard carbine ladder rear sight. Left side of receiver has a staple & ring and the rampant Colt logo. Mounted with nicely figured straight grain American walnut with checkered dbl fluted forearm and straight stock with carbine buttplate. Finish is half nickel with blued bbl & magazine tube, nickeled receiver, slide rail, trigger, hammer & buttplate. Loading gate, staple & ring are also nickel. Screws are fire-blued. Weight 6 lbs. 0.6 oz. While the medium frame Lightnings were produced in fairly large numbers there were fewer carbines produced than rifles. Usually carbines, being shorter & handier, saw hard use and are rarely found in high orig finish. Half nickel guns, such as this one, were usually for presentation to someone special or as a prop for a trick shooter. This carbine appears to have the bbl address & caliber markings either fully or partially engraved and the rampant Colt on left side of receiver appears to be pantograph applied, indicating an extraordinary restoration. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, as noted above. Overall retains about 98-99% strong restored blue on bbl, magazine tube & band. Nickeled parts retain virtually all of their fine restored nickel plating. Wood is sound with a few minor handling & storage marks and retains most of its fine custom finish. Screws retain generous amounts of their fine fire-blue. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-38616 (5,500-9,500)
VERY EARLY AND SPECIAL CASED SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 36651. Cal. 31. Blue and color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and two line “New York City” address with brackets. Left side the frame has tiny “COLTS PATENT” and the small guard silver plated brass trigger guard and back strap contained a one piece walnut grip with the last four digits of the serial number in the back strap channel. Back strap is engraved in old English and period script “Presented To Mr. G. Whiting / by Col. Saml Colt 1851”. Accompanied by a rare special made brown velvet lined English oak casing with brass medallion in lid and swinging English latches on the front, with a mortised brass lock and round escutcheon in the front. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver with a recess for the cylinder, a single sided revolver flask, a two cavity brass Colt’s Patent mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and an early lacquered tin of Ely’s caps. Covered right rear compartment contains cast lead bullets and balls. This exact cased set is pictured in color as Fig. 3 on pg. 252 of COLT’S POCKET ’49, Jordan & Watt. Back strap of this revolver is pictured as Fig. 2 on pg. 231 of the referenced publication. This casing is a special made English casing for presentation at the London Exhibit at the Crystal Palace and is one of the first known uses of the “Col. Saml Colt” wording on a gun presentation, possibly even before he used the title in the US. CONDITION: Revolver is very good, all matching including wedge and grip. Bbl retains 60-70% thin, orig blue turning plum over the top. Rammer retains smoky case colors, stronger on the left side of the pivot. Frame retains smoky, thin, faded case colors with unusual polishing marks. Trigger guard and back strap retain strong orig silver plating with the exposed areas a medium mustard patina. Cylinder is a gray-brown patina and retains about 75-80% stagecoach hold-up scene. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with light nicks and scratches and retains about 85% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case is sound with usual handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with moderate to heavy soil in the bottom, partitions are sound. Flask is fine and retains about 50-60% orig finish. Mold is crisp and appears unused with a few minor nicks and scratches. Cap tin is good. 4-39985 JR381 (25,000-35,000)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 282041. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a broken circle. Revolver has fire-blued screws and is mounted with synthetic 2-pc ivory grips. Butt strap is nicely engraved in block letters “O.R.M.”. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 90-92% strong orig nickel with numerous fine scratches and some fine pimpling on bbl and right side of frame. Cylinder retains about same amount of nickel with one area of fine pimpling. Right heel is chipped, otherwise grips are fine. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches , otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-36742 JR79 (4,000-7,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 105763. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” bbl address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a kidney shaped panel and the small guard silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap contain a fine 1-pc ivory grip with illegible numbers in back strap channel. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene and five serviceable safety pins, four of which are crisp. Engraving is by Gustave Young in his standard deluxe coverage with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame that has several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Matching engraving extends over sides of bbl lug and top side flats with a scroll on left side terminating in Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s heads and others terminating in flower blossoms. Rammer pivot has matching engraving as does back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s standard fan pattern and sunbursts on sides of back strap ears. Hammer is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on each side and a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Hammer spur is hand checkered with a curved line below. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered and grip whose number is illegible. Bbl retains 30-40% strong restored blue finish with a series of small hammer marks by the wedge slot and some scattered fine pitting. Frame is a dark patina with traces of refinish blue and some scattered fine pitting. Cylinder is a thin blue/gray patina with scattered spots of pin prick pitting and retains 20-30% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their restored silver finish. Grip is sound showing light wear and retains a wonderful ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-39408 JR242 (3,000-5,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 19080. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and London address with arrows. Left side of bbl lug & cylinder have British proofs and left side of frame is engraved “Colts Patent” in a ribbon. It has silver plated steel trigger guard & back strap containing a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip that does not appear to have a serial number in the back strap. Receiver, bbl lug, rammer handle & pivot are very nicely engraved in about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap, butt strap, trigger guard & hammer spur are engraved to match. All screws are the large round head English style. Accompanied by an English oak casing with faded burgundy velvet lining, compartmented in bottom for revolver, a Bartram bag flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a large lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Covered right rear compartment contains cast lead bullets & balls. Although the London Navys were made in fairly large quantities, they are only occasionally found cased and rarely engraved, especially with silver plated trigger guard & back strap. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grip, as noted above. Bbl retains 75% thinning orig blue with the loss areas light patina. Rammer handle & pivot retain most of their orig case colors, strong & bright on handle & left side of pivot. Frame & hammer retain about 60% orig case colors, bright in sheltered areas, brilliant in capping cutout. Trigger guard retains 75-80% orig silver plating with most of losses on front strap which has fine pimpling. Back strap & butt strap are cleaned bare metal. Cylinder is cleaned to a blue/gray patina and retains 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore. Case has one small crack in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual storage & handling, light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded and moderately soiled with light damage from the front sight. Accessories are fine. 4-39103 (15,000-25,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE AND HISTORIC HELFRICHT ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER PRESENTED TO “BAD GOOD GUY” ROBERT D. MELDRUM. SN 253161. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc smooth pearl grips. Revolver is spectacularly engraved in very unique patterns by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on frame consisting of fine foliate arabesque patterns with gold wire inlay in two patterns on each side of the frame, narrow gold bands on the bbl at the frame and at the muzzle and a gold wire border around the presentation on the back strap. Rear edge of left recoil shield has an unusual geometric & foliate pattern with diamond & dot patterns combined with foliate patterns on the top strap. Loading gate is engraved in a beautiful scallop shell pattern and there is a large flower blossom on the ejector rod boss. Bottom front gullets of frame are engraved with tiny flower blossoms. The foliate arabesque patterns extend about 2/3 of the length of each side of the bbl with fine braided border patterns around bbl address, terminating in intertwined geometric & foliate arabesque patterns. In addition to the gold band around the muzzle there is a 4-panel triangular shaped diamond & dot pattern, and a flower blossom on each side of the front sight. Ejector rod housing has an unusual & well-executed foliate arabesque pattern on outer radius with a foliate spray at the frame end. Ejector rod housing top gullet is fully engraved with a braided pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with a fine shell pattern with chip & dot border and punch dot background. Back strap engraved with the presentation “From The Tomboy Gold Mine Co. Lt’d / Telluride Colo” and the butt strap is engraved “Rob’t. D. Meldrum”. Trigger guard & trigger bow are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a gold wire inlay on the trigger bow. Cylinder has full coverage engraved foliate arabesque patterns on the outer diameter with the flutes left unadorned. Rear edge of cylinder has four borders with a narrow gold wire band inlay and another very narrow gold wire lands on each side of a very fine, wavy border with a chip & dot border at the very rear edge. The serial number was observed in the usual three places on the frame, trigger guard & butt strap with the last three digits of the SN on rear face of cylinder. This revolver is very similar to two other Helfricht engraved and gold inlaid single actions, SN’s 242701 and 256058 which are illustrated in full color on pp. 434 & 435 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson. A factory letter accompanies this lot which conforms to this gun. It also states the gun was ordered by Tompkins Hunt Hardware Co., (which was located in or near Telluride). According to factory records, only 2 gold inlaid 1st run Colt S.A.A.’s were ever made inscribed with presentations (this being one of them). As noted S.A. authority Ron Graham states in his letter (accompanying the gun), “The only way this could be any better is if the other (inscribed) one did not exist!” However, it actually gets better. The history of its somewhat nefarious former owner is both interesting and reflective of a time of great transition in the history of the West. While civilized societies were expanding, many areas were still hard and dangerous. In these areas, a lawman needed to be equally hard and feared to survive. It was hard to sometimes differentiate between the good guys and the bad guys. Robert Meldrum was such a man. In 1900 Meldrum recognized a Texas fugitive, Noah Wilkerson from a wanted poster. Meldrum simply shot the man and collected his $200 reward without risk of personal injury. This approach seemed to become his policy. By 1902 he hired on as a mine guard and deputy sheriff in Telluride, Colorado, for the Tomboy Mining Co. located high in the mountains overlooking the village of Telluride. It had two serious problems; mineral poachers and organizers attempting to organize the mine workers. In need of a hired gun, the mine purportedly contacted the famous Tom Horn who is believed to have referred his acquaintance Robert Meldrum. While working for the Tomboy Mine company in a covert operation involving the Pinkerton Agency sometime from 1902 to 1904, Meldrum ingratiated himself to the mine (probably by killing some problematic individuals). Tomboy was unquestionably grateful because they not only presented him with this spectacular gun, but also gifted him another engraved (but not gold inlaid) Colt. Meldrum continued his heavy-handed ways and in 1904 killed unarmed Olaf Thissal in Telluride and others as he felt they needed it. He was brought to court on various cases involving killings but was usually acquitted. On a few occasion he worked for cattle growers associations like Tom Horn to dispose of and discourage cattle thieves. Finally in 1912, as a law officer, Meldrum killed another drunk unarmed cowboy, Chick Bowen. Meldrum was again brought up on charges and finally sent to jail. By 1919 he was out on parole and later owned a saddle and holster shop in Wyoming. In 1926 fire destroyed his shop and Meldrum disappeared never to be heard of again. There are far more fascinating details about this bad-good guy. More info and a great exhibit of some of Meldrum’s things are available at the Museum of Northwest Colorado in Craig, Colorado. Much of the above information was graciously provided by Director of the museum, Mr. Dan Davidson. In appreciation of this, James D. Julia Auctioneers has commissioned Doug Turnbull to produce an exact copy of this gun which will be donated to the museum as part of its permanent Meldrum collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including cylinder, grips are unnumbered. Overall retains 20-25% orig blue finish, mostly in sheltered areas on the bbl and in the flutes of the cylinder and on the face of the cylinder. Balance of the revolver is an even bare metal patina showing moderate wear to the inscription on the back strap. Grips are extremely fine with great fire & color. Crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. 4-38974 JR91 (200,000-400,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 90396. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” address. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and left side of frame is hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a kidney shaped panel. Trigger guard and back strap are silver plated brass containing a 1-pc deluxe walnut grip that has all five digits of the SN in back strap channel. Revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe patterns with full coverage foliate arabesque scrolls with fine punch dot background on frame. Scroll on left recoil shield terminates in a flower blossom. Intertwined foliate arabesque patterns extend over bbl & bbl lug with a dog’s head incorporated into pattern on left side and a flower blossom on right side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with all screw heads also engraved as are the ends of wedge. Hammer is deluxe engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns and a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with hand cut spur checkering. Wedge screw and possibly hammer screw are replacements and hammer spring has been lightened. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Only traces of orig finish remain which appears to have been silver plating. Engraving is strong & sharp showing only light wear. Cylinder retains 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene with an area of light to moderate pitting and a few scattered spots of pitting. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig factory silver plating. Grip is sound with only a few scattered handling & storage nicks with light edge wear and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-36740 JR65 (4,000-7,000)
*FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 295601. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2-pc reproduction rampant Colt hard rubber grips. All screws are fire-blued as is the base pin and crossbolt. Engraving is by Cuno Helfricht with full frame coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and his typical sunburst patterns on recoil shield & loading gate. Cylinder is beautifully engraved with sunburst and foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with foliate sprays back of each flute with a snake & dash pattern at rear edge of cylinder. Top strap is engraved in Moorish geometric patterns with beautiful foliate arabesque patterns extending over front of frame and over about 3/4 of the bbl. Bbl address is outlined with a wavy border which terminates in intricate geometric Moorish patterns toward the muzzle and the caliber marking is in a ribbon. The outer radius of the ejector rod housing is engraved with matching geometric patterns and the gullet of the ejector rod housing has a snake & dash pattern matching the cylinder. Ejector rod head is engraved with a small hunter’s star. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s typical fan pattern with geometric patterns down back strap and on butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved in matching foliate arabesque patterns. Butt strap has a hole for a lanyard ring. Left side of back strap, at heel under grip, is stamped “CH-18” which is an assembly number applied at Colt during a refinish operation. Left side of front strap, face of cylinder around bushing hole, on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing, inside ejector rod housing radius and on shank of loading gate are all stamped with the number “18”. Accompanied by a copy of a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish, type of stocks “not listed”, factory engraved and shipped to H & D Folsom Arms Co., New York, NY on June 20, 1907 in a shipment of six same type guns. PROVENANCE: John Irwin Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its fine factory restored nickel finish with some minor staining on right side of frame. Screws retain virtually all of their factory fire blue with evidence of having been removed. Grips have a repaired crack in left side, otherwise are fine showing light wear. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches and hammer spring has been lightened, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 4-36747 JR63 (6,000-10,000)
GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 96956. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand engraved “SAML COLT” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” hand engraved in a kidney shaped panel. Small guard silver plated trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc smooth ivory grip. Grip is constructed of two slabs of ivory glued to a split block of wood. It has usual 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. Engraving is by Gustave Young himself in his deluxe patterns with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & hammer with some of the scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Hammer has fully engraved sides with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose and a hand cut checkered spur panel. Engraving extends over sides of bbl lug and top side flats with one scroll on left side terminating in a dog’s head and flower blossoms on right side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and screw heads are engraved. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s traditional fan pattern with sunbursts on sides of each back strap ear. Near top of back strap, at the heel, on butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. All engraving has fine punch dot background. PROVENANCE: Col. Kenneth P. Brown Collection. CONDITION: Good, all matching except wedge & grip which are unnumbered. No orig finish remains with all steel parts being a cleaned gray metal patina with light pitting on bbl and fine pitting around front edge of cylinder. Cylinder has matching patina and retains 30-40% stagecoach holdup scene. Some of screws are lightly battered and the wedge screw is broken. Trigger guard & backstrap retain 60-70% thinning orig silver plate, stronger in sheltered areas. Grip, probably an old replacement, has an old chip on right edge and overall has several fine age lines and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-39407 JR240 (2,000-3,000)
RARE IDENTIFIED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 32568. Cal. .36. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address “ADDRESS.COL:COLT.LONDON” with spears. Left side of the frame has London style “COLTS PATENT” and the large guard, blued steel trigger guard and backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of serial number in backstrap channel. Left side of the bbl lug and cyl have tiny British proofs. Backstrap is engraved in period script perpendicular to the axis of the backstrap “F.C.Forbes / 37th Regt.” Surmounting the inscription is the Forbes family crest of Skellater and Kingerlock of Scotland. The crest consists of an arm clutching a vertical sword which is holding the head of a cow aloft. Accompanied its orig English oak casing with scalloped brass plate in the lid which is engraved identically to the backstrap of the revolver, also with the family crest. Front of the case has a mortised brass lock with round escutcheon. Interior is green baize lined with an orig Colt directions label inside the lid. It is compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a Dickson Navy size bag flask with graduated spout, a Colt’s patent 2-cavity blued steel mold with sprue cutter, “L” shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Ely’s caps. Covered right rear compartment contains a wood handled steel cleaning rod, an orig spare hammer spring, 5 orig replacement nipples and a functioning key along with cast lead bullets and balls. Francis Chateris Forbes was born October 1840 and commissioned as an Ensign (2nd Lt.) in August 1856 into the 37th Regiment of foot (North Hampshire Rgt.) He served during the India Mutiny from February 1858 to March 1861 as Lieutenant and was awarded the India Mutiny Medal without bar. He was then transferred with his unit to China where they participated in the Battles of Takau Fort and Peking. He was killed May 10, 1862. The August 1859 Roll of Officers for the 37th (North Hampshire) Rgt lists Forbes as a Lt, having joined the rgt in October of 1858. There is little doubt that this handsome revolver would have accompanied Lt. Forbes to India and China where they undoubtedly saw combat together in both countries. Very likely it was with Lt. Forbes when he was killed in China. This revolver was featured as found today in the Herb Glass advertisement in the November 1991 issue of The Gun Report magazine. PROVENANCE: Ex. William Guthman Collection, Charles Radcliffe Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge and grip. Bbl retains about 60% glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer and handle retain most of their dark orig case colors, brighter on the pivot. Frame and hammer retain about all of their orig case colors, somewhat darkened, bright on the sides. Cyl retains traces of orig blue being mostly a blue-brown patina and overall retains about 90% Ormsby naval battle scene with Ormsby’s signature still visible. Five of the six safety pins are serviceable. Grip frame retains traces of blue in sheltered areas being mostly a dark brown patina. Grip is sound showing light edge wear with minor nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore with fine frosting at the forcing cone end. Case is sound with light storage and handling nicks and scratches and retains most of its orig varnish and slightly warped lid. Interior is lightly fade with light soiling in the bottom and light damage from the front sight & hammer spur. Flask is crisp and near new with one tiny dent, retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Mold is fine with light surface oxidation. Other accessories are fine. 4-39636 JR384 (6,000-12,000)
Correction: The hammer base pin, and ejector rod head are believed to be old replacements.
WONDERFUL EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 78305. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has caliber marking. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips with an extremely deep relief carved ox head on right side. Front strap is not drilled for a locator pin so there is an unusual arrangement of a wooden block inserted in the frame between the grips with two small locator pins to prevent the grips from sliding. Engraving consists of nearly full coverage on frame of flowing foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Sides of bbl boss have diamond & dot patterns with a hunter star on ejector rod boss. Top strap is engraved with a leaf & vine pattern on each side. Engraving extends most of the length of both side of the bbl with matching foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a leaf & vine pattern on outer radius that matches top strap. Top of back strap has a fine fan pattern with checkered triangular central panel and a fine zig-zag border. Back strap is engraved with Moorish geometric patterns and a zig-zag border pattern. Cylinder is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and has a vine & leaf pattern border around rear edge that matches top strap. Early black powder single actions are rarely ever encountered with engraving and are almost never found with high orig finish. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 97-98% strong orig nickel with fire blued screws. The only losses are around muzzle edge from firing and very slight losses on face of cylinder. Grips are sound with great fire & color, crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. 4-39223 JR85 (60,000-100,000)
RARE CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 232. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City address reading from cyl to muzzle. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has silver plated square-backed brass trigger guard & back strap containing a slim, deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “M M Rogers M.D. from D.M. Rogers / Savannah, Geo.”. Cylinder has five chambers with round stops and a tapered smooth cylinder pin with cupped end to use as a rammer for loading. Accompanied by an orig mahogany Colt casing with fluted beveled edge on top, lined with brown velvet and recessed in bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided early “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, a 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” brass mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a tin of Eley’s caps. The presentation on the back strap to M.M. Rogers from D.M. Rogers has been thoroughly researched by a previous owner with little information having been discovered about either man. It emerged that a Capt. Moses Rogers was the Captain of the steamship “Savannah” which was the first steam powered vessel to cross the Atlantic, which was accomplished in 1819 when she sailed from Savannah to Liverpool, England and on to Russia. It has not been firmly established that the M.M. Rogers in the presentation is a direct descendant of Capt. Moses Rogers, however a Dr. Moses Rogers was licensed to practice medicine by the Georgia Board of Physicians in Dec. 1834. It was also learned that Moses B. Rogers had been a graduate of the Medical College of Ohio in 1831 and that he was from South Carolina. Information from the Georgia Historical Society of Savannah revealed that Dr. Rogers was a delegate to a Union Party meeting in Savannah in 1841 and that in 1851 there was an advertisement in a local newspaper for medicines manufactured by Dr. Rogers. This revolver has a long and verifiable history dating back to at least 1942 when it appeared as Plate #38 in the exhibit of percussion Colt revolvers at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and was on loan from the world famous Albert Foster, Jr. Collection. It was also featured as Item #37 on p. 67 of the book Samuel Colt Presents, Wadsworth Atheneum, on loan from John E. Parsons, another world famous Colt collector. In addition it has also resided at one time or another in the collections of James E. Serven and Norm Flayderman. Also accompanied by the book S.S.Savannah The Elegant Steamship, Brainyard where on page 29 Capt. Rogers is mentioned regarding the sale of the Steamship Savannah. Capt. Rogers is an integral part of this book in that he was the master and captain of the Savannah on her successful trans-Atlantic voyage in 1819. PROVENANCE: Albert Foster Jr. Collection; John E. Parsons Collection; James E. Serven Collection; Norm Flayderman Collection; Dr. Robert A. Bettis Coll. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. No original finish remains being mostly a mottled heavy dark brown patina with light to moderate pitting. Cylinder is in matching condition and retains traces of orig Ranger/Indian fight scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 85% orig silver plating, thin on back strap. Grip is sound and moderately shrunken with minor nicks & scratches and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Case has a repaired crack on hinged edge of lid, otherwise is sound with light nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is lightly faded with two hinge screws missing. Accessories are fine. 4-39298 JR100 (12,500-17,500)
Additional Information: serial number in museum gun is 984.
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED CASED COLT NO. 5 HOLSTER MODEL TEXAS PATERSON PERCUSSION REVOLVER BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN ONE OF SAM COLTS PERSONAL GUNS. SN 985. Cal. 36. Fabulously rare Paterson with 6″ oct bbl that has six silver bands on the bbl and one very wide & a narrow silver band around the front edge of the recoil shield. Frame, bbl lug & back strap are very nicely engraved in early vine pattern consisting of flowing foliate arabesque patterns over the frame and both sides of the bbl lug. Both sides of the cylinder plate are engraved in climbing leaf patterns. Backstrap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns at the top, heel & buttstrap. Center of the backstrap is inlaid with an empty rectangular silver plate. Muzzle of the bbl has deep border patterns & the bbl has the large letter address “Patent Arms Mg. Co. Paterson, N.J. – Colt’s Pt.”. The rear of the address has the star & snake pattern, however with the short bbl, the engraving patterns around the front sight left no room for the front star & snake pattern. Mounted with rare shell carved ivory grip panels with German silver frame & backing, mounted to a walnut block forming a 1-pc grip. Cylinder is roll-marked with the stagecoach holdup scene and has two wide silver bands. Accompanied by an early, orig Colt Paterson mahogany casing with fluted lid and a German silver rectangle that has scalloped corners in center of the lid. Interior is lined with dark brown or black velvet with recesses in the bottom for the revolver, a Paterson charger and in the right rear for a spare cylinder, which is present & bears number “844”, that also has two wide silver bands. Inside bottom of case also has wire clips and pins holding a sgl cavity, 3-pc orig Paterson mold with turned walnut handles and brass ferrules. It also contains an orig Paterson pistol capper numbered “200” inside the lid and in the bottom. It additionally has an orig copper & gold-washed brass Paterson Holster Model charger numbered “65”. The center band on the charger is rolled with the same address as is on the bbl. It also has an orig brass cleaning rod with 8″ shaft, and turned walnut handle with brass ferrule, and finally, an orig Holster Model Paterson multi-tool. Matching serial numbers were observed on the rear face of the bbl lug, cylinder rotating ring, face of trigger and left side of front strap under the grip. The cylinder & backstrap are numbered “941”. The “1” in these numberings appear to be stamped over. An alteration wedge is a period of use replacement without number. There is a well-known Paterson from Sam Colt’s personal collection with a nearly identically configured Holster Model Paterson with identical carved grips, and similar engraving currently on display as part of The Colt Collection at the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford, CT. That Paterson is consecutive numbered to this revolver, bearing number “984”. It is believed this pair was Col. Colt’s personal cased set and there is little doubt that they were Sam Colt’s personal side arms in fact according to “The Patterson Colt Book” featuring the Dennis Levett Collection on page 13, and also “Fine Colts The Doctor Joseph A. Murphy Collection” on page 3, the Patterson at the Antheneum has cylinder #985 currently in it not #984!!! Pretty convincing evidence that the 2 guns were together at least at one time and the cylinder from this gun #985 was mistakenly installed in #984 after cleaning. One of the first recorded instances of this revolver surfacing is a set of photographs from “Weston’s Mexican Art Shop” in Mexico City dated on the back Sept. 7, 1940. It next appeared in the Sept. 1945 Gimble Bros. Antique Firearms Catalog as Item #AV-8366-49 for a staggering asking price of $1,950.00. A copy of this catalog accompanies. Also accompanying is Jackson Arms Catalog #24, 1967, which lists this revolver as Item #213A wherein he states that the cylinder & backstrap are both numbered “984” and all other parts numbered “985”. This revolver was pictured as Plate XIII of Samuel Colt Presents, The Book of Colt Engraving -1974, Colt Engraving – 1982, all by Wilson, and was exhibited in the Wadsworth Atheneum Nov. 1961-Jan. 1962. It is also pictured on p. 22 of Paterson Pistols and Colt Firearms From 1836, Serven; Encyclopedia of Firearms, Peterson; Texas Gun Collector magazine 1968; Guns magazine Aug. 1969; Arms Gazette Vol. I #8 1974; Sotheby Parke Bernet Auction, Los Angeles Lot 115, March 1976; Man at Arms magazine July/Aug 1988; front cover Colt Collectors Association pamphlet, NRA Convention 1991; Rampant Colt magazine, Dec. 1991; The Gun Report, Nov. 1960. This revolver is also pictured in full color on p. 1 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. While Col. Colt was able to effectively demonstrate that parts for his revolvers were interchangeable, the toe of the buttstrap on this revolver extends a few thousandths of an inch beyond the toe of the frontstrap. This does not affect the function of either piece or the revolver itself but simply demonstrates the hand fitting of each revolver. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Gamble Store; Jackson Arms; Weston’s Mexican Art Shop; Walter B. Ford III Collection; Petersen Museum Collection; Tom Seymour; John S. duMont Collection; Tom P. Weston Collection; Sotheby Parke Bernet Auction; CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 60-65% orig blue, strong on bottom, thin & fading elsewhere with a few small spots of pitting on left & right side flats. Frame retains 10-15% thin orig blue, strong on left recoil shield and in sheltered areas with balance a blue/gray patina. Backstrap has traces of thin blue at top of the backstrap with balance a blue/gray patina. Cyl retains 10-15% orig blue, mostly on the rounded shoulders with the balance a gray patina and overall retains 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip has a chipped left toe, chipped right heel and another small chip at the top right side with a couple of small cracks at the top right and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Spare cylinder retains a dark blue/brown patina and about 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. Case has a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is lightly faded & soiled but completely sound. Charger retains most of its orig gold wash on the three rings and bright polish on the copper. Mold retains most of its strong orig blue. Capper is sound and carries a medium mustard patina. Multi-tool and cleaning rod are very fine. Altogether an extraordinary & rare set and an opportunity to own a piece of Colt history. 4-36488 (550,000-950,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 211401. Cal. 45 Colt. 1901 produced single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with modern after-market 1-pc ivory grip, deep relief carved with an American eagle and shield on right side clutching a ribbon in its beak & left talon inscribed “LIBERTY” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Left side is deep relief carved with a Texas-style 5-pointed star above an unmarked ribbon that appears to have had a name removed. Revolver is very well engraved with about 80% coverage on frame of very fine, very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background, probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop. The bbl boss on upper front of frame has a flower blossom on each side, very similar to that found on a double action revolver engraved by Mr. Helfricht as pictured on p. 468 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson. The outside edges of the back strap ears are engraved in sunburst patterns similar to numerous other single actions engraved by Mr. Helfricht. The shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved in diamond & dot patterns with a large Helfricht style fan at top of back strap. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with foliate arabesque patterns up both sides of bbl and lightly on ejector rod housing. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes. While it cannot be stated with absolute certainty that this engraving work was done by Mr. Helfricht or someone in his shop, it has all the earmarks and easily can be attributed to Mr. Helfricht. The cylinder pin, lock bolt screw, some of grip frame screws and ejector rod housing screw are all replacements. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth, even, medium brown patina showing heavy wear at muzzle edges with a few spots of scattered light pitting. Cyl is a smooth gray/brown patina. The crossbolt screw is battered. Ejector rod is slightly long and impedes cyl removal and is possibly an old replacement. Front edge of cyl bushing is chipped from someone forcing the cyl past the too-long rod. Grip retains a medium ivory patina with a few age lines. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-37611 JR13 (5,500-6,500)
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY EARLY FOUR-SCREW PERCUSSION REVOLVER CUT FOR SHOULDER STOCK . SN 68200. Cal. 36. This is the rarest version of the ’51 Navy cut for first type stock. Fine early 51 Navy with 7-1/2″ octagon bbl, brass pin front sight and New York City address. It has four-screw frame, cut for shoulder stock with round head hammer screw and stock stud extensions. Trigger guard and back strap are the rare iron version, with orig silver-plating having large guard and a swivel stud in the trigger plate just in front of the guard and mounted with deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of SN in the back strap channel. Revolver is spectacularly engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame and the recoil shields with his deluxe patterns on the bbl lug and top side flats. The rammer pivot is engraved to match. Top of the back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on the buttstrap and trigger guard. Several of the scrolls on the frame and bbl lug terminate in flower blossoms with the left side of the bbl lug having a large dog’s head incorporated in one scroll. The trigger screw, lock bolt screw, rammer pivot screw, buttstrap, and back strap screws along with all three trigger guard screws are engraved. It appears that the hammer screw, stock lug screws, rammer screw, and wedge screw are replacements and are not engraved. Few model 51 revolvers were ever made with stock configuration and few of those surviving today. Of those that do survive, only a very, very few were engraved. Most known engraved examples were presented to important people such as Robert E. Lee and the Governor of Kansas (known as the Bleeding Kansas Colt). CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge and grip. No orig finish remains with most of the metal having a smooth dark plum patina with scattered light pitting. Cylinder is a thin plum gray patina with dings around the front edge and retains 40-50% Ormsby naval battle scene. Grip has a chip in the right toe with some battering on the bottom edges and retains 30-40% orig finish being mostly an oil-stained hand-worn patina. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-38917 (12,000-15,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY/1862 POLICE THUER CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 41331/IP. This exceptionally rare revolver is one of the series of Colt percussion revolvers converted to a central fire system designed by F. Alexander Thuer with production in six different models of Colt revolvers totaling only about 5,000 revolvers during the period 1869-72. Although the Thuer cartridge was not the first center fire ammunition produced it represents Colt’s first production center fire revolver. The cartridge utilized has an unusual tapered brass casing with small copper primer and lead bullet that loads into the cylinder from the front. Percussion cylinders were altered by having a portion of the rear section machined away with a conversion ring fitted over that extension. The conversion ring has a rebounding firing pin also has a safe mode. Most revolvers converted under the Thuer system had the right edge of their lugs altered to allow loading of the tapered cartridge and are usually accompanied by their interchangeable percussion cylinder which was one of Colt’s selling points for the conversion. Bbl lug on this revolver was not altered. Cal. 36. Silver & gold finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight with 1-line bbl address, “COLTS PATENT” on left front side of the frame and caliber marking on the left rear shoulder of the trigger guard. The SN on the four positions on the bottom of the frame, bbl lug, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by the initials “IP” which indicates that this revolver was factory fitted with ivory grip and factory plated. The Thuer conversion utilizes a pocket Navy 6-shot cylinder and is numbered to the revolver. The percussion cylinder, also numbered to this revolver, is a fluted 5-shot Model 1862 Police cylinder. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with very high quality, full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame and up over the recoil shields. The bbl has nearly full coverage matching patterns with Mr. Nimschke’s typical fan pattern at the top of the back strap. Heel of the back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match the frame. Thuer cylinder has the stagecoach holdup scene. Percussion cylinder is engraved to match the revolver on the lands between the flutes. Revolver has silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip. Thuer cylinder & conversion ring, hammer & rammer are gold washed while the remainder of revolver is silver plated, as is the percussion cylinder. Accompanied by a spectacular Indian rosewood, hinged lid casing with silver mounts that include corner reinforcements & swinging latches and a mortised lock in the front with two functioning keys. Interior is burgundy velvet lined, American style, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, an orig full metal box of 36 caliber Thuer cartridges that has Kraft paper wrapping with orange & black label with and appears to be all original, a silver plated 2-cavity bullet mold without sprue cutter that is unmarked, a silver-plated Dixon bag flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench, two sets of Thuer cartridge loading tools, a small Hawksley pewter oiler, an early lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps with orange label, an ebony bits box containing five spare screws, a packet of Colt’s combustible cartridges, four loose orig Thuer cartridges and several lead balls. Bottom of the case is covered with leather. This revolver is pictured in full color with most of the accessories on p. 116 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson Also accompanied by a copy of the March 2000 American Rifleman where on p. 42 & p. 45, in an article by noted Colt historian & author, R.L. Wilson, he fully illustrates in color this revolver and set of accessories as found except for the reloading tools. He states that this revolver was shipped factory plated with ivory grip and engraved by Nimschke for Schuyler, Hartley & Graham. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine plus. Overall retains most of its orig silver finish to bbl, frame & grip frame with back strap somewhat thinned. Thuer conversion cyl, conversion ring, hammer & loading lever retain strong orig gold wash. Percussion cyl appears to be a cleaned bright metal color with some fine pitting. Three of its five safety pins are functional. Bullet mold & flask retain most of their fine silver plate. Loading tools retain strong blue finish. Cartridge box is sealed in plastic and shows light edge wear with some minor soil on label but appears to be completely intact. Cap tin is very fine. Case is extremely fine with a couple of minor grain checks in lid, otherwise is sound and retains virtually all of its brilliant orig finish. Interior is equally bright & new. This is certainly one of the finest Thuer conversion revolvers to be found today. 4-36495 JR132 (75,000-125,000)
*FINE CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 340321. Cal. 44-40. Nickel finish with scarce 4 3/4″ bbl, altered front sight, two-line address and “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40” on left side. Left side of frame has two-line three patent dates and it is mounted with fine, replacement, two-piece Colt medallion ivory grips. Serial number was observed in the usual position on the bottom of the frame and on the left side of the front and back straps under the grip. Revolver has complete, full coverage cattle brand pattern engraving with punch-dot background and was probably engraved by master engraver Weldon Bledsoe or possibly more recently by David Harris. No engraver’s signature was found. This style of engraving was originated by the famous engraver, Cole Agee, around World War II and continued by Weldon Bledsoe and into the present day by David Harris. The quality and style of this engraving leads this cataloger to believe that it was not by Cole Agee. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish with a slightly altered front sight and replaced cylinder pin. Grips are artificially aged modern replacements but look fine on this revolver. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half-cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. 4-36594 (4,000-6,000)
Additional Information: Accompanied by 2 books in Swedish “Ivor Thord Gray, Soldat Under 13 Fanor” (English translation: “Soldier under 13 Banners”) and “Mannen Som Hittade Tarzan” (English translation: “The Man Who Found Tarzan”).
ENGRAVED & GOLD-PLATED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 5252. Cal. 44. Gold finish with 8″ rnd bbl, altered front sight with most of bbl address worn away. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has brass trigger guard with iron backstrap that contains a 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief Mexican eagle on left side. Buttstrap has a lanyard stud & ring. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with stock screws replaced. Cylinder is of the early fluted type. Revolver is engraved by Nimschke with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame. Sides of hammer nose are engraved with a wolf’s head with fish scales on the spur and foliate arabesque patterns down the sides. Engraving extends over sides of bbl terminating well in front of the bbl address with patterns around muzzle. Rammer pivot is engraved to match with a rope pattern around rammer handle. Top of backstrap is engraved with a fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near top at the heel, on buttstrap & trigger guard. Cylinder is beautifully engraved with diamond & dot patterns in front of flutes and foliate arabesque patterns in rear of flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter that identifies this revolver in 44 caliber with an 8″ bbl, “blue/brass” finish with wood stocks and shipped to the U.S. Navy Yard New York on May 9, 1861 in a shipment of 250 guns. Also accompanied by a letter signed Max H. Preusler dated June 29, 2009 wherein he states that this revolver has belonged to his family since Mr. Thord Hallstrom-Gray (Ivor Thord-Gray) received it during the Mexican Civil War 1913-14, when he fought under Pancho Villa’s command. My maternal grandfather, Brig. Arne Hallstrom, received it as a gift from Thord (his father’s brother), and Mr. Preusler inherited it from his grandfather. Additionally included is a letter dated Aug. 2009 from Claes Andersson Arms & Armour Department, Stockholm Auctionhouse, wherein he states that he could confirm that he first saw the revolver in 2001 and that the Stockholm Auctionhouse had sold at least seven items from the Ivor Thord-Gray Collection which came from other parts of the Hallstrom Family. He states that he confirms Mr. Preusler’s statement in the above letter. Additionally accompanied by Mr. Thord-Gray’s book Gringo Rebel published 1960, a first edition with original dust cover. Consignor states that he obtained this revolver from the family of Ivor Thord-Gray who was a Swedish-born U.S. citizen and soldier of fortune who fought in thirteen wars on four continents from 1897 thru WWI and the Russian Revolution. He was a linguist and scholar and an author. He also authored an 1,100 page dictionary of English to the native tongue of the Tarahumara Indians. Mr. Thord-Gray, spent his military service to various countries, but the one we are most concerned with here is his time spent fighting in the Mexican Revolution 1913-1914 which he memorialized in his book Gringo Rebel: Mexico 1913-1914, a copy of which accompanies this lot. Mr. Thord-Gray earned many honors during his military career along with honors for scholarship including membership in the Royal Academy of Sciences of Uppsala and a degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the same university for his work in linguistics. He became a trustee of the American Classical League, 1930; a member of the Royal Geographic Society; The Geological Society of London and the Archeological Institute of America. Mr. Thord-Gray inadvertently was the impetus for Edgar Rice Burroughs’ fictional character, Tarzan of the Apes. Apparently in the early 1930’s Mr. Thord-Gray wrote a letter from Stockholm to the President of the Adventurer’s Club of New York relating an incident that occurred while he was on patrol with a mounted police unit in South Africa. He heard the story of a child who had been kidnapped by a band of baboons who frightened the servant/babysitter into running back to the parents who came immediately but could find no trace of the young boy. Although the parents searched diligently they were never able to locate the child. About ten years later Mr. Thord-Gray was in the area of the Drakensberg Mountains when his group of surveyors inadvertently trapped a band of baboons in a box canyon. One of the baboons was blond and very agile and took off up the mountainside with the others. About half way up the cliff he lost his footing and fell to his death. This was apparently the child that had been stolen by the baboons. Eventually Mr. Burroughs somehow heard the story and created his fictional character on that basis. Mr. Thord-Gray states in his book and apparently in notes left with the above mentioned Brig. Arne Hallstrom that he obtained this beautiful revolver when he was fighting in the Mexican Revolution, probably in 1914 under Gen. Blanco and Carranza. When the situation among the Revolutionaries for whom Thord-Gray was fighting came to a standstill with in-fighting among the various groups, Mr. Thord-Gray suggested that Carranza & Blanco send an emissary to Emiliano Zapata to try to patch things up. At first they said it would be impossible but when Mr. Thord-Gray volunteered to lead with a squadron of 100 mounted Yaqui Indian warriors as an escort, they agreed to the plan. He states as he was preparing to leave Gen. Blanco “handed me a very handsome 44 Colt revolver, exquisitely chased with gold inlay” and asked him to give it to Zapata with 200-rds of ammunition as a token of friendship. After a perilous journey over 13,000 foot mountains and skirmishes with various other revolutionaries he reached what he thought was Zapata’s camp. When he became nearly trapped he sent a scout ahead to contact Zapata who was able to meet a Col. Morales who Mr. Thord-Gray had met previously in Mexico City. Initially he and his men were disarmed and taken into custody but when he was informed of the purpose of the “mission” he left right away to try to find Zapata. Before Col. Morales left Mr. Thord-Gray gave him the gun & ammunition that he had brought as a gift to Zapata. Late the next day Col. Morales returned with the news that he had been unable to contact Zapata and returned the revolver to Mr. Thord-Gray. And, as the saying goes, the rest is history. Apparently Mr. Thord-Gray kept the revolver for himself as is evidenced by the letters from his descendants, although there is some conflicting information in Mr. Thord-Gray’s book. CONDITION: Fair to good. Overall shows heavy wear with most of the engraving still visible, sharp in some places. One of the frame stock screws is a replacement and wedge screw is missing. Cyl spindle is a little loose in frame. Grip is sound with age lines showing heavy wear and retains a cleaned ivory patina. Mechanics are a little stiff, the hand having been replaced (the orig accompanies), otherwise mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. Book is very fine with slightly worn dust cover. 4-38973 JR378 (15,000-25,000)
SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 87334. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 3-line patent dates on frame and caliber marking on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with extraordinary 2-pc pearl grips with carved ox head on the right side that has red ruby or garnet eyes. The area of the grip that meets the frame is lined with silver plating, pinned in place. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are engraved in Cuno Helfricht’s distinctive style with large sunbursts on left recoil shield & loading gate. Balance of the frame is covered with foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and has snake & dot patterns in the lower front gullets and both sides of top strap. Each side of the bbl has a large spray of foliate patterns emanating from a blossom. The third type ejector rod housing, with its bull’s eye ejector rod head, is engraved with snake & dot pattern in the gullet and geometric patterns on the outer radius. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with snake & dot patterns in the flutes and around rear edge. Rear face of the cyl is stamped with the last three digits of the serial number. In addition the last three digits of serial number are on bottom of the bbl, under the ejector rod housing. Accompanied by a modern blue-velvet lined oak casing, French fitted in the bottom for the revolver. Right front corner has a triangular shaped cartridge block containing 6 fired cases. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in .45 cal. with 5-1/2″ bbl, Nickel finish, type of stocks not listed, factory engraved, shipped to Simmons Hardware Company, St. Louis, MO, on Feb. 10, 1883 in a shipment of 10 same type guns. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. May or may not have been fired but if so, very little. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with only a few small discoloration spots, one on left side of bbl and another on the cyl, that with careful attention may polish out. There are a couple of small spots on cyl that are the beginnings of some slight bubbling in the nickel. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-36620 JR1 (40,000-70,000)
EXTRAORDINARY COLT LIGHTNING MEDIUM FRAME CARBINE. SN 43944. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Half nickel finish with 20-1/4″ bbl, full magazine, barleycorn front sight and reverse mounted 900 yard carbine ladder rear sight. Left side of receiver has a staple & ring and the rampant Colt logo. Mounted with nicely figured straight grain American walnut with checkered dbl fluted forearm and straight stock with carbine buttplate. Finish is half nickel with blued bbl & magazine tube, nickeled receiver, slide rail, trigger, hammer & buttplate. Loading gate, staple & ring are also nickel. Screws are fire-blued. Weight 6 lbs. 0.6 oz. While the medium frame Lightnings were produced in fairly large numbers there were fewer carbines produced than rifles. Usually carbines, being shorter & handier, saw hard use and are rarely found in high orig finish. Half nickel guns, such as this one, were usually for presentation to someone special or as a prop for a trick shooter. This carbine appears to have the bbl address & caliber markings either fully or partially engraved and the rampant Colt on left side of receiver appears to be pantograph applied, indicating an extraordinary restoration. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, as noted above. Overall retains about 98-99% strong restored blue on bbl, magazine tube & band. Nickeled parts retain virtually all of their fine restored nickel plating. Wood is sound with a few minor handling & storage marks and retains most of its fine custom finish. Screws retain generous amounts of their fine fire-blue. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-38616 (7,000-12,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & UNDOUBTEDLY THE FINEST DOUBLE CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1861 PERCUSSION NAVY REVOLVERS EXTANT, PRESENTED TO MAJ. GEN. JAMES B MCPHERSON. SN 11756 & 11757. Cal. 36. Phenomenal pair of revolvers with 7-1/2″ rnd bbls, German silver front sights and 1-line addresses with dashes. Left sides of frames are marked “COLTS PATENT” and the silver plated brass trigger guards & backstraps contain spectacular, smooth, 1-pc ivory grips. The serial numbers on the bottom of the frames, bbl lugs & trigger guards are all accompanied by a small “I” which indicates factory ivory grips. Left rear webs of the trigger guards have caliber markings. Revolvers are blue & color case hardened with Colt Master Engraver Gustave Young’s extraordinary deluxe engraving consisting of extra coverage, very fine foliate arabesque patterns, full coverage on the frames & recoil shields with patterns that extend over the bbl lugs terminating on top in front of the bbl addresses, with matching patterns around the front sights. Rammer pivots are engraved to match. Cylinders have hand-engraved Ormsby Naval battle scenes over front two thirds with the rear one third, most unusually finished with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns. Hammers are deluxe engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer noses and full coverage foliate arabesque patterns down the sides, with sides of the spurs also engraved. Spurs also have hand cut checkering. Tops of the backstraps are engraved with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern and foliate arabesque patterns near the tops, at the heels, on the buttstraps and on the trigger guards. Wedges are engraved to match. While this pair is unquestionably engraved by Gustave Young himself, at the same time, for this presentation, they are not identically engraved. Number “11756” has a bird’s head incorporated into the scrolls on the left side of the frame. Number “11757” has a man’s face in the same position. Number “11756” has a bird’s head and a dog’s head on the left side of the bbl lug while “11757 has a bird’s head facing in the opposite direction with a flower blossom in the other position. The right sides of the frames are engraved in mirror images of each other. Right side of the bbl lug of #11756 incorporates a dog’s head & bird’s head in the scroll work while #11757 incorporates a bird’s head facing the opposite direction and a flower blossom. They also have slightly dissimilar patterns in several places. Left side of the ivory grips are engraved in period script “Maj. Gen. Jas. B. McPherson / 17th Army Corps.”. Backstraps are engraved “From his Friends / O.N. Cutler, W.C. Wagley”. All screws are fire-blued. Set is accompanied by their spectacular orig Colt mahogany dbl casing with a gold-washed, cut-corner plate in center of the lid engraved “Maj. Gen. Jas. B. McPherson”. Front of the case has a mortised brass lock with brass escutcheon. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet, French fitted in the bottom for the two revolvers, two blued 2-cavity molds with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutters marked on right sides “36P”. There are also two L-shaped nipple wrenches, a small Dixon bag flask and two 250-count, sealed, paper wrapped tins of Eley Bros. caps. Covered compartment in the left rear contains spare screws, a spare trigger and a spare lockbolt/trigger return spring along with four nipples. Right front compartment is empty. Historical background: Clearly the finest cased set of engraved Colt Navy Revolvers to come to market in decades, these revolvers are enhances by their presentation to one of the Civil War’s most capable generals, killed in action near Atlanta in 1864. A centerpiece of the William M. Locke Collection for decades, this cased presentation has a long history of admiration into the 21st century. While this cataloger has been unable to turn up any definitive personal biographical data on the presenters; O.N. Cutler and W.C. Wagley, obviously deep personal friends of General McPherson, the general’s distinguished military career and his brave death while riding to his troops in battle is legendary. James Birdseye McPherson was born November 14, 1828 near Clyde, Ohio and entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1849. He graduated in 1853 first in his class along with his roommate, John Bell Hood, who later would take command of the Confederate forces McPherson was opposing five days before the time of this death. McPherson was stationed in San Francisco at the outbreak of the war. He requested and received an appointment in the Corps of Engineers. He left San Francisco on August 1, 1861, bound for Washington. Arriving in New York he was notified to report to Boston with a commission as Captain. In November of 1861, he wrote General Henry Halleck in St. Louis requesting a transfer to his command. McPherson then joined his staff as aide-de-camp and assistant chief engineer. McPherson’s career rise in the Union Army was due to his excellent skills and fine reputation as an officer. When reporting for duty in St. Louis, he was immediately promoted to Lt. Colonel. He was assigned as the Chief Engineer to General U.S. Grant and was responsible for selecting the deployment positions for Grant’s troops for their attaches on Fort Donelson and Fort Henry. Following the Battle of Shiloh, in May of 1862 he was appointed Brigadier General of Volunteers. On the 8th of October, 1862 he was, once again, promoted to Major General of Volunteers. In December 1862, the Army of the Tennessee was divided into five corps; 13th Corps under McClernand, 14th Corps under Thomas, the 15th Corps under Sherman, the 16th Corps under Hurlburt,and the 17th Corps was to be commanded by McPherson. On March 12, 1864, he was given the command of the Army of the Tennessee replacing General William Tecumseh Sherman as its commander. On May 5, 1864, Sherman began his march to Atlanta with McPherson’s Army of the Tennessee as the right wing of his army. McPherson, from his engineering studies of the area, knew that North Georgia was rough terrain and difficult ground for the movement of troops. Bare, perpendicular surfaces, such as Rocky Face Ridge, and other mountain sides were steeply sloping, with dense woods and undergrowth. Artillery and supply wagons would be able to move only through passes and gaps in the mountains. General Thomas, with his Army of the Cumberland, and Schofield with his Army of the Ohio were to advance to Dalton, Georgia and McPherson was to proceed to Resaca via Snake Creek Gap. Sherman’s plan was to force Confederate General Joseph Johnston out of his stronghold at Dalton while McPherson was to move south on his west flank and attack the railroad in Johnston’s rear. Johnston then would move south to avoid this danger and thus be caught between McPherson’s forces in the south, and Thomas and Schofield’s forces to the north. Thomas knew McPherson’s 24,000 men were too few for him to successfully carry out Sherman’s plan and asked to advance them on Resaca to give McPherson a larger force, but permission to do so was denied. At Resaca, McPherson learned that Johnston had cut a road through the woods and was marching his 60,000 troops down upon McPherson’s 24,000 men. McPherson knew that the speed with which his movements could be made was his only hope of success. He ordered the 15th Army Corps to attach Resaca at once. Troop movements were extremely slow and it was reported that the enemy had more troops outside of their defensive works than he had in his division. For this failure to trap Johnston, Sherman blamed McPherson for being too cautious. It is more likely, however, that Sherman’s laborious strategy against Johnston was to blame. As the confederate forces moved southward, McPherson’s troops followed vigorously, attacking them at Calhoun and repeatedly attacking them until they reached Kingston, where he was forced to halt due to lack of supplies. He resumed his march up on being re-supplied, and attacked the enemy again. Sherman sent order for McPherson to attack the enemy at Dallas, but by the time the courier arrived with this order, McPherson had already driven the Confederates through Dallas and a mile beyond. Every time Sherman moved, Joe Johnston met him with checking movements, Johnston faced Sherman step by step until they confronted each other at Kennesaw Mountain. The battle there lasted for nearly a month with disastrous results for the Union Army. On the 27th of June, Sherman made a massive attack on Kennesaw with all his army. McPherson’s troops went directly up the mountain and were met with tremendous fire from the Rebel breastworks. The assault failed. On July 2nd, McPherson tried a flanking movement on Johnston’s right, but Johnston discovered the movement and fell back, allowing McPherson to occupy Marietta. From the beginning of the campaign, Johnston and McPherson had anticipated each others movements and craftily circumventing them, each playing the part of a cunning adversary. On the 17th of July, Confederate President Jefferson Davis replaced General Johnston with McPherson’s old West Point roommate, John Bell Hood. Hood’s first engagement against Union troops as commander was north of Atlanta at Peachtree Creek. On the twentieth, Hood was defeated and moved his forces into Atlanta. Meanwhile, McPherson advanced from Decatur meeting little opposition and captured the outer earthworks guarding Atlanta and held the high ground on Bald Hill overlooking the city. That night, Hood sent General Hardee with four divisions south to circumvent McPherson’s forces. On the 22 of July, Sherman felt due to the lack of enemy in front of him, the Hood had evacuated Atlanta, and ordered an advance, but McPherson knew his old roommate and knew he wouldn’t give up Atlanta without a strong fight. If Atlanta was absent a large concentrations of enemy troops, McPherson believed, and rightly so, that Hood planned to attach the Union rear and side. McPherson was discussing his strategy with Sherman at his headquarters, when, suddenly they heard a large concentration of gunfire from the direction of Decatur. Hardee had, apparently, begun his attach. McPherson jumped on his horse and sped towards his troops where he found General Grenville Dodge’s Corps struggling against a fierce assault. After giving orders to Dodge, he followed a line of the 16th Corps towards the 17th Corps, traveling only with his orderly. Entering the wood that separated the two corps, he had traveled only about one hundred fifty yards when a cry of “Halt!” rang out. He stopped for an instant and saw a line of gray skirmishers, wheeled his horse, raised his hat, and made a quick dash to his right. The skirmishers let go with a volley. McPherson staggered in the saddle for a short distance and then fell mortally wounded to the ground. McPherson was loved by his troops, his commander, and by those who knew him. He was planning to get married to his fiancee Emily Hoffman when he could get a furlough. Confederate General John Bell Hood wrote: I will record the death of my classmate and boyhood friend, General James B. McPherson, the announcement of which caused me sincere sorrow. Since we had graduated in 1853, and had each been ordered off on duty in different directions, it has not been our fortune to meet. Neither the years nor the difference of sentiment that had led us to range ourselves on opposite sides in the war has lessened my friendship; indeed the attachment formed in early youth was strengthened by my admiration and gratitude for his conduct toward out people in the vicinity of Vickburg. His considerate and kind treatment of them stood in bright contract to the course pursued by many Federal officers. Sherman in his official report of the death of McPherson, said in part: The country generally will realize that we have lost not only an able military leader, but a man who had he survived, was qualified to heal the national strife which has been raised by designing and ambitious men.” Accompanied by a reprint of a studio photograph of Maj. Gen. McPherson along with his orig signature and an orig small hand written letter signed by Maj. Gen. McPherson. These three items are beautifully framed with blue matting that has gold lining in an extraordinary antique deep walnut frame with gold & black accents. Also accompanied by two CDV’s of Maj. Gen. McPherson with small Plexiglas stands. In addition there are two small medals, one being a gold McPherson Medal of Honor presented to Col. F.A. Starring on July 4, 1863 at the siege of Vicksburg. The other medal is a small 5-pointed gold star suspended from a red ribbon with a gold ribbon pinback at the top. The gold ribbon is engraved “1ST BRIG” on the left end and “1st DIV.” on the right end with a small ribbon in the center engraved “ELLSWORTH’S”. The star is engraved “US / ZOUAVE / CADET” on the points with a shield in the center inscribed on the top “CHAMPION” with a lion’s head in the center with “17” stamped into its forehead. Obverse of this star is engraved “PRESENTED TO COL. F.A. STARRING BY CAPT. D. BRAND / CHICAGO ZOUAVES”. This medal is attached to a small buff colored envelope with the inscription in period ink script “Ellsworths own badge, 1st Chicago Zouaves – worn by him, presented me by his successor Capt. Brand, and worn by me as Div Badge 17th Corps at Vicksburg and many fights.” No immediate connection between Col. Ellsworth and Col. Starring could immediately be learned. Also included is a small oxidized silver pin, porbably a Corps badge of some sort. Additionally accompanying are two copies of the Aug. 13, 1864 Harper’s Weekly with an illustration captioned “THE LATE MAJOR-GENERAL JAMES B. MCPHERSON”. On pp. 517-518 of this broadside is a brief narrative of Gen. McPherson’s career and relates his close ties to Gen. Grant. Also accompanying are a large bronze Colt Collectors Association Best of Show Award which is the rampant Colt trademark and an NRA Silver Medal #17 in its presentation case. Colt bronze is approx. 12 ” high x 10″ wide on an 8″ round walnut base. Finally accompanying is a modern reproduction 31-star American flag. As regards the Ellsworth Medal, it apparently relates to Col. Elmer E. Ellsworth who at age 22 in 1859 formed the Corps of United States Zouave Cadets which later became the Chicago Zouaves. He was born in 1837 and was killed May 24, 1861 in Alexandria, VA, two days after Virginia had seceded, becoming the first conspicuous casualty of the war. The June 8, 1861 edition of Harper’s Weekly carried an illustration of “The Late Col. Ellsworth”, from a photograph by Brady along with a narrative of his demise. These revolvers are pictured in color on pp. 18-19 with caption on pp. 33 & 147 in THE WM M. LOCKE COLLECTION, by Sellers. In Mr. Locke’s caption for these revolvers he states that “the W.C. Wagley who presented these guns was purchasing agent for McPherson’s Army.” Given Mr. Locke’s color photography and lengthy caption for this set indicates the high regard in which he held them. These revolvers are pictured in conjunction with an identically cased pair of Colt Model 1862 Police revolvers that are also pictured later in the book, also with a lengthy caption. The last two sentences of that caption for the Model 1862 revolvers reads “This casing and engraving is identical to that found on the McPHerson Navies. Originally in the McMurdo Silver Collection and follow the same line of acquisition: F. Theodore Dexter to Leaonard A. Busby to William Locke”. This set is also pictured in full color on pp. 58-60 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; William M. Locke Collection; F. Theodore Dexter; Leonard A. Busby. CONDITION: Revolvers are extraordinarily fine, remaining new & unfired and retaining virtually all of their orig factory finish with glossy bright blue and brilliant case colors. Both revolvers have slight worn spots on their backstraps and slight wear at the heels, probably from the case. Screws retain all of their bright fire blue. Grips have a few age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory color. Accessories are equally new. Case has a repaired crack at back edge of lid with usual storage & handling marks in the varnish and a few light gouges in lid and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with a large rectangle of unfaded burgundy velvet inside lid, apparently from a sign or document being placed in that position while it was on display for many years. Lining is also moderately soiled with moderate wear. Photographs, medals and other accompanying items are fine. 4-36515 JR156 (875,000-1,100,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 44389. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with the caliber on the left front web of the trigger guard. Mounted with 1-pc replacement walnut grip and replacement hammer spring. Revolver is engraved in New York style, probably from the Nimschke shop with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the frame. Cylinder pin boss & ejector rod boss on front center of the frame are engraved with hunter stars. It has feather patterns over the top strap with the bbl, backstrap & buttstrap engraved to match the frame. Cylinder is engraved with alternating foliate arabesque patterns and sunbursts on the lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Ejector rod housing has foliate arabesque patterns on the outer radius with snake & dot pattern in the top gullet. Ejector rod housing is 3rd type with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Last four digits of the SN is on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and on the cylinder with the full SN in the usual three positions on the bottom of frame, trigger guard & butstrap. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 caliber with bbl length & type of stocks not listed with blue finish shipped to E.C. Meachum Arms & Co., St. Louis, MO on Feb. 7, 1880 in a shipment of 50 same type guns. There is no mention of the engraving indicating that this revolver was subsequently shipped to New York for engraving. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except grip as noted above. No orig finish remains being an overall smooth gray metal patina. Grip is sound and retains a worn oil patina. Several of the screws are battered. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-38300 JR179 (6,000-10,000)
FINE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED CASED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 57563. Cal. 36. Third Model Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and it has small silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap containing a replacement 1-pc walnut grip. Buttstrap has a period of use installed lanyard stud & ring. Revolver has Mr. Young’s deluxe engraving consisting of full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields with some scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over sides of bbl lug and top side flats. Address has a simple line border terminating at front end of address with a light geometric pattern. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with fish scales down the spur and foliate arabesque patterns on each side. Backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with engraving on each side of backstrap ears and shoulders of trigger guard. Backstrap has foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel, on buttstrap and trigger guard. Cylinder, probably a replacement, is engraved with a band of very well-executed foliate arabesque patterns and a chip & dot border around front edge. No evidence of the Ormsby Naval battle scene could be found. It appears that the cyl is about .020″ undersized. Wedge is an amateur replacement. Toe of buttstrap has been slightly altered with the grip made to conform. Accompanied by an English-style mahogany casing made for a larger revolver, probably an 1860 Army. It has an empty rectangular plate in the lid and the left front corner stamped in large letters “EC”. Interior is lined in red baize with the directions label inside the lid and bottom compartmented American-style for the revolver, a Remington-style flask with dog & birds and a steel 2-cavity bullet mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl, rammer, frame & cyl retain an articially aged restored finish with worn edges on bbl. Engraving, however, is still sharp & fine. Trigger guard & backstrap retain most of their fine restored silver finish. Cyl is a blue/gray patina with light pitting. Grip is very fine. Case is sound with usual handling & use bruises & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is moderately faded & soiled with yellowed label in lid. Flask & mold are fair. 4-38302 (5,000-8,000)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 266670. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, replacement dovetail front sight, “COLTS PATENT” on left side of the frame and caliber marking on the left rear web of the trigger guard. It has 6-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and five of its six safety pins prominent. Trigger guard & back strap are silver plated brass containing a wonderful burl walnut 1-pc grip that has the last four digits of SN in back strap channel. Frame, bbl, hammer, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are wonderfully engraved in early vine style, probably by Gustave Young, with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame & recoil shields with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Top of the back strap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with the outside of the back strap ears engraved in sunburst patterns. Hammer is deluxe engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose with hand checkered hammer spur. Accompanied by a wonderful Colt burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with empty gold plated brass plaque in the lid and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” American eagle flask, a “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity brass bullet mold without sprue cutter, two packets of skin cartridges and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Additionally included is an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and miscellaneous lead balls. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “19128”. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with slight muzzle & sharp edge wear and replaced front sight. Rammer & handle retain most of their orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot, fading elsewhere. Frame & hammer retain strong case colors, bright & strong in sheltered areas. Screws retain most of their fire blue. Grip frame retains traces of silver in sheltered areas. Cylinder retains about 70% thinning blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound showing light wear and a few minor handling & use marks with some slight dulling on left rear edge. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case & accessories are extremely fine with only a few nicks on mold and light wear on flask. 4-36491 JR127 (40,000-60,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 296148. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Usual configuration with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and roll-marked on left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER”. There is a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl at the frame. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in Cuno Helfricht-style, possibly from his shop with about 65-70% coverage very well-executed, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Recoil shield & loading gate have Mr. Helfricht’s style sunbursts. Top of backstrap and sides of shoulders of backstrap are engraved in fan patterns with geometric patterns down the backstrap on the buttstrap & trigger guard. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot patterns with foliate arabesque patterns on top front of frame that extend over sides of bbl and around muzzle. Cylinder is very nicely engraved in Mr. Helfricht’s style of foliate arabesque patterns and sunbursts on lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Ejector rod housing has a hunter star in center with geometric patterns at each end. This appears to be a deluxe revolver that has had poor storage. CONDITION: Fine. Traces of orig finish remain in sheltered areas with dark case colors in gullets of frame and balance a cleaned metal patina. Cylinder retains a blue/gray patina. Grips are fine with numerous small age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting. 4-39001 JR191 (5,000-8,000)
FINE CIVIL WAR COLT ARMY REVOLVER. SN 77759. Cal. 44. This fine condition Colt Army was a typical gun issued to US troops during the Civil War. This particular revolver was used by Fred Edmunds to display along side his Confederate revolvers. This particular gun, SN 77759, was made late in 1861 or 1862. Every part normally SN is SN and all numbers match including the stocks. This gun has very sharp edges, crisp action, traces of case color on frame and hammer, and orig blue in protected areas. All cylinder pins are intact and the cylinder pin notch in the face of the hammer is cut very sharp and has never been mashed, as is usually the case. Cylinder is very sharp and the engraved scene of naval battle is quite good. Stocks still retain much of their orig varnish with excellent inspector cartouches. This is a beautiful and attractive Colt Army that has no defects and would fit nicely into any collection. PROVENANCE: Fred Edmunds Collection. CONDITION: As described above. 4-38133 JS29 (5,000-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARY & ULTIMATELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT RIMFIRE SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 258. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with script address having the broken letter dies, with serifs at each end. Left side of the frame has the earliest style 2-line patent dates with “44 CAL” on left shoulder of the trigger guard. Fitted with 2nd type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Bottom of the bbl has the serial number underneath ejector rod housing and “44” located about 5/8″ forward of the frame. Various authentic, period to revolver, inspector initials are located on bottom of the bbl, back edge of the frame and inside the hammer slot. Mounted with spectacular flame grain varnished American walnut 1-pc grip with matching serial number in the back strap channel. Frame, bbl, ejector rod housing, cylinder & grip frame are all engraved in deep foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and dual line borders in typical L. D. Nimschke style. Center bosses on front part of frame have engraved hunter’s stars, typical of Nimschke engraving. Top strap is engraved with fine feather patterns and dual line borders with chip & dot borders. Top of bbl has identical borders with wonderful geometric patterns toward front sight. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s fan with checkered areas near the ears with spiderweb patterns on sides of the back strap ears. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in matching patterns with matching borders plus a snake & dot pattern on each side of the trigger guard. Cyl has matching foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with small flourishes back of the flutes and a band of feather patterns with chip & dot border around rear edge. Ejector rod housing is engraved on outer radius with feather & foliate arabesque patterns with matching borders. Ejector rod housing gullet is engraved with snake & dot pattern. Frame screws & grip frame screws are all blued. The bore is conventionally rifled vs. the rifling found in most other Colt Single Action Army revolvers. This exact revolver is pictured in full color on p. 332 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, Wilson. It also appears on page 61, in full color, in THE OFFICIAL RECORD OF THE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 1873-1895, Wilkerson & Hoyt, a copy of which accompanies this lot. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with bbl length, finish & type of stocks not listed showing shipment to Spies, Kissam & Co., New York, NY, on March 10, 1876 in a shipment of thirty same type guns. Additionally accompanied by a 6-page hand written letter from renowned Colt historian & authority, Ron Graham, who states, unequivocally, that this revolver is completely authentic in every respect as stated above and is the finest of its type in existence. Further accompanied by a 2-page letter from noted Colt historian & author, R.L. Wilson, who precisely details all of the fine points that completely authenticate this revolver as being orig as found. Both Mr. Graham & Mr. Wilson state that this is the finest Colt Rimfire Single Action Army revolver extant. These rare revolvers, approx. 1,892 produced in period 1875-1880, in their own serial range, were essentially obsolete by the time they were produced. Finding limited acceptance on the American market, Colt was able to sell most of the completed stock to remote & undeveloped countries such as Mexico & South America where the Henry & Winchester Model 1866 rifles were still in use, and where care was minimal at best. Consequently it is rare to find one of these rimfire revolvers with orig bbl length and finish. PROVENANCE: George Lewis Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including grip. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel finish with only faint wear at muzzle edges and on back strap with some dulling on recoil shield & loading gate and light scrape marks around bbl address. Grip is sound with minor handling & storage nicks & scratches and overall retains about 90% strong orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-38488 JR4 (200,000-300,000)
FINE CIVILIAN DRAGOON POWDER FLASK. Great powder flask for the Dragoon revolver with dbl-sided repoussed stand of flags and trophy of arms with mortar, a field Howitzer, drum and ax, with swords on each side, all surmounting crossed pairs of Paterson rifles and revolvers with a ribbon at the bottom inscribed “COLTS PATENT”. The top has a spring-loaded plunger with the cap box cover hand-engraved “COLT’S PATENT”. Triangle-shaped hangers are mounted low on each side. Virtually all of the approx. 20,000 Dragoon revolvers sold by Colt were accompanied by a flask such as this, but few survive today. Of those survivors, very few have orig. finish. PROVENANCE: Peter Wainwright Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 50% strong orig finish, primarily on one side with finish in the recessed areas on the other side. There are a cpl of tiny nicks around the neck with solid seam and good mechanics. 4-38171 JR295 (3,000-5,000)
EXTRAORDINARY & SPECTACULAR CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVERS THAT ALMOST CERTAINLY BELONGED TO MAJ. GEN. JAMES B. MCPHERSON. SN 15859 & 15860. Cal. 36. Extraordinary cased pair that are engraved almost exactly like the cased pair of 1861 Colt Navys inscribed to Gen. McPherson being sold elsewhere in this auction. Not only is the engraving nearly identical, the casing, with slight changes in confirmation, is also identical, even to the color and French fitting. Unfortunately neither the revolvers nor the casing are inscribed. That these revolvers probably belonged to Gen. McPherson is supported by the fact that they were part of the fabulous William M. Locke Collection and are pictured in color adjacent to the 1861’s mentioned above. This set, like the 1861’s, is accorded a lengthy caption in the Locke Collection book, following the caption for the 1861’s. The last sentence of this caption reads “Originally in the McMurdo Silver Collection and follow the same line of acquisition: F. Theodore Dexter to Leonard A. Busby to William Locke.” Given that these two sets of Colts are nearly identically engraved and identically cased and have followed the same trail of ownership through the decades leaves little doubt that they were also a presentation to Gen. McPherson. In a telephone conversation with noted Colt authority, collector and dealer Bob Berryman, he disclosed his recollection as to the origin of these revolvers. He recalled that they first came to light in the McMurdo Silver Collection and he believes they went directly to the William Locke Collection where they were reunited with General McPherson’s cased 1861 Navys. He recalls he purchased them from the Locke collection and sold them to Johny Bassett and later purchased them back from Mr. Bassett. He then sold them to Warren Anderson and they were sold by Butterfield’s Auction company in the 1990s to Doctor Joseph Murphy. Revolvers are described as having 6-1/2″ rnd bbls, pin front sights, small letter 1-line address and with “COLTS PATENT” on left front side of the frame. Left rear web of the trigger guard is marked with the caliber. They are fitted with silver-plated trigger guards & backstraps containing wonderful smooth ivory 1-pc grips. The serial numbers in the four locations on bottoms of the revolvers are all accompanied by a small “I”, indicating factory ivory grips. Engraving from the hand of the master himself, Gustave Young, consists of full coverage on the frames of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background which extend over the bbl lug & bbl and terminate on top, forward of the address. There are matching patterns around the muzzles and on the rammer pivots. Hammers are deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns fully down the sides and feather patterns on the sides of the spurs with hand-cut checkering. Tops of the backstraps have atypical fan patterns for Mr. Young’s engraving with mirror image foliate patterns at the top of the backstrap ears & frames. Backstraps have foliate arabesque patterns at the tops & heels, on the buttstraps & trigger guards with a large empty presentation area on each backstrap. Cylinders are, unusually, engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and fully around the circumference of the rebated areas. While these revolvers were undoubtedly engraved by Gustave Young himself, at the same time, for the same casing, they are not identically engraved. Number “15859” has a scroll terminating in a flower on the left side while on “15860” that same position has a bird’s head. Number “15859” has a dog’s head on the left recoil shield and a lady’s head on the left side of the bbl lug. Number “15860” has a flower blossom and a dog’s head in those areas respectively. The two frames have mirror image engraving on the right sides of the frames with number “15860” having a bird’s head on the right side of the bbl lug and the other no image. The same style of dissimilar patterns were observed on the previously mentioned pair of Model 1861’s. Accompanied by their orig mahogany casing with empty cut corner, rectangular brass plate in the lid and a mortised brass lock in the front with brass escutcheon. Case is burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the two revolvers, two blued 2-cavity molds with “COLT’S PATENT” sprue cutters and marked on the right side “36B”. Also contains a Dixon bag flask, two L-shaped nipple wrenches and two sealed paper-wrapped tins of Eley’s caps and a packet of Colt’s combustible cartridges. This fantastic set appears in two illustrations in full color on p. 61 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. As previously mentioned they also appear in color on p. 18 of The Wm M. Locke Collection, Sellers and on p. 159 of the same book. That this set was given such extra attention by Mr. Locke is a testament to his highest regard for them. Clearly the finest cased set of engraved Colt Police Revolvers to come to market in decades, these revolvers are enhances by their presentation to one of the Civil War’s most capable generals, killed in action near Atlanta in 1864. A centerpiece of the William M. Locke Collection for decades, this cased presentation has a long history of admiration into the 21st century. While this cataloger has been unable to turn up any definitive personal biographical data on the presenters; O.N. Cutler and W.C. Wagley, obviously deep personal friends of General McPherson, the general’s distinguished military career and his brave death while riding to his troops in battle is legendary. James Birdseye McPherson was born November 14, 1828 near Clyde, Ohio and entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1849. He graduated in 1853 first in his class along with his roommate, John Bell Hood, who later would take command of the Confederate forces McPherson was opposing five days before the time of this death. McPherson was stationed in San Francisco at the outbreak of the war. He requested and received an appointment in the Corps of Engineers. He left San Francisco on August 1, 1861, bound for Washington. Arriving in New York he was notified to report to Boston with a commission as Captain. In November of 1861, he wrote General Henry Halleck in St. Louis requesting a transfer to his command. McPherson then joined his staff as aide-de-camp and assistant chief engineer. McPherson’s career rise in the Union Army was due to his excellent skills and fine reputation as an officer. When reporting for duty in St. Louis, he was immediately promoted to Lt. Colonel. He was assigned as the Chief Engineer to General U.S. Grant and was responsible for selecting the deployment positions for Grant’s troops for their attaches on Fort Donelson and Fort Henry. Following the Battle of Shiloh, in May of 1862 he was appointed Brigadier General of Volunteers. On the 8th of October, 1862 he was, once again, promoted to Major General of Volunteers. In December 1862, the Army of the Tennessee was divided into five corps; 13th Corps under McClernand, 14th Corps under Thomas, the 15th Corps under Sherman, the 16th Corps under Hurlburt,and the 17th Corps was to be commanded by McPherson. On March 12, 1864, he was given the command of the Army of the Tennessee replacing General William Tecumseh Sherman as its commander. On May 5, 1864, Sherman began his march to Atlanta with McPherson’s Army of the Tennessee as the right wing of his army. McPherson, from his engineering studies of the area, knew that North Georgia was rough terrain and difficult ground for the movement of troops. Bare, perpendicular surfaces, such as Rocky Face Ridge, and other mountain sides were steeply sloping, with dense woods and undergrowth. Artillery and supply wagons would be able to move only through passes and gaps in the mountains. General Thomas, with his Army of the Cumberland, and Schofield with his Army of the Ohio were to advance to Dalton, Georgia and McPherson was to proceed to Resaca via Snake Creek Gap. Sherman’s plan was to force Confederate General Joseph Johnston out of his stronghold at Dalton while McPherson was to move south on his west flank and attack the railroad in Johnston’s rear. Johnston then would move south to avoid this danger and thus be caught between McPherson’s forces in the south, and Thomas and Schofield’s forces to the north. Thomas knew McPherson’s 24,000 men were too few for him to successfully carry out Sherman’s plan and asked to advance them on Resaca to give McPherson a larger force, but permission to do so was denied. At Resaca, McPherson learned that Johnston had cut a road through the woods and was marching his 60,000 troops down upon McPherson’s 24,000 men. McPherson knew that the speed with which his movements could be made was his only hope of success. He ordered the 15th Army Corps to attach Resaca at once. Troop movements were extremely slow and it was reported that the enemy had more troops outside of their defensive works than he had in his division. For this failure to trap Johnston, Sherman blamed McPherson for being too cautious. It is more likely, however, that Sherman’s laborious strategy against Johnston was to blame. As the confederate forces moved southward, McPherson’s troops followed vigorously, attacking them at Calhoun and repeatedly attacking them until they reached Kingston, where he was forced to halt due to lack of supplies. He resumed his march up on being re-supplied, and attacked the enemy again. Sherman sent order for McPherson to attack the enemy at Dallas, but by the time the courier arrived with this order, McPherson had already driven the Confederates through Dallas and a mile beyond. Every time Sherman moved, Joe Johnston met him with checking movements, Johnston faced Sherman step by step until they confronted each other at Kennesaw Mountain. The battle there lasted for nearly a month with disastrous results for the Union Army. On the 27th of June, Sherman made a massive attack on Kennesaw with all his army. McPherson’s troops went directly up the mountain and were met with tremendous fire from the Rebel breastworks. The assault failed. On July 2nd, McPherson tried a flanking movement on Johnston’s right, but Johnston discovered the movement and fell back, allowing McPherson to occupy Marietta. From the beginning of the campaign, Johnston and McPherson had anticipated each others movements and craftily circumventing them, each playing the part of a cunning adversary. On the 17th of July, Confederate President Jefferson Davis replaced General Johnston with McPherson’s old West Point roommate, John Bell Hood. Hood’s first engagement against Union troops as commander was north of Atlanta at Peachtree Creek. On the twentieth, Hood was defeated and moved his forces into Atlanta. Meanwhile, McPherson advanced from Decatur meeting little opposition and captured the outer earthworks guarding Atlanta and held the high ground on Bald Hill overlooking the city. That night, Hood sent General Hardee with four divisions south to circumvent McPherson’s forces. On the 22 of July, Sherman felt due to the lack of enemy in front of him, the Hood had evacuated Atlanta, and ordered an advance, but McPherson knew his old roommate and knew he wouldn’t give up Atlanta without a strong fight. If Atlanta was absent a large concentrations of enemy troops, McPherson believed, and rightly so, that Hood planned to attach the Union rear and side. McPherson was discussing his strategy with Sherman at his headquarters, when, suddenly they heard a large concentration of gunfire from the direction of Decatur. Hardee had, apparently, begun his attach. McPherson jumped on his horse and sped towards his troops where he found General Grenville Dodge’s Corps struggling against a fierce assault. After giving orders to Dodge, he followed a line of the 16th Corps towards the 17th Corps, traveling only with his orderly. Entering the wood that separated the two corps, he had traveled only about one hundred fifty yards when a cry of “Halt!” rang out. He stopped for an instant and saw a line of gray skirmishers, wheeled his horse, raised his hat, and made a quick dash to his right. The skirmishers let go with a volley. McPherson staggered in the saddle for a short distance and then fell mortally wounded to the ground. McPherson was loved by his troops, his commander, and by those who knew him. He was planning to get married to his fiancee Emily Hoffman when he could get a furlough. Confederate General John Bell Hood wrote: I will record the death of my classmate and boyhood friend, General James B. McPherson, the announcement of which caused me sincere sorrow. Since we had graduated in 1853, and had each been ordered off on duty in different directions, it has not been our fortune to meet. Neither the years nor the difference of sentiment that had led us to range ourselves on opposite sides in the war has lessened my friendship; indeed the attachment formed in early youth was strengthened by my admiration and gratitude for his conduct toward out people in the vicinity of Vickburg. His considerate and kind treatment of them stood in bright contract to the course pursued by many Federal officers. Sherman in his official report of the death of McPherson, said in part: The country generally will realize that we have lost not only an able military leader, but a man who had he survived, was qualified to heal the national strife which has been raised by designing and ambitious men.” PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; F. Theodore Dexter; Leonard A. Busby; William M. Locke Collection; Bob Berryman; Johny Bassett; Warren Anderson. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching. Overall both revolvers retain about all of their orig factory finish with glossy blue and brilliant case colors. Number “15859” has some slight flaking on the cylinder and #15860 has about 20% flaking on the bbl with some slight flaking on the cylinder. Both retain virtually all of their orig silver on the grip frame with spectacular crisp ivory grips that retain a mellow warm ivory color. Neither revolver appears to have been fired. Casing is sound with a couple of grain checks in the bottom and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is moderately faded with light to moderate soil and is completely sound with light wear. Molds & flask appear to be unused retaining virtually all of their orig factory finish. Other accessories are equally fine. Altogether an extraordinary set that stands alone as one of the finest cased pairs of ’62 Police revolvers extant. Combined with the McPherson ’61 Navys would make an extraordinary addition to anyone’s collection or to a museum exhibit. 4-36494 JR157 (250,000-450,000)
SPECTACULAR & RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 172734. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 2-line address on top and the caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief raised carved bull’s head on right side. Revolver has Cuno Helfrecht’s deluxe coverage engraving consisting of sweeping foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background. Frame has full coverage with his trademark sunburst on the loading gate with unusual snake & dot patterns by the hammer slot. Both sides of the cylinder pin boss have small sunbursts. Top strap is engraved with feather patterns and the bbl has matching foliate arabesque patterns almost full length on both sides with Moorish patterns around front sight. Cylinder is engraved with small sunbursts and foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes. Rear edge of cylinder has a zig zag border with two very fine chip borders. Top of back strap has a beautiful sunburst pattern with zig zag and Moorish patterns at the top & heel and over the butt strap. Trigger guard has foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap is engraved “Johnie Johnson”. Front strap is engraved in a different hand “FROM” and butt strap “Mrs R L G to”. Accompanied by two Colt Factory letters, one from 1984 and the other 2007. Both supplying identical information fully identifying this revolver in caliber 45 with 3-1/2″ bbl, silver finish, carved bull head pearl stocks, factory engraved with inscription as found on back strap and shipped to H. Woodhaus & Son, address not available on Sept. 15, 1897 on a one gun shipment. This revolver is made without provision for an ejector rod housing on a standard black powder frame. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, only about 600 of these rare revolvers were made in the period 1882-1896 and of these only a few were engraved. While this revolver was shipped in 1897 which, theoretically, should have placed it in the smokeless powder frame era, Colt obviously, being their usual frugal selves, used a carryover black powder frame to build this revolver. Surviving authentic engraved sheriff-models are virtually nonexistent and this may be the only factory inscribed example. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 30-35% orig silver plating with balance a gray patina with orig silver strong in sheltered areas. Engraving remains sharp & clear showing only light surface wear with heavier wear around the muzzle and slight dings on the front sight. Front & back straps are gray metal patina showing moderate to heavy wear. Left grip has a tiny chip at left heel and another at the frame, otherwise grips are sound with a few minor rust stains around the edges and show great fire & color with sharp carving on bull’s head. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-35284 JR232 (90,000-110,000)
FINE CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 19111/E. Cal. 36. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” with the caliber on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip, engraved on left side “J.H. WHEELER / 1864. N.C.”. Buttstrap is engraved in period script “C. Sully Wheeler / A 5864”, possibly the date May 8, 1864. The “A” may refer to “Anno Domini” (AD). Serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap are accompanied by a small “E” which, under ordinary circumstances would mean “engraved”. Most likely this is an assembler’s error and should have read “I” for “ivory” instead. Last four digits of SN were observed on the rear face of cyl on two lands between nipple recesses. Backstrap channel of grip is numbered “5982”, most likely the order number for this revolver. Wedge has the number “5240”. Bbl & cyl have British proofs. Accompanied by an English oak casing with brass disc in center of lid. It is lined with green baize and has the Colt label inside lid. This label is overwritten in old red ink “NO. 19111”. Bottom of case is compartmented for revolver, a 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter and “36P” on right side. Also contains a nickel-plated Dixon bag flask marked on top “COLTS POCKET FLASK”, a Dixon pewter oiler, a nickel-plated L-shaped nipple wrench, a wood handled cleaning rod and a bare metal tin of Eley’s caps with green & black label marked “W. & C. ELEY”. A compartment in the right rear is missing its cover. Additionally accompanied by a letter from the State of North Carolina, Dept. of Cultural Resources wherein apparently the addressee (whose name is removed), had inquired regarding J.H. Wheeler of North Carolina. The writer of the letter responded that “The gun might have been given to Charles Sully Wheeler by his father John Hill Wheeler of North Carolina.” J.H. Wheeler (1806-1882) was a lawyer, a diplomat and author who was also the Minister to Nicaragua (1854-1856). He returned to the U.S. at the expiration of that appointment and lived in Washington, D.C. until the outbreak of the Civil War. He then returned to North Carolina to offer his services to his state but apparently was too old to serve. In Sept. 1863 he left North Carolina aboard a Confederate blockade runner and traveled to Bermuda where he then booked passage through Nova Scotia to England. For several weeks in early 1864 Mr. Wheeler spent copying records at the public records office and in April 1864 returned to Bermuda. By that time the Union victory was apparent so he returned to Washington where he remained until his death. It almost certainly was during his time in England that he purchased this revolver and had it inscribed to his son. Very likely there is another. similarly inscribed to his other son. The purpose of his records search was to gather historical information for a second history of North Carolina residents which he was preparing to publish to follow his earlier History of North Carolina which was published in 1851. In his earlier life Mr. Wheeler had graduated from the Columbian University (now George Washington University) in 1826 and studied law under Chief Justice Taylor, was licensed in 1827 and that same year was elected to the State Legislature. He served 1827-1830 with some notable successes. He was nominated for Congress but was defeated. In 1831 Mr. Wheeler was appointed by the President for a treaty commission with France which lasted three years. In 1837 he was appointed Superintendent of the Branch Mint at Charlotte, which position he held until 1841. In 1842 he was elected Treasurer of the State of North Carolina, a position he held until 1844. From then until 1853 Mr. Wheeler was involved in writing his first History of North Carolina and in local politics. In 1854 he was commissioned Minister to Nicaragua and arrived in December 1854. At that time Nicaragua was in political turmoil, as was most of Spanish Central America, and in May 1855, at the invitation of one of the warring factions, recruited a small band of armed mercenaries which he led to capture Grenada and secured the election of his sponsor as provisional President. He was subsequently arrested and imprisoned under order of execution but his friends attacked the city and freed him. He was apparently disciplined by the Secretary of State but was able to convince the President to leave him at his post. He returned to the U.S. in 1857 and resigned. It was his last public service. Mr. Wheeler married twice and with his second wife, Ellen Sully, daughter of Thomas Sully, one of the most distinguished artists of Philadelphia, produced two sons, one of whom was Charles Sully Wheeler who served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War and the other Woodbury Wheeler was a Captain in the Confederate Army. Charles Sully Wheeler was born Nov. 1839 and died May 1916 and is listed as having served in the Federal Navy during the Civil War. Apparently after the war he returned to Washington and became a successful lawyer. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge & grip as noted above. Overall retains about all of its fine orig nickel plating with only slight signs of use. Left side of frame has a few minor “screwdriver” scratches and rear face of cyl shows evidence of having been “played with” as all of its safety pins are battered. Grip is sound showing moderate wear on engraving with a few minor age lines and retains a wonderful golden ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some very minor light pitting. Case has a couple of grain checks and a crack in bottom and is missing a small sliver from right rear bottom edge, otherwise is sound with normal handling & storage marks and retains about 90% orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded & soiled with soiled & yellowed label that has light damage. Mold is fine and retains about 75-80% orig blue. Flask & nipple wrench retain most of their orig nickel finish. Other accessories are fine, missing compartment cover as noted. 4-38461 JR219 (17,500-27,500)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP MODEL 1871-1872 SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 3256. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Extraordinary open top with nickel finish, 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, orig front sight, 1-line address and 1871 and 1872 patent dates on left side of the frame. It has brass trigger guard & iron back strap containing a 1-pc ivory grip with an extraordinary raised carved Mexican eagle on the left side. Revolver has nearly full coverage Nimschke-style engraving consisting of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Sides of the hammer nose are engraved with a screaming eagle’s head. Back strap is engraved with a shell pattern at the top and a wonderful central foliate pattern. Cylinder is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with a variety of border patterns. Engraving extends over the bbl lug & up the bbl with patterns around the front sight and on ejector rod housing. Trigger, wedge & all screws are fire-blued with most of the screws engraved. There is a small set of intertwined initials engraved just forward of the trigger bow that appear to be “EBL”, almost certainly the engravers initials. Cylinder has the SN stamped on the rear face. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with blue finish, type of stocks not listed with plated trigger guard shipped to H&D Folsom Arms Co., New York, NY, July 11, 1874 in a shipment of 50 same type guns. Also accompanied by a custom walnut & Plexiglas stand. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom plating, appears unfired after engraving. Grips are extremely fine showing little or no wear and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with fine dark pitting. Stand is fine. 4-36499 JR138 (9,000-16,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY CASED ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 45456SA & RKM-1. Cal. 45 Colt. Fantastic Alvin White engraved single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with extraordinary, custom, smooth 1-pc ebony grip with a buttcap mortised around bottom edges and screw mounted into the buttstrap. Accompanied by two spare cylinders. Revolver is all blue finish with Mr. White’s spectacular foliate arabesque pattern engraving with about full coverage on frame and about 80% coverage on bbl. Most of engraving patterns are inlaid with gold and left recoil shield is inlaid with a raised gold turkey gobbler in a forest scene. Sides of hammer have gold inlaid eagle’s heads with foliate arabesque gold inlay and three stars down each side signifying the rank of Lt. General. Each side of bbl also has three gold inlaid stars. Sides of front sight are also inlaid in gold as is top 8 hammer nose. All bbl markings are also inlaid in gold. Top of backstrap has a beautiful gold & platinum foliate & floral bouquet surrounded by gold wire and foliate inlays. Backstrap has a gold wire border around an open panel with gold inlaid foliate patterns at top & heel. Inscription that read as a presentation to Lt. Gen. Richard King Mellon has been removed. Serial number on bottom of frame which read “R.K.M.1” has also been removed. Ejector rod housing & bbl have one wide & one narrow gold inlaid band at frame end. Transverse pin has checkered ends. The aforementioned buttcap is of blued steel with two gold bands around outer edge and inlaid gold foliate arabesque patterns heel & toe, with the Mellon crest in gold & platinum in the center. Accompanied by three 45 caliber cylinders all having the last four digits of the SN around cyl bushing hole and its other SN, “R.K.M. / 1”, on the face between two chambers. The first cylinder has gold inlaid foliate arabesque patterns and two small stars on lands between the flutes with a band of gold inlaid foliate arabesque patterns and two gold bands around rear edge. The second cylinder, unfluted, is inlaid on rear edge identically to the first with gold inlaid foliate arabesque patterns, small stars with a vignette of crossed flags, one is the American flag and the other resembles the Colt family crest. On the opposite side are three inlaid large gold stars signifying Gen. Mellon’s Lt. General rank, surmounting a “2” and the Pennsylvania keystone. The third cylinder, also unfluted, has the two gold bands at rear edge with gold inlaid names near the rear edge “ROLLING ROCK”, “RACHELWOOD” and “PINELAND”, all separated by small arabesque patterns. The front 2/3 of cyl is engraved and gold inlaid with foliate arabesque patterns & stars. It has the vignette of a raised gold drumming ruffed grouse on a log in a woodland scene and a magnificent whitetail buck leaping over a log in a woodland scene. Also accompanied by its orig Arno Werner-made blue leather covered case with gold embossed borders and a rectangular gold plate in the lid engraved “LIEUTENANT GENERAL / RICHARD KING MELLON / 19 JUNE 1966”. Front of case has an engraved shield lock escutcheon. Interior is lined with gold velvet in the lid with the gold embossed leather label “A.A. WHITE ENGRAVERS, INC. / MANCHESTER, CONNECTICUT, U.S.A.”. Bottom is in gold velvet & blue leather with gold embossed star borders, recessed for the revolver & the two spare cylinders. Serial number, as previously mentioned, was removed by the family along with the backstrap inscription when the revolver was sold. The orig SN was observed on left side of the front & back straps under the grip with last four digits of SN around the cyl bushing hole on all three cylinders. The assembly number “533” was observed on bottom of bbl, under ejector rod housing and inside ejector rod housing. This revolver is one of ten in the 45450 SA thru 45459 SA serial range that were specially selected for special engraving & presentations. Accompanied by copies of a Colt factory letter and a letter from Alvin White that accompanies another revolver from this same series being sold elsewhere in this auction. The Colt letter states that SN 45457SA was part of a shipment of three pairs with consecutive SN’s which were furnished “in the white” and were destined for engraving outside the factory, order #11508. The Alvin White letter is regarding this same other single action revolver. He states that among those who have revolvers from this serial range are a pair numbered “CC-1” and “CC-2” which belonged to Chuck Connors. Another number “RPM NO.1” for Richard P. Mellon and this revolver “RKM NO.1” for the late Richard King Mellon. Others were for a collector in Switzerland, a prototype commemorative with the number “TR-1” and the other one was engraved for a presentation to Pres. Richard M. Nixon, which was never presented. Richard King Mellon was born June 19, 1899 in Pittsburgh, PA into one of America’s greatest financial families. At an early age he was being trained into the financial world by his father and was home tutored throught the age of twelve. After that he entered an academy in Pittsburgh, eventually transferring to Culver Military Academy in Indiana. After graduating he entered Princeton University but dropped out after one semester to join the Army. He served as a Private and Student Pilot in the Army Air Corps during WWI with the war ending while he was in Officers Training School. After the war he and his father began building Rolling Rock Farms & Country Club which he enjoyed until the end of his life. After WWI Mr. Mellon returned to Princeton but left after a short period of time and was then tutored in subjects that would benefit him in his financial dealings. He began in the banking business at the bottom in 1920 as a messenger and assistant cashier. In December 1933 his father died and Richard King Mellon became President of the Mellon National Bank in 1934. By 1937 Mr. Mellon held 34 Directorships in various major corporations in the United States and had a hand in virtually every business activity in the Pittsburgh area. He served on the boards of General Motors, Gulf Oil and numerous Fortune 500 corporations. In 1942 he re-entered the Army as a Major and directed the Selective Service System for the state of Pennsylvania, eventually serving as the Assistant Chief of the War Departments International Division in Washington. He established banks for the Armed Forces and promoted the show “This is the Army”. For his outstanding service he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. At the end of the war he was discharged as a Colonel but remained in the Army Reserves until 1961 when he retired as Lt. General. After the war Mr. Mellon committed himself to revitalizing Pittsburgh which he accomplished with great success. This Renaissance in Pittsburgh included tearing down about 100 old buildings and replacing them with skyscrapers and modern office buildings, most of which are still standing today. One of his most notable accomplishments was co-sponsoring, along with the March of Dimes, the research that contributed to Dr. Jonas Salk discovering polio vaccine. Mr. Mellon was an avid hunter and outdoorsman pursuing big game in Alaska and the Canadian Rockies. His mansion in Ligonier, PA was named Huntland Downs and was fifty miles outside Pittsburgh which he commuted every day. Mr. Mellon died of heart disease on June 3, 1970 ending the Mellon Dynasty. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom royal blue finish, remaining new & unfired with only a faint cylinder line. The only observable flaws are the backstrap and area on the frame where the presentation and SN’s were removed. Buttcap shows light edge wear with a couple of spots of pitting. Spare cyls appear to never have been installed. Case has a couple of small scuffs with some light soil inside otherwise is equally new. 4-38298 JR220 (35,000-50,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE AND THE ONLY KNOWN CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1902 SPORTING SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 8150. Cal. 38 ACP. Blue finish with 6″ all blue bbl, orig fixed sights with usual Browning’s Patent & Colt Patent markings on left side of slide and usual markings on right side of slide. It has a hand checkered rnd spur hammer and is mounted with orig, thick, smooth pearl grips and is accompanied by an orig all blue magazine with patent marked floorplate. Pistol is engraved in the readily identifiable style of Cuno Helfricht, with flowing foliate arabesque patterns on each side of frame that wrap around the grips and extend over the trigger guard. Both front sides of the frame have chip & dot borders that extend all the way to the muzzle end. Front strap is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns and has feather patterns on each side. Backstrap has matching engraving with a blank presentation banner in the center. Bottom front of frame has a matching foliate arabesque pattern with an 8-pointed flower blossom in the center. Trigger bow is also engraved to match. Sides of slide have matching foliate arabesque patterns with a wavy outside border and a chip & dot inside border terminating with a shell pattern at each forward end. Top of slide has two matching intertwined foliate arabesque patterns. Rear of slide and top rear edge of frame are engraved in feather patterns. All of the foliate arabesque patterns have a very fine punch dot background. This pistol has been examined by several noted Colt authorities and all concur with this cataloger’s assessment that this pistol is factory orig in every respect and was engraved by Cuno Helfricht himself. These letters accompany. Also accompanied by an orig, period, Colt-style casing covered in brown leather with border embossed lid and a nickeled lock & escutcheon mortised into the front. Interior is lined in dark green velvet, French fitted in bottom for the pistol with three small open slots in rear which now contain a brass cleaning rod and bore mop that consignor had especially made for this set. Left front of the case has a walnut cartridge block for 24 cartridges. This case is nearly identical to one which appears on the cover of A Collector’s Guide to Colt 38 Automatics, Sheldon, which houses the only other known cased 1902, which is a military model, SN 14765. This case has minor differences in the interior layout. There is only one other factory engraved Sporting Model 1902, #4302, which is listed as factory engraved and of this writing is not known. The pistol presented here is a “no record” entry signifying that it was a special production, probably as a presentation by a company executive. The book A Collector’s Guide to Colt 38 Automatics, Sheldon, on p. 130 states that the “Factory year end inventory dated December 31, 1904 lists two leather cases for the military model still in stock.” He goes on to say that shipping ledgers do not list these cases as ever having been sent out with orders, so it is likely only a handful were ever made for presentation purposes when the pistol was first introduced. Page 84 of this same book states that “Perhaps three dozen pistols were shipped with special order pearl or wood grips, the former being more popular.” And on p. 76 he states that shipping records indicate that only one pistol (sporting model), #4304, was factory engraved and that it was fitted with pearl stocks. As of this writing that pistol remains undiscovered. This pistol and its display won the Judge’s Choice Award at the Annual Colt Collectors Association Meeting in 2007 and is pictured on p. 24 of the Winter 2007 Rampant Colt magazine with the owner at that time. That award accompanies this pistol. There are several instances where it is stated by the various authors that Sporting Model 1902, SN 4304, is the only factory engraved specimen and that about five were inscribed. Those publications include The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, Wilson; Colt Pistols, Wilson & Habel and The Book of Colt Firearms, Sutherland & Wilson. Consignor states and has certified in a signed letter, that this pistol was received for services by a doctor in the 1920’s or 30’s and remained in that family in the Rocky Mountain West until 2002 when it was purchased directly from that doctor’s family. The individual who purchased it traded it to the consignor, making him only the fourth owner since it was produced in 1905, 104 years ago. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 93-94% strong, glossy orig factory blue with slight thinning in a few areas and with wear around muzzle end of slide. Backstrap is slightly thinned. Hammer retains virtually all of its orig factory case colors. Grips are completely sound with one minor age line and retain great fire and color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Pistol may be unfired just handled & played with. Case is moderately scuffed with storage & handling marks and worn corners but is completely sound in all respects. Interior is strong & bright with only slight wear in bottom pistol recess from grip and muzzle end of slight. A truly exceptional and rare set. A once in a lifetime opportunity to own a stunning, one of a kind piece of history. 4-39045 JR224 (80,000-125,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 342403. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl and mounted with deep relief carved eagle ivory grips with silver Colt medallions. Grips may be later replacements. Left side of the frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle with caliber marking on left side of bbl. Serial number was observed on left side of the grip frame, underneath the grip. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in New York style with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with small flower blossoms in the lower front gullets. Each side of the bbl boss is engraved in a checkerboard pattern with feather patterns down the top strap. Matching foliate arabesque patterns extend most of the length of the bbl with a well-executed fan pattern at top of the back strap. Cylinder is engraved in Helfricht style with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and a foliate spray at rear edges of flutes and a scalloped border around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in .45 cal. with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, sold to G.D. Willis and shipped to Bronson & Townsend, New Haven, CT on March 6, 1922 in a one gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish with one small pencil eraser sized spot of pitting on left side of muzzle. Appears to be new & unfired. Grips fit well and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-36596 JR2 (30,000-50,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED GOLD & SILVER COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 159302. Cal. 31.Full silver finish with gold-washed cyl & hammer with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and hand-engraved “Sam Colt” on the top left. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene and brass trigger guard & backstrap containing a 1-pc ivory grip that has the last four digits of SN in backstrap channel. The most rare feature of this revolver is the hand-engraved “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of the frame. Accompanied by an orig Colt mahogany casing with ivory shield lock escutcheon in front, lined with burgundy velvet and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a sgl-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask and a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter. Also accompanying is a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. This revolver is extraordinarily rare and may have at one time been in Col. Colt’s personal collection. Accompanied by a 5-page article by Pete Holder which appeared in the Summer 2008 The Rampant Colt magazine. The article deals with another 1849 Pocket Model revolver, SN 181885, which was also silver & gold and Mr. Holder was able to research and prove that it had, in fact, been part of the Samuel Colt personal collection. On p. 3 of this article he states, regarding the engraved “COLTS PATENT” on the frame, that “This feature on a ’49 Pocket is rare and only one other example is known on a non-engraved gun at this time. It is Colt Pocket 1849 Serial Number 159302 which was sold through Butterfield & Butterfield as Lot 5196 in December 2000.” Mr. Holder pictures SN 181885 in his article with a closeup of the “COLTS PATENT” engraving on the frame. Comparing that engraving with the engraving on this revolver, they are somewhat different in size but certainly appear to have been done by the same hand. This revolver also has the rounded head screws on the frame similar to those found on London produced revolvers. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall remains unfired retaining virtually all of its orig silver plating with a few scattered pimples on bbl and a couple of small spots on backstrap. Cyl & hammer retain most of their orig light colored gold wash, stronger in sheltered areas. Cyl also has a few scattered pimples under plating and retains about all of its stagecoach holdup scene. Two of the five safety pins are slightly mashed with the other three crisp. Grip is extremely fine with sharp edges and a light ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a couple of grain checks on bottom, otherwise is completely sound with numerous small storage & handling marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded but intact with light to moderate soil with damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is good, retaining about 80% orig finish. Mold appears to be unused retaining a dark black brass finish with pitting on hinge pin. 4-38457 JR235 (20,000-30,000)
Correction to printed catalog: Cylinder scene photo shown does not go with this gun (SN 187300). Cylinder scene photo shown goes with Lot 2146 (SN 6293)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 187300. Cal. 44. Nickel finish with 8″ rnd bbl, orig front sight and 1-line address. Left side of the frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and it has brass trigger guard with iron back strap containing a highly figured, deluxe, varnished 1-pc walnut grip. Left rear web of the trigger guard is marked with the caliber and it has all fire-blued screws. SN in all four locations on bottom of the revolver are accompanied by an “E” signifying factory engraving. Revolver is beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with open foliate & arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields which extends over bbl lug and up over the bbl terminating at the forward end of the bbl address. Hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose with foliate arabesque patterns down the sides. Top of the back strap has Nimschke’s fan pattern with wavy border and chip & dot border down the back strap & butt strap. Trigger guard is engraved to match. Cylinder has the usual Ormsby Naval battle scene with chip & dot border. Accompanied by an orig Colt green velvet lined, mahogany casing compartmented in the bottom for revolver, a dbl sided Army size angle spout flask and a presentation quality silver plated 2-cavity bullet mold with “COLT’S PATENT” sprue cutter marked on right side “44H” and a small “A” inspector initial. Also accompanied by a sealed, paper wrapped 250-count tin of Eley’s caps, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a sealed packed of Sage combustible cartridges. Right rear compartment contains lead balls. Few of these fine revolvers were engraved, plated & cased as is this one with most such presentation quality pieces having been produced during the Civil War. This revolver was made toward the end of production during the period of the great Manifest Destiny westward expansion and undoubtedly was ordered by, or as a presentation to, someone of importance or high status. While it has been handled & “played with” to some extent it appears to remain unfired. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with strong bright nickel that has only a few minor dull spots. Trigger guard has some minor flaking on left side of trigger bow, otherwise grip frame matches condition of rest of revolver. Grip has a few minor handling & storage marks and retains virtually all of its strong orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case is extremely fine with minor handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is very lightly faded in bottom, strong in lid with minor soil and very light damage from front sight. Flask has a couple of minor dents, otherwise is sound and retains about 92-93% orig finish on body with traces of gold wash on collar & spout with strong gold on thumb piece & top. Mold retains virtually all of its fine silver plating. Cap tin & cartridge box are fine. A truly exceptional set in exceptional condition. 4-36508 JR141 (90,000-150,000)
WONDERFUL CASED ETCHED PANEL COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 108483. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter Hartford address and the etched panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” forward of base pin. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and “44 CF” on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with highly figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip that has four digits of SN that appear to be “4047” inside the backstrap channel. Inside frontstrap channel of the grip is the pencil name “L.A. BRASH” or possibly “LA BRASH”. Although this grip appears to be numbered to another revolver there is no question that it fits perfectly and has been installed about the lifetime of the revolver. Bottom of bbl & cyl have tiny British proofs. Top strap is engraved “COGSWELL & HARRISON / 226 STRAND. LONDON.”. Accompanied by a red baize lined leather trunk case with decorated lid and an empty scalloped-corner brass plaque in the center. Inside the lid has a paper Cogswell & Harrison label. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a brass & ebony cleaning rod, an ebony handled turn screw, a pewter Dixon oil bottle and in the front is a small leather label gold embossed “HUW D. WALTERS”. Two covered compartments with ivory pulls are empty. Front center compartment has a leather cartridge block for 32-rds, which contains twenty-one loaded rds and eleven fired cases. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with nickel finish shipped to Colt’s London Agency, Pall Mall London on Aug. 20, 1885 in a shipment of twelve same type guns. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of its orig factory nickel finish with some fine pimpling on right side of bbl and front of frame with some areas turning milky. Recoil shield & loading gate are slightly dulled with some spotting on frame. Trigger guard & backstrap are milky. Cylinder has some minor discoloration in flutes with dulling on about 30% of circumference. Face of cyl is gray metal color. Grip is sound with moderately worn edges and a small gouge by left heel and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few small scattered spots of pitting. Case is very fine with light scuffing. Interior is lightly faded. 4-38591 JR205 (20,000-25,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH TIFFANY GRIP. SN 23641. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is stamped “COLTS PATENT” and it is mounted with a fine silver-plated, cast brass Tiffany grip with a deep cast spread-winged American eagle clutching olive branches in its talons. Top of the back of the grip has an empty initial oval and the sides have deep cast foliate arabesque patterns. Buttcap is an oval flower petal-shape. The assembly number “IV” and the last two digits of SN “41” are stamped in bottom of the grip under the buttcap. Serial numbers on bbl lug, frame and on trigger guard are accompanied by a small “P” which signifies factory plating. Revolver is engraved by L.D. Nimschke in his deluxe coverage having full coverage on frame and recoil shields which extends over bbl lug and terminates on top of bbl forward of the address. It has matching patterns on each side of muzzle, on rammer pivot and on each side of rammer handle. Bottom of rammer pivot is engraved with flowing leaf & vine patterns. Trigger guard & bottom of frame are also engraved in foliate arabesque patterns as are the lands between the flutes on cylinder. Tiffany grips were a popular item to include on a high level presentation, which is probably the case here given the deluxe engraving and silver-plating that accompany the Tiffany grip. This style of grip appears in the Schuyler, Hartley & Graham Military Goods catalog of 1864 (see accompanying letter from R.L. Wilson). Accompanied by a 3-page letter from noted Colt historian and author R.L. Wilson wherein he describes this revolver as one of a pair pictured in The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson, first edition. This revolver along with it’s mate SN23650 is pictured and they are listed as from the Johnnie Bassett Collection. Mr. Wilson describes the engraving as by L.D. Nimschke. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “3738”. Traces of orig silver finish remain in sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned gray metal patina with scattered fine pitting. Engraving is strong & clear with punch dots still retaining their domed shape. Grip is sound retaining silver-plating in sheltered areas with raised & exposed areas a mellow medium mustard patina. Buttcap appears to have been replated at some time in the past. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-38590 (25,000-27,500)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED SPECIAL ORDER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN S05304A. Cal. 44-40. Nickel finish with most unusual 4″ bbl with ejector rod, full thick front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Frame is black powder style with 3-line patent dates and mounted with 1-pc ivory grip numbered to this revolver. SN was observed in usual place on the frame, on left side of front & back straps under the grip. Bottom of bbl, under ejector rod housing, is stamped with last three digits of SN which are also on inside radius of ejector rod housing. Cylinder also has the last three digits of the serial number around the busing hole and the caliber is marked on rear face of the cylinder. Frame & bbl have full coverage, very well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cylinder has matching patterns on the lands between the flutes and on the rear edge. Ejector rod housing, back strap & butt strap are engraved to match. Sides of hammer are also engraved to match. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: New & unfired with no drag line. Grip is pristine. 4-36503 JR146 (4,500-6,500)
*RARE UNFINISHED SPECIAL SERIES 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 45457SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Unfinished “in the white” with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line block letter address and model & caliber markings on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Left front web of trigger guard has the “VP” proof with another “P” proof on left rear web. The full serial number was observed in usual place on the frame and on left sides of front & back straps under grip. Last four digits of serial number are stamped around bushing hole in the cylinder. Accompanied by all of the internal parts and hammer to complete this revolver. Grips are missing. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with finish listed “white”, rubber grips, shipped to Herb Glass, Bullville, NY on Jan. 2, 1968 in a six gun shipment. Under “remarks” section it states “Records indicate that this revolver was included in a shipment of three pairs of firearms with consecutive serial numbers. The revolvers were furnished in the ‘white’, which is without any finish, and were destined for engraving outside the factory. The revolvers were processed on factory order #11508. Also accompanied by a letter on Alvin White letterhead dated Nov. 25, 1974 over the signature of R.L. Wilson, Managing Director & Vice President, stating that this revolver had been received in the white and was ready for engraving. He further states that other revolvers in the 4545-SA serial range were engraved by Mr. White with numbers CC-1 and CC-2 going to Chuck Connors and another RPM#1 to Richard P. Mellon and RKM#1 to Richard King Mellon, another for a collector in Switzerland which was a copy of the 125th Anniversary Single Action Army revolver and still another was made as a prototype for a potential commemorative, SN TR-1, and the final one was made as a presentation for President Richard M. Nixon. He states all were in the 4545- serial range and were in sequence. It is unknown to whom this letter was addressed but apparently that person never followed through to have the engraving project completed. This is an opportunity for someone to complete the project and create another spectacular custom engraved Colt Single Action Army. CONDITION: As noted, all surfaces are in the white, polished and ready for engraving. It remains new and unfired. 4-38166 JR21 (5,000-7,000)
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1903 POCKET PISTOL. SN 221843. Cal. 32 ACP. Blue finish with 3-3/4″ bbl, fixed sights and smooth pearl Colt medallion grips and an orig 2-tone magazine with correct marked base. Engraving consists of about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with an unusual stippled background. Slide has usual markings on both sides with rampant Colt at left rear. Although this model of pistol was produced in fairly large numbers, not many were engraved. Accompanied by a custom red velvet lined fancy walnut box French fitted in bottom for pistol, with a functioning key. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 99% of a fine professionally restored finish. Grips are extremely fine with lots of fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is fine. 4-36630 JR53 (3,500-5,000)
*WONDERFUL ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 289024. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 5 1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 1-line block letter address and has the caliber marking on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and it is mounted with Colt gold medallion smooth ivory grips. Revolver is engraved with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background. Bbl and ejector rod housing have extensive engraving patterns with the cylinder having full coverage except for the flutes. Backstrap, butt strap and trigger guard are also engraved to match. Engraving patterns are broad and sweeping with light shading. The shoulders of the backstrap are engraved in a sunburst pattern, which pattern is also found on each land of the cylinder between the flutes. Each land of the cylinder also has an unusual diagonal pattern with matching patterns between the cylinder stop notches and a complete band of foliate patterns around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 38-40 with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish and type of stocks not listed, shipped to Simmons Hardware Company, St. Louis, MO on Feb. 28, 1907 in a 5-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Overall retains about all of a fine, professionally restored finish over scattered fine pitting. Grips need fitting, otherwise are very fine and retain a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with scattered light pitting. 4-36597 JR168 (7,500-12,500)
WONDERFUL DELUXE CASED ENGRAVED EARLY COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 91998. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “Saml Colt” bbl address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” in an arc in a pillow shape. It has small silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap containing a 1-pc ivory grip with SN in backstap channel. Cyl is usual 5-shot with stagecoach holdup scene. Revolver is deluxe Gustave Young engraved with full coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame with one of scrolls on right side terminating in a bird’s head. Engraving extends over bbl lug and top side flats with one of scrolls on left side of bbl lug terminating in a dog’s head. Bbl address has simple line borders with geometric patterns at each end. Rammer pivot has full coverage engraving on both sides. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & at the heel, on buttstrap and trigger guard. Screw heads are all engraved. Accompanied by an extremely rare coffin lid oak casing lined in blue velvet and French fitted in bottom for revolver, an early dbl sided American eagle flask and a 2-cavity brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold without sprue cutter. Two covered compartments have ivory pulls with the left front compartment containing a packet of five combustible cartridges and left rear compartment contains bullets & caps. CONDITION: Revolver is fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 85% strong orig blue with what appears to be chemical losses around muzzle, probably from an old cleaning solution. Rammer & handle are a cleaned metal color. Wedge screw is a replacement. Frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a gray patina. Hammer retains dark case colors on sides. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver-plating. Grip is sound with a wonderful mellow ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few freckles of pitting. Case has a small crack in lid with some minor warping on back seam otherwise is completely sound with light handling & use marks and retains most of its orig finish. Interior is very lightly faded with chemical staining in the revolver cyl area in the lid. Bottom is moderately soiled with staining in a corresponding area around cyl. Flask is extremely fine retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Mold appears to be unused. 4-38649 JR248 (20,000-30,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON REVOLVERS PRESENTED TO KING VITTORIO EMMANUELE II OF ITALY. SN 11790 & 11850. Cal. 44. Extremely rare all blue finish on both revolvers with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbls, German silver front sights, 1-line New York addresses, one with brackets and one with dashes, with hand-engraved “COLTS PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.” on left side of frames. They have brass trigger guards & backstraps containing spectacular 1-pc ivory grips with usual vertical rammer latches. Frames & bbl lugs have full coverage donut scroll foliate arabesque pattern engraving with deluxe engraved hammers having a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer noses. Number “11790” has an unusual “S” or “8” shape on each side of hammer nose. Number “11790” also has the Coat of Arms of the United States in the form of an American shield on the trigger bow while number “11850” has an oval Coat of Arms divided into four equal sections with a star in the upper left corner with other unknown markings in the other three sections. Backstraps have elaborate fan & feather patterns at tops with engraved shoulders and nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the backstraps & buttstraps. They have usual 6-shot cylinders with rolled Ranger/Indian fight scenes with #11850 having six crisp safety pins and #11790 having five of the six safety pins crisp. These revolvers were presented by Sanuel Colt probably in an effort to promote sales as was his wont to do throughout his career. Accompanied by their orig, spectacular, feather & flame grain walnut casing with gold-washed brass trim and brass wire inlay in the lid with an empty gold-washed shield in the center. Interior is green velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the two revolvers, a fine dbl-sided “COLTS PATENT” Dragoon flask with angle spout and rnd hanger wires high on sides. Also included in a brass 2-cavity bullet mold with bright steel “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter and “WAT” (William A. Thornton) inspector initials on right side. In addition there is a rosewood mallet and a rosewood & brass tipped cleaning rod. Each corner has a covered compartment, two of which are empty, with one containing a quantity of lead balls and the other an unusual tinned container of Eley Bros. caps and an NRA Silver Medal #438. Additionally accompanied by the NRA certificate for this medal awarding it to these revolvers. This wonderful pair of revolvers is pictured on two full pages in full color, pp. 26-27 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. Vittorio (Victor) Emmanuele II was born March 1820, the son of the King of Piedmont Savoy & Sardinia, and replaced his father in July 1849 when his father abdicated the throne after a humiliating military defeat by the Austrians which cost his kingdom several territories. King Emmanuele spent the next twelve years fighting the Austrians, sometimes in alliance with the French & Prussians and in March of 1861 was successful in uniting the entirety of Italy & Sicily and regaining the territories lost in 1849. On March 17, 1861 he was crowned King of Italy and reigned until his death in January 1878. He fathered numerous children by two wives and several mistresses and one of his sons, Umberto, succeeded him upon his death. Given the tumultuous conditions under which King Emmanuele ascended to the throne, it is understandable that Samuel Colt would solicit business from the Italians correctly thinking that a continuation of war was eminent. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; King Vittorio Emmanuele II of Italy; King Umberto of Italy; Dr. J. Rimini, Ambassador to Italy from Uruguay. CONDITION: Revolvers are very fine to extremely fine. They retain strong orig blue especially on frames & bbl lugs. #11850 retains strong bright blue on rnd portion of bbl with some slight thinning and retains about 50% thin orig blue having been lightly cleaned. Cyl markings are strong and overall retains about 85% Ranger/Indian fight scene. #11790 retains about 50% orig blue flaked to a medium patina and retains about 80% thinning orig blue on cyl with strong clear markings and about 95% Ranger/Indian fight scene. Both retain virtually all of their orig silver plating on trigger guards & backstraps with both grips sound & crisp with mellow ivory color. Both rammers & hammers retain strong orig case colors. Case has some minor veneer cracks at each end of the lid, otherwise is completely sound with usual handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Orig green velvet covering on bottom is completely intact showing moderate wear and some fraying at edges. Interior is lightly faded in lid and moderately faded in bottom with light soil and some minor chemical spotting. Flask retains about 85% strong orig finish. Mold is crisp & clean with a couple of very minor dents on bottom. Other accessories are very fine to extremely fine. 4-36512 JR154 (400,000-600,000)
*CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED NICKEL & GOLD FINISH COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 219055 & 240397. Cal. 45 Colt & 45 ACP. Nickel & gold finish with 5-1/2″ bbls, full front sights, 1-line block letter addresses with model & caliber markings on left sides. Left sides of frames have 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in circles. They are mounted with very fine custom fitted Sambar stag grips. Each revolver is accompanied by a spare nickeled cylinder in 45 ACP caliber. Revolvers are engraved identically by Horacio Acevedo and signed on bottom front edge of frame. Engraving consists of very well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background with about 80% coverage on frames which extends over both sides of bbls terminating just behind front sights with small patterns on each side of muzzles. Loading gates are engraved with Helfricht-style sunbursts with flower blossoms on each side of front of frame. Ejector rod housings are engraved with climbing leaf patterns on outer radii with snake & dot patterns in top gullets. Top straps are engraved with unusual fleur-de-lis and dot patterns. Sides of hammers are engraved with feather patterns and foliate arabesque patterns on spurs. Top of backstraps are beautifully engraved with initials “McL”. Backstraps have foliate arabesque patterns near the tops, at the heels and on buttstraps with matching patterns on trigger bows. Cylinders are all identically engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes and back of flutes with scalloped borders at rear edges. Screws & base pins are all fire-blued. This set is accompanied by a fine custom oak casing with brass corner reinforcements and a scalloped edge plaque in the center, engraved “McLaughlin / Lake Forest”. Interior is green velvet lined with bottom compartmented for two revolvers with two empty covered compartments and a compartment for the two spare cylinders. Each revolver has a nickeled steel cleaning rod. Each end of case has a cartridge block for twelve cartridges with one end having 45 Colt cartridges and the other 45 ACP cartridges. Also accompanied by an unsigned, hand-written letter which states “Guns belonged to her 3rd husband Major Frederick McLaughlin, owner of Chicago Blackhawks. They were married from 1923-49. A personal friend George Strong upper management at Colt factory, had guns rebarreled & chambered for 45 Colt with extra 45 ACP cylinders, sometime during their marriage. The guns were given to her son William L. McLaughlin of Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1970s, he had guns engraved and gold plated by Horacio Acevedo signed each gun”. Additionally accompanied by a brief biography of Frederick McLaughlin. He was the Harvard educated son of the WF McLaughlin Coffee Company founder (on LaSalle St. in Chicago). At age 39 in June 1916 Frederick enlisted in the Illinois National Guard, joining Battery C 1st Illinois Field Artillery which was Federalized the same day. He served on the Mexican border patrolling against raids by Pancho Villa and was listed on the muster rolls as a Stable Sergeant. After his National Guard service he joined the Army’s 85th Division, nicknamed Black Hawk Division, which was formed when America joined WWI. He rose to the rank of Major and commanded the 333rd Machine Gun Battalion during the war. After the war he and a consortium of Chicago businessmen purchased the Portland Rosebuds hockey team for $200,000. He moved the franchise to Chicago and renamed the team “Black Hawks” in honor of the Indian Chief and/or his wartime unit. His wife, Irene Castle McLaughlin designed the first team uniform and the team played their first game on Nov. 17, 1926 in the old Chicago Coliseum. Mr. McLaughlin died on Dec. 17, 1944. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall both revolvers retain all of their fine custom nickel & gold finishes with only a faint drag line on the gold cylinders. The nickeled cylinders do not appear to have ever been installed and none of them have been fired since finishing. Grips are all fine and fit perfectly. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Case is sound with a few minor storage handling marks with small pry marks around lock. 4-37517 JR216 (12,500-17,500)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED DELUXE MERWIN & HULBERT 2ND MODEL ARMY DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 19649. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with gold-washed cylinder and trigger guard with silver-plated trigger & hammer. Second model Army-size revolver with 7″ rnd bbl, integral pinch blade front sight with integral top strap. Top of bbl has the Merwin & Hulbert name & patent dates with Hopkins & Allen marking on left side. Cylinder is usual 6-shots with conventional flutes. Serial number is in the usual position on buttstrap behind the lanyard stud & ring. Left side of frontstrap, under grip, has the assembly number “2184” which was observed on the rear face of bbl lug and rear face of cylinder. Mounted with 2-pc smooth ivory grips that are pencil-numbered in the inside of each grip “ES MIA / SR TOM P / WESTON / MADERO 13 MEX D.F”. Revolver is factory engraved with about 75% coverage on the frame consisting of foliate & floral patterns with a full bodied bull elk on left side. Top of backstrap is engraved to match with matching engraving patterns extending over most of bbl. Cylinder has geometric patterns on lands between the flutes. These revolvers were very popular on frontier and especially in Mexico due to their strength & reliability and ease of unloading & reloading, which was substantially faster than either the Colt or Remington revolvers of the day. Given their hard frontier use it is rare to find one with orig finish. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbl retains about 80% strong orig nickel with losses and fine pitting around muzzle and on front sight. Frame retains 96-98% strong orig nickel with some minor flaking on backstrap and wear on heel. Cyl retains most of its orig silver underplating and about 50% gold wash, mostly in flutes and on front & rear faces. Trigger guard, trigger & hammer retain most of their orig silver-plating with traces of gold wash. Grips have a couple of chips above left heel, otherwise are sound with minor age lines and retain a wonderful ivory patina. Hammer will not hold in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-38144 JR280 (12,500-17,500)
*EXTRAORDINARY CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF MATCHING HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN SA93477 & SA93478. Cal. 45 Colt. Revolvers are absolutely identical with nickel finish, 7-1/2″ bbls, full front sights and 1-line bbl addresses. Left sides of frames have 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Both are mounted with extraordinary factory, gold Colt medallion, smooth pearl grips. Both are identically engraved by Colt Master Engraver, the late Howard M. Dove, with extraordinary complete & full coverage phenomenal intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with a myriad of other patterns throughout the engraving. Description of each of the individual patterns is far too detailed to encompass in a simple narrative. Mr. Dove completely outdid himself with these works of art and, quite unusually, signed each revolver in two places. His initials appear on the left side of the butt straps under the grips and again in the bottom gullets of the ejector rod housings by the cylinder pins. Serial numbers of these 3rd generation single actions appear in the usual places on frames & left sides of front & back straps. All screws, base pins & ejector rod heads are fire-blued. Accompanied by a 3-page letter dated Nov. 8, 1891 over the signature of Howard M. Dove detailing all of the work he did to these revolvers. These revolvers are true works of art, likely to never again be duplicated. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Both revolvers are new, unfired & unturned. 4-36502 JR147 (17,500-22,500)
*ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER TEXAS GUN COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION COMMEMORATIVE. SN SA73004. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line script address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Although this is a 3rd generation serial range, frame is in black powder configuration. Mounted with spectacular 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved longhorn steer head over the Texas 5-pointed star on left side. Serial number was observed in usual place on bottom of frame, twice on left side of frontstrap under grip and on heel of backstrap under grip. Last three digits of SN were observed on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing, in the inside gullet of ejector rod housing and on face of cyl around base pin hole. Revolver is beautifully engraved and unfortunately unsigned, with about B-coverage engraving, consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on lower part of frame, upper front part of frame and extends over the bbl beside the address with large Helfricht-style sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate. Bbl has a wide gold band at the frame and a narrow gold band at the muzzle. Cylinder has foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a wide gold band around rear edge. Ejector rod housing & trigger bow are engraved with hunter’s stars. Top of backstrap is inlaid with a 5-pointed Texas star inscribed “TEXAS”. Backstrap is engraved in a panel in script “Texas Gun Collectors Assn.” Buttstrap is engraved “4 of 30”. Accompanied by its orig Styrofoam lined custom shop box with chartreuse & black label identifying this revolver. Also accompanied by its orig oak presentation case with a longhorn steer over the 5-pointed Texas star on the lid. Each end of case has an articulated brass handle with a mortised brass lock in the front with a functioning key. Interior is lined in brown suede, compartmented in bottom for revolver with a brass plaque in left front inscribed “Presented to the / Texas Gun Collectors Association” over the longhorn steer head and 5-pointed Texas star with “4 of 30” on bottom edge. Additionally accompanied by a business-sized card certifying that “NO. 4 OF 30 OF THE T.G.C.A. SPECIAL EDITION SINGLE ACTIONS WAS INSPECTED AT THE COLT FACTORY BY:” with the signature of R.L. Wilson and the date March 16, 1987. Mr. Wilson’s title at that time was Historical Consultant to Colt’s Firearms Company. Additionally accompanied by its orig cardboard shipping container with all spacers. PROVENANCE: Jim Eplen Coll. CONDITION: New and unfired retaining all of its orig factory finish. Box & case are equally new. 4-37506 JR211 (7,000-10,000)
*SCARCE RUDOLPH KORNBRATH ENGRAVED COLT NEW SERVICE FLAT TOP TARGET DA REVOLVER. SN 328252. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue finish with 6″ tapered rnd bbl, pedestal mounted partridge front sight with McGivern gold bead and adjustable rear sight on flat top frame. It has checkered trigger and is mounted with extraordinary 2-pc ivory grips that have left & right deep Colt medallions and has deep relief carved American eagle & shield on left side and an equally beautiful deep relief carved Mexican eagle on right side. Revolver has nearly full coverage foliate & floral arabesque pattern engraving; probably by Rudolph Kornbrath, with fine stippled background. Cylinder is engraved to match with a fine zig zag & line border around rear edge. Muzzle is engraved with a wide zig zag pattern and hand stippled background with fine zig zag borders front & rear. Back strap & front strap are very finely checkered with an unusual starburst pattern at top of back strap. Rear edge of frame around hammer slot is engraved with a light zig zag pattern and fine stippled background. Screw heads are also deluxe engraved. Front strap near the frame has a small notch with a through hole apparently for a custom grip adapter of some sort. Accompanied by a custom red velvet lined walnut casing, French fitted in bottom for revolver with a covered compartment in left front corner containing an orig functioning key. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter indentifying this revolver in 45 cal. 7-1/2″ bbl, type of stocks not listed, finish green, not factory engraved, type of frame target or flat top shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine, Chicago, IL, Aug 16, 1929 in a one gun shipment. Remark section states that being shipped “in the green” meant that it was destined to be engraved outside the factory. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig blue finish with light muzzle & sharp edge wear. Trigger guard is slightly thinned. Grips are sound with a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is extremely fine. 4-36621 JR54 (10,000-15,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 346604 & 347042. Cal. 45 Colt. Built identically with nickel finish, 4 3/4″ barrels. Full thick front sights. 2-line addresses and model & caliber markings on the left side. Left side of frames have 2-line 3 patent dates and rampant colt without circle. Both are mounted with exceptionally fine flush silver medallion pearl grips. Backstraps are inscribed “Alfonse Malin”. Frames, cylinders and bbls are lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with about 25% coverage. Top of backstraps, buttstraps and trigger guards are also lightly engraved. Serial No. 346604 is factory restored with a small “&” on the right rear web of the trigger guard. Serial numbers were observed in the usual locations on the bottom fronts of the frames and on the right sides of the front and back straps. Assembly numbers were observed on the left sides of the backstraps under the grips on each revolver with matching assembly numbers around the cylinder pins on the faces of the cylinders and inside the radius of the ejector rod housings. No. 346604 has the assembly no. 882 and no. 347042 has the assembly no. 722. The presence of these assembly numbers lends credence to the thought that both revolvers, not just the one, are indeed factory refinished. Accompanied by Colt factory letters for each revolver identifying them in .45 Cal. with nickel finish with no. 346604 listed with rubber grips and no. 347042 type of stock is not listed. Both were sold to Alfonse W. Malin, address unavailable, and shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine, Chicago, IL with no. 346604 shipped on Nov. 26, 1924 in a one-gun shipment on factory order no. 21174/1; no. 347042 was shipped on Jan. 5, 1925 in a one-gun shipment on factory order no. 21258/1. No indication of either revolver having been returned to the factory. This leads to the speculation that these revolvers were returned to the factory for engraving, inscriptions and pearl grips. The grips fit perfectly and the finish on both revolvers is factory quality with no discernible flaws or wavers in the finish. Patent dates and rampant colts of the sides of the frames still have raised metal around them, further supporting the fact that this was factory work. The “VP” in a triangle proof marks on the left front webs of the trigger guards are re-stamps, also with raised metal surrounding on both revolvers. Both revolvers have a “4” inspector number above these “VP” proof marks, further indication that they were restored and proofed at the same time. CONDITION: Both are extremely fine plus. Both are all matching and retain most of their original factory nickel finish. Both have slight dulling of the finish on the left side of the bbls and on the ejector rod housings, probably from having been stored in holsters. Both have slight dulling in a few spots on the cylinders. Mechanics on no. 346604 need attention, timing is slightly off; otherwise, mechanics on both are fine. No. 346604 has been fired, probably one cylinder full with the other revolver remaining unfired since restoration. Grips are crisp and sound with great fire and color. Brilliant shiny bores. 4-38835 JR167 (30,000-40,000)
FINE CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 218365. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 4″ bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has large silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap containing a deluxe varnished 1-pc walnut grip. Engraving is by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields which extend over bbl lug and top side flats of bbl with a border pattern around the address terminating in a geometric pattern toward the front sight. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and all engraving has fine punch dot background. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on buttstrap and trigger guard. Cylinder is 6-shots with stagecoach holdup scene. Accompanied by an orig Colt casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided American eagle flask and a 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge with backstrap channel in the grip too dark to discern a number. Overall retains about all of a fine professionally restored silver finish with the only wear around trigger guard and front strap. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Cylinder retains about 95-98% stagecoach holdup scene and all six safety pins are prominent. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case has a repaired crack in bottom, otherwise is sound and retains about all of an old refinish. Interior is lightly faded with moderate soil. Flask is poor, mold is good. 4-36619 JR229 (5,000-7,500)
Correction to Printed Catalog: Description reads: Accompanied by “its” original black leatherette covered factory casing….Description should read: Accompanied by “an” original black leatherette covered factory casing….
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER FROM THE 1876 CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION & THE EARLIEST KNOWN FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 8926. Cal. 45 Colt. One of the earliest known factory engraved Colts and the earliest known factory engraved SAA and part of the Philadelphia International Exposition of 1876 (World’s Fair). This single action along with several others were the central part of the Colt exhibit for this expo and were later loaned to the Henry Folsom Company of St. Louis. In Oct. 1877 they were returned to Colt on a Folsom Billhead invoice which lists them individually by serial number with their values, this revolver being the most expensive item on the inventory at $46.60. In a previous Julia Auction we sold Colt Single Action Army revolver SN 8928, known as the 1876 Centennial Exhibition Colt, and reported it as the earliest known but now this revolver has surfaced and being two numbers earlier is now the earliest known factory engraved single action. There are three others from this expo, numbers 8925, 8927 and 8930 which are as of this writing, unaccounted for. They are listed on the Folsom inventory and have lesser values. This fantastic revolver is described as having nickel finish, a 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, script 1-line address with brackets at each end and 2-line patent dates on left side of the frame. Mounted with replacement 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved ox head on the right side. It has full coverage extraordinary engraving by Herman Ulrich, although other scholars have contributed the work to Cuno Helfricht. It is the contention of this cataloger that it is by Herman Ulrich as there is no comparable known work by Mr. Helfricht and there is an engraved Colt Lightning rifle in a museum in Canada that is signed “Herman Ulrich” and is similarly engraved. The engraving consists of extraordinarily fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with a very fine shaded background. Left side of frame has a wonderfully detailed panel of a nude huntress on a rearing horse about to spear a charging tiger or lioness. Right side of frame has a nude man on a rearing horse holding a large club in his hand, attacking a male lion. Top of the back strap is engraved with the oval vignette of a partially nude Diana the Huntress and the trigger bow has the vignette of a medieval soldier carrying a sword & spear. The cylinder has full coverage engraving to match with a variety of patterns and panels around the cylinder stop notches & approaches with extremely fine punch dot background. Top strap is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns with shaded & punch dot backgrounds. Hammer has complete, full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the sides with a diamond & dot pattern completely around the rear edge and a long, hand-checkered panel on the spur. Bbl has matching foliate arabesque pattern engraving with shaded background which wraps over the top of the bbl and extends to around the front sight. Ejector rod housing is equally beautifully engraved on outer radius and in the top gullet. Edge of the ejector rod head is also engraved. Even the sides of the trigger bow are engraved in a dbl chip border pattern. All the screws and base pin are fire-blued. Undoubtedly the single finest factory engraved Colt Single Action Army revolver ever produced. Accompanied by its orig black leatherette covered factory casing with red & white silk lining with red & white braided cord borders. Bottom of the case is recessed for the revolver and the left front corner has a silk-covered cartridge block for 50 cartridges. Interior of the lid has a diagonal red & white ribbon that is gold-embossed “COLT’S ARMY, 45”. The right end of the case has a nickel plated L-shaped screwdriver. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found. It lists 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, ivory stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on Aug. 28, 1884 in a 1-gun shipment. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, as new, appears to be unfired. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with slightly faded fire blue on some of screws. Grip is also like new and retains a fine mellow ivory color. Case is extremely fine on exterior with a worn bottom. Interior has light water stains in lid and moderate wear to silk lining in bottom. Altogether a most extraordinary set. 4-36511 JR158 (250,000-450,000)
*CASED ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 335590. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 1-line block letter address and caliber marking on left side. Caliber marking & address are hand-stamped and the bore has Metford-type rifling. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with extremely beautiful 2-pc pearl grips with a very deep relief ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved with wide patterns of varying types with a fine punch dot background. Frame has about 70% coverage with a half sunburst on the loading gate. Engraving extends over top sides of bbl to about the end of the ejector rod housing. Ejector rod housing is engraved to match on outer radius with top gullet having a scallop & dot pattern. Backstrap and top of backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cylinder has matching patterns on lands between the flutes with a scallop & dot and fleur-de-lis border around rear edge. Serial number was observed in the three positions on the frame, trigger guard & buttstrap with last two digits of SN on rear face of cyl between two chambers. Base pin is a replacement. Accompanied by a custom mahogany casing with spectacular tooled leather top with image of an American eagle standing on an American shield clutching arrows & olive branches in its talons. Interior is gray velvet lined and fitted in bottom for the revolver. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains virtually all of its custom nickel finish, appears unfired since engraving. Grips are extraordinary with tremendous fire and retain virtually all of their orig polish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case exterior is extremely fine with minor storage & handling marks. Interior shows wear under the revolver. 4-37614 JR213 (3,000-4,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 49039. Cal. 22 Short. Nickel finish with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, half-moon front sight and 2-line Hartford address. It has unfluted 7-shot cyl with cal marking on left side of frame and is mounted with 2-pc smooth birdhead ivory grips. Frame, bbl and cyl are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background having about 70% coverage on the frame and butt with a band of engraving around the cyl and about 50% coverage on the bbl and bbl lug. It has fire-blued sloping spur hammer. Although these little revolvers were made in large numbers, they are rarely found with strong orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 95-97% strong orig nickel with some fine pimpling on the bottom near the muzzle and on the top at the cyl end. Cyl retains 90-92% strong orig nickel with some slight losses and light pitting. Frame retains 60-65% orig nickel with the exposed areas a medium mustard. Trigger and hammer retain most of their orig fire blue. Mechanics are crisp. Grips are sound and retain a wonderful ivory color patina. Strong bright bore with light pitting. 4-38942 JR305 (3,000-5,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED CALIFORNIA COMMEMORATIVE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN Frame #174SE55; Colt #SA71293. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with small letter 1-line address with serifs at each end. Frame has 3-line patent dates and is black powder style. Mounted with fine 1-pc ivory grip with gold Colt medallions, raised carved on left side with the California flag and on the right side with a raised carved grizzly bear inside a rope border. Revolver has complete, full coverage, spectacular intertwined foliate arabesque pattern engraving with gold wire border around the edges of the frame, outline of the hammer and flutes on the cylinder. Rear edge of the cylinder is inlaid with two gold bands that have scalloped border pattern in the middle. Bbl has a gold band at the muzzle and two gold bands at the frame with scallop border like the cylinder. Bbl address is outlined in gold wire with a silver fleur-de-lis at the front end and the model & caliber inlaid in gold on the left side. Frame has extraordinary gold & silver inlays consisting of the raised gold representation of the State of California with raised silver fleur-de-lis patterns around. Left top front of the frame is inlaid with a crossed gold shovel & pick surmounted by a silver gold pan with small nuggets inside. Loading gate is inlaid with multi-colored gold & silver gold scale. Top right front of the frame is inlaid with raised silver gold pokes, one of which is spilling out gold dust. Right side of bbl is inlaid in gold “THE GOLDEN STATE” with a dot & foliate pattern at each end. Trigger bow is engraved “EUREKA” with a gold wire outline and foliate gold patterns at the front end. Frame has had the orig Colt SN removed and replaced, in gold, with “174SE55”. Top of the back strap has a raised gold horse & rider with raised silver foliate border and a desert background scene. Back strap has full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background and a raised gold hanged cowboy with silver hood over his head, hanging from a silver hangman’s rope. Entire back strap has a gold wire border. Butt strap is engraved to match with gold inlay “CALIFORNIA” in an arc over ” ’49ERS”, also with a gold wire outline. Left side of the back strap under the grip has the orig Colt SN which is “SA71293”. Left side of the front strap has the last three digits of this SN. Left side of the butt strap & front strap under the grip, at the toe, are engraved with the connected initials “HMD” for the late Howard M. Dove who was for many years a Colt Master Engraver. Frame, hammer, cylinder & bbl have complete full coverage extraordinary engraving, even in the flutes of the cylinder. The only area of the entire revolver not engraved or inlaid with gold is the upper portion of the front strap and a couple of small spots on the trigger bow. Screw heads are also engraved and the trigger & screws are fire blued. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Overall retains all of its fine custom finish. Remains unturned & unfired since engraving with bright blue and brilliant case colors. Grip is equally new with some slight soil on the bear. 4-36500 JR136 (12,500-15,000)
*SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA73045. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber markings on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with smooth 2-pc ivory grips with 150th anniversary Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved by Colt master engraver George Spring with D+ coverage outstanding intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on frame, backstrap & buttstrap. Engraving patterns extend over bbl to front sight and around muzzle then back down bottom of bbl. Ejector rod housing has full coverage matching engraving on outer radius with a zig-zag & dot pattern in top gullet. Cylinder has matching engraving on lands between the flutes and behind each flute with a dbl chip border at rear edge. Interestingly Mr. Spring has incorporated a dog’s head into the engraving patterns on left side of frame and a wolf’s head on left side of bbl boss, reminiscent of Gustave Young’s work. Frame for this revolver, while bearing a 3rd generation serial number, is black powder configuration. Serial number was observed in usual place on bottom of frame and again on left side of front and backstraps under the grip. The last three digits of SN are on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing, inside radius of ejector rod housing and on face of cylinder around cylinder bushing hole. Also on front and backstraps is an assembly number “W5440” which is probably the order number. Mr. Spring’s signature appears on left side of buttstrap under the grip. Accompanied by its orig Colt custom shop Styrofoam-lined box with chartreuse & black label and its Colt factory custom shop walnut casing with the Colt logo in the lid, royal blue velvet lining, recessed in bottom for revolver with a functioning key. Additionally accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, with presentation case, shipped to Jerry’s Sport Center, Olyphant, PA on March 16, 1988 in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: New, unfired and untunned, all matching with no discernible flaws. Grips are outstanding with a fine light ivory color. Case is equally new. 4-38599 JR210 (7,500-10,500)
EXCEPTIONALLY FINE ALEXANDER HENRY HAMMER DOUBLE RIFLE PRESENTED BY THE PRINCE OF WALES TO WALTER WINANS, WITH BOOKS AND “VANITY FAIR” CARICATURE. SN 6408. (Ca. 1890) Cal. .450 BPE. 28-1/4″ Fine Damascus dovetailed bbls with high, flat, full length file cut rib, are engraved “Alex’r Henry Edinburgh and London.” and “Maker to Their Royal Highness’ The Prince of Wales and Duke of Edinburgh.” on tops. Top of left bbl toward center is engraved “Presented by H. R. H. the Prince of Wales to W. Winans. Esq.” Bbl flats show London proofs at .440 and are stamped “A.H” and SN. There is also a later stamping “325” probably referring to bullet weight for which the rifle is regulated. Bottoms of bbls are stamped “Henry’s Rifling A & T 5695” on the right and left bbl has “5696” (patent use numbers). Sling eye is mounted to bottom rib. Long, round bar, Jones underlever action has finely filed fences with two cuts in action bar to make rifle lighter. Back action rebounding locks have front mounted stalking safeties. Action and lockplates have 80% coverage of very finely executed English scroll engraving, with “Alex’r Henry” on each lockplate. Short, round bodied, serpentine hammers have scroll engraved bodies and dolphin heads. Long top action tang has folding Lyman peep sight. Trigger guard has SN at grip. Broadly streaked European walnut full pistol grip buttstock measures 14-7/16″ over checkered wood butt with engraved steel heel and toe plates. Stock features double shadow line right hand cheekpiece, and 22 LPI checkering with mullered borders. There is a sling eye on toe line, and grip has engraved steel trap cap, containing two spare strikers. Matching splinter forend attaches to bbl with forward lever. Drop at heel: Approx 2-3/4″, drop at comb: Approx 2″ . Weight: 8 lbs. 11 oz, LOP 14-7/16″. Accompanying rifle are two books by Walter Winans. One is “The Sporting Rifle” (New York: Putnams Sons, 1908, First edition). The other is “Deer Breeding for Fine Heads” (London: Rowland Ward, 1913, first edition) signed and inscribed by Winans. Also included is an original “Vanity Fair” supplement lithograph with Mr. Winans (standing in snow wearing his hunting clothes, with rifle slung over his shoulder) entitled “Tracks and Triggers” by Hentschel – Colourtype, London, as well as, sterling silver engraved plaque issued by “Gold Medal Concours East 2002” for the “Vintager Award”. PROVENANCE: Books, lithograph, and plaque. CONDITION: Excellent, near new. Bbls retain 98% of their original brown, with some nicks, small dings, and a small area 9″ from muzzle on left bbl, with some abrasion. Action, locks, and hammers retain nearly all their original case color with silvering on bottom of action, and sides of fences. There is some silvering on top tang in front of tang sight which is a later addition, but probably put there by Mr. Winans, who states in his book “The Sporting Rifle” on page 9 “I have lately been shooting a great deal with the Lyman aperture hind sight (see cut). I find that, contrary to expectation, I can do very rapid firing with it and it is much less fatiguing to the eye than other sights. The main advantage is that there is no tendency to concentrate one’s attention on it.” (The sight is pictured.) Grip cap has most of its case color, silvered on edges. Heel and toe plates retain over 50% of their color. Stocks have nearly all of their original oil finish. The grain has lifted a bit over the years, and there are a fair number of minor nicks, dings, and scratches. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Locks are crisp. Bores are excellent, nearly perfect. Books are good, but show evidence of some use. Lithograph has some tears, but is clean. Plaque is excellent. Exceptionally fine rifle in exceptionally fine condition owned by one of the most dynamic characters of his day. He was an author, world record marksman (gold medal 1908 Olympics, 2 shot running deer), passionate hunter (he leased thousands of acres of hunting grounds in Scotland), sculptor (gold medal 1912 Olympics), and artist. (Note: Mr. Winan’s Colt SAA is in Session 2 of this sale.) 4-39023 MGM146 (17,500-22,500)
FINE CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 126587. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates. Serial number was observed in usual places on bottom of frame, trigger guard & buttstrap. Left side of frontstrap & right side of buttstrap are stamped with the assembly number “248” which number is also found on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing in tiny numbers. Also was observed on inside gullet of ejector rod housing and on face of cyl around base cylinder bushing. Right rear web of trigger guard has a partial “&”, all of which, combined with the assembly number, indicates a factory restored finish. Mounted with spectacular 1-pc ivory grip having full checkered background with deep relief carved Mexican eagle on each side. Carving is extremely fine and in great detail. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about 75% coverage on frame, full coverage on sides of foliate arabesque patterns which extend down over shoulders of trigger guard and has Mr. Helfricht’s trademark sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in zig zag & leaf patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up the side of bbl with zig zag geometric patterns around bbl address to the front sight. Ejector rod housing is engraved with snake & dot patterns on outer radius and in top gullet. Backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s typical sunburst pattern with light geometric patterns down backstrap & buttstrap with matching patterns on trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on lands between the flutes with a snake & leaf pattern around rear edge. Accompanied by a relined Smith & Wesson mahogany casing with black velvet lining recessed for revolver. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains most of its factory restored finish with some slight dulling and a little milkiness to the nickel. Grip is a dark yellowing color and may have been stained purple or burgundy in the checkered areas. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case is fine. 4-36627 JR215 (10,000-15,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT LONDON POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 2115. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line “ADDRESS. COL. COLT. / LONDON.” with brackets at each end that have long finials. It has 6-shot cyl with silver plated iron large trigger guard & backstrap containing a deluxe walnut 1-pc grip. Revolver is engraved English-style with “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a ribbon on left side of frame. Frame is engraved with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns which extend over shoulders of trigger guard, ears of backstrap and stides of hammer spur. Bbl lug and adjacent top side flats are engraved to match with matching patterns on rammer pivot and completely around muzzle. Rammer handle is also engraved. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Accompanied by a fine mahogany English-style casing with elaborate scalloped-edge plate in the lid that is inscribed in period script “James Corbett Esquire”. Front of case has a mortised brass lock with rnd escutcheon. Interior is lined with dark blue velvet and has directions label inside lid. Bottom is compartmented for revolver, a Dixon bag flask, a 2-cavity iron mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a wood-handled cleaning rod and a tall lacquered tin of Eley caps with paper label.Right rear compartment is missing its cover. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 65% thinning orig blue with balance flaked & worn to a medium patina. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors with rammer & handle turned silver. Frame retains traces of case colors in sheltered areas being mostly turned silver. Cyl is a gray patina and retains about 85% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & backstrap retain traces of silver finish in most sheltered areas being mostly a gray patina. Grip is sound showing light wear with light handling & use nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish turned a little dark. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with moderate pitting. Case is very fine plus with light storage & handling marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly soiled with yellowed inside label. Flask is fine, mold is good, other accessories are fine. 4-36616 JR237 (5,000-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY REVOLVER. SN 90140. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetail front sight with 1-line London address. Left side of frame has hand engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. It has silver plated iron trigger guard & back strap containing a highly figured, deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with piano varnish finish. Frame is 4-screw type, cut for shoulder stock with flathead hammer screw & extended stock screws. Cylinder alone is British proofed. Revolver is fantastically engraved by Gustave Young in his deluxe coverage of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Mr. Young has incorporated a dog’s head into one of the scrolls on the left side of the bbl lug and several other scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Rammer pivot has full coverage matching patterns on the sides and hammer nose has a wolf’s head on each side with foliate arabesque patterns down the sides. Top of the back strap has Mr. Young’s fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the top & heel, on the butt strap & trigger guard. Cylinder has the Ormsby Naval battle scene. All screws are fire-blued. Accompanied by its orig English mahogany casing with gold plated brass bull’s eye concealed handle in the lid, gold washed corner reinforcements and latches. It has a mortised lock in the front, missing its escutcheon and has very deep dust seals around the bottom. Interior is fantastically lined in green velvet with gold embossed foliate patterns inside the lid with other embossed patterns. Bottom is compartmented, American-style, for the revolver, a matching deluxe, highly figured, uncheckered buttstock with silver plated Gustave Young engraved yoke & buttplate, SN 90138. Also accompanied by a Dixon bag flask with silver plated collar, top & spout, a rare silver plated 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, two 500-count lacquered tins of Eley’s caps, a packet of Colt’s combustible cartridges, an orig blued steel cleaning rod, three spare nipples, a spare orig hammer spring and a spare orig trigger/lockbolt spring. Also accompanied by a National Rifle Association Silver Medal #102. Compartment lid covers have gold plated buttons with gold embossed borders. This set is pictured in full color on pp. 42-45 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. According to the caption to the referenced Photos, S/N 90137 is fitted & engraved identically giving ‘rise” to the likelihood that the stocks were simply mixed up at the time of engraving or that one owner had both sets and allowed the mix up. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge & cyl. Grip was not checked. Bbl retains 97-98% glossy orig factory blue with only faint sharp edge wear and a spot on right side of muzzle. Rammer & handle retain virtually all of their orig bright case colors. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig bright case colors. Cylinder is flaked, not worn, with about 15% glossy blue remaining and balance a light to medium patina. Overall retains about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene with all six safety pins crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their strong orig silver plating. Grip shows wear from the stock yoke, otherwise is crisp with a few minor nicks & slight wear on right side and otherwise retains about all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some fine pitting just in front of the forcing cone. Stock has a few very minor handling & storage marks and retains about all of its orig factory varnish. Yoke retains about 90% orig silver with virtually all of wear on right side from case. Buttplate retains all of its orig silver. Mold retains about all of its orig silver with some fine pimpling. Flask has one dent on one side, otherwise is near perfect with bright fire blue on spring & strong silver plating. Cap boxes are crisp. Case is extremely fine with one crack in lid & a couple of grain checks in bottom and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Lining is extremely fine, strong & bright in lid with a couple of minor wear spots, lightly faded & lightly soiled in bottom with one open divider joint. Altogether an extraordinary set suitable for the highest level of collector. 4-36497 JR137 (250,000-450,000)
FINE NICK KUSMIT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 154721. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 2nd generation rampant Colt/eagle hard rubber grips. Revolver is engraved by famous Winchester master engraver Nick Kusmit with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cylinder is engraved to match. It has its orig hammer with edges blued and sides polished bright. Consignor states that due to his friendship with Nick Kusmit, the famous Winchester engraver, he was able to persuade him to engrave several handguns and a few rifles, this being one of them. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains about all of its fine post-engraved custom finish with strong, dark blue and bright case colors. Grips are crisp showing no wear. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-36598 JR198 (4,000-6,000)
*SCARCE FURR 1/4 SCALE MODEL 1883 GATLING GUN ON CARRIAGE. SN 29. Cal. 22 Short. All brass construction with full shrouded, 12″ ten-bbl cluster equipped with Accles feed attachment and accompanied by one matching numbered drum. Gun has left & right sights with rear side crank and leveling sight glasses and a tiller. Mounted in a brass yoke with swivel and elevation and mounted on a 1/4-scale carriage with brass bound wooden wheels. Axle and trail are brass. Each side of gun has a covered brass rectangular box mounted on the axel that will hold two drums each. Top of the collar on the bbl shroud is engraved “MANUFD BY / Colts Pat Fa Mfg Co / HARTFORD CONN”. Rear of shroud behind the feed attachment is a small round plate engraved “GATLING GUN PATENTED”. At the rear end of the shroud “MODEL 1883 / NO. 29 / CAL 22”. Accompanied by a reprint of a 3-page instruction sheet. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains a slightly oxidized medium mustard patina on all the brass parts. Wheels are fine. Seems to function mechanically. 4-38416 JR374 (6,000-10,000)
*FINE HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 45684SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, 1-line address with model & caliber on left side. Left side of the frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and is mounted with spectacular 1-pc gold medallion ivory grip. Grip has an unsigned, very well executed scrimshaw vignette of five buffalo in a prairie scene. Grip panels are mounted to a walnut block and have the SN inside each grip with matching number in the back strap channel on the wood. Revolver is nearly full coverage engraved by the late renowned Colt master engraver, Howard M. Dove, and signed on the left side of the butt strap, under the grip. The SN was noted in the usual place on the bottom of the frame and on left side of front & back straps, under the grip. Engraving consists of extraordinary foliate arabesque patterns with gold wire outline on each side of the frame and hammer with the rampant Colt in gold on the left side of frame. Left recoil shield has an extraordinary detailed bust of an Indian brave with braided hair and two feathers. Cylinder has full coverage matching engraving with gold wire outline around the flutes with dbl wire border at the front of each land between the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder has two gold wire bands with a zig zag pattern between. Bbl boss on each side of the frame is engraved with a checkerboard pattern, with a rosette around the cylinder pin crossbolt on the left side and flower blossoms in the bottom flute on each side, all reminiscent of Cuno Helfricht pattern engraving. The bbl is spectacularly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns, shell patterns, geometric patterns and checkerboard patterns. Bbl has two gold bands around the muzzle and two at the frame with a snake & dot pattern in gold in the ejector rod housing flute. Back strap has a spectacular fan pattern at the top with gold wire outline and a square & dot pattern in the middle with foliate arabesque patterns elsewhere, in full coverage. Entire back strap & butt strap have fine gold wire outline with scalloped corners. Screw heads are all beautifully engraved. This is an extraordinary example of Mr. Dove’s fantastic work and is nearly identical to three examples found on pp. 765 & 767 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, as new. Remains unturned & unfired since finish with bright blue and brilliant case colors. Grips are exceptional with a crisp, mellow ivory patina. 4-36501 JR135 (12,000-16,000)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY (WEST POINT) CLASS OF 2005 COMMEMORATIVE REVOLVER. SN 05USMA021. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with gold trim and 5-1/2″ bbl with full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with most unusual smooth 1-pc horn grip. Revolver is engraved in about “B” coverage with foliate arabesque patterns on frame, cyl & over bbl. Ejector rod housing & backstrap also have foliate arabesque patterns. Bbl is additionally engraved “UNITED STATES / MILITARY ACADEMY” on left side of bbl and “WEST POINT / CLASS OF 2005” on right side. Top of backstrap has what appears to be the crest of The Class of 2005 which consists of an American eagle, a mailed fist with a sword, surmounted by a ribbon inscribed “KEEPING FREEDOM ALIVE”, which is further surmounted by “05”. Bottom of the crest is inscribed “USMA”. Center of backstrap is engraved “KEEPING FREEDOM ALIVE”. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with the rear edge engraved “DUTY HONOR COUNTRY” which is repeated. Serial number was observed in usual place on bottom of frame with last three digits of number on left side of front and back straps under the grip and on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing. Face of cylinder also has last three digits of SN around the cylinder bushing hole with caliber marking on rear face between two chambers. Engraver’s initials “C.M.L” are on very front of frame below base pin. Accompanied by its orig blue plastic case, lock, owner’s booklet & warranty card with other papers. Consignor states that Academy graduates were the only ones authorized to purchase these revolvers and had a choice between a Single Action and a Government Model semi-auto, with most choosing the Government Model. Consignor states that it is his understanding that less than five Single Actions were ordered. CONDITION: New and unfired. Case is equally new. 4-38507 JR217 (3,000-5,000)
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1883 SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN. SN 2007. Cal. 10 ga. 30″ Damascus bbls, tapered concave rib, with single ivory sighting bead, 3″ chambers, extractors, and dbl triggers. Top rib of bbl is marked “COLTS PT. F.A.MFG.CO.HARTFORD, CT.U.S.A.” The box lock receiver has $3 engraving, which is a fine border engraving outlining receivers and circular spoked wheel pattern around pins & screws. Trigger plate is engraved “PATENTED/AUG 22 SEP 1882″. Mounted with highly figured walnut, checkered splinter forend with ebony tip insert, checkered rnd knob pistol grip, and Rampant Colt logo checkered hard rubber buttplate. Bore diameter: left -.800, right -.795. Bore restrictions: left -.020, right -.028. Wall thickness: left -.039, right -.042. Drop at heel: 3-1/2″, drop at comb: 2″. Weight: 9lbs. 12oz. LOP 13-1/2”. Accompanied with Colt Factory Letter, identifying as 10 ga., 30″ bbls, blue with wood stock, 10lbs., $3 engraved, Grade 1, to Andrus Naedle, Hartford Connecticut, October 25, 1887, one gun in shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbls retain nearly all of their beautiful Damascus pattern with some minor thinning and brown spots near muzzle. Receiver retains 95% orig case colors, with some minor thinning blending with silver patina on bottom and across the fences. Trigger guard has 50% orig blue, flaking and blending with silver patina and worn through grip area to silver patina. Stock is sound with sharp checkering a minor dent on upper right side and typical nicks & scratches, but retains most of its orig finish. Forend is sound with sharp checkering, a few minor nicks & scrapes and retains most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp with auto-safety and nice shiny bores. 4-35282 BDT163 (6,000-8,000)
*FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 335551. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with factory pearl grips that have deep silver left & right medallions. Revolver is engraved probably from the Cuno Helfricht shop with about “B” coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and large sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate. Bbl boss on front of frame has a hunters star on each side with another on ejector rod housing boss. Top strap and ejector rod housing gullet are engraved with snake & dot patterns which are also around the recoil shield and in the front gullets. Top of backstrap has a simple, stylized fan with geometric patterns at top of backstrap and on the heel. Cylinder is engraved with geometric patterns on lands between the flutes and a snake & dot pattern at rear edge. Serial number was observed in usual places on frame, trigger guard & buttstrap with last three digits of SN on rear face of cylinder between two chambers. Last four digits of SN are on bbl under ejector rod housing and inside the ejector rod housing. The presence of the SN’s on bbl & ejector rod housing are indications of a factory restored finish, although there are no factory restoration marks on revolver. Accompanied by two Colt factory letters to two different individuals dated 1983 & 1994. Both identify this revolver as found in 45 caliber with nickel finish, pearl grips and factory engraving, shipped to Stauffer Eshleman & Co., New Orleans, Louisiana on April 11, 1917. One letter shows it as a one gun shipment and the other indicates it was a shipment of four same-type guns. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of a fine factory-style restored finish with some flaking around muzzle and a couple of spots of dark patina. Grips have some repaired age flakes, one on left side at the medallion and the other on right bottom edge, otherwise grips are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with some fine frosting. 4-39004 JR190 (15,000-20,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 148684. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight with engraved “Saml Colt” on top flat. Frame is engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape on left side and it has silver-plated brass small trigger guard & backstrap containing a 1-pc ivory grip. Cylinder is 5-shots with stagecoach holdup scene. Revolver has deluxe Gustave Young engraving with full coverage on frame of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns which extend over sides of bbl lug and top side flats with matching patterns on sides of the rammer pivot. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose, foliate arabesque patterns down the sides with shaded patterns on the spur. Spur has hand-cut checkered panel. Top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on buttstrap and trigger bow. One of the scrolls on the frame terminates in a dog’s head and another on left side of bbl lug terminates in a bird’s head with others terminating in flower blossoms and all of the engraving has a fine punch dot background. Screwheads are engraved. Accompanied by an orig mahogany Colt casing with purple velvet lining compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided American eagle Root-sized flask, a 2-cavity brass “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter and a laquered cap tin. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, grip was not checked. Overall retains an even medium gray/brown patina with some small dings on top flat of bbl and on cyl. Engraving is crisp & clear with only slight pitting around hammer nose. Trigger guard & backstrap retain about 25-30% orig silver plating in sheltered areas with balance a medium mustard patina. Cylinder has several nicks & dings and retains about 25% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip shows little wear with sharp edges and retains a wonderful aged ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with moderate pitting. Case has a crack in the lid and another in bottom with a couple of grain checks, a grain check in the front and loose corners with storage & handling scratches & dings and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Interior is moderately to heavily faded & soiled. Flask is corroded around the top with a broken spring and retains about 60% orig finish. Mold is dinged & worn with “COLTS PATENT” only partially legible. Cap tin is re-painted. 4-37574 JR232 (4,500-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & PROBABLY THE SINGLE FINEST CASED ENGRAVED COLT THUER CONVERSION MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER EXTANT. SN 185326/IE. Cal. 44. Extraordinary Colt with 8″ rnd bbl, orig front sight and 1-line address. It has “COLTS PATENT” on left side of the frame in an unusual pattern. “COLTS” is in an arc above “PATENT” and is hand stamped, not engraved. Trigger guard is brass with steel back strap which is mounted with a 1-pc ivory grip that is spectacularly raise-carved on both sides with the family crest of Don Jose Laureano Sanz on left side over the script initials “JLS”. Right side has large raised intertwined initials “JLS”. Both sides have fine shaded backgrounds. Grip is of one solid piece of ivory. SN on four locations on the bottom of the revolver are all accompanied by the initials “I.E.”, indicating factory ivory and engraved. Revolver is full silver plated with gold washed cylinder, conversion ring & hammer, as installed on the revolver. The accompanying, matching numbered, percussion cylinder is also gold washed. Frame has full coverage, extraordinarily fine, intertwined leaf & vine pattern engraving with very fine punch dot background in Gustave Young’s finest hand, undoubtedly by the master himself. Engraving extends over recoil shields onto the bbl lug and up the bbl terminating at the end of the bbl address with matching fine patterns around the front sight. Rammer handle is checkered with a fine chip & dot border with hand checkered rammer latch. Rammer pivot is engraved to match and the rammer itself is gold washed. Hammer is engraved in great detail with a wolf’s head on each side with matching leaf & vine patterns down each lower side and extend onto the sides of the hammer spur. Top edge of hammer is elaborately engraved with hand checkered spur. Back strap is engraved to match as are the butt strap & trigger guard. Both cylinders have hand engraved Ormsby Naval battle scene with wonderful foliate arabesque patterns in the rebated areas. Percussion cylinder retains all six of its safety pins. This revolver is without peer and certainly one of Mr. Young’s finest works. Accompanied by its orig, extraordinary, Brazilian rosewood casing with silver plated brass appointments and swinging latches on front with a mortised silver plated lock that has a rectangular escutcheon. Top center of lid has a scalloped rectangular plate engraved “JLS” surrounded by foliate & floral engraved patterns. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for the revolver, two orig empty boxes for Colt’s 44 Thuer cartridges, one box body is green and the other Kraft colored with both having identical orange labels orange with black lettering. Front center compartment contains a spectacular Army-sized, “COLTS PATENT”, sgl-sided flask with angle spout and silver plated top, thumb pad & spout. Front center compartment contains a presentation quality, high polish blue, 2-cavity mold with “COLT’S PATENT” sprue cutter and marked on right side “44H”. Additionally accompanied by a fine tin of Eley’s caps with orange label and a sealed lacquered tin of Goldmarks percussion caps. Right rear corner compartment contains an L-shaped nipple wrench with high polish blue and a set of high polish blue Thuer cartridge reloading tools. Left front corner compartment contains two spare blued trigger/lockbolt screws and six orig spare nipples. Altogether an extraordinary orig, unused, royalty quality presentation set. Additionally accompanied by an article from The Texas Gun Collectors Association magazine by Dr. James T. Brown regarding the Phillip R. Phillips Firearms Collection at the Woolaroc Museum in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. This article shows this exact set with the caption “Presented to Gov. of Puerto Rico by the People of Puerto Rico”. Apparently this set was in the Phillips Collection at one time and displayed in the Woolaroc Museum. Additionally accompanied by a copy of the April 1997 issue of Man at Arms magazine which features this set on the cover and is photographed in the article which is titled “Post Civil War .44 Caliber Conversions” by Val Christian. Pages 16&17 feature this revolver in its case in full color, as found with the exception of the two cartridge boxes. The caption to that photograph directs the reader to p. 5 which briefly describes this set as “considered to be one of engraver Gustave Young’s finest achievements”. And finally accompanied by four caliber 44 Thuer cartridges, three with lead bullets and one with a wooden shot sabot plus six 44 caliber lead bullets. Don Jose Laureano Sanz (1822-1898) was the Marquis de San Juan and Governor General of Puerto Rico in the late 1860’s early 1870’s period, about the time that this set was created. Don Jose was credited with establishing the 1st Battalion of the Institute of Volunteers of Puerto Rico, which amounts to the Puerto Rican National Guard. There is substantial other information about Don Laureano Sanz available on the internet, however it is in Spanish and time constraints prevent detailed translation. This rare, one of a kind and the finest example of Gustave Young’s greatest works, was discovered in the 1940’s by renowned Colt historian & author James E. Serven. It has appeared in numerous publications over the years as follows: Samuel Colt Presents; The Antique Arms Annual; The Book of Colt Engraving; Colt Engraving; The Colt Heritage; Colt An American Legend, all by Wilson; Colt Firearms from 1836, Serven, and has appeared in numerous magazine articles including The Gun Report and The Texas Gun Collector magazines. Additionally accompanied by a 3-page letter from renowned Colt historian & author R.L. Wilson detailing some of the above information. Also accompanying is a portfolio of photographs & pages from various magazines & publications. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Phillip R. Phillips; Butterfield & Butterfield. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching except wedge & grip which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory silver & gold wash with some very fine pimpling on bbl lug & backstrap and very minor losses at heel. Revolver is probably unfired with either cylinder. Flask is incredibly new retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. Mold is equally new with a few light dings on bottom & left side and otherwise retains virtually all of its brilliant high gloss blue. Cap tins are extremely fine as are loading tools. Cartridge boxes show light wear and a couple of open corners with light soil on green box and moderate soil & wear on Kraft colored box label. Case is equally fine with light handling & use nicks & scratches and moderate wear on leather covered bottom. Interior is moderately to heavily faded. A truly incredible set. 4-36513 JR145 (475,000-875,000)
*COLE AGEE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 253768. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Gold finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with fine 2-pc, gold Colt medallion ivory grips. Revolver is engraved in nearly full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Engraving appears to be by Cole Agee, famous engraver more noted for his cattle brand patterns on Colt single actions, although he produced a number of other styles of engraving. Bbl is engraved with matching patterns, full length on both sides and full length on outer radius of ejector rod housing. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cylinder has full coverage matching engraving on outer diameter with flutes not engraved. Entire revolver is gold washed over silver or nickel plating. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 50% gold wash, strong in sheltered areas. Lockbolt screw is battered. Grips have age lines on right side near the frame, otherwise are sound, fit well and retain a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore. 4-39003 JR188 (6,000-10,000)
FINE INSCRIBED CASED PAIR OF REMINGTON NEW MODEL ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 1) 961792 & 2) 105181. Cal. 44. Revolvers are identical with blue finish, 8″ oct bbls, pinched blade front sights, brass trigger guards and 2-pc walnut grips with legible “OWA” (Orville W. Ainsworth) cartouches on left sides. Both are inscribed on backstraps, through the blue, in period script “Lt. Jackson V. Parker”. They are accompanied by their orig mahogany casing with a fine plate in the center engraved “JVP”. Case has a mortised brass lock in the front with functioning key. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet, French fitted in bottom for the two revolvers and, a sgl-sided Remington-style flask by American Cap & Flask with dog & birds. Also compartmented for a Colt 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter marked on right side “44H”, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a sealed tin of Eley’s caps. Covered compartment in right rear contains lead bullets & balls. Also accompanied by a packet of information regarding Lt. Parker. Jackson V. Parker of Brandon, Vermont at age 27 enlisted on Jan. 6, 1862 as a 2nd Lieutenant in Company B 7th Vermont Infantry. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in Dec. 1862 and to Captain in Oct. 1863 and mustered out with his regiment in March of 1866. Lt. Parker’s regiment saw action throughout the South, particularly at Vicksburg, Mississippi, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Gonzalez Station, Spanish Fort, Mobile, Alabama and Whistler in April 1865. When the war was over the regiment was extended in service and stationed in Brownsville, Texas as part of Sheriden’s Army keeping watch on the French occupation forces in Mexico. They remained in Brownsville until they were mustered out in March 1866. In a dispatch report by the regimental commander, Col. W.C. Holbrook, Capt. Parker was cited for gallantry in action at Spanish Fort on March 29, 1865. Capt. Parker died on Sept. 4, 1871 in Vermont. Also accompanied by copies of Capt. Parker’s muster rolls. PROVENANCE: Peter Wainwright Collection. CONDITION: 1) Very fine, all matching except cyl which is unnumbered. Overall retains 70-75% glossy orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a light patina. Hammer retains strong case colors. Cyl retains 15-20% orig blue with balance flaked to a medium patina. Grips are sound with crisp cartouche and retain about all of their orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 2) Very fine, all matching except cyl & grips which are unnumbered. Grips, although not numbered, almost assuredly are orig to this revolver. Overall retains 80-85% glossy orig blue with loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Cyl retains 70-70% orig blue with balance flaked to a medium patina. Hammer retains most of its faded orig case colors. Grips are sound with legible cartouche and retain most of their orig finish with some light hand staining. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a slightly loose bottom panel, otherwise is completely sound with light storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with light soil. Flask is a medium mustard patina. Mold & nipple wrench are fine. Cap tin is very fine with light soil on label. 4-38186 JR245 (10,000-15,000)
*SCARCE YO RANCH CENTENNIAL ENGRAVED & CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA12793. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with 1-line address and model & caliber marking on the left side. Top left side of the bbl is engraved “1880-Y.O. Centennial – 1980” and the top right side of the bbl is engraved “A Century of Ranching in Texas”. Frame has 2-line patent dates and is mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. Left grip has a large cast silver plaque attached which has the raised images of long horn steers, cowboy on horseback overlaid with the “YO” brand, containing the dates 1880-1980. Top of the plaque has the 5-pointed Texas star with the letters of “TEXAS” individually between the points of the star. A smaller nearly identical plaque is attached to top of the backstrap. Revolver is nicely engraved in about “C” coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and a Cuno Helfricht-style sunburst on left recoil shield with the 5-pointed Texas star in the center. Toe of the buttstrap is stamped with a small “YO” brand and the number “78” which is also stamped on left side of frontstrap, under the grip. Bottom front of trigger guard is stamped with a small “OF” brand in a circle and the trigger bow is relief engraved with a 5-pointed Texas star. SN was observed in usual location on the frame and on left side of front & backstraps. Last four digits of SN are stamped around cylinder bushing hole on the front along with the “YO” brand and “78”. Accompanied by its orig glass top, blue velvet lined oak casing with recess in the top for the revolver and an especially created YO Ranch labeled box of cartridges. Bottom of case has a pullout drawer with “YO” Ranch brand brass pulls that contains a hair-on hide covered book Long Days and Short Nights A CENTURY OF TEXAS RANCHING ON THE YO 1880-1980, Barrett. Fly leaf has the autograph of Charles Schreiner IV. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is new & unfired, all matching, retains all of its orig factory silver finish. Grip is equally new. Case, book & ammo are also new. 4-36504 JR150 (3,000-5,000)
*FINE JOHN ADAMS ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA92006. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and model & caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with smooth, silver medallion ivory 2-pc grips numbered to this revolver. Serial number was observed in usual place on bottom of frame and on left side of the front & back straps. Serial number is stamped around the cylinder bushing hole on front. Back is stamped with caliber between two chambers. Revolver is very beautifully engraved by John Adams, Colt Master Engraver, with about “D” coverage in Cuno Helfricht style with foliate arabesque patterns on sides and front of frame and sunbursts on recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap & top gullet of ejector rod housing are engraved with feather patterns. Hammer is engraved with a cow skull on each side and full coverage punch dot background. There is a unique triangle-shaped dot & diamond pattern on top of bbl at the frame with foliate arabesque patterns extending down both sides, terminating at the end of the address with matching patterns around muzzle. Backstrap & buttstrap are full coverage engraved with a beautiful fan at top of backstrap. Trigger guard is engraved to match with a small bouquet of flowers on bottom front of frame. Accompanied by its orig burgundy & gold, Styrofoam lined box that shows ivory grips on label and contains warranty card and pamphlets. Consignor states that he had John Adams engrave these revolvers several years ago. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Unfired since engraving retaining virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Box is fine. 4-39007 JR192 (2,500-4,000)
RARE COLT 1883 SPECIAL ORDER SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN. SN 7814. Cal. 10 ga. 30″ Damascus steel bbls, matted concave rib with sgl brass sighting bead, 2-3/4″ chambers, extractors and double triggers. Top rib of bbls marked “COLT’S PT F MFG CO HARTFORD CT USA”. Hammerless receiver is beautifully engraved with foliate scroll, a setter and 2 quail on left side and pointer and grouse on right side. Floorplate with scroll and marked “Patented / AUG. 22 Sep. 19 1882″. Trigger guard bow is engraved with an oval with wavy line border around a game bird. Mounted with nicely figured walnut, checkered side panels with arrowhead dropper, checkered pistol grip with sculpted horn grip cap, hard rubber buttplate with Rampant Colt logo, blank gold initial oval, checkered splinter forend with ebony tip insert. Bore diameter: left – .775, right – .773. Bore restrictions: left – .030, right – .030. Wall thickness: left – .034, right – .047. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 1-3/4″. Weight: 9 lbs. 1 oz. LOP 14-3/8”. Gun is accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying it as 10 ga, blue finish, wood stocks, weighing 9 lbs 1 oz, furnished with $125 of enhancements, shipped to Simmons Hardware, St. Louis, Mo, April 14, 1896, only gun in shipment. Under remarks “as noted above, the subject shotgun was furnished with $125 enhancements, unfortunately the records do not provide details as to the specific type of enhancements.” CONDITION: Fine, bbl retain 70-80% of its brown Damascus pattern, blending in area of forend tip with silver and dark patina, thinning and blending with silver in chamber area and a few minor dark spots of surface oxidation. Receiver has traces of orig case coloring in protected areas but is mostly a silver blending with brown patina. Stock is sound with good checkering but is very unusual in that the right side is extremely dark and difficult to see grain whereas left side is much lighter and the grain is visible. Stock has some nicks and dings and usual handling marks and appears to be orig finish or possible just a light coat of added finish. Forend is sound with only slightly flat checkering, some minor nicks and dings and retains matching finish to the buttstock. Mechanics are good with automatic safety and decent bore on right bbl with only a few minor shallow pits, left bbl is a little rougher with numerous shallow to moderate pits. 4-38232 BDT74 (6,000-8,000)
SCARCE EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 74589. Cal. 45 Colt. Early single action with 4 13/16″ bbl reduced from 7 1/2″ with replaced front sight, 1-line block letter address and 3rd type ejector rod housing with half-moon ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and the caliber is on the left front web of the trigger guard. It is mounted with old, probably original to this revolver, 1-pc ivory grip. Frame has full coverage L.D. Nimschke engraving with a large shell pattern on the left side of the frame, fan patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate with a diamond and dot pattern on the cylinder pin boss on the left front side of the frame. Top of the backstrap has Mr. Nimschke’s fan pattern with symmetrical dot patterns down the back of the frame. Topstrap is engraved with geometric patterns and a zig-zag pattern down the sight groove. Sides of the bbl and backstrap are engraved to match. Cylinder has deluxe engraving with foliate arabesque on the lands between the flutes and geometric patterns in the flutes. Mr. Nimschke also applied a wide oval geometric pattern around each of the cylinder stop notches with a double-incised line border at the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in .45 cal. with bbl length and type of stocks not listed. Finished “soft” and shipped to J.P. Moore’s Sons, New York, NY on November 10, 1881 in a six-gun shipment. Shipped “soft” means that the revolver was destined to be engraved & finished outside the factory. CONDITION: About good. Original nickel finish remains under the ejector rod housing with the balance of the revolver a gray metal color showing moderate to heavy wear. Grip is sound with numerous age lines and retains a fine, dark, mellow ivory color. Hammer is not solid in the safety notch and the half-cock notch is missing, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with fine frosting. 4-38226 JR171 (10,000-15,000)
FINE VERY EARLY CASED PRESENTATION COLT LONDON MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 154. Cal. 31. Blue & color case hardened with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line address “ADDRESS. COL: COLT. / LONDON.” with brackets that have long finials. Left side of frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” in the English-style roll mark. It has large iron trigger guard & backstrap containing a very nicely figured 1-pc walnut grip with SN in backstrap channel. It has 5-shot cyl with stagecoach holdup scene. Bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Lieut. C.H. Bates from the Warren Club”. Buttstrap is engraved in the same hand “Salem Mass”. Lt. Charles H. Bates was commissioned on December 4, 1861 into Co. F of the 23rd MASS Volunteers of the Salem Light Infantry serving in the Civil War until his discharge January 9,1863. Accompanied by an English-style oak casing with an empty scalloped edge brass plate in lid. Interior is lined in green baize with the Colt directions label inside lid. Compartmented in bottom for revolver, a Dixon bag flask, an iron “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a partial tin of W. & C. Eley caps. Right rear corner has an empty covered compartment and a wood handled cleaning rod in rear edge. Front of case has a mortised brass lock with brass escutcheon. This revolver is pictured in full color as Fig. 208 on p. 149 of Colt’s Pocket ’49 It’s Evolution, Jordan & Watt. It is also partially pictured several times in the same chapter on London-made Pocket 49’s. Also accompanied by copies of Soldier and Regimental historical data of the 23rd MASS Volunteers. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including rammer latch lug & grip with the wedge numbered “21483”. Bbl retains 60-65% glossy orig blue with balance flaked, not worn to a light patina. Rammer & rammer handle retain faded case colors, bright on pivot. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, moderately faded, stronger in sheltered areas and on right side. Hammer retains about 50% orig case colors. Grip frame retains traces of silver in sheltered areas being mostly a gray metal color. Grip is sound with handling & use marks and light to moderate wear and retains about 75% orig varnish. Cyl retains 25-30% thin blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Two of safety pins are missing with the other three battered. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with fine pitting at cyl end. Case is extremely fine with a couple of small cracks in lid and a grain check in bottom with light handling & storage marks and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Interior is very slightly faded with very light soil and light damage from front sight. Flask & mold are fine with other accessories also fine. 4-38459 JR233 (9,000-12,000)
EXTRAORDINARY PRESENTATION BOOK CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 292256. Cal. 31. Undoubtedly the finest of its type extant. This spectacular revolver has 5″ bbl, brass pin front sight, 1-line “New-York U.S. America” address with silver plated brass grip frame and large trigger guard with a wonderful 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is high-polished blue & color case hardened and engraved in Gustave Young deluxe patterns consisting of full coverage on the frame & hammer, consisting of foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the bbl lug and bbl with full coverage on the rammer pivot. Hammer is deluxe engraved to match with a wolf head on each side of the hammer nose and deluxe foliate arabesque patterns down each side. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern at the top of the back strap. Several of the scrolls on the frame terminate in flower blossoms. Left side of the frame is hand engraved with “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow shape with the caliber marking on the left rear web of the trigger guard. Trigger guard is of the large type and with its serial number indicating manufacture post-Civil War in 1867. This undoubtedly was intended as a presentation to someone of substantial importance. Accompanied by an extraordinarily rare red leather covered book casing with gold embossed embellishments and the spine titled “COLT’S / PIONEER / TO / CIVILIZATION / & / CHRISTIANITY”. The edges of the box, where pages would normally be, are covered in gold foil, most of which is missing on the top edge. This case is of such great rarity in and of itself because it has only a mortised brass lock in the front edge instead of the usual hasp. According to R.L. Wilson, noted Colt historian & author, this is the only known such book casing. Interior is blue velvet lined with recesses in the bottom for the revolver, a wonderful 1-sided “COLTS PATENT” flask with silver-plated collar, thumb pad & spout, a deluxe high-polished 2-cavity steel mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and also includes a packet of combustible cartridges and an L-shaped short nipple wrench. Also accompanied by a 4-page letter from the above cited R.L. Wilson. This exact revolver is pictured on pp. XXVI & XXVII in full color in the book The Colt Engraving Book Volume II, Wilson. This is undoubtedly one of the single finest engraved Colt 49 Pocket Revolvers extant with equally fine accessories and the unbelievably rare spectacular book casing. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Fred Sweeney Collection. CONDITION: Revolver appears to be new & unfired, all matching including wedge. Overall it retains virtually all of its deluxe Colt finish with glossy bright blue having only faint muzzle edge wear with some very slight thinning to the sharp edges and a light cyl drag line. Frame, hammer & rammer retain virtually all of their brilliant case colors, slightly thinned on right side of frame. Grip frame retains about 50% orig silver plating, mostly around trigger guard with balance a medium mustard patina. Grip has sharp crisp edges with one or two small handling & storage nicks and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Accessories are equally new. Case with its missing gold foil on top edge is otherwise very fine with light soil and a small stain or two on exterior. Lightly faded in interior bottom. This represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to own the finest of its type. 4-36490 JR130 (150,000-250,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 161736. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). Nickel finish with 5 1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. Revolver is fitted with 1-pc ivory grip having a deep carved eagle on a branch on the left side and a relief carved shield with confederate stars & bars over a fouled anchor. Grip is made of one solid piece of ivory. Revolver has about D-coverage, after-market, very fine, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch-dot background. Frame has nearly full coverage with only the bottom front gullets not engraved. Engraving patterns extend over the sides of the bbl nearly to the muzzle, on the outer radius of the ejector rod housing, onto the backstrap and trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and in a band around the rear edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 38-40 caliber with 5 1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, rubber grips and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO. on November 27, 1895 in a one-gun shipment. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains most of its fine custom nickel finish applied after engraving over scattered fine pitting, with slight wear at the muzzle end of the bbl and the hammer. Cylinder pin is battered. Grip has numerous age lines and a chipped right toe, otherwise is sound with a mellow ivory color, probably about the age of the revolver. Mechanics are fine, strong clean bore with scattered pitting. 4-38964 (5,000-7,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED PAIR OF DERINGER STYLE PERCUSSION POCKET PISTOLS. Cal. 44. Probably by Wurfflein, these beautiful little pistols have 2-3/8″ ovoid-shaped bbls with dovetailed German silver front sights and tang-mounted rear fixed sights. Top flat of the bbls are stamped “J.P. LOWER”. Breechblocks have silver bands at the front and rear edges. They are mounted in 1-pc walnut stocks with semi-schnable tips and sharp birdhead butts with coarse checkering. They have a sgl wedge through the forestocks with engraved German silver escutcheons. Tops of the wrists are mounted with shield-shaped thumbplates with a ball on the bottoms. Sideplates are Wurfflein-style, serpentine shaped, with the lock screw through the large end and a small screw securing the aft end through a small escutcheon. Trigger guards are nicely engraved with pineapple finials on the trigger plates. Tips of the forestocks have German silver triangles. Lockplates, hammers, top tangs, trigger guards and wedge escutcheons are all nicely engraved. Pictures of several similar pistols are found on Pages 90-93 under the titles Andrew Wurfflein and John Wurfflein in the book The Deringer in America, Vol. 1, Wilson & Eberhart. Accompanied by their orig English-style mahogany casing with brass reinforced corners and an empty, scalloped corner, brass plate in the center of the lid. Interior is purple velvet lined and compartmented in the bottom for the pistols, a fine copper & brass foliate repoussed flask, a nickeled nutcracker bullet mold stamped “95”, an orig Colt Root style wood handled turn screw with brass ferrule, an ebony handled nipple wrench, a small covered wood bits box and its orig functioning key. A long narrow uncovered compartment on the right end probably contained a cleaning rod which is now missing. J.P. Lower was the largest outfitter on the American frontier operating out of Denver in concert with Carlos Gove, who had been well established in Denver since 1865. Mr. Lower had been a traveling gun salesman for the G.C. Grubb Co. throughout the entire eastern U.S. during the Civil War and even into South America. By 1858, Mr. Grubb expanded his business and sent Mr. Lower west, becoming the first salesman to cross the Mississippi. With his contacts from his salesman days, he developed close personal friendships in most of the U.S. firearms manufacturing companies which served him extremely well after he opened his own business in Denver. By 1868 the railroad had reached Laramie City, WY and Mr. Lower, along with numerous other “drummers” would travel however they could to the “end of track” and set up merchandise tents and temporary buildings to service the railroaders and characters who accompanied the railroad. It was on one of these moves that he met Carlos Gove and struck up a fast friendship with him. By 1872, Mr. Lower had left the Grubb employment and opened his own shop with Mr. Gove in Denver. Business was brisk and growing and apparently wanting to expand, which did not meet with Mr. Gove’s vision, Mr. Lower in 1876 went out on his own and opened his first shop on Larimer Street in Denver. It was at this time that his previously established relationships with the firearms manufacturing companies paid dividends. He continued expanding and by 1885 was estimated to be worth over $100,000. After numerous trials and tribulations and personal family misfortunes, in 1895 Mr. Lower had traveled east to care for his ailing wife where she died 18 months later. Upon his return to Denver, he learned that his partner had bankrupted the business and absconded with all the money. By the time he was tracked down in Chicago, all the money was gone. By 1910, deeply in debt, Mr. Lower was selling off many of his artifacts collected during the heyday of his gun shop trade to try to keep his business afloat. He died in 1917, destitute with no viable heir to carry on the business. Undoubtedly, the great westward expansion is deeply indebted to men such as J.P. Lower for the success of the American manifest destiny. CONDITION: Pistols are fine to very fine with one retaining about 60% orig brown pattern on the bbl and the other traces of orig pattern. Hammers, lockplates and top tangs retain a blue-gray patina. Stocks are sound with handling and use nicks and scratches and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong clean bores with scattered light pitting. Case is sound with lid slightly shrunken and usual handling and storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Lid lining is bright and strong with minimal fading. Bottom is moderately faded with one loose partition, otherwise is intact with moderate soil. Flask is crisp with slight stain on the collar and retains about all of its orig finish on the body. Other implements and accessories are fine. Altogether, a rare set that undoubtedly belonged to a gentleman or a “dandy” in the Denver area. 4-38460 JR308 (8,000-12,000)
*RARE SET OF CUSTOM COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL TEXAS RANGER 175TH ANNIVERSARY SEMI-AUTO TARGET PISTOL. SN TR002R & TR002L. Cal. 45 ACP. Matched consecutive numbered set of Colt factory custom target pistols with royal blue finish, 5″ bright metal bbls with Novac sights, skeletonized hammer, beavertail grip safety, Gold Cup-style adjustable aluminum trigger, checkered 1911-style mainspring housing and diamond checkered rosewood grips. Frontstraps also have Gold Cup-style serrations and they are fitted with ambidextrous thumb safeties. They are marked identically with machine engraved slides that have “TEXAS RANGERS / 1823 1998” with a Texas 5-pointed star & wreath in the center and a machine engraved rampant Colt at the rear ends. Right sides are machine engraved “TEXAS RANGERS / 175TH / ANNIVERSARY” in the spaces forward of ejection ports with the Texas Ranger badge etch-engraved at right rear edges. SN is hand-stamped in the usual place just above the triggers. Slides have been ported with extra cuts around the trigger guards. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying these pistols, as found, with engraving & features as described. The letter further lists custom parts as Chip McCormick bbls, bushings, hammers, sears, slide stops, ambidextrous safeties, grip safeties & rosewood stocks. It also lists Videcke triggers and Novak sights. They were shipped to McBride’s Guns, Austin, TX, Oct. 8, 1999 as a set for “Chief Bruce Casteel”. The letter also lists that they were accompanied by a “double case with glass top and red interior” and two spare magazines. They are in fact accompanied by a fine custom glass top walnut casing with etched Colt trademark in the left front corner and two spare stainless steel 8-rd magazines with rubber bumpers. Additionally accompanied by a letter to Dr. Murphy dated Oct. 30, 2002, from Bruce Casteel, retired Chief, Texas Rangers wherein he states that he is pleased that Dr. Murphy has purchased “my personal Texas Ranger Commemorative Guns”. Also accompanied by an 8 x 10 color photograph of a gentleman in a cowboy hat, ostensibly Chief Casteel, and a small retirement flyer from Chief Casteel’s retirement party which briefly details his law enforcement career. He joined the Texas Rangers in 1967 and retired in 2001. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Bruce Casteel, Chief Texas Rangers. CONDITION: Both pistols remain new & unfired retaining all of their orig factory finish. Case is equally new. 4-36505 JR153 (12,000-20,000)
*FINE JOHN ADAMS ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA91942. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 1-line block letter address and model & caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt. Mounted with smooth, silver medallion ivory 2-pc grips numbered to this revolver. Serial number was observed in usual place on bottom of frame and on left side of the front & back straps. Serial number is stamped around the cylinder bushing hole on front. Back is stamped with caliber between two chambers. Revolver is very beautifully engraved by John Adams, Colt Master Engraver, with about “D” coverage in Cuno Helfricht style with foliate arabesque patterns on sides and front of frame and sunbursts on recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap & top gullet of ejector rod housing are engraved with feather patterns. Hammer is engraved with a cow skull on each side and full coverage punch dot background. There is a unique triangle-shaped dot & diamond pattern on top of bbl at the frame with foliate arabesque patterns extending down both sides, terminating at the end of the address with matching patterns around muzzle. Backstrap & buttstrap are full coverage engraved with a beautiful fan at top of backstrap. Trigger guard is engraved to match with a small bouquet of flowers on bottom front of frame. Accompanied by its orig burgundy & gold, Styrofoam lined box that shows ivory grips on label and contains warranty card and pamphlets. Consignor states that he had John Adams engrave these revolvers several years ago. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Unfired since engraving retaining virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish. Grips are extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Box is fine. 4-39008 JR193 (2,500-4,000)
WONDERFUL ENGRAVED BUFFALO BILL PRESENTATION WINCHESTER MODEL 1892 LEVER ACTION RIFLE TO HIS FRIEND JOHN Y. NELSON. SN 28649. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). Early 92 takedown with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full magazine, half nickel front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. Mounted with nicely figured, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and crescent buttplate. Receiver, takedown ring, bbl & forend cap, along with buttplate tang, are very nicely engraved, probably by one of the Ulrichs, with the vignette of a standing whitetail buck on right side and a large presentation vignette on left side, all surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Bottom & top of receiver, takedown ring, forend cap and about 1-3/4″ over top three flats of bbl are engraved to match. Presentation vignette reads “PRESENTED TO / John Young Nelson / THE BIGGEST AND BEST / LIAR IVE EVER KNOWN / your friend, W.F. Cody”. Left side of buttstock has crudely carved initials “HCN” with the “N” carved backwards. There are two dashes behind the “N” that may or may not have significance. John Young Nelson was born Aug. 25, 1826 in Charleston, in what is now West Virginia. As a youth he ran away from home to New Orleans and worked as a cabin boy before goint to live with relatives in Missouri. Sometime afterward, he joined a freight party headed west over the plains where they encountered a band of Ogalala Sioux Indians. He left the freight party and settled in with the Indians in Spotted Tail’s band of Brule Sioux and married a niece of the chief which was the first of, what is reported to have been nine Indian wives, several of which were at the same time. He became a buffalo hunter and in 1847 guided Brigham Young across the plains to what is now Salt Lake City. He was a mountain man & trapper, fought the Utes, was an interpreter at Fort Kearney, Nebraska and established a saloon in Kearney. He eventually started for California with a herd of 3,000 cattle but had a fight with the owner and returned to Utah where he took up freighting. He worked as a rancher, took part in the building of Fort McPherson and other construction projects in Nebraska and frequently interpreted for the Army. Mr. Nelson claimed to have known Buffalo Bill from 1857 and worked with him in various undertakings. Cody referred to Nelson “as a good fellow though as a liar he has few equals and no superiors”. In 1876 Mr. Nelson went to Deadwood, South Dakota and later helped build Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where he became Chief of Indian Police for a while. He joined the Buffalo Bill Wild West in the early 1880’s and traveled with Buffalo Bill for at least ten years, including the European tour. He traveled throughout the U.S., Great Britain & Europe with Buffalo Bill for about ten years before he returned to the Indians where he died at Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota in January 1903. During his tenure with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West he performed as a stagecoach driver, frequently as a cowboy in some of the stampede scenes etc., was an interpreter for the Indians and occasionally would throw glass balls for Buffalo Bill to shoot. Mr. Nelson was also a friend of world famous shooter Doc Carver. There are several photographs of this irascible frontiersman, one of which is very famous of him sitting on a Concord stage with Buffalo Bill in front and several gentleman inside. Another is a cabinet card of Mr. Nelson in his buckskins wearing his famous pair of Colt revolvers and holding a Winchester 1873 rifle, which was taken in England in 1887. Also accompanied by a Cody Firearms Museum yellow sheet identifying this rifle as found without mention of the engraving and shows that it was shipped Oct. 12, 1894 to Order #23910. Given that Mr. Nelson stayed with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West for around ten years, it can be speculated that this rifle, with the ship date of 1894, was a parting gift from Buffalo Bill. That John Young Nelson was a friend of Buffalo Bill there is no doubt. His close association with Buffalo Bill during the years of the company’s tours and the twenty plus years prior acquaintance only gives further credibility to this presentation rifle. It can be speculated that the crudely carved initials “HCN” on the buttstock are from one of Mr. Nelson’s descendants. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains with all metal retaining a smooth, dark brown, untouched attic patina with some light pitting on bolt and light hammer marks on top rear shoulder of receiver. Stock does not fit very well and may be an old replacement or one of the tangs could be sprung. Wood is sound with light handling & use marks and a series of small bruises on left side of buttstock, and overall retains a wonderful hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. This rifle has all the appearances of an Indian used firearm. 4-38229 JR335 (22,500-35,000)
EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 23871. Cal. 45. SN 23871. Early single action with bbl cut to 4-3/4”, and replaced front sight. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. It has early style engraving, probably from the Nimschke shop, which consists of about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with feather patterns on top strap and ejector rod housing. Top of backstrap has a foliate fan with arabesque patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap and trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with foliate patterns on lands between the flutes and small sprays of foliate patterns back of the flutes. Rear edge of cylinder has a dash pattern border. Loading gate is engraved with a diamond pattern. It has a third type ejector rod housing and half moon ejector rod head. Cylinder pin is a replacement and the cylinder pin screw is replaced with the screw mounted vertically. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching including bbl & cyl. Overall retains a cleaned gray patina with softened engraving. Grip is very worn with myriad age lines and retains a golden yellow patina. Base pin is a replacement and base pin screw has been replaced with a much larger screw. Hammer screw appears to be a replacement. Hammer is not solid in safety notch or half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Very worn, dark bore. 4-38227 JR201 (6,000-10,000)
WONDERFUL & SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 9031. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line London address. Left side of frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a ribbon. It has blued steel trigger guard & backstrap containing a deluxe burl 1-pc walnut grip that has the serial number in backstrap channel. Cylinder has Ormsby Naval battle scene. Frame, hammer, bbl, rammer, backstrap & trigger guard are very nicely engraved in spare foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background in about 50% coverage on frame. Bbl lug has patterns on both sides with light patterns on top sie flats and on all eight flats around muzzle. Sides of rammer pivot and bottom of rammer handle are also engraved. The four locations of the SN are all accompanied by a dot which indicates that it was destined for engraving from the outset of its production. Bbl lug & cyl have British proofs. Accompanied by an outstanding round edge English mahogany casing with empty scalloped-edge plate in the lid and a round lock escutcheon on front. Interior is lined in red velvet and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a fine Dixon bag flask, a 2-cavity blued bullet mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a Dixon pewter oiler and a tin of W. & C. Eley caps. Covered right rear compartment contains lead balls and there is an all-metal cleaning rod in rear edge. Center compartment contains a rare packet of English combustible cartridges. All in all a scarce complete English casing CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 50-60% orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer & rammer handle retain smoky gray case colors. Frame & hammer retain about all of their lightly faded, subtle English case colors. Cylinder is mostly a blue/gray patina and retains about 95% Ormsby Naval battle scene with all six safety pins prominent. Grip frame retains blue in sheltered areas being mostly a blue/gray patina. Grip is sound showing light wear and retains about 85% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a crack and three grain checks in the lid and a grain check in the bottom, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil and light damage from the front sight & hammer spur with a repaired partition. Flask is extremely fine retaining 98-99% strong orig finish. Mold retains about 65% orig blue. Cartridge pack is open with taped repairs. Nipple wrench, cap tin, oiler & cleaning rod are fine. 4-38583 (22,500-27,500)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED EXHIBITION QUALITY COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 39220/IE. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl with brass pin front sight, hand engraved London address and fluted 5-shot cylinder. Frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” in a pillow pattern and it has silver-plated steel trigger guard & backstrap containing its orig factory 1-pc ivory grip. SN was noted on the usual four places on bottom of the revolver with the number on the bbl lug accompanied by the initials “IE” indicating factory ivory grips & engraved. This fabulous revolver is deluxe engraved from the hand of Master Engraver Gustave Young with full coverage, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with one of the scrolls terminating in a flower blossom. Engraving extends over bbl lug on both sides terminating over the top in front of the hand engraved bbl address. Address is in large letters “ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON”. There is a fine chip & dot border around the muzzle. Rammer pivot is also engraved. Cylinder is engraved to match with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and completely around the rebated area. This is most unusual feature for this model of revolver to have its cylinder engraved. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf’s head on each side of the nose, foliate arabesque patterns down the sides with a matted pattern on each side of the spur. Top of the backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with the backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard engraved to match the frame. Accompanied by a deluxe Colt green velvet lined, rosewood casing with empty rectangular plate in lid and an ivory shield lock escutcheon. Bottom is partitioned in American style with compartments for revolver, an exceptionally fine dbl-sided “COLTS PATENT” flask, a blued 2-cavity mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter and “36P” on right side, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a small lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label. Also accompanied by two sealed packets of Colt’s combustibe cartridges. Additionally accompanied by a 2-page letter from noted Colt historian & author R.L. Wilson detailing most of the above information and stating that as of 1962 there were only eight known 1862 Police Revolvers with London address. Mr. Wilson further provides a brief history of this revolver stating that it had been purchased directly from the family of an old Colt employee by the name of Henry Bryant who apparently inherited this revolver and other fine Colts from James Bryant who had been an employee under Samuel Colt himself. He speculates that the only reason that this revolver is not in the Colt factory collection is because it had been purchased by an employee. This revolver, case & accessories appear in full color on pp. 68-69 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. Mr. Wilson in his letter also states that it is his opinion that this revolver was created to promote the English market and the London office but for whatever reason was never shipped. He cites an article by Harry C. Knode, which appeared in The American Rifleman magazine in Feb. 1959 and March 1962, wherein Mr. Knode discusses other known models of 1862 with London bbl address, none of which are hand engraved. The quality of the engraving and the brilliant extra high luster finish on this revolver supports Mr. Wilson’s contention that it was, indeed, intended to be an exhibition piece. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; James Bryant; Henry G. Bryant. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl & cyl retain about 96-97% brilliant glossy orig blue with slight muzzle edge wear and some flaking on left side at muzzle. Cyl shows slight front edge wear with all five safety pins crisp. Rammer & handle retain about all of their brilliant case colors, slightly faded on right side of handle. Piston retains about all of its orig blue. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig factory case colors, strong & bright on left front side of frame, somewhat faded on right side and turning dark on recoil shields. Hammer is brilliant. Trigger guard & backstrap retain about 60% strong orig silver plating, thin on front & backstraps. Grip is sound with a few age lines and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny unfired bore. Case has a crack and a couple of grain checks in bottom otherwise is completely sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded and lightly soiled with slight damage from front sight and hammer spur. Flask & mold are crisp retaining most of the orig factory finish. Cap tin is extremely fine. Altogether an extraordinary exhibition quality set that would enhance anyone’s collection. 4-36510 JR148 (150,000-225,000)
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CATTLE BRAND PATTERN ENGRAVING. SN 29469. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7 1/2″ bbl that has 3-groove rifling, probably an old replacement bbl. It has a replacement thick front sight with the bbl address engraved over. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and is mounted with fine colt medallion 2-pc ivory grips. Grip frame remains configured for a 1-pc grip with no locator pin. Grips have locator pin holes. Revolver has full coverage Texas cattle brands probably by Cole Agee or Weldon Bledsoe; no signature could be located. Cole Agee is credited with originating this style of engraving using Texas cattle brands and usually revolvers engraved by him have the 2-lazy 2-P brand on the left side of the bbl near the muzzle; this one does not, leading this cataloger to believe that it is probably engraved by Weldon Bledsoe. In Mr. Agee’s later years, this pattern of engraving was taken up by Weldon Bledsoe and with his passing, is now being carried on by a fine young engraver, David Harris. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Good to very good. Overall retains about all of a professionally restored finish over fine pitting. Cylinder is loose on the stop, hammer is not solid in safety notch, half-cock notch is missing, otherwise, mechanics are fine. Grips are extremely fine with a fine mellow aged patina. Medallions in grips are slightly dented. Strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-36595 JR170 (2,500-4,000)
1. Please note, in our description we state that “Nannie” was the wife of Frank James. That’s not correct, she was Babe Hudspeth’s wife. She was Nannie Ragland Hudspeth and thus it makes perfect sense that her name would appear on the top of the belt keeper since Babe owned this rig for approximately 30 years.
2. It was noted in our description that Babe Hudspeth was born on May 15th, that is incorrect; he was born on January 15th.
3. It is noted in the catalog description that the consignor (Mr. James Elsea) was a direct descendant of Jesse James. This is not correct. He was a direct descendent of Babe Hudspeth, who originally owned the gun rig and family lineage to Hudspeth is clearly documented in the provenance.
4. Some documentation provided to us states Jesse was a cousin of the Hudspeth’s. We have been told by one source there is no family link. Thus at this time, we only guarantee that the consignor is a descendant of Babe Hudspeth, who received the gun rig from Jesse’s wife.
EXTRAORDINARY DOCUMENTED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER, BELT & HOLSTER RIG THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS BANK & TRAIN ROBBER JESSE JAMES. SN 13725. Cal. 44. Revolver is a standard early Colt Model 1860 Army (produced in 1861) with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT”. Frame is 4-screw type cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw and the heel of the backstrap milled for the stock attachment. Extended stock screws were replaced during period of use. It has a brass trigger guard and steel backstrap containing a 1-pc walnut grip. Trigger guard has scratched initials “G” in front of trigger bow, “M” inside trigger bow and “F” behind trigger bow. Buttstrap is inscribed the same way. The belt is about 39″ long x 1-5/8″ from of a sgl layer of leather that is very highly tooled in 19th century designs. It has a very distinctive silver tip with a lightly engraved edge with a dbl hook on the opposite end which corresponds to a bar in the buckle. The hook end of the belt has a 3/4″ wide silver band to which the hooks are attached through the belt with both hooks being very old repairs. Back side of this silver band is hand-scratched “–SSE –AMES” showing heavy wear and damage from the repairs having obliterated the missing letters. The belt buckle, as previously mentioned, is very distinctive, 3″ long x 2-3/4″ high with engraved edges and a fine border pattern around the opening. The buckle material is a thin silver sheet, slightly curved, over an iron frame with two prongs used to engage the corresponding holes in the belt. The belt keeper is of the same weight silver material 1-13/16″ long x 11/16″ at the widest point and 3/4″ wide over the back. It has engraved edges on the face with scalloped file work. The rear of the belt keeper is hand-scratched, signature-style “Jess- W James”. Some of the letters are very faint and all shows moderate to heavy wear. Front of the keeper is hand-scratched “NANNIE”. The “N”s in “NANNIE” are all backwards. It is known that a paramour of William Quantill was named “Nannie” and that she was not adverse to also consorting with the troops. Another “Nannie” became Frank James’ wife in later years. Holster is early dbl loop-style and fits this revolver very well. It is made of one piece of belting weight leather about 11″ long from top fold of skirt to tip of holster with a 9-1/4″ skirt that has a pointed end and has two narrow loops. The rear edge and toe of the holster are sewn. Over the many years the James Julia Auction Company has been selling firearms we have been offered firearms and accessories that were alleged or partially documented to numerous famous, near famous and some not so famous personalities from history. It is extremely rare when an item is offered with as nearly rock solid provenance as is this lot. This revolver, belt & holster rig has remained with the descendants of the Jesse James family since he was assassinated in 1882. Jesse Woodson James was born Sept. 5, 1847 in Clay County, Missouri. He had an older brother, Frank and a sister. His father, a minister, left soon after Jesse was born to go to California to “minister” to the 49er miners. He died in California when Jesse was three. His mother, Zerelda, remarried to Ruben Samuel with whom she had four more children. At the outbreak of the Civil War the James/Samuel family sided with the Confederacy with Frank soon joining on the Confederate side. Frank became ill early on and returned to Missouri where, after he recovered, he joined a small guerrilla band operating in their neighborhood. Sometime in about 1863/64 the Union Army sent a force to try to capture Frank’s group and came to the Samuel farm searching for them. They briefly hanged Mr. Samuel and allegedly whipped Jesse, to no avail. Frank escaped and in 1864 he and 16 year old Jesse joined the notorious Confederate raider and guerrilla fighter Bloody Bill Anderson. Apparently they didn’t stay with Anderson very long before joining the more notorious William Quantrill. The James Boys, along with three of their cousins, Robert Hudspeth, Rufus Hudspeth & William Napoleon “Babe” Hudspeth all rode with Quantrill until at least January 1865. It is unclear when the James Boys returned home but it is known that at that date January 1865 that the three Hudspeth boys left Quantrill and returned to Missouri. Another cousin, Lamartine Hudspeth maintained a farm in the area of the James/Samuel place and was later to play a role in supplying them with horses and sanctuary. Frank & Jesse James and Babe & Rufus Hudspeth were with Bloody Bill Anderson at the battle & massacre at Centralia, Missouri on Sept. 27, 1864. That morning Anderson led about 80 guerrillas, some dressed in stolen Union Army uniforms, into Centralia to cut off the North Missouri Railroad. The guerrillas looted the town, blocked the rail line, stopped an approaching train and overran it. There were about 125 passengers on board which were separated into civilian and soldier groups. The soldiers were stripped of their uniforms and when Anderson called for an officer, Sgt. Thomas Goodman bravely stepped forward, expecting to be shot. Instead, Anderson’s men ignored Goodman and shot the others, then mutilated and scalped the bodies. The guerrillas then set fire to the train and sent it down the tracks after which they torched the depot and rode out of town. About 3 p.m. that same afternoon, 155 men of the newly formed 39th Missouri Infantry Regiment (mounted), rode into Centralia in pursuit. This force soon encountered the guerrillas and decided to dismount and fight on foot. The Federal recruits with single-shot muzzle loaders were no match for the guerrillas with their revolvers. Of the 155 Union soldiers in this regiment, 123 were killed that afternoon. According to well-known history, in addition to carbines & shotguns, the guerrillas usually had at least two revolvers and some with as many as four or five on or about their persons most of the time and would have been able to present a formidable wall of lead. When the Confederacy surrendered Jesse was still riding as a guerrilla under the command of Archie Clement, one of Quantill’s lieutenants, while Frank had ridden to Kentucky with Quantrill. Clement’s group was apparently trying to decide their next course of action when they encountered a Union patrol and Jesse was severely wounded with two bullets in the chest. Jesse was returned to his uncle’s boarding house where he was attended by his cousin, Zerelda Mimms, who was named after Jesse’s mother. Jesse & Zerelda were later to marry. Jesse recovered from his wounds and, as the saying goes, the rest is history. Jesse & Frank and the Younger Boys with various other occasional members formed a gang and robbed trains & banks over the next sixteen or so years. After the fiasco at Northfield, Minnesota where the gang was badly shot up with three being killed and the others wounded, only Frank & Jesse escaped the law and the gang was never the same afterward, with the new members they recruited. During the course of the criminal career of Frank & Jesse and various members of their gang, they would frequently stop by various family members’ homes for food, rest or horses. Family history relates that Lamartine Hudspeth, cousin to Jesse & Frank, who owned a farm in the area, always kept fresh horses in the stable should they be needed. Frequently he would come out in the morning to feed the animals and find the fresh horses gone and hard ridden, tired horses in their places. Other members of the James/Hudspeth/Samuel extended family were also frequently called on for food, shelter or horses for members of the gang. As in all things there is an end and so it is with Jesse & Frank James. Jesse was assassinated by Bob Ford on April 3, 1882 in his own home which leads us to the family history, most of it well-documented, regarding the Colt Model 1860 revolver, belt & holster rig being sold here. When Jesse was killed his wife Zerelda notified his cousins Rufus, Babe & Lamartine Hudspeth who were living near Lake City, Missouri, of Jesse’s death and asked them to come assist with the funeral. They immediately drove to St. Joseph, Missouri to help Zerelda and were called on to identify the body. After the funeral Zerelda told the Hudspeth Boys that “Jesse’s trunk was hid in the attic and that Jesse would want them to have it”, that there were some of Jesse’s things in it. When they returned to Lake City they looked into the trunk (which is being sold immediately following this lot) and discovered this Colt revolver, belt & holster rig. Consignor states that he recalls that he was told that Jesse’s old Confederate uniform was also in the trunk but that it was moth-eaten and unusable so it was thrown away. Babe Hudspeth took possession of the Colt, belt & holster rig with Rufus taking the trunk. Rufus died in 1895 and the trunk was passed down through his family eventually to consignor’s niece who has consigned it to be sold following the Colt. Before Babe Hudspeth died he gave the Colt, belt & holster rig to consignor’s grandfather, Robert R. Elsea, who passed away in 1924. In about 1938 consignor’s father asked consignor’s grandmother if he could have Jesse’s gun to which she agreed. Consignor states that he remembers as a child, often seeing “the gun” in a bedroom dresser drawer was told “don’t you boys touch Jesse James’ gun”. In 1938 when consignor’s father took possession of the Colt he was living in Wetumka, Oklahoma and removed the Colt to that town with him. In about 1940 consignor’s father moved to Henderson, Nevada where he lived for the next thirty years or so working at a defense plant during the war and later as a deputy sheriff. He also owned “The Victory Club” in Henderson, NV which he sold in 1969. Consignor states that Jesse’s gun & rig were displayed in the club until too many customers insisted on buying it, so his father removed it and put it into a lockbox in the Bank of Nevada. In 1969 consignor’s father moved to Independence, Missouri and left Jesse’s gun & rig in the bank vault in Nevada. In 1973 he moved back to Wetumka, OK and in 1974 asked his stepdaughter and her husband to bring Jesse’s gun to him. They complied, which is attested to by sworn affidavit, and he put the gun & rig into the vault in Holdenville, OK. Consignor’s father passed away in March 2002 with the gun & rig still in the vault in Holdenville. In 2005 consignor’s stepmother Rozelle Elsea, after serious illness had given power of attorney to her eldest daughter, Jodell Kilcrease. While visiting his stepmother in a nursing home in 2005, Jodell said “Jesse’s gun was still in the vault and that it rightfully belonged to me”. She said the next time I was back there I could pick it up from the bank vault. Consignor states he took possession of the Colt & rig in November 2006 and that it has remained in his possession until being consigned to this auction. Also accompanying this lot is a signed notarized statement from Jodell Kilcrease identifying herself as the stepdaughter of Robert R. Elsea (and therefore the stepsister of consignor) and states that on Nov. 8, 2006 she and consignor went to the bank vault in Holdenville, Oklahoma and she relinquished possession of this Colt revolver, belt & holster rig, which she identified by serial number. She also gave a brief statement regarding the history of the items which coincides with the history above. Another notarized affidavit is from Roberta Ruth Elsea of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, wherein she states that she owns a Hudspeth family Bible dated 1868 which was given to her by Frances Miller Elsea, consignor’s mother on Dec. 25, 1984 and that the orig picture of Babe Hudspeth and his cousin, Oscar Thompson was in the Bible when she received it and that on Aug. 20, 2007 she gave this picture to consignor. Additionally accompanying this lot is a 3-ring binder containing a large volume of historic and family genealogical information proving beyond any reasonable doubt that the consignor is a direct descendant from the Hudspeth family and is directly related to Jesse James through his mother, Mary Frances Miller, through the Massie Woodson and Mims (or Mimms) line and through his father, Robert R. Elsea, who was the son of Robert R. Elsea & Mary Amanda Hudspeth who helped to raise consignor. Consignor states in part of his family narrative that there is a family photo that he currently cannot locate, which shows consignor’s father as a baby sitting on Frank James lap. Consignor states that the photograph was taken in the house where he was born and that the house still stands. This lot, most importantly is accompanied by the orig CDV-sized photograph of two men in period clothing with one having a beard and wearing a frock, coat who can clearly be seen wearing this exact belt, with holster mounted backwards. The reverse of the photo is inscribed “Cousin Oscar Thompson” on one side behind the gentleman on the right in the photo and the other side is inscribed “Uncle Babe Hudspeth”. The photograph was taken at Winans’ Photography Rooms, Independence, Missouri and is so printed on the back. Given the absolute historical family connection to the James family with this set never having left possession of the Hudspeth descendants, there can be no doubt whatsoever that this is an authentic Jesse James owned and used Colt, belt & holster rig and the following facts combine, clearly, to prove this: 1) The order of descendancy from Jesse James to the consignor: 2) There is an extraordinary photograph (or CDV) from approximately 1886 of Babe Hudspeth wearing this exact belt & gun, identifiable in the photograph. A) Jesse James’ widow Zerelda, gave Jesse’s trunk containing this Colt, belt & holster to Rufus & Babe Hudspeth, Jesse’s cousins, immediately after Jesse’s funeral. Rufus kept the trunk and Babe took the Colt, belt & holster rig. B) Before Babe’s death in 1907 he gave the Colt, belt & holster rig to consignor’s grandfather, Robert R. Elsea who was married to Mary Amanda Hudspeth, Babe’s favorite niece. C) Consignor’s father, also named Robert R. Elsea, received the Colt, belt & holster rig in 1938 from his mother after consignor’s grandfather had died in 1924. D) The Colt, belt & holster rig were stored by consignor’s father, first displayed in his father’s “The Victory Club” in Henderson, NV, then in the Bank of Nevada. E) Consignor’s father’s step-daughter, Connie J. Morris, and her husband, Delmer Morris, In June 1974 removed the Colt, belt & holster rig and transported it to consignor’s father in Wetumka, Oklahoma as is attested to by a notarized statement from Connie J. Morris. Colt, belt & holter rig were then placed into the bank vault in Holdenville, Oklahoma. F) Consignor took possession of the Colt, belt & holster rig on Nov. 8, 2006, as is attested to by a notarized affadavit of Jodell Kilcrease, who is the stepdaughter of consignor’s father, dated April 17, 2008. 3) Jesse James’ full signature which is scratched on belt tab and belt keeper. 4) A signed & notarized statement from current owner and direct descendant of Babe Hudspeth dated May 8, 2009. PROVENANCE: Jesse James; Babe Hudspeth down through the Hudspeth Family; Robert R. Elsea to Robert R. Elsea to consignor. CONDITION: Revolver is fair condition. No orig finish remains being an overall gray/brown patina with scattered surface rust. Trigger guard is a light mustard patina having been cleaned a long time ago, now beginning to repatinate. Grip has chipped toes and shows hard wear with a hand worn, oil stained patina. Left side of frame below stock screw has a crack with a small piece broken out. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with some shine and moderate to heavy pitting. Cyl has matching patina, also with scattered light pitting and retains traces of cyl scene. Wedge screw is a replacement and wedge spring has the tip broken. Belt is very dry and deteriorated with a couple of small tears and one larger one and retains about 40% of its orig finish. Belt tab and hook end show heavy wear with several small dents. Buckle & keeper show moderate wear. Holster shows heavy wear and deterioration with a break in rear edge of skirt. 4-38311 JR379 (200,000-300,000)
*SPECTACULAR CUNO HELFRICHT ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 328522. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight with 1-line block letter address and caliber marking on the left side. Last four digits of the serial number are stamped on bottom of the bbl, under the ejector rod housing. Mounted with wonderful, orig 2-pc ivory grips with left & right deep Colt medallions with the right side having a raised carved ox head. Frame has full coverage fantastic Cuno Helfricht engraving, probably by the master himself, consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on both sides with a large spider like geometric pattern on the recoil shield and a shell pattern on the loading gate. Lower left front gullet has a distinctive flower blossom pattern with diamond & dot patterns on both sides of the bbl boss. Top strap is engraved with fine feather patterns which also surround the bbl address terminating in a Moorish pattern back of the front sight. Both sides of the bbl are extensively engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and there is a dbl incised line around muzzle and at bbl root. Top of back strap has Mr. Helfricht’s distinctive fan pattern with elaborate geometric/Moorish patterns down the back strap. Trigger guard is engraved with matching arabesque patterns. Cylinder is beautifully engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a spray foliate pattern back of flutes and multiple borders at rear edge. Flutes are all outlined with a simple line border. Ejector rod housing has a snake & leaf pattern on outer radius with snake & dot pattern in top gullet that also has a dbl zig zag pattern. These engraving patterns correspond exactly with known Helfricht work as pictured in The Colt Engraving Book Volume I, Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with blue finish, ivory stocks and factory engraved, shipped to Iver Johnson Sporting Goods Co., Boston, Mass. on Feb. 12, 1914 in a one gun shipment. Consignor states that this revolver has been in her family for all her living memory and that she believes her grandfather purchased it new while living in the Boston area. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Bbl & ejector rod housing retain about 98% glossy orig blue with only faint muzzle edge wear. Cyl retains 98% plus strong orig blue with only a light cyl line and a small scrape in one flute. Frame retains virtually all of its brilliant orig factory case colors, slightly faded on recoil shield & loading gate. Trigger guard & back strap are lightly thinned but generally retain about all of their orig factory blue. Grips are outstanding with a fine mellow ivory patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. This revolver may have been fired, but if so, very little. 4-38517 JR10 (25,000-40,000)
*RARE NICK KUSMIT ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 279906. Cal. 44-40. All blue finish with 4 3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line, 3 patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. It is mounted with rampant colt hard rubber grips. Frame, cylinder and barrel are nicely engraved with about 50% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background. Screwheads on the left side of the frame are engraved. Consignor states that through is friendship with Nick Kusmit, the famous and well-known Winchester engraver, he was able to convince him to engrave several handguns and a few rifles for him. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about all of its custom post-engraving blue finish with left side barrel marking thinned. Hammer is not solid in safety or half-cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Grips show extreme wear turning chocolate. Strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-36599 JR165 (4,000-6,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1 BABY OR POCKET MODEL PATERSON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 98. Cal. 28. Possibly the only one of its type in existence, this fabulous little revolver is extraordinary in its configuration as well as its fabulous, probably unfired condition. Only about 500 of these little revolvers were produced in the period 1837-1838. Few were engraved with very few of those having silver bands and of those, only a very few were cased. This was Colt’s first production arm and the smallest model of percussion revolver produced by Colt. It has a nearly unbelievable 1-3/4″ oct bbl which is the shortest Colt percussion revolver bbl known as of this writing. Bbl address is only partially legible and the bbl obviously was reduced in length at the factory, undoubtedly on special order. Bbl & frame are wonderfully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns, referred to as “early vine”, with nearly full coverage on the sides of the bbl, sides of the frame and recoil shields. Rear edge of the hammer is engraved in foliate patterns and the top of the front strap has the vignette of a hunting dog surrounded by foliate patterns. The very top of the front strap, around the trigger slot, is engraved with a smiling sunburst pattern. The bbl has a medium silver band around the muzzle with wide silver bands around the bottom of the lug and top rear end of the lug with a narrow silver band at the chamber end of the bbl. The recoil shields are inlaid with a very wide & narrow silver bands. Back strap is engraved to match with an inlaid German silver rectangle that has scalloped corners. It has 5-shot cylinder with rnd shoulder and is roll-marked with the centaur scene and “COLT” in the 4-horsehead panel. Mounted with spectacular pearl grips attached to a wood block with three German silver rivets. SN was observed on the rear face of the bbl lug, on the wedge, rear edge of the cylinder, rear face of the front strap, inside the back strap, on the cylinder rotating ring and tip of the trigger. Accompanied by an orig purple velvet lined, walnut Paterson casing with fluted lid that has an empty rectangular plate with scalloped corners in the center. Bottom is recessed for the revolver, a blued 3-pc Baby Paterson mold with turned walnut handles & brass ferrules, a blued Baby Paterson combination tool, a brass cleaning rod with turned walnut handle & brass ferrule, an orig Baby Paterson copper & brass charger with the number “62” on all of the various parts. Also accompanied by a reproduction Paterson pistol capper. And finally the right rear corner is recessed for a spare cylinder, which is included, and is serial numbered “123”. This cylinder is identical in all respects to the cylinder in the revolver. Also accompanied by a functioning key. Additionally accompanied by a 6-page letter from noted Colt authority & author, R.L. Wilson, detailing much of the above information. This extraordinary revolver is well known with provenance to numerous early Colt Collections and is pictured in a great variety of books on Colt firearms including The Colt Heritage; An American Legend; The Colt Engraving Book Vol. I; Fine Colts, The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, all by Wilson and also pictured as Plate 64 on p. 85 of Paterson Colt Pistol Variations, Phillips & Wilson. It is readily apparent that this dainty little revolver was a special creation for a gentleman or a lady who wished to have a concealable pocket pistol. It does not appear to have ever been fired. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; John Solley Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching as noted above. Bbl & cyl retain virtually all of their strong orig Colt blue with a few nicks & dings on top flat of bbl. Cyl has a few lightly thinned spots. Frame retains glossy bright blue on recoil shields turned blue/gray on lower portion and on front strap. Back strap retains thinning glossy orig blue. Hammer retains most of its orig case colors. Grip is extremely fine plus with one minor chip near right heel otherwise is sound with great fire and good color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is sound with slightly warped lid and retains most of an old added finish. Interior is extremely fine with slight fading and soil. Accessories are also extremely fine. A truly exceptional & rare Colt revolver that would be the centerpiece to any collection. 4-36487 JR126 (400,000-700,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 126590. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight and 2-line address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with caliber on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with old 2-pc ivory grips. Revolver is engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about “D” coverage consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame with Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst patterns on recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap has a wavy leaf pattern with foliate arabesque patterns on bbl boss and sunburst patterns on cylinder pin boss and ejector rod housing boss. Foliate arabesque patterns extend up sides of the bbl with geometric patterns back of front sight. Ejector rod housing gullet is engraved with a snake pattern. Top of backstrap has Mr. Helfricht’s sunburst pattern with geometric patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap & trigger guard. Cylinder is engraved with sunburst patterns on lands between the flutes with a snake & dot pattern around back edge. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 caliber with 5-1/2″ bbl, blue finish with rubber grip, factory engraved and shipped to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on June 19, 1888 in a shipment of six same type guns. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains about all of a professionally restored finish with the engraving moderately worn. Grips are extremely fine with numerous age lines and a fine mellow ivory color. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered light pitting. 4-39000 JR194 (6,000-10,000)
INSCRIBED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 139632. Cal. 36. Wonderful Gustave Young engraved Navy, blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, rare dovetailed Rocky Mtn. style front sight with 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” that has been dbl stamped. It has large silver-plated brass trigger guard & backstrap containing a 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved Mexican eagle on a shield on left side. Serial numbers in the four location on bottom are all accompanied by a small “E” which indicates factory engraving. Revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe style with full coverage on frame & recoil shields consisting of wonderful foliate arabesque patterns some of which terminate in flower blossoms. Engraving extends over sides of bbl lug and top side flats with a chip & dot border around address terminating in a fleur-de-lis at the front end. Rammer pivot is engraved on both sides. One of the scrolls on bbl lug terminates in a dog’s head. Both sides of hammer nose are engraved with wolf’s heads with fish scales down the spur and foliate arabesque patterns on the sides. Shoulders of trigger guard and sides of ears of backstrap are engraved and top of backstrap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern. Near the top of backstrap on the heel, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved with matching foliate arqbesque patterns. Backstrap is inscribed in period script “J.F. Gillin”. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching except grip which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 65-70% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, thinning elsewhere. Rammer pivot & handle retain dark case colors, stronger on pivot. Frame retains 75-80% strong dark orig case colors, faded on recoil shields. Hammer retains dark case colors turned gray on top edge and around nose. Cyl is a gray patina with a few dings around front edge and retains 65-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & backstrap retain 30-35% silver plating mostly in sheltered areas with balance a light mustard patina. Grip is sound with a few age lines showing moderate wear with a few nicks & scratches and a small chip by right toe and retains a fine mellow ivory color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. 4-38585 (20,000-25,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 14302. Cal. 36. Blue & color case hardened with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address. Cylinder is usual fluted 5-shots with blued steel grip frame containing a most unusual set of 2-pc pearl grips. Grips, as noted, are genuine pearl in two pieces with a most unusual mounting system which consists of the retaining screw through steel escutcheons with an ivory block in the middle that has two locating pins and pin recesses in each grip. Ivory block is pencil numbered to the revolver. Left grip is slightly raised carved in the pattern of a stand of flags with liberty cap, a rifle with bayonet and a star around the escutcheon. Right grip is engraved with oak leaves & acorns and a star around the grip escutcheon. Frame, bbl, back strap, trigger guard & hammer are wonderfully engraved by Master Engraver Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame which extend over the bbl lug. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms. Hammer is deluxe engraved with a wolf head on each side of the hammer nose and foliate arabesque patterns down the sides. Top of the back strap has Mr. Young’s typical fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns elsewhere. Back strap is inscribed, in very fine period script engraving, “Metropolitan Fair N.Y. / from Colts Pt F.A. Mfg Co / Hartford Conn. March 28. 1864”. Accompanied by a 1957 dated letter to renowned collector/dealer Herb Glass, on New York Historical Society letterhead, over the signature of James J. Heslin, curator/historian, wherein he states that the Metropolitan Fair in New York opened April 4, 1864 in the 22nd Regiment Armory on West 14th Street and in a building on Union Square. The fair was held for the Sanitary Commission in order to raise money for their work supplying clothing & supplies to Union soldiers in the Civil War. Mr. Heslin states that the fair was a great success and netted in excess of $1,000,000.00. While he could not state with certainty that this revolver was one of the items donated, but given the inscription and the date in the inscription there is little doubt that it was part of the proceedings. This revolver is pictured in full color, two exposures, on p. 54 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. The caption for these photographs and for the Root revolver on the preceding page, which is nearly identically inscribed with the date March 28, 1864, states that Mrs. Samuel Colt, her sister Miss Jarvis, the wife of Gov. Holley and Miss Olmstead were in attendance at the Connecticut booth. This lends further credence that this revolver and the Root were in fact donated at that time for that event. Accompanied by its orig spectacular rosewood casing with burgundy velvet lining compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a spectacular presentation quality, high gloss finish, 2-cavity steel bullet mold with “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, marked on the right side “36P”, an equally high gloss finish nipple wrench, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, a full lacquered tin of Eley’s Bros. caps, two spare nipples and five orig sealed packets of combustible cartridges. Inside the lid is a small card, inscribed in period ink script, “From Colts Patent / Fire Arms Company / $—.00 / 5 1/2 inch Police/Pearl Stock.” The price has been obliterated but there is little doubt that this was the orig price card from the Metropolitan Fair in 1864. Colt presentation revolvers are not uncommon, however organizational presentations such as this one are extremely rare especially given the complete deluxe treatment as found on this set. Additionally accompanied by reprints of two photos, one of which is probably the Armory mentioned above and the other the building on Union Square. Both have “Metropolitan Fair” in large letters prominently displayed with the latter photograph showing numerous men & women in formal attire entering the building with horses & carriages in the foreground. The Armory picture appears to have several soldiers in uniform in the front. Additionally accompanied by an orig issue of the April 9, 1864 edition of Harper’s Weekly which cover is of “THE METROPOLITAN FAIR BUILDINGS ON 14TH STREET, NEW YORK” with an article about the fair and also mentions the building on Union Square. Page 228 in this publication has an etching of the Metropolitan Fair buildings on Union Square which depicts numerous people in formal attire entering the building. There are also drawings of Maj. Gen. John Dix who was the President of the Metropolitan Fair and Rev. Henry W. Bellows who was President of the U.S. Sanitary Commission. Page 229 is entirely devoted to the U.S. Sanitary Commission with vignettes of ladies nursing wounded soldiers. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Herb Glass CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grips. Bbl retains about 30% glossy orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a light patina. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, strong & bright, slightly darkened on top edge of hammer. Cyl retains about 50% glossy orig blue with balance flaked to a light patina. Back strap is cleaned over the inscription area to gray metal color with strong blue at top & butt strap. Trigger guard retains thin orig blue, stronger in sheltered areas, gray on front strap with light pitting. Grips are extraordinary with a minor chip on right toe, otherwise are sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with one spot of light pitting. May be unfired. Case is completely sound with faded oil cloth on bottom, lightly to moderately faded interior with very light soil. All accessories are exceptionally fine and appear to be unused. Cartridge packets are crisp. Photos are fine. Newspaper is slightly yellowed and a little brittle with worn back edge but appears to be completely intact. 4-36493 JR129 (150,000-225,000)
*FINE COLT CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 190886. Cal. 41 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address and caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle and is mounted with beautiful Colt medallion, smooth ivory 2-pc grips. Frame, bbl, backstrap & buttstrap have full coverage Texas cattle brand engraving patterns with very fine punch dot background. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns with the cylinder having full coverage engraving with cattle brands on lands between the flutes and a band of foliate arabesque patterns around rear edge. Rear face of cylinder is stamped with caliber and the number “694” which does not correspond to any other visible numbers. Ejector rod housing has cattle brands on outer radius with the top gullet engraved in feather patterns. Three frame screws on side of the frame are also punch dot decorated. This style of engraving was originated by Cole Agee, was continued by Weldon Bledsoe and is now continued by David Harris. It is believed that this revolver was engraved by Weldon Bledsoe. On left side of frontstrap under the grip is a small mark which appears to be a “WB” connected which is the mark of Weldon Bledsoe. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of its fine custom silver finish with hammer oxidized dark as are gullets on ejector rod housing. Grips are extremely fine with a few minor age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory color. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bore is strong & bright with scattered pitting. 4-39005 JR196 (4,000-6,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ENGRAVED & GOLD-PLATED STEVENS LORD SINGLE SHOT TARGET PISTOL 3-BARREL SET & ACCESSORIES THAT BELONGED TO RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL SHOOTER IRA PAINE. SN 19. Cal. 22 & 32 RF. Fantastic pistol with two 12″ 22 caliber bbls and an 11″ 32 caliber unnumbered bbl that has been reduced from a longer length. Pistol and one 22 bbl and the 32 bbl are spectacularly engraved by one of the finest master engravers of the age, probably one of the Ulrichs. The engraving is full coverage on the frame, trigger guard and both bbls with very little undecorated space. Engraving consists of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine shaded background. There are fleur-de-lis style borders behind the raised area of the frame with a full checkered trigger and checkered finger rest. Front strap is engraved with a checkerboard of fleur-de-lis patterns and the buttcap with four heart-shaped devices. Hammer, which is in the white, is engraved with fine feather patterns on the sides and has a hand-checkered spur. Screw heads are all engraved. Mounted with full checkered pearl grips and has full gold wash on the frame, the engraved 22 bbl and the 32 bbl. The second, matching numbered 22 bbl is blue and is missing its front sight. Rear sight is probably an old replacement. This gun, SN 19, is purportedly the lowest serial number presentation known and its engraving is far superior to the Annie Oakley or Buffalo Bill example. Ira Albert Paine first was trained as a vocalist and musician when he appeared in the area of Hebronville, MA. His keen interest in shooting and hunting soon came to the attention of local shooters who enticed him to enter local shooting contests, primarily with shotguns. He soon became a local celebrity and before long went on tour to various shooting contests around the country, winning most that he entered. He shot against some of the leading champion shooters of the day including Ward and Bogardus. His fame and celebrity soon led him to the stage where he gave shooting demonstrations with not only shotgun and rifle, but evolved into an incredible pistol shot. From about 1882 to 1889, Mr. Paine was on tour in Europe, Russia and Turkey; continually from 1882 to 1885, with periodic engagements thereafter. Mr. Paine was known as the most famous of all shooters of his day and is one of the pioneers of exhibitionist shooters. During this time, he returned to the U.S. occasionally to participate in shooting contests, most of which he won. During his career, he invented a feather-filled glass target ball and adjustable target sights for his revolvers. During his tours in Europe he performed for virtually all of European royalty as well as the common masses. Mr. Paine died in September, 1889 in Paris and his body was returned to the U.S. for internment. Mr. Paine’s career was short but brilliant. He became a national champion shooter with both shotgun and handgun but was equally skilled with the Winchester rifle. Accompanied by five of Mr. Paine’s original glass balls, two large scrapbooks, mostly filled with press clippings of Mr. Paine’s contests and appearances. Several deal with the Parisian firearms firm of Gastinne-Renette where he fired several records and won a prestigious gold medal. There are several facsimile targets bearing the certification signature of Gastinne Renette. Also included are two 7″x5″ pamphlets dated 1887 entitled “CHEVALIER IRA PAINE, MASTER SHOT OF THE WORLD/A SKETCH OF HIS WONDERFUL CAREER WITH DIRECTIONS HOW TO BECOME A MARKSMAN”. Also included are two wonderful original photographs of Mr. Paine; one from Budapest with him dressed as a nobleman in long coat, jewels and a plumed hat, wearing a sword and having a hand-written inscription on the back in an unknown language dated August 9, 1885; the other, a 9″ x 6 3/4″ studio image of Mr. Paine standing beside an elaborately carved table upon which rests a Colt sgl action Army revolver, an engraved Winchester Model 1866 and a European dbl bbl shotgun. Mr. Paine is in full-length button puttees and wearing what is probably a suede or velvet jacket with a medal on his left chest, wearing a hunting cap and holding this very Steven’s Lord pistol in a shooting stance. Also included is an envelope with a raised gold-embossed cartouche on the flat bearing his name and a Smith & Wesson revolver. Also included is an original issue “The Rifle” magazine dated April, 1887 of magazine which includes a large article about Ira Paine. There are also seven steel engravings of Mr. Paine in formal attire with a medal at his throat. In addition, there are two small leather covered containers, one with a beautiful gold medal with red and white cloissione center with crown and cross; and the other containing a large bronze medal from the Hotel Victoria in London with the likeness of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandria. In addition, there are 22 hand-written letters from Ira Paine with postmarks throughout Europe from 1882 through 1885. Most are addressed to his sister Jennie and Mrs. Ira Paine. In addition, there is a small tin candy box containing 30-40 original square-corner playing cards that are gold-embossed with Ira Paine’s cartouche. The steel die for this cartouche is enclosed. In addition, there are 10 more of these cards in one of Mr. Paine’s envelopes which is marked on the front “Shot by Ira A. Paine“. These cards all have bullet holes in various locations. There is also a roll of targets, one of which has been shot. In addition, there is an unusual buckskin flap holster with pearl button that fits the Stevens pistol precisely. Most importantly, is an original poster of Ira A. Paine in multi-color with his image as the centerpiece surrounded by gold geometric borders and his various firearms in the corners including this very engraved Stevens pistol with pearl grips and gold finish. The bottom center pictures a stack of six multi-colored balls over a ribbon inscribed “PAINE’S PAT FILLED GLASS BALLS”. And finally, there are two appearance posters, in Cyrillic writing, for Ira Paine and his wife, dated 1883. This is an extraordinary grouping for an incredible international shooting champion. CONDITION: Pistol and engraved 22 barrel are very fine with the barrel retaining 60-70% original gold wash, strong and bright in sheltered areas, somewhat worn in the center area of the barrel. Frame retains 40-50% strong original gold wash, mostly in sheltered areas and on the butt cap with the balance a dark mustard patina. Grips have a crack and a chip by the right escutcheon, otherwise are sound showing light wear with great fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some light roughness in front of the chamber. The spare .32 caliber barrel is fine and retains traces of dark gold wash, being mostly a gray metal color. Bright shiny bore. The blued .22 barrel with matching serial number, retains about 90% strong original blue turning dull over the mid-part of the barrel. Bright shiny bore. The leather covered medal box has a detached lid, otherwise both boxes are fine. Leather holster is fine with light to moderate soil. Letters, targets, scrapbooks and contents are generally fine but yellowed and brittle with age. The Ira Paine poster is wrinkled with a few holes and edge damage with some light water staining and all three posters are shrink-wrapped to foam board. Target balls are all fine. 4-37575, 37579 (100,000-125,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY KORNBRATH ENGRAVED GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, ONE OF A TRIPLET OWNED BY THE PRESIDENT OF ARGENTINA, MARCELO T. ALVEAR. SN 343200. Cal. 44 Russian & S&W Spcl. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and 1-line Hartford address with caliber marking “RUSSIAN AND / S&W SPECIAL 44” on left side. Left front side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle. Mounted with early, period of revolver, smooth 2-pc ivory grips with deep rampant Colt medallions that have left & right sides. Accompanied by their orig matching numbered rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Revolver is beautifully engraved by master engraver Rudolph Kornbrath in his readily identifiable style of flowing floral, foliate & vine patterns. Frame has about 80% coverage with feather patterns on top strap. Top of backstrap has a fine fan pattern with a crosshatch triangle in the center, with a small foliate arabesque pattern and zig zag borders which extend completely around buttstrap. Toe of buttstrap and trigger guard are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns which are also on the shoulders of trigger guard and sides of the ears of backstrap. Foliate patterns extend up over the bbl and terminate in front of the address, with matching patterns around muzzle. Bbl has a fine gold band inlay in front of frame which extends forward to a point ahead of bbl address. Ejector rod housing has a fine climbing leaf pattern. Cyl is engraved on lands between the flutes with bowtie & foliate patterns and a narrow gold band around rear edge with an adjacent snake & dot pattern. SN is in usual place on bottom of frame and was observed on right side of front & back straps under the grip. Last four digits of the SN are on rear face of cyl. Screws are all high polish blue with no evidence of ever having been turned. The orig matching pair found in Argentina, SN’s 343199 & 343200, are pictured in full color on pp. 542 & 543 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two, Wilson. They are also pictured in full color on p. 146 of Steel Canvas, Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver, as found, except the type of stocks are “not listed”, which usually indicates the type of stocks being installed at the factory at the time of production which, in this case, would have meant rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Letter indicates it was factory engraved “Special engraving with gold inlay”. Shipped to Don Alfredo Gottling, Buenes Aires, Argentina on Dec. 23, 1921 in a shipment of three same type guns. Don Alfredo Gottling was Argentina’s greatest firearms importer & dealer with his shop in Buenos Aires called “La Portena”. The shop was established in 1857 and remained in business until 1972. La Portena Gun Shop imported only the finest, highest quality firearms from all of Europe and the United States and catered to the highest rungs of Argentinian society. The shop was located at 611 Rivadavia which is almost at the corner of Florida Ave. and would have been very convenient for the soon to be President to stop by on his way to government house, which he is reported to have done 15-20 days a month, to see what new merchandise had arrived. President Alvear was a serious firearms collector and a world champion pistol shooter. It is not known as of this writing whether these three revolvers were ordered by President Alvear or if Don Alfredo Gottling simply ordered them for stock and President Alvear bought all three of them, or if they had been intended as a gift to President Alvear. This revolver and its consecutive numbered companion #343199 were discovered in Argentina and purchased from the estate of Marcelo T. Alvear who was the President of Argentina 1922-1928. Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear (1868-1942) was an Argentine statesman & diplomat who was the Ambassador to France 1917-1922 and became the President of Argentina in 1922, leaving office in 1928. In 1931, for political reasons, he was barred from again running for President but was allowed to run again for the Presidency in 1937 but was defeated. The original consecutive numbered pair 343199 & 343200 were purchased together and sold to Dr. Joseph A. Murphy in the 1990’s, where they remained until about the year 2000 or 2001 when they were sold through Little John’s Auction Service to the consignor. Consignor obtained letters for these two revolvers and upon learning that they were two of a three gun shipment, he immediately begain a search for the third matching single action. By deductive reasoning he searched the Colt records and found the SN of the third gun to be #343202, one number off from the above pair. This led to a grueling international search for the missing “triplet”. In August 2008 consignor was able to purchase the third triplet from a wealthy ranching family about 1,000 miles south of Buenos Aires in the Patagonia area. He obtained clearances and arranged for an export permit, then flew to Argentina to negotiate the sale, which he concluded successfully, returning the lost triplet to the United States in August 2008. This revolver, SN 343200, is being sold in this auction as a stand alone item with the successful bidder having the option to purchase the other two matching single actions from the 1921 shipment pictured here, for the same price each. If the buyer elects to purchase all three revolvers the orig paperwork and research material will accompany. The decorative items accompanying this revolver in the photographs in this catalog are for display only and are not included in the sale of this revolver. However all these items were the property of President Alvear. PROVENANCE: Don Alfredo Gottling, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Argentine President Marcelo T. Alvear; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy; Littlejohn’s Auction Service. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with strong bright blue and only faint thinning on left side at muzzle edge. Frame & hammer retain brilliant case colors with no apparent fading just extremely slight thinning on bottom forward sharp edges. Cyl, which is unfired, retains virtually all of its orig factory blue with a very faint drag line. Trigger guard & backstrap retain all of their orig blue with one small wear spot on backstrap and some fine pinprick pitting. Grips are sound and retain a wonderful golden mellow ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-37554 JR381 (175,000-225,000)
*SCARCE CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 258860. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). All blue finish with 4 3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 2-line address with “(BISLEY MODEL) 38 W.C.F.” on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates with rampant colt in a circle. Ejector rod housing is second type. It is mounted with after-market, deep stag 2-pc grips. Frame, cylinder and bbl have full coverage cattle brand pattern engraving, probably by Weldon Bledsoe. This engraving pattern was originated by well-known engraver, Cole Agee, continued by Weldon Bledsoe and is now carried on by David Harris. The entire backstrap, buttstrap and trigger bow, along with the ejector rod housing are covered with Texas cattle brands. No signature was found in the engraving patterns but it is believed by this cataloger that the work was by Weldon Bledsoe. PROVENANCE: Ted Knee Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about all of its custom after-engraving blue. Grips are extremely fine. Hammer is not solid in safety or half-cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with scattered pitting. 4-36600 JR166 (4,000-6,000)
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 20147. Cal. 38RF. Beautiful engraved pocket navy conversion with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of the frame has “COLTS PATENT” and “36 CAL” on the left rear web of the trigger guard. Is mounted with nicely figured 1-pc walnut grip and 5-shot rebated cylinder. Revolver is nickel finish and has full coverage, deep, bold Nimschke foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch-dot background. Shoulders of the trigger guard are engraved to match. Bbl & bbl lug are matching engraved with about 65-70% coverage, and it has a deep dash & dot border around the bbl address. Top of the back strap has a fine feather pattern fan with the back strap & butt strap having a deep scalloped border with Moorish patterns at the heel and on the butt strap. Bottom of the trigger guard and front end of the trigger plate are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. The serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by a small “E”. Cylinder has deep dash & dot borders around the front and rear edges of the raised area, not overly infringing upon the stagecoach holdup scene hammer has fully engraved sides with dog’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. The plug filling the rammer hole is partially broken away. Accompanied by a full 50-rnd. 2-pc box of Union Metallic Cartridge Co. 38RF cartridges with blue label that has black lettering and a picture of the cartridge. Body of the box has the blue, red & white plaid paper covering and a red band with black lettering. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only about 4,000 of these revolvers were made in the period 1873-75. These revolvers were very popular with law enforcement officers, outlaws & ladies of the red light district due to their ease of concealment and respectable short-range cartridge. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including cylinder & grip, except the wedge which is properly unnumbered. Overall retains about 98% strong, bright factory nickel with a few scattered flaked spots on the bbl. Cylinder retains 80-85% orig stagecoach holdup scene, having been somewhat thinned during the conversion finishing process. Grip is sound showing very light wear with the varnish having flaked to about 90%. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired since conversion. Box is open but fine, showing moderate edge wear & slight chipping in the paper and retains 75-80% orig red band. 4-36417 JR72 (7,500-12,500)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED 1855 ROOT NO. 3 SIDE HAMMER PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH SILVER FINISH. SN 26528. Cal. 28. Full silver plated with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, with pin front sight and pointing hand motif bbl address. Cylinder is unfluted with five chambers. Receiver, bbl, hammer, back strap & butt strap are all beautifully engraved in Gustave Young style with fine foliate arabesque patterns that have punch dot background. Top strap is engraved to match with matching patterns on lands between the flutes on the cylinder. Mounted with a 1-pc burl walnut grip. Accompanied by an extraordinary brass bound, deluxe, rosewood casing with faded burgundy velvet lining compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sliver plated 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter and a silver plated brass or copper tiny ribbed flask. Right rear compartment contains a tin for caps with a reproduction Eley’s label on lid. Left rear compartment is empty. A rectangular plate in the lid is engraved in Olde English script “BA”. Few of these little revolvers were ever engraved and encountering a deluxe rosewood casing is most rare. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about all of a fine professional, possibly factory, restored silver finish. Grip also retains a fine professionally restored finish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of roughness. Case is exceptional and completely sound with only minor nicks & scratches. Interior is moderately faded with light soil and compression stains from the cylinder & hammer screw. Accessories are very fine. Altogether a very beautiful and rare set. 4-37994 (10,000-20,000)
*RARE PRESENTATION COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL NATIONAL MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN C185881. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ bbl, serrated front sight and an orig Stevens adjustable rear sight. Mounted with orig full checkered walnut grips with a correct commercial marked 2-tone magazine. It has the 1911A1 configuration with short trigger, a short, wide hammer spur and long grip safety spur and arched spring housing. Slide is matching numbered to frame and it has its orig bbl marked on lower left “COLT 45 AUTO MATCH”. Left side of slide has the usual Colt markings with last patent date “1913”. Right side of slide has the National Match and Colt markings with frame marked “GOVERNMENT MODEL” over serial number. Top of slide between ejection port & sight is engraved through the blue “PRES. TO CAPT. A.E. DE CESARIS / FROM CO. F. 14TH INF. N.Y.N.G. 1940”. Accompanied by its orig hinged lid dark maroon box with black & white end labels with top label “NATIONAL MATCH / ADJUSTABLE SIGHT”. Corners & center of box have scotch tape. Bottom of box has the serial number of this pistol in pencil. Also accompanied by an orig owner’s manual, the orig target for this pistol, five shots at fifteen yards by J.M. Molloy, with all five shots in the ten ring with three X’s. Additionally accompanied by the orig hang tag showing the adjustments for the rear sight, an orig screwdriver envelope and a “Shooting Suggestions” pamphlet. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Overall retains about 98% strong glossy orig factory blue with only slight muzzle edge wear on left side from sliding in the box. There are two small spots of chemical staining on left side of the frame above magazine release and some chemical spotting on back strap by the mainspring housing. Magazine is crisp as are the grips. Crisp mechanics and brilliant shiny bore. 4-37419 JR132 (7,000-12,000)
COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 13921. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 7-3/8″ oct to rnd bbl, shortened during period of use. It has an added tiny dovetailed front sight with 1-line New York City address and “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame. Trigger guard & back strap are brass with rnd trigger guard and 1-pc walnut grip. Butt strap is crudely hand engraved “SANTRA–“. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains with the bbl and cylinder a cleaned gray metal color and the bbl showing heavy muzzle wear. The cylinder retains no roll markings and rammer handle is moderately pitted near the tip. Frame and hammer retain a dark silver brown patina. Trigger guard & back strap show heavy wear and are a medium mustard patina. Rammer latch stud is a replacement and latch is possibly an old replacement. Grip is sound showing light to moderate wear with a small gouge on the right side and retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with a couple of large pits. 4-37299 JR56 (3,000-5,000)
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH AFTER MARKET ENGRAVING. SN 111475. Cal. 45 Colt. Early single action with 5-1/2″ bbl, altered front sight with 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and is mounted with faux ivory grips. Base pin and base pin screw are replacements. Frame, cylinder, bbl & back strap are after-market engraved in a rather coarse Cuno Helfricht style with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background. Top strap and ejector rod housing radius are engraved with snake & dot patterns. Top of back strap has Helfricht style fan with foliate & floral patterns at top & heel and a hunter star on the trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved in alternating patterns on lands between the flutes with simple line & dot borders at rear edge. CONDITION: Good to very good. Traces of blue remain in most sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned metal color. Left side of bbl, near muzzle, has a few light dings. All serial numbers have been restamped. Grips are sound. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. Would make a fine Cowboy Action Shooter. 4-36331 JR112 (1,500-2,500)
INCREDIBLY UNIQUE PRESIDENT FRANKLIN PIERCE FROM COL. COLT PRESENTATION CASED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 5270. Cal. 36. Spectacular, unique and well documented Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass mushroom pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of the frame has hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” and it is fitted with silver plated small oval brass trigger guard & back strap with spectacular deluxe, varnished, burl walnut, flame grain 1-pc grip with the matching serial number in the back strap channel. Frame, bbl & bbl lug, rammer pivot, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in pattern known as “Large Donut Scroll” with full coverage on the frame and recoil shields. Recoil shields have a wide triple border. Right recoil shield has a capping cutout without groove. Bbl & bbl lug have matching large foliate arabesque patterns with a most unusual and rare panel vignette on the right side of a 3-masted sailing ship under full sail with another sailing ship in port in the background. Left side of bbl lug has a round vignette of a fouled anchor. Top two side flats of bbl have matching foliate arabesque patterns with incised border lines around the address on top flat terminating in a leaf pattern. Muzzle & chamber ends of the bbl have border patterns with an anchor chain pattern at the left rear edge of bbl lug. Hammer is deluxe engraved to match with wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and a very fine hand-cut knurled spur. Back strap has matching deep engraved patterns at top & heel with the center a rectangular panel with scalloped borders bearing the inscription “TO GENL FRANK PIERCE / from COL. COLT”. Butt strap & trigger guard are engraved with matching patterns and trigger guard flat has feather pattern borders. Shoulders of back strap & trigger guard are also engraved to match and all screwheads are engraved except the rammer screw which is probably an old replacement. Cylinder is usual 6-shot configuration with rolled Ormsby Naval battle scene that may have been hand enhanced. Accompanied by its orig blue velvet lined mahogany casing with shield shaped lock escutcheon for the mortised brass lock. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a wonderful “COLTS PATENT” angle spout Navy sized flask, a brass 2-cavity bullet mold with fire blued “COLTS PATENT” sprue cutter, a sealed tin of Eley’s caps with mottled paper wrapping and green & black label, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a rarely encountered wood handled nipple pick, occasionally seen in high grade presentation sets. Also accompanied by an NRA Silver Medallion, #100, which was awarded to this revolver on March 30, 1969 at the 98th Annual Meeting of the National Rifle Association in Washington, DC. The owner at that time was renowned firearms authority, Eric Vaule. Also accompanied by an American Society of Arms Collectors Medallion awarded to this wonderful Colt at the September 2008 meeting in Williamsburg, Virginia. Additionally accompanying is a Franklin Pierce Presidential pin-back which is a 2-1/8″ diameter button with the picture of General/President Franklin Pierce. Additionally accompanying is a large bronze rampant Colt statue awarded to this revolver at an annual Colt Society meeting & exhibit. Another accompaniment is a William Rogers sterling teaspoon with an embossed likeness of Franklin Pierce and his name on the handle with the inscription on a ribbon below his protrait “14th President 1853-1857”. Also accompanying is a modern made 31-star American flag commemorating the number of states in the Union when Franklin Pierce became President. And finally accompanying is a large binder of material on the life of Franklin Pierce, Congressman, U.S. Senator, Brigadier General of New Hampshire Volunteers in the Mexican War and 14th President of the United States (1804-1869). Franklin Pierce was born in 1804 in Hillsboro, New Hampshire, educated in New Hampshire and Bowdoin College in Maine where he formed a lifelong friendship with Nathaniel Hawthorne. Upon graduation in 1824 he studied law and was admitted to the Bar in 1827. He was a lifelong Democrat and became a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 1829 and was elected Speaker in 1831 & 1832. In 1833 he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and in 1837 to the U.S. Senate. He resigned in 1842 before the completion of his term and returned to practicing law in Concord, NH where he became a federal district attorney. In 1845 he was offered several political positions including Governor of New Hampshire, an appointment to fill an unexpired term in the U.S. Senate and Attorney General in President Polk’s cabinet. He rejected all of these appointments. In 1846, shortly after the outbreak of war with Mexico, Mr. Pierce enlisted as a private but was soon appointed Colonel of the 9th Regiment and later Brigadier General of Volunteers. He served under Gen. Scott in the advance toward Mexico City where he was injured at the Battle of Contreras when he was thrown from his horse which had stepped into a hole and broken his leg. Despite the injury he continued in the fight. He remained in command of his unit and continued with Gen. Scott to the surrender of Mexico City. After the war he returned to his law practice. In 1852, at the Democratic Convention in Baltimore he was nominated for the Presidency and later was elected in a near landslide. During his Presidency he supported several controversial pieces of legislation that were sympathetic to the Southern slavery issue and became unpopular, even in his own party and was not renominated for a second term. Upon the expiration of his presidency he returned to New Hampshire to his law practice, never again to enter politics, and died Oct. 8, 1869 of cirrhosis of the liver. During his service in the Mexican War General/President Pierce became well acquainted with Colt’s new holster pistol, the Walker Model. He is recorded several times as having enthusiastically endorsed Colt’s revolver for the U.S. Military and apparently became well acquainted with Col. Colt himself. There are several recorded instances of communication between Col. Colt and Sen. Pierce and in 1848 Colt presented a Dragoon revolver to then Gen. Pierce. Sam Colt, ever the inveterate business man, presented this Model 1851 Navy revolver to Franklin Pierce on the very eve of his ascendancy to the President after having been nominated by the Democrat Party. The use of the familiar “Frank” in the presentation by Sam Colt gives plausibility to the closeness he shared with the soon to be President of the United States. A large portion of this information was extracted from a 10-page letter by noted author, researcher & historian, R.L. Wilson. He states in the last paragraph of page 10 that of the thirty-six men in history who have held the office of President of the United States, Franklin Pierce was the only one known to have been presented with a percussion Colt firearm and he was presented with two. The other being a Dragoon revolver being sold elsewhere in this auction. Also included in this binder of material is a signed letter to Mr. W.G.C. Kimball, Kimball Arms Co., Woburn, Mass., from John M. Stark of Concord, NH on his Attorney at Law letterhead dated March 31st, 1938, wherein he states “In regard to the Colt revolver which you purchased of me and its history, I will say that I am 52 years of age. My mother, the late Annie McNeil Stark, was a grand-niece of the late President Pierce. This revolver was given to Franklin Pierce by Colonel Colt. Franklin Pierce gave this revolver to my grandfather, John McNeil. My grandfather gave it to his daughter, Annie McNeil Stark. I can remember when I was about eight (8) years old of seeing this revolver at the house; and as my father and mother are both dead I cannot give you any further information.” The letter is accompanied by an envelope with the return franking of Murray G. Peterson of Marblehead, Mass. which is written on the face in ink “Identification of Colt No. 5270 Navy Model”. Also in this lot is a certified copy of the will of Franklin Pierce wherein he specifically bequeaths various items with the bulk of his estate going to his nephew, Frank Hawthorne Pierce, which may have included this Colt revolver. This binder also contains a copy of a photograph of Franklin Pierce along with numerous other references to his personal, political & military careers. This revolver is pictured in full color on p. 30 of the book Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson and is mentioned on p. 58 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson. It is also pictured in full color on p. 126 with a large writeup in The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Murray G. Peterson Collection; Eric Vaule; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 70-75% fading orig factory blue, strong in sheltered areas. Rammer & rammer handle retain faded case colors. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors with pitting on hammer nose. Cylinder is a blue/brown patina and retains about 80-85% Ormsby Naval Battle Scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their heavy orig silver plating, slightly thin on heel. Grip is sound with light nicks & scratches showing light war and retains most of its piano varnish finish. Case has a slightly warped lid with usual storage & handling nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior retains strong royal blue color with spots of fading around cylinder area and light damage from front sight. Flask is extremely fine retaining about 95% thinning orig finish with light tarnish on collar & spout. Mold is very fine with a few light dings on each side and retains about 90% bright fire blue on sprue cutter. Cap tin wrapping is nearly intact with only one or two minor losses and lightly faded label. Other accessories are fine. The accompanying medallions, bronze, spoon and pin-back are equally fine. 4-36412 JR101 (150,000-275,000)
Correction: The correct estimate is $8,000-$12,000 for the pair of guns in the case.
TWO CASED ENGRAVED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 101925 & 101935. Cal. 31. Both revolvers have silver finish with 6″ bbls that have pin front sights with engraved “Saml Colt” address. They have silver plated brass trigger guards and backstraps with fine, 1-pc ivory grips. Both are engraved by Gustave Young, but not identically. They have Mr. Young’s deluxe coverage of foliate arabesque engraving with SN 101935 having a dog’s heads incorporated in two of his fine scrolls on the left side, one on the frame and the other on the bbl lug, with others ending in flower blossoms. SN 101925 is engraved nearly identically, without the dogs’ heads, having several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Both have “COLTS PATENT” engraved on the left sides of the frames in kidney-shaped panels. Tops of both backstraps have Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the top, at the heels, on the buttstraps and trigger guards. Shoulders of the trigger guards and backstraps are also engraved. Backstraps are inscribed in script “Jas. R. Morris, April 1860”. Accompanied by a burgundy velvet lined mahagany, 2-gun casing, compartmented in the bottom for the revolvers, a double sided, silver plated eagle & shield flask, a silver plated 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and 2 tins of Eley’s caps. Also included is a packet of 5 combustible cartridges. A preliminary internet search for James R. Morris disclosed numerous entries in both the Union & Confederate Armies. CONDITION: Both revolvers retain about all of their fine professionally restored silver finish. Both cylinders have been buffed with the cylinder on number “101925”, possibly re-rolled. Grip on “101925” is probably an old replacement. Both grips have light age lines and retain wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics on both revolvers are very fine. Both bores show heavy use with moderate to heavy pitting. Both cylinders have all five safety pins replaced. Case has a couple of grain checks in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior in the lid is moderately faded with a reglued section of the lining. Bottom is relined and shows moderate soil with pressure points from grips & cylinders. A small section of the dust seal is missing in left front corner. Flask has several small dents and retains about all of an applied silver finish. Mold is very fine with a few nicks & dings and retains about all of its applied silver finish. Cartridge packet is extremely fine. Cap tins are fine. 4-38003 (8,000-12,000)
*RARE SHILOH SHARPS HARTFORD MODEL RIFLE BUILT FOR TOM SELLECK FOR HIS MOTION PICTURE “QUIGLEY DOWN UNDER” WHICH HE DONATED TO THE NRA IN 2006. SN 8887. Cal. 45 2-7/8 (45-110). Fine Sharps rifle with 34″ oct bbl, globe front sight and Lawrence style ladder rear sight with a Sharps type vernier tang sight that has a 4″ staff. Right side of receiver is inlaid in gold with the initials “MQ” inside a fine gold wire oval. The bbl address, just forward of rear sight, is engraved with fine foliate arabesque patterns on each end. Mounted with nicely figured, uncheckered American walnut with scalloped pewter forend tip and straight stock with patch box and semi-crescent buttplate. Length of pull is 15-5/8″ from front trigger to center of buttplate. Receiver is fitted with dbl set triggers. Accompanied by a Shiloh Rifle Manufacturing Co. letter fully identifying this rifle, as found. The letter contains the statement that this rifle was one of three that were specifically built for the motion picture “Quigley Down Under” starring Tom Selleck as Mathew Quigley. It further states that the buttstock has extra length of pull for Mr. Selleck and that all three rifles were shipped to MGM Grand in Hollywood, CA in 1989. This is the same rifle that Mr. Selleck donated to the National Rifle Association for a fund raising raffle. It was won by Stephanie Lynn Leslie of Cedar City, Utah and had an approx. retail value of $102,000 at that time. A conversation with Mr. Selleck disclosed that he has disposed of all three of his rifles from the movie. This one which raised several million dollars for the NRA, another was donated to a museum and the third one was sold to a private collector. This is an opportunity to own a real piece of movie history. During the conversation with Mr. Selleck he stated that when he made the movie it was his intention to have the rifle be the focal point, more so than the actors themselves. There have been numerous other famous movie guns, such as John Wayne’s Colt and large loop lever Winchester and Jimmy Stewart’s Winchester ’73 One of One Thousand and many others but none were the actual focal point of the movie like Mathew Quigley’s Sharps. PROVENANCE: Tom Selleck/Mathew Quigley; National Rifle Association of America; Stephanie Lynn Leslie. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 96-97% strong orig blue with some thinning around bbl address area. Receiver, lockplate, lever & trigger plate, patchbox & buttplate retain most of their orig case colors that are moderately faded. Wood is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-37755 JR304 (55,000-100,000)
THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, THE SEARS & ROEBUCK “COW BOY” SPECIAL. SN 172485. Cal. 45 Colt. The Sears & Roebuck Colt Single Action Army Revolver, like few other firearms known, has reached near-mythical legend since it was discovered in recent years. It has the belonged to several notable collectors and is almost completely documented from its production in 1897 and shipment to Sears & Roebuck in Chicago where it was used as a promotional item in their advertising & catalogues. Apparently when Sears was no longer using this wonderful piece in their advertising it was relegated to a storeroom or one of the company officials’ office displays, it was sold to an unidentified private individual and remained in the Chicago area until 1954 when the famous singer & actor, Mel Torme, learned of its existence through Mr. Ted Busse, a salesman for Klein’s Sporting Goods Store in North Chicago. He purchased it after much agonizing for the grand sum of $750.00, a truly substantial amount of money in that day & age when an ordinary Colt Single Action could be purchased for $50.00 or less. This fabulous Colt remained in Mr. Torme’s collection until 1975 when he was tempted to sell it to Mr. John Solley for the astronomical sum of $100,000. From Mr. Solley it was sold to David S. Woloch, then to a private collector in Texas and from there to Stanley Shapiro. There are probably other owners between Mr. Shapiro and Dr. Murphy who are unknown at this time. Of the total Pre-WWII production of 357,859 Single Action Army revolver only about a single handful are known with factory engraving and gold inlay. In addition to the Sears & Roebuck colt simply being a superior price, it is also one of the most rare. This fantastic Single Action Army revolver is described as having a 5-1/2” bbl with orig full front sight, 1-line block letter address and the caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and it is fitted with exceptional 2-pc pearl grips that are unusually Bas relief carved with the figure of seated Columbia holding a staff & cap at her right side. It has D+ coverage spectacular engraving by master engraved Cuno Helfrecht with beautiful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns on frame, recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap has braided rope patterns down each side. The bbl has extensive coverage with foliate arabesque patterns, some of which terminate in flower blossoms with beautiful shell patterns on each side surrounding a diamond & dot checkerboard pattern. Bbl address is very nicely framed with multiple borders of chip & dot, straight lines and feather patterns which terminate toward the muzzle in a figure-8 pattern around front sight. Ejector rod housing has foliate & arabesque patterns at each end with a vine & leaf pattern on outside radius with a snake pattern in top gullet and fine side patterns. Bbl has wide & narrow gold bands at the frame end with a narrow gold band at muzzle. Engraving on the frame itself is outlined with a fine gold wire border and the rampant Colt on left side is within a gold circle. Cylinder is spectacularly engraved with four different patterns of engraving on the lands between the flutes, consisting of three panels of foliate arabesque scrolls, another of flower blossoms & stones, still another of different flowers and the last one of multiple flower, foliate & leaf patterns. The bands between cylinder stop notches & approaches are lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and two fine borders. Rear of cylinder has a feather pattern border between two fine gold bands. Top of back strap is engraved with a beautiful foliate fan pattern outlined in gold wire with foliate arabesque patterns down back strap, at the heel and across buttstrap. Trigger guard is engraved to match with another fan around the frame serial number. All engraving has an extremely fine punch dot background with delicate & fine shadings. Accompanied by its orig gray suede covered, French fitted casing that has a purple satin lining in the lid with gold edged ribbon over center and a purple velvet lined bottom that is recessed for the revolver and a pillow shaped covered cartridge recess in right front. This casing is similar to earlier Colt factory casings. This revolver is pictured in full color on p. 421 of The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I, Wilson, on pp. 157-159 of Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. Accompanied by three issues of Man at Arms magazine: March/April 1983 which contains a 5-page article on this revolver by R.L. Wilson along with full color center photographs; November/December 1985 which includes the aforementioned advertisement by Clark Cail on p. 11; and September/October 1988 which includes a 2-page guest editorial by Mel Torme wherein he mentions selling this revolver and being presented with a facsimile serial number 172485 for giving a concert at the Benefit Auction Preview for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Department of Arms & Armor in New York in October 1985. That facsimile revolver is being sold immediately following the sale of this revolver, the original. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver, as found, in 45 caliber with 5-1/2” bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks “with carved Goddess of Liberty motif” and engraved and inlaid in gold. It was shipped to Sears Roebuck & Co., Chicago, Illinois, Oct. 23, 1897 in a shipment of one firearm. Also accompanied by a bronze rampant Colt, Colt Collector’s Association Award. The bronze stands 14-1/2″ high by about 11″ wide on a 8-5/8″ round walnut base. Additionally accompanied by a small grouping of Sears & Roebuck items including a 2-3/4″ x 1-3/4″ oval sharpening stone that was a company handout; a 6″ x 4-3/8″ painted tin tip tray which pictures the Sears & Roebuck store in Chicago and a box of 50 stereoptic viewer cards of the Sears store and catalogue operation including a picture of Mr. R.W. Sears, President of the company. The box has a black paper cover embossed in gold on the lid “A TRIP THROUGH SEARS ROEBUCK & CO.” PROVENANCE: Klein’s Sporting Goods, Chicago; Mel Torme Collection; John Solley Collection; David S. Woloch Collection; Stanley Shapiro Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains about 98% fine orig factory blue, including the frame which is not now and never was case colored. Bbl has slight muzzle edge wear and light wear at front of ejector rod housing. Body of ejector rod housing has a few small scattered spots of chemical staining which has left fine pitting. Frame retains virtually all of its fine orig factory blue, including screw heads. Back strap & butt strap retain about all of their orig factory blue, slightly thinned on back strap. Trigger guard is slightly thinned on trigger bow with a small spot of pitting and some light rust on front strap. Grips are sound with tremendous fire & color with some visible rust staining on both sides that has been present since this revolver was rediscovered. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is lightly soiled on exterior with some slight weakness in fabric over the hinge and some minor damage in recess in bottom around revolver. Bronze and Sears items are all very fine to extremely fine. 4-36438 JR79 (450,000-800,000)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED BLISS & GOODYEAR POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 686. Cal. 28. Tiny percussion revolver with 3″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line address on top flat. Bottom of bbl has a 3-pc rammer with ball & detent style latch and it has a spur trigger with visible cylinder latch spring in bottom of frame. Receiver, cylinder & rammer pivot are nicely engraved in New York style with sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cylinder is engraved in areas between chambers with geometric patterns and shaded backgrounds. Top of back strap has an engraved pattern identical to that found on cylinder. Mounted with 2-pc ivory grips with a stylized Mexican eagle on left side. Eagle has its wings raised straight up and is clutching a snake in its beak & talons. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 3,000 of these tiny revolvers were made in about 1860. Accompanied by its orig mahogany casing with beveled top edges and a mortised brass lock with brass escutcheon. Case is purple velvet lined and compartmented in bottom for revolver, a tiny dbl sided Colt style eagle flask with crossed revolvers at bottom. Also accompanying is a brass nutcracker style ball mold with sprue cutter and a lacquered tin of Goldmark’s caps. CONDITION: Good to very good. Bbl retains 50-60% thin orig blue with top flats having been cleaned which has thinned bbl address. Balance of revolver is a dark gray patina with dark case colors on rammer pivot & handle. Grips are sound with one minor age line and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Grip screw is a replacement. Mechanics are fine, dark eroded bore. Case has a grain check in bottom, otherwise is completely sound and retains most of its fine orig varnish, having been cleaned, with minor nicks & scratches. Interior is heavily faded & soiled with right rear partition loose which has damaged lining in bottom. Flask is very fine and mold is good. Altogether a scarce & unusual set. 4-35960 JR41 (2,500-4,000)
*RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN C144175. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5” bbl & matching numbered slide. This rare pistol has full coverage factory engraving by Wilbur Glahn with his well executed foliate & floral intertwined arabesque patterns over the top & both sides of the slide, both sides of the frame, bottom edge of the grip safety, front strap, trigger bow, bottom front of slide & bottom of frame. Thumb safety & slide lock are also engraved, as is bbl bushing. Fitted with spectacular, smooth ivory grips with a gold engraved seal of the State of Virginia on the left side & a gold engraved seal of the State of Connecticut on the right side with Latin motto of the State of Connecticut in a ribbon scrimshawed into the grip. It has its orig 2-tone, unmarked magazine. Accompanied by its orig black leatherette, blue velvet lined Colt casing with a 4-1/2” x 2-3/8” silver plate in top, which is inscribed, “PRESENTED TO / GOVERNOR E. LEE TRINKLE / OF VIRGINIA / BY / GOVERNOR JOHN H. TRUMBULL / OF CONNECTICUT / IN COMMEMORATION / OF THE / 150TH. ANNIVERSARY OF THE / 2ND COMPANY GOVERNOR’S FOOT GUARD / MAY 18-19 1925 / 1775-1925”. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol with ivory grips & gold plates with their inscriptions, factory engraved & shipped to “GOVERNOR JOHN H. TRUMBULL” on June 26, 1925, factory order 10134 in a shipment of one gun. Also accompanied by a short history of the 2nd Company Governor’s Foot Guard. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, probably unfired. Retains virtually all of its brilliant orig. factory charcoal/blue finish with very slight wear on bbl & hammer face. Grips are very beautiful & maintain a fine mellow ivory patina. Magazine may have been loaded but retains virtually all of its orig. factory finish. Case has a ding in lid with a few nicks & scratches & has one slightly loose hinge with some fabric loss over that area. Interior is moderately faded in bottom with some light soiling. A truly magnificent set & absolutely one of a kind. 4-38009 JR267 (60,000-80,000)
RARE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED 1861 NAVY REVOLVER PRESENTED TO COL. FRANK WOLFORD. SN 13564E. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and New-York U.S. America address. It has unfluted 6-shot cylinder with Ormsby Naval battle scene and all six safety pins remain crisp. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc ivory grip that has deep relief, highly detailed Mexican eagle on left side. Back strap is inscribed in period script and block letters “From the Union Citizens of Lexington to / COL. FRANK WOLFORD / August 1863”. The frame, bbl, hammer, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in his distinctive style of sweeping foliate arabesque scrolls, many of which terminate in flower blossoms. The hammer has his deluxe engraving on both sides with wolf’s heads on hammer nose. Top edge of the hammer has fish scale patterns. Bbl lug is engraved with matching foliate & floral arabesque patterns which extend about half way up the bbl. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with a zig zag border and a narrow panel with four small dots, and it has foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel, on butt strap & trigger guard. The serial numbers on the bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all accompanied by a small “E” signifying engraving. Wedge is numbered “3096” and has engraved ends by another hand. Frank Lane Wolford was born Sept. 2, 1817 near Columbia, KY. He attended local schools, studied law and was admitted to the bar and practiced law in Liberty, KY. Prior to the war, in 1847 & 1848 he was a member of the State House of Representatives. With the Civil War eminent, Wolford was appointed Lt. Colonel in the Kentucky Cavalry and was authorized to recruit men for the looming fight. By August 1861 three companies had been raised and on August 6th they rode to Camp Robinson. Upon arrival the commander, Col. Landram, announced his resignation and the mantle of command fell to Lt. Col. Wolford. They were mustered into service on Oct. 28, 1861 and in December were issued their regulation blue uniforms and Colt Navy pistols. They fought through numerous skirmishes and battles with great distinction earning respect from both Union & Confederate forces. Their most notable engagement was the pursuit and capture of the famed Confederate raider, Gen. John H. Morgan. Morgan was also a Kentuckian fighting for the Confederacy and a notorious independent raider that was creating havoc behind Union lines. At the Battle of Lebanon, where Wolford & Morgan opposed each other, Col. Wolford was severely wounded in the hip during the engagement and captured by Morgan’s forces. Even though he was bleeding profusely Gen. Morgan forced him to ride about ten miles as a prisoner before Wolford was recaptured by his own troops. Morgan was able to escape capture by seizing a small skiff and rowing across a river which Wolford’s troops were unable to cross on their worn out horses. When the First Kentucky departed Lebanon on the morning of May 6th they marched to Murfreesboro leaving Col. Wolford behind to recuperate. On July 1, 1863 Gen. Morgan began his most famous raid when he crossed the Cumberland River near Burkesville and marched to Columbia where he encountered a scouting party of about 100 troopers of the First Kentucky Cavalry. By July 3rd Morgan was moving toward Lebanon, Kentucky which he captured after a short battle. On July 6th a combined force including the First Kentucky Cavalry was ordered to pursue Gen. Morgan and overtake him which began one of the most famous pursuits in the annals of the Civil War. The ensuing march lasted 24 days from July 2-26, during which time the men under Wolford’s command rode continuously without sleep or rest. Gen. Shackleford, who was in command of the entire force, wrote about Col. Wolford “the noble, true and gallant Wolford, who was in the entire pursuit, is one of the coolest, bravest and most efficient officers in the Army”. After the Morgan Raid and capture of Gen. Morgan, the First Kentucky returned to Somerset. Lt. Col Wolford was promoted to Colonel and assigned to command the Independent Cavalry Brigade consisting of the 1st, 11th & 12th Kentucky Cavalry along with Laws Mountain Howitzer Battery. It was probably at about this time that Col. Wolford was presented this fine Colt by the grateful citizens of Lexington. This exact revolver is pictured on p. 147 of the book The Wm M. Locke Collection, Sellers. It is identified by serial number and is pictured in a presentation case complete with flask, mold & cap tin, all of which are now missing. It is also pictured on p. 91 of the book Colt’s History and Heroes, Hamilton, and in the same book Col. Wolford’s career is detailed on pp. 103-106. A copy of this book accompanies this revolver. This revolver was also on the cover of the 6 November 2003 issue of The Gun Report and was the subject of a 2-page article by Edward Scott Meadows, along with a photograph in the same publication. A copy of this magazine accompanies this revolver. Also accompanying is a 1-page letter by noted researcher, historian & author, R.L. Wilson, dated June 14, 1984. This revolver is a fine example of a Civil War presentation to a gallant and brave soldier. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 35-40% orig blue, mostly in sheltered areas with the balance a blue/brown patina and fine pitting around muzzle. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors with pitting on hammer nose. Trigger guard & back strap retain 30-40% orig silver with the balance a light mustard patina. Cylinder retains 75-80% thin orig blue and about 98% orig Ormsby Naval battle scene and all six crisp safety pins. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of scattered fine pitting. 4-37832 (75,000-100,000)
*COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, MODERN REPRODUCTION OF THE FAMED SEARS & ROEBUCK “COW BOY SPECIAL”. SN 442CCT. Cal. 45 Colt. All blue finish like the orig Cow Boy Special with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, with 1-line block letter address and the caliber marking hand engraved on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with a rampant Colt in a partial circle. Mounted with extraordinary 1-pc ivory grip made from three pieces of ivory glued together that has the three digits of the serial number in ink in back strap channel. It has raised carved stooping bald eagle on left side and a raised carved eagle clutching olive branches & arrows in his talons with an American shield on its breast and a ribbon in its beak inscribed “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on right side. Except for the grip this is a fine facsimile of the famous Sears Cow Boy Special being sold elsewhere in this auction. The engraver whose initials “MVS” appear on front flat of frame just below base pin, nearly duplicated Cuno Helfricht’s masterpiece work with full coverage engraving on frame consisting of very fine foliate arabesque patterns with a sweeping pattern on left recoil shield terminating in a flower blossom. Loading gate has a shell pattern like the original. Hammer screw has a flower blossom around hole. Top strap is engraved in braided rope patterns. Bbl is engraved like the orig with checkerboard diamond & dot panels in the center with shell & foliate fan patterns at each end of both sides with beautiful foliate & floral patterns elsewhere. Bbl address has multiple borders terminating in a figure-8 pattern around front sight. Ejector rod housing is engraved like the original with tapering foliate patterns on outside radius with a foliate pattern around screw hole and an arabesque pattern at rear end. Gullet has a smake pattern without dots or border patterns. There is a narrow gold inlaid band around muzzle with a narrow and a wide gold band at the cylinder end. Both sides of frame are outlined in gold wire inlay. Top of backstrap is engraved with a foliate fan pattern outlined in gold wire. Back strap, unlike the original has a center checkerboard diamond & dot pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel. Butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with another foliate fan pattern around trigger guard screw. Cylinder is engraved nearly identically to the original with alternating patterns of flowers & blossoms and foliate arabesque patterns. It has fine arabesque patterns between cylinder stop notches with a feather pattern at rear edge between fine gold wire inlays. Rear face of cylinder has a rampant Colt between two chambers and front face has three digits of serial number around the bushing hole. The entire serial number was observed on right side of front & back straps under the grip. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including grip. Overall retains virtually all of its strong finish showing no discernible wear. Grip is sound with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 4-36330 JR116 (3,000-5,000)
EXCEPTIONALLY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 7623. Cal. 31. Baby Dragoon revolvers in and of themselves are extremely rare. Early cased ones are still more rare and to find a cased engraved Baby Dragoon is unimaginable. This fantastic revolver has 4″ oct bbl, with brass pin front sight and 2-line New-York City address with dashes. It has silver plated square back trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” in tiny letters. Frame, bbl, trigger guard & back strap are beautifully engraved in early vine style with plain background. Frame has full coverage with matching patterns on each side of the bbl lug and top side bbl flats leaving the top flat with the address only. There is a wide band of engraving around muzzle. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard have fine foliate arabesque patterns with a series of arrowheads down the back strap. Hammer is engraved in a minimalist dog’s head with engraving patterns on the top edge and a hand checkered oval on the spur. Cylinder is of the usual 5-shots with the Ranger/Indian fight scene and oval cylinder stop notches. The single safety pin is battered. Extremely few of these rare little revolvers survive today with much orig condition and engraved ones are virtually unknown. Accompanied by an orig Paterson style mahogany casing with fluted lid and brown velvet lining recessed in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided standing eagle “COLTS PATENT” flask with silver plated collar, thumb lever & spout, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and an extremely early “COLT’S PISTOL CAPS” tin by Eley Brothers with green lid and green & black label. Also accompanied by a sealed packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges. Additionally accompanied by a National Rifle Association Silver Medallion No. 197, awarded to this revolver as one of the ten best arms exhibited at an annual meeting. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, possibly unfired, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl retains 95-96% strong orig early Colt blue with a few scattered chemical spots. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their orig muted case colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 50% orig silver plating with most of losses on back strap. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish on the exterior. Interior of lid is extremely fine. Bottom is lightly to moderately faded & soiled showing moderate wear. Flask retains 75-80% strong orig finish with slight wear on the collar. Mold & nipple wrench/screwdriver are extremely fine. Cap tin is lightly faded. Cartridge packet is extremely fine. 4-36402 JR97 (225,000-400,000)
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 173286. Cal. 31. Fine Gustave Young engraved pocket model with 5″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight with German silver blade and engraved “SAM’L COLT” on top flat. Frame, bbl lug, rammer pivot, hammer & grip frame are beautifully engraved with Mr. Young’s deluxe foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background, his trademark dog’s head on left side flat of bbl and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top of back strap has his trademark fan and pillow shaped pattern around the hand engraved “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame. Fitted with orig 1-pc ivory grip in its silver plated brass grip frame. It has a 5-shot cylinder. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge. Bbl & cylinder retain a silver gray/brown patina with traces of blue in most sheltered areas on bbl. Frame retains darkened case colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 50-60% orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a minor chipped right toe. All screws are fine. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with minor pitting in grooves. 4-36286 JR1 (4,000-7,000)
EXTREMELY RARE & SPECTACULAR DELUXE JOHN BELKNAP HALF STOCK PERCUSSION SPORTING/TARGET RIFLE. Cal. 36. Extraordinarily beautiful medium weight percussion sporting/target rifle by John Belknap (1840-1888),in business St. Johnsbury, VT. 1879-1887, as listed in American Gunsmiths, Sellers, Vermont’s Gunsmiths & Gunmakers to 1900, Phillips & Tyler and Gunsmiths and Gunmakers of Vermont, Horn. Pictured on pg. 2 of the above referenced book by Mr. Horn is a virtually identical rifle with many of the exact same features as this rifle. It has identical front & rear sights & butt plate with identical trigger guard & cheek piece. Lock plate & hammer also appear to be identical, as does the elaborate nipple shield. That rifle also has five decorative ram rod guides containing a silver inlaid ramrod with an identically turned tip. The description on pg. 4 also states that it had mother-of-pearl inlay. The beautiful rifle we are offering here has a 27-1/2″ tapered octagon bbl, turned for false muzzle w/ decorative turnings around the rebated area. Front sight is screw mounted to the top flat at the muzzle and is a very decorative globe sight w/ tiny pin post. There is no provision for a rear bbl sight, however, it is mounted with an elevation adjustable, extremely elaborate tang peep sight. Rifle mounted in an extraordinary, highly figured, uncheckered rosewood half stock with solid silver furniture consisting of a decorative nose cap, arabesque patterned escutcheons on the forestock and extremely decorative crescent butt plate with faceted heel and long decorative tang. Sides of the butt stock at the butt plate are inlaid with decorative silver wavelette panels that follow the contour and shape of butt plate. Right side of the stock has a sunburst inlay with hinged patchbox lid in the center and the left side an elaborate carved cheek piece with a gold inlaid American eagle clutching arrows in one talon and olive branches in the other. Stock has raised side panels with the left side a decorative gold filigree side plate having a most unusual mother-of-pearl inlay. Bottom of the stock has a small gold faced compass just below the trigger guard with a small, all metal rectangular cap box having a gold cover, and has very decorative silver inlay in the wood. Trigger guard is extremely ornate with serpentine shaped finger rest & decorative filed trigger plate with doubleset triggers. Lock plate is also silver or silver plated, having full coverage engraving with the maker’s name engraved in a panel. Hammer is equally elaborate with very decorative filing & engraving having a dolphin motif on the hammer nose & spur. Hammer screw has a decorative gold cover. The breech plug has an integral elaborately shielded nipple with screw clean out plug and a gold mounting screw. Bottom of the bbl has five decorative turned silver ferrules containing its original gold tipped ebony ramrod with six spiral inlaid silver wires about 3/4 of the length. The breech plug, top tang, top flat of the bbl at the breech end & top three flats at the bbl at the muzzle end along with the lock plate & hammer are wonderfully engraved in various patterns w/ a fine punch dot background in foliate arabesque patterns. Tang sight base is engraved to match. Barrel & lock plate are silver plated w/ all furniture & attachments either solid silver or gold. Accompanied by what is probably its original walnut casing that consignor states he had custom re-lined in rose colored felt several years ago. It is French fitted in the bottom for the rifle, the original false muzzle w/ decorative turned finial that has a gold knob, original copper tipped two piece bullet starter, a bullet swedge, a patch cutter, a Colt-style two cavity ball & bullet mold w/ sprue cutter & a ribbed powder flask. All of the accessories in the case are silver plated. This is one of the most extraordinary deluxe percussion rifles this cataloger has ever had the privilege of examining. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains most of its original metal finish with some chemical staining on the left side of the bbl. Wood is sound with a few minor dings and retains most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, possibly unfired. Case is sound w/ light nicks & dings and retains most of a professionally restored finish. Accessories are equally fine and retain most of their lightly oxidized silver finish. This is a museum quality piece of the highest order. 35269 JR268 (30,000-50,000)
RARE AND IMPORTANT NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 22574. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel & gold finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line script address having the broken letters “T” in “PT.”, the “O” in “CO.”, and “A” in “HARTFORD”. The last 4 digits of the serial number are found on the bbl under the ejector rod housing and on the outer radius of the cylinder and caliber marking is on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. It is fitted with rare 1-pc pearl grip with very deep relief-carved Mexican eagle on the right side. The cylinder, hammer and ejector rod housing retain traces of orig gold wash, strong on the hammer and front & rear faces of the cylinder. The frame, bbl, cylinder, back strap, trigger guard and ejector rod housing have about 40% coverage fine L.D. Nimschke engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background. The cylinder has matching patterns on the lands between the flutes and the top of the back strap has a beautiful fan with chip-engraved edge. Ejector rod housing has a deep engraved pattern on the outer radius and the back strap has very fine wavy-line borders with a Moorish pattern at the heel. Butt strap is engraved to match and the trigger guard has a deep engraved hunter’s star. Top strap is engraved with snake & dot pattern with chip & dot borders around the bbl address and a Moorish pattern between the front sight and bbl address. Both sides of the front of the frame have 2 deep engraved hunter’s stars. Recoil shield and loading gate are engraved with a sunburst pattern. Accompanied by a 1967-dated 2-page letter from R. L. Wilson, addressed to Jonathan M. Peck wherein discusses the fact that this revolver was engraved by Nimschke. Also included is a copy of an article by Herbert G. Houze which discusses the life and work of Mr. Nimschke. Additionally accompanying is a page from a book of Mr. Nimschke’s engraving pulls. PROVENANCE: Jonathan Peck Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its orig nickel finish, slightly dulled, with some fine pimpling in the gullets on the frame. Cylinder retains strong gold wash on the front & rear faces with faint gold in the flutes. Hammer retains 50-60% gold wash with the exposed areas a dark patina. Ejector rod housing retains strong gold wash in the sheltered areas with the outer radius a light to medium metal patina. Hammer screw retains strong orig fire blue with thin fire blue on the other screws. Grip is extraordinary with wonderful color & fire and a slightly chipped right heel. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, possibly unfired. 4-36427 JR69 (50,000-80,000)
FINE ENGRAVED INSCRIBED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 2704. Cal. 38 RF. Early pocket Navy conversion with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, 1-line New York City address with brass pin front sight. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. Frame, bbl & back strap are beautifully & early Gustave Young engraved in vine style with a bird head incorporated into the patterns on left side of bbl lug. Hammer is deeply engraved on both sides and top edge. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s typical sunburst pattern and back strap is inscribed “ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY”. Several of the scrolls terminate in flower blossoms as is typical of Mr. Young’s engraving. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap and is fitted with deluxe 1-pc walnut grip. The serial numbers on bottom of frame, trigger guard & back strap are all accompanied by a small “E”. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge & cylinder (grip not checked). Overall retains 25-30% orig blue on bbl with balance of bbl & frame having been cleaned to a light patina. Engraving all remains sharp. Trigger guard & back strap retain traces of silver plating with balance a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound showing light wear with a few nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig piano finish varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-35946 JR6 (4,000-6,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED WITH GOLD INLAY PRESENTATION COLT OFFICIAL POLICE DA REVOLVER. SN 575888. Cal. 38 Colt. Extraordinary Colt revolver believed to be the only one of its type with gold inlay. It has a 6″ bbl with factory altered integral front site that has a serrated rear edge and platinum square bead inlay on the rear face. It has the standard two line address on top with the model and caliber on the left side. Top strap is grooved for rear sight and it is mounted with checkered Colt gold medallion factory ivory grips. Front & back straps and trigger are nicely hand checkered. This revolver is beautifully engraved by Wilbur Glahn in Class “C” coverage, the highest class of coverage available at that time. The frame has nearly full coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with Mr. Glahn’s trademark v-shaped device just above the left front web of the trigger guard. The side plate on the left side is inlaid in gold “N.R. WEBSTER / COMM. of POLICE / Los Angeles”. The inscription is surrounded by gold wire inlay incorporated within the arabesque scrolls. There is also a vine and leaf pattern inlaid in gold above the inscription. Right side of the frame is also inlaid in gold in matching arabesque patterns. Trigger and hammer are gold plated. Engraving is fully over the top straps and up the side of the barrels nearly to the muzzle, with gold wire on each side of the barrel address and above & below the caliber marking. Top of the backstrap is engraved with a beautiful flower blossom surround by foliate arabesque patterns & it has feather patterns on each side of the hammer slot. Butt strap and trigger bow are engraved to match. Bottom front of the frame is engraved in a sunburst foliate pattern. Accompanied by its original brown leatherette covered, purple velvet lined casing, recessed in the bottom for the revolver, a twisted wire handled bristle brush, a tiny turn screw and a covered compartment in the left front containing an empty box for Winchester 38 long Colt cartridges. Box has a red label with black lettering & a line drawing of a cartridge. Also accompanied by a large binder of information relating to this revolver, including a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in cal. .38 Colt, 6″ bbl, blue finish with ivory stocks, factory engraved w/ the inscription as found, with checkered straps & shipped to W. M. H. Hoegee Co. Los Angeles, CA. February 16, 1931 in a one gun shipment to Colt Factory order #19351. This revolver has been featured in numerous publications incl. pp. 290 & 316 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson; pp 472, The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. 1, Wilson; pp 548, The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. 2, Wilson; pp 372, Colt Engraving, Wilson; pp 215, Colt An American Legend, Wilson; pp 215, Colt Heritage, Wilson; pp 84, Colt/ Christie’s Rare and Historic Firearms. Nathaniel Rodney Webster (1878-1943) was the part owner of a meat packing company in Los Angeles and in 1925 became the Commissioner of Police for Los Angeles. In 1928 he was forced to resign over a scandal involving awarding beef contracts for the city to his own company. As of this writing it is not known if, in fact, Mr. Webster was ever tried for this misdemeanor. This revolver is one of the most significant Colt double actions to come to market in recent memory, being the only one of its type. PROVENANCE: Jerry Berger Collection; David S. Woloch Collection; Christie’s Firearms Auction Lot 57, Oct. 7, 1981 CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, remains new & unfired. Overall it retains 99% plus strong original factory blue w/ only faint muzzle & sharp edge wear. Hammer & trigger retain all of their original gold plating. Ejector rod head retains about all of its original case colors, a feature rarely ever found. Grips are sound w/ a few age lines on the bottom edges and retain a wonderful golden mellow patina. Mechanics were not checked, brilliant shiny bore. Case covering is crackled w/ nicks and scratches and retains a dark brown finish with a small scrape in the lid. Interior is original, crisp & bright with minor wear from the sights & hammer spur. Cartridge box is sound w/ faded label that has lightly chipped edges. A truly magnificent & original set suitable for the most discerning collector or museum. 4-38011 JR266 (50,000-70,000)
CASED INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS OF CONFEDERATE GENERAL R.L. WALKER. SN 63590 & 93754. Cal. 36. Wonderful pair of Navys that belonged to a genuine Civil War hero & patriot of the Confederacy. These revolvers have usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, dovetail front sights, one with Hartford address and the other with New York City address. One is a 3rd Model with small trigger guard and the other a 4th Model with large trigger guard. Both have silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip with the 4th Model having very highly figured walnut. They are identically engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe style with his trademark foliate arabesque patterns over the frames, bbl lugs, rammer pivots & back straps. Left side of the bbl lug on each is engraved with a most unusual man’s head with a pipe in his mouth, partially obscured by wedge screw. Tops of back straps have Mr. Young’s trademark fan with spider web pattern & engraved chip border. Left side of frames are engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in pillow shapes and sides of hammers are matching engraved with a dog’s head on each side of hammer noses. Back straps are inscribed “R.L. WALKER”. Butt straps & trigger guards are engraved in matching patterns. Accompanied by a fine orig, Colt, rosewood dbl casing not orig to this set. Although it is an orig Colt casing accompanying documentation shows that it was added in the 1960’s. Casing as noted, is of rosewood with a brass plaque in the lid and brass escutcheon for the mortised lock in front. Interior is lined in black velvet compartmented in the bottom for both revolvers, a dbl sided Navy sized eagle flask, a “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, a spare cylinder SN “69698”, two tins of Eley Bros. caps, a sealed packed of Sage Combustible cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver (with broken tip), a Dixon pewter oil bottle and a smaller Sykes pewter oil bottle and several spare parts, screws & nipples. Right rear compartment contains bullets & balls. This fine set was the property of Brig. Gen. Ruben Lindsey Walker of the Confederate Army. He was born in Virginia in 1828 and educated at the Virginia Military Institute as an engineer. Upon graduation he pursued a career of Civil Engineering and later farming. At the outbreak of hostilities Mr. Walker enlisted as a Captain in the Purcell Battery of Artillery of the Confederacy. In March 1862 he was promoted to Major and served as Chief of Artillery for Gen. A.P. Hill’s division. On July 3, 1862 he was promoted to Lt. Colonel and assigned to Gen. Robert E. Lee’s staff as his artillery officer. He was then promoted to Colonel on March 14, 1863. At Gettysburg, July 1-3, 1863, he was Chief of Artillery for the 3rd Corps and according to reports acquitted himself and his command extremely well. On March 1, 1865 he was promoted to Brig. General of Artillery. Gen. Walker fought throughout the entire Civil War, engaging in at least sixty-three major battles & engagements and was never wounded. Gen. Walker was, by all reports, an imposing and dashing figure being 6’4″ tall with long black hair, large black mustache & beard. After the war Gen. Walker returned to his engineering profession and in 1884 was Superintendent of Construction of the Texas State Capitol building, finishing the project in 1888. He died in June 1890. These revolvers are accompanied by a very large volume of research material, photographs and Gen. Walker’s military record. Among the correspondence, included are several letters between the apparent owner of this set at the time, S.P. Stevens of San Antonio, TX, and Arnold Marcus Chernoff, who had previously owned this pair. Another letter dated Nov. 1961 from Carlos Crister of Phoenix, AZ to Mr. Stevens acknowledging that he had previously owned them also. Also accompanying is a copy of a 2-page hand written from Charles W. Vogel of Phoenix, AZ wherein he states that he had sold these revolvers to Mr. Crister in 1955. He further states that he had purchased them from Walter Hastings, an old time gun collector from Michigan. He states that Mr. Hastings was collecting guns before he (Mr. Vogel) was born and that Mr. Hastings was now near 80 years old. Additionally accompanying is a copy of another letter dated Nov. 1961, Apache Junction, AZ from a Mr. Walter A. Hastings to Mr. Stevens wherein he states that he had purchased this pair from a Mr. Fred Dustin who ran a “second hand shop” in Bay City, Michigan. He further states that “about ten years ago” he sold them to Mr. Charles Vogel of Phoenix, AZ. Apparently sometime afterward these revolvers were separated by a subsequent owner and Mr. Stevens was responsible for reuniting them. Additionally accompanying is a photograph of Mr. Stevens and Mrs. Lindsay Hay Masiello, Gen. Walker’s great-granddaughter holding the cased revolvers and Mr. Stevens holding Gen. Walker’s saber that remained in the family. Another photograph is of Mrs. Masiello holding one of the revolvers in her left hand and the case with the other revolver in the other hand. Additionally accompanying are two frames containing the reprint of an article regarding these revolvers and Gen. Walker that appeared in the Texas Gun Collectors Association pamphlet from a 1960’s San Antonio meeting. PROVENANCE: S.P. Stevens; Carlos Crister; Arnold Marcus Chernoff; Walter A. Hastings; Fred Dustin; Charles Vogel. CONDITION: Number “63590” is fine to very fine, all matching including wedge, grip was not checked. Bbl retains a thin blue/brown patina, having been cleaned, with traces of orig blue in most sheltered areas. Rammer handle retains strong colors on pivot. Frame & hammer are sharp and retain most of their orig case hardening with light colors in sheltered areas. Cylinder is a gray metal patina and retains most of its hand enhanced Ormsby Naval battle scene with all six safety pins crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain 40-50% orig silver with balance a medium to dark mustard patina. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy wear and retains most of an old restored finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Number “93754” is equally fine, all matching including the wedge, grip was not checked. Bbl retains about 30% thin orig blue with balance a blue/gray patina. Rammer handle retains dark case colors. Frame & hammer also retain dark case colors with hammer nose slightly battered. Cylinder is a gray metal patina with some scattered nicks & dings and pitting on the front face and retains 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 60% orig silver plating. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains 70-75% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong dark bore. Wedge has a broken spring. Case has a crack and a few grain checks in bottom and is missing the left rear corner filler, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with moderate to heavy soil in the bottom, otherwise is completely intact with all partitions solid. There is moderate damage from front sights & hammer spurs. Flask is fine with a dent in one side and retains 60-70% orig finish. Spare cylinder is fine, being a blue/brown patina and retains about 80% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Mold is very fine with a few minor dents & dings and retains most of its thin orig blue. Cartridge packet is crisp. Nipple wrench has a broken screwdriver tip, otherwise is fine. Oil bottles are fine. One cap tin is sealed, complete & orig and retains about 75-80% orig paper wrapping. Label is completely intact. Parts, screws & nipples are mostly brown patina. This is an exceptional set from a gallant & patriotic Confederate officer who served his cause extremely well. 4-37730 JR176 (25,000-40,000)
FINE AFTER-MARKET ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 138129. Cal. 44 WCF. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly thinned front sight with 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 1-pc checkered ivory grip made with two ivory panels glued to wood blocks on interior. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are after-market engraved in Cuno Helfricht style with nearly full coverage on the frame consisting of sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with his trademark sunburst on recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap of the frame has snake & dot patterns. Bbl has extensive foliate arabesque patterns with a snake & ball pattern on each side. Top of bbl has straight line borders around address which terminates toward muzzle in a Moorish pattern. There are two narrow gold bands inlaid around the muzzle and a wider gold band at the chamber end. Ejector rod housing, which is second type, is engraved with snake & dot pattern in the gullet, a scalloped border at top of radius and a sparse arabesque pattern in the center. Cylinder is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with a small sunburst at rear of each flute. Rear edge of cylinder has a narrow gold band inlay with a swag & dot border pattern. Top of back strap has a fan pattern reminiscent of Mr. Helfricht’s work with foliate arabesque & Moorish patterns down the back strap. Butt strap & trigger bow are engraved to match. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall retains about all of its fine custom finish, appears to be unfired since engraving. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-36351 JR111 (2,500-3,500)
EXTRAORDINARY DELUXE ROSEWOOD CASED & DELUXE GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT PRESENTATION GRADE MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 67506. Cal. 31. Outstanding blue & case colored pocket model with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” in place of bbl address. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and silver plated trigger guard & backstrap mounted with deluxe presentation grade 1-pc walnut grip. This fantastic revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s most elaborate & beautiful intertwining sweeping foliate & arabesque patterns with some of the scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Bbl lug & rammer pivot are equally beautifully engraved with fine border patterns around the muzzle. Hammer is deluxe coverage engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Top of backstrap has a deep engraved fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel of backstrap with matching patterns on butt strap & trigger bow. Shoulders of trigger guard & backstrap are beautifully engraved with sunburst patterns. Accompanied by its orig deluxe presentation rosewood casing with gilded brass reinforcements on corners, a blank plate in lid with an elaborate lock escutcheon on front. Interior is most beautifully lined with green & burgundy velvet, French fitted in bottom for revolver and its orig brass & ebony cleaning rod with concealed worm, which fits in the bore. Right rear corner has a compartment for the most rare spare matching numbered 5-shot cylinder, with other fitted recesses for a single sided “COLTS PATENT”, “E PLURIBUS UNUM” flask, a silver plated brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an extremely rare silver plated brass loading tool with concealed worm and an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver. There are two covered compartments in front that have mushroom shaped ivory knobs. This fantastic set was purchased by renowned English dealer Pete Holder in 1990 from a gentleman by the name of James Millard of the Henry Monk Gunmakers, Queen Street in Chester, England, who stated that he had owned it since about 1960. He also stated that it had been owned since the 1940’s by Millard’s grandfather who was the owner of Joseph Braddell & Son, Gunmakers in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It reportedly came into his Grandfathers possession from a member of the Belfast Water Commissioners who was given the set when the Belfast Water Commissioners’ Office was closed and its contents distributed amongst the management. These statements are supported by a hand written letter on Henry Monk letterhead, dated 8-3-1990, over the signature of James Millard, wherein he details the above information. This wonderful revolver was the center spread, the Roll of Honor, in the Sept/Oct 1989 issue of Man at Arms magazine, a copy of which accompanies this lot. This beautiful cased Colt was exhibited at the “Colt: The Legacy of a Legend” exhibition held at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, Cody Firearms Museum, Cody, Wyoming in 2003. In addition to the above mentioned magazine publication, this fabulous revolver, case & accessories were featured in full color on pp. 86&87 of The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I, Wilson. This set was also featured as Item 14 on p. 247 of Colt’s Pocket ’49 It’s Evolution, Jordan & Watt. The latter reference states that it is the only known set with the cleaning rod in the muzzle. That this set was intended as a presentation to some high official there can be no doubt given the deluxe plus engraving and extraordinary casing. This is truly a one of a kind in exceptional unused condition. PROVENANCE: Pete Holder Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge & both cylinders (grip was not checked). Revolver & both cylinders retain about all of their fine orig factory finish with glossy bright blue on bbl & cylinders with minor flaking on bbl & one cylinder. Both cylinders retain all five safety pins. Rammer, frame & hammer retain about all of their strong orig case colors and grip frame about all of its strong orig silver plating, slightly thinned on trigger plate. Grip is sound with a couple of very minor nicks in the edges and overall retains about all of its bright piano varnish finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Casing has usual lightstorage & handling nicks & scratches with gilding losses on reinforcing corners and overall retains most of its orig factory varnish. Burgundy velvet trim on interior is moderately faded with light soil, with the green velvet extremely fine. Flask retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with some slight thinning on edges. Mold has a few light dents & dings but appears unused. Silver plates ball starter has a small repair near tip. Other accessories are extremely fine. Cleaning rod has a paint crack in the head. 4-36408 JR87 (90,000-160,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 192031. Cal. 31. Blue & case colored with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York address. It has 6-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and “COLTS PATENT” on left front side of frame. It also has silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script & block letters “Capt. Jacob Lenhart Jr. Co, A, 3d Regt P.R.V.C.”. Accompanied by copies of several documents which reveal that Company A of the 3rd Regiment Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps was mustered into service July 28th 1861 and mustered out June 17, 1864. During that time this unit saw service and fought in most of the major battles except Gettysburg. Some of the more notable battles were Manassas, Gaines Mill, Malvern Hill, Gainsville, Bull Run, South Mountain, Fredericksburg and the Battle of Cloyd’s Mountain, Tennessee on May 9, 1864 in which Capt. Lenhart was wounded. He survived his wound and was mustered out with his regiment in June 1864. During this entire term of service Capt. Lenhart was the commander of this company, obviously a brave & respected soldier. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl & rammer handle retain traces of orig finish being mostly a cleaned light patina. Cylinder retains 50-60% blue and about 70% stagecoach holdup scene, possibly cold blued. Frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, strong & bright on left side, somewhat more faded on right. Trigger guard & back strap retain minor amounts of orig silver plating, being mostly a dark mustard patina. Grip is sound showing edge wear and light nicks & scratches and retains 88-90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with good shine and scattered light pitting. 4-36287 JR10 (3,500-5,000)
Title Should Read: EXTRAORDINARILY RARE PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, THE EARLIEST KNOWN FACTORY ORDERED AND ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION “THE 1876 CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION COLT”.
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE PANEL SCENE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, THE EARLIEST KNOWN ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION “THE 1876 CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION COLT”. SN 8928. Cal. 45 Colt. Extraordinary single action with nickel finish, 7-1/2” bbl, script 1-line address with serifs at each end. Frame has 2-line patent dates on left side and is mounted with extraordinarily rare diamond checkered 2-pc walnut grips. Fitted with Type I ejector rod housing and bulls eye ejector rod head. Serial numbers on frame, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by a small “E”. The complete serial number is found on bottom of bbl under ejector rod housing and last two digits of serial number are stamped in the inside radius at rear of ejector rod housing. Cylinder has complete serial number in a shallow arc in a panel on outside radius at rear edge of one of the flutes. The entire revolver is spectacularly engraved, probably by Herman Ulrich. A Colt Lightning rifle in a museum in Canada is engraved nearly identical to this revolver and is signed Herman Ulrich, however others have attributed the engraving to Cuno Helfricht. It is embellished with astounding delicately intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with 75-80% coverage over the entire revolver. Frame has full coverage with panel scenes on each side consisting of a wolf standing over its deer kill with very fine detailed background scenery. Right side panel depicts a large grizzly bear at bay with a mountain scene in the background. Both panels are surrounded by the aforementioned fine foliate arabesque patterns. Recoil shield & loading gate have flower blossom panels surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and top strap is engraved to match with smaller flower panels surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns terminating in triangular shaped spider web patterns at front ends. Both sides of front frame have matching flower panels with geometric designs over the base pin radius and ejector rod housing radius. Bottom gullets of front part of frame are simply very finely stippled with punch dot background leaving an untouched border and untouched round dots creating a beautiful foil to the engraving. Cylinder is equally spectacularly engraved with full coverage except for the flutes with matching delicate foliate arabesque patterns and a fine shaded diamond border at the rear edge. Bbl & ejector rod housing are also richly engraved to match with matching flower blossom panels on each side of bbl. Muzzle is engraved with three bands, two of which are shaded chip engraving and the center a very unusual dot pattern. Top of backstrap depicts a creeping panther surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns which extend completely down back strap with cross-hatched oval panels at top & bottom. Butt strap, front strap, trigger bow, trigger plate & bottom of frame are engraved to match with very detailed scallop shells around the serial numbers on trigger guard & frame. Front edge of frame is also engraved to match and there is a flower blossom around the base pin hole. All of the engraving has an extraordinarily fine punch dot matted background. Bulls eye ejector rod head has a diamond border around its circumference and the hammer has full coverage engraving on the sides, rear & top edges with extremely elaborate wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose and an extended hand-checkered spur. Screws are all fire blued with front trigger guard screw slightly battered. This revolver is pictured & described on pp 132-139 in Fine Colts the Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. Accompanied by a copy of two pages from the Henry Folsom & Co. of St. Louis ledger dated Oct. 15, 1877 to H.D. Folsom, New York, NY, which lists this revolver near the top, as found, with ivory grips and the cost as $36.60 which is the third most expensive single action on the inventory. There is a total of five single actions listed with three of them bearing earlier serial numbers – number 8925, 8926 & 8927 but apparently these three earlier items are not known today. On the bottom of the second page is a notation dated -?-?- 7 77 “Colt’s Pat Fire Arms Co”. “We sent these guns to you by boat this day. They attracted a great deal of attention at the Exposition and in Berlin they have been a grand advertisement. Please chg to us the frt on the next bill to us. Thanking you for the use of these goods -?-?- “ and signed H.D. Folsom. In addition there is a grouping of material from the 1876 International Exposition (World’s Fair). This material consists of an orig Centennial portfolio in book form that is 11” x 7-1/4” x about 1” thick; a 25 cent “Authorized Visitor’s Guide to the Centennial Exhibition and Philadelphia 1876” and is touted as “The only guide book sold on the exhibition grounds”; there is also a smaller burgundy, white & gold “Centennial Pocket Album” as embossed on front cover with back cover embossed “1776” / “1876”; additionally there is an International Exhibition package ticket with the dates “1776” and “1876” in top corners and overstamped “Fifty Cents”. It is also serial numbered; there is also a scarf from the exhibition that is marked “Exhibition / Fairmount Park / Philadelphia / 1776 1876” with other writing that is inside the folded scarf which was not unwrapped and in addition, this grouping contains two Philadelphia 1876 medallions; one is 2-7/8” diameter x 3/8” thick and the other 2-1/16” diameter x 1/8” thick. Also accompanying is a National Rifle Association of America Silver Medal No. 114 and a small plaque indicating a “Ten Best Arms Award 1998”. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in 45 caliber, bbl length not listed with nickel finish, ivory stocks and factory engraved. It was shipped to the H & D Folsom Arms Company, New York, NY on Feb. 12, 1878 in a shipment of two same type guns. Under remarks section there are also two other shipments listed, one showing it with a 7-1/2” bbl and wood stocks, shipped to A.G. Spalding Brothers, New York, NY, April 30, 1897 in a one gun shipment and another entry to the same company with checkered wood stocks shipped on Sept. 12, 1897 in a one gun shipment. In addition it is accompanied by the July/August 1982 issue of Man at Arms magazine which contains a 4-page article by noted author, historian R.L. Wilson on pp. 31-34 which gives a history of some of the Colt Exhibit arms from the 1876 World Expo, including this famous revolver, wherein he states that this is the earliest known factory engraved single action. The two center pages of the magazine illustrate this revolver in great detail in full color. Mr. Wilson explains that due to “gaps in the factory ledgers, the initial shipments of 8928E for the Centennial Exhibition of 1876 and to H&D Folsom for the 1877 St. Louis showing have not been located.” He also says that it is likely that this revolver was shipped any number of other times that are not recorded. And, finally accompanied by its spectacular exhibition case that was undoubtedly created by Arno Werner with fine blue leather covering with gold embossed borders on lid, inside which is embossed in gold “COLT’S ARMY .45 SERIAL NO. 8928 / FACTORY SHOW PIECE / OF THE / PHILADELPHIA CENTENNIAL / AND OTHER EXHIBITIONS / THE EARLIEST KNOWN / FACTORY DOCUMENTED / ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION”. Interior is lined in blue velvet with a leather covered hinge and French fitted bottom with a leather plaque embossed with the identical inscription as on the lid. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine and original. Overall retains all of its orig factory nickel finish with only a small ding on front sight and another adjacent on muzzle. Left grip has a few minor chipped diamonds in one small spot, otherwise retains about all of its orig factory finish showing light diamond point wear with a few minor scratches on bottom edges. Hammer is not solid in the safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a loose right front corner in its bottom and a loose left front corner in the lid, otherwise it is sound showing minimal wear on the exterior. Interior is exceptionally fine. 4-36439 JR81 (350,000-600,000)
EXTREMELY RARE EARLY CASED ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP REVOLVER WITH EJECTOR ROD. SN 766. Cal. 22 Short. Tiny brass frame revolver with extremely rare 2-7/8″ rnd bbl, missing front sight with 7-shot rnd cylinder & brass frame with 2-pc pearl bird head grips. Bbl has 2-line Hartford address with the 2nd type flat firing pin on hammer nose and high hammer spur. Revolver has about 60% coverage fine New York style Nimschke engraving with foliate arabesque patterns and punch dot background. Both front sides of frame, ejector rod housing and cylinder pin housing with matching patterns behind hammer slot have fine feather patterns. Top of back strap has Nimschke’s sunburst pattern. Ejector rod is missing. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing with a silver, scalloped-edge plate in lid and compartmented in bottom with French fitted form for revolver and a cartridge block with holes for 28 cartridges. Accompanied also by a functioning key. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only a few hundred of this model revolver was manufactured with 2-7/8″ bbl & ejector rod and of that number only a very few, probably ten or fewer, are known with Nimschke engraving. As of the writing of this book the authors had never seen an American cased long barreled open top. CONDITION: Revolver is fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. No orig finish remains having been cleaned to a light gray metal patina on bbl & cylinder with a medium mustard patina on brass frame. Right grip has a repaired crack through escutcheon, otherwise grips are fine with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Case is very fine with a couple of minor grain checks in lid and usual light handling & storage nicks & scratches. Interior is lightly faded with minor soil in bottom from cylinder & grip. Altogether a beautiful and rare set suitable to fill a hole in anyone’s collection. 4-37303 JR37 (5,000-8,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY FACTORY-ENGRAVED PRESENTATION EXHIBITION QUALITY COLT SHOOTING MASTER DA REVOLVER. SN 328185. Cal. 38 Spcl. Extraordinary presentation revolver w/blue finish, 6″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front & rear sights and mounted w/silver medallion, factory ivory grips w/relief-carved bull’s head on the right side. Front strap, back strap and trigger are beautifully checkered. This revolver has exceptional, nearly full coverage, far beyond normal “D” coverage engraving, consisting of foliate, floral and vine patterns w/extremely fine punch dot background, probably from the hand of Colt Master Engraver Wilbur Glahn. Left side plate is inscribed as part of the engraving patterns “EJL” over a small panel inscribed “FROM FITZ” mounted w/Colt medallion carved ivory grips. This exact revolver is pictured on page 587 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume Two, Wilson. Accompanied by an orig hinged-lid dark burgundy box marked on the top, in stylized lettering, “COLT” over “Shooting Master”. Interior has the same markings w/the addition of “Caliber .38 Special”. It also has the serial number of another revolver, #338567 inside the lid and in the bottom. Also accompanied by a binder of information regarding this revolver including a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver in cal. 38 spcl., 6″ bbl, blue finish, type of stock is not listed, factory engraved and shipped to J.H. Fitzgerald at the Colt Patent Firearms Mfg. Co., Hartford, CT on April 27, 1931 in a shipment of two same type firearms. Bottom of the letter has a “note” which states that the inscription on the left side is as found. It also states that special work was performed on order #19226/2. And further that “Mr. Fitzgerald was a well known Colt employee and ballistic expert during this period. The initials “EJL” are the initials of E. J. Langrish who was a Captain with the Hartford Police Department in the 1930’s. Capt. Langrish is the police officer depicted, in uniform, demonstrating correct shooting position and grip in the Colt “Shooting Guide” that was placed in all factory handgun boxes during that time period. Capt. Langrish is also credited w/the invention of a “limbless” silhouette target. Mr. Fitzgerald was a Colt employee of considerable renown as a ballistics expert and target shooter. He worked extensively w/law enforcement agencies in developing new firearms more suitable to their needs and regularly attended Camp Perry National matches where he performed fine, custom work for the handgun participants. He is also credited w/the adaptation of revolvers and semi-autos to “Fitz Specials” wherein he bobbed the hammers on revolvers and cut away the fronts of the trigger guards for ease of access, in addition to honing the actions for smooth operation. “Fitz Specials” are a desirable and sought-after collector’s item today. Mr. R. L. Wilson, noted Colt authority, historian and author has estimated that there were less than 10 factory-engraved Shooting Master revolvers ever made and that probably about a handful are all that survive today. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, has been fired but very little. Overall retains about 99% strong bright orig factory blue w/only the most faint muzzle and sharp edge wear. Grips, while probably not orig to this revolver, are sound showing no wear and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp and smooth. Brilliant shiny bore. Box is extremely fine w/only 2 or 3 small chips in the finish and a couple of small tears and wear in the bottom. 4-38008 JR264 (50,000-70,000)
JOHN S. MOSBY PRESENTATION C.S.A COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 142683. Cal.36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. It has “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame and caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. It has brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “To J.S. Mosby from R.H.D.” and butt strap is inscribed in matching script “Welbourne”. John Singleton Mosby was born in Virginia in 1833, educated locally and in 1849 entered the Univ. of Virginia. In 1852 he was expelled for shooting another student, a bully, who had insulted him. He was convicted of the crime and was sentenced to one year in jail and a $500 fine. He was pardoned by the Governor and the fine rescinded. At the outbreak of the Civil War he joined the Confederate Army as a private even though he was opposed to secession. He later stated that he fought for Virginia, not for slavery. In his early career he rode with the Washington Mounted Rifles but was recognized for his intelligence gathering abilities and in early 1862 was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and was authorized to form & command the 43rd Battallion, 1st Virginia Cavalry, Partisan Rangers. He was promoted to Captain and then Major in March 1863, to Lt. Colonel in January 1864 and Colonel in December 1864. His command was notorious for their lightning-like & stealthy raids on Union supply trains and encampments. He was known by one & all as the “Grey Ghost”. At the end of the war he did not surrender his command but simply disbanded them. After the war he became a staunch Republican and worked on Gen. Grant’s campaign for president and subsequently was appointed Consul to Hong Kong 1878-1885. He served in numerous other government & state positions throughout the remainder of his career and died in 1916. The initials in the presentation on back strap of this revolver, “RHD”, are for Richard Henry Dulany (1820-1906), also a Virginian and cavalryman for the Confederacy. The Dulanys are a very old and venerated Virginia family and members of the wealthy Virginia aristocracy having arrived from Ireland in 1703. The Dulany ancestral home is called “Welbourne” and remains in the Dulany Family today as a public Bed & Breakfast Inn. In July 1861 Richard H. Dulany personally equipped a company of mounted riflemen, the Dulany Troop. Col. Mosby and Dulany were apparently friends during the war with recorded instances of Mosby & his troops resting & recuperating at Welbourne. Richard Dulany was originally a Captain in the 7th Virginia Cavalry in command of the Dulany Troop then was appointed Lt. Colonel in October 1862 and Colonel in October 1864. He was wounded on three separate occasions and survived numerous campaigns & battles including Jackson’s Valley Campaign, Cedar Mountain, Second Manassas, Antietam, Wilderness Campaign, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor & several others. Accompanied by a packet of information regarding Col. Dulany including copies of his military record and copies of several photographs of Col. Mosby both in and out of uniform and with his family. Also included is the book The Dulanys of Welbourne, A Family in Mosby’s Confederacy, Vogtsberger, which consists primarily of letters between Col. Dulany and his family. Col. John Mosby was one of the most famous and enigmatic characters of the Civil War. Due to his unpredictability and daring & dashing raids against the Union troops his capture and/or death was greatly pursued by the Union. This cataloguer recalls reading somewhere that there was, unusually for a military person, a substantial reward offered for his capture or proof of his death. Apparently his continuing raids and the inability of the Union to capture him was greatly demoralizing to the Union Army in that area. Mosby supposedly preferred the 1851 Navy to all other hand guns. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except wedge which is numbered “20364” and the rammer handle which is numbered “2688”. (Grip was not checked.) Bbl & frame retain a gray/brown patina with traces of blue in most sheltered areas of bbl. Rammer handle is also a gray patina with traces of case colors in sheltered areas. Grip frame is an even light mustard patina, having been cleaned & polished in the past, now beginning to regain a patina. Grip is sound showing heavy edge wear with nicks, dings & scratches and retains about 50-60% orig varnish. Cylinder is a matching patina to the frame and retains about 60% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-37697 (15,000-25,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NEW FRONTIER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 03893NF. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2″ bbl, ramp front sight, flat top frame with adjustable rear sight. Bbl has usual markings with 1-line block letter address and left side marked “COLT NEW FRONTIER S.A.A. .45”. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with a rampant Colt without circle. Serial number was observed on frame and on left sides of front & back straps under the grip with four digits of serial number around cylinder bushing hole. Mounted with orig type 2nd generation rampant Colt/Eagle hard rubber grips. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap, butt strap, trigger guard & ejector rod housing are very beautifully factory engraved in flowing foliate & floral arabesque patterns in D+ coverage. Left side of front strap, under grip, is stamped “COLT ENG.”. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found with type of stocks not listed and factory class “D” standard level scroll engraving, furnished with a presentation case & shipped to John’s Sporting Goods, Canton, OH on July 21, 1980 in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching except grips which are replacements. Overall retains virtually all of its strong orig factory finish with bright blue & crisp case colors, brilliant in frame gullets. Grips are fine. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36338 JR118 (3,000-5,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED INVENTOR DOUBLE PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 91967. Cal. 31. This is an extraordinary Gustave Young engraved double presentation Model 1849 pocket revolver with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” on top flat in place of bbl address. It has 5-shot cylinder and silver plated small guard trigger guard and back strap containing a deluxe select grain, piano varnish finished walnut grip. Revolver has Mr. Young’s deluxe No. 2 engraving with extra flourishes. Engraving consists of full coverage on the frame of his beautiful sweeping foliate arabesque patterns, some of which terminate in flower blossoms. “COLTS PATENT” is hand engraved on left side of frame in a kidney shaped panel. Bbl lug & rammer pivot are engraved to match with a most unusual detail incorporated into the patterns on left side. This feature is a man’s head with goat’s horns and a pipe in his mouth. Hammer has matching deluxe engraving with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and hand cut checkered hammer spur. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s distinctive fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel with matching engraving on butt strap & trigger guard. Center of back strap bears the inscription in script “From Inventor to / Marshfield Fair / August 1854”. All screw heads are engraved which feature is only found on Mr. Young’s most deluxe & special presentation pieces. Samuel Colt, in addition to being a prolific inventor, was also an extremely astute business man and during his lifetime as the head of the Colt Manufacturing Empire made innumerable presentations to mostly military officers, highly placed political figures and personal friends who could possibly further his business interests. These presentations ranged from simple standard arms with simple presentations to deluxe engraved and presentation cased inscribed pieces. Very few (probably only two) are known with organizational presentations. This beautiful piece is accompanied by its orig deluxe rosewood casing with brass plaque in the top inscribed in period script identically to the inscription on back strap. It has a chip & dot engraved border and appears to have been engraved by the same hand, probably Gustave Young himself. Case has a mortised brass lock with burgundy velvet lining, compartmented in the bottom for revolver and an unusual “COLTS PATENT” “E PLURIBUS UNUM” eagle & shield flask with silver plated collar & spout. Flask compartment is somewhat unusual in that the compartment is shorter than the flask and has a notch in the center partition wherein rests the spout. Also accompanied by a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter that has the extremely unusual feature of heavily silver plated handles. Right rear corner contains an empty Eley’s cap tin. Left front compartment contains a very highly polished blued, L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges. Front center compartment also contains an orig wire cleaning rod with slotted tip. Bottom of case is covered in faded purple oil cloth. Additionally accompanied by a 6-page letter from renowned author and historian, R.L. Wilson, describing this wonderful cased set, which appears on p. 64 of the book Colt Engraving, Wilson, and is described on pp. 94-95 of The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I, Wilson, without photograph as no suitable photograph was available at that time. It is also pictured & described in Vol. II of the book Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl retains about 98% glossy orig factory blue with only very fine sharp edge wear. Rammer handle & pivot retain dark case colors turning silver on handle. Frame & hammer retain about all their orig case colors turned dark, brighter in sheltered areas. Cylinder retains 75-80% thinning orig blue with three of the five safety pins present and 96-97% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a very few, very minor slight mars in the finish and retains virtually all of its brilliant hand rubbed piano varnish finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is exceptionally fine with only a few minor handling & storage scratches & mars with the presentation plaque & lock escutcheon retaining most of their orig finish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil and minor damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is very find, retaining most of its orig finish with some slight silver loss on collar & spout. The unusual mold has a few minor dents & dings on top, bottom & sides and retains most of its orig silver plating on handles. Cap tin label is moderately faded with some foxing. Cartridge packet is extremely fine and the nipple wrench/screwdriver is extremely fine, retaining most of its orig bright fire blue. 4-36410 JR89 (60,000-100,000)
SCARCE CONFEDERATE PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 205346. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York address. Left side of frame is marked with “COLTS PATENT” and it has a large brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “To: John G. Walker / From: Henry H. Sibley, New-Orleans, 1863”. It has 6-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. A brief Google search disclosed that on Sept. 25, 1863 Maj. Gen. John George Walker, Provisional Army of the Confederate States, was the President of the Court’s Martial of Brig. Gen. H.H. Sibley, Provisional Army of the Confederate States. Gen. Sibley was accused & charged with three specifications of disobedience of orders and two specifications of “unofficer-like conduct”. He was found not guilty and acquitted. Apparently Gen. Sibley felt strongly enough that Gen. Walker had influenced the court in this decision and presented him with this Colt revolver. Gen. Walker was from Missouri, having grown up around St. Louis. He enlisted as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1846 and served with distinction in the Mexican War where he was breveted Captain at San Juan Des Los Llanos and was wounded at Molina Del Rey. He remained in the Army until 1861 when he resigned and enlisted in the Confederate Army as a Major of Cavalry. He served with the 8th Texas Cavalry and was promoted to Lt. Colonel and in August 1861 was transferred to the Dept. of North Carolina and in Sept. 1861 was promoted to Colonel. In Jan. 1862 he became a Brigadier General and in Nov. 1862 was promoted to Maj. General. He survived the war, having participated in several major campaigns & battles. Gen. Walker’s unit was known as Walker’s Greyhounds and spent most of their tenure during the Civil War in Louisiana and further west. After the war Gen. Walker fled to Mexico where he remained several years. After returning to the United States he served as U.S. Consul in Columbia and a Special Commissioner to the Pan-American convention. He died in Washington D.C. in 1893. Henry Hopkins Sibley was born May 25, 1816 at Natchitoches, LA and graduated West Point in 1838. He took part in the Florida Indian War and was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in 1840. He served against the Indians in other parts of the country and during the Mexican War was at the Siege of Vera Cruz and was breveted Major for gallant and meritorious conduct. He received a regular commission to Captain in Feb. 1847 and participated in all the succeeding battles of the Mexican War and remained on duty on the frontier until May 13, 1861, when he was commissioned Major. On the very same day he resigned and enlisted in Confederate Army as a Colonel. In June he was promoted to Brig. General and given charge of the Dept. of New Mexico. He led the Confederate advance into New Mexico but was without supplies and forced to retreat. He returned to Texas and later was assigned to the Trans-Mississippi Dept. After the war he traveled abroad and from 1869-1874 was a General of Artillery in the Egyptian Army. He died Aug. 1886. Gen. Sibley was known as the inventor of the Sibley Tent which was in use for many years in the U.S. Army. CONDITION: Good, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). No orig finish remains being an overall blue/gray patina with artificially aged bbl. Trigger guard & back strap retain traces of orig silver plating. Cylinder has fine pitting and retains 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy wear and retains 65-70% orig varnish. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-35940 JR45 (3,000-6,000)
EXTREMELY RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 THUNDERER DA REVOLVER. SN 39537. Cal. 41 Colt. Nickel finish with 6″ bbl, full front sight with 2-line address. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and the left rear web of the trigger guard is marked with the caliber. It is fitted with extraordinarily beautiful, smooth, 2-pc pearl grips. The frame, bbl & back strap are engraved with outstanding intertwined foliate arabesque patterns by L. D. Nimschke. The frame has just about full coverage with feather patterns over the top strap and matching pattern on the outside radius of the ejector rod housing. Both sides of the bbl, almost all the way to the muzzle, are equally engraved, all with fine punch-dot background. Top of the back strap, behind the hammer, has Nimschke’s fine peacock fan decorations and the back strap is engraved in zigzag Moorish patterns. Cylinder has matching foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and Moorish patterns in the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder has a fine zigzag border. Accompanied by a russet brown double-loop holster that is unmarked but is definitely of the period. It has a sewn back edge and toe. The edges of the holster have fine stamped patterns in 2 lines with a leaf pattern at the terminus by the trigger guard slot. The rivet at the top rear edge of the holster is missing. Also accompanied by a packet of information which includes a Colt factory letter listing this revolver as having been shipped “SOFT”, type of stocks is not listed, to Hartley & Graham, New York, New York, October 26, 1882, in a 2-gun shipment. Under remarks section the letter states that the word “SOFT” indicates that it was shipped for engraving outside the factory. Also included is a 2-page letter from Arnold Marcus Chernoff, dated December 10, 1977, addressed to Richard C. Marohn, M.D., stating that this is one of the finest engraved “LIGHTNING” revolvers known to exist. Additionally accompanying is an article from Issue Number 6, 1997, Man at Arms magazine by the late Richard C. Marohn, M.D., entitled “THE COLT MODEL 1877 DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER / A TWENTY-YEAR REVIEW 1877-1897”. This article deals primarily with production, quantities & dates. Additionally, there is a copy of an article from Issue Number 1, 2003, Man at Arms magazine by Herbert G. Houze which details the life and work of L. D. Nimschke. Additionally accompanying is another article by Dr. Marohn from the January / February 1983 issue of Man at Arms which deals with Colt Lightning grips. This exact revolver is pictured, in full color, on p. 250 of Colt Pistols, Wilson & Hable. PROVENANCE: Robert Hable Collection; Arnold Marcus Chernoff; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains 97-98% strong nickel finish with only slight losses around the muzzle, the balance remains bright & crisp. Fire blue on the back of the hammer and back of the trigger is bright with the top edge of the hammer and face of the trigger a soft gray patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Holster is very fine, showing light wear on the face with more wear and sweat staining on the back side. 4-36428 JR70 (40,000-70,000)
SPECTACULAR CASED, ENGRAVED, GOLD & NICKEL COLT MODEL 1878 FRONTIER DA REVOLVER PRESENTED TO CAPT. JACK CRAWFORD BY COLT FIREARMS. SN 233. Cal. 45 Colt. Extraordinary cuno Helfricht engraved Colt Model 1878 frontier DA revolver w/nickeled frame and gold-plated cylinder, mounted w/smooth 2-pc bird head pearl grips with a lanyard swivel in the butt. Engraving is undoubtedly from the Helfricht shop, probably by the master himself, with full coverage on the frame, consisting of foliate arabesque patters w/punch dot background and feather patters along the bottom front edges. Top strap and rear edge of the frame by the hammer slot are engraved w/snake and dot patterns which form an “X” on the panel behind the hammer w/four sets of four dots. Bbl is engraved in matching patterns w/a wavy border around the address and Moorish patterns toward the front sight. Ejector rod housing is also engraved in snake and dot patterns. Cyl is engraved w/alternating sunbursts and foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes w/a tight snake and dot pattern at the rear edge. Back strap is engraved in period script and block letters, “Presented to Capt Jack Crawford / by the Colts Patent Fire Arms Mfg. Co.” Back strap has a wavy line border which terminates in Moorish patterns at the swivel. Trigger guard is engraved in zig-zag Moorish patterns. Accompanied by its orig natural suede-covered presentation case w/royal purple velvet lining, recessed in the bottom for the revolver and a compartment for a 50-round cartridge box which contains an empty box for Winchester .45 cal. cartridges that has a green and black label w/a line drawing of an 1878 DA revolver w/the notation “FOR / COLT’S DOUBLE ACTION AND SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS”. It has orange band w/Colt’s and Winchester signatures. Top left corner inside the lid of the case has a black diagonally mounted ribbon embossed in gold “THIS HANDSOME COLTS REVOLVER WAS PRESENTED TO CAPT. JACK CRAWFORD, / “THE POET SCOUT” BY THE COLT’S PATENT FIRE ARMS MFG. CO., IT / BEING HIS FAVORITE MAKE OF REVOLVER, AND THE ONE HE RECOMMENDS / ABOVE ALL OTHERS FOR DURABILITY AND EFFECTIVE WORK.” Undoubtedly the folks at Colt intended for this presentation to become an effective advertisement for their company. Accompanied by a binder of information regarding Capt. Jack Crawford (1847-1917). Cap’n Jack was born John Wallace Crawford in Ireland in 1847 and immigrated w/his family to the United States in about 1854. His mother, Susan Wallace Crawford, was a direct descendant of Sir William Wallace, the famous Scottish chieftain who fought for the freedom of Scotland. His father was apparently an alcoholic coal miner in Pennsylvania. Early in the Civil War, Jack’s father enlisted in the Union army, forcing young Jack to work in the coal mines to support the family. As the war escalated, under-aged Jack attempted to also enlist, but was refused until finally being accepted in the Pennsylvania Regulars. He was wounded twice and while convalescing in a hospital near Philadelphia, one of the Catholic sister’s taught him to read and write. After the war, Jack returned to Pennsylvania and continued to support his family. In 1869 he married and fathered four children, three of whom survived.Cap’n Jack made his mother a death bed promise that he would never drink, a vow he kept throughout his life. Jack moved his family to New Mexico but continued his writing and story telling even becoming a newspaper reporter. The year 1875 found Cap’n Jack in Nebraska working as a journalist for several newspapers. He became enamored of the lure of the Black Hills gold strike and on a borrowed horse, made a trip into the Black Hills. After he arrived in Custer City, he was elected to the town council and continued his news reports and journalistic efforts to various newspapers about the Black Hills gold rush. In August 1875 he was appointed Captain of the newly formed Black Hills Ranger Militia. He became a military guide and scout and w/his flamboyant dress, manners and gift of poetry, became one of the region’s earliest celebrities. In July of 1876, just after the Custer massacre, Cap’n Jack was employed to carry dispatches to Gen Crook where he encountered Buffalo Bill Cody who was Gen Crook’s chief scout at the time. Buffalo Bill, in his autobiography, told of that meeting in which Cap’n Jack brought him a present of a bottle of whiskey, stating “I will say in passing, that I don’t believe there’s another scout in the west that would have brought a full bottle of whiskey 300 miles”. During that same meeting, Cap’n Jack gave Cody a letter from Gen Sheridan announcing that he was also appointed a scout. On August 24, 1876, Cap’n Jack replaced Buffalo Bill Cody as chief of scouts for the 5th Cavalry which was only three weeks after the murder of Wild Bill Hickok, his friend, in Deadwood. He scouted for Gen Crook and it was under that command when he would make his extraordinary, famous ride from the Battle of Slim Buttes, Northern Dakota Territory to Ft. Laramie, a distance of about 350 miles in four days. In the process, he killed two horses. Captain Jack Crawford was one of the historical giants of the emerging west who had the gift of poetry and writing and produced numerous poems, even writing an autobiography and book of poetry titled, The Poet Scout. He performed w/Buffalo Bill for a period of time. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver w/7-1/2″ bbl, nickel w/gold cyl, pearl stocks, factory engraved and shipped to Capt Jack Crawford, address unavailable on December 13, 1893 in a one-gun shipment. This revolver ranks amongst the finest, most historical firearms from the old west both in condition and historical importance. Cap’n Jack was a legend in his own time that survives today. PROVENANCE: Captain Jack Crawford; the Crawford family; Greg Martin; Mike Del Costello Collection; Fred Sweeney Collection. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, may have been fired but if so, very little. Overall retains about 98% strong, orig nickel w/a few very small, scattered spots of flaking. Screws, trigger and rear edge of hammer retain about all of their factory fire blue. Face of trigger is blue/gray patina. Cyl retains about 92-93% orig gold plating w/some minor pimpling. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore, may be unfired. Case is equally new w/one little tear in the lid covering and a few small nicks in the bottom w/very minor, light soil on the exterior. Interior is lightly soiled and retains its brilliant orig color. Cartridge box is very fine w/minor fading and a couple of water spots. An opportunity to own an exceptional piece of history. 4-38007 JR262 (175,000-225,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT DETECTIVE SPECIAL DA REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO HALL OF FAME TRAP SHOOTER RUDY ETCHEN. SN 457447. Cal. 38 Spcl. Beautiful and extremely rare, believed to be one of only two pre-WWII factory engraved Detective Specials. It has blue finish w/2″ rnd bbl, integral half moon front sight and notch in the top strap rear sight. Is mounted w/2-pc silver medallion factory pearl grips. The frame, bbl and cyl are very nicely engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about “B” coverage, consisting of foliate arabesque patterns w/fine punch dot background. Back strap is engraved in another hand “RUDY ETCHEN” which appears to be the work of Wolf & Klar of Ft. Worth, TX. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, in .38 cal. w/2″ bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraved grade “B” and shipped to Abercrombie & Fitch Co., New York, NY on July 17, 1939 in a one-gun shipment, on factory order 8519. This revolver is pictured in The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson on page 415. Also accompanying is a large packet of numerous magazine articles about Mr. Etchen’s shooting prowess in the trap shooting field that stretched from the 1930’s well into the 21st century. It also details his induction into the Trap Shooting Hall of Fame. Overall, he won 31 Grand American trophies. Mr. Etchen was a Naval aviator throughout WWII from 1941 until his discharge in 1946. Also accompanying are three hand-written letters from Mr. Etchen, two post-marked 1987 and one 1988 wherein he acknowledges ownership of this revolver. One of the letters to Mr. Tom Burns he states that this revolver was given to him by Ad & Plinky Topperwein, the world-famous Winchester shooting team, when he won his fourth North American Trap Shooting championship. In a note to Mr. Michael McHugh, he states that the Topperweins had the back strap engraving added in San Antonio. Also in the McHugh note, he states that when it was given to him it was in a Birdseye maple custom-made case lined w/blue velvet. In all three letters he reiterates that he regrets selling it in 1941 as he was leaving for the war zone, not expecting to return. Also accompanying are two of Mr. Etchen’s business cards and a bi-fold pamphlet from Winchester/Western advertising the Topperweins. The McHugh letter also contains a color photograph of Mr. Etchen w/an over/under shotgun on his arm and his bird dog in his baby blue 1957 Thunderbird. Additionally accompanied by a Colt dark burgundy hinged-lid box w/o labels. PROVENANCE: Ad & Plinky Topperwein; Rudy Etchen; David Buehn Collection; Tom Burns Collection; Micheal McHugh Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Overall retains 99% strong orig factory blue w/only faint muzzle and sharp edge wear. It may or may not have been fired since leaving the factory. Grips are also exceptionally fine w/great fire and color. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant shiny bore. Box is tattered w/broken edges and tape but appears to be complete. 4-38010 JR263 (12,500-17,500)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 45215. Cal. 36. Fine Colt Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. It has “COLTS PATENT” on the left side of the frame with most of “COLT” missing, from a light strike. It has scarce steel, large trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip. It has usual 6-shot cylinder with Ormsby naval battle scene. The back strap is engraved in period block letters “LT. COLONEL 2D REGT”. Presumably this was a revolver that was passed from the Lieutenant Colonel of whichever 2nd regiment this was to his successor. No additional information is known to this cataloger regarding this unusual inscription. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). No orig finish remains, being a dark attic brown patina with scattered fine pitting. Cylinder retains about 75% Ormsby naval battle scene. Tip of wedge spring is broken and the large end is battered. Grip is sound and retains 65-70% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-35923 JR55 (3,000-5,000)
*WONDERFUL AFTER MARKET HELFRICHT STYLE ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 263656. Cal. 32 WCF. Beautiful silver finish Bisley with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address, marked on left side “(BISLEY MODEL) 32 W.C.F.” Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with exceptional real pearl grips with raised carved steer head with ruby eyes on right side. Frame, cylinder, bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved in Cuno Helfricht style, probably from his shop with about 80% coverage on frame, fine sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with his trademark sunburst on left recoil shield & loading gate. Ejector rod housing radius on frame has a delicate flower blossom. Matching engraving patterns extend up sides of bbl nearly to the muzzle with simple line border around bbl address terminating in a Moorish pattern with dots. Top strap & ejector rod housing gullet are engraved with snake & dot pattern with a hunter star in center of the ejector rod housing and sunbursts at each end. Top of back strap shoulders are engraved with delicate fan patterns with foliate arabesque patterns on sides of back strap shoulders & trigger guard shoulders. Top & heel of back strap along with butt strap & trigger bow are engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns. Cylinder is engraved with matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with foliate patterns at rear of each flute. Entire revolver is beautifully & professionally after market silver plated. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 32-20 with 4-3/4″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed and shipped to K.L. Hart, Tucson, AZ on Feb. 21, 1905 in a shipment of three same type guns. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its strong silver plating with only a minor nick or two. Grips are exceptional with tremendous color & fire. Safety notch in hammer is not functional, otherwise mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with light scattered pitting, probably unfired since replating. 4-36355 JR113 (3,000-5,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & PROBABLY THE ONLY KNOWN CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1865 POCKET NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 16619. Cal. 36. Spectacular late vine style engraved with plain background, possibly by Gustave Young, this wonderful revolver has 4-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address with rolled “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame. Caliber marking is on left rear web of trigger guard. It has 5-shot rebated cylinder with rolled stagecoach holdup scene. It has silver plated large trigger guard & back strap with a most rare & extraordinary carved & checkered deluxe 1-pc walnut grip. Engraving consists of full coverage foliate arabesque vine patterns with the scroll on left recoil shield terminating in a blossom indicative of Gustave Young’s work. Bbl, bbl lug & rammer pivot are engraved to match as are the ends of the wedge. Hammer also has deluxe matching pattern engraving with a wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and shading on sides of hammer spur. Top of back strap & shoulders of back strap & trigger guard are engraved with a fan & patterns also reminiscent of Mr. Young’s later identified work. Back strap has matching foliate patterns at top & heel and on butt strap with matching patterns on trigger bow and frame. Serial numbers on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all accompanied by a small “E”. Back strap is engraved in period script “Presented to L.T. Pearson, Esq. / by Colt’s Pat. F.A. Mfg. Co. 17th July 1868. Accompanied by its orig Colt mahogany casing with black velvet lining, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a single sided eagle & shield E Pluribus Unum pocket size flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a cardboard box of Goldmark’s Percussion Caps. Right rear compartment contains bullets & balls. Also accompanying is a packet of “COLT’S CARTRIDGE WORKS” combustible cartridges. This fabulous cased set appeared as Lot 130 in the Oct. 8, 2002 James D. Julia Auction of the incredible collection of Thomas K. Hutchinson and was purchased by the consignor from that auction. Subsequent to that auction information has come to light which firmly establishes this pocket sized Navy caliber revolver as the Model of 1865. This information was presented in an article in the Summer 2004 The Rampant Colt magazine by John D. Breslin & Philip Boulton, a copy of which accompanies this lot. The same information was also presented at the April 2002 meeting of the American Society of Arms Collectors and was in a lengthy article in their bulletin #85, a copy of which also accompanies. Additionally accompanying is a 10-page letter from noted author, researcher & historian, R.L. Wilson regarding this revolver and its presentation. Mr. Wilson states that according to the articles by Mr. Breslin, this is the only known dated Model 1865 Pocket Navy. Mr. Wilson further states that the grips were carved by Charles J. Helfricht, father of renowned Colt Master Engraver Cuno A. Helfricht. The presentation to L.T. Pearson was an internal presentation within the factory to someone obviously of great importance to the company who was held in very high esteem. This cased set was formerly in the William M. Locke Collection and apparently was so highly regarded by him that it appears in the color section of the book of his collection. It is pictured as plate 103 in the book Samuel Colt Presents, Wilson. It also appears on p. 73 in the book Colt Presentations from the Factory Ledgers 1856-1869, Houze. Mr. Houze states that on p. 561 of Journal B is the notation “Friday July 17.1868. 1. 4-1/2 in. New Pkt Pistol Engraved & Carved Stock presented to L.T. Pearson.” Mr Houze, in his note below the journal entry states “L.T. Pearson retired as the Colt’s Company’s Chief Accountant & Auditor on July 15, 1868” and only seven other numbers of Colt management were paid a higher salary. A copy of Mr. Houze’s book accompanies this lot. The quality & condition of this rare presentation piece renders it suitable for the most advanced collection or museum exhibit. PROVENANCE: William M. Locke Collection; Thomas Hutchinson Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with some slight flaking on left side. Rammer handle & pivot retain strong case colors. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong orig case colors turning dark. Cylinder retains about 85-90% orig blue, stronger in rebated area with all five safety pins crisp. Cylinder also retains 96-98% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating, slightly thin on back strap. The fabulous grip is sound showing light wear with a few fine nicks & scratches. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a grain check in the lid and two more in the bottom, otherwise is sound with minor handling & storage nicks & scratches with a slight warp in the lid and overall retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with minor soil from the cylinder and heel of grip with light damage from front sight & hammer spur. Flask is very fine, retaining about 90% orig finish. Nipple wrench/screwdriver, cap box & packet of cartridges are extremely fine. 4-36409 JR95 (75,000-125,000)
SCARCE NICKEL FINISH PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 55100. Cal. 31. Rare early pocket model with nickel finish and 4″ bbl with brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City address with serifs. It has “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame and nickel plated trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Cylinder is 5-shot with stagecoack holdup scene. Left side of grip is inlaid with a kidney shaped silver plate secured with six silver pins which is engraved in period script & block letters “Presented to / HARRISON G. CLARK /Lieutenant of Police for / The District of Southwark / by his Friends Feb: 1853”. No information was readily available regarding Lt. Clark, however a quick Google search disclosed that there is a Southwark District of Philadelphia, PA and a Southwark District of London, England. The appearance of this revolver leads one to believe that it was the Philadelphia Southwark in which Lt. Clark served. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl & rammer retain about 95% strong nickel finish turning slightly milky. Cylinder retains 60-70% nickel finish and about 70% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame retains 65-70% strong nickel, thin on left side. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 95% nickel. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains 75-80% orig varnish. Presentation plate is oxidized silver. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-35962 JR48 (3,000-5,000)
EARLY NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S DA REVOLVER. SN 7364. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address and a fine, clear, etched panel “COLT D.A. 38” on the left side. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of the trigger guard has the caliber marking. It is mounted with smooth, 2-pc pearl grips. Last 3 digits of the serial number and a small “p” are on the bottom of the bbl under the base pin. The frame, bbl, back strap & trigger guard are very nicely engraved from the Nimschke shop with about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background and Moorish patterns incorporated into the engraving on both sides of the bbl. Left recoil shield has a beautifully engraved Mexican eagle, probably by the master himself. Top of the back strap has crossed ribbons in the shape of a Confederate flag with fine punch-dot background. Back strap & trigger guard have Moorish patterns. Cylinder has light foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and it has fire-blued screws, trigger & back edge of the hammer. Accompanied by copies of 3 articles from Man at Arms magazine: 1). From the January / February 1983 issue, entitled “GETTING A GRIP ON YOUR LIGHTNING” by Richard C. Marohn which deals with Lightning grips. 2). From the Number 6, 1997 issue, “THE COLT MODEL 1877 DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER / A TWENTY-YEAR REVIEW 1877-1897”, also by Dr. Marohn which deals with production numbers & dates of the Model 1877; and 3). From the Number 1, 2003 issue, an article by Herbert G. Houze dealing with the life & work of L. D. Nimschke. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig nickel on the frame & bbl with some flaking in the gullets on the front part of the frame, and some minor pimpling on the back strap. Cylinder retains 80-85% strong orig nickel with some flaking & discoloration in the flutes. Trigger retains 80-85% orig fire blue, thin & dull on the front, strong & bright on the back. rear edge of hammer retains most of its orig fire blue, slightly thinned on the top. Grips are outstanding with great fire & color. Timing needs attention, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-36429 JR71 (20,000-40,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY “C” ENGRAVED 1ST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 354901. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & case colored with 5-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight and wide sight notch. Top of bbl has 1-line block letter address and left side has the model & caliber markings. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a rampant Colt. Mounted with orig factory, medallion, 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved eagle & shield on right side. Engraving is “C” plus coverage consisting of wonderful, elaborate, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background over the entire frame & cylinder except for the flutes of cylinder. Engraving patterns extend over shoulders of trigger guard in the style of Wilbur Glahn and given the quality of this engraving there is no doubt that it was done by the master himself. The elaborate deep patterns extend over 95% of top half of bbl, in top gullet of ejector rod housing and on outer radius. Top of back strap, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are all engraved to match. Trigger is fire blued and frame screws are all nicely blued. Serial number was observed on right side of trigger guard & back strap, under grip and the last two digits of serial number are on rear face of cylinder between two chambers. Wilbur Glahn (1888-1951) was the primary factory engraver at Colt’s from about 1919 through about 1950, operating out of the factory through about 1923 and then as a private contractor until about 1950 when he became ill and couldn’t work any longer. Mr. Glahn’s engraving style & patterns are very distinctive and readily identifiable with his bold sweeping intertwined arabesque scrolls and full coverage on sides of frame which extend down over shoulders of trigger guard. This revolver is one of, if not the finest examples of his work and certainly one with the finest of condition, probably remaining unfired. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter stating that shipping records for this serial range have been lost but that their production book indicates that this revolver was manufactured on March 28, 1933 and sent to shipping room on May 16, 1933 and that it was engraved. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 99% plus orig factory finish with strong bright blue and crisp brilliant case colors. This revolver may have been fired but if so very little. Grips are crisp & clean with a couple of minor age lines and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. It would be virtually impossible to improve upon this revolver. 4-37659 JR24 (70,000-80,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 96685. Cal. 380 ACP. Blue finish with 3-3/4″ bbl and factory silver medallion pearl grips. Engraving consists of about 20% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background on frame & slide, probably from the shop of Wilbur Glahn. Both sides of frame around top edge of grip, thumb safety, toe of front strap and grip safety are all engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and there is a distinctive Glahn “V” at rear of frame. Slide has matching foliate arabesque patterns on both sides & top with a small pattern at rear end. Slide markings have a vine & leaf pattern on each side around the markings. Accompanied by its orig hinged lid dark maroon box with blue & white end label on bottom end and a black & white “HAMMERLESS” label on top edge. Inside box has two (one early & one late) owner’s pamphlets, a special instructions pamphlet, a shooting suggestions pamphlet and a proper ammunition pamphlet. Pistol has one orig 2-tone magazine with correct base plate markings. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol as found with blue finish, pearl stocks and “Level 3” engraving. It was shipped to Murta Appleton & Co., Philadelphia, PA on March 24, 1927 to Order No. 12066-3 in a shipment of two identical firearms at a cost of the astronomical sum for that day of $180.00. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. May have been fired but if so, very little. Slide is matching numbered to frame. Overall retains virtually all of its orig factory finish with only one spot of very slight sharp edge wear on each side at muzzle. Grips are fantastic with tremendous fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Box shows moderate to heavy edge wear but is completely intact. Labels are equally fine. 4-36280 JR77 (15,000-20,000)
EXTRAORDINARY PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER INSCRIBED BY GUSTAVE YOUNG. SN 111585. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” with “44 CAL” on left shoulder of trigger guard. Frame is 3-screw style with flat head hammer screw, not cut for shoulder stock. It has silver plated trigger guard and blued steel back strap containing a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip with last four digits of the serial number in the back strap channel. Back strap is inscribed by Gustave Young in period script “Brig. Genl R.O. Tyler / From Colt’s P.F.A. Mg. Co.”. This fine revolver has a few additional special features including a fine hand checkered panel on the ejector rod handle, hand enhanced Ormsby Naval battle scene & serial number on the cylinder and a beautiful hand cut knurled hammer spur in swallow-tail pattern with a single chevron containing seven small dots. This revolver is pictured in full color on p. 168 with description on p. 169 of The Colt Engraving Book Vol. I, Wilson. Robert Ogden Tyler (Dec. 1831-Dec. 1874) enlisted as a captain in May 1861 as an assistant Quartermaster. In Aug. 1861 he was promoted to Colonel in the artillery. Nov. 1862 he became a Brigadier General and in March 1865 became Brevette Major General, a promotion for “great gallantry at the Battle of Cold Harbor”. He was the Commander of Artillery in the Army of the Potomac and participated in a number of battles including the Peninsula Campaign, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville & Gettysburg. In 1864 he was assigned as the Commander of a Division of heavy artillery, turned infantry, during the Overland Campaign and was wounded at Cold Harbor. After recovering from his wounds he spent the remainder of the war in administrative duties. Gen. Tyler was mustered out in 1866 and recommissioned a Lt. Colonel in the regular Army as the Deputy Quartermaster General. This revolver most certainly was a gift from Samuel Colt in recognition of his gallant service. Inventor, entrepreneur and industrialist Samuel Colt was a master salesman above all else. He knew that the best kind of advertising he could employ to promote his firearms were the firearms themselves. Therefore, he handed out many finely engraved and inscribed guns with his name on them to anyone he thought to be a worthy recipient. He knew that samples placed in the hands of influential persons could do much to win public acclaim and acceptance for his products, particularly in the United States’ armed forces. After Colt’s death in early 1862, fewer presentations were made. Some still were and, as in the case of this fine example, they carried the company inscription instead of Sam Colt’s personal name. Brevet Maj.Gen. Tyler seems to have had some ties in Hartford, Connecticut where the Colt’s Patent Firearms Company was located. It may be that he was known to factory officials if not Samuel Colt himself. Brevet Major General Robert O. Tyler was born in Hunter, New York December 31, 1831. He was a nephew of Daniel Tyler, who also would serve as a general in the Civil War. He received an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York, and graduated 22nd in the Class of 1853. He received a brevet as a second lieutenant and was assigned to the artillery. Tyler served as an artilleryman in the Utah Territory during the Mormon disputes and was among the U.S. Army officers who signed a petition supporting the reappointment of the controversial Mormon leader Brigham Young as governor. During the April 1861 Bombardment of Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina, Tyler was part of a hastily assembled relief force that tried unsuccessfully to reinforce the garrison. He also helped to reopen communication with Baltimore, after the attack on the 6th Massachusetts regiment in that city on April 19, 1861. In September, he was appointed as the colonel of the 4th Connecticut Infantry. Tyler began training the men as artillerymen, and the regiment was eventually renamed the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery. The regiment served in the Peninsula Campaign, and Tyler commanded the siege train for the Army of the Potomac. On November 29, 1862, Tyler was promoted to brigadier general of U.S. Volunteers and assigned command of all the artillery in the “Center Grand Division” of the Army of the Potomac. His guns participated in the Battle of Fredericksburg, providing artillery support for the series of assaults on Confederate positions on Maryes Heights. Gen. Joseph Hooker assumed command of the Army of the Potomac and reorganized it, creating a formal Artillery Reserve under Tyler’s command. Tyler commanded the reserve during the battles of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, where many of his guns were used to help repel Confederate attacks on the Union positions at Cemetery Ridge and Cemetery Hill. His unit also helped repel the charging Confederates during Pickett’s Charge on July 3, 1863. (Tyler was disabled by sun stroke during part of the Gettysburg campaign) In early 1864, Tyler was assigned command of a division of infantry comprised entirely of heavy artillery regiments, which he led at the Spotsylvania in the Battle of Harris Farm, attached to II Corps. He then led a brigade at Cold Harbor where Tyler was badly wounded in the foot. This injry incapacitated him from any further field duty during the war. Following his recovery, Tyler served in a variety of administrative posts. At the close of the war, Tyler received the brevet rank of major general of U.S. Volunteers for “great gallantry at the Battle of Cold Harbor” on March 13, 1865. In 1866 he mustered out of volunteer service and was commissioned as a lieutenant colonel in the Regular Army, serving as deputy Quartermaster General. Tyler died in Boston, Massachusetts, at the age of 42 having suffered from his battlefield wounds. He is buried in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Before he died, he was able to complete his autobiography, the Memoir of Brevet Major-General Robert Ogden Tyler (Philadelphia: J.B. Lippincott, 1878). The Robert O. Tyler Post #50 of the Grand Army of the Republic in Hartford was named in his honor. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “401”. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with only slight muzzle edge wear on the left side and a few minor nicks & spots of discoloration. Rammer handle retains most of its orig factory case colors, brilliant on the pivot. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, strong & bright on sides of the frame, thinned & turning silver on the left recoil shield. Hammer is slightly pitted around the nose. Cylinder retains 75-80% orig factory blue, strong & bright in rebated area, somewhat dulled on raised area and retains about all of its fine hand-enhanced Ormsby Naval battle scene. All six safety pins are prominent. Trigger guard retains about 90% strong, lightly oxidized silver plating. Back strap & butt strap retain most of their orig factory blue, glossy & bright at top of back strap and butt strap, thinned in the middle of the back strap. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches, showing light wear and retains about all of its fine orig factory piano varnish finish. Grip is slightly proud on the front strap but fits perfectly elsewhere and is numbered to the revolver. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. 4-37752 (90,000-110,000)
*SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT 2ND GENERATION BUNTLINE SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 21659SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and case colored with 12″ bbl, tall thick front sight and 1-line address with model and caliber marking on the left side. Bottom of bbl, just forward of the base pin has the number BB2837. Left side of the frame has 2-line patent dates with a rampant Colt. Left side of the front and back straps under, the grip, has the serial number and the last 3 digits of the serial number are around the cylinder bushing hole on the front face. Rear face of the cylinder has a rampant Colt between 2 of the chambers. The grip is 1-pc ivory, made in the manner of originals, with a wood block between 2 ivory panels. Both sides of the grip have raised carved steer’s head. The frame, hammer & bbl are beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch-dot background. Frame has a gold wire border around each side and the bbl has a gold band at the frame end with 3 Moorish patterns in gold and a gold band around the muzzle. Ejector rod housing has very fine, delicate patterns in the top and bottom gullets with an arabesque pattern at the rear end and gold wire Moorish pattern at the front end. Cylinder is engraved to match with arabesque patterns and punch-dot background on the lands between the flutes with 2 small border patterns at the rear edge along with a gold band. Back strap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Front edge of the frame, just below the base pin, has the engraver’s signature which is indecipherable to this cataloger. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains all of its fine bright blue and brilliant case colors. Grips are a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. 4-36347 JR67 (3,000-5,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE BOOK CASED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 2845. Cal. 36. Revolver is blue & case colored with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl with Hartford address. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap with deluxe, varnished, highly figured walnut grip. This revolver has Gustave Young’s deluxe coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving with full coverage on frame, extensive coverage over bbl, bbl lug & around muzzle. Sides of hammer are engraved to match with his trademark wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale pattern with a hand cut swallow tail pattern knurled hammer spur. Mr. Young has incorporated one of his trademark dog’s heads in the pattern on left side of frame with several other loops ending in flower blossoms. Both sides of bbl lug have large flower blossoms incorporated into the patterns, with the wedge being engraved on both ends. Back strap is inscribed in script “Grosvenor Starr”. Front strap is engraved with a scroll & key that have the initials “C.C.J.” above and “C.S.P.” below. The scroll & key are symbols of the “Scroll & Key Society” of Yale, an exclusive invitation only club that admits only twelve members per year. Members of the Scroll & Key Society are considered the “power elite” of Yale and ultimately of the United States. The club was apparently formed in 1841 by dissatisfied members of the infamous “Skull & Bones Society” of Yale. Top of back strap has an unusual floral pattern with foliate arabesque patterns near top and at the heel with matching foliate arabesque patterns on butt strap & trigger bow. Adding to the deluxe presentation of this revolver is the matching engraved cylinder which has about 50% coverage, mostly on the rebated section with patterns over each chamber and a fine chip border around front edge. Accompanied by its exceptionally rare, orig, red leather covered book casing that is gold embossed with numerous figures, flags & symbols with a bust of George Washington in center of cover. Back cover has matching figures & patterns with the center a figure of Columbia or Lady Liberty. Spine of book is also embossed in gold with the title “COLT / ON THE CONSTITUTION / HIGHER LAW & / IRREPRESSIBLE CONFLICT” all in the top center panel with the bottom center panel embossed “DEDICATED / BY THE AUTHOR / TO” and across the bottom “JANY 1ST 1861”. The top, bottom & front edges are solid gilded wood and the center a hinged brass clasp. Interior is burgundy velvet lined with a mortised brass lock, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a blued 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36P”, a dbl sided Colt-style eagle & shield E Pluribus Unum flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of five combustible cartridges marked “POLICE PISTOLS” and a full sealed paper covered tin of Eley’s caps with mottled paper covering and green & black label. Grosvenor Starr was born Aug. 27, 1842 in New York City, attended a private military academy until age 15 when he was admitted to Yale. Due to his age he delayed one year then began his studies at age 16 with the class of 1862. In Aug. 1861, after his junior year he left his studies to join the Army in the Civil War. He was appointed Lieutenant & Adjutant of the 7th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry. His unit was with Sherman’s Expedition to Port Royal in Oct./Nov. of 1861 and was involved in several engagements in North Carolina, South Carolina & Georgia until December. They moved to Tybee Island, Georgia building batteries and being engaged in fatique duty. Lt. Starr apparently contracted Typhoid fever and died in March of 1862. A tribute to Lt. Starr from his classmates appeared in the Yale Literary Magazine. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge, grip was not checked. Bbl retains about 90% glossy orig blue mixed with flaked patina. Rammer handle retains most of its orig case colors, strong & bright on the pivot. Frame & hammer retain about all of their orig case colors, thin on left recoil shield with fine pitting on hammer nose. Cylinder retains 30-50% orig blue with balance having flaked to a medium patina. Four of five safety pins are prominent. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 90% strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig piano varnish finish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case is very fine with light soil overall with some staining on the spine and a partially detached hinge. Interior is moderately faded & soiled but completely intact. Flask & mold are crisp & new with some minor flaking on mold. Other accessories are very fine to extremely fine. Altogether a rare set presented to a courageous young man. 4-36415 JR211 (75,000-135,000)
PRESENTATION CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER WITH CONFEDERATE ASSOCIATION. SN 11628. Cal. 36. Blue & case colored with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight & New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked “COLTS PATENT” and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked “36 CAL”. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is inscribed in period script “B. Frank Palmer to Lieut. E. Osborne”. Serial number was observed in the usual places with the cylinder being marked “1638”, obviously a workman error stamping a “3” instead of a “2”. Accompanied by a spectacular orig deluxe rosewood casing with brass corner reinforcements and a shield in the center of the lid engraved in Olde English that appears to be “H.U.O.” Lock escutcheon is missing. Interior is lined in faded burgundy velvet, compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a fine “COLTS PATENT” eagle & shield single side flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “36 P.” Also accompanied by an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a lacquered tin for Eley’s caps with green & black label. Right front compartment contains lead balls & a non-functioning key. A brief search of the internet disclosed that Edwin Augustus Osborne (1837-1926) enlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant in May, 1861 into Company C, 4th NC Infantry. In May 1862 he was wounded at Seven Pines, a POW in Sept. 1862, exchanged Dec. 1862 and again wounded in May 1864 at Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia. He was promoted to Captain May 1861, Major Dec. 1862, Lt. Colonel May 1864 and Colonel July 1864. Prior to his enlistment Osborne was a lawyer and had been appointed Clerk of the Superior Court, Mecklenburg County, NC (Charlotte). After the war he became an Episcopal minister and in May 1898 re-enlisted as a Captain and regimental chaplain. He was mustered out with his regiment in Nov. 1898 at Raleigh, NC. He died Oct. 1926. An internet search on B. Frank Palmer disclosed that he was credited as being the inventor of artificial limbs and an author of books on locomotion. He was issued a patent for an artificial leg in 1849 and was active at least through the Civil War and the aftermath in dealing amputees. As of this writing no connection could be made between Osborne and Palmer other than a suspicion that Osborne, as an attorney, may have helped Palmer with his patents. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge & grip, cylinder numbered as noted above. Bbl retains 95-96% strong glossy orig blue with slight muzzle edge wear with minor pin prick pitting. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their brilliant orig case colors with some minor light corrosion around hammer nose. Cylinder retains about 85% glossy orig blue with loss areas flaked, not worn, to medium patina. Four of the five safety pins are crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a minor nick or two showing little or no wear and retains about all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered spots of light pitting. Case, with its black oil cloth covering on the bottom, is missing two small corner fillers and the aforementioned lock escutcheon, otherwise is completely sound with light storage & handling marks. Interior is moderately faded with light soil inside lid and moderate soil in bottom. Flask is extremely fine retaining most of its orig strong finish, slightly thinned on back. Mold is equally new with some minor flaking on the sprue cutter. Nipple wrench/screwdriver & cap tin are equally fine. This is a wonderful cased set with strong Confederate association. 4-37793 JR208 (25,000-30,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED COLT FAMILY PRESENTATION COLT 1877 DA LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. SN 22070. Cal. 38 Colt. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full half-moon front sight, 2-line address with crisp etched panel “COLT D.A. 38” on the left side. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and it is mounted with checkered 1-pc rosewood grip. All the screws, trigger, back edge of the hammer & base pin are fire-blued. It is made without ejector rod and has an extended knurled base pin. Back strap is inscribed in period script and block letters “Patrick Parker. Esq. / WITH COMPLIMENTS OF / Saml P. Colt. Jany. 1st 1880.” Accompanied by its orig black leatherette-covered presentation box with blue silk lining in the lid and black velvet lining in the French-fitted bottom. Inside border of the bottom has a blue & white silk rope and it has a padded blue silk covered cartridge well in the left front. Front of the case is fitted with a gold-washed Rococo brass latch. Also accompanied by a copy of a letter dated Providence, December 29th, 1879, on State of Rhode Island, Assistant Attorney General’s Office letterhead and addressed to Hugh Harbrow Esq. wherein Samuel P. Colt orders 3 “Self-Cocking 38 cal, 3-1/2″ bbl, nickel-fluted, rosewood stock” with one engraved “James O. Swan Esq.” and the other “Patrick Parker Esq.”, both inscribed “With Compliments of Saml P. Colt. Jany. 1st 1880”, and the third one “Chief Charles H. Hugh” with the same inscription & date. He also requests “a case for each similar to those you had made for me a few years ago, which were of dark morocco and cost I think $2.50 each.” He requests they be shipped express to a Providence address. Additionally accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found with nickel finish & rosewood grip, shipped to Sam P. Colt, address not available, December 31, 1879, in a shipment of 3 same type guns. Further accompanied by a note on Sam’l P. Colt / Attorney-at-Law letterhead dated June 18th, 1880, wherein he acknowledges receipt of $240.34 apparently for collection services. Further accompanied by an orig broadside for the “NEW, DOUBLE-ACTION, SELF-COCKING, CENTRAL FIRE, 6-SHOT REVOLVER”. Additionally accompanied by a copy of a photograph, presumably of Samuel P. Colt. Also accompanied by 3 articles from Man at Arms magazine, all by Dr. Richard C. Marohn: 1) from the Jan/Feb 1983 issue which deals with grips for Lightning revolvers; 2) from the No. 6, 1997 issue titled “THE COLT MODEL 1877 DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER / A TWENTY-YEAR REVIEW 1877-1897”; and 3) from the Mar/Apr 1981 issue titled “CASING THE COLT DOUBLE-ACTION MODEL OF 1877”. Article no. 3 on pp. 43-44 describes the exact case as above and states that they were made in Hartford by a gentleman named Alfred Teweles. Page 44 has pictured an identical cased Lightning with the presentation to James O. Swan, the same individual as mentioned in the above described letter. ¶ Samuel Pomeroy Colt (1852-1921) was born Jan. 10, 1852, to Christopher Colt (brother of Samuel Colt, the arms maker) and his wife. He graduated from Columbia Law School in 1876 and was elected to the Rhode Island House of Representatives where he served until 1879 when he became Rhode Island Assistant Attorney General. In 1882 he was elected Attorney General for the state. In 1886 he founded the Industrial Trust Company and served as its president until 1908. That company later became known as the Industrial National Bank and Fleet Bank. In 1887 he was appointed receiver of the bankrupt National Rubber Company which he reorganized and reopened in 1888 as the National India Rubber Company (which supplied hard rubber grips & buttplates to Colt Firearms and other makers). In 1892 he merged this company with several others he had acquired to form the United States Rubber Company, which became the world’s largest producer of rubber goods. In 1901 he became the president of that company and served until 1918 when he was appointed chairman of the board of trustees. In 1903 he unsuccessfully ran for governor of Rhode Island. In 1905 he ran for the U.S. Senate but withdrew. He died August 13, 1921. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Overall retains about 98-99% strong orig factory nickel, having a few minor, tiny flakes and one spot on the cylinder, with crisp clear etched panel. Screws, hammer & trigger retain most of their orig fire-blue. Grip is crisp with crisp checkering and retains about all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case is sound and retains most of its orig finish on the outside. Lid lining is lightly faded & fragile but intact. The orig ribbon across the lid interior is missing. Bottom is lightly soiled and shows wear around revolver recesses and minor damage from the hammer spur. Cartridge recess silk cover is somewhat fragile with very slight fading. Altogether an exceptional & original presentation set. 4-36422 JR74 (25,000-50,000)
*RARE GLAHN ENGRAVED 1ST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 350384. Cal. 45 Colt. Beautiful engraved single action, blue & case colored with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig thick front sight with narrow rear sight notch. Frame, cylinder, bbl, backstrap & trigger guard are very beautifully engraved in ilbur Glahn’s distinctive patterns consisting of intertwined foliate & floral arabesque swirls & blossoms with a fine punch dot background. The recoil shield, loading gate buttstrap & top of backstrap bear Mr. Glahn’s distinctive V-shaped patterns. This revolver has about 75% coverage engraving patterns on frame with matching patterns extending over each side of bbl, at top & heel of back strap, on butt strap & trigger guard with a smaller pattern on ejector rod housing and a snake pattern in ejector rod housing gullet. Cylinder has foliate patterns on lands between flutes and a snake pattern at rear edge. Mounted with extremely beautiful, orig Colt, silver medallion, ivory 2-pc grips with a raised carved eagle & shield on right side. Right side of front strap & backstrap under grip have the serial number and last two digits of serial number are on rear face of cylinder between two chambers. Wilbur Glahn (1888-1951) was the primary factory engraver at Colt’s from about 1919 through about 1950, operating out of the factory through about 1923 and then as a private contractor until about 1950 when he became ill and couldn’t work any longer. Mr. Glahn’s engraving style & patterns are very distinctive and readily identifiable with his bold sweeping intertwined arabesque scrolls and full coverage on sides of frame which extend down over shoulders of trigger guard. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver in caliber 45, blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, ivory stocks and factory engraved “#2”, shipped to Von Lengerke & Detmold, New York City, NY on April 20, 1927 in a one gun shipment. A hand written note on bottom of letter, apparently from consignor, states “I purchased this gun from Mr. Ott May 1984”. Mr. Ott is the person to whom the letter is addressed. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except grips which are unnumbered. Overall retains 98% plus strong, dark orig factory blue with only faint muzzle & sharp edge wear on bbl & cylinder. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their brilliant orig factory case colors, extraordinarily bright in sheltered areas. Grips have a couple of small age lines around escutcheons, otherwise are completely sound and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-36288 JR29 (40,000-60,000)
*RARE PRESENTATION ENGRAVED WHITNEY WOLVERINE SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 100694. Cal. 22 LR. Made by the Whitney Firearms Co. of North Haven, CT, which was only in business 1955-1963. They produced a fine, durable & accurate space gun looking semi-auto pistol named the Wolverine. Given its advanced look it was apparently far ahead of its time as they were only in business that short period of time. Pistol has black anodized finish on its 1-pc alloy frame with fixed sights and white composition grips. This pistol was presented to Mr. Al DeJohn who served as a consultant to the owner, Charles Lowe, Sr., in 1959. In late 1959 Mr. DeJohn had become the manager of the Colt Custom Shop and asked Colt Master Engraver, Alvin Herbert, to engrave his pistol for him. Mr. Herbert did so, engraving the frame & slide, through the finish, in beautiful intertwined foliate & floral arabesque patterns exposing the bright aluminum finish underneath which gives a wonderful contrast. Mr. Herbert also engraved the grips with a dbl line border which he inlaid with gold wire. Mr. Herbert signed his work on bottom the edge of the frame on each side of the magazine well “ENG. BY / AL HERBERT”. Some of the above information is contained in a signed letter from Mr. DeJohn on Colt letterhead stationery, which accompanies this pistol. Also accompanying this pistol is an orig Whitney Wolverine 2-pc box with blue & white lid having a picture of a Wolverine pistol. Interior has its orig plastic insert in bottom which is recessed for the pistol and an empty box of Western ammunition. Also accompanying is an orig Owner’s Pamphlet along with reprints of articles about the Whitney Firearms Company. Consignor purchased this pistol from well-known handgun dealer, Randy Bessler, in 1993. PROVENANCE: Randy Bessler. CONDITION: Extremely fine, appears to be unfired. Overall retains orig finish in the areas not engraved. Grips are fine, crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. Box shows light wear on corners, interior has minor damage. 4-38027 JR287 (2,000-3,000)
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 188946. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and New-York U.S. America address. It has brass trigger guard & an iron back strap containing a 1-pc ivory grip carved on left side “’72”. Frame is very nicely engraved in New York style, possibly from the Nimschke shop with full coverage on frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and a sunburst with diamond & dot center on left recoil shield. Bbl lug & muzzle of bbl are engraved with matching patterns. Top of back strap is engraved with a fine fan or shell pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at top & heel with Moorish patterns on butt strap & a hunter’s star on trigger guard. Serial number on trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by small initials “IP”. Hammer screw is an old replacement. CONDITION: Very good, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered, grip was not checked. No orig finish remains being a cleaned silver metal color with scattered fine pin prick pitting on bbl, slightly heavier on bbl lug. Frame, cylinder & back strap are also cleaned with fine pitting on back strap & hammer. Cylinder retains all six crisp safety pins. Wedge has a broken spring. Trigger guard retains 65-70% orig silver plating with a series of small dings on front strap. Grip has a few age lines and is sound retaining a wonderful mellow ivory patina, slightly shrunken on frame. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 4-35302 JR223 (6,000-7,500)
*ENGRAVED DOUG TURNBULL U.S. FIREARMS SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 334DT. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & case colored with 4-3/4″ bbl, full thick front sight and 2-line bbl address on top with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and it is mounted with beautiful full checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. Engraved in Nimschke style with about “D” coverage fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap & ejector rod housing gullet are engraved with feather patterns and the outside radius of the ejector rod housing, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match the frame. Top of back strap has a well-executed fan pattern. Both forward sides of frame have hunter stars and center of back strap is engraved with orig owner’s initials “GWW”. Doug Turnbull purchased these well-made single actions from the manufacturer in the white and finished them with his beautiful blue & case colors. These are the finest of the modern made single actions, made in the U.S.A. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, new & unfired. Retains virtually all of its orig Turnbull finish with glossy bright blue & brilliant case colors. Grips are exceptional with mellow ivory patina. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. 4-36337 JR140 (1,250-1,750)
WONDERFUL CASED MARTIALLY MARKED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 63823. Cal. 36. Fine martially marked Gustave Young engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, scarce dovetail front sight and 1-line New York City address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.” It has a small siver plated brass trigger guard & back strap and there are various inspector initials on miscellaneous parts including a small “A” on left side of grip at frame. Mounted with a very highly figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip which has the last four digits of the serial number in ink in the back strap channel. Overall this revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe coverage of graceful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns, several of which terminate in his distinctive flower blossoms. Left side of bbl lug incorporates his distinctive bird head into one of the scrolls. Hammer has deluxe coverage on both sides with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. Top flat of the bbl has a chip & dot border around the address with two wavy line borders at muzzle. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s sparse fan pattern with foliate arabesque patterns at the top & heel of back strap, across butt strap, trigger bow & trigger plate. Back strap is inscribed in script “Presented to Major General / Thomas Guyer / September 22, 1858 by the Colt Guard”. All of screw heads are also engraved. Accompanied by its spectacular burgundy velvet lined rosewood casing. Top of case has a blank brass plate with interior compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a sgl sided Navy sized “COLTS PATENT” angle spout flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter, a sealed tin of Eley’s caps with most of the marbled paper intact and a sealed packet of combustible cartridges. Also accompanying is a functioning key. Maj. Gen. Thomas Guyer was born in Westport, CT in 1809 and at an early age enlisted in the Connecticut State Militia, the date is unknown but it is recorded that in 1834 he was a 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd Company headquarter in Norwalk where he resided most of his life. He worked his way up through the ranks and in 1851 was appointed Brig. General of the 2nd Brigade and in 1853 became a Major General in command of the Connecticut Militia. Although Gen. Guyer never saw service in the war with Mexico, nor in the Civil War, he apparently rendered great service to the Union cause in selecting officers to serve. For most of his adult life Gen. Guyer was employed at a door knob factory in South Norwalk and from 1872-1876 he represented Norwalk in the Connecticut House of Representatives and also served as Town Councilman & Assessor. In 1857 he was presented a wonderful Ames sword by the officers of the Connecticut Militia. In 1858 Gen. Guyer was presented this fine Colt revolver by Colt’s Guards Company B of the Connecticut State Militia as reported in the Hartford Courant, copies of which articles also accompany this revolver. Company B, Colt’s Guards was a company of militia men organized, armed & equipped by Col. Colt at the Colt Factory and was led by Capt. J. Dean Alden. One of the articles copied herein specifically mentions that “at a quarter before nine in the evening the Putnam Phalanx, to the number of about a hundred, arrived on the ground and were received by Colt’s Guards Company B. After marching about the camp for a while they were escorted to the Suttler’s tent where took place the presentation of a Colt’s revolving pistol to Maj. Gen. Guyer, from Colt’s Guards.” Also accompanying this revolver is a copy of a photograph of Maj. Gen. Guyer, a pair of his Major General’s shoulder boards with gold braid border and 7-point gold stars on a red velvet background. Back of one of the epaulets is marked “J.H. HORSTMANN COMPANY PHILADELPHIA”. Also accompanying is a sgl uniform button from Maj. Gen. Guyer’s frock coat which bears the seal of the State of Connecticut and is marked “CONNECTICUT” around the perimeter. Back of button is marked “SCOVILL MFG CO / WATERBURY”. This is a striking and wonderful presentation, pre-Civil War, to an apparently well-loved and respected commanding officer from his subordinates. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains 75-80% glossy orig blue with a few scattered spots of surface etching. Rammer & lever retain faded case colors, strongest on pivot. Cylinder retains 30-40% faded orig blue and about 90% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Frame retains traces of orig case colors being mostly a cleaned gray patina. Hammer retains dark case colors. Trigger guard & backstrap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound showing little or no wear with a few very minor surface mars. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Shows little evidence of ever having been fired, just a lot of handling. Case has a grain check in lid, otherwise is sound with minor storage & handling marks and retains about all of its brilliant orig varnish. Flask has a minor dent on back and another on front, otherwise appears unused retaining most of its orig lacquer finish with brilliant blue on spring. Mold has a few minor dings on one side and retains about 95% strong orig blue. Cap tin paper covering is mostly intact missing a couple of minor slivers with moderately faded label. Cartridge packet is extremely fine. Epaulets are extremely fine showing little wear. Button retains 85% orig gilding. 4-36437 JR84 (75,000-125,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 12264. Cal. 36. Blue & case colored with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York address. It has 5-shot fluted cylinder and silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc walnut grip. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Edw. E. Taylor” and butt strap “11 Mass. Battery”. This is a fairly scarce Colt with an inscription that requires additional research. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl retains about 40% orig blue with balance a blue/gray patina. Rammer handle retains about 60-70% strong case colors, rammer screw is battered. Cylinder retains 60-70% thin orig blue. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, strong & bright on frame, dark on hammer. Trigger guard & back strap retain 88-90% strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound showing light wear with some light flaking to orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine & moderate pitting. 4-35947 JR9 (5,000-7,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED REPRODUCTION OF THE LEGENDARY SEARS & ROEBUCK COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER, MADE FOR SINGER/ACTOR MEL TORME. SN MT172485. Cal. 45 Colt. Absolutely fantastic mirror image reproduction of the fabulous and legendary the Colt Sears & Roebuck “Cow Boy” Special Single Action Army revolver, made for singer, actor, song writer and a myriad of other talents, Mel Torme. Mr. Torme had owned the original Cow Boy Special, having purchased it in 1954 in Chicago after it had been rediscovered and sold or brokered by Klein’s Sporting Goods of North Chicago. The Cow Boy Special was the centerpiece of Mr. Torme’s collection for nearly twenty years when he was tempted into selling it for the astronomical sum of $100,000. He frequently stated that he always regretted selling that Colt and, in hindsight, wished to have it back but could not bring himself to pay the even more stupendous prices that it subsequently sold for. In 1985 Mr. Torme was asked by renowned author & historical researcher R.L. Wilson what he would charge to perform at the Benefit Auction Preview for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Department of Arms & Armor. Mr. Torme reportedly jokingly replied “The Sears & Roebuck Cow Boy Special”, knowing that it would be impossible to have that dream become reality. Mr. Wilson asked if a clone would be acceptable to which Mr. Torme readily agreed. Mr. Wilson then approached the intrepid restoration artist, Tom Haas, and presented him with the project. Mr. Haas obtained a Colt Single Action Army revolver of the approx. same production range and in the same configuration. After carefully reviewing the original and taking numerous measurements, returned to his shop in Indiana and recreated the Sears Cow Boy Special. He polished all the metal surfaces to mirror finish, re-rolled the bbl address and frame patent dates along with the rampant Colt and re-stamped the frame, trigger guard & butt strap with serial number of the orig Sears & Roebuck Cow Boy Special. The prepped revolver was then delivered to Mr. Leonard Francolini for engraving. Mr. Francolini masterfully recreated the entire engraving patterns from the original which was engraved by the master Cuno Helfrecht and added the deep “MT” to the frame serial number. Once the engraving was complete the revolver was taken to master gunsmith & engraver, Dan Cullity, for finishing, which in virtually all ways duplicated the original, including the blued frame. It was then mounted with superb 2-pc pearl grips that have the relief carved figure of Columbia on the right side. These grips were carved & fitted by Colt master engraver, Alvin White. The revolver was then taken to master book binder, Arno Werner, where he created a fantastic casing befitting such a memorable arm and occasion. The case is covered in fine gray leather with gold embossed tooling border on top, inside which has the inscription “TO MEL TORME / IN APPRECIATION / OF HIS SPECIAL PERFORMANCE / AT THE BENEFIT AUCTION PREVIEW / FOR / THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART / DEPARTMENT OF ARMS & ARMOR / ST. REGIS SHERATON HOTEL / OCTOBER 3RD 1985 / NEW YORK CITY / THE ARMOR & ARMS CLUB OF NEW YORK / COLT IDUSTRIES FIREARMS DIVISION / CHRISTIE’S * STURM RUGER & CO.” The interior is lined in gathered & pleated purple cotton in the lid and French fitted in purple velvet in the bottom with a gray leather plaque in the right front, identically inscribed as the top. Also accompanying is a gold plated brass plaque engraved with a large “M” at the top and inscribed “TO MEL TORME / IN APPRECIATION / M BENEFIT AUCTION PERFORMANCE / OCTR. 3RD 1985 NYC”. This wonderful revolver, as previously noted is engraved identically to the original Sears & Roebuck Cow Boy Special. It has about D+ coverage of fantastic foliate arabesque patterns with some scrolls terminating in flower blossoms on frame. Top strap has a braided rope pattern on each side. The bbl has nearly full coverage engraving with fan & foliate panels on each end of a dot & diamond checkerboard pattern on each side. Bbl address has multiple borders on each side with chip & dot straight line & feather patterns which blend into a figure-8 pattern around front sight. Ejector rod housing has foliate & arabesque patterns at each end with a vine & leaf pattern on outer radius and a snake pattern in top gullet with zig zag borders. Cylinder is wonderfully engraved with four different patterns on the lands between the flutes with three panels of foliate arabesque designs and three distinctly different foliate & floral patterns on other three lands. The areas between cylinder stop notches & approaches are lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns and a wavy line border toward the rear. Rear end of cylinder has a complete feather pattern border in between fine gold wire bands. Bbl has wide & narrow gold bands at the cylinder end with a narrow gold band at the muzzle. Each side of frame is outlined in fine gold wire with a gold wire circle around rampant Colt on left side. Top of back strap has a beautiful foliate fan surrounded by a decorative gold wire border. Top of back strap and at the heel along with butt strap have foliate arabesque patterns. Trigger bow & trigger guard are engraved to match. The area above serial number on frame has large relief engraved initials “MT” to distinguish it from the original. Altogether a spectacular and faithful reproduction of the original Sears & Roebuck “Cow Boy” Special. Accompanied by a 7-page letter from noted author & historian, R.L. Wilson, wherein he details most of the above information. Also accompanied by another letter from Mr. Wilson to Mel Torme thanking him for his performance at the Christie’s Metropolitan Museum of Art Auction Project and informing him that almost $350,000 was raised. Additionally accompanying is a letter from Leonard Francolini giving the history of his involvement in the recreation of the Sears & Roebuck Cow Boy Special. This revolver is pictured in full color on pp. 784-785 of The Colt Engraving Book Vol. II, Wilson. The September/October 1988 issue of Man at Arms magazine has a guest editorial by Mel Torme on pp. 26-27. Mr. Torme relates his Colt collecting history and on p. 27 details his reluctant sale of the orig Sears & Roebuck Cow Boy Special and of the recreation & presentation of its clone by Tommy Haas, Leonard Francolini & Dan Cullity. PROVENANCE: Mel Torme Collection; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Appears to be unfired since restoration finishing. Overall retains about all of its spectacular Dan Cullity charcoal blue. Grips have an age line on right side, otherwise are extremely fine with extraordinary fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is extremely fine with light soil on exterior, bright & clean on inside. 4-36433 JR80 (15,000-25,000)
RARE SILVER PLATED NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 27881. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, orig front sight and 1-line bbl address. Last four digits of the serial number are on bottom of the bbl, under the ejector rod housing and on the cylinder behind one flute. It has second type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head and its orig cylinder pin with a dimple in each end. Left side of the frame has 2-line, 2-patent dates and is mounted with checkered 1-pc ivory grip. Frame, bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard, along with the cylinder are beautifully engraved by L.D. Nimschke in beautiful New York style, consisting of fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Shoulders of trigger guard are engraved to match. Bottom front edges of the frame are engraved with feather patterns as are both sides of top strap. Left side of the frame bbl boss is engraved with a large 4-petal flower reminiscent of the engraved patterns Nimschke applied to cartridge carriers on 1866 rifles he engraved. Right side of the ejector rod housing boss and left side of the cylinder pin boss have hunter’s stars. About 2/3 of both sides of bbl are engraved to match with short patterns on each side of the muzzle with a band of scalloped pattern engraving around the muzzle. Back strap is engraved with a beautiful fan pattern that has a diamond & dot center. Shoulders of back strap are engraved to match and the tips of shoulders are engraved with tiny flower blossoms that overlap onto the frame. Top & heel of the back strap, butt strap & trigger bow are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. The flat of the frame around the serial number is engraved similarly to the fan pattern on back strap. Cylinder is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with a small sunburst at the back of each flute. Back edge of the cylinder has a chip & dash border. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 45 Colt, bbl length not listed, blue finish and type of stocks not listed showing shipment to B. Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, Ohio on Oct. 31, 1876 in a shipment of fifty same type guns. Also accompanied by a 6-page hand written letter from noted single action authority, researcher & author, Ron Graham, wherein he states that this revolver is authentic & original as found. He debunks the factory letter as being in error regarding the finish. He identifies the engraving as “New York style with L.D. Nimschke influence”. He theorizes that Oct. 31, 1876 was an “end of the month Tuesday” and, like most any other company there was likely a big rush to get the shipments out before close of business on the last day of the month. He states that there are three other known revolvers in the same serial range that are shown as having been in shipments of fifty “blue” revolvers with one being blue, another nickel and a third one silver engraved with all having been certified by various Colt authorities as being factory original. He states unequivocally that this revolver “was not blue and case hardened when it left the factory. It was engraved, probably at the request of B. Kittredge & Co. soon after leaving Colt’s, and its silver plating appears contemporary”. These statements from such a noted authority leave little doubt that this is indeed, an authentic factory engraved single action. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching, grips were not checked. Bbl retains 65-70% strong orig silver plating with some of the losses a dark patina. Frame & hammer retain most all of their orig silver plating with a thin spot on the right side of the frame and part of the top strap. Back & front straps are mostly gray patina with strong silver at top of back strap, on butt strap and around the trigger guard. Cylinder retains about 70% orig silver. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-38084 JR325 (20,000-30,000)
Correction to Typographical Error in the Printed Catalogue: This is a Paterson No. 2 belt model as it does not have flared grips.
EXTRAORDINARY CASED ENGRAVED NO.2 COLT PATERSON BELT MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 566. Cal. 34. Incredibly beautiful Paterson with 5-5/8″ oct bbl, tiny German silver front sight with usual Patent Arms rolled address. Address is a light strike with cylinder end very faint. Frame & hammer have the very rare case color hardening with a deluxe walnut 1-pc straight grip and 5-shot cylinder with centaur scene and round cylinder stop notches. The frame, recoil shields, hammer & bbl lug are engraved with very beautiful flowing foliate & vine patterns with a light incised dbl line border around the frame which extends over the shoulders of the back strap. Back strap & butt strap are engraved to match, also with dbl line borders. Center of back strap is inlaid with a rectangular silver initial plate with scalloped corners. Bottom of frame, behind trigger slot, is engraved with a beautiful sunburst beneath which is the vignette of a shore bird inside a foliate panel. Both sides, rear edge & nose of hammer are engraved to match with a hand cut checkered tear drop panel on the spur. Bbl has a wide silver band around muzzle with a short silver band across top flat, behind front sight. Two other silver bands are across bottom three flats of the bbl & the bbl lug and a wide & narrow silver bands over top three flats of bbl at cylinder end. Recoil shields also have a wide & narrow silver bands around front edges. Serial number was observed on wedge, rear face of bbl lug, cylinder rotating band, on bottom right edge of grip, on right side of front strap under grip and inside back strap. Both cylinders are also matching numbered. Accompanied by its orig fluted lid mahogany casing with scalloped corner rectangular silver plate in center and a mortised brass lock with escutcheon in the front. Interior is lined in dark velvet with recesses in bottom for the revolver & charger. Charger is orig Paterson equipment with gold washed body & bands with the center band having the No. 5 Belt Model bbl roll mark. Also accompanied by a sgl cavity 3-handled bullet mold, a combination tool, a wood handled cleaning rod and an orig capping tool numbered “7” on interior. Right rear corner has a dowel containing a second orig matching numbered cylinder, which is missing one nipple. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only about 800 of both styles of the No. 3 Belt Model Paterson were made in the period 1838-1840. Few of these rare revolvers are found cased today and of those exceedingly few were ever engraved. This exact revolver appears on pp. 4&5 in full color of the book Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching, appears to be unfired. Bbl retains virtually all of its orig factory glossy blue with only a minor nick or two. Frame & hammer retain about all of their strong & bright orig case colors, slightly thinned on front strap. Back strap retains about 96-97% glossy orig blue, slightly thinned around the heel. Cylinders are about identical, retaining virtually all of their orig glossy blue and 98-99% centaur scenes. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case has a chip from left front bottom corner, otherwise is sound with light handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Accessories are also fine with the charger being extremely fine retaining most of its orig gold wash. Capper is a mellow medium mustard patina. 4-36399 JR100 (275,000-500,000)
RARE EARLY CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 52986. Cal. 31. Blue & case colored with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight with “SAML COLT” hand engraved in place of the bbl address. It has silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap containing a deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip. Frame, hammer, bbl lug, rammer, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are spectacularly engraved, probably from the hand of Gustave Young in deluxe donut scroll foliate arabesque patterns. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” diagonally in a panel incorporated in two of the large scrolls. Background is cross-hatch shaded with fine shading on scrolls. Hammer has full deluxe engraving on both sides which extends out on sides of spur with wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Top edge of hammer is engraved in fish scale patterns with a large hand cut checkered hammer spur. Matching engraving patterns extend over bbl lug on both sides and on rammer pivot. Muzzle has a zig zag border pattern. Top of back strap is engraved with Mr. Young’s trademark fan pattern with chip cut border. Top & heel of back strap, along with butt strap & trigger guard have large foliate arabesque patterns. Screw heads are all deluxe engraved. Cylinder is 5-shot with stagecoach holdup scene and all five safety pins prominent. Accompanied by its orig deluxe rosewood casing with brass reinforced corners and an unmarked brass panel in center of lid. Interior is lined with burgundy velvet, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a fine “COLTS PATENT” eagle & shield 1-sided flask, a “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity brass mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, two packets of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges, a nearly full lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps with green & black label and a unique ivory handle turn screw. The case has brass bound corners and a homemade shield shaped lock escutcheon with black oil cloth covering on bottom and four small feet, one at each corner on bottom. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, grip was not checked. Bbl retains 95-97% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and one small chemical spot near muzzle. Rammer & frame retain about all of their orig case colors which in this era were originally not bright vivid colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain about all of their strong orig silver plating, moderately oxidized. Grip is sound showing light wear with a few small dings on left side and retains 96-98% orig piano finish varnish. Cylinder retains about 90% thinning orig blue and about 98% stagecoach holdup scene with its five prominent safety pins. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is sound, missing one lower left corner reinforcement with light storage & handling marks and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is moderately faded with moderate soil in bottom and damage from front sight & hammer spur, partitions are sound & correct. Flask is extremely fine with one tiny dent in back and retains about all of its orig factory finish. Mold is also extremely fine with a few light dents & dings but appears to have never been used. Cartridge packets are still sealed and extremely fine. Turn screw, nipple wrench & cap tin are also extremely fine. 4-37790 JR209 (47,500-57,500)
*PAIR OF ENGRAVED STAINLESS U.S. FIREARMS SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN CC60 & CC6. Cal. 45 Colt. Fine pair of modern single actions with black powder frames, 4-3/4″ bbls with full front sights and 2-line bbl addresses on tops with caliber markings on left sides. They have bull’s eye ejector rod heads. Left sides of frames have 3-line patent dates and are mounted with beautifully checkered & carved 1-pc ivory grips that are slightly loose on frames. Grips have raised carved American eagles with shields on its breasts and ribbons in their beaks inscribted “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on both sides. Frames cylinders, bbls & back straps are engraved in Cuno Helfricht style in about “A” coverage foliate arabesque patterns with the Helfricht style sunbursts on recoil shields & loading gates and his trademark fan at top of back straps. Bbs & cylinders are engraved to match. CONDITION: As new, both appear to be unfired, retaining about all of their factory orig polish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. 4-36329, 4-36354 JR139 (2,000-3,000)
Correction: Serial Number is 151718, not 15713 as per Dr. Murphy and upon closer inspection. Several of the “8s” were light strikes, looking like “3s”.
Correction – Illustration of cased set in the printed catalogue depicts a tin of reproduction Ely caps. This is a mistake that took place during photography. This cap tin does not go with this lot. In its place is a genuine, full tin of antique Eley Bros. Colt caps wrapped in original paper with an antique, light green, Eley paper label on lid of tin.
EXTRAORDINARY & LEGENDARY UNION/LIBERTY CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY WITH EBONY GRIP ASSOCIATED WITH ULYSSES S. GRANT. SN 151713. Cal. 44. Spectacular engraved ’60 Army with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and the caliber is on left rear web of trigger guard. It has silver plated brass trigger guard and blued steel back strap containing a fantastic 1-pc smooth ebony grip with the last four digits of the serial number in pencil in the back strap channel. This fantastic revolver is exhibition quality finished with brilliant high polish blue & case colors and is engraved in late vine style with plain background consisting of full coverage on frame and sides of hammer with an unusual eagle’s head on each side of hammer nose. The hammer spur is hand checkered in a swallow tail pattern with serrated patterns in the “v” opening and six small dots in a band below. Bbl has matching engraving on each side with a ribbon incorporated into the patterns marked “UNION” on left side and “LIBERTY” on right side. Left side pattern, just above wedge screw, has a bird head incorporated at the end of a scroll, of the type associated with identified works by Gustave Young. Right side of bbl, above wedge slot, at end of a scroll is a grotesque man’s face. Engraving patterns extend forward up the sides of the bbl and meet over the top to form a frame around the address, with matching patterns around the muzzle & front sight. Rammer pivot is also engraved to match. Cylinder is typical 6-shot 1860 rebated pattern with the Ormsby Naval battle scene on the raised area and is most unusually engraved with matching patterns in the rebated area. All six safety pins are crisp. Back strap & butt strap are engraved in matching patterns with additional foliate arabesque patterns on trigger bow and front of trigger guard. Shoulders of back strap & trigger guard are engraved in patterns associated with known works by Gustave Young. Serial numbers on bbl lug, frame, trigger guard & butt strap are accompanied by a small “E”. Accompanied by a deluxe, burgundy velvet lined, rosewood casing with a blank brass diamond inlay in the lid and a diamond shaped brass escutcheon on the front. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, a single sided straight spout “COLTS PATENT” flask with silver plated collar and thumb lever, an exceptionally high polished & brilliant blued “COLTS PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter marked “44H” on right side, a high polished L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, two sealed packets of combustible cartridges and a blued tin of Eley’s caps with yellow & black label. Right rear compartment contains bullets & balls and there is a functioning orig key. Also accompanied by an extremely rare & important Matthew Brady CDV of Ulysses S. Grant in uniform, hand signed on the bottom “U.S. Grant / Lt. Gen. U.S.A.”. This wonderful firearm was discovered in 1998 by John Gangle, who states he acquired it from members of the Ulysses S. Grant family. Family history states that this fabulous firearm was presented to Gen. Grant but never used by him. This fabulous firearm is pictured in full color on pp. 90-91 in the book Fine Colts The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection, Wilson. PROVENANCE: U.S. Grant descendants; John Gangle; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Overall retains virtually all of its brilliant deluxe orig factory finish with glossy bright blue on bbl, cylinder & back strap and brilliant case colors on rammer, rammer handle, frame & hammer. Back strap is slightly flaked. Trigger guard retains virtually all of its lightly oxidized silver plating. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains about all of its smooth orig factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, appears to be unfired. Case has a repaired crack across the lid, otherwise is sound and retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish to the exterior. Interior is original and is moderately to heavily faded with moderate soil in the bottom and wear from front sight & hammer spur. Flask has a few small dents on the back and retains most of its orig finish on front with most of the wear on the back. Collar & thumb lever retain most of their orig silver plating with one small spot of wear on the collar. Mold is exceptional, probably unused and retains virtually all of its glossy factory blue. Nipple wrench/screwdriver is very fine. Antique cap tin, probably a reproduction, is very fine. 4-36419 JR96 (350,000-650,000)
PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3768. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line Hartford address. It has 5-shot fluted cylinder with one missing and one prominent safety pin. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” with a silver plated trigger guard & back strap and 1-pc, nicely figured walnut grip. Butt strap is very nicely engraved in period block letters & script “To / Capt. D. Quirk / Irish Brigade / by John McNally”. No information was immediately found on either of these gentlemen. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including wedge (grip was not checked). Bbl retains 30-40% orig blue mostly in sheltered areas with scattered light surface pitting. Cylinder is a cleaned gray patina with light to moderate pitting in one area. Frame & hammer retain traces of case colors being mostly a cleaned silver/gray patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain thin scattered orig silver plating. Grip is sound showing light to moderate wear with light nicks, dings & scratches and retains about 80% orig varnish, stronger on right side. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-35943 JR52 (2,500-4,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT 2ND GENERATION SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER INTENDED FOR PRESENTATION TO NIKITA KHRUSHCHEV. SN 23311SA. Cal. 38 Special. Highly decorated and very beautiful, this single action has 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber on the left side. Bottom of the bbl, under the ejector rod housing, has the last 2 digits of the serial number. Left side of the frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt. The serial number was also observed on the left side of the front & back straps, under the grip, and last 3 digits of the serial number are around the cylinder bushing hole on the face of the cylinder. Right side of the front strap, under the grip, has the Alvin White recessed silver cartouche which is marked “A A WHITE / ENG.”. The frame, bbl, cylinder, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard, along with the ejector rod housing, are engraved in Mr. White’s distinctive deep intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with about 65-70% coverage. The frame has gold wire borders on both sides and around the recoil shield & loading gate, along with gold wire inlay around the engraving pattern on the upper front sides of the frame. Left recoil shield has a relief raised gold inlay depicting a Russian building with 4 different-height onion domes that may be St. Basil’s on Red Square in Moscow. Top of the back strap has another relief-engraved raised gold Russian building with 4 onion domes, undoubtedly another famous Russian building. This building is surrounded by a silver wire inlay in an onion dome shape. The bbl has beautiful gold wire inlay in onion dome shapes along with a silver band just in front of the frame and gold wire inlay incorporated into the arabesque patterns on top of the bbl. The muzzle has 3 onion dome shapes outlined in silver wire with a silver band around the muzzle. The hammer has light engraved patterns with a gold wire outline on both sides. Ejector rod housing is engraved to match the bbl with gold wire incorporated into the arabesque pattern and an onion dome shape at the front & back ends with gold wire around the rear and silver wire around the front, along with a silver band at the rear end. The back strap also has gold wire incorporated into the arabesque pattern with a silver wire onion dome at the heel. Butt strap has silver wire border with a silver wire onion dome shape around arabesque patterns. Trigger guard also has gold wire incorporated in the arabesque patterns. Cylinder is fully engraved with continuous gold wire around the flutes & lands with onion dome shapes at the rear of the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder has a silver wire band. Is mounted with 2-pc ivory grips with a raised carved horse head on the right side. Inside of the right grip has the last 2 digits of the serial number in pencil. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in 38 Spcl. caliber, 7-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, sold to Jackson Arms, Dallas, TX, and shipped to Alvin A. White of Attleboro, Mass. in a 2-gun shipment on Jan. 26, 1959. ¶ According to consignor this spectacular single action was one of a pair created for presentation to Soviet premier Nikita Khrushchev in the late 1960’s by Mr. Romaine Fielding, president of an export company doing business in the Soviet Union. The revolvers were presented but Premier Khrushchev’s security personnel objected to his keeping them, thinking they may have been booby-trapped or may have contained listening devices. Therefore they remained in the United States and were eventually sold on the open market. Accompanying this lot is a file of copies of numerous letters & newspaper articles regarding Mr. Fielding, including letters from Vice President Richard Nixon, Congressman Wilbur Mills and Senator J. W. Fullbright, as well as letters from Russian businessmen. PROVENANCE: Romaine Fielding; Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all matching including bbl, cyl & grips. Overall retains virtually all of its strong blue finish with unusual blued frame, with only very slight muzzle edge wear on the left side. Grips are extremely fine showing no wear with a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-36435 JR73 (12,500-22,500)
SPECTACULAR & RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 172734. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 3-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 2-line address on top and the caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief raised carved bull’s head on right side. Revolver has Cuno Helfrecht’s deluxe coverage engraving consisting of sweeping foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background. Frame has full coverage with his trademark sunburst on the loading gate with unusual snake & dot patterns by the hammer slot. Both sides of the cylinder pin boss have small sunbursts. Top strap is engraved with feather patterns and the bbl has matching foliate arabesque patterns almost full length on both sides with Moorish patterns around front sight. Cylinder is engraved with small sunbursts and foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes. Rear edge of cylinder has a zig zag border with two very fine chip borders. Top of back strap has a beautiful sunburst pattern with zig zag and Moorish patterns at the top & heel and over the butt strap. Trigger guard has foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap is engraved “Johnie Johnson”. Front strap is engraved in a different hand “FROM” and butt strap “Mrs R L G to”. Accompanied by two Colt Factory letters, one from 1984 and the other 2007. Both supplying identical information fully identifying this revolver in caliber 45 with 3-1/2″ bbl, silver finish, carved bull head pearl stocks, factory engraved with inscription as found on back strap and shipped to H. Woodhaus & Son, address not available on Sept. 15, 1897 on a one gun shipment. This revolver is made without provision for an ejector rod housing on a standard black powder frame. According to Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Cochran, only about 600 of these rare revolvers were made in the period 1882-1896 and of these only a few were engraved. While this revolver was shipped in 1897 which, theoretically, should have placed it in the smokeless powder frame era, Colt obviously, being their usual frugal selves, used a carryover black powder frame to build this revolver. Surviving authentic engraved sheriff-models are virtually nonexistent and this may be the only factory inscribed example. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains 30-35% orig silver plating with balance a gray patina with orig silver strong in sheltered areas. Engraving remains sharp & clear showing only light surface wear with heavier wear around the muzzle and slight dings on the front sight. Front & back straps are gray metal patina showing moderate to heavy wear. Left grip has a tiny chip at left heel and another at the frame, otherwise grips are sound with a few minor rust stains around the edges and show great fire & color with sharp carving on bull’s head. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-35284 JR232 (90,000-110,000)
Please Note: Capper top is non-antique replacement. Bottom is correct.
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED & INLAID COLT NO. 5 BELT MODEL TEXAS PATERSON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 351. Cal. 36. Bore actually measures .415″. Spectacular Texas Paterson with 7-5/8″ oct bbl, tiny German silver front sight with usual Patent Arms address. It has a silver plated frame, front & back straps. The bbl, cylinder, cylinder plate & recoil shields are blued with case colored hammer. Recoil shields, hammer & sides of bbl lug are very nicely engraved in very early vine style foliate arabesque patterns with sparse coverage. Bbl has five silver bands with a band around muzzle, a wide & narrow band at cylinder end, another wide & narrow band on the bottom flats with a sixth silver inlay being a band just behind the front sight. Recoil shields also have a wide & narrow silver band inlay for a total of eight silver bands. Mounted with a highly figured, deluxe burl, 1-pc walnut grip with wide flared butt and rounded bottom edges. Cylinder has five chambers with square rear shoulder and is rolled with the stagecoach holdup scene. Accompanied by an orig Paterson mahogany casing with fluted lid and a rectangular German silver plate centered in the top with a silver plated escutcheon on front. Interior is lined in dark velvet with recesses in the bottom for the revolver, an orig #5 size charger with the number “55” on the powder end and “100” on the ball end. Center band is roll marked identically to the bbl address. Brass fittings on charger are all gold washed. Also accompanied by an orig Paterson capper numbered “201” on the inside, a reproduction sgl cavity, 3-handle ball bullet mold, an orig combination loading tool, nipple wrench and nipple pick and finally a walnut handled brass cleaning rod. Right rear corner is recessed for a spare cylinder and contains an orig No. 5 Paterson cylinder with serial number “113”. The serial number was observed on the rear face of bbl lug, wedge, rear face of cylinder, on cylinder rotating ring, on bottom of cylinder plate, left side of front and rear grip straps under grip. While no number was observed on the grip, it is readily apparent that these grips are orig to this revolver. No further disassembly was affected to determine additional numbered parts. According to The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, only about 1,000 of these rare revolvers were made in the period 1838-1840. Few survive today and those very few were cased and of those, only a very tiny number were engraved, making this truly one of the more rare Colts today. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Bbl retains 75-80% thin orig glossy blue with the loss areas a medium patina. Frame & front strap retain most of their orig silver plating with a few light nicks & scratches and a series of small nicks on left side. Front strap apparently was drilled & tapped at one time to attach a flat hammer spring to replace the orig “V” spring. That hole has now been plugged and the “V” spring stud & spring restored. There are light file marks on front strap. Back strap retains virtually all of its orig silver plating with some light battering on butt strap. Cylinder retains a silvery blue/brown patina and exhibits about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Hammer has a chipped nose. Grip is sound, having been re-glued internally with light nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with minor scuffing toward chamber end. Case has a couple of light cracks in the lid with another in the bottom, with minor handling & storage marks, nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is lightly faded with light soil. Charger overall retains about 90% strong orig finish. Capper is a medium mustard brass patina. Extra cylinder is a gray/brown patina. Combination tool retains 75-80% strong orig factory blue. Cleaning rod & bullet mold are fine. 4-36400 JR98 (350,000-650,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION SILVER PLATED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 80221. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight with engraved “Saml Colt” address. Has 5-shot cylinder with silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap and is fitted with 1-pc ivory grip. Frame, bbl, rammer pivot, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in Gustav Young’s deluxe coverage with spectacular intertwined foliate arabesque patterns and punch-dot background with some of the patterns terminating in flower blossoms. The left side of the bbl lug, left recoil shield & right side of the bbl lug have Mr. Young’s stylized animal heads of a dog’s head on each side of the bbl lug & a bird on the recoil shield. Having three animal heads incorporated within the engraving patterns is quite unusual. Ordinarily there is only one animal head. This signifies the deluxe nature of this engraving and the importance which was accorded this presentation. The hammer nose has Mr. Young’s wolf’s head for each side. Top of the back strap has his trademark fan with sunbursts on each shoulder of the back strap. The cylinder scope appears to have hand engraved enhancements. Accompanied by a wonderful distributor supplied, burgundy velvet-lined, rosewood case compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a 2-sided silver plated eagle flask, a silver plated “Colt’s Patent” bullet mold & 2 covered compartments with carved pearl buttons containing a tin of Eley Brothers pistol caps and the other lead balls. The lid of the case has a small inlaid rectangular silver plate engraved in period script “A. B. Smith”. The bottom is covered in fine blue linen with leather corners. The front edge of the bottom and the lid toward the right corner have pry marks. Also accompanied by a small packet of information and copies of unit service for Brevet Brig. Gen. Alfred Baker Smith. Gen. Smith was born in St. Lawrence County, NY, in 1825, graduated from Union College in 1851, briefly taught school, studied law, was admitted to the Bar in 1855 and practiced law in Poughkeepsie, NY, until Oct. 1862 when he was commissioned to raise a regiment in his area and was then commissioned Major and Commander of the 150th Regiment NY Infantry. He was promoted to Lt. Col. in Nov. 1864 and Col. April 1865 and was Breveted Brig. Gen. for meritorious service in the campaigns of Georgia and the Carolinas with Sherman. The 150th saw its first action at Gettysburg in July 1863 and acquitted themselves very well at The Peach Orchard. That unit has a monument commemorating them at Gettysburg. Gen. Smith continued in local politics after the war and was very active in the Republican party. He died at Poughkeepsie Jan. 28, 1896. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge. Grip was not checked. Overall, metal retains 97-98% strong orig silver plating on bbl, frame & grip frame. Cylinder has flaked to mostly a gray patina with a few spots of orig silver plating and has a lightly battered face. Cylinder retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is truly outstanding with crisp edges and a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with scattered light to moderate pitting. Case is equally outstanding with only minor scratches in lid and the aforementioned pry marks on front. Interior is lightly faded with light wear from muzzle, front sight & hammer spur with a worn impression from cylinder & grip. Accessories are equally fine with some minor wear on flask. A truly outstanding set. 4-37785 JR210 (20,000-30,000)
RARE PROBABLY ONE OF A KIND BERDAN SPORTING RIFLE. SN 1. Cal. 42 Berdan. This rifle was built by Colt in the period circa 1868 when every manufacturer was scrambling to produce a sporting rifle for the “Manifest Destiny” westward expansion. Undoubtedly it was built by Colt’s master gun makers under the direct supervision of Hiram Berdan, perhaps even by Mr. Berdan himself. This fine rifle utilizes the Type 3 breechblock and has a 26-1/2” medium weight, rnd bbl, globe front sight, no provision for rear sight and an unusual tang sight mortised into top of wrist. It has a 2-1/2” long thick staff with a Sharps type eye cup that is dovetailed onto the beveled staff with a delicate windage knob & bar built in. The slide is secured only by the friction of the dovetail. Mounted in a highly figured, uncheckered, flame grain, American walnut half stock with straight grip, secured with a single wedge through the forearm and a screw through the top tang. It has a pewter nosecap with triangle shape that has a ball at the apex. Wedge is through two German silver escutcheons and it has a fancy, German silver, serpentine triggerguard/finger rest. It also has an unusual single set trigger. Buttplate is of nickeled brass, crescent in shape with a thick toe and stepped tang. This is a Model 1874 Sharps type S-20 (Target) buttplate, possibly procured by Hiram Berdan from Sharps, as he had close ties with that company as well as Colt. The back action lock is mortised into wrist with a wood screw at back end and is attached to receiver at the front end with a short machine screw. It is case colored and very nicely engraved as is the hammer with a dolphin style engraved nose. This exact rifle is fully illustrated in three photographs and discussed in some detail on p. 183 of Hiram Berdan Civil War Chief of Sharpshooters Military Commander and Firearms Inventor, Marcot. It is well known that Berdan was employed at Colt as a firearms designer in the period immediately following the Civil War. This rifle may have been Mr. Berdan’s personal possession, although at this time no documentation is available. The serial number is in pencil on the inside of various parts and there is a small “1” stamped on the small breechblock parts. CONDITION: Fine. The bbl retains thin orig brown finish in very sheltered areas, very strong brown under forearm & breechblock with balance a cleaned gray/brown patina. Stock is sound with minor handling & storage marks and retains about all of an old restored finish. Lockplate & hammer have dark case colors, very bright on inside . Breechblock retains most of its orig case colors, fading to patina over the top, stronger & brighter on inside. Breechblock base retains 75-80% orig blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. A truly rare & one of kind rifle. 8-87280 JJ1 (10,000-15,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE CASED ENGRAVED INVENTOR PRESENTATION COLT CHARTER OAK 1855 ROOT MODEL 2 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 5887. Cal. 28. Fantastic Gustav Young engraved root with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with pointing hand motif. It has unfluted 5-shot cylinder with cabin / Indian fight scene. It is mounted with 1-pc oak grip from the Connecticut Charter Oak. The frame, bbl, hammer & rammer pivot are beautifully engraved by Gustav Young in his intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch-dot background. Top & heel of the back strap & butt strap are engraved to match, with a small matching pattern on the bottom of the frame. Back strap is engraved in period script “A. W. Spies from the Inventor / Charter Oak stock / from J. W. Stuart”. Accompanied by an orig Colt burgundy velvet lined casing with an unmarked brass plate in the lid and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a single-sided “COLTS PATENT” eagle flask, a 2-cavity brass “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter marked on the right side with an “F”, a maple-handled turnscrew and a lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps. Also accompanying is an L-shaped nipple wrench, an orig functioning key and a packet of 31 cal combustible cartridges. ¶ A. W. Spies was an arms distributor in New York City from about 1823 to about 1877 and was one of Colt’s major distributors. Obviously this revolver was a special presentation to Mr. Spies for services rendered. Mr. J. W. Stuart is mentioned in research material found on the internet as the Honorable J. W. Stuart, apparently a judge or senior politician. Mr. Stuart was apparently the owner of the land on which the Charter Oak stood when on August 21st, 1856, the ancient tree was felled during a heavy storm. The Charter Oak had stood for centuries and was part of the property of Samuel Wyllis in 1687 when the British governor of New England demanded the surrender of the Connecticut Charter of 1662 granted from Charles II. During a meeting of the legislature considering the demand by the governor, all the lights in the meeting hall were extinguished and when they were relit, the charter was gone. It had been surreptitiously spirited away by Captain Wadsworth who secreted it in the hollow of this venerable old oak until 1689 when it was returned and remained the law of Connecticut until about 1818. Upon the demise of the Charter Oak in 1856 it was removed, piecemeal, as souvenirs, historical relics & a few pieces obtained by Colonel Colt that were made into grips for a few special presentation pieces, this being one of them. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Revolver is extraordinarily fine, retaining 98-99% glossy orig factory blue with only slight sharp edge wear & some slight thinning to the back strap. Hammer & rammer retain virtually all of their bright factory case colors. Cylinder retains about all of its orig factory blue with a couple of tiny thin spots and about all of its cabin / Indian fight scene. Grip is sound and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case has one large and several small grain checks in the lid with a crack and grain check in the bottom and retains about all of a fine restored finish. Interior is lightly to moderately faded with light soil, a re-glued partition & damage from the front sight. Flask is extremely fine, retaining about 98% strong orig finish with a few light scratches and a couple of small dings. Mold is very fine with a few nicks & dings and a gray metal color on the sprue cutter. Turnscrew is equally fine, as is the cap tin. Cartridge packet & other accessories are also fine. 4-36420 JR76 (135,000-235,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 14000. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York address. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and it has brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Butt strap is engraved in period lettering “Lieut. C.S. Schaeffer / 1st, Del. Vol.”. A quick search disclosed a listing for Lt. Schaeffer in the 1st Delaware Volunteer Infantry but no additional information. CONDITION: Good, all matching including wedge (grip not checked). Steel parts retain a dark even brown attic patina with minor nicks & dings and some small hammer dents on top of bbl. One frame screw is battered. Trigger guard & back strap retain traces of orig silver plating being mostly a medium mustard patina. Grip has a chipped right toe otherwise is sound showing moderate wear with nicks & dings and retains about 80% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-35942 JR53 (2,500-4,000)
*SPECTACULAR HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 19537SA. Cal. 44 Special. Bright nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full thick front sight, 1-line address with model and caliber marking on the left side. Frame has 2-line patent dates with a rampant Colt. Left side of the front and back straps have the serial number beneath the grip and left side of the butt strap has the engraver’s initials. The assembly number “673” is on the loading gate and around the cylinder bushing hole on the front face of the cylinder. Screws and base pin are all beautifully fire-blued and it has a lanyard loop in the butt strap. It is fitted with extremely beautiful scrimshawed 1-pc ivory grip that depicts the 7th Cavalry Regimental flag on the left side and the 7th Cavalry guidon over crossed sabers surmounted by the number “7” on the right side. The entire revolver is custom engraved by Howard M. Dove in what he refers to as “D plus” coverage. The engraving consists of a depiction of Custer’s Last Stand at the left rear of the frame, an Indian on a horse with a lance at the left front of the frame, a large bust of General Custer on the left recoil shield with fine matted background and a trumpet with lanyard on the loading gate also with fine matted background. The right side of the frame depicts cavalry troopers attacking an Indian village and the top of the back strap has crossed single action Colt and trapdoor carbine with fine matted background. The back strap is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background and an Indian lance with feathers in the center. Top front sides of the frame have diamond checkerboard patterns and the top strap has a braided rope pattern with punch-dot background. The cylinder has full coverage, except for the flutes, with foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes and between the cylinder stop notches, all with punch-dot background, along with 3 different border patterns at the rear edge. The bbl has spectacular fan patterns on both sides with diamond & dot panels on each side with the remaining patterns in foliate arabesque scrolls with punch-dot backgrounds. The ejector rod housing is engraved to match and also has a vine & dot pattern in the top gullet. Mr. Dove’s signature and “COLT ENGR.” appear in the bottom gullet beside the base pin. ¶ Accompanied by a Howard Dove letter dated 1990 describing his work on this revolver and stating that it was “ENGRAVED ON SPECIAL ORDER FOR: W. A. DASCHER / 449 DISCOVERY ROAD / VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. 23451”. There is a small strip of paper inside the back strap channel of the grip with Mr. Dascher’s name and address. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinary, all matching. Remains new and unfired with no evidence of a cylinder line. 4-36434 JR68 (6,000-12,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED INSCRIBED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH ORIGINAL PERIOD HOLSTER. SN 308877. Cal. 45 Colt. Full silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address on top and left side marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 45 COLT”. Mounted with extraordinary 2-pc pearl grips with a raised carved eagle on the right side. This beautiful revolver is engraved in about “D+” coverage in beautiful sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Left forward side of frame has a very unusual intertwined 8-pointed star pattern and a diamond pattern on right side. Right lower part of frame has an unusual checkerboard pattern. Bbl address has simple wave & dot borders that extend into a Moorish pattern that terminates in a foliate pattern. Top straps are engraved in foliate patterns. Loading gate is engraved with a sunburst pattern and the top of the back strap has a modified fan pattern. Center of the back strap is engraved in period script “Nabor Pacheco”. Butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match the frame. Ejector rod housing is beautifully engraved with a leaf & vine pattern on the outer radius and a snake & dot pattern in the top gullet with a fine zig zag border pattern at the edge. Cylinder is engraved on lands between the flutes with diagonal patterns surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns and has a dbl line border at the rear edge with a snake & dot pattern. Rear face of cylinder has the last four digits of the serial number between chambers. This work appears to be from the Cuno Helfricht shop. Accompanied by a fine period single loop holster marked “THE F. RONSTADT CO. / TUCSON, ARIZ.” Body of holster is deeply tooled in foliate patterns with the large round part of the loop tooled in a large flower blossom. Each end of the loop has two small leather pads attached with rivets where a leg thong may have been attached and is now cut away. Also accompanied by a notarized letter from Richard Pacheco Jr., Nabor Pacheco’s grandson, who states that this revolver was presented to the very popular ex-Pima Co Sheriff Nabor Pacheco by the City of Tucson in 1909 at the time he was newly appointed Tucson Chief of Police. He further states that just before Nabor Pacheco’s death he gave this revolver to his son, Richard Sr., which occurred in the 1920’s. In about 1952 this revolver & holster were loaned to the Arizona Historical Society where it was displayed with Nabor Pacheco’s picture and a brief synopsis of his career as a lawman where it remained until July 2008. An image of this display accompanies the lot. When Richard Sr.passed away in the 1970’s the revolver was bequeathed to his Son. Nabor Pacheco was born July 12, 1859 in Tucson, was educated in Tucson schools and spent his early life working on his father’s ranch. He served as a City Policeman and then in 1904-1908 was the Pima County Sheriff and City Marshall thereafter. He died Feb. 14, 1920 in Tucson. During his term as Sheriff he supervised the hanging execution of two condemned murderers in Tucson and as one might imagine, was involved in numerous other law enforcement duties throughout his career in this wild west frontier town. Also accompanying this lot is a packet of information, mostly regarding Sheriff Pacheco’s law enforcement career with copies of photos and newspaper articles. The Pacheco name is very ancient having first come to light in recorded history during Roman times in 92 BC when a Roman General named Vivio Pacieco served Julius Caesar in Andalucia, Spain, where the family prospered with descendants spreading around the world from there. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found in 45 caliber with 4-3/4″ bbl, silver finish, pearl grips with carved eagle motif, factory engraved with “Nabor Pacheco” on back strap, sold to F. Ronstadt, address unavailable, and shipped to Wyeth Hardware & Mfg. Co., St. Joseph, MO, Feb. 27, 1909 in a one gun shipment. The F. Ronstadt Co. of Tucson is the maker of the holster and was a business associate and friend to the Ronstadt family in their ranching business. While this revolver did not reach Mr. Pacheco to be used during his term as Sheriff, it most certainly would have been with him during his term as City Marshall (Chief of Police). PROVENANCE: Pacheco Family. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching. Overall retains most of its orig factory silver plating with some minor roughness and slight losses on front & back straps. May have been fired, but if so very little. Grips are sound with a minor chip on right side at the frame and what may have been an old chip on the eagle’s head, now smooth with handling over time. Grips retain tremendous fire & color. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Holster is very fine with some slight darkening over the top half and a few minor water stains, with toe stitching loose. It retains most of its orig finish. Altogether a rare rig used by a popular frontier lawman in very desirable condition & configuration. 4-37674 (35,000-55,000)
THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY PAIR OF CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1861 PERCUSSION REVOLVERS AND SWORD PRESENTED TO GEN. ROBERT ANDERSON, THE HERO & DEFENDER OF FORT SUMTER, CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA DURING THE BOMBARDMENT THAT SIGNALED THE BEGINNING OF THE CIVIL WAR. SN 12400 & 12401. Cal. 36. This extraordinary and famous cased pair of Colt Model 1861 Navy revolvers was presented to Brig. Gen. Robert Anderson shortly after his heroic defense of Fort Sumter, Charleston, SC, during the bombardment by Confederate forces on April 12 & 13, 1861. On Nov. 20, 1860, the then Maj. Anderson had been placed in command of the Charleston Harbor defenses which included Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinckney and Fort Sumter. Maj. Anderson & his small garrison of less than 100 men occupied Fort Moultrie as their primary headquarters. Realizing that Fort Moultrie could not be defended from a landward attack he withdrew his command, by boat, to Fort Sumter which although was still under construction was deemed more defendable than Fort Moultrie. With the workmen & soldiers he continued construction and implacing his artillery batteries until April 12, 1861, almost immediately after South Carolina’s secession from the Union. At that time a major force of Confederate artillery from Fort Moultrie and other surrounding batteries, after their demand of Maj. Anderson’s surrender of Fort Sumter was refused, began a sustained barrage of almost 36 hours. On April 13th with no remaining food or ammunition Maj. Anderson surrendered the fort and marched out with his 70 remaining men taking the flag with him. He was received in New York on the following day to great acclaim and recognition and was immediately appointed Brig. General and assigned to command the Dept. of Kentucky and later the Dept. of the Cumberland. It was, apparently, during these celebrations of Gen. Anderson’s heroic defense of Fort Sumter that this beautiful set of Colts were presented by Samuel Colt. Gen. Anderson, due to ill health, was relieved of duty on Oct. 27, 1863 and retired from active service. On Feb. 3, 1865 he was breveted Maj. General for meritorious & gallant service during the siege of Fort Sumter. On Feb. 17, 1865 the Confederate Army abandoned Fort Sumter and on April 13th Gen. Lee surrendered. In spite of his ill health, on April 14, 1865 Maj. Gen. Anderson and a large entourage returned to Fort Sumter where he raised the orig Fort Sumter flag up a hastily erected flagpole on the parade ground. With his health continuing to fail, in 1869 he sailed for Europe believing that the European climate would be beneficial to his health. He died in Nice, France on Oct. 27, 1871. His body was returned to the United States and was buried at West Point. Gen. Anderson was born near Louisville, Kentucky on June 14, 1805 and graduated from West Point Military Academy in 1825 and was appointed 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd Artillery. In 1832 he served as a Colonel of Illinois Volunteers during the Black Hawk War. In 1835-37 he was an instructor of Artillery at West Point, then 1837-38 he served in the Seminole War and was breveted Captain and was subsequently attached to the staff of Gen Scott as Asst. Adjutant General and made permanent Captain. He served in the Mexican War in several battles and was severely wounded at the Battle of Molino del Rey receiving citations for bravery & gallantry. After the war with Mexico he remained in the military and in 1857 was appointed Major of the 1st Artillery which led to his being appointed Commander of troops at Charleston Harbor. This fantastic set is described as follows: Remaining pristine new & unfired with their glossy blue bbls and cylinders and brilliant case colors on frames, hammers & rammers and mounted with extraordinary smooth 1-pc ivory grips, these deluxe presentation revolvers are the epitome of the Colt collectors’ quest for quality, condition & historical significance all rolled into one package. They are engraved with Gustave Young’s finest most deluxe & widest coverage. The engraving consists of sweeping intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage over the frames, extensive patterns on both sides of the bbls & bbl lugs, around front sights & muzzles, on rammer pivots, tops of back straps, butt straps & trigger guards. Hammers have Mr. Young’s extensive deluxe engraving on both sides with exquisite eagle’s heads on each side of the hammer noses. Top edges of the hammers are equally beautifully engraved with hand cut swallowtail checkered patterns on the spurs. Cylinders are equally magnificent with hand cut Ormsby Naval battle scenes and extensive foliate arabesque patterns over the rear 1/3 of each cylinder. Handles of rammers have extensive, very fine, hand cut checkering with hand cut checkered pads on the rammer latches. Wedges are matching engraved on their ends. Engraving patterns on the frames & bbls frequently terminate in flower blossoms with Mr. Young having incorporated an eagle’s head in the patterns on the frame of #12400. Another eagle’s head is on the left side of the bbl lug and a dog’s head just above the wedge screw. Right side of the frame has a dog’s head incorporated in one of the patterns and right side of the bbl lug has an eagle’s head and a dog’s head within the patterns. Number 12401 has a dog’s head on the left side of the frame with a dog’s head & eagle’s head the on left side of the bbl. Right side of the frame also has an eagle’s head with one dog’s head on right side of bbl. The serial numbers on both revolvers on bottoms of the frames, bbl lugs, trigger guards & back straps are accompanied by the initials “IE”. Most importantly the back straps are engraved in period script “To Gen. Robert Anderson U.S.A. / With Compliments of Colt’s Pt. F.A.Mg.Co.”. The tops of both back straps have extraordinary foliate fan or shell patterns with chip borders. Shoulders of the back straps & shoulders of the trigger guards are also beautifully engraved and left sides of the frames are engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in kidney shaped panels. These spectacular revolvers are accompanied by their equally spectacular walnut casing that has gold plated corner reinforcements, an empty presentation plate in the center of the lid, a mortised lock with gold plated escutcheon and mortised European style gold plated sliding latches. Interior is lined in burgundy velvet, compartmented in the bottom for the revolvers, a new & unused “COLTS PATENT”, angle spout, Navy sized flask, a spectacular high polish presentation grade “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, two lacquered tins for Eley’s caps, a presentation polished L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, two trigger springs, two nipples, two spare hammer springs and two spare hands with attached springs. The trigger springs & nipples remain sewn in place as they were originally presented to Gen. Anderson as does the orig key sewn to the lining of the lid. Also accompanying are four packets of Colt Cartridge Works combustible cartridges. Also accompanying this fantastic lot is a wonderful 1840’s pattern sword presented to Gen. Anderson during the same period of time. The sword is by Ames with a 31″ double edged tapered blade, 5/8″ at the ricasso, etched on both sides with trophies of arms & flags and an eagle on the right side. Left side of the blade has the Ames Company name & address. It is mounted with a spectacular carved ivory handle with a trophy of arms on the right side and raised carved acanthus leaves and a bust portrait on the left side. The pommel, knuckle bow & counter guard are gold washed with the pommel a very detailed helmeted knight’s head with acanthus leaves, lightning bolt arrows & flower blossoms on the knuckle bow. The handguard is engraved “ET DECUS ET PRETIUM REGTI. / The CITIZENS of TAUNTON, MASS. / MAJOR ROBERT ANDERSON U.S.A. / A tribute to his courage and his Fidelity / ACQUIRIT QUI TUETUR.” The scabbard is equally beautiful with full gold plating and rococo hangers with oak leaves & acorns on the drag and a beautiful handengraved panel in the center surmounted by a trophy of arms. Lower hanger is engraved with a very detailed rendition of Fort Sumter flying the American flag. The space between the hangers is engraved with a small trophy of arms and a wreath surrounding the inscription “DEO DUCE, FERRO COMITATE”. There is also a gold braid sword knot hanging from the lower ring of the upper hanger. Accompanied by its orig blue velvet lined walnut casing. Sword is also accompanied by Gen. Anderson’s General Officer’s gold braid sword belt with gold braid hangers and his orig gold & silver rectangular officer’s buckle. Belt is lined with fine brown Moroccan leather Additionally accompanied by a large volume of reference material, articles and copies of photographs of Gen. Anderson, his family and other officers along with an CDV of Major Anderson in uniform with his orig signature and another CDV of Anerdson in the uniform of a Brig Gen. There is also a fine steel engraving of Gen. Anderson by J.C. Buttre of New York. In addition there are four orig Harper’s Weekly newspapers dated Jan. 12, 1861 issue which features an article about Maj. Anderson; March 23, 1861 which has an engraving of the photo of Maj. Anderson and the other eight officers with him at Fort Sumter and the April 27, 1861 issue describing the bombardment of Fort Sumter; May 4, 1861 with the entire front cover an engraving of the shelling of fort Sumter with the City of Charleston in the foreground entitled “The House-Tops in Charleston During the Bombardment of Sumter”. It depicts the housetops covered with spectators, most of whom are cheering with some of the ladies openly weeping. Also accompanying is another steel engraving of Maj. Anderson by G.F. Perine of South Carolina. Also accompanying this extraordinary lot are two National Rifle Association (NRA) medals. 1) NRA Silver Medal #331 awarded to these revolvers as one of the Top Ten Displays at an association meeting; 2) NRA Gold Medal #3 a “National Treasure” Medal. Only three of these gold medals have ever been awarded since the inception of the award during the 1998 NRA Annual Meeting. Also accompanying is a Fort Sumter medal to Maj. Anderson from the Citizens of New York. This medal measures 2-3/4″ diameter with the image of the Bombardment of Fort Sumter surmounted by “SUMTER” with the dates April 12 & 13, 1861 below. Additionally accompanying are three of Gen. Anderson’s GAR medals, a bronze, a silver and a gold, with a tiny gold replica lapel pin. All four medals have American flag ribbons with an eagle resting on cannon bbls, a saber & cannon balls. All four medals are identical with 5-point stars and the Grand Army of the Republic inscription with the dates 1861-Veteran-1866. An additional accompaniment is the Fort Sumter token which is one of 400 ordered struck by Gen. Quincy Gilmore which has a raised depiction of the battered Fort Sumter over the date “AUG. 23D 1863” and the reverse in raised letters “FOR GALLANT AND MERITORIOUS CONDUCT / PRESENTED / BY / Q. Gillmore / Maryland”. Also accompanying is a certificate entitling Gen. Robert Anderson to 32 shares of the Chicago & Great Eastern Railway Company dated May 21, 1866. The shares were valued at $100 each. And finally accompanied by a bronze rampant Colt trophy mounted on a round walnut base. Overall height is 14″. The historic importance of these wonderful Colts cannot be overemphasized when considering the courage and gallantry exhibited by Maj. Anderson and his command in the defense of his flag and national honor. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Bob Berryman Collection; Chris Anderson Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, all visible numbers are matching. No dis-assembly was attempted to check for other matching numbers. Both revolvers retain virtually all of their orig brilliant factory finish with glossy bright blue and strong bright case colors. Trigger guards & back straps retain most of their strong orig silver plating with #12400 showing about 20-25% silver losses. Grips are equally crisp & new with wonderful mellow ivory patina showing no use or imperfections. Case is equally new with a few minor grain checks in the lid and a couple more in the bottom under the cloth covering and overall retains most of its orig varnish with some losses of gold plating on the plate in the lid. Interior is extremely fine showing fading in the bottom with some minor damages from the front sights & hammer spurs. Flask, mold & nipple wrench retain about all of their orig factory finish. Spare parts & cap tins are also equally fine. All other accessories are extremely fine as are the accompanying ephemera, medals & medallions. Sword is equally new retaining virtually all of its orig gold plating and fine etching & frosting on the blade. Ivory handle retains all of its orig deep relief carving and has a beautiful ivory patina. Case is also extremely fine with some minor scratches, nicks & dings and light wear on corners. Interior is deep purple with slight edge wear. Sword belt lining is a little fragile with some crackling but complete and nearly intact with bright gold in the outside covering and on the buckle. Bronze is extremely fine with some minor oxidation around horses mouth. 4-36398 JR204 (1,250,000-2,500,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 122234. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, engraved “Saml Colt” address with “COLTS PATENT” in a kidney shape on left side of frame. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap containing a 1-pc ivory grip. Frame, bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe coverage consisting of intertwined foliate arabesque patterns, some of which terminate in flower blossoms. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s stylized fan pattern with chip border and foliate arabesque patterns near the top at the heel, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Screw heads are all engraved. Hammer & wedge screw are modern replacements and are not engraved. Accompanied by an early casing with beveled edge bottom, black velvet lined & compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided eagle & shield flask, a small 2-cavity ball mold without sprue cutter and a wooden handled ramrod/cleaning rod and a tiny powder measure with twisted wire handle. Right rear corner contains a tin of UMC caps. CONDITION: Fair, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered, grip was not checked. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned mottled gray/brown patina with some hammer marks on cylinder & light to moderate pitting. Cylinder retains 15-20% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their thin orig silver plating. Grip is fine showing heavy wear and retains a wonderful yellow ivory patina. Cylinder catches a little in one notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with moderate to heavy pitting. Case has a loose lower left corner and a repaired crack at back edge of lid with grain checks in bottom and retains most of a restored finish with light handling & use marks. Interior is moderately soiled. Flask is fine and retains about 60% orig finish. Mold & other implements are fine. 4-35301 JR215 (4,500-6,500)
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1883 SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN. SN 2007. Cal. 10 ga. 30″ Damascus bbls, tapered concave rib, with single ivory sighting bead, 3″ chambers, extractors, and dbl triggers. Top rib of bbl is marked “COLTS PT. F.A.MFG.CO.HARTFORD, CT.U.S.A.” The box lock receiver has $3 engraving, which is a fine border engraving outlining receivers and circular spoked wheel pattern around pins & screws. Trigger plate is engraved “PATENTED/AUG 22 SEP 1882″. Mounted with highly figured walnut, checkered splinter forend with ebony tip insert, checkered rnd knob pistol grip, and Rampant Colt logo checkered hard rubber buttplate. Bore diameter: left -.800, right -.795. Bore restrictions: left -.020, right -.028. Wall thickness: left -.039, right -.042. Drop at heel: 3-1/2″, drop at comb: 2″. Weight: 9lbs. 12oz. LOP 13-1/2”. Accompanied with Colt Factory Letter, identifying as 10 ga., 30″ bbls, blue with wood stock, 10lbs., $3 engraved, Grade 1, to Andrus Naedle, Hartford Connecticut, October 25, 1887, one gun in shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbls retain nearly all of their beautiful Damascus pattern with some minor thinning and brown spots near muzzle. Receiver retains 95% orig case colors, with some minor thinning blending with silver patina on bottom and across the fences. Trigger guard has 50% orig blue, flaking and blending with silver patina and worn through grip area to silver patina. Stock is sound with sharp checkering a minor dent on upper right side and typical nicks & scratches, but retains most of its orig finish. Forend is sound with sharp checkering, a few minor nicks & scrapes and retains most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp with auto-safety and nice shiny bores. 4-35282 BDT163 (7,500-12,500)
SPECTACULAR DELUXE ENGRAVED MASS ARMS WESSON & LEAVITT’S PATENT DRAGOON SIZED REVOLVER WITH EXPERIMENTAL OR PROTOTYPE SPRING-LOADED LOADING LEVER. SN None visible.. Cal. 40. Very rare large heavy revolver with 6-1/4″ rnd bbl, brass blade front sight and fixed rear sight integral with top strap. It has heavy 6-shot cylinder with beveled front edge and square rear shoulder with angled nipples in individual recesses and safety notches on the lands between nipple recesses. It has a gold plated trigger guard with 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl has a rotating collar with a prototype or experimental 2-pc spring-loaded loading lever. It has a side mounted hammer with angled nose and a back action lock mortised into the right side of grip. This unusual action functions by means of a rack & pinion system which was an attempt to evade the Colt’s Patent on revolving cylinder arms including the locking bolt. Frame, back strap & loading lever pivot are beautifully engraved in extremely well-executed intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with a shield shape in center of back strap. Butt strap & top strap have small flourishes of matching engraving. Top strap is hand engraved “MASS ARMS CO. / CHICOPEE FALLS”. Lockplate is also hand engraved “WESSON’S & LEAVITT’S PATENT”. Cylinder is beautifully etched with two trophies of arms, one of which has the American Liberty cap and foliate arabesque patterns with borders at front & rear edges. The Mass Arms Company was issued a patent for this arm on Aug. 28, 1849 and was sued by Samuel Colt on June 30, 1851 in Boston, Massachusetts for infringement of his revolver patent. Mr. Colt sued on three points of patent infringement and was successful in his suit on all three points, winning a judgment of $1.00 (one dollar). This apparently ended the production of Mass Arms revolvers with only about 800 of the Dragoon size ever having been produced and about 1,000 of the belt size revolvers, all made during the same time period 1850-51. Mass Arms redesigned their revolvers making it a hand rotated cylinder and produced about another 1,000 of the belt model size, ending production in 1857. This beautiful revolver is undoubtedly a prototype piece or possibly a special presentation piece with its spectacular engraving & gold plated trigger guard. Accompanied by the hard-bound 327-page book The Trial of Samuel Colt, Rywell, published in 1953 which details the entire trial and verdict. Additionally accompanied by a scarce sealed packet of 44 combustible cartridges made by the Sage Manufacturing Company for W.J. Syms & Bro. of New York. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, appears to be unfired. Bbl, rotating lug, top strap, back strap & butt strap retain most of their orig glossy blue, thin on exposed part of bbl and center of back strap. Frame & lockplate retain faded case colors, stronger around trigger & hammer. Cylinder is a gray metal patina, apparently never finished and left in the white. Trigger guard retains virtually all of its bright gold plating. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Book is very fine, cartridge packet is fine. 4-36416 JR102 (50,000-90,000)
Correction to Typographical Error in Catalogue: Serial Number is “11232-IE” (the “IE” stands for ivory & engraved, which is correct)
CASED INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED COLT 1855 ROOT MODEL 7 PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 112321E. Cal. 31. Blue finish with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, 2-line New York address and mounted with 1-pc ivory grip. Engraved in early vine style with light coverage foliate arabesque patterns without background. Back strap is engraved in period script “J.N. Burgess”. It has 5-shot cylinder with screw through side retaining the cylinder pin. Serial number on butt is unusual in the extreme in that it is six digits followed by an “E” when the highest recorded serial number observed by this cataloguer is approx. 30,000 which was for the Model 3 with oct bbl. Apparently the workman applying serial numbers got carried away or had one too many beers for lunch and whacked an extra “1” while applying the number. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a scarce brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter having an “H” on right side, a 2-sided early eagle flask and two other compartments containing bullets & balls. The lock escutcheon is replaced with light colored wood. CONDITION: Very good. Overall retains 30-40% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, blue/gray patina elsewhere. There is a small gouge on bbl and moderate wear elsewhere. Cylinder has light to moderate pitting, front & rear and retains about 50% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip has a couple of very minor age lines and may be an old replacement as it does not fit perfectly and overall retains a wonderful golden mellow ivory patina. Hammer will not catch in half cock or full cock notches and the hand jams in one of notches. Strong bore, dark in the grooves. Case has had lid reglued, otherwise is sound with heavily faded interior and soil in bottom with damage from front sight. Mold & flask are fine. 4-35920 JR36 (5,000-8,000)
*RARE FRANCOLINI ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN S14733A. Cal. 45 Colt. Extraordinary engraved single action with brilliant royal blue finish with 4-3/4″ bbl that has skeletonized front sight and block letter address inlaid in platinum. Serial number on the frame is also inlaid in platinum. Mounted with spectacular, checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. Frame is most unusual in that it has been converted to a screwless style. Hammer screw, trigger screw & lockbolt screw have been internalized. Disassembly was not affected to determine how this was accomplished. Entire revolver is, quite simply, a piece of art. Frame is engraved with about 70% coverage spectacular intertwined foliate arabesque patterns which extend over the shoulders of the trigger guard and shoulders of the back strap with highlighted, unfilled spaces below the recoil shields and in the front frame gullet. Both sides of the frame are inlaid with gold wire in arabesque patterns. Recoil shields are inlaid with incredibly fine gold wire borders along with the upper front part of the frame. Top strap is engraved to match with inlaid gold wire & foliate patterns. Bbl & ejector rod housing are engraved to match with intertwined foliate gold wire which is incredibly inlaid around & through the front sight. Muzzle end of bbl and corresponding end of ejector rod housing have very wide inlaid gold band. Back strap & trigger guard are engraved to match, also with extraordinary gold inlays. Cylinder is equally beautifully engraved with gold inlay on four opposing lands between the flutes with the rear 2/3 of surface of the cylinder a very fine punch dot stippled effect. The other two lands are engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. Mr. Francolini signed his work in gold on the front edge of the frame with the date “97”. Base pin, cross bolt & trigger are beautifully fire blued. Accompanied by a fine green, ultra-suede lined Huey oak & leather case French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, large & small ivory handled turn screws with gold washed ferrules and a tiny gold rampant Colt on the ivory handles. Each end has a covered compartment with ivory pull and inside the lid has a leather Colt label. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, new & unfired retaining all of its custom finish. Case is equally new. 4-36432 JR288 (12,500-22,500)
SCARCE MARTIALLY MARKED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 31997. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & cased colored with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line block letter address with dashes at each end. Bottom of the bbl, just forward of the base pin has the sub-inspector initials “J.T.C.”(JOHN T. CLEVELAND) and the last four digits of the serial number are under the ejector housing. It has 2nd type ejector rod housing with bulls-eye ejector head & the cylinder has the partial serial number “4494” which is from another revolver in the same series. Cylinder also has “J.T.C.” and “P” proof marks. The frame has the rare and desirable “L.D.” (Lewis Draper) sub-inspector initials. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and U.S. that has been re-engraved. It is mounted with 1-pc walnut grip with the partially legible “DAL”(Lt. David A. Lyle) cartouche on left side and the mostly legible “J.T.C.” cartouche on right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as having been sold and delivered to the U.S. Government inspector at the Colt factory on Dec. 23, 1876 in a shipment of 300 same type guns. Also accompanied by a Kopec letter detailing much of the above information. He speculates that this revolver may have been issued to the 3rd cavalry or possibly a state militia unit. He states that the mismatched cylinder on this revolver is a common occurrence in this series of martial Colts as there was considerable switching of parts at the factory to correct mis-alignment problems. In item No. 3 of his list of deviations he states that the ejector head is a “modern manufactured replacement” which this cataloger does not agree, having observed fine pitting with finish in the sheltered areas which is consistent with the current restored finish on the revolver. Additionally accompanied by a custom, red-felt lined walnut case, French fitted in the bottom for the revolver with a raised cartridge block containing 6 original Frankford Arsenal inside-primed, copper cased 45 cal cartridges. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except the cylinder as noted and the grip where the number is obscured by oil staining. Overall retains about 99% of its fine custom restored finish with strong bright high polished blue and fine case colors that have a moderately faded look with brilliants colors in the most sheltered areas. Hammer is a later post-1900 commercial replacement. Grip is sound and retains most of its older, professionally restored finish. Hammer is without safety notch otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Box is fine. 4-33471 JR113 (7,500-12,500)
FABULOUS GEN. FRANKLIN PIERCE DOUBLE PRESENTATION CASED COLT 1ST MODEL DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 3969. Cal. 44. Wonderful 1st Model Dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and address that reads chamber to muzzle. Rammer handle has the vertical latch. It has usual 6-shot cylinder with oval stop notches and the Ormsby Ranger/Indian fight scene. Frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” over a tiny “U.S.”. Square back trigger guard and back strap are silver plated and contain a 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “Presented by Col Seymour, Gov. of Conn. to Genl / Franklin Pierce, & by him presented to Thos J. Whipple.” Accompanied by a very early brown leather covered casing with coffin top having incised line decorations with a gold embossed black leather rectangle in center inscribed in gold “COL. T.J. WHIPPLE.”. It has a mortised brass lock with ornate rococco brass escutcheon and is lined in burgundy velvet with recesses in bottom for revolver, an early Dragoon size flask, a brass 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter unusually marked on right side “COLTS PATENT” and a reproduction Paterson style U-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver. Flask is dbl sided with a repoussed stand of flags & arms over crossed Paterson rifles which are over a crossed pair of Paterson revolvers and has a ribbon below embossed “COLTS PATENT”. It has hangers low on each side with triangle loops. One of hangers has been soldered in place. Cap on the top is also marked “COLTS PATENT”. Accompanied by an NRA Silver Medallion No. 378 awarded to this revolver as one of the ten best revolvers at an annual meeting. Franklin Pierce, 1804-1869, was from New Hampshire and a confirmed Democrat. His early life in New Hampshire was undistinguished even as an elected member of the U.S. House of Representatives and later the U.S. Senate until he enlisted for service as a Private in the Mexican War and was soon appointed Colonel. In March of 1847 he was appointed Brigadier General and took command of a brigade of reinforcements under the command of Gen. Winfield Scott marching to Mexico City. At the Battle of Contreras Gen. Pierce seriously injured his leg but the next day resumed command and fought in two more major battles and was with Gen. Scott at the capture of Mexico City. After the war he returned to New Hampshire and in 1853 became the 14th President of the United States. At the end of his term in 1857 he was not renominated by his party due to unpopular legislation he had promoted regarding the slavery issue in Kansas. He returned to New Hampshire and led a rather mundane and undistinguished life until is death in 1869. Col. Thomas Hart Seymour, 1807-1868, was also a confirmed Democrat from Connecticut where he was educated and served one term as a member of the U.S. Congress, 1843-1845. He declined renomination and in 1846 was commissioned a Major in the New England Regiment of Volunteers and served in the Mexican War. He fought with great distinction and bravery at the Battles of Melino & Chapultepec where he was accorded high military honors. During the assault up the steep slopes of Chapultepec, under murderous fire his Colonel was killed. He took command and continued the assault and capture of the fortified town. He fought through the remainder of the Mexican War and was with Gen. Scott at the capture of Mexico City. After the war he returned to Connecticut and in 1850 was elected Governor and was re-elected in 1851, 1852 & 1853. In April 1853 he was appointed Minister to the Russian Court by Pres. Franklin Pierce where he served four years. Both of these men were staunch Democrats and both were sympathetic to the Southern cause during the Civil War which, when discovered, led to their complete abandonment by the Democrat Party and general ostracizing by the public, so much so that Gov. Seymour’s portrait was, by vote of the Legislature, removed from the State House. Both died reasonably obscure. The above facts give credence to the connection between Gov. Seymour and Pres. Pierce. Thomas Jefferson Whipple was born in 1816 in New Hamshire and after receiving his education became a lawyer in New Hampshire. Sometime prior to 1840 he raised an independent military company, the Wentworth Phalanx, and was Aide-de-Campe to Gen. Cook when only seventeen years of age. He was later commissioned 1st Lieutenant in the 9th New England Regiment, became the Adjutant of Col. Pierce in the Spring of 1846. He fought in the Mexican War and was taken prisoner at Vera Cruz and subsequently exchanged at Jalapa. After the War he returned to New Hampshire where he remained, practicing law, until the outbreak of the Civil War. He served as Lt. Colonel of the 1st New Hampshire Regiment and then as Colonel of the 4th and later the 12th New Hampshire Regiments. He had been active in politics prior to the outbreak of the Civil War and then resumed his political connections after the Civil War. This information therefore ties Col. Whipple to Pres. Pierce having been Col. Pierce’s Adjutant during the Mexican War. As of this writing the actual reasons for the presentations are unknown. PROVENANCE: Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “924” (grip was not checked). Bbl retains about 95% orig blue with light muzzle edge wear and flaking over bbl lug. Rammer & rammer handle retain dark case colors. Cylinder retains about 90% thin orig blue turning brown and also retains 96-98% Ranger/Indian fight scene. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors, smoky on right side, with brighter colors on right side of hammer. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with a couple of thin spots with brass showing through. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered spots of pitting. Case has some minor cracks in the lid that are very old, otherwise is completely sound with light handling & storage marks. Interior is moderately faded, dark under the revolver & implements. Flask is exceptionally fine retaining most of its bright & unusual orig finish. Mold is equally bright & clean and nipple wrench/screwdriver retains most of its brilliant orig case colors. Altogether an extraordinary & rare Presidential presentation Colt. 4-36411 JR94 (250,000-450,000)
EXTRAORDINARY & RARE CASED SILVER PLATED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 86088. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 6″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and engraved “SAML COLT” bbl address. Left side of frame is engraved “COLT’S PATENT” in a pillow shape. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap with small guard & a 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is engraved in Gustave Young’s deluxe foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on the frame with several scrolls terminating in flower blossoms. Hammer is also engraved on itssides with a wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, with fish scale patterns on top edge and a hand checkered spur in swallow tail pattern. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s trademark fan with chip border and foliate arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Bbl lug is engraved on both sides and the two top side flats with Mr. Young’s bird head incorporated in one scroll on left side with two scrolls terminating in flower blossoms on right side. Rammer pivot is engraved to match. Cylinder is 5-shot with all five safety pins crisp. All screw heads are engraved in keeping with the deluxe nature of this engraving. Accompanied by a rare Colt style mahogany casing, burgundy velvet lined and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided brass eagle & shield flask, a brass 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and a covered compartment with ivory pull in right front containing a packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge. Grip was not checked. Overall retains virtually all of an extraordinary professionally restored silver finish. Restoration is of the finest, highest quality equal to Tommy Haas’ best with only a few minor pin pricks of pitting and a nick or two under the plating to disclose the rework. Cylinder is equally fine having been polished and retains about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Grips are probably old replacements. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case, also possibly by Tommy Haas, has a grain check in the lid and others in the bottom, otherwise is sound with normal handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with light soil and completely sound. Flask & mold are a medium mustard patina with nicks & scratches on mold. Nipple wrench & other accessories are fine. 4-38004 JR234 (4,000-6,000)
*LARGE HIDE COVERED TACK DECORATED TRUNK FULL OF MEMORABILIA AND FIREARMS OF WILLIAM “KIT” CARSON “UNCLE KIT”, NEPHEW OF FAMOUS SCOUT & EXPLORER COLONEL KIT CARSON. 1) Cal. 32 WCF (32-20) SN 250538. Standard grade rifle with 24-1/4″ round bbl, full magazine, replacement ivory blade Rocky Mountain. front sight and standard rear sight. Mounted with straight grain, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and crescent butt plate without trap. 2) Colt SAA revolver. Cal. 41 Colt. SN 195264. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ bbl, one line block letter address and altered front sight. Left side of the frame has two line, three patent dates with rampant Colt in a broken circle. It is mounted with two piece smooth ivory grips and the backstrap is electric pencil engraved “UNCLE KIT CARSON”. 3) Fine old brain tanned buckskin jacket with long fringes on numerous places. Both sides of the front opening around the pockets and cuffs are mounted with nickeled brass studs and red synthetic stones. It also has triangular shaped fake shell buttons. Also accompanied by the original buckskin pants decorated identically with suspender buttons and fine tan deerskin front of the legs. Also there is a beautiful beaded blanket strip belt with primary white beads with blue, yellow and red accents. Red beads are the earlier style white hearts. Additionally accompanied by a beaded armband and a brass studded belt, along with a pair of well worn man-sized moccasins, beaded with large trade beads and lined with yellow trade cloth. Outside of the heel area also has a band of red trade cloth. For the revolver there is a mail ordered dbl loop holster and cartridge/ money belt with nickeled brass cut-cornered buckle. There is also a small Sheffield bowie knife w/ 6-3/4″ clip point blade, oval German silver hand guard and stag scales in a leather scabbard marked on the outside “UNCLE KIT”. Also accompanying is a deep carved cow’s horn powder horn and a pair of early cloth suspenders. And finally accompanying is a very large lot of ephemera including numerous letters, documents, postcards and myriad of early photographs along with show bills, etc.. William Kit Carson was born Aug. 7, 1858 at the Fort Union, New Mexico Army Post to William & Maria Carson. William, a father was the youngest of four brothers and brother of Christopher “Kit” Carson, the famous Indian scout, western explorer & pioneer guide. William Kit Carson “Uncle Kit”, whose property is being sold here, recalls living at Fort Lodge during 1878 and was present when his uncle died from an arrow wound. William Kit Carson lived the early part of his life around Fort Union, his father was an army sgt. who taught the young Carson self-confidence and how to survive. When he was 14 years old, Kit became a Teamster at Fort Union and at Fort Bliss near El Paso freighting supplies for the army. Later, young Kit worked for local cattle ranchers herding cattle from Arizona Territory to New Orleans and then up into Montana and also the Cherokee Strip Territory. Young Kit also worked the Jingle-Bob Ranch in Roswell, NM Terr. and then for John Chisum’s ranch. He became acquainted w/ William Bonney, aka Billy the Kid, who also worked on Chisum’s ranch. Kit also was acquainted with Pat Garret who killed Billy the Kid and was himself killed in a later shootout. Kit drove stagecoaches in Lincoln County and was the first man injured in the bloody Lincoln County War. He married a Pueblo Indian maiden with whom he had a daughter who died at age 14. In 1878 Kit was stationed in Salt Lake City working for Gen. Nelson Miles of the 13th Cavalry who gave him a model 1873 Winchester. The rifle included in this lot is probably not the one presented by Gen. Miles as this rifle was not manufactured until 1887. William Kit Carson, who story is being told here, fought in two of the great Indian wars of the period, one being against the Sioux where in the Dakota badlands he was wounded in the leg and then against the infamous Chief Geronimo and the Apaches in the southwest. Kit Carson was a member of the scouting party with Pawnee Bill (Gordon W. Lillie) and in 1886 he was a scout under Captain Lawton who captured Geronimo in the Dragoon Mountains. When the Spanish-American war broke out, Kit Carson joined the army and was assigned to the #7 pack train that was present throughout the entire Cuban campaign and claims to have ridden with the Rough Riders in the charge up San Juan Hill. In the fall of 1901, his unit was assigned to Fort McKinley in the Philippines where he remained for two years freighting supplies to the front lines. After the Philippines, he returned to NM where he became a miner, trapped & hunted, and lived with the Indians. In 1902 he joined the Coleman circus & toured in America & Europe for several months. In 1907 he and a group of Indians toured with vaudeville shows around the Pittsburgh, PA area. They stayed on the road for 12 weeks and then returned to NM. Shortly after that Kit was approached to join Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West, Cody having been a friend of Kit’s father. They asked Kit to be in charge of the Indians in the show because he spoke 6 Indian languages and knew sign language of all the tribes. He traveled w/ Buffalo Bill troupe for 5 summers and made 5 trips to Europe w/ them. After that, until 1930, he traveled w/ various shows and vaudeville troupes, and at age 72 retired to NM. And in 1931 moved to Roswell where he spent his remaining days. He died in 1957 at age 99. Also included in this lot is a letter dated Jan. 1, 1934 on “PAWNEE BILL’S OLDTOWN” letterhead addressed “FRIEND CARSON” asking him to go on the road with him to perform at the World’s Fair in 1934 saying that the 1933 fair had been extended and he was bidding to perform there. It is signed “G. W. Lilley”. One other item of interest is a photograph or possibly a copy of a photograph of an extremely young Roy Rogers with the sentiment & signature “MANY PLEASANT TRAILS TO YOU” and signed “Roy Rogers”. This was apparently long before Roy Rogers wrote the song “Happy Trails”. And finally accompanied by a large hair on steer hide covered dome top trunk 39″ long x 18″ h x 19″ w. with iron handles on each end and iron locks on the front. Interior is lined with red & white gingham cloth. The entire surface is brass-tack decorated in heart & geometric patterns. The top center of the lid is mounted with a strip of dark blue, pale blue & pink beads that form the name “KIT CARSON”. Family recollection is that “Uncle Kit” inherited the hide and beaded trunk from his Uncle, the original “Kit Carson”. CONDITION: 1) Rifle. About good. No original finish remains being an overall plum brown patina with scattered spots of light pitting. Stock has a very old large sliver broken from the toe and a crack through the wrist with numerous nicks, dings & scratches and retains a very dark warm patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore. 2) Colt. Very good. Bbl retains about 50% thin original blue with traces of case color on the frame. Balance of the revolver is a gray brown patina. Grips are fine, slightly shrunken but sound and retain a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with minor scattered fine pitting. Trunk shows heavy wear & hard use w/ both lock hasps missing but is still intact and usable. Photos, documents, and other items are all generally fine with some yellowing to some of the paper. 4-37736 JR339 (7,500-12,500)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED CUSTOM EDITION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH CASE. SN 34 SPL. Cal. 44 SPCL. Blue and case colored with 7-1/2″ bbl, tall, thick, orig front sight with “CUSTOM / EDITION” in gold on the left front side of the bbl. It is fitted with very nicely figured, smooth walnut, Colt medallion grips. It has “C+” engraving with about 75% coverage on the frame, about 4″ up the bbl, around the muzzle, on the ejector rod housing, cylinder, back strap & trigger guard, extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background. The bottom front of the frame has “34 / SPL” inlaid in gold. The serial number was observed on the left side of the front strap & back strap under the grip and right side of front strap under the grip has the number “23”. The number “34” was inside both grips. No further disassembly was attempted. The above engraving and gold work was done in the Alvin White Shop and is fully explained in the accompanying Colt factory letter which is somewhat unusual. This letter covers “50 units” and under the serial number entry it simply says “XXSPL”. These 50 units are in 44 special cal with blue finish, walnut stocks, and are in a French-fitted gold velvet-lined walnut case and were shipped to Pacific International Merchandising Corp., 225 “J” Street, Sacramento, CA on Jan. 26, 1977. Under the remarks section these 50 revolvers are further described as having the following special custom features: “Type C+ engraving, the inscription ‘Custom Edition’ inlaid in 24K gold on the left side of the barrel, and 24K gold inlaid serial number. The engraving was performed by A. A. White Engraving Co. Twenty-five of the revolvers were furnished with 5-1/2″ barrels and twenty-five were furnished with 7-1/2″ barrels.” The second paragraph of the remarks section states “It is also interesting to note that this particular edition is the first Colt Custom Shop offering of a hand engraved custom edition.” Page 132 of Colt’s SAA Postwar Models, Garton states basically the same information as provided in the factory letter with the addition that these revolvers, even though they are post 2nd generation revolvers, they were built with the old style parts. Also accompanied by its orig, gold velvet-lined walnut presentation case fitted in the bottom for the revolver. CONDITION: New, unfired, unturned, with brilliant shiny blue & crisp bright case colors. Grips are equally new and so is the case. 4-35368 JR116 (4,000-5,000)
RARE COLT MODEL 1855 1ST MODEL SPORTING RIFLE. SN 1038. Cal. 36. Colt’s first successful sporting rifle in the root sidehammer configuration with 30″ oct to rnd bbl, dovetailed German front sight with mouse ear rear sight mounted on the top strap of the receiver. It has the Colt oiler mounted on the left side of the bbl lug & the orig Colt iron cleaning rod with knurled head also mounted on left side. It has the ball & detent rammer lever and 6-shot cylinder with the rare cylinder scene of a hunter shooting at five running deer with two apparently shot and on the ground. Cyl has the etched panel “COLT’S PATENT / SPORTING RIFLE” and on the center bar “ENGRAVED BY W.L. ORMSBY N.Y.”. Rifle is made without forearm and has a straight grain, uncheckered walnut stock with crescent steel buttplate. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 1,000 of these rare rifles were made in period 1856-1859 and this rifle is fitted with the longest bbl offered. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 30-40% orig blue, stronger on the oct section and around the rammer handle and front sight with balance a thin blue/gray patina. There is a cleaned section on right side with some scattered very fine pitting. Rammer pivot retains strong case colors as does the hammer. Receiver retains about 60-65% strong orig factory blue, mostly on left side with right side worn & flaked to a blue/gray patina. Top & bottom tangs are also a smooth blue/gray patina. Stock is sound with a few very light handling & storage marks and retains virtually all of its bright orig factory varnish. Buttplate retains dark case colors. Cyl retains 15-20% orig blue with balance a silver/brown patina and shows about 90% orig cyl scene. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-35180 JR500 (17,500-27,500)
PERIOD STEEL ENGRAVING OF SAMUEL COLT. This outstanding engraving, with facsimile signature of Colt beneath, was taken from the posthumous oil portrait of 1865 by Charles Loring Elliot. Marked in the plate, “PROOF J.I. PEASE 1876”. James Ives Pease was a noted American engraver who specialized in banknote engraving. It is elegantly matted and framed in an American deep ebonized frame with faux fish scale motif, of the period. The print was intended for an unidentified publication of the centennial period and may never have been published. SIZE: Steel engraved image: 5-5/8” wide x 8” high. Including frame: 19-3/4” wide x 23-3/4” high. PROVENANCE: Ex John Hintlian collection, 1975. CONDITION: Generally very good. 4-35496 JDJ6 (1,000-1,500)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE EUGENE YOUNG ENGRAVED GOLD & NICKEL COLT MODEL 1877 SHERIFF’S MODEL DA LIGHTNING REVOLVER. SN 6092. Cal. 38 Colt. Spectacular, one of a kind, Lightning with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl and half moon front sight with 2-line address, made without ejector housing. Left side of frame has usual 3-line patent dates with cal marking on left rear web of trigger guard. Mounted with rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Frame, bbl,cylinder, back strap & trigger guard are wonderfully engraved by Eugene Young in his minimalist style with about 40% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Caliber marking on left side of bbl is engraved by Mr. Young in a flowing arc surrounded by arabesque patterns. Top of back strap & sides of frame by bbl have beautiful fans with dots at end of feathers. Frame, bbl, trigger guard & back strap are all nickel plated with cylinder, hammer, trigger & ejector rod head gold plated. Screws are all beautifully fire blued which contrasts wonderfully with the gold & nickel. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which fully identifies this revolver as found with nickel & gold finish and factory engraved, shipped April 10, 1878 to J.P. Lower Sons, Denver, Colorado in a one gun shipment. This beautiful revolver is the companion piece to a Colt Single Action Army revolver identically engraved by Eugene Young & finished also in nickel & gold and also shipped to J.P. Lower, that was sold by Julia’s Auction Company in a recent auction. Information developed during research for the Single Action Army disclosed that J.P. Lower and Colt had collaborated on the gold & nickel finish design and Mr. Lower had probably received the first items so finished. This is possibly the single finest Colt Lightning revolver extant. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Bbl, cyl, trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their strong orig factory nickel finish with only some slight, tiny losses on left side of the trigger guard shoulder & rear edge of frame. Cyl retains about 95% strong orig gold finish over orig nickel underplate with losses around front face of cylinder from firing. There are two small spots in adjacent flutes and some light surface crackling in the another flute. Hammer & cyl pin head retain about all of their orig gold finish with one small spot & some very fine pin prick pitting on sides of hammer. Trigger retains about 75% orig gold finish, thin on front with all of losses flaked from rear face & right edge. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with one spot of pitting. Grips are sound showing very light wear, starting to turn chocolate on left side. Information from the consignor states that this is the only Colt Lightning with this configuration known to be engraved by the shop of Eugene Young. It has the rarest of all bbl lengths at 2-1/2″. Its artistic beauty, unequaled rarity, and incredible condition after 130 years, make it probably the single most extraordinary Colt Lightning in the world. 4-35049 (50,000-75,000)
VERY RARE DOUBLE CASED SET OF COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 185221 & 185323. Cal. 44. Nickel finish with 8″ bbls, full front sights with usual bbl address & 3-screw frames with “COLT’S PATENT” on left front sides & caliber marking on left shoulders of trigger guards. They have nickel plated brass trigger guards with nickel plated iron back straps & are fitted with matching deep relief carved Mexican eagle 1-pc ivory grips. Accompanied by an extremely rare, orig, Colt burgundy velvet lined mahogany twin casing with an oval brass plate mortised & screwed into lid, engraved in period script “Augustin Bustamante”. Interior is compartmented for two revolvers, a dbl sided Colt eagle Navy flask with angle spout, a “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity blued steel mold with sprue cutter and caliber marking & inspector initial on right side. Also accompanied by a very rare early, orig soft packet of Hazard Powder Co. combustible cartridges & two lacquered tins of Eley caps, one of which is still in its orig paper wrap. There are also two other cap tins and an L-shaped nipple wrench. CONDITION: Revolvers are very good to fine with both retaining most of their restored nickel finishes. Both are all matching except wedges which are unnumbered. No. 185221 retains about 95% strong nickel finish with some flaking on bbl & cylinder and some bubbling on right side of frame. Hammer nose has been dressed. Wedge screw is missing. Grip has several age lines and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. No. 185325 retains about 92% nickel with flaking on bbl, cylinder & frame. Hammer retains about 50% case colors. Trigger guard shows wear through trigger area. Grip is fine with several age lines & a crack running from right heel and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics on both are fine with strong bores & light to moderate pitting. Case has a couple of cracks in lid & three grain checks in bottom. Lining is moderately faded & soiled with several loose partitions some of which are detached but most appear to be still present. Flask is fine with one small dent on one side and overall retains about 90% strong orig finish. Mold retains about 80% orig blue. Other accessories are fine with rare orig cartridge packet yellowed with one small tear but complete. 4-35972 JR479 (30,000-40,000)
SCARCE MARTIALLY MARKED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 31997. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & cased colored with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line block letter address with dashes at each end. Bottom of the bbl, just forward of the base pin has the sub-inspector initials “J.T.C.”(JOHN T. CLEVELAND) and the last four digits of the serial number are under the ejector housing. It has 2nd type ejector rod housing with bulls-eye ejector head & the cylinder has the partial serial number “4494” which is from another revolver in the same series. Cylinder also has “J.T.C.” and “P” proof marks. The frame has the rare and desirable “L.D.” (Lewis Draper) sub-inspector initials. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and U.S. that has been re-engraved. It is mounted with 1-pc walnut grip with the partially legible “DAL”(Lt. David A. Lyle) cartouche on left side and the mostly legible “J.T.C.” cartouche on right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as having been sold and delivered to the U.S. Government inspector at the Colt factory on Dec. 23, 1876 in a shipment of 300 same type guns. Also accompanied by a Kopec letter detailing much of the above information. He speculates that this revolver may have been issued to the 3rd cavalry or possibly a state militia unit. He states that the mismatched cylinder on this revolver is a common occurrence in this series of martial Colts as there was considerable switching of parts at the factory to correct mis-alignment problems. In item No. 3 of his list of deviations he states that the ejector head is a “modern manufactured replacement” which this cataloger does not agree, having observed fine pitting with finish in the sheltered areas which is consistent with the current restored finish on the revolver. Additionally accompanied by a custom, red-felt lined walnut case, French fitted in the bottom for the revolver with a raised cartridge block containing 6 original Frankford Arsenal inside-primed, copper cased 45 cal cartridges. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except the cylinder as noted and the grip where the number is obscured by oil staining. Overall retains about 99% of its fine custom restored finish with strong bright high polished blue and fine case colors that have a moderately faded look with brilliants colors in the most sheltered areas. Hammer is a later post-1900 commercial replacement. Grip is sound and retains most of its professionally restored finish. Hammer is without safety notch otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Box is fine. 4-33471 JR113 (20,000-30,000)
*VERY RARE ENGRAVED RAF MODEL 1911 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN W100119. Cal. 455 Eley. Produced in 1915 under British contract, only about 11,000 of these rare pistols were made for British government for issue to the Royal Air Force. They were ordered in caliber 455 Eley to correspond with the 455 caliber handguns already in British service. While the 455 Eley & 45 ACP rounds are comparable, they are not completely interchangeable. Consequently, a majority of these rare pistols were subsequently converted to the American caliber. This fine pistol has standard configuration with 5″ bbl, chamber being marked with caliber & British proof markings. Left side of slide has usual Colt markings with “1913” being last patent date & rampant Colt at left rear end. Just above rampant Colt is British crossed saber proof mark. Right side of slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE 455″. Left rear end of slide has British nitro proof. Left side of frame, just in front of slide lock stud hole, is crossed saber proof mark & broad arrow acceptance stamp. It has a crown/”G2″/”A” inspector mark just above magazine release and there is a large “L” on left rear web of trigger guard. Right side of frame has the commercial “GOVERNMENT MODEL” marking & serial number which is prefixed with a “W”, denoting the British contract. Accompanied by an orig lanyard loop magazine marked on base “CAL. 455 / ELEY”. This fine pistol is beautifully engraved in period foliate arabesque patterns with a fine shaded background with about 50% coverage on frame & 75% coverage on slide. Top rear of slide has a crest consisting of a unicorn head over a crown which surmounts a ribbon inscribed “VIVE UT VIVA”, which roughly translated means “live when alive”. Just forward of ejection port, on top of slide, is an extremely well executed grizzly bear in a mountain scene & it has a cross hatch pattern on each side of front sight. Mounted with smooth ivory grips. Altogether an extremely beautiful & tastefully engraved 1911. PROVENANCE: Doug Smith Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Overall retains virtually all of its beautiful custom blue applied after engraving and appears to be unfired since it was engraved. Magazine also retains virtually all of its fine custom applied blue. Grips & grip screws are crisp with grips retaining a fine, light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. This appears to have been a nearly new pistol when it was engraved. 4-36127 JR244 (7,500-12,500)
FABULOUS FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL DA REVOLVER. SN 97436. Cal. 38 Colt. Early Lightning with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight with caliber marking on left side & on bottom of bbl underneath base pin and has 2-line bbl address & is made without ejector rod housing. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates. Mounted with orig, checkered 1-pc rosewood grip & has a swivel in butt. Revolver is extraordinarily engraved with absolute full coverage foliate arabesque patterns except front strap & cylinder flutes. Engraving is spectacular intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with exceptionally fine punch dot background. Top of back strap has intertwined initials that appear to be “WAI” & back strap has unusual cross-hatched feather patterns. Cylinder has full coverage everywhere except in flutes with alternating patterns on lands between the flutes. This exceptional engraving is the product of Rudolph Kornbrath. It has his very distinctive fine hand with his trademark diamond pattern on one of the lands of the cylinder with others of his very distinctive patterns. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found in caliber 38 Colt with 3-1/2″ bbl, blue finish, wood grip, factory engraved & shipped to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY on Feb. 8, 1894 in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Metal retains a silver/blue patina with blue in most sheltered areas. Engraving is sharp & clean with only slight edge wear & a minor nick or two. Hammer retains bright blue on back edge with sides retaining some of its orig bright finish, turned gray. Grip is sound showing light wear and retaining 96-97% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. 4-33752 JR103 (15,000-25,000)
Correction: Serial Number should read “117964” not 117904″. This means the pair are within 8 serial numbers apart, not 54 serial numbers apart.
EXCEEDINGLY RARE CASED PAIR OF PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVERS. SN 117904 & 117958. Cal. 36. Exceptional & exceedingly rare cased pair of Civil War presentation Colt Model 1851 percussion revolvers. This pair is identical in all respects with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, brass pin front sights, “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” addresses and “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of frames. They have silver plated brass trigger guard & back straps with 1-pc walnut grips. Each back strap is identically engraved “PRESENTED TO CAP. A.L. HOUGH BY UNION RIFLES TERRE HAUTE, IND.”. Serial numbers on both revolvers, on frames, trigger guards & butt straps are accompanied by a small number “2”, undoubtedly indicating that they are a pair. Accompanied by their orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany Colt casing with mortised brass lock & diamond shaped escutcheon in front. Bottom is compartmented for the two revolvers, a sgl sided angle spout, “COLT’S PATENT” flask, a “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity iron bullet mold with sprue cutter, a laquered tin of 500 Eley’s caps, an L-shaped nipple wrench & a spare, orig, unnumbered cylinder. Right rear corner compartment contains bullets & balls. Also accompanying are four packets of orig combustible cartridges marked “FOR WHITNEY’S OR COLT’S NAVY PISTOL”. Capt. Alfred Lacy Hough was born in New Jersey & enlisted in the 17th Pennsylvania Infantry in April 1861 and mustered out in June 1861 to accept a commission as Captain in the 19th Infantry. It was apparently at this time that he was sent to Indiana as a recruiting officer and apparently became associated with the Union Rifles in Terre Haute. It is unclear exactly what the Union Rifles actually were but a later bit of information disclosed that the Union Rifles, in May of 1864. had opened a recruiting office and raised money & supplies to supply men in the field and relief to the families of the soldiers who were not present to provide for them. The Union Rifles apparently had been formed in April 1861 just for that purpose. There is no indication of the reason for the presentation although it can be assumed that the presentation in some way related to Capt. Hough’s recruiting efforts in the area. Capt. Hought served throughout the entire war and was breveted Major in Sept. 1863 for gallant & meritorious service in the Battle of Chickamauga. He was then promoted to Brevet Lt. Colonel in March 1865 for the mustering of troops and on the same day to Brevet Colonel for gallant & meritorious service during the war. He remained in the 19th Infantry until September 1866 when he was transferred to the 28th Infantry, then was reassigned to the 13th Infantry in 1870 & promoted to the prominent rank of Major in the 22nd Infantry in 1874. He was made permanent Lt. Col. in the 16th Infantry in Feb. 1882 and served on the frontier at Fort Davis, Arizona Territory as Post Commander from May to August 1882. He was promoted to Colonel of the 9th Infantry in 1888 and retired in April 1890, ending a long & distinguished military career served with courage & honor. Included in the lot is a copy of Hough’s book “Soldier in the West, C.W. Letters of Alfred Lacy Hough” a digest of the author’s patriotic feelings about the War, his personal life back on the home front, and his development as a professional soldier. Additional research in the Terre Haute, Indiana area newspaper morgues may disclose the reason for the presentation of this wonderful pair of revolvers to Capt. Hough. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, probably unfired. Both retain virtually all of their strong, bright orig factory finish with glossy Colt blue on bbl & cylinders with some light flaking on both bbls & cylinders. Frames, hammers, rammers & rammer handles all retain about 99%+ of their brilliant orig factory case colors. Trigger guards & back straps retain virtually all of their orig silver finish, slightly thinned on back straps in the engraved areas. Grips are pristine, retaining virtually all of their brilliant orig factory varnish. Both revolvers appear to be unfired with both cylinders retaining all six crisp safety pins. Case is completely sound with minor handling & storage marks & retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Interior is heavily faded in lid and moderately faded in bottom with wear & soil from the front sights & hammer spurs. Flask is fine, probably not orig to this set and retains 75-80% orig finish with several small dents on back side. Mold is crisp & new retaining about 98% orig finish. Spare cylinder is also new. Nipple wrench & cap tin are fine. Two of the cartridge packets are crisp & orig with the other two in slightly soiled condition with an open seam on bottom of each. An extraordinary set in as fine orig condition as one would ever fine anywhere else in the world. 4-35780 JR347 (180,000-225,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CUSTOM ENGRAVED EARLY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 8925. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight & 1-line script bbl address with serifs at each end. It has 1st style ejector rod housing with bullseye ejector rod head & serial number is found on bottom of bbl, underneath ejector rod housing. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates & it is fitted with extraordinary orig Colt style 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver, overall, has about “D” coverage Cuno Helfrecht style engraving with his trademark fan at top of back strap & sunburst on loading gate. It also has his trademark starburst on front sides of frame with snake & dot patterns in gullets of frame & snake & dash patterns in gullet of ejector rod housing. Cylinder is engraved in typical Helfrecht patterns of fine foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with simple border lines around flutes & a small starburst back of each flute with multiple borders on rear edge. This engraving is of the very finest quality with a fine punch dot background. In fact the entire revolver is of extreme high quality, possibly an old Tommy Haas creation. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except cylinder which is unnumbered. Overall retains virtually all of its strong custom orig Colt style finish with minor spots of discoloration on outer radius of ejector rod housing. Grip is extraordinary & crisp with a beautiful mellow ivory glow and retains all of its fine polish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-35150 JR100 (12,500-17,500)
Additional Information: This gun is listed in Goddard’s M1991 book on pg 220 identifying it as going to Winchester as number 2 of a shipment of two.
*RARE COLT MODEL 1905 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL WINCHESTER ARMS CO. TEST PISTOL. SN 1164. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with 5″ bbl, usual fixed sights & usual slide markings on left side with rampant Colt in a circle at left rear. Right side of slide has normal markings with the intertwined “WRACO” monogram engraved at rear edge of slide. Right side of frame, just forward of trigger pin, is engraved “2 OF 2” and “{Ctg. Test & Devlpmt. – 200gr. 230gr. 255gr.}”. It has a slide lock on left side and is fitted with diamond checkered walnut grips & accompanied by an orig all blue magazine. Only about 6,100 of these rare pistols were made in period 1905-1911 and most have seen very hard service. This is one of the pistols Winchester obtained from Colt to test function & accuracy of their ammunition. Few of these rare & interesting test guns ever appear on open market & usually they are in a deplorable state having been used hard & are usually severely worn. CONDITION: Very fine. Slide retains about 75% glossy orig blue with a few light spots of rust on left side and two cleaned spots on right side. Frame retains 96-97% glossy orig blue with only slight sharp edge wear, a spot of pitting near this heel on back strap & a couple of other spots on left side around trigger opening. Grips are crisp, showing light wear with no hand oil staining & retain most of their orig factory varnish. Magazine is also fine. Hammer retains most of its strong orig case colors. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-37244 JR402 (6,000-10,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF HOUSE PISTOL. SN 2178. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish on brass frame with 3″ rnd bbl, integral pinched blade front sight with 2-line bbl address. It has the very unusual 4-shot deep fluted cylinder with spur trigger & uncheckered rosewood birdhead grips numbered to another revolver. Sides of frame & trigger sheath, top of back strap & top strap are very nicely New York style engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. Grips are numbered “2174”, almost certainly a factory error. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong orig factory nickel with only slight losses around muzzle & inside front edge of frame. Front edge of frame & bottom of bbl are nicked & dinged, apparently from someone attempting to pry out the cylinder pin without knowing to loosen retaining screw. Grips are fine with a minor scratch or two & retain about 95% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with two spots of pitting & some light frosting. 4-35164 JR275 (6,500-7,500)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED 2-GUN SET OF EARLY COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVYS. SN 1100 & 1101. Cal. 36. Cased set of consecutive numbered, very early London Navys with 7-1/2″ oct bbls, pin front sights with London addresses with dashes. Both have small guard silver-plated brass trigger guards & back straps with extraordinary dlx, smooth, French walnut grips. Both are English engraved similarly but not identically with tasteful light coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a ribbon on each frame. Hammer screws on both revolvers have a flower blossom around hammer screw holes with another flower blossom around rammer pivot screw & rammer screw on No. 1100. No. 1101 does not have rammer screw decorations. Both have light decorations on sides of hammers with dolphin motifs on top edges. Back strap of No. 1100 is inscribed “Honble D. F. Monson / 52nd Lt. Infantry”. Back strap of No. 1101 is inscribed with initials “J.V.B.”. These early London Navies were apparently produced shortly after Colt set up his first operation in London and were assembled mostly from parts sent over from the Hartford factory with only about 2,000 more. There are apparently variations in parts with most of parts being Hartford made, as noted, but some of parts were also made in London and obviously these two were engraved in England with London made grips. Both revolvers have British proofs on bbl lugs & cylinders. Accompanied by a spectacular, mahogany, 2-gun, British casing with brass reinforced corners & a concealed lifting ring in brass inlaid bull’s eye in lid. Interior is rose velvet lined, compartmented in bottom for two revolvers, a Hawksley bag shaped flask, a blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, marked on bottom “N.J”, signifying that it was part of a shipment to the New Jersey Militia. Case also contains two L-shaped nipple wrenches of different sizes & an early galvanized tin of Eley Bros. caps. Right rear corner has a covered compartment for the cleaning rod, which is missing. Left front corner contains a few balls & bullets and a left center compartment contains spare parts & nipples. Left rear corner compartment is empty. Front of case has a mortised brass lock with two mortised brass latches. CONDITION: SN 1100. Very good to fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered, grip was not checked. Bbl retains traces of blue in the most sheltered areas being overall a gray/brown patina. Rammer pivot retains faded case colors. Frame retains dark case colors in the most sheltered areas and, along with hammer, retains a dark gray/brown patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 93-95% strong orig silver plating. Grip is sound with light handling & use marks and retains about 95% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with heavy pitting. SN 1101. Very good to fine, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered, grip was not checked. Bbl retains about 50% thin orig blue with balance a blue/brown patina & some light surface rust & fine pitting. Rammer pivot retains faded case colors. Frame is mostly a dark silver gray patina with some silvered case colors on right side. Cylinder is a light plum colored patina with scattered pitting and retains about 25% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain about 70-75% orig silver and grip is sound with light nicks & scratches showing light to moderate wear & retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. Case is sound with handling & storage nicks & scratches on lid and overall retains 75-80% orig varnish. Interior is lightly faded with very light soil. Flask appears to be about new. Mold retains about 50% flaked orig blue, other accessories are fine. 4-35973 JR480 (25,000-40,000)
Additional Information: Serial number indicates 1876 production date.
VERY EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 23871. Cal. 45 Colt. Scarce engraved early single action with 4-3/4″ bbl, apparently reduced to this length during period of use. It has 1-line block letter address with a relocated front sight with engraving patterns. It has 1-pc very mellow, worn ivory grip. Overall it has about 70% coverage New York-style foliate arabesque pattern engraving with feather patterns on top strap, all with punch dot background, possibly from the Nimschke shop. Ejector rod housing has feather patterns also and cylinder with arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with small sunburst at back of each flute. CONDITION: Fair, all matching with bbl & cylinder also numbered. No orig finish remains being a worn, cleaned metal color. Base pin screw has been altered with a larger threaded hole drilled vertically and a commensurately larger screw. Grip is somewhat shrunken and retains a beautiful mellow golden ivory patina with numerous age lines. Hammer & base pin are old replacements. Hammer will not hold in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Worn dark bore 4-35441 (8,000-9,000)
*RARE MILITARY UNIT MARKED PRE-WAR COLT ACE SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 8594. Cal. 22 LR. Scarce pre-war Ace with rare 4-7/8″ orig bbl with solid chamber, marked on bottom “COLT ACE 22 MATCH”. Slide has usual commercial markings on both sides with rampant Colt at left rear & has fixed Ace front sight with orig adjustable rear sight. Right side of frame has the serial number & is engraved “147TH. INFANTRY”. It has checkered arched mainspring housing with full checkered walnut grips & is accompanied by an orig 2-tone magazine with orig markings on base plate. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol, as found, with type of stocks not listed & factory inscribed “147th Infantry”. It was shipped on Dec. 6, 1937 to Ed Brandemoor of Cincinnati, OH in a shipment of ten same type arms. The 147th Infantry is an old & storied unit that dates to the Civil War having been organized during the Civil War & mustered out afterward. They were federalized again for the Spanish/American War, again for WWI & were demobilized after WWI until WWII. Apparently during this time in between wars they were still an active National Guard Unit and purchased this pistol for use in training purposes. CONDITION: Very fine. Slide retains 93-95% glossy orig blue, strong in sheltered areas & over top, thinning toward the sides with light muzzle edge wear. Frame retains strong orig blue on sides & bottom front with a gray front strap & thin grip safety. Grips are sound showing moderate to heavy wear with a few chipped diamonds & dark oil stain. Magazine is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-37243 JR405 (4,500-6,500)
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. SN 71109. Cal. 22 Short. Silver & nickel finish with 2-3/8″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight with 2-line bbl address. It has a silver plated brass frame with 7-shot cylinder & is fitted with, what appear to be, smooth, factory, birdhead ivory grips. Engraving is in New York style consisting of large flower blossoms & leaves on each side of frame with geometric designs at top of back strap & down each side of bbl. Accompanied by a fine red velvet lined walnut box that is possibly an orig Colt box that has been relined. Bottom is compartmented for revolver, a full orig box of Winchester smokeless cartridges, a small turn screw & orig functioning key. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except grips which are not numbered. Bbl retains about 90% strong orig nickel with cylinder bright polished metal with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Frame retains traces of silver plating in engraving & under grips. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a few spots of light pitting. Box is fine with a few light nicks & stains. Interior is lightly soiled. Ammunition & accessories are fine. 4-35479 JR283 (3,000-5,000)
EXTRAORDINARY CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 51808. Cal. 36. Spectacular new ’51 Navy with 7-1/2″ bbl, brass pin front sight, 1-line New York City address with silver plated brass small trigger guard & back strap & mounted with extraordinary, smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Frame, bbl lug, trigger guard, back strap, hammer & rammer pivot are engraved with Gustave Young’s deluxe patterns consisting of wonderfully executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Some of the swirls terminate in his trademark flower blossoms & left side of bbl lug has his trademark dog’s head also with his trademark spray of foliate arabesque patterns emanating from a flower blossom. It additionally has his kidney shaped design around the engraved “COLT’S PATENT” on frame executed in gentle arcs. Hammer has his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the nose with a dolphin pattern on the top edge of hammer & spur. Top of back strap has his early rendition of a fan. Serial numbers on bbl lug & frame are surrounded by small cross hatch patterns and all of screw heads & screw ends are engraved. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, an equally new angle spout, dbl sided Navy size flask, a new blued steel “COLT’S PATENT” 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, a new “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a full laquered tin of Eley Bros. caps, a key, with the angled compartment in right rear containing bullets & balls. Additionally in the flask compartment is an unopened packet of skin cartridges. Also accompanied by several pages of correspondence between Horace Greeley, IV of Cliffside Park, NJ (direct descendant of the famous newspaper editor, Horace Greeley, who coined the phrase “Go West, young man, go West”)& Christie’s Park Avenue Galleries, New York City, regarding items missing from the case, apparently discovered after he purchased it from Christie’s in their Oct. 7, 1981 Auction. Also accompanying is a letter from R.L. Wilson, the noted Colt historian & researcher, who identifies this revolver basically as above and notes that it is from “the renowned collection of Jerry D. Berger”. He further states that this revolver is featured in full color in the “new” Colt Engraving Book. PROVENANCE: Horace Greeley IV; Christie’s Auctions; Butterfield Auctions; Jerry D. Berger Collection. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine and near mint! All numbered parts are matching. No disassembly was affected to check for hidden numbered parts. Appears to be new & unfired retaining about 98% glossy orig blue on bbl & bbl lug with only faint sharp edge wear. Rammer pivot & handle retain about all of their orig case colors, slightly faded on handle. Cylinder retains most of its orig factory blue, slightly thin with about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene, all six safety pins are crisp. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their slightly faded orig factory case colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain abut all of their strong orig silver plating. Grip is equally extraordinary with sharp edges & a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with a few small spots of pitting. A truly magnificent ’51. Case is also extremely fine with a hairline grain check in lid & a couple of small cracks in bottom and retains most of its orig varnish with minor handling & storage mars. Interior is moderately faded with light soil & wear from front sight & hammer spur with staining from cylinder & edge of grip. Flask, mold & nipple wrench are pristine new & unused. Cap tin is near new, missing its paper wrap. Cartridge box has a partially open seam but is very fine. An extraordinary set, the like of which is likely never be encountered again. 4-35778 JR345 (90,000-125,000)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 270477. Cal. 44-40. Silver finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, altered or replacement front sight with block letter address & “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” roll marked on left side. Bottom of bbl has a tiny “44” under base pin. It has 3rd type ejector rod housing with crescent ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle & mounted with very nicely oak leaf & acorn carved Colt medallion ivory grips. This revolver has about “B”plus coverage Nimschke style engraving with frame having about 75% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background & feather patterns on top strap. Bbl at muzzle & at frame along with top of back strap & trigger bow are engraved to match. Front & back straps are very beautifully checkered. The three frame screw heads are also very beautifully engraved while loading gate is not engraved. Cylinder has beautiful matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with a band of feather patterns at rear edge & ejector rod housing has feather patterns on outside radius. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver in 44-40 caliber with 7-1/2” bbl, blue finish, type of stocks not listed, shipped to H & D Folsom Arms Co., NY, NY, April 17, 1906 in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom silver plating, apparently unfired since completion. Grips are very fine with a mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-35474 JR98 (5,000-8,000)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT WOODSMAN PRE-WAR SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN 91392. Cal. 22 LR. Blue finish 2nd Model Woodsman with 6-5/8″ tapered rnd bbl, adjustable front & rear sights with full checkered walnut grips & orig 2-tone magazine. Pistol has about “B+” coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background covering about 60% of pistol. Left front side of frame has “THE WOODSMAN” and engraved “MARY HEATH” below. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol with blue finish, class “B” engraved with the name “Mary Heath” on receiver. Under special features it lists 3-1/2 lb. trigger pull. It was shipped to the famous target shooter Phil B. Bekeart of San Francisco, CA on June 20, 1934 in a one gun shipment to Order #13605-1. Also accompanied by its orig hinged lid, dark maroon box with standard blue & white end label, a black & white label on top edge marked “TARGET” and a tiny blue over-label marked “PATRIDGE SIGHTS” with another black & white over-label that wraps over top marked “ENGRAVED”. The serial number is in pencil on bottom along with the purchase order & job numbers. Inside contains orig wire handled cleaning brush & tiny hexagonal handled all-steel screwdriver. Mary Heath Keesling (1914-2006) was a native of San Francisco and a graduate of Univ. of California at Berkeley. As a student she was a competitive skeet shooter and upon returning to the San Francisco Bay area after WWII became a prominent volunteer. Her father was a former vice-president of Remington Arms. CONDITION: Extremely fine, near new, retaining about virtually all of its strong orig blue with only very faint muzzle edge wear, probably from sliding around in the box. It may have been fired but if so, very little. Grips are crisp showing little or no wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-33422 JR153 (20,000-30,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 THUER DERRINGER. SN 17793. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, half moon front sight with 2-pc matching numbered birdshead walnut grips. Frame, bbl & back strap are beautifully factory engraved with fine sweeping foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. It has feather patterns down front sides of frame with a geometric pattern at top of back strap. There are small patterns on either side of muzzle with a wavy line border around muzzle. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, new & unfired. Retains about all of its strong orig nickel finish with bright fire blue on screws & trigger and all of its dark case colors on hammer. Grips are sound with very minor wear on sharp edges & retain about all of their orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-35970 (12,500-17,500)
RARE DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY 3RD MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 23620. Cal. 36. Fabulous Gustave Young deluxe engraved Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight and 1-line New York City address. It has engraved “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of frame in a kidney shaped panel that is one of the trademarks of the famous Gustave Young. It has silver plated brass small loop trigger guard & back strap containing varnished deluxe burl walnut grip. Frame, bbl, bbl lug, rammer pivot, hammer, trigger guard & back strap have Mr. Young’s No. 2 style deluxe engraving consisting of wonderful foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Several of the swirls terminate in flower blossoms and he inserted his trademark dog’s head behind & partially under the wedge screw. The bl has about 1-1/2″ matching engraving pattern completely around muzzle with a wavy line border. Both sides of hammer are engraved to match with his wolf’s heads on sides of hammer nose with dolphin motif on top. Top of back strap has his trademark fan with chip & wavy line border. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are engraved to match with a wavy line border on each side & front edge of trigger guard. All screw heads are also engraved. Adjacent to serial numbers on bbl lug, butt strap & cylinder is a number “2” and there is a small punch dot beneath serial numbers of frame & trigger guard. Gustave Young was a very prolific engraver & certainly one of the best of his day and even today would be considered a world class engraver. This revolver represents some of the finest, highest quality produced by his shop, probably by the master himself, making it a truly beautiful work of art. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Bbl retains most of its orig factory blue turning plum on non-engraved areas. Rammer & handle retain faded case colors, stronger on pivot. Frame & hammer retain dark case colors with traces of brighter colors in sheltered areas. Cylinder retains 60-70% thin orig blue & about 95% strong Ormsby Naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain 95-96% strong orig factory silver plating with one small wear spot on front strap & at heel of back strap. Butt strap shows some minor battering and the serial number on butt strap is a light strike. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. 4-35162 JR375 (15,000-20,000)
FINE CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 125876. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-11/16″ bbl apparently re-crowned from a 4-3/4″ length, thick front sight. Bore is conventionally rifled with six narrow lands & wide grooves. It has 3rd type ejector rod housing with crescent ejector rod head. Mounted with very beautiful orig Colt left & right silver medallion pearl grips. This revolver is engraved in a combination of styles including the Cuno Helfrecht sunbursts on recoil shield & loading gate with his stylized sunburst at top of back strap. Balance of revolver has about 50% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with a stippled background. Ejector rod housing has a snake and dash & dot pattern. Cylinder is engraved to match revolver with simple line borders around flutes with foliate arabesque patterns alternating on lands between flats and a double fine border at rear edge. Back strap has a beautiful deep relief engraved oak leaf pattern with a blank scroll. Front strap & trigger guard are engraved with a feather pattern. Cylinder is a modern replacement with rampant Colt between flutes on rear edge & number “4231” around cylinder bushing hole on front face. Plating is applied in the old fashioned way with metal first having been copper plated thin nickel plating applied over that. This is evidenced by small amount of wear from ejector rod head on bbl which has exposed some of copper finish. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine custom plated finish. Grips have a few very minor chips on heels & bottom of right side with a slightly chipped left toe, otherwise are beautiful & sound with wonderful color & fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-33755 (4,000-7,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1894 DA REVOLVER. SN 98893. Cal. 41 Colt. Blue finish with 6″ bbl, half-moon front sight and “MAR.5.95.” being the last patent date in the bbl address. Left side of the bbl has a caliber marking & left rear edge of the frame has the rampant Colt in a circle. It is fitted with fine smooth pearl grips that have a large repair on the right side. The back strap is engraved in period script “Lieut. J. W. Smith. 2nd Regt. U.S.V. / from N. O. Stenographers Assn., July 1898”. Lieut. Smith enlisted in the 2nd Regt. U.S. Volunteers as a private June 1898 and was almost immediately promoted to Sgt. and on 6 July 1898 promoted to Lieut. The 2nd Regt. USV Infantry was mustered into service 15 June 1898 and sailed for New Orleans on 28 July 1898, arriving at Santiago, Cuba, on 5 August 1898. By that time the war was over and the regiment was pressed into occupation and counter-guerilla duties. The regiment departed Cuba May 1899 and was mustered out of service in June 1899. On 8 Nov. 1898 Lt. Smith was detached from his unit to serve as Collector of Customs at the port city of Gibara, Cuba, on 8 Nov. 1898 and stayed behind when his unit departed for the U.S. On 22 June 1899 he was discharged and the next day appointed Deputy Director of Customs at Gibara, a civilian appointment made by the President. In January 1900 Lt. Smith was shot by the editor of a local Cuban newspaper and succumbed to his wounds several days later. His remains and possessions were eventually returned to his family in Rock Falls, IL, where he is buried. There is a large volume of material including newspaper clippings and copies of letters of condolence from military commanders in Cuba discussing Lt. Smith’s demise. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 6″ bbl, blue finish, rubber stocks, shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO on May 3, 1898 in a shipment of 20 same type firearms. Also accompanied by a 1918 dated military New Service brown leather holster. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 85-88% orig blue, strong in the sheltered areas with blue/gray grip straps. Grips have chipped heels and some fine chips along the left side of the back strap & the aforementioned repair, otherwise are fine with good fire and color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Holster is sound & retains about 90% orig brown finish with some slight flexing. 4-35442 (6,000-7,000)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT #3 DERRINGER. SN 7529. Cal. 41 RF. Blue & nickel finish with 2-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight with “COLT” on top of bbl. Nickeled brass frame has nearly full coverage Nimschke style foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background & feather patterns down the sides. Left side of grip frame, adjacent to serial number is a large “E” which apparently indicates that it was factory engraved. Bbl has matching patterns on both sides, around muzzle & back of sight with a nice fan around hammer nose slot. Mounted with extremely beautiful, probably orig checkered ivory birdhead grips. These little derringers were favorites for gamblers, ladies & gentlemen for their vest pockets. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbl retains traces of blue in most sheltered areas being mostly a gray metal patina. Frame retains 95-96% strong orig nickel. Grips have a couple of age lines with a tiny hole on bottom of left side & retain a dark mellow yellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with sharp rifling. 4-35477 JR278 (4,000-6,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED SILVER PLATED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 80221. Cal. 31. Silver finish with 5″ oct bbl brass pin front sight with engraved “Saml Colt” address. Has 5-shot cylinder with silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap and is fitted with 1-pc ivory grip. Frame, bbl, rammer pivot, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved in Gustav Young’s deluxe coverage with spectacular intertwined foliate arabesque patterns and punch-dot background with some of the patterns terminating in flower blossoms. The left side of the bbl lug, left recoil shield 7 right side of the bbl lug have Mr. Young’s stylized animal heads of dogs on the bbl lug & a bird on the recoil shield. The hammer nose has his wolf’s heads for each side. Top of the back strap has his trademark fan with sunbursts on each shoulder of the back strap. The cylinder appears to have hand engraved enhancements. Accompanied by a wonderful distributor supplied burgundy velvet-lined rosewood case compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a 2-sided silver plated eagle flask, a silver plated “Colt’s Patent” bullet mold & 2 covered compartments with carved pearl buttons containing a tin of Eley Brothers pistol caps and the other lead balls. The lid of the case has a small inlaid rectangular silver plate engraved in period script “A. B. Smith”. The bottom is covered in fine blue linen with leather corners. The front edge of the bottom and the lid toward the right corner have pry marks. Also accompanied by a small packet of information and copies of unit service for Brevet Brig. Gen. Alfred Baker Smith. Gen. Smith was born in St. Lawrence County, NY, in 1825, graduated from Union College in 1851, briefly taught school, studied law, was admitted to the Bar in 1855 and practiced law in Poughkeepsie, NY, until Oct. 1862 when he was commissioned to raise a regiment in his area and was then commissioned Major and Commander of the 150th Regiment NY Infantry. He was promoted to Lt. Col. in Nov. 1864 and Col. April 1865 and was Breveted Brig. Gen. for meritorious service in the campaigns of Georgia and the Carolinas with Sherman. The 150th saw its first action at Gettysburg in July 1863 and acquitted themselves very well at the Peach Orchard. That unit has a monument commemorating them at Gettysburg. Gen. Smith continued in local politics after the war and was very active in the Republican party. He died at Poughkeepsie Jan. 28, 1896. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, including the wedge (the grip was not checked). Overall the metal retains 97-98% strong orig silver plating on the bbl, frame & grip frame. The cylinder has flaked to mostly a gray patina with a few spots of orig silver plating and has a lightly battered face and retains 75-80% stagecoach hold-up scene. Grip is truly outstanding with crisp edges and a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore with scattered light to moderate pitting. Case is equally outstanding with only minor scratches in the lid and the aforementioned pry marks. The interior is lightly faded with light wear from the muzzle, front sight & hammer spur with a worn impression from the cylinder & grip. Accessories are equally fine with some minor wear on the flask. A truly outstanding set. 4-35434 JR121 (25,000-35,000)
*CASED PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED 3RD GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 88558SA & 88559SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Fantastic cased pair, blue & case colored with 7-1/2″ bbls & eagle?rampant Colt black composition grips. Left side of the frames have 2-line patent dates with a rampant Colt. Both revolvers are identically engraved in class-B coverage of foliate arabesque scrolls, intertwined on the recoil shields with a flower blossom on each side of the front of the frames. The backstraps, trigger guards & ejector rod housings are engraved to match. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying these 2 revolvers, as found, with blue finish, 7-1/2″ bbls, factory class-B, engraved, engraver’s name not listed and under special features “Consecutive serial numbers”. They were shipped Oct. 7, 1977 to The Gun Shop Inc. / Shooters Supplies, Rochester, NY to order #10384. It further states “Number of same type guns in shipment: 1 pair”. Also accompanied by their orig factory, burgundy velvet-lined walnut case fitted in the bottom for both revolvers. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned with glossy bright blue & brilliant case colors. Case is equally new. 4-33762 JR115 (6,500-8,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE KORTH ANNO DOMINI 2000 MODEL DA REVOLVER WITH CASE. SN 2000-2. Cal. 357 Mag. Extraordinarily rare with only ten having been made during the year 2000 & had a suggested retail of $10,000 at that time. Reference Blue Book of Gun Values, Fjestad. This spectacular revolver has a 4-1/8″ bbl similar to the Colt Python with ventilated rib, ramp front sight & adjustable rear sight. It has 6-shot cylinder with rebated rear face & smooth burl rosewood grips. Cylinder release is a serrated lever on right side of hammer & there is a small button on right forward side of frame which when depressed with cylinder open further releases cylinder for removal. Entire revolver is “PVD GOLD PLASMA COATED” and beautifully engraved with thistles having a fine punch dot background. Left side of bbl is marked in script “Anno Domini” and left side of frame is engraved “MM” in a circle of thistles. Right side of bbl is marked “.357 Magnum” and right side of frame has the Korth stylized “K” logo and the “KORTH” stamp. Back strap is engraved with serial number “2000-2”. Accompanied by its orig black leatherette foam lined case with combination locks & the “KORTH” name on a plate on front. The Korth revolver is considered by many knowledgeable & experience people to be the single finest dbl action revolver ever made. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine, appears to have been fired at least once from each chamber. Overall retains all of its orig gold finish & all of its orig finish on grips. Case is equally new. 4-35619 JR289 (6,000-10,000)
FINE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT #3 DERRINGER. SN 6978. Cal. 41 RF. Blue & silver finish with 2-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight & “COLT” on top. Bottom of bbl has two tiny British proofs. Fitted with rosewood birdhead grips & left side of grip frame has an “E” adjacent to serial number. It also has the high, straight hammer spur. Frame & bbl have about 60% coverage fine Nimschke style foliate arabesque engraving with fine punch dot background. Bbl has matching engraving around muzzle, top & sides with a fine fan around hammer nose slot. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 98% of a fine professionally restored blue finish. Frame retains traces of silver finish under grips, otherwise is a cleaned medium mustard brass patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. 4-35480 JR280 (3,000-5,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED INVENTOR PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 91150. Cal. 31. Fine Gustave Young engraved pocket model with 6″ oct bbl, rare dovetail front sight with engraved “Sam’l Colt” address. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” in Young’s distinctive kidney shape. It has silver plated trigger guard & back strap with deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. Back strap is inscribed “Leonard Kellogg / From the Inventor”. This fine little revolver has Gustave Young’s deluxe treatment consisting of his fine foliate arabesque patterns over frame, bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Several of swirls terminate in flower blossoms with one large swirl on right rear side of frame terminating in his trademark dog’s head. There is another dog’s head incorporated in the patterns on right side of bbl lug. Top of back strap has Young’s trademark fan pattern with zig zag border. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard have foliate arabesque patterns with zig zag pattern around edges of trigger guard. Hammer has his deluxe engraving on both sides with his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of nose & dolphin pattern on top edge. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. Accompanied by an orig Colt, rose velvet lined walnut casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, an orig 2-cavity brass “COLT’S PATENT” mold without sprue cutter, a sgl sided “COLT’S PATENT” eagle flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of six combustible cartridges and an early lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except wedge which is numbered “54550”. Bbl, cylinder, hammer & frame all retain a smooth even plum brown patina with muzzle & sharp edge wear. Frame retains some dark case colors in sheltered areas. Hammer nose has been dressed and has some moderate pitting. Cylinder is a gray/brown patina with pitting on front face & battering on rear face and retains about 75% stagecoach holdup scene. Trigger guard & back strap retain 60-70% orig silver plating. Grip has a chipped right toe with a couple of minor gouges & light handling marks and retains about 25% orig varnish with balance a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine with a strong dark bore. Case has a couple of cracks across lid and a couple of others in bottom otherwise is sound and retains most of its orig varnish with light storage scratches & dings. Interior is severely faded with light to moderate soil and some minor water spotting in the lid lining. Bottom is moderately soiled with good sound partitions. Mold is extremely fine, flask, cartridges & cap tin are fine. 4-35913 JR466 (10,000-15,000)
*VERY RARE WESTERN STATES (NEVADA) FACTORY ENGRAVED ANIMAL SPECIAL EDITION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92558 SA. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & case colored 3rd generation single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, orig, tall, thick front sight with orig Colt eagle & rampant Colt hard rubber grips numbered to this revolver. It is factory engraved, probably by Alvin White, in about “A+” coverage with one wide and one thin gold band at the muzzle and chamber ends of the bbl. The cylinder has matching bands with gold wire inlay around the frame, recoil shields & loading gate. Left side of the frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt and the right side “4 of 5” inlaid in gold. The engraving consists of extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot background & a large raised gold, very highly detailed, Bighorn ram’s head on the left recoil shield, with an extremely fine punch-dot background. The serial number is found on left side of front and back straps under the grip along with “COLT ENG”. Accompanied by a list of this special edition with the number of revolvers produced for 18 Western states. Nevada is listed as having 5 of these revolvers out of a total of 50 produced for all 18 states. This specification sheet states that they were accompanied by presentation cases and that 20 of them had gold inlaid animal heads and the other 30 had gold inlaid “full” animals. Also accompanying is an invoice from Pacific International Merchandising Corp. of Sacramento, CA, to Westgate Drug Inc. of Las Vegas, NV, transferring this revolver, dated “8/19/83”. The invoice shows “Replacement cost: $4,000.00” at that time. Invoice is marked “ATTN: ROGER”. Also accompanying is a letter on Westgate Drug’s letterhead dated “9-6-83” and addressed to “Dr. Lewin” over the signature of “Roger Oswald”, discussing a warranty manual and instructions. Also accompanying is the owner’s manual. Additionally accompanied by its orig red velvet-lined walnut Custom Shop case with brass plaque on the lid inscribed “WESTERN STATES ANIMALS / SPECIAL EDITION / NEVADA / 4 OF 5”. Case is in its orig cardboard box, completely covered with tape. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Bbl, cylinder & grip frame in high-polish orig Colt blue and the frame bright orig case colors. Grips are equally new as is the case. 4-35366 JR117 (5,000-7,000)
*SPECTACULAR HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED SMITH & WESSON MODEL 27-2 DA REVOLVER. SN N153791. Cal. 357 Mag. Usual configuration with 8-3/8″ ribbed bbl, blue finish with partridge front sight, adjustable rear sight & magnum checkered walnut grips. This revolver is spectacularly engraved by the late Howard M. Dove, former Colt master engraver. Engraving consists of full coverage, intertwined, foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch-dot background. Each side has silver wire border inlay that follows the contour of frame & terminates in an arabesque scroll at top front of each side. There is also a silver wire band around muzzle with “SMITH & WESSON” in silver on left side of bbl & “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM” in silver on right side of bbl. Right side of frame behind recoil shield has Smith & Wesson intertwined logo in silver & gold. Cylinder is also beautifully engraved with a feather pattern behind each flute & twelve connected silver wire scallops toward rear edge of cylinder. Bottom of bbl has Mr. Dove’s signature stating that he was a Colt Master Engraver. Accompanied by a letter on Colt letterhead dated March 27, 1981, over the signature of Howard M. Dove, and addressed to Mr. Fred Donald Hawkrader of Christiansburg, Virginia wherein he states that he has just completed the custom engraving on the Smith & Wesson. He states that the revolver was stripped of orig finish, “reshaped” & polished to “better than original surfaces”. At the bottom of letter he fully identifies this revolver with finish “Colt’s Royal Blue” & that the engraving was “(Colt desg.) D cov.-100%”. His signature is then followed by “Colt Master Engraver-Colt Clock No. 17732-30 / Colt Custom Gun Shop”. Also accompanied by its orig 2-pc Bangor Punta blue cardboard box with correct end label. CONDITION: Extremely fine, unfired since engraving. Overall retains virtually all of its fine Colt Royal Blue finish. Orig grips retain about all of their orig Smith & Wesson finish. Box is fine. 4-35615 JR264 (3,500-5,500)
FINE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT #3 DERRINGER. SN 285. Cal. 41 RF. Beautiful little derringer with 2-1/2″ bbl, German silver front sight & “COLT” on top. It has caliber marking on left side of frame & smooth walnut matching numbered birdhead grips. Frame & bbl have about 75% coverage Nimschke.hke style engraving consisting of fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Both bbl & frame are nickel finish with blued hammer, trigger & screws. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 92-94% strong orig nickel with slight losses around front sight & chamber end of bbl. Grips are sound showing moderate wear with right side retaining about 80% orig varnish & left side about 60%. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with fine pitting. 4-35478 JR279 (5,000-8,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER INVENTOR PRESENTED TO COL. S.A.COOLEY. SN 105634. Cal. 31. Presented in 1856, this fine revolver has a 5″ oct bbl, pin front sight with engraved “Sam’l Colt” address. It has 5-shot cylinder with silver-plated brass trigger guard & back strap & highly figured, deluxe, 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is inscribed “Col. J.A. Cooley / from the inventor”. Frame, bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard all have Gustave Young’s deluxe foliate arabesque pattern engraving with his typical scrolls & whirls with fine punch dot background and “COLTS PATENT” in a kidney shape on left side of frame. Several of the swirls terminate in flower blossoms and it has his trademark fan at top of back strap with arabesque patterns down back strap, across butt strap & on trigger guard. Edges of trigger guard have his zig zag border pattern. Hammer is also deluxe engraved with his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of nose and a dolphin pattern on top edge. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined walnut casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a 2-sided eagle flask & brass 2-cavity “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold without sprue cutter. Left front corner has a fine sealed packet of five combustible cartridges & an L-shaped nipple wrench. Right rear compartment has a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Bbl rest is a replacement. Col. Samuel Abbott Cooley was a well-known socially and politically active Hartford resident in the mid 1800s. Cooley was a noted purveyor of fine books and images and operated a Daguerrian Saloon from 1852-59. Cooley would later become a famed CW photographer. He was known to associate closely w/ I.W. Stuart who owned the property where the famous Charter Oak stood and was a speaker at the Dedication Proceedings for the Charter Oak Hall of Sam Colt. It is believed that Cooley was a significant participant in the Proceedings as well as he received a special personalized manuscript of the event from Stuart which he later donated to the Conn. State Library before his death. It is also believed this engraved Colt M1849 was a gift to Cooley from Sam Colt commemorating this historic event. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge, grip was not checked. Bbl & cylinder retain an even dark brown patina with a few minor nicks on bbl and hammer marks on cylinder. Cylinder retains 60-70% orig stagecoach holdup scene. Frame retains dark case colors turning silver. Hammer has had its nose dressed and also retains darkened case colors. Trigger guard retains about all of its orig silver plating with front strap a cleaned brass patina with several small dings. Back strap & butt strap retain most of their orig silver plating, thin on butt strap. Grip shows light to moderate wear with a few nicks & dings and retains a fine hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with heavy pitting. Case has several small grain checks in lid and another in bottom, otherwise is sound with usual handling & storage nicks & scratches and retains strong orig varnish. Interior is heavily faded in lid but intact. Bottom has some reattached partitions with moderate to heavy fading & soil. Flask is fine with a couple of minor dents. Mold is extremely fine. Altogether a wonderful set. 4-35912 (20,000-30,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE CASED COLT ENGRAVING SAMPLER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN SA 58824. Cal. 45 Colt. One of the most rare of contemporary factory Colt single action revolvers, one of only 10 made in this configuration. It is blue & case colored with rare 10″ bbl, very tall thick front sight with block letter bbl address & usual late markings on the left side. It has unfluted cylinder with 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt on the left side of the frame. It is mounted with very beautiful 2-pc ivory grips with blind screw hole in the left grip and 150th anniversary Colt Custom Shop medallions. It is engraved in 4 different styles with Henshaw style on the butt strap and trigger bow, Nimschke on the cylinder, Helfrecht on the frame and contemporary styling on the bbl. The top of the back strap has Colt’s 150th year logo in a circle with “Colt Engraving Sampler” in script down the back strap. The left grip is scrimshawed with the names and dates of the engravers. Accompanied by its orig Colt, powder blue, velvet-lined oak case branded on the top “1836-COLT-1986” and form-fitted in the bottom for the revolver and an open slot. Inside lid has the large 150th anniversary Colt medallion. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found. It indicates that it was factory engraved by Denise Thirion and shipped to the Stacy Williams Co., Birmingham, AL, on June 9, 1988. Under the remarks section it lists the location and style of the engraving, the scrimshawed grip, and that it was processed on Custom Shop order #3226 and is one of only 10 produced in the Sampler Edition in the above noted configuration. The case has been fitted with a fine plexiglass cover on the inside. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Case is equally new. 4-35367 JR119 (4,500-5,500)
INCREDIBLE MEDIUM FRAME COLT LIGHTNING PUMP ACTION RIFLE. SN 51877. Cal. 38-40. 26″ octagon bbl, full magazine, Rocky Mountain front sight, serrated side sporting rear, standard receiver with Rampant Colt on left side, mounted with select straight grain walnut, uncheckered straight grip, oval plaque on left side of stock, crescent butt, and checkered two-piece forend. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbl and magazine tube retain 98-99% original blue with a few minor handling marks. Receiver has 95-98% original blue with a small area of flaking turned to brown patina and some thinning on sharp edges. Hammer retains virtually all of its original case colors. Stock is sound with a few minor handling marks and retains virtually all of its original finish. Plaque on left side is engraved “CF Dellinger 122 West 43Rd N.Y.”. Buttplate retains 40-50% original blue, flaked and mixed with silver and brown patina. Forend is sound with crisp checkering, a few minor handling marks and virtually all of its original finish. Mechanics are crisp with a nice shiny bore. 4-35485 BDT250 (5,000-7,000)
FINE FACTORY ENGRAVED MERWIN & HULBERT DOUBLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 19649. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 7″ rnd bbl, integral pinch blade front sight with Merwin & Hulbert address on the top and Hopkins & Allen Co. information on the side, with the later style top strap. It has 6-shot cylinder with conventional flutes & square butt frame with smooth 2-pc ivory grips. There is a stud and lanyard loop in the butt strap. The frame, bbl & cylinder are very nicely factory engraved with the vignette of a bull elk on the sideplate and altogether about 75-80% coverage foliate & floral patterns. Cylinder has geometric patterns on the lands between the flutes. The trigger & hammer retain 50-60% bright case colors. Left side of the frame has the “Winchester 1873” cal marking. Assembly number was observed on the left side of the grip frame, under the grip, rear face of the cylinder and inside the bbl lug. Inside each grip is printed in pencil “ES MIA / SR TOM P / WESTON / MADERO 13 MEX D.F.”. A rough translation is “This is mine, Tom P. Weston, Madero 13 Mexico”. While only a few thousand of these revolvers were made in the period 1876-1880, they were very well liked by the frontiersmen and westerners for their ease of ejecting empty cartridges and reloading as compared to the Colt Single Action Army revolvers which required 2 hands to reload making it very difficult to use on a galloping horse. These revolvers, on the other hand, could be emptied and reloaded in less than half the time it took for the same operation of the Colt. They were strong and reliable with good durability. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except the grips which are not numbered. Bbl and frame retain most of their bright orig nickel with some slight losses around the muzzle & on the front sight with minor pitting. Cylinder retains most of an old restored finish. Grips have minor age lines on the bottom edges with a very minor chipped left heel and retain beautiful mellow ivory patina. Hammer safety notch is not functioning, otherwise mechanics are crisp, very bright shiny bore. 4-36206 JR124 (9,000-12,000)
CASED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 271532. Cal. 31. Blue & case colored with 5″ oct bbl, pin front sight & 1-line “NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” address. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene & “COLT’S PATENT” on left side of frame and caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. It has silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap with large trigger guard & 1-pc walnut grip. Accompanied by an orig English oak casing with brass plate in lid engraved “JM”. Interior of case is green felt lined with loading instruction label in lid and compartmented in bottom for revolver, an iron 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, a bag shaped Barlow flask, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps with green label and an L-shaped nipple wrench. Right rear corner has a covered compartment with replaced pull and also has a replacement wood handled brass cleaning rod. Front escutcheon of case is missing. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge except rammer which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 96-97% strong glossy orig factory blue and rammer & handle retaining most of their orig case colors, somewhat darkened. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, moderately faded on left, slightly faded on right with brilliant colors in sheltered areas. Hammer nose is lightly pitted. Cylinder retains 88-90% thinning orig blue with some fine pitting around front edge and overall retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. All five safety pins are crisp. Trigger guard & back strap retain traces of silver plating being mostly an even medium mustard patina. Grip shows very light edge wear with a very few minor nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case is missing a splinter from left front edge and has a grain check in bottom, otherwise is sound showing moderate soil. Interior is moderately to heavily faded with label worn & yellowed and missing a few small spots. Bottom is moderately soiled with light damage from front sight. Mold, flask & cap tin are all very fine. 4-35914 JR468 (4,000-6,000)
*MATCHED PAIR OF 2ND GENERATION PONY EXPRESS COMMEMORATIVE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN PE 24-E & PE 24-W. Cal. 45 Colt. Full nickle finish with 7-1/2″ bbls, tall thick front sights with one line address. Right sides of the bbls are marked “COLT .45 PEACEMAKER” left sides of the bbls are marked “RUSSELL, MAJORS AND WADDELL / PONY EXPRESS PRESENTATION MODEL”. Left side of frames have two line patent dates with rampant Colt and they are mounted with smooth, silver medallion, 2-piece walnut grips. The backstraps are marked “ST. JOSEPH TO MARYSVILLE” and the other “SACRAMENTO TO FRIDAYS STATION”. They are accompanied by their original craft paper boxes which each contain 2 matching numbered, unfluted cylinders, one with engravings of Russell, Majors and Waddell with the word “FOUNDERS” on one side and the Pony Express rider over “120 CELEBRATED RIDERS / RODE 650,000 MILES”. The other cylinder is engraved with the specific route map 1 for East and the other revolver West. In addition, each box has a large, heavy pewter medallion celebrating the 1960 National Pony Express Centennial. Only 1,000 of these scarce revolvers were made in 1964. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. New, unfired, unturned. Spare cylinders have never been installed. Boxes are fine. 4-35369 JR110 (4,000-5,000)
HISTORICAL COLT 1883 FACTORY ENGRAVED SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN. SN 1799. Cal. 12 ga. 28″ Damascus bbls, tapered concave rib with dual ivory sighting beads, 2-3/4″ chambers, choked MOD / FULL, dbl triggers & extractors. Top of rib is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. Factory engraved receiver with pointing setter & 2 woodcock on left side and 2 pointers & 2 quail on right side. “PATENTED / AUG 22 1882 SEP 19.” across trigger plate. Balance of receiver in accenting foliate arabesque scroll with shaded background. Trigger guard has geometric engraving around oval with game bird. Mounted with colorful highly figured walnut, checkered side panels with dropper points, checkered rnd knob pistol grip, gold initial shield, rampant Colt & checkered hard rubber butt plate, checkered splinter forend with ebony tip insert. Bore diameter: left -.727, right -.729. Bore restrictions: left -.030, right -.020. Wall thickness: left -.030, right -.034. Drop at heel: 3-1/4″, drop at comb: 1-7/8″. Weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz. LOP 14″. Accompanied by Colt factory letter identifying gun as 1883 hammerless dbl bbl shotgun, 12 ga. 28″ blue finish with wood stock, weight 8 lbs., factory engraved, valued at $10.00, no. 2 grade, shipped to C. H. Colt, Nov. 14, 1888, 1 gun in shipment. Under remarks: “It is historically significant to note that C. H. (Caldwell Hart) Colt was the son of Sam & Elizabeth Colt. He was born Nov. 24, 1858, & died prematurely Jan. 21, 1894, at the age of 36.” CONDITION: Fine. Bbls show good brown Damascus pattern with slight muzzle wear & thinning in forearm area. Receiver shows traces of case colors in protected areas, blended with silver hardening & gray patina. Trigger guard has traces of orig blue across bow mixed with brown & silver patina; worn to silver through grip area. Stock is sound with nice checkering, a few minor nicks & scratches and retains most of a fine hand-rubbed finish. Forend is sound with good checkering, minor nicks & scratches and carries a fine hand-worn patina finish. Mechanics are crisp with automatic safety, shiny bores with some minor shallow scattered pits. 4-35418 BDT181 (7,500-12,500)
LOT OF WINCHESTER 1ST MODEL 1873 RIFLE & COLT MODEL 1878 DA FRONTIER REVOLVER & BUCKSKIN RIFLE SCABBARD ASSOCIATED WITH CUSTER’S FIGHT AT THE LITTLE BIG HORN. SN AS NOTED. 1)Winchester Model 1873. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 4751. 1st Model ’73 with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, half nickel front sight and “1873” marked ladder rear sight. It has sgl set trigger & is mounted with uncheckered American walnut with straight stock & crescent buttplate with trap. The serial number is hand engraved on bottom tang and top tang is roll marked “MODEL 1873″ with two holes for tang sight. 2) Colt Model 1878 DA Frontier revolver. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 1034. Nickel finish with 5-1/2” bbl & 1-line Pall Mall London address. It has slightly altered front sight with checkered wood grips & a lanyard loop in the butt. Left front web of trigger guard is marked “45 CAL /B” signifying 45 Boxer caliber but in fact the chambers in the cylinder have been extended to accept 45 Colt. Accompanied by a sgl loop holster that has been completely restitched and most of top part cut away for access to trigger guard. Possibly made from an old cavalry holster. 3) Indian made, brain tanned deer skin sheath made of two pieces, overall about 44″ with a sinew sewn seam down entire bottom edge and at the joint in the middle. Both bottom seam & joint seam have 3″ fringe. This lot is accompanied by a large packet of information relating to Moses A. Welch who served in the Civil War until July 1865 when he was mustered out as a Corporal. Next reference in this material relating to Mr. Welch are copies of a series of letters dating from 1866 into 1873 from Mr. Welch to his family discussing finances & life at the Blackfoot Indian Agency in Montana Territory. In addition there is an undated typewritten letter addressed to The Museum of the Coos & Curry Co. Pioneer & History Association of Coquille, Oregon. Body of letter is transferring photographs of Indian Chiefs and a “gun that was shot at the Battle of Little Big Horn”. Letter further states that “They belonged to my father’s brother, Moses A. Welch. He was a gold miner and worked at the Blackfoot Indian Reservation in Montana Territory and got the gun after it was surrendered by a Indian warrior that helped kill Gen. Custer and his men.”. He then asks that they “Please show the gun and leather sheath only in a locked cabinet as I want to pick them up by September.”. The letter is signed George G. Welch. Also accompanied by copies of discharge & pension papers for Moses Welch. Additionally accompanying is a Cody Firearms Museum letter identifying this rifle as found and showing shipment Aug. 23, 1875 to order #3931. The possibility and even probability certainly exists that this rifle was used at the Custer Fight at the Little Big Horn. The Indian made rifle scabbard certainly might support the fact that it was obtained at the Blackfoot Indian Reservation in the late 1870’s. Obviously the revolver was not involved at the Custer fight since it would have been made a year to two years after the massacre. It is, however, obviously a hard used frontier revolver that was altered to accept cartridges readily available on the frontier. Also accompanying this lot is a copy of a Winchester Factory letter which identifies this gun as having been received in the warehouse on August 19, 1875 and shipped from the warehouse on August 23, 1875 as order number “3931”. CONDITION: 1) About fine. Bbl retains about 50% orig blue, mostly in sheltered areas, with balance a blue/brown patina with a few spots of pitting. Magazine tube retains about 90% dull orig blue with a few spots of pitting. Receiver retains 15-20% orig blue in sheltered areas with balance a blue/brown patina with candy striping down both sides. Wood is sound with minor nicks & scratches and wear at carry point and retains a fine hand worn patina. Lever is slightly sprung but functions perfectly, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with light pitting. 2) Good to very good. Overall retains about 50% nickel finish with balance cleaned bare metal & dark patina. Grips are very worn but solid. Loading gate is broken away. Mechanics need attention, strong bright bore. Holster is fine. 3) Fine, slightly dry but mostly soft & flexible with a smoked dark patina showing heavy wear on the fringe with some light staining & soil. 4-35064 JR512 (10,000-15,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 212265E. Matching numbers, including wedge. Cal. 31. 6” oct bbl. Standard one-line New York address. 5-shot cylinder with stage coach scene. Frame is fully engraved with partial engraving on bbl, loading lever, hammer, backstrap, and trigger guard. There are wolf heads on the sides of the hammer and a bear head on the left side of the bbl lug–both features normally associated with Gustav Young. CONDITION: Fine overall, with casehardening colors on the frame, loading lever, and hammer. Cyl. has been lightly cleaned, but 80% of the scene remains. Some screws have been replaced. About 80% of the silver remains on the backstrap and trigger guard. Grips have minor wear at the bottom and retain about 90% of the varnish. Mechanically good. 4-37274 JAL1 (5,000-7,500)
RARE EUGENE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 48206. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address on top with the last four digits of the serial number under ejector rod housing. It has second type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left rear web of trigger guard is marked with the caliber. Mounted with 2-pc pearl grips that has a fine carved ox head on right side. Frame, bbl, back strap, trigger guard, cylinder & ejector rod housing are engraved in Young’s very distinctive spare style of minimalist coverage consisting of flowing foliate arabesque patterns mixed with shells. It is believed that Mr. Young is one of the few factory engraver who engraved the hammer. This one has wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose with a small starburst on top of hammer nose. Rear edge of cylinder and front edge of the recoil shield and loading gate have circle and dot borders. Ejector rod housing gullet has a snake & chip pattern. Eugene Young engraved very few single actions and very few of those are known today. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found with cal 45, nickel finish, with bbl length not listed and factory engraved. It was shipped June 25, 1878 to B. Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, OH in a shipment of 6 same type guns. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains a smooth cleaned metal finish showing moderate wear on engraving with back strap showing heavy wear. Grips have chipped toes and heels with a chip at right top near frame but overall are sound showing great color & fire. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with fine pitting. 4-33857 JR362 (20,000-35,000)
ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 138254. Cal. 45 Colt. Assembled single action with 7-1/2″ modern replacement bbl with thick, full sight, 1-line block letter address with model & caliber markings on left side. Frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt without a circle on left side. Left front web of the trigger guard has the “VP” in a triangle proof which was introduced in 1901 and this revolver was made in 1891. This is explained by the tiny “&” on the right front web of the trigger guard indicating a factory restored finish. Trigger guard has a tiny “A” (O.W. Ainsworth) inspector initial indicating that it was salvaged from a military firearm. Cylinder has the number “254” around cylinder bushing hole on front face. It has the early style straight-side firing pin and 1-pc fleur-de-lis checkered walnut grip. Engraving consists of about 70% coverage well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and a fine engraved panel on top of bbl depicting a cowboy having been bucked off his horse. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 45 cal, with bbl length and type of stocks not listed and blue finish. It was shipped February 17, 1891 to the U.S. Government inspector at the Colt plant, no doubt as a Cavalry model. CONDITION: Very fine. Remains unfired since refinish with all of its bright gold finish over all surfaces. Grip is sound with a couple of minor dings showing light to moderate wear. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-33851 JR347 (4,000-7,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN SN 100175.. Cal. 36. It is believed that this gun may be a period copy of a Colt. Silver finish with 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight with brass trigger guard & backstrap and 1-pc walnut grip. Frame has full coverage, typical Nimschke engraving with Colt’s Patent on left side. Engraving extends over the entire sides of bbl lug & rammer pivot with a border around the address on top flat. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. This is a little used revolver that has had poor storage. Bbl & rammer handle retain 75-80% strong re-silver with some flaking (mostly near the end of the bbl and the plunger) and turning dull. Flaked areas are a dark patina. Cyl retains about 85% re-silver-plating with about 95-98% crisp Ormsby naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Frame retains 80-85% silver plating with flaked areas dark patina. Grip frame retains about 95% silver plating, thinned on backstrap. Ends of wedge show little or no battering with most of their engraving intact. Replaced grips are crisp with sharp edges and retain virtually all of their orig factory varnish. Trigger return spring is weak, otherwise mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 8-87520 (5,000-10,000)
(Correction) Please Note: Cataloguer reviewed this lot prior to insertion in catalogue and had revised his description, however, corrections were inadvertently left out of the catalogue. Description should state: It is believed that the cylinder engraving may have been re-enhanced at the time of factory refinish to the gun.
EARLY FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SHIPPED TO BROWNING BROTHERS. SN 129317. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, missing front sight with 1-line block letter address. Bottom of bbl, under ejector rod housing, is stamped with the factory refinish number “597N”. The same assembly number is found inside the ejector rod housing, on face of cylinder around cylinder bushing hole and on right side of front strap under grip. Right rear web of trigger guard is stamped with a small star and left front web has the caliber marking. Fitted with rampant Colt, deep, left & right medallions in smooth pearl grips. Revolver has about “C+” coverage engraving by Cuno Helfrecht with his distinctive style consisting of readily identifiable Helfrecht leaf patterns on recoil shield & loading gate. Top of back strap has his distinctive fan pattern with alternating patterns on lands between flutes of cylinder. Rear edge of cylinder has a snake & dot pattern with identical pattern on each edge of top strap. Ejector rod housing has snake & dot pattern in the gullet and on outer radius. Back strap & butt strap have his zigzag Moorish patterns. Balance of engraving consists of extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Screws are fire blued. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver in 45 caliber with 7-1/2″ bbl, nickel finish, pearl grips, factory engraved & shipped to Browning Bros., Ogden, Utah on March 27, 1889 in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains most of its fine factory restored finish, slightly dulled, that should clean much better. Grips are extremely fine with only a tiny chip on right side and retain most of their orig factory polish with tremendous fire & color. Grips may be replacements as they are slightly long, otherwise fit fine. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with good shine and a partial ring about 1-1/2″ from muzzle. 4-33872 JR366 (15,000-25,000)
FINE DELUXE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 154948. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line bbl address on top and the caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with 1-pc ivory grip that has a deep relief gold Mexican eagle inlaid on left side. Revolver is custom engraved in Helfrecht style with deep foliate arabesque patterns in about “C” coverage. It has Mr. Helfrecht’s style of fans on the left recoil shield and loading gate and hunter stars on each side of the front frame. All engraving is nicely shaded with a very fine punch dot background. Cylinder is engraved in alternating patterns on lands between flutes with a sunburst pattern at the end of each flute. Back edge of cylinder has a feather pattern border as does the ejector rod housing top gullet. Engraver’s initials “WEL” are found just below base pin on frame. All in all, a very well engraved beautiful single action. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of its post-engraving finish showing no evidence of having been fired since. Grip is extremely fine with sharp edges and a light mellow ivory patina with a small purple stain on bottom right edge. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-33876 (7,000-12,000)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1855 FULL STOCK SPORTING REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 2. Cal. 44. An unusual rifle with features of both the military rifle musket & full stock sporting rifle with 31-5/16″ rnd bbl, dovetail German silver front sight and 3-leaf, two folding, one standing, rear sight graduated 100, 300 & 600 yards. Mounted with extremely fancy, flame grain, checkered butt stock with cheek piece and crescent steel buttplate with trap containing the cleaning rod tip. Cheek piece has a 1-1/2″ x 7/8″ blank silver oval inlay. It has a full length forestock with two bands and its orig knurled head cleaning rod. Middle band & bottom tang have sling loops. Trigger guard has the sporting rifle style “ears” front & back. The bbl, just in front of the octagonal transition, is engraved in period Olde English and script “Presented to / Hon. John B. Floyd / Secretary of War / by the workmen of / Col. Colts Armory / Hartford Ct.” Top strap is engraved “Col. Colts Patent”. The sides of receiver, top strap, octagonal transition of bbl, top & bottom tangs, trigger guard, bottom of receiver, buttplate tang, web of the rammer handle & hammer are beautifully engraved in extremely fine Gustave Young intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with a couple of small flower blossoms at the terminus of a couple of the patterns. The outside raised areas of the fluted cylinder are matching engraved with tiny border patterns at the front & rear edges. The rammer handle has a pattern of very fine checkering found only on the most deluxe engraved Colts. The engraving as found on this rifle represents the very finest of Mr. Young’s extreme skill as befitting a presentation to a very high government official. The serial number was observed on bottom of frame, on bottom tang & toe of buttplate. No further disassembly was affected to check for other matching numbers. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 70-75% glossy orig blue with a few chemical spots between middle & upper bands and a lightly cleaned area over engraved presentation. Receiver retains about 80% orig blue, somewhat thin over top & bottom. Top tang retains traces of orig blue, as does the hammer. Bottom tang is mostly a gray metal color as is the buttplate. Rammer handle retains bright case colors in sheltered areas, more faded on handle. Forestock is sound with a small gouge and light nicks & scratches and retains about 90% orig varnish. Butt stock has an extremely fine professionally repaired crack through wrist and retains most of its strong orig varnish with a series of light scratches on right side and a few on cheekpiece. Hand spring appears to be broken or missing but is functional, otherwise mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. 4-31740 JR168 (30,000-60,000)
EXCEPTIONALCASED KEN HUNT ENGRAVED AND DAMASCENED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 8206. Cal. 36. Usual Navy configuration, probably a Colt second generation revolver, with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight with panel checkered 1-pc ebony grip. This spectacular revolver has extraordinary Ken Hunt gold damascening in leaf & blossom patterns covering the entire frame and about all of bbl lug. It has identical patterns on the rammer pivot with outstanding engraved patterns on trigger guard & back strap consisting of a wonderful sun burst and flower blossom at top of back strap with foliate patterns top & bottom of back strap and on butt strap. Trigger bow is deeply engraved in identical patterns with a pointed shield and diamond & dot patterns around serial number on trigger guard. Cylinder has “COLT’S PATENT NO. 8206” in flat gold and leaf patterns on lands between nipple recesses. Hammer has matching patterns on both sides and on top of nose and there is a beautifully engraved gold band at muzzle of bbl with “Saml Colt” in Old English in flat gold on top flat of bbl. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in a gold oval. Mr. Hunt has signed the bottom flat of the bbl “K.C. HUNT ENGRAVER”. It also appears that Mr. Hunt has enhanced the Ormsby naval battle scene on cylinder. All screws are beautifully engraved with the frame & lug screws damascened to match, while trigger guard & back strap screws are blued. Accompanied by a fine custom oak casing with purple velvet lining, French fitted in bottom for revolver, an ebony handled turn screw, a Colt style flask and a brass 2-cavity bullet mold numbered to the revolver. Also accompanied by the July/August/September 2007 issue of the magazine The Engraver, The Journal of the Firearms Engraver’s Guild of America which contains a 3-page article by Barry Lee Hands, the subject of which is Ken Hunt & his son, Marcus. The back cover of the magazine is a full page color photograph of this revolver and it is hand autographed by Mr. Hunt. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. New & unfired retaining virtually all of its fine custom finish with bright high polish blue & brilliant case colors. Case & accessories are equally new. 4-32022 JR276 (5,000-10,000)
(Correction) Please Note: Prior to the printing of the catalogue the cataloguer re-examined this gun and determined it not to be genuine, and further, made arrangements for its withdrawal. By mistake it was included in the catalogue. – THIS ITEM IS WITHDRAWN.
FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 129317. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, full front sight and block letter 1-line address on top with caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates with caliber marked on left front web of trigger guard. It has third type ejector rod housing and flat half-moon ejector rod head. Hammer is of the civilian type with short knurled section with a border and a line. Fitted with wonderful 2-pc pearl grips with a large raised carved ox head on right side. Revolver is engraved in about “C” coverage by Cuno Helfrecht. Engraving consists of wonderful foliate arabesque patterns with Helfrecht’s trademark sunbursts on the recoil shield and loading gate with his trademark fan at top of back strap and diamond & dot patterns on shoulders of trigger guard. Top strap has feather patterns and ejector rod housing has snake & dot patterns in gullet with zigzag Moorish patterns on outer radius. Cylinder has alternating arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with light arabesque patterns at back of each flute. Rear edge of cylinder has a feather pattern border. Screwheads are not engraved. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found with nickle finish 7 1/2″ bbl and factory engraved. It was shipped March 27, 1889 to Browning Brothers Ogden & Salt Lake City , Territory of Utah in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains strong nickel finish with some losses from cleaning on the bbl. Hammer retains 60-70% faded case colors. Grips have small chips at top near frame and a tiny chipped left heel, otherwise are sound and show great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with recent moderate pitting. 4-33837 JR365 (15,000-25,000)
RARE PRESENTATION ENGRAVED & CASED COLT NO. 3 THUER DERRINGER. SN 7519. Cal. 41 RF. Nickel finish with about 40% coverage fine New York style foliate arabesque pattern engraving with fine punch dot background. It has 2-1/2″ rnd bbl with tiny half moon front sight and “COLT” on top of bbl and tiny British proofs on bottom of bbl. It has the early style high hammer spur and is fitted with matching numbered smooth ivory grips. Left grip is inscribed in Old English “Joe to Su_ff / Feb/73”. There is an “E” above the serial number on left side of frame under grip which apparently would signify factory engraving. Accompanied by an orig burl walnut green baize lined, English style casing with a Colt’s London Agency label inside the lid and compartmented in bottom for the pistol & a cleaning rod, which is missing. It also has a small covered compartment with an ivory or bone button. Top of lid is inlaid in darker wood with a shield & ribbon with the shield having intertwined initials “FEW”. Very few of these little derringers were ever engraved and of those only a few were presentations and cased ones are most scarce of all. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains about all of its fine factory nickel plating with one small spot of very fine pitting on right side of bbl. Trigger & hammer retain most of their orig fire blue with some slight flaking on sides. Grips are extremely fine showing light to moderate wear and retain a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case is extremely fine. 4-32962 JR217 (20,000-25,000)
COLT 1855 REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 5535. Cal. .56. 37-1/2″ round bbl with square base front sight, and 3-leaf rear sight, one standing marked, “100”, and two folding, one marked, “300”, and one marked, “600”. Full length wooden forend retained by two bands and a brass nose cap, channeled for cleaning rod which is missing. Top flute of receiver marked, “Col. Colt. Hartford, CT. U.S.A.” Five shot fluted cylinder with one flute marked, “Patented Sept. 10, 1850.” Colt markings on rear left of frame are weak and difficult to read. Brass trigger guard with long rear tang is stamped on left side behind trigger, “.56 Cal.” SN is stamped on tang and is equipped with a sling swivel. Mounted with straight grain uncheckered American walnut, straight grip, and carbine style butt with trap. Attached to trigger guard is a brass collection tag engraved, “F.W. Roebileng III Collection Of Trenton, N.J. #299.” CONDITION: Good. Bbl has a medium brown patina color mixed with silver and some dark brown spotted areas. Receiver is mostly a silver patina color mixed with brown spotted patina. Cylinder is mostly dark brown patina mixed with silver patina, and has some dark peened spots. Stocks are solid with usual nicks and dings and have a dark oiled hand worn patina finish. Mechanics are good with a surprisingly strong bore with deep rifling and only some minor scattered pitting. 4-33374 BDT247 (3,500-6,000)
FINE ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 115194. Cal. 31. Rare deluxe Gustav Young engraved pocket model with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and “SAML COLT” engraved on top flat. It has silver plated brass grip frame with deluxe burl walnut varnished 1-pc walnut grip. The entire frame, bbl lug, bbl, rammer pivot and hammer are wonderfully engraved by Mr. Young, in his traditional patterns of beautiful foliate arabesque scrolls terminating in flower blossoms in several places. Top of back strap has his trademark fan with foliate arabesque patterns at the heel, on butt strap & trigger bow. Sides of hammer are engraved to match with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Back strap is engraved in period script, probably by Mr. Young “Jac Newman / St Louis. Mo.” Screw heads are all very nicely engraved. Very likely a search of the records of St. Louis in the 1850’s/1860’s time frame should disclose information regarding Mr. Newman. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge & cylinder. Grip was not checked. The bbl, rammer & rammer handle, cylinder, frame & hammer all retain a very dark smooth chocolate brown patina from long unattended storage. Trigger guard & back strap retain 95-96% strong orig silver plating showing slight wear on the heel & butt strap. Grip has a chipped left toe and another chip on left edge showing light wear with a few scratches and missing one fingernail size spot of varnish and overall retains about 95% strong orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-32295 JR381 (4,000-7,000)
EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 81220. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line bbl address on top. It has third type ejector rod housing with flared ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left front web of trigger guard has caliber marking. Fitted with 1-pc fine old ivory grip with a raised carved ox head on right side and a raised carved Mexican eagle on left side. Ivory appears to be from a walrus rather than elephant ivory. Revolver has about “C” coverage fine bold foliate arabesque pattern engraving, probably by Nimschke. Screwheads are not engraved as Nimschke was known not to have engraved screwheads. Patterns are somewhat unusual but are reminiscent of Nimschke’s work extending over both shoulders of trigger guard and both ears of back strap. Top of back strap has an elaborate fan with triangle & flower center, also reminiscent of Nimschke’s work. Back strap & butt strap have dash & dot borders. Top strap has alternating feather & bar patters with a hunter star on ejector rod shoulder. There is a fine zigzag band on the bbl just in front of frame and there are three small dots on each of the front & back webs of trigger guard with the same three dots appearing in gullets of frame. Ejector rod housing is engraved with a snake & dot pattern in the gullet and elaborate Moorish patterns on the outer radius. Cylinder has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with three border patterns at back edge. Front edge of the recoil shield & loading gate also have three border patterns. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 45 cal, 4 3/4″ bbl, blue finish and grips not listed. It was shipped August 2, 1882 to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, NY in a shipment of 6 same type guns. Shoverling, Daly & Gales was a major Colt distributor and also one of the major patrons of L.D. Nimschke. While this revolver is not listed as factory engraved it certainly has all the attributes. CONDITION: Good to very good, cylinder is matching numbered. Overall retains 75-80% strong restored nickel showing heavy wear on recoil shield and loading gate with very rounded muzzle edges. Grip has a chipped left toe and a few minor age lines and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Base pin is a replacement. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting and a couple of dimples where it appears the front sight may have been reattached. 4-33859 JR364 (10,000-15,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 THUER DERRINGER. SN 20318. Cal. 41 RF. Usual configuration with 2-1/2″ rnd bbl, tiny German silver half moon front sight with “COLT” on top of bbl. It has a silver plated brass frame that is beautifully engraved on sides with foliate arabesque patterns & punch dot background. Engraving extends up over side of bbl and there is a dbl line chip engraved border around muzzle and on back strap. Mounted with smooth ivory grips. Very few of these dainty little derringers were factory engraved. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl retains about 95% strong orig silver with some flaking on right side of muzzle. Frame retains 75-80% thin silver plating. Grips have numerous age lines and retain a dark mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, worn dark bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-32961 JR216 (8,000-10,000)
*ULTRA RARE & SPECTACULAR PRESENTATION GLAHN ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 354396. Cal. 38-40. Extraordinarily rare single action with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address on top which is slightly off-center and the usual bbl marking & caliber on left side. Frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a partial circle. Fitted with rampant Colt medallion pearl grips which has a carved ox head on right side and the inscribed initials “ALS” on left side. The bbl has an engraved presentation which accounts for the offset address, which reads “To Arthur / from a Grateful County”. The balance of the revolver, sides of bbl, ejector rod housing, cylinder, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are typically Glahn engraved with some of his very finest work consisting of foliate & floral patterns with an extremely fine punch dot background. Top strap has intertwined leaves & vines and back strap has acanthus leaves. Cylinder is, unusually, fully engraved except for the flutes. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found and showing that it was sold to Kleins Hardware, address unavailable and shipped to the George Worthington Co., Cleveland, Ohio, May 2, 1931 to order #19866/1 in a shipment of one revolver. Also accompanied by a fine tooled Heiser belt & holster rig; tooled in Heiser’s trademark style of leaves & blossoms, buckstitch lacing on the holster which has a sewn-in plug and has Deputy Stuckert’s initials near the right end of the decorations. His initials are also on front of the holster near the top. This revolver, lest we lose sight of an important aspect of its existence, was presented to a 33-year old deputy sheriff, Arthur L. Stuckert, by the citizens of Bucyrus Township, Crawford County, Ohio, for his heroic service in the line of duty. Accompanied by copies of several newspaper articles primarily from the Bucyrus, Ohio, Telegraph-Forum regarding the presentation of this revolver to Deputy Sheriff Arthur Stuckert for his bravery and services on January 23, 1931 when his sheriff was killed in an attempted arrest of a chicken thief. Apparently Deputy Stuckert, upon hearing the shot that killed the sheriff, rushed into the house and kept assailants at bay until the sheriff could be removed. He died shortly thereafter. One of the articles dated May 22, 1931 details the presentation along with the photograph of the revolver itself. Another copy of a page of a newspaper is a thank you letter from Deputy Stuckert for the “beautiful gun, and holster”. This note also has a picture of the gun. Additionally accompanied by copies of pp. 45-48 of the Winter 2007 The Rampant Colt magazine which is an article by Corky Ullom, dealing with gold plated engraved & gold inlaid Colts. He states that there are only a total of twelve gold engraved Colt single actions of the total 357,859 single actions manufactured in the first generation and only one of them was in 38-40 caliber, making this one of the most extraordinarily rare Colt single action revolvers extant. Additionally accompanied by a 3-1/2 page hand written letter from noted Colt authority, Ron Graham, authenticating the originality of this fabulous revolver. Mr. Graham states that it is one of only three and possibly a fourth known in nearly 50 years of research. Deputy Stuckert served in WWI with honor and died Jan. 21, 1971 at age 71. Certainly additional research should be able to provide additional history regarding Deputy Stuckert. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 92-94% strong orig gold plating with some thinning to the silver underplating in the area of the bbl address & presentation, over the top strap, back strap & butt strap with some additional thinning in trigger guard. Front strap retains about 20% silver with balance gray metal. It has been fired and shows slight burn on cylinder face but only a little and there is still gold plating in the bore. Is not solid at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Belt & holster rig are slightly dry with the holster lining worn & torn but completely solid & usable. 4-32964 JR211 (150,000-200,000)
PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 180773. Cal. 31. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. It has 5-shot cylinder and “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame. Silver plated trigger guard & back strap has the period engraved presentation “John Young from J.U. Gillespie, 1861” and a 1-pc walnut grip. A brief google search disclosed numerous listings for John Young, some in the Civil War period and there were others for Gillespie. No connection was immediately observed, further research may disclose a connection. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including wedge. No orig finish remains on bbl, cylinder or frame, being mostly a cleaned gray patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain 20-25% orig silver and cylinder 25-35% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound showing moderate wear and retaining about 75% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-31753 JR140 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED PALL MALL ADDRESS COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 38336. Cal. 45 Boxer or 45 Eley Short. Blue finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with “DEPOT 14. PALL MALL LONDON” address and last four digits of serial number on bottom under ejector rod housing. It has first type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and left shoulder of trigger guard has caliber marking “45 CAL / B”. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has been very finely checkered as is found on many English Colt revolvers. Bottom of grip is inscribed in hand scratched lettering “H.C. NELSON / ALASKA. 1891”. Revolver is very nicely engraved in extremely fine, delicate English style of foliate arabesque patterns with about 60% coverage. Cylinder, back strap & trigger bow are engraved to match. Cylinder serial number was re-engraved, probably at the same time as the rest of the engraving, and the engraver apparently confused the numbers applying the numbers “8836” instead of “8336”. Right side of frame, between hammer & trigger screws, has an outstanding engraved rampant Colt with shaded background. Top strap has double row of acanthus leaves and the outside radius of the ejector rod housing is engraved to match. Gullet of ejector rod housing has fine leaf patterns. The most unusual aspect of this decoration is a large wolf’s head inlaid in raised gold at top of back strap. This gold appears to be in nugget form, possibly something Mr. Nelson obtained in Alaska. Screw heads are also beautifully engraved. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber 45 Eley short with bbl length & type of stocks not listed, blue finish and shipped to Colt’s London Agency on Oct. 11, 1877 in a shipment of 56 same type firearms. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 30-40% thin custom blue, mostly in sheltered areas being a silver/gray patina in the worn areas. Frame retains 60-70% thin custom blue, strong in sheltered areas. Back strap & trigger guard retain traces of blue being mostly a blue/gray patina. Cylinder retains about 50% custom blue, mostly in flutes, thin & turning gray on outer diameter. Recoil shield and interior of frame show little use with minor fine pitting. Grip is sound showing moderate wear. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. This is an opportunity to own a genuine Alaska Gold Rush Colt. 4-32967 (5,000-15,000)
LOT OF COLT NO. 3 DERRINGER AND GAULOIS PALM PISTOL. 1) Colt No. 3 Derringer. Cal. 41 RF. SN 33115. Custom engraved with well executed foliate & floral patterns having full coverage with shaded background & three raised nude ladies, two on left side and one on right side. Fitted with pearl grips and silver plated. Accompanied by a converted jewelry case. 2) Gaulois repeating squeezer palm pistol. Cal. 8 mm. SN 6768. Small, flat-sided French palm pistol with 2-1/8″ ribbed bbl and a horn panel on squeezer. It is very nicely engraved with gold foliate inlays over both sides, top & bottom and bbl. Rib has maker’s name & logo also in gold with caliber in gold on top of frame along with maker’s logo in gold. CONDITION: 1) Fine, as noted. Retains virtually all of its fine silver plating. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. Left grip has a repaired chip. 2) Very good to fine. Orig finish has turned to a medium brown patina with traces of blue in cutouts on sides. Mechanics are fine, worn bore. 4-31776 JR134 (4,000-6,000)
EXCEEDINGLY RARE EUGENE YOUNG FACTORY ENGRAVED GOLD & NICKEL FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 47135. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Spectacular & very rare, possibly the only Eugene Young engraved single action with gold and nickel known. A previous owners research of Colt records disclosed that this single action revolver was the very first to have a gold cylinder with nickel plated frame. It is believed that J.P. Lower and Colt collaborated on this design to promote the new Single Action Army revolver. This combination became a favorite for high art Colts. This fabulous revolver has 7-1/2″ bbl, standard front sight, 1-line address on top and a fine clear etched panel on left side. It has a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl just above base pin and the last four digits of the serial number under the ejector rod housing. The ejector rod housing is third type with a bull’s eye ejector rod head. The base pin is the solid type without dimples in the ends. Frame has 3-line patent dates and it is fitted with a rare factory 1-pc ebony grip. Frame, bbl, cylinder, trigger guard & back strap and both sides of hammer are wonderfully engraved in about “A” coverage, open foliate arabesque patterns with 30-40% coverage. Back edge of cylinder has a circle & dot border and it has the chip & dot border around the etched panel which may be a later addition. The style of this engraving is unlike any of the known master engravers at Colt, although it has stylistic similarities to some of the engraving by Oscar & Eugene Young at Smith & Wesson. Very few Eugene Young engraved pieces are known and when encountered are probably not recognized for their simple beauty. This revolver has full nickel finish with gold washed cylinder, hammer, grip frame, ejector rod housing & ejector rod head. The factory furnished smooth ebony grip makes for a very striking look. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as caliber 44-40, bbl length not listed with nickel/gold finish, ebony stocks, factory engraved and shipped to J.P. Lower, Denver, Colorado, April 10, 1878, in a shipment of two same type revolvers. Also accompanying is a copy of an appraisal by W.R. Powell of Roanoke, Texas wherein he authenticates this revolver. Additionally accompanying is an information letter from a previous owner wherein he states that it is the only factory gold single action revolver shipped with ebony grip and that it is the only factory ordered gold single action revolver ever engraved by Eugene Young (subsequently found to have engraved two). In an article regarding gold & engraved Colt Single Actions on pp. 45-48 of the Winter 2007 issue of The Rampant Colt magazine, Corky Ullom writes that there were 135 factory gold washed single actions of which eighty-two were gold & nickel, twenty were in 44-40 caliber, thirty-seven were in 7-1/2″ bbls and two were engraved by Eugene Young. When one considers that there were 357,859 Colt single action revolvers manufactured from 1873 to WWII, those numbers cited above are indeed minuscule, making this one of the most rare Colt single action Army revolvers extant. Additionally accompanied by an extremely rare orig Young Brothers business card with their address in Springfield, Mass. advertising “General Engravers, Stamp Cutters & Die Sinkers”. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including bbl, cylinder & grip. Revolver retains virtually all of its fine factory nickel finish with generous amounts of its orig gold wash, somewhat thinned on ejector rod housing outside radius and on the high points of cylinder. The grip frame retains gold wash in sheltered areas, strong around trigger guard with some slight freckling on front strap. The bbl appears to have been polished as Mr. Powell mentions in his letter that the nickel was frosty and now has a high gloss finish. It appears that during this polishing process the edges of the etched panel may have been affected and therefore the border decorations applied. One could argue, however, that Mr. Young simply repolished the revolver after he had engraved it. Mr. Powell may have been referring to the “frosting” on the front strap of the grip frame. Regardless of whether this revolver was polished by Mr. Young or a subsequent owner, this is one of the most rare of all Colt single action revolvers. Grip has a hairline on the right side from shrinkage and one scratch in the finish on left side with minor sharp edge wear and retains most of its orig smooth factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with one spot of pitting near muzzle and another near forcing cone. Business card is slightly yellowed with a brown corner but completely intact. This is truly one of the most rare of all single action revolvers. 4-32963 JR213 (150,000-300,000)
CASED AMERICAN HISTORICAL FOUNDATION SAMUEL COLT GOLDEN TRIBUTE MODEL 1847 WALKER. SN 04291. Cal. .44. The American Historical Foundation of Richmond, Virginia chose the Walker model to reproduce as a commemorative of Samuel Colt. This handgun is gold plated with bold foliate scroll with dark background across receiver. The left side of the bbl is inscribed in a ribbon, “1814 Colonel Samuel Colt, 1862”, below it is engraved, “1847 Walker”, and right side is engraved with typical Walker mark with “U.S.” above the date “1847.” The cylinder is roll engraved in similar fashion to an orig Walker with mounted troopers chasing mounted Indians and signed, “WL. Ormsby SR. N.Y.” Accompanying this revolver in its glass top case is a gold plated nipple wrench, bullet mold, and a reproduction flask with a label marked, “The Sam Colt Golden Tribute Model 1847 Walker” and identified “American Historic Foundation Richmond, Virginia.” On bottom of bbl covered by rammer is marked, “Uberti – Italy” and on backstrap identified as, “24 of 950.” CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be new and unfired since completion retaining virtually all of its gold plating. Hammer is tied down and gun probably has not been cocked. Case and accessories are in equally new condition. 4-32002 BDT239 (1,500-2,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE GOLD PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 317163. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration and a great rarity. This revolver has a 4-3/4″ bbl, full front sight, 2-line address on top & caliber marking on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a rampant Colt in a circle. Left side of trigger guard has the “VP” proof in a triangle on front web and a small “W” on rear web. Fitted with extremely beautiful pearl grips that fit precisely and were undoubtedly installed by the H&D Folsom Company before they resold it. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with 4-3/4″ bbl, “silver/gold” finish with type of stocks not listed. Shipped March 28, 1911 to the H&D Folsom Arms Co., New York, NY in a shipment of five same type revolvers. A 4-page article in the Winter 2007 edition of The Rampant Colt. pp 45-48 by Corky Ullom, deals with gold inlaid and gold plated single actions. On page 48 he lists the number of the non-engraved, all gold revolver as only three, with two being single action Armys and one Besley. If these figures are correct, and one must consider his detailed work and figures as accurate, then our Colt is a very rare item indeed, even thought iis finish is restored. It originally left the factory as gold over silver. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching with the last three digits of serial number on back edge of cylinder. Overall retains 96-97% strong gold finish which was applied over silver plating. Althought this is a restored finish it has all the earmarks of a factory finish as there are no ripples in surface observed anywhere with all the markings preserved even though they are slightly thinned in some areas. Grips, as noted, fit extremely well and retain about all of their orig polish with great fire and some color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a very few scattered spots of discoloration. Gold finished Colts are one of the great rarities in Colt collecting. 4-32081 JR206 (12,500-17,500)
EXTREMELY RARE PANEL ENGRAVED COLT THIRD MODEL DRAGOON REVOLVER PERCUSSION. SN 12384. Cal 44. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, German silver front sight and brass grip frame with 1-pc burl walnut grip. The trigger guard, just in front of trigger bow, and cylinder are hand stamped “F105”. Frame and entire bbl lug have full coverage donut type scroll engraving with shaded background and delicate shading on the scrolls. Recoil shield has a zigzag border and the hammer nose has wolf’s heads on each side. Back strap, butt strap & trigger guard, along with the rammer handle pivot are engraved to match. Left side of bbl lug has the large oval vignette of a running buck deer and the right side has a bird dog on point. Very few of these panel engraved Colts are known and most were presentations to important people in Colt’s life at that time. CONDITION: Fair, all matching including wedge & cylinder. Grip was not checked. Right side of bbl and bbl lug, along with the rammer & rammer handle, have heavy, deep pitting. The engraving on both sides of bbl lug was somewhat softened during cleaning process. Frame also has deep pitting, primarily on left front side, bottom front edge and slightly around the right front edge. Balance of frame engraving is clear & fine with good detail & definition remaining. Hammer screw & trigger screw are probably old replacements as they are not engraved like all the others. Trigger guard retains about 50% thin orig silver plating and the back strap traces of silver plating with the exposed brass a mellow medium mustard patina. Cylinder is a medium gray patina with two large areas of deep pitting. The deluxe burl grip shows moderate wear with some battering on the bottom and retains a hand worn patina with traces of orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-32270 JR380 (25,000-45,000)
*EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & DESIRABLE PAIR OF ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED SILVER PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. SN 208657 & 208673. Cal. 45 Colt. Extraordinary and the only known matched pair of engraved, silver plated Colt single action revolvers with backstrap inscriptions. They have 4-3/4″ bbls, standard sights, 2-line bbl addresses with 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt in circles. Both are fitted with fine, smooth pearl grips and have the last three digits of their respective serial numbers on the backs of the cylinders. These pistols are silver finished with fire blued screws & beautifully engraved by, probably from the hand of the master, Cuno Helfrecht, with about C+ level coverage. Engraving consists of about 60-70%% coverage wonderful foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Top straps have feather patterns and top of bbl has Moorish patterns. The gullets of the frame in front of cylinder on each side have tiny flower blossoms and top of back straps have beautiful fans with central “V”s. Top & bottom of actual back straps have beautiful incised patterns and the central part of back straps have the individual’s names. No. 208657 is inscribed “JOE PERIA” and No. 208673 is inscribed “N. GARZA”. The butt straps are lightly engraved and trigger bows have patterns that match the back straps. Accompanied by a very large volume of information contained in a 3-ring binder including a Colt Factory letter which fully identifies these revolvers in cal 45 with 4-3/4″ bbls, silver finish, pearl grips and factory engraved. They were shipped May 13, 1901 to A. Baldwin & Co., New Orleans, LA c/o Calixto Valle in a matched pair shipment of two guns. Under remarks section it is reported “subject revolvers also have the following engraved on their backstraps. Serial number 208673 bears the inscription ‘N. Garza’, and serial number 208657 is inscribed ‘Joe Peria'”. Much of the enclosed research material was obtained by a previous owner and initially disclosed that a Texas land owners survey in the 1970’s disclosed that someone named Juan N. de la Garza owned a large ranch of over 50,000 acres spanning over three counties in Texas. This previous owner learned that there had been a Calixto Valle who lived in Rio Grande Texas in the time frame of these revolvers. He traveled to Rio Grande Texas and learned that Mr. Valle’s granddaughter, Dolly Pope, was still living there. He interviewed Ms. Pope and one of Mr. Valle’s former employees, Lino Perez. These interviews are documented on a video which accompanies this lot. During his time in Rio Grande it was learned that Calixto Valle was the Mayor of Rio Grande and also owned and operated a saloon as well as the only hardware/gun store in Rio Grande. Mr. Valle ruled Rio Grande with an iron fist and was known to supply guns to Poncho Villa and his supporters. The residents of the area referred to him as “Papa”, a term of reverence on the order of “Don”. Mr. Valle’s home is still standing and is occupied by his grandson and the buildings that housed his saloon and hardware/gun store also still stand. Mr. Valle also owned a Ford dealership in town. Also accompanying is a reprint of a photograph of Mr. Valle and two beautiful ladies and another of him in formal clothes wearing a Shrine Fez. There are several reprints of old photos of main street Rio Grande showing the car dealership. Another old photograph is included which has the image of 18 or 19 Mexican gentelmen all dressed in suits and ties, seated and standing in front of a building. Some of them are identified, which included Poncho Villa, Garibaldi, F. Garza, F.I. Madero and F.I Madero Sr., and others. F.N. Garza was the Mayor of Montery Mexico and a strong supporter of Poncho Villa. Another copy of an old photo shows Mr. Valle standing on the street in front of his automobile dealership with several Model T’s. Additionally accompanied by a four page letter from internationally known Colt single action expert, Ron Graham who authenticates these revolvers are absolutely original and “definatly created by a master, probably Helfricht (sic) himself”. Mr. Graham further states “both revolvers are totally factory original, except for the replaced stocks on 208657”. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching. Both revolvers have virtually identical condition, retaining about 96-97% strong orig silver plating and most of the orig fire blue on the screws with only minor muzzle edge wear and some sharp edge wear on the frame. Grips on No. 208657 are replacements, as noted and should be professionally fitted. Grips on No. 208673 are extremely fine with a minor chip on the left heel, another on the right toe and a small repaired chip on the right heel and show beautiful fire and color. Mechanics on both revolvers are crisp with both showing more than a little use internally. Both bores are strong with good rifling and some shine and moderate pitting. 4-32966 JR212 (200,000-250,000)
EXTREMELY RARE METROPOLITAN NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER MADE FOR DIMICK COMPANY OF ST. LOUIS. SN 1620. Cal. 36. Most rare Metropolitan with 7-3/8″ oct bbl, small dovetail German silver front sight with top flat engraved “MADE FOR H.E. DIMICK ST LOUIS”. It has brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Rammer is of the Colt Navy style with horizontal latch. It has 6-shot cylinder. According to Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms only about 100 of these rare revolvers were so marked, of the 300 First Models that were sold to Dimick. CONDITION: Fair, all matching including wedge. No orig finish remains being a worn cleaned & artificially aged patina with rounded edges. Right front corner of the bbl lug appears to be restored and there is a diagonal crack in the frame from the rear radius of the cylinder opening down to the triggergruard. Trigger guard & back strap are a light mustard patina with minor nicks & dings. Grip shows heavy wear with a hand worn patina and a repaired crack on the right side. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-31890 JR390 (2,000-4,000)
SCARCE EARLY PALL MALL ADDRESS COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 76745. Cal. 455 Eley. Built in 1882 this revolver has nickel finish, 5-1/2″ bbl with full front sight and “Depot 14 Pall Mall London” address with tiny British proofs on bottom and larger British proofs on right side. It has second type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and right side has a British proof and “NOT ENGLISH MAKE”. Cylinder has two sets of British proofs. Grip is very nicely figured 1-pc walnut and back strap is engraved “A. BROADWOOD / SCOTS GUARDS”. A brief Google search disclosed that there was a cavalry unit in the Scot’s Guards named Broadwood’s Cavalry Brigade which was very active in the Boer War, no indication of whether it was the First Boer War (1880-1881) or the second (1899-1902). Very likely a more detailed search would produce substantially more information regarding Mr. Broadwood and the Scot’s Guards. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains 96-97% strong bright orig nickel finish with losses only at the muzzle and left edge of the muzzle, overall appears unfired. Screws retain generous amounts of their orig blue finish. Grip is sound with scattered nicks & dings and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-33850 JR356 (12,500-17,500)
VERY RARE SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION CASED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 4740. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight, 1-line New York address and 4-screw frame with flat head hammer screw and rnd head replacement stock screws. It has a silver plated brass trigger guard and iron back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “Hon E.O. Perrin / with compliments of Col. Colt”. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined walnut casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a single sided Colt’s Patent angle spout flask, a blued 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter marked on right side “K”, a packet of skin cartridges, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a tin of Eley’s caps and a spare hammer spring. Also accompanied by a very large volume of provenance contained in three binders which includes much information regarding Mr. Perrin’s service to the U.S. along with several important CDVs of Mr. Perrin and other famous people. Edwin Oscar Perrin was born Dec. 3, 1822 in Springfield, Ohio and educated at Springfield Academy. He later studied law and was admitted to the Ohio Bar in 1842. He moved from Ohio to Memphis, TN and practiced law there and was the Navy agent under Pres. Taylor. In 1857 he traveled to Kansas and took an active part in the canvas against the Lecompton Constitution. He was an assistant to Presidential Candidate Stephen A. Douglass in the State of Maine and apparently very active in the Democratic Party. In 1861 at the outbreak of the Civil War Mr. Perrin was dispatched by Secretary of War Cameron to New Mexico where he served under the famous Col. Kit Carson arranging supplies for the Union Army resisting incursion of the Confederacy led by Gen. Henry Sibley. Col. Carson wrote favorably of Mr. Perrin’s brave & honorable service. He was subsequently nominated by Pres. Johnson to become the Chief Justice of the Utah Territory Supreme Court but the Senate rejected his nomination, apparently on political grounds, not for lack of qualifications. He was also rejected by the Senate when he was nominated to be the Internal Revenue Assessor of the First District of New York. Mr. Perrin was the Secretary of five Democratic National Conventions and in 1868 was elected Clerk of the Court of Appeals in New York and was reappointed to the same position by the court in 1870. At this time there is little known of Mr. Perrin’s activities after 1870 until his death in Dec. 1888. Also in this auction is another Col. Colt presentation Model 1860 Army which was to F.P. Stanton. Mr. Stanton was also an attorney who practiced law in Memphis, Tennessee until 1857 when he traveled to Kansas and took an active part opposing the Lecompton Constitution. It is ironic that these two revolvers, which are only 42 numbers apart, were presented to two men who were deeply involved in the bloody struggle for state’s rights in Kansas at the same time and under the same circumstances who probably had been acquainted with each other for many years prior to their appearance in Kansas. This lot is also accompanied by several extremely important orig CDVs and a large framed copy of a photograph of Mr. Perrin obtained from the Library of Congress. One of the CDVs depicts a seated Edwin Perrin in a suit with a cape and hat with the very famous Kit Carson standing beside him with Mr. Carson’s left hand over Mr. Perrin’s shoulders. Orig photographs of Kit Carson are extremely rare. Another very important orig CDV depicts a seated Mr. Perrin in a fringed fur coat and wide brimmed hat with a Navajo warrior in large feather head-dress carrying bow & arrows and a Colt percussion revolver. Both CDVs are noted on the back along with their printer being “E. & H.T. Anthony of New York”. Another orig CDV is a formal pose of Kit Carson in coat & cravat and another of Secretary of War Simon Cameron also in formal clothes. Still another orig CDV depicts Mr. Perrin with a large group of Navajo Indians with a notation on back that it was taken in Albuquerque, NM in 1862. Another orig CDV shows Mr. Perrin in a studio pose astride a saddled burro with full travel gear, a Ballard rifle, in his fringed chaps and fringed fur jacket, gauntlets and large brimmed hat. Another orig CDV is of Gen. Henry Sibley, the Confederate Commander of Confederate forces in New Mexico. This Perrin CDV is by Anthony and the Sibley CDV is by Brady. There is also a steel engraving reprint of a young Kit Carson in dress clothes. Additionally accompanying is a letter from someone named Lee Burke of Dallas, TX soliciting the purchase of a Perrin CDV to add to his collection. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine, all matching including wedge and retains 60-70% thin orig blue on the bbl, strong & bright in sheltered areas. Rammer handle retains somewhat faded case colors but strong in sheltered areas. Cylinder retains about 30% thin blue in the rebated area. Frame retains 60-70% orig case colors, strong & bright on left side, somewhat more faded on right side and hammer about 50% bright case colors. Trigger guard retains about all of its orig silver plating, slightly thinned on front strap. Back strap is a cleaned metal color with traces of silver near the top. Grip is sound showing light to moderate edge wear and a few nicks & dings retaining most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong shiny bore with scattered light pitting. Case has a couple of cracks in the lid and a few more in the bottom but is basically sound with usual nicks, dings & scratches from handling & storage and retains generous amounts of orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with a couple of stains in lid with wear from revolver & accessories in the bottom. Flask retains about 50% orig finish with an open seam and a few minor dents. Mold shows little or no use but has been cleaned on outside with a few light spots of rust. Cartridge pack & cap tin are fine. Rare CDVs are all fine, slightly yellowed but with good images. 4-31870 JR149 (30,000-45,000)
*SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED SILVER & GOLD COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 328709. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Fabulous Cuno Helfrecht engraved single action Army revolver with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address on top and the rolled panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40” on the left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with factory orig smooth pearl grips with left & right deep rampant Colt medallions. Engraving is of the highest quality, probably by the master himself and consists of 70% coverage wonderful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with a fine punch-dot background. This engraving is more like level “3” or “C” coverage than level “2” as indicated in the letter. Ejector rod housing has deluxe borders and snake & leaf patterns in gullet with snake & dot pattern on outer radius. Frame on each side of forcing cone has a diamond checkerboard pattern with alternating smooth & punch-dot diamonds. The gullet on lower front part of frame has a beautiful flower blossom with a zigzag border. Top strap has feather patterns down both edges and top of back strap has Mr. Helfrecht’s trademark feather fan with a triangle and diamond & dot patterns in center. Back strap & butt strap have Moorish patterns with a beautiful arabesque pattern on trigger bow. Loading gate has Mr. Helfrecht’s trademark sunburst pattern. Cylinder has matching foliate arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a sunburst at back of each flute. Rear edge of cylinder has three border patterns with the rear most being snake & dot pattern, the center a simple line and the forward pattern of fine arrowheads. Cylinder, hammer & trigger are all gold plated. Accompanied by a 5-page letter from world renowned Colt single action expert, Ron Graham authenticating this beautiful revolver. He states that “Because Albert Foster, Jr., Colts’ New York area representative, was the ‘Care-of’ recipient” — “it is quite possible that Mr. Gallegos held a prestigeous (sic) position of friendship or a business relationship with the Colt’s Co.” He also authenticates it as having been engraved from the shop of master engraver Cuno Helfricht (sic). He further states that all parts of the revolver except for the cylinder retain their orig finish and that the cylinder had been re-plated and “was not intended to deceive others”. He further states that if anyone was attempting to “delude modern day collectors” they would have “also re-plated the gold hammer and trigger. Because there was no additional polishing or buffing done to this cylinder its engraving is still sharp and factory original”. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter which fully identifies this revolver as having silver finish with gold plated cylinder, hammer & trigger, pearl stocks, level 2 factory engraved and shows that it was shipped to “Mr. Juan C. Gallegos, c/o Albert Foster, Jr., Colt’s New York Office, 240 Broadway, New York, NY on March 26, 1914 in a shipment of one gun. Also accompanied by a letter from renowned Colt single action authority, Dick Burdick, who fully authenticates this revolver as found and states that Mr. Helfrecht almost certainly executed the engraving personally. He states “The fact that this revolver was shipped to a Mr. Juan C. Gallegos in care of Albert Foster, manager of Colt’s New York office would indicate it was destined for export.” And finally a write-up from a former owner who states that the Colt archives show that this revolver was one of only thirty-nine gold & silver first generation single action Colts and that this one is one of only two in 44-40 caliber. He also states that it was shipped to Argentina in 1914, no indication of the veracity of this information. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching with the last four digits of the serial number on back of cylinder. Overall the frame retains strong orig silver plating with some flaking in right front gullet. The bbl & ejector rod housing, along with grip frame retains silver plating in sheltered areas being mostly a fine light silver gray patina that is not unattractive. The butt strap retains 60-70% orig silver plating. Hammer retains about 75% orig gold plating & trigger about 60%. Cylinder retains 93-95% strong gold plating that is probably an old restoration. Cylinder was not repolished, just replated and does not detract at all from the beauty of this fine work of art. Grips are sound with a large professional repair in right heel, otherwise are completely orig with a minor handling mar & retain most of their orig factory polish with great fire & color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-32965 JR250 (100,000-150,000)
SCARCE CASED PRESENTATION MASS ARMS BELT MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 163. Cal. 31. Unusual designed revolver with 3-1/2″ rnd bbl attached to the top strap which hinges upward to release the cylinder. It has 6-shot unfluted cylinder with etched floral & trophy of arms decorations and the unusual ignition system of simply having open channels into the individual chambers set into a beveled rear edge which indexes under the single nipple. In order to avoid Colt’s patent infringement suit Mass Arms eliminated the self indexing cylinder, making this a manually indexed cylinder with a button release inside trigger guard. Right side of frame has the Maynard tape priming system with side mounted hammer on long curved lockplate. It has 1-pc walnut grip with silver plated trigger guard & back strap. Back strap is inscribed in period script “W.R. Driver, Salem L.I. from Friends”. Receiver, hammer & lockplate are case colored and are lightly engraved in foliate arabesque patterns. Accompanied by its orig burgundy velvet lined walnut casing compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a wonderful dbl sided Mass Arms copper flask, a brass 2-cavity Mass Arms bullet mold without sprue cutter, a mushroom headbrass ramrod, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a small tin tube with brass lid embossed with Maynard’s patents and Mass Arms markings containing four rolls of orig Maynard tape primers. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. May have been fired but if so, very little. Overall retains virtually all of its orig blue on bbl & bbl latch and the Maynard priming system cover. Frame, top strap, hammer & lockplate retain most of their strong bright orig case colors, only slightly faded. Cylinder retains virtually all of its orig etched scenes with strong blue. Trigger guard, front & back straps retain most of their orig silver plating. Grip is sound with minor nicks & retains most of its orig varnish. Hammer will not hold in the cocked position, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a very few spots of light pitting. Case has a grain check in the lid, otherwise is completely sound with minor nicks & scratches and retains about all of its orig finish. Interior is moderately faded in lid with a large stain from the flask and moderately soiled in the bottom with wear from revolver & implements. Altogether a rare set in extremely fine condition that can be easily repaired. 8-87570 JR401 (12,500-17,500)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 151830. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address on top and 2-line patent dates on left side of frame. Mounted with wonderful 1-pc ivory grip with a raised carved buffalo head on left side that has jeweled eyes. Grip is constructed of two pieces of ivory glued to wood spacers as in orig Colt grips. Frame, bbl, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard, along with cylinder & ejector rod housing are beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns in New York style, possibly from the Helfrecht shop, with about 50% coverage. All engraving has a fine punch dot background. Top of back strap has a scalloped edge fan with small fans on sides of ears of the back strap and there is a flower blossom on the ejector rod shoulder. Ejector rod housing is third type with a flat, half-moon ejector rod head. The ejector rod itself has been milled half flat. Engraving is unsigned but is of fine high quality with strong bold strokes and clean sharp loops of the finest New York engravers. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver and Cal 38-40 with 4 3/4″ bbl., nickle finish and type of stocks not listed. It was shipped May 24, 1893 to Montgomery Ward & Co., Chicago, IL in a shipment of three same type guns. CONDITION: Very fine. Appears to be unfired since engraving retaining virtually all of its strong nickel finish. Grip is sound showing moderate to heavy wear and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina with a few age lines on bottom. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of very fine pitting. Base pin is a modern replacement. 4-33875 JR359 (4,000-7,000)
EXTREMELY RARE COL. COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 4782. Cal. 44. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New York address. It has 4-screw frame with flat head hammer screw and rnd head replacement stock screws. It has a silver plated brass trigger guard and iron back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved in period script “Hon. F.P. Stanton / with compliments of Col. Colt”. Left side of grip is crudely carved “C.W” and right side “G.T”. No indication who these initials are for. The presentation was to Frederick Perry Stanton who was born Dec. 1814 in Alexandria, Virginia which was part of Washington, D.C. at that time and died in Ocala, Florida in June 1894. He was the son of a poor brick layer but very talented & capable and eventually graduated from Columbia College which is now George Washington University. He taught school in Virginia and then at age 19 was appointed principal of the Elizabeth Academy in North Carolina where he served two years. He left that position and studied law and was admitted to the Bar in Tennessee and practiced law in Memphis. In Dec. 1845 he was elected U.S. Representative from Tennessee and served until March 1855 during which time he was the Chairman of Naval Affairs and served on the Committee on the Judiciary. He voluntarily left the congress and in 1857 he was appointed Secretary of Kansas Territory under Gov. Walker. However, since the Governor had not arrived to assume his duties, Stanton was made Acting Governor and in 1857 presided at the Lecompton Convention which was probably illegally & fraudulently convened but nevertheless produced a constitution that was pro-slavery. Mr. Stanton was at that time himself pro-slavery but upon learning of the dubious & probably purposely illegal census of the counties which gave the majority to the pro-slavers, he turned anti-slavery and when Gov. Walker resigned he again became Acting Governor. In Dec. 1857 he called and presided over a special session of the legislature which repealed the dubious & probably illegal Lecompton Constitution. There are conflicting reports that he was then removed from office in Dec. 1857 but there is other information which leads one to believe that he actually served until 1861. At the outbreak of the Civil War he returned to Washington, D.C. and practiced law there until about 1880 when he moved to Florida where he resided until his death. It is apparent by the presentation on this Colt that it was made during his tenure as Acting Governor of Kansas. Also in this auction is another Col. Colt presentation Model 1860 Army which was to Edwin O. Perrin. Mr. Perrin was also an attorney who practiced law in Memphis, Tennessee until 1857 when he traveled to Kansas and took an active part opposing the Lecompton Constitution. It is ironic that these two revolvers, which are only 42 numbers apart, were presented to two men who were deeply involved in the bloody struggle for state’s rights in Kansas at the same time and under the same circumstances who probably had been acquainted with each other for many years prior to their appearance in Kansas. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge. No orig finish remains on bbl, cylinder, frame or back strap being a dark somewhat mottled brown patina with a few scattered spots of fine pitting. Cylinder has a few nicks on front edge and retains about 70-75% Ormsby naval battle scene. Hammer has a moderately pitted nose and backstrap has been lightly cleaned. Trigger guard retains about 85% strong orig silver plating and grip, which shows light edge wear, retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are slightly out of time, but otherwise are fine, strong dark bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 4-31871 JR210 (20,000-35,000)
*WONDERFUL HELFRECHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 276111. Cal. 45 Colt. Silver finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, orig dimension front sight and 2-line address with caliber marking on left side. Frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle. Left side of trigger guard has the “VP” mark in front web and a “1” in rear web. Mounted with beautiful, smooth pearl grips. Frame, bbl, ejector rod housing, trigger guard & back strap are beautifully engraved by master engraver, Cuno Helfrecht, in his trademark style with sunburst patterns on recoil shield & loading gate, a fine fan at top of back strap with snake & dot patterns over top strap and zigzag Moorish patterns on back strap, butt strap & trigger guard. Sides of frame & sides of bbl have Mr. Helfrecht’s stylized foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and the serial number on trigger guard is surrounded by an engraved ribbon. Cylinder has his usual patterns engraved on lands between the flutes with snake & dot pattern around rear edge. Rear face of cylinder has last four digits of serial number. Base pin is a fine replacement. Accompanied by a hand written letter from Lee Russell dated Nov. 16, 2007 certifying the provenance of this Colt back to 1965 as having remained in his family since that time. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with silver finish, pearl grips, factory engraved and sold to “W.S. Cox”, address unavailable. Shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co., Chicago, IL on March 14, 1906 in a shipment of one piece. The provenance letter from Mr. Russell states that this revolver was purchased from either the son or grandson of the orig owner and that his family was living in Grosse Pointe, Michigan at the time, which is near Chicago. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Overall it retains most of its orig silver plating with wear on outside radius of the ejector rod housing, a small spot of pitting by front sight and wear on back & front straps. It appears that it was carried in a holster for some length of time. Grips are exceptionally fine with great fire & color with only one small chip on right side by frame. Hammer is not strong in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-31757 JR201 (25,000-40,000)
COLT 1849 POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 179556. Cal. 31. Blue & case colored with 5″ oct bbl, 2-line Hartford address, brass pin front sight, 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and silver plated brass trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. Butt strap is engraved in period script “J.E. Green”. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge. Grip was not removed to check for number. Bbl retains 60-70% strong orig blue with balance a light patina with address area having been cleaned a long time ago. Rammer pivot retains strong bright case colors. Cylinder retains 50-60% orig blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Four of five safety pins are partially remaining. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, strong & bright with some scattered light pitting. Trigger guard & back strap retain 40-50% orig silver plating. Grip is sound with a chip at left heel with minor nicks & scratches and edge wear and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore with three or four scatered spots of pitting. 4-34139 JR100 (3,000-5,000)
*SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER IN BOOK CASE TITLED THE TEXAN’S GUIDE TO MORAL PERSUASION BY ROBERT EVANS. SN SA41343. Cal. 44 Spcl. All blue finish with 3″ bbl, 2-line bbl address with “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL” on left side & caliber marking on right side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt without circle. Left front web of trigger guard has the “VP” proof in a triangle with a “K” on rear web and a “Q” on right front web. Fitted with smooth 1-pc horn grip. Frame, back strap & trigger guard are very beautifully engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with gold wire borders and an extremely unusual wolf’s head on each side of hammer with a rose-gold eye. Cylinder, top & front half of frame & bbl have very beautiful Moorish & arabesque pattern gold wire inlays with highly polished finish. Right side of the trigger plate is engraved “R. EVANS ENGR.” Accompanied by a fine book case in black leatherette with the cover embossed in gold as in the title. Inside the cover has a fine western scene water color with the hand lettered inscription “State Your Argument / If That Fails . . . Smile / And Offer The Gentleman / A Cigar / If That Fails . . . / Shoot The Sonovabitch!!!” The bottom interior is red suede lined & French fitted for the revolver and two cigars. The upper left corner has a cartridge block with six gold plated 45 caliber cartridges. CONDITION: New unturned & unfired, retaining all of its custom finish. Grip has a small scratch on left side. Book case is equally new. 4-32021 JR226 (5,000-10,000)
MAGNIFICENT, CASED GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 44788. Cal. 36. Nothing short of spectacular, this ’51 Navy is of the finest of Colt Revolvers that we have had the opportunity to examine. It has the standard 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New York City address with dashes. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” engraved in Mr. Young’s typical pillow shaped panel. It has an extremely rare iron trigger guard & back strap with large guard and deluxe burl 1-pc walnut grip. Only a handfull of engraved Navy examples with iron backstrap and triggerguard are known to exist, and none in such near-new condition. The frame, hammer, bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap, butt strap & trigger guard are wonderfully engraved by Gustav Young with his inimitable style of foliate arabesque patterns and a very fine punch dot background. On the left side of the bbl lug Mr. Young has incorporated a very well detailed dog’s head. Several of his fine loops terminate in his trademark flower blossoms, especially on the right side. Both left & right sides of the bbl lug have his flower blossoms sprouting foliate arabesque patterns with spider web panels on the right side of the bbl lug and both sides of the back strap ears. Top of back strap has Mr. Young’s trademark fan with arabesque patterns at the top & heel, on the butt strap & trigger bow. Screwheads are all deluxe engraved. Accompanied by an exceptional rosewood presentation case in outstanding condition with a scalloped corner brass plaque in the lid engraved in period script “Wm H. Leach / Boston”. No research was accomplished on this wonderful revolver prior to listing. Case is lined in burgundy velvet and compartmented in the bottom for the revolver, a spectacular single sided angle spout “COLTS PATENT” Navy flask, a “COLTS PATENT” iron 2-cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter and marked on right side “36B”. There is also an L-shaped nipple wrench, a packet of combustible cartridges and an orig, paper covered sealed tin of Eley caps. Additionally accompanying, as Mr. Colt was want to do with his special presentations, is a spare hammer spring and six spare nipples which are in the right rear corner compartment along with lead bullets & balls and a working key. CONDITION: Exceptional and in nearly unfired condition showing very little use. The barrel and cylinder retain most all of their original blue in the bore and chambers. Serial numbers are all matching . Bbl retains about 95% + bright, dense, glossy blue that shows only the slightest thining and its edges show little to no wear from actual use. Rammer handle & pivot retain smoky case color, stronger on the pivot. Frame retains about all of its dark early case colors with bright colors on the hammer. Cylinder retains about 70-75% flaked orig blue that is missing from age and not wear, with five of the safety pins prominent and the sixth partially battered. Diameter of the cylinder retains all of its original Ormsby Naval battle scene. Trigger guard retains most of its blackening and flaking orig silver plating and the back strap & butt strap generous traces of silver plating with the exposed areas a gray-brown patina. Grip is excellent with sharp edges and showing little wear with a few slight scratches and nicks in the varnish and retains most of its orig bright factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp and as new, bright shiny bore with slightest scattered corrosion near breech if any. Case is equally excellent with three or four fine grain cracks in the lid and one in the bottom with usual light handling & storage scratches and retains about all of its orig varnish. Interior is very slightly faded with a few spots of stain and wear from the cylinder edge of the grip & front sight with the lightest of soil in the compartments. Flask is exceptional, retaining virtually all its strong orig laquer finish with one very small dent on back side. Mold is equally new with a few light scratches. Cartridge pack & cap tin are also new and unopened. Nipple wrench has crisp blue. Altogether one of the finest Colt Navy Revolvers ever to be offered at public sale, an exceptional complete set that comes along only once in a lifetime. 4-32258 (100,000-175,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE DOCUMENTED TEXAS RANGER HELFRECHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 213651. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, full front sight with 1-line address and caliber marking on left side. It has 2-line patent dates & rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame and has factory raised carved steer head right hand pearl grips with ruby eyes in the steer that appear orig to the revolver. It is engraved by Cuno Helfrecht in his standard deluxe patterns with his trademark sunbursts on left recoil shield and loading gate. It has snake & dot patterns down top strap & ejector rod housing gullet with his fan at top of back strap. Frame, sides of bbl and lands between the flutes on cylinder are engraved in Helfrecht’s typical foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. This revolver has a tiny additional flourish of a snake & dot pattern in gullet on bottom front of frame and around each edge of cylinder. It also has the zigzag Moorish patterns down back strap, butt strap and on sides of trigger guard. Trigger bow has a curious engraved diamond with a dot in the center. Accompanied by an unusual pigskin single loop holster with attached loop and a large nickel plated concho on the front. The back edge & toe are buckstitch laced and the skirt has a scalloped edge around with shoe eyelets in the scallops. It is unmarked. It also has a 2-1/4″ wide x about 30″ buffalo hide or elk hide belt with fine calf skin lining with a money slot on the inside behind the buckle. Buckle is a square nickel plated open type and it has forty-two 44/45 caliber laced loops. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with 5-1/2″ bbl, silver finish, carved buffalo head pearl grips, factory engraved and shipped to Walter Tips, Austin, Texas, c/o W.E. Smith on Dec. 11, 1901 in a shipment of one revolver. William E. Smith, also known as Australian Billy, was born in Adelaide, Australia and emigrated to the United States at an unknown date. He was a gifted athlete and played left tackle on the first football team in El Paso, Texas and was reportedly a formidable boxer. He was a Deputy U.S. Marshall in New Mexico and served as a Private in Troop G of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry (Rough Riders) under Teddy Roosevelt. In 1899 he was working as a policeman in El Paso and later became Chief Detective of El Paso Police which job he held for eight years. Just before that he was a railroad detective for the El Paso & Rock Island Railroad. When he left the El Paso Police Department he worked for the El Paso Health Department, apparently working against bootlegging & prostitution. In May of 1911 he was a private detective working for the famous or infamous Francisco I. Madero who later became President of Mexico. When he left Madero’s employment he returned to the El Paso Police Dept. as a detective, which position he held until Sept. 1911 when he was commissioned an undercover detective investigating liquor law violations in Galveston. On Sept. 1, 1911 he enlisted as a captain in the Rangers in Company C, which was a one man company, and on Oct. 5, 1911 was transferred to Company D, which was also a one man company. In both instances Capt. Smith was used primarily undercover investigating liquor law violations. In August 1913 Capt. Smith was discharged from the Rangers, whether from political considerations or lack of funding is not known, but regardless, he was once again in El Paso as a City Detective and later became the house detective for the Paso del Norte Hotel. Also accompanied by the book The Texas Rangers and The Mexican Revolution, Harris & Sadler, in which Capt. Smith is mentioned on pp. 76, 77, 88, 98, 102, 103, 114, 115, 267 & 314. Also accompanying is a copy of Smith’s Enlistment and Oath of Service dated 1 Sept. 1911. Under the remarks section it lists “Private Troop “G” 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry / Deputy U.S. Marshall, New Mexico, Chief Detective, El Paso”. The reverse side shows that he was transferred to “D” Company on Oct. 5, 1911. An additional accompaniment is a copy of p. 401 from Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia/Volume II, Cochran, which lists this exact revolver by serial number with a brief description and biography of Smith and also on p. 154 it is again listed under Texas Ranger Guns. CONDITION: About fine. Overall retains about 75% fine nickel finish with some flaking around trigger guard and on back strap. This finish appears to be an old factory style restoration but the web of the trigger bow is unmarked. Grips have a small chip at frame on left side, otherwise are absolutely outstanding with tremendous fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Holster & belt are somewhat dry but completely intact & functional. Belt has some minor stitching loss on the top edge. Book is new. 4-31758 JR202 (45,000-65,000)
ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED SHERIFF’S MODEL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 28564. Cal. 45 Colt. Beautiful sheriff’s model with 3-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line bbl address on top. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates that have been re-engraved and it is mounted with beautiful, smooth 2-pc pearl grips. Revolver, overall, is after market engraved with about “C+” coverage of fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Top strap has dbl braid patterns with shell patterns on recoil shield, loading gate, both sides of bbl and top of back strap. Back strap has a matching braid pattern along with foliate arabesque patterns and punch dot background. Butt strap & trigger bow are engraved to match. Forward sides of frame at forcing cone are engraved with diamond & dot patterns with matching patterns on each side of bbl. There are unusual patterns around front sight with a line border pattern at muzzle and frame end of bbl. Center raised area of front of frame have well-executed hunters stars. Cylinder has well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on the lands between the flutes with a continuous line border and a sunburst at back of each flute. Rear edge of cylinder has feather and chip edge borders. Front of frame, below base pin screw, is engraved with what is presumed to be the engraver’s initials “CB”. Screws & trigger are fire blued. Base pin is a replacement. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in 45 cal, blue finish with bbl length and type of stocks not listed. It was shipped August 1, 1876 to B. Kittredge & Co., Cincinnati, OH in a shipment of 38 same type guns. Under remarks there is a second listing for this serial number which indicates that it was included in a shipment of 50 guns to Meyer & Geiger, Omaha, NE on October 31, 1877. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching numbered including bbl & cylinder. Overall retains about all of its beautiful gold plating with some thinning to the front strap and beside the trigger. Face of recoil shields has fine pitting under the gold plating with fine pitting inside the frame. Hammer is not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore. 4-33862 JR333 (3,500-5,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED INVENTOR PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY REVOLVER WITH ORIGINAL STOCK. SN 94445. Cal. 36. Usual Navy configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, scarce dovetailed front sight, 1-line London address with “COLTS PATENT” on left side of the 4-screw frame which has flathead hammer screw and extended stock screws. It has the unusual silver plated brass trigger guard with an iron back strap and 1-pc walnut grip. Left side of bbl lug and cylinder have British proofs. Back strap is inscribed in period script “Prize – Presented to R. Key Esq. / by the inventor – Jan. 16th, 1861”. Accompanied by a brass bound English style oak casing with concealed handle in lid with center medallion engraved in old English “R. Key”. Case is lined with green baize with directions for loading label inside lid. Bottom is compartmented for the revolver, stock, a Dixon bag flask which is marked “COLTS NAVY FLASK”, a blued 2-cavity “COLTS PATENT” mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a large & small tin of Eley’s caps, a pewter oil bottle, a wood handle cleaning rod and two packets of combustible envelope cartridges. Stock is of nicely figured French or Italian walnut with silver plated brass furniture with matching serial number on bottom tang of the attaching metal and on tang of buttplate. This exact set is pictured en suite as item #78 on pp. 128-129 of the book Samuel Colt Presents, by the Wadsworth Atheneum. It appears in the photograph as it does today with the exception that it is missing two packets of combustible cartridges today which appear in the picture. The set is credited to Mr. Larry Sheerin in the book. PROVENANCE: Larry Sheerin Collection. Wadsworth Atheneum. Dick Neff Collection. Michael Patrick Clark, Collector’s Firearms Ltd., Houston, TX. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine, all matching including the wedge with bbl retaining about 90% strong, glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Rammer & handle retain bright case colors on pivot fading to silver on handle. Frame retains virtually all of its orig case colors, brilliant on sides, somewhat dark on recoil shields. Cylinder retains about 90% orig blue, glossy & bright on back 1/3 with a stripe of flaking in one area and retains about all of the Ormsby naval battle scene. All six safety pins are prominent with five being crisp. Hammer retains most of its orig case colors, strong & bright on sides & back edge, turned dark on top edge. Trigger guard & back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating, flaked a little over inscription with some fine pimpling on butt strap. Grip is sound with scraped areas at top from buttstock being installed and has a few minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig bright varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, probably unfired. Case is fine to very fine with a couple of burns in lid and usual nicks & scratches and retains most of an old restored finish. Interior is moderately faded with light soil and some wear from front sight & hammer spur but completely intact & original. Stock retains about all of its orig factory varnish with a couple of minor nicks with attaching metal & buttplate retaining about all of their factory silver plating. Flask is crisp & clean with a series of small scratches, mostly on one side. Mold retains 60-70% orig blue with balance flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. Cap tins are fine, cartridge packets show stress fractures but are still sealed. This is truly a spectacular set with impeccable provenance. 4-32041 JR195 (100,000-150,000)
(Additional Information) Colt SAA # 103353 is a documented Johnson County WY Cattle War gun turned into Major Wolcott’s Troop in 1892. F.H. Laberteaux is listed as the owner at the time of its confiscation according to the list accompanying the gun.
FINE CUNO HELFRECHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 102242. Cal. 45 Colt. Fine Helfrecht engraved single action with 5-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with the 2-line bbl address usually found only on 4-3/4″ and shorter bbls. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and the caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. This revolver is engraved in typical Helfrecht patterns with about “B” coverage engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on sides of frame & bbl with his trademark sunburst patterns on recoil shield and loading gate. Top strap & ejector rod housing have his trademark snake & dot patterns with identical patterns in the front frame gullets. Top front sides of frame have a starburst with his minimalist fan pattern at top of back strap with Moorish style patterns down back strap, on butt strap & trigger bow. Cylinder has foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between the flutes with a snake & leaf pattern around rear edge. Mounted with 2-pc eagle/rampant Colt hard rubber grips numbered to another revolver. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as found in 45 cal, 5 1/2″ bbl, blue finish with rubber stocks and factory engraved. It was shipped November 11, 1884 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of two same type guns. CONDITION: Very good. No orig finish remains having been cleaned to bright metal which slightly softened some of the shading in engraving but it all remains mostly clean & clear. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-33858 JR328 (12,500-25,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 76552. Cal. 45 Colt. Fine early single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and the caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. Mounted with very beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver has about 65% coverage intertwined foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background. Cylinder & ejector rod housing are engraved to match. Entire revolver appears to be gold washed over nickel finish. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains most of its gold wash with the hammer mostly exposed nickel. Grips are sound and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. Would make a fine cowboy action shooter. 4-33867 JR332 (2,500-3,500)
COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER IN AN EXTREMELY RARE TRAVELING DESK CASING. SN 154963. Cal. 36. Fine Colt Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight with 1-line New-York U.S. America address. It has “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame with the caliber on left shoulder of trigger guard. Trigger guard & back strap are silver plated brass with a deep raised carved 1-pc ivory grip showing King George slaying the dragon on left side. Cylinder has two small inspector initials and is numbered to another revolver, bearing only the serial number “24”. The lap desk or “traveling desk” is of beautiful rosewood, 14-7/8″ long x 9-1/2″ wide x 5″ high with a decorative brass plaque in lid engraved in period script “M.L. Chamberlain”. It has a brass band around the edge and also around the front side. The mortised lock has a decorative brass escutcheon that matches the panel in the lid. Interior is lined with rose colored velvet with a compartment in the lid for papers and a tray in bottom compartmented for the revolver, space for a mold, a flask, a tin of caps and spare bullets. It currently contains a packet of Hazard waterproof cartridges. The tray, when removed reveals a hidden compartment under the front trays which hold pins, nibs, ink bottles, etc. Altogether a rare & deadly traveling desk for the gentleman or military officer. CONDITION: Revolver retains 40-50% thin orig blue having flaked to a dark patina, not from wear. Rammer handle retains most of its orig case colors, brilliant on the pivot. Cylinder, as noted, retains 75-80% dull orig blue with all six safety pins crisp and retains about 95% Ormsby naval battle scene. Frame retains most of its orig case colors turned dark on sides and faded to a dark patina on recoil shields. Hammer retains dark case colors. Trigger guard & back strap retain most of their orig silver plating with some brass showing through around trigger bow. Grip is sound with a repaired chip by right toe and retains a dark yellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. The desk is missing three pieces of molding from edges & corners, two of which are inside the box, otherwise it is sound with usual handling & use marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is moderately faded with some minor chipping to the front tray. Altogether an extremely rare set that needs some attention. 4-31633 JR274 (4,000-6,000)
AUGUSTA MACHINE WORKS PISTOL POSSIBLY CARRIED ON THE CSS SHENANDOAH . SN 24. Cal. 36. This Confederate made copy of a Colt Navy revolver, with 8” fully oct bbl, is thought to be a product of the Augusta Machine Works in Augusta Georgia. This fine inscribed gun was in the collection of David Cline who displayed his massive collection for many years along the walls of his bait shop in Eau Galley, FL. Many marveled at Cline’s enormous collection from cap guns to Henry rifles and this Confederate handgun among others. He bought and traded for guns for many years until his collection was auctioned in the mid-1990s. This was probably the most significant historical gun as we know of no other Confederate arms from the CSS Shenandoah. “H Canning”, which is engraved on backstrap, is a sailor listed on the Shenandoah late in the Civil War. Augusta Machine Works pistols are thought to have been made late in the war based on other identified examples and finding an identified gun from the CSS Shenandoah, which sailed for months after the war officially ended, would make sense for a sailor in 1865 to have acquired such a gun. There are a couple variations of Augusta pistols: one having thick bulging grips, and the other, like, having slimmer grips like this one. Augusta’s can have 6 or 12 stop cylinders – this one has six. This is a fine example that appears to be orig throughout. Like so many guns of this pattern, serial numbers or cryptics appear infrequently on the gun. This gun exhibits serial number “24” on the unloading arm and inside the recoil shield. A number “2” is found on the back of the cylinder. There are two other nearly identical guns to this including serial number “61”, which was once in the Ted Meredith collection. Letters of provenance accompany this gun from the buyer from the Cline auction a letter from Ted Meredith stating his opinion as to the guns authenticity. There are probably less than 20 examples known of all Augusta machine Works variations and this is a fine one. CONDITION: Metal surfaces smooth and gray overall with scattered scratches and pitting. Mechanics are very good. Stocks are solid & well fit with scattered scratches and nicks. 4-32944 JS506 (30,000-40,000)
*ARNOLD GRIEBEL ENGRAVED WITH GOLD COLT OFFICER’S MODEL DA REVOLVER. SN 786287. Cal. 38 Spcl. Spectacular Griebel engraved revolver with about 75% coverage extraordinary foliate & floral deep relief engraving with stippled background. Left sideplate has a raised gold caribou bull in a tundra scene with gold wire outline. Left front of frame has a raised gold running hare. Right side of frame has a raised gold jaguar in a jungle scene with gold wire outline. Right front of frame has a raised gold perched falcon. Muzzle end of bbl has a wide & narrow gold band with flat gold inlaid foliate arabesque patterns. Left side of bbl has caliber in gold and there is a wide gold band at frame end of bbl. Trigger is gold plated and cylinder flutes are outlined with gold wire. Clearance flat on bottom of bbl is engraved “ENGR. BY A. GRIEBEL”. Revolver is a standard late officer’s model with heavy bbl and adjustable partridge ramp front sight and adjustable rear sight. Fitted with extended Ajax heavy stag grips. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be unfired since finish after engraving retaining all of its beautiful custom blue. Grips are fine, crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. 4-31504 JR217 (3,000-5,000)
FABULOUS ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 193702. Cal. .44. Nickel finish with 8” rnd bbl, German silver front sight with “New York U.S. America” address. It has usual rebated 6-shot cylinder with “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame. It is engraved with full frame coverage Nimschke foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background with extensive patterns over bbl & around muzzle with dash & dot border around address. Cylinder has dash & dot borders around front & rear edges of raised area. Hammer has full coverage on both sides & top with wolf’s heads on either side of hammer nose. Backstrap has Nimschke’s trademark fan at top with scallop & dot border and a Moorish pattern at bottom which extends around to buttstrap. Trigger bow & trigger guard are engraved to match. It has beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved Mexican eagle in an oval on left side. This has all appearance of being by the master’s hand. Quite a number of these fine engraved Armys were ordered by or presented to Mexican dignitaries & high ranking military officers. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except wedge which is engraved to match but unnumbered. Bbl retains 95-97% strong orig nickel with a few flakes in gullets on bbl lug. Cylinder retains 95-97% strong orig nickel with about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig nickel with some fine pitting on face of hammer nose. Trigger guard retains about 50% orig nickel finish with a fine brass patina elsewhere. Backstrap & buttstrap retain about 95% strong orig nickel. Grip has a repairable crack on left side with numerous age lines and retains a fine golden mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-32333 JR457 (15,000-20,000)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SAA REVOLVER. SN 334385. Cal. 45 COLT. Standard 7-1/2″ bbl, first generation single action has gold plated cylinder, hammer, cylinder pin, ejector rod and ejector rod housing, screws and custom front sight. Frame and bbl are silver plated. Gun is custom engraved in Florentine scroll with punch dot background. Engraving coverage would be comparable to recent Custom Shop, Class D. Has nicely figured walnut one piece grips. CONDITION: Fine. Silver plating on gun would retain 90-95% of its finish. Gold wash on the remainder of the gun would also be 90-95% with thinning on the ejector rod housing and high spots of usual wear. Bbl would appear to be a replacement to this frame as it has the square base pin front sight of a target model. Blade has been modified and gold plated. Grips are sound with a hand worn oil finish. Mechanics are crisp and bore is good with slight amount of pitting at muzzle. 4-33641 BT95 (3,000-5,000)
FULLY IDENTIFIED SERGEANT’S WEAPONS GROUPING, 1ST NEW YORK MOUNTED RIFLES. This group consists of three weapons (carbine, pistol, and sword) that date to the war service of Sgt William H. Armstrong of Troop B, the 1st NY Mounted Rifles (NYMR). The 1st NYMR (sometimes designated as the 7th NY Cavalry) was in service during the entire war from July 1861 to July 1865. The list of expeditions and engagements is too long and numerous to detail. William Armstrong enlisted as a Pvt in Troop B on Oct 1, 1861 in New York City. He served the entire war, being promoted through the ranks to Cpl, Sgt, 1st Sgt, and 2nd Lieutenant, but not being mustered as 2nd Lt. He mustered out in July 1865 in Richmond, VA. Both the Spencer carbine and Colt Army pistol have engraved German silver plaques applied to the pieces indicating ownership and service details. The engraving on the German silver plaques appears to date to just after the Civil War, likely being added to commemorate Armstrong’s service. All three items have an extremely old coating of dull nickel plating that is beginning to darken with age. The nickel had aged to a pleasant gray color and is not openly apparent at first review. The combination of the nickel coating and German silver plaques suggest that the items might have been displayed together, perhaps at a Union GAR Hall. The model 1860 4 screw Colt .44 caliber Army percussion pistol has some darkened rust patina on about 6” of bbl. Bbl near muzzle is worn down slightly from years of holster wear. There is an approx. 3” long German silver plaque inset and tacked into left grip that reads “Sergeant W. H. Armstrong / 1st N.Y.M.R. ’61-65”. The gun’s serial numbers are mismatched from frame, bbl assembly and cyl, but this is the way the gun was actually used and all the numbers are extremely close. Cyl is marked with SN 128xx, bbl assembly with SN 1034x, and frame with SN 1039x. Gun supports the claims that actual used guns had parts swapped, while only the mint guns have matching serial numbers. The group’s Model 1860 Light Cavalry sword is maker marked by “Emerson & Silver / Trenton, NJ”. Blade is “US” surcharged with inspector’s stamp “J.M.”. No date can be seen, but the orig leather washer is present and appears to be hiding the marks. Blade shows condition consistent with use and has a center area with old pitting. Leather grip and wire wrap are orig and present in excellent condition. “J.M.” inspector mark is also present on the sword’s hilt capstan. Scabbard is old gray nickel with selected darkening and light rust. The Model 1860 Spencer carbine, SN 57xxx, is a late war carbine. Government documentation shows that the 1st NYMR were issued the Spencer carbine right near the end of the unit’s service. This carbine has been nickel-plated with all exterior plating having turned a pleasing dark rust patina. Carbine’s federal inspector marks (two sets near the ring bar) are showing and can be seen, but are beginning to fade. Rear sight appears to have been missing for some time. ON the carbine’s left side of the stock is inset a German silver plaque (4-1/2” x 1-1/4”) with tacks, engraved “Sergeant W. H. Armstrong / 1st N.Y.M.R. ’61-65”. This is a very unique and rare, fully identified weapons grouping to a single soldier that served in the mounted service through the entire war. CONDITION: All three weapons have varying degrees of nickel plating remaining. Spencer carbine is very good and above average overall with most metal surfaces with plating missing being brown and pitted. Bbl address is discernible. Bore is very good with strong rifling. Inspector cartouches are still visible on buttstock. Stock retains traces of orig varnish with scattered nicks, scrapes, and gouges. Colt Army is sound and functions mechanically. Markings are all discernible, including part of cyl scene, which is visible under plating. Cavalry saber has very good grip with good patina to brass. Blade is gray and cleaned with areas of pitting. Nickel plating on scabbard is consistent with color on carbine and pistol. Commemorative plaques on carbine and pistol are uncleaned and exhibit good patination. 4-32929 JS257 (6,000-7,500)
*BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM ENGRAVED WITH GOLD COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. SN FG06499. Cal. 45 ACP. Blue finish with about 60-70% coverage extremely well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with a yellow gold & platinum eagle on top of slide, a raised gold grizzly bear head on left side and a raised gold Big Horn ram’s head on right side. Both side panels & top of slide have gold wire borders and entire frame is outlined in gold wire. It has custom bbl bushing & guide with fully adjustable custom sights and a custom slide lock with smooth gold medallion ivory grips. Hammer & trigger are jeweled. Accompanied by all blue magazine with base drilled & tapped for a bumper pad. Also accompanied by a 3-prong keychain screwdriver & Allen wrench for rear sight. Additionally accompanied by a fleece-lined pistol rug. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains virtually all of its fine custom finish. May have been fired after engraving but if so, very little. Bright shiny bore in need of cleaning. 4-32803 JR222 (3,500-5,000)
CASED COLT U.S. CAVALRY COMMEMORATIVE SET. SN 1054 US & US 1054. Cal. 44. 8″ bbl. Blue and case colored. This set consists of two 1860 Armys in its walnut, blue lined presentation case. Guns are new in the box, 2nd Generation 1860 Armys complete with inspector marks, cut for shoulder stock and one piece walnut grips. The original black shipping boxes are gold lettered “THE AUTHENTIC COLT BLACK POWDER SERIES” with the likeness of Sam Colt and his signature. The walnut case has brass plaque engraved “UNITED STATES CAVALRY COMMEMORATIVE 1777 – 1977” with an infantry soldier with drawn sword on a galloping horse. The compartmental case contains a compartment for each pistol, a reproduction flask, nipple wrench, bullet mold, reproduction cap box and one shoulder stock. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Everything is as new and is virtually the same as it was made 30 years ago. 4-32546 BT101 (800-1,500)
*COLT 2ND GENERATION ENGRAVED SAA REVOLVER. SN 59270 SA. Cal. 45 COLT. Standard 7-1/2″ bbl with 2-pc ivory grips and D level engraving. Engraving is reminiscent of a Helfrecht scroll and punch dot pattern with sculpted border and punch dot on hammer with two engraved bands at muzzle having 1-1/2″ scroll pattern down each side of bbl. Front sight is engraved in a diamond checkered pattern with punch dots in the center of each diamond. The initials “B.G.L.” are stamped on trigger guard behind front screw. A check of factory records identifies this gun as being a 7-1/2″ nickel with wood grips with no mention of the above engraving. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Gun appears to be unfired and retains nearly all of its nickel finish with just a few, very light scratches and a small wear mark on bottom of bbl, near muzzle. Ivory grips are solid and fit well but the screw is slightly too long. Mechanics are crisp and bore is bright and shiny. 4-33636 BT96 (2,500-3,500)
WONDERFUL INSCRIBED DAMASCENED COLT LONDON MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER OF A VICTORIA CROSS WINNER. SN 11931. Cal. 36. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, London address, with iron trigger guard & backstrap and checkered 1-pc walnut grip. Left side of frame has “COLT’S PATENT” and backstrap is engraved in period script “Thomas Adair Butler / 101st Regt.” This beautiful revolver has foliate & floral gold Damascene patterns on bbl lug, rammer handle, frame, recoil shields & trigger guard with fine geometric patterns on cylinder & top of backstrap. The area on frame with “COLT’S PATENT” has a smooth gold panel with matching blank panel on opposite side. Rear sides of frame has gold flower blossoms with platinum branches. It is not believed that Colt ever produced such decoration on one of their revolvers, but it is known that individual officers had them so decorated in India and a few in England. Thomas Adair Butler was born Feb. 12, 1836 at Soburton, Hampshire, England and died May 17, 1901 at Lindale, Camberley, England. Butler enlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 101st Regiment of Royal Bengal Fusiliers on June 9, 1854, became a lieutenant on Nov. 23, 1856 and eventually retired as a colonel. Lt. Butler was posted to India with the 101st to quell the Indian mutiny and participated in most of the battles in 1857 & 1858. On March 9, 1858, Lt. Butler gallantly swam the Goomtee River under heavy fire, to survey the enemy emplacements at Lucknow, for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross, England’s highest military award for valor. During one of the other campaigns he was slightly wounded, apparently not seriously. One “after action report” has Lt. Butler, during one of battles in India, shooting an enemy at close range with his revolver, probably this same Colt. He remained in the service of the 101st and became captain in 1863, serving in the Northwest Frontier campaign in that year and participated in a number of battles, for which he was additionally decorated. Apparently at one time the medal was stolen and resurfaced in 1963. As of July 1989 Lt. (later Maj.) Butler’s Victoria Cross Medal was on loan to the Military Academy at Sandhurst. Accompanied by a copy of a newspaper article from the London Daily Telegraph, Oct. 10, 1972, which reports the sale of this revolver for 1,000 pounds. Also accompanied by other newspaper articles & several regimental listings and regimental action reports mentioning Butler. This is a revolver that belonged to a brave & daring young soldier and undoubtedly saw service with him in India where the damascening was probably applied. Butler’s action at Lucknow was the subject of a painting by Chevalier L.W. Desanges in the Victoria Cross Gallery at Wantage, Berkshire, England. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including wedge. Bbl, rammer & handle all retain most of their fine bright blue with a few spots of touch-up over some light pitting. Cylinder & frame also retain most of this fine blue with a cleaned spot around the damascening on rear edges. Trigger guard retains about 50% strong blue, mostly in sheltered areas and backstrap is a blue/gray patina. Cylinder retains about half of all six safety pins. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-33303 JR350 (17,500-22,500)
INDIAN USED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH HOLSTER. SN 78460. Cal. 44 CF. SN 78460. Nickel finish with 7-1/2” bbl, slightly altered front sight with small block letter address. It has 3-line patent dates on left side of frame with “44 CF” on left front web of trigger guard. It has 1-pc walnut grip with brass tack decorations, having four complete tacks, one partial tack & a shank on left side and three complete tacks on right side with two square shanks. Buttstrap is crudely hand engraved with stick figure of a man. Accompanied by the remnants of an early cavalry holster missing its toe plug with flap cut away. It has similar brass tack decorations around front top edge with six complete tacks & one square shank. Top 1-1/2” of seam is open and has a soft deerskin lace with brass bead. Toe has been crudely restitched with old cotton twine. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with nickel finish as having been shipped March 30, 1882 to “J.C. Grubb & Co., Philadelphia, Penn.” in a shipment of ten same type guns. Also accompanied by a letter from Dennis Eros of Dennis Eros Indian Art, Ocean Park, Washington, dated Aug. 12, 1984, wherein he states that the previous owner of the gun had told him that it was owned by a Cheyenne Indian named “Walking Horse”. This revolver & holster are pictured on p. 69 as Item #309 in Indian Guns Spears & Shields of the American Frontier, Baldwin. CONDITION: About good. It retains strong nickel under ejector rod housing and in sheltered areas on bbl with about 20% remaining on frame with balance of metal being a cleaned gray patina with scattered spots of light rust. Cylinder is much worn with light to moderate scattered pitting. Grip also shows heavy wear with chipped toes and retains a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Holster is basically sound with a very crackled surface with some finish loss. 4-32358 JR468 (4,000-8,000)
*WELDON BLEDSOE CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 321101. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Gold & nickel finish with 4-3/4” bbl, slightly altered front sight with outstanding sterling & gold Mexican metal grips. Left side of bbl is marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40”. The cylinder, hammer, ejector rod housing, base pin & plunger and trigger are gold plated with bbl, frame & grip frame nickel plated. Revolver has full coverage engraved cattle brands with punch dot background. Mr Bledsoe’s signature appears on right side of frame just below recoil shield. Grips are very ornate with raised gold elk head & the Mexican eagle on each side with raised gold borders. This revolver is half of a nearly identical pair with the other being sold as the following lot. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains virtually all of its custom finish, remaining unfired since plating. Not real solid at half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine with grease filled bore. 4-33631 JR637 (4,000-7,000)
Correction)Gun is a period copy of a Colt, is an antique.
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 100175. Cal. 36. Silver finish with 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight with brass trigger guard & backstrap and 1-pc walnut grip. Frame has full coverage, typical Nimschke engraving with Colt’s Patent on left side. Engraving extends over the entire sides of bbl lug & rammer pivot with a border around the address on top flat. Backstrap, buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. This is a little used revolver that has had poor storage. Bbl & rammer handle retain 75-80% strong re-silver with some flaking (mostly near the end of the bbl and the plunger) and turning dull. Flaked areas are a dark patina. Cyl retains about 85% re-silver plating with about 95-98% crisp Ormsby naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Frame retains 80-85% silver plating with flaked areas dark patina. Grip frame retains about 95% silver plating, thinned on backstrap. Ends of wedge show little or no battering with most of their engraving intact. Replaced grips are crisp with sharp edges and retain virtually all of their orig factory varnish. Trigger return spring is weak, otherwise mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 4-87520 JJ33 (10,000-15,000)
*EXTRAORDINARY MARLIN ENGRAVED 1893 TAKEDOWN LEVER ACTION RIFLE WITH GOLD & PLATINUM INLAID DESIGN PRESENTED BY MARLIN TO ANNIE OAKLEY. SN 419119. Cal. 38-55. This spectacular gun with irrefutable history is a takedown rifle and has a 24″ oct to rnd bbl with half mag was built by Marlin in 1917 for presentation to the world’s most famous marksman, Annie Oakley. It has a Rocky Mtn front sight and V-notch sporting rear sight. The receiver has special deluxe engraving with gold & platinum embellishments. The left side being the majestic “Monarch of the Dell”, stag typical of Marlin’s best work. The right side is that of a great bear poised over its kill. The remainder of the action is engraved in flowing foliate arabesque scroll with punch dot background. There is gold wire border engraving on receiver, lever, takedown ring & bottom of receiver. The hammer has platinum embellishments. A gold & platinum line surrounds the chamber area of the bbl and is encased with delicate scroll work. This great work is most likely that, of the renown Conrad Ulrich. Mounted with very highly figured American walnut with fine C-style checkering and pistol grip to a Marlin hard rubber buttplate. This fine firearm has a very interesting history and is chronicled in the book, Marlin Firearms; William S. Brophy, and is pictured on pgs 200, 547, and 548. Also printed in this book is a letter dated June 7, 1921, from Marlin Rockwell Corp. to Mr. L.J. Huber which follows: “New Haven, Conn. June 7, 1921 Dear Sir:- We have your favor of June 6th giving us the number of the special model 1893 38-55 caliber Marlin rifle which you purchased in Philadelphia a short time ago. This is a rifle which we presented to Annie Oakley back in 1917, and we are somewhat disappointed that it has been now offered on the market for sale. Miss Oakley expressed a desire to have one of our 38-55 caliber rifles and we went to considerable extra bother i getting out a special fancy gun that we considered she would be proud to own and shoot. The value at the time that it was made up was in the neighborhood of $150.00 but considering the advance that has been made in the market price of firearms during the past two or three years the present value would be somewhat in excess of that figure. You can consider that you have obtained a very beautiful rifle and an exceptionally good shooter. Under the present conditions we would not be in a position to furnish an extra 32-40 barrel part for the rifle engraving or forearm to match the buttstock. The only thing that we could supply would be the plain forearm without checkering and no engraving on the barrel, and our charge for a barrel part of this description would be $17.50. There is a possibility that we will again take up the manufacture of the Marlin line in the near future and that guns will be on the market within the next four or five months. However, we do not think that we would be in a position to get out any special work for quite some time, although there is no doubt but what later on we could furnish a barrel part with the engraving and the checking to match the buttstock which you now have.” Mr. Huber’s dismay is obviously very understandable. Marlin, like other firearm companies, wished to honor Oakley’s accomplishments, but of course, also wished to take advantage of her extraordinary popularity. Producing a firearm that was truly a work of art and presenting it to one of the most public marksman in the world would likely result in much public use & exposure of their firearms. It was a very insightful & smart marketing ploy which had early on been much used by the famous and successful Samuel Colt. Unfortunately for Marlin, Oakley was not a vain, showy or boastful person. Her modesty and more importantly, her patriotic fervor, obviously far outweighed her attachment to such a beautiful gift. Not only did Oakley donate this and other fine firearms to the war effort, but she also relinquished most of her trophies for the cause of generating money to support the war effort and the purchase of War Bonds. Further proof of her patriotic feelings was exemplified by her attempt in both the Spanish American War & the First World War to establish a regiment of female soldiers to fight on behalf of the nation. In addition, she also offered to donate her services to teach marksmanship to the troops. At some point, Marlin purchased back this rifle (perhaps from Mr. Huber) and for years has been in the Marlin archives. In recent years it has been on loan to the famous firearms museum in Cody, WY. It enjoyed one of the most prominent display positions in the museum and was the very first firearm one encountered upon entering the museum. The extraordinary artistry of the gun, its fine condition, and its association to the finest, most popular marksman in history, makes this an extraordinary opportunity for any true collector appreciating the art of the firearm and historical personage associated with firearms. This firearm has been consigned directly to us from the Marlin Firearms Company where it has been approaching a hundred years. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 95% of its orig blue with only sharp edge wear on the oct part of the bbl. It has the usual slight muzzle wear and typical nicks and dings. The mag tube retains most of its orig blue. The takedown ring and forward portion of receiver have faint case colors and mostly that of a silver hardening finish. The rear portion of the receiver the lever and hammer retain good strong visible colors. The stock is sound with a very professionally and expertly repaired hairline crack in the wrist. It has the usual minor nicks and dings and retains most of its fine factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, bore is shiny with some light scattered pitting. 4-31614 BT142 (150,000-250,000)
*WELDON BLEDSOE CATTLEBRAND ENGRAVED COL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 182328. Cal. 45 Colt. Gold & nickel finish with 4-3/4” bbl, slightly altered front sight with outstanding sterling & gold Mexican metal grips. Left side of bbl is marked . The cylinder, hammer, ejector rod housing, base pin & plunger and trigger are gold plated with bbl, frame & grip frame nickel plated. Revolver has full coverage engraved cattle brands with punch dot background. Mr Bledsoe’s signature appears on right side of frame just below recoil shield. Grips are very ornate with raised gold elk head & the Mexican eagle on each side with raised gold borders. This is the second half of an identical pair with its mate the previous lot. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains virtually all of its custom finish, remaining unfired since plating. Not solid in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine with grease filled bore. 4-33630 JR638 (4,000-7,000)
CASED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. SN 124836. Cal. 31. Civil War Era Colt pocket with 5″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 2-line “NEW YORK CITY” address with serifs. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and silver plated brass grip frame with 1-pc walnut grip. Accompanied by an orig Colt mahogany casing for this bbl length revolver with faded red velvet lining compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a Colt’s Patent brass mold and dbl sided eagle flask with a paper container of caps, a spare nipple, a spare flask spout and orig key attached to an old German silver medallion with an engraved eagle stamped “W.S. BEECHER, / NEW HAVEN, / CONN. / 1876.” CONDITION: Fine, all matching including wedge. Cylinder pin has been lightly filed but serial number is partially visible. Bbl retains 30-40% orig blue, mostly flaked to a medium patina. Rammer pivot retains strong case colors. Cylinder is mostly a gray/brown patina with a series of dents in one small area and retains 70-75% stagecoach holdup scene. Three of five safety pins are prominent. Frame retains 50-60% faded case colors with balance turned silver and a few spots of pitting. Grip frame retains most of its orig strong silver plating. Grip is sound showing light wear with a few light handling & use marks and retains most of its strong orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few small spots of light pitting. Case has a grain check in lid and another in bottom, otherwise is sound with nicks & scratches and a small gouge and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Interior is much faded and slightly loose & shrunk in lid showing moderate to heavy wear in bottom. Mold is fine and flask retains about 80% orig finish. Altogether a fine orig set. 4-59724 JR184 (3,500-5,500)
COLT LIGHTNING PUMP ACTION SADDLE RING CARBINE. SN 84874. Cal. 32-20. Standard grade, medium frame, saddle ring carbine with 20″ round bbl with Colt two line address and “32 Cal” engraved at chamber, full magazine, square base front sight with ladder type 900 yard carbine style rear sight. Gun is mounted with uncheckered American walnut with two piece forend and straight hand stock and carbine style buttplate. Staple is intact with ring on left side of the receiver. Gun bears British nitro proofmarks. The Rampant Colt is stamped on left side of receiver. Weight: 5lbs 12.5oz. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl and magazine tube retain 90-95% original blue finish with numerous light dings, rubs and slide marks along their length. Receiver retains 80% bright blue, showing some saddle ring shadow and wear to the high points. Hammer retains 90% bright vivid case colors. Buttplate retains 80% original bright blue with wear to the heel and toe contact points and showing scattered light to moderate pitting. Wood is sound with the exception of several small hairlines along the right side of the top tang. A 1 cm sliver of wood is missing from the right side of the stock head at the top tang. Gun retains 95% original wood finish, some areas of bruising and light handling marks visible. Mechanics are crisp. Bore is bright and shiny. 4-33625 WD34 (4,000-7,000)
*FINE COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH BELT & HOLSTER RIG AND WITH ARIZONA LAW ENFORCEMENT HISTORY. SN 302729. Cal. 38 WCF (38-40). This fine Colt & rig were the property of a man named Tom Turner who was for many years connected with the area of Nogales, Arizona where he was sheriff of Santa Cruz County, headquartered in Nogales and at various times a rancher, wagon foreman on the San Rafael Ranch, manager of the Empire Ranch and later general foreman of Greene Cattle Company. Mr. Turner, according to numerous newspaper articles & stories, was not a man to trifle with. He apparently was very tenacious in pursuing outlaws who stole livestock from his ranch and in one instance trailed four of them into the north end of the Chiricahuas Mountains and in a gun battle killed three of the four of them and recovered his livestock. In another instance, when he was manager of the Empire Ranch, he confronted six individuals who were giving him trouble and in the ensuing gun battle, killed five of them all “in the length of a boxcar”. Another story relates to when in 1900 he was elected sheriff, which office he held through 1904, apparently every man in town was carrying a handgun in violation of the law. One night he & another deputy entered one of the largest dance halls and confronted about 150 people and confiscated a firearm from most of them. Tom Turner died in 1937 at age 82. Accompanied by a packet of information, mostly transcripts & copies of newspaper articles regarding Tom Turner. Some information & a note from someone named Jim Portias regarding this revolver & rig which was to appear in a book, The Peacemaker Checklist by Tom Ronk. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found, type of stocks not listed and indicating shipment Aug. 11, 1908 to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO in a shipment of 30 same type guns. Revolver is blue & case colored, usual configuration with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address, slightly altered thick front sight with caliber on left side. It has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a half circle on left side of frame. Left front web of trigger guard has the Colt “VP” in a triangle and a tiny “6” on rear web. Fitted with Colt medallion ivory grips with right side a raised carved ox head with gold button eyes & what appear to pink sapphire nostrils. Accompanied by a heavily tooled brown leather rig with an unusual drop to accommodate right hand holster. Belt is 47″ long x 2-1/2″ wide. It has a buckle strap to secure holster to skirt and a buckle hammer strap also, both with sterling silver buckle sets by Keystone Bros. of San Francisco. There are ten engraved silver rosettes with domes on holster and belt. Holster skirt, under holster, has hand written notation “TOM TURNER / DEC 1908 / EMPIRE RANCH / ARIZONA”. Although it is not marked this rig is carved in the style of Ed Bohlin. It has a silver plated square brass buckle marked on inside “SOLID BRASS” and with a large anchor. Inside of buckle billet is embossed in gold “ARIZONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY” which is stamped over what appears to be “DOC’S / SPORTING GOODS / OAKLAND CA”. Back of holster skirt is also embossed in gold “COLT S.A.A. 302-729 / 38/40 – 4-3/4 / ARIZONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY”. One of hand written notes states that this was Tom Turner’s “dress rig” and that holster & belt were by Ed Bohlin. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbl retains 75-80% thinning orig blue, glossy & bright in sheltered areas. Ejector rod housing retains about 60% thin blue and cylinder about 75% thin blue. Grip frame retains about 70% orig blue, thin on trigger bow, front & back straps, strong & bright in sheltered areas. Frame retains 60-70% case colors, bright in sheltered areas, faded elsewhere, mixed with light patina. Hammer retains most of its orig case colors, strong on sides & back, faded on top edge. Grips have a few minor age lines with a tiny repair to right heel and retain a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Belt & holster retain most of their fine orig finish with some darkening on holster. Holster drop has two extra holes, probably for rosettes which have been removed. 4-59855 JR213 (10,000-15,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER SN 69585. Cal. 31. Fine pocket Colt with 4” oct bbl, brass pin front sight and 2-line New York City address with serifs at each end. Left flat of bbl lug is engraved in beautiful period script & block letters “G.W. Babcock Jr / Providence R.I.” It has 5-shot cylinder with “COLTS PATENT” on left side of frame and silver plated grip frame with 1-pc walnut grip. Accompanied by a large packet of, primarily pension papers, of Mr. Babcock, which indicates he served in the 4th & 7th Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry from May 1862 to June 1865, apparently mustering out as a private. Mr. Babcock was born 18 June 1841 in Providence, RI and died 18 June 1914. CONDITION: Good. No orig finish remains on iron, being a mottled silver/brown patina with spots of moderate pitting on bbl. Cylinder has spots of lighter pitting and retains about 70% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer are also mottled silver/brown patina. Trigger guard & back strap retains about 75% strong orig silver. Grip is sound with slightly worn edges, light nicks & dings and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-32719 JR596 (3,500-4,500)
*SPECTACULAR SILVER-PLATED CUNO HELFRECHT ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH FABULOUS NEW MEXICO HISTORY WITH ORIGINAL BELT & HOLSTER RIG. SN 275496. Cal. 45 Colt. This wonderful Colt with 4-3/4” bbl, 2-line address has caliber marking on left side and 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame. It has Helfrecht’s deluxe engraving with about 70% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & Helfrecht’s trademark sunbursts on left recoil shield & loading gate. Matching engraving extends ¾ the way up sides of bbls with Moorish pattern over top, around address, and snake & dot patterns over top strap & in ejector rod housing gullet & back edge of cylinder. Top of back strap has Helfrecht’s trademark fan with Moorish pattern panel down back strap which is engraved “C.A. FARNSWORTH, SHERIFF / GRANT CO. 1905-1906”. Fitted with deep relief carved ox head pearl 2-pc grips and overall has a fine silver plating. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver, as found, with silver-plating, pearl grips, factory engraved & inscribed as found, shipped June 7, 1906 to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Company, Chicago, Illinois and sold to W.S. Cox, address unavailable. Later research in the form of a letter from Lawrence H. Shelley, Sheriff of Grant County, Silver City, New Mexico, dated Dec. 9, 1963, disclosed that W.S. Cox was “a leading hardware store merchant in this county” and “at one time he worked for the Hibbard-Spencer-Bartlett Co., hardware wholesalers of Chicago”. Also accompanied by a spectacular, one of a kind, possibly the only one known, fantastic jockstrap holster & cartridge/money belt. Belt is 37” long x 5-1/2” wide of 1-pc supple russet brown leather folded & sewn with sewn & riveted billets and a nickel-plated rectangular, cut-corner buckle. The open end of belt has an early brass snap and two latigo lacings & a riveted corner. Right end of belt has a dbl row of thirty-two 44/45 caliber loops with remainder of belt having a sgl row of thirty-four rifle cartridge loops. Buckle end of belt, which is also open, also has two latigo lacings with riveted corner and has a large cartouche, one right side up and other upside down of “A.D. SEITZLER & CO / -MAKERS- SILVER CITY, N.M.”. Belt has aforementioned jockstrap holster which is for a 4-3/4” sgl action Colt. It is made completely of a sgl piece of heavy belting leather, tooled in typical foliate & floral patterns with latigo laced back edge with toe contained in a pocket, also tooled to match with riveted corners & latigo laced edges. Center of holster has an identical cartouche to those found on belt. Top front of open edge of holster has remains of an integral hammer loop, about half of which is missing. This fabulous rig was the proud possession of Charles A. Farnsworth, who was presented the Colt presumably by grateful citizens of Grant County, although no record has been found to indicate why the presentation. In an accompanying article, The Chino Bandits, author Terry Humble states that both Farnsworth & his deputy, Charles Smith, were presented engraved Colts with their names & dates on backstraps. Farnsworth was the Sheriff of Grant County, New Mexico, with County Seat in Silver City, 1905-1906. His tenure as Sheriff apparently was only one term and reasonably uneventful as far as available records disclose. It appears that in about 1910 Farnsworth lost this Colt & rig, supposedly in a poker game, to Dwight B. Stephens, the Sheriff of neighboring Luna County, New Mexico with nothing more known of it until 1911. On Aug. 10, 1911 three outlaws by the names of John W. Gates (later identified at Irvin Frazier), John Greer & Reynold Greer thinking to rob the Chino Copper Company payroll as it was being transported from the town of Santa Rita to Hurley, stopped the automobile that usually transported the payroll, but this time was only occupied by John Sully, manager of Chino Copper Co. & two other gentlemen named Bruff & Bradley. The payroll had been sent the day before by special train and therefore was safe. The bandits, who became known as “The Chino Bandits”, not finding the payroll simply relieved the three gentlemen of all their valuables including money, watches & a large diamond that belonged to Mr. Sully. When the alarm was sounded a 3-man posse from Santa Rita, Constable Lon Portwood, Asst. Mine Superintendent Horace Moses & Reese Jackson took up pursuit and tracked the bandits from the site of holdup into the hills. The bandits spotted them coming and ambushed them, relieving them of their firearms & horses. Next morning a larger posse of seven men took up the pursuit from the ambush site but was unsuccessful in tracking down the outlaws. The three outlaws did not surface again until Nov. 7, 1911 when a man being held in the Luna County Jail, who subsequently was learned to have been John Gates, leader of the Chino Bandits, was sprung from jail by two armed & masked men. Apparently during the escape, Gates pistol whipped Sheriff Stephens and stole Stephens’ revolver before making their escape. Sheriff Stephens took up pursuit with a posse and eventually tracked the outlaws to a house on the VXT Ranch outside of Winston, New Mexico in the rugged Black Range Mtns. A running gun battled ensued with the outlaws boldly exiting the house and mounting their horses. They proceeded toward the encircling posse as though to surrender but when they came close, they calmly slid off their horses and, using them for shields, proceeded to kill Deputy Sheriff Thomas H. Hall & Deputy Allen LeRue Smithers, an Arizona Ranger (New Mexico was considered “Arizona Territory” at that time. Sheriff Stephens was apparently on the opposite side from this action and did not participate until the bandits were riding away. He came around corner of the house and killed John Greer with the other two escaping unharmed. Reese Jackson identified the dead man as the leader of the Chino Bandits and the person who had held up his 3-man posse. A note regarding the Chino Bandits: Apparently John Greer, Reynold Greer & Irvin Frazier, alias John Gates, were all former members of Francisco Madero’s rebel forces during the Mexican Revolution and were defeated by Federal Troops at Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico. In this battle John Greer was apparently seriously wounded and Frazier bravely held off the Federal troops long enough to rescue Greer. This is apparently why Greer risked breaking Frazier out of the Luna County Jail. The two remaining bandits were not heard from again until Jan. 1912 when a man named “Gray” was arrested in El Paso for robbing Pullman cars in Santa Fe Railroad yards. Apparently during his arrest & subsequent search, a pawn ticket was found which turned out to be for this beautifully engraved & inscribed Colt. Charles Farnsworth was contacted and related that the revolver was the one carried by Sheriff Stephens the night of the jailbreak in Demming, New Mexico. Sheriff Stephens & Grant County Sheriff McGrath of Silver City traveled to El Paso and confirmed that the Colt belonged to Stephens and that the prisoner was actually Irvin Frazier, the escaped prisoner. Frazier was tried & convicted of first degree murder of the two deputies and on April 25, 1913 Frazier & another convicted murderer were hanged in Soccorro, NM. Although two different men under arrest were subsequently thought to have been the third Chino Bandit, neither could be positively identified as such and he disappeared into history. In 1913 Sheriff Stephens was killed in a prison break and our Colt went to his son, Dwight Stephens, Jr., who committed suicide in 1930 and the Colt was sold to pay for funeral expenses. It did not reappear until 1963 when it was found to be in the Collection of Vincent Krause of Urbana, Illinois. Since that time is has passed through three other Colt Collectors to the consignor. Additionally accompanied by a large binder of research material including the Terry Humble article titled The Chino Bandits, a copy of the famous “Time-Life” photograph which shows Deputy Sheriff C.H. Farnsworth (actually C.A. Farnsworth) and Pvt. W.K. Foster (an Arizona Ranger), who is wearing his badge. Farnsworth is wearing what appears to be this belt & holster rig. Also accompanying are the listings of Arizona Rangers with their enlistment & discharge dates, which lists Farnsworth as having been in the Rangers only in 1905, apparently just before his election to the sheriff’s position. Additionally accompanying is a copy of a photograph of Farnsworth as the Sheriff of Grant County, New Mexico, which orig photograph hangs in the Grant County Courthouse in Silver City, New Mexico. Also accompanying are many copies of newspaper articles regarding the holdup & subsequent escape of the Chino Bandits, their shootout at the cabin and capture & trial of Irvin Frazier, alias John W. Gates. Further accompanying is a certificate of award from the Colt’s Mfg. Co. dated May 22, 2006 authenticating the 1st place award for Single Action Army Pre-War presented at the Annual Colt Collectors Association Show & Banquet in Kansas City, Missouri on Oct. 8, 2005. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Revolver overall retains most of its orig silver-plating with slight muzzle edge wear and some minor sharp edge wear. Grips have a repair at top right edge and left heel, otherwise are sound showing moderate wear with finefire & color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. The belt is dry with lightly crackled surface & worn edges with a very dry & delicate tongue billet. Holster is strong & sharp with slight edge wear. This is one of the finest & most thoroughly researched and documented western law enforcement & outlaw guns that has come to market in recent history. This, together with the tragic & intriguing story involving the murder of the two law officers, make this a very desirable piece of Western lore. 4-33627 JR317 (75,000-125,000)
CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 92990. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-13/16” bbl, with professionally relocated front sight, 1-line block letter address. Frame has 3-line patent dates with engraving over the “US” and it has “DFC” inspector initials on bottom by serial number and on bottom of bbl with “G” inspector initial on trigger guard & buttstrap. Engraving is probably by Wolf & Klar Hardware & Gun Store of Fort Worth, TX, or at least is reminiscent of their style of engraving. Wolf & Klar is an old Texas firm and employed engravers & jewelers in the Fort Worth area to embellish firearms, make fancy silver & ivory grips, along with knives & “men’s” jewelry. It has 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief carved ox head on right side that is probably a factory product. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including bbl & cylinder. This is probably a cavalry model Colt prior to being altered, which was a common occurrence in early 1900’s. It retains about 80% strong nickel finish with wear at muzzle and around forcing cone & front area of frame. Trigger guard & backstrap are mostly gray patina. Upper half of backstrap & sheltered areas of trigger guard retain strong nickel. Grips are beautiful with a couple of chips in each side but show strong age patina with great fire & color. Inside left grip has repaired pressure cracks. Hammer notches or the sear tip appear to be damaged as the hammer will not hold in safety notch or half cock notch and can be pushed from full cock. Strong bore with fine pitting. 4-32649 JR479 (3,000-4,500)
RARE ENGRAVED AGENT MARKED WHITNEY NEW MODEL PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER SN 315. Cal. 28. Unusual little pocket revolver, very closely resembling a Colt Model 1855 Root, with which it was made to complete. It has 3-1/2” oct bbl with brass pin front sight and maker’s name & address on top flat. It has 2-pc rammer and 6-shot unfluted cylinder with roll engraved eagle, shield & lion motif. Frame & bbl lug are lightly engraved with well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with feather patterns over top strap. Back strap is engraved “J. HAPGOOD AGENT, BOSTON”. It has 2-pc smooth walnut grips numbered to this revolver. Only about 2,000 of these little revolvers were made in period 1860-67. This one, being an early production piece, would have made it available for Civil War service. CONDITION: Fair to good. No orig finish remains being a cleaned gray metal color with light to moderate pitting. Cylinder retains traces of orig cylinder scene. Rammer retainer screw is stripped. Grips have chipped toes with battered bottom edges and retain most of a restored finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore. 4-32675 JR504 (1,000-2,000)
*LOT OF SUNSET CARSON MEMORABILIA. SN 347940. Sunset Carson was a western movie star and made twenty movies in the period 1944-1950. 1) “Bronco” brand cowboy hat with 4” brim & 6” crown and a wide black, white & brown woven hatband. –Appears new & unused. 2) Colt single action revolver, Cal. 45 Colt, SN 347940. 5-1/2” bbl, after-market engraved with full coverage patterns and a deep inscription on the left side of the bbl, “Old Judge Colt”. It has 2-pc pearl grips. –Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple of spots of pitting. 3) A heavy single holster buscadero rig of synthetic alligator with white buck-stitch borders and nickel plated conchos with a large horseshoe shaped buckle. –Fine. Lining of the holster is slightly scuffed. Buckle retains about 70% silver paint with the tongue slightly dry & crackled. 4) Pair of size 13 EEE brown cowboy boots with toe decoration and buckstitch lacing through the uppers. –Fine. Light wear, retains most of their original finish. 5) 3/4 length black wool coat with wide mouton collar, size 52, with 3-button front and slash pockets on each side. –Extremely fine. No evidence of mothing. 6) Two large photos, 20” x 16”, one horizontal image of an elderly Sunset Carson & an equally elderly Lash La Rue. The other photo is a vertical image of Sunset Carson & Peggy Stewart, his co-star in many of his movies, with Lash La Rue in the background. Both have autographed their images with his dated Nov. 1, ’88 and hers dated 5/30/90. Also accompanied by a pictorial biography of Sunset Carson. CONDITION: As stated above. 4-32863 JR1162 (3,000-3,500)
EARLY COMMERCIAL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SN 14680. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 7-1/2” bbl, full front sight with script address. It has first type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head and has its orig base pin with dimples at each end. It has 2-line patent dates on left side of frame & caliber marking on left shoulder of trigger guard and it has extended hammer screw for skeleton shoulder stock. Mounted with fine 1-pc ivory grip. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with blue finish, bbl length & type of stocks not listed. It shows shipment Nov. 30, 1874 to J.P. Moores Sons, New York, NY, in a shipment of 50 same type guns. Under remarks it states that there is another listing for this serial number that indicates it was in another shipment of 45 revolvers to J.P. Moores on May 3, 1875. J.P. Moores was a well known major distributor and also was known for providing engraved & plated guns with pearl & ivory grips. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including bbl & cylinder. Bbl retains about 85% strong nickel with heavy wear on left side of muzzle consistent with frequent in & out of a holster by a right hand person. Ejector rod housing retains about 98% nickel. Cylinder retains 70-75% nickel with balance flaked to a light patina. Frame retains about 85% strong nickel with flaking on recoil shields & top strap. Trigger guard retains about 50% nickel with trigger bow & frontstrap gray metal color. Backstrap retains about 85-90% strong nickel with some scratches. Grip is very old and consists of two grip panels with two ivory spacers glued together. They appear to have been in place for life of revolver. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-32648 JR483 (6,000-10,000)
L.L. HEPBURN COLTON NY PERCUSSION OVER/UNDER COMBINATION GUN. Cal. 38 over 12 ga. 32″ rnd bbls signed “L L Hepburn Colton NY”. Both back action percussion locks are signed as well. The gun is iron mounted with an engraved iron capbox in the stock and an engraved iron triggerguard. The bbl tang extends 5-1/2″ over the wrist. L.L. Hepburn was a gunsmith who lived in the village of Colton, NY, and was employed by the Remington Company of Ilion, NY, where he was at one time superintendent of the sporting department. Additional information on Hepburn can be found in The New York State Firearms Trade by H.J. Swinney. CONDITION: All the iron parts have a nice even patina and the stock is in good shape with only minor age dents and dings. Both locks need tuning up in order to make the gun work properly. Otherwise a fine example of Hepburn’s work. 4-59602 RG28 (1,500-2,500)
CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 125876. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-11/16” bbl, apparently recrowned from 4-3/4”. It has a custom, thick front sight with 2-line address and 3-line patent dates on frame. Fitted with early factory 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief rampant Colt silver medallions, left & right side. It has nearly full coverage engraving with foliate arabesque patterns with stippled background. Recoil shield & loading gate have Helfrecht-style patterns but are not by Helfrecht. Top of backstrap has a stylized fan with deep relief oak leaves and a scroll. Front strap & trigger guard have feather patterns. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of its fine nickel finish with a ding on front sight. Grips have a couple of tiny chips in edges with a repaired chip on left side and have tremendous fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-32304 JR611 (5,000-7,000)
*RARE HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED COLT SAA SHERIFFS MODEL. SN 19-35 SHERIFF. Cal. 45 COLT. 3-1/2″ bbl without ejector rod. This 1981 Colt Custom Shop Limited Edition was engraved by the Colt Factory master Howard Dove. Comes in Colt royal blue finish with gold plated backstrap, trigger guard and cylinder pin, gold inlaid sheriffs badge on recoil shield, relief gold inlay antique handcuff motif on loading gate. SN is inlaid with gold on bottom of frame. Flush gold rampant Colt trademark, flush gold inscription “1 of 35” on right side of frame, hammer bordered in gold line, gold muzzle band, wide gold band at rear of cylinder, gold fleur de lis on each chamber, flush gold inscription “COLT SHERIFFS MODEL .45” with gold bordered fleur de lis. Remainder of gun, including hammer is done in a scroll with punch dot background. Diamond checkered one piece ivory grips. Displayed in a factory roll-top case and also displayed with six-point gold sheriff badge. It is reported that there was only 37 of these fine revolvers made. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Gun appears as new and unturned. Oak case has just a few minor nicks and dings. Roll top cover has a series of scratches. 4-33629 BT93 (6,000-12,500)
RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY TRANSITION CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 162899. Cal. 44 CF. Silver finish with 8” rnd bbl, German silver front sight with “New York U.S. America” address. It has Richards-Mason ejector rod housing with bull’s eye half moon ejector rod head and usual 6-shot rebated cylinder. Frame has Richards-Mason conversion ring & loading gate with brass trigger guard & iron backstrap containing a smooth ivory 1-pc grip. Frame, conversion ring & sides of hammer have full coverage Nimschke engraving with fine punch dot background & wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Bbl has extensive engraving on both sides of bbl lug, ejector rod housing & both sides of muzzle. Cylinder has triangular shaped borders at front & back edge of raised area. Backstrap has Nimschke’s trademark flower blossom at top with other patterns at top & bottom and a dbl triangular pattern down both edges. Moorish pattern extends around buttstrap and trigger guard is engraved to match. Left side of frame has “COLTS PATENT” and both sides have a deep stamped, large “J.P.”. This being a transition piece it is an extreme rarity in its own right and then to have it engraved makes it impossibly rare. This is the first one this cataloguer has ever encountered. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including wedge. Overall retains 95-97% strong orig silver plating with only a small wear spot on backstrap & some sharp edge wear. Trigger retains most of its orig blue. Grip has a chipped left toe with numerous age lines and wear on edges and overall retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-32314 JS458 (10,000-15,000)
*FINE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH POSSIBLE TEXAS ASSOCIATION. SN 310809. Cal. 45 Colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight with 2-line address. It has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame and is fitted with extremely beautiful 2-pc pearl grips. It has about 80% coverage Cuno Helfrecht engraving with well-executed foliate arabesque patterns on frame & sides of bbl with a snake & dot pattern in ejector rod housing gullet and with alternating patterns between flutes on cylinder, also with a snake & dot pattern at back edge. Loading gate has Helfrecht’s flower blossom and a rectangle of cross-hatching on top sides of frame. Top of backstrap has a well-executed fan with cross-hatched center and a zig-zag Moorish pattern on backstrap & buttstrap with a ribbon around trigger guard serial number and some light foliate patterns. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as cal. 38-40 (obviously a ledger entry mistake) with nickel finish, pearl grips & factory engraved. It was sold to Victoria Hardware, address unavailable (very likely Victoria, TX) and shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO. It was shipped Aug. 21, 1909 in a one gun shipment. CONDITION: Fine. Retains virtually all of a restored nickel finish, turning milky at muzzle end of bbl and on ejector rod housing. Refinish polishing somewhat thinned the engraving. Grips have a couple of age lines but are completely sound with great fire & color. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with very fine pitting. 4-32624 JR344 (8,500-12,500)
CONFEDERATE LEECH AND RIGDON REVOLVER INSCRIBED BY A MISSISSIPPI CAVALRYMAN. SN 346. A fine early serial numbered specimen of this rare Confederate revolver made by Thomas Leech and Charles H. Rigdon in Columbus, Mississippi. Guns with small “Leech & Rigdon” dies such as this under the mid 400 SN range are thought to be made in Columbus, MS before factory was later moved to Georgia. The revolver, serial number 346, generally follows the pattern of the Colt Model 1851 Navy being .36 caliber with a 6-shot cylinder, 7 ½” part round, part octagon barrel marked on the top flat of the barrel’s octagonal breech “LEECH & RIGD– .” The letters “C.S.A.” are not present either due to a variation in the barrel marking on an incomplete stamp (which is likely because the last two letters of the firm’s name are not visible). Walnut one-piece grips with brass trigger guard and back strap. All marked parts match. In place of the more common 4-dot cross mark on the brass trigger guard, the capital letter “N” is stamped on the left side of the trigger guard. The serial number on the cylinder is unusual and interesting being stamped “346” with an additional “3” above the “4” and an additional “4” below the “3” almost as if the worker could not decide whether to stamp the serial vertically or horizontally. Before the Civil War, Thomas Leech was a cotton trader and Charles H. Rigdon was a scale maker. Together their association would produce for the Confederacy one of the best revolvers of the time that could easily compete with the 1851 Colt Navy, of which it was a direct copy. Thomas Leech is also known to have had other business interests, for some Derringer pistols have survived that are marked “made for Thomas Leech & Co, Memphis, Tenn”. He had also founded the Memphis Novelty Works in 1861, a company specialized in the manufacture of cutlery, in particular, a number of Confederate swords. By May, 1862 the company was known as Leech & Rigdon, and was established at Columbus, Mississippi. The partners secured a contract with the Confederate States Government for the manufacture of 1,500 revolvers of the Colt Navy 1851 type. The Leech & Rigdon Company moved from Columbus in December of 1862 due to the impending Union threat. The manufactory was moved to Greensboro, Georgia; and all efforts were concentrated on the manufacture of revolvers. The partnership dissolved for unknown reasons in December, 1863, with a total about 1,500 revolvers produced. Charles Rigdon bought the company’s machinery and tools, kept the workers and reinstalled the plant at Augusta, Georgia, where he was joined by Jesse A. Ansley and two other partners, with whom he formed the Rigdon, Ansley & Co. The new company would continue to produce revolvers of the same type for the Confederate army. The original Leech & Rigdon’s contract for 1,500 pistols seems to have been achieved, and from serial # 1500 on, the company started the production of guns equipped with a 12 slot cylinders, which are today known as the Rigdon Ansley revolvers. On the back strap appears the name “Thomas Ruddick” which has been hand scratched into the brass. Initial research shows a Thomas Ruddick in the 28th Mississippi Cavalry Regiment, C.S.A. an important Western theater cavalry regiment, a quick glimpse of their history shows that this regiment was organized early in 1862, for three years. The original officers — Starke, Ferguson and Jones — were commissioned February 24, 1862; the regiment was reported May 14 in at Camp at Jackson, where it was organized. Colonel Starke was a man of prominence and had organized a cavalry company in his home county, Bolivar, early in 1861. The first active service of the regiment was occasioned by the naval attack on Vicksburg, beginning in May, 1862. Five companies of Starke’s Cavalry reinforced Gen. M. L. Smith, at Vicksburg, and were posted to watch the flanks along the Yazoo and below Warrenton on the Mississippi. Later the regiment was at Camp Burrus, in Bolivar County. They operated along the river and in the swamp country, where many contracted fever. At Vicksburg in December, 1862, part of the regiment took part in the Chickasaw Bayou campaign, while the remainder of the regiment, according to Federal reports, was engaged with Steele’s expedition from Helena, in the vicinity of Panola, in the same month. In January, 1863, the regiment was assigned Gen. W. T. Martin’s Division of cavalry under General Van Dorn, about 7,500 strong, which fought in the campaign in Middle Tennessee early in 1863, supporting General Bragg’s army. They were present at the battle of Thompson’s Station, March 5, but held in reserve; were in the skirmish with Minty’s Cavalry at Thompson’s Station, March 9, and actively engaged in the attack on Franklin, April 10. Van Dorn’s campaign, during which he lost his life in a private affair, left Mississippi open to Grierson’s raid and Grant’s advance from Bruinsburg to Jackson and the Yazoo River. The Twenty-eighth, leaving Tennessee May 17, reached Mechanicsburg June 7, a march of 400 miles where they attacked a detachment of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry, under Major Parkell. July 4 the regiment moved from Mechanicsburg to Birdsong’s Ferry, and as Johnston’s army fell back to Jackson, they skirmished with Sherman’s advance July 7, and fell back covering Johnston’s retreat, skirmishing frequently and resisting a charge of cavalry at Clinton. Just before the evacuation of Jackson, July 16, they went to the Federal rear, and recrossed Pearl River after the retreat of Johnston to Morton. After the evacuation of Jackson by Sherman, the regiment was at or near Clinton until moved to Brownsville in September. On October 10th detachments from the 28th were attacked, near Port Gibson by a force of Illinois and Wisconsin Cavalry, whose commanding officer reported 11 of the two regiments killed. October 14th McPherson’s expedition set out from Vicksburg intending to go to Canton but on account of the effective resistance made, proceeded no further than Clinton. There were engagements at Brownsville, October 15; on the Canton road near Brownsville, October 15-16; near the Clinton and Vernon cross roads, October 16; at Bogue Chitto Creek, and near Livingston, October 17; and near Clinton, October 18, in which all or parts of the regiment were engaged. After this the regiment was on guard between the Pearl and Big Black Rivers to the close of the year. December 25, 1863, At the outset of Sherman’s raid to Meridian, they met the advance of Hurlbut’s column giving battle there February 4th. This all was preparatory to the campaign against Atlanta. The regiment moved into Alabama in the spring of 1864. May 5, 1864, the brigade moved from Carthage to Montevallo, Ala.; 14th, arrived at Rome, Ga.; 17th, reached Adairsville and engaged the enemy with considerable loss in killed and wounded; May 20, fought at Cassville, crossed the Etowah, and moved to Dallas, skirmishing. May 28 the brigade was dismounted temporarily and put in the trenches on the extreme south of the line extending from northeast of New Hope Church, southwest of Dallas. After this they skirmished continually as the armies moved to the Marietta line, skirmished on that line and in the Federal rear near Powder Springs, picketed the Chattahoochee River, moved to West Point July 17 to meet Rousseau’s expedition, took part in the battle of July 28 near Atlanta, skirmished at Herring’s Mill July 30, was in the battle of August 6, and fought near Jonesboro, August 30. In battle at Lawrenceburg, Campbellsville, Columbia, Spring Hill and Franklin; in November, they followed the Federal army to Nashville, thence moved to Murfreesboro, and was particularly distinguished in battle there December 7. In the rear guard of the army during the retreat from Nashville they fought at Columbia, Warfield’s, Richland Creek, Pulaski, King’s Hill and Sugar Creek, December 22-26. Their commander, Colonel Starke was promoted to Brigadier-General November 4, 1864, and the regiment is assigned to his brigade in General Chalmers’ orders of February, 1865. When Gen. J. H. Wilson started on his raid through Alabama and Georgia in March and April, 1865, the brigade moved from Pickensville, Ala., to meet him, and after three days and nights of marching and countermarching arrived near Selma during the assault upon the fortifications there, April 2, but were cut off from the town by the Federal troops and were unable to render any assistance. When Selma was taken they were compelled to retire in the night, thirty miles, across the Cahawba River, after which they moved to Livingston and went into camp. There the last muster rolls were made, up to April 31, 1865. The capitulation by Gen. Richard Taylor occurred May 4, 1865. The cavalry commands under General Forrest were surrendered at Gainesville, Ala., May 22, 1865. With a long and distinguished history, the relationship between this revolver and this famous cavalry unit is remarkable. Mr. Michel’s Notes State: “Not unlike many seemingly strange partnerships in the arms trade, the pairing of Leech & Rigdon joined a scale manufacturer, Charles H. Rigdon, with a cotton grower, Thomas Leech. Apparently their first arms were produced in Greensboro, Georgia. This revolver, serial number 346, has the typical small numbers and barrel marking “Leech & Rigdon” of the company’s early production. Well marked and completely original, that serial number appears on the cylinder, frame, loading lever, loading lever catch, grips, and backstrap. The backstrap is scratch engraved with the name “Thomas Ruddick”. Ruddick was mustered into service on March 9, 1862, at age 27. He joined Capt. George T. Blackburn’s Company of Cavalry, Starke’s Regiment, Mississippi Volunteers (subsequently becoming Company D of the 28th Regiment of the Mississippi Cavalry). He was apparently taken prisoner at Lake Village, Arkansas, on May 14, 1864. Provenance: Catalog of L. C. “Red” Jackson, No. 9, of September 1960.” PROVENANCE: Catalog of L.C. “Red” Jackson #9 of September 1960. CONDITION: Good. All iron parts have a nice dark grey patina which has never been severely cleaned. There is light pitting at the barrel’s muzzle and near the breach. The revolver’s mechanics are fine. Walnut grips show light wear consistent with the metal surfaces of the gun. All serial numbers match. 4-31350 CW11 (25,000-35,000)
TWO FRAMED ANTIQUE ADVERTISING BROADSIDES COLT, WINCHESTER. The first titled “The Turf Field and Farm” dated Jan. 12, 1877 proclaims “B. Kittredge & Company the Agents of Colt’s Arms Company,…..”. Included with endorsements is an actual sized engraved image of a Colt 45 Cavalry. All of which is nicely matted and framed. The second is a 2-pg black & white broadside announcing the Winchester 1894 rifle, illustrating carbine sporting rifle and fancy sporting rifle together with the engraving of the 32-40 & 38-55 cartridge. A note on the reverse indicates this was found in a case of Winchester 44-40 ammo. Nicely matted & framed. CONDITION: Very good on both. Winchester ad with various oil(?) stains. 4-31556 JJ261 (500-800)
EXTREMELY RARE & IMPORTANT COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY EXPERIMENTAL OR PROTOTYPE CARTRIDGE CONVERSION REVOLVER SN 114721. Cal. 44 RF. 1860 Army configuration with 8” rnd bbl, German silver front sight with the very rare engraved in script “Sam. Colt” in place of bbl address. It has 3-screw frame cut for shoulder stock with no notch in buttstrap. Frame, hammer, trigger guard & backstrap are engraved in late vine style, with full frame coverage foliate arabesque patterns with matching patterns on sides of hammer & remnants of wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Backstrap, trigger guard & sides of bbl lug are engraved to match. It has an altered front frame having had rebated step removed to a nearly straight line and hammer nose notch altered for the rimfire firing pin. Frame around the percussion hammer nose has had a plug welded in place and the rimfire notch cut. It has a rare straight cylinder with bored through chambers, slightly rebated for cartridge rims and no conversion ring on recoil face. The right recoil shield has been cut away as a loading notch. It still retains its orig percussion rammer. It has a silver plated brass trigger guard and iron backstrap with a wonderful smooth 1-pc ivory grip. The top of backstrap has a “D” inspector mark with no serial number on buttstrap indicating that it was probably a recycled, rejected military part. This is an example of one of the earliest Colt attempts at a large bore cartridge revolver. The Book of Colt Firearms, Sutherland & Wilson, on p. 212 describes another of these revolvers as “experimental 44 rimfire revolver on the Model 1860 Army frame”. That revolver had mixed serial numbers. The paragraph dates that revolver, and consequently this revolver, at circa 1868-69. Accompanied by a 2-page Larry Wilson letter detailing some of above information wherein he also states that the engraved bbl address of “Sam. Colt” is “known on scarce few Model 1860 Army Colt revolvers of the post-Civil War period”. This exact revolver is pictured on p. 266 of The Colt Engraving Book, Wilson, and was offered as Lot 149-17927 in the Summer 2001 David Condon retail catalog. In the evolution of cartridge revolvers, this one must rate near the very top. It undoubtedly is the progenitor of all the Colt cartridge revolvers that have followed for the past 130 plus years. The idea for this revolver ranks right up there with the Mason ejector rod which likely would not have followed without this rare revolver having been built. PROVENANCE: “The Colt Engraving Book”, Wilson; David Condon Retail,Summer 2001 CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge, cylinder is not numbered. Bbl retains about 85% glossy Colt blue with loss areas flaked, not worn to light patina. Cylinder retains 50-60% glossy Colt blue with balance flaked to light patina and a couple of small scratches. Frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas being mostly a cleaned gray patina. Hammer retains about 90% thin glossy Colt blue. Trigger guard retains about 80% silver plating and backstrap virtually all of it orig silver plating. Grip has a couple of chips on right edge and has several age lines on bottom edges and retains a wonderful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with scattered pitting. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own a truly experimental Colt, one of the most rare prototypes extant. No one knows for sure how many of these rare revolvers were initially made nor how many survive today. This may be the only one of its type factory engraved. 4-32315 JR489 (15,000-25,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 10344. Cal. 22. Most unusual single action revolver with 5-1/2″ lined bbl with lined chambers in cylinder to its present caliber. It appears to have begun life as an artillery revolver with 2-line patent dates & a small “US” on left side of frame. Left side of bbl is hand stamped “R.F. ENEWOLD”. It has full coverage engraving and appears to have been done by Wilbur Glahn with his signature triangle mark on the recoil shield. Balance of frame, cylinder, sides of bbl, hammer & grip frame have extremely well executed, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. Top of bbl & groove in top strap have very fine stippling and front sight is severely altered. Backstrap is engraved in script “Fay A. Brown”. It has full coverage silver plating with gold wash in cylinder flutes and front & back of cylinder. Fitted with Colt medallion smooth ivory grips. CONDITION: Good to very good. Overall retains virtually all of its fine silver plating with thin gold wash on cylinder. Grips have an age line on each side around escutcheons, otherwise are sound and retain a fine mellow ivory patina. Hammer will not hold in safety or half cock notches and timing needs attention, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 4-59722 JR197 (3,500-5,500)
HISTORIC AND IMPORTANT ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL PRESENTATION FIREARM TO SENATOR J. J. CRITTENDEN, ONLY ONE OF TWO KNOWN LINCOLN PRESNETATION FIREARMS. THE ONLY LINCOLN PRESENTATION FIREARM EVER SOLD AT PUBLIC AUCTION. SN 593. A once in a lifetime opportunity one of only two known Lincoln presented firearms and the only one in private hands. This early production 2nd Model Burnside carbine, serial number 593, was presented to John J. Crittenden, former Governor of Kentucky, Attorney General and Senator. The presentation is inscribed on an engraved oval 3″ x 1-1/2″ silver plaque which reads, “Presented to the Hon. J. J. Crittenden by A. Lincoln, President of the United States as a testimony of affection and regard for his long and patriotic service, for which a grateful people bear willing testimony. February 1, 1862” Lincoln, is known to have presented only two guns; the other being a cased pair of Colt Revolvers presented to the Sultan of Turkey during his administration (this particular pair of pistols are possibly the most valuable American guns known. A $5 million offer was purportedly made for these guns prior to their donation to the Metropolitan Museum of Art) Crittenden, a good friend of Lincoln, and one of America’s most prominent and defining Politicians was born in Kentucky in 1787, his father having emigrated there following the American Revolution. He was educated in Kentucky, as well as at William and Mary College in Virginia. Having studied law, he began his practice in 1807, and quickly became the best known lawyer in western Kentucky. He also turned his attention to politics, and beginning in 1811, he was elected to the state legislature for six successive terms. He was chosen speaker of the House in 1815 and 1816. During these years, Crittenden also performed military service in the War of 1812, receiving a special governor’s commendation for his actions during the Battle of the Thames. Following the war, Crittenden served for two years in the United States Senate, before returning to Kentucky in 1819 to practice law. The internal political strife in Kentucky between the Old Court and New Court factions, however, drew Crittenden back to politics. Siding with the conservatives, he reentered the legislature, where from 1829-32, he was again speaker of the House. In national politics, he aligned himself with Henry Clay and the administration of John Quincy Adams against Andrew Jackson. Beginning in 1835, with his election to the United States Senate, Crittenden’s political career was generally connected with the federal government. He was a leading Whig opponent of the Jackson and Van Buren administrations, and after campaigning aggressively for the Whig candidate, William Henry Harrison, in 1840, he was appointed Harrison’s attorney general. Harrison’s death, followed by President John Tyler’s conflict with the Whig party, brought about Crittenden’s resignation in September 1841. He reentered the Senate the following year, where he opposed the annexation of Texas. Following the Mexican War, he abandoned Clay to support the nomination of GeneralZachary Taylor in 1848, whom he considered more likely to win. Crittenden’s action ended his long friendship with Clay. While Crittenden did not accept a cabinet post in the Taylor administration, he agreed to serve Taylor’s successor, Millard Fillmore, as attorney general, holding the post until the end of Fillmore’s term. Two years later, in 1854, he was elected again to the Senate. The reopening of the slavery question with the Kansas-Nebraska Act disappointed Crittenden, who regretted the abandonment of the Missouri Compromise. Reflecting his border-state and conservative character, he stood for any course that would restore sectional peace. He considered the possible dissolution of the Union as “the greatest evil” that could befall the country. In the election of 1860, he supported the Constitutional Union party ticket. Following Lincoln’s election, Crittenden introduced in the Senate his propositions, the most important of which restored by constitutional amendment the Missouri Compromise line. Known as the “Crittenden Compromise” he was unable to gain passage of his proposals or to get a popular referendum on them. He also failed in his efforts to secure adoption of the program of the Peace Convention which assembled in Washington in February 1861. Compromise having failed, Crittenden returned to Kentucky, where he actively sought to keep the state from seceding. On April 17, just days after the bombardment of Fort Sumter, Crittenden again urged his state to remain in the Union. Kentucky’s divided loyalties were reflected in Crittenden’s own family; two of his sons would lead opposing armies during the Civil War. Kentucky ultimately refused to join the Confederacy, and Crittenden was elected to the Congress, where he introduced resolutions to the effect that the war was to preserve the Union, not to interfere with slavery or to subjugate the South. As the war took a different course, he opposed the confiscation acts and the Emancipation Proclamation. He was preparing to run for reelection to Congress in 1863, when he died in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is surprising that Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered Presidents and a firearms technology aficionado chose to only present two firearms during his administration. Obviously the set of Colts were a diplomatic gift. The presentation of this important and historic carbine to J.J. Crittenden, however, is a testament to his admiration and respect for this stellar politician and friend. This gun is purportedly pictured and described in a reference book on Presidential firearms and was featured in a 2-page spread in the national collecting magazine “Man At Arms.” The provenance of this Burnside Carbine is irrefutable. This gun has been in the Crittenden family until recent times and was, for many years, on loan to the Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort, Kentucky in a featured exhibition. This gun is directly listed in a Crittenden will which is illustrated here. This gun is accompanied by a presentation trunk to J. J. Crittenden . The large, early, rectangular mahogany trunk is 38” long x 24” wide x 19” deep sitting on four 1-3/4” tall feet. Lid is 4-1/4” thick and it has a fine, large, mortised brass lock in front with a rectangular escutcheon screwed to the face. Center of lid has a 4-1/4” x 3” brass plaque inscribed “JOHN J. CRITTENDEN”. Interior was, at one time, lined with royal blue velvet, most of which has deteriorated and been removed. Inside of lid has been reinforced with application of a 1” x 3” board screwed beneath a crack in top. Apparently it originally had a lid stop in left rear corner which is now missing and there are two locator pegs on front edge. Corners are all beautifully dovetailed. Also accompanied by a volume The Crittenden Memoirs, H.H. Crittenden. Inside cover is a newspaper clipping relating that Col. Henry Huston Crittenden of Kansas City, Missouri, visiting Owensborough, Kentucky as the guests of Mr. & Mrs. Thomas M. Galey. The flyleaf is inscribed in ink to “Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Mellon Galey, in memory of a delightful visit to their home in Independence Kansas. With sincere best wishes Henry Huston Crittenden March 18, 1938”. On following page is a newspaper clipping from the Kansas City Star March 4, 1943 regarding the death & obituary of Col. Crittenden. On the dedication page is a long note signed “Thomas M. Galey” regarding the November 2, 1938 visit of Col. Crittenden to Owensborough. The volume is a total of 542 pages including index. This particular carbine was very popular in the early days of the War. Only about 2,000 of the Second Model carbines were made, and most were well used and worn. At the beginning of the war, many of these Second Model Burnsides were being used by the Rhode Island Cavalry, which saw action as early as the Battle of Manassas. Also issued these guns were the 1st Maine, the 1st New Jersey, and the 1st Pennsylvania Cavalries. The .54 caliber Burnside carbine was designed and patented by Ambrose E. Burnside and the Second model was manufactured in Rhode Island by the Bristol Firearms Company A total of five different models were manufactured during its years of production. Lowering the trigger guard, which also served as the operating lever, would cause the breech to tilt up, revealing a cone-shaped cavity. The metallic cartridge for the Burnside, of a unique cone shape, was placed into this cavity. Closing the lever rotated the breech block into position, placing the cartridge in the chamber. A percussion ignition system with an external hammer fired the carbine. A small hole at the base of the cartridge would allow the fire to pass through and ignite the powder in the case. Ambrose Burnside, the inventor of this carbine, eventually rose to the rank of Major- General in the Union Army during the Civil War. His record as a commander is not well known due to dismal record of success on the battlefield. CONDITION: Metal surfaces overall are brown, untouched with scattered light pitting, especially around nipple and breech. Rifling in bbl is very good. Stock is sound with scattered scratches, retaining proper inspector’s cartouches. Silver plaque, applied with four silver pins, is cleaned; however, shows original patina in the several dents and in the protected areas around pins. Trunk is in good to very good condition. Lid has a 1/4” wide separation which is supported on inside by the aforementioned board. It also has several grain checks and retains most of a fine restored finish. Book is fine, the brown cloth cover shows corner wear with a minor stain or two and some yellowing to pages. Spine is sound and book is in good shape. 4-314834-31610 CW17 (400,000-500,000)
FANTASTIC CASED MIDDLE GRADE COLT MODEL 1878 HAMMER DAMASCUS DOUBLE BARREL SHOTGUN. SN 14738. Cal. 10 ga. This fabulous shotgun has 32″ Damascus bbls with tapered concave smooth rib, sgl bead, doll’s head rib extension & dbl underbites. It has back action locks with very gracefully curved, high spur hammers and a long opening lever. Receiver & lockplates are very tastefully engraved with about 30% coverage foliate arabesque patterns & a rosette around center pin on each lockplate. It has maker’s name on each side. All appended metal is engraved to match. Mounted with very highly figured French walnut with checkered black insert schnable tip splinter forearm and bulbous round knob pistol grip stock, 14-1/4″ over a rampant Colt logo hard rubber buttplate. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this shotgun with weight of 10 lbs., engraving at $2.85 and under special features, “furnished with a doll’s head rib extension and $85.00 worth of enhancements”. It was shipped Oct. 7, 1882 to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY in a one gun shipment. Also accompanied by what is probably part of the $85.00 worth of enhancements is a wonderful English style oak & leather, burgundy felt lined trunk case with “J.W. BEEKMAN, JR. / NEW YORK” embossed on the lid. Case is of tan leather with brass corner reinforcements and is compartmented in the bottom for shotgun, a round glass Hawksley oil bottle & compartments containing two ebony handled turn screws, a brass & ebony 1-pc cleaning rod with separate ebony & brass handle, a complete set of reloading tools with a Hawksley stuck & broken shell remover, powder & shot measures, an ebony tamper & various cleaning implements. Bore diameter: left – .774, right – .776. Bore restrictions: left – .025, right – .022. Wall thickness: left – .057, right – .054. Drop at heel: 3-1/8″, drop at comb: 1-3/4″. Weight: 10 lbs. 0.96 oz. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be new & unfired retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish to both metal & wood. Damascus pattern in bbls & ribs is crisp & bright & untouched with only faint muzzle & breech end edge wear. Receiver, lockplates & hammers retain virtually all of their brilliant orig case colors, slightly faded on bottom. Opening lever & trigger guard retain virtually all of their bright niter blue. Forend iron retains about all of its bright orig case colors with bright niter blue on latch. Wood is sound with a few scattered minor handling & storage mars and retains virtually all of its extremely fine orig factory hand rubbed oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bores. Case has a few spots of water stain & oil splatters on top, otherwise exterior is fine although a little dry, in need of treatment. Interior is lightly faded with light soil & a few spots of minor moth damage. Carrying handle has broken on one end. 4-31094 JR295 (25,000-45,000)
EXTREMELY RARE COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER WITH 10″ Barrel. SN 93921. Cal. 44. Probably the only one known, this revolver is arguably the most rare of all the Model 1860 Army revolvers. It has a 10″ rnd bbl with standard German silver front sight blade and a period of use installed V-notch rear sight at the chamber end of the bbl. Cylinder is equally rare in that it is unfluted and non-rebated, like the Model 1861 Navy Colt, with the Ormsby naval battle scene. It has a 3-screw frame cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. It has deluxe, highly figured 1-pc walnut grip with a 7/8″ x 7/8″ silver shield on left side. Shield is engraved “To / Geo. A. Jackson / From Dick Irwin / 1870”. Rammer lever is checkered about 1-5/8″ near the tip. Bbl lug is without a serial number and does not appear to have ever had one. It is dimensionally correct and an accompanying x-ray discloses no apparent alteration. Cylinder does not have a serial number and does not appear to have ever had one. Neither does it appear to have ever had safety pins. Accompanied by the x-ray, as previously mentioned, and a copy of pages from the book Texas Collector: / Gaines de Graffenried, Conger. This book was printed in 1987 and on p. 39 begins an article regarding this specific revolver. Author relates that Mr. de Graffenried and another collector named Clyde O’Neal became aware of a small collection belonging to an elderly lawyer named Rice, in Hamilton, Texas. They drove over, looked at the collection, but were unable to purchase anything at that time. The old lawyer reportedly related that back in the 1890’s his uncle was the sheriff of neighboring Bosque County, in Meridian, Texas. He related that one day a well dressed stranger drove a stylish rubber-tired buggy, being pulled by a handsome span of bays, into the town. After he dropped off his team at the local livery stable he stopped by a saloon and became “uproariously intoxicated”. The sheriff, the judge’s uncle, arrested him and relieved him of this long barreled Colt. Around noon the next day the stranger was released but failed to reclaim his revolver. The sheriff, in his later years, gave this revolver to his nephew, the judge. About twenty years later, Mr. de Graffenried learned the judge had passed away and contacted his widow who gifted this revolver to him and later allowed him to purchase the judge’s library. Page 40 of the book contains an overall picture and a close-up of the grip of this revolver. Pages 161 & 163 of The Book of Colt Firearms, Sutherland & Wilson, mentions that there were shorter & longer than standard bbls made by Colt and that “at least one specimen is known having a 10″ bbl and a roll-engraved, non-rebated cylinder”. He states that “any bbl lengths other than 7-1/2″ and 8″ are so rare as to be categorized as special order or experimental”. PROVENANCE: Gaines de Graffenried; Gary A. Walton; James D. Julia Auctions, Oct. 2004, Lot #1327 CONDITION: About fine. Bbl, cylinder, frame & back strap retain an even, dark, plum/brown patina with some small hammer marks by the wedge opening on the right side of the bbl. Trigger guard retains 40-50% orig silver plating with several small nicks & scratches on front strap. Frame, cylinder pin, trigger guard & back strap are all matching numbered. Wedge is numbered to another revolver and, as previously noted, cylinder & bbl are unnumbered. Grips have a couple of chips on right bottom edge with some light hammer marks on butt and show heavy wear with a fine hand worn patina. Mechanics need timing and are a little loose but functions well. Bore is bright & shiny with a few spots of scattered light pitting. An extremely rare & very desirable percussion Colt. 4-32334 JR351 (22,500-32,500)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 23871. Cal. 45 Colt. Very early engraved Colt with 4-3/4″ bbl, apparently reduced to this length. It has 1-line block letter address with a relocated front sight with modern engraving patterns. It has 1-pc very mellow, worn ivory grip. Overall it has about 70% coverage New York-style foliate arabesque pattern engraving with feather patterns on top strap, all with punch dot background, possibly from the Nimschke shop. Ejector rod housing has feather patterns also and cylinder with arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with small sunburst at back of each flute. CONDITION: Fair, all matching with bbl & cylinder also numbered. No orig finish remains being a worn, cleaned metal color. Base pin screw has been altered with a larger threaded hole drilled vertically and a commensurately larger screw. Grip is somewhat shrunken and retains a beautiful mellow golden ivory patina with numerous age lines. Hammer & base pin are old replacements. Hammer will not hold in safety or half cock notches, otherwise mechanics are fine. Worn dark bore with moderate pitting. 4-32758(5,000-7,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 199579. Nickel finish with 5-1/2” bbl, standard front sight with 1-line address and roll-marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER” on left side. There is a tiny “44” on bottom of bbl underneath base pin. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and the rampant Colt in a circle. It has 2-pc pearl grips with deep relief, carved Mexican eagle on right side. Frame, cyl, bbl, backstrap & triggerguard are engraved by L.D. Nimschke or his shop in patterns that are virtually identical to a Colt Single Action revolver, SN 132084, as pictured on p. 346, of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson, and reprinted pulls of Nimschke’s work as found on p. 72 of L.D. Nimschke Firearms Engraver, Wilson. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 90% strong, orig nickel with slight losses at muzzle, cyl and backstrap. Screws retain about 80% of their bright niter blue. Grips have a chipped left toe and some very minor chipping on bottom right inside edge and have great fire & color showing light wear. Will not hold at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-30576 JR373 (5,000-10,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 48115. 3rd Model Navy with 7-1/2” oct bbl, wide dovetail front sight, small brass triggerguard with silver plated grip frame & smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Revolver is beautifully deluxe engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage on frame, on sides & top side flats of the bbl & bbl lug and on rammer pivot with wolf’s heads on sides of hammer nose. Backstrap, butt strap & triggerguard are engraved to match. Left side of frame and left side of bbl lug each have Mr. Young’s trademark dog’s heads incorporated into the engraving patterns. This one, unusually so, having two dog’s heads where he usually only engraved one. The screws are all engraved. This is some of Mr. Young’s finest work in his early period. CONDITION: About fine, all matching including wedge. Traces of orig finish remain in the most sheltered areas, being mostly a silver brown patina with heavy edge wear on left side of muzzle. The engraving otherwise is sharp and clean. Cyl retains 70-75% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Triggerguard & backstrap retain about 50% orig silver with balance a light brass patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-30634 JR297 (10,000-15,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN JA453. Blue & case colored with 4-3/4” bbl, 2-line address with caliber on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates with rampant Colt without circle. It has beautiful, 2-pc, smooth ivory grips with deep gold, left & right, rampant Colt medallions. Left side of the backstrap & triggerguard are stamped with the serial number under the grip. Left side of front strap is engraved “J. ADAMS” and stamped “6 23 95”. Same markings are also found on the left side of buttstrap under grip. Also on left side of front strap is number “S07820A” which is probably the orig factory serial number. The “JA” number as reported above is probably Mr. Adams personal serial number, who is probably also the engraver. Accompanied by a blue 2-pc custom shop box. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Retains bright blue & brilliant case colors with outstanding grips. 4-30763 JR488 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 123015. Silver & gold finish with 8” rnd bbl, 1-line “NEW YORK U.S. AMERICA” address, Colt’s patent on left side of frame. It has a 4-screw frame cut for shoulder stock & is fitted with beautiful, checkered, 1-pc ivory grip. All four serial numbers on bottom of revolver are accompanied by a small “E”. Bbl, frame & grip frame have strong silver plating while the rammer, rammer handle, cyl, hammer & trigger are gold plated. It is beautifully engraved in typical Nimschke style with full coverage on frame, down both sides of bbl with Nimschke’s typical sunburst at the top of backstrap with buttstrap and triggerguard engraved to match. Patterns on bbl incorporate his trademark flower blossoms with wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and fish scales down top edge. Cyl has fine dash & dot borders around the front & rear edges of raised area. Accompanied by contemporary wooden display case. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge. Overall retains virtually all of spectacular restored finish with some scattered fine pitting and flaking. This is a very old restoration, not something accomplished in recent years. The “0” of the serial number on cyl has been re-stamped. Cyl retains 80-85% Ormsby naval battle scene, slightly thinned in a spot or two. Triggerguard has some faint brass showing through. Grip has a repaired sliver on right side with numerous age lines & a few chips around backstrap and retains a beautiful medium mellow ivory patina. Three of frame screws appear to be replacements. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with some shine and moderate to heavy pitting. Baldwin Collection 4-30018 (8,000-10,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SERIES 70 GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN 24735B70. All stainless with 5” bbl, fixed sights & after market skip-line checkered wood grips. It has just about full coverage, fine, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with feather patterns on triggerguard & above triggerguard. Slide lock has been engraved to match, through the blue. Thumb safety, grip safety & slide lock are replacements. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this pistol with satin nickel finish & Pachmayr stocks, shipped March 14, 1980 to Jerry’s Sport Center in a shipment of 125 same type guns. No mention of engraving. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Retains most of its satin stainless finish in the non-engraved areas. Grips show light wear, mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-30305 JR128 (2,500-4,000)
ENGRAVED RIMFIRE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 RF Henry. SN 1458. One of only about 1,800 of these revolvers, made in period 1875-1880. It has nickel finish, 7-1/2” bbl, 1-line block letter address with 3-line patent dates on left side of frame and 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved Mexican eagle holding a snake on right side. It is engraved by L.D. Nimschke with foliate arabesque patterns on frame & sides of bbl with Nimschke’s trademark fan at top of backstrap. There are arabesque patterns on top of bbl with a wavy line & star engraving patterns on top strap. The backstrap, butt strap & triggerguard have light arabesque patterns. This revolver is virtually identical to another rimfire revolver from the Buddy Hackett Collection. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with blue finish & wood grips shipped to J.P. Moores Sons, New York, NY, Oct. 1, 1878 in a shipment of eight same-type guns. It is well known that Moores was a major customer for the Nimschke Engraving Shop, leaving little doubt that this revolver was engraved before it was sold. Given its current configuration it undoubtedly saw service in Mexico. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except cyl which is numbered “149”. Overall retains about 30% nickel finish with balance a gray metal color with some very fine pitting, particularly on sides of bbl and front sides of frame. Grip has a couple of cracks along back edge with a minor chipped toe and numerous age lines and retains a beautiful mellow patina. Base pin is a replacement. Will not hold at half cock or safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore. 4-30627 JR295 (20,000-30,000)
CASED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 169950, matching except lever which has no number. 7-1/2” oct bbl. Standard 1-line marking on bbl and 2-line patent marking on left side of frame. Backstrap is engraved “CAPT. Henry King.” Brass of backstrap and triggerguard appear to have been artificially aged. In a period Colt case with extremely fine Colt’s patent slant charger flask, several cap tins, screwdriver/nipple wrench, and proper bullet mold. CONDITION: Gray patina overall with light pitting and minor nicks and dents. Cyl scene is good with about one-half of battle scene remaining mixed with light-to-moderate pitting. Grips are fine, worn on high spots but retaining much of the varnish. Case lid has been repaired (possibly replaced) and entire case has been refinished. Flask retains most of the orig finish with some degradation on the smooth back. Screwdriver/wrench is fine. Bullet mold has light-to-moderate pitting, but markings are still readable. Sides are slightly sprung. Cap tins are fair with splits on side and chips on labels. Wedge screw is broken but present, otherwise mechanically okay. 4-30738 FS131 (3,500-4,500)
*CASED CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT NED BUNTLINE COMMEMORATIVE SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN NB1170. Nickel finish with 12” bbl, ramp front sight & fully adjustable rear sight on flat top frame. It has 2-pc Rampant Colt & eagle black composition grips. Entire surface of revolver, except front strap, has full coverage engraving of various Texas cattle brands including the famous XIT, DDD, 7UP and the whimsical 2 LAZY 2P, among numerous others. It all has a very nice punch dot background with feather patterns on sides of top strap. Right side of frame, in one of the leaves of a foliate pattern, are initials “WB” which stands for the late Weldon Bledsoe. Mr. Bledsoe essentially succeeded the late Cole Agee, who is recognized as the father of the Texas cattle brand engraving patterns. While the two only met once or twice, it is readily apparent that Mr. Bledsoe at least studied Mr. Agee’s work and incorporated the idea into his own work. Accompanied by a fine Colt custom case with lifting lid over a glass lined top with a locking pullout drawer which contains revolver, six nickel plated dummy cartridges & a Ned Buntline plaque. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, unfired since custom plating after engraving. Grips are equally new. Case has a few scratches & small nicks but is essentially new. 4-60263 (2,500-4,500)
ENGRAVED NAVY ARMS COPY OF A COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN E212. Blue & silver plated with 7-1/2” oct bbl, brass cone front sight with silver plated frame & rammer with brass triggerguard & backstrap containing a 1-pc walnut grip. Cyl is blue with the Ormsby naval battle scene. Frame is very nicely hand engraved with full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Sides of hammer are engraved to match with matching patterns on bbl, rammer pivot & grip frame. Rear edge of cyl has a gold wire line with matching engraving patterns. Bbl has a wide & narrow gold band at the muzzle with two gold inlaid geometric patterns. CONDITION: Extremely fine, new & unfired. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30588 (1,500-2,500)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45. SN 23871. Early single action with bbl cut to 4-3/4”, replaced front sight with 1-pc ivory grip. It has early style engraving which consists of about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with feather patterns on top strap and ejector rod housing. Top of backstrap has a foliate fan with arabesque patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap and triggerguard. It has a third type ejector rod housing with stud in bbl. Accompanied by a Heiser #907 single loop holster with large vignette of a steer head. It has an open toe that appears to have been cut from a longer holster. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching including bbl & cyl. Overall retains a cleaned gray patina with softened engraving. Grip is very worn with myriad age lines and retains a golden yellow patina. Base pin is a replacement and base pin screw has been replaced with a much larger set screw. Hammer screw appears to be a replacement. Hammer will not hold in safety notch or half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Very worn, dark bore. Holster is somewhat dry & crackled, shows moderate wear and soil with some losses around front of top edge and correspondingly on the skirt. 4-30878 (7,500-8,500)
SCARCE, CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 103949. Deluxe Gustav Young engraved pocket model with 4” oct bbl, pin front sight, engraved “SAML COLT” on top flat with 5-shot cyl, silver plated brass grip frame & deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip. There is a small punch dot adjacent to each serial number on bottom of revolver with a tiny “4” below the serial numbers on frame & triggerguard. There is also a tiny “2” on left side of bbl lug. Revolver has Mr. Young’s deluxe extra engraving with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame and recoil shields with wolf’s heads and full coverage on sides of hammer. Bbl, bbl lug & rammer pivot have extra coverage of his beautiful floral & foliate arabesque scrolls with his trademark dog’s head incorporated into the pattern. The ends of the wedge are also engraved. Top of backstrap has his trademark sunburst with patterns at top & heel, on buttstrap & triggerguard. Screw heads are all engraved. Accompanied by its orig, red velvet lined, walnut Colt casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a sgl sided “COLTS PATENT” flask, a brass 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and an orange label, lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Also included is an orig packet of Colt’s Cartridge Works combustible cartridges. Another compartment contains a number of rnd & conical balls and the orig functioning key. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching including wedge (disassembly was not undertaken to check the grip). Bbl retains about 95% glossy orig blue with slight muzzle & sharp edge wear. Frame retains about 75% faded case colors, brighter in the most sheltered areas, turning gray toward front on the sides. Hammer retains 85-90% faded case colors, bright on the nose. Cyl retains 30-40% thin blue & about 95-97% stagecoach hold-up scene. Grip frame retains virtually all of its strong, orig silver plate. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks & light edge wear and retains virtually all of its strong, bright varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. Case has two grain checks in lid, otherwise is sound with storage nicks & scratches and a moderately faded interior with some light soil in compartments. Flask retains 60-70% orig finish and the mold most of its orig finish with some staining on sprue cutter. Cartridge packet & cap tin are fine. Altogether a fine, complete, deluxe set in condition seldom encountered. 4-30632 JR415 (12,500-22,500)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN SA03331. Nickel finish with 7-1/2” bbl, 2-pc smooth walnut grips, with about full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving. Accompanied by its orig Colt Custom Shop, red velvet lined, walnut casing with Custom Shop medallion in lid and a mortised brass lock with rnd escutcheon. Also accompanied by a Colt instruction manual. CONDITION: New, unfired. With only a faint cyl line, retains all of its orig factory nickel finish. Grips are equally new. Case has a few scratches on lid with a couple of small spots in lining, otherwise also new. 4-60262 (2,250-2,750)
FINE PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 40503. Matching except cyl 41195. Bbl is marked “Address Col. Colt London” on top of bbl, “COLTS / PATENT” on left side of frame. Left side of bbl is marked with London proofmark. Each chamber of cyl has same markings. Backstrap is engraved in script “Chas K. Breckinridge U. S. A.”. It is interesting to have an American presentation on a English gun. CONDITION: Very good to fine with 40% blue overall. Strong casehardening colors on frame. Strong drag line on cyl. 65% of cyl scene remains along with half of the safety pins. Mechanically needs work. 4-31005 FS194 (10,000-15,000)
SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED TOMMY HAAS ETCHED PANEL FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 44 CF (44-40). SN 87335. Nickel finish with 7-1/2” bbl, etched panel on left side, and a tiny “44” on bottom just forward of base pin. It has 3-line patent dates on left side of frame, “44 CF” on left front web of triggerguard & beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. Engraved in typical Nimschke style with about 70% coverage beautiful, foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. Cyl is engraved to match on the lands between the flutes & back of the flutes with a double incised line around back edge. There are matching patterns on each side at muzzle with a double incised line. Top strap is engraved in feather patterns & ejector rod housing with feather patterns on outside radius and a wavy line and dashes in gullet. Top of backstrap has a beautiful fan with patterns down backstrap, on buttstrap and triggerguard. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with blue finish, bbl length & stocks “not listed”, shipped March 15, 1883 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of fifty same type guns. As is well known, Hartley & Graham was one of Nimschke’s major customers and commissioned many of the engraved Colts found today. Completely restored by the well-known restoration artist, the late Tommy Haas. This is one of Tommy’s finest pieces of work from his estate and would pass muster with all but the most knowledgeable collector. Restoration is phenomenal. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, appears new, all matching including bbl. Appears to be unfired retaining virtually all of its fine nickel finish with no pitting or evidence of use anywhere. Crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. An exceptional & beautiful restored Colt. Grips are equal to revolver with sharp edges, a few age lines and a beautiful mellow, ivory color. 4-60384 (8,000-10,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 96940. This is one of the very few Gustav Young engraved revolvers listed by serial number on one of the only two known invoices from Gustav Young as shown on p. 230 of Colt’s Pocket ’49 It’s Evolution, Jordon & Watt. Fine pocket revolver with 4” oct bbl, pin front sight, “SAM’L COLT” engraved on top flat with silver plated brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. Revolver has Gustave Young’s deluxe engraving with full coverage, fine, foliate arabesque patterns on frame with wolf’s heads on sides of hammer nose plus foliate arabesque patterns. Side flats of bbl lug and top side flats of bbl, along with the rammer pivot, have matching engraving with a dog’s head incorporated into patterns on left side and a flower blossom on right side. Top of backstrap has his trademark fan with arabesque patterns at the heel, buttstrap & triggerguard. Accompanied by an orig, burgundy velvet lined, Colt casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, an early dbl sided, Colt’s Patent flask, L-shaped nipple wrench, brass 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold without sprue cutter and a sealed tin of No. 18 Joyce percussion caps. Right rear corner has a clever, triangle shaped, tin liner with hinged lid, custom built to fit the compartment. It has a shield shaped, keyhole escutcheon. CONDITION: Revolver is fine, all matching with the iron being a dark patina with sharp engraving and a few scattered spots of light pitting and traces of orig finish in sheltered areas. Grip frame retains about 70% strong orig silver with the grip having light edge wear and retaining about 90% orig varnish. Case has a few cracks in lid with others in the bottom with some reglued joints showing light to moderate fading and soil. Flask is sound and mold is fine. Timing needs adjusting, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-31006 JR437 (8,000-15,000)
*ENGRAVED CASED COLT NRA CENTENNIAL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 357 Magnum. SN NRA6613. All blue finish with 7-1/2” bbl, thick front sight with 2-pc NRA medallion walnut grips. Serial number is found on left side of the backstrap & triggerguard, under the grip. It has about 50% coverage, very well executed, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The legend on left side of bbl is inlaid with gold with arabesque patterns of gold wire inlay at muzzle & frame ends of bbl, outlining sides of frame & recoil shields and front of frame, along with top of backstrap, butt strap & triggerguard. Cyl has a wide gold band at rear edge with fine gold wire completely around front edge & flutes. Accompanied by its orig yellow velvet lined, NRA casing with a Lucite mounted NRA medallion in the lid. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including grips & cyl. Retains virtually all of its fine custom finish with dark blue on all metal except frame which is a vivid purple color. Apparently the case hardened frame did not take the bluing process very well. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case is equally fine. 4-30610 JR390 (3,000-4,000)
RARE PROBABLY ONE OF A KIND BERDAN SPORTING RIFLE. Cal. 42 Berdan. SN 1. This rifle was built by Colt in the period circa 1868 when every manufacturer was scrambling to produce a sporting rifle for the “Manifest Destiny” westward expansion. Undoubtedly it was built by Colt’s master gun makers under the direct supervision of Hiram Berdan, perhaps even by Mr. Berdan himself. This fine rifle utilizes the Type 3 breechblock and has a 26-1/2” medium weight, rnd bbl, globe front sight, no provision for rear sight and an unusual tang sight mortised into top of wrist. It has a 2-1/2” long thick staff with a Sharps type eye cup that is dovetailed onto the beveled staff with a delicate windage knob & bar built in. The slide is secured only by the friction of the dovetail. Mounted in a highly figured, uncheckered, flame grain, American walnut half stock with straight grip, secured with a single wedge through the forearm and a screw through the top tang. It has a pewter nosecap with triangle shape that has a ball at the apex. Wedge is through two German silver escutcheons and it has a fancy, German silver, serpentine triggerguard/finger rest. It also has an unusual single set trigger. Buttplate is of nickeled brass, crescent in shape with a thick toe and stepped tang. This is a Model 1874 Sharps type S-20 (Target) buttplate, possibly procured by Hiram Berdan from Sharps, as he had close ties with that company as well as Colt. The back action lock is mortised into wrist with a wood screw at back end and is attached to receiver at the front end with a short machine screw. It is case colored and very nicely engraved as is the hammer with a dolphin style engraved nose. This exact rifle is fully illustrated in three photographs and discussed in some detail on p. 183 of Hiram Berdan Civil War Chief of Sharpshooters Military Commander and Firearms Inventor, Marcot. It is well known that Berdan was employed at Colt as a firearms designer in the period immediately following the Civil War. This rifle may have been Mr. Berdan’s personal possession, although at this time no documentation is available. The serial number is in pencil on the inside of various parts and there is a small “1” stamped on the small breechblock parts. CONDITION: Fine. The bbl retains thin orig brown finish in very sheltered areas, very strong brown under forearm & breechblock with balance a cleaned gray/brown patina. Stock is sound with minor handling & storage marks and retains about all of an old restored finish. Lockplate & hammer have dark case colors, very bright on inside . Breechblock retains most of its orig case colors, fading to patina over the top, stronger & brighter on inside. Breechblock base retains 75-80% orig blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. A truly rare & one of kind rifle. 4-30059 (15,000-25,000)
COLT SECOND MODEL DRAGOON REVOLVER. Cal 44. SN 10732. 7-1/2” hard oct bbl. Standard markings on bbl and frame with inspector marks on various parts but no cartouches on grips. Matching numbers except loading lever and wedge. Bbl has been stretched from front of octagonal portion and contour has been changed slightly. Engraved on buttstrap is “D. T. Elston”. Daniel T. Elston was a member of Company A, 4th Illinois Cavalry, also known as “Grant’s Escort” during his entire Civil War enlistment. Record included with gun include those of Company A, as well as the rest of the regiment, and show that it was detached as an escort to Ulysses S. Grant from November 1861 to August 1863. His certificate of discharge lists his occupation as banker. He was discharged on July 4, 1863, because of diseases from which “he will never recover sufficiently to perform mandates of a soldier”. He appears on the muster roles until his discharge. CONDITION: Smooth gray patina overall with various dents and pits. Grips show little wear. About half of the cyl seam remains, but the safety pins are battered at the rear of cyl. 4-30725 FS261 (8,000-12,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40) & 44 Spcl. SN 344718. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2” bbl with tall front sight and beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. Spectacularly engraved by John Warren and signed on lower left side of bbl, with extremely well-executed, full coverage, foliate arabesque patterns on frame with feather patterns on top strap. Engraving extends 2-1/2” up bbl and 1-7/8” at the muzzle. Sides of hammer have matching patterns with the backstrap & butt strap having full coverage with matching patterns on triggerguard & ejector rod housing. The serial number is also found on right side of triggerguard & backstrap, under the grip, and there is an assembly number “123B” on left side of the triggerguard & backstrap under the grip, which number is also found on the front of the 44-40 cyl. The 44 Spcl. cyl is a modern replacement with only the rampant Colt stamped on back and no numbers. Bbl has two gold bands at each end with the bbl legend & address engraved. Top of backstrap has a raised gold wire shield with raised gold initials “MP” connected. Cylinders are matching engraved with two gold bands at rear edge, gold wire around flutes with a triangle shape at front of lands between the flutes. All in all, a special & spectacular engraved single action. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Appears to be unfired since engraving, retains all of its bright custom blue & case colored finish. Grips are extremely fine with hairlines on both bottom edges and retain a fine, mellow, ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30584 JR362 (5,000-10,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 197749. Usual configuration with 5” oct bbl, dovetail front sight and 2-line Hartford address with dashes. Left side of receiver has Colt’s patent and it has a brass grip frame with 1-pc burl walnut grip with seven large notches on right side. Cyl is mismatched & it appears that the stagecoach holdup scene was rolled slightly off-center as the “C” of “COLT’S PATENT” is missing and the upper edge of some of the scene is also missing. It is engraved by Gustav Young with full coverage on frame & recoil shields of foliate arabesque patterns with flower blossoms in center of some of the scrolls. Hammer nose has the wolf’s head on each side with full coverage engraving. Bbl lug & top two side flats are engraved to match, along with the rammer pivot. Left side of lug has a dog’s head incorporated in the engraving with arabesque patterns around the address. Backstrap has Young’s fan at the top with arabesque patterns near the top, at the heel, on the buttstrap & trigger bow. Accompanied by an orig, green velvet lined, Colt casing, compartmented in bottom for revolver, an iron 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold with sprue cutter, a zinc dbl sided eagle flask and a UMC cap tin. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge except cyl which is numbered “7633”. No orig finish remains on metal, being an even, smooth, cleaned gray patina. Grip frame has traces of silver in the most sheltered areas, being a light mustard patina. Cyl retains about 50% thin stagecoach holdup scene. Grip is sound, slightly shrunken and retains a few spots of orig finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Hammer screw is a replacement. Case has a couple of repaired cracks in the bottom with some re-glued edges and retains a restored finish. Interior is strong & bright showing light wear from the revolver and may be relined. Flask is very fine. Mold is heavily pitted and cleaned. 4-30388 JR267 (4,000-6,000)
SPECTACULAR STUDDED R.T. FRAZIER BELT & HOLSTER RIG. Made of russet brown leather with lighter brown horse hide lining that wraps over edges with fine scallops, completely around both edges of belt & perimeter of the skirt on the dbl loop holster. Holster is made for a 7-1/2” single action Colt revolver or other large frame sized revolver. It has three large 8-pointed star conchos down the front and numerous 1/4” German silver buttons. The belt is 38” long with a 7” tongue billet and has a cut corner, square German silver buckle with fine engraved patterns on front. The billets are secured with stitching & rivets. It appears that the tongue billet may have been moved or posisbly shortened. The tongue billet has the Frazier triangle mark which is also found near the triggerguard cut on the holster. The cartridge loops are sewn through and appear to be for 32 or 38 caliber cartridges. CONDITION: Very fine. Leather is soft & supple with some crackling to the finish on the tongue & buckle billets and some loose stitching in the tongue billet. There is some dryness and minor cracking at the ends of the loops on the holster, otherwise the rig is in really fine condition showing light wear and scuffing. 4-30322 (8,500-10,500)
*VERY RARE, VERY EARLY FACTORY ENGRAVED FLAT TOP COLT OFFICER’S MODEL DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 252370. Numbered in the New Army & Navy revolver series, made in 1905, with blue finish, 6” tapered rnd bbl, adjustable partridge front sight on a rectangular base with adjustable target rear sight on top strap. Fitted with deluxe, diamond checkered, 2-pc walnut grips and has checkered backstrap & checkered trigger. Frame has 100% coverage, fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Bbl has matching patterns on sides and just behind front sight with a wavy line border around bbl address. Cyl has about 70% coverage matching engraving patterns on lands between the flutes and around back edges. Buttstrap & triggerguard are engraved to match. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with type of stocks not listed and under “special notation” it shows “engraved name”. It also has “charge to ‘Ad Account”. It was shipped Oct. 3, 1905 to Tom Anderton, address unavailable, in a shipment of one gun. While the letter does not completely confirm factory engraving, it is this cataloguer’s contention that the record is not complete as there is no doubt that is factory engraving. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 97-98% glossy orig blue with slight muzzle edge wear and fine sharp edge wear with some thinning on top strap. While this revolver has been fired it shows little or no wear on recoil shield. Mechanics are crisp & smooth with brilliant shiny bore. 4-30039 JR100 (5,000-10,000)
RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT PRESENTATION MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 40847. Spectacular Navy with 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight, 1-line New York City address with dashes at each end. It has a small triggerguard, silver plated grip frame and highly figured burl walnut 1-pc grip. It is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in his trademark style with flower blossoms and wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose. Frame, sides & top of hammer have full coverage patterns with sides of bbl lug, top right & left flats having extensive coverage and sides of rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug has his trademark wolf’s head incorporated into the pattern. Ends of wedge are matching engraved. Top of backstrap has his trademark sunburst with foliate arabesque patterns at top & bottom with matching engraving on buttstrap & triggerguard. Center of backstrap is inscribed “R.D. HUBBARD. ESQ. / FROM THE INVENTOR”. Hubbard was apparently a close acquaintance of Col. Colt and was a prominent attorney in the Hartford area. Accompanied by an orig, purple velvet lined, Colt casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a double sided Navy flask, a 2-cavity iron Colt’s Patent bullet mold, an L-shaped nipple wrench & a sealed tin of Eley’s caps. Another compartment contains a spare new lock bolt and hand along with five new nipples and the orig key. CONDITION: Very fine, possibly unfired, all matching including wedge. Bbl retains small areas of glossy orig blue with some moderate pitting on right side flat & right bottom flat, the balance flaked to a medium patina. Rammer handle is pitted in same area, apparently from damp storage in the case. Rammer handle & pivot retain about 75-80% strong orig case colors. Cyl also retains spots of glossy orig blue with the balance flaked to a light to medium patina and retains 96-98% crisp Ormsby naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Frame retains about 75% orig case colors, stronger on left side and on hammer nose. Grip frame retains about 95% orig silver plating. Grip is crisp with a few minor handling & storage nicks and retains virtually all of its bright orig varnish finish. Mechanics are a little sluggish, but crisp, probably full of old dried oil. Bright shiny bore. Case has numerous small nicks & scratches with some pimpling & crazing to finish, possibly an old refinish on outside. Lining has, what are probably, water stains with minor wear, retaining bright color with one loose partition. Flask retains 85-90% orig finish and mold about 80%. A rare presentation Colt in near unfired condition with some poor storage. 4-30281 JR91 (35,000-45,000)
*ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 45453SA. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2” bbl, tall front sight, silver plated grip frame with smooth, 2-pc ivory grips. Frame is beautifully engraved with about “C” class coverage. Left side of the backstrap and triggerguard, under the grip have the serial number and the right side of the triggerguard, under the grip, has Mr. White’s cartouche. Top of backstrap is inscribed “MP” connected. Engraving consists of Mr. White’s very well executed, foliate arabesque scrolls with punch dot background and feather patterns on top strap with diamond & dot panels on top front of frame. Accompanied by a June 1967 edition of Guns & Ammo magazine with a similarly engraved single action on cover. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains virtually all of its fine custom blue & subtle case colors and silver plating. Appears unfired since engraving. Grips are fine with a light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30587 JR361 (5,000-10,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 81014. Matching including wedge. 4” oct bbl. “Saml Colt” engraved on top of bbl with “COLTS / PATENT” engraved on frame. The gun has 3/4 coverage with fine floral scrolls. There is a dog’s head on left flat of bbl and wolf head on each side of hammer, which usually indicates engraving by Gustav Young. Cyl engraving has been freshened. In a period, non-Colt, walnut case. It is lined with maroon velvet and contains an E PLURIBUS UNUM, a brass 2-cavity bullet mold marked “Colt’s / Patent”, a brown Japanned eley cap tin, 2 spare nipples and a key. CONDITION: Metal has been cleaned but some silver remains on backstrap and triggerguard. Scattered light pitting and tarnished silver on other parts. Ivory grips have numerous natural grain cracks but are still solid. Case has minor handling marks on exterior with stains on interior. One partition is loose. Lock mechanism is missing. 4-31008 FS196 (3,500-4,500)
FACTORY ENGRAVED MERWIN & HULBERT NEW MODEL ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 3463. Later model with top strap and conventional flutes in the cyl. It has 7” rnd bbl with Hopkins & Allen markings on the side and Merwin & Hulbert markings on the top. It has pinched blade integral front sight with birdhead grip and 2-pc orig checkered, hard rubber grips with skull cracker and lanyard loop on bottom. It has typical factory engraving with the vignette of a boat tied to a stump on the shore with mountains in the background on the left side, with flower blossoms & leaves mixed with a variety of geometric patterns in about 60% coverage. Only a few thousand of these well made revolvers were produced in period 1876-1880. The Merwin & Hulbert revolver was a popular western tool with its quick reloading capability. The company just never had the recognition and distribution capability of Colt and Smith & Wesson. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains about all of a restored nickel finish with some fine pitting in the flutes on cyl and a few scattered spots elsewhere. Grips have a repaired break on each side and show moderate to heavy wear, having turned chocolate. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-31060 JR507 (3,000-5,000)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1917 DA REVOLVER. Cal. 45 ACP. SN 79449. Blue finish with 5-1/2” bbl, altered orig front sight with 2-pc smooth ivory grips. Frame, bbl & cyl are lavishly custom engraved with foliate arabesque patterns, full coverage on frame & 90% of bbl with matching patterns on lands between the flutes of cyl and around back edge. Trigger bow is engraved in Olde English script “WWA”. Sides of hammer are nicely jeweled & trigger is checkered. It retains the orig lanyard loop in buttstrap. CONDITION: Fine. Metal retains virtually all of its fine custom finish with cyl a purple color. Grips are fine with good fit and have a light, mellow, ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-60425 JR99 (2,000-3,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 119213. Wonderful Colt Navy with 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight, 1-line New York City U.S. America address with dashes at each end and silver plated grip frame with burl 1-pc walnut grip. It has full coverage Gustave Young engraving on frame, sides & top of hammer with full coverage on sides of bbl lug and top left & right flats and also on rammer pivot. Top of backstrap has his typical sunburst with foliate arabesque patterns at top & bottom with matching engraving on buttstrap & triggerguard. There is a small “E” below serial numbers in three positions on frame & grip frame. Accompanied by an orig Colt casing with dark green velvet lining compartmented in bottom for revolver, a double sided Navy flask and an iron Colt’s Patent 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter. Right rear compartment has an early lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including wedge. Bbl retains about 90% thin blue turning plum. Rammer & handle retain most of their faded orig case colors. Cyl retains 50-60% thin orig blue and about 95% Ormsby naval battle scene. The six safety pins are about half present. Frame retains traces of dark case colors, being mostly a dark gray patina. Grip frame retains about 70% orig silver plate. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches and light edge wear and retains about 95% orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore, dark in grooves. Case has a couple of cracks in lid with normal handling & storage marks. Interior shows moderate wear with some re-gluing to partitions & lid liner. Flask is a dark mustard patina missing one screw and another replaced. Mold is clean & bright with good cavities. Cap tin is fine. 4-30280 JR90 (15,000-20,000)
*DANNY CULLITY ENGRAVED COLT BUNTLINE SPECIAL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 24330SA. Second generation sgl action with 11-7/8” bbl, tall front sight, marked on left side “COLT BUNTLINE SPECIAL .45”. It is blue & case colored with extremely fine, well executed, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background on bbl, ejector rod housing, cyl, grip frame & sides of hammer. Rear edge of cyl has two inlaid gold lines and there is a sgl gold wire line around muzzle. Frame is not engraved. Serial number is found on left side of triggerguard & backstrap under the grip and right side has Mr. Cullity’s silver inlaid cartouche. It has deep relief carved, 2-pc ivory grips with blind escutcheon in right side. Accompanied by a second, unfluted cyl with matching engraving that has two gold bands at rear edge and one gold band at the front edge. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except the grips which are unnumbered. Retains virtually all of its wonderful custom finish, appears to be unfired since finishing after engraving. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Second cyl is equally new. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30583 JR363 (3,000-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 138571. Usual configuration with 6” oct bbl, brass pin front sight, with engraved “SAML COLT” on top flat. It has silver plated grip frame with 1-pc smooth ivory grip. It is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage on frame having Colt’s patent engraved in an elliptical panel on left side. It has the wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose and incorporates his flower patterns throughout with the dog’s head incorporated into the patterns on left side of bbl lug and, unusually, with acorns & oak leaves. Rammer pivot, buttstrap & triggerguard are engraved to match. Top of backstrap has a typical fan. It has a 6-shot cyl. Bbl lug, wedge & rammer are all matching with the serial number “138567” while rest of revolver is matching with serial numbers “138571”. Engraving is certainly all by Young and of matching age & condition, leading one to speculate that the orig owner may have had a pair of revolvers and mixed up the two front ends. CONDITION: Very good to fine. No orig finish remains being a smooth medium to dark blue/brown patina with scattered spots of fine pitting. Cyl is a gray patina and retains 50-60% stagecoach holdup scene with heavy pitting around rear edges. Grip frame retains 25-30% orig silver plating with missing areas a light mustard patina. Grip has large chips from both sides of heel with full length age lines and retains a beautiful ivory patina. Will not hold on half cock and bbl is a little loose, otherwise mechanics are fine. Worn, dark bore. Baldwin Collection 4-30021 JR117 (3,000-4,000)
COLT MODEL 1883 DOUBLE BARREL SHOTGUN. Cal. 12 ga. SN 2863. Field grade Colt with 30”, fine pattern, Damascus bbls choked IMP-MOD/IMP-MOD with smooth, concave rib, sgl bead, doll’s head extension, extractor & dbl triggers. Mounted with very nicely figured French or circassian walnut with black insert semi-schnable tipped, checkered forearm and rnd knob, semi-pistol grip stock, 13-3/4” over a rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. Receiver is lightly engraved with patent date on floorplate. Stock has a blank silver oval initial plate on bottom. Bore diameter: left – .723, right – .723. Bore restrictions: left – .017, right – .016. Wall thickness: left – .026, right – .028. Drop at heel: 3-5/8”, drop at comb: 1-15/16”. Weight: 7 lbs. 4.48 oz. CONDITION: Fine. Bbls retain about 98% of a restored chocolate brown Damascus finish. Receiver & triggerguard are silvered case colors mixed with brown patina. Stock has a couple of fine cracks on right side panel with some wood filler at receiver on both sides and other wood filler on bottom by trigger plate, otherwise wood is sound and retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish with freshened checkering. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores with fine pitting in left side, probably re-honed. 4-59216 JR52 (1,000-2,000)
COLT GATLING MODEL 1890. Cal. 45-70. SN 499. 32” rnd to hex bbls. The gun has been restored. Tiprod was made recently for display. Position #1 has bbl #1 with RAC proofs from another gun and bolt #9 with assembly #103 and no inspector mark. Position 2 has an orig RAC bbl #2 with bolt #8 and assembly K59 with RAC proofs. Position 3 has an orig bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #3 with assembly #143 and RAC proofs. Position 4 has the orig bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #8 assembly K51 with RAC proofs. Position 5 has a #6 bbl with DEC proofs and #20 bolt with assembly 116 DFC proofs. Position 6 has a newer RAC bbl with #6 on it, bolt with assembly K60 and RAC proofs. Position 7 has a replaced #7 bbl with RAC proofs and #7 bolt with assembly 189 and RAC proofs. Position 8 has the orig bbl with RAC proofs and #2 bolt with assembly 151 and no inspector marks. Position 9 has the orig bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #8 and assembly K$! with RAC proofs. Position 10has #9 bbl with DFC proofs and a new bolt by Anderson. The bolt retracting plug and chain are new, the spring and screw for the magazine plate catch are missing. Both parts of the magazine plate, for the Bruce Feed, are numbered “8”. The number N47102 has beenn stamped in 7/16” high letters on the lower quadrant of the breech housing. RAC inspector marks are found on the magazine plate, the frame, the breech housing, the Cacsabal and traversing rod slide. Two stick magazines accompany the gun, but are not correct. CONDITION: Engraved markings on the breech housing are fine. There are a number of dents on the brass parts. Iron parts are generally smooth gray patina with scattered light pitting. Reproduction tripod and yoke are like new. Maechanism is fine. 4-31077 (45,000-75,000)
IDENTIFIED, INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 98243. This revolver was the property of Capt. Ethan O. Hurd who enlisted for three years in July 1861 and resigned March 1864. He was promoted to Captain July 3, 1862 and assigned to Company B of the 39th Ohio Regiment. His unit fought in numerous engagements in Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia & the Carolinas. On October 14, 1863, while camped near Colliersville, TN, his unit was ordered to proceed to an area about 20 miles away, that a train carrying Gen. Sherman had been attacked at an outlying station. When the Confederate force of about 2,500 attacked the train with its Union soldiers numbering about 600, the Union troops retreated to a knoll near the railroad station and engaged the Confederates. They successfully drove off the attacking force thereby saving Gen. Sherman from harm or capture by the Confederates. They lost fifteen killed & thirty wounded in the battle. This account is carried in an address by Capt. Hurd given at Cincinnati, OH, March 7, 1900 as printed in History of Fuller’s Ohio Brigade, 1861-1865, Smith, a copy of which accompanies this lot. It can be stated with almost undeniable certainty that Capt. Hurd’s action in rescuing Gen. Sherman changed the history and course of the Civil War to what we know today. Had Gen. Sherman been captured or killed at Colliersville, it may not have changed the ultimate outcome of the war but very likely would have prolonged it to a large extent. Revolver has 7-1/2” oct bbl with dovetail front sight and 1-line Hartford address. It has silver plated brass grip frame, inscribed on the front strap “E.O. Hurd. Cin. O”. It is fitted with beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with a deep relief carved Mexican eagle on left side. Ivory appears to be mastadon type, rather than regular elephant ivory. It is engraved by Gustave Young with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on frame & recoil shields with wolf’s heads on sides of hammer nose with his deluxe extra engraving on bbl lug, top side flats of bbl and on rammer pivot. Mr. Young incorporated an unusual horse’s head in the engraving pattern on left side of bbl lug in place of his usual dog’s head. Right side incorporates leaves & blossoms. It has his style of fan at top of backstrap with engraved buttstrap & triggerguard to match. Accompanied by a period commercial lightweight flap holster made of fine black leather with sewn back edge and a sewn in plug. In addition to the book relating the above described incident this lot is also accompanied by a very large packet of research information regarding Capt. Hurd and his Civil War service. Capt. Hurd, after resigning from the Army in 1864, apparently resumed his civilian life in the Cincinnati, Ohio area and died March 24, 1913 in Cincinnati and is buried there. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including wedge. Grip is unnumbered. Bbl retains traces of blue in the most sheltered areas, being mostly a mottled silver/gray patina with scattered fine pitting. Frame retains dark case colors in sheltered areas, being mostly a silver patina. Grip frame retains 70-75% orig silver plating with balance a light mustard patina. Cyl is a gray/brown patina with a few spots of fine pitting and retains about 50% Ormsby naval battle scene. Grip has several age lines with crack near top and repaired crack on right side with some areas of fill. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of fine pitting. Holster is dry & crackled but still supple, with a hole at the front sight and missing some leather from the edge of the flap. Orig tab has been replaced. 4-31131 JR486 (25,000-40,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 288596. Blue & case colored with 5-1/2” modern replacement bbl & cyl. It has wonderful 2-pc ivory grips with raised, carved eagle on right side and early, deep Colt medallions, left & right, at top of grips. Bbl, cyl & grip frame are very nicely engraved by R. Marek and signed on bottom edge of ejector rod housing. Engraving consists of very well executed, foliate arabesque patterns with a 5-pointed star on right side of frame containing the initials “MP” connected. The cyl has a small 5-point silver star near rear edge, behind each flute. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Retains virtually all of a beautiful custom finish with brilliant blue & case colors. Grips are spectacular with a wonderful mellow patina. They are a little long for this frame. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore, probably unfired since engraving. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30585 JR367 (3,000-5,000)
SPECTACULAR CASED CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF COLT 2ND MODEL DRAGOON REVOLVERS. Cal. 44. SN 9711 & 9712. Silver finish with 7-1/2” oct to rnd bbls, usual front sights with “COLT’S PATENT” on left sides of frames, silver plated grip frames with square back trigger guards. Both have beautiful 1-pc ivory grip with raised carved, early American liberty cap on a raised sunburst, both on the left side. Frame has full coverage combined foliate arabesque & crosshatch patterns with a feather border around recoil shields. Bbl lugs & top side flats, along with the rammer pivots, have matching engraving with the ends of the wedges also engraved. Back straps, butt straps & trigger guards are engraved to match. Hammers have full coverage engraving on sides with wolf’s heads on each side of the noses. There are fine patterns at the transition of the bbls and at the muzzles. Cylinders are hand engraved with the dragoon Indian fight scene. Accompanied by an English style oak dbl casing with purple velvet lining compartmented in bottom for both revolvers, a Sykes style bag flask, a 2-cavity blued “COLT’S PATENT” bullet mold with sprue cutter, a wonderful lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and two packets of reproduction sage cartridges. An open compartment in left front corner contains loose bullets & balls. Inside lid is a reproduction directions label. It appears that the serial numbers may have been restamped. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. No. 9711 retains 96-97% strong silver plating with a few spots of light discoloration. Mechanics are crisp, very strong bores with light corrosion. No. 9712 retains virtually all of its strong silver plating with some slight tarnishing. Mechanics are also crisp and the bore is identical to its mate. Case is fine with slightly warped lid and moderately faded interior. Flask has an open seam and an overall dull finish. Mold retains traces of orig blue. Cap tin is extremely fine. Altogether a very beautiful set that will complement anyone’s collection. 4-31069 JR564 (30,000-50,000)
*PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1911 SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN C99463. Usual configuration, blue finish with 5” commercial bbl, diamond checkered, walnut grips with 2-tone military magazine. Slide has standard markings with presentation engraved in script on right side of slide, through the blue “Presented to / Lieut. David Whelply / by Co. F 22nd N.Y. Engrs.” Accompanied by a WWI aluminum dog tag on an old cord with information regarding 1st Sgt. David Whelply of Co. H, 22nd Engrs. Also accompanied by one each of WWI and WWII uniform button. CONDITION: Slide retains about 90% strong orig blue with slight holster wear around muzzle edge and upper right side of slide. Frame retains about 95-96% strong bright orig blue, somewhat flaked on spring housing with some light thinning & flaking on front strap. Grips are extremely fine with only slight diamond point wear. Magazine has light surface rust with one cleaned area on each side, appears to be wear from a magazine pouch. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Dog tag & buttons are fine, string is soiled. 4-30033 JR94 (2,000-3,500)
FACTORY ENGRAVED & PAWNEE BILL INSCRIBED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 88165. Nickel finish with 5-1/2” bbl and fantastic mother-of-pearl 2-pc grips with deep relief ox head carving on right side with red stones in the eyes with the left stone missing. Each grip, in the area where a medallion would be, is inlaid with an authentic American one dollar gold piece. Backstrap is engraved in period script “Gordon W. Lillie, Pawnee, O.T.” This, of course, is the inscription of the famous Wild West showman, Pawnee Bill. It is engraved by Cuno Helfrecht with full coverage on the frame consisting of Helfrecht’s trademark sunbursts & dots on recoil shield & loading gate with his starbursts on side of the base pin housing. It has wavy line and dot patterns on top strap and in the ejector rod housing gullet, all with a fine punch dot background. Mr. Lillie was born in 1860 in Illinois and followed his dreams of the western frontier to Oklahoma Indian Territory in 1875 where he was a trapper, hunter and in 1879 became a teacher to the local Pawnee Indians. In 1883 he joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West with his band of Pawnee Indians as an interpreter and performer. He stayed & performed with Buffalo Bill all around the United States until 1888 when he formed his own Pawnee Bill’s Wild West Show. He continued with his own show for twenty years and in 1908 merged with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West. The show closed in Denver in 1913 and apparently Mr. Lillie retired to his ranch in Pawnee, Oklahoma with his wife, May, and died there in 1942. His ranch is now a National Historical site. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 5-1/2” bbl, blue finish, factory engraved with type of stocks not listed, as having been shipped March 13, 1883 to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, Missouri in a shipment of five same type guns. Also accompanied by a notarized statement dated 8 May 1953 from Mrs. Amelia Lillie Hoag, sister of Gordon W. Lillie, wherein she states that this revolver is one of a pair purchased at the same time in Omaha, Nebraska. She states that it was given to her husband by her brother in 1914. This would correspond with Major Lillie having left show business in 1913. Additionally accompanying is another notarized statement dated 8 May 1995 from Ms. Joseph Almonetto wherein she states that this revolver was purchased by Mr. Joseph Almonetto in 1953. Additionally accompanied by an authentic, autographed cabinet photo of Pawnee Bill signed “GW Lillie / ‘Pawnee Bill’”. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Overall retains about all of an old renickeled finish which removed the bbl address and softened the engraving. The grips are extremely fine with brilliant fire & colors with no apparent damages. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. 4-30626 JR328 (60,000-100,000)
IDENTIFIED CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 99312. Identified to Union Captain Robert C. Williamson of the 4th Independent Company of Ohio Sharpshooters. It has 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight with 1-line Hartford address, silver plated brass grip frame & extraordinary, 1-pc ivory grip carved on left side with a deep relief American eagle and an American shield. Front strap has crudely scratched initials “RCW”. It has New York style, probably Nimschke, full coverage, foliate arabesque engraving with punch dot background on the frame & hammer with extensive coverage on bbl & rammer pivot. Left side of bbl lug has a dog’s head incorporated in the patterns. Top of backstrap has a large fan with engraving patterns at heel, on buttstrap & triggerguard. Accompanied by an orig, green velvet lined, Colt casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided, sloping spout, Navy flask, a 2-cavity, blued Colt’s Patent mold with sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. Also included are two spare nipples and a non-functioning key. Accompanied by a small photograph of a young man in Union Captain’s uniform, signed at bottom “R.C.W. / 1865”. Also accompanied by a packet of information from the American Civil War Research Database identifying Capt. Williamson as having enlisted 8-15-1862 as a First Lieutenant and mustered out 6-9-1865 as a Captain. His unit apparently fought in several major battles, particularly in Georgia and North Carolina. CONDITION: Revolver is very good with traces of orig finish remaining, being mostly a silver/gray/brown patina. Grip frame retains 15-20% orig silver plating and cyl, a gray patina, retains about 60-70% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Grip is outstanding with numerous age lines and retains a wonderful mellow, ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Case is completely sound, retaining most of a restored finish on exterior. Interior is moderately faded with light to moderate soil. Accessories are fine. 4-31009 JR433 (10,000-15,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 289719. Blue & case colored with 4-3/4” bbl, roll marked on left side with 2-line company address on top. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and is fitted with a very well made pair of flame grain, walnut grips with a blind escutcheon in right side. Frame has full coverage, very well executed, foliate arabesque patterns in Nimschke-style with punch dot background. Top strap and gullet of ejector rod housing have feather patterns. Cyl has full coverage, matching engraving on outer diameter with polished flutes. Bbl has engraving over most of the top with backstrap having about 50% patterns and the initials “MP” connected. Butt strap & triggerguard are engraved to match. Right lower edge of ejector rod housing is inscribed “ENGR. BY R.W. MAREK”. The engraved cyl is a modern replacement. It is accompanied by the orig cyl. CONDITION: Very fine plus. Retains virtually all of its fine custom finish and appears unfired since engraving. The blue is bright & orig type color with fine bright case colors. Grips are sound and retain about all of their custom finish. Crisp mechanics, strong bore with fine pitting. Orig cyl is a cleaned gray metal color. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30586 JR364 (4,500-7,500)
COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER & POCKET WATCH USED BY A CONFEDERATE MAJOR. Cal. 36. SN 11313. Revolver is usual configuration with 6-1/2” rnd bbl, 5-shot fluted cyl with silver plated brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. Buttstrap has lightly hand scratched initials “JHR”. It has “COLT’S PATENT” on left side and “36 CAL” on left rear shoulder of triggerguard. Pocked watch is a Fuzee movement, 18 size, by Joseph Rigby, London, SN 818, with Roman numeral porcelain face, marked “RIGBY / CLERKESWELL”. It is in a sterling hunter case. Inside back cover is beautifully engraved in period script with foliate & floral patterns “JAMES H. RION / ENFIELD RIFLES / SOUTH CAROLINA”. Revolver and pocket watch were the property of Maj. James H. Rion of the historic South Carolina 7th Infantry Batallion, also known as “Nelson’s Batallion” or “Enfield Rifles”. This batallion was organized of five companies in February 1862 with two other companies added later in the year. They were surrendered by Gen. Joseph Johnston on April 26, 1865, having fought the entire three plus years. When they enlisted, they signed on for “the war” and as such, were issued the scarce and desirable Enfield rifles. Maj. Rion is known for having led two skirmishes from the battery Wagner on July 14, 1863, and again at the Battle of James Island on July 16, 1863. The batallion, along with four other regiments, were part of Gen. Hagood’s brigade, who gallantly charged the Union forces in the Battle of Weldon Railroad, south of Petersburg on August 21, 1864. They entered the fight with 740 men and returned with 273. Accompanying this lot are several pages of research documentation, apparently compiled by his great-great-grandson. CONDITION: Revolver retains a dark, crusty brown patina with moderate rust and some orig finish showing through. Grip frame retains 75-80% orig silver. Grip shows light to moderate wear and retains about 80% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Dark, rusty bore. End of the wedge is battered. Watch shows heavy wear from years of service with a small crack at top of back cover. Dial is without flaws. Movement appears to be over-banked and currently not running. Balance seems to be intact. 4-30313 JS17 (3,000-4,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID COLT MODEL 1908 SEMI-AUTO POCKET PISTOL. Cal. 380 ACP. SN 6580. Blue finish with 3-3/4” bbl, half moon front sight, rnd top fixed rear sight and very rare & unusual 2-pc mother-of-pearl grips with a deep relief, raised, carved American eagle on right side. Pistol is engraved with about 50% coverage, well-executed, foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Forward sides of frame have a diamond & dot pattern. Left side of frame has flush gold inlaid intertwined initials that appear to be “WBW”. Engraving appears to be by Cuno Helfrecht and, according to consignor, there are only two pistols of this model known to be engraved with gold inlay. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol with blue finish, type of stocks not listed & factory engraved with gold initials “WBW” and shipped Feb. 9, 1911 to Stauffer Eshleman & Co., New Orleans, Louisiana, sold to E.L. Benson. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains about 90% glossy orig blue, somewhat thinned at muzzle end & rear end of slide with a spot of light surface rust on left side of slide. Backstrap is somewhat dull with some flaking with light flaking on front strap. Trigger retains about 80% glossy niter blue. Grips are solid with beautiful fire & color and remain crisp. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 8-87499 (27,500-37,500)
*SPECTACULAR FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 41 Colt. SN 187737. Very unusual & rare single action having been shipped in 1899 and returned to the factory for engraving at a later date during the tenure of Wilbur Glahn, who was the Colt Factory engraver 1919-1950. Engraving patterns on this revolver are nearly identical to those found on SAA serial number “350804” pictured on p. 301 of The Book of Colt Engraving, 1st edition, Wilson. Another nearly identical revolver is serial number “251875”, also in 41 caliber, appearing on p. 560 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume Two, Wilson. This beautiful revolver has nickel finish with 5-1/2” bbl, 1-line address with 2-line patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame. Mounted with beautiful 2-pc deep relief carved, ox head pearl grips with carving on left side. The steer head has red jeweled eyes. The engraving consists of Glahn’s trademark scrolls with flower blossoms in the center and his V-shaped patterns on recoil shield, loading gate & top of backstrap. Also his extension of engraving patterns over the shoulders of the triggerguard are further indicative of Glahn engraving, as he is the only factory engraver known to have used this feature. There is a small ampersand on right rear web of triggerguard indicating factory re-work. The re-work number “736N” is stamped on left side of the front & backstraps, under grip, around face of cyl, bottom of bbl, under ejector rod housing & inside ejector rod housing. Frame gauges full dimension indicating that it was probably still near new when it was returned for engraving. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 4-3/4” bbl, nickel finish & hard rubber grips, shipped to Wyeth Hardware Co., St. Joseph, MO, July 27, 1899 in a shipment of five same type guns. Also accompanied by an R.L. Wilson letter completely authenticating this revolver and stating that he is only aware of one other such revolver having been returned to the factory for upgrade embellishment. He states that such revolvers are “the most rare of all Colt engraved arms”. Also accompanied by an extremely rare Hartley & Graham, maroon leather covered, presentation casing. Case has hinged lid & measures 14-3/4” x 6” x 2” with gold embossed decorated border on lid and gold lines around top & bottom edges with light gold embossing around the keyhole escutcheon. Interior is lined in red velvet. A very similar box appears in one of R.L. Wilson’s books on Colt firearms. An identical casing was sold as Lot #4219 in the October 6, 2005 James D. Julia Firearms Auction. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching. Overall retains virtually all of its fine factory nickel finish, probably unfired since return from the factory. Engraving is crisp & sharp with only slightly dulled nickel from having been repeatedly handled. Grips are sound with two tiny chips on left toe and another on right toe and have beautiful color with great fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-30625 JR296 (25,000-35,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 100175. Silver finish with 7-1/2” oct bbl, pin front sight with brass triggerguard & backstrap and 1-pc walnut grip. Frame has full coverage, typical Nimschke engraving with Colt’s Patent on left side. Engraving extends over the entire sides of bbl lug & rammer pivot with a border around the address on top flat. Backstrap, buttstrap & triggerguard are engraved to match. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. This is a little used revolver that has had poor storage. Bbl & rammer handle retain 75-80% strong orig silver with some flaking and turning dull. Flaked areas are a dark patina. Cyl retains about 85% orig silver plating with about 95-98% crisp Ormsby naval battle scene. All six safety pins are crisp. Frame retains 80-85% orig silver plating with flaked areas dark patina. Grip frame retains about 95% orig silver plating, thinned on backstrap. Ends of wedge show little or no battering with most of their engraving intact. Grips are crisp with sharp edges and retain virtually all of their orig factory varnish. Trigger return spring is weak, otherwise mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 4-30501 JR87 (12,500-17,500)
COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER ENGRAVED BY WARRREN BLEDSOE. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 81489. Nickel & gold finish with 7-1/2” bbl with caliber marking on left side and 1-line address with tall front sight. Left side of frame has 3-line patent markings and “44 CF” caliber marking on left front web of triggerguard. It has faux 2-pc pearl grips. Frame & cyl have full coverage, after market, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with about 4-1/2” of engraving on both sides of the bbl and full coverage on ejector rod housing. Backstrap, butt strap & triggerguard are engraved to match. Frame, bbl & grip frame are nickel finish while the cyl, ejector rod housing, hammer & trigger are gold finish. The bbl & cyl are modern replacements. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains all of its fine custom finish with some fine pitting on triggerguard and inside loading gate. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Ex Murray Peterson Collection 4-30582 JR360 (3,000-5,000)
RARE COLT 1855 1ST MODEL SIDE HAMMER SPORTING RIFLE. Cal. 36. SN 639. This is Colt’s first production revolving long arm made in Hartford. It is the standard production rifle with 30” oct to rnd bbl, dovetail front sight and 2-position rear sight on top of receiver. Top flat of the octagonal section of the bbl has roll marked address, rather than the engraved address of the early production. Left side of bbl lug has a mounted oiler. Left side of bbl has a full length knurled headed iron cleaning rod and it has a 6-shot cyl. Mounted with uncheckered, straight grain, American walnut with straight stock & crescent buttplate. Serial number was observed on frame, triggerguard, cyl, bottom of bbl, under rammer handle, on toe of buttplate and in pencil on heel of buttstock. Further disassembly was not accomplished to check for additional matching numbers. CONDITION: Good to very good. No orig finish remains having been clean to bright with light to moderate pitting over most of surfaces, heavier on rammer, which appears to have had its teeth re-cut. Cyl also has light to moderate pitting with no trace of orig scene. Receiver has moderate pitting in sheltered areas, lighter elsewhere. Stock is sound with light nicks, dings & gouges and retains about 90% orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong dark pitted bore. 4-30505 JR76 (6,000-10,000)
*SPECTACULAR HOWARD DOVE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT MARK IV SERIES 70 GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN 70N79902. Extraordinarily fine engraved pistol with blue finish, 5” bbl, adjustable sights with smooth scrimshawed, gold Colt medallion, ivory grips. It is engraved by Colt master engraver, the late Howard Dove, and signed on bottom right edge of the slide “Howard M. Dove-Colt M’Str Engr.” It is engraved in what Mr. Dove referred to as D+ engraving with virtually full coverage on frame & slide. Slide has a gold wire border around front & rear panels of both sides with left & right sides having all of the standard lettering inlaid with flush gold. Left side also has a gold rampant Colt and at rear edge the Colt symbol of a triangle in a circle. Right side has a 2-handled trophy in the front panel and the stylized “COLT” in the rear panel. Bottom front of slide has an elaborate gold fleur-de-lis. Entire side edges of the frame & front strap have gold wire borders with gold wire inlay on sides of hammer. Serial number is also inlaid in gold. Magazine base is engraved to match and has “COLT / .45 AUTO” in flush gold. Grips are very beautifully scrimshawed with the Colt Factory dome on left side and the Armsmere (Samuel Colt’s mansion) crest on right side. The flat mainspring housing, grip safety, hammer spur and trigger are beautifully checkered with fantastic matching engraving also on grip safety. Engraving, when closely examined, is spectacular with very minimal evidence of the hand chased pattern normally found with other so-called master engravers’ work. This piece is truly a work of art by one of the greatest master engravers. Accompanied by a blue velvet lined, Colt walnut case and the small owner’s manual. Also accompanied by a letter from the late Howard Dove to Mr. W.A. Dascher of Virginia Beach, Virginia, the man who commissioned this piece, dated Jan. 14, 1991. Mr. Dove relates in the letter all of the work that he did on the pistol and states “I consider this to be the finest automatic I have ever engraved to date.” Mr. Dove passed away in Nov. 1994. There are also copies of several articles regarding Mr. Dove’s work from a variety of magazines including Man at Arms, Feb. 1996, The Colt Collector’s Magazine by Doc O’Meara, another from The Australian Shooters Digest, 1993, also by Doc O’Meara, and an article from Guns Review, June 1991 by Doc O’Meara which has a picture of this very pistol on p. 446, among several other spectacular pieces engraved by the late Mr. Dove. There are two reprint photographs of Mr. Dove, one in a semi-formal pose and the other at his bench. There are also copies of two letters from Mr. Francis P. Chesnek to Ms. Gidget Dove-Price (Mr. Dove’s daughter) requesting information regarding this pistol and a reply from Ms. Dove-Price. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Appears to be unfired since engraving, retaining virtually all of its brilliant custom finish. Case is equally new. 4-30532 JR339 (15,000-20,000)
*VERY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). SN 322631. Spectacular silver & gold, Cuno Helfrecht engraved single action with 4-3/4” bbl, 2-line address with caliber in a ribbon on left side. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and the rampant Colt in a circle. Mounted with deep relief ox head pearl grips with left & right side, deep gold, rampant Colt medallions. Revolver is engraved in Style #2 patterns by Mr. Helfrecht who was a Colt Factory engraver 1871-1921. It has his trademark fan patterns on the left recoil shield, loading gate & top of backstrap with balance of the frame having intertwined, foliate arabesque patterns. Top strap has beautiful feather patterns with arabesque patterns around bbl address almost to the front sight. Sides of bbl have full length arabesque patterns, all with fine punch dot background. Cyl has arabesque patterns on lands between the flutes with a sunburst & dot pattern at rear of each flute with a scallop & dash border around rear edge. Frame & grip frame are silver plated, while the cyl, ejector rod housing, hammer, trigger & base pin are gold washed Right rear side of the triggerguard web has a small 6-point star indicating factory re-work. Left side of front & backstraps have the assembly number “262N” which is also found on front of cyl and inside ejector rod housing. Back of cyl & inside ejector rod housing also have the last four digits of serial number. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver with nickel finish, factory engraved with pearl carved steerhead motif grips and indicating sale to W.R. Spittle, address unavailable, and shipped to Belknap Hardware & Mfg. Co., Louisville, KY on March 11, 1912 in a shipment of one gun. CONDITION: As noted, very fine, all matching, except grips which are unnumbered. Frame, bbl & grip frame retain virtually all of their fine factory silver finish. Cyl & ejector rod housing retain about 50-60% gold wash. Hammer & trigger retain about 75% gold wash. Grips have a chipped right heel, otherwise they are sound with great fire & color. Will not hold at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with fine pitting. 4-30624 JR294 (25,000-35,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 198490. Usual configuration with 7-1/2” oct bbl, brass pin front sight with brass grip frame & smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Frame has full coverage Nimschke engraving with wolf’s heads on each side of hammer nose and engraved sides. Bbl lug & top side flats are engraved to match with Nimschke bird head incorporated into the engraving pattern. The rammer handle pivot is engraved to match. Top of backstrap has the Nimschke fan with patterns at top & heel with buttstrap and triggerguard engraved to match. Accompanied by An after-market, probably by the distributor, rust/red velvet lined case compartmented for the revolver, a double sided, medium sized flask, an L-shaped nipple wrench, a reproduction bullet mold and a lacquered cap tin with reproduction label. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including wedge, except rammer which is properly unnumbered. Retains traces of orig finish in the very sheltered areas, being mostly a smooth blue/gray patina. Bbl has several small nicks & dings with some pitting around muzzle. Frame is clean & smooth. Cyl has myriad small hammer marks and retains traces of the orig Ormsby Naval battle scene. Grip frame is a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound with two large, very old chips from left side and numerous age lines and retains a beautiful, golden, mellow patina. Mechanics are fine, worn, dark pitted bore. Case & contents are fine. 4-30500 JR246 (4,500-7,500)
*CASED ENGRAVED CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal. 45 Colt. SN SA68198 & SA68199. Nickel finish with black powder frames and 2-pc blind escutcheon, silver rampant Colt medallion, smooth ivory grips numbered to each revolver. Engraved by Colt Master Engraver, Robert B. Burt, for Robert Lee West with “C PLUS” engraving consisting of about 70% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Mr. Burt incorporated a fine crosshatch spider web pattern at back edge of cylinders and root of bbl at the top with a beautiful fan at the top of backstraps. Left side of front & backstraps have the serial numbers under grips. Right side of backstraps are engraved “ENGRAVED BY ROBERT B. BURT”. Accompanied by an invoice from Mr. Burt to Mr. West dated Jan. 15, 1988, identifying these two revolvers and certifying that they were indeed, engraved by Mr. Burt. He states that there is a 3-letter monogram for Mr. West on triggerguards and that these revolvers were first displayed at the 1987 annual Hartford Spring Show “where they received a lot of attention and compliments”. They were delivered in June of 1987. Also accompanied by a hand written letter from Mr. West to Harrison Carroll, well known California Colt dealer, dated Sept. 17, 1998 selling the two revolvers along with the case. He states in the letter that the monogram was removed from triggerguards by Mr. Burt. Apparently when monograms were removed, Mr. Burt added a flourish of matching engraving over the areas. Additionally accompanied by a Colt Custom Shop, green velvet lined, walnut dbl gun casing with “COLT” on lid. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned. Case is equally new. 4-30764 JR490 (7,500-12,500)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 PERCUSSION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 29701. Usual configuration with 8” rnd bbl, German silver front sight, brass triggerguard and beautiful 1-pc ivory grip. It has a 4-screw frame cut for shoulder stock with a replacement, flathead, hammer screw. Frame has full coverage, Nimschke style engraving of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Hammer has the wolf’s head on each side of the nose with full coverage engraving on both sides. Bbl has engraving patterns on both sides of lug and about 4” up the bbl. Backstrap has Nimschke style fan at the top with arabesque patterns at the top & heel and on buttstrap. This engraving is either a recent addition or has had orig engraving enhanced. Accompanied by a reproduction, burgundy velvet lined walnut case, compartmented in bottom for the revolver, a plain brass flask, L-shaped nipple wrench and a lacquered cap tin with reproduction label. CONDITION: Very good, all matching including wedge. All the iron retains an artificially aged patina with scattered fine pitting in various places. Cyl also has fine pitting with a few spots of heavier pitting and retains about 25% Naval battle scene. Grip has numerous age lines with a couple of repaired chips on right side. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Case is fine, flask has a few dents. 4-30499 JR245 (4,500-7,500)
*CASED ENGRAVED GOLD PLATED COLT MODEL 1908 PISTOL. Cal. 380. SN 123711. Spectacular pocket pistol with 3-3/4” bbl and fixed sights with scrimshawed, smooth ivory grips having the intertwined initials “JJC” on each side. Pistol is engraved with 40-50% coverage extremely fine, foliate arabesque patterns with numerous Black Hills gold flower blossoms overlaid on engraving in 3-color gold – white, rose & yellow gold. Entire pistol is yellow gold plated, along with the orig magazine. Accompanied by a green felt lined, brown leather covered case that has a different set of initials embossed on top. Inside lid is gold embossed “J.B. CROOK & CO / GUNS & PISTOLS / an indecipherable address”. Bottom front corner of the box has a cartridge block containing 42 cartridges. Also accompanied by a letter on Alexander Gallery of New York letterhead stationery stating that Mark J. Medynski purchased a “Colt 380 Automatic in 1992 from Alexander Acevedo of Alexander Gallery”. He goes on to say that Alexander informed him that the gun was purchased from the Corbett family and had belonged to “Gentleman Jim Corbett”. Also accompanying is a sports card of Corbett. Unfortunately this pistol was made in 1936 and Gentleman Jim Corbett passed away in 1933. It can be assumed from the letter that Mr. Acevedo was misled by the Corbett family and it is likely that the pistol was made for another member of the Corbett family. 4-30723 (5,000-8,000)
COLT SMALL FRAME DELUXE LONDON LIGHTNING MAGAZINE RIFLE. Cal. 22. SN 45363. All blue finish with 24″ tapered oct bbl, 2/3 magazine, Beach’s gold washed combination front sight, tiny semi-buckhorn rear sight and Lyman tang sight with loop. Mounted with very nicely figured shell grain checkered American walnut with checkered pistol grip cap and Rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. Left lower flat at the chamber and the left side of the receiver have British proofs. Bottom of stock behind the grip is stamped with the number “26249” and a six pointed star. It also has a silver initial plate engraved “E.M.L.J”. Accompanied by a modern fitted Italian canvas & leather ultra suede lined trunk case. Shipped to Colts Patent Firearms Mfg. Co, London, England, May 17, 1900 with 10 guns in shipment. Serial number 45363 with all features verified by factory letter. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains all of a brilliant professional restored Englishfinish to both metal & wood. Stock has a minor storage & handling nick or two and there are a few flakes of finish from the forearm. The Rampant Colt on the left side of the receiver is a little thin, but completely visible. Mechanics are fine. Worn dark bore. Case is as new. 4-59060 (3,500-4,500)
COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 45207. All matching including wedge. Cal. 36. 7-1/2” oct bbl. Marked “-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW.YORK CITY -” on top of bbl. There is no Colt patent marking on the frame. Backstrap and trigger guard are iron. Navy battle cylinder scene has normal markings. Several of the screws are replaced. Backstrap is engraved “COL 2D REGIMENT” but no name appears. CONDITION: Brown patina with faint traces of blue overall. Cylinder is battered and worn at the front. About 1/2 of the cylinder scene remains. Grips are chipped and worn at the base and appear to have been refinished. Mechanically fine. 4-58285 FS25 (1,500-3,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN SA03852. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, 2-line patent dates & Rampant Colt on left side of frame with 2-pc smooth walnut grips. It has very well executed, factory Class C engraving with about 60% coverage fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns including on the lands between flutes on cyl and a band at rear edge of cylinder. Accompanied by its orig hinged lid, brown leatherette covered Custom Shop case with orange velvet lining & cardboard sleeve with chartreuse Custom Shop label. CONDITION: New, unfired & unturned, all original. Retains virtually all of its beautiful Custom Shop finish. Case has the inside hinge cover material torn, otherwise is fine. Sleeve has broken & taped edges with a broken end & a small piece missing. Label is intact 4-59499 (6,000-7,500)
ENGRAVED GOLD & SILVER PLATED REMINGTON BEALS NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 CF. SN 13278. Conversion #15. 5th Variation. The entire gun was orig silver plated with a gold wash applied over the top of the silver, except loading lever & cylinder. Triggerguard still shows faint traces of the gold wash towards the butt. 7-1/2” oct bbl, dovetail cone front sight, 2-pc smooth burl walnut grips. This revolver was originally purchased by the U.S. Navy as a blued percussion model early in the Civil War. It was returned to Remington, under the contract in 1874 by the Navy for conversion 38 CF cartridge. It is also one of a few hundred that had the rear of the cylinder turned down by the Navy (1885-86) to correct a jamming problem; later found to be a problem of the ammo and not the revolver. It was probably sent out to be engraved & refinished sometime after 1886 & perhaps done for an officer as a presentation piece or a memento of his service. The engraving is typical New York style Remington. These Remington conversions were used up until 1889 when the Navy purchased Colt revolvers. CONDITION: Fine. Retains about 80% of the gold wash, mostly missing on the triggerguard & bottom of frame. Almost all of the silver remains. Grips are fine with minor handling marks. Bore is very good. Action is fine. 4-59324 JH129 (3,500-5,000)
*RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN C144175. Blue finish with 5” bbl & matching numbered slide. This rare pistol has full coverage factory engraving by Wilbur Glahn with his well executed foliate & floral intertwined arabesque patterns over top & both sides of slide, both sides of frame, bottom edge of grip safety, front strap, trigger bow, bottom front of slide & bottom of frame. Thumb safety & slide lock are also engraved, as is bbl bushing. Fitted with spectacular smooth ivory grips with a gold engraved seal of the State of Virginia on left side & a gold engraved seal of the State of Connecticut on right side with Latin motto of the State of Connecticut in a ribbon scrimshawed into grip. It has its orig 2-tone unmarked magazine. Accompanied by its orig black leatherette, blue velvet lined, Colt casing with a 4-1/2” x 2-3/8” silver plate in top, which is inscribed, “PRESENTED TO / GOVERNOR E. LEE TRINKLE / OF VIRGINIA / BY / GOVERNOR JOHN H. TRUMBULL / OF CONNECTICUT / IN COMMEMORATION / OF THE / 150TH. ANNIVERSARY OF THE / 2ND COMPANY GOVERNOR’S FOOT GUARD / MAY 18-19 1925 / 1775-1925”. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol with ivory grips & gold plates with their inscriptions, factory engraved & shipped to “GOVERNOR JOHN H. TRUMBULL” on June 26, 1925, factory order 10134 in a shipment of one gun. Also accompanied by a short history of the 2nd Company Governor’s Foot Guard. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching, probably unfired. Retains virtually all of its brilliant orig factory charcoal/blue finish with very slight wear on bbl & hammer face. Grips are very beautiful & maintain a fine mellow ivory patina. Magazine may have been loaded but retains virtually all of its orig factory finish. Case has a ding in lid with a few nicks & scratches & has one slightly loose hinge with some fabric loss over that area. Interior is moderately faded in bottom with some light soiling. A truly beautiful set & absolutely one of a kind. 4-56702 JR303 (25,000-40,000)
ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 RF. SN 6414. Beautiful dlx engraved Colt with 4-1/2″ oct bbl without rammer, 5-shot rebated cyl, silver plated brass grip frame and highly figured deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip. Engraving is late percussion style virtually identical to two revolvers pictured on p. 271 & another on p. 272 in The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. I, Wilson. This engraving has all characteristics of Gustave Young with his trademark flower blossoms & shell pattern at top of back strap. Bbl has 50-60% coverage over lugs & top flats with frame & hammer having full coverage. Grip frame is engraved to match. The four serial numbers on bottom all have a small “E” adjacent to serial number. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains about 30% orig blue, bright in sheltered areas, with balance a gray patina and a few dents on two of sharp edges. Cyl retains 50-60% orig blue, quite thin on major diameter, stronger & brighter in rebated section. Cyl retains about 80% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer retain about 90% orig case colors, strong & bright in sheltered areas, brilliant on sides of hammer. Trigger guard retains about 40% silver plating with back strap & butt strap brass patina. Grip has a couple of grain checks on left side & a chipped right toe with minor nicks & scratches and retains most of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-59194 JR22 (8,000-15,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN SA03331. Nickel finish with 7-1/2” bbl, 2-pc smooth walnut grips, with about full coverage foliate arabesque pattern engraving. Accompanied by its orig Colt Custom Shop, red velvet lined, walnut casing with Custom Shop medallion in lid and a mortised brass lock with rnd escutcheon. Also accompanied by a Colt instruction manual. CONDITION: New, unfired. With only a faint cylinder line, retains all of its orig factory nickel finish. Grips are equally new. Case has a few scratches on lid with a couple of small spots in lining, otherwise also new. 4-60262 (2,500-3,000)
HEPBURN PERCUSSION TARGET RIFLE. NSN. 41 Cal. 27-3/8” oct bbl. Marked “L.L. HEPBURN / COLTON N Y” on top of the bbl, “REMINGTON / CAST STEEL” on the bottom. Hepburn operated in Colton from 1858 to 1882 when he went to work for Remington. He is most famous for his breech loading, single shot target rifles made by Remington. He also worked for Winchester from 1889 until his death in 1908. This rifle is equipped with a small German silver blade on a large dovetail base as a front sight and a sliding elevator rear sight and a tang peep sight that is adjustable for both elevation and windage. German silver mounts on the hardwood stock. The replaced ramrod has an original reversible worm at the bottom. The lockplate is engraved but the hammer is not. CONDITION: Very good. Smooth brown patina on the bbl, blue on the hammer and traces of color on the lockplate. Some minor chipping above the lockplate, otherwise the wood is fine. Mechanically fine. (Marcot Collection). 4-60138 FS655 (2,000-2,500)
*SPECTACULAR CASED PAIR OF ALVIN WHITE ENGRAVED & GOLD INLAID COLT COMBAT COMMANDER SEMI-AUTO PISTOLS. Cal. 45 ACP. SN 70BS88329 (#1) & 70BS88330 (#2). This fabulous consecutive numbered pair of pistols was made for Timoor Daghistani, a Colonel in Jordanian Army Tank Corps & brother-in-law of His Majesty, King Hussein of Jordan. These pistols were sent “in the white” to renowned historian & author, R.L. Wilson with the request that they be embellished by Alvin White for then Major Daghistani. Maj. Daghistani sent pictures of two tanks that he wished to have commemorated on his pistols, one being the M60A1 Abrams on #1 and the other, the venerable M48, on #2. These pistols were then embellished nearly identically with Mr. White’s readily identifiable style of extensive coverage foliate arabesque patterns with a flower blossom at back of each ejection port and another flower blossom on left side of the slide of #1. Both tanks are on left side of their respective slides in deep relief gold in fantastic detail. Towards rear of slide, on same side, are Col. Daghistani initials in flush gold script, “TDG”. Right side of slides have “COLT’S COMBAT COMMANDER MODEL” in flush gold and the serial number on frames are also in flush gold. They have identical checkered ivory grips with the Rampant Colt in deep relief in center on each side. Inside grips are engraved with artist’s initials “A.A.W.” and bottom right side of frames, under grips, has artist’s signature, “A.A. White”. This fantastic set of pistols is accompanied by its orig gray, buffalo hide, leather case with removable lid and orange/gold velvet lining, French fitted for the two pistols. Lid of case is very nicely decorated with rich border patterns & center inscription “COLT COMBAT COMMANDER AUTOMATIC PISTOLS / GOLD INLAID AND ENGRAVED / BY A.A. WHITE / FOR / TIMOOR DAGHISTANI / SERIAL NOS. 70BS88329 & 70BS88330 / 1981”. This fantastic case was made by Arno Werner, chief book binder for Harvard University’s Houghton Library which houses one of the leading rare book collections in the world. Also accompanied by a letter from R.L. Wilson detailing the above information. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. Pistols appear to be unfired, retaining virtually all of their fine Custom Shop finish. Grips are equally fine with some minor orange staining on right side of #2. Box has a small nick on one edge of lid with some very minor soil, otherwise is extremely fine. 4-60216 JR675 (15,000-25,000)
CONFED. OFFICER’S INSCRIBED COLT M1860 ARMY WITH CONFED. HOLSTER. An exceptional set inscribed to Lt. Col. Cotten of the 44th NC Inf. accompanied by a scarce and rare Confed. made brown leather holster. The revolver is a standard Colt Model 1860 Army revolver in .44 cal. with rebated cylinder, iron back strap, brass trigger guard and 1-pc walnut grips, SN 45029, all matching. Inscribed on the iron back strap in Olde English characters is: “Lt. Col. R.C. Cotten. 44th N.C.” Accompanying the revolver is a wonderful brown leather Confed. style holster with a large tear-drop style outer flap which affixes beneath a brown leather strap running from the side seam to the belt loop on the reverse. The single wide belt loop is affixed to the body of the holster with three copper rivets. The holster is crudely stitched up the underside. This officer is listed in the records as Richard Clifford Cotten (Cotton) and had joined the 44th NC Inf. regiment as Capt. of Co. E. On March 28, 1862 he was appointed Lt. Col.. Apparently because of his advance age (76 years) he resigned on June 10, 1862. The history of this regiment is extensive as they served throughout most of the war. Organized in Raleigh, NC in March 1862 the newly formed regiment united with the 47th and 52nd NC Inf. under a Brigade commanded by Gen. James G. Martin. Sent to Petersburg, Va., they shortly thereafter departed to construct fortifications at Drewry’s Bluff. During the remainder of this year-until Lt. Col. Cotton’s resignation, they served guard duty on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad. An important article which appeared in the Spring 1992 issue of The Texas Gun Collector titled “Southern Pride, a Story of a Soldier and His Colt Revolver” by Dr. James T. Brown (editor of the magazine), provides the research, background and family history of Lt. Col. Cotten and his war-time service. Additionally, other photocopied materials related to the Cotten family history, the research process and the writing of this article accompany this lot. CONDITION: Revolver is in good condition with all matching serial numbers, & a dark uncleaned plum brown patina overall. Rebated cylinder is larked with a “D” and a “C” which may indicate a condemned U.S. inspected revolver. Holster is quite nice with some minor losses to the toe and a flexed and crackled surface at the out flap’s top fold. Inscription appears to be hand engraved and the surface wear is consistent with the revolver. As always, the purchaser should examine the inscription to his or her own satisfaction. 4-60693 CW20 (12,500-17,500)
*CASED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER FACTORY ENGRAVING SAMPLER. Cal. 45 Colt/45 ACP. SN SA65955. Nickel finish with 4-3/4” bbl marked on left side “Colt Single Action Army 45 ACP”, 1-line bbl address with 2-line patent dates on left side of frame & a Rampant Colt without a circle. Frame, cylinder, bbl & grip frame are engraved in varying styles of Helfrecht, Nimschke & Henshaw with about 40-50% coverage. Top of backstrap has the Rampant Colt company logo in a circle with the name & “150”, apparently signifying the 150th anniversary of Colt Firearms. Backstrap is script engraved “Colt Engraving Sampler”. It is fitted with 2-pc faux ivory grips with the same Colt logo as is engraved on backstrap. Left grip is marked with names & dates of engravers. Accompanied by a spare 45 Colt cylinder, engraved to match. Also accompanying is its orig, maroon velvet lined, walnut casing. 4-60261 (4,000-6,000)
VERY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL LONDON DRAGOON. Cal. 44. SN 13. Spectacular dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct to rnd bbl, engraved on top flat “COLn COLT LONDON”, silver plated brass grip frame with deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip. Frame, hammer, rammer pivot & grip frame are wonderfully engraved with extremely beautiful, fine, well executed foliate arabesque patterns with an “X” border pattern on bbl lug sides and feather patterns at muzzle & rnd part of bbl root. Hammer has light patterns on sides with fish scale engraving on top edge. Accompanied by an orig English oak casing with blank brass plaque in lid, blue velvet lined with instruction sheet inside lid & compartmented in bottom for revolver, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a rare brass 2-cavity Colt’s patent mold with iron sprue cutter, a large lacquered cap tin & a Dixon “COLT’S NAVY FLASK” bag shaped flask. It has a covered corner compartment with brass handle & slot for a cleaning rod which is missing, & two other empty compartments. Paul was told at the time of purchase of this gun that it originally had been taken by a young lawyer as payment for services rendered. This young lawyer later became President of the United States. His name was Richard Nixon. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, all matching including wedge & grip. Grip has matching pencil number in back strap channel. Bbl retains about all of its strong orig blue with slight muzzle edge wear. Rammer & handle retain most of their orig case colors, somewhat faded on handle & bottom of rammer. Pivot has bright crisp colors. Cyl is a blue/gray/brown patina with a few nicks on front edge with clear legible legends and retains about 80% Ranger/Indian fight scene. All six safety pins are prominent. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their brilliant orig factory case colors & screws their entire orig factory blue. Grip frame retains virtually all of its orig silver plate that appears to have a gold wash. Grip is crisp with very minor edge wear & a minor nick or two. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has a crack in bottom, otherwise is sound showing considerable wear & moderate soil. Interior is moderately faded with wear from revolver & tools. All in all an extraordinary revolver in seldom encountered condition. 4-58366 JR35 (90,000-125,000)
*RARE INSCRIBED COLT PRE-WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 22 LR. SN 5918. Gold & nickel finish with 6-5/8” tapered pencil bbl, adjustable front & rear sights with smooth, mother-of-pearl grips and an all nickel orig magazine with brass follower. Bbl & frame are nickel finish & slide is gold washed. Left side of slide, below standard markings, is engraved “YACHT UNITED STATES”. The yacht was considered the “largest, finest and costliest” yacht by Rudder magazine in 1917. Owned by Col. Edward Howland Robinson Green, son of Hetty Green – reputedly the richest woman in the world (Witch of WallStreet). This 256’ yacht contained a private collection of 6 rifles and 4 guns, 9 of which were acquired by the late EldonOwens of New Hampshire who gifted them through his estate to the National Firearms Museum and are now displayed in the Brevetto Gallery which recreates the American Library of Theodore Roosevelt at Saganaw Hill. This is the lost pistol to complete the grouping. Grouping consisted of a pair of .30-.30 Winchester Model 1894 takedown rifles, a .30 Govt. Winchester 1895 takedown rifle, 3 Winchester Model 1890 .22 rifles and the 4 Colt semi-automatic pistols (of which this is the fourth). CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbl & frame retain most of their orig bright nickel with light rust showing around edges of grips. Slide retains 60-70% loose gold wash. Left grip has a large chip by safety; otherwise grips are fine with lots of fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-60255 JR674 (3,500-5,000)
EXTREMELY RARE LANCASTER TEXAS MADE CLARK & SHERRARD DRAGOON REVOLVER. SN 241. This is among the rarest of Civil War-era revolvers. There are probably fewer than ten guns of this model known. Bill Gary, in his excellent reference Confederate Revolvers, only lists six known serial numbers. Serial number 231 in his book is maker marked “CLARK & SHERRARD & CO. | LANCASTER, TEXAS” and cylinder is engraved with military motifs and “TEXAS ARMS”. An etched gun like this sold for about $80,000 several years ago. There are 4 known etched guns. There are only 6 or 7 un-etched guns known to us. These guns have been written about in several articles over the years. Gluckman and Stewart & Fuller in their 1940s titles state that these revolvers were made in 1862-64 under Texas or Confederate contract. Later titles state that parts for guns were made but not assembled until after the war. Other authors surmise that some parts were assembled for private Confederate purchase and that purported Confederate-used guns exist. Most examples are well-used like this one and other known Confederate-made and used guns. Bill Gary in his books state these guns are post-Civil War. Regardless of history, this is a very rare Texas-made dragoon revolver that saw a lot of use. Serial number 241 is found on bottom of bbl housing and frame. Trigger guard and back strap are not numbered but fit very well, as do stocks. One screw is missing from back strap; otherwise, gun is complete. Some parts may be from Colt dragoon, but none are numbered and all parts appear to be orig from time of use. CONDITION: Metal surfaces are gray/black overall with pitting. Bore is good with strong rifling. Frame has large crack and welded/braised repair. Brass trigger guard and back strap are cleaned. Stocks are sanded and cleaned and appear better than rest of gun. Gun indexes and functions well. 8-76155 JS001 (15,000-20,000).
*CASED CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT NED BUNTLINE COMMEMORATIVE SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN NB1170. Nickel finish with 12” bbl, ramp front sight & fully adjustable rear sight on flat top frame. It has 2-pc Rampant Colt & eagle black composition grips. Entire surface of revolver, except front strap, has full coverage engraving of various Texas cattle brands including the famous XIT, DDD, 7UP and the whimsical 2 LAZY 2P, among numerous others. It all has a very nice punch dot background with feather patterns on sides of top strap. Right side of frame, in one of the leaves of a foliate pattern, are initials “WB” which stands for the late Weldon Bledsoe. Mr. Bledsoe essentially succeeded the late Cole Agee, who is recognized as the father of the Texas cattle brand engraving patterns. While the two only met once or twice, it is readily apparent that Mr. Bledsoe at least studied Mr. Agee’s work and incorporated the idea into his own work. Accompanied by a fine Colt custom case with lifting lid over a glass lined top with a locking pullout drawer which contains revolver, six nickel plated dummy cartridges & a Ned Buntline plaque. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, unfired since custom plating after engraving. Grips are equally new. Case has a few scratches & small nicks but is essentially new. 4-60263 JR605 (3,500-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 REVOLVER. SN 113537, matching except wedge, lever, cylinder pin, and grips. The scroll engraving is of the “inhabited” variety associated with Gustav Young, with a dog head on the left side of bbl and wolf heads on the hammer. The Colt markings on the bbl and frame are engraved rather than stamped. The name “J.A.Segan” is engraved through the silver on the backstrap. The pin front sight remains at the front of the bbl, but a dovetail sight has been added to the rear of it. A dovetail slot has been cut through Colt’s name at the rear of the bbl. CONDITION: Gray patina with light to moderate surface rust and pitting, heavier at the rear of the frame. 80% silver on the backstrap and trigger guard. Slightly undersized grips show wear and signs of cleaning. About 1/2 of the cylinder scene remains. Mechanically needs work. 4-58177 (1,250-2,000)
CASED U. S. HISTORICAL SOCIETY REPRODUCTION JEFFERSON DAVIS 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 18. An engraved Italian made reproduction, blue and case colored with silver plated brass grip frame and 1-pc walnut grip. It has 7-1/2” oct bbl, dovetailed front sight with the Historical Society name and address on the top flat. The frame is 4-screw pattern, cut for shoulder stock and the back strap is engraved in script “To Hon. Jefferson Davis / From The Inventor, Col. Colt”. It is engraved in Gustav Young style with full coverage frame and bbl lug with his deluxe extra patterns on the rammer pivot and at the muzzle with a full checkered rammer lever. The left side of the bbl lug has Young’s trademark bird head incorporated into the engraving pattern. The left side of the frame where “Colt’s Patent” would normally be found is an engraved double headed eagle. The cyl is rolled with the Ormsby naval battle scene and the hammer has the wolf’s head on each side of the nose. The cyl is not numbered. Accompanied by its original walnut casing with embossed leather panel in the lid and gray velvet lining, French fitted for an engraved shoulder stock with identical presentation and silver plated metal, a reproduction brass flask, mold and parts box. CONDITION: New unfired and possibly unturned. Case and accessories are equally new. 4-60370 JR591 (3,000-5,000)
*CASED ENGRAVED LIMITED EDITION BUFFALO BILL HISTORICAL CENTER COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44-40. SN 70BB. Gold & silver-plated with 7-1/2″ bbl and 2-pc scrimshawed medallion ivory grips. Bbl, cyl & frame are very nicely engraved in foliate arabesque patterns with about 60% coverage. Left side of bbl at muzzle is engraved, in script “Buffalo Bill Historical Center” & in block letters below “WINCHESTER MUSEUM” and “1 of 250”. Left side of bbl is engraved with a Pony Express rider signifying Buffalo Bill’s having rode with that organization; left recoil shield is engraved with a buffalo head; backstrap is inscribed with a facsimile Buffalo Bill signature and left side of frame, in place where patent dates would normally be are dates of Buffalo Bill’s birth and death. Ivory grips have Colt Custom Shop medallions and the left grip is scrimshawed with bust of a young Buffalo Bill along with his famous “TE” brand, still in use on his old ranch in Cody, WY. Accompanied by its orig red leather covered, gold velvet lined custom shop case. Lid is embossed in gold “BUFFALO BILL HISTORICAL CENTER / WINCHESTER MUSEUM / 1 OF 250 COLT FRONTIER REVOLVERS”. CONDITION: New, unfired. Retains all of its orig factory finish to metal. Grips have a crack through left medallion, otherwise are sound with a fine light patina. Case is extremely fine. 4-58890 JR54 (6,000-9,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 77686. Fine engraved pocket model, probably by Gustave Young, with 5″ oct bbl, 2-line New York City address, 5-shot cyl with silver plated brass grip frame & 1-pc half ivory, half walnut grip. This unusual grip, while not typical, appears to be orig to this revolver showing great age on inside. Engraving appears to be Young’s deluxe patterns with a small oval vignette of a reclining deer on left side of bbl lug and Young’s trademark eagle head incorporated into scrolls on right side. Frame & hammer have full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with “COLT’S PATENT” in a small oval on left side of frame. Hammer nose has wolf’s head on each side with fine feather patterns & fish scales on top edge with dbl rows of feather patterns around muzzle. Trigger guard, back strap & butt strap are beautifully engraved to match with a very well executed fan pattern at top of back strap. Serial numbers on frame, trigger guard & butt strap are all highlighted with screw holes having a sunburst pattern around them & screw heads all nicely engraved. Ends of wedge are engraved to match & cyl has a nice border pattern at front edge. CONDITION: Fine, all matching except wedge which is numbered “64377” but is engraved to match revolver. Bbl retains 25-30% thin orig blue with balance a gray/brown patina. Cyl is a silver/gray patina and retains about 60% stagecoach holdup scene with one dent. Frame appears to have been originally blued and now retains 50-60% fine bright blue in sheltered areas with balance a gray patina. Trigger guard & back strap retain 90-92% orig silver. Grip is sound with a minor chipped left toe with wood side retaining about 50% orig varnish & ivory side a beautiful mellow patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-59195 JR21 (7,000-10,000)
AN HISTORIC AND EXTENSIVE GROUPING CONSISTING OF A PRESENTATION GRADE U.S. MODEL 1850 STAFF & FIELD OFFICER’S SWORD AND COLT 1849 POCKET REVOLVER BOTH INSCRIBED TO THE COL. OF THE 21ST CONNECTICUT Inf. WITH RANK EPAULETS, SWORD BELT AND SASH, COMMISSION AND BINOCULARS. This sword shows hard wear and tear and must have seen long and arduous service in the field during numerous engagements. The sword is a regulation style U.S. Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer’s sword, several grades higher than standard and of European manufacture. It has a 32” single edged, lightly curved blade deeply etched and once, containing extensive gold wash. The etched decoration is generally generic and floral with a prominent “U.S.” on one side. There is also the French motto: “Je Maintiendrai Le Droit” which, roughly translated means: “We shall maintain the right”. The hilt is of regulation style with “US” cast into the counter guard. The scabbard is of steel with fancy engraved brass furniture. Inscribed on the reverse counterguard of the sword’s hilt is: “Col. Hiram B. Crosby”. The inscribed Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver, SN 324913 (all matched-loading lever is unmarked), has a 4” bbl with a New York address, 6-shot cylinder and brass back strap and trigger guard. The back strap is inscribed “Col. H. B. Crosby” by, what appears to be, the same engraver who did the sword. The accompanying sword belt is of folded black Russian leather with a brass keeper and two sword carrying straps with brass spring clips. The belt plate is an officer’s style M1851 eagle plate with its wreath cast integral with the plate. Also with the sword is Crosby’s red silk sash of standard form with tassels, his Smith Patent style Col. rank shoulder straps, Crosby’s orig military commission to rank of Col. dated June 28, 1860 and signed by the Gov. of CT, William A. Buckingham and, finally, Crosby’s Civil War period binoculars remain with this group being a pair of French manufactured brass bodied and leather covered binoculars. At the time of the Battle of Cold Harbor, Hiram B. Crosby was commanding the 21st CT Inf. as Maj. Later promoted to full Col. he led the regiment until he was discharged for a medical disability on September 14, 1864. Organized at New Haven in August 1862, this Regiment went to the Defenses of Washington, D.C. then off to the front participating in the battles of Fredericksburg, Va., “Mud March,” and the Siege of Suffolk prior to moving to provost and guard duty at Portsmouth, Norfolk and Newport News until February 1864. Expedition up James River to Fort Powhatan, thence to Newberne February 12, and duty there, at Plymouth and at Washington, N. C. they then joined Butler’s operations on South Side of the James River and against Petersburg and Richmond, operations against Fort Darling, Battle of Drewry’s Bluff and Bermuda Hundred. Battle of Cold Harbor, siege operations against Petersburg and Richmond then onto Chaffin’s Farm, New Market Heights and Fair Oaks. After doing duty in the trenches before Richmond, they became a part of the City’s occupying forces. The Regiment was mustered out June 16, 1865 with losses totaling 175. Copies of his pension, military records and history of the regiment accompany the sword. CONDITION: Fair. Heavy wear from tip to toe, likely a battlefield carried sword. Gilt decoration on the blade has all but faded away in dark patina and surface rust. Quillon is fractured but remains attached. All of the brass furniture and the scabbard have been heavily cleaned at some time. Leather and wire wrap are missing from the grip. Colt revolver is quite good with traces of blue on the bbl and frame. Sword belt is worn but flexible with some losses to stitching. Crosby’s sash is faded to a reddish-brownish hue with a few minor frayed areas. Rank shoulder straps are very nice and the binoculars very good. 4-59211 (5,000-10,000)
*ENGRAVED & GOLD-PLATED COLT NEW FRONTIER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 16337NF. Beautifully engraved by J.R. Nixon & signed on ejector rod housing. It has 7-1/2” bbl, ramp front sight & flat top frame with adjustable rear sight. It has complete full coverage, very nicely executed, intertwined, foliate arabesque patterns over most of surfaces. Back edge of cylinder has a circle of five pointed Texas stars. Left recoil shield has two running buffalo and top of backstrap is engraved “TEXAS RANGER” with image of a lawman in cowboy hat with large moustache & a 5-pointed star, not a Ranger star, on his chest. Further down backstrap is image of a man wearing a coat, vest, gun belt & holster hanging from a tree. It has Colt factory smooth walnut grips with gold medallions. CONDITION: Very fine. Appears to be unfired since custom plating. Retains virtually all of its custom gold finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-60260 JR430 (3,500-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 212265E. Matching numbers, including wedge. Cal. 31. 6” oct bbl. Standard one-line New York address. 5-shot cylinder with stage coach scene. Frame is fully engraved with partial engraving on bbl, loading lever, hammer, backstrap, and trigger guard. There are wolf heads on the sides of the hammer and a bear head on the left side of the bbl lug–both features normally associated with Gustav Young. CONDITION: Fine overall, with casehardening colors on the frame, loading lever, and hammer. Cylinder has been lightly cleaned, but 80% of the scene remains. Some screws have been replaced. About 80% of the silver remains on the backstrap and trigger guard. Grips have minor wear at the bottom and retain about 90% of the varnish. Mechanically good. 4-58275 FS26 (3,000-5,000)
EXTRAORDINARILY RARE & IMPORTANT CONSECUTIVELY NUMBERED PAIR OF FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS WITH TEXAS HISTORY. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 160786 & 160787. Nickel finish with 5-1/2” bbls with 1-line Hartford address, 2-line patent dates on left side of frame with the Rampant Colt in a full engraved circle and spectacular deep relief carved ox-head pearl grips, left & right hand. Revolvers are identically engraved by Cuno Helfrecht in his trademark style with large sunburst on recoil shields with a miniature sunburst on loading gates. Frames have about 80% coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Bbls are engraved about 3-1/4” on each side to match with a wavy pattern around address. Top straps, ejector housing rod gullets & outside radii are engraved with his snake & dot pattern, which is also around back edge of cylinders. Cylinders are engraved in his trademark patterns of alternating sunbursts & foliate arabesque patterns on the lands between flutes. Buttstraps were engraved leaving a short blank panel which are after-market engraved “W.F. COBB”. This later engraving is in the typical style done for Wolf & Klaar of Fort Worth, TX. Accompanied by two Colt Factory letters to two different inquirors with both showing both serial numbers, that they were nickel finished, factory engraved, shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO, on June 26, 1895 in a shipment of two guns. The older letter, in remarks, states they were shipped as consecutively serialized pair. The more recent letter states under special features item, “consecutive serial numbers”. Also accompanied by a 3-ring binder of information regarding Mr. Cobb, who, apparently, was one of the orig land purchasers in Lubbock County, Texas and therefore one of the people responsible for the founding of the City of Lubbock, Texas. His land purchase was recorded on Aug. 13, 1890. It is not indicated how much land he actually purchased, but by law he was authorized to purchase one section (640 acres) at $3.00 per acre and then could purchase three additional sections at $2.00 per acre. The 1880 Federal Census shows a William F. Cobb, age 52, birthplace “Texas”, is listed on p. 440A. There is an additional Tax Roll for the City of Lubbock for 1891 which lists W.F. Cobb as owning one wagon or carriage valued at $25.00, something else illegible valued at $5.00 and three horses valued at $125.00. CONDITION: Very fine. Both revolvers have been cleaned, but not polished and show only light wear with somewhat dulled orig nickel. Backstraps, where they have been handled, are nice & bright with #160787 having some backstrap wear. This is the right hand gun & apparently Mr. Cobb was right handed. It appears also that sights have been slightly thinned. The oxhead grip on #160786 has a repaired crack just around edge of carving. It also has a slightly chipped toe & a small chip on right side by frame. The other grips are undamaged. Both have great fire with lots of color. A rare opportunity to own a very rare pair of Colts. 4-58897 JR600 (150,000-250,000)
SPECTACULAR TOMMY HAAS RESTORED ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 11519. Extremely beautiful silver plated single action with 7-1/2” bbl, one line script address with serifs at each end and without any broken dies. It is very beautifully engraved with full frame coverage, Nimschke style New York engraving with fine punch dot background. It consists of foliate arabesque patterns with Nimschke’s trademark flower at the center of a couple of the scrolls. The engraving extends 3” up the sides of the bbls with a Moorish pattern around the address with a scalloped border at the muzzle. It also has the scalloped pattern in the ejector rod housing gullet with other border patterns. The cyl has engraving patterns on the lands between the flutes with border patterns at the rear edge, with feather and bar patterns over the top strap. The top of the backstrap has a well executed fan with fine decorations down the backstrap on the buttstrap and trigger guard also. The trigger, bullseye ejector rod head, base pin and all the screws are beautifully niter blued. It is fitted with spectacular mother of pearl grips with a deep relief American eagle on the right side. CONDITION: Extremely fine, unfired since custom plating after engraving. It retains all of this fine finish. The grips are equally exceptional with tremendous fire and color. Mechanics are crisp. Brilliant, shiny bore. 4-60371 JR586 (10,000-15,000)
PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 200185. Cal. 31. 5” oct bbl with 2-line “-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT. -” on top of bbl, “COLTS / PATENT” on left side of frame. Backstrap is engraved “Thos. B. Pope Co. B. 19th Regt N.Y.S.M.”. Matching numbers, including wedge. Brass pin front sight. CONDITION: Brown patina with light surface rust and pitting overall. Rear of the six-shot cylinder is battered. Strong traces of silver on trigger guard and at the top of the backstrap. Grips are worn at the base, but retain about 80% of the varnish. Mechanically fine. 4-58274 FS23 (2,000-3,500)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT SHERIFF’S MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 145338. Rare engraved sheriff’s model with 4″ bbl & half moon rifle style German silver front sight. It has 2-line address with 2-line patent dates & Rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame. This rare Colt is engraved by Cuno Helfrecht with the engraving patterns being similar to a number of his pieces of work pictured in The Colt Engraving Book, Vol. One, Wilson. Bbl has foliate arabesque patterns, about 4/5 of the way down sides of the bbl with arabesque patterns on top with wave & dot borders around address. Frame has near full coverage foliate arabesque patterns with feather patterns down top strap. Back strap has typical fan at top with arabesque dot patterns down back strap and across butt strap. Cyl has alternating arabesque & sunburst patterns on lands between flutes. It has 2-pc Rampant Colt/Eagle hard rubber grips with three sparkly stones on each side. Accompanied by a beautiful pair of relief carved, right hand pearl ox head grips. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver with 4″ bbl, blue finish, factory engraved, under special features: “furnished with a silver sight” and indicating shipment to Dunlay & Geisler, Houston, Texas, April 8, 1892 in a shipment of two same type guns. CONDITION: Good. No orig finish remains being a medium brown patina overall. It shows heavy wear overall with substantial wear at muzzle. Grips are sound showing heavy wear with right side turned chocolate. Mechanics are fine, dark bore with moderate pitting. Pearl grips have a broken steer horn with some oil/rust staining, otherwise appear to be fine with lots of color & fire. 4-56611 JR67 (15,000-25,000)
CASED ENGRAVED TOMMY HAAS RESTORED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 86928. Blue and case colored with 5-1/2” bbl, one line address with a beautiful etched panel on the left side. The frame has three line patent dates and the caliber “44 C.F.” is on the left front web of the trigger guard. It is fitted with very nicely figured and toned 1-pc ivory grip. The frame has full coverage Cuno Helfrecht style engraving with about 3” of pattern on each side of the bbl with wave and dot borders around the address, in the ejector rod housing gullet, and on the outside radius of the ejector rod housing. The top strap has foliate arabesque patterns with punched dot background. The cyl has Helfrecht’s alternating foliate arabesque and sunburst on the lands between the flutes with a zig-zag and dot pattern at the back edge. The left recoil shield has Helfrecht’s trademark sunburst pattern which is duplicated in miniature on the loading gate and has his fan pattern at the top of the back strap. The back strap, butt strap, trigger guard and bottom of the frame are engraved to match. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver with 5-1/2” bbl, blue finish, type of stocks “Not Listed” , that it is factory engraved and was shipped February 10, 1883 to Simmons Hardware Company, St. Louis, Missouri in a shipment of 5 same type guns. This is another of Tommy’s masterpiece resurrections. Accompanied by a new made English style walnut casing with turquoise felt lining, fitted for the revolver and a cleaning rod with a cartridge block for 28 cartridges with a recess for an L-shaped screwdriver. CONDITION: Extremely fine, unfired since restoration. Retains all of its brilliant blue and case colors. Restored etched panel is crisp. Back strap retains all of its dark blue, while the trigger guard is a plum color. Grip is extremely fine with a beautiful mellow ivory color. Case is fine. 4-60369 JR590 (7,500-12,500)
IDENTIFIED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 204398, matching, including wedge. Cal. 31. 4” oct bbl with 2-line “-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT.-” on top of bbl, “COLTS / PATENT” on left side of frame. Engraved on the butt in script, “W. C. Oakley / Co E. 19th Regt. N.Y.S.M.” on the butt. CONDITION: Mostly gray patina with light scratching and dents. Traces of blue in protected places. Cylinder scene is good, but has some scratching and denting. 80% silver on trigger guard, 20% on the backstrap. Grips show wear and chips at the base, but retain about 85% of the varnish. Mechanically good, some screws are replaced. 4-58279 FS29 (2,500-3,500)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 117946. Beautiful single action with 5-1/2″ bbl, 1-line block letter address with 3-line patent dates & eagle/Rampant Colt hard rubber grips. Caliber is marked on left front web of trigger guard. Revolver is nicely engraved by Cuno Helfrecht with foliate arabesque patterns down about 2/3 of bbl length on each side with a wave & dot border pattern around bbl address. Frame has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on both sides with Helfrecht’s trademark sunburst on recoil shield & loading gate. It has dbl wave & dot pattern on top strap with zigzag decorations on back strap & butt strap. Trigger guard has his starburst pattern with dots at end of rays. Cyl has alternating sunburst & foliate arabesque patterns on lands between flutes. Rear edge of cyl has wave & dot pattern. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as having been shipped with blue finish & rubber grips, factory engraved to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY on Oct. 11, 1886 in a shipment of three same type guns. CONDITION: Fine. Traces of case color remain on frame in sheltered areas with minor traces of blue on grip frame; otherwise it is a cleaned metal color with fine pitting over entire left side and cylinder. Ejector rod housing has strong blue in gullets. Right side of frame & bbl has not been cleaned & engraving is crisp & clean. Base pin screw is a replacement. Grips are very fine showing moderate wear & having turned chocolate. Hammer will not hold on half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 4-56692 JR68 (8,000-12,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Colt. SN 56998. Nickel finish with 3-1/2″ etched panel bbl without ejector rod with knurled extended cyl pin and 2-pc smooth bird head pearl grips. It has 3-line patent dates on left side of frame & caliber marking on left side of rear trigger guard web. It has niter blued screws, trigger & back edge of hammer. It is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfrecht with his typical patterns on recoil shield & loading gate with very fine, well executed foliate arabesque patterns over frame & sides of bbl. It has his wave & dot patterns on top strap with arabesque patterns on back strap and a starburst on trigger bow. Cyl is engraved with his sunburst pattern on lands between flutes & has his wave & dot pattern at back edge. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Possibly unfired, retaining virtually all of its bright orig factory finish with some minor flaking on back edge of hammer & trigger. Cross bolt screw has turned purple on left side. Grips are pristine with lots of fire & color. Sgl action mode is inoperable, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore. 4-56721 JR79 (3,500-6,500)
IDENTIFIED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER SN 11998. Cal. 36. 6-1/2” rnd bbl. Standard Colt markings on bbl and frame. Backstrap is engraved in script “A. Ayres.”. According to accompanying documents, Alfred Ayres enlisted in the 10th VT Inf. at Waterbury, Vermont, on December 10, 1863. He was captured at Cold Harbor, VA, June 15, 1864, and sent to Andersonville. No further record of him exists. The revolver was captured by Pvt. Thomas Gaynor of Co. C, 5th LA Inf. at Cold Harbor. He brought the gun home from the war. It descended in his family until 1986, when it was sold. The accompanying flap holster is period. Extensive National Archive file on Gaynor also accompanies the pistol. CONDITION: Very good. Strong traces of blue in protected places on the bbl and cylinder. Traces of casehardening colors on the loading lever and hammer and faint traces of silver on the trigger guard. Most of the varnish remains on the grips, which are only slightly worn at the base. Mechanically fine. Holster has minor scuffing and cracking, mostly on the flap. Fastening button is missing. 4-58198 (3,500-5,000)
*TWO ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal. 45 Colt. SN “LD” & 354267. Both are nickel finish with deep relief carved pearl grips. One has dbl sided ox head & the other dbl sided American eagles. 1) The “LD” revolver is a terrible shame in that the frame is one of only about a handful known unnumbered replacement frames. On p. 100 of Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers, Kopec & Fenn, it is stated that there were two with the initials “JTC” or “LD” stamped in the area where the serial number would ordinarily be found. They state that there are twelve examples extant and only two of those have the “US” final inspection mark on left side of frame. This revolver frame has both, making it doubly rare. Trigger guard is serial numbered “31950” and backstrap is unnumbered. Bbl is a late replacement with caliber marking on left side & cylinder has “RAC” inspector initials. It has second type ejector rod housing with half moon ejector rod head. It has about 60% coverage, very well executed; foliate arabesque patterns over frame, cylinder, bbl & backstrap. The left recoil shield has a cowboy on a bucking bronco & the cylinder, on lands between flutes, has six different scenes including a bird dog, a buck deer, a cowboy shooting at a man on a running horse, a man in a canoe, a grizzly bear and two flying ducks. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish. Grips have a chip at top right side, otherwise are fine with lots of color & fire. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 2) SN 354267 is a commercial revolver with similar engraving, obviously by the same hand. It has about the same amount of coverage without the scene on the recoil shield. The lands between flutes on cylinder have a spaniel & duck, a man in a canoe, an otter with a fish, a fox, a running buck deer & a grizzly bear chasing a man. The last two digits of the serial number are on back of cylinder. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains virtually all of its fine custom nickel finish. The ox head grips have a large chip at top right side & a small chip at left toe, otherwise are fine with lots of fire & color. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Accompanied by a homemade wooden box with mortised brass lock & lined with maroon velvet. There is a copper plaque on lid inscribed “M.J. MORRIS / DEC. 1943”. Box is fine. 4-59122 JR423 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1878 DA FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 30681. Nickel finish with 4-3/4” bbl, thinned front sight with roll marked “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” on left side. It has very well executed Cuno Helfrecht style foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background and diamond & dot patterns on each side of frame at forcing cone. It has Helfrecht’s style of fan at top of backstrap with wave & dot patterns beside the hammer & over top strap. Trigger bow has Helfrecht’s Hunter’s Star with dots, which is repeated on ejector rod housing. It also has his style of wavy line engraving in gullet of ejector rod housing. Cylinder has arabesque patterns on lands between flutes with more wavy patterns at rear edge. It has a rnd butt grip with lanyard loop and is fitted with faux ivory, Rampant Colt grips. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Retains about all of its professional nickel finish. Grips are lightly soiled. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-59129 JR421 (4,500-7,500)
CASED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 183585. Spectacular Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass cone front sight & 1-line New York address. It has silver plated brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl lug & the lands between nipples on cyl are British proofed. Accompanied by a rare mahogany purple velvet lined English casing (most English casings were oak), compartmented in bottom for revolver, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a 2-cavity blued mold, a Dixon “COLT’S NAVY FLASK” bag shaped flask, a tin of Eley’s caps and a small pewter oil bottle. It also has a covered compartment in right rear corner with a carved pearl button. Unusually there is no provision for a cleaning rod slot as is normally found in English casings. Lid is inlaid with a rectangular brass plaque engraved in script “G.H. LAMB, ESQ. / 49TH REGT”. Revolver is not inscribed. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine, all matching including wedge, except rammer which is unnumbered. Bbl retains 96-97% glossy bright orig factory blue. Rammer & handle retain virtually all of their bright orig case colors. Cyl retains about 90% thinning orig blue with a few minor nicks on front edge & retains about 98% Ormsby Naval battle scene. Five of six safety pins are prominent. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, thinning to gray on tops of recoil shields, strong & bright on sides & sheltered areas. Grip frame retains traces of orig silver plating with balance a medium mustard patina. Grip is sound with two or three bruises on left side & a couple of minor nicks, otherwise retains virtually all of its bright orig factory varnish. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. Casing has an open seam across bottom, otherwise is sound with minor storage & handling marks and retains most of its strong bright orig varnish. Interior lining is slightly faded with a little damage from front sight & a couple of re-glued partitions. Flask is crisp & clean and retains most of its orig finish with a few minor nicks & scratches. Other accessories are fine. 4-59016 JR34 (8,000-12,000)
*FIRST GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 32-20. SN 353273. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2” bbl, altered front sight with a brass bead added to top. It has 2-line patent dates & the Rampant Colt without circle on left side of frame. Backstrap is lightly, simple line engraved with leaves, flowers & vines. It has 2-pc hard rubber grips. Inside grips have scratched number “3229”. Serial number is found on right side of front & back straps under grip. Last two digits of serial number are on back of cylinder. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 95-96% glossy orig blue with only light muzzle edge wear & some thinning to the left side. Ejector rod housing retains 85-90% glossy orig blue. Frame & hammer retain most of their orig case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas, faded elsewhere, thin & turning silver on loading gate. Trigger guard retains about 80% orig blue with front & back straps a gray patina. Backstrap is a blue/brown patina. Grips are sound, showing light wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-60341 JR431 (4,000-6,000)
*COLT-SAUER MODEL 3000 DRILLING. Cal. 12X12/243. SN GG6681. Scarce Colt-Sauer drilling from the 1980’s with 25″ bbl cluster choked FULL/MOD having a thick blade front sight, articulated rear sight on a flat matted rib with Greener crossbolt extension & extractors. Receiver is coin finished with side clips & engraved for the American market with a leaping whitetail buck on left side & elk on right side, both in forest scenes. Remainder of receiver has light foliate arabesque patterns. It has three cocked indicators with front trigger being set for rifle bbl. Rifle actuator is a button on top tang & it has a Greener thumb safety on left side. Mounted with very nicely figured French walnut with checkered beavertail forearm & pistol grip stock, 14-3/8″ over its orig Sauer black waffle pad. Weight: 8 lbs. 4.16 oz. 5CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. As new, appears to be unfired, retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish with one or two scattered, extremely minor, mars to surface finish. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bores. 4-55462 JR85 (2,500-3,500)
FANTASTIC CASED ETCH ENGRAVED TIFFANY COLT FIRST MODEL DERRINGER. Cal. 41 RF. SN 2050. Spectacular & rare silver & gold etch engraved derringer, 2-1/2″ ovoid shaped bbl with usual markings on top flat with full coverage deep etch engraved foliate & floral arabesque patterns. Grip has usual checkered panels on each side with a large checkered panel on back edge. Bbl is silver plated & grip is gold plated. Trigger & hammer are blued. Accompanied by its orig purple velvet lined Moroccan leather covered hard shell case with remnants of a gold Tiffany embossed label inside lid. Bottom is recessed for revolver & two cartridges. This is certainly one of the most rare of all Colt derringers. CONDITION: Derringer is extremely fine retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Hammer screw has lost most of its blue while trigger & hammer retain about half their orig blue. Mechanics are fine with strong bore & a scattered spot or two of light pitting. Case shows moderate wear & handling nicks & scratches with catch release button on front broken, otherwise case is sound with lightly soiled & lightly faded lining. An extremely rare & seldom encountered Colt derringer. 4-57524 (14,000-18,000)
*PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN ADJ-2700. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl & unusual Colt gold medallion pine grips. Engraving is about Class A by Colt master engraver Dennis Kies & consists of extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns on frame, cylinder, bbl & backstrap. Backstrap is inscribed “PRESENTED TO AL DEJOHN / FROM COLT FIREARMS / ON HIS RETIREMENT-1989”. Revolver has black powder frame with bull’s eye ejector rod head & blued base pin. Screws are nickeled. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver with wood stocks, the engraving & presentation with a presentation case shipped to “Al DeJohn, Custom Shop Manager / Colt Firearms / Hartford, CT” on December 4, 1989 in a shipment of one gun. Under remarks section they note that wood stocks fitted to this revolver were manufactured from a section of old wood columns from Colt dome which was being restored. It also reports there was an extra pair of smooth ivory grips with the revolver which are now missing. A further note in letter states that this revolver was presented to Mr. DeJohn upon his retirement after 43 years of service at Colt. It further states that the serial number is a combination of his initials & Colt employee ID number. Another letter from Colt Historian Emeritus Marty Huber states that during restoration of the Colt dome in 1989, five pairs of sgl action stocks were made from the wood support columns which dated back to 1869. A letter from Al DeJohn dated Sept. 11, 1990 states basically the same information. Also accompanied by its beautiful custom shop made walnut casing lined with purple & red felt, French fitted for revolver & a small rectangular lidded compartment. Additionally accompanied by Mr. DeJohn’s orig Colt Firearms employee badge, #2700, with his photograph. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. As new, retains virtually all of its orig factory finish to both metal & grips with grips having a few light nicks & scratches. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. Case is extremely fine. 4-57508 JR412 (7,500-12,500)
EXCEPTIONALLY RARE SAMUEL COLT PRESENTATION CASED 3-GUN SET. This exceptional set is one of only three known similar sets. It was presented to Lt. Silas Bent by Col. Colt himself in about 1856. The set consists of a fabulous burled rosewood case 16” long, 9-5/8″ wide & 2-1/2″ deep with a scalloped corner, rectangular, brass plate in the lid engraved in period script “Lieut. Silas Bent / Compliments of / Col Colt”. It has a shield shaped brass lock escutcheon for mortised brass lock. Lined with burgundy velvet & compartmented in bottom for three Colt percussion revolvers including an 1851 Navy, an 1849 pocket model & an 1855 side hammer root. It also has compartments for a dbl sided Navy flask with angle spout, a dbl sided eagle flask for smaller revolvers, a steel 2-cavity, 36 cal mold & a steel 2-cavity, 31 cal mold. There is also an empty paper container for Hicks Caps & a lacquered tin of Eley Bros. caps. Also accompanied by an L-shaped nipple wrench & an L-shaped screwdriver. Revolvers are as follows: (1) Model 1851 Navy. Cal. 36. SN 49962. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight with 1-line New York City address. It has silver-plated grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including the wedge. May have been fired but if so very little. Bbl retains a flaked blue/brown patina with about 30% glossy orig blue. Rammer retains about 50% orig case colors, bright on the pivot, faded to silver elsewhere. Cylinder retains 15-20% orig blue with balance flaked to a medium patina. All six safety pins are crisp & it retains virtually all of its orig Ormsby Naval battle scene. Frame retains most of its orig case colors, faded & faint and turning to silver. Hammer retains 75-80% faded case colors, strong on right side. Grip frame, with its small trigger guard, retains 95-97% orig silver plate. Grip is crisp & retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting. (2) 1849 pocket model. Cal. 31. SN 149376. Usual configuration, 4″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 2-line New York City address with serifs. It has 5-shot cylinder & silver-plated brass grip frame with 1-pc walnut grip. CONDITION: Very fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 60-70% flaked blue/brown patina with spots of dark blue. Rammer retains 60-70% orig case colors, mostly on the pivot and half of the arm. Cylinder retains a mottled blue/brown flaked patina with some hammer marks & a few nicks & dings and retains about 50% stagecoach hold-up scene. Frame retains virtually all of its orig case colors, bright & strong on the sides, turning dark on recoil shields. Hammer is a mottled gray patina. Grip frame retains 93-95% strong orig silver. Grip, with a few minor nicks, scratches & light edge wear, retains most of its bright orig varnish. There are many hammer marks on bottom of butt. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a few spots of pitting. (3) Model 3A 1855 Root. Cal. 31. SN 441. Usual configuration with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 5-shot full fluted cylinder with 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl address is in two lines “COLT’S PT. / 1855” & Colt’s normal Hartford address in two lines with small crosses at each end & between the two inscriptions. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Bbl retains 30-40% glossy orig blue in sheltered areas with balance flaked to medium patina. Frame retains about 95% glossy bright orig blue with some thinning on backstrap. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks & retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Cylinder retains 50-60% thin orig blue, stronger in the flutes. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore.
Accompanied by a large packet of information regarding this set & the relationship between Lt. Bent & Col. Colt. Lt. Bent was born October, 1820 in St. Louis, entered the Navy at age 16 as a midshipman & served 25 years resigning as Lt. to pursue family business. At one point, probably at the 1851 London Exposition, he became acquainted with Samuel Colt after which they apparently became close friends. It is well known that Colt had few friends, as a matter of personal choice, so it is speculated that their friendship was very personal based on mutual interest in Bent’s profession in Hydrography, which also may have been Colt’s interest. Regardless of the connection, their friendship apparently continued & became very close as is evidenced by the fact that Lt. Bent was accorded the honor of personally accompanying Colt in a private carriage after Colt’s wedding on the way to the reception. Another influence that may have prompted this gift was the fact that Lt. Bent, as Commodore Perry’s Flag Lt. on his historic trip to Japan 1852-55, carried several Colt firearms as presentations to Japanese dignitaries, which was an attempt by Colt to open up Japanese firearms trade. In return Lt. Bent was given several Japanese matchlock arms which he arranged, through the Navy, to be released to Colt which were displayed for many years in the Colt museum. It is well recorded that Lt. Bent gave Colt a Kris & sheath, as a wedding present, which was prominently displayed in Colt’s home, Armsmear. This is well documented and illustrated in several books. It is also well documented that Lt. Bent spent considerable time advising Mr. & Mrs. Colt on the refurbishing of Armsmear.
Provenance of this set seems to go back to the early 1930’s when it was purchased by Robert Abels from a William McNary of St. Louis, MO (Lt. Bent’s home town). A notarized statement from Mr. Abels further states that he sold the set to Norm Flayderman in 1962. A typewritten note, also apparently from Mr. Abels, states basically as above but goes on further that McNary said that he bought them from “an ex-Major’s widow of St. Louis”. He further states that he cannot trace anything directly to Lt. Bent. In a 1962 letter to Mr. Abels, Norm Flayderman is asking for additional information on the set. Then in 1963 Norm apparently sold the set to Mr. Andrew T. Seymour III of Fort Worth. There is also a letter from Silas B. McKinley, grandson of Lt. Bent stating that he knew very little about relations between Colt & his grandfather beyond the family tradition that Col. Colt purchased his grandfather’s engagement ring for him.
CONDITION: Navy flask has a large dent on one side near the top, otherwise retains about 90% orig finish on the body with some oxidation on cap & spout. Small flask retains 85-90% orig finish with some light rust on the spring. Two molds are fine as are the nipple wrench & screwdriver. Cap box & cap tin are equally fine. Case has a loose front corner & one small sliver of veneer missing on right rear corner with a crack in bottom, otherwise is completely sound with several light handling & storage marks. Interior is moderately faded with a rectangular area in lid where there may have been a label or something written. Bottom is moderately faded with light soil & wear from revolvers. This is truly a spectacular set & undoubtedly a once in a lifetime opportunity to own something this historic as a personal presentation from Col. Colt himself to a personal friend. 4-57777 JR454 (50,000-100,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH LONG FLUTE CYLINDER. Cal. 45 colt. SN 331111. Fantastic rare colt. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, two line address with two line patent dates and rampant colt in a circle. It has beautiful 2-pc silver medallion pearl grips with carved ox head on the right side. It has nearly full coverage Cuno A. Helfricht engraving almost identical to the patterns on revolvers number 329243 and 331270 as pictured on pages 442 & 443 The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson. In addition to the wonderful Helfricht engraving this revolver has the very rare feature of the long flute cylinder. Colt apparently discovering surplus 1878 dbl action cylinders in their inventory and, rather than waste them, fitted them to a few single actions. Page 241 of The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, states that in 1915, in the serial range 330001 to 331480, these long flute cylinders were fitted to SAA revolvers. According to consignor this is one of only about three known with factory engraving. This revolver has blued screws and the last four digits are stamped on the back of the cylinder. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver with 4-3/4″ bbl, nickel finish with carved steer head pearl grips, factory engraved with long flute cylinder shipped Sept. 23, 1914 to Praeger Hardware Co., San Antonio, TX in a shipment of one gun. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 85% strong bright orig nickel with most of the losses on the bbl. Bbl has about 60% orig nickel with the left side having been cleaned to bright metal. Cylinder is missing the nickel on the front, in one flute, with light flaking elsewhere and overall has about 50% nickel. Ejector rod housing, frame and grip frame retain most of their orig bright nickel finish with some flaking on the back strap and slight losses around the forcing cone area. Screws are fine and retain most of their orig blue, thin on the trigger & hammer screws and butt strap screw. Grips have sharp edges with great fire and color. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-57544 JR304 (50,000-75,000)
*COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED NEW FRONTIER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 02572NF. Spectacular New Frontier with 4-3/4″ bbl, high ramp front sight, flat top frame with adjustable rear sight & Colt silver medallion factory pearl grips. It has niter blued screws & ejector rod head. Revolver has beautiful very well executed Class B engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with a fine punch dot background. It has a large “V” & fan at top of backstrap with “V” pattern worked into engraving on recoil shield & loading gate. This engraving is by Colt’s master engraver, Dennis Kies. Revolver was originally ordered by Mr. Al De John, who was a long time Colt employee, now retired, and at the time of purchase of this revolver was the superintendent of Colt Custom Shop. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver as factory engraved with pearl grips & having been shipped Nov. 19, 1991 to Sile Distributors Inc., Meriden, Connecticut for A. De John. Also accompanied by a letter from Mr. De John dated June 26, 1992 wherein he is transferring ownership of this revolver & states that this was the last gun he purchased as a Colt employee prior to retirement after 43 years. CONDITION: New & unfired. Retains virtually all of its orig bright factory finish with crisp sharp grips that have lots of fire on both sides. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-57512 JR266 (7,000-12,000)
RARE CASED COLT MODEL C POCKET NO. 1 BABY PATERSON REVOLVER. Cal. 28. SN 110. Very rare, one of only about 500 ever made in the period 1837-38. This special Baby Paterson has 2-9/16″ oct bbl without the thick borders around the wedge slot and the usual small letter address reading from cylinder to muzzle. It has German silver front sight with a narrow silver band at muzzle, a medium silver band in front of bbl lug with a wide & narrow silver band at cylinder end & sgl curve bbl lug with flared sides. Cylinder is usual 5-shots with two wide silver bands & centaur rolled scene. Frame is silver plated with a wide & narrow silver band on recoil shields. It has nicely figured varnished walnut 1-pc grip with flat butt. Backstrap has a small rectangular silver plate engraved with initials “M.H.” Serial number was observed on wedge, inside face of bbl lug, rear of cylinder, cylinder turning ring, trigger, inside back strap, hammer & inside grip under buttstrap. Revolver was not further disassembled to determine if serial numbers are on other parts. Accompanied by an orig No. 1 Baby Paterson mahogany casing with scalloped edge, raised panel lid with a German silver rectangular plate in top. It measures 9-1/8″ x 6-3/16″ x 1-3/4″ and has dovetailed corners, brass hinges & a mortised iron lock with brass rectangular escutcheon. Inside, it has recesses for a spare 5-shot rnd edge cylinder matching numbered to this revolver, an orig sgl cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter & three walnut handles with brass ferrules. One of handles appears to be a replacement. It has an orig 5-3/4″ overall length iron jag with walnut handle with brass ferrule, an orig small Paterson capper bearing serial number “74” inside the lid & an orig Baby Paterson charger with serial number “91” visible in at least four places. Finding one of these rare revolvers with two matching numbered cylinders is a great rarity. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching as noted above. Bbl retains about 50% thin orig blue, primarily on sides & bottom and around front sight. Top three flats are a cleaned blue/gray patina & top flat has several small dents & fine pitting. Cylinder retains a blue/gray patina with about 90% centaur scene. Nipples still have fine blue with good edges. Frame retains about 50% orig silver plating, mostly on right side, with fine pitting on left side having been cleaned leaving some file marks around front strap & radius at top of front strap. Recoil shields are a brown patina with light pitting & traces of orig blue. Hammer nose sight is a replacement. Back strap retains 15-20% dull orig blue with the back strap cleaned to a silver/gray patina. Grip is fine with good edges, a small nick or two & retains most of a light wiped on finish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case has a slightly shrunken lid panel, otherwise is fine with light handling & storage nicks & scratches with two small holes in back edge. Top & sides retain most of their orig varnish with a small chemical stain on top front edge. Beveled edge pine bottom is very fine with no cracks. Spare cylinder is a mottled gray/brown patina & retains 50-60% orig centaur scene with light to moderate pitting. Bullet mold retains 60-65% bright orig blue mixed with patina. One of orig handles has a chip missing near the ferrule & replacement handle is cracked on both sides. Cleaning jag is a silver metal color with extremely fine handle. Capper is a medium dark brass patina. Charger retains 60-70% orig finish on copper body with about 40% orig gilding on middle band & most of orig gilding on top band & ball wheel. Powder charger end is a dark brass patina. Interior of box is faded & moderately soiled. This little revolver has more silver bands than any previously observed by this cataloguer. 4-57575 JR389 (100,000-150,000)
*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 331254. Nickel finish with 7-1/2′ bbl, orig front sight with 2-pc, factory, deep, rampant Colt medallion ox head pearl grips. Medallions are of the early type with left & right side with both rampant Colts facing forward. It has serial number in usual three locations on bottom & last four digits of serial number appear on back edge of cylinder. It has caliber marking on left side of bbl, 2-line patent markings & rampant Colt in a circle on left side of frame. There is a tiny 6-pointed star on right rear web of trigger guard signifying factory refinish & the “VP” proof on left front web of trigger guard is dbl stamped. Revolver is extensively engraved by Cuno Helfricht in patterns almost exactly identical to those found on serial numbers “329243” & “331270” as found on pp. 442 & 443 of The Colt Engraving Book, Volume. I, Wilson. Number 331270 is also a long flute variation with slightly different bbl engraving, however ejector rod, cylinder & frame are virtually identical. This revolver has dbl action long fluted cylinder which only appears on about 1,480 revolvers in 1915. Backstrap of this revolver is factory inscribed “John McKenney”. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver with carved ox head pearl grips & “Level 2” engraving with inscription as found & under special features it lists the long flute cylinder. It was sold to William McKenney (address unavailable) & shipped to R.H. Shearer (address unavailable) on Jan. 11, 1915 in a shipment of one gun. Accompanied by a mail order flap leather holster, machine embossed, of a cowboy on his horse surrounded by trees with flower blossoms down front edge. Bottom center is a vertical diamond with horizontal crossed “A’s”. It has buck-stitched laced edge with closed bottom & a brass stud for flap. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. As new, appears to be unfired since restoration, retaining virtually all of its factory finish with very minor handling & storage mars. It may have been fired since restoration, but if so, very little. Front face of cylinder is lightly pitted & cylinder bushing is missing. Left front web of trigger guard has fine pitting under nickel. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few scattered spots of pitting. Holster is dry with crackled flap & some minor losses to finish. Buck stitch lacing has been mouse chewed on top lace, otherwise is fine. 4-57502 (50,000-60,000)
*SPECTACULAR COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY PRESIDENT EISENHOWER COMMEMORATIVE REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN SA11994. Spectacular engraved & gold inlaid sgl action with all blue finish, 7-1/2″ bbl, 1-line large block letter address with 2-line patent dates & rampant Colt without circle. Serial number is hand stamped on left side of front & back straps under grip. It has 2-pc, rampant Colt medallion, smooth ivory grips. It has nearly full coverage engraving consisting of foliate & vine arabesque patterns with large gold vignettes of a prairie schooner being drawn by four oxen with a cowboy on horse on left side of bbl; a large spread winged Bellamy style eagle on right side of bbl; a grizzly bear head on left side of frame in front of cylinder & a puma’s head on opposite side. Left recoil shield has a very large gold “LET ‘ER BUCK” cowboy on a bucking bronco. Loading gate has bust of Samuel Colt. Front end of frame has a Cape buffalo head & bottom of trigger bow is inlaid “4 OF 10”. Back strap is inscribed in script “Dwight David Eisenhower / President of The United States / Man of Peace”. Rear edge of cylinder & facing edge of frame have wide gold wire inlay with a complete border around loading gate & a gold dbl wire sighting notch on upper tip of hammer. All of engraved patterns have a punch dot background & the vignettes a very fine shaded background. Top of back strap has a large flower blossom. CONDITION: As new. Appears to be unfired, retains virtually all of its pristine custom finish. Crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. Grips do not appear to have come with this gun but are fine & clean with good edges & retain a beautiful mellow ivory color. 4-57505 JR268 (3,500-6,500)
RARE COLT MODEL D POCKET NO. 1 BABY PATERSON REVOLVER. Cal. 28. SN 41. Very rare, this fine Baby Paterson is one of 500 made in period 1837-38. It has 3-3/4″ oct bbl with German Silver front sight, narrow silver band at muzzle with a wide silver band on top flat behind sight & a narrow & wide silver band at cylinder end on top three flats that do not wrap around bottom. There is a medium sized silver band on bottom three flats just in front of bbl lug. Engraved bbl address reads “Patent Arms Mfg. Co. Paterson N.J. – Colt’s Pt.-“. Wedge slot has thick raised borders & wedge is unnumbered appearing to have been filed down in area where a number should be. It has 5-shot square back cylinder with centaur scene. Frame is blue with a wide & narrow silver band around recoil shields & it has smooth, square butt, 1-pc walnut grip. Serial number was observed on back of cylinder, cylinder turning ring, side of trigger, inside back strap & inside front strap. As noted a partial “1” is visible on inside face of bbl lug. There is no number on grip. It is noted that there is a flat hammer spring screwed to inside of thick part of the front strap vs. the V-type hammer spring on another Baby Paterson also in this auction. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, matching numbers as noted above. Bbl, as noted above, retains about 85% orig blue, strong in sheltered areas, thin elsewhere with sharp edge wear. Cylinder is a blue/gray patina & retains about 90% centaur rolled scene. Frame retains 75-80% orig blue, strong & bright in sheltered areas, thinning to patina elsewhere with recoil shields mostly a medium brown patina with blue in sheltered areas. Hammer has a repaired nose with pitting on sides. Backstrap, with its blank rectangular silver-plate, is a thin blue/brown patina. Grip is sound with minor nicks & scratches & retains most of a professionally restored finish. Mechanics are fine, somewhat worn bore with pitting in grooves. 4-57574 (50,000-100,000)
RARE EARLY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 colt. SN 30401. Nickel finish 7-1/2″ bbl with one line block letter address, second type ejector rod housing with bulls eye ejector rod head. It has blued screws, trigger & cylinder pin and full checkered 1-pc ivory grip. It is engraved in period New York style patterns with about 60% coverage, foliate arabesque patterns with zig zag lines, some with dots, on the various parts. The top of the back strap has the Nimschke style fan with stars on each side of the frame at the bbl. The caliber is marked on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. The hammer is case colored but appears to be orig to this revolver. Accompanied by a colt factory letter for this revolver with the bbl length and type of stocks not listed. It states that the finish was blue and it was shipped December 30, 1876 to “John P. Moores Sons New York, New York”, in a shipment of 50 same type guns. CONDITION: Overall retains about 95% strong orig nickel with some slight losses at the muzzle and front of the cylinder. There is some light flaking in the flutes and on the grip frame. There is a series of small nicks and dings on the bottom of the bbl by the base pin. Screws retain most of their orig blue with some slightly battered slots. Grip shows light to moderate wear with numerous age lines and retains a mellow ivory patina. Hammer retains traces of orig case colors and the trigger dark blue. Will not hold in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-57515 JR302 (30,000-50,000)
FACTORY ENGRAVED EARLY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 48207. Extremely early engraved Colt with 4-13/16″ bbl, relocated modified front sight with rampant colt hard rubber grips. This revolver is sparsely engraved in very early style with about “D” coverage of scattered light arabesque patterns. It has a second type ejector rod housing that has been reduced to 3-3/4″ from the orig 4″ and has a replaced screw. The threaded hole extends into the bore and the orig ejector housing screw was apparently bushed at one time which is now gone leaving a second larger hole close to the muzzle. The current ejector rod housing is one of the rare serial numbered variety that has the number 14 near the hole. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver, bbl length not listed, with nickel finish, pearl grips & factory engraving. It was shipped June 25, 1878 to B. Kittredge & Company Cincinnati, Ohio in a shipment of six same type guns. CONDITION: Fair. No orig finish remains, being very worn and cleaned with thin engraving patters and retaining a cleaned gray patina with very fine surface pitting. The base pin screw is a replacement and the other screws are battered. Grips, not orig to this revolver, are worn nearly completely smooth and have a repaired crack in the right side. The hammer will not hold in the safety notch or at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Worn dark bore with good rifling. Note: This revolver is unsafe to fire. In this cataloguer’s opinion to do so would blow the ejector rod housing off the bbl and endanger the shooter. 4-57759 JR333 (2,000-3,000)
INSCRIBED COLT 3RD MODEL U.S. DRAGOON REVOLVER. Cal 44. SN 16965. All visible numbers matching. 7-½” part oct. bbl engraved “C. L. DRAGOONS” on the upper right flat of the bbl. This is for the Connecticut Light Dragoons. A silver plaque has been inlaid in the left side of the grip, engraved with the initials “T.F.”. The bbl has a two leaf sight dovetailed across the rear of the bbl marking. The frame is cut for a shoulder stock and has the fourth screw added for support. The bbl. and loading assembly have been refinished. The frame and backstrap have a black coating. CONDITION: There is considerable battering on the bbl apparently random. Front of the frame shows work which has partially obscured the marking on the left side. Grips have been filled and refinished. Cylinder scene is good with the “MODEL U. x. M. R./COLx ‘S PATENT” mostly readable and about half of the scene remaining. Mechanically fine. 4-58338 (7,000-12,000)
*BEAUTIFUL FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 349148. Late pre-war sgl action with 5-1/2″ bbl, orig thick front sight & 1-line block letter address. Frame has rampant Colt without circle & 2-line patent dates. Serial number is marked properly on right side of front & back straps under grip. Fitted with beautiful replacement pearl grips with a deep relief carved full body buffalo on right side. Frame, cylinder, bbl & backstrap have about Class C factory engraving consisting of about 25% coverage of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cylinder has patterns between flutes & a wavy border near back edge. Top of backstrap has a ‘V’ shaped design with an arabesque pattern in center of backstrap. It has another ‘V’ shaped design on bottom of heel with light patterns around trigger guard & front trigger guard screw. Please note: Accompanying this lot is a Colt factory letter stating that this gun originally had hard rubber grips and was shipped to Albert Steinfeld & Co, Tuscon, AZ on July 7, 1926 in a shipment of 1 as factory order 11275/1. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired but very, very little. Retains virtually all of its orig factory nickel with some light edge wear & a cleaned spot on back strap with a spot or two of very fine pitting. There are also some spots of pitting under left grip. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a spot or two of light pitting. 4-57510 JR265 (17,500-27,500)
*ENGRAVED LATE PRODUCTION COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Long Colt. SN S13501A. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl & 1-pc ivory grip with very deep relief carved buffalo head on the left side with ruby eyes. This fine sgl action is spectacularly engraved in near full coverage, “C” to “D” coverage, by Colt Custom Shop engraver, Denise Thirion, & is signed “DT” on left side of frame just below rampant Colt. Engraving patterns consist of the styles of a number of Colt master engravers such as Helfricht & Nimschke. Incorporating their patterns, along with some of her own, Ms. Thirion has created a true masterpiece with intertwined foliate arabesque patterns superb fine punch dot background with fine crosshatch patterns on cylinder, small fans on left shoulder of backstrap, Nimschke’s demon dog on top of backstrap with Helfricht’s square & dot patterns in various places, notably a large pattern on backstrap. She has also included the wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Sides of front sight have a beautiful fan pattern with another small fan around front trigger guard screw. Patterns are nice & tight with good flow & minimal chisel marks. Grip is exquisitely carved from a sgl piece of elephant ivory. Screw heads are also engraved & they, along with trigger, base pin & ejector rod head, are all niter blued. Accompanied by a letter of authentication from Jim Alaimo of Nutmeg Sports, Manchester, CT, authenticating this revolver as one that he had created by Ms. Thirion. CONDITION: As new. Appears to be unfired, retains virtually all of its fine orig nickel finish. Grip is sound with sharp edges & a light ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-57526 JR404 (5,000-10,000)
SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED TIFFANY GRIPPED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 180417. Wonderful, silver-plated army with 8″ rnd bbl, silver-plated, brass trigger guard & front strap with a wonderful orig Tiffany grip with a scarce Civil War battle scene on each side, a trophy of arms on backstrap & a large raised American eagle on bottom of butt. There is a blank oval near top of backstrap. Bbl, cylinder, frame, hammer & trigger guard are beautifully engraved, probably by Nimschke, with foliate & floral arabesque patterns & typical wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Cylinder has full coverage matching engraving on raised area with dash & dot borders at front & back edges. Bbl has additional flourishes & a dbl border at muzzle. One unusual feature of this revolver is that rammer is numbered with last four digits of serial number in very tiny numbers longitudinally & are exposed when rammer is operated. This undoubtedly was intended as a presentation to someone of importance, very likely from Civil War. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching except wedge which is unnumbered. Bbl & rammer retain about 75% orig silver plating with balance a cleaned metal color. Frame retains 25-30% orig silver-plating, mostly on recoil shield area with balance a cleaned metal color. Hammer retains virtually all of its strong orig silver-plating. Trigger guard & front strap retain about 75% orig silver. Grip is very fine retaining most of its orig silver with some under plating showing through. Cylinder retains about 50% orig silver with balance cleaned bright. Screws are fine with one or two slipped slots. Mechanics are fine with bright shiny bore. A truly beautiful & seldom encountered Colt. 4-56528 JR219 (17,500-27,500)
*WONDERFUL ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 351887. Nickel finish, 4-3/4″ bbl with Wilbur Glahn’s “B” or “C” engraving patterns consisting of flowing intertwined foliate and floral patterns with a very fine punch dot background. The pattern at the top of the back strap, on the recoil shield and loading gate have Glahn’s signature “V” patterns with decorative flourishes between the flutes on the cylinder and various parts of the revolver. This pattern is virtually identical to that found on single action number 349681 as pictured on page 574 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two, Wilson. It is fitted with spectacular 1-pc pearl grip with a raised carved Mexican eagle with snake on the right side and the initials “RGG” on the left side. The last two digits of the SN appear on the back of the cylinder. This is truly a fine piece of work worthy of the finest collection. Accompanying this lot will be a Colt factory letter listing this gun as having pearl stocks with Mexican Eagle and “RGG” in black enamel on the left stock, and factory engraved. The gun was shipped to Shelton Payne Arms Co, El Paso, TX on July 25, 1928 in a shipment of 1 and factory order 14984/1. CONDITION: Extremely fine, has been fired but retains virtually all of its orig factory finish. There are minor losses on the front of the cylinder with light handling marks on the bbl, cylinder and front strap. Front and back straps have been lightly cleaned with a tiny spot of pitting on the back strap. Screws have had a screwdriver in the slots with the trigger screw slipped a little with some loss of nickel. Mechanics are crisp. Bright shiny bore. 4-57509 JR301 (20,000-35,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MARK IV SERIES 80 GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal 45 ACP. SN FN07200E. Nickel finish with usual National Match Gold Cup configuration, silver medallion smooth ivory grips. It has partridge front sight & Elliason adjustable rear sight with skeleton hammer & beavertail grip safety. It is engraved with B or C coverage foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Accompanied by one nickel magazine & orig molded carry case with owner’s manual. CONDITION: New in box, probably unfired. 4-55591 ET6 (1,000-1,500)
WONDERFUL NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 24534. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass grip frame & 1-pc smooth ivory grips. Bbl, frame, hammer & grip frame are wonderfully Nimschke engraved in his classic New York style patterns consisting of intertwined foliate & floral arabesque designs with classic wolf’s head on each side of hammer nose. Top of back strap has a very deep relief classic Nimschke fan with deep relief patterns at heel & on trigger bow. Cylinder has a scallop & dot border pattern at front & back edges of Ormsby naval battle scene rolled engraving. CONDITION: Very fine. No orig finish remains on bbl, frame & cylinder having all been cleaned to a bright metal color. Backstrap, front strap & trigger bow are a medium brass patina with strong silver plating on buttstrap & flats of trigger guard. Cylinder is clean & retains 85-90% orig naval battle scene with crisp nipples & six prominent safety pins. Grips are fantastic with good strong edges & a wonderful mellow ivory patina with a few age lines in butt. Crisp mechanics & strong bore with some shine & moderate pitting. 4-56527 JR218 (12,500-22,500)
*BEAUTIFUL ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44-40. SN 356967. Blue & case colored with 7-1/2″ bbl & 2-pc smooth pearl grips. It has Class A engraving with light flourishes of foliate arabesque patterns on frame, bbl, ejector rod housing & cylinder between flutes. Each flute has a small arrow engraved at rear radius. Backstrap has a couple of small flourishes with others on trigger guard & buttstrap. Accompanied by its orig, dark maroon, hinged lid, 1-pc box containing shooting suggestions & a wire handle brush. It has usual white on black end label with an over label marked “PEARL” & a rectangular black & white label diagonally across end & top that states “ENGRAVED”. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver with engraving & pearl stocks shipped June 27, 1939 to “G. Van Guilder, Sun Valley, Idaho”. Ex-Mel Torme Collection. Alaso accompanies is a notarized statement by George Strickler indicating this was a 1st prize trophy won by him at the Pioneer Pistol Shoot held at Sun Valley,, ID, July 21, 1940. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Near new, appears to be unfired. Retains nearly all of its brilliant orig finish. Case colors are slightly faded & there is light muzzle edge wear with some thinning at end of ejector rod housing. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Grips have lots of fire with great color, are not a particularly good fit & probably are not orig to this revolver. Box shows moderate wear on edges with a few broken corners & broken front edge on lid. Labels are moderately soiled & yellowed but completely intact. 4-57500 (50,000-70,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SERIES 70 GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 38 Super. SN 70S50303. Blued finish, 5″ bbl, fixed sights, checkered gold medallion walnut grips. It has style B engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Accompanied by original box, manual & magazine. CONDITION: New in box. Probably unfired. Styrofoam liner has a little damage. Moderate wears & damage to box. 4-55594 ET1 (1,000-1,500)
SPECTACULAR CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 96941. Full silver finish with 4″ oct bbl engraved “SAML COLT” bbl address. It has Gustave Young’s deluxe, extra finish engraving with about full coverage on frame & sides of hammer with full coverage on rammer pivot. It has his trademark demon dog & flower blossoms incorporated throughout engraving patterns. Sides of hammer nose have his trademark wolf’s heads. Top of backstrap has a large fan with scalloped borders & there are flourishes at top & bottom of backstrap. Buttstrap is nearly full coverage engraved with trigger bow & front flat of trigger guard engraved to match. Serial numbers on frame & bbl lug are surrounded by a cloud shaped pattern. Screw heads are all engraved as are ends of wedge. Stagecoach holdup scene rolled on cylinder has been enhanced with engraving. It has a spectacular 1-pc ivory grip with deep relief carved American eagle & shield motif with the eagle clutching olive branches & arrows in its talons surmounting American shield with “LIBERTY” in a raised carved scroll. Accompanied by an orig, brown velvet lined, walnut casing compartmented in bottom for revolver, a dbl sided pocket sized flask with spread winged American eagle & shield motif with a ribbon in its beak imprinted “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (see Riling #769), a steel 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter & “L.C.” on right side. There is a small compartment containing lead balls & a corner compartment with a key that doesn’t fit. Corners have added German silver reinforcements. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching including wedge, probably unfired. Retains virtually all of its fine, strong, orig silver plate with light handling & storage marks. Cylinder scene is crisp with about 98% remaining. There is some light pitting on hammer nose. Grips are extremely fine, showing light high point wear on carved side. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Case has a grain check in lid, otherwise is completely sound & retains about all of its orig varnish. Lid lining is fine. Bottom lining is moderately faded & worn with damage from front sight & hammer spur with some partitions reglued. Flask retains 40-50% orig finish & mold about 70% orig finish. 4-58080 JR433 (12,500-17,500)
*RARE COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 350964. Blue & case colored with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address, orig thick sight with 2-pc ox head ivory grips. It has Level 2 (Class B) factory engraving by master engraver Wilbur Glahn. Engraving consists of almost full frame coverage of foliate & floral arabesque patterns with a stippled background. Bbl has about 3″ flourishes on each side with other flourishes on front sides of frame & with Mr. Glahn’s trademark “V” pattern at top of backstrap & on loading gate. Accompanied by its orig dark maroon, hinged lid, 1-pc, cardboard box with standard blue & white end label with a small white & black over label marked “IVORY BLUE” & end of lid has a black & white label “ENGRAVED”. Orig serial number is penciled on bottom. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter fully identifying this revolver with ivory grips, Level 2 engraving, sold to: “J.D. O’Keefe, W.P. Simpson & J. Rodriguez” & shipped to “A. Baldwin & Company New Orleans, Louisiana” on Feb. 3, 1927 in a shipment of one gun. CONDITION: Extremely fine, near new, probably unfired. Retains 96-97% bright orig factory finish with light muzzle edge wear & wear on end of ejector rod housing. There is a spot on each side of cylinder of light wear, apparently from box burn. Grips are very fine, show moderate wear & probably are not orig to this revolver. Crisp mechanics, brilliant shiny bore. Box shows heavy edge wear with broken & taped edges & corners. Labels are mostly intact. 4-57501 (50,000-70,000)
*COLT EL TORO GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 38 Super. SN ELT042. Blued finish, standard sights, pearlite grips with laser engraved bull on both sides of pearlite grips. It has engine turned trigger, hammer, and safety & slide release. There are two magazines accompanying pistol. Also accompanied by an Uncle Mike’s black nylon tactical holster with pocket containing one of the two magazines. CONDITION: Like new, possibly unfired. Retains about 98-99% orig finish to metal & grips. Holster is just about new. 4-55579 ET28 (700-900)
ENGRAVED COLT 4-1/2″ OCTAGON BARREL CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 RF. SN 6277. Factory engraved factory conversion with 4-1/2″ oct bbl without ejector rod, brass cone front sight with – line New York address. It has 5-shot round rebated cylinder with stagecoach hold up scene, silver plated brass grip frame and deluxe burled walnut 1-pc grip. The frame, bbl, back strap, butt strap and trigger guard are beautifully engraved in early foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on the frame and sides of the hammer. The bbl has about 75% coverage on the sides and two top side flats. The hammer nose has the typical wolf’s head motif on each side. The top of the back strap has a Gustav Young style fan with arabesque patterns at the top and heel with more on the butt strap, trigger guard and front of the frame. The edge of the trigger guard has a wavy border pattern. The three serial numbers on the bottom all have a small “E” stamped below signifying factory engraving. This revolver is one of about 4,000 made in the period 1873-75. CONDITION: Extremely fine. All matching except the wedge which is numbered “0012”. Bbl retains 95-96% glossy bright orig blue slightly thinned over the top. Cylinder retains 93-95% glossy orig blue with minor fine pitting on the front and front edge and retains 96-98% stagecoach hold up scene. Frame and hammer retain virtually all of their strong bright orig case colors, slightly faded. Trigger guard retains about 95% orig silver and the back strap about 60%. Grip is sound with a few scattered minor nicks and retains virtually all of its orig finish with only very light edge wear. Crisp mechanics. Strong bore with some shine and moderate to heavy pitting. 4-57556 JR322 (10,000-15,000)
FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH NEW MEXICO CONNECTION. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 117006. Nickel finish, maybe silver, with 4-3/4″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, 2-line address with 3-line patent markings. It has rampant Colt hard rubber grips. The cylinder has a curious number “742NN” stamped on the front around the cylinder pin. Revolver is beautifully engraved by Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on sides of frame & about 3-1/4″ up bbl. It has his typical sunburst on left recoil shield & loading gate with a squiggly line fan at top of backstrap. Backstrap itself is engraved with squiggly line arabesque patterns & six starbursts with Old English initials “F.J.D.” Buttstrap & trigger guard are engraved to match. Cylinder has a small fan on lands between flutes & a zigzag & dot pattern at rear edge. Top strap has zigzag & comma pattern on each side & ejector rod housing has zigzag & dot patterns. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as found with exception of grips. Letter lists pearl stocks. Shipped March 29, 1886 to E.J. Post & Co., “Albuquerque, Territory of New Mexico”. CONDITION: Fine. Overall retains about 75% strong orig nickel or silver with oxidation in sheltered areas. It has heavy muzzle edge wear & wear down sides of bbl & ejector rod housing. Front strap is about half bare metal & cylinder retains about 75% nickel. Grips are turning chocolate & show heavy wear. Timing is off & half cock doesn’t work. Safety notch & half cock will not hold. Easily repaired by a competent gunsmith. See cataloguer for a recommendation. Strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-57894 JR462 (12,500-17,500)
*CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT JUNIOR SEMI-AUTO PISTOLS. Cal. 25 ACP. SN 120197 & 120198. Spanish made pocket pistols for Colt. Engraved nickel finish, 2” bbls, checkered walnut grips, standard sights. Accompanied by their orig wood grain 2-pc boxes with owner’s pamphlets. CONDITION: Extremely fine. As new, possibly unfired. Retain about all of their orig nickel to both pistols. Grips are fine. Mechanics & bores are fine. Boxes have slightly worn edges, otherwise are fine. 4-55609 ET31 (600-800)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 CF. SN 41377. Beautiful conversion with 41/2″ round bbl, cone front sight and New York address with the factory mounted ejector. It has a 5 shot round rebated cylinder with silver plated brass grip frame and 1-pc burled walnut grip. The frame, sides of the bbl, back strap, butt strap and trigger guard are beautifully engraved in late vine style, probably in the Nimschke shop and consists of full coverage on the frame, conversion ring and sides of the hammer. The hammer nose has the usual wolf’s head patterns. The loading gate has a very fine, detailed fan pattern. The engraving on the bbl extends over half way on both sides and meets with a flourish at the top. The ends of the wedge are engraved to match. The top of the back strap has a deep relief engraved fan pattern with scalloped border and arabesque patterns at the top and heel. The butt strap trigger bow and front end of the frame are in engraved to match. Adjacent to the serial numbers on the frame and trigger guard are the lightly stamped initials “IE” with only an “E” on the butt strap. The “IE” is generally accepted to mean ivory engraved. This is one of the approximately 6,500 police conversions done in the period 1873-75. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. All matching except the wedge which is numbered to another revolver. Bbl retains bout 75% glossy bright orig blue with the loss areas flaked to a light patina with some light fine surface pitting. Ejector rod housing is a gray patina. Cylinder retains about 50% thin orig blue with a chemical spot bare metal and retains about 90% stage coach hold up scene. Frame retains about 90% brilliant orig case colors slightly thinned on the left recoil shield with loading gate gray patina. Hammer retains virtually all its brilliant orig case colors. Grip frame retains 70-80% thinned orig silver-plating, strong around the trigger guard. Grip is sound with light nicks and scratches and minor edge wear and retains most of its orig varnish. Grip has the last four digits of the serial number in the back strap channel. Mechanics are crisp. Bright and shiny bore with a few scattered spots of light pitting. 4-57547 (10,000-14,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1877 LIGHTNING DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Colt. SN 52616. Beautiful blue & case colored with 6″ bbl, 2-line Hartford address, half moon front sight & “COLT D.A. 38” in an etched panel on left side. It has 3-line patent dates with beautiful, early style, checkered, 1-pc, bird head, rosewood grip. It is factory engraved with foliate arabesque patterns having about 40% coverage overall. Left recoil shield has a fine sunburst pattern which is repeated in smaller scale on loading gate. Top of back strap has a 7-pointed fan with wave & dot patterns on sides of trigger guard. Same patterns are found on ejector rod housing in two places, bottom of trigger guard & down both sides of top strap. Bbl etched panel has a very fine dbl line engraved border. Back strap has a light engraved arabesque panel. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver, not listing the type of stocks & states it was shipped Sept. 25, 1884 to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, New York in a 1-gun shipment. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Near new, has been fired but very little. Bbl retains about 95% strong bright orig blue with slight thinning at muzzle end. Ejector rod housing retains 75-80% strong orig blue with two spots of pitting & outer edge flaked to a light patina. Frame retains about all of its orig case colors, slightly faded on top strap & left side and strong & bright elsewhere. Hammer retains bright polish on sides with some fine pitting & most of its orig niter blue on back edge. Grip frame retains about 60% strong orig blue with trigger bow & backstrap a plum blue patina with thin front strap. Grip is extremely fine with light diamond point wear, retaining most of its orig finish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with one or two tiny spots near muzzle. 4-57587 JR275 (10,000-15,000)
*EXCEPTIONALLY RARE ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAYED MARLIN MODEL 90 TOM MIX PRESENTATION OVER/UNDER SHOTGUN. Cal. 20 ga. SN 1390. Spectacular little Marlin with 26″ bbls, choked MOD/IMP-CYL with matted top and single bead. It has extractor and dbl triggers. Receiver is spectacularly engraved with full-panel vignettes of a cowboy on a bucking horse, another cowboy on a horse, and a third cowboy holding a rope on the left side. The right side is equally elaborately engraved on the full panel with “TOM MIX” in script inlayed in gold, surrounded by engraved cowboy hat, Colt six-shooter, & a belt & holster rig. It has beautiful border patterns with foliate arabesque patterns on the forend iron, bottom of the receiver, & trigger guard. The forearm screws are also engraved, & the opening lever and top tang are engraved to match. The engraving extends about 3-1/14″ on each side of the bbl. It is mounted with exceptionally figured burled, shell grain, American walnut with fleur-de-lis carved and checkered forearm and semi pistol-grip stock, 14-3/8″ over an old Red Head waffle pad.
This shotgun was a rare Marlin special presentation given to Tom Mix in appreciation for his support of Marlin’s gun handling & safety program for American youth and also for promoting Marlin’s Model 100-S “Tom Mix Special” .22 rifle. One of these rifles is being sold separately in this auction. Accompanied by a Marlin factory letter signed by William S. Brophy identifying this shotgun and the reason for its presentation. It is well known that very few Marlin factory presentations were ever given out, notably only to Tom Mix and the equally famous Annie Oakley. Also accompanied by a large compilation of biographical information on Tom Mix, the man and movie star. He was born in 1880 in Pennsylvania and died in 1940 in an automobile accident in Arizona. At one time he was considered one of, if not the, wealthiest actors in Hollywood, earning as much as $20,000 per week at the height of his career. Pages 328, 329, & 330 of Marlin Firearms, Brophy, pictures the Model 100-S along with photographs of Tom Mix and the boys’ safe shooting program. Page 416 of the same book has 3 photographs of this very shotgun, including the Red Head pad. Page 540 of the same book has another picture of this shotgun stating that the presentation was made in 1937. The last line on page 541 and the first paragraph on page 543 of this book states that “On special occasions, Marlin has had one-of-a-kind engraved pieces done. Examples of some of these are illustrated in the section covering presentation firearms. The ones most deserving of recognition are the Annie Oakley and the Tom Mix guns. The Annie Oakley was engraved by Conrad Ulrich. The Tom Mix shotgun was engraved and gold-inlaid by two employees of a stationery engraving company that did not do many jobs in steel.” This shotgun is again pictured on page 610 of this book with more information about its presentation and names the engravers as Charles Preiss and Dan Cavanaugh of Lehman Brothers Company of New Haven, CT. Mr. Brophy considered this to be one of Marlin’s premier firearms, and there are more pictures and articles in this book than any other gun, including the Annie Oakley rifle. It is believed this is the only known Marlin presentation gun in private hands. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Near new. May have been fired, but if so, very little. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish to both metal and wood with only a small rub on the bbl and a few light dings and scratches, and one small bruise in the forearm of the wood. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bores. 4-57764 JR646 (70,000-100,000)
EXCEEDINGLY RARE & STUPENDOUS PAIR OF SMITH & WESSON NO. 1 SECOND ISSUE SPUR TRIGGER GOLD INLAID REVOLVERS, ENGRAVED & PRESENTATION INSCRIBED BY GUSTAVE YOUNG FOR JOHN A. RICE. Cal. 22 Short. SN 68901 & 68902. These phenomenal revolvers are well known in Smith & Wesson collecting circles having passed through a number of fine collections and dealers including the marvelous Press Collection and equally famous the Locke Collection, and are pictured in Parsons’ book on Smith & Wessons, page 23, and page 63 of The Locke Collection book. These revolvers were ordered by a famous hotelier, John A. Rice, in 1865, just at the end of the Civil War. They are virtually identical with what is probably the finest example of Gustave Young engraving. The engraving consists of very delicate intertwined foliate arabesque patterns and incorporate Young’s trademark wolf’s head on each side of both revolvers. These wolf’s heads are in far greater detail and delicacy than any others previously observed. The engraving also is full coverage on both sides of each hammer. There is a gold band inlaid at the muzzle and border gold wire on each side of the bbl flat as well as gold wire patterns in bands on each cylinder with gold wire outlining the patent dates. Both have beautifully fitted pearl grips. The back strap of #68901 is inscribed “J.A.R. 1865.” The back strap of #68902 is inscribed “J.A.R. to / C.C.W. 1865.”
Mr. Rice was the proprietor of the Sherman House Hotel in Chicago, IL at the time he ordered these revolvers. He was personally acquainted with D.B. Wesson apparently from childhood in Massachusetts in the 1840’s. It is reported that on March 4, 1876 Mr. Rice wrote Mr. Wesson a letter requesting that Mr. Wesson forward one of his largest size pocket pistols with tools & case. Mr. Wesson immediately responded and gifted Mr. Rice the newest model, a 38 single action 1st model revolver, serial number 35. Mr. Rice responded to the unexpected gift by inviting Mr. Wesson to be his guest at the Globe Hotel in Philadelphia while the Wessons were attending the Centennial Exposition. This friendship apparently explains how Mr. Rice was able to order and immediately receive attention at Smith & Wesson when Smith & Wesson was still trying to recover from being severely backlogged with war time production.
On March 10, 1865, Smith & Wesson selected this pair of revolvers and fitted them with high grade pearl stocks. Not having a factory engraver, they contacted Gustave Young to do the engraving, which he readily agreed to. At that time, Young was Colt’s engraver, however it appears he was willing to take on additional work and agreed to engrave and embellish these revolvers for $50.00. Smith & Wesson agreed and sent along the revolvers which were finished in short order and returned to Smith & Wesson where the bbls and cylinders were blued and the frames gold plated. They were shipped on April 5, 1865 to Mr. Rice in Chicago by Adams Express and invoiced for the princely sum of $100.00. Mr. Rice was so pleased with their appearance that he immediately ordered a third one for another partner, David A. Gage. The third revolver was received by Mr. Rice about June 9, 1865 and was invoiced for $50.00. It appears that these revolvers are the first work done by Gustave Young for Smith & Wesson and certainly some of his finest. Apparently he regarded them as test samples to solicit future work. In 1868 he moved his family to Springfield, Mass and became the factory engraver which lasted until 1912.
These revolvers are accompanied by an unpublished 10-page article by Roy G. Jinks fully detailing most the above information. Also accompanying is a large packet of copies of letters between Rice and Smith & Wesson and between Smith & Wesson and Gustave Young. Also accompanying is a copy of a sketch of Mr. Rice, a biography of Mr. Rice, a copy of an article regarding Mr. Rice that appeared in the Chicago Tribune April 18, 1888, the day before he died. These revolvers are also accompanied by a custom Lucite display case. These important, historic revolvers have been illustrated in various publications including “Smith & Wesson Revolvers” by John E. Parsons page 23; “Steel Canvas” by R. L. Wilson, page 38, and “The William M. Locke Collection” by Frank Sellers, illustrated on page 364. These guns were originally in the famous Carl Press collection.
CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new, appear to be unfired. #68901 retains virtually all of its beautiful high gloss blue and fine gold plating, along with bright case colors on the hammer. Right grip has a tiny chip at the heel. #68902 also retains most of its brilliant original factory finish with some fine speckles of surface etching on the bbl and toning to plum on the cylinder. Hammer case colors are dark and the left grip has a tiny chip in the edge. Both revolvers have crisp mechanics and brilliant shiny bores. 4-57541 JR584 (175,000-225,000)
RARE PRESENTATION MARTIALLY MARKED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 112066. Fine DFC inspected Colt with 7 1/2″ bbl, slightly altered front sight, block letter 1-line address with 3-line patent dates & “U.S.” on the left side of frame. Has second-type ejector rod housing with bulls eye ejector rod head. It has orig 1-pc walnut grip with an unusual curved silver presentation plate screwed to the left side. The presentation is engraved in period script and states “Presented to / Hon. Charles Evans Hughes / by Harry Carey / First to limit armament / NOV. 12. – 1921.” “DFC” inspector initials are found on the bbl, frame, bottom of grip, and cylinder with other inspector initials on other parts. Charles Evans Hughes was a Governor of New York, Justice of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice under Franklin D. Roosevelt, and a Republican nominee for the Presidency and was later appointed Secretary of State by President-elect Harding. This information was found in a February 20, 1921 Amarillo Daily News Article with dateline of St. Augustine, Fl., which has been misplaced since this revolver was last offered for sale. CONDITION: Very good to fine. All matching including bbl and cylinder. Grip was not pulled to determine if it was numbered. Bbl retains 30-40% orig blue, mostly under ejector rod housing with the balance a light to medium brown patina. Frame retains traces of orig case colors with the balance a fine even gray/brown patina. Hammer, a more recent replacement, retains about 90% orig case colors. Trigger guard and back strap retain blue in sheltered areas with the balance a plumy/brown patina. Grip is sound with the outline of a cartouche on the right side, shows moderate to heavy wear with nicks and scratches and traces of orig finish. Hammer will not hold at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with a few spots of scattered light pitting. 4-56626 JR487 (8,000-12,000)
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL MATCH DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 912043. Blue finish with 6″ bbl, ramp mounted, partridge front sight with fully adjustable rear sight. Fitted with smooth Colt medallion pearl grips. Revolver is covered with about Class B engraving with about 60% coverage, fine foliate & floral, and arabesque patterns with a fine stippled background. It has extra polished royal blue. Accompanied by an orig chocolate/brown, hinged-lid box with warranty card & safety pamphlet. Also accompanied by a copy of an email from Kathy Hoyt, Colt Historian dated Sept. 24, 2003 wherein she identifies this revolver with royal blue finish, but indicates that it was supposed to be inscribed to Vice-President Richard M. Nixon (which was apparently not done) and that it was charged to the Arms Sales Expense and shipped to F.A. Roff, Jr. July 23, 1956. Mr. Roff was President of Colt at that time. CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new. Retains virtually all of its orig royal blue factory finish, appears unfired. Grips are wonderful with lots of fire & colors. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Box is equally fine. 4-57040 JR564 (5,000-10,000)
*FABULOUS CASED JOHN ADAMS ENGRAVED WINCHESTER MODEL 21 DBL BBL SHOTGUN. Cal. 12 ga. SN 3201. Skeet grade 21 with 26″ bbls listed with WS1/WS2 chokes but now fitted with Briley choke tubes. It has concave matted rib, dbl silver beads, ejectors & sgl selective trigger. Mounted with highly figured very beautiful flame grain American walnut with checkered beavertail forearm & pistol grip stock with checkered side panels, 14″ over a checkered butt. Receiver, top lever, trigger guard & forend iron are spectacularly engraved by renowned Colt engraver, John Adams, with extremely, well-detailed, gold, flying pheasant on the left side; gold, flying partridge on the right side; a gold setter on point on the floorplate with two, gold, flying partridge & a gold spaniel’s head on the trigger bow. Side panels of the receiver have gold wire border with three flourishes of inlaid gold arabesque patterns with full coverage fill engraving of arabesque patterns. Forward side panels, top of the receiver & two spots on the floorplate have very beautiful bouquets of roses in pink & green gold. Dogs are in two color white & yellow gold and the bird dog on the floorplate is in a wonderfully detailed woodland scene. Top tang has the serial number and “SAFE” in gold. Trigger guard & trigger plate also have full coverage engraving with arrows & “L” and “R” in gold. Forend iron has gold wire borders. Standing breech, water table & inside the forend iron are jeweled. Engraving extends 1-7/8″ over the chamber areas of the bbls with gold wire & a rose in 3-color yellow, rose & green gold. Accompanied by several sheets of paperwork regarding this shotgun, one of which is a signed letter dated 4/26/90 from John J. Adams detailing how he engraved the gun in 1985 for a Mr. Gene Landurand. Another letter is from USRA stating that this shotgun was manufactured July 14, 1936 for stock. There is an invoice for installation of Briley chokes. There is a copy of a photograph of the current owner holding the gun on a pheasant hunt in South Dakota in October of 1987. Also accompanied by a light brown burgundy ultra suede lined trunk case with Pachmayr label in the lid. Front compartment contains three spare chokes, a pair of snap caps & choke tube wrench. Drop at the heel 2-7/16″, drop at the comb 1-1/2″. Weight: 7 lbs. 5.2 oz. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Retains virtually all of its great custom finish to both metal & wood. Has been fired very little. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores. Case is equally fine. 4-56858 JR590 (12,500-17,500)
WONDERFUL GUSTAVE YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 51822. Fine early Colt with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, silver plated grip frame with wonderful 1-pc ivory grip. Frame has full coverage, outstanding, Gustave Young engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with his trademark flower blossom on the left recoil shield and right side of the frame. Also with his trademark wolf or dog’s head incorporated into the engraving pattern on the left side of the frame & left side of the bbl lug. This is Young’s deluxe engraving with extra coverage on the sides of the hammer, which incorporates his wolf, or dog’s head on each side of the hammer nose. Both sides of the bbl lug, the top two side flats and both sides of the rammer pivot are matching engraved, all with a fine punch dot background. Top of the back strap has his trademark fan with arabesque patterns at the top & bottom, almost full coverage on the butt strap & trigger guard with wavy borders on each side of the trigger guard. It also has an extra touch of engraving around the serial numbers on the frame & bbl lug. CONDITION: Very fine. All matching except the wedge, which is numbered “01202”. Wedge screw and two of the frame screws are replacements. Bbl retains 65-75% thin orig blue with the areas of loss a medium patina. Rammer pivot retains dark case colors with rammer handle dinged & dented. Frame retains about 95% strong case colors, slightly darkened. Grip frame retains 95-97% orig silver-plating with some hammer marks on the butt strap. Cylinder retains 75-80% orig blue, moderately thinned with a few nicks on the front edge & a scattering of light patina. Four of the six safety pins are prominent. Grip has a couple of minor edge chips, otherwise retains a beautiful light mellow patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with heavy pitting. 4-57212 (35,000-45,000)
RARE ENGRAVED HISTORIC AND DOCUMENTED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER THAT BELONGED TO FAMOUS TEXAS RANGER, CAPT. FRANK HAMER WHO SUCCESSFULLY TRACKED DOWN BONNIE AND CLYDE. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 180260. Nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address with deep relief carved eagle head 2-pc pearl grips. Frame has full coverage engraving in New York Nimschke style consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Loading gate has a small, typical Nimschke fan with small arabesque patterns on the sides of the trigger guard. Bbl has nearly full-length 60-70% coverage arabesque patterns with an engraved wavy line in the ejector rod-housing gullet. Cylinder has foliate arabesque patterns on the islands between the flutes & has a scalloped & straight line back edge border with a dot & circle pattern. Back strap has Nimschke’s trademark fan at the top with light arabesque patterns down the back and on the trigger bow. Bottom of the butt is engraved, through the nickel in Old English script “W.H.F. to H.H”. Accompanied by several articles & letters from and about Capt. Hamer, one of which is a notarized statement from Capt. Hamer dated 15th July 1952 to Mr. Herbert Mills of San Antonio, TX. Capt. Hamer identifies this revolver by serial number and the engraving on the butt and states that it “was owned and used by William H. (Bill) Ford living in Llano, Texas, in the killing of Dolph White, in a gun fight.” He states that it had passed through a number of hands before it came into his possession but he definitely knew that it belonged to Bill Ford. He further states that he carried it for a number of years during his service as a peace officer. Another letter, dated April 25, 1957, lists three Frank Hamer guns being transferred by Mr. Mills to Herb Glass of Bullville, NY. There are copies of several pictures with Capt. Hamer standing among other rangers, politicians & movie stars including Tom Mix. There is a copy of The Texas Gun Collector publication of March 1953, which shows four sgl action Colts owned by Capt. Hamer, one of which is this revolver. Also accompanying is a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped November 5, 1898 as a blue gun with rubber stocks to Hartley & Graham of New York City in the “soft”. Letter states that it was to be engraved outside the factory. Also accompanying is a deluxe edition of the book in its slipcover, I’m Frank Hamer, Frost & Jenkins (The Life & Time of a Texas Peace Officer). Capt. Hamer’s commission as “Senior Captain of the Texas Rangers” is also being sold in this auction. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. Retains virtually all of its fine orig Nimschke nickel finish with a faint cylinder line & some light dulling of the cylinder and high points on the frame & grip. Grips have a small chip at the right heel with an age line on the left side, have great fire & colors with a wonderful aged patina. Screws retain most of their orig niter blue, as does the cylinder pin & hammer. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Book is as new. 4-56959 (95,000-125,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1903 HAMMER POCKET MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 38 ACP. SN 40218. Nickel finish with 4-1/2″ blued bbl and full coverage, after market, foliate arabesque pattern engraving. Engraving on the slide is deeper with a stippled or punch dot background. Front strap & back strap are engraved to match while the sides of the frame do not appear to have been finished. It is fitted with bone grips and has a full blue magazine. CONDITION: Good to very good. Overall retains about 95% nickel with a few scattered spots of pitting. Mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with some light frosting in the grooves. 4-57111 JR550 (500-800)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. A very nice Colt revolver with an inscription that was, likely, very lightly engraved and now is mostly indiscernible. I believe that some long and tedious study might reveal the name and regiment of this soldier. I will present here what is visible. Inscribed on the butt strap is “Capt. __ G_u_ge_/Co. C 7th Re______”. The revolver is a 4th Mod. 1851 Colt Navy with a 36 cal. and a 6-shot rnd cylinder, and a7-1/2” oct bbl. The back strap and trigger guard are of silver-plated brass with 1-pc walnut grips. SN 103774, all matched. CONDITION: A crisp example of this desirable Colt. No orig finish. Right side of the muzzle has holster wear. Some nicks near the cylinder pin wedge. Approx. 60% of the cylinder scene remains. Scars from the cylinder hand dragging across the surface. Markings are deep and clear. About 60% of the silver-plating remains on the trigger guard. Grip shows wear and still remains some of its orig varnish. Gun is mechanically good. A good eye, maybe a forensic study, of this inscription will reveal its Civil War history. 4-56372 CW101 (3,000-5,000)
WONDERFUL FRAMED ORIG TEXAS RANGER COMMISSION OF THEIR MOST FAMOUS RANGER, FRANK HAMER. Framed certificate with exposed image 10-3/4″ wide x 8-1/4″ high commissioning Frank A. Hamer as a senior captain of the Texas Rangers dated 2nd day of February 1931. Signed by Gov. Stanley & Sec. Of State Jane McCallum. It has an embossed State of Texas seal with red & blue ribbons. CONDITION: Parchment type paper that is slightly yellowed with age, otherwise crisp & clean with sharp lettering & all hand lettered information & signatures legible. Seal is fine, ribbons are slightly faded. Without doubt, one of the most rare of all documents regarding the Texas Rangers. This famous ranger is the man whose dogged determination led to the termination of the careers of two of the most famous outlaws of the 1920’s & 30’s, Bonnie Parker & Clyde Barrow. Capt. Hamer’s engraved & nickel plated Single Action Colt is also being sold in this auction. 4-56965 JR795 (8,000-10,000)
*COLT E-FRAME TOOL ROOM STANDARD FRAME ONLY. NSN. Partially completed forging of a revolver frame, still in the white, engraved on the left side “MOD-E” with an additional inscription “This Model Correct For / Outline Top And Bottom, Trigger guard / And Profile Holes in Stock. / Mortise Hole And Stock Pin Hole, / Correct To Master Plate, / App’d By Conference / 12-13-20”. Accompanied by a very old string tag that is yellowed and has identification writing. CONDITION: Fine. Unpolished with machine marks still visible on the outside surfaces. 4-57104 JR561 (500-1,000)
VERY RARE NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 180235. Spectacularly engraved Army with 8″ rnd bbl and wonderful 1-pc ivory grip. Bbl & frame are silver-plated while the rammer, cylinder, hammer & trigger are gold-plated. Frame & bbl are wonderfully engraved by L.D. Nimschke with full coverage on the sides & recoil shields of the frame and about 50% coverage on the bbl. Each side of the bbl has a long arrow piercing a figure “8” with light flourishes & rings at the muzzle. Top of the back strap has his typical Nimschke fan pattern with dbl line borders down the back strap & arabesque flourishes at the top & bottom with matching engraving on the butt strap. Bottom of the trigger guard and front end of the trigger have arabesque flourishes and the flat around the bbl serial number has a fan pattern. Bottom of the bbl, under the loading lever, is stamped “L.D.N.” Curiously, the cylinder is numbered “236”, one number higher than the serial number of this revolver, leading one to speculate that this may have been part of a consecutive numbered pair and somehow the cylinders were switched. Face of the cylinder has a tiny “L” inspector initial and a “B” on the back edge. Cylinder has all six safety pins. Recoil shield has a “B” and an “A”. This revolver appears to have been set up for a Thuer conversion as the loading slot on the bbl is longer & deeper, the hammer has a hardened insert in the face and the rammer handle has a threaded tip.
Accompanied by a copy of a letter dated Nov. 26, 1977 from Jackson Arms of Dallas, TX to Dr. R.L. Moore, Jr. of Philadelphia, Mississippi wherein he states that this revolver had been in the collection of noted firearms collector, Harry Garman, until about 1953, when Mr. Garman apparently, upon learning of his pending demise, gave this Colt to his oldest son, Harry, Jr., who subsequently asked Mr. Jackson to sell it for him. Mr. Jackson goes on to state that Mr. Garman related that this revolver was “found in a convent in Mexico wrapped in a blue Army officer’s uniform” along with an engraved 1861 Navy. Mr. Jackson stated that he bought the Navy and at the date of this letter still had it in his collection. Also accompanying is a copy of Mr. Garman’s obituary.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. Overall retains virtually all of its fine orig silver & gold-plating with light edge wear on the cylinder & rammer handle. Cylinder retains virtually all of its Ormsby naval battle scene. Grips have an age line on the butt of each side and retain a wonderful mellow patina, mostly on the left side, more white on the right side. Handspring is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-56957 JR434 (16,000-25,000)
EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 117011. Accompanied by three different Colt factory letters indicating shipped Jan. 12, 1886; factory engraved, blue finish, 4” bbl. Also included is a letter of authenticity from Ron Graham, noted co-author of A Study of the Sgl Action Army Revolver by Graham, Kopec and Moore in which he mentions this to be one of only nine known factory engraved, blued, ejectorless sgl actions. Graham also states, “This 4″ storekeeper (bbl legnth is actually 3-7/8”. It is not unusal to encounter factory fitted SA bbls that vary slightly from their “advertised” measurements…)”. It is a first style “fluted frame” Sheriffs with 1-pc, mother of pearl girps, and “C” style factory engraving. Frame has full coverage , early New York style engraving with foliate arabesque patterns and a fine punch dot background. Left recoil shield has a large sunburst pattern and the loading gate a smaller identical pattern. Bbl has engraving about 2-1/2” on each side. Top of the back strap has a Nimschke style fan with back strap, butt strap and bottom of the trigger guard intertwined arabesque patterns with triple dot clusters. Cylinder has arabesque flourishes on the islands between the flutes with a zigzag & dot pattern at the back edge that matches the back strap. CONDITION: Good to very good. Overall retains a dark silver/gray patina over all the surfaces with some very fine pitting thatis a little heavier onteh back strap. Bbl address is thin but legible. 3-line patent address is all legible. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. Grips are very fine with some age lines near the top right side and a couple more on the bottom and show great fire with some color. A very rare and colorful Sheriffs model. 4-56803 (17,500-32,500)
CONFEDERATE PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. A good, early, war Colt Navy with a period engraved presentation and butt strap of the revolver. The presentation reads as follows “Capt. R.P. Lester/Co. E 14th Regt. G.V.I.” all done in large Old English script. The Colt Model 1851 revolver is a 36 cal. revolver with a 6-shot cylinder and 6-7/16” oct bbl. SN 6791, all matched. Silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap with 1-pc walnut grips. One line New York City address. CONDITION: Gun has seen a great deal of use with no orig finish and bbl reduced to its present length. Retains a medium gray patina overall with no heavy pitting except to the face of the hammer. Cylinder retains about 20% of its rolled scene and about 60% of the silver-plating remains on the trigger guard and back strap. Mechanics are fine. Captain Lester’s obituary, dated December 5, 1902 states that he was born in Laurenceville, Gwinnett County, Georgia, on November 30, 1832 and married Mary J. Waddell in November 1855. He practiced as a lawyer until the opening of the Civil War when he raised a company of volunteers and was elected captain. The company was organized into the 14th GA Regiment and designated “Company E”. Captain Lester fought through the entire conflict and was the Colonel of the regiment when he attended Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9, 1865. Colonel Lester died on November 29, 1902. The 14th Georgia formed in July 1861 in Atlanta and served in Lee’s army of Northern Virginia. They fought in the Peninsula Campaign, Seven Pines, Fair Oaks, Cedar Mountain, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, and Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. A nice opportunity to own a Colt Navy with a Confederate presentation to a gallant southern officer. 4-57350 CW88 (12,000-14,000)
SPECTACULAR ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 193702. Usual configuration, nickel finish, with 8″ bbl, silver-plated brass trigger guard and iron back strap with fine smooth 1-pc ivory grip. Frame is wonderfully engraved with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns by L. D. Nimschke. Engraving extends 3-3/4″ up the bbl with flourishes around the muzzle and a dash & dot border around the bbl address. Hammer is full coverage engraved with wolf’s head & foliate arabesque patterns on both sides and shaded dolphin patterns on the top edge. Back strap has the typical Nimschke fan at the top with small arabesque flourishes & a scalloped border elsewhere. Butt strap has a scallop & dot border with light arabesque pattern & the trigger guard has arabesque flourishes with more around the trigger guard screw & a small fan engraved around the bbl lug serial number. Ends of the wedge are also engraved. Cylinder has dash cuts around the front & rear edges of the raised area. This is Nimschke’s deluxe coverage. Accompanied by a copy of a 4-page letter from R.L. Wilson, which indicates that this revolver will be featured in the “forthcoming The Colt Engraving Book”. Mr. Wilson concludes that this is late vine style engraving circa 1870 and is one of only two known to him. He states that this revolver is an important & rare Colt and is one of the most rare of all patterns and types of decoration on the 1860. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains 95-96% strong bright orig nickel with some minor flaking on the bbl lug cut outs and a spot or two on the bbl. Frame retains virtually of its orig nickel, as does the back strap with a couple of minor spots & light wear at the heel. Butt strap is a little rough with some pimpling & wear. Trigger guard retains about 70% orig silver. Cylinder is very fine with some fine pitting on the face & some minor flaking on the circumference and overall retains 96-97% orig strong nickel with about 97-98% Ormsby naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-56819 JR443 (17,500-27,500)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 RF. SN 479. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, orig front sight with 1-pc smooth ivory grip. It has a 2nd type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. Frame, bbl, cylinder & back strap are beautifully engraved in early New York style, probably by the Nimschke shop. Engraving is full coverage on both sides of the frame and is on the left recoil shield, over the top strap and on the islands between the cylinder flutes with wave & dot decorations at the rear edge. Forcing cone area of the frame is engraved differently on each side and the engraving extends about 3″ up the bbl & an inch on each side of the muzzle. Top of the back strap has a deep fan pattern with a light arabesque pattern extending up from the heel and another on the trigger bow. Ejector rod housing, loading gate & hammer are not engraved. Typically the early engraving coverage was only as extensive as the customer would pay. No set patterns were established until much later. This rev is pictured on p. 218 of The Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver and indicating shipment May 4, 1878 to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of 25 similar arms. Also accompanied by a letter from Ron Ogen, well known sgl action dealer, dated May 9, 1984 to Dr. Robert Quay. Entire letter discusses this revolver & states that the last noted collector who owned it was William L. Rogoski, but that it had been in a number of other well-known collections as well. Also accompanying is a copy of p. 19 of a publication dated June 1977 wherein this revolver is pictured with the statement that it was part of the author’s collection. CONDITION: Very fine plus. All matching including the bbl & cylinder. Overall retains about 50% strong orig nickel, primarily on the cylinder & in the sheltered areas with the balance cleaned to bright metal that now has a pleasing gray patina. There is light to moderate pitting on the bbl near the muzzle & front sight, otherwise the metal is mostly smooth. Cylinder pin is a modern replacement. Grips are smooth with numerous age lines & retain a wonderful golden mellow patina. Screws retain generous amounts of orig niter blue with the frame screws turned dull. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. 4-55131 JR393 (25,000-40,000)
EXTREMELY RARE CASED ENGRAVED COLT BABY DRAGOON REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 11686. Usual configuration with 5″ oct bbl, 2-line New York address, brass grip frame & square back trigger guard with deluxe flame grain walnut 1-pc grip. It has early Colt style engraving consisting of exhibition quality & coverage foliate arabesque patterns with full coverage on the frame and extensively over the bbl lug & rammer pivot. Muzzle & rear edge of the bbl lug have fine border engraving. Back strap, butt strap and bottom of the trigger guard have full coverage matching arabesque pattern engraving with a flourish around the serial number on the front of the trigger guard. Hammer is also engraved in dolphin or wolf’s head pattern with borderlines down the full length. It is accompanied by a very rare orig casing with beveled edge top & bottom. It is lined with blue velvet with compartments for the revolver, a 2-cavity brass Colt’s Patent bullet mold without sprue cutter and a sgl side eagle “e pluribus unum” Colt style flask. This exact revolver is pictured on pp. 37 &40 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson. Mr. Wilson refers to this engraving pattern as early vine style. Casing pictured in the book is different than the casing currently with the revolver. CONDITION: Good to very good. All matching including the wedge. Rammer handle has only a “3”. No orig finish remains on the iron parts being a cleaned medium gray patina. Engraving is fine with about 50% stagecoach hold up scene still visible. Hammer nose has moderate to heavy pitting. Grip frame retains about 90% strong orig silver-plating. Several of the screws are lightly battered. Grips have a grain check on the right side and retains most of an applied finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. Case has several grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is sound with minor nicks & scratches and a couple of small bruises and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is bright in the lid with light impression of the revolver. Bottom is intact showing moderate to heavy wear & light soil. Mold & flask are extremely fine. 4-56807 JR423 (17,500-27,500)
CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal. 44. SN 81248 & 81253. This pair is assembled from mostly orig parts with fine Nimschke style New York engraving, almost certainly done in the Nimschke shop. Both revolvers have 8″ rnd bbls with brass trigger guards, iron back straps & raised carved Mexican eagle 1-pc ivory grips. Both frames have full coverage, New York style (probably Nimschke) foliate arabesque pattern engraving, not quite matching, but of similar patterns. Each has engraving on both sides of the bbls & hammers with the trigger guards & back straps similarly engraved. SN 81248 has had its back strap replaced and engraved to match and the engraving on the hammer nose re-cut. Grips are modern replacements, artificially aged with applied wear. Flat head hammer screw is also a replacement. Last two digits on the cylinder are over-stamped indicating a replaced cylinder. SN 81253 has orig raised carved Mexican eagle grips with replaced re-engraved & re-numbered back strap & trigger guard. Flat head hammer screw, butt strap screw & front trigger guard screw are all replacements, as is the wedge which is numbered “152”. Last digit on the cylinder serial number has been over stamped indicating a replacement cylinder. Other than the above the balance of both revolvers appears to be orig. Accompanied by an early walnut silverware style case with brass medallion in the lid & a mortised brass lock with shield shaped escutcheon. It is lined with red velvet & compartmented for the revolvers, an early Colt’s Patent angle spout flask, an iron 2-cavity Colt’s Patent bullet mold, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, two packs of combustible envelope cartridges, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps & two compartments with lead bullets. CONDITION: As noted above, otherwise fine overall. SN 81248, with matching wedge, retains 20-25% orig blue in the very sheltered areas with the balance of the iron a cleaned gray metal color. Trigger guard retains 10-15% silver-plating. Replacement grips are fine with age lines. Good mechanics, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. SN 81253 retains traces of orig blue on the bbl with the balance of the iron a gray metal color and the trigger guard a lovely brass patina. Orig grips have a number of age lines on the bottom, extending up the sides with a replaced sliver on the right heel & repaired chips on the right toe. Grips show moderate to heavy wear with a wonderful mellow patina. Good mechanics, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. Case has a crack across the lid with light handling & storage marks and retains most of its orig varnish. Interior is faded & moderately soiled. Flask retains about 50% orig finish and the mold about 75% orig blue. Cartridges & cap box are fine. 4-57084 (14,000-18,000)
SCARCE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER FROM THE FAMOUS CHARLIE SCHREINER Y.O. RANCH COLLECTION. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 114669. Blue & case colored with Nimschke style New York engraving with about 40% coverage. It is fitted with 2-pc ivory grips with carved ox head on the right side with a Colt medallion on the left side and a blank medallion on the right side. Front sight is an old replacement and overall appears to have been originally gold-washed. This SAA is reported to have belonged to a well-known and prominent southern California democrat, Sen. George Luckey, who was a major financier of Pres. Harry Truman’s southern California campaign. Shortly after Pres. Truman’s 2nd term inauguration, on Jan. 27, 1949, Sen. Luckey and his family were reported to have had a private meeting at 3 p.m. with President Truman.
Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter addressed to Charles Schreiner III fully identifying this SAA with factory engraving and having been shipped April 18, 1885 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY. Also accompanying is a certificate from the Historic Preservation Institute dated Sept. 16, 2002 further detailing the ownership of this revolver. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 30-40% orig nickel finish and the cylinder with traces of nickel in the flutes, & traces of gold wash in the very sheltered areas. Otherwise the metal is a smooth gray patina. Grips have a replaced chip at the right heel and is missing a small chip in the same area. Otherwise they have several age lines with a wonderful mellow aged patina. While the grips are not listed in the factory letter there is little doubt that these grips have been on this revolver for many years. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-55130 JR361 (20,000-30,000)
VERY RARE ENGRAVED EARLY COLT MODEL 1848 BABY DRAGOON PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 868. Very early Baby Dragoon with 4″ oct bbl, 2-line address, brass pin front sight, 5-shot cylinder with silver-plated grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. Frame has full coverage, very nice engraving in the very early vine pattern consisting of nicely executed foliate arabesque patterns with a dash border pattern. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains traces of orig finish in the very sheltered areas being mostly a medium to dark brown patina with good sharp edges on the bbl flats & around the lug. Frame retains traces of case colors in the very sheltered areas & in the capping cut. Grip frame retains 25-30% orig silver-plating, mostly around the trigger guard & top of the backstrap. Cylinder is a dark patina with some scattered light pitting & retains 15-20% Indian fight scene. Grips are quite worn with a chipped left toe & retain a dark oiled patina. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-56805 JR536 (8,000-12,000)
*BEAUTIFUL ENGRAVED SMITH & WESSON MODEL 60 DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN R2. Rare early Model 60 with 1-7/8″ bbl, fixed sights, stainless steel hammer & trigger with smooth, silver medallion, Goncalvo Alvez round butt grips. This fine revolver is wonderfully engraved by master engraver Dan Cullity with about 80-85% coverage extremely well-executed foliate arabesque patterns with light shading & a wonderful diamond border pattern over the top strap & down the frame scallop by the hammer. Sideplate has a spectacular detailed raised gold mountain lion on a rocky escarpment with scrub pine trees in the background. This vignette is artist signed “WDC”. Mr. Cullity is a well known Massachusetts gun maker, engraver & all around artist who was employed as a Colt engraver for a number of years. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired but very little. Retains virtually all of its fine orig finish around the engraving. Grips are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-57459 JR784 (3,000-4,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 102974. Nickel finish with 5-1/2″ bbl, fixed sights, and 1-line bbl address, 3-line patent dates and is fitted with beautiful 2-pc carved ox head pearl grips. Frame has about 90% coverage, New York style, probably Nimschke foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background. Engraving extends up the bbl about 3″ with flourishes on each side of the muzzle. Cylinder has additional flourishes on the islands between the flutes with a scallop & circle pattern at the rear edge. Back strap has Nimschke’s trademark fan at the top with arabesque flourishes at the top & bottom. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped Dec. 5, 1883 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of 10 similar arms. Finish is listed as “soft”. Under remarks they make the statement that being shipped “soft” indicates that it was without final finish for engraving outside the factory. CONDITION: Fine plus. Overall retains about 50% orig nickel with the balance nearly matching the gray metal color. Overall showing moderate wear. Grips have a chip in the left toe and a replaced chip at the right heel, otherwise are very fine with bright & vivid fire. Will not hold in the safety notch & the half cock notch is missing, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with very fine pitting. 4-56815 JR437 (10,000-15,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT POCKET MODEL 1849 REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 121288. Fine, Gustav Young engraved pocket model Colt with 4″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, “Sam’l Colt” engraved on the top flat. Frame has full coverage foliate arabesque patterns in Mr. Young’s finest hand. Left side of the frame has one of his trademark dog’s head incorporated into the patterns and “COLT’S PATENT” is engraved in his typical ellipse. Hammer has full coverage engraving on both sides and his trademark wolf’s head is on both sides of the hammer nose. Rammer pivot and about 70% of the bbl are also engraved to match. Top of the backstrap has Young’s trademark fan and there are flourishes of engraving on the backstrap, buttstrap, trigger bow and the sides of the trigger guard plate has a wavy pattern. It has a 5-shot cylinder and silver plated brass grip frame with deluxe, burl walnut 1-pc grip. It is accompanied by an orig Colt walnut casing with velvet lining and the bottom compartmented for the revolver, a sgl-sided eagle with shield E. Pluribus Unum flask, a brass 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold without sprue cutter and a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except the wedge and that has had the number obliterated in an apparent attempt to tighten the bbl/cylinder pin fit. Bbl, cylinder, rammer and hammer retain a dark patina with traces of orig finish in the very sheltered areas. Frame retains a mostly dark patina with some dark colors in the very sheltered areas. Hammer nose is pitted. Cylinder has a dent over one cylinder and retains about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Grip frame retains 85-90% orig silver-plating and the grip is sound with some dark oil staining near the frame, but overall retains about 70% orig varnish. There is a dent on the right side. Case has a crack in the lid with a couple of grain checks in the bottom, otherwise is fine and retains most of its original varnish. Shield shaped escutcheon in missing. Lining is very faded and moderately soiled in the bottom. One partition has been reattached. Flask is near new and the mold is very fine. 4-56480 JR688 (5,000-8,000)
VERY RARE ENGRAVED TIFFANY GRIPPED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. 38 CF. SN 15131. Fine silver & gold factory conversion with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, silver-plated brass trigger guard & a wonderful Tiffany silver-plated bronze grip. Grip is the rare motif with Civil War battle scenes on both sides that have an American flag in each vignette. Top of the back strap has an unmarked oval initial plate with a shield & trophy of arms at the bottom of the back. Butt has a very large spread-winged eagle. Frame, cylinder & bbl are beautifully engraved by L. D. Nimschke with full coverage on the frame & about 75% coverage on the cylinder & hammer, which retain orig gold wash. Engraving extends about 3-1/2″ up the bbl & about 2″ on each side of the muzzle. Ejector rod housing is engraved in a spiral foliate pattern, which is typical of Nimschke. Trigger bow & front end of the trigger guard are matching engraved. There is a small “E” adjacent to each of the three serial numbers on bottom of the revolver. CONDITION: Very fine. All matching except the wedge, which is unnumbered. Cylinder is numbered on the face between two of the chambers. Bbl retains 10-15% orig silver-plating in the very sheltered areas with the balance a gray metal color. Cylinder retains about 90% thin gold wash over silver-plating. Frame retains traces of silver-plating in the very sheltered areas while the hammer retains most of its orig gold wash, strong in the very sheltered areas, thin elsewhere. Grip retains about 80% orig silver-plating, thinned around the edges and over the vignettes. Trigger guard retains about 90% silver-plating. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with one or two small spots of pitting. A wonderful rare Tiffany Colt in fine condition. 4-55136 JR452 (20,000-35,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 32874. Nickel-plated with gold wash on the hammer, trigger & grip frame. It has 7-1/2″ bbl with fixed sights, 2nd type ejector rod housing and bull’s eye ejector rod head with smooth old pearl grips. This is a U.S. Cavalry Colt with Lewis Draper (LD) sub-inspected frame from the period 1876-77. Numbers are all matching including the bbl, however all of the other sub-inspector marks have been obliterated. There is a partial “P”-proof on the bottom of the bbl. This is possibly a rejected piece that was subsequently sold on the civilian market. It is beautifully engraved in New York Nimschke style with about 50% coverage, which extends up the bbl. Cylinder has beautiful patterns of foliate arabesque engraving. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching including the bbl. Grips are not numbered. Bbl frame & ejector rod housing retain virtually all of their fine nickel plating. Hammer retains about all of its gold wash. Front & back straps gold wash is worn thin. Cylinder retains most of its gold wash, appearing unfired since plating. Grips are spectacular with lots of fire and a mellow patina. They appear to be “Gold lip pearl”. Right grip has a replaced toe and the left grip has a chipped toe & heel. Hammer will not hold in safety notch and the half cock notch is gone, otherwise mechanics are fine, strong bore with light to moderate pitting. 4-56979 JR410 (6,000-8,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT LONDON 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 2499. Silver-plated with 4″ oct bbl, London address with brass pin front sight. It has 5-shot cylinder with iron trigger guard & back strap with 1-pc walnut grip. It has the early very fine English foliate arabesque pattern engraving with about 65-70% coverage on the frame and extensive patterns over the bbl with flourishes at the muzzle and each side of the rammer pivot. Back strap is very nicely engraved with flourishes on the butt strap & trigger bow with wavy border patterns on the edge of the trigger guard. It has British proofs on the left side of the bbl lug & the cylinder. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 30-40% orig silver-plating, mostly on the frame, bbl & cylinder. Loss areas are a pleasant gray patina. Cylinder retains most of its stagecoach hold-up scene & all five safety pins are prominent. Grip has light nicks & scratches and retains 92-94% orig varnish. Crisp mechanics, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-56809 JR449 (4,000-7,000)
EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1871-72 OPEN TOP REVOLVER. Cal. 44 RF. SN 5053. Exceptional open top with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl and extraordinary full-checkered ivory grips. It has full silver-plating; about 60% coverage and beautiful Nimschke style foliate arabesque pattern engraving with flourishes at the muzzle & bottom of the trigger guard. It has the usual ejector rod housing with checkered ejector rod head and the raised rear sight at the back end of the bbl. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus. All matching except the wedge, which is properly unnumbered. Overall it retains about 98% strong orig silver-plating with only minor dulling & edge wear. Engraving is crisp & fine with the cylinder retaining virtually all of its Ormsby naval battle scene. Grips are sound with numerous age lines and have a beautiful mellow patina. Mechanics are crisp, bore is strong with frosting in the grooves. Altogether an exceptionally fine & rare, seldom encountered open top revolver. 4-55074 JR392 (20,000-30,000)
*SCARCE BOSTON POLICE COLT BANKER’S SPECIAL DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Colt. SN 371853. Blue finish, 2″ bbl, fixed sights; full-checkered medallion walnut grips. Backstrap is engraved “B-P-D-4195” (Boston Police Issue). CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about 95% strong orig blue with muzzle & sharp edge wear on the frame with heavier wear on the front edge of the cylinder. Grips show moderate to heavy wear. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Roger & Gerald Wilde Collection 4-55360 JR344 (300-500)
RARE & SPECIAL INDIAN USED & ENGRAVED COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 138127. Usual configuration with 4-3/4″ bbl, fixed sights & 2-pc raised carved eagle head pearl grips. Entire revolver is covered with light etched wavy lines, dots & triangles, reminiscent of Indian symbols. This engraving is very old and shows much wear. Bbl is etched “TWO MOONS / ???KYOU (Possibly an Indian name) / BUFFALO BILLS / MARCH 12 1898 (What appears to be ) YANKTON” (or possibly an Indian name) and on the other side of the bbl, “WILD WEST SHOW”. Left recoil shield has a standing figure of what appears to be an Indian in full-feathered headdress and the loading gate has a small turtle fetish figure. It is accompanied by an unusual handmade holster, made of 1-pc saddle leather with a high front and low back edge and an attached belt loop that is hand stitched. Entire front has a border of brass harness type studs or buttons that crimp through the leather. It has a large & small circle of these brass studs in the middle with larger diameter brass buttons in the center. This holster is very old & fits this revolver perfectly. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped Feb. 18, 1891 to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, MO in a shipment of 26 same type guns.
A short Internet search disclosed that Two Moons was with the Pawnee Bill Wild West Show in Washington, D.C. when he was introduced to well-known artist James Frazier. Two Moons and other Indians posed for Frazier, who in 1912 designed the famous “Buffalo Nickel” and sculpted the famous bronze “End of the Trail”. Well-known Old West Antiques Dealer, Brian Lebel, states that he has a long oilcloth or canvas banner (estimated at 34′ by about 3′), which proclaims “WELCOME TWO MOONS”. He states that he does not know where the banner was used or for what purpose, but that it may have been when Two Moons visited Washington, DC, to see President Wilson. Also accompanying is a copy of a photo of Two Moons as an old man.
Additionally accompanying is a letter from Rocky Mountain Engineering & Materials Technology Inc. dated April 2, 1992 stating that they have examined the inscriptions on the bbl under different magnifications and in their opinion they appeared to be authentic. They state that the Buffalo Bill inscription appears to have been machine stenciled while the balance of the inscriptions appear to have been hand lettered.
In addition, the consignor has written a letter detailing his acquisition of this Colt. He states that in the Fall of 1991, the mother of a friend of his wife had discovered it in the basement of her home in Denver after the death of her husband, when she was cleaning out for a yard sale. Consignor states that when he bought the Colt (he verbally stated he paid less than $1,000 for it) it was covered with a black substance. It was not until later that he discovered the engravings. He states that he left some of the black substance on the revolver to show how he had found it.
Also accompanying are two old articles about Two Moons and the Custer Battle, one from the May 1898 issue of McClure’s Magazine by Hamlin Garland and several pages of two stories from the book I Fought With Custer, author unknown. Both these articles go into great detail regarding the Custer fight. The McClure’s article is a narrative of an interview with Two Moons as an old man. Two Moons was a Chief of the Northern Cheyenne and was a principle leader in the Custer fight, and may have been the one who actually killed Custer. After the fight, and the Cheyenne were rounded up for assignment to a reservation down in Oklahoma, Two Moons and several of his warriors reportedly agreed to scout for Gen. Nelson Miles and were not deported to the reservation. CONDITION: No orig finish remains on the revolver, being a medium gray patina overall with the engraving showing through. Left side of the muzzle is very worn. Right grip has a repaired crack otherwise the grips are very fine with much fire and colors with light wear on the eagle’s head. Mechanics are fine, somewhat worn and dark bore. Holster is fine with one missing stud. 4-56468 JR441 (22,500-32,500)
COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER INSCRIBED & DATED 1861. A scarce variant of the pocket model with iron large trigger guard & back strap. SN 119240, all matched. 31 cal. with a 5-shot rnd cylinder, & 4” oct bbl. Two line New York address on top of bbl flat. 1-pc walnut grips. Engraved on the back strap is “J.M. Ball./1861”. This inscription, while being very well done, was likely hand engraved by the owner. At the top of the grip strap is a small, crudely done scroll & flourish. The letters are formed with the use of two engraved lines with horizontal hatching with plain sgl lined engraved date “1861”. Between the letters are small hand engraved four-pointed stars and the date is underlined with the same. CONDITION: Very good. Gun has a dark patina overall. About 80” of the cylinder scene remains. Edges are sharp. Markings are crisp. About 20% of the orig varnish on the grips is worn away with one chip missing from the left side toe. Gun has seen some use, but not abuse. Cylinder does not advance. A nice opportunity to own an early war pocket revolver with a very nice field inscription. Some in depth research may turn up the regiment & service of this soldier. 4-57275 CW84 (2,000-3,000)
SPECTACULAR CASED ELABORATELY ENGRAVED EXHIBITION QUALITY COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 CF. SN 91936. Extraordinary etched panel sgl action with 7-1/2″ bbl and nickel finish with about 85% coverage wonderful Nimschke engraving. This is Nimschke’s deluxe full coverage patterns of foliate arabesque engraving with fine punch dot background. Engraving covers virtually all the surfaces with only some slight open spaces in the front 1/4 of the bbl, a band around the cylinder, the front strap & front end of the frame. It has Nimschke’s trademark fan at the top of the backstrap but more elaborately finished than usual. Backstrap has a blank inscription panel & is fitted with most unusual checkered & carved 1-pc deluxe walnut grip. Frame has 3-line patent dates & the left front web of the trigger bow is stamped “44 CF” and, of course, the bbl has the etched panel on the left side “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” and it has a tiny “44” on the bottom of the bbl. This spectacular piece is accompanied by an orig extremely rare Colt factory single action case (there are only a few examples known). It has a compartment for a box of ammunition, otherwise the bottom is not compartmented. Further accompanied by a full sealed box of Remington UMC 44 Colt cartridges. Box has a plaid paper covered body with red & black label & a dark red band marked on each end “OLD MODEL / BLACK POWDER”. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as being in caliber 44-40 and shipped May 9, 1883 to Hartley & Graham, New York, NY in a shipment of 25 of the same type revolvers. It further states that it was shipped “in the soft” for engraving outside the factory. Type of grips were not listed. Also accompanying is a 5-page letter from R.L. Wilson authenticating this revolver with Nimschke engraving wherein he states that the engraving was likely done by the master himself. He states that in authoring a number of volumes on Colts he has had the opportunity to examine many rare & desirable engraved sgl actions over the years & this one “ranks as the most profusely engraved New York embellished sgl actions he has seen, as well as the finest in condition”. This exact revolver has a full page color plate on p. 345 of The Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson; cover of Peacemakers, Wilson, Steel Canvas, Wilson and numerous articles. Additional research indicates that this revolvere may have beena part of a special order from Theodore Roosevelt as they were in the same shipping order. An examination of T. Roosevelt’s guns reveals similarities in patterns and intensity of engraving. This exact gun was used as the prototype for the U.S. Historic Society Peacemaker Model also illus. in Steel Canva. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. Has been fired but very little. Overall retains 97-98% strong bright orig nickel with a tiny loss to the front strap & some minor roughness on the buttstrap with a few light pimples on the backstrap. There is another small spot in the bottom gullet of the ejector rod housing & some tiny flakes on the bottom of the bbl. Cylinder retains virtually all of its orig nickel with some discoloration on the face. Screws have had a screwdriver in them but are basically fine & retain most of their orig niter blue as does the orig cylinder pin. Timing is a little off, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a few spots of roughness. Case is completely sound with two or three tiny pinholes in the top & a very few light nicks & scratches with a slight seam separation in the lid at both ends. Lining is slightly faded with light soil in the bottom. Cartridge box is crisp & clean & shrink wrapped. 4-56960 (225,000-275,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE 32 REVOLVER. Cal. 32 RF. SN 2853. Nickel & gold finish with 2-1/4″ bbl, 2-line address with fine bird head 2-pc ivory grips. Frame & bbl have about 70-75% coverage Neew York style engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Cylinder has been reguilded with the engraving re-cut through the finish. Punch dot background on the cylinder was not re-stamped. Accompanied by a rare orig walnut casing with purple velvet lining & a cartridge block containing 52 “U” head stamped cartridges. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching except the grips which are not numbered but fit extremely well & are probably orig to this revolver. Overall the frame & bbl retain 95-97% strong orig bright nickel. Trigger screw is slightly battered and all the screws retain most of their orig blue. Cylinder retains about all of the re-applied guilding. Grips have a lovely mellow patina. Good mechanics, bright shiny bore. Case has a minor hairline in the lid, otherwise is sound & retains most of its orig finish with light nicks & scratches. Interior is soiled with some wear in the bottom & lightly faded. Cartridges are fine. 4-56479 (4,000-7,000)
*COLT 2ND GENERATION 1860 ARMY RICHARDS CONVERSION REVOLVER USED BY TOM SELLECK IN THE MOVIE “LAST STAND AT SABER RIVER”. Cal. 44 CF. SN 222258. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, brass insert dovetail front sight & fixed rear sight attached to the conversion ring. It has 4-screw frame cut for shoulder stock with the fourth screw extended for the stock lug. It has brass trigger guard & iron back strap with coarse checkered, incised line, 1-pc ivory grip. Back strap, cylinder & bbl lug are lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. Back strap is engraved “CABLE” with light flourishes on each end.
Accompanied by a signed & notarized letter from Mr. Selleck certifying the authenticity of this revolver. He states that this exact revolver was the one actually used early in the movie when his movie wife, played by Suzy Amis, presented it to him upon his return home after the Civil War. Mr. Selleck portrayed the character, Paul Cable; a returning Confederate veteran whose family had thought him killed in action. His wife was portrayed as the daughter of a gunsmith and had learned the engraving trade and applied it to one of the “new” conversion revolvers as a gift to her husband. Mr. Selleck states that he actually had three of these revolvers made for the movie. This one to be in new condition early in the movie for the presentation, another showing some wear after he had carried it for some time & the third as a spare. Mr. Selleck has kept the “used” model and the back-up new revolver was donated to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Museum where it is currently on display. We have the “new” one here as presented to “Cable” that was used in the movie and is the revolver presented to Cable by his wife upon his return from the war. Also accompanying is an unopened VHS tape of this movie, which cover depicts Mr. Selleck holding this actual revolver. Also accompanying is an 8×10 color photograph of Mr. Selleck in his character as Paul Cable holding a Henry rifle and wearing this actual revolver. Also accompanied by the book, Metallic Cartridge Conversions, The History of The Guns and Modern Reproductions, Adler. Mr. Selleck wrote the 2-page introduction and there is a full color photograph of him from his movie, Crossfire Trail. Mr. Adler is pictured on p. 11 wearing one of the three revolvers Tom had made for Last Stand at Saber River. Page 157 & 163 of this book tell the story of the making of these three revolvers by well-known gunsmith & reproduction artist, Kenny Howell. Mr. Howell not only made all three revolvers, he also made & hand carved the ivory grips. One of the revolvers is also pictured on p. 163.
CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new. Appears to be unfired retaining virtually all of its beautiful custom finish with some very slight holster scuffing on the left side of the muzzle & a small spot on the left side of the bbl. Frame, hammer & conversion ring case colors are strong but slightly dark. Back strap has a slight purple overtone. Grips are outstanding with a light mellow patina and fit perfectly. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-55124 JR483 (15,000-25,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. A standard Colt Model 1849 percussion handgun with a hand engraved inscription on the back strap, which reads “F.M. Hewett 3d S.C. Inf”. Revolver is 31 cal. with a 5” oct bbl, 5-shot rnd cylinder with a brass trigger guard and back strap, 1-pc walnut grips. SN 179858, all matched. Inscription appears to be hand engraved. CONDITION: Good. No orig finish. All iron parts are a medium gray patina with heavy pitting near the muzzle, on the cylinder pin, near the wedge, with some tool marks on the frame. Approx. 40% of the cylinder scene remains. Traces of silver-plating remain on the trigger guard. Grips have been refinished with a repair to the right toe. The 3rd South Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment reorganized in May 1862, became one of the most hard fought and respected units in Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. 45% of this regiment’s ranks did not survive the war. Major engagements were First Bull Run, Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Savage Station, Malvern Hill, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Chickamauga, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, and Cedar Creek. Unit surrendered at Bentonville on March 19, 1865. 4-56928 (3,500-4,500)
ULTRA-RARE EXTREMELY EARLY PINCHED FRAME COLT SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 2. Yes, that’s correct! This revolver is the second production sgl action Colt Army revolver made in the line of this famous model of which there were over 250,000! It has the rare pinched frame with nickel finish. Bbl has been reduced to 5-1/2″ & it currently has wonderfully carved raised ox-head 1-pc ivory grip with ruby eyes (one missing) & gold covered horns with a small oval plaque at the top of the right side inscribed “NO.2”. When the bbl was reduced in length the sight was relocated and has been slightly altered with notches cut in the front & rear. The serial number “2” is clearly visible on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap, cylinder and bbl. Bbl has 1-line address in small slant letters with a serif at each end & it has 2-line July patent dates on the left side of the frame. It has its orig 1st type ejector rod housing with bull’s eye ejector rod head. There is no evidence that the caliber was marked on the trigger guard. It is readily apparent that this revolver has seen hard service. It spent virtually of its life in Mexico & possibly the southwest. Accompanied by several Colt Factory letters identifying this revolver as having been shipped Oct. 1, 1877 to Wexel & DeGress, Mexico City, Mexico in a shipment of 30 like revolvers. Also accompanied by a letter dated Jan. 18, 1992 from prominent collector Enrique E. Guerra of Linn, TX wherein he states that in about 1952 he purchased this revolver from a detective of the City of Monterey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, named Jose Medina for about $650.00, which was a considerable amount since Colt single actions with little finish could be purchased for $20 – 25. He also states in the letter that at the time it had wood grips. Mr. Guerra states that he replaced the wood grips with the carved steer heads with the gold oval and later sold it to someone he can’t recall. He states that he did not have the “NO.2” engraved on the plaque. Also accompanied by a 1968 dated collection sheet from the collection of Robert Q. Sutherland fully identifying this revolver. He states that the plaque on the grip was engraved for Gerald G. Fox by A.A. White & that it was item #22 on pg 27 of Evolution of the Colt and was displayed at a number of shows in 1966 & 67. The revolver is also pictured in The Book of Colt Firearms by R. L. Wilson, page 238. Also included is a note from Ron Wagner, former curator of the Winchester Museum, listing a few of the serial numbers which accompanied this revolver when it was shipped. Also accompanying is a copy of the Nov. 1955 issue of Modern Man magazine which on p. 32 features three Colts from the Gerald Fox Collection which includes #1 & #2. And finally accompanying are copies of the cover & pages from The Texas Gun Collector, Fall 1987 which has an article regarding serial #2 and also the collection of Charles Schreiner III which includes #2. This revolver is well-known, having passed through many famous collections to our present consignor. CONDITION: Good, as noted, all matching including the bbl & cylinder. Retains 20-25% orig nickel with the balance a very dark attic patina. Few of the screws are battered & the cylinder pin is pretty chewed up but probably orig. Cylinder pin screw is an old replacement. Hammer has a crack by the firing pin on each side. Mechanics are fine, with a strong dark bore that may clean better. This revolver is completely authentic as found in Mexico with period modification of shortened bbl (from 7-1/2” to 5-1/2”) and replaced grips of carved elephant ivory. A truly rare single action revolver. 4-56804 JR786 (100,000-200,000)
*RARE ENGRAVED COLT PRE-WAR NATIONAL MATCH GOVERNMENT MODEL PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN C193714. Blue finish, with 5″ bbl, thick front sight with Stevens adjustable rear sight. It is engraved with about 65-70% coverage, very fine foliate arabesque patterns with fine punch dot background. It is fitted with silver grips that are engraved by another hand, probably Mexican, with a raised gold “HT” connected brand on the left side and a raised circle “S” brand on the right side. These brands are reportedly for the M.C. Clark Ranch of Clarkston, Montana. It has an all blue commercial magazine with marked base. Right rear inside of the slide is fitted with a Schwartz firing pin lock safety with corresponding activation pin in the frame. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this pistol as having been shipped Sept. 29, 1938 to Decker Bros., Mason City, Iowa with pearl grips & Class B engraving with adjustable rear sight and “A new safety device”. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains virtually all of its fine blue finish, appearing nearly new, possibly factory work or by a factory engraver. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-56781 JR403 (7,500-12,500)
*TOM SELLECK’S HENRY RIFLE AFTER THE ONE HE USED IN LAST STAND AT SABER RIVER. Cal. 44-40. SN 02107. Uberti Henry with 24-1/4” bbl with integral full magazine, German silver front sight, Henry ladder rear sight and sling loops on the bbl and left side of the stock. It is mounted with highly figured walnut with straight grip and crescent brass buttplate with trap. Receiver is wonderfully engraved in Nimschke patterns with open panels on each side with about 80% coverage on both sides with three flourishes on the top flat & fully engraved upper tang with Nimschke style figure-8 around the timing screws on the bottom. Buttplate tang is engraved to match & the lower tang is engraved “CABLE”. This represents the name of the character, Paul Cable, Mr. Selleck portrayed in this movie. He carried a Henry rifle throughout the movie and used it to defend his family. Mr. Selleck states in an accompanying notarized letter that the rifle he used in the movie was a rental from Stembridge Gun Rentals. Mr. Selleck had this rifle made to precisely match the one he carried in the movie. He states that the main reason he had his own Henry made was because this movie, Last Stand at Saber River was so successful that there was talk of a sequel so, he had this one made. Also accompanied by a DVD of the movie showing Mr. Selleck in the Paul Cable character on the cover holding the Henry rifle and wearing a Colt conversion revolver also being sold in this auction. In addition there is an 8×10 color photograph identical to the cover of the DVD case. CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new. Retains virtually all of its orig factory finish to both metal & wood. Bbl blue is clean & bright and the receiver has a fine medium patina. Lever & hammer retain bright case colors. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-55122 JR689 (8,000-12,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 5093. Blue & case colored with 4-1/2″ rnd bbl, brass pin front sight, 5-shot fluted cylinder with brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grip. Back strap is engraved “E J CLARK” in period script. Butt strap is inscribed in period script “PRESENTED BY / C J BLAKEMAN” and in engraved block letters “MARCH 8 1862”. Very top of the back strap is wonderfully engraved with the “all-seeing eye” surrounded by numerous rays with what appears to be five circles over the top. Further down the back strap is a nicely engraved human hand with pointing index finger. These symbols are believed to be the emblems of the Odd Fellows Lodge although the Masonic Order also uses the “all-seeing eye”. Accompanied by a period red felt lined leather flap holster for a longer bbld revolver. CONDITION: Revolver is extremely fine, all matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 50-60% glossy bright blue with the balance flaked, not worn, to a light to medium patina. Rammer handle & pivot retain most of their orig case colors. Cylinder retains about 75% glossy bright blue with the balance flaked to a medium patina and it has all five prominent safety pins. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their orig brilliant case colors. Grip frame retains 90-92% orig silver-plating & the grips appear new retaining virtually all of their orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with some scattered, very light pitting. Holster is dry with some crackling on the flap & heavy mothing in the flap lining, otherwise stitching is sound and it retains most of its orig finish. 4-55270 JR485 (4,500-6,500)
VERY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER SGL ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 82507. Very rare blue finish, early, identified, etched-panel, sgl action with 7-1/2″ bbl and wonderful raised carved oxhead 1-pc ivory grip. Frame has about 60% coverage fine, factory engraving consisting of foliate arabesque patterns on the sides and forcing cone area with small flourishes on the sides of the trigger guard. Left recoil shield has a large sunburst with diamond & dot center. Loading gate has Cuno Helfricht typical plant spray. Cylinder has arabesque patterns on the islands between the flutes with a wavy & dot pattern at the back edge. Engraving extends about 3″ on each side of the bbl with Helfricht style border around the address with an arabesque pattern reaching toward the front sight. It has arabesque flourishes on each side of the muzzle with a dbl incised line and a wavy light pattern down both sides connecting the arabesque patterns. It also has the same wavy pattern with small starbursts in the ejector rod-housing gullet with a wave & dot pattern on the outside with a starburst in the center. Top of the back strap has Helfricht’s trademark fan surrounded by a wave & dot line with dbl incised border patterns down the back strap & butt strap with a corresponding pattern on the trigger bow. Grips are absolutely wonderful with age commensurate to the revolver with a very fine detailed oxhead on the right side. Accompanied by an early mail order style slim-Jim carmel colored leather holster with matching simple cartridge belt with nickel plated “D” shaped buckle. Also accompanying is a notarized statement from Mark E. Carmichael of Bend, Oregon detailing the provenance of this Colt. He states that his great-grandfather Enoch Tate Griffin purchased it in Missouri in 1882 prior to moving to the Dakotas where he worked as a Wells Fargo guard on the Mandan & Dixon Lines for a number of years. Mr. Griffin reportedly related to his daughter that the stage was attached one day by Indians and in the ensuing fight he shot five of them and on another occasion, he pistol whipped a drunk & disorderly passenger. It remained in the family until January 2005. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Although the gun has all matching numbers, curiously enough the gun has SN 82500 on the backstrap. Obviously this is a factory mistake as this gun has always had this backstrap. Retains traces of orig finish in the sheltered areas with the ejector rod housing gullets having strong orig blue with more strong blue around the trigger guard & on the butt strap. Etched panel is completely legible. Cylinder pin & screw are replacements. Grip is wonderful with numerous age lines having a light yellow patina on the right side and a wonderful mellow golden patina on the left side, apparently due to long term storage with the ox head side exposed. Hammer will not hold at half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with good shine and fine pitting. A very rare & truly western sgl action. Holster is very fine, never having been polished & retains most of its orig finish. Belt is slightly dry with flexed surface & retains generous amounts of orig finish. 4-56961 (35,000-45,000)
COLT PATERSON REVOLVING CARBINE (IMPROVED MODEL WITH LOADING LEVER). SN 690. Cal. .525 smoothbore. 24-3/8” part oct. bbl. The serial number appears on the rear of the cylinder, on the bottom of the bbl, lower tang screw and between the alignment ears. #197 is stamped on the bbl wedge with the #690 scribed alongside. Loader lever assembly retains all of oil quenched dark finish. This gun was orig in the J. R. Hegeman collection and his cartouche appears just to the rear of the lower tang. Hegman obtained many guns directly from the Colt factory at the turn of the century. It was also in Gains De Graffenreid collection and was on display at the Texas Museum in Waco, TX. Recent previously unknown documentation has defined these models as purchased by the State of Rhode Island for the militia. The cylinders on these were in-the-white, not engraved and oversized to ensure they would not burst in service. (See book of Colt Firearms – pg 50, example A – for similar example). CONDITION: Retains 80% of the brown on the bbl with blue on the frame, tangs and buttplate, loading lever & rear site. Stock has numerous dents and scratches and the remaining varnish is crackled. Rear upper tang screw is missing. Front swing swivel is bent. 4-53819 (35,000-40,000)
COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 146224; the rear half of the gun matches; the front half does not. Cal. .31. 6” oct bbl. The initials “W.E.F.” are engraved on the butt strap and appear to be period. CONDITION: 90% bubbling silver on the grip straps. 90% varnish on the grips with tiny chips at the base and wear at the high spots. Balance of the gun has been heavily cleaned with little of the marking or cylinder scene remaining. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54697 X172 (400-600)
PAIR OF ENGRAVED BELGIAN BREVETE COLT POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. Cal. 32. SN 7846 & 7847. Typical Colt configuration with 6-5/16″ oct bbls mushroom shaped brass front sight, marked on the top flat “Colt Brevete” with silver-plated brass grip frames containing 1-pc ebony grips. About 1/2 the bbl, the rammer pivot, all of the cylinder and frame, all of the backstrap and butt and about 1/2 the trigger guard are beautifully etch engraved with grape vine, leaf and grape cluster engraving, having a stippled background. They have Belgian proofs on the bbls and cylinders. The front of the cylinders are marked “N Gilon” and have a Belgian proof on the opposite edge. Accompanied by information from the consignor, which advises that one of the inspector marks on the cylinder, is for the period 1853-1877. Consignor also states that the grape vine & leaf pattern engraving is of the pre-1866 period. CONDITION: #7846 is very fine. Traces of orig finish remain in sheltered areas, being mostly a silver/gray metal color. Grip frame retains about 60% thin orig silver plate. Grips are fine showing light wear and retain most of an old refinish. Cylinder retains all five safety pins. Mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore with some fine roughness about mid-point. #7847 is almost identical to its mate condition wise. Cylinder retains all five safety pins and the grip frame retains about 50% silver plate. Grips are fine and retain most of an old refinish. Mechanics are crisp with brilliant shiny bore and some light roughness. A fine unusual pair of Colt copies 4-54020 JR643 (3,000-5,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 206323. Nickel finish with 7-1/2″ bbl, orig front sight and 2-pc smooth pearl grips. It is engraved in the style of Cuno Helfricht with full coverage on the frame & recoil shields. Fine alternating flourishes of arabesque patterns and sprays of foliage between the flutes on the cylinder and a zig-zag and dot line decoration on the back edge. The bbl is extensively engraved from the frame to the end of the ejector rod housing and on both sides of the muzzle. The top of the backstrap has a fan with wavy border and a geometric pattern down the backstrap and butt strap. The bottom of the trigger guard has geometric patterns and all the engraving has punch dot background. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Factory restored finish retaining virtually all of its bright nickel finish with bright niter blued screws, ejector rod head and cylinder pin. Grips are beautiful with lots of fire and fit extremely well. Mechanics need attention, will not hold on safety and has no half cock. Bore is strong with fine pitting in the grooves. 4-55023 JR673 (3,000-5,000)
VERY RARE WARNER REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 7. Cal. .38. 21-3/4” part oct bbl. The total production on these revolving rifles with the automatic revolving cylinder and brass receiver for the bbl has been estimated at approx. 25 guns, making this extremely rare. These self-revolving carbines were considered an infringement of Colt’s patent and production of them was stopped shortly after it began. It is marked “WARNER’S PATENT / JAN. 1851” in two banners on the engraved lockplate. CONDITION: Retains about half the light blue on the bbl mixed with very light pitting. Bbl receiver has about 30% of the orig silver-plating, including that on a dented area at the top right. Frame shows only traces of plating, while the trigger guard and buttplate are mostly bare. Stock retains about 85% of the orig varnish. Ex Hank Truslow Collection. 4-54198 FS65 (4,000-6,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 25758. Beautifully engraved pocket model in Gustave Young style with his trademark flower blossoms and fine sweeping scrolls with dog’s head incorporated into the pattern on the bbl. It also has his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. It has a 6-1/2″ rnd bbl with pin front sight, 5-shot fluted cylinder, nickel-plated brass grip frame with beautifully carved 1-pc ivory grip. The left side of the grip has a raised carved soldier’s bust. The frame has full coverage engraving with punch dot background and the bbl 2-1/2″ patterns up each side. The backstrap has Young trademark fan at the top with light patterns at top & bottom and at the butt strap, also on the trigger guard and bottom of the frame with other flourishes elsewhere. This is probably a silver & gold-plated piece as there is traces of gold wash on the back of the cylinder and with silver-plating on the cylinder pin and more traces of gold on the hammer. CONDITION: Good. N o orig finish remains on the iron except the traces of finish previously mentioned, it being mostly a mottled gray/brown patina with some light pitting on the bbl and on the cylinder. Frame & hammer are a dark gray/brown patina with the grip frame retaining about 85% orig plating. Grips are exceptional with a wonderful patina and a few age lines in the bottom. Mechanics need attention. Handspring is either broken or missing, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with scattered spots of pitting. 4-54349 (6,000-8,000)
IDENTIFIED CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 1208. Fine early London Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, London address with brass grip frame and deluxe burled 1-pc walnut grip. It is engraved in early English style with about 50% coverage on the frame, light flourishes on the bbl lug, rammer pivot, back strap and trigger guard. The hammer has a dolphin motif on the top edge. “COLT’S PATENT” is engraved in a ribbon on the left side. The left side of the bbl flat & the cylinder have British proofs. It is accompanied by its orig mahogany casing with brass plaque on the top inscribed “E C Mallet, Esqre / 88th Regt”. The inside of the case is lined with red velvet with compartments for an all iron wiping rod, a Colt’s Patent 2-cavity iron mold, L-shaped nipple wrench and a Dixon Navy sized bag flask. It also has a large tin of Joyce caps.
The 88th Regiment, also known as the Connaught Rangers “THE DEVIL’S OWN”. The 88th Regiment was a participant in the Crimean Campaign and can be studied in the book THE CRIMEAN CAMPAIGN WITH THE CONNAUGHT RANGERS 88TH REGIMENT, Stevens, London 1878. A Google search disclosed voluminous information regarding the Connaught Rangers. It appears that the regiment was recruited from Connaught County, Ireland and were a rough & rowdy bunch that fought from the early 1800’s through WWI. It shows Lt. Edward Charles Mallet was awarded the “India Mutiny Medal”.
CONDITION: Fine. All matching except the wedge, which is unnumbered but appears to have the proper age for this revolver. Retains an even plumy/brown patina overall with traces of silvered case colors on the frame and rammer pivot with hammer marks by the wedge slot. Grip frame retains 88-90% orig silver-plating, thin around the trigger guard. Cylinder is a gray patina with a couple of dents and light pitting and retains 75-80% orig Ormsby naval battle scene. Grips are sound with moderate wear, light scratches & dings and retains about 95% orig varnish, slightly shrunken. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. Case has 3 or 4 grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound with numerous small nicks, dings & scratches. Lining is moderately faded and soiled with wear around the front sight area. Mold shows good heavy use, but still has clean cavities. Flask has 2 or 3 small dents and some rust spotting on the spring, otherwise is fine. Cap tin label is nearly intact. A truly beautiful and probably historic set used by a British officer in the Crimean War. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54713 JR664 (10,000-15,000)
*RARE ED BOHLIN INLAID & ENGRAVED TEXAS & ARIZONA ASSOCIATED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 250058. The engraving and all silver work are by Ed Bohlin “Saddle Maker to the Stars”. This SA is one of only a very few ever embellished by the world famous Bohlin. Blue & case colored with 4-3/4″ bbl and fine deep grooved stag grips with sterling silver-plates on the bottom of each side and a small trapezoidal shaped sterling silver medallion at the top of each grip. Each medallion has raised initials “HOM” and a steer head. The bbl is beautifully engraved with three silver diamond inlays on each side and the ejector rod housing is inscribed “COLT FRONTIER SIX-SHOOTER / WALTER W. BAILEY-HIS PISTOL 1899 / SHERIFF PIMA COUNTY ARIZONA / PRESENTED BY HIM TO H.O. MARIETTA / AT TUCSON ARIZONA”. The cylinder has six matching triangle shaped silver inlays at the back of each flute as well as a fine decorative line around each flute. The backstrap is nicely engraved in block letters “H.O. MARIETTA” and it has a decorative border line with a nicely detailed cowboy on a horse at the top of the backstrap. Accompanied by an article from the Fall 1987 THE TEXAS GUN COLLECTOR by Greg Martin in which there is a small discussion about H.O. Marietta wherein Marietta is pictured astride a horse in full cowboy gear wearing a single action revolver. He was a famous well-connected wealthy individual from Ohio. Marietta, Ohio was, in fact, named after his family. He was an early supporter of the Buffalo Bill Museum and a frequent visitor to Edward H. Bohlin’s ranch in Montana. Also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped November 21, 1903 to the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Co. of Bisbee, AZ. Research should be conducted to determine the dates that Mr. Bailey was the Pima County Sheriff and Mr. Marietta’s connection with the Copper Queen Mine. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 80-85% orig blue. Frame retains 75-80% muted case colors, strong & bright in the sheltered areas. Hammer retains about 70% orig colors, bright on the right side. Trigger guard & backstrap retain 75-80% strong bright orig colors turned gray on the backstrap. Grips are fine with some verdigris around the screw escutcheon. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-53886 (6,000-10,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 214378. New York style engraved with 4″ oct bbl, “Saml Colt” engraved on the top flat. The frame, sides of the bbl lug, top flats and rammer pivot are engraved in New York style with flowing foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The hammer nose has animal heads (poss. wolves) on each side. The backstrap, buttstrap, trigger guard and front of the frame have flourishes to match. It has brass grip frame with 1-pc walnut grip. Accompanied by a brass bound, burled rosewood box with mother-of-pearl inlay, converted to a case, apparently for another revolver. It is lined with red velvet with compartments that incl. a dbl sided early American eagle flask with an eagle holding a revolver & flask in its talons and a Colt’s Patent 2-cavity brass mold without sprue cutter. CONDITION: Good. All matching including the wedge,. No orig finish remains, being a medium gray patina overall. Cylinder is moderately pitted overall and retains 25-30% orig stagecoach holdup scene. Grip frame is a dark mustard patina. Mechanics are loose, worn dark bore. Grips are worn with chipped toes. Flask has a dark patina overall and a slightly open seam on the bottom. No apparent dents or heavy dings. Mold is extremely fine with some light surface staining and a rusted hinge pin. Box has numerous grain checks in the veneer with some losses and repairs on the lid. Interior is fine, couple of loose dividers. 4-55046 (2,000-3,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1855 ROOT PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 28. SN 25301. Model 3 Root with 3-1/2″ oct bbl, Hartford address with pointing hand motif. It has 5-shot cylinder and 1-pc ivory grip. It is nicely engraved in Gustave Young style with very well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The frame & top strap are engraved with matching engraving patterns on the bbl, rammer pivot, sides of the hammer and backstrap. It is accompanied by an orig Colt casing probably for a longer bbled Root or another revolver altogether. It has dark purple velvet lining with compartments for the revolver, a tiny 2-cavity mold with sprue cutter, a small leather covered Dixon style flask with a sealed tin of Joyce caps and a large quantity of cast lead bullets. CONDITION: Fine. All matching. Bbl retains a blue/brown patina with worn edges. Frame retains 65-70% orig blue with some light pitting around the forcing cone area. Backstrap is a blue/gray patina and the grips are fine with a beautiful aged mellow patina and a number of age lines. Cylinder is a silver/gray patina with 20-25% cabin fight scene. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. Case has a couple of cracks and several grain checks in the lid and another or two in the bottom and retains most of a fine old refinish. Lining is sound showing light to moderate wear. Mold is a dark gray metal color with fine cavities. Flask has a couple of minor nicks on the leather but retains most of its maroon color, bright shiny brass. Cap tin is extremely fine. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54718 JR600 (3,000-5,000)
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR CASED AND PRESENTED COLT LONDON NAVY REVOLVER TO COLONEL (LATER BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL) C. H. VAN WYCK, 56TH REGIMENT N.Y.S.V. SN 42176. Cal. .36. A very nice presentation case containing a Colt Model 1851 Second Model London Navy revolver. The revolver is a standard 2nd mod. London with a 7 ½” oct bbl, steel grip straps and trigger guard and 1-pc Walnut grip. The English oak Colt factory case is lined in red velvet and contains and English style Colt bag shaped copper flask, a large tin of Ely percussion caps with green label, two nipple wrenches and screwdriver combination tools, oiler and iron .35 cal. bullet mold. A very large brass shield is affixed to the lid of the case which is engraved: PRESENTED TO/Col. C.H. Van Wyck/56th Regt. NYSV/by the/OFFICERS.
A large quantity of military and pension records for Colonel Van Wyck accompany the cased revolver. Charles Henry Van Wyck was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, 10 May, 1824. He was graduated at Rutgers in 1843, adopted the profession of law, and in 1850-‘6 was district attorney of Sullivan County, New York. He served in Congress in 1859-’63, having been elected as a Republican. While continually holding his seat in Congress he was appointed Colonel of the 10th legion, or 56th regiment, of New York State Volunteers at the outset of war. His career spanned the war and his service was distinguished. The 56th Regiment was hard fought principally with General George B. McClellan’s Army of the Potomac in the peninsula campaign. Later the regiment would serve out their term on campaign in South Carolina. In 1865 Van Wyck was brevetted Brigadier-General of Volunteers. He was again elected to Congress in 1867-’71, and was Chairman of the Committee on Retrenchments. He removed to Nebraska in 1874, engaged in farming, was a delegate to the Constitutional convention in 1876, state senator in 1876-’80, and in 1881 became United States Senator. CONDITION: Rrevolver is in very good condition with traces of orig blue on the bbl and loading lever. Cylinder scene is strong, the revolver is uncleaned and maintains a nice dark gray to blue patina Grips are sharp with some wear to varnish. Mechanics are fine. Accoutrements are generally well preserved. Case is in nice condition with the interior colors retaining their bright red hue. Lock escutcheon is missing and the wood slightly splintered just above the lock. Ex Hank Truslow Collection. 4-54186 CoW17 (4,500-7,500)
*PAIR OF ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION COLT REVOLVERS WITH TEXAS ASSOCIATION. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 348362 & 351939. Identically engraved by famous Colt factory engraver Alvin White, these revolvers have 7-1/2″ bbls, are blue & case colored with diamond checkered 2-pc ivory grips, also by Alvin White. The engraving is extremely well executed with about 70% coverage of fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns. The bbl has a wide & narrow gold inlaid band at each end and the frame has gold wire inlay around the perimeter. The cylinder has a wide and narrow gold inlaid band at the back edge and gold wire around the flutes and front edge. The left recoil shields have a raised gold Brahma bullhead executed in great detail. Both sides of the hammers are engraved and have an eagle head at the top. The loading gates have the “Ladder” brand inlaid in gold. The backstraps are fully engraved with gold patterns at top & bottom. The front straps & butts are full coverage engraved and the trigger guards are inlaid with gold initials. #351939 has the initials “GSC II” and #348362 has the initials “KFC”. The Cohen family of Galveston, Texas reportedly returned these revolvers to Colt for engraving for Kenneth F. Cohen and George S. Cohen II as presents from their father. The left side of the front straps under the grips has a small silver rectangular cartouche marked “A A WHITE / ENG”. Accompanied by Colt factory letters indicating that #348362 was originally shipped January 21,1926 to Von Lengerke & Antoine of Chicago, Illinois and #351939 was shipped February 15, 1929 to Winchester Repeating Arms Co., New Haven, CT. Also accompanying is a hand written letter dated 4-27-04 from George Hurst stating that he purchased this pair from William L. Johnson on 2-3-96. He states that they were sold to Robert K. Hutchins in April 1964 and Mr. Johnson sold them to Mr. Hurst for Mr. Hutchins. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. They do not appear to have been fired since engraving. Both revolvers retain virtually all of their fine blue & case colored finish applied at the time they were engraved by White. Grips are very beautiful and show no wear with a light cream-colored patina. 4-53899 (15,000-30,000)
RARE CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 61154. Extremely rare Gustave Young engraved pocket model with 4″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 5-shot cylinder, 2-line New York City address with serifs, brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grips. Accompanied by its orig Colt case, lined with red velvet with compartments for the revolver, a dbl sided “E PLURIBUS UNUM” American Eagle flask, a brass Colt’s patent mold without sprue cutter and a sealed tin of Goldmark’s caps. This special little revolver is first & foremost a premier example of Gustave Young’s early work with full coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the frame with his trademark flower blossom and wolf’s heads on the sides of the hammer. The bbl has about 70% coverage matching engraving and the rammer pivot has full coverage. The backstrap has his trademark fan at the top with light patterns of engraving at the bottom, on the butt strap, bottom of the trigger guard and bottom of the frame. Even the ends of the wedge are engraved. What makes this little revolver so much more special is the narrow gold band at the muzzle and the silver-plating on the bbl & frame. There is a name scratched on the butt strap, but it has been nearly obliterated with hammer marks. CONDITION: Revolver is very fine, all matching, including the wedge. Bbl & frame retain most of their orig oxidized silver-plating with a few spots of fine pitting on the left side of the bbl. Silver-plating is so thoroughly oxidized that it has a black appearance. Hammer also retains about all of its silver-plating. Grip frame retains about 30% thin silver-plating with the exposed brass a light yellow patina. Grips are sound with heavy hammer marks on the bottoms, show moderate to heavy edge wear with light nicks, dings & scratches and retain about 80% orig varnish. Cylinder retains traces of thin blue with scattered spots of pitting and has about 70% stagecoach holdup scene. Hammer screw is battered and the bbl pivot screw is marred. Safety pins are mostly intact. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. Case is very fine with three or four grain checks in the bottom with the top being sound and retaining most of its orig varnish. One end of the bottom appears to be an old replacement and a couple of corners are loose. Flask is nearly new, retaining most of its orig finish with some slight discoloration. Mold and caps are fine as the cap tin. 4-53995 JR595 (8,000-12,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE RICHARDS MASON CONVERSION. SN 76, conversion #82. Cal. 38 RF. 4-1/2” rnd bbl. The ivory grips have been assembled with elephant ivory used on the right and walrus ivory on the left. CONDITION: Iron surfaces have been cleaned to gray and are generally smooth. Ejector rod housing has been broken in front of the mounting screw and has been brazed together. Ejector rod and spring are replacements. Brass has a mellow patina. Grips are slightly undersized with small chips missing on the right side. Mechanically fine. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54782 FS167 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 96469. Fine, early Gustave Young engraved Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetail front sight, Hartford address, silver plated brass grip frame with deluxe burl walnut 1-pc grip. It is wonderfully engraved with well-executed scrolls of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background covering the entire frame and recoil shields with engraved hammer sides having Young’s trademark wolf’s head on the hammer nose. The engraving extends over both sides of the bbl lug and top flats with a decorative heart design and fine border around the address. The left side flat has Young’s trademark bird or demon head incorporated in the engraving. Rammer pivot has full coverage engraving. The backstrap has Young’s trademark fan at the top with flourishes of arabesque pattern at the top and bottom, on the trigger guard and bottom of the frame. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbl retains a plum/blue patina with stronger blue in the sheltered areas, mixed with fine pitting. Cylinder is a gray patina with a ding on the front edge and spots of scattered pitting and retains 30-40% Ormsby naval battle scene. Frame retains most of its silvered case colors with sharp engraving. Grip frame retains 75-80% orig silver-plating. Grips are sound with a couple of small nicks & dings and retain most of an old refinish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54755 JR674 (5,000-8,000)
*WELDON BLEDSOE ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 334385. Silver & gold finish with 7-1/2″ bbl and highly figured custom walnut 1-pc grips. Engraved in typical Weldon Bledsoe intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. It has about 70% coverage overall. The bbl has a custom front sight with unusual blade. The engraver’s signature is found on the right side of the frame just below and forward of the hammer screw. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains virtually all of its fine silver & gold custom finish. Does not appear to have been fired since engraving. Crisp mechanics, very bright shiny bore. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54724 JR533 (3,000-5,000)
FINE CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 91998. Beautiful Gustave Young engraved pocket revolver with 5″ oct bbl, “Sam’l Colt” engraved on the top flat with “Colt’s Patent” engraved in Young’s typical elliptical panel on the left side of the frame. The frame has full coverage Young engraving on both sides and the recoil shields with his trademark flowing foliate arabesque patterns with a blossom in the center on the left recoil shield. The right side of the frame incorporates his trademark bird head and his very finely detailed dog’s head on the left side of the bbl lug. It has full coverage patterns on both sides of the hammer with Young’s trademark wolf’s head on each side. The rammer pivot is fully engraved and there are light flourishes on the back strap with heavier coverage on the butt strap and a sunburst around the toe screw hole. The serial numbers on the bottom of the frame and bottom of the bbl lug are outlined and have a fine crosshatched pattern and the screw heads are lightly decorated. It has 1-pc ivory grips and is accompanied by a rare Kidder walnut case. The case is lined with oak leaf & vine patterned purple velvet with compartments for the revolver, a brass 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold, a small double sided early American eagle Colt’s patent flask, a lacquered tin of Eley’s caps and an “L” shaped nipple wrench. The top rear edge of the bottom of the case is stamped “MANUFACTURED / SOLELY BY W. KIDDER.” and “PATENT APR 1854”. The hinges are gold washed and the case has brass-reinforced corners with a mortised brass lock and shield shaped escutcheon. CONDITION: Extremely fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains about 85% glossy orig blue with sharp edge wear and losses around the muzzle. Frame retains about 75% faded case colors and the hammer about 80% dark case colors. Grip frame retains about 95% orig silver. Grips have a spectacular mellow gold color and are slightly shrunken with no visible age lines. Cylinder is mostly a gray patina with a couple of dings on the front edge and retains about 85% stagecoach holdup scene. Handspring is broken, otherwise mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple spots of scattered light pitting. Case is extremely fine with a few light nicks & scratches, a small crack in the back and retains most of its orig finish. Lining is very fine with moderate wear in the bottom, but completely intact. Mold appears new & unused. Flask is extremely fine with the body retaining most of its orig finish with some light surface discoloration on the collar and spring. A truly wonderful set by Colt’s premier engraver in an extremely rare casing. 4-55304 JR742 (20,000-30,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT PYTHON DA REVOLVER. Cal. 357 Mag. SN 01154N. Nickel finish with 6″ bbl with checkered gold Colt medallion walnut grips. Full coverage engraved with fine foliate arabesque pattern engraving. Factory records were not reviewed but it is guaranteed factory engraving. CONDITION: As new, unfired. Retains virtually all of its bright orig factory finish with a minor nick or so on the grips. 4-53727 JR494 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 128229. Beautiful Gustave Young engraved Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, “New York U.S. America” address with dashes, brass grip frame and deluxe shell grain walnut 1-pc grip. The engraving is typical Young’s later style with full coverage on the frame consisting of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and his trademark blossoms. The hammer has engraved sides with the trademark wolf’s heads. The engraving extends over the sides of the bbl lug and top flats and incorporates Young’s trademark bird or demon’s head within the pattern on the left side. The top flat has border and fan pattern around the address. The rammer pivot has full coverage engraving. The top of the back strap has Young’s trademark fan at the top with light arabesque flourishes on the back strap, butt strap, trigger guard and bottom of the frame. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 75-80% dull orig blue, brighter on the bottom flats. Cylinder is a plum patina with light pitting toward the front edge and retains 40-50% Ormsby naval battle scene. Frame & hammer are dark patina. Grip frame is a light mustard patina and the grips are very fine with light wear, a few nicks & dings and retain most of their orig varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore, dark in the grooves. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54756 JR672 (7,000-10,000)
*PAIR OF ENGRAVED SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 220959 & 249617. After market identically engraved with 4-3/4″ bbls, nickel finish and raised carved ox head 1-pc ivory grips. The only difference being, the grips are left hand and right hand. The engraving consists of about 70% coverage deep foliate arabesque patterns with fans or partial blossoms on the recoil shield, loading gate & top of the backstrap. The balance of the engraving is well executed and has the initials “BJ” in a ribbon on the bottom of the trigger guards. The ox head grips are extremely well executed with great detail. The front of each cylinder has the last two numbers of the serial number of that particular revolver. CONDITION: Identical condition. Do not appear to have been fired since engraving and they retain virtually all of their fine custom nickel finish. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bores with some pitting in #220959. Grips are sound with no apparent damage retaining a fine gold patina with minor age lines in the bottom edges. A fine pair of revolvers for the exhibition shooter. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54732 JR575 (4,500-6,500)
SCARCE CASED ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED MODEL 1849 LONDON POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 2123. Usual configuration with 5″ oct bbl, brass pin front sight, 2-line London address. It has early style London engraving with about 40% coverage. The backstrap is period engraved in old English style “S.S. Taylor.” The left side of the frame has “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in a ribbon and the hammer nose has dolphin’s head motif. It has 5-shot cylinder with silver-plated iron trigger guard & backstrap. It has very highly figured shell grain 1-pc walnut grip. It is accompanied by an orig Colt Agency oak casing with blue velvet lining having compartments for the revolver, L-shaped nipple wrench, a Colt’s Patent 2-cavity brass mold and a Barlow brass bag shaped flask and a tin of Cox’s caps. The wiping rod and corner compartment cover are missing. It also has the orig Colt directions in the lid.
A Google search disclosed a listing for an S.S. Taylor (Stephen Slade Taylor) who was born in 1818 in Kentucky and moved to Texas sometime after 1847 where he studied medicine for awhile, became a preacher and established a church in Palo Pinto where he was the first preacher in the county. He is also credited with being instrumental in establishing Texas Christian University and Ad Ran College. During his early years there, he and three of his sons served as Texas Rangers protecting settlers. He died in 1903 and is buried in Palo Pinto Cemetary.
CONDITION: Fine. All matching except the wedge which is orig but unnumbered, it has engraving on both ends. Bbl retains 20-30% thin orig blue, stronger in the sheltered areas with the balance a light patina. Cylinder is a gray patina and retains about 75% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame retains traces of case colors in the very sheltered areas with the balance turned silver. Trigger guard retains about 90% orig silver and the backstrap about 40%. Grips are sound showing heavy wear with a fine hand rubbed patina and a couple of grain checks. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. Casing is completely sound with small nicks & scratches and retains 85-90% orig varnish. Mortised lock is missing. Interior is slightly faded and soiled with a loose partition and some losses of lining at the front sight and hammer areas. Mold is nicked and dinged and the flask has one or two tiny dents. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54715 JR663 (3,000-5,000)
*COLE AGEE ENGRAVED COLT DETECTIVE SPECIAL DA REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 386114. Nickel finish with 2″ bbl, fixed sights and beautiful right hand raised carved ox head grips with ruby eyes. It is very nicely engraved through the nickel in typical Cole Agee style with about 70% coverage intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background and it has matching engraved panels between the flutes on the cylinder. The small flat on the crane is engraved in a checkerboard pattern. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired but retains virtually all of its fine nickel finish. Appears that it has not been carried or used much since engraving as the engraving is still sharp. Grips are truly outstanding with lots of fire. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 4-53864 JR524 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY. Cal. 36. SN 37322. Fine London Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, Colt’s London address with iron trigger guard & back strap and deluxe burled 1-pc walnut grip. The frame has full coverage beautiful foliate arabesque pattern engraving which extends over the sides of the bbl flat, full coverage on the rammer pivot and bottom of the rammer handle and extensively around the muzzle. The back strap has about 70% coverage with more on the trigger guard and bottom of the frame. There are British proofs on the left bbl flat and cylinder and “COLT’S PATENT” is engraved in a ribbon on the left side of the frame. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching including the wedge, which has softened the engraving. No orig finish remains being a cleaned gray patina overall. Shows heavy wear with several small dings & hammer marks on the bbl, pitting on the back edge of the frame and recoil shield. Artificially aged trigger guard. The grips are a dark hand rubbed patina showing heavy wear with worn edges, chipped and dinged at the right edge. The hammer screw is a replacement. The cylinder is a gray patina and retains 30-40% Ormsby naval battle scene. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-54134 JR671 (2,500-4,000)
*FINE EXHIBITION QUALITY ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 120409 & 215023. Not identically engraved but certainly by the same hand and likely at the same time. These revolvers offer a study in alternative style engraving. They both have 5-1/2″ bbls with gold wash over silver finish and gold colored synthetic 2-pc grips, one with medallions, the other without.
#120409, like its mate, has full coverage engraving with a great variety of cattle brands and vignettes, all in raised engraved form. Some of the vignettes are steer riding, and Indian, a wolf, a road runner & rattlesnake, a hanged man, a Mexican on a burro, a coyote howling at the moon with surrounding very nice foliate arabesque patterns. The back edge of the cylinder is stamped with a band of arrowheads, the bottom of the bbl is engraved “OLD JUDGE COLT” and the backstrap “TEXAS”. The top of the bbl has the Texas Lone Star and the sides of the hammer have rattlesnakes. Even the sides of the sight are engraved. The front strap is engraved “A.W. NIXON” and engraving in the flutes of the cylinder spell out “A NIXON”. The trigger bow is engraved with cattle brands. The screw heads are all engraved with serrated marks. This apparently was a mismatched artillery originally as the “DFC” sub-inspector mark is visible on the bottom of the bbl. CONDITION: Very fine. About 50% of the gold wash remains and most of the silver undercoat. Will not hold on safety notch or half cock, otherwise mechanics are fine. Bright shiny bore with a spot or two of light pitting. Grips are slightly shrunken but fine.
*#215023 is nearly identically engraved with the backstrap engraved “ARIZONA” and the bottom of the bbl engraved “PERSUADER”. It has different vignettes and different cattle brands with this one having an elk, a masked outlaw, a saddle-bronc rider, a cowboy shooting an Indian from horseback in a desert scene, a gunfight with a 2-fisted shooter and a wounded individual. The front strap is also engraved “A.W. NIXON” and the flutes spell out “A. NIXON”. The screw heads on this revolver are also engraved with serrated lines and the sides of the hammer are engraved with rattlesnakes. CONDITION: Retains about 50% gold wash and most of the silver under-plating. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting.
A custom dbl buscadero rig with coarse carving and simple single loop quick draw holsters with unusual aluminum cartridge loops accompany this pair. CONDITION: The rig is dry but still flexible, could use a little treatment. 4-54874 JR576 (4,000-6,000)
ENGRAVED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 146664. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, with hand engraved “SAML COLT”. It has brass grip frame and deluxe burled walnut 1-pc grip. The backstrap is engraved in period block lettering “HOWARD WOODROW / GUTHRIE REG”. Howard Cromwell Woodrow enlisted as a private in Company A 6th Ohio Infantry at the age of 20. He mustered out on 6-20-1861 and on 6-21-1861 mustered into Company H 13th Ohio Infantry and was discharged for promotion on 7-8-1861 and was commissioned into the 17th Infantry the same day. He rose through the ranks rapidly being promoted to Lt. Col. on 4-1-1864 and resigned on 10-19-1865.
The frame, bbl, rammer pivot, hammer, backstrap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in his typical patterns of very nicely executed scrolls of foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Both sides of the frame and the left recoil shield have his trademark blossom and the left side of the bbl lug has a bird or demon’s head incorporated in the engraving and the hammer nose has his trademark wolf or dog’s head on each side of the hammer and the edges of the trigger plate have his wavy border pattern. The left side of the frame has his trademark sweeping medallion containing “COLT’S PATENT” in a slight arc. It is accompanied by an orig walnut casing with maroon velvet lining having compartments for the revolver, a double sided E Pluribus Unum flask, a 2-cavity iron mold and a tin of Goldmark’s caps. CONDITION: Very good. All matching including the wedge. No orig finish remains, having been cleaned to a soft gray patina with some light fine pitting on the bbl. Cylinder retains 40-50% stagecoach holdup scene with one area of pitting. Wedge screw is broken. Grip frame retains about 80% orig silver-plating and the grips with a beautiful shell grain have a chip in the right toe and retain about 75-80% orig varnish. Good mechanics, strong bright bore with light pitting. Case has a grain check in the lid and a couple of others in the bottom with numerous small nicks, dings & scratches. Lining is lightly faded with a couple of loose partitions, otherwise is fine. From the collection of the late John Hamilton. 4-54216 JR661 (5,000-7,000)
CASED ENGRAVED REPRODUCTION NAVY ARMS NEW MODEL NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN E32. Fine reproduction Navy with 6-1/2″ oct bbl, silver-plated frame, grip frame, rammer & hammer. It has brass trigger guard & faux pearl grips. It is most beautifully engraved with deep floral & foliate arabesque patterns with 98% coverage on the frame & hammer with identical patterns on the bbl, rammer, trigger guard & backstrap. The cylinder has a fine foliate arabesque pattern between each chamber. Accompanied by a red & blue velvet lined walnut case with deep repoussed brass flask, brass Colt type bullet mold & a folding nipple wrench along with a plain unnumbered replacement cylinder. CONDITION: New, unfired, with faint cylinder line. Retains virtually all of its brilliant orig factory finish. Flask has some light corrosion on the handle & spring. Spare cylinder & accessories are new. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54745 JR326 (1,000-1,500)
*TEXAS ENGRAVED TEXAS RANGER USED COLT DETECTIVE SPECIAL. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 363349. This revolver was used by old time Texas Ranger, Ralph Rohatsch Sr. during his career with the Rangers, which began in the 1930’s. Nickel finish with 2″ bbl and fine 2-pc pearl grips, missing their screw. The engraving on this revolver is very typical of the after market work done at Wolf & Klar in Ft. Worth, Texas in the 1920’s, 30’s, 40’s & 50’s. Consignor states that the revolver was shipped to Wolf & Klar in 1928. Accompanied by a notarized letter from Ralph Rohatsch Jr. dated July 1, 2004 wherein he states that this revolver was used by his father during his law enforcement career. Also accompanying is an article from the Standard Times discussing the career of Ranger Rohatsch, which spanned from the 1930’s to when he retired in 1969. Also accompanying is a copy of a photograph of a long row of motorcycle policemen in front of the Texas state capitol building, presumably Mr. Rohatsch is one of them. Finally is a copy of a photograph of eight Texas Rangers of Company D, Alice, Texas, and December 1943, one of which is identified as Ralph Rohatsch. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired but very little. Retains virtually all of the orig nickel finish. Grips have a large chip at the top right with chipped toes. Crisp mechanics, bright shiny bore. 4-53885 JR513 (750-1,250)
ENGRAVED PAIR OF COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY REVOLVERS. Cal. 36. SN 14538 & 14543. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ round bbls, German silver front sights, brass grip frames with 1-pc ivory grips, both carved on the left side with a deep relief Lady Liberty. The frames, bbls, hammers & grip frames are all engraved in Gustave Young style, probably in his shop with his trademark style of flowing foliate arabesque patterns with blossoms incorporated in the center of the various scrolls. The hammer noses are engraved with his trademark wolf’s heads on each side and the top of the back straps have his trademark fan. The engraving patterns are down the sides of both bbls meeting on the top in front of the address. #14538 has a fish incorporated in the engraving on the left side of the bbl. Both revolvers have a small “E” by all of the serial numbers on the bottom. CONDITION: Both revolvers are all matching including the wedges and are about fine. #14543 retains about 60% orig silver-plating on the bbl & rammer. Cylinder retains 15-20% silver-plating and traces of gold wash with the balance a light gray patina and retains 25-30% naval battle scene. Five of the six safety pins are reasonably intact. Frame retains about 50% orig silver and the hammer traces of orig gold wash. Trigger guard retains about 30% thin silver-plating with the balance of the grip frame a light lemony patina. Grips are sound with a beautiful aged mellow patina with several age lines, slightly shrunken with heavy wear on Lady Liberty. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. #14538 retains 30-40% orig silver-plating on the bbl & rammer. Cylinder is overall a light gray patina with scattered light pitting and retains about 50% naval battle scene. Frame retains 15-20% silver-plating and the grip frame traces of silver in the sheltered areas. Grips have four repair holes, retain a beautiful mellow patina with numerous small age lines and are slightly shrunken with heavy wear to Lady Liberty. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with moderate pitting. 4-54347 (16,000-22,000)
SCARCE COLT MODEL 1883 DBL BBL HAMMERLESS SHOTGUN. Cal. 10 ga. SN 7192. High grade Colt Damascus dbl, one of only 7,366 made 1883-1895 with there being very few of the fancier models such as this one. It has 32″ fine pattern Damascus bbls, concave matted rib with single bead with the maker’s name and address with doll’s head extension and dbl lug. The receiver is beautifully engraved with the game scene of a setter and flushing partridge on the left side and a pointer and flushing partridge on the right side, surrounded with very fine arabesque patterns. The trigger bow is engraved to match with the panel of a flying mallard. The stock is beautifully grained Circassian walnut, 13-3/4″ over a rampant Colt logo hard rubber buttplate. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbls retain 75-80% orig Damascus patterns with strong patterns and orig brown finish in the sheltered areas with the balance bright. Receiver has traces of case colors in the sheltered areas with the balance turned silver. Stock is sound showing moderate wear with usual handling & use marks. Forearm has minor chips at the bbl channel and a repaired crack and has had an amateur attempt to recut the checkering. There appears to be a very old spliced piece near the left tip of the forearm. It blends very well and is barely noticeable. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores with some scattered crud in the left side that should clean. 4-53754 (1,200-2,000)
HISTORIC CASED ENGRAVED AND INSCRIBED MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 31058. A wonderfully engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Model revolver with a 6” bbl and beautiful 1-pc burl Walnut grips. The revolver is commercially engraved with scrollwork covering the entire frame, recoil shields, hammer and about 25% of the bbl and loading lever. The silver-plated trigger guard and blackstrap is profusely decorated as well. The revolver displays the correct “dot” below the serial number for pistols leaving the factory prepared for engraving. The Walnut case is a commercial model with a red velvet lined interior and a square ivory lock escutcheon. The accouterments inside include a Colt’s patent eagle flask, small tin of Eely percussion caps and a brass .31 cal. mold made without a sprue cutter.
The presentation is hand engraved on the backstrap reading Hon. C.W.W. Fitzwilliams to D.J. Dickey. Charles W. Wentworth Fitzwilliam appears to be the youngest son of the 5th Earl Fitzwilliam of England. There is some evidence that he visited the United States about 1850 upon inheriting an estate in Nova Scotia. There is little else in evidence about this unusual presentation except for some included notations on the Dicky (ie) family in Nova Scotia. It may be that the historical association between these two men will not be discovered. However, the Earl Fitzwilliams is a notable figure-a noble-from a very long descent of an established, landed and titled English family. Photocopied papers accompany the gun tracing the research complied by a previous owner. CONDITION: Revolver has no orig finish and has been cleaned to a light gray color. Light peppery pitting is evidenced here and there. Burl Walnut grips are very nice. However, there are dents to the butt on each side of the grip strap. Case is very good with one age crack on the lid about 5” long. The interior shows appropriate wear. Ex Hank Truslow Collection. 4-54185 CoW16 (3,500-4,500)
CASED ENGRAVED KLAY-COLT 3RD TYPE MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 25049. Spectacular 2nd generation Navy with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight, case colored frame, rammer & hammer with small trigger guard on silver-plated grip frame with spectacular bird’s eye maple 1-pc grips. Beautifully engraved in Gustave Young style with full coverage on the frame, on the sides of the bbl lug & top flats with matching engraving on the rammer pivot, trigger guard, backstrap & butt. The hammer has Young’s distinctive wolf’s head pattern on each side. The backstrap is inscribed “COMMODORE JAMES H. CANNON / EDGARTOWN”. It is cased in a fine reproduction mahogany case with small brass plaque on the top inscribed “James H. Cannon”. Accompanied by a beautiful silver-plated angle spout, dbl sided Colt type flask, silver-plated 2-cavity mold with a “W” inspector’s initial and a silver-plated nipple wrench. Also included is a reproduction tin of Eley Bros. caps and a number of cast bullets. Additionally accompanying is a copy of instructions for using Colt’s pistols and a series of letters & invoices, between Mr. Klay and James Hughes Cannon of Edgartown, Mass. (Martha’s Vineyard) wherein he ordered this revolver custom built. Master engraver, Dan Cullity engraved it in 1986. Total cost at that time was $2,882.25. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, new, unfired and unturned, retaining all of its spectacular charcoal blue and bright case colors. Case & accessories are equally new. 4-53943 JR324 (1,750-2,750)
*RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL FLAT TOP TARGET REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. SN 563580. Spectacular officer’s model with 6″ bbl, adjustable front sight with flat top frame and adjustable rear sight. It has royal blue finish with orig factory pearl grips with the right side having a raised carved buffalo with red painted eyes. It is factory Class C engraved with beautiful intertwined foliate arabesque patterns having about 75-80% coverage with patterns between the flutes on the cylinder, on the flat top frame and down the bbl on both sides with flourishes on the bottom and front of the frame, the trigger guard & butt strap. The backstrap & trigger are checkered and the hammer has niter blue edge with bright sides. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter fully identifying this revolver as being engraved with pearl grips and having been shipped to Abercrombie & Fitch Co, New York, New York on June 12, 1930 in a shipment of two guns. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains about 98% strong bright orig factory blue with only very slight muzzle edge wear and some extremely minor sharp edge wear. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, has been fired but very little. Grips have tremendous red & green fire with chipped heels. Factory records indicate pearl grips and these certainly appear orig but they are slightly too long. 4-53929 JR690 (6,000-10,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 32950. Silver-plated with 7-15/16″ rnd bbl (apparently reduced to this length), German silver front sight, brass trigger guard with iron backstrap and beautiful checkered, modern, 1-pc ivory grip with a deep relief, raised carved, Mexican eagle on the left side. It has nearly full coverage New York style engraving, undoubtedly done at the L.D. Nimschke shop with beautiful foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. It has engraved hammer with wolf’s heads on the hammer nose and the usual fan at the top of the backstrap with long flourishes of arabesque patterns on the backstrap, butt strap, trigger guard and bottom of the bbl lug. The bbl itself has nearly full coverage of matching patterns and the rammer handle has spiral & foliate patterns with full coverage on the rammer pivot. The ends of the wedge are engraved. The cylinder has full coverage patterns on the larger diameter having been engraved over the serial number but leaving the patent date in a small ribbon. It has a 4-screw frame with flat head hammer screw that appears to be an old replacement. It appears that the rammer, cylinder, hammer & trigger were gold washed as there are traces of gold on all these items with the balance of the bbl & frame silver-plated. CONDITION: Fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains about 30% orig silver with the balance a medium patina. Rammer handle retains traces of orig gold wash. Cylinder is mostly a gray patina. Frame retains 50-60% orig silver-plating and the trigger guard about 95% orig silver. Backstrap is mostly a gray patina. Grips are outstanding modern reproductions showing light diamond point wear with good detail and a few scattered age lines. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with fine pitting. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54723 JR694 (10,000-15,000)
FINE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 6285. Rare engraved pocket Navy with 4-1/2″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 5-shot rebated cylinder with nickel-plated brass grip frame & 1-pc walnut grips. All the serial numbers have a small “E” adjacent to them. It is beautifully engraved in Nimschke style with about 90% coverage on the frame of foliate arabesque patterns, which extend up over the recoil shields, over the sides of the bbl lug onto the top flats and both sides of the rammer pivot. The hammer is engraved with wolf’s heads on each side of the nose with fan pattern at the top of the backstrap and foliate arabesque patterns down the backstrap, on the butt strap, bottom of the trigger guard & bottom of the frame. The edge of the trigger guard has wavy border. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching except the rammer handle which is numbered “275”, probably an assembler’s mistake as the engraving and condition match precisely. Bbl retains about 30% orig blue, mostly in the sheltered areas with the balance a plum color with some fine pitting near the muzzle and a spot or two elsewhere. Cylinder retains about 25-30% thin blue with the balance a silver/brown patina and retains about 75% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame retains dark case colors on the sides turned silver/gray on the recoil shields. Hammer retains 25-30% case colors with moderate pitting on the nose. Trigger guard & front strap retain 70% nickel-plating while the backstrap is a lemony patina. Grips are sound with hammer marks on the bottom and retain traces of orig varnish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with moderate pitting. One or two battered screws. A beautiful little revolver. 4-54346 (6,500-8,500)
LOT OF TWELVE SETS OF MISCELLANEOUS GRIPS & PARTS. (1) Sterling & gold single action Army with Mexican eagle Aztec calendar & gold diamond with engraving, fine; (2) Two pair of very heavy dbl sided steer head sterling for Colt single action Army, new & unused; (3) Pair of Colt single action Army very heavy sterling rampant Colt & eagle, new; (4) Pair of reproduction Colt 1878 DA Frontier grips, very fine; (5) Pair of varnished walnut bird-head derringer grips, probably Colt with number “1296” inside, good, 90% varnish; (6) Pair of single action Army 1-pc walnut grips, a little worn, good; (7) Pair of repro 1-pc single action Army grips, new; (8) Pair of Remington Elliot derringer hard rubber grips, turned chocolate with number “51” on one side and number “22” on the other. The right grip has a large chip at the top, left is fine. (9) Pair of 60-Army 1-pc walnut grips, very worn; (10) Pair of small frame percussion Colt 1-pc walnut grips, light wear, fine; (11) One piece ivory 51 Navy size grips with raised carved Mexican eagle, yellowed with age lines, fine. There is also an engraved brass reproduction Colt SAA backstrap with the number “0150” inside plus a Colt SAA trigger guard & backstrap. The trigger guard is numbered “59109” and the backstrap is numbered “162332”, worn & gray. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54837 JR281 (750-1,250)
*PRE-WAR ENGRAVED COLT ACE SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 22 LR. SN 7708. Blued finish with 4-3/4″ commercial bbl without floating chamber. It has thick front sight and adjustable rear sight and is fitted with smooth ivory grips and is accompanied by an orig magazine. It is engraved in factory style with about Class-D coverage consisting of very nicely executed foliate arabesque patterns with a very fine punch dot background. The coverage is very extensive leaving very little undecorated space. Accompanied by Colt Factory letter identifying this pistol as having been shipped blue to Wead & Co., Buffalo, NY April 22, 1937. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains 96-97% bright custom finish with slight muzzle end wear and dulling on the front strap. Grips are fine with several age lines and some oil spotting. Magazine retains most of an old re-blue. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-53928 JR691 (3,000-5,000)
RARE MISSOURI IDENTIFIED MARTIALLY MARKED THIRD MODEL COLT DRAGOON REVOLVER. This revolver, SN 12718, is accompanied by a very old hand written note in period ink which states Colt Dragoon/William Carter/Bishop/Born 1826/Died 1904/Purchased/Kansas/City/1858/PurchasedDick Bishop. While the revolver is not engraved or marked in any way, the accompanying note is of sufficient age to lend credibility to its identification and provenance.
The revolver is a standard Colt Third Model dragoon, .44 cal. with a 6-shot cylinder and a 7 ½” part rnd, part oct bbl. The grips are of 1-pc Walnut with un-plated brass furniture. On the left side of the frame the markings, Colts/Patent/U.S., indicate its purchase by the U.S. Army. Other single letter inspector’s initials appear on various parts. All serial numbers match.
The consignor has performed research on William Carter Bishop as serving in the 7th Missouri Infantry and copies of that unit’s service accompany the revolver, (during my research I also located a William Bishop [no middle name specified] serving as Lieutenant Colonel of the 7th Missouri Cavalry). The 7th Regiment Missouri Infantry was a hard fought unit in the Western theater of Operations. Organized in St. Louis in June 1861, this unit served throughout Missouri and Tennessee during the first two years of the war. By 1863, the 7th Infantry had moved south to Louisiana and Mississippi participating in the Siege, assault and surrender of Vicksburg. By 1864, the 7th was merged with the 11th Missouri Infantry to serve out its term. CONDITION: Revolver is in very good condition. No orig finish is present and all metal parts retain a dark to medium uncleaned patina. Markings are appropriately worn but readable. Grips show extensive wear with a chip missing from one toe. Scene on the cylinder is barely visible under the correct conditions. Mechanics are fine and the revolver has a very pleasing appearance. A good opportunity to own a martially marked third model Colt dragoon revolver with historical and military association. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54727 (4,000-7,000)
COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 209291. Blue & case colored with 6″ oct bbl that has “NEW-YORK US AMERICA” 1-line address. It has 5-shot cylinder with British proofs on the bbl & cylinder. It has a silver-plated brass grip frame and 1-pc walnut grip. The four serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are all accompanied by a small “E”. This is unusual in that this usually signifies an engraved gun. Also the cylinder is without a number, but completely matches the condition of the revolver including the British proofs. CONDITION: Exceedingly fine. Appears to be unfired. Chambers are still packed full of very old grease and there is no evidence of it ever having been fired. Bbl retains 97-98% glossy bright blue and the rammer & handle about all of their bright orig case colors. Cylinder is lightly flaked but retains about 90% strong orig blue with about 99% stagecoach holdup scene. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their strong bright orig case colors and the grip frame virtually all of its black oxidized silver-plating. Grip shows very minor wear with a few small storage marks and retains virtually all of its orig varnish. Bore is bright & shiny, about 2/3 of the way from the muzzle with the cylinder end having light rust. Revolver has been played with as the safety pins are all pounded down, but it appears to be unfired. 4-54508 JR686 (4,000-7,000)
LOT OF MISCELLANEOUS PARTS, TOOLS & BBLS. Six single action bbls – 4-3/4″ 44 nickel finish, strong bore; 4-3/4″ 38 WCF, no finish, strong bore; 4-3/4″ 32 WCF, no finish, strong bore; reproduction 3-1/2″ 45, bright bore; reproduction 4-3/4″ marked “Christy”, 22, strong finish, bright bore; reproduction 7-1/2″, engraved, 44, new; One repro Remington bbl, 7-1/2″ 44, no finish; one Colt bbl, probably 2nd generation, 49 pocket, 5″, #317158, 70% bright blue, bright bore; Colt bbl, probably repro, 62 Police, #51138, new; repro SAA ejector rod housing; repro Paterson loading tool; two small Colt percussion hammers; one large percussion hammer, probably Remington; one Winchester 1866 bolt; two 1860 Army conversion rings; two 1873 trap door bolts, one stripped & brown and the other about new with all of its case colors; repro percussion lock & hammer; 1909 Argentine bayonet lug; six trapdoor Model 1879 stock tools; two flat Colt screwdrivers; one unidentified pistol magazine; one small brass telescope marked “M38A2” with screw mounts and a grid reticle. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54841 JR371 (400-800)
SPECTACULAR NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED SILVER & GOLD SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 25355. Fabulous single action with 7-1/2″ bbl, bull’s eye ejector rod head and diamond checkered ebony 2-pc grips. It is spectacularly engraved by L.D. Nimschke with about 60% coverage, extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The cylinder has a flourish in between each flute. The top strap is decorated with small squares & dots. The top of the backstrap has the traditional fan with a cross hatched & dot center. It has small flourishes at the top and bottom of the backstrap, on the butt strap, the bottom of the trigger guard and toe of the trigger guard. The sides of the frame at the bbl also have the cross hatched & dot patterns. The ejector rod housing is engraved with the square & dot patterns matching the top strap with a light border and flourishes at each end. The bbl has about 4″ of engraving on each side with a wave & dot border around the address with an arabesque flourish at the forward end as well as flourishes on each side of the muzzle. The muzzle and cylinder ends of the bbl have a dbl-incised line. Strangely the arabesque flourish on the top of the bbl is without punch dot background. The loading gate is engraved with a fan similar to that at the top of the backstrap and each side of the web at the rear end of the trigger plate has the cross hatched & dot pattern with the left side leaving a small panel with the cal. marking. The ejector rod housing, ejector rod head, cylinder & hammer have gold wash while the balance of the revolver is silver plated with niter blued screws, cylinder pin & trigger. A detailed 8 pg R.L. Wilson letter accompanies this. Included in this letter are extracted factory notes regarding the original shipment, which indicates shipment October 3, 1876 to J.P. Moores & Sons, New York City. Wilson also states the engraved decoration is a virtual match to set # 25499 and 26094 (sold by our firm in October 2003 for $276,000). A pair of grips similar to these can be found on a fine single action revolver in the Colt Collection. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. All matching. Overall retains about 95% strong orig silver & gold-plating with some fine pitting on the right side of the bbl near the front sight and on the bottom of the bbl by the ejector rod housing. There is another small area of fine pitting on the backstrap. Bottom of the bbl has a long scratch by the ejector rod housing. Cylinder is bright and clean, showing evidence of having been fired, with some lost plating on the front around the chambers that has turned to dark patina. Ejector rod housing retains fine gold-plating in the gullets with the outer edge being exposed silver-plating, which is the under-plating for this revolver. Hammer retains virtually all of its orig gold-plating with some light scuffs on the sides. Grips are sound with crisp checkering and very minor diamond point wear. Mechanics are crisp with strong bright bore and fine pitting near the cylinder end. Truly one of the more spectacular Colts to come to market in a long time. 4-54021 JR682 (80,000-120,000)
ENGRAVED REPRODUCTION COLT TEXAS PATERSON REVOLVER. Cal. 38. SN 837. Fine reproduction, probably by Replica Arms, in the 1950’s. It has a 7-1/8″ oct bbl, pin front sight, 5-shot square-back cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. It has full coverage period style engraving on the frame, hammer & backstrap with matching engraving on the sides of the bbl lug. It is fitted with mastodon ivory 1-pc grips with a small stone at the top on each side. The reproduction is done well enough that it has fine pitting on the hammer nose and on the bbl lug with heavy wear and hammer marks around the wedge slot and overall shows good wear. CONDITION: Generally as above with good mechanics and strong bright bore with light pitting. A fine reproduction intended to deceive. From the collection of the late Bruce McDowell. 4-54748 JR612 (1,000-2,000)
CIVIL WAR CASED AND INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL REVOLVER FROM THE COLONEL OF AN OHIO REGIMENT TO HIS QUARTERMASTER. A wonderful and historic cased presentation Colt revolver obviously made as a gift of appreciation from the Colonel of the 2nd Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry to his Quartermaster and Lieutenant. The revolver is a Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver with a 6” octagonal bbl SN 26256 and two-line New York address. The 5-shot Colt has matching serial numbers (ramrod is un-numbered) and silver-plated brass backstrap and trigger guard. The pistol is Colt factory cased with cleaning rod, bag shaped flask, nipple wrench/screwdriver and tin of Ely Bros. percussion caps. On the lid of the case is a brass shield inset and engraved with an armorial device consisting of a harnessed beast over a ribband with the motto “inconcussa virtus”. On the left face of the 1-pc Walnut grip is an oval silver escutcheon inscribed with the following presentation: Col. Anson G. McCook/to/Ira H. bird/Lieut. And Quartermaster/June 1st 1864. The escutcheon is held in place with two silver nails and the oval edge is decorated with period zigzag engraving.
Anson G. McCook was commissioned Colonel of the regiment on January 21, 1863 and Ira G. Bird served from 1862 as First Lieutenant and Regimental Quartermaster until the Regiment was mustered out on October 10, 1864 (veterans and recruits transferred to the 18th Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry). During Lt. Bird’s service the regiment fought a number of battles and skirmishes notably Perryville, Stones River, Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Missionary Ridge, Resaca and Peach Tree Creek.
A wonderful Civil War presentation Colt-cased with all the accoutrements and a symbol of the Colonel’s appreciation for his Quartermaster in a well fought Ohio regiment. CONDITION: Revolver is well used and worn to a grey patina with no factory finish remaining. All edges are sharp. Cylinder shows approximately 70% of its rolled scene and about 80% of the silver-plating remains on the backstrap and trigger guard. Factory case is fine with a full intact label and appropriate wear while retaining most of its varnish and the accoutrements excellent. A rare, cased inscribed Colt from a notable Colonel to his Lieutenant and valued Quartermaster. From the collection of the late John Hamilton. 4-52159 CoW6 (3,000-6,000)
EXTREMELY RARE PAIR OF MATCHING-NUMBERED COLLIER FLINTLOCK REVOLVING PISTOLS. SN 82. Cal. .48 smoothbore. 6-5/16” oct bbls with ribs. Both of these are the hand-revolved variety that is gas-sealed at the rear of the bbl when the hammer falls. The lockplate is marked in Old English script, “E.H.Collier 82 Patent” below the hammer & in front of panoply of arms. The top of the bbl is marked “E.H. Collier / 82 London.” There are rollers on both of the frizzens. The frizzens contain an automatically revolved powder rotor for priming the pans, worked by a spring-loaded lever operating on their left sides. There is a lid on top of the frizzen that can be turned to the side to load the powder chamber in each frizzen. The bbl, frame, lockplate, coverplate & priming chamber cover at the rear of the cylinder are all finely engraved. The rear of the iron rib under the bbl is checkered. The engraved flashguard is removed by pulling straight down. It covers the mouths of the four chambers not lined up with the bbl. The rosewood ramrods have turned brass ends. There is an engraved solid silver hunter’s star on the left side. The second pistol is identical except for the ramrod, which is an almost exact copy. These guns are usually identified with early Colt guns as they are a predecessor of modern (percussion) revolvers and are thought to have inspired a young Sam Colt duringa youthful voyage to England. Colt did have a Coloier in his personal collection at the time of his death. CONDITION: Extremely fine. 90% blue on the trigger guards, 50% on the top of the action. Faded case hardening on the lockplates. There is also blue on the frizzen springs and operating parts of the frizzen. Front of the flashguards has about 50% blue. Chambers & bbls appear to be unfired, as they are bright. No finish on the bbls but the Damascus pattern is strong. Some light pitting on the top strap in front of the cylinder. 4-53911 (125,000-150,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED LAW ENFORCEMENT USED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER “THE BOSS THORPE GUN”. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 355020. This revolver was owned and used, although not much, by R.D. “Boss” Thorp, who was Chief of Police of Austin, TX from1928-58 and pretty much ran in an ex-officio way, serving under a number of mayors. His family had old roots in Texas before the Civil War and moved to Austin when Boss was about four years old. He was apparently a very famous and well-liked individual in the area, so much so that in April 1995 the high school baseball field was named after him. Prior to beginning his law enforcement career Mr. Thorp was a semi-pro baseball player and played for the Tampico, Mexico team. There is a copy of a picture of him in 1920’s style baseball uniform.
The revolver has nickel finish with 4-3/4″ bbl, 2-line address with 2-pc ox head ivory grips with Colt silver medallions. The engraving covers about 80% of the revolver and consists of extremely fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background. The backstrap and butt are fully engraved with the panel on the backstrap inscribed is “BOSS THORP”. The bottom of the butt has an unusual pattern of a series of tulips. A rare solid gold, 5-pointed star accompanies it, about 1-3/4″ wide, dbl layered with a genuine diamond approx. 1/2-carat diamond in the center. There is a ribbon over the top engraved “R.D. Thorpe” and another small ribbon between the bottom two points marked “Chief”. This engraving is filled with black enamel. The center part of the star is engraved around the diamond “Austin, Texas”. The badge is enclosed in a small leather custom built case and was obviously carried for many years. Genuine solid gold Texas sheriff’s badges are very rare! Also accompanying is a letter from Mike Clark, Collector’s Firearms, Houston, TX stating that he purchased this revolver from Bruce Rade, Boss Thorp’s grandson) on May 11, 2002. Also accompanying is a Colt factory letter regarding this revolver stating that it was shipped with blue finish to “The City of Austin, TX c/o R.D. Thorp”, September 13, 1932 and the caliber is not listed. In the remarks section it notes that the records do not indicate that it was engraved, however the notation “Engraved” does appear next to this serial number in the production book. It stands to reason therefore that once Boss Thorp received the revolver, he returned it to Colt and ordered the engraving. This is substantiated further by the tiny refinish “&” found on the right side of the rear web of the trigger guard. There is no doubt that this revolver is factory engraved. Also accompanying are copies of newspaper articles and photographs of Boss Thorp and some of his family. Additionally there is a small black leather credential case embossed in gold “POLICE DEPARTMENT / AUSTIN, TEXAS”, which contains Chief Thorp’s police ID cards. CONDITION: Extremely fine, has been fired, but very, very little with only a faint burn on the face of the cylinder. Retains virtually all of its bright orig factory finish and the grips are a beautiful mellow gold color with a few age lines on the bottom. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. 4-54054 JR530 (37,500-57,500)
CASED PAIR OF COLT PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. (1) Engraved Model 1851 Navy. Cal. 36. SN 42624. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ octagon bbl, small brass front sight, New York City with dashes, brass trigger guard & back strap and beautiful old 1-piece ivory grips. It is engraved in early Gustave Young style with his trademark dog’s head incorporated in the patterns on the left side of the bbl lug, his well known use of flower blossoms in the engraving patterns, his elliptical vignette with “Colt’s Patent” in an arc on the left side of the frame and his very famous wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. It has an unfluted cylinder with Naval battle scene. CONDITION: Good. All matching including the wedge, no original finish remains being a medium gray artificially aged patina overall. Bbl has three longitudinal hairline cracks at about mid-point, one on each side flat and the third on the bottom flat. Grip frame retains 65-70% strong original silver plating. Grips are spectacular with numerous age lines in the butt and retain a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Cylinder pin appears to have been repaired, probably to tighten up the cylinder. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting.
(2) Colt Root Model 6 Percussion Revolver. Cal. 31. SN 9767. Blued finish, 3-1/2″ rnd bbl, 2-line address, and stagecoach holdup scene on cylinder with beautiful 1-piece ivory grips. CONDITION: Fine. All matching. Bbl retains about 20% original blue in the sheltered areas with the balance a light silver/gray patina. Rammer retains 30-35% case colors and the frame about 60% blue, strong in the sheltered areas. Cylinder retains about 50-60% thin original blue and about 90% stagecoach holdup scene. Grips are beautiful with age lines in the butt and retain a beautiful mellow ivory patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with light to moderate pitting.
Accompanied by a beautiful walnut casing, most likely not Colt, 15-1/2″ x 9-3/4″ x 2-7/8″. It has a brass shield in the top and a mortised brass lock that functions. It is lined with dark green velvet with compartments for the revolvers, a blued 36 caliber Colt’s Patent mold with “S” inspector marks on both handles, an iron “31 PKT” mold with sprue cutter. It also has a Navy size flask, one sided with trophy of arms, crossed rifles and a revolver surmounting a ribbon embossed “Colt’s Patent”. It has another flask, pocket model size, “Colt’s Patent” with early American eagle clutching a revolver in its talon. Additionally it has a packet of 36 caliber cartridges and two late UMC cap tins and an “L” shaped nipple wrench. CONDITION: Case is very fine with a couple of small gouges in the lid, light scratches and handling marks and retains most of an old restored finish. Lining is slightly faded with light soil and two or three re-glued partitions. Navy mold is fine, the pocket mold is pitted and brown. Navy flask is dented & dinged, the pocket flask has one small dent with a medium dark patina on the body and collar and most of its original blue on the spring. Cartridge pack is open on one end but intact and legible. An unusual set that needs some attention. 4-53589 (7,000-10,000)
VERY RARE COLT PRESENTATION DOUBLE RIFLE. Cal. 50-110. SN 26. One of the most rare of all Colt firearms is the double rifle. With only approximately 40 ever having been made, most were presentations or gifts from Caldwell Colt who fostered and promoted the concept of the double rifle at Colt. Patterned after the Model 1878 double bbl shotgun, but built on a lighter frame, our rifle has 27-7/8″ bbls with a dovetailed ivory bead front sight, a slot blank in the rear seat and a Lyman loop tang sight mounted to the top of the wrist. The bbls have a straight, flat, matted rib with the company name and address. The left bbl has left-hand twist and the right bbl has right-hand twist rifling. The lockplates are each marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO.” and have light border engraving. It has beautifully scalloped fences and border engraved hammers and trigger guard with some light patterns on the bottom of the receiver and forend iron. It is mounted in nicely figured English or French walnut wood with black insert, checkered, schnable tip, splinter forearm and round knob stock with smooth steel buttplate and raised side panels around the lockplates. The left side of the butt stock has a 2-3/8″ silver plate, inscribed “Blair D. Taylor / U.S.A.” and there is an oval initial plate on the bottom. Research to date has disclosed that Blair Dabney Taylor was a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), class of 1866, during the Civil War and fought at the Battle of New Market, 15 May 1864. After the war he finished his education and became a physician and spent the rest of his career as a Union military doctor. He died in 1930. Thus far, no connection between Caldwell Colt and Mr. Taylor has been established. Additional research should produce good results. Accompanied by a copy of page 22 of the March 1933 American Rifleman magazine, which contains a brief article by Raymond W. Barth, regarding this rifle and its provenance. Mr. Barth states that he purchased this rifle directly from Mr. Taylor’s daughter along with two other rifles. He does not indicate when or where he bought it, but does state that in 1931 he traveled to Hartford and took the rifle to the factory to be examined, and further, that no records exist regarding its manufacture or disposition. He states that the wood is “Italian Walnut”. Apparently in about 1948 this rifle came into the possession of Mr. Fred P.L. Mills of Old Deerfield, Mass., which generated serious interest on his part and which prompted him to conduct research on these rifles after which, in 1953, he published a 51 page booklet detailing what information he learned. In the book Mr. Mills states that this rifle was made for a military officer who ordered it to shoot buffalo while stationed out west, but was transferred to Atlanta apparently before this occurred. Coupled with the fact that Mr. Barth purchased this rifle in the Atlanta area leaves a reasonably solid trail of provenance. Also accompanies is a letter dated May 6, 1967 from Larry Wilson stating that he would like to purchase this rifle should Mr. Owens decide to sell it in the future. Of interest to the collector is the fact that Eldon received a Colt from Mills under his will and later (1962) purchased the remainder of his estate. This rifle was #1 on the inventory and the most valuable gun in the collection. Eldon kept a dozen of these guns and they are also offered in this auction. Also accompanied by two rounds of unprimed Bell 45-110 brass. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbls retain about 98% strong original blue, the lockplates retain most of their bright case colors and the receiver 30-40% faded case colors with the balance turned silver. Trigger guard retains about 95% original bright niter blue. Wood is sound with usual light handling and use marks and retains most of its original finish. Mechanics are crisp with brilliant shiny bores. 4-52406 JR742 (40,000-70,000)
*ENGRAVED COMPOSITE COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 270257. Modern engraved revolver with 12” replacement bbl and 2-pc pearl grips. It is engraved in foliate New York style arabesque patterns with about 60% coverage over the bbl, cylinder, frame and grip frame. The hammer has a wolf’s head engraved on each side. The cylinder has the numbers “1” thru “6” engraved over the chambers. The ejector rod head is a modern replacement. CONDITION: As noted, very good to fine. Retains most of its custom blue finish on the bbl & frame and most of its gold finish on the ejector rod housing & hammer. Cylinder retains about 90% gold plating and the grip frame about 50% gold finish. Mechanics are a little loose, broken or missing handspring with loose cylinder pin, will not hold on safe or half cock. Bright shiny bore. Grips are fine. 4-50479 JR918 (1,750-2,000)
INSCRIBED COLT 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 7413. Usual configuration with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, 5-shot fluted rebated cylinder, silver plated brass grip frame and 1-piece walnut grips. The bottom of the butt is engraved in period script “Lieut. Randolph / from his friends / Norwalk O”. The right grip is neatly stamped near the bottom edge “T.H.”
Lt. Randolph appears to have been Lt. John F. Randolph who enlisted at Monroeville, OH on September 24, 1862. Lt. Randolph had a fairly distinguished career, participating in battles and fights with the 123rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Lt. Randolph performed a dangerous mission, riding alone about 40 miles through Virginia dodging enemy patrols to deliver a message to a besieged regiment. His regiment was engaged almost continually in scouting assignments in and around the Shenandoah Valley. He was promoted to Captain March 6, 1863. On June 13, 1863 they engaged Gen. Lee’s army at Winchester and were driven back toward Martinsburg and were surrendered by their commander on June 14th. Capt. Randolph was incarcerated in Libby Prison for 11 months. Several attempts were made to exchange him for a Confederate officer, to no avail. Capt. Randolph and several other Union officers escaped on December 8, 1864 and floated down a river, traveling only at night and foraging off the land for sustenance. They hid during the days and after about 30 days reached the mouth of the river and were picked up by a Union gun boat. Capt. Randolph rejoined his regiment in February 1865 and on March 30th engaged the Confederates at Harcher Run. After three continuous days of battle they pursued the Confederates towards Petersburg capturing many prisoners and forts. After a brief rest they were sent to burn “High Bridge” fifteen miles in the advance. They were attacked by rebel cavalry before they could reach their destination and after suffering heavy losses and running out of ammunition they surrendered. Capt. Randolph was shot in the chest after they had surrendered. He eventually recovered from his wounds and was mustered out along with his regiment June of 1865 and returned to Norwalk, OH. No mention is made of Capt. Randolph’s Colt, but it can be assumed that when he was captured the first time, it was taken and probably used by Confederate officer or soldier.
Accompanied by an extensive article written by John G. Hamilton which appeared in the Winter 1989 magazine The Winchester Repeater. Also accompanied by an extensive file of copies of Capt. Randolph’s military record. CONDITION: About good, all matching except the wedge which is unnumbered. No original finish remains being an even dark brown patina overall with some light to moderate surface rust on the bbl. The grip frame retains traces of original silver plating and the grips are very worn but sound. One frame screw and one back strap screw are battered. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with scattered moderate pitting. Hamilton Collection 4-52116 JR819 (3,0000-5,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 123448. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, dovetailed German silver, slightly modified, Rocky Mountain front sight with silver plated brass back strap and trigger guard containing a fine, 1-piece ivory grip. The bbl, rammer pivot, frame, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young in typical foliate arabesque patterns which incorporate his trademark dog’s head on the left side of the bbl lug and his trademark blank panel at the tip of the left bbl lug; his well known wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose and his trademark flower blossoms in several places. At the top of the backstrap inside Young’s trademark pattern is a tiny Irish harp that appears to be by another hand. This leads one to speculate that this revolver was either presented to, but certainly used by a member of one of the Irish Brigades during the Civil War. Someone with a good imagination could interpret Mr. Young’s flower blossoms, incorporated in his engraving patterns, as shamrocks. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including the wedge. The bbl retains about 75% original silver finish with the balance a silver/gray metal color. The engraving is sharp and the rammer pivot retains 50-60% bright case colors with the handle and rammer being a silver/gray metal color. The cylinder retains 20-25% silver plating toward the rear edge with the balance a bright metal color and retains 25-30% naval battle scene. The frame with its beautiful engraving, retains 60-70% silver plating with some light, fine pitting on the bottom tip. The hammer has a lightly pitted nose. The back strap and butt retain traces of original silver and the trigger guard about 60% silver. The grips are beautiful with fine age lines in the bottom are completely intact and retain a great mellow ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore with three or four spots of pitting. A truly beautiful Navy, surely with a Civil War history if it could only be discovered. 4-53416 JR858 (5,000-8,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT SPECIAL ORDER MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING SHORT RIFLE. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). SN 6491. Very rare rifle with 20-1/4” tapered rnd bbl, German silver Rocky Mountain front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight that is located closer than normal to the receiver. It has a 2/3 magazine with straight grain American walnut wood, checkered 2-pc forearm and straight stock with nickeled crescent buttplate. The receiver, trigger guard and trigger guard extension are all beautifully engraved in Nimschke style and were nickel-plated. The left side of the receiver has an open vignette of a very detailed Buffalo Bill astride a horse, roping a bull buffalo with mountain background and prairie foreground. It has two flourishes of nice arabesque patterns with very fine punch dot background in front and back of the vignette. The right side has about 60% coverage, matching arabesque patterns with other flourishes and foliate patterns over the top of the receiver. The rampant Colt is nicely engraved across the top rear of the receiver and there is a sunburst just above the hammer. The trigger guard extension has a diamond motif geometric pattern engraved and the trigger guard is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns. The receiver, top and bottom tangs, have a dbl straight-line border. The serial number is also engraved in about 3/8” letters. The Buffalo Bill motif is not implausible when one takes into account that one of the three engraved Burgess rifles was presented to Buffalo Bill and had the motif of him shooting a buffalo from horseback using a Burgess rifle. This little rifle is of the early type without sliding breech cover and has the slot for a safety in the trigger guard, which is missing. This exact rifle is pictured, both sides, on page 354 of The Book of Colt Engraving by R.L. Wilson. CONDITION: About very good. Bbl and magazine tube retain about 95% smooth plum/blue finish with light muzzle wear and some thinning. Receiver and trigger guard retain traces of original nickel-plating, being mostly a silver/gray metal color. Buttplate retains 85-90% nickel-plating. Wood is sound with the forearm checkering showing moderate wear and a few bruises. Stock is missing a couple of chips by the top tang and has numerous light nicks, scratches and dings and retains a fine old hand rubbed patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with a few spots of fine pitting. 4-52588 JR327 (8,000-15,000)
*ENGRAVED INSCRIBED 2ND GENERATION COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 54629SA. Usual configuration with 4-3/4” bbl, blue and case colored with beautiful 1-pc ivory grips. This fine revolver has about 80% coverage (100% on the frame) of fine foliate arabesque pattern engraving over the bbl, frame, cylinder, trigger guard, and back strap. The back strap is inscribed “Eugene W. Fike”. The left grip has a raised gold diamond and script “F” inlayed about the center. The bbl and cylinder are blued and the frame is case colored with the trigger guard, back strap, cylinder pin and ejector rod pin gold plated. There is a wide gold band inlayed around the muzzle. Accompanied by an original Stagecoach 2-pc box without serial number. There is also a card accompanying that indicates this revolver was engraved by “Frank Hendricks/Dripping Springs, Texas”. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be unfired since engraving retaining virtually all of its fine custom finish. Grips are extremely fine. Box has worn edges with some minor losses to the lid. All in all, a very beautiful custom engraved SAA. 4-52180 JR202 (2,500-4,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 95030. Usual configuration with 4″ bbl, rare dovetail blade front sight with “Saml Colt” engraved on the top flat. It has silver plated brass grip frame and deluxe burl walnut 1-piece grip. The back strap is inscribed in period script lettering “H.H.T. to H.K.M.”. About 1/2 of the bbl, rammer pivot, full frame and hammer are beautifully deluxed, extra-finish Gustave Young engraved. The engraving also extends down the back strap across the butt and onto the trigger guard and around the serial numbers. The engraving consists of Young’s trademark dog’s head, incorporated in two places in the engraving on the left side with his trademark small blank panel with a number “5” on the left tip of the bbl lug and his trademark engraved elliptical panel with “Colt’s Patent” inside. Additionally, the hammer nose has the wolf’s heads on each side and Young’s typical flower blossoms on the right side incorporated into the engraving. It has additional flourishes of small sun bursts on each side of the top of the back strap and a wavy border with foliate patterns on each edge of the trigger plate. Additional features are engraved screw heads and small patterns around the screw holes and serial numbers. Both ends of the wedge are engraved. It is accompanied by an original, very early walnut casing with beveled bottom edge and mortised lock in the front. The interior has the early form fitted divider around the pistol. It contains an early dbl sided Colt’s Patent, American eagle flask and a brass 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold without sprue cutter. Also included is a lacquered tin of Eley caps and a short L-shaped nipple wrench. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including the wedge. The bbl retains about 50-60% thin original blue with scattered spots of light surface erosion and plum patina. The rammer pivot retains dark case colors. The frame retains 75-80% dark case colors with a plum patina overtone. The cylinder is a gray patina with light to moderate spots of rust pitting and retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene. The grip frame retains 92-93% strong original silver. The grips are sound with light to moderate edge wear and a few scattered light scratches and retain about 80% original varnish. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. The case has a crack in the lid and another in the base and has numerous small nicks, scratches and dings. The rose velvet lining is faded and soiled with wear at the hammer and front sight contact points. The flask has traces of original finish but is mostly a medium dark patina. The mold is nicked, dinged and battered, but the cavities are fine. Cap tin is worn. 4-53566 JR882 (8,000-12,000)
*SCARCE NEW YORK POLICE COLT NEW POLICE DA REVOLVER. Cal. 32 Colt. SN 5967. Blue finish, 4” bbl, fixed sights, checkered Colt hard rubber grips. Engraved on the back strap “New York Police”. CONDITION: About very good. Overall retains 75-80% original bright blue with muzzle and edge wear, a couple of cleaned spots on the cylinder and another on the right side of the frame. Grips are crisp, mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-53076 JR603 (400-700)
VERY RARE BALTIMORE POLICE COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 107395. Usual configuration with 7-1/2″ oct bbl, New York address, brass cone front sight and brass grip frame with 1-piece walnut grips. The bottom of the butt is engraved with the inscription “U.S. Police, Balto.” It is unknown at this time how many of these Baltimore Police Revolvers have surfaced but it is estimated at only a few. CONDITION: Fine, the bbl retains a light silver/brown patina with a few scattered spots of light rust and some nicks on the right side. There are light hammer marks around the wedge slot. The cylinder has traces of blue and retains about 80% Ormsby naval battle scene. The rammer handle retains about 50% dark case colors. The frame retains about 75% case colors on the right side, mostly faded but strong in sheltered areas. The left side has traces of case colors in sheltered area. The grip frame is a mellow brass patina and the grips have chipped toes and one chipped heel and show moderate to heavy wear with traces of original varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with scattered light pitting. The rear of the cylinder is battered around the nipple recesses, apparently it was severely out of time at some point. A rare navy that requires additional research. 4-53444 JR844 (8,000-12,000)
RARE COLT LIGHTNING BABY CARBINE. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). SN 14771. Very rare baby carbine in this caliber with 20-1/2” rnd bbl, Baker square base front sight and Colt reverse mounted carbine ladder rear sight. It has a staple and ring in the left side of the receiver and the top of the receiver is engraved “Watson & Hancock / 308 High Holborn, London” and it has British proofs on both sides of the bbl. Early type receiver without sliding breech cover and it has a safety in the trigger bow. It is fitted with straight grain American walnut wood with 2-pc checkered forearm and straight stock with carbine buttplate. CONDITION: About good. No original finish remains being a medium to dark brown patina with fine rust pitting on the receiver and areas of the bbl. There are several battered screws on the receiver. Wood is sound with usual light nicks and dings. Forearm is dark and oil stained and the buttstock retains most of an old restored finish with oil staining around the receiver and buttplate. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore with scattered pitting. 4-52592 JR331 (1,000-2,000)
COLT CONVERSION REVOLVER. Cal. .38 LC. SN 277579, matching except wedge, backstrap, triggerguard and grips which are numbered 25616x. The last digit has been struck several times, most recently with a 4. 3-1/2″ rnd bbl. Standard 2-line marking on top of bbl and 2-line patent marking on left side of frame. A large silver shield with the old English “H” engraved on it is attached to the right side of the grip. CONDITION: Gray/brown patina with light to moderate pitting on the iron parts, numerous dents, several screws are replaced. 4-52188 X12 (400-750)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 173263. Usual configuration with 4″ oct bbl, “Sam’l Colt” engraved on the top flat with German silver dovetail front sight, 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene. The bbl, rammer pivot, frame, hammer & grip frame are beautifully engraved in Gustave Young pattern with Young’s typical “COLT’S PATENT” engraved in an elliptical panel on the left side of the frame. It also has Young’s trademark dog’s head and flowers incorporated in the engraving as well as his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. It has silver plated grip frame and 1-piece ivory grips. It is accompanied by a Colt walnut casing with red velvet lining, compartmented for the revolver, space for a flask and contains a brass 2-cavity Colt’s patent mold without sprue cutter. Also has a small compartment for balls and another that contains a tin of Hicks caps. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including the wedge, the bbl, cylinder and frame all retain a smooth even gray/brown patina. The cylinder retains 50-60% original scene with a few light dings. The grip frame retains 30-40% thin original silver. The grips are spectacular with a beautiful even mellow patina, no age lines or chips. The case is very fine with some light scratches & dings in the lid which is slightly warped. The lining is faded, more so on the right end of the lid with some light soil and wear in the bottom. The flask is missing. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered very fine pitting. 4-53436 JR836 (2,500-3,500)
*VERY RARE ENGRAVED COLT PRE-WAR WOODSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 22 LR. SN 53815. Fine woodsman pistol with 6-5/8” standard bbl, adjustable front and rear sights, and full-checkered walnut grips and an original 2-tone magazine with marked base plate. It has factory engraved flourishes of foliate arabesque patterns covering about 25% of the frame, slide and bbl. There are additional small flourishes mirror imaged on the rear of the slide and frame, spring housing, front strap, trigger guard and behind the rear sight. It is accompanied by its original dark maroon hinged lid box with blue and white end label an two black & white over labels, one marked “TARGET” and the other “ENGRAVED”. It contains an original red covered owner’s manual and a special instruction pamphlet. It is also accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this pistol as factory engraved and having been shipped January 13, 1928 to A. Baldwin Co., New Orleans, LA in a shipment of one gun. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Has been fired, but very little. Retains virtually all of its brilliant original factory finish with only very faint muzzle edge wears on one side. Grips have a chipped diamond or two and show very light wear. Mechanics are crisp with a brilliant shiny bore. Box lid has been taped. Otherwise it has worn edges and fuzzed corners with a strained area in the front of the bottom. 4-53034 JR671 (2,500-4,000)
EXTREMELY RARE COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 93921. Probably the only one known, this revolver is arguably the most rare of all the Model 1860 Army revolvers. It has a 10″ rnd bbl with standard German silver front sight blade and a period of use installed V-notch rear sight at the chamber end of the bbl. The cylinder is equally rare in that it is unfluted and non-rebated with the Ormsby naval battle scene. It has a 3-screw frame cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw. It has deluxe, highly figured 1-piece walnut grips with a 7/8″ x 7/8″ silver shield on the left side. The shield is engraved “To / Geo. A. Jackson / From Dick Irwin / 1870”. The rammer lever is checkered about 1-5/8″ near the tip. The bbl lug is without a serial number and does not appear to have ever had one. It is dimensionally correct and an accompanying x-ray discloses no apparent alteration. The cylinder does not have a serial number and does not appear to have ever had one. Neither does it appear to have ever had safety pins.
Accompanied by the x-ray, as previously mentioned, and a copy of the book Texas Collector: / Gaines de Graffenried, Conger. This book was printed in 1987 and on page 39 begins an article regarding this specific revolver. The author relates that Mr. Graffenried and another collector named Clyde O’Neal became aware of a small collection belonging to an elderly lawyer named Rice, in Hamilton, Texas. They drove over, looked at the collection, but were unable to purchase anything at that time. The old lawyer reportedly related that back in the 1890’s his uncle was the sheriff of neighboring Bosque County, in Meridian, Texas. He related that one day a well dressed stranger drove a stylish rubber-tired buggy, being pulled by a handsome span of bays, into the town. After he dropped off his team at the local livery stable he stopped by a saloon and became “uproariously intoxicated”. The sheriff, the judge’s uncle, arrested him and relieved him of this long bbled Colt. Around noon the next day the stranger was released but failed to reclaim his revolver. The sheriff in his later years gave this revolver to his nephew, the judge.
About twenty years later, Mr. Graffenried learned the judge had passed away and contacted his widow who gifted this revolver to him and later allowed him to purchase the judge’s library. Page 40 of the book contains an overall picture and a close-up of the grip of this revolver. Pages 161 & 163 of The Book of Colt Firearms, Wilson, mentions that there were shorter and longer than standard bbls made by Colt and that “at least one specimen is known having a 10″ bbl and a roll-engraved, non-rebated cylinder”. He states that “any bbl lengths other than 7-1/2″ and 8″ are so rare as to be categorized as special order or experimental”. CONDITION: About fine, the bbl, cylinder, frame and back strap retain an even dark plum brown patina with some small hammer marks by the wedge opening on the right side of the bbl. The trigger guard retains 40-50% original silver plating with several small nicks and scratches on the front strap. The frame, cylinder pin, trigger guard and back strap are all matching numbered. The wedge is numbered to another revolver and, as previously noted, the cylinder and bbl are unnumbered. The grips have a couple of chips on the right bottom edge with some light hammer marks on the butt and show heavy wear with a fine hand oil patina. Mechanics need timing and are a little loose but function. The bore is bright and shiny with a few spots of scattered light pitting. An extremely rare and very desirable percussion Colt. 4-53467 JR787 (22,500-32,500)
COLT MEDIUM FRAME LIGHTNING RIFLE. Cal. 32 WCF (32-20). SN 11332. Standard grade rifle with 26” rnd bbl, German silver Rocky Mountain front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. It has straight grain American walnut wood with 2-pc checkered forearm and straight stock with crescent buttplate. The receiver is engraved “Watson & Hancock / 308 High Holborn, London” and the bbl and receiver have British proofs. The receiver is the early type without sliding breech cover and it has slot in the trigger guard for a safety, which is missing. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 93-95% strong original blue, faded about top center. Magazine tube retains about 95% thin blue-brown and the receiver 93-95% strong bright original blue with several small scratches and a few spots of pinhead rust. Trigger guard and lower tang retain about 90% original blue freckled with light surface rust. Wood is sound showing moderate to heavy wear with light nicks and scratches and four small holes in the bottom of the stock. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-52590 JR329 (1,000-2,000)
COLT MODEL 1883 DBL BBL SHOTGUN. Cal. 12 ga. SN 5469. Beautiful, fancy grade shotgun with 32” fine Damascus bbls, dbl ivory beads, choked MOD/MOD with dbl triggers and extractors. It has very beautiful highly figured French walnut wood with black tipped, semi-Schnable, checkered forearm and checkered semi-pistol grip stock with checkered teardrop side panels, 14 1/4” over its original Colt hard rubber buttplate. The receiver is near bank note engraved with a vignette of a setter and two flushing quail covering the entire left side flat, a pointer and two sitting quail on the right side flat with about 25% coverage very fine arabesque and border pattern engraving. The floorplate is engraved “PATENTED” with patent dates August and September 1882 with a small flying duck in the center. The trigger guard and opening lever are engraved to match. CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new. Retaining most of its original factory finishes to both metal and wood. Damascus patterns in the bbls are sharp and crisp. Case colors on the receiver are slightly faded on the bottom, brilliant elsewhere with slightly silvered edges. Wood is crisp and bright with minor handling and storage marks. Mechanics are sound with brilliant shiny bore. 4-51367 JR40 (5,000-8,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT 1849 PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 2391. Fine London pocket revolver with 6″ oct bbl, 2-line London address, full silver plated with almost full coverage fine English, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with matted background. It has British proofs on the left bbl flat and over each chamber and the cylinder has the stagecoach holdup scene. It has iron grip frame with 1-piece walnut grips. It is accompanied by an oak English retailer’s case with cut out in the lid for a name plate, which is missing, and blue felt lining. All of the partitions are broken from the interior and missing. In addition to the revolver there is a Dixon bag flask with adjustable spout, a blued, inspected Colt’s Patent 2-cavity mold, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a large cap tin, missing its label. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching including the wedge. Overall, it retains most of a fine re-silvered finish with two or three spots of pitting on the bbl and a scrape on the butt. The cylinder has a drag line and retains about 90% original stagecoach holdup scene. Grips are sound with light wear and retain most of an added finish with about 60% original finish showing through. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. The case is only fair with the aforementioned missing partitions and one end of the dust seal broken away. The label in the lid is yellowed and soiled but legible and the lining is worn and soiled. The flask is dinged and dented but functional. The mold is extremely fine. 4-53426 JR834 (5,000-8,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP REVOLVER. Cal. 22 Short. SN 79687. Nickel frame and bbl with gold cylinder. This little revolver has usual 2-3/8” bbl with half moon front sight and fine birdhead ivory grips. The frame is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on each side with punch dot background and the bbl with dots and O’s down each side surrounded with a wavy border. The cylinder is engraved with flowing geometric pattern with fine scallop borders. CONDITION: Very fine. Frame and bbl retain about 95-96% original nickel-plating. Hammer screw is a replacement and the other frame screw is battered. Cylinder retains about 95% gold wash. Grips are fine with a beautiful mellow color and some deep age lines. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with moderate pitting. 4-53134 JR561 (750-1,250)
NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 178667. Usual configuration with 8″ rnd bbl, German silver front sight, rebated cylinder with Ormsby naval battle scene. It has iron back strap with brass trigger guard that contains a lovely set of early 1-piece ivory grips. The serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard & back strap have a small “E” indicating factory engraving. The bbl, frame, hammer, back strap and trigger guard and the rammer pivot are very nicely engraved in Nimschke style consisting of fine intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. The bbl has open shield shaped elliptical panels on each side with a geometric pattern on the top and light flourishes around the muzzle. The rammer pivot is lightly engraved with geometric and arabesque patterns. The frame has full coverage fine arabesque patterns and the hammer is engraved on each side and each side of the nose has a wolf or dolphin’s head. The back strap is engraved at the top and bottom with a dash border. The bottom of the trigger guard and bottom of the bbl lug have nice flourishes of engraving and the cylinder has a light scalloped border on the front and rear edge of the raised area. Accompanied by a letter from Herb Glass authenticating the Nimschke engraving and noting that it was an “in house” engraving job. CONDITION: Very good plus, all matching except the wedge which is a home made replacement, no original finish remains being an even smooth medium gray patina over all the iron surfaces. The trigger guard retains a medium mellow mustard patina, the cylinder retains about 50% naval battle scene. The grips are outstanding, slightly shrunken with several age lines radiating from the butt and retain a wonderful mellow gold patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with light pitting. 4-53569 JR883 (7,500-12,000)
COLT SMALL FRAME LIGHTNING RIFLE. Cal. 22. SN 15602. Standard grade rifle with 24” rnd bbl, bead front sight and an unusual folding bbl sight with a tiny tang sight, not made for this rifle. It has straight grain American walnut wood with checkered one-pc forearm and straight stock with rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. The sliding breech cover and top of the receiver have been engraved with diagonal lines of matting and the front edge of the ejection port has had a small radius cut to accommodate the dust cover extension. The bbl has German proofs on both sides of the chamber area and over the chamber. The bbl has been sleeved. CONDITION: Fine. Metal retains most of an old refinish with a spot on the bottom of the bbl where a sling swivel was removed. Wood is sound with some oil staining on the wrist, otherwise retains about 85% original varnish. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore. 4-52591 JR330 (750-1,250)
RARE COLT MODEL 1878 GRADE 3 . Cal 12ga. SN 20895. Rare high-grade model 1878 with 30-1/8″ Damascus bbls, smooth, tapered, concave rib with brass bead with the maker’s name and address and a doll’s head extension. Sidelocks are game scene engraved with the vignette of a setter on the left side, two quail on the right side and a flying duck on the trigger bow. The lockplates and receiver also have light flourishes of arabesque and geometric patterns with a wavy border. It has very nicely figured American walnut wood with black insert, schnable tipped checkered forearm and Prince of Wales stock with rounded knob, 14-1/4″ over an original rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. The wrist has an extremely clever repair utilizing decoratively designed sheet metal to cover and reinforce what apparently was a break. The trigger guard has a corresponding repair where the tang joins the bow. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbls retain 85-90% strong original Damascus pattern with scattered spots of light surface rust. Lockplates and receiver retain about 30% strong case colors in sheltered areas with the balance turned silver. Trigger plate retains about 75% thinning original blue. Stock with the aforementioned repair, is otherwise sound with light handling and use marks and retains most of an old restored finish. Forearm shows light to moderate wear with a few light scratches and a chip in the left edge and retains about 75% original varnish. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bores. 4-53678 JR991 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 173318. Usual configuration with 6″ oct bbl, dovetail front sight and “Saml Colt” engraved on the top flat. It has 5-shot cylinder, brass grip frame and 1-piece ivory grips. The bbl, rammer pivot, frame, hammer, back strap and trigger guard are beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with his trademark animal head and blank panel on the left side of the bbl lug. It also has his trademark elliptical panel on the left side of the frame with “Colt’s Patent” engraved and his wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. It additionally has several of his trademark flower blossoms. CONDITION: Very good to fine, no original finish remains being an even dark blue/gray patina overall. The bbl has fine pitting over most of the surfaces. The cylinder has several small nicks and dings with some light pitting and retains 60-70% stagecoach holdup scene. The frame retains most of its fine engraving patterns showing light wear. The grip frame is a medium mustard patina and the grips have a beautiful mellow tone with a repaired crack and chip on the right side. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 4-53449 JR847 (2,000-3,500)
ENGRAVED COLT OPEN TOP REVOLVER. Cal. 22 Short. SN 78474. Full nickel finish with 2-3/8” rnd bbl, half moon front sight and light foliate arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background on the frame with light patterns on the cylinder and bbl and a geometric design down the backstrap. It has beautiful 2-pc pearl grips. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine. Overall retains about 90% strong bright original nickel with most of the losses from the cylinder. This little revolver has been fired, but very little. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. Grips are extremely fine. 4-53146 JR541 (500-1,000)
RARE EARLY PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 7118. Usual configuration with 8″ round bbl, German silver front sight, rebated, unfluted cylinder with Ormsby Naval battle scene, iron back strap with silver-plated brass trigger guard and 1-piece walnut grips. It has 4-screw frame, cut for shoulder stock with flat head hammer screw and slightly extended stock screws. The front strap is inscribed in period engraved script & block letters “Gen’l. Wm. Nelson. to W.T. SCOTT.” Preliminary Internet research disclosed that William Nelson had entered the U.S. Navy as a midshipman in 1840, commanded a battery at the Siege of Vera Cruz in the Mexican War and later served in the Mediterranean. He worked his way up through the ranks and in 1858 was the commander of the “Niagra” which is the ship that carried African natives back to Africa when they were removed from the slave ship “Echo”. In early 1861 he was promoted to Lt. Commander and put in charge of gunboats on the Ohio River. After a successful recruiting campaign in Kentucky & Tennessee he was appointed Brig. General of volunteers in the Union Army. He fought in several major battles thereafter and was promoted to Maj. General July 17, 1862. On Sept. 29, 1862 he was involved in an altercation with Brig. General Jefferson Columbus Davis (a Union General), and was killed by Davis. Up until the time of Nelson’s death it appears that William T. Scott was his Adjutant in the Kentucky 3rd Infantry. Scott enlisted July 13, 1862 as a Lt. Colonel and was promoted the same day to Full Colonel. This preliminary search did not disclose any additional information regarding the relationship between Nelson & Scott but Scott was mustered out of service on December 7, 1862 only a little over two months after Nelson’s murder. Gen. Davis was arrested and jailed but never tried for the murder, was later released and fought with some distinction throughout the rest of the war.
Another area of research disclosed that Nelson was a giant of a man, reportedly 6’4″ tall and weighed in excess of 300 lbs. He was reportedly a strict disciplinarian and widely disliked by his subordinates and fellow officers. This revolver was the subject of part of an episode of the TV show Antiques Road Show. The consignor states they have a calendar and a board game in which this revolver is specifically mentioned. These items will be available to the purchaser.
CONDITION: Fine. All matching including the wedge, no original finish remains being a smooth, even, cleaned silver metal color overall with scattered spots of light pitting on the bbl and light pitting on the hammer nose. Trigger guard retains about 70% original silver-plating and is missing one screw. Grips are modern replacements and have light nicks and scratches and retain most of their fine varnish finish. Cylinder retains 30-40% Naval battle scene. Hammer will not hold at full cock and half cock is weak. Strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-53590 JR1060 (4,000-7,000)
EXCEEDINGLY RARE & STUPENDOUS PAIR OF SMITH & WESSON NO. 1 SECOND ISSUE SPUR TRIGGER GOLD INLAID REVOLVERS, ENGRAVED & PRESENTATION INSCRIBED BY GUSTAVE YOUNG FOR JOHN A. RICE. Cal. 22 Short. SN 68901 & 68902. These phenomenal revolvers are well known in Smith & Wesson collecting circles having passed through a number of fine collections and dealers including the marvelous Press Collection and equally famous the Locke Collection, and are pictured in Parsons’ book on Smith & Wessons, page 23, and page 63 of The Locke Collection book. These revolvers were ordered by a famous hotelier, John A. Rice, in 1865, just at the end of the Civil War. They are virtually identical with what is probably the finest example of Gustave Young engraving. The engraving consists of very delicate intertwined foliate arabesque patterns and incorporate Young’s trademark wolf’s head on each side of both revolvers. These wolf’s heads are in far greater detail and delicacy than any others previously observed. The engraving also is full coverage on both sides of each hammer. There is a gold band inlaid at the muzzle and border gold wire on each side of the bbl flat as well as gold wire patterns in bands on each cylinder with gold wire outlining the patent dates. Both have beautifully fitted pearl grips. The back strap of #68901 is inscribed “J.A.R. 1865.” The back strap of #68902 is inscribed “J.A.R. to / C.C.W. 1865.”
Mr. Rice was the proprietor of the Sherman House Hotel in Chicago, IL at the time he ordered these revolvers. He was personally acquainted with D.B. Wesson apparently from childhood in Massachusetts in the 1840’s. It is reported that on March 4, 1876 Mr. Rice wrote Mr. Wesson a letter requesting that Mr. Wesson forward one of his largest size pocket pistols with tools & case. Mr. Wesson immediately responded and gifted Mr. Rice the newest model, a 38 single action 1st model revolver, serial number 35. Mr. Rice responded to the unexpected gift by inviting Mr. Wesson to be his guest at the Globe Hotel in Philadelphia while the Wessons were attending the Centennial Exposition. This friendship apparently explains how Mr. Rice was able to order and immediately receive attention at Smith & Wesson when Smith & Wesson was still trying to recover from being severely backlogged with war time production.
On March 10, 1865, Smith & Wesson selected this pair of revolvers and fitted them with high grade pearl stocks. Not having a factory engraver, they contacted Gustave Young to do the engraving, which he readily agreed to. At that time, Young was Colt’s engraver, however it appears he was willing to take on additional work and agreed to engrave and embellish these revolvers for $50.00. Smith & Wesson agreed and sent along the revolvers which were finished in short order and returned to Smith & Wesson where the bbls and cylinders were blued and the frames gold plated. They were shipped on April 5, 1865 to Mr. Rice in Chicago by Adams Express and invoiced for the princely sum of $100.00. Mr. Rice was so pleased with their appearance that he immediately ordered a third one for another partner, David A. Gage. The third revolver was received by Mr. Rice about June 9, 1865 and was invoiced for $50.00. It appears that these revolvers are the first work done by Gustave Young for Smith & Wesson and certainly some of his finest. Apparently he regarded them as test samples to solicit future work. In 1868 he moved his family to Springfield, Mass and became the factory engraver which lasted until 1912.
These revolvers are accompanied by an unpublished 10-page article by Roy G. Jinks fully detailing most the above information. Also accompanying is a large packet of copies of letters between Rice and Smith & Wesson and between Smith & Wesson and Gustave Young. Also accompanying is a copy of a sketch of Mr. Rice, a biography of Mr. Rice, a copy of an article regarding Mr. Rice that appeared in the Chicago Tribune April 18, 1888, the day before he died. These revolvers are also accompanied by a custom Lucite display case. These important, historic revolvers have been illustrated in various publications including “Smith & Wesson Revolvers” by John E. Parsons page 23; “Steel Canvas” by R. L. Wilson, page 38, and “The William M. Locke Collection” by Frank Sellers, illustrated on page 364. These guns were originally in the famous Carl Press collection.
CONDITION: Extremely fine, as new, appear to be unfired. #68901 retains virtually all of its beautiful high gloss blue and fine gold plating, along with bright case colors on the hammer. Right grip has a tiny chip at the heel. #68902 also retains most of its brilliant original factory finish with some fine speckles of surface etching on the bbl and toning to plum on the cylinder. Hammer case colors are dark and the left grip has a tiny chip in the edge. Both revolvers have crisp mechanics and brilliant shiny bores. 4-53184 JR831 (175,000-225,000)
LOT OF WEAPONS RELATED REFERENCE BOOKS. Lot of about 18 books including “Rifles of Colonial America” Vols 1&2 by Shumway, “Kentucky Rifle Patchboxes and Bbl Marks” by Chandler, “Patchboxes” by Chandler and Whisker, “The 36 Calibers of the Colt” by Brown, “Drums A’beating, Trumpets Sounding” by Guthman, “Collectors Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution” by Neumann and Kravik, “The Engraved Powder Horn” by Dresslar, U.S. Military Knives by Cole, and others. CONDITION: Books are in used, serviceable condition, some nearly new. SO15 4-53297-1 (300-500)
ENGRAVED COLT POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. .31. SN 188507, matching except cylinder which has had the SN removed. 4″ oct bbl. The engraving on the cylinder and lever does not appear to be the same hand as did the frame and bbl. The full-coverage engraving has a dog’s head on the left bbl flat, two flowers on the right and donuts on the frond separating these figures from the rest of the engraving. There is a dot with the SN on the bottom of the gun. CONDITION: Smooth gray patina overall, mellow patina on the brass. The grips are solid with varnish over some of the dents. Mechanically good. 4-52194 X11 (1,000-2,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. Cal. 22 Short. SN 18634. Beautiful little revolver with 2-1/4” flat side etch panel bbl with 1/2 moon front sight, 7-shot cylinder and factory birdhead ivory grips. It has about 40% coverage, nice geometric and arabesque pattern engraving over the frame, bbl and cylinder. CONDITION: Extremely fine. All matching including the grips. Retains 90-93% strong bright original nickel with some flaking on the bbl and cylinder. Etched panel is fully visible. Grips are fine and retain a beautiful mellow color. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a couple spots of pitting. 4-53133 JR562 (750-1,250)
VERY EARLY INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY USED BY A CONFEDERATE OFFICER. Cal. 44. SN 104. First year fluted Army with 8” rnd bbl, silver-plated trigger guard and backstrap with the inscription “T.K. Jackson U.S.A.”. Presented to or purchased by Jackson when still a U.S. Army officer, and carried by him after he resigned his commission and served in the Army of the Confederacy. This revolver was researched by R. L. Wilson and is pictured on pg. 155 of his Colt Engraving book. This being the very earliest model, the outside of the cylinder does not have the patent date and has the serial number on the back, between two of the nipples. It also has the serial number on the left side of the rammer operating handle and has “Saml Colt” hand engraved on top of bbl. It additionally has inspector’s initials “JT” on the butt with a “T” on various other parts, including the bottom of the grip. The cylinder was dbl-struck with “TT”. These marks are for the inspector John Taylor, who only inspected 1860 revolvers from 1861-1862. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching, including the wedge and hammer. Iron retains an even light gray patina overall, having been cleaned a long time ago. Cylinder has traces of gold wash in the cylinder stop notches, but this appears to be of more recent application, as no other evidence of gold wash could be found anywhere else. Four of the 6 safety pins are intact. Receiver retains traces of silvered case colors in the sheltered areas, otherwise is a light gray patina also. Grip frame retains about 80% original silver plating with light pimpling on the butt and loose silver-plating with dark patina on the backstrap. Grips have a couple of age lines and a very old scratch near the frame and a miniscule chip at the heel. They are a beautiful light ‘streaky’ mellow gold. Strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Well worth researching. 4-49498 JR953 (15,000-25,000)
COLT FAMILY PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT CLOVER LEAF HOUSE PISTOL SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. Cal. 41. SN 352. Beautiful little cased pistol with 2-7/8” rnd bbl, standard markings, pinched blade front sight with articulated ejector rod under the bbl. It has the usual 4-shot cloverleaf cylinder with nickel-plated brass frame that is lightly engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on the sideplate and on the right side of the frame. The back strap also has a flourish of arabesque patterns and has the period engraved presentation, “Rev. John Hargate from Caldwell H. Colt”. It has 2-pc nicely figured birdhead walnut grips and is accompanied by a fine period rosewood presentation box, 9-1/4” x 5-5/8” x 2”. The case has green velvet lining with a 16-hole cartridge block and a corner compartment with ivory button in the lid. The corners are nicely mitered and it has brass hinges with a mortised brass lock with brass diamond escutcheon. There is a blank rectangular initial plate in the lid.
Reverend Hargate was a master at St. Paul’s School in Concord, NH from 1860-1906, where Caldwell Hart Colt, the only surviving son of Samuel Colt, received part of his early education, 1871-1874. Rev. Hargate may have been Caldwell Colt’s dorm master during part or all of this time. Mr. Raymond Spencer, Rector at St. Paul’s School, which was still in operation in 1979, furnished the above information and also stated that the school masters “were practically parents to the students in their charge”. Apparently at the time Mr. Colt attended St. Paul’s, there were few students and masters. “The school in these days must have been like a large family”. Accompanied by a three-ring binder of photographs and numerous items of original correspondence, primarily from Jim & Karla Kaekel. As well as a copy of the February 1979 issue of The Gun Report which on page 54, has an article by Mrs. Kaekel describing her finding and researching its history. Also included is an original eight-page booklet, apparently a memorial to Rev. Hargate, printed by St. Paul’s School Alumni Association. Also included is a multi-page booklet, “The Catalog of Walter O’Connor” which lists this revolver as item #30. Additional inclusions are 8 x 10 photographs of two large Victorain buildings, one appears to be the mausoleum of Caldwell Hart Colt and the other appears to be the Hartford home of theColt family. Also included are copies of several pages of the “Roll of Alumni of St. Paul’s School” which lists Caldwell Hart Colt as a student from 1871-1874. There are also two copies of group photographs of St. Paul’s School in 1872 as well as photographs of a young man making inquiries regarding documentation on this revolver. Caldwell Colt was only 13 years old when he stated at St. Paul’s, which, conincidentially was the same year this revolver was produced. Therefore, we can presume that Mr. Colt had a very strong attachment to Rev. Hargate early on in their relationship. CONDITION: Fine plus. Bbl retains 88-90% original nickel-plating with some flaking on the right and at the muzzle. Cylinder retains about 85% original nickel with two of the chambers having spots of pitting on the outside. Frame retains traces of nickel-plating in the sheltered areas with a series of light scrapes on the left side. Grips retain 75-80% original varnish with usual light nicks and scratches. Mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore and a spot or two of scattered pitting. Ejector pin is missing its retainer collar. Box is sound with slightly faded and lightly soiled interior and retains most of an old refinish on the outside. 4-53204 JR729 (3,000-5,000)
PAIR OF ENGRAVED BELGIAN BREVETE COLT POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. Cal. 32. SN 7846 & 7847. Typical Colt configuration with 6-5/16″ oct bbls mushroom shaped brass front sight, marked on the top flat “Colt Brevete” with silver plated brass grip frames containing 1-piece ebony grips. About 1/2 the bbl, the rammer pivot, all of the cylinder and frame, all of the back strap and butt and about 1/2 the trigger guard are beautifully etch engraved with grape vine, leaf and grape cluster engraving, having a stippled background. They have Belgian proofs on the bbls and cylinders. The front of the cylinders are marked “N Gilon” and has a Belgian proof on the opposite edge. CONDITION: #7846 is very fine, traces of original finish remain in sheltered areas, being mostly a silver/gray metal color. The grip frame retains about 60% thin original silver plate. The grips are fine showing light wear and retain most of an old refinish. The cylinder retains all five safety pins, the mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore with some fine roughness about mid-point. #7847 is almost identical to its mate, condition wise. The cylinder retains all five safety pins and the grip frame retains about 50% silver plate. The grips are fine and retain most of an old refinish. Mechanics are crisp with brilliant shiny bore and some light roughness. A fine unusual pair of Colt copies. 4-52297 JR859 (3,000-5,000)
COLT NO. 2 DERRINGER. Cal. 41 RF. SN 3640. Full nickel finish, brass frame, 2-1/2” bbl, 1/2 moon front sight with checkered birdhead walnut grips. The frame is lightly engraved with flourishes of foliate arabesque patterns. CONDITION: Very fine. All matching including the grips. Hammer will not hold in the safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Overall it retains about 95% strong original nickel. Bbl is slightly loose in the frame. Grips retain about 90% varnish. Strong dark bore that may clean better. 4-53145 JR543 (750-1,250)
SPECTACULAR CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED PAIR OF INSCRIBED COLT 1861 NAVY REVOLVERS. Cal. 36. SN 18159 & 18165. Both revolvers have 7-1/2” rnd bbls with unfluted cylinders and beautifully figured, deluxe, smooth walnut grips. They are identically engraved in early foliate and vine arabesque patterns with 40% coverage on the frames and bbls with silver plating. The trigger guard and backstrap are also lightly engraved and the hammers have the early wolf’s head on each side, the left side of the frames has the Young’s trademark “Colt’s patent” in elliptical panels. The cylinders have a naval battle scene. The back straps are identically engraved in period script lettering “HB HITCHINGS”. An Internet reference to a H.B. Hitchings was found. He apparently was a lawyer in Kingston, Jamaica listed in the 1880’s. Each serial number on the bottom of both revolvers has the initials “I.P.” It is accompanied by a Bob Ell’s style California casing made from a silverware box with beautiful faded rose and green felt French fitted interior containing an original, silver-plated, angle spout, dbl sided, Navy style flask with deep Repousse designs of American flags, an eagle and trophy of arms under stars and crossed revolvers. It also contains an iron Colt’s patent 2-cavity mold, an English style iron oil bottle, a packet of 36 caliber combustible cartridges and another packet of 36 caliber cartridges by Sage. It additionally contains an original paper-wrapped tin of Eley Bros. Caps. The nipple wrench is missing. The case measures 16” x 11 1/2” x 2 3/4” of nicely grained walnut with brass reinforcements and a brass shield in the lid. CONDITION: Revolver number 13159 is very fine and retains about 95% original silver-plating with some light freckling on the bbl, frame and hammer. Backstrap and trigger guard have some light flaked areas with some light bubbling. Cylinder retains virtually all of its original naval battle scene and has some slight dings around the front edge. Grips are sound and retain about 93-95% strong bright original varnish. Mechanics are fine with bright shiny bore and a spot or two of pitting. Most of the screws are very slightly battered.
Revolver number 18165 retains about 90% original silver-plating on the bbl and frame. Cylinder has been cleaned and retains about 60% original silver. Silver missing from the grip frame is flaked rather than worn. Grips retain about 95% bright original varnish and are slightly shrunken. Mechanics are fine with a crisp shiny bore. Both revolvers may have been fired, but if so, very little. However, they appear to have been handled and played with as the safety pins are all battered. Regardless, they are an exceptional pair and additional research is required to determine who Mr. Hitchings actually was. Case has faded interior with some soiling and staining around the revolvers. Lid has a couple of cracks and a chipped piece of veneer, which is included. Flask has two or three small dents and a rusted spring and retains about 85-90% original silver. Mold is dark and lightly pitted and the cap tin wrapping paper has a couple of cracks and slight loss on one side. 4-51368 JR21 (40,000-70,000)
ENGRAVED COLT NEW LINE SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. Cal. 22 Short. SN 26973. Fine engraved tiny revolver with 2-1/4″ flat side bbl that has an etched panel on the left side “Colt New .22”. It has fine bird head pearl grips and is engraved with about 80% coverage nice foliate arabesque patterns. The cylinder is also engraved on the high points. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, the bbl retains 25-30% original silver and the frame about 70%. The grips are great with lots of fire. Mechanics are good, strong bright bore with scattered moderate pitting. Ciak Collection 4-53232 JR802 (300-500)
CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 31231. Fine Gustave Young engraved revolver with 6-1/2” rnd bbl, 5-shot fluted cylinder, silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap with 1-pc ivory grips that are raised-carved and have checkered panels on each side. The left grip at the top has an Irish harp and shamrock and on the right an 8-pointed medallion. The backstrap is inscribed “Presented to Col. O’Mahoney/Prest of the Fenian Brotherhood/By the Irishmen of Hartford CT”. Beautifully engraved by Young with typical intertwining foliate arabesque and floral patterns and Young’s trademark wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. The trigger guard and backstrap also have foliate arabesque patterns and sunburst panel at the top of the backstrap. The gun is pictured on pg. 270 Vol 1 of the Colt Engraving book by R.L. Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt walnut compartmented casing with rose velvet lining that contains a small “Colt’s Patent” dbl-sided flask with an American eagle clutching a revolver in its talons, an “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an iron “Colt’s Patent” mold with sprue cutter, a tin of “Hicks” caps and a spare cylinder numbered “51449”.
Colonel O’Mahoney was born in Ireland in 1816 and as a young man, became involved in Irish politics and rebellion. In 1848, he fled to France and wound up in New York in 1853. In 1857, O’Mahoney and Michael Dohney decidedform an American-Irish organization so they returned to Ireland and recruited James Stephens to come to America to organize them. In October 1858, O’Mahoney named his organization the “Fenian Brotherhood”. Their aim was to organize and train a militia to return to Ireland to overthrow the British. By April 1861, when the Civil war broke out, there were thousands of members in the “Fenian Brotherhood”. With the onset of war, Irish units were enlisting intact and O’Mahoney organized the 99th New York National Guard and commanded it as their Colonel. As part of the “Irish Brigade”, the 99th fought in most major battles and acquitted themselves magnificently, earning great honor and recognition. O’Mahoney and the Fenian Brotherhood leaders continued their activities throughout the war. In 1870, the Fenian groups made four different attacks on Canada, which were all successfully repulsed and the members captured and disarmed. After that, O’Mahoney fell out of favor and died destitute in New York in 1877. He was given a hero’s burial in Ireland. As an aside, the Irish arm of the Fenian Brotherhood was known as the Irish Republican Brotherhood, which has evolved into today’s Irish Republican Army.
CONDITION: Very fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 40-50% original blue, dark and strong in the sheltered areas with scattered light surface discoloration. Frame and hammer retain generous amounts of dark original case coloring with minor pitting on the hammer nose. Trigger guard has traces of original silver plating, being now a dark mustard patina. Backstrap and butt retain about 30-35% original silver plating with the balance a medium patina. Cylinder retains about 20% blue in shelter areas with some heavy pitting. Grips are fantastic with one age line and are a beautiful mellow golden color. Bore is strong with good shine and moderate pitting. Case exterior is very fine with scratches on the lid. Interior is much faded with two loose divider sections, which are present. Flask is fine, retaining about 40% original finish. Mold is a blue-brown patina, the cap box is stained and missing part of the label and the spare cylinder appears to be new and unfired. 4-49497 JR954 (17,500-27,500)
SCARCE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 52868. Usual configuration with 5” oct bbl, silver-plated grip frame and 1-pc walnut grips with 5-shot cylinder. It is elaborately engraved with engraved bbl address on the bbl and “Colt’s Patent” in a riband on the frame. The frame is full coverage engraved with very well executed foliate arabesque patterns that extend up over the recoil shield. The sides of the bbl lug, and topside flats are matching engraved, as is the rammer pivot. The hammer is full coverage engraved with modified Young style dog’s heads on each side. The back strap has the typical fan at the top where it meets the frame with foliate patterns down the back strap and across the butt. The trigger guard is matching engraved on the bottom with a wavy border pattern around the edges of the flat and there are light patterns around the serial number, on the frame and bbl lug. The ends of the wedge are also engraved. CONDITION: Very fine. All matching except the cylinder which is numbered “43121”. Bbl retains about 75% original blue, thin on the top with light surface rust and fine pitting, strong and bright in the sheltered areas. Frame and hammer retain an even dark patina that may reveal case colors with a good cleaning. Grip frame retains about 90% original silver with some pimpling on the front strap and light edge wear. Grips are fine and retain about 90% original varnish with some crackling. Cylinder is mostly a gray patina with light to moderate pitting in spots and retains 75-80% stagecoach holdup scene and traces of old nickel plating. Handspring is broken otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with some shine and moderate to heavy pitting. 4-53130 JR566 (2,500-4,000)
CIVIL WAR INSCRIBED VERY EARLY COLT MODEL 1860 ARMY PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 37. Fine early Army with 7-1/2″ rnd bbl, unfluted, rebated cylinder with Ormsby naval battle scene and Navy size grip with brass back strap and trigger guard and 1-piece walnut grips. The back strap is period engraved with the presentation “Capt. L.P. Richmond to Lieut. DS Remington. / Roanoke Il. April. 8. 1862.”
Lt. Remington served with the 7th Rhode Island infantry, enlisting as a private in Company C April 17, 1861, was commissioned Lieutenant December 18, 1861, promoted to Captain June 1865, and mustered out July 18, 1865. Remington saw service in numerous engagements throughout the war and served for a period on Gen. Burnside’s staff. He was with Company A, 5th RI Heavy Artillery at the Battle of Roanoke Island, NC on February 8, 1862, after which this revolver was apparently presented. Capt. Richmond, later Brev’t Brig. General, was Gen. Burnside’s Asst. Adj. General during this time. Accompanied by a large volume of information regarding Remington and Richmond along with copies of some of their service records. Also included are copies of photographs, including one of Lt. Remington standing beside a seated Gen. Burnside and a standing Gen. Joe Hooker.
This revolver appears on p. 169, Item 105, of Samuel Colt Presents / A LOAN EXHIBITION OF PRESENTATION / PERCUSSION COLT FIREARMS, November 1961 to January 1962 at the Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford, CT. It also appeared as Item 74, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art CATALOGUE / OF A LOAN EXHIBITION OF / PERCUSSION COLT REVOLVERS / AND CONVERSIONS / 1836-1873, by John E. Parsons, February 4 to May 3, 1942. CONDITION: Good, all original and all matching except the wedge which is serial number “1”. No original finish remains being an even medium gray patina overall. The front sight is missing. The cylinder matches in number and condition and retains about 50% Ormsby naval battle scene. The screws are slightly battered. The trigger guard and backstrap retain traces of original silver plating. The grips are sound showing heavy wear with nicks, dings and scratches. The inscription is crisp and clear. Mechanics are fine, strong bore with good shine and light pitting. 4-52095 JR822 (15,000-25,000)
CASED PAIR OF ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 49 POCKET REVOLVERS. Cal 31, SN 141531 & 141583. Identical pair of revolvers with 6″ oct bbls, the top flats engraved “Saml. Colt”. The balance of the revolvers are engraved in Gustav Young #3 style consisting of beautifully detailed, intertwined foliate arabesque patterns over about half the barrels, rammer pivots, frames, back straps, butts and trigger guards. The side edges of the trigger guards have extra wavy border patterns. The body of the engraving has Young’s trademark blossom patterns and his famous wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer noses, along with his well-known elliptical panel on the left sides of the receivers engraved in an arc “Colt’s Patent”. Both revolvers are fitted with beautiful smooth ivory grips with the left sides engraved “Wm. H. Lent.”, and the right sides, “7th Co 7th Regt. N.G”. They have five-shot unfluted cylinders with stagecoach holdup scenes. This pair is accompanied by an after market, California-style presentation case with green velvet lining with French fitted edges and recesses in red velvet. It has compartments for the revolvers, a fine dbl-sided E Pluribus Unum American eagle flask with crossed revolvers, a brass two-cavity “Colt’s Patent” mold without sprue cutter, an L-shaped nipple wrench and a small tin of Eley Bros. caps. Two opposing corner have a matching L-shaped covered compartment with ivory button. The case has brass-bound corners on the lid and a blank medallion in the center. It is made of very nicely grained rosewood and is 14″ long x 9-1/4″ wide x 2-3/8″ deep. Accompanied by some preliminary internet research which disclosed that William H. Lent, born in 1829 and died September 24, 1895 in Geneva. OH, enlisted on 9/23/1861 as a private in “H” Company, Ohio 17th Infantry and mustered out on 10/1/1864. His unit fought in a number of well-documented battles. CONDITION: Both revolvers are extremely fine. Number 141583 retains 96-97% brilliant glossy blue on the barrel with a few light scratches and light muzzle edge wear. Numerous small hammer marks by the wedge slot. Rammer, pivot and handle retain most of their strong original case colors. Frame and hammer retain most of their slightly muted but strong original case colors. Cylinder retains 75-80% strong original blue and about 98% stagecoach holdup scene. Backstrap retains about 70% strong original silver and the butt about 95%. Trigger guard retains virtually all of its original silver. Grips are crisp with sharp edges and two tiny spots of yellow stain; otherwise retain a beautiful light ivory color. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Number 141531 retains 88-90% glossy original blue with a few scattered spots of light surface rust. Rammer, pivot and handle retain dark case colors, brighter on the pivot. Frame and hammer retain about 90% dark case colors and the cylinder 40-50% thin original blue and about 95% stagecoach holdup scene. Four of the five safety pins are mostly intact. Grip frame retains about 90% original silver plating. Grips are sound with a number of age lines, primarily on the left side, and retain a lovely medium yellow color. Mechanics are crisp. Strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Accessories are fine. Case has a crack in the lid and exhibits some shrinkage in opposite corners, otherwise is sound and retains generous amounts of original varnish. Lid lining is bright with a minor wear spot. Bottom lining is slightly faded and soiled. It appears that one revolver probably remained unfired while the other was surely carried and undoubtedly was fired. Hamilton Collection 4-53496 JR974 (15,000-25,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 23705. Usual configuration with 6-1/2″ rnd bbl, 5-shot fluted, rebated cylinder with silver plated brass grip frame and 1-piece ivory grips. The sides of the bbl, frame, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully Gustave Young engraved and intertwined foliate arabesque patterns with his trademark flower blossoms and his famous wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose. All four serial numbers on the bottom of the revolver are accompanied by the initials “IE” indicating engraved with ivory. It appears that this revolver was initially silver plated. CONDITION: About fine, all matching, except the wedge which is numbered to another revolver, however, it has traces of original silver plating. The bbl retains traces of silver in the sheltered areas under the rammer handle with the rammer retaining most of its original silver. The balance of the bbl is a dark patina with light pitting. The cylinder is a gray/brown patina with scattered light surface rust and retains silver plating on the back edge. The frame is mostly a dark patina with traces of silver plating in the hammer groove and under the cylinder. The cylinder pin retains virtually all of its original silver plate and the hammer about 30% silver. The trigger guard and back strap retain most of their original silver plating. The grips are spectacular with a beautiful mellow patina and some light age lines in the butt. The hand spring is either broken or missing, otherwise mechanics are fine. The frame screws and some of the grip frame screws retain most of their original blue. Bright shiny bore with a few spots of light rust. A fine old revolver that has seen poor storage. 4-53450 JR848 (3,000-6,000)
COLT MODEL 1883 GRADE 2 DBL BBL SHOTGUN. Cal. 12ga. SN 4425. “Fancy grade” dbl with 30” fine Damascus bbls, straight matted rib with single bead and doll’s head rib extension, marked with maker’s name and address, dbl triggers and extractors. It has a boxlock receiver, very nicely engraved with a setter on the left side with woodcock, a pointer on right side carrying a bird and a running rabbit in the foreground, surrounded by about 25% coverage fine arabesque patterns. The floor plate is engraved with patent markings and matching patterns. Trigger guard is matching engraved with a flying woodcock. It has beautifully figured French walnut wood with checkered black tipped splinter forearm and highly figured, beautifully grained butt stock with Prince of Wales grip, 14-3/8” over a Colt hard rubber buttplate. It has checkered teardrop side panels and a round initial plate on the bottom. Accompanied by an R.L. Wilson letter stating that this shotgun was shipped August 29, 1889 to W. R. Schaefer & Sons. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain about 90% strong original Damascus pattern showing moderate wear and a scrape over the forearm area. Receiver retains 75-80% strong bright case colors with the balance fading and turning silver. Trigger guard retains about 60% thinning original blue. Wood is sound and retains about 95% original varnish with normal use and handling marks. Mechanics are fine. Bores strong and bright with scattered light pitting. 4-52404 JR204 (3,000-5,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT PRE-WAR GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal 45 ACP. SN C144509. Rare factory engraved government model pistol with 5” bbl, blued finish and smooth factory ivory grips. It has about “A” coverage engraving in foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background and has an unmarked, original-type, two-tone magazine. It is accompanied by its original hinged lid dark maroon box with original end label and two over-labels – one marked “ENGRAVED” and the other “IVORY BLUE”. It contains the original gray owners pamphlet, a special instruction pamphlet, and a small paper advising on ammunition. It also has the original paper label inside the bottom and inside the lid. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this pistol and indicating it had blue finish, ivory stocks and was factory engraved. It was shipped Sept. 19, 1925 to Iver Johnson Sporting Goods Co., Boston, MA. CONDITION: As new but unfortunately has a large chemical spot on the left front edge of the slide with fine pitting underneath and a few scattered spots of rust in the same area. Front strap is slightly dulled. Otherwise it retains virtually all its original bright factory finish with some minor surface spotting and a spot or two of discoloration. Grips have a wonderful mellow color with some minor scratches and an age line. Magazine is crisp and the bore is brilliant and shiny. Box has one torn corner on the lid with a few other small chips on the edges. Labels are yellowed but very fine. All the pamphlets are fine. 4-50297 JR917 (5,000-10,000)
RARE CASED YOUNG ENGRAVED COLT 1849 POCKET MODEL PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 109040. Usual configuration with 5″ oct bbl, engraved panel on the top flat with “Saml Colt”. The left side of the frame has Young’s trademark “Colt’s Patent” in an elliptical engraved panel. It has 5-shot cylinder with stagecoach holdup scene and silver plated brass grip frame with burl 1-piece walnut grips. The bbl, rammer pivot, frame, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are all beautifully Gustave Young engraved in fine foliate arabesque patterns. The left bbl flat incorporates Young’s trademark dog’s head and the hammer nose has his trademark wolf’s head on each side along with other patterns typically used by Young. Accompanied by an original Colt casing with red velvet lined lid and partitions in the bottom for a brass Colt’s patent bullet mold and a single sided Colt’s patent short spout eagle flask. Also included is an empty skin cartridge packet. CONDITION: The revolver is extremely fine, all matching including the wedge. It retains 97-98% glossy bright blue on the bbl with light muzzle and very minute sharp edge wear. The rammer and pivot retain most of their original case colors with the handle being a gray metal color. The frame & hammer retain most of their dark original case colors. The cylinder retains 30-40% original blue with the balance flaked to a light patina and retains about all of its stagecoach holdup scene. The grip frame retains virtually all of its original silver plating. The grips are crisp with only very minor handling & storage marks and retain virtually all of their bright factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore with a very few scattered spots of light pitting. The cylinder has four of its original safety pins. The case has a couple of cracks in the lid and a grain check in the bottom with a loose rear corner. The lid lining is faded and soiled with oil staining from the revolver. One of the dividers is partly loose with the divider velvet faded and soiled. The bottom has been relined. Hamilton Collection 4-52119 JR828 (15,000-25,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER WITH TIFFANY STYLE GRIPS. Cal. 36. SN 30733. Usual configuration with 5-1/2″ rnd bbl, 5-shot fluted rebated cylinder, brass trigger guard with a reproduction silver plated Tiffany style grip. The bbl, frame, hammer & trigger guard are engraved in early Gustave Young style with light foliate arabesque patterns including Young’s trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. The engraving also incorporates Young’s trademark flower blossom in the center of several of the scrolls. The serial numbers on the bbl, frame & trigger guard all have a small “E” above or below them signifying factory engraving. The grip is beautifully done in very fine detail depicting an American eagle with wings raised covering the entire back area of the grip. The eagle is clutching laurel leaves in its talons. The ends of the leaves lead into deep relief foliate arabesque patterns that have a fine stippled background. The case is a modern rendition made of nicely figured walnut with an oval multi-colored inlay in the lid. It is lined in red ultra-suede and French fitted in the bottom for the revolver, a 1-sided Colt’s patent flask and a nickel plated iron 2-cavity Colt’s patent bullet mold. It also has a lacquered Eley Bros. cap tin and a lidded compartment in the corner. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching including the wedge, except the grip which is unnumbered. The bbl, frame & cylinder are cleaned bright metal with a few spots of scattered surface rust and a few dings on the bbl. The trigger guard retains traces of original silver and the grip is crisp and new. Mechanics are a little soft but functional. Strong bright bore with light pitting. The case is fine with the lining slightly faded. The flask is clean with no original finish and one small dent and some handling marks. The mold is plated over some light fine rust. 4-53454 JR835 (2,000-3,000)
EXTREMELY RARE COLT PATERSON FIRST MODEL RIFLE WITH LOADING LEVER. Cal. 44. SN: 336, all matching. 32” octagonal bbl, marked “Patent Arms M’g. Co. Paterson,N.J.–Colt’s Pt.” on top of the bbl. There is a star with a wavy line at the end of it at the end of this marking. The 8-shot cylinder is 1-1/4” in diameter and is engraved around the center with a centaur shooting at a deer and three men riding horses away from a house. The loading lever is mounted on the right side of the bbl. CONDITION: Very good. Strong traces of blue on the bbl, top strap, frame and lever. Cylinder is bright. Stock retains about 80% of the original varnish with some crackling and numerous small scratches. Action is fine. 4-52675 FS130 (8,000-12,000)
*CASED COLT USS TEXAS COMMEMORATIVE GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP. SN 63808G70. Series 70 pisol with 5″ bbl, nickel finish with high polished sides and matte edges. The left side of the slide is etch engraved “Battleship Edition 1 of 500”. It has a picture of the battleship and at the rear another ribbon inscribed “BB-35 USS Texas”. At the muzzle end of the slide it has the seal of Texas and at the rear of the slide it has the Texas flag. The right side of the slide has rope patterns outlining two panels which have the dates “18 May 1912 / 27 October 1945” and with the dates of four battles in which the Texas was a participant. The muzzle end has the Texas Lone Star and the rear a fouled anchor. It has full checkered light colored walnut grips with gold medallions. Accompanied by a custom shop walnut case with plaque on the top, lined with red velvet. CONDITION: As new, unfired, retaining virtually all of its original factory finish. There are a few small pinpoints of surface spotting on the left side of the pistol. The case is exceptionally fine. 4-52312 JR838 (800-1,200)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 93223. 4th type with 7-1/2″ bbl, dovetail front sight with German silver blade, unfluted cylinder with Ormsby naval engagement scene and original 1-piece ivory grips. The bbl lug, rammer pivot, frame, hammer, back strap & trigger guard are beautifully Gustav Young engraved with full frame coverage, typical wolf’s head on each side of the hammer nose, extensive patterns over the bbl & lug and ends of the wedge. The back strap has usual engraving patterns at the top & bottom and full coverage on the butt. The trigger guard has engraving on the trigger bow and around the serial numbers. It has Young’s trademark panel on the left side of the bbl lug with the number “2” stamped near the bottom. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including the wedge. The bbl retains 75-80% original blue with muzzle and edge wear and some thinning over the top. The rammer & lever retain dark case colors with a thin spot on the handle. The cylinder retains 30-40% thin original blue and about 90% naval battle scene. The frame & hammer retain about 80% dark case colors, bright in sheltered areas. The grip frame retains about 90% strong original silver with some light pimpling on the front strap and wear on the trigger guard. The grips are sound and have a small flat spot on the right edge, otherwise they are beautiful and retain a fine mellow color with a few minor age lines on the bottom. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore with a few spots of scattered light pitting. Hamilton Collection 4-52118 JR823 (5,000-8,000)
LARGE LOT OF FIREARMS & MISCELLANEOUS MATERIAL RELATED TO AMERICAN INDIAN SHOWMAN & ENTERTAINER, ED EAGLE. Firearms consist of 1) Marlin Model 1894 rifle, Cal. 32-20, SN 310163. Standard grade with 24” tapered oct bbl, full magazine, standard wood & sights. Decorated with a fancy silver plate on the forearm, four silver inlays on the buttstock & a copper inlay. One of the inlays on the right has the inscription “CHIEF ED EAGLE”. –Worn, no original finish, cracked forearm, nicked & dinged, dark bore. 2) Colt Small Frame Lightning, Cal. 22, SN 73342. Blue finish, 24” oct bbl, fixed sights, replaced forearm, modified straight stock, the trigger bow is engraved “CHIEF ED EAGLE”. –Refinished light pitting, worn dark bore. 3) Colt Medium Frame Lightning Rifle, Cal. 32-20, SN 81266. Blue & case colored, 20” oct bbl, full magazine, broken front sight, semi-buckhorn rear sight, standard wood, the trigger bow is engraved “CHIEF ED EAGLE”. –Cracked forearm, chipped stock, refinished blue with case colored receiver, strong dark bore.
Ed Eagle was a well-known showman and entertainer from the 1930’s into the 1970’s. He was born in 1902 and died in 1984 and is buried in Dexter, MO. He was famous in the Midwest for performing at rodeos and other shows. The balance of the lot consists of two of his dancing drums, a multitude of beadwork, a headdress, photographs and other paraphernalia as follows: nine photographs, mostly black & white of him in different dress, both Indian & cowboy in various performances. One of the photographs is 16” x 20” in full color of Ed Eagle in full Indian dress
Included is his large homemade Bowie & sheath, a small drum rattle, a large pipestone pipe with silver band inlays dated “1829”, two 8’ bullwhips, a pair of short shotgun chaps with leather rosettes & fringe, two horn bowls, two rawhide pouches, two dancing drums, a pipestone owl fetish, a beaded sash with tin cones and ermine tails, a rawhide & buffalo horn rattle, a 3-column shell chest plate and a large collection of beadwork including pipe bags, pouches, rosettes, two pair of gauntlets, one pair f men’s moccasins and a pair of white doeskin lady’s moccasins, a mouse and a lizard amulet, two beaded neckties, a full beaded powder horn and other miscellaneous small beaded items. Some of these are authentic North American Indian made items. We are unable to authenticate the bead work. CONDITION: All the beadwork is generally fine with some pieces showing moderate to heavy wear and a few pieces with some minor losses.
Additionally there is a large cherry wood pipe. Another of the framed items is his certificate of membership in the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. In the same frame is a 1924 display badge for the Cheyenne, WY Frontier Park (Frontier Days Rodeo) and a small photograph annotated “Chief Ed Eagle Trick Rider & Bronk Rider Jan. 20, 1929 Big Springs Texas”. Also is a modern made turkey feather full-length headdress about 5’ long with beaded head band and colorful wrapping in generally fine condition. One additional item is a Smith & Wesson DA 32 4th Model revolver, Cal. 32 S&W, SN 295222. Blue, 3” bbl, black grips with tooled holster. –Fine condition. 4-50668 JR1147 (15,000-25,000)
BELGIAN COPY OF A COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 9390. Fine rendition of the famous 1851, with 7-5/8” oct bbl, brass cone front sight, unfluted cylinder, with soldier & Indian fight scene. Case colored frame with brass trigger guard & back strap and nicely figured flared-butt 1-pc walnut grips. The top flat is marked “Colt Patent” and the cylinder, in addition to Belgian patents and engraved scene has lightly engraved “Colt’s Patent”. The grip has a very distinctive hump back style with widely flared bottom edges. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Appears to be unfired. Bbl retains about 90% thin original glossy blue, with scattered light surface spotting. Rammer & lever retain about 60% case colors; the cylinder retains about 95% thin original blue and about 98% cylinder scene. All six safety pins are intact. Frame retains about 75% faded case colors with 10-15% silver plating on the grip frame & trigger guard. Grips are fine and retain most of their original strong varnish, slightly shrunken with scratches & dings. Bright shiny bore. 4-51012 JR670 (1,250-2,250)
ENGRAVED EARLY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal 45 Colt. SN 33217. Early old Colt with bbl cut to 6-1/8”, homemade front sight with 2-pc pearl grips. It has about 75% coverage old, New York style, foliate arabesque pattern engraving with a nickel finish. It is accompanied by a modern spare cylinder that appears to be chambered for 45 ACP. The spare cylinder also appears to have a gold wash over silver plating and is lightly engraved between the flutes. The revolver has the original ejector rod housing and bullseye ejector rod head. The bbl is numbered to the frame. CONDITION: It retains 80-85% strong nickel with muzzle wear and moderate pitting around the forcing cane. Recoil shield and loading gate are also worn and there is some loose nickel underneath the cylinder pin. Original cylinder is worn and retains nickel only in the flutes. Spare cylinder retains gold wash in the flutes. Grips have a chip at the left heel and on the right side at the frame. Screw slots are worn. It has a replacement hammer and a strong dark bore. Good mechanics. 4-50289 JR362 (3,500-4,500)
*COLT MASTERS EDITION HUNTSMAN SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal. 22 LR. SN 315311S. Standard late Huntsman with 4-1/2” rnd bbl, 2-pc thumb rest Coltwood grips. The slide is etch engraved with gold wash on both sides. It is accompanied by its original blue velvet lined walnut case with a plaque on the lid stating that it is “1 of 400”. CONDITION: As new. Appears to be unfired. Retains virtually all its original factory finish to pistol & grips. Box is equally new with a few scratches on the lid and a couple spots of rust on the plaque. 4-51860 JR506 (600-1,000)
CASED, ENGRAVED & INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET MODEL. Cal. 31. SN 174857. A fine Gustav Young engraved revolver with 6” oct bbl, dovetail front sight, engraved on the top flat “Saml Colt”. Very typical Young engraving with his trademark dog’s head on the left bbl flat and flowers on the right bbl flat with beautiful foliate arabesque patterns covering about 30% of the bbl and both sides of the rammer pivot. The frame, trigger guard, and backstrap are extensively engraved with his typical patterns and the hammer nose has his trademark wolf’s head on each side with “Colt’s Patent” engraved on the left side of the frame. The backstrap is inscribed in script “J.J. Dennison”. It is fitted with 1-pc smooth ivory grips. The case is typical Colt’s pattern with dark green velvet lining, compartmented for an iron Colt’s mold, a Colt’s patent single sided eagle flask, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a tin of Eley’s caps, and a box of six skin cartridges. CONDITION: About fine. All matching including the wedge. No original finish remains on the bbl, cylinder, or frame with it all being a fine dark brown patina with light pitting around the muzzle and forcing cone areas and front of the cylinder. . Trigger guard & backstrap retain about 80% original silver plating. Cylinder retains about 50% original scene. Mechanics are slightly loose but acceptable and the bore is strong and bright with scattered light pitting. Two or three screws are old replacements. Case & accessories are very fine with the case showing light wear to the lining and some grain cracks in the pine bottom. Grips have an old chip on the left side, otherwise are sound and retain a beautiful gold patina. One frame pin is broken. 4-50986 JR559 (3,000-5,000)
*PAIR OF WELDON BLEDSOE CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVERS. Cal 38-40. SN 228247 & 216014. These revolvers are titled “THE LAST PAIR BY WELDON BLEDSOE” and so engraved on the backstrap of each revolver. The butts are also engraved “4-15-94”. Each revolver has the trademark Texas cattle brands made famous by Mr. Bledsoe and his predecessor Cole Agee. Each revolver has Mr. Bledsoe’s personal signature brand and his initials on the right side of the frame and each is silver plated and fitted with 2-pc elephant ivory grips. The bbl on no. 228247 has apparently been cut to its present length of 4-7/8” while the other appears to be a legitimate 4-3/4”. Both revolvers are accompanied by Colt factory letters which indicate no. 216014 was shipped Oct 8, 1901 to Robert’s, Sanford & Taylor Company, Sherman, Texas and no. 228247 was June 14, 1902 to Montgomery Ward & Company, Chicago, IL. Also accompanied with an undated hand written letter signed by Weldon Bledsoe certifying that he engraved this last pair of revolvers as his retirement work. He states that this pair is “one-of-a-kind” because there were no other duplicate patterns made. Additionally accompanying this lot is a copy of the Nov. 1994 Gun Report magazine which contains a lengthy article, beginning on page 16, by Dick Staff, giving the history of Cole Agee and Weldon Bledsoe Cattle brand engraved firearms. These revolvers are in a late purple lined Colt presentation case. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Unfired since engraving retaining virtually all their fine custom silver finish. Grips are fine with a light mellow patina and have a few age lines in the grips on no. 228247. The bore in no. 228247 has good rifling with moderate pitting and the crossbolt spring is missing. Bore in 216014 is identical. Mechanics are fine. Divider in the case has come loose. 4-50313 JR279 (12,000-14,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 54579. Beautiful Young engraved 5-shot pocket revolver with 6” oct bbl, engraved on the top flat “Saml Colt” with light arabesque patterns. The bbl lug, frame, hammer, back strap and rammer pivot are typically Young engraved in his No. 1 pattern with extensive floral & foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. It has its trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose, the top of the hammer engraved in fish scale pattern and his trademark dog’s head is incorporated in the engraving on the right side of the bbl. The trigger guard, back strap & butt are matching engraved with his usual fan at the top of the back strap. The left side of the frame has “Colt’s Patent” engraved in a ribbon. The edges of the trigger guard flat are engraved in rope pattern and the serial numbers have surrounding light engraving. It is fitted with 1-pc walnut grips. It is accompanied by an original casing with faded brown velvet lining compartmented for the revolver, a 2-cavity brass Colt’s Patent mold, a single sided Colt’s Patent eagle flask, an “L” shaped nipple wrench, a tin of Eley’s caps and a packet of combustible cartridges. The original key is included. The inside top back edge of the casing is marked “Manufactured / Soley by W. Kidder” and “Patent Apr 1854”. The case has had metal corners added and has a brass shield lock escutcheon. CONDITION: Fine. All matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 40-50% blue turning brown with light edge wear. Cylinder is a brown patina with nicks & dings and retains 30-40% cylinder scene. All five cylinder pins are intact. Frame retains dark case colors overall and the screws are slightly battered. Grip frame retains about 90% original silver plating and the grips about 90% varnish. Mechanics are fine with strong dark bore. Case, with its reinforced corners and slightly faded interior, is sound and retains most of its fine original finish, with slightly warped lid and some grain checks around the lock escutcheon. Accessories show wear but are fine. 4-50969 JR991 (6,500-9,000)
*FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal 45 Colt. SN 347534. Late pre-war single action with 5-1/2” bbl, blue and case color finish with fine factory silver medallion ivory grips with raised carved eagle. Very nicely engraved in about “C” coverage or possibly “D”, having about 50% coverage fine foliate arabesque and floral patterns on the bbl, frame and backstrap. The trigger guard, ejector rod housing and butt are matching engraved. Each area between the flutes on the cylinder has a small pattern of foliate arabesque engraving. All the engraving has shaded background. The eagle on the right grip is nicely executed and has a shield with stars in its talons. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver and indicating that it had blue finish, ivory stocks and was factory engraved. It was shipped Jan 8, 1925 to Bob Smith Sporting Goods Co., Boston, MA. CONDITION: Extremely fine, nearly new. Retaining 97-98% strong bright original finish overall with brilliant case colors and bright blue. There is one tiny spot of crusty rust, about 1/16” in diameter, on the left recoil shield. Grips have a lovely mellow patina and are without age lines. Brilliant shiny bore. May have been fired after leaving the factory, but if so very little. A very fine example of late factory engraving. 4-50298 JR367 (6,000-9,000)
ENGRAVED CASED COOPER PERCUSSION POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31. SN 6515. Philadelphia made 2nd Model revolver with 6-shot cylinder, 4” oct bbl with cone front sight. Beautifully engraved in fine New York style engraving with about 60% coverage foliate arabesque patterns on the bbl, frame and rammer pivot with lighter patterns on the back strap & trigger guard. The left side of the bbl has an eagle head incorporated in the engraving. It has a nickel-plated bbl, frame & grip frame with gold plated rammer & lever, cylinder, trigger & hammer. It also has spectacular full-checkered ivory grips that were originally dyed purple. It is accompanied by its original walnut presentation box with red velvet lining, that contains a nickel plated dbl sided eagle E Pluribus Unum flask, a 2-cavity Colt’s Patent bullet mold and “L” shaped nipple wrench. The case has a rectangular shaped silver plate on the lid and is inscribed “Presented to / William Warnock / by the / Philad. Police Benft. Socy. of Penna. / for returning $1014.50 for tickets sold / for their benefit / Dec 19th. 1865.” Also accompanies are copies of three pages of directories of 1865, 1870 and 1880, all listing William Warnock as living at “1006 Anita”. In 1865 and 1880 he is listed as “Police”. In 1870 he is listed as a painter. CONDITION: Fine. Revolver retains 95-96% original nickel finish overall, with slight losses at the muzzle, some light pimpling on the bbl. Rammer & lever retain about 90% original gold plating with some minor losses on the rammer. Trigger retains about 95% gold and the hammer about 90% gold on the sides & edges and about 90% nickel on the top. Cylinder retains about 75% gold plating with a large patch of deep rust pitting. Grips are very fine with a minor chip at the left toe and a small chip on the right side and retain about 75% of the original purple dye. Mechanics are dry & sticky but fine. Bore is strong & bright with scattered pitting. Case is very fine retaining most of its original bright varnish with slightly fading interior. Flask retains virtually all of its bright plating with one small scratch on the side. Mold was plated over several old dents, otherwise is fine. Nipple wrench retains about 50% plating. 4-50961 JR993 (9,000-15,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal 44 CF. (converted from rimfire). SN 1885. Very early single action with bbl reduced to 6” and having full coverage after-market engraving with nickel finish and fantastic 2-pc stag grips. This revolver started out life as a Rimfire and was subsequently converted to Center Fire. The engraving completely covers all the exposed surfaces with nice foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. It is a fairly recent application. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped June 4, 1879 as a 44 Rimfire with 7-1/2” bbl, blue finish and wood grips to “WEXELL & DEGRESS, MEXICO CITY, MEXICO”. This is one of the last of the 1890 rimfire revolvers produced. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains 85-90% fine nickel finish with sharp engraving. Grip frame is mostly bare metal. Grips are outstanding with a fine mellow patina. Cylinder pin screw is badly worn with a few of the grip frame screws slightly battered and some of the frame screws are replacements. Strong bore with fine pitting. Good mechanics. 4-50305 JR352 (3,500-4,500)
CASED CIVIL WAR PRESENTATION COLT 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal 31. SN 189505. Usual configuration, 4” oct bbl, 1-line New York address, with 5-shot cylinder and brass trigger guard & back strap, 1-pc walnut grips. It is accompanied by an original red velvet lined Colt casing with compartments containing an “E Pluribus Unum” DBL sided eagle flask, iron 2-cavity Colt’s Patent mold and a tin of Hicks caps. The back strap is inscribed “To 2nd Lieut. Samuel J. La Rue of / Montgomery Guards by the Ladies of Bristol” and the butt is engraved “May 2, 1861”. At the same time he was also presented a sword, which at this time, is unknown. Also accompanies is a large packet of information regarding La Rue’s Civil War service. He enlisted May 2, 1861, and was elected 2nd Lieutenant, Company I, 32nd Regiment Infantry of the Third Reserves and was enrolled May 29, 1861. At the time of enrollment he listed his age as 36 years and resided in Bucks County, PA as a hotel keeper and was listed as 5’ 4-1/4” with black hair, gray eyes and dark complexion. Along with his unit he was mustered into service at Harrisburg, Pa on July 29, 1861 and was promoted to Captain on October 1, 1862. He was mustered out with his unit on June 17, 1864. During his term of service he fought in several battles including Dranesville, Fredricksburg, Bull Run and apparently several other lesser fights. In February 1863 his unit was recalled for the defense of Washington and remained there until May 1864 when they participated in the Battle of Cloyd’s Mountain and at Blacksburg and a month later were mustered out of service. After he was mustered out little or nothing is known about Capt. La Rue. Also accompanies is an article from the December 1958 Gun Report by Paul A. Matthews on this revolver. Additionally there are numerous pages regarding historical society research and military records research. CONDITION: About very good. All matching except the wedge which is unnumbered. No original finish remains with the iron being a mottled medium silver/brown patina. Brass has a medium mustard patina and retains traces of silver plating in the very sheltered areas. Grips are sound and retain about 20% original varnish. Cylinder retains about 50% stagecoach holdup scene. Mechanics are fine with strong bright bore and scattered moderate pitting. Both frame pins are broken. Case has both lower rear edge joints loose, otherwise is sound with a slightly warped lid and a grain check in the bottom. Lining is much faded, but intact. Flask has a broken spring, otherwise the accessories are fine. 4-50970 JR732 (3,000-4,000)
*ENGRAVED COMPOSITE COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 270257. Modern engraved revolver with 12” replacement bbl and 2-pc pearl grips. It is engraved in foliate arabesque patterns, New York style, with about 60% coverage over the bbl, cylinder, frame and grip frame. The hammer has a wolf’s head engraved on each side. The cylinder has the numbers “1” thru “6” engraved over the chambers. The ejector rod head is a modern replacement. CONDITION: As noted, very good to fine. Retains most of its custom blue finish on the bbl & frame and most of its gold finish on the ejector rod housing & hammer. Cylinder retains about 90% gold plating and the grip frame about 50% gold finish. Mechanics are a little loose, broken or missing handspring, with loose cylinder pin, will not hold on safe or half cock. Bright shiny bore. Grips are fine. 4-50479 JR922 (1,750-2,000)
PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 12706. Usual configuration with 6-1/2” round bbl, brass cone front sight, 5-shot fluted cylinder, with brass trigger guard & back strap and beautiful full checkered 1-pc ivory grips. The back strap is inscribed “T.L. Haydn from H.W. Hubbell Jr.” and the butt is engraved “Dec. 25th 1862”. CONDITION: Good. All matching. Traces of blue remain in the flutes on the cylinder and traces of dark case colors in the very sheltered areas on the frame remain. Otherwise the iron is a gray metal color with fine light pitting. Brass is a medium mellow patina with the inscription completely legible. Grips are exceptionally fine with a replaced chip at the right toe, otherwise they have a fine mellow color. Good mechanics and strong bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-50987 JR524 (2,000-4,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. SN 78320. Early single action, with 7-1/2” bbl and with modern engraving in New York style with about 75% coverage on the bbl, cylinder, frame and grip frame. The hammer is engraved with a wolf’s head on each side. The bbl & frame are blued with the balance of the parts gold plated. It has beautiful 2-pc pearl grips and is accompanied by a case that was probably an old silverware chest. CONDITION: About fine. Bbl & frame retain about all of their custom blue with ejector rod housing & hammer retaining most of their custom gold finish. Back strap & front strap have flaked and about 60% of the gold finish remains. Grips are very bright with lots of fire & color with a small chip at the right heel. Hammer will not hold on safety or half cock, bright shiny bore. Case is fine. 4-50480 JR918 (2,250-3,000)
INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 44. SN 11181. Lot of Civil War items belonging to Major James M. Fisher. The lot consists of the referenced 1861 Navy, a brass military cavalry spur, a Masonic ring, and a reunion pin. The revolver is usual configuration with 7-1/2” round bbl, German silver front sight and 1-pc walnut grips. It has brass trigger guard and back strap and the butt is inscribed “Majr J.M. Fisher”. CONDITION: No original finish remains, being a cleaned medium gray metal color. Trigger guard retains about 50% thin silver plating with the balance of the brass a light mellow patina. Grips have a chipped toe, otherwise retain 60-70% original varnish. All matching with a strong bright bore having scattered pitting, good mechanics. Accompanying is a brass cavalry spur with small rowell that has a bent fork. Ring is a small silver man’s ring with gold top that has an engraved Masonic emblem surrounded by “Maj. J.M. Fisher / 93d Ill. Vol.” and a 1-3/4” pinback, a souvenier of the 8th Annual Reunion Bureau County Soldier’s Association, Princeton, Illinois, September 22-23, 1904. Unless otherwise noted these items are in very good condition. Also accompanying are reproduced pages 238 & 239 of the History of the Ninety-Third Illinois. One page has a picture of an elder Maj. Fisher and the other a short biography. Also accompanies is a hand written letter relating how the revolver was found when Maj. Fisher’s home was cleaned after his death. Also included are reproduced pages 521 & 522 of the Biographical Sketches of the History of Bureau County and includes and entry for Maj. Fisher. Additionally is reproduced page 250 of the Roster of Ninety-Third Illinois which includes a paragraph for Maj. Fisher which indicates he was Captain of Company I August 1862 and was elected Major on September 8, 1862 and mustered into service October 13, 1862. He was wounded at Champion Hill, Mississippi in 1863 and again in October 1864 at Alatoona, Georgia. He was commissioned Lt. Col. by the Governor of Illinois, but was unable to serve in that commission as there was no vacancy in his Unit. He was discharged at Chicago, July 6, 1865. Also included are several pages of his military & medical records. 4-50989 JR526 (3,000-5,000)
*TIFFANY ENGRAVED WITH GOLD INLAY AND GOLD GRIPS COLT DIAMONDBACK REVOLVER. Cal 38 special. SN P76847K. Magnificent piece of art with flowing leaves and flowers inlayed in gold over both sides of the frame and bbl, around the cylinder and on the trigger guard. The side plate has a small Rampant Colt gold inlay. The Colt legends on both sides of the bbl are also inlayed in gold and on the right side of the receiver is a small inlayed platinum “S”. Most spectacular, however, is the massive gold plated, sterling silver, custom Tiffany grip with flowing Art Nouveau high relief leaves and flowers that cover 50-60% of the entire surface. They are executed in great detail with a polished background. The bottom of the grip is signed “TIFFANY & CO/STERLING”. The revolver has beautiful custom high polished blue finish. It is accompanied by a beautiful blue and gold, leather, box-style case lined with gray velvet which contains a small piece of embossed blue leather inscribed “HAPPY BIRTHDAY SANDI/WITH LOVE/FROM GEORGE/ MAY 16TH 1987”. This exact revolver and book is pictured on page 302 of “The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One” by R.L. Wilson. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, as new, unfired, retaining virtually all its wonderful custom finish. Case has a few nicks along the edges and the spine is faded with some scuffing on the front and back. Interior is immaculate. 4-50448 JR383 (20,000-35,000)
EXQUISITE TIFFANY GRIPPED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER. Cal. 36. SN 23630. Fine & rare little Colt with 4-1/2” rnd bbl, 1-line New York address, with extensive intertwined foliate & floral engraving with punch dot background over the bbl, frame, cylinder & hammer. This is unquestionably Young engraving with his trademark wolf’s heads on each side of the hammer nose. The bottom of the frame, bottom of the barrel lug & front end of the trigger guard are lightly engraved also, as is the bottom of the rammer lever and the ends of the wedge. The rammer & lever, cylinder & hammer are gold washed. The back strap and grips have been replaced with a beautiful Tiffany spread-winged Federal eagle grip. The eagle is clutching laurel leaves in each talon, which extend completely around the base of the grip and flows up each edge to the top of the grip. The eagle and all the decorations are in bas-relief. At the top of the backstrap is an integral oval initial plate bearing the initials “AJS”. The rim of the butt is beaded and has flower blossoms quadra-spaced around the rim. The butt cap is the typical Tiffany rosette with a decorative finial. Accompanied by a series of letters dating from January 1973 through December 1975 from Norm Flayderman, Robert L. White and Frank E. Hendricks attesting to the authenticity of this revolver. Mr. Hendricks, of San Antonio, TX, was, at that time, apparently considered to be an engraving expert and certified without question that the grips are authentic Tiffany manufacture. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. All matching including the wedge. Overall it retains about 95-97% strong silver plating that may be an old restored finish. Gold plating on the rammer & lever, cylinder and hammer is probably a later addition. Grips retain most of their fine silver plating except on the initial oval at the top of the back strap where there is considerable wear and the parent brass is showing through. One of the letters, above, speaks of the rosette in the butt being missing at that time and having been replaced with a piece of bone. That being the case in 1975, an original type rosette was apparently found and returned to its rightful place. Mechanics are fine. Cylinder still has most of five safety pins. Bore is strong but dark with moderate pitting. 4-51222 JR1004 (25,000-35,000)
LARGE LOT OF HISTORICAL WYOMING COWBOY & LAW ENFORCEMENT ITEMS THAT BELONGED TO HAPPY JACK ALLEN. This lot consists of an engraved single action army Colt, Allen’s original Casper, WY made belt & holster rig, an original pair of Schnitger silver decorated spurs, three of Allen’s police badges, two peace officer association meeting ribbons, Allen’s early Lower’s Patent handcuffs and Allen’s Clabrough & Bros. dbl barrel hammer shotgun.
All of these items were the property of and used by Robert John “Happy Jack” Allen. Mr. Allen was born in 1876 in Brooklyn, NY, orphaned in 1880, lived with his grandparents until their death in 1890. At the age of 14, in 1890, he arrived in Cheyenne, WY and took a job at the Arbuckle Ranch on Pole Creek, outside of Cheyenne. In 1892 he was hired by U.S. Senator J.M. Carey’s CY Cattle Ranch outside of Casper. This was the ranch used as a staging area when the cattlemen of the area employed about 40 hired guns to drive out the outlaws and rustlers, which is now known as the Johnson County War. In 1897 Allen and his fellow CY cowboys raided the famous “Hole in the Wall” to retrieve stolen cattle and had a shootout with the gang residing there, killing one and wounding and capturing another. Also in 1897 Allen was a bronc rider in the very first Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. In 1898 Allen enlisted in Torrey’s Rough Riders and became a Sargent in Troop K. They were eventually drafted into the regular Army and became the 2nd U.S. Volunteer Cavalry and rode with Theodore Roosevelt up San Juan Hill during the Spanish American War. After the War, Allen returned to the CY Ranch where he remained for another 1-1/2 years. In 1903 he was hired as a deputy sheriff of Natrona County, WY.
Accompanying this lot is Allen’s original Deputy Sheriff’s badge. In 1905 Allen was persuaded to join Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show as a member of the Congress of Rough Riders and toured Europe with the show for two years. When he returned to the U.S. he moved to Coatesville, PA and became a detective for the Coatesville Police Dept. and Chief of Police for the Worth Steel Corp. where he served until 1917, when he re-entered the Army and served in the Intelligence Corps. In 1921 he returned to Wyoming and was appointed a State Agent of Law Enforcement. In 1923 he was appointed Deputy U.S. Marshall for Wyoming and in 1929 was appointed as Commissioner of Law Enforcement for the State of Wyoming (Today’s Chief of State Police). Accompanying this lot is Allen’s original Commissioner of Law Enforcement badge. In 1932, he was appointed U.S. Marshall for Wyoming by President Herbert Hoover. Also accompanying this lot is Allen’s original appointment certificate. In 1934 he was elected Sheriff of Natrona County, WY. Accompanying this lot is Allen’s sheriff’s badge with number “1”. Allen was re-elected Sheriff several times and died in 1942 in Casper, WY. Also accompanying this lot are two Wyoming Peace Officer’s Association Meeting pins from 1941 and 1942. Also accompanies is a rare and original pair of Schnitger silver decorated spurs, custom made for Allen. Each spur has a 2-1/4” 32-point round rowel with 8 holes. Each spur has nicely carved 2-pc leather straps. Each spur has full silver overlay on the left side with two large domed buttons. The silver plate has light engraving and the buttons were also engraved in star pattern but are now worn smooth. Both sides of the shank and chap guard along with the rowel pin button are inlaid with decorated silver. The inside of the bow shank & chap guard are identically inlaid with silver without the large buttons. The strap buttons are covered with silver, engraved with a large “A”. Additionally is a rare pair of “Lower” marked iron handcuffs with their original key.
An important part of this collection is a single action Colt revolver, 4-3/4” bbl, caliber 45, serial number 92242. It has about 60% coverage, fine New York style foliate & floral arabesque pattern engraving with punch dot background. It has 2-pc pearl grips with a very deep carved steer head on the right grip. Accompanying the Colt is a factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped May 9, 1883 in a shipment of 10 such revolvers to Hartley & Graham, NY, NY. The letter indicates that the finish was “soft”. This indicates that it was not factory finished but was shipped for engraving & finishing outside the factory. This engraving has all the earmarks of Nimschke or his shop. Also accompanying the Colt is a letter dated 23 April 1998 from Jack Allen, the grandson of Happy Jack Allen, who states that in approximately 1903 his grandfather acquired this revolver and that it was his personal sidearm throughout his law enforcement career and remained in his possession until his death in 1942 when it was passed on down the family. Also included is a well-made and decorated period belt & holster set. The holster is a 2-loop style with tooled edges and a home buck-stitched open edge. The center of the top is stamped “OSCAR HIESTAND / MAKER / CASPER, WYO.” The belt is a folded soft leather money belt with nicely press-decorated edges with 41 cartridge loops. And lastly is Allen’s J.P. Clabrough & Bros. damascus bbl hammer shotgun. It is a side lever model with the bbls cut to 20”. It has had heavy use with severe damage to the forearm & wrist with clever old repairs using copper plates & strips. Additionally accompanying are two large framed photos of performers in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. One photo dated 1905 with a plaque stating “Budapest, Hungary 1905 / Happy Jack Allen Fourth from Right”. The other shows a large group of mounted cowboys & cowgirls in a semi-circle and is dated “1906”.
CONDITION: Three badges are all fine with the Commissioner of Law Enforcement badge showing light wear with some brass showing through the nickel, the other two are fine. Spurs and straps are very worn but sound and intact. Handcuffs are a smooth gray patina with some light surface spotting. Holster is very dry & fragile with a break near the top loop. Belt is also dry with the loops having been re-laced with rawhide and the billets moved as the owner expanded. Shotgun is very worn with breaks in the forearm & wrist and a small splice in the wrist with copper plate repairs. Mechanics are fine with pitted shiny bores. Colt retains most of a fine restored finish with some scattered light pitting. Exceptional grips have two or three small hairlines and a tiny chip at the heel and receiver on the left side but are brilliant with lots of fire and color, a truly exceptional pair of grips. Mechanics need attention as it will not hold on any of the hammer notches. Strong bright bore with fine pitting. Photographs are hand colored and in fine condition. 4-51586 JR1018 (27,500-37,500)
SAMUEL COLT’S SILVER BEAKER. Early silver beaker, about 4” high and 3-3/8” in diameter at the top, with a flared edge and rounded corner flat bottom. The bottom is marked “C. Aldis” for Charles Aldis of New York. The side of the cup is inscribed “SAC” in early script and the bottom is likewise engraved “Colt”. The consignor states that he purchased this cup many years earlier from a family who claimed they were related to Samuel Colt and that this was from his personal set. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Light handling & use marks with some dents along the bottom edge. Inscribed letters on the side show moderate wear. 4-51208 JR745 (750-1,250)
*BEAUTIFUL COENEN SILVER MOUNTED DBL HOLSTER RIG WITH REVOLVERS. Cal. 455 Eley. SN 63916 & 121879. Great Bohlin style holster rig made of beautifully tooled lined heavy black leather with dbl holster buscadero set up for large frame dbl action revolvers. Coenen worked for Hollywood Silversmiths, McCabe & later on Sunset Trails. The leather certainly appears to be Bohlin. The belt is about 38” long x 3-1/2” wide at the narrow ends with a sterling silver buckle set marked on the back with Coenen’s mark. The buckle & tab are beautifully hand engraved. The belt has 27 leaf shaped studs with a turkey foot on them and 13 round engraved buttons along with 33 small silver buttons. The holsters are matching carved, single loop with wide skirts and have solid silver engraved plate over each loop with gold initials “DDC”. The skirts are bordered with 20 matching engraved silver buttons and the belt has 30 cartridge loops. The revolvers are standard New Service Model Colts with 5-1/2” bbls, fixed sights and a lanyard loop in the butt. Both have faux stag grips and have Canadian property marks on the frame & bbl. They were probably NWMP issue revolvers. Both are nickel plated with gold plated cylinder, trigger & hammer. CONDITION: Leather is dry but supple with some crackling on the tongue. Holsters show moderate wear and are scraped on the inside, otherwise the entire rig is fine. Revolvers retain about 90% of their custom finish. Mechanics are slightly loose, with dark pitted bores, probably from firing blank ammunition. 4-51314 JR923 (3,500-5,000)
OVERLAND MAIL & EXPRESS COLT MODEL 1878 DBL BBL DAMASCUS SHOTGUN. Cal. 10 ga. SN 15578. Fine, old Colt with 32” Damascus bbls, smooth concave rib with single bead, marked with the maker’s name & address and hand engraved “Overland Mail & Ex. #59”. The lockplates, hammers, receiver, trigger guard and trigger plate all have light line engraving with the maker’s name on each lockplate. It has nicely figured walnut wood with horn tipped checkered splinter forearm and semi-pistol grip stock, 14-1/4” over a smooth steel buttplate. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbls retain 30-40% dark Damascus pattern with the balance a dark brown patina with four dents in the right bbl. Receiver, lockplates and trigger guard are a clean metal color starting to patinate. Wood is sound with the forearm showing heavy wear and the buttstock moderate wear. Buttstock retains generous amounts of original varnish with the forearm a fine hand rubbed patina. Mechanics are fine, with moderately pitted bores. 4-50806 JR1207 (1,250-1,750)
*LOT OF SUNSET CARSON MEMORABILIA. Sunset Carson was a western movie star and made twenty movies in the period 1944-1950. 1) “Bronco” brand cowboy hat with 4” brim & 6” crown and a wide black, white & brown woven hatband. –As new, in the box. *2) Colt single action revolver, Cal. 45 Colt, SN 347940. 5-1/2” bbl, after-market engraved with full coverage patterns and a deep inscription on the left side of the bbl, “Old Judge Colt”. It has 2-pc pearl grips. –Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a couple of spots of pitting. 3) A heavy single holster buscadero rig of synthetic alligator with white buck-stitch borders and nickel plated conchos with a large horseshoe shaped buckle. –Fine. Lining of the holster is slightly scuffed. Buckle retains about 70% silver paint with the tongue slightly dry & crackled. 4) Pair of size 13 EEE brown cowboy boots with toe decoration and buckstitch lacing through the uppers. –Fine. Light wear, retains most of their original finish. 5) 3/4 length black wool coat with wide mouton collar, size 52, with 3-button front and slash pockets on each side. –Extremely fine. No evidence of mothing. 6) Two large photos, 20” x 16”, one horizontal image of an elderly Sunset Carson & an equally elderly Lash La Rue. The other photo is a vertical image of Sunset Carson & Peggy Stewart, his co-star in many of his movies, with Lash La Rue in the background. Both have autographed their images with his dated Nov. 1, ’88 and hers dated 5/30/90. Also accompanies is a pictorial biography of Sunset Carson. 4-50604 JR1162 (7,500-12,500)
*ENGRAVED COLT PRE-WAR GOVERNMENT MODEL SEMI-AUTO PISTOL. Cal 45 ACP. SN C144509. Rare factory engraved government model pistol with 5” bbl, blued finish and smooth factory ivory grips. It has about “A” coverage engraving and foliate arabesque patterns with shaded background and has an unmarked, original-type, two-tone magazine. It is accompanied by its original hinged lid dark maroon box with original end label and two over-labels – one marked “ENGRAVED” and the other “IVORY BLUE”. It contains the original gray owners pamphlet, a special instruction pamphlet, and a small paper advising on ammunition. It also has the original paper label inside the bottom and inside the lid. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter identifying this pistol and indicating it had blue finish, ivory stocks and was factory engraved. It was shipped Sept. 19, 1925 to Iver Johnson Sporting Goods Co., Boston, MA. CONDITION: As new, probably unfired but unfortunately has a large chemical spot on the left front edge of the slide. Otherwise it retains virtually all its original bright factory finish with some minor surface spotting and a spot or two of discoloration. Grips have a wonderful mellow color with some minor scratches and an age line. Magazine is crisp and the bore is brilliant and shiny. Box has one torn corner on the lid with a few other small chips on the edges. Labels are yellowed but very fine. All the pamphlets are fine. 4-50297 JR360 (5,000-10,000)
ENGRAVED COLT 61 NAVY REVOLVER WITH IVORY GRIPS. Cal. 36 Perc. Usual configuration with 7-1/2’” round bbl, silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap with 1-pc ivory grips, deep-relief carved on the right side with a shield surmounting four flags under a laurel wreath. The shield has a horse, a tree and a horn of plenty on the face. Bbl, the frame and the grip frame are New York-style engraved with about 95% coverage on the frame, 30% coverage on bbl and 50% on the grip frame. Engraving consists of high-quality foliate arabesque patterns with punch-dot backgrounds. The left recoil shield has a well-executed fan and the flat behind the hammer, another very well executed fan, reminiscent of Nimschke’s work. The revolver was probably originally silver-plated and now retains traces of that finish in the very sheltered areas. SN 35982. CONDITION: Very good to fine, all matching except the wedge, which is undoubtedly original to this revolver. Traces of the original silver finish remain, with the balance a dark patina. The trigger guard and backstrap retain 20-25% original silver plating. The cylinder is a silver-brown patina with a couple of spots of deep pitting and retains 50-60% original Naval battle scene. The grip frame screws are all mildly battered. Grips are very fine with several age lines and a tiny chip on the right side, otherwise they are a beautiful, even, mellow gold color. Bbl could not be removed to observe the bore. Mechanics are fine. 4-50071 (7,500-12,500)
VERY EARLY INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1860 FLUTED ARMY USED BY A CONFEDERATE OFFICER. Cal. 44 Perc. First year fluted Army with 8” round bbl, silver-plated trigger guard and backstrap with the inscription “T.K. Jackson U.S.A.”. Presented to or purchased by Jackson when still a U.S. Army officer, and carried by him after he resigned his commission and served in the Army of the Confederacy. This pistol was researched by R. L. Wilson and is pictured on pg. 155 of his Colt Engraving book. This being the very earliest model, the outside of the cylinder does not have the patent date and has the serial number on the back, between two of the nipples. It also has the serial number on the left side of the rammer operating handle and has “Saml Colt” hand engraved on top of bbl. It additionally has inspector’s initials on the butt “JT” with a “T” on various other parts including the bottom of the grip. The cylinder was double-struck with “TT”. These marks are for the inspector John Taylor, who only inspected 1860 revolvers from 1861-1862. SN 104. CONDITION: Fine to very fine, all matching, including the wedge and hammer. The iron retains an even light gray patina overall, having been cleaned a long time ago. The cylinder has traces of gold wash in the cylinder stop notches, but this appears to be of more recent application, as no other evidence of gold wash could be found anywhere else. Four of the 6 safety pins are intact. The receiver retains traces of silvered case colors in the sheltered areas, otherwise is a light gray patina also. The grip frame retains about 80% original silver plating with light pimpling on the butt and loose silver-plating with dark patina on the backstrap. Grips have a couple of age lines and a very old scratch near the frame and a miniscule chip at the heel. They are a beautiful light ‘streaky’ mellow gold. Strong bright bore with moderate pitting. Well worth researching. 4-49498 (15,000-25,000)
COLT 1860 ARMY REVOLVER WITH FLUTED CYLINDER. Cal. 44 Perc. Early fluted Army with 7-1/2” round bbl, 4-screw frame with flat head hammer screw and brass trigger guard with iron backstrap and 1-pc walnut grips. The front strap is crudely scratch-engraved “W Harris”. SN 408. CONDITION: Good plus, all matching including the wedge. Bbl and cylinder retain a smooth almost chocolate brown patina with scattered light pitting and some light hammer marks around the wedge slot. The frame retains a dark gray-brown patina with the hammer having light pitting on the left side. The trigger guard retains about 50% original silver plate and the backstrap about 90% silver plating with some light pimpling. Grips are sound with rounded edges and scratches from attaching the stock and retains about 40% varnish on the left side and 60% on the right side. Strong dark bore. Crisp mechanics. 4-49959 (3,000-5,000)
CASED ENGRAVED PRESENTATION COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. Fine Gustave Young engraved revolver with 6-1/2” round bbl, 5-shot fluted cylinder, silver-plated brass trigger guard and backstrap with 1-pc ivory grips that are raised-carved and have checkered panels on each side. The left grip at the top has an Irish harp and shamrock and on the right an 8-pointed medallion. The backstrap is inscribed “Presented to Col. O’Mahoney/Prest of the Fenian Brotherhood/By the Irishmen of Hartford CT”. Beautifully engraved by Young with typical intertwining foliate arabesque and floral patterns and Young’s trademark “hound’s head” on each side of the hammer. The trigger guard and backstrap also have the foliate arabesque patterns and “sunburst” panel at the top a flat of the backstrap. The gun is pictured on pg. 270 Vol 1 of the Colt Engraving book by R.L. Wilson. Accompanied by a Colt walnut compartmented casing with rose velvet lining that contains a small “Colt’s Patent” double-sided flask with an American eagle clutching a revolver in its talons, an “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, an iron two-cavity mold with “Colt’s Patent” sprue cutter, a tin of “Hicks” caps and a spare cylinder numbered “51449”.
Colonel O’Mahoney was born in Ireland in 1816 and as a young man, became involved in Irish politics and rebellion. In 1848, he fled to France and wound up in New York in 1853. In 1857, O’Mahoney and Michael Dohney decided to form an American-Irish organization so they returned to Ireland and recruited James Stephens to come to America to organize them. In October 1858, O’Mahoney named his organization the “Fenian Brotherhood”. Their aim was to organize and train a militia to return to Ireland to overthrow the British. By April 1861, when the Civil war broke out, there were thousands of members in the “Fenian Brotherhood”. With the onset of war, Irish units were enlisting intact and O’Mahoney organized the 99th New York National Guard and commanded it as their Colonel. As part of the “Irish Brigade”, the 99th fought in most major battles and acquitted themselves magnificently, earning great honor and recognition. O’Mahoney and the Fenian Brotherhood leaders continued their activities throughout the war. In 1870, the Fenian groups made four different attacks on Canada, which were all successfully repulsed and the members captured and disarmed. After that, O’Mahoney fell out of favor and died destitute in New York in 1877. He was given a hero’s burial in Ireland. As an aside, the Irish arm of the Fenian Brotherhood was known as the Irish Republican Brotherhood, which has evolved into today’s Irish Republican Army. SN 31231.
CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 40-50% original blue, dark and strong in the sheltered areas with scattered light surface discoloration. The frame and hammer retain generous amounts of dark original case coloring with minor pitting on the hammer nose. The trigger guard has traces of original silver plating, being now a dark mustard patina. The backstrap and butt retain about 30-35% original silver plating with the balance a medium patina. The cylinder retains about 20% blue in shelter areas with some heavy pitting. Grips are fantastic with one age line and are a beautiful mellow golden color. The bore is strong with good shine and moderate pitting. The case exterior is very fine with scratches on the lid. The interior is much faded with two loose divider sections, which are present. The flask is fine, retaining about 40% original finish, the mold is a blue-brown patina, the cap box is stained and missing part of the label and the spare cylinder appears to be new and unfired. 4-49497 (25,000-40,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. Cal. 31 Perc. Fine engraved Colt with 5” oct bbl, “Saml Colt” engraved on the top flat. It has silver-plated trigger guard and backstrap with burl 1-pc walnut grips. It is beautifully engraved by Gustave Young with intertwining foliate and arabesque patterns covering the frame, bbl and rammer pivot and on the trigger guard and backstrap. It has the trademark Young engraved “Colt’s Patent” vignette and hound’s head on each side of the hammer. It is accompanied by an original re-lined Colt’s casing containing a single-sided small sized “E Pluribus Unum” copper and brass flask, a Colt’s Patent brass two-cavity mold without sprue cutter and a fine lacquered tin of Eley caps. Also contains an “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver. SN 87320. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including the wedge. Retains most of an outstanding professionally restored finish to the metal and wood. The frame, however, was not case colored, but appears to have been blued. The cylinder was refinished over fine pitting and retains 75-80% stagecoach hold-up scene. The 5 safety pins are mostly intact. It has a brilliant shiny bore with a couple spots of pitting. The case has a couple of grain checks in the top and a crack in the bottom and the lid has been refinished. The relined interior is bright. This appears to have been a nearly new revolver that had been allowed to deteriorate in the case and it has been restored. 4-49111 JR383 (1,500-2,500)
*FACTORY-ENGRAVED COLT PYTHON REVOLVER. Cal. 357 Mag. Nickel finish with 6” ventilated rib full-lug bbl with adjustable sights and oversize checkered gold medallion walnut grips. It is very nicely engraved in about “D” coverage in very well detailed scroll arabesque patterns. We guarantee this to be Colt factory engraving. SN 01154N. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retains virtually all its original factory finish to metal and wood, appears unfired. 4-49325 JR350 (2,000-3,000)
CASED INSCRIBED & ENGRAVED VERY EARLY COLT MODEL 1851 REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. First type revolver with 7-1/2” oct bbl that has the wedge over the screw. It has small square-back brass trigger guard and backstrap with 1-pc walnut grips. Engraved in the early-style foliate arabesque patterns, it is identified on pg. 40 in Vol. 1 of the Colt Engraving book by R.L. Wilson and is one of the earliest engraved ’51 Navy’s known. It has an inscription on the left bbl flat near the muzzle “John Smiley Watson” that does not appear to have been done by the same hand that did the engraving. Accompanied by an original Colt walnut, compartmented casing that contains the revolver, an unopened package of skin cartridges, and “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver and a tin of early Eley caps. The case is lined with brown velvet. SN 687. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except the wedge, which is an old replacement. The metal retains an overall smooth, very dark brown patina. The grip frame and trigger guard retain 40-50% original silver plating with the balance a dark mustard patina. Grips are sound and retain most of an old refinish. The cylinder retains 60-70% Naval battle scene. The bore is dark and pitted. The case is very fine with the exterior retaining most of its original finish with numerous small nicks and dings on the lid. The interior is moderately faded with front sight and hammer spur damage, bbl support block is loose and the front is missing the lock escutcheon. The skin cartridges are sealed, but have light damage in the lower left corner and is missing small portion of the label and has tape on the opposite end. The cap tin is fine. 4-49493 (22,500-32,500)
COLT MODEL 1878 DOUBLE BARREL SHOTGUN. Cal. 12 ga. Field grade gun with 28” damascus bbls choked CYL/CYL, having the maker’s name and address on the concave rib. Lockplates are lightly engraved with the maker’s name on each side. It has double triggers and extractors. Wood is straight grain walnut with black insert, schnable tipped splinter forearm and semi pistol grip stock with the rampant Colt hard rubber buttplate. SN 12694. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Bbls retain 93-95% brown damascus pattern, strong and bright in sheltered areas. Lockplates retain 85-90% original case colors, brilliant in sheltered areas. The receiver has case colors in the sheltered areas with the balance a silver metal color. The foreend iron and trigger guard are also silver metal colored. Wood is sound with buttstock retaining about 90% original varnish with usual handling and use marks. The forearm is oil stained with some minor battering and heavy wear on the checkering. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bores with scattered pitting and a small ring in the left bbl. 4-49222 JR105 (1,000-1,500)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. Fine Gustave Young engraved Navy in his #2 style and so marked on the left side of bbl lug. It has beautiful foliate arabesque patterns on bbl, the operating handle pivot, sides of the frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The engraving patterns are standard Young motifs but with the extra touch of 2 animals on the left side. Bbl lug has a hound’s head incorporated in the pattern and on the left side of the frame a bird’s head. The “COLT’S PATENT” is within his trademark vignette and the hammer nose has his trademark hound’s head on each side. All the engraving has fine punch-dot background and there is a fine border at the muzzle. This revolver has a 7-1/2” oct bbl, 1-line Hartford address with dashes, with iron trigger guard and backstrap and large oval trigger guard containing 1-pc ivory grips. SN 64851. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including the wedge, which is missing its spring. Bbl retains 75-80% bright original blue with edge and muzzle wear, thin on the left side with light rust spotting on the left flat. The operating handle retains 60-70% strong case colors turned silver on the round part and the rammer has gone silver. The entire frame retains 25-30% faded case colors on the side flats with the balance a dark silver patina. The hammer retains 30-40% faded case colors. The iron front and backstrap and trigger guard retains 30-35% silver plating with the balance turned silver. The cylinder is mostly a medium gray patina with some light rust spotting and 3 or 4 areas of vise marks. It retains 75-80% Naval battle scene. The grips have many age lines with the left side a dark streaky gold color and the right side quite a bit lighter. The bore is bright and shiny with scattered pitting. 4-49457 JR415 (16,000-18,000)
SPECTACULAR PAIR OF NIMSCHKE ENGRAVED GOLD & NICKEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVERS. Cal .45 Colt. Unmistakably Nimschke engraving is found on this matched pair of revolvers. Its identifiable wavy line and dot borders, beautifully executed arabesque scrolls, punch-dot background, diamond patterns with dot centers, starbursts on either side of the cylinder pin and ejector rod housing swells and the elaborate and beautiful fan at the top of the backstrap are all Nimschke trademark patterns. These revolvers have 7-1/2” bbls and are fitted with wonderful and rare diamond checkered walnut grips. These grips are thicker than usual with a scooped plain flat where the grip meets the frame. They are very similar to a pair of grips found on another early single action currently in the Colt Collection at The Baldwin Museum of Connecticut History in Hartford and may have influenced these special grips.
This pair of Colts are identically engraved and have nickel plated bbls, frames, trigger guards and backstraps with gold plated cylinders, hammers and ejector rod housings. They have nitre blued cylinder pins, screws and triggers. All of which combines to make an extremely pleasing combination to the eye. With rare and unusual special checkered walnut grips, they are doubly pleasing. These revolvers were previously displayed in the Texas Ranger Museum at Waco, Texas from 1968 until 1976 when they were acquired by R.E. Hable. They have been featured in a number of books on Colt engraving by R.L. Wilson. These publications include, “The Book of Colt Engraving”, Vol. I. page 340 and “The Colt Engraving Book” page 226. Comparing the engraving on this fine pair of pistols with patterns pictured in the Nimschke Pattern Book reveals numerous identical features particularly on pages XXXIX and XXXV. Some of these details are unmistakably identical and leave no doubt that this pair of revolvers was done by the master himself. This may be the only known matching pair of Nimschke engraved single actions. Regardless if they are the only pair, engraved black powder revolvers as single items are extremely rare and pairs by any engraver are very, very limited. Accompanying these revolvers is a fine custom oak double casing, French fitted with plum colored suede-like material. There is a covered compartment in two opposite corners with light padding inside the lid. Also accompanies is a Colt Factory letter identifying these revolvers as being shipped June 28, 1876 in a 37 gun shipment to Spies, Kissam & Co. New York, N.Y. as blue finished guns. It is well documented that Spies & Kissam were valued frequent customers of Nimschke. Also accompanying is a note on Spies & Kissam Co. letterhead dated 1876 to the Sharps Rifle Co. In addition there is a letter form the curator of the Texas Ranger hall of Fame and Museum stating that these revolvers were displayed there. Also accompanying are three pages from the December 1954 Texas Gun Collector magazine with notations that a collector named Charles Ferguson of Decatur, IL had owned these revolvers. Also accompanying is a copy of a letter from R.L. Wilson to Edward L. Benson dated September 9, (year not indicated) stating that if he owned these revolvers he would not sell them. Also there is another letter from Mr. Wilson to Mr. Benson advising him that he would like to run photos of them in future publications and is soliciting a fee for color printing. And lastly is an undated, 6 page letter of authentication on these revolvers from Mr. Wilson. SN 25499 & 26094.
CONDITION: Extremely fine, apparently unfired. Retaining virtually all their fine original nickel finish and most of their gold plating. The gold plating, with years of handling, has become thin and dull, particularly on the cylinders and outside of the ejector rod housing on #26094. The grips are all extremely fine with one side having a small mark on the top right flat. The screws, cylinder pins and triggers retain virtually all their bright nitre blue. The bores are brilliant and shiny as one would expect from unfired guns. The case has a few grain checks in the lid, otherwise is sound and retains virtually all its fine custom finish. The interior is bright and clean. This is surely a once in a lifetime opportunity to own the very finest in single action revolvers. 4-49447 JR515 (250,000-350,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. Third type Navy with 7-1/2” oct bbl, small round brass trigger guard and backstrap with beautiful burl 1-pc walnut grips. This revolver is engraved by Gustave Young typically in intertwined foliate arabesque and floral patterns with Young’s trademark “hound’s head” on either side of the hammer. The top flat of the backstrap has a fan pattern with a spot for an inscription on the backstrap, which is blank. The “Colt’s Patent” on the left side of the frame is engraved different from usual, in a rectangle instead of his usual vignette. It is cased in a rose velvet-lined compartmented Colt casing that also contains a double-sided Navy flask with short angle spout, not marked “Colt’s Patent”, and “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver, a brass two-cavity bullet mold with Colt’s Patent sprue cutter and an Eley cap tin. SN 16773. CONDITION: Fine, all matching including the wedge. No original finish remains on bbl, frame or cylinder, being a smooth dark gray patina with surface discoloration on bbl. The hammer nose is slightly pitted and the cylinder a lighter metal color with fine pitting. Retains about 75% Naval battle scene. The trigger guard and backstrap retain about 60% original silver plating with the balance a medium mustard patina. Grips are extremely fine and retain most of their original bright varnish. The bore is strong and bright with pitting in the grooves. The case is sound with one loose corner and some insect damage. The lining is faded with front sight and hammer spur damage and a series of dots in the lid lining. The flask is fine, with one small dent and retains a dark patina. The mold has been polished and the tin is good. 4-49495 (10,000-15,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. Fine engraved Colt single action with 5-1/2” bbl. Engraved in arabesque patterns with punch-dot background and a typical Nimschke fan at the top of the backstrap. It has 3-line patent dates on the frame and is fitted with fine ox-head raised carved pearl grips. It is accompanied by a Colt factory letter indicating that it was shipped “soft” to Hartley & Graham, New York on December 5, 1883. It is well documented that Hartley & Graham was one of Nimschke’s primary customers. SN 102974. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching. Bbl and frame retain 80-85% original nickel finish. The cylinder, backstrap and ejector rod housing appear to be bare metal. The pearl grips are beautiful with great fire and a replaced chip at the right heel with a chip missing at the left toe. Strong bright bore slightly frosted. The safety and half-cock notches will not hold. 4-49162 JR283 (12,500-17,500)
CASED ENGRAVED INSCRIBED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. Beautiful Gustave Young engraved Navy with 7-1/2” oct bbl, dovetailed front sight, silver-plated large brass trigger guard and backstrap with 1-pc ivory grips. It is engraved in typical Young patterns with about 40-50% coverage overall. Bbl lug has the typical fine foliate arabesque patterns with Young’s trademark “bird”. The right side has matching pattern engraving with a flower instead of the bird. A number 2 is stamped on the left bottom of bbl lug, signifying the grade of engraving. The rammer pivot is also engraved much deeper, possibly not by Young, but perhaps an employee in his shop. The frame is also beautifully engraved with typical Young foliate arabesque patterns with a vignette of “Colt’s Patent”. The hammer is engraved with Young’s trademark “hound’s head” on both sides. The trigger guard and backstrap are also nicely engraved and the backstrap has the inscription “Presented to Col. E.R. Eckley by the Officers of 26th Regt”. Accompanied by an original Colt walnut compartment casing that contains a double-sided “Colt’s Patent” Navy flask. It has the angled spout. Also contained in the case is an “L” shaped nipple wrench/screwdriver with blued “Colt’s Patent” two-cavity mold and a sealed paper-covered tin of Eley caps. The case is purple velvet lined. SN 91777. CONDITION: Very fine plus, all matching including the wedge. Bbl retains 15-20% bright original blue in the very sheltered areas with the balance a smooth dark brown patina. The frame is also a dark brown patina. The cylinder is a medium brown patina, pitted on the backside and retains about 50% naval battle scene. The trigger guard and backstrap retain about 90% original silver-plating with freckles on the front strap and some light abuse to the backstrap. Grips are fine with several age lines in the butt, a repair at both toes and retains a beautiful golden yellow color. Strong pitted bore. The case is very fine and sound with faded lining and oil stains in the cylinder area. The flask is fine, showing moderate to heavy wear. The mold retains about 60% original blue with good cavities. The cap tin has a slightly rusted edged lid with minor loss to paper, good label. 4-49961 (12,500-17,500)
*COLT CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Nickel finish with full coverage Texas cattle brand engraving in the style of Cole Agee. Included is the whimsical “2 lazy-2 P” brand along with numerous other famous Texas brands. It has fine checkered Colt medallion, fleur di lis and diamond pattern grips. Artist signed on the bottom of the butt. It is accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver as having been shipped January 23, 1906 as a blue gun to Charles J. Godfrey Co., New York, NY. Also accompanies is a letter from the engraver, David W. Harris of Granbury, Texas, dated May 19, 1998 authenticating that he in fact was the engraver of this revolver. Mr. Harris learned his engraving trade working with late, famous Texas engraver, Weldon Bledsoe, who, in his turn has learned from the late master engraver Cole Agee many years ago. The quality of Mr. Harris’ engraving is superb and surpasses the originators of this style of engraving. Mr. Harris states he makes all his own tools and his engraving is done completely with hammer and chisel. SN 274782. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains virtually all its custom nickel finish, may have been fired once or twice after plating. The grips are sharp and clean and show no wear. Strong bore with good shine and moderate pitting. The cylinder pin and bushing are replacements. 4-50148 JR407 (3,500-4,500)
ENGRAVED COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. Fine Navy, engraved in the style of Gustave Young with 6-7/8” oct bbl, brass trigger gouad and backstrap with 1-pc checkered ivory grips. Bbl, operating handle pivot, frame, trigger guard and backstrap all have fine arabesque pattern engraving with a Gustave Young trademark hound’s head above the wedge on the right side and his hound’s head on each side of the hammer nose. The engraving is fine, but not accomplished in Mr. Young’s shop. Accompanied by a modern manufactured case containing a silver-plated Navy size flask with angle spout and a brass bullet mold with “COLT’S PATENT’ sprue cutter and an Eley Brothers cap tin. SN 20115. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching except the wedge, which is unnumbered. No original finish remains, being a smooth light gray patina overall. The cylinder retains 93-95% original Naval battle scene. The trigger guard and backstrap have a medium mustard patina. The grips are sound, slightly undersized with sharp checkering and a few age lines. Strong bright bore. The flask is fine and retains about 90% silver plate. The mold is fine. The case, as noted, is fine. 4-49825 JR433 (1,500-2,500)
VERY EARLY COLT CAVALRY MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. Very early Ainsworth-inspected Colt with 7-7/16” bbl, a tiny “U.S.” on the left side of the frame and 1-pc walnut grips. It has tiny “A” inspector marks on the various pieces. It also has the 1st type ejector rod housing, although it is not numbered to the revolver. SN 233. CONDITION: Good to very good. Bbl appears to be a replacement as is the ejector rod head. Bbl address is hand-engraved. The rest of the revolver appears to be original. Bbl retains a smooth blue-brown patina, while the rest of the revolver has a worn blue-brown patina with fine pitting overall. The backstrap at the right frame screw has been brazed. The frame markings are worn and thin. Grips are very worn with the left side on the bottom having been dressed a little short. Both toes are slightly chipped. The cylinder appears to be the original item with a replacement bushing, pin and screw. Brilliant shiny bore. 4-49194 (2,000-4,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 44-40. Very nicely after market engraved, nickel finish, 4-3/4” roll marked bbl, 2-line address, bright polished blued screws and cylinder pin with 2-pc mellow ivory grips with flat carved steer head on right side. Engraving covers about 60% of the surface in New York style, probably by Acevedo of Southern California. Grips are reminiscent of those carved by Enewold. SN 295150. CONDITION: Very fine. Retains most of its custom nickel finish. Engraving is sharp and crisp and the grips are sound with a fine mellow color. Mechanics are fine, bore is shiny but slightly rough. A very pretty six-shooter. 4-48769 JR526 (3,500-5,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER’S MODEL SPECIAL TARGET REVOLVER. Cal. 22LR. Heavy bbl DA revolver with ramp front sight, 6” bbl, adjustable target rear sight and 2-pc ivory grips. The entire revolver is covered with about 85% coverage fine oak leaf and acorn engraving with gold wire inlays and gold animals. The left side of the receiver has a beautifully detailed gold white tail buck running through a woodland scene and a flying partridge. Right side has a gold fox about to catch a rabbit in a woodland scene and a gold running rabbit. Bbl, at the muzzle, has extensive fine gold wire and silver pattern inlays with 2 gold bands at the muzzle and a single band at the rear. Cylinder is matching engraved with gold wire around the flutes. The sides also have gold wire borders. The bottom of the bbl is marked “ENGR.BY A..GRIEBEL”. SN 62696. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, tremendous detail, retains all its custom finish. Bright shiny bore, good mechanics. 4-48480 JR359 (Dr. Ladd Heldenbrand Est.) (3,000-5,000)
RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED SHERIFFS MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. Very rare Sheriffs Model, nickel finish, 3-3/4” bbl made without ejector rod housing. Factory engraved with about 70% coverage, fine engraving with fan motifs on the recoil shield, loading gate and top of the backstrap. Cylinder has arabesque patterns with punch dot background and intertwined wiggle-work patterns with a fleur-di-lis at each flute. Top strap is fully engraved and the bbl and frame have foliate arabesque patterns with punch dot background. Grips are very unusual, thick 1-pc pearl with a raised carved steer head on right side and a raised carved stooping eagle on left side. Accompanied by a Colt letter fully identifying this revolver and indicating shipment to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York City on May 6th 1884. Grips are not mentioned in the letter. SN 108330. CONDITION: Extremely fine. All the metal has had the nickel finish completely restored to near original with some fine pitting on the inside of the recoil shields and loading gate. Grips have expert repairs at the right toe and about 1/4” of the left heel. Chambers have very fine pitting. Bore is strong with light pitting. Mechanics are fine. 4-47652 JR529 (10,000-20,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 38 Spcl. Custom engraved revolver with 5-1/2” bbl that has been beautifully engraved overall with about 95% coverage, extremely fine foliate arabesque patterns that has a very fine serrated background. Bbl address and caliber markings are gold inlaid as are the patent dates and rampant Colt in a circle. Left recoil shield has a full-bodied deep relief bobcat. Right side of the frame in front of the cylinder has a raised gold snarling bobcat head. There is a fine gold band at the muzzle and the exposed moving parts are gold plated. Both sides of the hammer are jeweled. Fitted with 1-pc checkered ivory grips that have silver inlaid rampant Colts at the top. Bbl and cylinder are modern replacements. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter indicating this revolver was shipped in 1903 as a 38-40 to George Tritch Hardware Co. Denver, CO in a shipment of ten similar pieces. SN 247128. CONDITION: Appears to be unfired since engraving, retaining virtually all its fine custom finish. 4-48405 JR463 (1,500-2,500)
*COLT CATTLE BRAND ENGRAVED SINGLE-ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 COLT. Appears to be Cole Agee engraved with full coverage Texas cattle brands with punch-dot background, 7-1/2” bbl with silver-plated bbl and frame, gold-plated ejector rod housing, cylinder, hammer, trigger and screws. With raised carved right hand, steer head, 2-pc, ivory grips. SN 334803. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Retains most of its fine custom plating. Fine mellow colored grips, good mechanics, strong bore with light pitting. 4-48894 JR680 (2,500-4,000)
ENGRAVED COLT 2ND MODEL DRAGOON. Call 44 Perc. Original Colt engraved with profuse, gold wire and animal inlays. Bbl has extensive leaf and vine and gold wire inlays, in addition to a standing doe deer and Indian brave on each side of the bbl lug. The loading lever is also engraved with gold wire border and crosshatching at the end. Frame and recoil shields are deep engraved with a walking gold horse on the left side and a horse and rider on the right side all surrounded by foliate arabesque patterns with fine stippled background. Right side of the frame also has the gold initials “R.Q.S.” believed to be the initials of Robert Q. Sutherland, the co-author of The Book of Colt Firearms by Sutherland and Wilson. The recoil shields are deep relief engraved with foliate and vine patterns and have gold wire borders. Cylinder scene and all its markings have been re-engraved with silver Fleur-de-Lis between the cylinder stop notches and extensive gold wire borders. Hammer is completely stipple on both side and engraved on the top with gold wire borders. The brass trigger guard and backstrap are deep relief engraved with arabesque patterns. Bbl is engraved in tiny letters “ENGRAVING BY E.C. PRUDHOMME”. SN 8929. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except the wedge which is unnumbered. it retains virtually all its fine custom finish. Grips are original and show much wear and use. Good mechanics. 4-48477 JR358 (Dr. Ladd Heldenbrand Est.) (10,000-15,000)
CASED PAIR OF COLT PERCUSSION REVOLVERS. SN 42624. .35 cal. 7-1/2″ barrel. 1) Gustave Young engraving, including the wolf’s head on the hammer and barrel lug and scroll engraving on other parts, some mixed with flowers. “COLT’S / PATENT” on the left side of the frame is also engraved. CONDITION: Blue/gray patina overall with light to moderate pitting on barrel and cylinder. 50% silver on backstrap and trigger guard. The ivory grips have numerous natural age marks, but are still solid. The action is fine. 2) ROOT SIDE HAMMER. SN 9767. .31 cal. 3-1/2″ round barrel. Is not engraved, but does have the ivory grips. CONDITION: 50% blue on the frame, 40% on the cylinder, traces on the barrel which has a spot of light pitting near the muzzle. The casehardening colors on the hammer are bright, with a small patch of surface rust on the back. The green velvet lined case also contains a small COLT PATENT eagle flask and an unmarked larger flask, two bullet molds, a cap tin, nipple wrench and key. The case has numerous dents and scratches, but is solid on the outside. Some partitions are loose, and three have been re-glued. The eagle flask is fine, the other is dented and has a replaced spout. The navy mold has “S” inspector marks on both handles and is very good. The “31 PKT” mold has a rust/brown patina. The lock on the case works. 4-48716 (9,500-11,500)
INTERESTING ENGRAVED COLT POCKET REVOLVER FROM THE KLONDIKE GOLD RUSH. SN 244050. Cal. .31, 4″ oct. bbl. 2-pc pearl grips engraved on the backstrap “THE SUNFLOWER MINING Co/R.J.Rose/FT.SCOTT KANSAS”. This inscription apparently was added when the Sunflower Mining Co. was formed early in 1898. Accompanied by an original stock certificate made out in Rose’s name; a small photo of Rose dressed in cold winter clothing with large mittens and seated on a chair; an advertisement for Maps of Alaska and a newspaper clipping stating that the members of the mining company were leaving for the Alaska mines on March 15th. The year was not given on the clipping, but Captain R. J. Rose was listed as Vice President of the company. CONDITION: Gray patina over all with much pitting on the cylinder. Pearl grips are good but slightly dirty. Action needs some adjustment. Framed articles are generally good, but slightly dirty. 4-47491 (4,750-5,750)
CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1861 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 1185, Cal. .36. 7-1/2″ round bbl. The engraving is signed “HUGH MILLER” around the trigger guard screw. The left side of the grips is carved with a woman holding a sword. CONDITION: Metal surfaces were cleaned to bright before engraving. Cylinder scene remains good. Grips are fine. 4-46355 FS80 (2,000-3,000)
COLT GATLING MODEL 1890. SN 499. Cal. .45-70. 32″ round to hexagonal bbls. The gun has been restored. Tripod was made recently for display. Position 1 has bbl #1 with RAC proofs from another gun and bolt #9 with assembly #103 and no inspector mark. Position 2 has an original RAC bbl #2 with bolt #8 and assembly K59 with RAC proofs. Position 3 has an original bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #3 with assembly #143 and RAC proofs. Position 4 has the original bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #8 with assembly K51 with RAC proofs. Position 5 has a #6 bbl with DFC proofs and #20 bolt with assembly 116 and DFC proofs. Position 6 has a newer RAC bbl with #6 on it, bolt #8 with assembly K60 and RAC proofs. Position 7 has a replaced #7 bbl with RAC proofs and #7 bolt with assembly 189 and RAC proofs. Position 8 has the original bbl with RAC proofs and #2 bolt with assembly 151 and no inspector marks. Position 9 has the original bbl with RAC proofs and bolt #8 and assembly K41 with RAC proofs. Position 10 has #9 bbl with DFC proofs and a new bolt by Anderson. The bolt retracting plug and chain are new, the spring and screw for the magazine plate catch are missing. Both parts of the magazine plate, for the Bruce Feed, are numbered “8”. The number N47102 has been stamped in 7/16″ high letters on the lower left quadrant of the breech housing. RAC inspector marks are found on the magazine plate, the frame, the breech housing, the Cacsabel and traversing rod slide. Two stick magazines accompany the gun, but are not correct. CONDITION: The engraved markings on the breech housing are fine. There are a number of dents on the brass parts, the iron parts are generally smooth gray patina with scattered light to moderate pitting. The reproduction tripod and yoke are like new. The mechanism is fine. 4-46817 FS372 (45,000-75,000)
WONDERFUL EARLY ENGRAVED COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON. Cal. 44 Perc. Fine English engraved dragoon with 7-1/2″ oct. to round bbl, silver-plated brass triggerguard and backstrap with fine burled 1-pc walnut grips. Engraved in English style with very fine arabesque patterns over about 50% of the frame, top and heel of the backstrap and on the triggerguard and hammer with more on the loading lever. Small British proofs on the bbl lug and cylinder. Top flat of the bbl marked with New York address. SN 57. CONDITION: Good to very good, all matching. Bbl retains 30-35% strong blue in the sheltered areas with the balance a mottled silver-brown from apparent storage in a leather holster. Loading lever retains 75-80% strong case colors fading toward the tip and on the rammer. Cylinder shows 30-40% scene with rust spotting that matches the bbl and finish loss. Frame retains 40-50% faded case colors with the balance turned silver-gray. Hammer, with its flash nose broken off, retains 30-40% dark colors. Grip frame retains 65-70% original silver showing moderate wear on the triggerguard and backstrap. Grips are fine with a wonderful hand-rubbed patina. Strong bore with good shine and scattered pitting that should clean much better. A great early gun that has had poor storage. 4-46984 JR491 (9,000-12,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 96512, all matching including wedge. Cal. .36. 7-1/2 oct. bbl. Engraved in the style of Gustave Young, with wolves heads on the sides of the hammer, flowers and a human face worked into the scroll engraving. “COLT’S / PATENT” engraved on the left side of the frame. CONDITION: Strong traces of blue at the rear of the bbl. 85% silver on backstrap and trigger guard with dents top and bottom. Ivory grips match, have numerous natural cracks at the bottom, but are fine otherwise. Cylinder scene is sharp except for one section which was against the frame for a period of time. 4-46332 FS80 (5,000-8,000)
RARE FIRST MODEL COLT ROOT REVOLVER. SN 23. Cal. .28. 2-7/16″ oct. bbl. Oct. loading lever. The address on the bbl “Colts. Patent” is engraved instead of stamped. CONDITION: Blue-gray patina with medium surface rust and pitting. Grips are badly battered. 4-46448 FS35 (1,000-1,500)
FINE CARVED HOLSTER WITH BELT AND BUCKLE. Holster, for a Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver, is marked “EL. GALLATIN & CO/MAKERS” on the reverse. Engraved with simple vine and leaf arrangements. The plain leather belt is probably a replacement. The 2-1/8″ x 2-7/8″ solid silver buckle is engraved with the Confederate First National Flag with 13 stars, six being added at the corners after the initial seven in the circle. CONDITION: Holster has minor cracks and scrapes but is still solid. Buckle is fine, the belt shows use but is not real old. 4-47154 FS453 (1,000-2,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY. SN 13162E, all matching, including wedge. Cal. .36. 7-1/2″ oct. bbl. Light scroll engraving on sides of bbl and frame, shell engraving with light scroll at the backstrap. Wolves heads on the sides of the hammer. CONDITION: Even gray patina on iron parts with light pitting on the cylinder and front of bbl. Loading lever has a blue tinge due to a repair at the front end. Trigger guard has about 70% silver. Backstrap is bare. 90% varnish on wood with dents on the base, with oil stain at the frame. 4-46387 FS18 (4,000-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY CONVERSION REVOLVER. SN 37975/E, matching except wedge which has no number. Cal. .38LC. 4-1/2″ round bbl. Lightly engraved with no background to the scroll engraving. The “COLT/PATENT” marking on the front is engraved. The wolves head engraving on the hammer was defaced by the two pins which hold the hammer nose. CONDITION: 50% blue on the bbl, mostly missing in the engraved area. Only traces of case hardening remain on the frame and silver on the trigger guard. Backstrap is bare. Grips retain most of their varnish, with a few scratches and dents. Mechanically excellent. 4-46454 FS48 (4,000-7,000)
COLT 1851 ENGRAVED NAVY REVOLVER. Cal. 36 Perc. This revolver has a 7-1/2” oct. bbl with dovetailed German silver front sight and has 75% coverage engraving. It is equipped with brass grip frame and one piece highly figured walnut grips. The engraving consists of arabesque patterns with stippled background and on the left bbl flat around the lever screw is the figure of a woman’s head with a floral design in the same position on the right side. The engraving is well executed and reminiscent of Colt patterns especially on the recoil shields and behind the hammer. It has the wedge screw on the top. SN 96508. CONDITION: This revolver is all matching except the cylinder and wedge although it appears the front may have been renumbered, as the numbers are not of the same size. There is little finish remaining on the iron parts, being an even gray patina overall. Grip frame has silver in the sheltered areas retaining about 10%. Grips are sound and clean retaining 35-50% strong varnish showing only moderate wear. Revolver is crisp and sound mechanically and should make a fine addition to someone’s collection. 4-46217 (3,000-4,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 3691, all matching except wedge which has no number. Cal. .36, 7-1/2″ oct. bbl. 1-line New York City address with teardrop at each end. The “COLTS / PATENT” marking on the frame is engraved. Scroll engraving is deeper than that normally found on guns of this period with flowers and scrolls on the sides of the hammer. Background has been cross hatched or lined for fill. Cylinder scene is sharp with the “engraved” mark under the patent mark. The screw heads and wedge are engraved to match. CONDITION: Traces of finish mostly blue-gray patina except cylinder, which is a brownish patina. The burl walnut grips retain most of the varnish with some flaking and slight wear at the base. Backstrap and trigger guard retain about 90% of the silver. Action is good. 4-46337 FS112 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 30677, all matching. Cal. .45LC, 5-1/2″ bbl, cut down from 7-1/2″. A non-factory sight is set into the top of the bbl through the engraving. The engraving appears to be of the New York style, possibly of the Nimschke Shop with heavy scrolls on the sides and borders of wiggle work and some geometric designs. The ivory grips are crudely carved with an American eagle on the left side. CONDITION: The cylinder is bare and appears to be from a different gun. The balance of the gun has about 95% of the nickel applied at the time of the engraving. The grips have numerous light natural cracks on the bottom but are still solid. Action is fine. 4-46365 FS239 (6,000-12,000)
CASED FACTORY ENGRAVED M1849 COLT. SN 71594, all matching. 5” bbl with “Saml Colt” script address, hand engraved “COLT/PATENT” frame markings, 5-shot cylinder, 1-pc ivory grips, profusely Factory scroll engraved overall. A very fine engraving job, in the original 5” walnut Factory case with complete accessories. Flask embossed on both sides with eagle on hummock, “COLT/PATENT” brass mold, nipple wrench/screwdriver, Eley “COLTS PATENT” cap tin and fine, but opened, packet of “COLTS PATENT” paper cartridges. CONDITION: 100% original throughout. Pistol with minimal wear and very crisp. The edge of the right top barrel flat with a small shallow dent. Bbl with 60-70% original blue mixed with some light age browning. Very crisp cylinder with about perfect scene, a light age brown mixed with original blue. Still retains the pins at the rear. Lever, hammer and frame with about all the slightly age dulled case-hardened finish. 98% plus original blackened heavy silver-plate on the straps. Excellent, plus mellow ivory grips. Case generally excellent lined with light to moderately faded maroon velvet. Lid only with a 1-1/2” lighter scuff mark in the lining straight down from the lock stud. Flask very fine to excellent but with two dents, one on the seam at the widest point. Very fine blued nipple wrench screwdriver, crisp minty age toned brass mold, about excellent cap tin, the cartridge packet very fine. A very nice cased engraved 49’er, particularly desirable with the scarce 5” bbl and casing. 4-46210 (6,500-8,500)
RARE SQUAREBACK COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY REVOLVER. SN 1100. Cal. .36. 7-1/2″ oct. bbl. Early 1-line New York City address with dashes at the end. Screw under wedge. CONDITION: Brown patina with light pitting overall. The cylinder scene is sharp with the “engraved by” line parallel to the patent marking on the cylinder. Grips retain about 85% varnish with a small crack and oil damage on the right side at the frame. 4-46333 FS88 (10,000-15,000)
ENGRAVED COLT LIGHTNING SHERIFF’S MODEL REVOLVER. SN 52233. Cal. 38LC. 4-1/2″ round bbl. Made in 1885. The pearl grips carry the number 5 inside. “COLT D A 38” is in an etched panel on the left side of the bbl. 3/4 coverage engraving is in the New York style with wiggle work edges and geometric design. CONDITION: Excellent with about all the bright nickel remaining. The trigger, hammer and screws show off all their brilliant deep blue. The grips are excellent. Action is also excellent. 4-46377 FS153 (4,000-6,000)
THE RARE “COPPER QUEEN CONSOLIDATED MINING CO.” FACTORY ENGRAVED AND SILVER-PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 146144. Cal. .45LC, 4-3/4″ round bbl. This is the famous Copper Queen single action. This very gun is illustrated in Graham, Kopec & Moore’s book “Colt Single Action Army Revolvers” on page 87, which states it is “the earliest and only ‘black powder’ S.A. known to have been shipped to the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Co. Factory letter shows that it was shipped to the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Co. of Bisbee, AZ on 23 June 1892 as a one-gun shipment. It was finished in silver with ivory grips and with “B”-style engraving. A photocopy of the original factory letter will accompany this lot. CONDITION: Retains much of the dull tarnished silver finish. Heavily worn on the grip straps. Ivory grips have a longhorn bulls head on the left side and are well worn. Action is good. 4-47170 (5,000-10,000)
RARE ENGRAVED COLT BABY DRAGOON REVOLVER. SN 8062, matching except for replaced wedge. Cal. .31, 6″ oct. bbl. Full length engraved with light scroll without background. The marking on the bbl “ADDRESS SAM L / NEW. YORK CITY” with teardrops at each end, is on the bbl reading from breech to muzzle. The “COLTS / PATENT” markings on the left side of the frame and on the cylinder are done with the same two stamps. CONDITION: Gray patina with light pitting overall. Cylinder scene is mostly gone. 80% silver on backstrap and trigger guard. Grips are worn flat at the high spots. Mechanically fine. 4-46322 FS173 (7,000-11,000)
ENGRAVED COLT CLOVERLEAF PISTOL. SN 2194. Cal. .41 Rimfire. 2-7/8″ round bbl. Standard 2-line marking on the top of the bbl. Refinished by Tom Haas. CONDITION: Near new as refinished. 4-46890 FS19 (1,500-2,500)
COLT MODEL 1848 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 13921, matching except for wedge and grips which have no numbers. Cal. .31, 6″ oct. bbl. 2-line New York City address. Some screws are also replaced. The serial number is rather high for a square-back trigger guard and this one has possibly been reworked. CONDITION: Gray-brown patina with light pitting overall. The carved ivory and original walnut grips both fit well but have no numbers. The name “J Fitzwater.” is engraved on the bottom of the grip strap, which retains about 90% of its silver. Trigger guard has about 75% silver. 4-46324 FS94 (1,500-2,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. SN 16053. Cal. .45, 7-1/2″ round bbl, all matching numbers. Ivory grips with large Mexican eagle on right side. New York engraving. CONDITION: Smooth gray patina with wear to the high edges. Grips have shrunken slightly but are still a good fit. The eagle is well worn on the high spots, but other then natural cracks, the grips are fine. Action is good. 4-47152 FS416 (5,000-8,000)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 65460/2/. Cal. .31. 6″ oct. bbl. Engraved “SAMl Colt” on top of bbl. and “COLTS / PATENT” on the left side of frame. The period below the serial number usually indicated an engraved gun. The 2 above the serial number possibly indicates a pair. Light scroll engraving with punch dot background overall with wolves heads on the side of the hammer. CONDITION: Gray patina overall with faint traces of blue on the bottom of the bbl. Cylinder is lightly pitted but still retains a decent scene. Backstrap and trigger guards have about 90% of the silver remaining. The deluxe walnut grips retain about 90% of the slightly dull varnish. Front sight blade is possibly a replacement. 4-46327 FS20 (4,000-6,000)
ENGRAVED COLT NO. 3 DERINGER. SN 4395. Cal. .41. 2-1/2″ round bbl. Ivory grips. Large scroll engraving with borders, probably New York. CONDITION: Well worn removing some of the engraving on the left side. Ivory grips have small chips and stains at the bottom from the pin. 4-46372 FS59 (700-1,100)
*CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER. Cal. 38WCF (38-40). Wonderful single action, spectacularly engraved by W. Kolouch and signed on bottom of butt, with about 90% coverage, fine floral and arabesque pattern engraving with punch-dot background. The bbl has a wide gold band inlaid at each end and four patterns of gold wire within the engraving. The cylinder has a wide gold band at the rear edge and gold wire outlining the flutes. The frame has gold wire borders on both sides and around the recoil shields. The backstrap and trigger guard have five separate patterns of gold wire inlay within the engraving and the initials “RE” in gold at the top of the backstrap. The left recoil shield has a fine relief gold engraved howling wolf and the loading gate has a fine gold grizzly bear. The frame in front of the cylinder also has gold wire inlay in the engraving patterns, plus a large gold leaf on each side. The bbl, cylinder and grip frame are Colt style blue and the frame and hammer of Colt style case colors. It has its original Colt hard rubber grips. SN 338999. CONDITION: As new. Retains virtually all its fine finish as accomplished after engraving. Appears unfired and unturned. 4-46843 JR320 (3,000-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. SN 148607. Cal. .44-40, 7-1/2″ round bbl. Gold grips are marked in a raised cartouche on the bottom “Baker /L B eagle/Jewelry”. The very heavy side slabs are glued to a walnut separator to make 1-pc grips. Each side has a turquoise nugget with silver matrix. Metal has the appearance 14k gold. Entire gun has been plated to match the appearance of the grips but the grips were made for a 2nd Generation gun with a larger top to the backstrap. The engraving is of the New York style but of a much later period. CONDITION: Retains most of the current finish. 4-47149 FS418 (2,500-5,000)
ENGRAVED COLT LONDON POCKET REVOLVER. SN 7718, all matching, including wedge. Cal. .31, 6″ oct. bbl. Typical light scroll British engraving “Colts/Patent” engraved in fancy letters on left side of frame. “ADDRESS.COL:COLT / LONDON” in brackets on top of bbl.. Deluxe walnut grips. CONDITION: All surfaces have been cleaned and only traces of finish remain but the metal and wood are both smooth. Cylinder scene is fine and the pins on the back of the cylinder are sharp. 4-46325 FS91 (2,000-3,500)
INSCRIBED “J. H. WILLIAMS” COLT M1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN. 14454, matching except wedge. Loading lever is missing. Engraved “J. H. Williams.” on the backstrap. CONDITION: Bbl and cylinder have been cleaned but dents and pitting remain. SN and markings are clear. Cylinder scene is mostly gone. Frame and hammer have light to moderate pitting over all. Backstrap and triggerguard retains 40% of the silver finish. Large chip is missing at the base on the left side and a small one on the right. Left side has also been repaired and sanded. Trigger is broken, springs are missing. Front triggerguard screw has been replaced. FS766 4-47611 (500-900)
IMPORTANT AND OUTSTANDING PRESENTATION ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1863 POCKET NAVY REVOLVER TO “L.T. PEARSON ESQ.”. SN 16619 / E. Cal. .36, 4-1/2″ oct. bbl. Beautifully engraved and with extremely rare carved and checkered walnut grips. Cased in a standard American case containing an eagle and shield flask, bullet mold, screwdriver/nipple wrench and a paper box of caps. Engraved on the backstrap “PRESENTED TO L.T. PEARSON ESQ./BY COLT’S PAT. F.A. MFG. CO. 17TH JULY 1868.” The running vine scroll engraving covers the entire frame, bbl lug, loading lever lug, hammer, backstrap and underside of the trigger guard. The burl walnut grips are border carved with checkered insert. Mr. L.T. Pearson was a Colt company official in the 1860’s, apparently retiring on July 13th, 1868 when he was presented this pistol, as listed in the entry dated July 17, 1868 of the firm’s Journal B. It is not exactly clear what Mr. Pearson’s exact position was, but all of the references in the Colt Company Journals refer to him in conjunction with production reports. He was probably the company Treasurer, as his annual salary was exceeded only by seven other officers of the company. Both the internal company presentation by Colt and any carved and checkered grips make this a unique and exceedingly rare Colt. Formerly in the William M. Locke Collection, it is pictured as Plate 103 in the book “SAMUEL COLT PRESENTS” by R.L. Wilson. It is also to appear in the upcoming book “COLT PRESENTATIONS 1856-1869” by Herbert G. Houze. Also accompanying this Colt are several letters and copied of Colt records identifying this gun and Mr. Pearson. CONDITION: The gun appears unfired and retains 85% of its original bright blue, slightly thin on the cylinder. Screws retain most of their bright fire blue. 100% of the cylinder scene remains as do all of the cylinder pins. Light case hardening colors on the left side of the frame, hammer and loading lever, brighter on the right. 85% silver plating remaining on the backstrap and trigger guard. The burled walnut grips retain almost all of their original varnish with only a few light marks from rubbing in the case. The flask, mold, nipple wrench and cap box are all in excellent, probably unused condition. The case has a partial crack in the lid and two in the bottom, none serious. The interior dark green lining is excellent. Truly a magnificent gun. 4-46447 FS271 (50,000-100,000)
*ENGRAVED COLT BISLEY REVOLVER. SN 268922. Cal. .41LC, 4-3/4″ round bbl. Non-factory engraving, including the name “Nat McKelvey” on the backstrap. Ivory grips have been stained yellow, possibly to simulate age. Screws, hammer, trigger, cylinder pin and ejector rod head have been gold plated. CONDITION: Fine as engraved, grips are slightly worn and have a number of natural cracks, still solid. Action is good. 4-47150 FS417 (1,000-2,000)
ENGRAVED COLT POCKET REVOLVER. SN 48529, all matching including wedge. Cal. .31, 5″ oct. bbl. The original wooden grips accompany the lot. Ivory grips with raised carved Mexican eagle are later. The engraving features very wide leafy scrolls with coarse background cross-hatching. Bbl and patent marking are both hand engraved. CONDITION: Gray-brown patina overall with light pitting, moderate on the cylinder. Cylinder scene is fair. Original grips have lost finish due to mildew and the ivory grips are fine. 4-46326 FS100 (2,000-3,000)
PAIR OF U.S.MODEL 1850 STAFF & FIELD OFFICER’S SWORDS, COMMISSION AND EPHEMERA BELONGING TO ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL OF INFANTRY AND CAPTAIN THOMAS COLT, 37TH MASSACHUSETTS INFANTRY. A pair of Civil War period U.S. Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer’s swords worn and used by Thomas Colt, Captain and Assistant Adjutant General of Infantry in the 37th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. Colt had earlier served in the 10th Mass., was commissioned 1st Lieut. and then Captain in the 37th. The swords are accompanied by Colt’s U.S. commission signed by Edwin Stanton and President Andrew Johnson, the published history of the 37th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers by James L. Bowen (1884), a carte de visite photograph by Dewey of Capt. Colt in uniform, full standing studio view, signed “Yours truly, Thomas Colt, Capt. 37th Mass.” on the reverse and Colt’s sword belt and Model 1851 belt plate. CONDITION: The commission is very good with some fading to ink, the regimental history is good (Colt’s references are marked in ink), the sword belt is fragile and the waist belt plate excellent, now separated from the belt. Each sword has affixed a small brass plaque inscribed with the list of battles in which Captain Colt participated. The first sword, an import, has a slightly curved blade 31″ long with unstopped fuller. Etched panels include floral decoration, an American eagle and “U.S.” The hilt is regulation with an open work floral guard and “U.S.” fishskin wrapped grip with twisted brass wire. The scabbard is of steel with brass furniture. A small brass plaque is affixed between the ring mounts with period engraving: Fredericksburg/Marye’s Heights/Salem Heights. CONDITION: Good, the sword has seen significant use, the blade is gray, the very end of the tip snapped off and the hilt has been cleaned. The grip is strong but worn. The scabbard has several dents on the brass drag and the end of the drag is heavily worn. The second of the pair of swords was manufactured by Ames and is a standard regulation U.S. Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer’s sword. The blade is 32″ long with a single edge, stopped fuller and etched panels with war trophies, an eagle and “U.S.” The ricasso is signed “ Ames Mfg. Co./Chicopee Mass.” The hilt is regulation style with fishskin wrapped grip and twisted brass wire. The scabbard is a field type of iron with iron carrying rings. A brass plaque is affixed with the following engagements engraved: Gettysburg/Funkstown/Rappahannock Sta./Wilderness/Spotsylvania/North Anna Riv./Peak’s Station/Cold Harbor/Petersburg/Ream’s Station/Charlestown/Halltown/Winchester/Petersburg/Sailor’s Creek. CONDITION: This sword has also seen significant use. The blade is light gray, has been cleaned but the etching is visible. The hilt shows evidence of old brass cleaner, the grip is strong and the scabbard undented with a heavily worn drag. The battle listings are confirmed in Captain Colt’s war record. Captain Colt was a DISTANT relative of arms manufacturer Samuel Colt. His battles sound like a virtual record of the Army of the Potomac! 4-47496 CW (6,000-7,000)
OUTSTANDING CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1851 LONDON NAVY REVOLVER. SN 194, all matching. Cal. .36, 7-1/2″ oct. bbl. British proof marks appear on the rear of the bbl and on each chamber. The engraving is typical light scroll engraving usually found on British Colt Revolvers. The bbl is marked “ADDRESS, SAMl COLT NEW-YORK CITY” with a teardrop at each end. The initials “W.B” are stamped on the trigger guard below the serial number, possibly the engraver. The cylinder scene has the “Engraved” line under the serial number. The American case is lined with red velvet and contains a slant charger, “COLT PATENT” flask, bullet mold, screw driver/nipple wrench, packet of cartridges, Eley cap tin, and key. CONDITION: Excellent with 90% bright blue on the bbl, 75% on the cylinder with sharp cylinder scene. Brilliant case hardening on the frame and loading lever, slightly fading on the sides of the hammer, 99% silver on the backstrap and trigger guard. Light scratches and dents on the grips but little wear. The case is fine with slight wear from the front sight and top of hammer and light marks from the cylinder. The flask retains most of the light brown finish, with a small dent towards the top on one side and light wear to the high spots. The cartridge packet has been opened but the wire remains with the packet. The mold is fine but the sprue cutter has lost most of its finish. The cap tin label is slightly dirty with oil or mildew spots. The key works. Truly a magnificent gun. 4-46446 FS272 (25,000-35,000)
*COLT SAM COLT SESQUICENTENNIAL SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 45 Colt. 1 of 5,000, with 7-1/2″ bbl, blued frame, unfluted nickeled cylinder, nickeled grip frame and triggerguard with nickeled screws, cylinder pin and ejector rod head. Grips are nicely figured, silver medallion, smooth 2-pc walnut. Cylinder is lightly engraved and bears the inscription “COL. SAML COLT” and the dates “1814-1864”. Accompanied by its red velvet lined fitted walnut case with 12 nickel plated dummy cartridges, a Col. Colt silver medallion and a small hardbound book “THE ARMS COLLECTION OF COLONEL COLT” by R.L. Wilson. SN 766SC. CONDITION: As new. Retains virtually all its original factory finish with only the faintest of cylinder lines. Excellent case and accessories. 4-46998 JR378 (1,000-1,500)
CUSTOM ENGRAVED COLT POCKET NAVY REVOLVER. SN 12835, except loading lever which has no number. Cal. .36, 4-1/2″ oct. bbl. The frame and hammer are done in the style of Gustave Young and possibly in his shop. The cylinder bbl and loading lever, while done in the same style, are by two different hands. The ivory grips fit well. CONDITION: All metal surfaces cleaned of finish. Grips are fine. Mechanically needs work. 4-46340 FS83 (1,000-1,500)
ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1849 POCKET REVOLVER. SN 241152, matching including wedge. Cal. .31, 4″ oct. bbl. The engraving is of the Young style but not period. Ivory grips have been crudely carved on both sides. Right grip has an American eagle holding a happy snake. CONDITION: Traces of blue at the cone on the bbl and under the lever, otherwise gray patina. Cylinder has dents and scratches but the cylinder scene is very good. Grips and action are fine, two of the nipples are broken. 4-46224 (2,000-3,000)
ENGRAVED COLT ROOT REVOLVER. SN 7032 Cal. .31. 3-1/2″ round bbl. Fluted cylinder. The ivory grips on the gun are old and fit well, but not numbered. The original walnut grips accompany the lot. CONDITION: 75% blue on frame, 50% on bbl and cylinder with light to moderate pitting on the rear of the cylinder. Faded case hardening colors on the side of the hammer, bright on top. Mechanically good. 4-46347 FS17 (5,000-6,000)
*CASED PAIR OF COLT PEACEMAKER BUNTLINE SINGLE ACTION REVOLVERS. Cal. 22/22 Mag. Fine Colt revolvers with 7-1/2″ bbls, blued bbls and cylinders, case colored frames and Colt eagle grips. Accompanied by their extra 22 Magnum cylinders and their original fitted Colt custom shop case. Backstraps are engraved “DAL”. These revolvers belonged to a gentleman named Dalrymple and his nickname was “Dal”. Also accompanied by their original red velvet-lined, wood presentation case with brass plate on the lid, inscribed “TO DAL/COLT’S CHRISTMAS/12-13-75/VIRGINAIA BEACH, VA/FROM LFB”. No indication of who “LFB” is. SN G132600 & G144044. CONDITION: Both appear to be new and unfired retaining virtually all their original case colors and likewise, the spare cylinders are new. Case is fine. 4-47162 JR490 (600-1,000)
VERY RARE 2ND MODEL COLT PATERSON RING TRIGGER REVOLVING RIFLE. SN 333, matching numbers on frame, bbl, cylinder, wedge, arbor, rotating ring, lever and loading lever. Cal. .44 rifled with eleven grooves with a 26″ oct. bbl. Proper “Patent Arms M’g. Co. Paterson, N.J.-Colt’s Pt.” marking engraved on top of bbl with star and sine wave line at each end. A rear sight was cut in the bbl about midway but it has been removed and the slot filled with a blank. An extra wedge has been added at the rear of the bbl lug, it is not numbered. The Republic of Texas ordered 50 of these rifles twice in 1839. None of the delivered guns has been identified. CONDITION: Gray patina with scattered rust stains and light pitting on the bbl. The cylinder has traces of blue, the cylinder scene is faintly visible and there are a number of dents and scratches on it. The breech ring has about 80% blue, the tang about 40%. The bottom part of the frame has strong areas of blue in protected areas, gray-blue patina elsewhere. The spring that holds the lever against the barrel has been replaced and is broken again. This was one of the weak points of the Paterson rifles. The stock has been lightly sanded and refinished. There is also blue on the numbered wedge. An important early Colt rifle. 4-46504 FS252 (15,000-30,000)
HISTORICAL COLT POCKET REVOLVER WITH DOCUMENTS. CAL: 31. 5” oct. bbl. The back strap is engraved “M.A. Sweetman 114th O.V.I.” Extensive documentation accompanies this lot including copies of his service and pension records, etc. There is also a 25 x 18” gold frame with his discharge certificate, carte des visites, two GAR medals with ribbon, and two patriotic postcards. SN 226485 CONDITION: Gray patina with moderate to heavy pitting on iron surfaces. The front end of the loading lever and the rammer are replacements. The grips show repairs at the toe and have been sanded and refinished. The gold colored frame is like new. Bore is heavily pitted, action is good. 4-45166 FS82 (2,000-3,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT ROOT MODEL 5A PERCUSSION REVOLVER. CAL 31. Blue finish with 4-1/2″ bbl, New York address with British proofs, engraved on the frame, cylinder and sides of the bbl, fitted with 1-pc ivory grips. Accompanied by an oak, English casing missing the medallion from the lid, containing a blued iron mold marked on the side “31PKT”, a nipple wrench, a small Dixon type bag flask with broken spring, a tin of Eley’s caps and packet of skin cartridges, missing the wiping rod. SN 4773 CONDITION: Very good to excellent, retains about 90% glossy blue overall with gray back strap and flaked cylinder. The sight is broken. The grips are a beautiful mellow aged yellow with three or four small age lines in the butt. Fine mechanics and strong bore with moderate pitting. The mold is excellent, retaining most of its orig. blue. The flask is also excellent with the aforementioned broken spring. Excellent packet of cartridges. The box has a couple loose joints otherwise sound and retains 85-95% orig. varnish. 4-45496 Z298 (4,000-6,000)
CASED ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 49 POCKET REVOLVER. CAL. 31. Beautiful, factory engraved pocket Colt in the style of Gustav Young with full frame coverage arabesque patterns mixed in over the bbl lug and up the side flats and on to the loading lever. The hammer is also engraved with an arrow at the sight notch and wolves heads on other side. The grip frame is likewise engraved with a small shield on the trigger bow and back strap with full coverage gold wash. The grips are highly figured 1-pc walnut. Accompanied by an orig. purple velvet lined compartmented case containing a brass bullet mold, small eagle flask, Eley’s cap box and packet of skin cartridges. SN 20415 CONDITION: Very good The bbl.retains 30-45% orig. bright blue, strong in the sheltered areas with the balance flaked to a light patina. The cylinder retains about 80% of a stagecoach hold up scene and is a gray metal color. The frame and hammer are mostly a gray metal color. The trigger guard retains about 95% of its orig. gold wash. The back strap retains 40-50% mostly in the engraving. The front trigger guard screw appears to be a replacement and is filed down without engraving. The grips have a small hairline on both sides and retain a fine hand-rubbed patina. The case appears new and likely did not originate with this revolver. The mold and flask are well patinated with a small dent in the flask. Strong, bright bore with scattered pitting. 4-45495 Z297 (3,500-5,000)
CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POCKET NAVY REVOLVER. CAL. 36. Very early pocket Navy with 6-1/2″ oct. bbl, 1-line New York address, blue and case colored with stepped 5-shot cylinder, silver-plated grip frame and 1-pc walnut grips. The top of the back strap is engraved with the initials “F.W.B.” It is accompanied by an orig. red velvet lined compartmented case containing a blued two-cavity mold with a caliber mark on one side, a double sided spreadwinged eagle brass flask, L shaped nipple wrench, tin of UMC caps, a pack of skin cartridges marked “EXPRESSLY FOR “NEW MODEL REVOLVING PISTOL” and a 5-pc loading tool of some sort not previously encountered by this cataloguer. SN 202 CONDITION: Excellent, the bbl retains about 60% bright glossy blue with the balance flaked to a light patina. The German silver front sight has been slightly modified. The rammer retains about 50-60% case colors, mostly faded to gray. The cylinder retains 60-70% stagecoach hold-up scene with 35-40% thin, orig. blue. Two of the five pins are excellent and the other three mashed. The frame retains 25-30% thin case colors with the balance turned gray. The hammer about 40% case colors. The grip frame retains about 25% thin silver-plating. The grips are sound with 65-70% orig. varnish. The mold is very good. The flask is a dark brown patina. The cap box has most of its label intact and the cartridge box is full with a complete label, broken open on one edge. 4-45500 Z294 (4,000-6,000)
CASED ENGRAVED BERVET COPY OF A COLT 51 NAVY. CAL. 36. Belgian made copy of the 51 Navy with 7-13/16″ oct. bbl, unfluted cylinder with 1-pc black ebony grips. The frame, cylinder, bbl, rammer and back strap are all beautifully engraved in floral Arabesque patterns. The bbl is blued while all the other parts remain bright. Accompanied by the form fitted hard shell leatherette covered purse style case with the name “EMIL STRZELECKI” impressed on the lid. Case is lined with red velvet on the bottom and red satin on the top and has compartments for the revolver, a bullet mold and another tool. SN 6254 CONDITION: Excellent plus. Retains about all of its glossy bright blue on the bbl and bright metal finish on the other parts. Mildly battered screws, excellent sharp grips with about all of their orig. finish. Case is oil stained on the inside with some loose lining and a small break about the heel area, otherwise is fine. 4-45502 JL301 (4,000-6,000)
ENGRAVED BELGIAN COPY OF MANHATTAN OR COLT POCKET REVOLVER. CAL. 35. Basic resemblance to a Manhattan pocket Navy with 5-5/8″ oct. bbl, engraved on sides of bbl lug, cylinder, frame and back strap. Cylinder is 5-shots, 2″ long with a Naval battle scene and has 2-pc bone grips. SN 104637 CONDITION: Good to very good. Traces of orig. blue remain on cylinder, otherwise metal retains a light overall patina. Grips are chipped at heels and have mellow patina with replaced grip screw. Missing a trigger guard screw and back strap screw. Good mechanics. 4-45071 JL152 (400-700)
ENGRAVED COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER REVOLVER WITH PEARL GRIPS. CAL. 44-40. 7-1/2” bbl. Factory letter shows shipment to B. Kittredge & Co. in Cincinnati, January 22, 1881. Bbl length, engraving and grips are not listed. Engraving is of the Nimschke style but appears to have been engraved on a used gun. The etched marking on the side of the bbl is sharp. The pearl grips are of the 1-pc type with a walnut block glued between the two sides. SN 63304 CONDITION: Smooth gray patina overall with light to moderate pitting. Grips have separated and there is a large loose chip at the rear of the right slab. Action is good, bore is lightly pitted. 4-44731 FS21 (2,500-3,500)
LOT OF TWO DERRINGERS AND A REVOLVER. 1) COLT THUER NO. 3 DERRINGER. CAL. 41RF. Nickel finish with wood bird head grips. CONDITION: Retains most of its renickeled finish, strong dark bore that will clean, good grips. 2) SOUTHERNER ENGRAVED DERRINGER. CAL. 41RF. Silver-plated 2-1/2″ bbl. Engraved with arabesque patterns on the sides of the receiver, top and sides of the bbl and back strap with 2-pc ivory grips. SN 2209 CONDITION: Very good to excellent. Retains most of its silver-plating. Excellent grips, strong dark bore. 3) POND CIVIL WAR ERA SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. CAL. 32RF. 5″ oct. bbl. Bbl address and patent date on top flat, 2-pc walnut grips. SN 5399. CONDITION: No orig. finish remains, all the metal parts are a smooth gray patina. The frame latch is replaced with a staple. Strong dark bore. 4-45486; 45487. JL341 (800-1,200)
*COLT FACTORY “A” ENGRAVED PYTHON REVOLVER. CAL. 357 Mag. Nickel finish, 6″ vent rib bbl, factory engraved with about 35-40% coverage arabesque patterns, oversized checkered gold medallion grips in its orig. custom shop hinged lid leatherette case. Accompanied by an invoice from “BILL’S HOUSE OF GUNS INC.” of Merrill, WI dated 1980 delivering this revolver. SN V33712 CONDITION: As new retaining all its orig. finish, appears unfired. Case shows minor damage in the hinge covering, otherwise is fine. 4-45276 JL170 (800-1,200)
LOT OF 8 SPUR TRIGGER REVOLVER. 1) Unmarked 22, brass frame, 2-1/2″ oct. bbl, 2-pc rosewood grips. SN 49 – Very good, no original finish, cracked grip, works good, good bore. 2) Whitneyville 22, 3-3/16″ oct. bbl, brass frame, 2-pc grips. SN 24502 – Cleaned, excellent grips, works fine. 3) Little Giant 22, engraved, nickel-plated, wood grips. SN 1729 – 95% nickel, good grips, mechanics need attention. 4) Defender 22, nickel plated, wood grips. SN 20 – 90% nickel, fine grips, works good. 5) Colt open top 22, nickel, wood grips. SN 5134 – 75% nickel, good mechanics, strong dark bore, broken left grip. 6) S&W 1st Model 3rd issue, 22 Short, blue, wood grips. SN 43709 – 40-50% blue, light rust on the cylinder and bbl, good grips, bright bore with pitting. 7) Robin Hood #3, 32RF, nickel, 2-1/2″ round bbl, 2-pc wood grips. SN 7477 – 90% nickel, excellent grips, dark bore. 8) Defender 22, engraved frame, pearl grips. SN 162 – Poor, missing parts, rusty. 4-45821; 45881 (400-700)
