Preview: March 19 & 20, 2018: 9am-5pm and March 21, 22, 23, 2018: 8am-10am
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.
HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT ARIZONA ASSOCIATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER CAVALRY REVOLVER WITH LETTER FROM NOTED AUTHORITY JOHN KOPEC.
SN 113906. Cal. 45. 7-1/2″ bbl. This most interesting Cavalry Colt was originally shipped in 1884 and sent back to Colt for refurbishment in the first decade of the 20th century according to Mr. Kopec, after which it found its way to Prescott, AZ where it did service on a cattle ranch whose identify should be able to be determined by the carving of brands on the right side of the grip. Interestingly No. 113906 has all matching numbers but was spared the usual fate of being cut down and made into an Artillery. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: No. 113806 retains nearly all of its 1910 period Colt factory refinish with faded case colors on frame and hammer. Most orig bright blue on bbl & ejector rod housing. Backstrap and trigger guard show hand wear. Screws are crisp. The grip has 9 cuts on left whose significance is unknown and a “CAH” and cattle brand “JLW” on right. Grip is orig to gun but shows wear and use. Bore is brilliant and action is crisp and tight as a new gun. The holster has cattle brands carved all over it and makers cartouche for “A J Mason Maker Prescott AT (Arizona Territory)”. If you like Western history this cavalry is for you. 53073-13 (10,000-15,000) – Lot 1406
VERY FINE HENRY NETTLETON INSPECTED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER W/FACTORY LETTER.
SN 48131. Cal. 45. 7-1/2″ bbl. Standard configuration, blue/case hardened arsenal finish. All matching SN Colt Cavalry SAA inspected by Henry Nettleton. Grips have matching SN inked inside with 1878 cartouche and H.N. inspectors mark. This is one of the orig bbl length Nettleton’s that was refurbished for the cavalry at the Springfield Arsenal and is a very fine example of these rare U.S. Martial revolvers. Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming configuration and delivery to the U.S. Government Inspector at Colt Plant on July 17, 1878 in a 150 gun shipment.Also a letter from noted historian, Larry Wilson, describing the revolver. CONDITION: Excellent overall with all matching numbers. Bbl retaining nearly all of its dull military bluing, ejector rod housing also excellent. Cylinder retaining much orig blue throughout.Backstrap and trigger guard with much orig finish. Feathering visible on backstrap as well as around front sight. Orig grips with very visible cartouches on both sides w/clear date 1878. Trigger with nitre blue. Mirror bore and tight crisp action. One of the better Nettleton’s we have observed. 52881-1 (25,000-35,000) – Lot 1407
BEAUTIFUL AND ENIGMATIC COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY ARTILLERY MODEL REVOLVER.
SN L.D.. Cal. 45. 5-1/2″ bbl. This lovely Artillery model is very unusual in that the frame bears no SN but only the initials L.D., likely the U.S. Government inspector Lewis Draper. The trigger guard is from a Henry Nettleton Cavalry SN 47723. Backstrap is also unnumbered. Bbl & cylinder have no number either, although bbl has full Colt’s Patent firearms markings that are clear and obviously not refinished. Lack of frame SN makes this splendid conditioned Artillery a collectors enigma and worthy of further research. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: This Artillery is in lovely Colt Factory refurbished condition remaining brilliant blue on bbl and ejector rod housing. Thinning slightly on trigger guard and backstrap. Frame retains brilliant case colors fading somewhat on recoil shield. Slightly undersized grips are original to gun as refurbished with strong Renaldo A. Carr inspectors mark on butt.Bore is brilliant as new and action perfect. A most interesting and attractive Artillery model single action. 53073-16 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1408
BRILLIANT AND OUTSTANDING COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY ARTILLERY MODEL REVOLVER WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 82190. Cal. 45. 5-1/2″ bbl. This beautiful Artillery revolver is one of the best examples of this most desirable U.S. Military issue pistols. It has the expected mixed numbers indicating that the work was most likely performed by colt Factory as these were altered from 7-1/2″ configuration for use by the U.S. Military in the Philippine campaign. Frame was shipped in 1882 and backstrap was originally on an Ainsworth shipped in 1874. In this condition Artillery models are sought after by both Colt and U.S. Military collectors. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Condition of this lovely revolver is outstanding in every way. Bbl and ejector rod housing retain almost all of their orig brilliant blue. Backstrap & trigger guard 7 cylinder retain almost all their orig blue with faint tracking line on cylinder and some thinning on backstrap. Refurbished frame retains almost all bright case colors. Hammer retains faded case colors. Screws are unmarred and retain all their orig niter blue. Grip is under size from refurbishment but has extremely crisp R.A.C. inspector mark on butt as is proper. Bore is brilliant and action is crisp and tight as a new gun. Difficult to improve upon this splendid Artillery model Colt. 53073-17 (15,000-25,000) – Lot 1409
*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
*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
*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
*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
*EXTREMELY RARE COLT LONG FLUTE SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER WITH COLT FACTORY DOCUMENTED SHIPMENT TO TRAIN ROBBER SIDNEY FULCHER.
SN 329867. Cal. 45. 4-7/8″ bbl. This remarkable long flute Colt is rare enough in itself, but to find a factory documented SAA actually shipped to a noted “bad man” and train robber who was convicted of mail robbery and sentenced to 25 years in Levenworth is unprecedented. Most “bad man” revolvers carry anecdotal history. Sid Fulcher is documented in the Colt Factory records. Shipped to him in June of 1915, Fulcher registered for the U.S. Army in 1917 in Clifton, AZ. After the war he was a rodeo rider. After his mother committed suicide he decided to take the outlaw path and was involved in train robbing, mail robbery and shoot-outs with the Bradbury brothers during which his brother was killed and Sid was wounded. This fascinating Western “bad man” Colt is contained in its orig holster marked “Henry Nordhaus Deming, NM”. CONDITION: Sid Fulcher’s Colt SAA retains traces of orig bluing in long flute gullets on cut down bbl and trigger guard. Gun shows heavy use on grips with left side literally worn away from use. Bore is good and action is very crisp. If you want a factory documented Western “bad man” Colt revolver together with its orig New Mexico beautifully tooled leather holster this is a true historical treasure. 53041-1 (15,000-30,000) C&R – Lot 1414
*ELEGANT PRE-WAR COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER EMBELLISHED WITH SILVER INLAYS AND HAND-TOOLED LEATHER CASE BY ED BOHLIN, WITH FACTORY LETTER.
SN 353474. Cal .45 Colt. 7 1/2″ bbl. The revolver has standard blue finish on the barrel, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap. Frame, hammer and loading gate are casehardened. Fitted with 2pc smooth ivory grips. The barrel is roll-stamped: “COLT’S PT. FA MFG. Co./ HARTFORD CT. U.s.A.”. and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. Frame has Colt “two-line, three-date” patent marking and Rampant Colt. Assembly “421” on loading gate. The full serial number, “353474” on the bottom of the frame and on the left side grip, “74” on back of cylinder. The back strap and cylinder are embellished with silver inlays by Ed Bohlin. A silver inlay on the butt is inscribed: “S. DABNEY” (matching “S.D” initial on case lid) and a silver inlay with delicate foliate patterns running the length of the back strap. The cylinder has Bohlin’s classic silver borders inlaid around the flutes and silver triangles inlaid at rear of cylinder. The edges of the trigger guard also features silver borders. The revolver rests in a fantastic full-coverage, hand-tooled, russet leather case made by Edward H. Bohlin of Hollywood, CA. The case is carved with the initials “S.D.” in a shield surrounded by hand-tooled floral designs. The case has a black velvet lining and contains a forty round bullet block w/silver mounted top and filled w/empty brass. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which lists the revolver’s features as: Caliber: .45-C, Barrel Length: 7 1-2″, Finish: Blue, Stocks not listed. Revolver shipped to Tufts-Lyon Arms Co, Los Angeles, CA, June 4, 1931 as a 1 gun shipment. Also a 1930’s vintage Edward H. Bohlin product catalogue which illustrates a similar tooled revolver case on Page 116 with a list price of $40.00. Edward H. Bohlin was a legendary Hollywood Saddle Maker to the Stars, who was famous for his superb silver work on guns, saddles and tack. Bohlin’s work is considered among the finest of all 20th century makers! CONDITION: Very fine. Retains 95%+ original blue and color casehardened finish. Barrel has some very minor high edge wear and at muzzle and ejector housing. A very minor oxidation spot below sight blade. Strong case colors. Grips are sound w/ mellow patina and age lines. Crisp mechanics. Bright bore. Leather case is excellent w/light scuffing on the bottom, corners, and edges. The case lining is excellent. Additional research is needed to identify “S.Dabney”, but it is certain that he/she had very discerning taste and adequate resources during the early Depression era. 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. 53190-5 JWD (12,000-17,000) C&R; ESA – Lot 1415
EXTREMELY FINE AND RARE EARLY NICKEL PLATED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER SHIPPED IN 1877 TO GENERAL HENRY L. ABBOTT BY COLT FACTORY.
SN 25765. Cal. 45 Eley. 5-1/2″ bbl. According to Colt factory letter, this revolver was shipped August 21, 1877 to General Henry L. Abbott, lifelong military artillerist and engineer whose cased Colt Navy which is also in this sale. Abbott wrote a note which accompanies this gun “This was presented to me by General Franklin after the war, being an improved type of the Colt revolver”. This is an extremely rare, early nickel example in that nickel plating only began during this year. This revolver is in lustrous condition with excellent bright markings throughout including bbl address, niter blue screws, and varnished walnut grip. All in all an extremely rare and very early Colt Single Action in near mint condition. Gun is accompanied by General Abbott’s beautiful soft blue lined leather holster of the period. CONDITION: Revolver is extraordinary retaining mostly all its orig nickel finish with only minor toning around front sight. Cyl is perfect with one small peel. Backstrap and trigger guard are all excellent. Niter blue screws and base pin are brilliant. Face of cyl is as new and does not appear to have ever been fired. Bore is mint, mechanics are crisp. All matching numbers. Varnished walnut grips fit perfectly and have nearly all varnish remaining. Holster is excellent with plug present, not attached. 53179-2 (10,000-12,000) – Lot 1416
*VERY FINE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY “KING CUSTOM” REVOLVER.
SN 356000. Cal .357 Mag. 7 1 /2″ barrel with one line address and COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY / 357 stamping. The revolver features a D.W. King “Cockeyed” hammer which is so marked on left side and a wide checkered target trigger which is also likely a King product. The trigger channel in the grip frame has been milled open to accommodate the wide target trigger. Additionally, the front sight blade has been notched to provide shadow. The revolver is fitted with a wonderful set of diamond checkered Roper grips. The left grip is carved with the initials “H.D.W.”, a person whose identity is unknown. A very fine Single Action with best quality period alterations, popularized by the likes of Elmer Keith. CONDITION: Very Fine. Gun retains approx. 95% of its original blue and case color with only slight high edge wear and faint dragline on cylinder. The backstrap and trigger guard retain about 70% original blue with most loss on backstrap and lower portion of front strap. Grips are sound with most original finish and minor chip at left heel. Crisp mechanics. Bright bore. 53190-8 JWD (4,000-6,000) – Lot 1417
*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
*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
*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
*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
SPECTACULAR MARLIN MODEL 1893 ENGRAVED TAKEDOWN LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 163058. Cal. 30-30. Special order 26″ octagon to round bbl, full magazine takedown, with ivory beaded combination front sight, and V-notch sporting rear sight with set screw. Also mounted with Lyman tang sight. Mounted with fancy checkered American walnut with pistol grip in style F and crescent buttplate. Factory engraved in no. 2 pattern. Left side scene with a whitetail buck deer being chased by a hound and inscribed with the name “Henry W. Cannon”. Right side engraving is of a smaller whitetail buck deer in a side hill woodland scene. The remainder of action, forend cap and takedown ring all have moderate scroll with punch dot background. The borders on both sides of receiver are of a framing style with wavy lines and punch dots. The top of the receiver borders are that of wavy lines. The inside left of the upper tang is stamped with serial number as is the stock top tang channel and the inside toe of buttplate. Cody Firearms Museum states that this serial number is too high to letter. There is no doubt that this is a factory engraved gun. We can only speculate as to Henry W. Cannon being the one who was comptroller of the currency during President Chester A. Arthur’s presidency. Cannon also gained recognition as a bank financier in St. Paul, MN, Washington, DC and NYC where he became President of Chase National Bank of New York. He was also an active sponsor of Rear Admiral Robert Perry’s dash to the North Pole in 1909, as arctic exploration was one of his hobbies. He is also recognized for building and endowing the library in Delhi, NY, and is also responsible for building the library in Franklin. PROVENANCE: The esteemed collection of Rafael Cruz. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Bbl and mag tube retain 98-99% of its orig blue with just a faint trace of wear on sharp edges of octagon and a few very light storage scratches. Forend cap has nearly all of its orig. case colors showing. Receiver has 95-98% of its orig case coloring with the balance point of receiver and bbl takedown ring starting to silver. The lever and hammer retain nearly all of their visible case colors. Buttplate has most of its fading case colors starting to turn towards silver. Stock is sound with only minor storage marks and a couple of small dings. It retains nearly all of its factory style piano finish. The forend retains 95-98% of its orig. finish with some slight flaking at sharp edges and on the balance point. Checkering is sharp and has darkened with age. Mechanics are crisp, bore is fine with some extremely light pitting. 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. 53073-4 (17,500-27,500) ESA – Lot 1422
RARE SPECIAL ORDER MARLIN MODEL 1893 LEVER ACTION RIFLE.
SN 313905. Cal. 38-55. Standard grade rifle with very rare 32″ tapered rnd bbl with 30″ magazine. Bbl has Lyman ivory bead express front sight, a slot blank in the rear seat and a thick base sporting tang sight with 3″ staff. Mounted with uncheckered, straight grain American walnut with straight stock and Marlin semi-crescent smooth steel buttplate. Left side of upper tang is marked with matching SN which number is also found in top tang channel of buttstock. Buttplate is unnumbered but appears to be orig to this wood. The 32″ bbl, as found here, was the longest that Marlin offered and the 30″ magazine tube was the longest their machinery was capable of producing, therefore the disparity in length as compared to the bbl. Bbl has early style 2-line address & patent dates with the words “FIRE-ARMS” hyphenated as opposed to the later version of a single word. Left side of the bbl, above the forearm is marked “SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL” and top of receiver is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”, top tang is marked “MODEL / 1893”. The trigger plate is without the later added hole which is found on later models to inspect the fit of the carrier. Long barreled rifles, such as found here, were often ordered by shooters from the black powder era which required longer bbls to burn all of the powder before the bullet exited the muzzle. The “modern” smokeless powder was more rapid burning and did not require the extra bbl length to obtain maximum velocity. PROVENANCE: Ex- Dr. Frank Miller collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl & magazine tube retain 98-99% strong orig factory blue with only a couple small marks on the magazine tube and faint muzzle edge wear. Forend cap retains about 98% orig blue with faint sharp edge wear and 1 small screwdriver mark. Receiver retains about 95% strong orig case colors, lightly to moderately faded, turning silver on the bottom. Hammer retains bright case colors, turned silver on top edge. Lever retains strong case colors on sides, turned silver on outer faces. Wood is sound with some slight oil staining at the receiver and some cloth pattern in the finish and overall retains most of an old restored finish. 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. 52396-2 (6,500-9,500) ESA – Lot 1423
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR INSCRIBED HENRY MODEL 1860 RIFLE TO ANDERSONVILLE PRISON SURVIVOR FRANK W. SMITH.
SN 1431. Cal. .44RF Henry. 24-3/8″ bbl with small script “HENRY PATENT OCT 16 1860 / MANUFACT’D BY NEW HAVEN ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT.” Early style brass receiver with rear sight dovetail and buttplate with rounded heel. Sling swivel on left side of stock and rib area of mag tube and bbl. All screws correctly marked with matching SN. Buttplate numbered to the gun. Beautiful mellow mustard colored brass on left and also mustard colored brass on right with inscription that reads “FROM STILMAN WITT ESQ. / TO / FRANK.W.SMITH, / 124. O.V.I. FEBY. 8TH/64”, which was four days after Frank W. Smith mustered into the 124th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1844 Smith mustered in at the age of 20 with his given occupation listed as “clerk’: Smith was appointed Corporal, then 1st Sergeant May 1, 1864. His service records lists him as missing in action, later updated to wounded and captured May 27, 1864 at the battle of Pickettsmill, Paulding County Georgia. Smith’s records also show incarceration in the infamous Confederate prison at Andersonville, GA for approximately one year, and mustered out of service June 7, 1865, at Camp Chase, Ohio. Stillman Witt, was a well known and respected Cleveland Ohio businessman and philanthropist. While the relationship between the two men is uncertain, it is clear that the Henry was a personal gift intended to give Smith an advantage in battle, should he need it. Undoubtedly, Smith’s Henry rifle was captured or commandeered in battle at Pickettsmill, its subsequent service history and chain of possession is also uncertain, though it was well maintained over the years. CONDITION: Very good plus. The barrel has traces of blue with the balance having been cleaned some time ago and is mostly a mottled gray patina but still displays traces of aged darkened plumb patina all in sheltered areas. There are some overall small handling marks and dings down the length. The barrel address and serial number are still sharp and clear. The receiver is an attractive mustard yellow color with some scattered handling marks and scuffs. The well executed inscription is sharp, clear and genuine. The side plates are original showing no signs of polishing and fit together snugly. The hammer and lever are now a mottled gray/dark patina. The stock is very fine with most of the original varnish, with pressure marks and scuffs overall. The buttplate’s brass patina matches the frame. Mechanically needs minor work. 53113-3 MS (45,000-65,000) – Lot 1424
FABULOUS MARTIALLY MARKED 1860 HENRY RIFLE ID’D TO PVT CHARLES BOOZ(E), CO H, 3RD REGT US VETERAN VOL INFANTRY.
SN 7130. Cal. 44 Henry. 24-3/8″ bbl. Two line Henry’s Patent address and serial 7130 on top flat of barrel. Has a 900 yard rear bbl sight with screw in top of ladder, standard front sight. Brass frame, straight grain American walnut stock. Faint Military inspector’s cartouche “JT” is visible near stock head on left side.Lower tang is stamped with “W” inspector mark. Case colored hammer, lever, and trigger. Second model Henry with unmarked screws. Magazine is an integral part of bbl and with a sling swivel mounted in fluted area. Receiver is a brass frame, side plates fit very well, looks to have been in place for a long time without being removed. Hammer is case colored along with lever and trigger. Accompanied by a comprehensive archive of material about Private Booz including Service history, Muster and Pension documents that lists the Henry rifle by SN, issued to him on May 5, 1865 and confirmed by Springfield Research Service records. CONDITION: Overall very good to fine. 60-70% orig blue finish on bbl and magazine with the finish turning to patina. Minor wrench mark at chamber area. Rear bbl sight is a dark patina. Hammer retains some case colors, 20-30% and balance has turned to mix of silver and patina. Lever mostly a dark patina, as well as trigger. Receiver maintains a deep mustard color to indicate that it has not been polished. Stock has medium to light impressions and few surface scratches on both sides, fits receiver very good with no chips or splits. Toe of stock at buttplate has a 3/8″ chip of wood missing. Bore has medium to light pitting throughout bbl, still retains strong rifling. Rifle cycles correctly, mechanics are fine. 53192-1 MS (30,000-40,000) – Lot 1425
IMPRESSIVE U.S. MARTIAL HENRY RIFLE WITH MILITARY INSPECTOR STAMPINGS ON BARREL AND FRAME.
SN 3114. Cal. 44 Henry. 24-3/8″ full oct bbl with standard front sight. Address on bbl properly marked with Henry patent “OCT. 16 1860 / MANUFACT’D BY THE NEW HAVEN ARMS CO NEW HAVEN CT”. Henry ladder sight in rear of bbl marked “900 yds”. Magazine tube integral with bbl. “HC” on right side of receiver. “CGC” marked on bbl. Straight grain American walnut. Bbl retains dark grey on bbl flats and magazine. Ding evident on left and right sides of receiver indicate side plates have been removed. Right side of receiver is deep mustard color. Carrier lifter retains deep mustard color. Matching numbers on inside of bottom of lower tang, top of stock channel and toe of buttplate. PROVENANCE: Bruce Burtner collection. CONDITION: Very good. Traces of orig finish remaining on stock. There are normal dings and scratches. Right side of stock with several deeper impressions. Case colored hammer, lever and trigger. Brass frame with deep mustard color on both sides indicates no polish or cleaning. Screw heads show evidence of being turned. Buttplate screws are orig. Receiver screws have been replaced. Wood to metal fit is very good to fine with no cracks or chips. Bore is frosted with no pitting and strong rifling. Mechanics are fine. 52913-7 MS (25,000-35,000) – Lot 1426
IMPORTANT CIVIL WAR 1860 HENRY RIFLE INSCRIBED “A.ROGALL”, CAPT. OF CO. G, 54TH OH INFANTRY, ALSO 27TH & 118TH U.S. COLORED INFANTRY.
SN 4834. Cal. 44 Henry. Standard Henry rifle with 24-1/4″ octagonal barrel, integral magazine tube and early 1st type German silver front sight blade with round top and 2nd type 900 yard Henry ladder rear sight without slide stop screw. Marking on bbl is two line Henry rolled die marking, SN placed on top flat behind rear sight. Brass receiver on left side is hand-engraved “A. ROGALL”, in large period script. Stock is of American straight grain walnut with sling swivel mounted on left side and pronounced “Henry bump”. Front sling swivel mounted in the fluted portion of bbl and magazine tube. Buttplate is of brass and is of the first model type with trap. Florien Albert Rogall de Salmonski was born in Russian Poland May 4, 1824. His family was of Polish nobility, and his father was a Colonel in the Polish contingent serving under Napoleon. In 1851, Rogall came to the U.S. and was naturalized and lived in Cincinnati, Ohio, as an art teacher. He married Anna Jemima Mooney on March 7, 1860, and had three children. He enlisted in the 54th Ohio Infantry on October 11, 1861, and was promoted to Captain March 20, 1862. He fought in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, and Chickasaw Bayou. On April 16, 1964 he was mustered in as Captain the 27th Regiment U. S. Colored Infantry in Columbus, Ohio. The 27th U. S. Colored Infantry was ordered to Annapolis, Maryland to join up with the Army of the Potomac who were gathering there. Rogall was very vocal in the harsh conditions and treatment of officers and troops and is chronicled in his Civil War diary (April 1864-April 1865), where he expresses his homesickness and disenchantment with military service and comments on the U.S. colored troops and military medical care, in very direct language. Accompanied by information about Rogall’s service history and infantry units. PROVENANCE: Bruce Burtner collection. CONDITION: Very Good. Bbl retains 70-80% dark patina with orig blue mixed in with it. Rear bbl sight is also of a dark patina with orig blue in protected areas. Side plate on left side has dings on the top edge and fits receiver very well with a deep, dark, mustard colored look. Receiver shows normal use with receiver edges somewhat rounded on the bottom and sharp lines on top on both left and right sides of receiver. Period inscription is legible. Hammer and lever retains dark patina. Stock is sound with numerous impressions and dings has some scratch marks around mounting of sling swivel. Right side of stock would indicate more light gouges and surfaces scratches with a dark area of wood to rear of stock. Screw heads all retain an unused condition all but two that are buggered up. Bore has medium to heavy pitting throughout but still retains strong rifling. Cycles properly and mechanics function well. 52913-1 MS (22,500-32,500) – Lot 1427
EXTRAORDINARY JOHN ULRICH ENGRAVED AND SIGNED WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER ACTION RIFLE BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN EXHIBITED AT THE 1876 PHILADELPHIA CENTENNIAL WORLD EXPOSITION.
SN 103671. Cal. 44 RF Henry. Spectacular gold washed ’66 rifle with 24-1/4″ oct bbl, full magazine, thinned half nickel front sight and 900-yd Henry ladder rear sight. Mounted with outstanding 2-3X, uncheckered American walnut with straight stock and crescent buttplate that has a trap containing an orig 4-pc brass & iron cleaning rod. Buttplate toe screw is a replacement and the hole is stripped. Bottom of stock and forend cap have factory sling swivels. Trigger is of the thin pointed toe style found on numerous special order rifles. Left side of lower tang is marked “XXX”. The top tang channel of buttstock retains no vestige of the number that might have been there, having been obliterated during numerous removal and re-installation of the buttstock. Buttplate tang has the entire matching SN inside the toe. There is little doubt, however, that this buttstock is probably orig to this rifle or certainly of the period.
This rifle is incredibly engraved in semi-relief by master engraved John Ulrich and signed microscopically on the bottom tang “J.Ulrich”. Engraving consists of full coverage, very tight foliate arabesque patterns on the receiver with the large scalloped border vignette of a standing bull elk in a forest scene on the left sideplate and a smaller round vignette in semi-relief of a walking bull elk in a meadow scene on the left front flat. The hammer screw hole is surrounded by a large flower blossom with a small scroll on the sideplate having another very detailed smaller flower blossom. Right sideplate has the scallop bordered semi-relief vignette of a bugling bull elk in an extremely detailed forest scene with the smaller round vignette of a walking bull elk in a meadow scene on the right front flat. Right side hammer screw hole is engraved with mirror image to the left side, of a flower blossom. Two small scrolls above the loading gate opening terminate in detailed flower blossoms. All of the foliate arabesque patterns have very fine pearled background. Full coverage engraving extends over the entire top and bottom of receiver along with top tang. Bottom tang is engraved to match. Bottom of carrier is engraved with foliate arabesque patterns on front and rear edges with tiny diamond and dot patterns in the center. Similar, slightly larger diamond and dot patterns are engraved between the timing screws. Top edges of ejection port are engraved in feather patterns. Forend cap also has full coverage foliate arabesque and floral patterns. Buttplate tang is lightly engraved to match. This rifle was produced in about 1872 and was probably intended as part of the Winchester Exhibition Collection. It, along with other similarly engraved rifles and carbines was part of the Winchester Exhibit at the 1876 Philadelphia World Exposition. Although this rifle is not pictured in the Winchester Engraving books by Wilson, pg. 144 of The Book of Winchester Engraving pictures rifle no. 109651 which is nearly identically engraved in semi-relief with nearly identical vignettes and coverage. The caption for that rifle also states that it was believed to have been displayed at the 1876 Philadelphia Expo. Most certainly it is of exhibition quality and was probably sold after the 1876 Philadelphia display. CONDITION: About good. No orig finish remains with the bbl a smooth dark brown patina, the remains of an old refinish with scattered fine pitting. The bbl address was mostly obliterated during the refinish process. Magazine tube is also a smooth dark brown patina. Receiver, sideplates, forend cap and buttplate show light to moderate edge wear with very light wear on the engraving, just touching the high points and overall retains an even dark mustard patina with traces of orig gold in the engraving. Hammer retains silvered case colors and the lever in a dark brown patina. Wood is sound with numerous nicks, scratches and dings, a bruise on the right wrist and a couple more on the forearm and overall retains about 85% orig piano varnish finish. Mechanics are fine. Strong sharp bore with good shine and scattered pitting. Cleaning rod is fine. 53113-2 (45,000-60,000) – Lot 1428
OUTSTANDING HENRY MARKED EARLY WINCHESTER 1866 RIFLE WITH FACTORY DELUXE FIGURED WALNUT STOCK.
SN 21680. Cal. 44 Henry. 24-3/8″ bbl. Full length magazine. Standard forward bbl sight with German silver insert. Rear sight is late Henry type sight with 900 yd. Receiver is brass. Loading gate with nitre blue. Stock is fancy grain American walnut stock. Forearm with no burl but straight grain wood. Equipped with sling swivels on stock and forearm cap. Crescent brass buttplate. All numbers match in upper channel of stock and buttplate. PROVENANCE: Bruce Burtner collection. CONDITION: Fine overall condition. Bbl retains 80-85% blue with balance turning patina. Magazine 70-80% blue with light surface rust. Balance of magazine tube finish dark plum. Both sides of brass receiver retain deep mustard color indicating no cleaning or polishing for a long period of time. Loading gate retains 80-90% dark nitre blue. Receiver edges are mostly sharp, indicating very little use. Side plates appear to have not been removed. Buttplate retains beautiful mustard color with no evidence of scratches or dings. No cleaning rods in buttstock of rifle. Case color on hammer in protected areas with the balance turning patina. Lever is mostly dark patina with no evidence of case color. Trigger is dark patina as well. Numerous scratches and dings on left and right sides of stock. Right side with one deep scratch within 1″ of buttplate. Stock fit to receiver is excellent with no splits or cracks. Finish on left side of stock rates at 90% with right side 93%. Left side of forearm with numerous dings and 3-4″ chip on high point next to bbl. Small chip of wood missing on left side next to forearm cap. Right side with numerous scratches and dings. Total finish remaining on forearm 75-80%. Screw heads are in very good condition appearing to have had little to no use. Nosecap screw is “buggered up”. Gun cycles and functions correctly. Mechanics are fine. Bore shiny with strong rifling and scattered moderate pitting. 52913-3 MS (12,500-17,500) – Lot 1429
MARVELOUS WINCHESTER 1866 RIFLE WITH CODY FIREARMS MUSEUM LETTER.
SN 131950. Cal. 44 Henry. 24-3/8″ oct bbl with full magazine. Standard front and rear sights. Hammer, lever and trigger are case colored. Loading gate in nitre blue. Dark American walnut stock and forearm. Stock and buttplate are numbered to gun. Accompanied by a Winchester Factory letter confirming configuration with ship date of June 27, 1877. PROVENANCE: Bruce Burtner collection. CONDITION: Fine condition overall. Brass receiver is deep mustard color on both left and right sides. Left and right sideplates fit extremely well and appear to not have been removed. Sharp edges evident on both sides of receiver. Loading gate retains 65-75% nitre blue. Hammer retains 50-60% dark case colors. Lever mostly a dark patina with no case color. Trigger is dark patina as well. Left and right sides of stock with light impressions and surface scratches with no evidence of chips or missing wood. Forearm with light impressions and scratches on both sides. Nosecap and buttplate also retain deep mustard color with no scratches or dings. Bright shiny bore with strong rifling. Mechanics are fine. 52913-6 MS (10,000-15,000) – Lot 1430