Image Lot Price Description











1428
$27,025.00

GERMAN 1891 KRUPP GRUSONWERK 53 MM BREECH LOADING RIFLE.

SN 102. This late 19th century field gun is mounted on a steel carriage with wooden spoke wheels and steel tires. This 53 mm loads through a lever actuated dropping breech block typical of the era and is fired by a rope lanyard which is present and serviceable. Traverse and elevation gear controlled by round wheels which are functional and made of brass. Included in this lot is one sub-caliber insert for a 10-ga shot shell for a flare. Firing mechanism appears to function properly. A “rapid fire” thumb switch on the breech operating handle selects whether the firing pin drops only when the lanyard is pulled, or as soon as the breech is closed. The wheel hubs contain large, automotive-type drum brakes which are set using a lever on the side of the carriage, to keep the gun from rolling backward from recoil. This weapon appears fully functional, , and was designed for 53mm fixed ammunition. It is classified as an antique and thus not subject to US Government regulation under either the GCA or NFA.but local laws regarding possession of such items should be checked. PROVENANCE: Sunny’s Surplus, Baltimore; Joe Kauffman, Towson, MD; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection CONDITION: Overall metal finish on tube is very good with about 80% coverage, almost entirely a brown patina thinning at high points with scattered pitting. Steel carriage is very robust with about 90% coverage of a navy gray enamel paint. Brass fittings at trunnions and hubs of wheels are not painted but have turned to a pleasing dark patina. Wooden spoke wheels are extremely fine and probably reproduction with latter day bolts retaining steel rim tires which retain evidence of at least two coats of paint but are fairly heavily scaled with corrosion, but since they are so robust, over 3/8” thick this does not detract in any way. Breech block mechanism and extractor liberally coated with black grease. Rifling in bore is strong and dark brown patina throughout. Heavy braided lanyard rope appears to have orig pull ring and brass keeper. Oak wooden wheels retain about 20% of their finish and show some evidence of water staining but no appreciable deterioration is evident. With a little work and some refinish to these wheels this would enhance this already very attractive piece. 64” from muzzle to back end of tube. Wheels are 55” high, 11’ overall length including carriage. 4-54246 JS321 (15,000-20,000) – Lot 1428

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Auction: Firearms - Fall 2014
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.