Fairfield, ME ~ June 13, 2014. It was a regular Teddy Bear picnic in Fairfield, Maine recently when the largest and finest collection of antique Steiff animals to ever come to auction in North America was sold at James D. Julia’s spring toy, doll and advertising auction, yielding just under a half million dollars of the auction’s nearly $1.3 million take, which performed in line with the presale expectations for the collection of just over $400,000. If you ask anyone in the know about Steiff animals, the names of Chuck and Cathy Steffes will likely come up. Enthusiasts like no other, Chuck along with his now dearly departed wife Cathy traveled the globe for approximately three decades forging friendships and hunting Steiff treasures to add to their remarkable collection. The beloved pair assembled a singular collection that could be considered the envy of collectors the world over. Julia’s pulled out all the stops, doing a number of marketing efforts the company had not done previously in order to maximize the exposure of the spectacular collection. Two weeks prior to the auction, Julia’s held a special invitational reception/preview at the Cambridge, Massachusetts home of their Steiff consultant, Rebekah Kaufman in which attendees got an advance opportunity to see many of the offerings up close while sharing stories with other passionate collectors.

Leading up to the auction there was a fair amount of anticipation by the consignor, the auctioneer, and the collectors themselves. This was unquestionably one of the finest collections of Steiff toys to come to auction in North America and believed to be the second finest offered in the world to date. After the downturn in the market in 2009, the market value on almost everything antique and collectable was affected. Since that time, some collectable niches have improved while others have not. So it was unknown what would happen with the Steiff animals.

Of the approximately 120 examples from the Steffes collection, which consisted predominantly of bears, rabbits and cats in a variety of patterns and styles, it is difficult to choose only a few highlights to mention. Certainly one of the standouts of the grouping was an exceedingly rare and historically important black Steiff Titanic “Mourning Bear”. Made to honor those lives lost in the infamous tragedy, it is of the most sought after vintage bears known. Only 665 were ever produced and only 78 were ever made in this size and configuration, it features highly distinctive red felt backed shoebutton eyes to represent tears and sadness. One of the centerpieces of the Steffes’ collection, it sold for $35,550 within a pre-auction estimate of $25,000-40,000. Also of historical significance was one of the earliest bears Steiff ever produced, the rare “Rod” bear. Designed by Richard Steiff after viewing bears at the Stuttgart Zoo, its appearance was more true to life than their subsequent creations that eventually established the traditional “teddy bear” look. It changed hands at $14,220. Over the years, Steiff’s product line evolved. Finding earlier incarnations to be rigid and somewhat uninviting, Richard Steiff insisted that the firm create a line of bears that was warmer, cuddlier, and more colorful. The result was a bear known as “Happy” with almost feminine features including long, soft curly mohair and deep brown and black glass pupil eyes. This example, complete with its trailing “F” button sold within its $12,000-18,000 estimate for $13,035.

Very often a little back story along with strong condition will add to the value of an item. It almost breathes life into an otherwise inanimate object. A wonderful 24” gold mohair 5-ways jointed Steiff bear from around 1910 in outstanding condition with his working growler and early button is great find in and of itself. But when accompanied by a photo of the original owners, and a letter explaining his history, that really speaks to people. This stately fellow with his thoughtful gaze found a new home for $21,330 against an $8,000-12,000 estimate.

A marvelous circa 1930 brown tipped, rare blue eyed Steiff “Petsy” bear with distinctive facial features and soft fluffy mohair, likewise complete with its original button realized $17,775. Also included were such examples as an exceptionally rare and equally desirable brown tipped Steiff teddy clown bear. This large 12” jointed version in outstanding condition and retaining its original fabric ruff, metal rimmed chest tag, button, and ear tag sold for $26,662, just inside an estimate of $25,000-45,000.

These bears were complemented by scores of other fine examples including a variety of mohair, felt, and velvet cats and rabbits. Highlights included a fantastic 6-ways jointed gray Steiff cat. Cute as can be with yellow slit pupil glass eyes and pink embroidered facial features, it sold for $10,665, more than doubling the low end of its $4,000-6,000 estimate. An extremely rare Steiff velvet rattle cat with its original bell and early elephant button was another hot ticket, selling for $7,702 against an estimate of $3,500-4,500. And a delightful lavender “Fluffy” cat on a mohair pincushion retaining its original chest tag, ear button and tag exceeded its $2,500-5,000 estimate to bring $7,110.
Rabbits included a rare Steiff Jack rabbit with jointed arms, velvet clothes, and black leather shoes. Inspired by the children’s book by Uncle Dave Cory in the late 1920s, this charming fellow hopped past his $2,500-3,500 presale estimate to land at $7,702. A nine piece felt rabbit skittles set affixed to wooden plinths make for some lively parlor bowling. The set in wonderful condition and complete with ear buttons and original ball sold for $7,110 against a $5,000-10,000 estimate.

The collection was supplemented by a number of Steiff animals from other collections that also performed admirably. These were then followed by a large selection of dolls and automatons. Of the latter category, automatons included an exceptional early banjo player by Vichy. This realistically modeled fellow in his original outfit sits on a velvet covered stool strumming his instrument while tapping his foot and gently nodding his head in time with the music while occasionally blinking his eyes. This wonderful example with lifelike action finished up at the upper end of its $6,000-9,000 estimate to sell for $8,295. A musical clockwork automaton featuring a magician that upon each lift of the box on the table would reveal a different object underneath. This clever piece sold for $7,406, surpassing a $2,000-3,000 estimate. And a classic Jumeau automaton of a standing figure that powders her nose and looks in her hand mirror while soft music plays sold for $5,332 against an estimate of $3,500-4,500.

Dolls included a rare and desirable 17-1/2” Steiner with pale bisque moon shaped face and delicate blush serving as a backdrop to her pert smile and piercing blue paperweight eyes. She went out within her $5,500-7,500 estimate for $6,221. French fashion dolls included a stunning 22” Jumeau fashion with pale bisque with cornflower blue paperweight eyes, closed mouth on a gusseted kid body. Her sublime expression completed the package that brought $4,860 against a $2,000-3,000 estimate. A last minute addition of a 16” Jumeau fashion with pale bisque, piercing blue paperweight eyes and wood lower arms neared the midpoint of her $2,000-4,000 estimate to bring $2,844.

This segment continued with various German bisque characters, Victorian-era china heads, early wax dolls, cloth dolls, as well as a rare carved wood Chinese doll reminiscent of the popular Door of Hope dolls and perhaps by one of their carvers. The rice farmer with his distinctive facial features and original straw cape sold for $3,645 against a $900-1,100 estimate. Other highlights included a lot including a table and chair by Huret. Best known for their highly desirable bisque dolls, it is most unusual to see accessories by them surface. The lot was highly competed for (well beyond its $300-500 estimate) ultimately selling to a phone bidder for $4,740.

The auction continued with a vast array of toys in a wide variety of genres. Early American tin included an unusual circus cage wagon attributed to Fallows or George Brown being pulled by an elephant led by its trainer. Typical of the time period, workers sometimes created toys with what was laying around the shop with no deference to reality, such as putting a lion and a leopard in the same cage, or using an elephant to pull cages. But it made for a most amusing toy, and this example went out at $5,925 against a pre-auction estimate of $5,500-6,500. Another great piece was an early American tin merry go round toy being pulled by gentleman in which the platform containing goats, a dog, and a child rotates when pulled along the floor. Colorful and creative, it sold above its $1,500-2,500 estimate for $3,258. A scarce seesaw toy by Ives that has two articulated figures enjoying the ups and downs by means of a clockwork motor housed in the stenciled central fulcrum sold within expectations of $2,500-4,500 for $3,555.

The cavalcade of toys continued with a selection of European tin toys such as a Marklin “Priscilla” live steam ship. Professionally restored from bow to stern, this rare vessel was joined by a scarce Schonner “Aviso Greif” steamer with great detail to the decking and accoutrements. Each sold within its respective estimate for the same $14,220 price tag. A great 18” Carette ocean liner in strong original condition went out at $3,258, surpassing its $1,000-2,000 estimate.

For aviation aficionados was an array of airplanes from one astute east coast collector. These cast iron planes, modeled after the real thing of the 1930s, boasted great detail and condition not normally found in these toys. One can picture boys of the period staging spirited dogfights and these surprisingly fragile vessels didn’t often survive bouts with gravity. Included was a rare large Hubley “Lindy” glider with its original removable pilot. In very fine condition, it sold for $4,147 against an estimate of $2,500-3,000. This was followed by one of the finest examples of a Hubley “America” one could hope to find. In light gray and emblazoned in red across the wing, its propellers would rotate when the plane was rolled across the floor. It landed within its $2,500-3,500 estimate to sell for $2,962. A rare Vindex “Lockheed” monocoupe plane in steely silver presented a wonderful buying opportunity. Better known for farm and construction toys, an airplane by this firm is very hard to come by. It found a buyer at $5,332 within an estimate of $4,500-6,500.

Back on land, other cast iron included a scarce Kenton horse drawn ambulance with a nickel plated wagon with bell ringing mechanism being pulled by two robust black horses. Far exceeding expectations of $1,500-2,500, it sold for $6,517.

A selection of pressed steel vehicles included a scarce Buddy L sand & gravel truck with a large segmented rear bed with opening doors to dispense gravel. This construction toy sold within its $2,000-4,000 estimate for $2,370. Also bringing $2,370 was a rare Kingsbury Huckster delivery truck. This 1930s apple green windup truck with great lines and retaining its original decals saw much action beyond its $900-1,200 estimate. And a Keystone Filenes delivery van with battery-operated headlights likewise exceeded expectations, bringing $1,659.

While not toys per se, cast iron mechanical banks are often grouped under this heading. Some unusual examples included a classic Organ Grinder & Performing Bear. Full of amusing action and retaining much of its original paint, it sold for $3,851 against a $3,500-5,500 estimate. A rare Kyser & Rex Roller Skating bank that features an oval rink with various figures struggling with the then-new pastime failed to find a buyer. One of only a handful known to exist, this treasure carried an estimate of $20,000-25,000.
It was Christmas in June at Julia’s. A much anticipated collection of several dozen holiday items that has remained in one gentleman’s possession for several decades finally made it to market, much to the delight of collectors everywhere. Central to the offering was an exceedingly rare German wax headed Santa figure on a wooden plinth. When the lever is pressed, he would open his fur coat to reveal a Christmas feather tree in his chest. This very unusual item that was once part of the renowned Gladyse Hilsdorf collection ignored its $2,500-3,500 estimate to sell for $17,775. A large German Santa candy container with the not so jolly old elf sporting a fur robe went out at $4,977 against a $1,200-1,500 estimate. Another European find was a marvelous composition nodder with a larger than life head of a stoic Father Christmas bobbing atop a speckle painted body. This charming piece likewise exceeded expectations to sell for $2,725, beating out a $600-1,200 estimate. And a large clockwork nodding reindeer pulling Santa in his wicker sleigh separated the naughty from the nice, selling for $5,925 against a presale estimate of $600-1,200.

The auction continued with a varied grouping of quality antique advertising items. Included were numerous pieces that seldom (if ever) hit the marketplace. Topping the list was a phenomenal, highly ornate, one-of-a-kind leaded glass figural boot trade sign from a Wisconsin shoe store. Dating to the turn of the 20th century, it consisted of several hundred geometric panels forming a Victorian era heeled boot with the monogram “S & S” incorporated into the side. Once gracing the doorway to the Schauder & Son shoe store in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, it was eventually relegated to the family basement, save for making an annual appearance in the local Fourth of July parade strapped to the roof of the family car. Nothing short of miraculous to have lasted this long, it was the highlight of the auction, climbing well beyond its $20,000-40,000 estimate to land at a jaw dropping $109,350!

Other unique pieces included the original artwork for a Kellogg’s corn flakes ad by James Alexander Bayne, a U.S. fighter pilot whose life was cut short in service to his country. As a result, his career as a painter didn’t get the chance to get off the ground, but this smile inducing piece that pictured a young child in his highchair enjoying a bowl of cereal makes one wonder what could have been. Accompanied by photos of the artist as well as a copy of the Ladies Home Journal from March 1913 in which the ad appears, this oil on canvas snuck past the upper end of its $2,500-5,000 estimate to sell for $5,771.

These marvelous pieces were joined by such period store fixtures as an advertising lantern for None Such mincemeat. The pierced tin framework retained all four of its original reverse painted advertising panels that were lit from within. The lantern was further enhanced by its original tin insert that would rotate from the heat of the candle, casting eye-catching shadows that would almost appear to animate the panels. A rare and highly desirable piece, it sold within estimate for $6,075.
Somewhat later was a choice selection of automotive related advertising. A rare and large die-cut porcelain Hood tire service station sign with a life size uniformed worker beckoning to passersby performed well and sold at the upper end of its $3,000-5,000 estimate for $4,740. Another rare tire sign, a double sided sheet metal flange sign for Delion tires, despite come condition issues saw strong action. Far surpassing its $200-300 estimate, it roared to $3,081. A large 42” diameter Chevrolet Super Service porcelain sign from the 1930s sold for $3,555 while a self-framed tin sign in stellar condition for Francisco auto heaters sold for $2,844, each exceeding their respective estimates. And a great tin sign that also boasted strong condition was one by Ithaca Sign Works that depicted an early open air vehicle advertising a Vermont real estate agent. It sped past its $1,500-2,500 estimate to bring $4,860.

Salesman samples, always a popular advertising collectible that Julia’s specializes in included an unusual miniature Mosler cannonball safe. Designed as a cutaway, this desirable model with yellow pinstriping and opening door was mounted within in its original carrying case. Coming in with an estimate of $6,500-8,500, it broke the bank at $11,553. This piece was followed by a somewhat later and more detailed model of a polished aluminum, double door salesman sample bank vault. It likewise performed well, selling for $7,702 against a $2,500-3,500 estimate.

Julia’s upcoming auctions include their annual End of Summer antiques & fine art auction in August while a phenomenal firearms and military memorabilia auction will be held in October. Julia’s next rare lamp & glass auction as well as their toy & doll auction will follow in November. Julia’s is currently accepting consignments for these and other upcoming auctions. Call immediately for inclusion in these exciting sales. For more information or to place offers on unsold items, contact their offices at 207-453-7125. James D. Julia, Inc., P.O. Box 830, Dept. PR, Fairfield, ME 04937. E-mail: info@jamesdjulia.com.

Image	Description
	Dolls included a rare and desirable 17-1/2” Steiner with pale bisque moon shaped face and delicate blush serving as a backdrop to her pert smile and piercing blue paperweight eyes. She went out within her $5,500-7,500 estimate for $6,221.
	An unusual miniature Mosler cannonball safe designed as a cutaway and mounted within in its original carrying case came with an estimate of $6,500-8,500 and broke the bank at $11,553.
	A fantastic 6-ways jointed gray Steiff cat. Cute as can be with yellow slit pupil glass eyes and pink embroidered facial features, it sold for $10,665, more than doubling the low end of its $4,000-6,000 estimate.
	An exceedingly rare and historically important black Steiff Titanic “Mourning Bear” made to honor those lives lost in the infamous tragedy is one of the most sought after vintage bears known. One of the centerpieces of the Steffes’ collection, it sold for $35,550 within a pre-auction estimate of $25,000-40,000.
	Rabbits included a rare Steiff Jack rabbit with jointed arms, velvet clothes, and black leather shoes. Inspired by the children’s book by Uncle Dave Cory in the late 1920s, this charming fellow hopped past his $2,500-3,500 presale estimate to land at $7,702.
	A rare Steiff Jack rabbit inspired by the children’s book by Uncle Dave Cory in the late 1920s with jointed arms, velvet clothes, and black leather shoes comes with a presale estimate of $2,500-3,500 (Steffes Collection).
	A wonderful 24” gold mohair 5-ways jointed Steiff bear from around 1910 with his thoughtful gaze found a new home for $21,330 against an $8,000-12,000 estimate.
	A collection of holiday items included an exceedingly rare German wax headed Santa figure on a wooden plinth. When the lever is pressed, he would open his fur coat to reveal a Christmas feather tree in his chest. This very unusual item that was once part of the renowned Gladyse Hilsdorf collection ignored its $2,500-3,500 estimate to sell for $17,775.
	From a collection of cast iron planes came a rare large Hubley “Lindy” glider with its original removable pilot. In very fine condition, it sold for $4,147 against an estimate of $2,500-3,000.
	A musical clockwork automaton featuring a magician who upon each lift of the box on the table would reveal a different object underneath. This clever piece sold for $7,406, surpassing a $2,000-3,000 estimate.
	Cast iron toys included a scarce Kenton horse drawn ambulance with a nickel plated wagon with bell ringing mechanism being pulled by two robust black horses. Far exceeding expectations of $1,500-2,500, it sold for $6,517.
	A phenomenal, highly ornate, one-of-a-kind leaded glass figural boot trade sign from a Wisconsin shoe store was the top-seller of the day. Nothing short of miraculous to have lasted this long, it climbed well beyond its $20,000-40,000 estimate to land at a jaw dropping $109,350!
	An advertising lantern for None Such mincemeat retained all four of its original reverse painted advertising panels that were lit from within and its original tin insert that would rotate from the heat of the candle, casting eye-catching shadows that would almost appear to animate the panels. A rare and highly desirable piece, it sold within estimate for $6,075.

Mr. Keene’s appointment further strengthens Julia’s second-to-none firearms team, already well-established as the finest in the industry.

Fairfield Maine, May 5, 2014 – James D. Julia, Inc., one of the nation’s top ten antique auction houses, is excited to announce that Mr. Keene, who has been consulting with James D. Julia and sister company Poulin’s since 1997 on special projects, has accepted a staff position with Julia’s. Keene is responsible for identifying, evaluating, appraising, and cataloging specialty military firearms for auction. He specializes in Class III machine guns from the first half of the 20th century. He also has expertise with machine guns from the 1950s onward, as well as last century military firearms. Complementing this encyclopedic knowledge is his understanding of the complex rules and regulations associated with different machine gun classes as defined by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF). As such, he is a huge asset to Class III buyers and sellers, being able to facilitate and complete transfer forms properly as well as make updates and corrections to the all-important BATF class III registry.

Professionally, Mr. Keene is a soon-to-be retired Army combat veteran who has proudly served our country for over 28 continuous years. Through his work with Julia’s and Poulin’s, he has been able to take his lifelong passion for firearms and build an extensive network of Class III enthusiasts, dealers, buyers, and sellers from every corner of the globe. Always interested in learning more about Class III weapons, Keene was a charter member and officer of the Hiram Maxim Historical Society, an organization of machine gun enthusiasts, through 2002. This association provided a great opportunity to observe and research machine guns on a national scale, as well as make and strengthen business connections in the Class III community.

Mr. Keene credits a series of enthusiastic and talented mentors for his personal and professional success with Class III firearms. As a young boy, he was encouraged by his grandfather and father, who were also veterans, gun collectors, and firearms enthusiasts. A. William Vallerand (1932-2007), the first Class III dealer in Maine, was a close personal friend who shared much knowledge and experience with Keene over the years. Today, Keene gives a tip of the hat to Edwin F. Libby, a retired professor and noted military firearms researcher featured on the History Channel’s “Tales of the Gun,” for the motivation to keep learning, discovering, and sharing everything possible about Class III firearms.

About James D. Julia, Inc.:
James D. Julia, Inc., one of the top ten antique auction antique houses in North America, is headquartered in Fairfield, Maine. The company also has an office in Woburn, Massachusetts. In business for almost five decades, the company conducts high-end antique, collectible, and decorative arts auctions throughout the year. Julia’s routinely establishes new world records through its sales events. The company consists of four key divisions, including rare firearms; fine and Asian art and antiques; lamps and glass; and important toy, dolls, and antique advertising. Each division is regarded for its excellence and is staffed with world-class specialists to insure fair and professional authentication, identification, and valuation services. For more information on James D. Julia, Inc. and the company’s fine firearms division, please visit https://www.jamesdjulia.com.

Contact:
Wes Dillon or Josh Loewensteiner
Co-Department Heads, Rare Firearms and Military Division
207-453-7125 or firearms@jamesdjulia.com

Fairfield, ME ~ October 14-16, 2013. James D. Julia’s conducted their annual fall firearms auction, which was billed as one of historic proportions, and indeed it was. The gross of over $18 million makes it the largest grossing firearms auction in history. This sale was notable with the diversity of extraordinary collections, the quality of goods, the overall value and successful sales. The total low estimate of items sold was approximately $13.2 million and generated $18 million, approximately $5 million over low estimate. But equally as extraordinary was the number of high end expensive items successfully sold in this sale. Over 525 items generated $10,000 or more; this is an all-time high for expensive items that any firearms auction ever held. 167 of these items generated $25,000 or more; 50 items generated $50,000 or more; and 9 of the items were in excess of $100,000. Julia’s firearms auctions are not known for the massive number of lots being offered but for the large number of high end items successfully sold. They are currently and have been the leaders in the world for handling the greater number of high end expensive firearms at auction.

Monday morning began with the Woody & Betty Frey Collection of outstanding Winchester rifles. A lifetime dealer and collector, Woody Frey was a most discerning collector and most of the guns in the collection were in outstanding condition. A scarce engraved silver plated Henry rifle realized $63,250. Many of the items in the Frey Collection did extremely well; a Winchester Model 66 Saddle Ring Carbine in extremely fine plus condition estimated at $15,000-25,000 went out at $37,375. In addition to the Frey Collection of Winchesters, there were a great number of other rare Winchesters offered. A very rare iron frame Henry in fine condition was estimated at $40,000-60,000 and went out at $63,250. A recently discovered extremely rare Winchester 1873 “1 of 1,000” carried a presale estimate of $100,000-150,000 and went out at $109,250. A historic Winchester Model 86 in very good condition was estimated at $15,000-25,000; the gun had been carried by SJ Entrikin who accompanied Admiral Perry on his Arctic Expedition of 1893-94. The lot included his tack studded Winchester rifle together with a few other items used on this expedition, estimated at $15,000-25,000, it ultimately sold for over $20,000. The first day also included an extraordinary offering of high end sporting arms. Julia’s handles more high end quality sporting arms than any other auction firm in the world and this sale surely reflected that. An exceptional one of a kind, pre-war, Holland & Holland O/U Double rifle in cal. 375 was estimated at $60,000-90,000 and generated approximately $75,000. A “Golden Age” Boss 20 Bore Heavy Proof Rising Bite O/U Game gun in 20 ga. was estimated at $50,000-80,000 and generated just over the high estimate at $85,500. A 20 ga. James Purdey O/U Game gun estimated at $60,000-90,000 was highly competed for and went out at $77,625. One of the more beautiful sporting arms was the exceptional Exhibition Quality James Purdey O/U Game gun with relief engraving and gold inlay by Ken Hunt estimated at $80,000-120,000; this beautiful work of art rose to $97,750. Also consigned to this sale was a group of sporting and collecting arms from the family of J.P. Morgan. Specifically some of the guns were identified directly to J.P. Morgan, Jr. and were consigned to Julia’s by Alexandra McLean Morgan (sister of Senator John McCain) that had been in her late husband’s family. One set was a pair of Henry Atkins sidelock ejector guns, which the Morgan family was known to have regularly used. This set in its original leather case embossed with J.P.M. was estimated at $25,000-35,000 and went out to a determined winning bidder at $46,000. The high seller in the sporting arms was an Italian Thomasoni engraved Ivo Fabbri Small Game 3 Barrel cased set. It carried a presale estimate of $100,000-200,000 and went out at $126,500. Another Fabbri Small Bore estimated at $60,000-75,000 realized approximately $75,000. A fine pair of Beretta SO6EELO Game guns estimated at $30,000-50,000 realized $43,125. A truly exceptional investment quality 20 ga. Charles Daly Regent Diamond Game gun complete with its original hang tags carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000. With its exquisite engraving and gold inlay, it was hotly competed for and went out at $69,000. Also offered was an outstanding grouping of high grade American shotguns. A historically important L.C. Smith presentation Baker Patent 3 Barrel gun set from 1885 was estimated at $60,000-90,000 and sold for just over $63,000. A rare Lefevre $1000 Grade Style shotgun was embellished with some of the finest engraved designs one has ever seen on a Lefevre shotgun. The engraving also included exquisite gold inlays and while not a true $1,000 grade gun, it was very much in the style of this zenith of Lefevre creations. Because it was in the style of $1,000 grade, it was estimated at a conservative $40,000-60,000 but its sheer beauty and artistry drove the price to over $63,000. An exceptional one of a kind Ithaca NID Sousa $1,000 Grade 12 ga. magnum was the real deal and went out at $69,000 against a $65-95,000 estimate. A 20 ga. Parker A-1 Special realized $75,000 against a $75,000-125,000 estimate. An exceptional Parker GHE 410 complete with original shipping box estimated at $45,000-65,000 brought approximately $49,000.

The second day of the auction included rare Colts from the Estate of the late Michael Leff of Florida. A rare cased pair of engraved Colt Model 1849 pockets in outstanding condition was estimated at $70,000-80,000 and realized $80,500. A beautiful Colt from another collection was the ultra-rare and spectacular presentation Glahn engraved gold plated SA estimated at $100,000-150,000 that realized $115,000. A rare Helfricht engraved SA revolver estimated at $65,000-85,000 went out at $69,000.

The auction also included the historical Smith & Wesson Collection of Mr. Marlan Polhemus. Mr. Polhemus, an avid historian and scholar on Smith & Wessons, has written numerous articles as well as books on the subject. A beautiful cased and engraved Civil War Smith & Wesson #2 Army with ivory grips estimated at $5,000-8,000 realized just under $10,000. His exceptional Civil War cased and inscribed Smith & Wesson #2 Army revolver of Capt. Martin Lemon of the 77th New York Veterans was estimated at $7,000-10,000 and went out at just over $16,000. Julia’s auctions always include a healthy representation of rare Civil War items and this sale was no exception. A unique Confederate CH Rigdon 5 in. barrel revolver was estimated at $30,000-40,000 but after a protracted bidding battle, it realized just over $60,000. An outstanding “Death to Abolition” early Bowie knife with Indian bonnet pommel carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000 and realized $23,000. General George Crooks’ Civil War Gardiron realized $34,500. One of the standouts for historical arms was a Springfield carbine that had been used at the infamous Battle of Little Bighorn. This carbine used by a member of the Weir expedition was forensically documented to the battle site. All the other firearms that have been documented to the battle site have been connected by one or two spent casings. However, this gun was documented to the battle site by an extraordinary collection of 36 cartridge casings. Weir, with a small command, left the Reno defenses to go to Custer’s aid and was confronted by a vastly overwhelming force of Indians. Rather than turn tail and run, the cavalry unit maintained a sustained retreat by dismounting and positioning themselves. Each on one knee, as the Indians drew near, they fired multiple volleys, then would retreat 50 yards and once again repel the charging Indians. They continued this process until they reached the Reno defenses. The spent cartridge casings were found immediately adjacent to this exact route back to the defenses. It is a truly exciting and historic relic that went out at $126,500.

Later in the day, the extraordinary collection of Frank Sujansky came to the auction block. The Sujansky Collection of Kentucky pistols was the finest of its type to ever come to the auction block and this auction consisted of only one half of the collection. First up was a magnificent pair of American Renwick-Locke gold inlaid Flint dueling pistols by James Haslett of Baltimore, MD. Dating to about 1810, they were considered to be the finest set of American dueling pistols known. Estimated at $75,000-125,000, the bidding was ferocious and the results were stunning at $195,500. The overall offering of Kentucky pistols was quite stunning and while some sold at reasonable prices (much to the chagrin of many Kentucky aficionados who had not participated in the sale because they thought there would be no bargains). One such example was a historical important matched pair of Flintlock pistols signed by H. Albright that were later in life acquired by Col. Robert Peebles. They carried a presale estimate of $50,000-75,000 and sold for a very reasonable $37,375. Prior to acquiring these pistols, Peebles had been a colonel and fought in Washington’s army at Princeton.

A small select grouping of Derringer pistols from the Dave Stewart Collection included the magnificent presentation cased pair of John Kreider pistols estimated at $30,000-50,000 that realized $37,375. Also included was the first session of the extraordinary Dr. Douglas Sirkin Collection. Dr. Sirkin’s collection of Kentucky rifles is perhaps in total, the best offering of raise carved Kentucky’s to come to auction. His collection of high art European wheel locks was definitely the finest to ever come to auction in the past 20 to 30 years. Other offerings from the collection will be presented in future Julia auctions. The first lot up was an important outstanding relief carved Kentucky rifle by John Armstrong, considered to be one of the finest examples known. It, at one time, had been part of the Locke Collection and carried a presale estimate of $75,000-125,000. It sold for $120,750. One of the finest Lehigh relief carved rifles made by Jacob Kunz was also part of this previously unknown collection and it sold at $51,750. Immediately after the offering of the Kentucky rifles, Dr. Sirkin’s extraordinary collection of high art European wheel locks came to the block. A magnificent and unique pair of wheel locks by Meister der Tierkopfranke signed “MSH” and dated 1631 were at one time in the collection of his majesty King Leopold of Belgium. They realized $51,750. Treasure after treasure was offered. Another notable example was an extremely rare Alsatian Double Barrel O/U wheel lock pistol sedan circa 1600. Estimated at $50,000-75,000, it went out at just under $55,000. The highlight of course was the very fine matched pair of Saxon Electra Guard wheel lock pistols dated 1588. Carrying a presale estimate of $40,000-60,000, these pistols attained a final selling price of $103,500. An exquisite pair of silver mounted gold decorated Ottoman flint pistols circa 1790 carried an estimate of $8,000-16,000 and realized $25,875. There were many other high art European arms from the Sirkin collection but there were also outstanding examples from other collections. An extremely rare high art gold inlaid Russian pinfire revolver of presentation quality by Johann Norman in Tula carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000 and attained a final selling price of $57,500.

The third day included three major collections and generated impressive results. The first collection was that of Carl “Bill” Morrison of Bradford, Maine. An active gunsmith at the age of 92, he is the oldest licensed gun dealer in the State of Maine. Most of his life, he collected automatic weapons and his entire collection was offered here with impressive results. Chicom type 56/M22 (AK 47) estimated at $12,500-17,500 attained a remarkable $48,875. A U.S. Property marked Colt AR 15 estimated at $15,000-25,000 went out at $39,100. And his Springfield M3 50 cal. BMG on ground tripod which carried an estimate of $15,000-25,000 went out at $33,000. Numerous other automatic weapons were offered from other estates and collections. Included were a number of Colt Thomson Machine guns. Many thought this would be the opportunity for a bargain with so many offered but the demand remained consistent until the very last run. The high mark was a superb Colt 1921AC Thompson sub-machine gun estimated at $25,000-35,000; it went out at $43,700. There were other military items from various collections. One notable and interesting lot was an original 1941 type 82 Volkswagen Kubelwagen. This very transport vehicle had been captured from Rommel’s Afrika Core during WWII and shipped home to a university where it was completely disassembled then reassembled. Once disassembled, a U.S. manual was produced to be used by U.S. troops later in the war as they captured these desirable transport vehicles. This was truly an exciting offering estimated at $50,000-100,000 and sold for just under $75,000. A rare and spectacular set of named Algemeine SS officer visor caps including an extraordinarily rare white one were both acquired from an estate sale and both identified to the original SS officer. The final price was an outstanding $57,500.

The highlight of this session was unquestionably the collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland. Dr. Sturgess’ Collection of auto loading weapons is the finest most comprehensive of its type to ever come to auction and currently the finest of its type to exist in private hands. It was his collection that was the basis of a marvelous three volume treatise recently compiled about the evolution and development of the auto loading pistol. The collection is massive in numbers and features an extraordinary number of rare, high condition, experimental and prototype arms. A unique SID 7.5 mm prototype long Mondragon Model 1907 SL rifle estimated at $25,000-35,000 was highly competed for and realized $57,500. An exceptional Mauser 6 mm C98 Selbstladegewehr SN 3 realized just under $75,000. This was the first of several sessions of Sturgess’ collection to be offered over the next two years. An extraordinary Mauser C77 Single shot pistol estimated at $15,000-30,000 sold for just over $43,000. An ultra-rare Model Mauser Zig Zag revolver estimated at $20,000-30,000 generated $43,700. A highlight of this session was the extraordinary rare and important cased prototype Model 1893 Borchardt pistol in extremely fine plus condition. The gun carried a presale estimate of $125,000-250,000 and went out at $161,000. Another exquisite Borchardt pistol in extremely fine plus condition sold immediately afterwards. It came in its original presentation case and had at one time been presented to Don Porfirio Diaz, President of Mexico. It sold for approximately $150,000. A superb factory engraved Mauser C96 estimated at $25,000-35,000 sold for $75,900. An exquisite, magnificent historically significant Mauser C96, fully engraved with gold inlay and carved stock was estimated at $35,000-70,000 but blew through its estimate to sell for $89,125. A Chilean prototype 100 Luger with matching push button stock rig sold for $52,000 and a spectacular E prefix Swiss Luger with experimental holster, stock and round magazine estimated at $25,000-40,000 ended up at $40,250. An ultra-rare Turkish Air Force Luger estimated at $20,000-30,000 realized $43,000. An outstanding Walther PP prototype was estimated at $25,000-40,000 and realized just under $52,000. Also an extremely rare Anti-tank Strumpistole with insert barrel folding stock and folding site was estimated at $10,000-20,000 and generated nearly $30,000. The first Sturgess offering was truly impressive but Julia’s explained that it only gets better from here. The Sturgess Collection arrived from Zurich a little later than anticipated and a much smaller offering was presented in this sale. The next auction will include an even far more impressive offering.

One other collection offered in this final session was from the estate of the affable Joe Schroeder. Mr. Schroeder was a great scholar and author of German military weapons and highly regarded in the collecting fraternity. An extremely rare Mauser Model 1909 experimental in caliber 9 mm was estimated at $32,500-45,500 and went well beyond its estimate to $57,000. An extremely rare and highly desirable system Mauser stripped barrel cutaway pistol was estimated at $18,000-25,000 and sold for $23,000.

More details on this sale can be seen on Julia’s website at www.jamesdjulia.com. Julia’s next sale will take place in March of 2014 and according to Julia’s it is expected to surpass the extraordinary October 2013 sale. In addition to the second session of the many collections offered here will be the estate collection of the late Norm Flayderman. Mr. Flayderman was unquestionably the most iconic figure in the world of firearms in the 20th century and this elite offering of spectacular Colt firearms will certainly be much anticipated. Also featured in this spring auction will be the collection of the late Tommy Rholes of Texas who was a noted collector and dealer and will include extremely rare Winchesters and Colts. The Julia Firearms Auction was preceded by a 3-day auction conducted by the Poulin Auction Company (located only 100 yards from the Julia complex). Their sale of moderate priced antique, collectable, and shooting arms was their highest grossing to date at nearly $3 million. The total gross for the 6-day event with the Poulin Auction Company and the Julia Auction House combined was in excess of $21 million, which was the largest auction of firearms ever in history.

Image	Description
	Scarce Engraved Silver Plated Henry Model 1860 in very fine condition. This is from the renowned Woody and Betty Frey Collection of Winchesters. Sold for $63,250.
	Extremely Rare Winchester Model 1873, 1 of 1,000. Recently discovered and offered for public sale for the first time, had a presale estimate of $100,000-150,000 and sold for $109,250.
	Winchester Model 1886 carried by Samuel J. Entrikin on the Arctic Explorations with Admiral Perry. Presale estimated was $15,000-25,000 and it sold for $20,125.
	Exceptional one of kind Pre-War Holland & Holland O/U rifle cal. 375hh. This gun carried a presale estimate of $60,000-90,000 and went out at just under $75,000.
	“Golden Age” Boss 20 bore heavy proof single trigger rising bite o/u 20. Ga. estimated at $50,000-80,000; it sold just over the high estimate at $80,500.
	28 ga. James Purdey O/U in excellent condition. Estimated at $60-90,000, it realized $77,625.
	Exhibition Quality James Purdey O/U with gold engraved and gold inlay by Ken Hunt 12 ga. cal; estimate $80-120,000, it sold for $97,750.
	A Pair of Henry Atkin Single Trigger Heavy Game Guns 12 ga. was once the property of J.P. Morgan Jr. and were complete with a leather case embossed J.P.M. The guns were consigned by the widow of Morgan’s great grandson who was the sister of Sen. John McCain. The guns carried a presale estimate of $25-35,000 and after a serious bidding battle; they went out at $51,750.
	Marvelous Tomasoni engraved Ivo Fabbri three barrel set with extra stock and case estimated at $100-120,000 which finally sold for $126,500.
	Truly exceptional, investment quality, 20 gauge Charles Daly “Regent Diamond” game gun with original hang tags was estimated at $20-30,000; this was subject to a serious bidding battle and finally went out at $69,000.
	Historically important L. C. Smith presentation Baker patent three hammer barrel gun was estimated at $60-90,000. It sold for $63,250.
	Rare Lefever thousand dollar grade (style
	Truly exceptional, one-of-a-kind, Ithaca NID Sousa/ $1000 grade 12 gauge magnum. This was a genuine $1000 grade and estimated at $65-95,000 and it went out at $69,000.
	20 gauge Parker A 1 special with case. In excellent restored condition, it carried a presale estimate of $75-125,000 and it realized just a tad under $75,000.
	Rare & spectacular presentation Glahn engraved gold plated single action army revolver which carried a presale estimate of $100-150,000 and realized $115,000.
	Superb Helfricht engraved Colt single action army revolver with wonderful AZ history was estimated at $65-85,000. It went out at $69,000.
	Extraordinarily rare cased pairing of engraved Colt London model 1851 Navy & model 1849 pocket percussion revolvers. From the Estate of Michael Leff. Carried a presale estimate of $45-60,000, they went out at $63,250.
	Exceptional Civil War cased and inscribed Smith & Wesson #2 army revolver of Captain Martin Lennon, 77th NYV. From the well known Marlan Polhemus Collection. The presale estimate was $7-10,000. It brought $16,100.
	Unique Confederate C.H. Rigdon 5″ barreled revolver. Estimated at $30-40,000, it brought just under $60,000 at $59,800.
	Extraordinarily rare, forensically documented Custer battlefield Springfield trap door carbine matching 36 cartridges from Weir Hill to the Reno defenses. This historic gun is currently the only gun documented to the Custer Battlefield range to match so many cartridge casings. Presale estimate was $100-150,000 and finally went out at $126,500.
	Magnificent Renwick-Locke American gold inlaid flintlock dueling pistols by James Haslett, Baltimore, circa 1810. Formally within the Renwick-Locke Collections. From the outstanding Frank Sujansky Collection. They are in superb condition and considered to be the finest American dueling pistols known. Estimated at $75-125,000 and realized $195,000.
	Outstanding & important relief carved percussion rifle by John Armstrong Kentucky. One of the finest known to exist and at one time in the Locke Collection, it carried an estimate of $75-125,000 and sold for just under the high estimate at $120,750. This is part of the offering from the previously unknown, Dr. Douglas Sirkin Collection of Rare Kentucky rifles.
	One of the finest Lehigh County relief carved rifles made by Jacob Kunz. From the previously unknown Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. It carried a presale estimate of $50-70,000 and sold for $51,750.
	Magnificent and unique pair of wheel lock rifles by the Meister der Tierkopfranke signed “MSH”, dated 1631 ex collection of His Majesty King Leopold of Belgium. The pair carried a presale estimate of $50-150,000 and sold for $51,750.
	Extremely rare Alsatian double barreled o/u wheel lock pistol, Sedan, circa 1600. Estimated at $50-75,000. They sold for $54,650. From the previously unknown Dr. Douglas Sirkin Collection.
	Very fine matched pair of Saxon elector guard wheel lock pistols, each dated 1588. These were estimated at $40-60,000 and realized $103,500.
	Rare early hall breech loading flintlock pistol. This pistol had been converted from percussion to flint and carried a presale estimate of $15-20,000. From the Frank Sujansky Collection. It was part of a serious bidding battle that resulted in a final sale price of $29,325.
	Chicom type 56/M22 (AK47
	U.S. property marked Colt AR-15, veteran bring back automatic. From the Carl “Bill” Morrison Collection of Automatic Weapons. Mr. Morrison at the age of 92 is the oldest active Maine gunsmith/gun dealer. Estimated at $15-25,000 and realized $$39,100.
	Superb Colt 1921AC Thompson sub-machine gun. One of many Thompson machine guns in this auction, it carried a presale estimate of $25-35,000 and went out far above the high estimate at $43,700.
	Exceptionally rare and outstanding Colt model 639/XM177 carbine. It carried a presale estimate of $25-40,000; it went out well above high estimate at $46,000.
	Original, 1941 type 82 Volkswagen “Kubelwagen”. This exact vehicle was captured by Rommel’s Afrika Corps and shipped back to the U.S. where it was entirely dismantled and used to create a user’s manual for future captured vehicles during the war. It carried a presale estimate of $50-100,000 and went out at just about $75,000.
	Rare and spectacular set of named and researched Allgemeine SS officer’s visor caps. These were purchased together at an estate sale many years ago. These extremely rare SS hats carried a presale estimate of $50-70,000 and went out at $57,500.
	Unique SIG 7.5 mm prototype Mondragon M1907 SL rifle. Estimated at $25-35,000. It blew way past the high estimate at $57,500. From the Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess Collection of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Exceptional Mauser 6MM C98 Selbstladegewehr. Serial #3. It carried a presale estimate of $75-100,000. This sold for $74750 from the Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess Collection of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Extraordinary Mauser C77 single shot pistol. Estimated at $15-30,000. It sold far above the high estimate at $43,125. It was from the renowned Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Ultra rare last model Mauser zigzag revolver. This carried a presale estimate of $20-35,000 and went out far above high estimate at $43,700. It was from the renowned Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Extraordinarily rare and important cased one of two surviving first prototype model 1893 Borchardt semi-auto pistol. The presale estimate was $125-250,000. This went out at $161,000.
	Extremely rare, cased presentation Loewe model 1893 Borchardt to Don Porfirio Diaz, President of Mexico semi-auto pistol. The presale estimate was $150-300,000 and it sold for $149,500. From the renowned Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Magnificent and historically significant Mauser C96 six shot, fully engraved, with carved bolo stock. Estimated at $35-75,000; it blew through the high estimate to $89,125. From the renowned Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland.
	Ultra Rare Turkish Air Force Luger. Estimated at $20-30,000; it flew past the high estimate at $43,125.
	Outstanding Walther PP Prototype. This was estimated at $25-40,000 and soared above the high estimate at $51,750. From the Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess Collection.
	Extremely rare Mauser model 1909 experimental in caliber 9MM. Estimated at $32,500-45,000; it blew past the high estimate at just under $57,000. From the Collection of Joseph Schroeder.

Fairfield, ME ~ March 10-12, 2014. James D. Julia’s Auction House recently conducted the most extraordinary firearms auction to date. For a number of years Julia’s has led the firearms auction field by regularly conducting the largest grossing firearm auctions in the industry and have continually held the record for the largest grossing each year for nearly ten years now. Their October 2013 auction, at approximately $18.3 million, was by far the largest gross ever realized for a firearms auction in history anywhere in the world and it was hard to conceive that could be beaten, but this sale soundly beat that gross coming in at approximately $19 million+ (including post-auction sales).

The success of the sale was not just in its gross but also in many other ways, although this sale did feature over 530 lots that realized in excess of $10,000, 50 lots that realized in excess of $50,000, and 13 lots that generated $100,000 or more. Another truly extraordinary factor about this auction was the number of collections offered from some of the best known firearms dealers and collectors currently in North America. The headlines touted 12 phenomenal and renowned collections. The first was that of the late Tommy Rholes of Texas. For years, Tommy was known as one of the leading dealers in North America for quality Winchesters and Colts and his collection of private guns that he had set aside over the years, reflected his dominance in that market. An extremely rare iron framed Henry SN 90, believed to be, for condition, one of the top 5 or 6 known, carried a presale estimate of $100,000-200,000 and went out at $161,000. Tommy’s extremely rare Nimschke factory engraved Colt SAA was a prime example of his taste. Carrying a presale estimate of $75,000-125,000, it blew through that estimate to $129,650. Tommy had a great interest in historical items particularly those associated with Texas Rangers and early Southwestern law officers. A very rare nickel plated Colt Sheriff’s model to the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Company in Bisbee, Arizona carried a presale estimate of $50,000-100,000 and realized $80,500.

The second day began the Bill Gerber Collection billed by Julia’s as a collection of impeccable Colts. Mr. Gerber, a long-time collector from Memphis, Tennessee, has always had discerning taste in what he collected and his collection reflected this. Many of these guns were just breathtaking for condition and in some cases of great rarity. An extraordinarily rare presentation double cased set including an 1860 Army and an 1861 Navy had been presented to General William A. Thornton by Col. Colt. Thornton was in command of ordinance for many years and eventually became a Brigadier General. These Colts in an original Colt casing and outstanding condition carried a presale estimate of $200,000-300,000 and finally realized $224,250. A very rare cased Patterson #2 Belt Model in an original case with accessories carried a presale estimate of $150,000-250,000 and it realized $166,750. His extremely fine cased First Model Colt Dragoon realized $63,250.

Immediately after the conclusion of the phenomenal Gerber Collection was the Norm Flayderman Collection. Norm Flayderman’s name is unquestionably one of the most iconic names in the firearms industry during the 20th century. Norm was a third generation antiques dealer in the Flayderman family, a great patriot serving in three branches of the military service, a renowned scholar, author, and dealer extraordinaire, but one of the most esteemed and lasting tributes that Norm Flayderman established was his reputation for the honorable way in which he conducted himself. One of his first major successes was the acquisition of the Medicus Sword collection. In the 1950s, the Medicus collection was considered the most important collection of its type in existence. The asking price at that time was $20,000 and was more than what any established dealer would consider, all except for the young upstart, Norm Flayderman. Shortly after purchasing it, a special article appeared in Life magazine with a unique photograph of Norm standing amongst a sea of early swords. Over the years to come, Norm marketed the swords, first selling the less valuable ones and saving the choice treasures until much later in the future when the prices would be enormously high. This was a business practice that Norm frequently followed with great success. Norm later distinguished himself through his special catalog business which he started in 1954 and continued to produce up to 1998 (118 consecutive editions), at which time, he switched over to the internet. One other monumental icon of Norm’s name and business was Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms and Their Values which had come to be known as the bible in the industry and the most respected and most used gun pricing guides today. The Flayderman Antiques & Military Company is continuing and will continue on into the future, now being run by Norm’s surviving wife, Ruth, his daughter, Judy, his son, John, together with his long-time assistant, Tory. The majority of the items offered in this sale were special items from Norm’s private collection. The first lot was a rare engraved Volcanic #1 with wonderful original silver plate carrying a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000; it was subject to a heated bidding battle which finally grossed out at $58,650. His early Civilian Colt Second Model Dragoon carried a presale estimate of $50,000-60,000; it too was competed for heatedly all the way up to $77,650. Almost every lot of the Flayderman Collection had multiple players both from the phone and from the audience. A rare cased engraved 1849 Pocket Revolver was a gem which carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000 but went out at $55,200. Many of the guns in Norm’s offering were high condition and some of them were historic. The large framed Belmont-Adams percussion dragoon carried an inscription to the founder of the Pony Express who later became the Confederate purchasing agent, Major Benjamin Franklin Ficklin. The gun carried a presale estimate of $8,000-12,000 but as a result of great competition, realized $36,800. An important note is that Julia’s will also be selling another segment of Norm’s collection in the major Fine Art, Asian, & Antiques auction in August. This portion of the Flayderman collection will be rare Civil War posters, some of which were extremely rare polychrome examples.

Also offered in this auction was the second session of the Michael Leff Collection. The late Michael Leff of Florida was a successful business developer who had a great passion for fine Colts. His collection of Colts, mostly cased and the majority of which were engraved, included a rare cased engraved two gun set including an 1849 Pocket and an 1851 Navy. The pair carried a presale estimate of $40,000-65,000 and went out at $51,750.

Another collection which distinguished itself in the world of firearms collectors is that of Dr. Douglas Sirkin of Buffalo, New York. For years Dr. Sirkin quietly and privately amassed an extraordinary collection of firearms ranging from superb 17th century European high art wheel locks to beautiful raise carved Kentucky rifles. The collection had been amassed through his personal friend and advisor, Dr. Dick Zeschke. As such, until the first session of his collection came on the market in October, almost no one in the firearms world knew about Dr. Sirkin and his collection. One of the rarities of the Sirkin Collection was a Martial Colt Walker C-Company #136. It carried a presale estimate of $75,000-150,000 and went out at $80,500. Dr. Sirkin’s Collection also included a large number of beautiful Kentucky rifles. An outstanding and profusely relief carved York County rifle by Michael Edwards, “the World’s Oldest Living Fireman” carried a presale estimate of $35,000-55,000 and it went out at $47,000. An interesting historical lot was a pair of important silver and gold inlaid American Flintlock Dueling Pistols by James Haslett of Baltimore. These were made for and given to Gerome Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon Bonaparte. They were a gift of his then wife, Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte of Maryland. Gerome married the famous and lovely Elizabeth from Maryland and later they ventured to France to meet his famous brother, Napoleon. Napoleon was enraged, he had intended for his brother to marry into one of the European royal families and refused to allow Gerome admittance back into France until he rid himself from the “American hussy.” Gerome later abandoned his American wife, remarried and became King of Westphalia. The pistols carried a presale estimate of $25,000-50,000 and went out at $40,250. Another highly competed for niche in Dr. Sirkin’s vast collection was his selection of high art European wheel lock firearms. A superb pair of Saxon Elector Guard Wheel Lock Puffers dating to around 1590 and formally having come from the Bremner Hogg Jackson Collection carried a presale estimate of $40,000-60,000. They realized $60,375. Yet another pair of Dresden Wheel Lock Holster Pistols (Puffers) also dating to around 1590 had elaborately inlaid ball butts and were estimated at $20,000-30,000. They ultimately realized $60,000. Dr. Sirkin’s Collection also included some wonderful European arms. His fine rare pair of long late 17th century English flintlock holster pistols by Humphrey Pickfatt dated to around 1690 and carried a presale estimate of $10,000-15,000. They realized an impressive $34,500. Another interesting early item was Dr. Sirkin’s Hall breech loading flintlock pistol. Although these are extremely rare, Julia’s featured one in their last auction from the Sujansky Collection but held this one from the Sirkin Collection back for this auction so as to not “flood” the market. This example carried a presale estimate of $10,000-15,000 and realized an impressive $40,250.

The second day also featured the notable Kentucky rifle and pistol collection of Mr. Frank Sujansky. Mr. Sujansky had accumulated an outstanding offering of Kentucky rifles, but even more notable was his collection of Kentucky pistols. Upon seeing the entire collection spread out on tables for the first time, Julia’s longtime Kentucky rifle specialist, Ron Gabel, former President of the KRA, a lifetime collector, author, and dealer in Kentucky arms exclaimed, “This is the greatest number of Kentucky pistols that I have previously seen in my entire lifetime.” The Sujansky Collection included what is considered the best or one of the best relief carved John Armstrong Kentucky rifles known. This example was in flint and carried a presale estimate of $90,000-150,000 and went out at $97,750. Armstrong’s rifles are outstanding for their beautiful raised carved ornamentation and silver inlays which included a small eagle plaque in the stock. The stocks themselves were also beautifully relief carved. Amongst the plethora of exquisite Kentucky pistols from the Sujansky Collection was an exceedingly rare and desirable Buck’s County relief carved Flintlock by Andrew Verner which realized $46,000. An outstanding and rare John Armstrong Kentucky pistol believed to be the only signed John Armstrong pistol in existence had early on been discovered by Joe Kindig, Jr. and underwent expert restoration. The presale estimate was $40,000-70,000 and it sold for just over $40,000. A spectacular pair of Lehigh County pistols with tiger maple stocks made by Thomas Grubb was estimated at $25,000-35,000 and realized $29,000.

In the second session was the collection of the late Charles Anthony Lamb. The collection which featured early martial pistols included a Revolutionary War British Dragoon pistol from the 17th Light Dragoons estimated at $7,500-12,000, this rare Revolutionary War weapon jumped to $19,550. Also a very fine cased pair of Clark double barrel flintlock pistols was estimated at $12,500-22,500 and saw tremendous bidding, ending up at $32,200.

The third session of the auction started with Session 2 of the world renowned collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess of Zurich, Switzerland. Dr. Sturgess’ Collection is the finest collection of auto loading weapons currently in private hands. The first session of his magnificent collection that was offered in October did extremely well, as did his second session. The important DWM 04 Navy Troop Trials Prototype Luger SN 51 carried a presale estimate of $50,000-100,000 but shot to $138,000. His spectacular and important cased platinum plated ivory gripped and engraved presentation Krieghoff P.08 Luger was estimated at $50,000-100,000 and after strong competitive action, changed hands at $86,250. Also included in the collection was a great number of interesting experimental weapons. One such example was the super rare M1896 Silverman-Maxim Prototype pistol designed by the inventor of the first successful machine gun, Sir Hiram Maxim. The piece itself was extraordinarily rare and interesting, but of particular interest for the Julia firm because Sir Hiram Maxim actually was born and raised in a small Maine community an hour north of the auction facilities. The Maxim pistol carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000 and realized $37,375.

Another prominent and renowned collection in session 3 was that of the late Robert H. Haskell III. Mr. Haskell was an avid collector, but in particular he collected rare German and Austrian helmets from the late 19th and 20th century. His collection was one of the best of its type to ever come to auction in North America and generated tremendous pre-auction interest and enthusiasm from buyers both here and abroad. Every lot saw strong competition but probably the most competed one was the Mecklenberg-Schwerin Grand Duchy General Agitant helmet from around 1895. This beautiful helmet, estimated at $4,000-6,000 saw tremendous competition and finally topped out at $25,300. Another very desirable helmet was that of the Bavarian Artillery General Officers Model 1913-1916 helmet. This one was estimated at $3,000-5,000 and generated a $15,500 return.

The tenth distinguished collection also offered in this third session was that of the late John Houchins. Mr. Houchins was a scholar, author and avid collector of L.C. Smith shotguns and published the book, “L.C. Smith, the Legend Lives”; a comprehensive treatise on L.C. Smith and their history. Mr. Houchins’ exceptionally fine A-3 L.C. Smith 12 ga. carried a presale estimate of $65,000-85,000 and flew through the high estimate to $109,000. His high condition early monogrammed L.C. Smith 12 ga. carried a presale estimate of $27,500-47,500 and topped out at $34,500. In addition to the extraordinary collections was a vast array of rare, high condition items and/or historical items from various estates and collections all over North America.

Class III is also a special category for the Julia firm. For a matter of years now, they have been the dominant seller of Class III weapons in North America selling more Class III than any other auction firm and generally for very impressive results. This sale was no exception. A superb Colt Thompson 1921/28 Navy over stamped with FBI case in 45 cal. carried a presale estimate of $30,000-40,000 but saw a great deal of bidding competition and topped out at $60,375. An M-60 machine gun by Rock Island Armory (fully transferable) was estimated at $25,000-35,000 and climbed to $39,000 before selling.

A historical paper group for the start of Operation Torch dated November 1942 included a map and communications which came recently from a family of Marine Corporal, James Richie. This pertained to the invasion of North Africa whose forces were led by Rear Admiral Hewitt and none other than the famous Major General George S. Patton. Included was a map of the landing site and a Naval Telegram message from General Eisenhower to Major General Patton with instructions to commence. The telegram reads only, “Play. Ball.” The grouping was estimated at $5,000-15,000 and went out at $8,600. An extraordinary rare first contract, first pistol Colt Model 1900 US Army Semi-auto pistol given to Col. James Boyd by General Lucius Clay in early 1945 carried a presale estimate of $25,000-50,000 but collectors from all over North America fiercely competed for the lot and it went out at $88,500.

For the advanced aficionado, this sale certainly did not disappoint the shotgun crowd. The first sporting arm up for bid was an exquisite 28 ga. Boss single trigger ejector sidelock O/U game gun in near mint condition. Estimated at $100,000-200,000, it topped out at $207,000. The very next gun, a Sublime 28 ga. Boss Sidelock Ejector single trigger side by side gun, also nearly new and from the same family as the first and also estimated at $100,000-200,000 went out at $136,000. A unique gold encrusted 16 ga. L.C. Smith Deluxe Grade side by side, one of only a couple ever made, this one in excellent condition, carried a presale estimate of $150,000-250,000 and sold for $207,000.

Smiths and Bosses weren’t the only ones to bring a lot of money in this sale. A beautiful Parker A-1 special Trapgun with ventilated rib and beavertail forearm was estimated at $32,500-62,500. It topped out at just over $100,000. An exceptionally fine AH Fox DE Grade 12 ga. estimated at $25,000-35,000 and realized approximately $49,000. In addition to all the fine Winchesters from the Tommy Rholes estate was an exceedingly rare John Ulrich engraved and gold inlaid Winchester Model 1910 semi-automatic. This beautiful gun estimated at $60,000-120,000 brought $75,000. A historic Colt SA Army that had come from the battle of Little Big Horn and at one time belonged to Chief Two Moons (the very Indian whose bust appears on the US 5 cent piece) realized $95,000. Another historic item, a Colt Model 1860 revolver identified to Private Joseph M. Hawkins of Company D, Custer’s 7th Michigan Cavalry who was present at Gettysburg carried a presale estimate of $20,000-25,000 and went out strong at $46,000.

Another area Julia’s excels at is their offerings of Civil War items. A rare EJ Johnston Confederate foot officer’s sword identified to a Captain Munson carried a presale estimate of $25,000-35,000 and realized $33,000. A fine Leech & Rigdon Confederate revolver captured by a Union Naval Officer and in outstanding condition was estimated for $40,000-60,000. Also from the Norm Flayderman collection, it brought $42,500.

All in all, the sale was a tremendous success. An extraordinary number of high valued guns were sold but the most important factor was that there was a major amount of interest in the auction for each of the special niches that was offered both from in-house bidders as well as online and telephone bidders. One thing that continues to ring true today is that with quality goods that are estimated conservatively and realistically and properly handled, there are plenty of buyers with plenty of enthusiasm; so the gun world is very alive and healthy.

As a final note, Fairfield, Maine in March and October did not only have the James D. Julia auction event but Jim’s sister and her husband have a major firearms auction house located 50 yards away. They tend to specialize in the moderate valued shooter and collector guns and their sale is always the three days preceding the Julia’s sale. This March, their sale grossed $2.5 million.

For more details, visit Julia’s website at www.jamesdjulia.com or contact Julia’s at 207-453-7125. The next major firearms auction will be in October of 2014. They have a number of important collections already scheduled for this sale with others coming in. Julia’s also deals in Fine Arts, Asian & Antiques and they are now accepting consignments for their next sale in August. Julia’s also has a rare Lamp & Glass Division and an Antique Advertising, Toy & Doll Division which are also accepting consignments for their auctions that both take place in June.

Image	Description
	One of the finest relief carved John Armstrong Kentuckys known (est. $90,000-150,000) Sold for $97,750 (Sujansky Coll)
	Unique Gold L.C. Smith “De Luxe” 16ga (est. $150,000-250,000) Sold for $207,000
	Superb pair of Saxon Elector Guard Puffers (est. $40,000-60,000) Sold for $60,375 (Sirkin Coll)
	Extremely rare 1st Contract first pistol shipped Colt M1900 US Army auto to Col. James Boyd by Gen. Lucius Clay. (est. $25,000-50,000) Sold for $88,550
	Near New, Extraordinary 28ga Boss (est. $100,000-200,000) Sold for $207,000
	Fine and rare Parker A-1 Special Trap 12ga (est. $32,500-62,500) Sold for $100,500
	Rare Mecklenburg-Schwerin Grand Duchey Gen. Officer Helmet ca. 1895 (est. $4,000-6,000) Sold for $25,300 (Haskell Coll)
	Outstanding Iron Frame Henry (est. $100,000-200,000) Sold for $161,000 (Rholes Coll)
	Rare, extra fine engraved Colt SAA (est. $75,000-125,000) Sold for $129,650 (Rholes Coll)
	Near New L.C. Smith A-3 12ga (est. $65,000-85,000) Sold for $110,000 (Houchins Coll)
	Extremely rare presentation double cased Colts to Gen. W.A. Thornton by Col. Colt (est. $200,000-300,000) Sold for $224,250 (Gerber Coll)
	Extremely fine Civilian Colt 2nd Mod Dragoon (est. $50,000-60,000) Sold for $77,625 (Flayderman Coll)
	Superb Colt Thompson 21/28 Navy overstamp (est. $30,000-40,000) Sold for $59,800
	Extraordinary 1904 Luger Navy Trials Prototype (est. $50,000-100,000) Sold for $138,000 (Sturgess Coll)
	A healthy crowd was in attendance as Jim Julia worked the block on the record setting $19 million auction
	Jim Julia, together with his CEO, Mark Ford, worked from the podium. Mark Ford, who had just graduated from auction school a few weeks earlier, also spent considerable time auctioning throughout the sale.