Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, August 27, 2023  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, August 27, 2023  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
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Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com
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Pg : 1 of 27

Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 Lever Action Pistol

Lot # 3000 (Sale Order: 1 of 654)      

Scarce and Desirable Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 Lever Action Pistol

One of approximately 1,200 No. 1 pistols that were manufactured by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Norwich, Connecticut, in 1854 and 1855. They are historically significant pieces for both Smith & Wesson and Winchester collectors. The barrel has "CAST-STEEL" (upper right), "SMITH & WESSON/NORWICH CT" (top) and "PATENT/FEB. 14. 1854." (upper left). Factory floral and scroll engraving is featured on the frame, side plates, and hammer. The left side of the butt has "A55," and some of the small parts and both grip panels are stamped with the last two digits of the serial number ("55"). The lever has a spur on the bottom.

Class: Antique

Fine with crisp markings and engraving, 50% original blue on the left side of the frame , 30% original blue on the right side, 40% of the original finish on the barrel, 40% original case colors remain on the hammer, and the balance of the pistol has mottled gray and brown patina. The grips are fine and have half of the original varnish, light dings and scratches, and minor handling wear. The follower spring is short, and the action occasionally binds up open; otherwise, the pistol functions fine.

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New Haven Arms Company Lever Action No.1 Pocket Pistol

Lot # 3001 (Sale Order: 2 of 654)      

Fine New Haven Arms Company Lever Action No.1 Pocket Pistol

New Haven Arms Company manufactured an estimated 850 No. 1 Lever Action Pocket Pistols between 1857 and 1860. The pistol has a blued barrel. The bolt, cartridge elevator, trigger, loading lever and rear sight are fire-blue. The hammer is color casehardened. The two-piece, flat base, walnut grips have a high gloss varnish finish and are numbered to the gun. The pistol has the distinctive .31 caliber octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, brass receiver and loading lever with finger hole. The barrel has a round muzzle, rounded T-bar spring, pinched blade front sight and scalloped brass magazine follower. The receiver has semi-circular cut-outs on both ends of the ejection port and a dovetail mounted rear sight. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the New Haven Arms Company markings: "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854" in one line. The serial number is stamped on the left side of the butt beneath the grip.

Class: Antique

Fine with attractive aged patina on the crisp original frame, 20% original blue finish, mottled gray and brown patina on the balance, and minor age and storage related wear. The grips are very fine and have mild lower edge wear, nearly all of the original varnish, and a few light scratches. Mechanically fine.

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Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 .38-70 WCF Rifle

Lot # 3002 (Sale Order: 3 of 654)      

Documented Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 Lever Action Rifle in Very Scarce .38-70 WCF with Factory Letter

This deluxe Model 1886 rifle is chambered in rare .38-70 WCF and was manufactured in 1900. The Winchester Arms Collector Association forum and John Madl's CFM Winchester Model 1886 Carbine record searches identified approximately half of one percent (nearly 850 guns) only, out of the 160,000 Model 1886s manufactured, were produced in .38-70 WCF caliber. Though this survey analyzed carbines, the relative rarity of the caliber also applies to rifles. The included factory letter confirms the octagon barrel in .38-70 caliber, plain trigger, and checkered pistol grip stock. The letter also states the rifle was received in the warehouse on September 14, 1900, and shipped the next day. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight. The top barrel flat has the two-line Winchester New Haven address marking ahead of the rear sight and "38-70 WCF" at the breech. The upper tang has "-MODEL 1886-". The lower tang has the serial number and the patent dates marking. The deluxe XX walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature "H" style checkering. The pistol grip has a Winchester hard rubber cap, and the buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is marked "625 XX". The assembly number "625" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very good plus. The barrel and magazine retain 30% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The bolt retains 60% original blue finish. Traces of original niter blue remain on the loading gate. The frame retains traces of muted original case colors with some stronger original colors on the lower tang. The hammer and lever retain 20% original case colors. The wood is fine with minor dings and scratches and some wear in the overall well-defined checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in .45-60 WCF

Lot # 3003 (Sale Order: 4 of 654)      

Very Fine Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle Chambered in .45-60 W.C.F.

This is an exceptionally nice high condition Winchester Model 1876 lever action rifle that was manufactured in 1882. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped in two lines: "WINCHESTER'S- REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860.", with the breech end roll marked: "CAL. 45-60" ahead of the receiver. The upper receiver tang has the final, third style "MODEL 1876" marking with foliate letters. The bottom of the brass cartridge elevator is inscribed "45-60". The serial number is stamped on the lower receiver tang behind the loading lever latch. The receiver has the integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The barrel is fitted with the original factory half nickel silver blade front sight, and the "1876" marked adjustable folding leaf rear sight, marked: "2-10" (200-1000 yards). The stock is fitted with the original steel buttplate with a sliding brass trap door. These rifles have a rust blued finish on the barrel, magazine tube, receiver and side plates and a casehardened hammer, loading lever, forearm cap and crescent steel buttplate. The loading gate is niter blue. The walnut stock and forearm are varnished.

Class: Antique

Very fine with 70% plus of the original blue finish overall with minor fading of the blue on top of the barrel and the side and underside of the receiver. The loading lever, hammer, trigger and buttplate all retain 10% of their original case colors overall. The buttstock and forend both retain more than half of the original factory varnish overall mixed with some minor handling marks and scratches. Mechanically excellent. This is very nice, early, high end condition Winchester 1876 lever action rifle.

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Winchester Deluxe Style Model 86 Takedown Rifle

Lot # 3004 (Sale Order: 5 of 654)      

Attractive Winchester Deluxe Lightweight Style Model 86 Lever Action Takedown Rifle

This Winchester Model 86 lever action rifle was manufactured in 1920 and subsequently upgraded to deluxe configuration most likely by the factory. The rifle is fitted with Lyman sights consisting of a gold bead front and a No. 6 two leaf folding rear. The left side of the barrel has the two-line Winchester legend, the two-line nickel steel marking, and "33 W.C.F." A single Winchester factory oval proof appears on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech. The upper tang has the three-line model/trade mark information. The lower tang has the serial number and two-line patent date marking. Import marked on underside of barrel. The forearm and straight grip stock are replacement 3x select grade walnut and feature factory "H" type checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a Winchester recoil pad. The left side of the lower tang is stamped "149 XXX," and the assembly number "149" is repeated on the stock inlet. Includes the original plain walnut straight grip stock marked with the assembly number "149" (matches assembly number on lower tang) and forearm which features a silver inlaid letter "S" on the underside.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very fine, retaining 98% original blue finish on the receiver and barrel with slight thinning on the lever. The loading gate retains 50% original niter blue. The refinished buttstock is very fine with added recoil pad. The forend is excellent with very limited handling marks and nearly all of the finish remaining. The original stock and forearm are also excellent with minimal handling marks. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: The Wayne Connor Collection

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Winchester Model 1892 Trapper's Style Carbine with Bayonet

Lot # 3005 (Sale Order: 6 of 654)      

Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Trapper's Style Carbine Fitted with Unique "WRA" Marked Bayonet

Manufactured in the 1920s and subsequently modified, with standard markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. The left side of the modified barrel is marked with the two-line model, caliber, and trademark. The upper tang has the three-line model and trademark information and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. It is fitted with a Marble pinned beaded blade front sight, folding ladder rear sight, and a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. It is fitted with a unique bayonet that is secured to the period shortened barrel and magazine with two barrel bands on either side of the front sight and is marked "WRA", "23", and numbered "884" to match the gun. The drop point blade of the bayonet is 7 1/4 inches long and is unsharpened, having the appearances of an unknown prototype test fitment. Winchester carbines fitted with a bayonet are known to have been used in the period by big game hunters. Also included is a Cody Firearms records office request that states no records are available for this carbine.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine, retains most of the period refinished blue with some scattered light pitting visible beneath the finish and some light muzzle wear and light wear from the bayonet bands. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor handling marks throughout. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet shows a cold blue/artificial grey patina and crisp markings.

Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection

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Factory Full Nickel Winchester Model 1873 Rifle

Lot # 3006 (Sale Order: 7 of 654)      

Exceptional Documented Special Order Factory Full Nickel Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

Known simply as “The Gun that Won the West,” the Winchester Model 1873 Rifle stands as an icon of American firepower on the open frontier that still resonates with modern collectors. High condition examples are always in demand, especially those with special order features such as this example. Offered here is an exceptionally fine, documented factory full nickel Winchester Model 1873 Rifle. The accompanying factory letter confirms the round barrel in .22 caliber and plain trigger. The letter also confirms the rifle was received in the warehouse on August 25, 1887 and shipped on August 26, 1887. Although a return date is not listed, the letter lists a second shipping date of November 30, 1887 and it was at this time that the finish is noted as "full nickel." Winchester expert and author George Madis pointed out that “one of each 600 guns had plating; either full or part coverage.” Extra cost was one factor that lead to limited qualities of Model 1873 with special order features. As listed in the Winchester 1875 catalog, optional finishes outside the standard highly polished bright blue such as gold, nickel or silver set the customer back an additional $5 to $100. These features were generally considered too costly and unnecessary for the average customer looking for a reliable "working man's gun." The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation buckhorn rear sight. The receiver is a third model with integral dust cover guide rail and dust cover with serrated finger grip rear edges. The top of the barrel has the two-line New Haven address/King’s Improvement patent dates legend ahead of the rear sight and “22 SHORT" at the breech. The caliber designation is repeated on the cartridge elevator: “22 CAL./SHORT.” The lower tang carries the serial number. The straight grip stock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retaining 90% plus of the original factory nickel plating with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The wood is very fine with a number of dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. This factory full nickel small bore Winchester Model 1873 rifle is certainly a rarity in lever action collecting and will be a standout piece in any collection no matter how advanced.

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Merwin Hulbert & Co. Open Top Pocket Army SA Revolver

Lot # 3007 (Sale Order: 8 of 654)      

Merwin Hulbert & Co. Open Top Pocket Army Single Action Revolver with Pearl Steerhead Grips

Manufactured in the mid to late 1870s with the wedge near the muzzle, open top frame, "scooped" cylinder flutes, and the bird's head butt. The serial number is on the right side of the butt ahead of the lanyard hole. The barrel has a rounded blade front sight and the two-line Hopkins & Allen address and patent marking on the left. The frame has "MERWIN, HULBERT & CO. N.Y./POCKET ARMY" on the left and "CALIBRE/WINCHESTER 1873" on the right. Matching assembly numbers are on the cylinder and barrel. Carved steerhead on the right grip panel.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retaining 85% plus original nickel finish with some scattered oxidation/pitting. Cylinder drag line present with some flaking of the nickel finish in areas. The grips are fine with a hairline crack visible forward of relief carved head and a few scattered scratches. Mechanically excellent.

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Winchester Model 1894 Saddle Ring Trapper's Carbine

Lot # 3008 (Sale Order: 9 of 654)      

Documented Highly Desirable ATF Exempted Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Saddle Ring Trapper's Carbine with 15 Inch Barrel and Letter

Manufactured in 1923 with standard markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. These guns were incredibly popular working guns and are generally found showing signs of significant use, but remain highly desirable in almost any condition, with this example being well above average. It is fitted with pinned beaded blade front and three-leaf rear sights. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate. "T-B" is lightly carved in the left of the buttstock, which may be the initials of a previous owner who kept this carbine as a trusted companion. This carbine is listed by serial number by the BATFE as exempt from the National Firearms Act and classified as a "curio or relic" in the "Curios or Relics List" along with a copy of an ATF letter dated 1992 listing the carbine by serial number and stating that it has been removed from the purview of the NFA. Also included is a letter from Lloyd Barden (1931-2018), a prominent gun collector from New York, who appears to have been a previous owner of the carbine.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine, retains 50% of the original blue finish, primarily on the barrel and magazine, with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and a few scattered patches of light pitting, typical of these handy carbines that were worked hard. There is a series of punch dot marks on the left of the receiver. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings and scratches, showing the rough and tumble nature of its everyday life. Mechanically excellent. A fine original example of a Model 1894 trapper's carbine with the desirable 15 inch barrel!

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Whitney-Kennedy Rifle with Special Order Double Set Triggers

Lot # 3009 (Sale Order: 10 of 654)      

Whitney-Kennedy Lever Action Rifle with Scarce Special Order Double Set Triggers

Manufactured 1880-1886 and features special order double set triggers and the early production S-shaped lever. The survey data reported in "Lever Action Magazine Rifles Derived from the Patents of Andrew Burgess" by Maxwell shows that double set triggers on these rifles is a very scarce feature, all special order Whitney-Kennedy rifles are rare. Unlike Winchester, Sharps, and other rifle makers, Whitney actually discouraged special orders. The rifle has a beaded blade front sight (bead absent), elevation adjustable notch rear sight, and standard barrel and patent markings. The lever is numbered to match the rifle.

Class: Antique

Very good, retains 30% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to a mottle brown-grey patina and a few scattered patches of light pitting. The wood is also fine with scattered minor handling marks throughout, mild wear on the forearm, and retaining most of the varnish on the buttstock. Mechanically excellent, set trigger mechanically fine.

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Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3010 (Sale Order: 11 of 654)      

Winchester Model 1876 Lever Action Rifle

The Winchester Model 1876 was designed and manufactured specifically with those in mind on the western frontier who desired more firepower than .44-40 could offer. These "big bore" Winchesters truly had the stopping power to handle just about anything thrown at them on the frontier. Manufactured 1886 as a Third Model with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The top barrel flat has the two-line address and King's patent marking in front of the rear sight and the caliber marking at the breech. The caliber marking is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Class: Antique

Very good, retains traces of the original blue finish with the balance mostly a mottled grey-brown patina, and the replacement magazine showing mostly a rough brown patina, all the telltale signs of a rugged western frontier firearm. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor handling marks, really showing the look of a trusted companion. Mechanically excellent.

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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3011 (Sale Order: 12 of 654)      

Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

The Model 1873 was incredibly popular in the American West due to their rapid firepower and their rugged dependability. That popularity continued well into the 20th century with ranchers, and this example being chambered in .38 W.C.F. would have been the perfect pairing with a Colt Single Action Army revolver in the same caliber. Manufactured in 1904 with Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. The top barrel flat has the two-line address/King's patent marking. The caliber marking is on the upper barrel flat at the breech and repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The three-line model and trademark information is on the upper tang and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with German silver blade front and elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sights. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate containing an included four-piece cleaning rod.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine, retains 40% plus of the original blue finish, strong traces of the original case colors, and 50% of the original niter blue on the loading gate with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina, having the look of a well maintained frontier arm. The wood is very good with a lightly sanded and revarnished patch on the bottom of the forearm and some minor handling marks scattered throughout. Mechanically excellent.

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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot # 3012 (Sale Order: 13 of 654)      

Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Manufactured in 1921-1928, this carbine was made at a time when firepower in a compact package was still a prized attribute in the American West. Because of their utilitarian nature, they are often found in a condition that shows the work they were subjected to. It has standard markings, including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. Fitted with pinned blade front and folding ladder rear sights, as well as a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine, retains 50% plus of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina speckled with some brown on the receiver, a telltale sign of a working gun. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings, scuffs, and scratches, typical of a gun that saw many years of use. Mechanically excellent.

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Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3013 (Sale Order: 14 of 654)      

Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1922, these Single Action Army revolvers remained extremely popular well into the 20th century in the American west among ranchers and cowboys, who valued the trusted revolvers rugged dependability and firepower. The standard one-line address is marked on top of the barrel and the caliber marking is on the left. The left of the frame is marked with the standard two-line patent dates followed by the Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the frame and the right side of both the trigger guard and back strap, as well has hand marked inside both grips. The assembly number "400" is marked inside the loading gate. It is fitted with blade and groove sights and a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Fine, retains 70% plus of the original blue finish and 30% of the vibrant original case colors with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and a series of hammering type dings on the butt. The grips are very good with a reglued crack visible and a minor chip absent from the butt of the right panel and a few scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The revolver has the look of a well-cared for working gun that may have spent many years holstered on the hip of a western rancher or cowboy!

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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Short Rifle

Lot # 3014 (Sale Order: 15 of 654)      

Rare Documented Special Order Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Short Rifle with Factory Letter

Twenty inch barrel Model 1873 short rifles are a rare variation. Winchester expert and author George Madis noted that these short rifles "were most popular in the Southwest along the Mexican border and have usually seen long and hard use. They are often called 'Border Models' by collectors" ("The Winchester Book," page 162). As a "working mans gun" the Model 1873 short rifle is difficult to find in any condition, and nearly impossible to find in excellent condition. The extremely high condition of this Model 1873 short rifle makes it a true rarity in Winchester collecting and worthy of the finest collection. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 20 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber and set trigger. The factory letter also states the serial number was applied on April 8, 1891 and the rifle was received in the warehouse on July 28, 1891, and shipped the same day on order number 7896. The third model receiver is fitted with a set trigger, an upper tang marked "MODEL 1873", and a lower tang marked with the serial number. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight and is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address/King's patent dates legend ahead of the rear sight and ".38 CAL." at the breech. "38 CAL" is repeated on the brass cartridge elevator. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the forend cap and buttstock (They are not mentioned in the factory letter, though writer believes them to be correct). Mounted with nicely figured rifle forearm and straight grip stock. The stock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate. A four piece cleaning rod is included.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retaining 95% plus bright original polish blue finish other than the magazine tube which has faded to an attractive plum hue. 85% original niter blue remains on the loading gate. The hammer retains 95% plus original case colors, and the lever retains 70% original case colors. Slight patterns of case colors remain on the buttplate. The wood is also excellent with some minor handling marks and most of the original finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. A superb example of a rare Winchester Model 1873 short rifle that will be difficult to improve upon. A must have for the serious Winchester collector!

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Volcanic Repeating Arms Company Lever Action Navy Pistol

Lot # 3015 (Sale Order: 16 of 654)      

Outstanding Volcanic Repeating Arms Company Lever Action Navy Pistol

This high condition, highly attractive, highly sought after Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. Navy pistol features an eight inch barrel with "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEW HAVEN CONN FEB, 1854" stamped on the top flat. The Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. manufactured only an estimated 1,500 Navy pistols with 8 inch barrels between 1855 and 1857. The pistol has an integral ten shot magazine, a brass receiver, and the distinctive loading lever with finger hole. The receiver has a dovetail mounted notch rear sight and a semi-circular cut-out at the front of the ejection port. The matching serial number is located on the right side of the loading lever, right side of the butt beneath the grip, and stamped on the inside of both grip panels. The Volcanic lever action firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine of these pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle, and Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company and the Model 1866, 1873, and 1876 rifles. The Volcanic repeaters were mainly hampered by their underpowered and often problematic ammunition. After these New Haven pistols, lever action designs focused on rifles and carbines. Volcanic lever action firearms are highly popular among today's collectors, especially high condition examples like this one that are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Class: Antique

Excellent. The barrel and magazine retain 95% plus original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The brass has a highly attractive mellow appearance. The frame has tight fitting sideplates. 60% original nitre blue remains on the lever. 90% original case colors remain on the hammer. The grips are also excellent with minor handling marks, minimal high edge wear and nearly all of the finish remaining. Mechanically fine. An outstanding Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. Navy Pistol that will be hard to improve upon.

Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection

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Factory Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1891 Rifle

Lot # 3016 (Sale Order: 17 of 654)      

Rare Documented Special Order Factory Panel Scene Engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 1891 Lever Action Rifle with Inscription and Factory Letter as Photographed in William Brophy's "Marlin Firearms" Book

This first year production deluxe Model 1891 is a highly sought after rarity in Marlin collecting. Only a few early factory engraved Model 1891s are known to exist. It is indicative of Marlin's fine artistry towards the end of the 19th century. Manufactured in 1891, this rifle was built when renowned Master Engraver Conrad Ulrich was engraving most of the work for Marlin. Ulrich started with Marlin circa 1881 and was with the company until circa 1910. The Marlin patterns, including the engraving on this short rifle, were designed by Ulrich who was influenced by the 19th century masters L.D. Nimschke and Gustave Young. Conrad Ulrich spent a lifetime embellishing some of the finest high art firearms of the late 19th century to early 20th century. The rifle is pictured and identified in William Brophy's "Marlin Firearms" on page 179 where the "full octagon barrel, pistol grip and checkered deluxe stock, standard magazine, steel rifle butt plate, special order engraving, and No. B checkering" are called out. The engraved motif on the casehardened receiver matches Marlin's No. 3 pattern as illustrated in Brophy's "Marlin Firearms" on page 531. The engraving consists of extensive scrollwork and scroll borders along with finely detailed game scene vignettes. The left side of the receiver features two whitetail bucks in an oval panel, and the right side features a whitetail buck in a circular panel. The breech of the barrel has flourishes of scrollwork. Additional scrollwork is featured on the forend cap. The rifle is fitted with a Lyman beaded blade front sight, a fixed notched rear sight, and a folding tang peep sight. The top barrel flat has the standard two-line Marlin legend ahead of the rear sight and the inscription "W.L. Pierce. N.Y." near the breech. "MARLIN SAFETY" is marked on top of the receiver. The highly figured walnut forearm and pistol grip stock feature multi-point checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 24 inch barrel in .22 caliber as well as stating the rifle was shipped on September 16, 1891. Although the high end finishes are not confirmed by the factory letter, the engraving and deluxe checkered pistol grip stock are definitely factory. Marlin records are notoriously incomplete. As noted Marlin expert William Brophy explained, "Unfortunately, the few remaining factory records do not, with any regularity, indicate if the gun was factory engraved or not."

Class: Antique

Very fine. The barrel and magazine retain 95% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The receiver retains 60% original case colors. The hammer and lever retain 40% original case colors. Patterns of original case colors remain on the buttplate and forend cap. The wood is also very fine with minor dings and scratches, most of the original varnish remaining, and a few blemishes in the overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. An attractive example of a scarce factory engraved Marlin Model 1891 rifle as documented in William Brophy's "Marlin Firearms."

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Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle

Lot # 3017 (Sale Order: 18 of 654)      

Very Attractive Marlin Deluxe Model 1881 Lever Action Rifle with Factory Letter

The accompanying factory letter confirms this exceptional Marlin Model 1881's 28 inch barrel in .40-60 caliber and the pistol grip stock as well as that this rifle was shipped on August 13, 1890. High end finishes were rarely noted in the Marlin factory records. The deluxe stock on this rifle is factory original. The Marlin Model 1881 was meant as a "working man's gun," and Marlin customers were generally not inclined to spend extra money on deluxe features, so very few Model 1881s left the factory with special order features, making examples like this one especially desirable. The Model 1881 was the first lever action introduced by Marlin, and only 20,535 were manufactured between 1881 and 1903 compared to 63,871 of the Winchester Model 1876 it competed with. The Marlin was the stronger gun and could chamber the popular .45-70 Govt. cartridge, and it found buyers in the American West as is clearly shown in advertisements in the Dakotas, Montana, and elsewhere in the 1880s. This rifle is fitted with a combination Beach front sight, an elevation adjustable rear sight, and a tang mounted mid-range Vernier peep sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "40 CAL" at the breech. The nicely figured walnut forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered. The stock is fitted with a steel shotgun buttplate.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine with 80% original blue finish remaining and a very attractive smooth brown patina on the balance. There is some isolated minor pitting on and around the bolt and on the barrel towards the front sight. The magazine tube has some tiny dents visible near the center with some cold blue touch up visible. The attractive wood is very fine with some minor handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. We rarely get the opportunity to offer high end, Deluxe Marlin Model 1881 rifles. Few special order Model 1881s were made, and most of the surviving rifles show significant signs of use making this high condition rifle especially desirable.

Provenance: The Tom Selleck Collection

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Rare Factory Cutaway Bullard Large Frame Sporting Rifle

Lot # 3018 (Sale Order: 19 of 654)      

Extremely Rare Documented One-of-a-Kind Factory Cutaway Bullard Lever Action Large Frame Sporting Rifle

This is a rare and desirable factory cutaway Bullard rifle, that is the only large frame rifle identified as a factory cutaway in G. Scott Jamieson's study "Bullard Arms" (see page 231). Traditionally, factory cutaways were manufactured to demonstrate the mechanism of the action and serve as both an educational tool and as a salesman's sample. Many cutaways were used in exhibitions. This one of a kind cutaway rifle of James Herbert Bullard's design work clearly shows the rack and pinion mechanism, very different in concept from the lever action designs of the period. Both sides of the action are skeletonized with webbing between the screws, thus showing the complete inner workings of the action. The action does cycle. The barrel is fitted with a blade front sight and a ladder rear sight graduated from 2 to 12. The top of the chamber is marked "CAL/45." The left side of the receiver has the two-line address/patent information. The serial number is marked behind the hammer. Nickel plated with casehardened lever and breechblock, and blue dust cover and cartridge elevator. Mounted with a highly figured smooth walnut forearm and pistol grip stock fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Excellent. The rifle retains 98% original nickel finish showing high edge wear on the buttplate and a few areas of minor flaking. The dust cover and cartridge elevator have a mottled brown patina with traces of original blue remaining. The lever and breechblock retain 40% original case colors. The wood is also excellent with some minor pressure dents and scratches. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: The Ivan B. Hart Collection; The Robert M. Lee Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Peabody-Martini "Kill Deer" Rifle Presented to Harvey S. Faucett

Lot # 3019 (Sale Order: 20 of 654)      

Incredibly Historic Providence Tool Co. Peabody-Martini "Kill Deer" Rifle Presentation Inscribed to Frontier Scout and Lawman Harvey S. Faucett from Zechariah Chafee

The origin story of this fascinating historical rifle from its recipient's own writing reads like something from a classic Wild West novel: two experienced frontier scouts, Henry "Ranger Hank" Wormwood and Harvey "Arapahoe Harve" S. Faucett, guide a pair of Eastern intellectuals, Professor Henry Newton and his young assistant "the college kid" Zechariah "Zack" Chafee, in the Black Hills in 1877 during a time of Native American raids following the Great Sioux War. The professor searches for gold and studies the geology of the region with the help of the kid who is also drawn to hunting and fishing. The scouts rescue the kid after he gets lost hunting deer and then together fight off a voracious pack of wolves that surrounded their camp eying the fresh venison. Soon, the professor gets sick and dies in the legendary frontier town of Deadwood, Dakota Territory. Heartbroken at the loss of their companion, the three remaining men agree to travel together with the professor's body some 300 miles in order to get his body to the railroad at Sidney, Nebraska. They are armed to the teeth with revolvers and Winchester lever action rifles. Comically, the kid's sidearm is a .22 revolver, presumably a Smith & Wesson No. 1. They watch for Native American raiders as they make their way east through the inhospitable Badlands towards Nebraska. Again they are faced with a wolf pack, but they withhold their fire to avoid announcing their situation to other hostiles that might be on the prowl. After 8 days of travel, they reach the safety of Sydney and see the kid and the professor's remains off to complete their journey to New York by train.Ranger Hank and Arapahoe Harve set off back to the West to continue their rugged lives on the plains and later both become respected lawmen. Arapahoe Harve soon receives a letter from the kid, Chafee, asking if they wish to have anything to remember the professor by. They ask for only his photograph if possible but instead are sent two beautiful Providence Tool Co. Peabody-Martini rifles inscribed to them from Chafee. Arapahoe Harve keeps his rifle for his remaining years and continues to correspond with the Chafee who goes on to be a successful businessman in the East. Decades later during World War I, Arapahoe Harve, now an old man, writes to his old friend and requests a replacement peep for his trusty rifle's rear sight in case he needs to use it to do his part should the Germans come. Both rifles exist today and remain incredible artifacts from the West connected to this exciting tale. Arapahoe Harve's is now available at auction. It is accompanied by an extraordinary amount of documentation and information related to Harvey S. Faucett and his exciting life in the American West.The rifle itself is a scarce example of a "Kill Deer" variant of Providence Tool Co. Peabody-Martini rifle. These innovative rifles were only manufactured from c. 1875 into the 1880s. Like the famous "Killdeer" Pennsylvania longrifle of Hawkeye in James Fenimore Cooper's "The Last of the Mohicans," these rifles were specially designed for hunting. They featured either 28 or 30 inch part octagon barrels chambered in the popular frontier cartridge .45-70 Government, the same cartridge as the Springfield trapdoors, and have "Kill Deer" inscribed on the right side along with simple scroll and border designs and "PEABODY & MARTINI PATENTS." The barrel has a combination blade and folding globe front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight (sliding aperture absent, more on that below), and "MANUFACTURED BY THE PROVIDENCE TOOL CO. PROVIDENCE R.I. U.S.A." on top ahead of the rear sight. The bottom of the barrel at the breech is marked "280." The serial number is also marked on the inside of the forend and on the frame under the lever. It has a straight stock with a smooth shotgun buttplate. The left side of the frame of this rifle has the historical inscription "H.S. Faucett/From Z. Chafee for Services/1877" surrounded by light scroll patterns.The rifle is discussed in several of the included primary source documents. For example, the story discussed above written by Faucett noted that after returning to Deadwood, "We each received a Peabody Martini rifle with one hundred cartridges of 45 calibre and seventy grains of powder for the guns. The rifles were expressed from Providence R.I. A present from Mr. Zack Chafee, Jr. and were suitably engraved. My rifle bore the following inscription: H.S. Faucett for services, 1877. From Z. Chafee. Jr. Providence. R.I. The engraving on Mr. Wormwood's rifle was similar. This rifle I still have and hold i
more... Provenance: The Faucett Family Collection; The Michael Simens Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

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Henry S. Faucett Gold Leadville City Marshal Presentation Badge

Lot # 3020 (Sale Order: 21 of 654)      

Extraordinary Historic Western Scout, Frontier Guide, and Lawman Henry S. Faucett’s Leadville, Colorado, City Marshal Presentation Solid Gold and Diamond Badge with Case and Documentation

This stunning shield shaped badge has an eagle with a “COLORADO” marked banner in its mouth on top and “HARVEY S. FAUCETT/CITY MARSHAL/LEADVILLE COLO” on the shield. All but the last line are highlighted with black enamel. The five pointed star at the center has a five smaller diamonds and one lager diamond in the center. The back of the shield is inscribed “PRESENTED by/THE LEADVILLE/Police Force/AND MANY CITIZENS/July 11TH 1884.” The badge measures 2 7/8 inches tall by 2 3/16 inches wide and weighs over 2 ounces. It is mounted in a wooden frame and comes with a jeweler case/box marked “E.A. POLLEY/Jeweler/Seward, Nebr.” The badge’s presentation is recorded in the Leadville Daily Herald on July 12, 1884, which reads: “BADGE PRESENTATION Harvey S. Faucett Presented with a Handsome Badge by the Police Force. Last night at 12 o’clock, when the police changed shifts, there was quite a little surprise sprung on City Marshal Faucett by the boys. Officer Ledford made a few introductory remarks, in which he referred to the high esteem in which the police force held their chief, and then asked him to accept a slight token of their high regard, at the same time presenting him with a handsome gold badge. The marshal was taken completely by surprise, but he managed to thank the donors for the beautiful present, and acknowledging in his modest way his appreciation of the esteem which was evidenced by the elegant badge, of which the following is a description: It consists of a shield mounted by an eagle. In the center is a star containing six diamonds. On the face of the shield are the words, ‘Harvey S. Faucet, City Marshal, Leadville.’ On the transverse side are the words, ‘Presented by the Leadville police force and many citizens July 11, 1884.’ The cost of the badge was $100. It is certainly a very beautiful present, and Marshal Faucett’s appreciation of the regard that prompted the presentation of so handsome a testimonial is only exceeded by his worth as an officer. After he recovered from the surprise he sent out for beer and cigars and ‘set’em up’ for the boys.”The badge is accompanied by a binder of research and provenance information. Two included letters from collector John J. Connors to Greg Lampe in 2010 accompany the badge. The first states that the badge is “completely hand made solid gold” from four gold pieces. The shield and star are listed as red gold while the raised shield edge and eagle are yellow gold. Connors indicates the badge has “original mine cut diamonds, black enamel, and pinstem and catch.” In the second letter to Lampe, Connors notes that the badge was left to Harvey S. Faucett’s daughter Edith along with “documents, guns, badges, photographs, diaries, and more.” He indicates she gave her son Charles the inscribed Peabody-Martini “Kill Deer” rifle, from the previous lot, along with some other items and the badge to Laurence Sanford Faucett Murdock from whom Connors purchased the badge in 1973.The document file also includes a copy of Faucett’s business card as City Marshal, newspaper articles about his work as a lawman, photographs of Faucett and Leadville, and more. Also included is a framed photograph of Faucet as Leadville City Marshal and a photograph of his Leadville detective badge. A copy of a letter from the Faucett on Leadville City Marshal’s Office letterhead to Zechariah Chafee on March 29th, 1885, indicates that Faucett was urged to not seek re-appointment as city marshal because his wife was worried he would get killed in the line of duty, and he noted that he had not realized the dangers of the job while he was a single man, but that as a husband and father he now was concerned about what would happen to his family if something should happen to him. He was considering selling his mining interests and becoming a cattle rancher.As discussed in the description for Faucett’s Peabody-Martini rifle, Harvey Sanford Faucett had a very exciting life in the West and had many pursuits during his lifetime. He was a teamster, Indian fighter, U.S. Army scout, frontier guide, and lawman in the West. He came to Leadville, Colorado, in 1879 in search of silver and joined the Colorado State Militia and became a lieutenant and then captain in Company F of the 3rd Colorado Volunteers. He was confirmed as a special policemen for upper Main Street in Leadville on November 21, 1879, thus marking the beginning of his career as a lawman. The following year he became a regular policeman.
more... Provenance: Leadville City Marshal Harvey S. Faucett; Edith Wiggers (nee Faucett); Laurence Sanford Murdock; The John Connors Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

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Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Trapper's Carbine

Lot # 3021 (Sale Order: 22 of 654)      

Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Trapper's Carbine with ATF Exempted 15 Inch Barrel with Factory Letter and ATF Letter

Manufactured in 1891 as a Third Model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The Model 1873 is one of the most iconic firearms of the American frontier, and this example would have been one of the most desirable configurations for those seeking mobile firepower in the Wild West. The included 1979 dated ATF letter lists the carbine as exempted from the NFA and classified as an antique. The included factory letter with this carbine confirms that it was originally manufactured with the desirable 15 inch barrel and in .32 caliber, as well as being special ordered with a nickel finish. It also lists receipt at the warehouse on 24 April 1891, and shipment on 16 May 1891. It is fitted with a brass blade front sight and two-leaf rear sight, as well as a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate. This carbine is consecutively serialized to Lot 1070, which has the same configuration.

Class: Antique

Good, generally showing a well-used and extensively weathered dark grey patina overall with some scattered light pitting, a common sight on frontier working guns. The wood is also good with a split in the bottom front in the forearm and all the scattered minor scars of a trusted companion in the Wild West. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Brandhorst Collection

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Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine

Lot # 3022 (Sale Order: 23 of 654)      

Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine in .44 W.C.F.

A carbine such as this would have been ideal for an early 20th century cattleman to pair with a Colt Frontier Six Shooter, allowing him to carry only one type of ammunition. This Model 1892 was manufactured in 1919 with standard markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. Fitted with pinned blade front and folding ladder rear sights, as well as a saddle ring on the left of the receiver and a sling swivel eye on the barrel band. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine, retains 50% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and a few scattered patches of extremely light surface pitting, as is often the case with a western working gun. The refinished wood is very good with some scattered minor handling marks, concentrated heavier on the forearm, likely from spending time in a saddle scabbard. Mechanically excellent.

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Colt Black Powder Frame Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3023 (Sale Order: 24 of 654)      

Antique Colt Black Powder Frame Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Carved Steer-Head Grip

This attractive, early Colt Single Action Army revolver was manufactured in 1876, the third year of production. These early Single Action Army's forged the foundations of the legendary reputation of these revolvers that has made them almost synonymous with the American western frontier and earned them the nickname "The Peacemaker". It features a blade front sight, with "COLT'S PT/F A.MFG.CO.HARTFORD.CT.U.S.A." on top of the barrel, a "bullseye" ejector head, "PAT.SEP.19.1871/PAT.JULY.2.1872" on the left side of the frame, "45 CAL" on the left shoulder of the trigger guard, assembly number "4908" on the loading gate, and matching serial numbers on the cylinder (last four), frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. The right grip panel has an endearing raised relief carved longhorn steerhead with its horns resting in the firer's palm. Cattle ranching was becoming a big business along the Great Plains in last quarter of the 19th century, as was cattle rustling and conflict over land, including violent range wars such as the Pecos War that broke out the same year this revolver was made.

Class: Antique

Very fine as period retailer plated. The barrel and ejector housing retain 95% of its finish. The frame retains 90% finish. Cylinder retains 70% finish. Grip strap retains 30% finish. The hammer has traces of its case finish. The balance displays smooth brown patina. Aside from the serial number at the toe, the markings are crisp. The grip is fine, has distinct carving, moderate handling wear, age cracks, a chip at the toe, and has attractive grain with aged patina. Mechanically excellent. This early "black powder frame" Single Action Army is a fine representative example of a well-preserved artifact of the American West that is easy to imagine in the hand of frontier gunslinger. It was manufactured the same year as the murder of Wild Bill Hickok, the Northfield Raid by the James-Younger Gang, the Battle of the Rosebud and the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn while the West was still very much a dangerous and wild place.

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Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3024 (Sale Order: 25 of 654)      

Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

This classic western revolver was manufactured in 1899 near the turn of the century. A Single Action Army like this would have paired very nicely with a Winchester Model 1873 in the same caliber, allowing the late 19th century rancher or cowboy to carry only one type of ammunition for both his revolver and rifle. The top of the barrel has the standard one-line address, and the caliber marking is on the left. The left of the frame is marked with the two-line patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the assembly number "19" is marked inside the loading gate. It is fitted with blade and groove sights and a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very good with a "frontier used" appearance, strong traces of the original blue and case colors in sheltered areas with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina and a few scattered patches of light pitting. The grips are good with some moderate wear and a few scattered light handling marks. While this revolver has faded finish from decades of use, it remains mechanically excellent demonstrating why the Colt Single Action Army was the sidearm of choice for so many in the American West: they are rugged and dependable and could last for generations.

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