Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Friday, May 17, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
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Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 1

Friday, May 17, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
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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 : 6 of 27

First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 127 (Sale Order: 126 of 664)      

Historic, Rare and Well Documented .45 ACP First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver Shipped to and Carried by U.S. Marine Corps General Joseph Berry with Case, and Factory Letter

This very fine example of the legendary Peacemaker is chambered in the iconic .45 LC caliber as well as accompanied with an extremely rare factory shipped .45 ACP cylinder. The revolver is made even rarer and more desirable by being shipped to and carried by a U.S. Marine Corps general. It is rare to encounter SAAs shipped to an individual. The included factory letter confirms the configuration: 4 ¾ inch barrel in .45 caliber and blue finish with the type of stocks not listed. The extra cylinder is referenced in the “remarks” notation: “Records indicate one extra cylinder for .45 Auto Cartridge. Work was processed on Colt Factory Order 11749/1.” The letter also confirms the revolver was shipped to J.H. Berry of Portland, Oregon, on April 15, 1932. This was a single gun shipment. Joseph H. Berry was born in Los Angeles, California and attended the University of Arizona and Oregon State University. In 1929 he graduated with a degree in mining engineering, and in the early 1950s he received a master’s degree in education from OSU. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in the USMC in 1929, was awarded the Bronze Star for valor while serving on Iwo Jima during World War II, and retired in 1954 as a brigadier general. From 1951 to 1954 he was a professor of naval science at OSU, and went on to serve in administrative roles at OSU until he retired in 1967. He died in 1981. In his accompanying 1980 dated letter, General Berry provided additional information related to his military service and the SAA he carried: “As I recall it the Colt and the extra cylinder cost me less than $30. My base pay as a 2nd lieutenant was $125 per month so you know that $30 was a sizable amount…In April ’31, I was assigned directly from the states into the Guardia Nacional de Nicaragua. During my stay there I carried the Colt whenever I was dressed and slept with it when I wasn’t. After that tour of duty my need for this type of weapon changed as I became an aviator briefly (5 years) then a staff officer and instructor in various schools. I served two years as an Aide to the Commandant of the Marine Corps and two years as the Secretary to the Commandant of the Marine Corps (two different men Holcomb and Gates) and got into World War II as a staff officer on the Fourth Marine Division staff for the Iwo Jima operation. For that I was awarded a medal which upon retirement permitted me to be promoted one grade to brigadier general on the retired list.” This SAA was carried by General Berry when he was a 2nd lieutenant stationed in Nicaragua. United States occupation of Nicaragua lasted from 1912 to 1933 and was part of American intervention into Latin American countries during the Banana Wars. U.S. Marines arrived in the country in 1927 in the middle of a civil war that threatened American interests. Their mission was to train a native security force, the Guardia Nacional, so that the organization would one day be able to police their own country without American boots on the ground. During this little known period of American military history, nearly 4,000 Marines were in the country at the height of U.S. involvement in 1928 and 136 Marines died in the six year campaign in Nicaragua. As confirmed in the factory letter the extra cylinder chambers in the .45 ACP, a round used by the U.S. Military for the Model 1911 and 1911A1 semi-automatic pistols. Based on research presented by author David Brown in "The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," Colt manufactured only 44 First Generation Single Action Army revolvers in .45 ACP. This chambering was first made available after World War I in 1924 on a special order basis. Per Brown, "Almost all made after 1924 were shipped to men in some branch of the Armed Forces. They could get all of the .45 Auto ammo they wanted but part of them wanted to shoot the Colt Single Action Army instead of Colt Automatic so they would order the Colt SAA made up in the .45 ACP." In his letter General Berry confirmed Brown’s assessment: “Since .45 automatic ammunition was readily available for issue and use for practice it seemed advisable to get a spare cylinder in which it could be used. I retained the original to use the heavier ammunition when needed.” We have previously sold only a limited number of .45 ACP First Generation revolvers. The barrel has the two-line address on top and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45” on the left side. The left side of the frame carries the two-line patent dates marking and a Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard has the number “3" and the Colt factory triangle proof
more... Provenance: U.S. Marine Corps General Joseph Berry

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U.S. Colt Model 1902 Philippine DA Revolver

Lot # 128 (Sale Order: 127 of 664)      

Exceptional U.S. Colt Model 1902 Philippine Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

This is an outstanding example of a desirable U.S. Colt Model 1902 manufactured in 1902. In 1902 the Ordnance department purchased 4,600 Model 1902 revolvers in the serial number range of 43,401 to 48,097 with this revolver falling at the very beginning of that range. The revolver has the distinctive oversized trigger and trigger guard that are characteristic of the Model 1902 Revolvers. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address, "45 COLT" on the left side and the circled Rampant Colt on the lower left rear of the frame. The upper left front of the trigger guard and the left rear of the frame is marked with the inspectors initials "R.A.C.". The complete serial number "043/412" is marked the toe of the butt and the partial serial number "3412" is marked on the loading gate. There is a "K" marked on the bottom of the barrel directly ahead of the frame. Blue finish with niter blue trigger and hammer with polished sides, blade front and frame notch rear sights, and fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top and lanyard loop on the butt. The accompanying factory letter verifies the caliber, barrel length, blue finish, rubber grips and that is was shipped in a shipment of 550 to the Commanding Officer at Springfield Armory on April 9, 1902.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent. The revolver retains 98% original high polish blue finish showing some mild muzzle wear and some minor thinning on the grip straps. Overall there are a few minor scratches. Most of the original bright niter blue finish remains on the trigger, fading on the face and the hammer retains 98% original bright niter blue finish. The grips are also excellent with a couple of minor bruises in the otherwise crisp checkering. The markings remain sharp. Mechanically excellent. This is certainly one of the finest examples we have ever sold!

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Colt Model 1877 Thunderer DA Revolver with Six Inch Barrel

Lot # 129 (Sale Order: 128 of 664)      

Excellent Documented Manila Philippines Shipped Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Double Action Revolver with Very Scarce Six Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1902. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 inch barrel in .41 caliber and shipped to E. G. Shields, Insular Purchasing Agent, Manila, Philippine Islands. Marked: ES Manila c/o J. H. Threw, New York in February 10, 1902. It was 1 of 350 guns in the shipment. This revolver has the standard two-line address on the top of the barrel and the caliber designation on the left. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line/three-patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt, with a "bulls eye" ejector rod head, large half moon blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame, niter blue trigger and hammer (polished sides), and is fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the tops and "808" on the undersides. The matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and back strap, and the assembly number "112" is on the loading gate.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent. The revolver retains 98% of the bright original blue, niter blue, and vivid case colors with some light edge wear, a few scratches, and a small patch of pitting at the bottom of the left recoil shield. The grips are also excellent with crisp checkering and only light handling/storage marks. Mechanically excellent with clear markings.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 130 (Sale Order: 129 of 664)      

Documented London Shipped Army and Navy C.S.L. Cased Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1896, this is a fine example of a London shipped Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army revolver that was retailed by Army and Navy C.S.L. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, grips not listed, as well as shipment to Colt's London Agency on 23 March 1896. The Army and Navy organization began as a cooperative in 1871, providing a variety of goods to British military officers and their families, before evolving into an expansive chain of department stores in the late 19th and early 20th century. The top of the barrel has the standard one-line address while the Frontier Six Shooter marking is on the left. The left of the frame is marked with the two-line patent dates and the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, while the loading gate has the assembly number "121". There are British proofs on the bottom of the barrel and on the cylinder. It is fitted with blade front and frame top groove rear sights, as well as a lanyard stud and ring on the butt, which was likely added by the retailer, and a pair of smooth antique ivory grips. Includes an oak presentation case with Army and Navy C.S.L interior label and an empty Winchester .44-40 W.C.F. cartridge box.

Class: Antique

Fine, retains 50% of the original blue finish and 30% of the original case colors in sheltered areas with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina and some scattered light dings. The period replacement grips are very good with some scattered hairline age cracks and minimal light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is good with mild handling/storage wear. The cartridge box is very fine with minimal wear.

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Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 131 (Sale Order: 130 of 664)      

Acid Etched Panel Black Powder Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

The .44-40 WCF SAA has found a special place in the hearts of Peacemaker collectors. When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 WCF SAA was intended to be used in conjunction with the another legendary Western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 Rifle, which used the same cartridge. "The .44-40 WCF was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped on March 11, 1880, to Hartley & Graham of New York City with blue finish and .44-40 caliber chambering. The barrel length and type of stocks are not listed, a common indication of standard 7 1/2 inch barrel and walnut stocks. This shipment was for 30 guns. The frame is from a surplus U.S. government contract as the U.S. sub-inspector initials "DFC" for David F. Clark are stamped on the underside along with the letter "C." The left side of the barrel has the highly desirable "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an acid etched panel. In 1889, this highly desirable acid etched panel was replaced with a roll stamped marking. The barrel has the correct "44" caliber designation stamped in small font on the underside. The top of the barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CF." Matching full or partial serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, replacement cylinder (professionally renumbered to match), and barrel.

Class: Antique

Very good, displaying a well traveled appearance with 20% original blue finish remaining in and around the sheltered areas. The etched panel is legible. The grips are good and show similar "working gun" character with a repair on the left side. Action functions, although needs work as hammer has only three clicks.

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Tooled Mexican Loop Single Action Holster Rig

Lot # 132 (Sale Order: 131 of 664)      

Very Attractive Tooled Mexican Loop Single Action Army Revolver Holster Rig with Cartridge/Money Belt

This very attractive Mexican loop style holster bears no maker's marks but was very clearly made for a discerning customer. It has a large oval skirt and a single diamond shaped loop capturing the body. Both the skirt and the body bear extensive, well-executed tooling including patterned borders and small daisy stamps on the body and on the loop, which also has some small brass tack decoration along the edges. It is configured for a right handed shooter and will accommodate a Single Action Army revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel. It is paired with a similarly colored cartridge belt with one row of .44/.45 size cartridge loops and a nickeled buckle with billet marked "G/1375". There is a money pocket located on the end near the buckle. The belt is 3 inches wide and measures approximately 39 1/2 inches long including the billet.

Class: Other

Very fine, the holster showing some mild wear, a few patches of light age related cracking, and a small hole near one of the daisy stamps. The belt is also very fine with some mild wear on the billet but otherwise minimal wear. The stitching on both items remains tight throughout. A unique Single Action Army holster rig with decorations that set it apart!

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First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 133 (Sale Order: 132 of 664)      

First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Original Box

.32-20 WCF was a very popular caliber in the first generation SAA line. As author Dan Brown put it, "The .32-20 WCF cartridge had good range and accuracy. It is very easy to shoot, as it does not make the revolver buck as the larger calibers do. It also was used as a companion to the Winchester rifle of the .32-20 WCF caliber" ("The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," page 190). This .32-20 WCF Peacemaker was manufactured in 1914. The barrel has the one-line Colt Hartford address on top and "32 W.C.F." on the left side. The frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. Matching assembly number "503" is on the rear of the frame and loading gate. The matching serial number appears on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and both grip panels. The factory box is numbered to the gun and features a correct factory end label confirming configuration (7 1/2 inch barrel in .32-20 caliber, blue finish, hard rubber stocks).

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Fine, displaying the authentic and attractive rustic appearance of a Peacemaker that has spent a lifetime of service in a challenging environment with 60% original blue finish and 50% original case colors remaining. The grips are also fine with some handling marks and some softened checkering. The box very good with separation on the corners of lid. Mechanically excellent. This is a Colt SAA that has a story to tell!

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Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Double Action Revolver

Lot # 134 (Sale Order: 133 of 664)      

Excellent Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Double Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1893. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line Hartford address and the left side is marked "COLT. D.A. 41". The left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The revolver features a 6" barrel with a "bulls eye" headed ejector rod, blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame, and niter blue trigger and hammer (polished sides) and fitted with two piece checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the tops. Matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard and backstrap with the assembly number "6" marked on the loading gate. An included factory letter states the record was evidently lost or destroyed.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 80% bright original high polished blue finish with the exception of a smooth brown patina patch on the left side and patina on the right forward portion. The cylinder, trigger guard and backstrap retain 90% original high polished finish with edge wear on the cylinder, a smooth brown patina on the trigger guard bow and thinning and flaking on the grip straps with areas of smooth gray patina. The back and sides of the trigger and the hammer retain most of the original bright niter blue finish, The frame shows 85% original bright vivid case colors with the balance faded to a smooth gray. The grips are also very fine with only light handling marks and crisp checkering. The markings are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent.

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Colt First Generation Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 135 (Sale Order: 134 of 664)      

Documented Salt Lake City, Utah Shipped Colt First Generation Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

The Colt Bisley model was only manufactured in 1894-1912. For many, the Bisley feels better in the hand and cocks and fires easier thanks to its lower and wider hammer and the wider trigger making them excellent sidearms for serious marksmen, especially those with a lever action rifle in the same caliber. This classic example was manufactured in 1908 and is chambered in .32-20 W.C.F., a cartridge known for its accuracy. It has a factory replacement one-line Hartford address on top of the barrel and "(BISLEY MODEL)" and the caliber marking on the left. The left of the frame is marked with the two-line patent dates and circled Rampant Colt. "989B" assembly number is marked on three locations on the grip frame under the grip panels and "989B" is repeated on the rear of the cylinder and barrel under the ejector rod housing. Matching serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the assembly number "1790" is on the inside of the loading gate. The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped on March 27, 1908 to Strevell-Patersen Hardware Co. of Salt Lake City, Utah, with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .32-20 caliber and blue finish. This was a single gun shipment.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very fine, retaining 97% factory refurbished blue finish with traces of a cylinder drag line, scattered high edge wear, and thinning on the backstrap. The frame retains 95% plus case colors. The grips are also very fine with softened checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Colt Sheriff's Model 1877 Lightning Revolver

Lot # 136 (Sale Order: 135 of 664)      

Outstanding Documented Colt Sheriff's Model 1877 Lightning Ejectorless Double Action Revolver with Desirable 2 1/2 Inch Barrel and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1901, this is an outstanding example of a Colt Sheriff's Model 1877 Lightning revolver. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address, while the caliber marking is on the left. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. It features the rare and desirable, Sheriff's Model length 2 1/2 inch barrel and is not fitted with an ejector. It is fitted with blade front and frame top groove rear sights, as well as a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed), as well as the desirable 2 1/2 inch barrel, as well as shipment to Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company in St. Louis on 17 July 1901, a first stop for many Colt revolvers that were headed farther west to the frontier.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent, retains 85% plus of the original blue finish, 90% plus of the vibrant original case colors, and 98% of the bright original nitre blue with brown patina visible on the right side of the barrel and some light turn marks on the cylinder. The grips are also excellent with a few scattered light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Flying Dutchman Attributed Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 137 (Sale Order: 136 of 664)      

Historic Black Powder Colt Acid Etched Panel Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter Attributed to Outlaw Henry "The Flying Dutchman" Wagner with Factory Letter and Additional Documentation

The 1965 dated factory letter lists the revolver in .44-40 with a 7 1/2 inch barrel, nickel finish, and rubber grips when part of a shipment of six guns of this type sold and shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. in Chicago, Illinois, on February 6, 1885. The barrel has the elongated oval etched panel with "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" on the left side, a rounded blade front sight, the one-line address on top, and "44" on the bottom at the breech. The "black powder" style frame has the three-line patent marking on the left, and the loading gate has the assembly number "4260." The matching serial number is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The left side of the trigger guard has "44 C.F." The grips have the Rampant Colt emblem at the top and the eagle and shield motif at the bottom.Included information from Greg Lampe within his extensive research binder indicates this revolver was purchased by Robert Olson from the Wagner family in the 1940s or early 1950s and that it was known that the family owned the gun that outlaw Henry "The Flying Dutchman" Wagner had used in the latter part of his "career," and that the family indicated it was the revolver Wagner had used to kill a constable during a robbery attempt in Union Bay, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The murder weapon was noted as a "44 calibre, Colts Revolvers" in the trial and described as "a big heavy gun." This revolver is accompanied by a tremendous amount of research. Lampe noted: "This notebook contains the most thoroughly researched information on Henry Wagner ever done. It was possible due to the tireless efforts by two great historic researchers who spent several weeks going through archives and old newspapers." The researchers were Patricia J. Burns of Seattle, Washington, and Claudia Cole of Victoria, B.C., Canada. Also included are "Outlaws & Lawmen of Western Canada Volume Two," "The Friendly Port: A History of Union Bay 1880-1960" by Janette Glover-Giedt, and "The B.C. Outlaws" by F.W. Lindsay.Henry Wagner (1870-1913) was known by multiple names during his life of crime, including Henry Ferguson, H. Ferguson Sastro, Harry Hall, The Flying Dutchman, and Jack the Flying Dutchman. Wagner may have been part of the Wild Bunch Gang for a period and was suspected of involvement in the gang's train robbery at Wilcox, Wyoming, in 1899. In the Seattle area, he and his accomplices would use boats to quietly slip in at night and burglarize businesses and then slip back away. This reputation plus his slight German accent earned him the Flying Dutchman nickname. He was also known as a "waterfront pirate" for his methods. In 1900, he got into a gun battle on Camano Island with King County Sheriff Zimmerman and his deputies and burned his schooner and its load of stolen goods and made his escape but was identified by his accomplice Gilbert Hanson who was captured. The next year, the authorities raided the homes of Ed Nolan and Ed Haskins on Camano Island and found goods stolen from G.E. Webster's store on October 7th as well as Wagner's revolver and ammunition. Nolan was arrested, but Haskins escaped. Wagner was arrested and charged in a multitude of robberies. He admitted his guilt in the robberies and in smuggling $70,000 worth of opium. He was found guilty in the robberies and sentenced to fourteen years in the Washington State Prison at Walla Walla but was released in eight on good behavior.That good behavior did not last once he was a free man, and he quickly returned to a life of crime and used a new motor launch to raid business in Puget Sound. He repainted his boat and made other modifications regularly to avoid detection. One night, Wagner, John McDonald, Nels J. Jorgensen, and William Julian were robbing the post office in Langely on Whidby Island, and McDonald and Jorgensen were captured leading to wanted posters for Wagner's alias Henry Ferguson were put up. He and Julian moved across the border to Vancouver Island and continued to burglarize local businesses. On the night of March 4, 1913, around 1 a.m., Wagner and Julian targeted the Fraser & Bishop's Store adjoining the post office in Union Bay a third time. Constable McKenzie had hired Special Constables Gordon Ross and Harry Westaway to protect the local businesses. After spotting a light and then hearing a noise within the store, the constables snuck in to catch the crooks in the act. They found the two in the back, and attempted to rush them in the dark. Wagner fired two
more... Provenance: The Wagner Family; The Robert Olson Collection; Property of a Gentleman; The Robert Berryman Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

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Engraved Gold Plated Smith & Wesson 38 Safety Hammerless

Lot # 138 (Sale Order: 137 of 664)      

Historical Factory Engraved Gold Plated Smith & Wesson 38 Safety Hammerless Second Model Double Action Revolver with Pearl Grips and Documented Factory Letter To The World's Greatest Revolver Shooter Smith & Wesson Shooter Ira Paine

Manufactured 1887-1890, this Second Model Safety Hammerless is part of a Special Engraved Edition featuring Type 4 scroll and punch dot engraving on the barrel sides, cylinder flats and frame. The top of the barrel rib is marked with the two line address/patent dates, the matching serial number is marked on the butt and rear face of the cylinder. There is a "crown/GP" and "crown/V" proof mark on the left rear of the barrel and alternating in each cylinder flute. The revolver is finished in gold with a blue trigger guard and casehardened trigger, and fitted with smooth factory pearl grips. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, special engraved edition, caliber, 3 1/4" barrel, type 4 engraving, gold finish, pearl grips and that it was shipped to Ira Paine of Providence, R.I. on June 24, 1889. The letter also notes the Ira Paine was one of the world's greatest revolver shooters and shot for Smith & Wesson. Paine also competed in clay pigeon shoots. Ira Paine was born in 1841 in Providence, RI. He became a prominent minstrel after high school and joined a successful quartet, which gained a considerable reputation with Mr. Paine as its vibrant impresario. His large physique, quick wit, theatrical skills and booming voice made him very popular up and down the East Coast. As good as he was on stage, he was even better outside enjoying his other career as an exhibition shooter. He may have been the world's finest all around shot during his 25 years as a shooting entertainer. He was a deadly shot with a pistol, revolver, rifle or shotgun. Some of his most chronicled feats involved his public challenges with Captain Adam Bogartus, the legendary late 19th Century shotgun shooter. Although Paine lost most of the live pigeon shoots, it was never by more than two birds and whenever the two faced off the prize money was usually $1,000, a fortune at the time. With a dueling pistol he could regularly cut his business card in half from 30 feet when put on its edge. He also used rifles and shotguns with the same accuracy and dexterity. By America's 1876 Centennial he became so popular that he took his show to Europe where he entertained kings, czars, prime ministers and other famous people. The glass ball target was originally invented by Paine and were used as substitutes for the live pigeons during most of his shooting exhibitions from circa 1876 to 1886. Paine stuffed many of the glass targets with feathers and when squarely hit would blow feathers in a three foot diameter, which crowds never seemed to get enough of. Paine died in 1889 at the age of 48. No wives tales here. This S&W revolver is impeccably documented to the most famous 19th Century revolver shooter!

Class: Antique

Fine as period re-gilded. The revolver retains at least 90% of the gold finish with wear on the barrel, cylinder and high edges. The trigger guard retains much of the original bright blue finish with light spotting. The trigger retains most of the original bright case colors. The grips are excellent with some light scuffs and handling marks. The markings and engraving are clear and crisp. The mechanics are excellent.

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Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Large Frame Double Action Revolver

Lot # 139 (Sale Order: 138 of 664)      

Excellent Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Large Frame Double Action Revolver

Offered here is a variation (fourth model) of Merwin, Hulbert & Co.'s large frame double action revolver manufactured exclusively by Hopkins & Allen in the 1880s with conventional fluted cylinder, bird's head butt with lanyard loop hole, and integral front sight. The frame is marked "CALIBRE/WINCHESTER 1873", the designation for 44-40 caliber, on the left side and "MERWIN, HULBERT & CO. N.Y./POCKET ARMY" on the right side. The serial number is found on the butt, and the matching assembly number "435" is found on the rear cylinder face, barrel lug, left side of the grip frame and right grip panel.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retaining 97% plus original nickel finish showing sporadic flaking on the edges and minor handling evidence. 80% of the vivid original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are also excellent showing some minor handing evidence and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.

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Factory Engraved Merwin Hulbert & Co. Pocket Army Revolver

Lot # 140 (Sale Order: 139 of 664)      

Factory Panel Scene Engraved Merwin Hulbert & Co. Pocket Army Single Action Revolver

Manufactured circa 1876 into the 1880s, this Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Pocket Army single action revolver features a round barrel, fluted cylinder and bird's head butt. The revolver is profusely engraved with the distinctive Merwin, Hulbert & Co. style with a round panel on the left side of the frame which features a deer head. The left side of the frame under the cylinder is marked "CALIBRE/WINCHESTER" followed by "1873" and the right side of the frame is marked "MERWIN, HULBERT & CO. N.Y./POCKET ARMY". The left side of the barrel has the two-line Hopkins & Allen address/patent date marking. The barrel, frame sides, cylinder flats and top of the back strap feature a fine floral/floral vine and punch dot engraving. The left rear of the frame has a geometric design. A simple punch dot scroll pattern is engraved on the sliding loading gate. The serial number is stamped near the butt, the rear face of the cylinder, the back of the barrel lug and the cylinder pin have the assembly number "3880". Nickel finish with casehardened hammer, trigger guard and trigger.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The revolver retains 85% plus original nickel finish with some scattered minor flaking, high edge and back strap wear. The trigger guard has a smooth mottled gray patina with some strong original case colors in protected areas. The grips are good with some moderate/heavy wear on the left panel, a few minor dings and crisp checkering on the right panel. The markings and engraving are crisp and clear. The action is fine.

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Colt Flattop Target Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 141 (Sale Order: 140 of 664)      

Outstanding, Historic, Documented Albert Foster Jr. Colt New York Office Shipped Antique Black Powder Frame Colt Flattop Target Model Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter Photographed in "The Wm. M. Locke Collection" by Sellers

Manufactured in 1895, this revolver was held in the factory warehouse for an extended amount of time before eventually being shipped in 1909. It is one of approximately only 925 Flattop Target Model Single Action Army revolvers produced. Only 122 of these rare and desirable standard frame, flattop revolvers were chambered in .38 Colt (see David Brown's "The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," page 170). The included factory letter confirms the Target Model configuration, the serial number, .38 Colt caliber, 7 1/2 inch barrel, blue finish, does not list the grips, and lists shipment to Albert Foster Jr. at the Colt's Patent Fire Arms Co. New York office on 4 November 1909 as a single gun shipment. Albert Foster Jr. became an executive at Colt around 1909, a position he held until the 1940s, amassing a large collection of firearms during the time. Interestingly, Foster may have acquired at least two other Single Action Army revolvers in this configuration, as we have previously cataloged serial number 162894, which was shipped to him on 9 February 1911 in a two gun shipment. On p. 121 "A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver" by Graham, Kopec, and Moore, they note that three other Flattop Target models in the 316700-317000 serial number range were shipped to Foster in 1911, who appears to have had a preference for the rare model. It is believed that even though many of these revolvers have an antique black powder frame, they were assembled when Foster ordered them in the early 1900s. When Foster died in the late 1940s, his collection of over 1,000 firearms was marketed and sold by James Severn through a Catalogue in 1948. It is believed that this revolver was acquired by the legendary collector, William M. Locke, at that time. This specific revolver is pictured and described on p. 175 of "The Wm. M Locke Collection" by Sellers. The revolver itself has the distinctive flat top strap with dovetail mounted target rear sight and block mounted front sight with adjustable nickel silver blade. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard one line address and "38 COLT." on the left. The left of the frame has the standard two-line patent marking followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The left of the trigger guard has the Colt verified proof and "W" assembly mark that is believed to indicate early 1900s assembly. Matching serial numbers are visible on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, with "28" assembly number marked inside the loading gate. It is fitted with a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retains 98% plus of the original high polish blue finish, 85% of the vibrant case colors on the hammer, and 90% plus of the original nitre blue on screws and the trigger, with some light edge wear and scattered handling marks. The grips are also excellent with only the slightest handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This is an extremely rare opportunity to add a Colt Flattop Target Model Single Action Army Revolver to your collection that is documented as having shipped to Colt executive Albert Foster Jr. and was part of the prestigious William M. Locke Collection!

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Revolver

Lot # 142 (Sale Order: 141 of 664)      

Outstanding Documented Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Revolver with Factory Letter

This outstanding Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Revolver was manufactured in 1908. The included factory letter confirms its configuration, and states it was a single gun shipment to Tufts-Lyon Arms Company, Los Angeles, California in October 12, 1908. The revolver has the distinctive Bisley 'humpback' grip, flat frame top with dove-tailed rear sight, solid base front sight with removable blade, low, wide hammer spur and wide trigger. The two-piece, hard rubber grips are checkered with the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval at the top. The revolver has a high polish, commercial blue finish on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and backstrap with casehardened hammer and niter blue trigger. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT.F.A.MFG.Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in one line. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "(BISLEY MODEL) 38 COLT." The Colt 'Three-dates in two lines" patent marks and the encircled Rampant Colt trademark are stamped on the left side of the frame. The serial number is located on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The assembly number "310" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The Colt "VP/Triangle" proof mark is stamped on the left front trigger guard bow and the assembler's "6" mark is stamped on the left rear bow. Approximately 976 Bisley Flattop Target Model Revolvers were manufactured by Colt between 1894 and 1912 when production of the Bisley Model revolvers was discontinued.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent plus with 98% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish. The hammer has 98% plus of the original case colors and the trigger and screws have nearly all of the fiery, niter blue finish. The revolver shows minimal use. All of the markings are crisp. The hard rubber grips are also excellent plus. This is an outstanding example of a rare Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model revolver in near new condition.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Buenos Aires Retailer Marked Engraved 10-Shot Pinfire Revolver

Lot # 143 (Sale Order: 142 of 664)      

Engraved Bonnerave & Chapon Buenos Aires Retailer Marked 10-Shot Double Action Pinfire Revolver

This c. 1860-1870 Lefaucheux type revolver has a triangular front sight, "BONNERAVE & CHAPON BUENOS AYRES" retailer mark along the top of the barrel, a "crown/G" on the right side at the breech, scroll engraving, conjoined "HD" on the front of the frame, "7" on the loading gate and back of the cylinder, Liege proofs on the latter, "DD" and "T" on the back of the frame under the checkered and floral carved walnut grips, and a lanyard ring on the butt. Bonnerave & Chapon appear in records for Buenos Aires in the mid-1860s as settling cutlery and arms shop at Florida 55, and J. Chapon is listed as having a haberdashery nearby at Florida 69.

Class: Antique

Fine with mostly silver-gray patina, some faint oxidation, crisp engraving and retailer marking, and minor overall wear. The grips are also fine and have distinct checkering and carving and minor handling and storage wear. Mechanically fine.

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Dumouthier Double Barrel Percussion Knife Pistol

Lot # 144 (Sale Order: 143 of 664)      

Dumouthier Double Barrel Percussion Knife Pistol with Scabbard

Manufactured around the mid-19th century. These distinctive knife pistols were manufactured in France by Joseph-Célestin Dumonthier, and "DUMOUTHIER" is marked on the left side above the barrel. Similar weapons were also manufactured in Norway and Sweden for postal workers. The 8 inch blade has fullers that both provide strength and prevent the bullets from striking the blade. The upper parts of the guard act as the hammers, and when they are pulled back, a single folding trigger descends from the front strap. The German silver scales have spiral patterns, and the weapon is accompanied by a scabbard with brass drag and German silver throat.

Class: Antique

Very good with mottled gray and brown patina, light pitting, aged patina on the German silver grips and scabbard mounts, split in one part of the throat piece, and mild overall wear. Mechanically fine.

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Cased Exhibition Grade French Lefaucheux Pinfire Revolver

Lot # 145 (Sale Order: 144 of 664)      

Very Fine Cased Exhibition Grade French Lefaucheux Folding Trigger Pinfire Revolver with Accessories

The Lefaucheux is elaborately etched in Gothic letters on top of the barrel "E. Lefaucheux Paris". The Lefaucheux patent marking is on the trigger, and the serial number is on the right side of the barrel. Most of the metal surfaces (which were possibly once silver plated) feature an acid etched floral engraving with a dot motif on the hammer, on the edges of the recoil shields and loading gate, on the barrel at the muzzle, on the butt and on the frame around the hammer and folding trigger. Raised bead front sight and ejector rod mounted on the right side. Fitted with smooth grips with a contoured butt. Complete with a wooden case lined in green velvet. The interior lining of the lid is marked "LEFAUCHEUX/A PARIS" in gold. Included in the case are a screwdriver, key, cleaning rod and oiler.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The metal surfaces have a smooth brown-gray patina with some scattered minor spotting. The grips are excellent with some minor scratches. Mechanically excellent. The case is very fine with some minor handling marks, some minor spotting on the varnish, and a long minor crack on the lid and the interior lining shows some minor contact wear.

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J.F. Gouery Canat & Cie Noel Patent Pill-Primed Turret Revolver

Lot # 146 (Sale Order: 145 of 664)      

Scarce Engraved J.F. Gouery Canat & Cie Noel Patent Pill-Primed Turret Revolver/Rotorevolver

This interesting turret revolver uses a 10-round turret to hold the ammunition and a door for removing the turret for reloading. It was manufactured around the 1860s by J.F. Gouery Canat & Cie of Paris. The left side of the barrel rib has the "SYSTEME A NOEL/BTE SGDG" marking, and the right side has "J.I. GOUERY CANAT & CIE/PARIS." "160" is on the inside of the door, the side of the turret, and on the butt. The frame under the turret on the inside is marked with an "R." There is a tall spire style front sight and a integral notch rear sight. The metal has scroll engraving, and the grips have stripes and floral patterns.

Class: Antique

Good with mostly gray patina, mild pitting, partially worn markings, and mostly crisp engraving. The grips are also good and have mild wear, distinct designs, and some small dents. Mechanically fine.

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Smith & Wesson Model 320 Revolving Rifle with Stock

Lot # 147 (Sale Order: 146 of 664)      

Smith & Wesson Model 320 Revolving Rifle with Stock

Manufactured from 1879 to 1887, the Model 320 revolving rifle is one of the rarest Smith & Wesson firearms produced with a total production of 977. These firearms were serial numbered from 1 to 977 and out of the 977 manufactured, 514 had the 18 inch barrel. This Model 320 was manufactured using the frame, cylinder and basic action of the New Model No. 3 revolver with some minor differences in the hammer and trigger, with the barrel being made of two pieces. A slot is cut into the butt and a hole drilled in the back strap to accommodate the shoulder stock. The rifle features an 18 inch barrel with a crude replacement blade front sight and a factory two leaf folding rear sight. The top of the rib is marked with the two-line address/patent dates. The matching serial number appears on the butt, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and trigger guard. The barrel is fitted with a checkered hard rubber red mottled forearm with the S&W monogram on the underside. The grips are matching with S&W monograms in a circle at the tops. The stock is smooth walnut with blue finished attaching iron and a checkered black hard rubber buttplate with S&W monogram. The stock has a peep sight.

Class: Antique

Very fine. The barrel and frame retain 70% original high polished blue finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The refinished cylinder retains 98% of the blue showing some mild edge wear and some light cycling marks. Traces of vivid original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard, otherwise faded to a silver-gray. The forearm and grips are fine with some very scattered minor handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically fine. The stock is fine as refurbished with the attaching hardware retaining 95% refinished blue finish and the wood showing some minor scratches and pressure dents.

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Game Scene Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver

Lot # 148 (Sale Order: 147 of 664)      

Exceptional Arnold Griebel Signed Game Scene Master Engraved Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Single Action Revolver

Mechanical improvements from its popular predecessors were made by Smith & Wesson, the American, Russian and Schofield models, and spawned a series of wide ranging variations, including a target model that dominated target competition in the late 19th century. This example has subsequently been beautifully custom engraved by Arnold Griebel, a world class mid-20th century engraver. Both sides of the frame are embellished with semi-relief game panel scenes: a grizzly bear on the left and a bison on the right. The barrel, cylinder, top strap, frame, and grip straps are decorated with flourishes of fine scrollwork. Griebel signed his work on the butt. Blade front sight, square notch adjustable rear sight, and matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. A storage wood case is included.

Class: Antique

Extremely fine as masterfully embellished and signed by A. Griebel, with overall bright metal surfaces and crisp engraving. The grips are excellent with limited handling marks and attractive color. Mechanically fine.

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Blue Finish Chicago Firearms Co. Protector Palm Pistol

Lot # 149 (Sale Order: 148 of 664)      

Chicago Firearms Co. Protector Palm Pistol with Scarce Blue Finish and Pearl Side Panels

Manufactured in the 1890s, without the typical floral pattern accents on the barrel and frame, this example shows a very scarce blue finish. Produced without sights, with the model and patent markings on the frame and the Chicago Firearms address on the side plate. The frame, side plate and turret cylinder are numbered to match. It is fitted with rare smooth pearl panels on the side plate and frame and a checkered hard rubber palm pad.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 75% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and some scattered very light surface pitting. The pearl scales are also very fine with some scattered light handling marks and the palm pad is very fine with some light fading and crisp checkering. Mechanically needs parts to function, firing pin assembly removed.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Factory Engraved Colt No. 3 Derringer with Checkered Grips

Lot # 150 (Sale Order: 149 of 664)      

Attractive Factory Engraved Colt No. 3 Derringer with Factory Checkered Grips

These pistols are based on F.A. Thuer's patent from July 12, 1870. The model was manufactured c. 1872-1912, Colt called them their "New Patent Deringer Pistols" in early advertisements. This example shows a high level of factory embellishment, including near full coverage floral scroll engraving and a pair of factory checkered antique ivory grips. Matching serial numbers are on the left of the grip frame, bottom of the barrel, and hand marked inside each grip. It has the earlier pattern short, high hammer, a blade front sight, the "COLT" marking on top of the barrel in italics.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 85% of the original nickel finish with some light edge/high spot wear showing an attractively aged brass, some scattered light handling marks, and a few light flakes on the grip straps. The grips are fine with mild wear and a few minor chips absent from the butts. Mechanically excellent.

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Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver

Lot # 151 (Sale Order: 150 of 664)      

Documented Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1875. The top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address flanked by Maltese crosses, and the left side of the frame is marked "22 CAL". Scroll and punch dot engraving is featured on the frame sides, a geometric pattern engraved on the back strap, and wavy lines and dots on the barrel. The cylinder features scroll and punch-dot engraving and was originally gold washed. It is fitted with a pair of smooth antique ivory grips. The included factory letters confirms the current configuration, including the grips and gold washed cylinder, as well as shipment to Hartley & Graham in New York on 3 October 1888.

Class: Antique

Fine, retains 60% of the original nickel finish with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina and some light pitting. The cylinder shows a grey patina with light pitting. The grips are very fine with a few scattered light handling marks. The barrel latch and fit of barrel is loose, otherwise mechanically fine.

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1.178.0.836.d2a4bd2.11.55