Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, May 18, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, May 18, 2024  |  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 : 12 of 27

U.S. Harpers Ferry 1819 Hall Breech Loading Flintlock Rifle

Lot # 1275 (Sale Order: 276 of 674)      

Exceptional U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1819 Hall Breech Loading Flintlock Rifle Dated 1838

Approximately 19,680 Model 1819 Hall rifles were manufactured between 1819-1840, and this example is one of approximately 2,934 manufactured by Harpers Ferry in the year 1838. Designed from the ground up by John Hall including the machinery and methods of manufacturing, these rifles were very innovative for the time and are considered the first firearm to successfully achieve true parts interchangeability, the first nationally adopted breech loading firearm, and also the first breech loading firearm to see widespread military use. In 1826, a government commission disassembled 100 Hall rifles, mixed up the parts, and re-assembled them on newly received stocks with no reported problems and thus confirmed Hall's success. Standard offset blade and notch sights, button head ramrod, "J. H. HALL/H. FERRY/US/1838" on the breech block.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine, nearly as issued, retains 85% plus original brown and casehardened finishes, minor handling and storage related wear, light wear around the muzzle, with defined markings. The stock is excellent with some scattered light handling marks and distinct edges overall. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1819 Hall rifle would make a fine addition to any U.S. military arms collection!

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U.S. Harpers Ferry Hall 1836 Carbine with Ramrod Bayonet

Lot # 1276 (Sale Order: 277 of 674)      

Scarce U.S. Harpers Ferry Hall Model 1836 Breech Loading Percussion Saddle Ring Carbine with Ramrod Bayonet

Approximately 2,020 Harpers Ferry Model 1836 Hall carbines were manufactured c. 1837-1840. The Model 1833 and 1836 carbines are historically important in being the first percussion arms adopted by the U.S. military. The ramrod bayonet was first experimented on the Model 1833 and 1836 Hall carbines, and was later revived on the Springfield Model 1880 and 1888 Trapdoor rifles, then again on the early Model 1903 rifles. These carbines were used by the 2nd U.S. Dragoons during the Seminole Wars in Florida in which they were exposed to harsh conditions, contributing to their scarcity today. Though largely overshadowed by other 19th century conflicts, the fight against the Seminoles was the longest and most expensive Indian war in U.S. history. Marked "J. H. HALL/US/1839" on the breech block with most of the standard markings and features including a triangular sliding ramrod bayonet, .64 caliber smooth bore, offset blade front sight and V notch rear sight, and a sling ring mounted at the left of the wrist.

Class: Antique

Fine, retains 60% original brown finish on the barrel with the remaining browned components cleaned to a bright, smooth gray and brown patina with traces of dark oil quenched casehardened finish on the breech block and hammer, scattered freckling overall and sharp markings on the breech block. The stock is also fine, with scattered scratches and dents, and some chips along the otherwise defined edges. Mechanically excellent.

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Engraved Ball Reservoir Air Gun by Conway of Manchester

Lot # 1277 (Sale Order: 278 of 674)      

Rare Cased Engraved English 55-Bore Ball Reservoir Takedown Air Rifle by Thomas Conway of Manchester

With slightly swamped browned octagonal multi-groove rifled barrel signed "THO.s CONWAY 15 BLACKFRIARS ST MANCHESTER" with silver front sight. Casehardened border and scroll engraved action with rotating tap breech and large cocking hammer. Blued border engraved top-plate, pistol grip trigger-guard, and heel-plate. Well figured walnut straight-hand stock with checkered grip, dark horn forearm cap, and a vacant silver oval initial escutcheon to the underside of the butt. Thomas Conway is recorded at various addresses in the Manchester area between 1803 and 1852. Ball reservoir air weapons were in use since the late 17th century and were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not use corrosive black powder. In original fitted mahogany case lined in green baize with accessories comprising two iron ball reservoirs, stirrup pump with browned Damascus stem engraved "800 STROKES TO FILL EACH GLOBE WITH AIR", pump handle with ebony grips, pewter oiler, and two spanners.

Class: Other

Fine, retains 75% browned finish on the barrel, 50% plus faded original case colors on the frame and components, 50% original high polish blue finish on the trigger-guard and heel-plate with smooth gray patina and some scattered light to mild freckling on the balance, and sharp engraving, edges and markings on the metal overall. The action top plate is reblued and has replacement screws and some scratching to the surface. The rear trigger-guard tang screw is loose. The wood is also fine with some scattered handling marks and dents, a few cracks in the front and rear of the forearm, some crazing on the left of the buttstock, and crisp checkering. The mechanism has not been tested. The case is very good with scattered scratches and dents, and some mild cracks in the lid. The accessories are very good. These ball reservoir air rifles are very distinctive and make fascinating additions to any collection of antique arms.

Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Engraved Stock Reservoir Air Gun by Edward Bate of London

Lot # 1278 (Sale Order: 279 of 674)      

18th Century Engraved and Gold Inlaid Stock Reservoir Muzzleloading Air Gun by Edward Bate of London

Edward Bate (1743-1810) was one of the most talented late 18th century air gun makers and was active in London. He was also among the few who produced high quality air pistols. This attractive example features high quality floral, border and martial scene engraving on the frame, lock, sideplate and trigger guard, a smoothbore octagon barrel that measures at approximately .54 caliber, dovetail mounted bead front sight and notch rear sight, "BATE LONDON" gold inlaid in a ribbon on top of the breech, "BATE" marked at the center of the flat beveled lock, and mounted with walnut front stock and a leather wrapped metal stock air reservoir. Air guns of this style were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. Absent ramrod.

Class: Other

Good, with scattered mild spotting and slightly darkened patina on the iron surfaces, retains nearly all of the gold inlay, attractive golden aged patina on the brass, and sharp markings and engraving overall. The refinished walnut stock is also good with some tacked repaired cracked sections visible, a few small absent sections, a mild crack on the right edge, and some scattered handling marks. The leather is also good with mild age related wear and cracking. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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German Silver Mounted J. Harder Percussion Rifle/Shotgun

Lot # 1279 (Sale Order: 280 of 674)      

Exceptional Finely Engraved and German Silver Mounted/Decorated J. Harder Back Action Percussion Over/Under Combination Rifle/Shotgun

Jacob Harder was a gunmaker active in Athens and Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, as well as just across the state line from Athens in Waverly, New York. It features a .44 caliber rifled barrel over a 24 gauge shotgun barrel. The upper barrel has a German silver blade front sight, a notch rear sight, scroll engraving, "J. HARDER/LOCK HAVEN PA" marked on the upper flat near the breech, and additional scroll engraving and a German silver band at the breech end. There are additional German silver bands and scroll engraving on the breech plug, and the locks have light scroll and border engraving. The gun features adjustable double set triggers, a ramrod fit along the left side of the barrels, and a checkered buttstock with rounded cheekpiece, German silver furniture and accent plates, and some nice figure.

Class: Antique

Very fine with more than half of the light Damascus patterns visible on the upper barrel and a mix of fading original brown finish and smooth gray and brown patina on the barrels, dark gray and brown patina on the plugs and locks, attractive light aged patina on the German silver, and generally only light overall wear. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, some minor scrapes and dings, and attractive figure. Mechanically excellent. A truly exceptional American percussion longarm!

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J.H. Johnston Great Western Gun Works Percussion Double Rifle

Lot # 1280 (Sale Order: 281 of 674)      

Exceptional J.H. Johnston Great Western Gun Works .50 Percussion Over/Under Double Rifle

This rifle from J.H. Johnston's Great Western Gun Works on Smithfield Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the latter half of the 19th century remains in very high condition and appears to have seen little if any use. Both .50 caliber rifled barrels are browned and are marked "CAST STEEL" on the right flats. The upper barrel is also marked "J.H. JOHNSON" followed by "GREAT WESTERN/GUN WORKS" and "PITTSBURGH" on top and is equipped with a nickeled brass front sight and adjustable sporting rear sight. A pair of ramrods are fitted to the sides. The back action locks are marked "J.H. JOHNSON" (left side double stamped). The rifle is equipped with adjustable double set triggers. If both locks are cocked, both will fire when the trigger is pulled. The spurred trigger guard, buttplate, and toe plate are nickel plated brass while the patchbox and oval inlay on the bottom of the stock appear to be German silver. The stock has a checkered wrist.

Class: Antique

Very fine with 80% plus original brown finish along the barrels with minor fading and distinct markings. 40% original case colors, some fading of the nickel, light aged patina on the furniture, and very minor age and storage related wear overall. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, smooth oiled finish, and light dings and scratches. Mechanically fine. The prior owner noted that "while plain, this rifle exhibits fine workmanship and design throughout. There are few double rifles that will top it."

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A.R. Davis New York Percussion Over/Under Combination Gun

Lot # 1281 (Sale Order: 282 of 674)      

A.R. Davis New York Percussion Over/Under Combination Gun

Approximately .40 caliber rifled full-octagon barrel over a 16 gauge smoothbore part-octagon lower barrel. The upper barrel has a dovetailed blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, "AR. DAVIS/DEPOSIT. N.Y" marked on top of the breech section. A folding peep sight is on the upper tang. The gun features back action locks, an adjustable single set trigger, German silver furniture, and a smooth buttstock. If both locks are cocked, both will fire at the same time.

Class: Antique

Very good with considerable original brown finish remaining on the upper barrel and a mix of gray and brown patina on the balance of the steel, some mild pitting at the breech, and light aged patina on the German silver. The stock is very good with mild wear and some thin cracks at the breech. Mechanically fine.

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G. Fay Signed Bedford County Percussion Long Rifle

Lot # 1282 (Sale Order: 283 of 674)      

Stunning G. Fay Signed Bedford County Percussion Long Rifle with Extensive Engraved Silver Inlays

The rifle features seven-groove rifling, traditional low blade and notch sights, wavy line engraving accenting the rear sight, a distinctive Bedford style lock signed "G. Fay" with some light engraving, adjustable double set triggers, brass furniture, and a curly maple stock with over 60 pieces of silver and German silver inlaid along its length in a variety of patterns. George Fay was a gunmaker in Blair County, Pennsylvania. The county was formed on February 26, 1846, from sections of Bedford and Huntingdon counties. He was active until at least 1882 when his shop was robbed. The Altoona Times on December 16, 1885, indicated that "Mr. George Fay, the gunsmith, well known to all the older residents of Altoona, is now nearly blind and much enfeebled by age, having endured the frosts of seventy-nine-winters. He resides at No. 2120 Third avenue." On August 19, 1891, the Altoona Tribune indicated he had died the previous day and was born on December 18, 1890, and had resided in Altoona for over 30 years "and during the greater portion of that time he followed his trade-that of a gunsmith." Riflemaker Jacob Snider was Fay's apprentice (see his rifles in Lot 275 and Lot 3282), and William Fay also became a gunsmith but was killed after being drafted to serve in the Civil War.

Class: Antique

Very good with dark brown patina on the lock and barrel, mild pitting concentrated at the breech, attractive aged patina on the brass furniture and silver inlays, repair on the entry pipe, and generally mild overall wear. The refinished stock has some cracks and repairs, attractive figure, and mild scratches and dings. The lock does not securely hold half or full-cock. The triggers are fine.

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Thomas Oldham Attributed "T * O" Signed Bedford County Combo Gun

Lot # 1283 (Sale Order: 284 of 674)      

Thomas Oldham Attributed "T * O" Signed Bedford County Percussion Side by Side Combination Gun

Both of the distinctive Bedford locks are signed "T * O" in fancy script and have light engraving. The letters and the overall style of the rifle are similar to the "T * Oldham" signed rifle sold by Rock Island Auction Company in December 2021 as well as other rifles signed by Thomas Oldham (1809-1891) of Bedford County, Pennsylvania. Two Oldham double rifles are featured on page 129 of "Gunsmiths of Bedford, Fulton, Huntingdon, & Somerset Counties" by Whisker and Yantz, but Bedford County double rifles and combination guns are very rare. Oldham was active in Bedford around the 1830s-1850s and was listed in the 1850 Census as a gunsmith. He and his family moved to Iowa in the mid-1850s and he became a farmer. He died in Mallory Township, Clayton County, Iowa, in 1891. The rifle is a classic Bedford rifle in style but is a side by side with the right barrel .45 caliber and smoothbore and the left barrel approximately .32 caliber and rifled. Each barrel has a set of traditional blade and notch sights, and the forend is fitted with two sets of ramrod pipes to carry the two hickory ramrods. The rifle is equipped with double set triggers, a curly maple stock with cheekpiece, and fairly plain brass furniture, including a classic Bedford patchbox.

Class: Antique

Very good with dark brown on the barrel and locks, some mild flash erosion and pitting at the breech, crack in the left hammer neck, attractive aged patina on the brass furniture, and mild overall wear. The refinished stock has some small cracks and chips, faint repairs, and general mild overall wear. Mechanically fine.

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William Defibaugh Signed Bedford County Percussion Long Rifle

Lot # 1284 (Sale Order: 285 of 674)      

Engraved, Silver Inlaid, and Relief Carved William Defibaugh Signed Bedford County Percussion Long Rifle

William Defibaugh (1814-1891) was a gunsmith active from the mid-19th century well into the late 19th century in Monroe Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The barrel is signed "W*Defibaugh*" on top of the breech section with some dot accents and has seven groove rifling, traditional dovetailed blade and notch sights, and a pointed tang secured by two screws. The distinctive Bedford lock has no visible markings. It is equipped with adjustable double set triggers. There are lightly engraved silver inlays on the drops, wrist, and cheekpiece, and the latter is engraved with a spread wing eagle and shield motif. The furniture is brass, and the four-piece patchbox has some simple engraving. The release button is at the rear of the upper side plate. The toe plate has floral blooms engraved around the screws. The stock features incised molding, carving at the front of the flats, extended drops, relief work at the back of the wrist, and relief carved scrollwork behind the cheekpiece.

Class: Antique

Fine with smooth brown patina on the barrel and lock, aged patina on the brass and silver, and general mild overall wear including some light oxidation and pitting. There are some flaws in the casting of the buttplate. The stock is also fine and has mostly distinct carving with some rubbing, attractive flame figure, small chips and slivers absent at the edges, a few thin cracks, a few repairs including at the front ramrod pipe, and general mild overall wear. The lock needs work/adjustments. The set triggers are mechanically fine.

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"JS" Signed, Silver Inlaid, and Carved Bedford Percussion Rifle

Lot # 1285 (Sale Order: 286 of 674)      

Very Attractive "JS" Signed, Silver Inlaid, and Relief Carved Bedford Percussion Long Rifle

This rifle is signed "J*S" on the distinctive Bedford lock and is attributed to riflemakers Jacob Stoudenour (1795-1863) or his brother John Jr. and would be one of their earlier and fancier rifles. This rifle is similar to Jacob Stoudenour attributed examples featured in Whisker's books on Bedford gunmakers as well as another known rifle that has "John * Stoudenour 1834" signed on a brass panel on the barrel discussed in the article "Bedford Co. - John Stoudenour" by Larry Pletcher on Blackpowdermag.com. Jacob was the more prolific riflemaker, and in "Gunsmiths of Bedford, Fulton, Huntingdon, & Somerset Counties," Whisker and Yantz note: "Most collectors believe that Stoudenour's guns represent the very finest in Bedford County gun making." They note that John also worked as a gunsmith at least in the late 1830s but was later appears to have focused on being a farmer. The lock was converted from flintlock. The rifle features over twenty silver inlays with light engraving along with incised molding and carving, including very nice raised relief scroll carving on the left side of the butt. The classic Bedford patchbox, toeplate, buttplate, trigger guard, pierced side plate, ramrod pipes, and forend cap are brass. The heel is iron.

Class: Antique

Very good with brown patina, mild flash pitting at the breech, attractive aged patina on the silver inlays and brass furniture, and mild overall wear. The partially restored stock is also very good and has crisp carving and molding, some faint cracks and small chips, repaired cracks in the forend, and very attractive figure. The trigger must be set for the lock to hold at full-cock and functions fine.

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Silver Inlaid and Carved Bedford Percussion Long Rifle

Lot # 1286 (Sale Order: 287 of 674)      

Desirable Silver Inlaid and Relief Carved Bedford Percussion Long Rifle

There are faint maker's marks on the lock and barrel that may be "J*S" for Jacob Stoudenour (1795-1863) given some of the similarities with the rifle in the previous lot as well as published examples attributed to Stoudenour who was one of the most prolific and talented of the Bedford County, Pennsylvania, riflemakers. The lock was converted from flintlock. The rifle features over twenty silver inlays with light engraving along with incised molding and carving. The scroll carving behind the cheekpiece is particularly attractive, and the cheekpiece has a silver oval inlay engraved with a spread wing eagle and shield. The classic Bedford patchbox, toeplate, buttplate, trigger guard, pierced side plate, ramrod pipes, and forend cap are brass. The heel and toe of the buttplate are iron. The rifle is equipped with double set triggers.

Class: Antique

Very good. The barrel exhibits a dark brown overall, and the lock has gray and brown patina and mild pitting. The silver inlays and brass furniture have dark aged patina. The barrel has heavy flash erosion and pitting at the breech and was bored out to smoothbore indicating this rifle saw extensive use. The toe of the buttplate and the toeplate are replacements. The partially restored stock has some cracks and repairs in the forend, distinct carving, loss at the nose of the lock, a repair above the lock, and repaired toe. Mechanically functions.

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Large Caliber S. Hawken Rifle Owned by Theodore Roosevelt

Lot # 1287 (Sale Order: 288 of 674)      

Extraordinary Historic Documented Massive S. Hawken .70 Caliber Half-Stock Percussion Buffalo Rifle from President Theodore Roosevelt Personal Collection and Attributed to Kit Carson

This historic, incredibly rare, and very distinctive rifle is featured on page 49 of "The Peacemakers: Arms and Adventure in the American West" by R.L. Wilson where it is described as a "Sam Hawken-made .70 caliber rifle, the most massive Hawken known. From the collection of Theodore Roosevelt, the rifle was Kit Carson's. Likely a buffalo killer, as well as a target rifle for bench shooting. Condition and the quality of workmanship as fine as those of any known Hawken firearm." This rifle is also pictured and described in Wilson's book "Theodore Roosevelt: Hunter Conservationist" by Wilson with more information: "Massive, 18-pound Hawken Target Rifle, dispersed from the Boone & Crockett Club Collection in 1972. Listed as item no. 10, the rifle was one of 30 pieces which were sold, while 13 were retained-the latter all with TR significance. The intent had been to retain the 13 for exhibit at the Gun Room at Sagamore Hill. For security reasons, the firearms are no longer on display." Kit Carson's Hawken rifle is mentioned again on page 88 in Wilson's discussion of the gun room. Also see page 89 of Wilson's "Theodore Roosevelt: Outdoorsman" which discusses the guns on display in the Sagamore Hill gun room. The rifle was also described in the catalog for the Christie's October 7, 1981, catalog in lot 31 where it was headlined as "An Historic American Heavyweight Target or Hunting Rifle" and the provenance was listed as "The Theodore Roosevelt gun room, Sagamore Hill, Oyster Bay, Long Island. According to the Roosevelt family tradition the rifle belonged to Kit Carson."Jacob (1786-1849) and Samuel Hawken (1792-1884) are among the most famous makers of American muzzle loaders and worked together in St. Louis in the famous Hawken shop. Their rifles have long been associated with the 19th century frontiersmen, and their early rifles are known to have been used by the mountain men active in the fur trade in the 1830s, including by General William Henry Ashley and the American Fur Company. Many of their rifles, including this one, date to after the heyday of the Rocky Mountain fur trade when Hawken rifles continued to be in demand, including by former fur trappers like Jim Bridger and Kit Carson who found new work as hunters, guides, and scouts. Before large caliber cartridge "buffalo rifles" like the Sharps Model 1874 and Remington Rolling Block became popular for hunting bison, percussion rifles were used for the job, with some rifles upwards of .75 caliber put to use to fell the massive beasts.If the Hawken brothers were among the most famous riflemakers of the era, Kit Carson is arguably the Hawken rifle's most famous user. Carson owned multiple Hawken rifles throughout his lifetime and used them extensively in his often perilous adventures in the American West. Because of Carson's fame and his presentation of some of his rifles to his friends during his lifetime, a select few of his rifles survive today. They are among the most desirable of all American muzzleloading rifles. Christopher Houston Carson (1809-1868) was already a real life frontier legend when Theodore Roosevelt was a boy, and Roosevelt continued to admire Carson as an adult as well given he purchased a copy of Fredrick MacMonnie's sculpture of Carson at Tiffany's in New York as a birthday present for himself in 1915. The sculpture notably depicts Carson on horseback with a Hawken rifle in his arms and remains in the North Room at Sagamore Hill, and in letters referring to Carson, Roosevelt expresses clear admiration.Kit Carson worked the legendary Santa Fe Trail while still a teenager and became one of the famous mountain men who worked in the Rocky Mountain fur trade until 1840. In 1841, he worked as a contract hunter feeding the residents of Bent's Fort on the Santa Fe Trail. He then worked as a guide on multiple western expeditions, including the famous Fremont Expeditions in 1842 and 1843 that helped pave the way for the famous Oregon Trail and the 1845 expedition to California and Oregon. While working for Fremont in California, Carson met Edward Fitzgerald Beale (1822-1893), also known as Ned Beale. Beale was a midshipman in the U.S. Navy but was detached to serve with the ground forces in California in the Bear Flag Revolt and Mexican-American War. At the Battle of San Pasqual on December 6, 1846, Beale, Delaware scout Chemuctah, and Carson famously snuck through the enemy lines to get reinforcements from San Diego, saving the day for the Kearney and the besieged American troops after suffering severely in the
more... Provenance: The Theodore Roosevelt Collection and Gun Room at Sagamore Hill; The Boone & Crockett Club Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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19th Century Engraved English Ball Reservoir Air Gun by Cook

Lot # 1288 (Sale Order: 289 of 674)      

19th Century Engraved English Ball Reservoir Air Gun by Cook

"JAs COOK" inscribed on the left of the action. Possibly James Cook, active out of Birmingham circa 1817-1831. Ball reservoirs were in use since the late 17th century and had the added advantage of being easily swapped out. Air guns of this style were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. Features floral scroll engraving on the action, trigger guard and cocking lever. It is chambered in approximately .40 caliber/10 mm with a fine-groove rifled barrel, a rotating faucet breech that loads from the top and a walnut buttstock with checkered wrist. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/658" hanging from the trigger guard.

Class: Other

Very good with a mix of original brown finish and smooth brown patina with scattered patches of light pitting on the barrel, smooth gray and brown patina on the casehardened surfaces, and defined engraving. The refinished wood is also good, with numerous scattered scratches and dents, a reglued crack visible at the right of the wrist. Absent air needle, otherwise mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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German "Flintlock" Stock Reservoir Air Rifle by Wentzlau

Lot # 1289 (Sale Order: 290 of 674)      

18th Century Engraved and Relief Carved German "Flintlock" Stock Reservoir Air Rifle by Wentzlau

Though this example offered looks like a flintlock, it is actually a muzzleloading air rifle with a concealed stock reservoir that has a trapdoor on the buttplate for filling access. Air guns of this style were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder like the flintlocks that this example is modeled after. "WENTZLAV" marked in a ribbon held by a lion on the tail of the lock and "EHRNBREITSTEIN/No. 174" marked at the center of the lock, with a goose neck cock. A Johann Christian "Wentslau" (Wentzlau, Wenzlau, Wenslau) of Koblenz is listed as active circa 1747-1784, court gunsmith to the landgraves of Hesse-Darmstadt, and also to Ehrenbreitstein fortress, where this embellished air rifle likely once resided. Octagon barrel with 7-groove rifling that measures approximately .50 caliber/13 mm, bead front sight and filled in rear dovetail. Features floral scroll, border and scenes engraved on the breech of the barrel, lock and brass fittings, and floral relief carvings in the stock with teardrop flats.

Class: Other

Good, with gray patina and scattered mild brown spotting on the iron surfaces, and mostly legible engraving. The refinished stock is also good with scattered scratches, handling marks cracks, and a few small chips and repaired sections. The buttplate trapdoor is bent and not properly affixed. The set trigger functions, the hammer will not remain cocked, needs work.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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19th Century Germanic Bellows Crank Handle Swivel Barrel Air Gun

Lot # 1290 (Sale Order: 291 of 674)      

19th Century Silver Inlaid Germanic Bellows Crank Handle Swivel Barrel Air Gun

These bellows air guns were generally made in the late 1700s to mid-1800s, and were used primarily for indoor target shooting. Their basic feature is a conical bellows hidden in the hollowed-out wooden buttstock. This unique example is mostly wood in construction, with a round brass barrel surrounded by a walnut housing that has the appearance of an octagon barrel and loads by swiveling to the right; measures at approximately .36 caliber/9.5 mm (possibly for use with darts with a hair tail). Dovetail mounted blade front and notch rear sights. Silver wire inlays on top of the wrist. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/2902" hanging from the trigger guard. Information related to these can be found on pages 213-214 of "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition."

Class: Other

Very good, with numerous scattered scratches and dents, a few filled in replacement sections, and the walnut remains sound. The brass exhibits golden bright and aged patinas. The set trigger functions fine, otherwise mechanically untested.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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19th Century Bellows Air Gun by Arnold of Munchen

Lot # 1291 (Sale Order: 292 of 674)      

19th Century Relief Carved Bellows Crank Handle Tip-Up Barrel Air Gun by Arnold of Munchen

"1821" and "IOS: ARNOLD/IN MUNCHEN" marked on the bottom plate ahead of the trigger guard. No further information was located on the maker. These bellows air guns were generally made in the late 1700s to mid-1800s, and were used primarily for indoor target shooting. Their basic feature is a conical bellows hidden in the hollowed-out wooden buttstock. This bellows air gun has a tip-up smoothbore octagon barrel measuring at approximately .50 caliber/13 mm (possibly for use with darts with a hair tail) that loads from the breech and releases with a lever located on bottom. Dovetail mounted blade front and notch rear sights on the barrel, and mounted with a walnut stock with floral relief carvings on the left and a checkered forearm and wrist. The top of the wrist has a broken fixture for mount a peep sight (absent). Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/2091" hanging from the trigger guard. Information related to these can be found on pages 213-214 of "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition."

Class: Other

Good, exhibiting brown patina on the iron surfaces with traces of original blue finish. The brass shows an attractive golden aged patina. Stock is also good with scattered scratches and handling marks, a few cracks on the sides of the forend, a few small holes visible on the right front edge of the comb, a repaired spliced section on top of the comb, absent end cap with some chips, and otherwise defined relief carvings and edges. Mostly absent broken end cap on the stock, absent ramrod tip, and absent peep sight with broken fixture, and the hair trigger is bent. Mechanically untested.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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H.E. Dimick St. Louis Percussion Rifle

Lot # 1292 (Sale Order: 293 of 674)      

Highly Desirable H.E. Dimick St. Louis Percussion Rifle

This rifle was manufactured by Horace E. Dimick's firm in St. Louis, Missouri. He competed in sharpshooting contests to publicize the firearms produced by himself and his employees. At one antebellum contest held in St. Louis, H.E. Dimick & Co. finished first in every event they competed in. The rifle has a blade front sight with a contrasting inlay, adjustable sporting rear sight (elevator absent), "H. E. DIMICK/ST.LOUIS" marked ahead of the rear sight, adjustable double set triggers, finger spur trigger guard, smooth half-stock with pewter tip, German silver wedge escutcheons, and a crescent buttplate.

Class: Antique

Very good with dark brown patina, mild pitting, broken hammer screw and nipple, and general moderate overall wear indicative of a rifle that saw serious period use. The stock is also very good and has some chips and cracks, a pinned repair above the lock, and scrapes and dings. Mechanically functions fine.

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G.L. Wickline Percussion Target Rifle

Lot # 1293 (Sale Order: 294 of 674)      

Exceptional 19th Century G.L. Wickline Percussion Heavy Barrel Full-Stock Target Rifle

This classic American percussion target rifle, a.k.a. "chunk gun" or "over-the-log rifle," was built by George Lewis Wickline of Gallia County, Ohio. He was born in Virginia but moved to Cadmus, Ohio, and is known to have made quality match rifles in the mid to late 19th century. Aside from its heavy barrel and overall build, the flat rest built into the stock between the forend cap and front ramrod ferrule indicates this rifle was specifically meant for shooting in rifle matches from a rest. The massive barrel is 1.4 inches wide and has decorative designs on the muzzle, a deep crown, traditional blade and notch sights, "G.L. WICKLINE" stamped on top, "POSTLEY NELSON & CO." (barrel makers in Pittsburgh c. 1850-1875) stamped on the upper left flat at the breech, and a long tang with four screws. The lock has "G. GOULCHER" stamped in a banner, a double line border, and scroll and bird engraving. The rifle has adjustable double set triggers and desirable iron furniture. The stock has a rounded cheekrest.

Class: Antique

Fine overall with an even brown patina overall, mild oxidation, and general mild wear. The stock is also fine and has attractive flame patterns, minor edge wear, scratches and dings, and dark finish. Mechanically fine. (setup full-cock only). You will look a long time to acquire a finer American target rifle of this configuration!

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Silver Inlaid Half-Stock Percussion Rifle Signed "F.B"

Lot # 1294 (Sale Order: 295 of 674)      

Fine 19th Century American Silver Inlaid Half-Stock Percussion .50 Caliber Rifle Signed "F.B"

The is unique 19th century percussion rifle features a blade front sight with flip up bead, unique one-of-a-kind adjustable notch rear sight with full-buckhorn, "F.B" signed in a silver inlay with floral engraved accents, coordinating accents down the tang, "JOSEPH GOLCHER" lock with scroll and bird engraving, pewter forend cap, brass wedge escutcheons, checkered forend with silver inlay on the bottom, silver inlaid brass trigger guard with spur, adjustable double set triggers, checkered pistol grip with bone cap, engraved brass cap box, nickel silver escutcheon, pieced toe plate, crescent buttplate, and silver roundels inlaid on the left flat and the cheekpiece.

Class: Antique

Fine overall with dark patina, mild oxidation/pitting, broken clean out screw, aged patina on the brass and silver, and general mild overall wear. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, minor scrapes and dings, and age lines in the cap. Mechanically fine (setup full-cock only).

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N. Curry & Bros Philadelphia Derringer Percussion Pocket Pistols

Lot # 1295 (Sale Order: 296 of 674)      

Exceptional Matching Pair of N. Curry & Bros. San Francisco Agent Marked Philadelphia Derringer Percussion Pocket Pistols -A) Philadelphia Derringer Pocket Pistol

Exceptional Matching Pair of N. Curry & Bros. San Francisco Agent Marked Philadelphia Derringer Percussion Pocket Pistols -A) Philadelphia Derringer Pocket Pistol
Henry Deringer's famous pocket pistols were popular in the West from the gold rush through the American Civil War for personal protection. Charles Curry (1822-1863) was the sole West Coast agent for Henry Deringer's pistols starting in 1858. After his death, his brothers Nathaniel (1823-1892) and John (1825-1913) inherited the business and continued to operate as wholesalers and sales agents for Henry Deringer's popular pocket pistols and rifles. They also sold the forgeries made by Slotter & Co. and remained active gun dealers through the "Silver Age" as agents for Sharps and selling Winchesters, Colts, and other classic firearms. They sold the firm in 1886 to Charles Ladd. The barrels of these pistols have seven-groove rifling and a faux Damascus finish and are marked "N. CURRY & BRO./SAN FRANCO CALA/AGENTS," and a "P" and "DERINGER/PHILADELA" are on each of the German silver banded breech plugs. The locks are also marked "DERINGER/PHILADELA." The pistols feature primarily scroll engraving, and the birdshead grips are checkered.

Manufacture: Henry Deringer Rifles And Pistols
Model: Percussion Pocket
BBL: 2 1/8 inch flat top round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 41
Finish: brown/casehardened/German silver
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Exceptionally fine with 90% plus original brown finish on the barrel along with gray "Damascus" patterns, smooth smoky gray casehardened finish on the breech plug and lock and some brighter case colors on the hammer, light aged patina on the German silver furniture, and crisp markings and engraving. The stock is fine and has crisp checkering, a faint hairline crack on the left side at the top of the wrist, and some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.

B) Philadelphia Derringer Pocket Pistol
See "A."

Manufacture: Henry Deringer Rifles And Pistols
Model: Percussion Pocket
BBL: 2 1/8 inch flat top round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 41
Finish: brown/casehardened/German silver
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Exceptionally fine with 90% plus original brown finish on the barrel along with gray "Damascus" patterns, smooth smoky gray casehardened finish on the breech plug and lock and some brighter case colors on the hammer, light aged patina on the German silver furniture, and crisp markings and engraving. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering and some slight handling and storage marks. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: The McCrary Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

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Documented French Paul Giffard Patent Pneumatic Pump Air Gun

Lot # 1296 (Sale Order: 297 of 674)      

Documented Relief Carved and Engraved French Paul Giffard Patent Pneumatic Pump Air Gun

Manufactured c. 1870s. This exact example is pictured on page 596 of the "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition". The knob on the right of the breech rotates for loading from the top, and it uses a manual cocking hammer with a built-in pneumatic pump located beneath the barrel. "P. GIFFARD/BREVETE" marked on the upper tang. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/627" hanging from the trigger guard.

Class: Other

Fine, retains 80% period refinished blue finish with smooth brown patina and a few small patches of light corrosion on the balance, and mostly bright remaining surfaces as lightly cleaned, with sharp engraving. The stock is very fine with a few light handling marks, distinct carving and checkering. The pump does not hold air.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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Engraved 19th Century Side Lever Gallery Air Gun by A. Schmickal

Lot # 1297 (Sale Order: 298 of 674)      

Engraved 19th Century Tip-Up Barrel Side Lever Gallery Air Gun by A. Schmickal of Breslau

"A. Schmickal/in/Breslau" signed on top of the frame area. No further information was located on this maker. Air guns of this style were used primarily for indoor target shooting. Tip-up octagon barrel that releases with a bottom lever, chambered in approximately .177 caliber/4.5 mm with a smooth bore, German silver blade front sight, and checkered wrist. Right side mounted lever is pulled back for cocking in order to fill the cylinder reservoir, and upon pulling the trigger the spring loaded piston releases. Floral pattern engraving on the frame, sideplates, trigger guard and buttplate. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/096" hanging from the trigger guard.

Class: Other

Very good, with period applied brown finish, some minor pitting visible in some areas underneath the finish, a few areas of marring in the metal, and defined engraving and signature. The wood is good with numerous scattered scratches and dents, a crack on the right tip of the forend with some absent slivers along the top edge on either side, and the forend is slightly loose fitting. The set trigger does not function, otherwise mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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K.W. Patent Crank Handle Gallery Air Rifle by Pfeuffer

Lot # 1298 (Sale Order: 299 of 674)      

19th Century Silver Inlaid K.W. Patent Crank Handle Gallery Air Rifle by Pfeuffer of Stuttgart

"Pfeuffer in Stuttgart" silver inlaid on the top barrel flat behind the rear sight and "K W Patent" inscribed ahead of the rear sight. Two different Pfeuffers are listed as active makers, with one shown as active out of Stuttgart circa 1750 and the other active out of Stuttgart and Oberndorf circa 1820-1835, with this example likely made by the latter. Octagon barrel that loads from the breech with a block that is manually raised by hand, chambered in approximately .28 caliber/7 mm with a rifled bore, dovetail mounted German silver blade front sight and notch rear sight. It functions through the use of a crank handle (not included) that is attached to the right side behind the buttplate for cocking in order to fill the cylinder reservoir with air, and upon pulling the trigger the spring loaded piston releases.

Class: Other

Good, with bright lightly polished iron and brass surfaces, retains nearly all of the silver inlay on top of the barrel, and numerous scattered dings visible on the brass frame. Absent edges on the bottom breech block plate. The stock is also good with numerous scattered scratches and dents, cracks and a repaired filled in section visible on the right of the wrist, and an empty sling swivel hole on the bottom. Mechanically untested.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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19th Century American Side Lever Gallery Air Gun by A. Legler

Lot # 1299 (Sale Order: 300 of 674)      

19th Century American Tip-Up Barrel Side Lever Gallery Air Gun by A. Legler

"A. LEGLER" marked on the top barrel flat at the breech. Reportedly, there are three generations of Leglers active out of Nashville, Tennessee, that made rifles. Tip-up octagon barrel that releases with a bottom latch, chambered in approximately .25 caliber/6.5 mm with a smooth bore, blade front sight, notch rear sight, and checkered wrist. Right side mounted lever is pulled back for cocking in order to fill the cylinder reservoir, and upon pulling the trigger the spring loaded piston releases. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/808" hanging from the trigger guard.

Class: Other

Very good, with smooth gray and brown patina on the iron surfaces with some minor surface pitting. The lightly refinished wood is also very good, with a small crack visible to the right of the upper of the tang, hairline cracks on the bottom of the forend, and some light handling marks. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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1.178.0.872.686122d.13.181