Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, May 19, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
to bid until the live auction begins!
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 3

Sunday, May 19, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
to bid until the live auction begins!
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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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Abraham Leon Sheffield "A Washingtonian" Bowie Knife

Lot # 3100 (Sale Order: 101 of 749)      

Scarce and Desirable Abraham Leon Sheffield "A Washingtonian" Bowie Knife with Stag Grip and Sheath

Manufactured c. 1849-1881 by the Abraham Leon firm of Sheffield, England. At the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, Leon's firm won an honorable mention for their "American hunters knives" and dagger knives. Sheffield made knives such as those from Leon were extremely popular during the American Civil War period, with the American market on both sides of the conflict making up the majority of their consumer base. Despite being noted as a fairly prolific maker, knives by Leon are relatively scarce on today's market, in any condition. This example measures 14 inches overall, with an 8 7/8 inch drop point blade. The left ricasso has the maker's mark and 190 Solly St. address in three lines, and "A Washingtonian" stamped near the spine, a clear marketing ploy to lure American customers. The right ricasso is marked with the "O*K" trademark. The elliptical guard is of German silver with a small bolster below it and a slightly curved grip of stag antler fitted with a German silver butt cap. Includes a red leather holster with gilt accents and German silver fittings.

Class: Other

Very good, the blade generally bright with some scattered patches of grey patina and light pitting, and the markings clear overall. The German silver is mostly bright and the grip is very fine with minimal handling evidence. The sheath is very fine with some light wear. Knives such as this would have been valued as a last line of defense both during the Civil War and during the America's period of westward expansion!

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Public Enemy #1 Floyd Hamilton's Winchester Model 1895 Rifle

Lot # 3101 (Sale Order: 102 of 749)      

Historic, Documented Winchester Model 1895 Lever Action Rifle that Belonged to Public Enemy No. 1 and Member of Bonnie and Clyde's Barrow Gang, Floyd Hamilton

Manufactured in 1903, this historic Winchester Model 1895 rifle includes a handwritten letter from former outlaw, Floyd Hamilton, stating that the rifle belonged to him and was lost in a shootout in Ashdown, Arkansas. Hamilton was once a member of the notorious Barrow Gang, headed by the infamous Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Floyd and his brother Raymond had met Bonnie and Clyde at a young age, also growing up in West Dallas. Raymond Hamilton was also part of the Barrow Gang and by the age of 20 had accumulated a total prison sentence of 362 years. Raymond was serving this prison sentence at Eastham Prison Farm near Huntsville, Texas, when in January 1934, his brother Floyd along with Bonnie and Clyde helped him and four other prisoners escape. A guard was killed during the escape, a murder that was later pinned on Raymond. He was recaptured in April of 1934 and was imprisoned when Bonnie and Clyde were ambushed and killed in Louisiana in May of that year. Raymond again escaped and went on a short rampage, joining with Floyd and an accomplice to rob the Grand Prairie State Bank in Texas before being recaptured and executed by electric chair in May of 1935. Floyd had been captured shortly before Raymond and was charged with harboring Bonnie and Clyde and sentenced to two years in prison. After his release in August 1936, Floyd quickly slipped back into a life of crime, joining Ted Walters and Jess Keathnley for a robbery spree. Keathnley was captured and gave up the other two in exchange for his own charges being dropped. Floyd Hamilton was again captured and imprisoned, that time being sentenced to 25 years. In April of 1938, Hamilton and Walters escaped prison and began a long string of robberies including vehicles, banks, and even the Coca-Cola bottling plant. Floyd and Walters were named Public Enemies No. 1 and 2 by the F.B.I. at this point, titles they would hold until their capture. One of these banks was the Bank of Bradley in Bradley, Arkansas, after which it appears they fled northward. As confirmed in his August 1968 dated letter, Hamilton lost this rifle in a shootout, as Ashdown, Arkansas, is about 65 miles north of Bradley. In August of 1938, he was captured in Dallas and again sentenced to prison, this time being sent to Alcatraz, also known as The Rock. In 1943, he attempted to escape Alcatraz but was apprehended shortly after and placed in solitary confinement for at least 21 days. After his time in solitary, it appears that Floyd made a serious choice to change his ways, becoming quite religious. Between Alcatraz and Leavenworth prisons, Hamilton served about 18 years federal time when he was released in 1956, turning himself in to Texas authorities to serve another sentence of 25 years. The following year he was released, mostly due to good behavior, and was hired as a car dealership's night watchman, where he worked for 16 years, as well as actively working to keep others from turning to a life of crime like he had. The rifle has standard Winchester markings and an import mark under the forearm. It is fitted with a beaded blade front sight, filler in the rear sight dovetail, and a Lyman peep sight mounted on the left of the receiver. It is mounted with a smooth Schnabel tip forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The included note signed by Hamilton lists the rifle by manufacturer, caliber, and serial number and is signed on the back by three witnesses. Includes a plethora of other documentation regarding the rifle and Hamilton, including a copy of the F.B.I. identification order no. 1521 dated 8 July 1938, which features Hamilton.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Very good, retaining traces of the original blue finish, a few scattered patches of light pitting, and the balance mostly a smooth grey patina. The wood has some scattered minor dings throughout and a few hairline cracks. Mechanically fine. Overall the rifle shows the look of spending time on the run alongside the F.B.I.'s Public Enemy No.1 and would be an incredible piece of Public Enemy era history to add to your collection!

Provenance: The David Gainsborough-Roberts Collection

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Outlaw Ford Bradshaw's Remington Model 11 "Sawed Off" Shotgun

Lot # 3102 (Sale Order: 103 of 749)      

Historic, Documented, Period Modified Remington Model 11 Semi-Automatic "Sawed Off" Shotgun Attributed to Notorious Oklahoma Outlaw and Rival of "Pretty Boy" Floyd, Ford Bradshaw When He was Slain

Manufactured in March of 1930, this historic Remington Model 11 shotgun is attributed to the notorious prohibition era bank robber and outlaw Ford Bradshaw. Born in 1907 in the Oklahoma Territory, Bradshaw's life of crime began in the late 1920s. Bradshaw was a contemporary of other famous prohibition era outlaws including Bonnie and Clyde, John Dillinger, and Charles "Pretty Boy" Floyd. Floyd operated in much the same region as Bradshaw and somewhat overshadowed him. Many sources claim that the two outlaws had a friendly rivalry. Floyd's preferred targets were banks in larger cities with a larger single haul, while Bradshaw had a tendency to strike banks in smaller towns which were lower profile. While "Pretty Boy" Floyd is more infamous to this day, Bradshaw's rural bank raids far exceeded Floyd's heists both in number and value. In late 1933, one of Bradshaw's associates, Wilbur Underhill, was shot and killed while on honeymoon, leading to Bradshaw and several other men driving into Vian, Oklahoma, on New Year's Eve and shooting up the town. The shooting spree in Vian landed him on the FBI's Top Ten Most Wanted List. In some sources, Bradshaw is noted as being a leader of the Cookson Hills Gang and was one of the prime targets, along with Floyd, during a massive manhunt of the Cookson Hills in February of 1934, following the New Year's Eve rampage. The manhunt involved as many as 1,000 law enforcement as well as National Guard, road blocked highways, and combing the hills for criminals, 21 of which were arrested, but Floyd and Bradshaw slipped the noose. In early March, Bradshaw came out of hiding and decided to stop for a drink at a roadhouse in Arkoma, Oklahoma, right along the border with Arkansas. The roadhouse was owned by LeFlore County Deputy Sheriff Bill Harper and was operated by his brother Bob Harper. Some sources claim that Bradshaw caused a scene or even threatened and robbed the patrons of the roadhouse, while other sources simply claim that he was recognized. Either way, law enforcement was contacted and showed up some hours later. Most sources claim that Ford Bradshaw initially surrendered and was disarmed, as well as having his bullet proof vest removed. What happened next is not entirely clear from the sources, but it appears there was a scuffle, possibly a violent move towards Bob Harper, or simply an attempt to flee to his parked vehicle. However the events played out, the end result was Ford Bradshaw being hit with approximately seven .45 rounds fired from Bill Harper's semi-automatic pistol. The outlaw's death resulted is Bill Harper being charged with murder, which was later dropped due to a statement from Bradshaw's family. It is said that Harper became paranoid about retaliation, always carrying a gun and turned to alcohol, and died a few years after the slain outlaw. The shotgun itself shows mostly standard markings and features, as well as period modifications and an import mark under the forearm, likely made by Bradshaw himself. The modifications include the barrel having been shortened to 18 1/2 inches and the buttstock shortened to a trigger pull of approximately 9 1/2 inches, both modifications that would have made the gun handy for an outlaw operating primarily out of automobiles. A shotgun that is believed to be a Remington Model 11 with similar modifications is often seen carried in photographs of Bonnie Parker, and these were referred to as "whippet" guns by members of Bonnie and Clyde's "Barrow Gang". The choke is marked as "MOD". An included 1949 dated affidavit signed by A.L. Babb, who was LeFlore County under sheriff in 1934, states that on 2 March 1934, he was dispatched to investigate the killing of Ford Bradshaw by Bill Harper and found this shotgun, listed by manufacturer, gauge, and serial number, in Bradshaw's car and that it remained in his possession until he sold it to M. Hamby. Other documents are included related to Bradshaw's criminal career and death, including newspaper clippings, with some referring to a semi-automatic shotgun recovered at the scene. Also included is a Hall Funeral Homes Inc. document listing the bullet wounds found on Bradshaw's body.

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

Fine as period modified by notorious outlaw Ford Bradshaw, retaining about 30% of the original blue finish, some scattered light pitting, and the typical mild wear of an outlaw firearm. The wood is also fine with the scattered minor cracks and dings of a hard life of crime. Mechanically excellent. Do not miss this opportunity to add a documented piece of prohibition era outlaw history to your colle
more... Provenance: The David Gainsborough-Roberts Collection

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Items Attributed as Recovered from Bonnie and Clyde "Death Car"

Lot # 3103 (Sale Order: 104 of 749)      

Historic Documented Browning Automatic Rifle Magazine and Five .30-06 Springfield Cartridges Attributed as Recovered from the Bonnie and Clyde "Death Car" with a Photograph of Items Recovered from the Car

There are certain names that are nearly synonymous with the "Public Enemy era" in the United States, marked by high profile lawlessness and organized crime. Some of these names include Al Capone, John Dillinger, "Pretty Boy" Floyd, "Baby Face" Nelson, and, perhaps most notoriously, Bonnie and Clyde. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow both grew up in the urban slums of West Dallas, where they met many of the later members of the Barrow Gang, including Floyd Hamilton, whose Winchester rifle can be found in Lot 3101. The infamous duo began their life of armed robbery and murder in 1932, beginning small, mostly robbing small businesses and gas stations. In August of that year, Clyde and Raymond Hamilton, Floyd's brother, were approached by two police officers at a country dance in Oklahoma, and the pair shot the officers, killing one and seriously wounding the other. This was the first law enforcement officer killed by the gang who eventually would kill a total of nine, setting them on a one way path leading them to their graves. A raid on their Joplin, Missouri, hideout in 1933 led to many personal photographs of the gang being posted in newspapers, skyrocketing them to national fame. After the raid, the gang roamed from Minnesota to Texas, stepping up their robberies to banks, and realizing that their newfound fame made keeping a low profile much more difficult for them. In 1934, the noose began to close around Bonnie and Clyde, having sprung some of their gang members out of Eastham prison in Texas and embarrassing the Texas Department of Corrections. The department turned to former Texas Ranger Frank Hamer to track down and apprehend the pair. In April, Parker, Barrow, and another gang member opened fire on two motorcycle patrolmen, killing both, and solidly turning the public's perception against them. These killings also led to large bounties being placed on the heads of both Bonnie and Clyde. Hamer had tracked the outlaws movements for months, found their patterns, and by May was ready to lay his trap in Louisiana. Hamer's posse of six set an ambush along Louisiana State Highway 154 and waited for hours, some even saying they waited a whole day. At around 9:15 am on 23 May, a Ford V8 approached at high speed, slowing down slightly to take the bait the posse had laid. Before the car stopped, Hamer's men opened fire, killing Barrow almost instantly and unloading their plethora of weapons into the vehicle. Bonnie and Clyde were both killed, bringing their crime spree to an end. When the posse searched the vehicle they found veritable arsenal including automatic rifles, sawed off shotguns, a plethora of handguns, magazines, and stocks of ammunition, much of which had been acquired in raids on National Guard armories. A crowd gathered with the spread of the news and quickly turned into a looting mob, many struggling to grab anything they could as a souvenir. A photograph included with the lot shows a man standing with a display of weaponry and ammunition that were recovered from the vehicle by law enforcement. Included documentation states that the BAR magazine, five bullets, and five casings in a stripper clip in this lot were items also recovered from Bonnie and Clyde's car. The documentation from Sandy Jones of the John Dillinger Historical Society indicates that they were originally held as evidence by the F.B.I., the magazine still having an F.B.I. identification number scratched on it, before they were moved to the Texas Ranger collection in San Antonio and later privately acquired. The evidence identification number scratched on the magazine appears to be "B432217", with another illegible number scratched on the opposite side. An included document from Newton & Newton Ltd. states that the .30-06 rounds were deactivated so they could be owned in the U.K. without a firearms certificate, and they are now included in the lot as five casings in a stripper clip with five loosely seated bullets.

Class: Other

Fine, the magazine, bullets, and casings show typical patina and mild wear for their age. The photograph is very good with some mild edge/corner wear. This is an opportunity to own pieces of "Public Enemy era" history, with these items documented as recovered from the car that the infamous Bonnie and Clyde were killed in!

Provenance: The David Gainsborough-Roberts Collection

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1950 Cadillac Series 61 Hardtop Club Coupe

Lot # 3104 (Sale Order: 105 of 749)      

Desirable Untouched 1950 Cadillac Series 61 Hardtop Club Coupe, A True Survivor of the Golden Age of the American Automobile

In 1948, Cadillac had made their first major design changes to the Series 61 and 62 lines of cars in the post-war era, truly bringing them into the "Golden Age" of American Automobiles. These changes included tail fins reminiscent of the Lockheed P-38 fighter aircraft, one of the most unique of the war, the large iconic "eggcrate" grille, and a massive chrome bumper which curved around the fenders. From 1948 through 1949, both the 61 and 62 Series were on the same General Motors C-Body platform, making them very similar. In 1949, Cadillac focused on engineering changes rather than design, introducing their new overhead valve, 331 cubic inch V8 which produced 160 horsepower. In 1950, Cadillac made more design changes including moving the Series 61 back to the shorter B-Body, lower and more sleek contours with a long rear deck, sweeping front fenders, and a "broken" rear fender line with imitation air slots. Along with these design changes, Cadillac had two Series 61 cars entered in the 24 Hours of Le Mans by American sportsman, Briggs Cunningham, who was one of the first Americans to enter the race in 21 years along with his team of drivers. One of the cars featured a five barrel carburetor induction system and a very unique aerodynamic body design that led French spectators to nickname it "Le Monstre", while the other car remained virtually stock, receiving the nickname, "Petit Pataud", or "Little Puppy". Despite it's harmless nickname, the Little Puppy finished 10th overall, a very respectable showing, just in front of "Le Monstre". While not a Le Mans racecar, this 1950 Cadillac Series 61 Club Coupe is a true survivor, still sporting it's original paint and interior. With links to the Le Mans adventure of the same year, this example sports the original paint, in the color termed "French Gray", while the hard top is finished in original "Vista Gray", both part of paint color combination no. 15. The original interior is trim code no. 31, which is "gray whale cord and gray plain cloth". For optional equipment, it sports a heater, displayed on the vehicle information plate as "K". The exterior shows all of the standard chrome trim throughout, including the iconic "flying goddess" Cadillac hood ornament. The chrome wheels have the Cadillac shield at the center backed by red, along with a red border where they meet the whitewall tires. It retains the original 331 V8 and all drivetrain components appear original. The only components visually not original on the vehicle are the tires and the battery, and the odometer has clocked 30,882 miles. Only 11,839 of these Series 61 Club Coupes were produced in 1950, with far fewer survivors in original condition such as this example.

Class: Other

Very fine, a true survivor of the post-World War II "Golden Age" of American automobiles, retaining almost all of the original paint with some scattered patches of minor cracking/chipping, some scattered spotting, and overall an attractive age-dulled appearance. The chrome remains almost entirely bright and the glass is all present, undamaged, and appears to be original. The interior is very fine overall, smells of moth balls, which have preserved it well. Mechanically everything appears to function as it should, with the odometer reading 30,882 original miles (we recommend buyer have a competent mechanic inspect it). This Cadillac is a true survivor and time capsule from a bygone era of American automobiles and would be fantastic for either museum display or a cruise around town!

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S. David Signed Massive Polychromed Bald Eagle Bronze Sculpture

Lot # 3105 (Sale Order: 106 of 749)      

S. David Signed Massive Polychromed Bald Eagle Bronze Sculpture

This massive polychromed bronze displays an American bald eagle gliding to rest on an upright tree trunk. The eagle is animated with unfurled wings and talons at the ready to clutch onto the tree branch. The bronze tree branch that stems from the ground up features a tripod base which firms the tree against the weight of the descending eagle. Both the tail and head of the eagle are white with fine feathering. The great bronze is signed on the bottom trunk "S. David" (20th c, possibly American). With the following approximate dimensions: 36 inches long, 51 inches wide, 62 inches tall, weight is approximately 200 pounds.

Class: Other

Excellent overall.

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Arradia Signed Polychrome Bald Eagle with Fish Bronze Sculpture

Lot # 3106 (Sale Order: 107 of 749)      

Arradia Signed Polychrome Bald Eagle with Fish Bronze Sculpture

A tremendous lifelike bronze of an American bald eagle clutching a fish, with finely detailed feathering and razor sharp talons on the eagle. The eagle is fully polychrome with white colored tail, head, and talons with a silver finish on the water splash that holds the eagle. Fitted on a three layer circular marble plinth with a dark top and bottom that sandwiches the white center. The silver finished base is signed "Arradia," possibly for a 20th century Italian sculptor who won many awards with depictions of these eagles. With the following approximate dimensions: 13 inches long, 25 inches wide, 38 inches tall, weight is approximately 50 pounds.

Class: Other

Excellent overall.

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Themis Goddess of Justice by Mayer

Lot # 3107 (Sale Order: 108 of 749)      

Themis Goddess of Justice by Mayer

This great courtroom judicial bronze statue is signed "Mayer" (Eduard Mayer French, 1812-1881) on the back of the bronze. The statue shows the blindfolded Themis with one arm up holding the scales of Justice and the other arm is downward holding the sword which is encircled by a serpent. Themis is resting one foot on the ground and the other on top of the serpent's head which she has pinned between herself and a book. Highly decorative classical cloak fits her entire body. She rests on a circular bronze plinth. The statue measures 13x23x56 inches and weighs 104 lbs.

Class: Other

Very fine with some storage and handling marks and an attractive patina. A great statue for a lawyer's office or a courtroom.

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Barye Signed French Pattern Stag Head Bronze Urn

Lot # 3108 (Sale Order: 109 of 749)      

Barye Signed French Wheat Pattern Stag Head Bronze Urn

This ornate bronze urn displays detailed French pattern wheat motif embellishments surrounding the body, with two bowing stag heads flanking on either side underneath the handles. The included cover matches the wheat motif pattern, with a bronze resting base for the urn itself. With "Bayre" signed in the underside, possibly for Alfred Bayre (1839-1882), a 19th century French sculptor who was well regarded for his meticulously detailed bronzes of the Belle Époque. With the following approximate dimensions: 16 inches long, 23 inches wide, 37 inches tall, weight is approximately 110 pounds.

Class: Other

Excellent overall.

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Pierre-Jules Mêne Signed Wild Boar Bronze Sculpture

Lot # 3109 (Sale Order: 110 of 749)      

Desirable Large Pierre-Jules Mêne Signed Wild Boar Bronze Sculpture

A large bronze likeness of a wild boar, with ears back and head bowed as if to soon charge against a sportsman or some other foe. The boar's backside is masterfully embellished with an array of bristled hair detailed in. The base is signed "P.J. Mene" for famed French artist and animalier Pierre-Jules Mêne (1810-1879), who gained fame for his lifelike animal sculptures and ability to convey a likeness of movement and life, considered on of the pioneers of animal sculpting in the 19th century as conveyed through the craftsmanship displayed in this example. With the following approximate dimensions: 35 inches long, 13 inches wide, 20 inches tall, weight is approximately 60 pounds.

Class: Other

Excellent overall.

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Documented U.S. Colt SAA Revolver with Kopec Letter

Lot # 3110 (Sale Order: 111 of 749)      

Exceptional Documented U.S. Colt Single Action Artillery Revolver with Gold Seal Kopec Letter

This is an exceptional example of a U.S. contract Colt Cavalry Model revolver that was manufactured in 1874, and subsequently refurbished to "Artillery" configuration with 5 1/2 inch barrel and refurbished by Colt in 1901 for issue to U.S. forces in the Philippines. Additional information about this revolver's military service comes from Kopec and Fenn’s “Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers” where the revolver is cited by serial number as an “unserviceable Cavalry Revolver returned to Colt in 1895” (page 270). The revolver was again returned to the Colt factory in 1901 for Artillery Model refurbishment. This revolver mostly certainly saw its share of military service!Renowned Colt historian and author John Kopec recently examined this revolver and his gold seal letter of authenticity is included. In his letter Kopec noted that the revolver was a new listing in the survey and the Ainsworth inspected host revolver (no. 6170) fell into lot 6 (nos. 5505-6516). Lot 6 revolvers were issued to the 1st, 2nd, and 7th Cavalries. Revolvers nos. 6067 and 6269 have Custer battle association. Kopec reiterates that the frame of this Artillery Model had been twice refurbished at the Colt factory. “The refurbishing occurred on November 16th 1895 and the second during 1901,” wrote Kopec. “This could suggest that the revolver had completely avoided the Springfield Armory refurbishing period of 1898.” The revolver in its current state was assembled at the Colt factory during the 1901 refurbishing. Kopec went on to identify each of the main components. The trigger guard came from host revolver no. 82112, which was manufactured in 1882 and inspected by Capt. John E. Greer and sub-inspected by David F. Clark. The back strap bears Greer and Clark inspected 1883 manufactured host revolver serial number no. 93271. The barrel has the partial serial no. 0224 and has the early script style Colt Hartford barrel address (faint). The barrel originated from Cavalry Model no. 10224 manufactured in 1874 and sub-inspected by O.W. Ainsworth. Per National Archives records, revolvers no. 10215 and 10262 were issued to the 100th Meridian Expedition on July 17, 1878. Members of the 100th Meridian Expedition participated in the first U.S. Army Engineer survey of the American West. The cylinder bears two serial nos.: 047 and 115270. Host revolver no. 115270 was refurbished on January 2, 1896. Kopec estimated that 85% of the 1896 refurbished Artillery Models were issued to Roosevelt’s legendary “Rough Riders” in 1898. The grip was fitted to the revolver during the 1901 refurbishment and is marked with the 1901 date over Capt. Odus C. Horney’s script letter cartouche on the left side, Rinaldo A. Carr’s script letter cartouche on the right side, and Carr’s “RAC” initials stamped on the bottom. As Kopec stated, “These grips appear today in perfect condition.” The barrel, ejector housing, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap have the Colt commercial blue finish used on revolvers refurbished in 1900-1903. The frame, loading gate and hammer are color casehardened and the one-piece walnut grip is oil finished. The barrel and ejector housing are the first style with barrel boss. The ejector rod head is the early 'bullseye' pattern. The hammer has the shorter 'civilian' knurling on the spur. The partial serial number on the underside of the barrel is no longer legible. The frame is serial numbered "6170", the trigger guard "82112", the back strap "93/217" and the cylinder is stamped with the partial serial number "017" above "115270". The combination of serial numbers on the cylinder indicates that the revolver was altered to Artillery configuration during or prior to the Spanish-American War and subsequently sent to Colt for refurbishment in 1900-1903. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the first style script address: "+ COLT"S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A. +" with slanted crosses at either end. A "P" proof mark and small "A" sub-inspection mark are stamped on the underside of the barrel. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt two-date/two-line patent marking followed by the "U.S." property mark. The assembly number, "328" is stamped on the loading gate. A "C" Colt inspection mark is stamped in the hammer well above the firing pin hole. In addition to the serial numbers, the side of the cylinder is stamped with a "P" proof mark and a "D.F.C." sub-inspection mark. The rear face of the cylinder is stamped with three Colt inspection marks, "S", "K" and "O". A small "G" is stamped on the back strap below the serial number. The lower left side of the grip is stamped with the date "1901" above the Ordnance final inspection mark which consists of
more... Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Cavalry Model Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Kopec Letter

Lot # 3111 (Sale Order: 112 of 749)      

Historic Documented Custer Battle Era "Lot Five" U.S. Cavalry Model Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Kopec Authentication Letter

The Battle of Little Bighorn remains the most famous event of the late 19th century Indian Wars and firearms associated with the battle, Custer, and the 7th Cavalry remain among the most coveted and valuable collectible firearms. In the battle, the 7th Cavalry were armed with early Colt Single Action Army revolvers and Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor carbines, but the troopers' attack on the large Native American camp was halted, and then the combined warriors of the Arapaho, Dakota, Lakota, and Northern Cheyenne counter attacked, routing Reno's detachment and overwhelming and decimating Custer's detachment. The weapons of some of Reno's men as well as presumably nearly all of Custer's men's arms were captured by the Native Americans. This revolver comes from "Lot Five," one of the "prime lots" from which the 7th Cavalry's revolvers were drawn prior to that fateful day, and it has the appearance of a genuine frontier issued and battle tested revolver. As discussed in the included letter from Colt Single Action Army expert John A. Kopec, this revolver was manufactured c. January 5, 1874, and is from the Lot Five (4500-5504) revolvers sold to the U.S. government in 1874. The 7th Cavalry received shipments of revolvers from Rock Island Arsenal to Fort Abraham Lincoln on March 25th, 1874, and they were issued on July 2, 1874, before their departure to the Black Hills. Kopec notes that this revolver was new to his survey and falls between 5138 and 5140 which are recorded as Artillery Models. National Archives records were not found for this revolver, but it falls between 5058 issued to Company H of the 17th Infantry and 5147 issued to Troop L of the 7th Cavalry. In addition to 5147, other revolvers from Lot Five also have documented or presumptive 7th Cavalry history: 5099, 5100, 5126, 5128, 5133, 5153, and 5180. Kopec writes, "The relic condition of this revolver could possibly support a theory of a 'Battlefield pick-up'. The subsequent modifications appears throughout this example would seem to point towards it being subsequently used on the frontier." Some of the modifications include: a slot added at the toe screw, a homemade ejector rod head and cylinder pin, old replacement screws, traces of a white colored paint on the grip. The revolver features a blade front sight, the one-line italic barrel address, the two-line patent marking and "U.S." on the left side of the frame, matching visible serial numbers, assembly number "95" on the loading gate, "A" (Ainsworth) and "P" inspection and proof marks on the barrel and cylinder, and another "A" inspection mark visible behind the hammer on the back strap.

Class: Antique

Relic. The revolver has a definite "battlefield pick-up" appearance overall as noted by John Kopec with a mix of gray and brown patina, moderate pitting, buffing, replacement ejector rod head and cylinder pin as well as several replacement screws, well-worn grip with faded paint and chips at the toe, and general heavy wear. In a testament to why the Colt Single Action Army was so popular with the U.S. Cavalry in the American West, even after years of heavy use and abuse, aside from the half-cock notch, the revolver remains mechanically fine. If this Colt Cavalry could talk, what a story it would tell!

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2-Barrel Gardner Gun with Original Tripod

Lot # 3112 (Sale Order: 113 of 749)      

Exceptionally Rare 2-Barrel Gardner Gun with Original Tripod

The Gardner guns were early crank type rapid fire arms which were originally invented in 1874 by William Gardner, of Toledo, Ohio, formerly a Civil War Union Army captain. After producing a handmade prototype, Gardner sold American manufacturing rights to Pratt & Whitney of Hartford, Connecticut, who made improvements to Gardner's original design such as adding a safety mode that allowed an operator to run ammunition through without firing the weapon. Versions of Gardner guns were designed with one, two and five barrels. This example has two barrels which are encased in Edward G. Parkhust's patent improved outer cylindrical jacket that could be filled with water to prevent overheating. These guns were fed with gravity driven magazines and operated by hand turning a crank which moves bolts back and forth for firing and extraction. This reciprocating motion system is used in many of today's machine guns. In the two gun model cycling the action alternated firing from both barrels in an effort to reduce overheating. From the mid-1870s to early 1880s Pratt & Whitney manufactured an estimated 21 guns for U.S. War Department trials. Although the U.S. Navy purchased a limited number, the Army was not interested and never officially adapted the Gardner gun. However, the U.S. Army later procured ten improved 2-barrel Gardner guns with carriages, which were delivered September 30, 1898 right after the Spanish-American War. Although limited numbers of Gardner guns were purchased, the Gatling gun fulfilled the U.S. Army's main needs of the time. William Gardner decided to set up his own company and continued to manufacture his guns separately as the Gardner Gun Company starting in 1879. Eventually the Gardner gun gained the attention of the British government who ordered it for all branches of their military as manufactured by the Gardner Gun Company located out of England. The weapons saw action with British forces in a few African wars in Sudan and the Upper Nile. Serial number "20” stamped on the receiver, receiver cover, and a few internal components. "45" stamped on the front surface between the barrels. A blade front sight is mounted on the left side of the barrel jacket, with an elevation adjustable rear sight mounted on the left of the receiver. The left of the receiver features a selector switch that allows a safe mode to be able to cycle the weapon without tripping the firing pin. "AB" punch dotted on the top cover. Fitted on an original tripod, and includes one professionally made modern reproduction magazine and a modern wooden transport case.

Class: Antique

Fine, with bright golden patina on the brass, some dings and handling marks. Professionally made modern reproduction rear sight, barrels and magazine. Mechanically excellent. Tripod is very good with some scattered gray patina and mild pitting on the iron legs, and brown golden patina on the brass. As a rare surviving example of 19th century American innovation, the Gardner gun is an important piece in the evolutionary development of the machine gun, and is missing from even the most advanced public and private collections.

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Two Hardcover Books on Maxim Nordenfelt Guns

Lot # 3113 (Sale Order: 114 of 749)      

Two Rare Hardcover Books on Maxim Nordenfelt Guns

The first book is "Maxim Nordenfelt Guns" (English), and the second is "Canons a Tir Rapide et Mitrailleuses Maxim-Nordenfelt" (French). Both have labels from Whitehead, Morris & Co. inside the covers, and the French book has a Henk L. Visser bookplate. They provide excellent information on the Maxim Nordenfelt naval and infantry guns of the late 19th and early 20th centuries as well as the legendary Maxim machine guns. Maxim Nordenfelt Guns and Ammunition Co. Ltd. was formed by the purchase of Thorsten Nordenfelt's company by Hiram S. Maxim in 1888.

Class: Other

The first book is good with mild age and storage wear, a few notations in the text, and limited minor staining. The second book is fair with a separating front cover and otherwise mostly similar mild age and storage related wear, a few notations, and minor staining.

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The Driggs-Schroeder System of Rapid-Fire Guns

Lot # 3114 (Sale Order: 115 of 749)      

Rare Book: "The Driggs-Schroeder System of Rapid-Fire Guns" Printed by the American Ordnance Company

This very rare book was printed for private circulation in 1896, and this copy has bookplates from the libraries of William Courtney Overstreet, Ray Riling, and Henk Visser. Few copies of this book are known today, especially outside of libraries and other institutions. This publication provides valuable insight into the Driggs-Schroeder naval guns designed by William H. Driggs and Seaton Schroeder and used by the U.S. Navy in the late 19th century and early 20th century. The cover has "THE DRIGGS-SCHROEDER SYSTEM OF RAPID-FIRE GUNS AMERICAN ORDNANCE COMPANY. 702 SEVENTEENTH STREET, WASHINGTON. 315 BROADWAY, NEW YORK. U.S.A." in gilt lettering, the spine has the title and 1901 in gilt lettering, and the back cover has the American Ordnance Company gilt emblem based on the U.S. Ordnance Department insignia.

Class: Other

Good with moderate age and storage related wear, including some separation of the spine with some taped repairs/reinforcement, staining, and creasing.

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"Nordenfelt on Machine Guns" Hardcover Book

Lot # 3115 (Sale Order: 116 of 749)      

Rare "Nordenfelt on Machine Guns" Hardcover Book

This is a rare hardcover copy of "Nordenfelt on Machine Guns" also titled "The Nordenfelt Machine Guns Described in Detail and Compared with Others Systems; Also Their Employment for Naval and Military Purposes. Illustrated with Fifty-Seven Full-Page Illustrations and Diagrams" by Thorsten Nordenfelt published in 1884 by Griffin & Co. It features 206 pages filled with information and diagrams. The maroon cover has "NORDENFELT" above an image of a sailor firing a Nordenfelt over "ON/MACHINE GUNS." all in golden ink, and the spine similarly has "NORDENFELT/ON/MACHINE GUNS" and "1884" in gold.

Class: Other

Very good with mild wear mainly on the cover and some light staining.

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"My Life" Book by Sir Hiram S. Maxim Inscribed to Benjamin Orman

Lot # 3116 (Sale Order: 117 of 749)      

Signed "My Life" by Sir Hiram S. Maxim Hardcover Book with Personal Inscription from the Author to Fellow Inventor Benjamin Orman

This is a second edition copy of "My Life" by famed inventor Sir Hiram S. Maxim published by Methuen & Co. Ltd. of London. The flyleaf has the personal inscription: "Presented to my old friend Mr. Benj. Orman with the compliments of the Author." and signed "Hiram S. Maxim" followed by the inscription "We worked together for many years on Killing Machines. London, Oct. 1915." The inside of the cover also has Orman's address handwritten. Benjamin Orman was also a firearms designer and is named in patent 526,591 for an "Apparatus for Filling Cartridge Feed-Belts for Machine-Guns assigned to the Maxim-Nordenfelt Guns and Ammunition Company and granted on April 2, 1895. Orman also patented his own self-loading pistol design in 1912. Maxim (1840-1916) was born in Maine and moved to England in 1881 where he became widely known as the inventor of the Maxim machine gun in 1884, the first fully-automatic machine gun. Maxim machine guns and improvements based on his design were used in colonial conquests in the late 19th century and early 20th century and contributed to the massive losses suffered during World War I. In addition to machine guns, Maxim also invented a wide number of devices, including by some accounts the first incandescent light bulbs. His son Hiram Percy Maxim was also an inventor, and among his successes was the first commercially successful firearms suppressors, the Maxim Silencers, in the early 20th century.

Class: Other

Very good with mild age and storage related wear mainly confined to the edges of the cover and some minor staining.

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U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3117 (Sale Order: 118 of 749)      

Fine U.S. Henry Nettleton Inspected Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with John Kopec Letter

This highly desirable U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model revolver was manufactured in 1878. This revolver is one of 3,000 Colt Single Action revolvers inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector Henry Nettleton and Ordnance Inspector Captain John E. Greer. Colt Single Action revolvers that bear the "HN" sub-inspection mark of Henry Nettleton are some of the most collectible of all U.S. contract Single Action revolvers. In 1982 renowned Colt historian and author John Kopec examined this revolver and in his accompanying letter stated "this revolver in my opinion is 100% correct in all respects." Although the revolver carries the Colt factory return ampersand mark on the right side of the trigger guard, Kopec believed it was returned to the factory "for minor (possible internal) repairs. There is no indication that this revolver has ever been refinished in any way." The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." The underside of the barrel is stamped with a "P" proof mark and the "H.N." sub-inspection mark. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt "three-date/three-line" patent markings. The patent markings are followed by the "U.S." property mark; the property mark on this revolver is typical of Nettleton-inspected Single Action revolvers and does not have periods after the "U" and "S" and has the upset marks that indicate the property mark was stamped on a casehardened frame. Additional "HN" sub-inspector marks appear on the trigger guard, cylinder, back strap, and bottom of grip. Another "P" proof mark is stamped on the cylinder. Matching full or partial serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel. The left side of the grip is stamped with the date "1878" above the final inspection mark which consists of the script initials "JEG" (John E. Greer) with an oval border. The lower right side of the grip is stamped with the script sub-inspector initials "HN" in an oval.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 40% plus original blue finish and 30% original case colors with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The lightly sanded, re-oiled grip is fine with high edge wear, a few handling marks, and legible date and cartouches. Mechanically excellent.

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U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3118 (Sale Order: 119 of 749)      

U.S. David F. Clark Inspected Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with "Ropes" Experimental Holster

This U.S. contract Colt "Cavalry Model" single action revolver was manufactured in 1884 and inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector David F. Clark. The revolver features the standard one-line Hartford barrel address, and the frame has the three-line Colt patent marking followed by "U.S." property mark. A small block "D.F.C." sub-inspection mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the frame above the serial number, side of the cylinder, and on the left grip butt. "P" proof marks are stamped on the underside of the barrel and side of the cylinder. The ordnance replacement loading gate has Rinaldo A. Carr sub-inspector initials "RAC." The full serial number is visible on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The partial serial number "2264" is stamped on the cylinder and barrel. The left side of the grip is dated "1884" over Frank Heath's script letter cartouche, and the right side of the grip has Clark's script letter cartouche. Heath inspected Cavalry Models fall into the 111656-116931 serial number range, a period of production from August 11, 1884-January 31, 1885 for 2,000 revolvers. The leather military belt holster is an experimental type made for the Colt SAA and Smith & Wesson Schofield revolvers (see Rattenbury's "Packing Iron," pages 30-31) . The design is often credited to Captain James Ropes and incorporates a civilian Mexican loop type holster with ten cartridge loops sewn at the mouth of the holster under the flap and an extended belt loop/skirt.

Class: Antique

Fine. The barrel retains 60% original blue finish, the ejector rod housing retains 70% original blue finish, the cylinder retains traces of original blue finish in the flutes, and the grip straps retain traces of original blue finish heavier around the trigger with a mottled brown-gray patina on the balance. 20% original case colors remain on the hammer and frame. The grip is fine with handling mark, high edge wear, and legible date and cartouches. The holster is good with a partial closure strap absent. Mechanically excellent.

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F. Villa Inscribed Nimschke Engraved Colt Single Action Army

Lot # 3119 (Sale Order: 120 of 749)      

Historic L.D. Nimschke New York Master Engraved First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with "F. Villa" Inscription Attractive Raised Relief Carved Steer Head Grip with Additional Documentation

This revolver was manufactured in 1883 and features beautiful L.D. Nimschke "New York" style engraving throughout consisting mainly of classic scroll engraving with beaded backgrounds as well as wavy line and dot accents. The barrel has a blade front sight, the one-line barrel address on top, part of the etched panel visible on the left, "44" on the bottom at the breech, and an ejector rod with small divot in the button. The "black powder" frame has the three line patent marking mostly visible among the engraving on the left. "T" and "P" are marked on the back of the cylinder. The loading gate has assembly number "6605." The trigger guard has "44. C.F." on the left side. Matching serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The one-piece grip has a raised relief carved steer head on the left side suggesting this revolver was the left side revolver from a pair. "F. VILLA" is inscribed on the butt of the revolver. In a December 18, 1967, letter, R.L. Wilson wrote: "...the F. Villa inscribed Colt Single Action revolver, serial #88078, is an important example of engraved pistol by master engraver L.D. Nimschke...#88078 was originally shipped from the Colt factory in the 'soft' state. Such shipments were rare, but when done meant that the pistol was to be engraved by the recipient dealer. By the distinctive style of the engraving, the work is identifiable as definitely by the master L.D. Nimschke." Wilson also notes that the grips are believed to be original and notes that it is unusual that Nimschke partially engraved over the etched panel on the barrel rather than have his scrollwork accommodate the etching. He points to the wear at the muzzle indicating the revolver was carried in an open toe holster and that given the overall wear, "One can say without hesitation or reservation that this fine old pistol saw Frontier use on a day-in day-out basis and is a bona fide relic of the Wild West." The revolver is also featured on page 83 of "Der Peacemaker: Colt's 1873er Single Action" by Gunter Schmitt, and the details of the Wilson letter are also discussed as well as a Bundeswehr pilot who had been training in Mexico and informed the author that he had seen a mate to the this revolver in the Villa Museum. This revolver's early provenance is not documented, but the inscription is consistent with other revolvers attributed to Mexican general and revolutionary Francisco "Pancho" Villa. The inscription appears to be cut by the same hand as the factory engraved and gold plated Colt Single Action Army Revolver, sn. 335515, inscribed "FRANCISCO VILLA" in the same location on the butt as well as "Al General Francisco Villa/de/su Division del Norte" in a different style down the rear of the back strap. This revolver turning up in a German collection is interesting given the known involvement of German agents in supplying and funding Villa and his men.Villa was born Jose Dorotea Arango Arambula (1878-1923), but is much better known as Pancho Villa and remains one of the most famous Mexican generals of the Mexican Revolution and retains a "Robin Hood" type persona thanks to his work to redistribute wealth from some of the wealthier landowners to the poor in Northern Mexico. He is also known to have been a ruthless bandit and general employing brutal tactics against his real and perceived enemies. He is known to have used a variety of firearms throughout his life, including Colt Single Action Army revolvers, as he fought with and against a series of Mexican leaders during in the early 20th century. As a teenager, he claimed to have killed Agustin Lopez Negrete who had raped his sister, stole a horse, and fled and joined up with an outlaw gang and lived as a bandit. He was forced into the Federal Army in 1902 after being arrested for theft and assault but soon deserted. The next year, he killed an army officer and stole his horse. He continued his banditry until 1910 when it took on a more revolutionary bend under the advice of Abraham Gonzalez. With the outbreak of the Mexican Revolution that year, Villa supported Francisco Madero and won multiple victories earning him growing fame and power and a promotion to colonel from Madero. During Madero's presidency, Villa struck General Victoriano Huerta after the general called him a horse thief and bandit. Spared execution by firing squad thanks to his connections with Madero, Villa was imprisoned but escaped on Christmas in 1912 and fled to the United States. After Huerta came into power, Villa's ally Gonzalez was assassinated by Huerta's men, and Villa joined with Venustiano
more... Provenance: The Gunter Schmitt Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Nickel-Plated Factory "Soft" Shipment Colt Bisley Model Revolver

Lot # 3120 (Sale Order: 121 of 749)      

Exceptional Documented Antique New York Hartley & Graham Engraved, Nickel-Plated, Factory "Soft" Shipment Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

The Colt Bisley model was only manufactured in 1894-1912 and were designed by Colt with accuracy and target shooting in mind. 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. Rarely are they encountered with a period engraving, making these works of steel canvas highly sought after by today's collectors. This example is highly desirable as it was shipped to famed New York retailer Hartley & Graham specifically for engraving as documented by the included factory letter. The revolver is covered in beautiful L.D. Nimschke New York style engraving. Combined with its excellent condition, this revolver is a standout piece of late 19th century work of American art and will make a grand statement to any collection. The accompanying factory letter describes the revolver as: Colt Single Action Bisley Model Revolver, Serial Number 177848, Caliber: 45/C, Barrel Length: 4 3/4 inches, Finish: Soft, and Type of Stocks: Not listed. The letter states that this revolver was shipped to Hartley & Graham in New York, New York, on April 30, 1898, as a one-gun shipment. The "soft" finish indicates that it was sent outside the Colt factory "without final finishing for engraving." The revolver is engraved with bold Germanic scroll-work on a punch-dot background. The engraving coverage approximates Colt "B" or "No. 2" engraving. The engraving was probably executed by master engraver L.D. Nimschke or his shop. Nimschke engraved many, if not most, of the Colt revolvers with "soft" finish ordered by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham between 1870 and 1900. The authors of "A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver" provided additional historical context of these amazing "soft" finish shipped SAAs: "Schuyler, Hartley & Graham contracted much of their Single Action engraving work to Louis D. Nimschke, the world-renowned master engraver (as well as those 'soft-engraved' revolvers from other engraving contractors-one being the Gustav Young family) display patterns and styles very similar to Colt's own engraved Single Actions of the era. This strongly indicates common apprenticeships and employment by many of the Hartford-area craftsmen who at various times worked under Colt's master engravers" (page 85). The barrel, cylinder trigger guard and back strap are nickel-plated. The top of the hammer, trigger screws and cylinder pin have a fiery, niter blue, finish. The two-piece grips are pearl. The revolver has the distinctive Bisley Model features which include: hump-back profile grips, 3/16-inch higher frame, curved, wide-spur hammer with bordered knurling on the spur, and special, wide, curved trigger. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co./HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in two lines and the left side is roll-stamped: "(BISLEY MODEL) 45 COLT" in a single line. The caliber designation "45" is stamped on the underside of the barrel just ahead of the frame. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt two-line/three-date patent markings in an engraved panel. The assembly number "45" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The full serial number is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number "848" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Class: Antique

Excellent. The revolver retains 97% plus of the untouched original nickel-plated finish. There is some finish loss and traces of pitting along the left edge of the recoil shield. The cylinder has some minor high point wear and there is some finish flaking in two of the flutes. The niter blue finish on the trigger and hammer top is thin. The remainder of the nickel plated and niter blue finish is intact and shows minimal wear. The flawlessly executed engraving is sharp and deep. The action is crisp but the hammer will not hold at half-cock. The pearl grips are in excellent condition. This is an exceptional example of a scarce Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver, New York engraved possibly L.D. Nimschke or his shop for Hartley & Graham.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Factory Engraved Tipping & Lawden/Sharps Patent Pepperbox Pistol

Lot # 3121 (Sale Order: 122 of 749)      

Exceptional Presentation Cased Factory Engraved Tipping & Lawden Sharps Patent Four-Shot Pepperbox Pistol

This is an exceptional example of an engraved Sharps "pepperbox" pistol manufactured by English gunmakers Tipping & Lawden in the early 1860s or 1870s. Tipping & Lawden were one of only two authorized European firms licensed by Sharps to manufacture pistols based on his innovative design. They were part of the 20 member Birmingham Small Arms Trading Company and manufactured approximately 4,000 of the Model 2 in four different calibers. This example has a blue barrel, silver frame, and checkered gutta percha grips. The frame features almost complete coverage of floral scroll engraving, which continues on the barrels in flourishes surrounding a knurled gripping area on each side. The left side of the frame is marked "TIPPING & LAWDEN/SHARPS' PATENT" in a circle surrounding the hammer screw. The serial number is marked on the top front of the frame, hidden by the barrel group. It comes in a scarce burled hardwood presentation case with blue baize lined interior, German silver escutcheon and banner on the lid (both blank), oiler, and screwdriver.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine, retains 95% plus of the original blue finish, vibrant case colors on the hammer, and 75% of the original silver on the frame with the balance an attractively aged brass and crisp engraving overall. The slightly warped grips are very fine with a few scattered light handling marks. Mechanically fine apart from the barrel latch which has no return spring tension. The case is very fine with a few scattered light handling/storage marks.

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Manufrance Gaulois No. 2 Palm Pistol with "Cigar" Style Case

Lot # 3122 (Sale Order: 123 of 749)      

Excellent Etched Manufacture Francaise d'Armes et Cycles de St. Etienne Gaulois No. 2 Palm Pistol with "Cigar" Style Case

"Manufrance" manufactured these distinctive "squeezer" pistols c. 1893-1912. These pistols were initially called the Mitrailleuse (from "Grapeshot") from 1893 to approximately 1895 before being re-branded as the Le Gaulois (native people of France as in the Gauls). This Gaulois has etched floral patterns on the sides, the manufacturer mark on the rear of the frame at the top, "Cal." and "8m/m" at the front, the Manufrance logo along with "GAULOIS" on the barrel, and "No. 2" on the loading gate. The left side of the action has the three position selector switch. Matching serial numbers are on the barrel, frame, and side plate. The trigger mechanism has a checkered hard rubber pad with "R/136" marked on the left. The barrel has a round post front sight, and the dust cover and front of the frame are serrated. It comes with a fitted leather "cigar" style case that opens from either end. One end opens for the pistol, and the other has a block for ten cartridges.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent with 90% plus bright original high polish blue finish, small patch of wear on the left side, and otherwise generally only minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically fine. The case is very fine and has mild age and storage related wear.

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E. Remington & Sons "Dog's Head" Grip .22 Rimfire Cane Gun

Lot # 3123 (Sale Order: 124 of 749)      

Scarce E. Remington & Sons "Dog's Head" Grip .22 Rimfire Cane Gun with Unique Bead Front Sight

This is a scarce example of one of an estimated 1,800 Remington metallic cartridge cane guns manufactured circa 1866 to 1888. The original design was patented by Remington's master mechanic John F. Thomas in 1858. The Remington cane guns have the distinction of being the first metallic cartridge long arm produced by Remington. Remington was also the only major U.S. manufacturer to produce cane guns. Cane guns and swords were popular with European gentlemen in the 19th century, with canes being considered an essential part of a gentleman's wardrobe in the Victorian Era. Due to the increase in street crime in both European and American cities, the need for a defensive weapon while still wanting to look sharp helped promote the production of these weapons. Remington advertised "The Remington Rifle Cane" as "Just the Thing for Taxidermists" and as "Protection against Dogs and Highwaymen." This example is one of the .22 rimfire versions with the smaller "dog's head" handle. The handle is joined to the shaft with a thinned silvered band. This particular cane stands out from most that are encountered in that it lacks the typical iron ferrule at the muzzle with the Thomas patent marking and serial number, but instead has as stepped up portion of gutta percha that is fitted with a special order bead front sight. These cane guns have been seen with rare and unique special order features before, but this is the only one with a front sight that the writer has seen. The cane appears to be devoid of markings.

Class: Antique

Very good overall, the gutta percha showing generally an attractively aged chocolate tone, typical of these canes, some scattered light handling marks, and the grip section slightly loose. Mechanically fine.

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Relief Carved Double Horse Head Cane with Gilt Band

Lot # 3124 (Sale Order: 125 of 749)      

Desirable Relief Carved Double Horse Head Cane with Gilt Band

From around the 16th century onwards, canes steadily grew in popularity into the early 20th century. They became a more than just a fashion accessory or mobility tool, but a symbol of one's wealth and power. This popularity as an affluent accessory reached its zenith around the same time as that of horse racing, often dubbed, "the sport of kings". It is unsurprising therefore, that many canes are found associated with the sport. This piece appears to represent the sport; the grip either being carved to represent a pair of horse's heads belonging to a wealthy owner, or a pair of horses neck and neck during a race. Both of the horses show expressions associated with strenuous activity and are fitted with glass eyes. The grip is joined to the shaft by an engraved gilt band. The shaft is smooth ebony and is tipped with a German silver and iron ferrule. It measures 34 1/2 inches overall.

Class: Other

Fine, the grip showing an attractively aged tone with a few hairline age cracks scattered throughout. The gilt band is bright. The shaft is very good with some scattered light handling marks and a dark patina on the iron.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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1.178.0.836.d2a4bd2.12.201