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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Pg : 6 of 30

Relief Carved Boar Head Cane with Silvered Band

Lot # 3125 (Sale Order: 126 of 749)      

Attractive Relief Carved Boar Head Cane with Silvered Band

Popular since the time of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, boar hunting is seen throughout history as a popular sport and pastime, particularly among the wealthy and elite of many different civilizations around the globe. Due to their aggressive nature, thick hide, and substantial bone structure, boars have been seen as a highly respected foe, particularly before the introduction of firearms when a spear was often the weapon of choice. The popularity of boar hunting continued into the heyday of the cane as a status symbol, making it unsurprising that the two overlapped. The grip of this cane has been masterfully carved in the form of the long haired boar, with very detailed hair, long tusks, and glass eyes. The grip is joined to the shaft with a floral patterned silvered band. The shaft is of smooth Malacca and is tipped with light colored horn. It measures 34 3/4 inches overall.

Class: Other

Fine, the grip showing an attractively aged tone, some hairline age cracks, and a few light chips absent from the ears (ears also intentionally notched). The silver shows an attractively aged patina, some light crazing and handling marks on the shaft, and mild uneven wear on the tip.

Provenance: Laurence Jantzen, Le Louvre des Antiquaires, Paris; The Larry Mattson Collection

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17th Century Style Relief Carved "Gargoyle Man" Cane

Lot # 3126 (Sale Order: 127 of 749)      

Unique 17th Century Style Relief Carved "Gargoyle Man" Cane

Reaching the peak of their popularity in the late 19th century, canes had been popular for centuries, evolving during the Renaissance into more of a status symbol than a mobility aid. This example was likely made towards the end of the French Renaissance in the 17th century, showing a somewhat simpler style to the elaborate works of art seen in the late 19th century. The grip on this example has been relief carved in the form of a distressed or enraged man's face, reminiscent of gargoyle figures often carved on gothic buildings of the period. The face is fitted with glass eyes. There is a small step down of the shaft below the grip which once had been fitted for a band (now absent), or was simply intended for decoration. The shaft is smooth malacca and has a large nickeled tip. It measures 38 1/2 inches overall.

Class: Other

Very good, the grip shows an attractively aged tone with a few hairline age cracks and some scattered light handling marks. The shaft has some scattered light handling marks and the tip is mostly bright.

Provenance: Laurence Jantzen, Le Louvre des Antiquaires, Paris; The Larry Mattson Collection

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Relief Carved Mother Holding Son's Hand Cane/Riding Crop

Lot # 3127 (Sale Order: 128 of 749)      

Attractively Relief Carved Mother Holding Son's Hand Cane/Riding Crop with Inscribed Gold Band

The 19th century saw canes and walking sticks reach the peak of their popularity, making them an incredibly popular gift among the affluent for almost any occasion. This example has a gold band just below the grip inscribed in French, "a mon cher Fils." or "to my dear Son." indicating that this piece was a gift from a parent to a son. The grip is carved in the form of two hands clasping, the upper had appearing to be clad in women's clothing at the wrist, while the lower hand is slightly smaller, indicating that this was likely a gift from a mother to a son. There is floral carving both at the top and a bottom of the wrists. The previously mentioned gold band joins the grip to a slender malacca shaft that is tipped with iron. Due to the slender nature of this stick, it was likely either intended for a very young man or to be used as a riding crop/stick. It measures 33 1/2 inches overall.

Class: Other

Very good, the grip showing an attractively aged tone with a few faint hairline age cracks and light handling marks. The shaft shows a minor warp with some hairline age cracks, light handling marks, and mild oxidation on the iron tip.

Provenance: C. Dike Collection; Patrick Gutknecht, Geneva; The Larry Mattson Collection

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Engraved Gold Remington-Smoot New Model No. 2 Revolver

Lot # 3128 (Sale Order: 129 of 749)      

Exceptional Exhibition Grade Engraved and Gold Plated Remington-Smoot New Model No. 2 Revolver with Pearl Grips, Leather Bound Case, and Book

This incredible revolver is pictured and discussed on pages 338-341 of the included copy of "A Life's Tapestry of a Collector: The Gamble Collection" by George F. Gamble and R.L. Wilson where it is described as "a rarely encountered engraved Remington. The profuse engraved decoration is of a leaf and vine scroll decor with a grape cluster on each side of the frame, on both sides of the barrel near the cylinder, and on the back strap. The degree of coverage, including detailed border motifs and the hammer, and the overall finesse - as well as the pearl grips - and the gold-plated finish, and the case, suggest that the set was prepared for exhibition purposes. The number 285 suggests early production - although the system used by Remington arms was often of batch numbers, rather than serial numbers. Documented in a handwritten letter dated February 15, 1956, stating that the Remington factory records reveal the revolver to have been gold-plated and of presentation grade, and was shipped to William H. Deagan [sic], General Manager, Merchant's Dispatch Transportation Company [sic], December 1874. The letter bears the signature of A. Burlingame. The letter no longer accompanies the set. The total manufactured of the Smoot series Remington revolvers is estimated at 31,000." The book incorrectly lists this revolver as a No. 1 in .30 caliber. The Merchants Despatch Transportation Company (MDT) was originally part of the American Express Company of New York and was reorganized in 1871 and became part of Cornelius Vanderbilt's railroad empire after the Civil War. Rather than "William H. Deagan," the revolver was likely owned by William Geagen of Yonkers, New York, who is listed as the company's general agent and later general traffic manager in New York City. He retired in October 1899 due to failing health after 40 years with the company per a circular issued by Arthur Mill, vice-president and general manager of the company, published in "Railway World" and other publications in October 1899. He died from stomach cancer only a few days after his resignation.The revolver has "E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y. PAT. W.S. SMOOT. OCT. 21. 1873." marked on the upper rib, blade and notch sights, an ejector on the right, incredibly high coverage grape leaf, floral, and scroll etching and engraving cover nearly all of the surfaces aside from the bottom, niter blue screws, gold plated remaining components, matching serial numbers (cylinder has "5"), and a lovely pair of smooth pearl grips. It comes in a hazelnut colored leather bound case with fitted interior with red satin lining.

Class: Antique

Excellent with 95% plus original gold remaining, fading slightly on the back strap, distinct embellishment throughout, strong original niter blue on most of the screws, and minor age and handling related wear. The grips are also excellent and have lovely iridescent colors and smooth surfaces. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine and has moderate storage wear including some tears on the lining. This is easily one of the finest of all Remington-Smoot revolvers and will add beauty and interest to any antique arms collection.

Provenance: The George F. Gamble Collection

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Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Model 320 Revolving Rifle

Lot # 3129 (Sale Order: 130 of 749)      

Well-Documented, Extremely Rare Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Model 320 Revolving Rifle with Only Known Rosewood Stock, Case, and Factory Letter

Manufactured from 1879 to 1887, the Model 320 Revolving Rifle is one of the rarest Smith & Wesson firearms produced with a total production of 977. The Model 320 was seldom engraved. In fact, a grand total of 6 or less of this model received a period engraving. At the time of this writing, three, including this example, are known in existing collections. Rock Island Auction Co. has had the honor to have sold two of these engraved examples, nos. 221 and 533, in previous auctions, and now we are fortunate to offer to the public no. 516, the third known engraved Model 320. The frame, cylinder, and back strap are decorated in attractive floral scrollwork on a punch dot background. These patterns are indicative of S&W’s rich quality and style established by the Young family members, arguably the greatest family dynasty in the 19th century American engraving: Gustave, Oscar and Eugene. Gustave Young worked with Smith & Wesson as early as 1865 after serving as Colt's Master Engraver and was the in-house engraver for Smith & Wesson starting in 1869 until his death in 1895. Gustave's sons, Oscar, Eugene, and Robert, worked at his side and eventually succeeded him as S&W factory engravers. Oscar created some of S&W's most extravagant embellished pieces and remained with the company until his death in 1912. His engraving style typically followed his father's motifs using tight scroll patterns. The factory engraving is confirmed in the accompanying factory letter. At the time this gun was shipped in April 1884, this grade of engraving cost a customer an additional $10.00. Not to be overlooked are the rosewood stock, forearm, and grips. Costing an additional $12.00 rosewood is another special order feature confirmed in the factory letter. Rosewood is even rarer to this model than the engraving. Circassian walnut stock and hard rubber grips and forearm were standard. This Model 320 is attributed as the only known example of its type with factory rosewood grips, forearm, and stock. The stock hardware is engraved to match, and the stock is fitted with a standard S&W hard rubber buttplate. Additional information presented in the factory letter indicates it was shipped on April 19, 1884 and delivered to George A. Craven of Springfield, Massachusetts, with an 18 inch barrel, nickel plating, "sight" (referencing the included stock peep sight), reloading tools, and 1,000 cartridges. Previous owner and noted S&W expert Karl Leonhardt concluded that "Craven" in the factory records is actually "Graves" and his notes and research are included. Factory records were handwritten and not always clearly legible. Charles A. Graves was a hardware dealer in Springfield, Massachusetts, and his store was located on Main Street, just "four doors north of Post Office." As reported in the city directory, members of the Graves family (C.H., Eugene, and Wallace H.) were employed at Smith & Wesson. Leonhardt came to believe that this Model 320 was owned by one of the Fisk brothers, Noyes W. and George C. Fisk. These two brothers certainly had the means to purchase this extravagant special order piece. George was president of Wason Manufacturing Co., a leading name in the design and production of passenger rail cars. Wason designed and manufactured the first sleeping car. Leonhardt wondered if the accompanying non-factory case was made at the Wason factory: "The Wason Mfg. Co. was an early builder of Pullman cars. These cars had a lot of fancy wood paneling. It might be logical to assume that the case was made at that factory or by one of their mill work subcontractors. The case gun could then have been presented to a favored customer." Noyes had for a short time worked for Wason Mfg. Co. and then became book keeper for the grocer E.B. Haskell. When the Civil War broke out Noyes enlisted in the 46th regiment of Massachusetts volunteers and when he returned started his own grocery business which closed in 1867, so that Noyes could manage his father's soap manufacturing business where Noyes served as clerk and treasurer and George as president while still serving as president of Wason. The 18 inch barrel is fitted with a blade front sight and a two leaf folding rear sight on the solid rib marked with the two-line S&W address/patent dates legend and has subsequently been professionally sleeved to 38 caliber. Out of the 977 Model 320s manufactured, 514 had the 18 inch barrel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The hammer, trigger guard, trigger, and barrel latch are blued, and the remaining surfaces are plated in nickel. Also included is a globe
more... Provenance: The Karl Leonhardt Collection; The Supica Collection; NRA National Sporting Arms Museum 2013

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Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3130 (Sale Order: 131 of 749)      

Outstanding Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

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. This is an excellent example of Colt's famed Bisley in desirable .45 LC as manufactured in 1899. The accompanying factory letter unfortunately informs that no information on this revolver was found in the factory records. The revolver features a fixed blade front sight on a barrel marked with the one-line Hartford address on top and "(BISLEY MODEL)" and the caliber marking on the left. The frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by the circled Rampant Colt on the left side. Casehardened frame and hammer, all other metal parts are blue. The serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap all match. Wide, low hammer spur with wide trigger and characteristic "humpback" grip. Fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt logo at the top. Both grip panels are numbered to the gun ("2389").

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent plus. The revolver retains 97% of the bright original high polish blue finish with some extremely minor handling marks. The frame and hammer retain nearly 95% of the vivid original case colors. The grips are excellent plus with very little wear to the checkering and virtually no marks. Mechanically excellent. An exceptionaly nice 7 1/2 inch barrel 45 Colt, original Bisley.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Documented Colt Model 1878 "Frontier Six Shooter" DA Revolver

Lot # 3131 (Sale Order: 132 of 749)      

Outstanding Documented Colt Model 1878 "Frontier Six Shooter" Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

This is a truly exceptional example of a Colt Model 1878 D.A. Frontier Six Shooter revolver with factory letter that states this revolver was shipped to Colt's San Francisco Agency on August 9, 1901. The revolver has the high polish Colt commercial blue finish. The trigger and the top of the hammer are niter blue and the sides of the hammer are polished. The lanyard loop has a casehardened finish. The revolver has two-piece, black hard rubber checkered 'bird's head' grips with the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval at the top. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in a single line. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped with the model designation: "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER". The caliber designation "44" is stamped on the underside of the barrel in front of the frame. The encircled Rampant Colt trademark is stamped on the lower left side of the frame just ahead of the grip. An assembly number, "95", is stamped on the loading gate. The full serial number is stamped in two lines on the butt in front of the lanyard loop and the partial serial number "155" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder. This revolver is illustrated and described on page 259 of "COLT'S DOUBLE-ACTION REVOLVER. MODEL of 1878" by Don Wilkerson.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent plus. The revolver appears to be unfired and remains in nearly new condition with 99% plus of the original blue finish. The high polish blue finish on the barrel, cylinder and frame shows only minor handling wear. Nearly all of the fiery niter blue finish is present on the hammer top, trigger and screws. All of the markings are crisp. The hard rubber grips are in the same, near new condition as the revolver. This is an exceptional example of a Colt Model 1878 "Frontier Six Shooter" Double Action revolver in nearly new original condition.

Provenance: The Felix Bedlan Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3132 (Sale Order: 133 of 749)      

Excellent First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Carved Eagle Grips and Factory Box

The Colt Single Action Army Revolver is one of the most iconic historical firearms and is forever connected to the American West. Its legacy as a working man's gun in rough circumstances has made them particularly desirable for collectors, especially those in high condition as with this example. This excellent first generation Colt SAA is made more desirable by wearing a set of silver Rampant medallion grips featuring a relief carved eagle/shield motif on the right side. Both grip panels are numbered to the gun and are most certainly factory. These eagle carved grips are rare and highly sought after. As Colt historian and author R.L. Wilson noted, only "a few" SAAs had factory hand carved grips with the steer head motif being the most popular. The carved grips add to is stunning beauty, making it even more appealing. And if that was not enough, the revolver is chambered in .45 LC, the caliber that made the Peacemaker legendary. It was manufactured in 1929. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and "45 COLT" on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. Matching assembly number "1069" appears on the loading gate and back of the frame. The matching serial number appears on the frame and right side of the trigger guard and back strap under the grip. The correct period Colt black box lacks a visible serial number and features an end label listing the 7 1/2 inch barrel, grip material, "carved" grip, blue finish, and .45 caliber chambering. Included is a bore brush.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent, retaining 95% original blue finish with thinning on the back strap, some scattered high edge wear, and a light cylinder drag line. The hammer and frame retain 95% plus original case colors with some fading on the high edges. The grips are also excellent with some handling marks, typical age lines, attractive grain and color, and crisp carving. The repaired box is fine. Mechanically excellent. A highly attractive example of the legendary Colt .45 LC Peacemaker fitted with relief carved eagle grips.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Colt Single Action Army Revolver in .45 ACP with WWII History

Lot # 3133 (Sale Order: 134 of 749)      

Historic First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver in Rare .45 ACP with Bills of Sale Indicating Ownership by Multiple U.S. Airmen During World War II, the First a Gunner Killed When His Plane was Shot Down in the Pacific

The revolver has a blade front sight, the two-line address on top of the barrel, "COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45" on the left side of the barrel, the two-line patent marking and Rampant Colt trademark on the left side of the frame, "4" and the triangular "VP" mark on the left side of the trigger guard bow, assembly number "104" on the loading gate and rear of the frame on the right, "0976" scratched inside the grips, and matching serial numbers on the frame, and "355408" on the frame and right side of the grip straps. The cylinder chambers the .45 ACP round used by the U.S. Military during World War II for the Model 1911 and 1911A1 semi-automatic pistols. Based on research presented by author David Brown in "The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," Colt manufactured only 44 First Generation Single Action Army revolvers in .45 ACP. This chambering was first made available after World War I in 1924 on a special order basis. Per Brown, "Almost all made after 1924 were shipped to men in some branch of the Armed Forces. They could get all of the .45 Auto ammo they wanted but part of them wanted to shoot the Colt Single Action Army instead of Colt Automatic so they would order the Colt SAA made up in the .45 ACP....The only revolvers made in this caliber by Colt were Colt Single Action Armys, and they are extremely valuable to any Colt SAA collection." We have previously sold only a limited number of .45 ACP First Generation revolvers, including the finest known example which also originally shipped in 1938 and was noted as specifically chambered by John Henry Fitzgerald.Bills of sale accompanying the revolver state that Staff Sergeant F.S. Nelson purchased this revolver from Stoeger Arms in New York and sold the revolver to Staff Sergeant Paul J. Smith on May 17, 1944. Smith states he sold the revolver on September 10, 1944, to Corporal Charles H. Kern. Kern in turn sold the revolver on December 16, 1944, to Staff Sergeant Moroni Fredrickson. He in turn sold the revolver to his son David G. Fredrickson on September 28, 1966. Who then sold the revolver to an individual whose name is redacted in 1972. The bills of sale demonstrate that this revolver was owned by a series of U.S. Military soldiers during World War II.Forest S. Nelson listed his Army serial number which allowed us to identify him as a chauffeur and driver from Radford, Virginia, born on August 15, 1924. He enlisted on May 22, 1942, in the U.S. Army Air Forces and was a staff sergeant specializing as a gunner. He served on the B-25 Mitchell Bomber #42-10001 "Dirty Nellie" in the 42nd Bomb Group, Medium, 75th Bomber Squadron. After selling the revolver, he was among the crew on the "Dirty Nellie" when she was engaged in a dangerous low altitude mission attacking Japanese supplies on Celebes Island (Sulawesi, Indonesia). The engine was hit and the pilot crash landed in the ocean. In addition to Nelson, Co-Pilot Edwin F. Fuller and Engineer Elton J. Sinitier were reported missing and declared dead. Newspaper reports indicate he trained at Panama City, Florida, and participated in 52 missions during the African campaign and then 42 missions in the Pacific prior to being shot down.The other men's identities are not as clear since they did not list their service numbers and multiple men by the same names appear in the records. A Staff Sergeant Paul J. Smith was a tail gunner on B-17 Flying Fortress 43-38808 in the 487th Bomb Group and 838th Bomb Squadron within the 8th Air Force. If this is the correct man, like Nelson, he was shot down shortly after selling the revolver and crashed in Mayen, Germany, on October 15, 1944, and is listed as a POW. A Corporal Charles K. Kern is listed as an engineer on B-17 Flying Fortress 44-8390 in the 301st Bomb Group, 353rd Squadron. He was promoted to staff sergeant on February 12, 1945. His plane was reported missing in action on April 3, 1945. Kern is listed among the seven crew that evaded capture and returned to duty while three others were killed. Moroni Fredrickson has also been located and confirmed thanks to the inclusion of his son within the provenance record. He was born on February 12, 1919, in Logan, Utah, and was a Mormon. He joined the National Guard Cavalry in 1938 and graduated from University of Idaho Southern Branch Technical School for auto mechanics and then studied at the Chinute Air Corps Technical School after joining the Army Air Corps. He served as a mechanic and crew chief on a B-25 Bomber in the Pacific. In addition to his son David, he also had three daughters.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Fine as period refinished, poss
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Documented American Sterling Marked Colt Second Model Derringer

Lot # 3134 (Sale Order: 135 of 749)      

Extremely Rare Documented "AM. Sterling" Colt Second Model Derringer Pistol with Book

This fascinating Colt Second Model or "National Derringer" is among the rarest of all Colt handguns and certainly of Colt's popular derringers. The left side of the barrel is stamped "0 AM.STERLING." The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "+ COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD CT.U.S.A." followed by No 2+." The serial number, "6415," is stamped on the bottom of the bird's head butt and on the underside of the barrel. The sides of the frame top of the receiver and top of the grip strap are decorated with the standard factory scroll engraving. The hammer spur and the face of the trigger are knurled, and both the hammer and trigger have a casehardened finish. The checkered walnut grips have a varnished finish. This pistol is pictured and discussed on pages 270-273 of the included copy of "A Life's Tapestry of a Collector: The Gamble Collection" by George F. Gamble and R.L. Wilson where the authors note that for a long time the few known "AM. STERLING" marked Colt Second Model Derringers were believed by many, including Wilson, to have been made with solid sterling silver frames and barrels. For example, see page 41 of "The Deringer in America Volume Two: The Cartridge Era" by L.D. Eberhart and R.L. Wilson and the derringer page 263 of "The Book of Colt Engraving" which calls 3642 a "unique solid sterling silver Second Model Colt Derringer, a presentation to the American Sterling Company. Documented by a Colt factory ledger entry." That pistol is noted as from the George S. Lewis Jr. Collection.Lewis figured out that this material was not actually sterling silver, and No. 3642 was also discussed in the article "Colt 'Deringers'" by him in the "American Society of Arms Collectors Bulletin No. 53" from the fall of 1985 and where it is properly identified as "made of 'sterling metal' from the American Sterling Company" rather than actual sterling silver. In the letter to Lewis from Curator Arline G. Maver of the Connecticut State Library Museum & Colt Collection referenced by Wilson and shown in the article, Maver notes that the factory ledger on August 27, 1872, records: "Presentation 1 Natnl. Der. Pistol made of Sterling Metal from Am. Sterling Co. $4.75. To American Sterling Co., Naubuc (Conn.) Aug. 15th." She indicated that was the only reference to American Sterling located in the ledgers.In the included book, Gamble and Wilson, based on information from Connor FitzGerald, note that the American Sterling Co. of Hartford, Connecticut, manufactured an alloy similar to German-silver rather than sterling silver, and "The Colt company experimented with the new metal, which had the advantage of an appearance like sterling silver, but of a strength comparable to steel." The book also points to "The Science Record for 1873: A Compendium of Scientific Progress and Discovery During the Past Year with Illustrations" from 1873 which indicates the new alloy they produced was invented by Helen L. Macker and the new "American Sterling Metal" was being tried for various products, including the important details: "Its strength is so great that it can be, and has been, substituted for steel in the manufacture of pistol-barrels, while repeated tests, made at the Colt Armory, at Hartford, Conn., show that it has three times the tenacity of the latter metal. At an experimental trial, a spring of steel wire parted at 3000 pulls: 82,000 pulls were necessary to break a precisely similar wire of sterling." Gamble and Wilson note that only four examples of Colt derringers have been identified: 3635, 3642, 3847, and 6415, and only an estimated 100 are believed to have been manufactured, maybe even considerably less. It would be interesting to know more about the tests at the Colt factory and whether Colt started them or if the American Sterling Co. initiated the experiments, perhaps specifically for publicity of their metal's strength. These few known American Sterling Co. Colt "National Arms" Derringers would certainly have been excellent ways to show off the strength of the new alloy to interested customers, especially given that many would not have known how anemic the stubby .41 Short Rimfire cartridges were. Macker, a resident of Boston, received her patent on her "Improvement in Alloys to Imitate Silver" on January 23, 1872. The patent notes "This compound will not tarnish with age or weather" which this now roughly century and a half old pistol proves, and an alloy like this would have been desirable for making pocket pistols since they are prone to being exposed to heavy use and silver plating would naturally tarnish and flake under such conditions. Unfortunately, none of the details of the genesis of this limited run are known at this time beyond the reference in "The Science Record for
more... Provenance: The George F. Gamble Collection

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Engraved Colt First Model Derringer

Lot # 3135 (Sale Order: 136 of 749)      

Outstanding Engraved Colt First Model Derringer

Colt's First Model Derringer was based on the design first manufactured by Moore Patent Firearms Co. and then the National Arms Co. before it was purchased by Colt in 1870. They were manufactured until 1890. Colt advertised this model as the "No. 1 National Deringer." This example has flourishes of scroll engraving on the sides of the frame and behind the hammer and a burst pattern at the breech. The top of the barrel is stamped "COLT'S PT.F.A. MFG/ HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." followed by "No 1". The barrel is numbered to the gun. British proofs are stamped on the barrel. These Derringers sold well in England.

Class: Antique

Extremely fine. The barrel retains 85% bright original high polish blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The frame retains patches of attractive age darkened original silver plating. Engraving is crisp. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional, high condition Colt First Model Derringer.

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Factory Engraved Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistol

Lot # 3136 (Sale Order: 137 of 749)      

Attractive Factory Engraved Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistol with Desirable "Pipe" Case

These derringers were introduced in 1870 and totaled around 48,000 produced, with this example being produced early in production, having the "high spur" hammer. This derringer has gorgeous factory quality period applied engraving on over 3/4 of the metal surfaces consisting mainly of highly detailed scrollwork. The top of the barrel has a rounded blade front sight and "COLT" in large italic letters. The serial number is marked on the left of the grip frame and in pencil on the inside of the right grip panel. This derringer shows similar scroll patterns to those applied on other Third Model derringers by Colt Engraver, Cuno Helfricht. It is fitted with a very attractive pair of checkered antique ivory grips. Includes a rare and desirable black leather wrapped "pipe" style case.

Class: Antique

Fine, retains 60% plus of the original blue finish with the balance a smooth grey patina, and 20% of the attractively aged silver finish with the balance a mellow brass, and crisp engraving overall. The grips are also fine with a few scattered light handling marks, a spliced repair in the butt of the left panel, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good with some mild wear.

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Relief Carved Hound Head Cane with Silver Band

Lot # 3137 (Sale Order: 138 of 749)      

Attractive Relief Carved Hound Head Cane with Sterling Silver Band

Starting in the 16th century, canes and walking sticks became extremely popular, first among royalty and nobility, and by the 19th and 20th centuries having worked their way down to the middle classes as a symbol of status. Being most popular among the upper echelons of society, popular motifs for canes often featured prized and valuable horses or hunting dogs, such as this example. The slightly "L" shaped, antique ivory handle is masterfully relief carved in the shape of a snarling hound's head with glass eyes. The handle is joined to the shaft with a wide silver band stylized as the hounds collar which is "STERLING" hallmarked. The varnished hardwood shaft is smooth, appears to be ebony, and is tipped with German silver and iron. It measures 35 1/4 inches overall.

Class: Other

Fine, the grip showing an attractively aged tone overall, a minor chip absent from the left ear, and a few scattered hairline age cracks. The silver shows an attractively aged patina. The shaft is very good with some light wear, a few scattered light handling marks, and some oxidation on the iron tip.

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Relief Carved Serpent Cane

Lot # 3138 (Sale Order: 139 of 749)      

Attractive Relief Carved Serpent Cane

Steadily growing in popularity starting around the 16th century, canes reached the pinnacle of their popularity amongst the upper classes of society around the late-19th and early-20th centuries. They became more than just an accessory, but rather a symbol of ones status and wealth. The grip of this example has been attractively carved in the form of a serpent coiled around a log. The grip is joined to the shaft with a smooth brass band. The smooth, slender shaft appears to be Malacca and is tipped with German silver.

Class: Other

Very fine, the grip shows an attractive, lightly aged tone with a few barely noticeable hairline age cracks and minimal handling evidence. The band is bright with some minor separation at the seam. The shaft is very good with some areas of mild crazing in the varnish and some light wear.

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Relief Carved Friendly Lion Head Cane

Lot # 3139 (Sale Order: 140 of 749)      

Desirable Relief Carved Friendly Lion Head Cane

During the 19th and 20th centuries, canes became incredibly popular as a status symbol, especially among the upper class in Western Europe and North America. This specific cane is a fantastic example of that, having been relief carved in the form of a friendly, smiling lion's head, perfect for a worldly gentleman who may have spent time in Africa. The lion has been fitted with a pair of googly eyes, likely to replace an original pair of glass eyes. The smooth shaft is of Malacca and appears to have originally had a protective tip which is now absent.

Class: Other

Very good, the grip shows an attractively aged tone and a couple minor chips absent around the ears. The shaft is also very good with a few hairline age cracks and some light crazing.

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Relief Carved Mouse in a Log Cane with Silver Band

Lot # 3140 (Sale Order: 141 of 749)      

Relief Carved Mouse in a Log Cane with Inscribed Sterling Silver Band

Canes reached the pinnacle of their popularity as a fashion accessory around the mid-19th, becoming extremely popular amongst the middle and upper classes of North America and Europe as a means of displaying social status. The L-shaped grip on this example has primarily been relief carved to look like a log with a mouse poking its head out the end, while a large leaf is incise carved on the other end. The grip is joined to the shaft by a wide sterling silver band with floral scroll engraving, "SB" monogram inscription, and "D&S" maker's marking and hallmarks. The smooth shaft is Malacca tipped with brass.

Class: Other

Very fine, the grip shows an attractive, lightly aged tone with a few hairline age cracks. The fine silver band has an attractively aged patina and crisp engraving. The shaft is very good with some scattered light handling marks throughout.

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Colt Bisley Frontier Six Shooter Flattop Target Revolver

Lot # 3141 (Sale Order: 142 of 749)      

Rare and Exceptional Documented Colt Bisley Frontier Six Shooter Flattop Target Revolver with Factory Letter

This is an excellent example of a scarce Colt Bisley Flattop Target Frontier Six Shooter Revolver. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, ".44/c" caliber, 7 1/2" barrel with finish and grips as "Not Listed" and that it was shipped as 1 to Schoverling, Daly & Gales, New York, N.Y. on July 29, 1905. The revolver has a high-polish full blue finish with casehardened hammer. The checkered black hard-rubber grips have the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval at the top of the grip. The revolver has the distinctive flat top strap with flat sides and dove-tailed target rear sight, special Bisley hammer and humpback profile grip. The adjustable front sight has a solid base with German silver ribbed blade. The top of the barrel is marked: "COLT'S PT. F.A.MFG.Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." and the left side is marked: "(BISLEY MODEL)/FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER". The left side of the frame has the two-line, three patent date marking followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The Colt VP triangle proof is marked on the front upper left side of the trigger guard bow and "5" at the rear. The matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Total production of the Bisley Flattop Target Model was approximately 976 revolvers. Only 78 of these Colt Bisley Flattop Target revolvers were made in the desirable 44-40 caliber!

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent. The revolver retains 95% of the bright original high polish blue finish. Wear is limited to some flaking on the side of the ejector housing, minor thinning on the back strap and some very minor edge wear on high points. The hammer has nearly all of the original casehardened finish with vivid case colors. Screw heads are in nearly perfect condition and retain almost all of the original niter blue finish. The markings are crisp. The grips are in excellent plus condition with very minor storage marks. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional example of a Colt Single Action Bisley target revolver in highly desirable 44-40 WCF!

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Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter Double Action Revolver

Lot # 3142 (Sale Order: 143 of 749)      

Documented, Outstanding Antique Etched Panel Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Designed by William Mason and Charles Brinckerhoff, Colt's factory manager and Superintendent of Engineering, the Model 1878 revolver was intended to be a double action alternative to Colt's legendary Single Action Army revolver. With 51,210 being produced, the 1878 was never nearly as popular as its single action cousin; however, there were still many that favored it in the West for its firepower, including Captain Jack Crawford, who replaced Buffalo Bill Cody as "Chief of Scouts" shortly after the Battle of Little Bighorn. Offered here is an exceptional example as manufactured in 1883 and featuring the highly sought after "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" etched in an oval panel on the left side of the barrel. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44 caliber, nickel finish, and hard rubber stocks. The letter also states the revolver was shipped on March 15, 1883 to Hartley & Graham of New York City. This was a fifty gun shipment. Based on research conducted by Don Wilkerson, this is one of 3,007 Model 1878s with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 WCF caliber and nickel plated that Colt manufactured (see "Colt's Double-Action Revolver: Model of 1878," page 261. These Model 1878s in .44 WCF are also very popular with today's collectors, especially those in high condition with the etched barrel panel as this example features. The revolver has a nickel-plated barrel, cylinder and frame with niter blue hammer, trigger, screws and lanyard loop. The bird's head grip is fitted with black checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval near the top. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the one line address: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.". The caliber designation "44" is stamped on the bottom of the barrel just in front of the frame. The caliber "44.C.F." marking is stamped on the left front trigger guard bow. The serial number "10/194" is stamped in two lines on the butt in front of the lanyard loop. The rear face of the cylinder is stamped with the partial serial number "194" along with a small "H" and "J" inspection mark. "3D" is stamped in the hammer well above the firing pin hole. The outside of the loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "170". The acid etched "FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" marking was introduced on .44-40 Colt Single Action Army Revolvers by the New York City retailer John P. Moore's Sons and was applied to 44 caliber Model 1878 Double Action revolvers from 1878 to 1889 when Colt substituted a roll die marking.

Class: Antique

Excellent plus. The revolver retains 98% of the original nickel plated finish. Wear is limited to some very minor pitting on the right side of the frame above the rear trigger guard bow. Most of the fiery niter blue is present on the trigger, the top surfaces of the hammer and the frame screws. The two-piece black hard rubber bird's head grips are in very fine with some very minor handling wear. The original acid-etched "FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" panel is in nearly perfect condition. The other markings on the barrel trigger guard and frame are sharp. Mechanically excellent. This is an outstanding example of the very desirable Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver with acid-etched "FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" panel. You might find one as nice, but not finer!

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Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3143 (Sale Order: 144 of 749)      

Documented Nickel Plated Acid Etched Panel Black Powder Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Carved Steer Head Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

The .44-40 WCF SAA has found a special place in the hearts of Peacemaker collectors. When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 WCF SAA was intended to be used in conjunction with the another legendary Western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 Rifle, which used the same cartridge. "The .44-40 WCF was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped on April 23, 1890 to Montgomery Ward & Co. of Chicago, Illinois with nickel finish, 5 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, and hard rubber stocks (currently fitted with period relief carved steer head pearl). This shipment was for 3 guns. The left side of the barrel has the highly desirable "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an acid etched panel. In 1889 this highly desirable acid etched panel was replaced with a roll stamped marking. The top of the barrel has the one-line Colt Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CAL." Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retaining 75% original nickel plating with the balance a smooth gray patina. The acid etched barrel panel is very faint, but legible. The otherwise fine grips have been repaired (left panel) with a crisp carving. Mechanically fine.

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San Francisco Police/U.S. Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver

Lot # 3144 (Sale Order: 145 of 749)      

San Francisco Police Issued U.S. Smith & Wesson Second Model Schofield Single Action Revolver

Manufactured for the U.S. military and later issued to the San Francisco Police Department by Benicia Arsenal. Approximately 300 Schofield models were issued to the San Francisco Committee of Safety during the labor riots and civil unrest of 1877-78 caused by the great railroad strikes that sprung up in many large cities across the United States. Records do exist for these 300 revolvers being issued; however, no records exist of them being returned and it is popular belief that once the riots were put down all the revolvers were obtained by the California militia. This example is stamped with the rack number "319" behind the hammer. The butt is stamped "US," U.S. Ordnance sub-inspector stamps "W" and "P" are on the rear of the cylinder and underside of the barrel lug. Matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder.

Class: Antique

Very good plus, retaining 20% original blue finish with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance. Patterns of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are good, absent cartouche with some high edge wear and minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.

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Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 3rd Model Revolver

Lot # 3145 (Sale Order: 146 of 749)      

Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 3rd Model Revolver

Manufactured from 1874 to 1878. Barrel rib legend ends with "RUSSIAN MODEL." The two-line re-issue patent date is marked on the topstrap just ahead of the large screw. The butt has the Schuyler Hartley Graham distributor diamond "SH" marking and a lanyard ring. Matching assembly number "4917" appears on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 70% untouched original nickel plating with some pitting. The shrunken grips are very good with an attractive aged mellow appearance and typical age lines. Mechanically excellent.

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Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver Shoulder Stock

Lot # 3146 (Sale Order: 147 of 749)      

Desirable and Excellent Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolver Shoulder Stock with Box

Offered here is a S&W walnut stock extension designed for use with a S&W New Model No. 3 revolver. It has nickel plated attaching hardware and a checkered S&W hard rubber buttplate. Includes a correct and proper S&W box.

Class: Other

Excellent, with the attaching hardware retaining 98% plus original nickel plating and limited handling marks. The box is exceptionally fine.

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Russian Military Contract Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian Revolver

Lot # 3147 (Sale Order: 148 of 749)      

Russian Military Contract Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 2nd Model Single Action Revolver

Smith & Wesson manufactured 70,000 of these revolvers for the Russian government. The barrel rib has the S&W Cyrillic marking. The back strap has been altered during its service life to accept a shoulder stock (not included). Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 40% period replated nickel finish with smooth gray patina of a well traveled sidearm on the balance. The grips are very good with numerous scattered minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.

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Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver

Lot # 3148 (Sale Order: 149 of 749)      

Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Target Single Action Revolver

The New Model No. 3 Target Model dominated target competitions in the late 1800s, and are found in the serial number range below 4,333. Of the 4,333 target variations manufactured, only approximately 2,900 were chambered in .32-44 caliber. The revolver has target sights, the two-line address/patent dates marking on top of the barrel rib, and matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retaining 90% plus original nickel plating with scattered flaking. The trigger guard retains patterns of original case colors. 80% plus original case colors remain on the hammer. The grips are also very fine with some discoloration and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 2nd Model Single Action Revolver

Lot # 3149 (Sale Order: 150 of 749)      

Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian 2nd Model Single Action Revolver

Manufactured from 1873-78. The single line barrel rib marking ends with "-AUG. 13, 69. RUSSIAN MODEL." The front blade sight is pinned. The Schuyler Hartley Graham distributor diamond "SH" marking is stamped on the butt, which also has a lanyard ring. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. Matching assembly number "211" appears on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 70% plus original nickel plating. The grips are very good with a chip near the top (right panel), high edge wear, and minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.

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1.178.0.836.d2a4bd2.10.66