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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Description

Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com
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Pg : 8 of 30

Cased Pair of Marenbert Boxlock Percussion Pocket Pistols

Lot # 3175 (Sale Order: 176 of 749)      

Cased Pair of Engraved and Gold Inlaid Marenbert Boxlock Percussion Pocket Pistols -A) Boxlock Percussion Pistol

Cased Pair of Engraved and Gold Inlaid Marenbert Boxlock Percussion Pocket Pistols -A) Boxlock Percussion Pistol
This pair of 19th century pocket pistols features screw-off textured pattern welded "Damascus" barrels, "MARENBERT/*A PARIS*" in gold inlay on the underside of the actions at the breech, notch sights, folding triggers, hammers offset to the right, entwining scroll engraving, an ebony grips with carved floral patterns, and rotating compartment lids in the pommel caps. They come in a case with a "FERRIER ARQR/RUE DU ST. HONORE 66/PARIS" mark embossed inside the lid along with some accessories, including a ball mold with arms that double as a nipple wrench and a barrel wrench.

Manufacture: French
Model: Percussion
BBL: 2 1/8 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 12 mm
Finish: bright/gold
Grips: ebony
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Fine with distinct twist patterns along the barrel, bright gold inlaid marking, crisp engraving and carving, gray and brown patina, small repaired flakes/chips at the edges of the grip, and light marks and scratches. The trigger not automatically unfolding, otherwise mechanically fine. The case and accessories are also fine and have minor age and storage related wear such as some hairline cracks in the lid.

B) Boxlock Pocket Pistol

Manufacture: French
Model: Percussion
BBL: 2 1/8 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 12 mm
Finish: bright/gold
Grips: ebony
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Fine with distinct twist patterns on the barrel, bright gold inlaid marking, crisp engraving and carving, gray and brown patina, tiny flakes at the edge of the grip on the top left, and minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically fine.

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Lebeda Engineering LLC. Elgin Pocket Watch Percussion "Pistol"

Lot # 3176 (Sale Order: 177 of 749)      

Interesting Lebeda Engineering LLC. Elgin Pocket Watch Percussion "Pistol"

Developed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by Lebeda Engineering LLC. The frame of the pistol is a hollowed-out Elgin pocket watch, with a cocking piece in lieu of the winding knob, a manually set niter blue trigger bar at 10 o'clock, a barrel extending out at the 6 o'clock position, and the hands permanently at 5 minutes to midnight. Elgin National Watch Co. was the largest manufacturer of pocket watches in the United States and were in operation from 1864 to 1968. The barrel has an integral nipple to accept a single charge for a cap gun, and is manually loaded with a .177 inch BB. The combination of percussion cap and muzzle loaded ball makes this neither a firearm, nor is it considered an "any other weapon". Houses in a small unmarked jewelry case.

Class: Antique

Very good as custom made. The watch body shows scattered small dings and scratches associated with a vintage watch carried in the pocket, surface scratches on the crystal, and visible chip on the white porcelain face. Case is excellent.

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Pius Lang "50-Blade" Exhibition/Horseman's Multi-Tool Knife

Lot # 3177 (Sale Order: 178 of 749)      

Unique and Desirable German Pius Lang "50-Blade" Exhibition/Horseman's Multi-Tool Knife with Horn Grip Scales

The Pius Lang firm was started in Stetten, Germany in 1852, and in 1889 they first exhibited their famous 100-blade knives at the Paris World Exposition. They made these multi-tool knives in various sizes including 50-blade, like this example, 100-blade, and 200-blades. Examples like this one are also sometimes referred to as a "horseman's knife", due to the prominent hoof pick on the one side. The largest of the knife blades is approximately 3 1/2 inches long and marked "P.LANG/GERMANY" and "STAINLESS" on the left. The knife has various special purpose blades as well as saw blades, screwdrivers, cork screw, toothpick, leather punch, and many other tools including the previously mentioned hoof pick. It is fitted with smooth grey horn grip scales retained with five screws each, each being slotted for the storing of a small tool at each end. Includes a black leather belt pouch.

Class: Other

Excellent, the blades and metal overall remaining bright with very little wear or handling evidence. The grip scales are also excellent with only the slightest handling marks. These Lang exhibition knives make a fantastic centerpiece for a knife collection!

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Unwin & Rodgers Etched Blade "NON-XLL" Percussion Knife Pistol

Lot # 3178 (Sale Order: 179 of 749)      

Fine Unwin & Rodgers Etched Blade "NON-XLL" Percussion Knife Pistol

Measuring 6 1/2 inches in the closed position, this pistol has an in-line percussion barrel in German silver positioned on top of a dual blade pocketknife. The knife blades (both spear point, 3 3/4 and 2 1/2 inches) bear the "NON*XLL/UNWIN&/RODGERS" address on the left ricasso. The barrel is stamped with a pair of "crossed scepter" proofs, with a smooth vertical spur hammer and a folding trigger. A pair of horn panels cover the sides of the body, with a steel tweezer set slotted into the right panel (tightly fitted) and a German silver bullet mold on the left. A small, empty compartment is present in the butt.

Class: Antique

Fine overall, the barrel and other German silver components remaining almost entirely bright while the primary blades show a faint shadow of the etched "Protector" motto, and other iron components show mostly a smooth grey patina with some scattered patches of light pitting. The grip scales are fine and have some scattered light handling marks and the right panel has a few moderate edge chips absent. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Young Engraved Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless Revolver

Lot # 3179 (Sale Order: 180 of 749)      

Oscar Young Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless Second Model Double Action Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

The accompanying factory letter confirms the 3 inch barrel, nickel finish, "style 2 engraving," and pearl grips. The letter also states the revolver was shipped on February 8, 1906 to J.A. Johnston Co., Pittsburgh, PA. The style 2 engraving features scrollwork on a punch dot background by famed factory engraver Oscar Young. Matching serial number on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The factory pearl grips have S&W gold medallions.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent overall, retaining 99% plus original nickel plating, nearly all of the original case colors and blue finish, a cylinder drag line, minimal handling marks, crisp engraving, and pearl grip panels with highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. As S&W historian Roy Jinks noted in the factory letter, "This is a very nice revolver." This Oscar Young factory engraved Safety Hammerless revolver will look great in any S&W or firearms art collection.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Smith & Wesson .38 Single Action Third Model Revolver with Box

Lot # 3180 (Sale Order: 181 of 749)      

Smith & Wesson "Model of 1891" .38 Single Action Third Model Target Revolver with Box

Also known as the Model of 1891, with production from 1891 to 1911. Fitted with blade front and standing notch rear sights. The two line, two block address and patent marks are present on the barrel rib, bisected with "MODEL of 91". Matching serial numbers are found on the barrel cylinder, barrel and barrel latch, and inside the right grip with the barrel and latch having the additional "13615". The left grip is hand marked "A.G." on the interior. Includes a correct model and configuration S&W green box numbered to another gun.

Class: Antique

Fine, retaining 75% original blue finish with a mostly brown patina on the balance, some light pitting on the barrel, and a cylinder drag line. Grips are fine as well with scuffing at the lower left of the left panel and overall slightly softened checkering. Mechanically excellent. Box is also fine.

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New York Engraved Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Hammerless Revolver

Lot # 3181 (Sale Order: 182 of 749)      

New York Engraved Silver and Gold Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Hammerless 3rd Model Double Action Revolver with Pearl Grips

Manufactured 1890-98. Featuring near full coverage New York scroll engraving on a punch dot background. Matching serial numbers on butt, cylinder, and barrel. Gold plated cylinder and trigger guard, casehardened trigger, and remaining surfaces plated in silver. Fitted with pearl grips.

Class: Antique

Excellent as period New York engraved with 97% attractive age darkened silver plating and 85% of the gold plating. The grips are very fine with a repair and some chipping on the right panel and fiery colors. Mechanically excellent.

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Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless Bicycle Revolver

Lot # 3182 (Sale Order: 183 of 749)      

Engraved and Inscribed Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless 1st Model Double Action Revolver with Rare 2 Inch Bicycle Gun Barrel and Pearl Grips

Found in the 1-91417 serial number range, this late production .32 Safety Hammerless 1st Model "bicycle gun" is decorated with a period broad floral scroll engraved pattern on the frame, both sides of the top strap, and right side of the barrel. The cylinder is sparsely engraved with a matching pattern that covers only one chamber. The right side of the frame is inscribed with the name "DR HARRY R. McGRAW." The revolver has a rare special order 2 inch "bicycle" barrel with the correct two-line S&W legend on the left side. The revolver is fitted with pearl grips. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, cylinder, and barrel. Period sources record a Dr. Harry R. McGraw dying in 1945 at the age of 72. Born in Washington, D.C., Dr. McGraw received his medical degree from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Baltimore in 1901. This would have been around the time the revolver was manufactured and possibly served as a graduation gift. He later studied a the Pasteur Institute in Paris and Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. In 1902 he arrived in Colorado. During World War I, he was the chief of the surgical staff at U.S. Army General Hospital No. 21, later renamed Fitzsimons Hospital, in Aurora, Colorado. The facility was originally established to treat casualties from chemical warfare in Europe and by the 1920s was a major U.S. hospital in treating tuberculosis. He was serving as the medical director and chief of the surgical staff at the Denver General Hospital when he died.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very fine as period embellished with 95% bright original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance and crisp engraving. The grips are also excellent with highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: The Jon M. Maxwell Collection

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U.S./Wells Fargo Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver

Lot # 3183 (Sale Order: 184 of 749)      

Desirable Wells Fargo U.S. Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action Revolver

This revolver is one of 3,000 First Model Schofields purchased by the U.S. Government. They were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo express agents and many others. The U.S. Military markings include "US" stamped on the butt, "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face, and "L" on the frame. The revolver is in the standard Wells Fargo configuration with the barrel shortened to 5 inches as was common with 19th century revolvers purchased by various express companies, nickel finish, the Wells Fargo number ("2924") on the right side. The right grip panel is numbered to a different gun.

Class: Antique

Very fine with 85% of the period retailer nickel plating remaining with honest wear and tear for a revolver that spent a lifetime in military and civilian service. The fine grips display similar working gun character with high edge wear and minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. An attractive U.S./Wells Fargo S&W First Model Schofield revolver.

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Old Judge Bowie Knife with Wells Fargo Ex. Co. Inscribed Grip

Lot # 3184 (Sale Order: 185 of 749)      

Unique Old Judge "Sharpe Justice" Bowie Knife with Carved Eagle Head Grip Inscribed to R.B. Hayes, Wells Fargo Express Co. Pikes Peak Office Superintendent

Manufactured c. the mid-1800s, this is a unique example of a presentation knife from the golden age of the Bowie knife. Through the exploits of Jim Bowie, knives such as this one had become extremely popular, both for self defense and as a status symbol. The knives reached the peak of their popularity around the 1860s and 1870s, right around the date of the inscription on the grip of this example. The inscription on the grip reads, "Presented to/Sni. Superintendent/R.B. Hayes/Pikes Peak Office/Wells, Fargo-Exp. Co.-/May 17th. 1872." Information about R.B. Hayes or Wells Fargo's Pikes Peak office is scarce; however' it is likely related to the overland express route that had initially been operated by the Leavenworth City & Pike's Peak Express Company, which later became the Central Overland California and Pike's Peak Express Company, which played a major role in establishing the Pony Express. The company and Pony Express routes were operated successfully for several years before issues with government contracts being paid forced the company into severe debt and eventually to be sold in early 1862. The company was bought for $100,000, a fraction of its assessed value, by Ben Holladay, who incorporated the routes into his own Overland Stage Company. Holladay's company operated the routes for about four more years before he sold all of his routes to the Wells Fargo Express Co. for $1.5 million. It is possible that Hayes was presented this knife in recognition for taking over and operating the express lines in the Pikes Peak area for Wells Fargo. The knife itself is massive, measuring 17 3/4 inches overall with an 11 1/2 inch clip point blade with a nicely scalloped spine. The left of the blade is etched with "Sharpe Justice" and the "OLD JUDGE" trademark featuring a judge in a powdered wig is on the left ricasso. The guard is German silver with ball shaped finials. The grip is antique ivory, featuring the inscription on the left, and the pommel relief carved in the form of an eagle's head fitted with glass eyes.

Class: Other

Fine, the blade is mostly bright with some light spotting scattered throughout and crisp etching/markings. The German silver is bright. The grip is also very fine with an attractively aged tone, some scattered light handling marks, and mostly crisp inscription. A very attractive Bowie knife with an inscription connecting it directly to the history of the Western Frontier!

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Carved Wooden Cigar Store Native American Statue

Lot # 3185 (Sale Order: 186 of 749)      

Desirable Carved Wooden Cigar Store Native American Statue

Native American statues like the one offered here were extremely popular as signage for tobacco shops. This example depicts a Native American war chief dressed in a war bonnet, a gold necklace, a green tunic with red and yellow feathers, blue feathered pants, and black moccasins. The right arm clutches a bundle of cigars, while the right hand is held at eye level. The statue stands on a brown painted stand with one foot raised. The war bonnet on the statue conceals a hole in the top of the head which likely allows for weight to be added (a funnel is included). The work is unsigned. The statue stands 74 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 17 inches deep.

Class: Other

Very good with storage and handling marks, a few repairs at the waist and on the outstretched arm, scattered age cracks, and vivid coloration. This carved wood figure would be right at home in any gun room or advertising collection!

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Tobacco Co. Shipped Colt Model 1877 Lightning DA Revolver

Lot # 3186 (Sale Order: 187 of 749)      

Documented Tobacco Company Shipped Colt Model 1877 Lightning Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped on August 13, 1902, to Continental Tobacco Co. of New York City for Florodora Tag Co. of Chicago, Illinois, with a 4 1/2 inch barrel in .38 caliber, blue finish, and type of stocks not listed. This was a fifty gun shipment. In the early 1900s American tobacco companies like Continental Tobacco countered counterfeit tobacco sales by placing metal tags in their tobacco products. These tags assure customers they were receiving correct products. As part of an advertising campaign tobacco companies offered gifts to customers who saved and sent in the tags. These tags could be redeemed for a variety of items including furniture, buggies, watches, boots, game tables, and firearms like this Colt Model 1877. Continental Tobacco partnered with Florodora Tag to oversee the redemption marketing campaign. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line address, and the left is marked with "COLT D.A. 38". The three-line patent dates marking is on the left of the frame followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is visible on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the assembly number "116" is inside the loading gate. It is fitted with a pair of checkered hard rubber grips.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Extremely fine, retaining 85% bright original high polish blue finish showing holster wear and the grip straps thinned to a gray. The frame retains 75% original case colors. Grips are excellent, with overall sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. A high condition Colt Model 1877 revolver used in a tobacco company's promotional campaign.

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Framed Bloch Brothers Tobacco Co. Mail Pouch Chew Tobacco Poster

Lot # 3187 (Sale Order: 188 of 749)      

Framed Bloch Brothers Tobacco Company "Camel Corps of the United States" Themed Mail Pouch Chewing Tobacco Advertisement Poster

The Bloch Brothers Tobacco Company of Wheeling, West Virginia, was founded by brothers Aaron and Samuel in 1879 and became known for its tasteful and widespread advertisements of its "Mail Pouch" chewing tobacco, which the company famously had painted on the sides of some 20,000 barns across the rural Ohio River Valley area. Advertisements also included themed informational posters, such as this example, which would draw in potential buyers with interesting scenes and humorous United States historical factoids. This specific exampled is themed after the "CAMEL CORPS OF THE UNITED STATES," with an image of a wary U.S. cavalry officer attempting to steady himself on a disgruntled camel mount. A text box underneath the scene describes how for a brief period of time the U.S. attempted to use Arabian camels in the Southwest territories, but the animals proved too stubborn and were set free on the Arizona plains (Colt even made a Camel Gatling Gun of which few are known and very valuable!). A legend underneath reads "Today men of vision chew MAIL POUCH TOBACCO." Enclosed in a black frame measuring 42 x 29 inches.

Class: Other

The poster is very fine with a few minor folding and creases, light edge wear, and scattered minor handling marks. The frame is excellent. A wonderful decoration for your gun room!

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Colt SAA Cavalry Model Revolver with U.S.X. Express Co. Markings

Lot # 3188 (Sale Order: 189 of 749)      

Documented Turnbull Ainsworth Inspected Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver with Scarce "U.S.X." Express Company Markings

This specific revolver is pictured and discussed on page 286 of "A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver" by Graham, Kopec and Moore. It was manufactured in 1874 and has the distinctive "A" inspection mark of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Orville W. Ainsworth stamped on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the trigger guard, top of the back strap and on the side of the cylinder. In addition, the left side of the frame is stamped "U.S.X." (United States Express Co.) below the small "U.S." property mark, and the right side of the frame is stamped with the serial number. A small "P" proofmark is stamped on the underside of the barrel and on the side of the cylinder. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with Colt two-line/two-date patent markings behind the "U.S." property mark. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the first style legend: "+ COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.+" with slanted letters and slanted crosses at either end. The full serial number is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number is stamped on the barrel underneath the ejector housing and on the side of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. The assembly number "449" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. An Ordnance inspection mark is visible on the lower left side of the replacement grip (the original grip is included). The revolver has the first style ejector housing with barrel boss, "bullseye" ejector rod head, cylinder with small square stops and cavalry style hammer with extended, bordered knurling on the spur. The barrel, ejector housing, trigger guard and back strap have a blue finish, and the frame, loading gate and hammer are color casehardened.

Class: Antique

Very good as professionally refinished by Turnbull Restoration Co., Inc. Mechanically excellent. This is a desirable Ainsworth inspected U.S. contract Single Action Cavalry Model revolver and one of only two Single Action Army revolvers with documented "U.S.X." markings.

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Cased Engraved Colt SAA Frontier Six Shooter Revolver

Lot # 3189 (Sale Order: 190 of 749)      

Engraved Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Frontier Six Shooter Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1893 and subsequently professionally embellished in the 20th century. The revolver has a gold finished cylinder and hammer, niter blue screws and cylinder pin, and nickel on the remaining parts. The barrel is engraved with floral scroll designs with a punch dot background, the one line address is marked on top in a scallop bordered panel and "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in a panel on the left side. The ejector housing has a zigzag line and dot design on the top and floral scroll and punch dot engraving with a geometric design in the center on the outer edge. The frame has the same floral scroll and punch dot engraving with a geometric design on the upper front and lower right side. Floral scroll, punch dot and feather designs adorn the cylinder and shell, star burst and floral scroll designs on the back strap. There is a scallop border on the hammer sides. The left side of the frame is marked with the two line, three patent dates in a banner followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, with the assembly number "154" on the loading gate. Fitted with a smooth one-piece pearl grip. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, barrel length, caliber, nickel finish and grips as "Not Listed" at the time of shipment, and that it was shipped as 1 of 5 to Meacham Arms Company St. Louis, Missouri on May 13, 1893. Includes a modern hardwood case with lid showing a silver border and inlaid lines and silver dollars.

Class: Antique

Very good as professionally embellished with 99% plus nickel finish remaining. The cylinder and hammer retain 90% gold finish with some edge wear on the cylinder and some thinning on top of the hammer. Almost all of the bright fire blue finish remains on the trigger and screws. The grips are near mint with only the slightest handling marks. The engraving and markings are crisp and clear. Case is very good with patina on the silver. Mechanically fine.

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Jesse Wilson First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3190 (Sale Order: 191 of 749)      

Historic Documented First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver Inscribed "Jess Wilson" Identified as Owned by an Austin, Texas, Lawman Killed in a Shootout in 1918

This revolver was manufactured in 1912 and has the one-line address on top of the barrel, "45 COLT" on the left side of the barrel, the two-line patent marking and circled Rampant Colt trademark on the left side of the frame, the triangular "VP" proof on the left side of the trigger guard, assembly number "705" on the loading gate and right side rear of the frame, matching serial numbers on the frame as well as the trigger guard and back strap, "Jess Wilson" inscribed on the back of the back strap, "Dr Wilson" inscribed inside the pearl grips, and his golden "W" initial at the top of the left grip panel. An included signed statement indicates that this revolver was inherited by Jesse Wilson from his father who was a driver in the Austin Fire Department in 1890-1910 and later became a police officer in Austin and was killed in the line of duty on February 15, 1918, when he was ambushed on the corner of 9th Street and Congress Avenue "by a gambling crowd." The statement indicates the revolver was subsequently passed down by Jesse Wilson to his son Gordon in November 7, 1991. Also included are two coins, a 1899 dated quarter and a 1916 dated dime, which are accompanied by notes from Jess Wilson's daughter Maurine Smith indicating they were in her father's pockets when he was shot and killed.Jesse Rolland Wilson (1868-1918) was the son of Moses Greer "Doc" Wilson (1847-1918) and Margaret M. Allen (1845-1908). He had four children of his own, Jesse, Maurine, Jerome, and Sam. The eldest son served in World War II and died in 1995 a few years after passing the revolver on to his son Gordon. Some accounts dealing with Jess/Jesse Wilson's death in 1918 indicate he was a former ranger, and he is identified as a deputy constable and merchant policeman at the time of his death. An detailed account of his death was published by Austin's The Statesman on February 15, 1918, under the headline: "Policeman is Killed in Street Duel." Wilson was shot in the head in a shootout with Deputy Game Warden John W. Hill at the corner of Congress Avenue and Ninth Street in Austin, Texas, at 11 a.m. It is unclear who opened fire first, but multiple witnesses indicated Hill fired first. Wilson shot at least once and missed while Hill fired three shots from a .38 caliber Army Special revolver. Hill handed over his revolver and surrendered to the authorities, and one of Wilson's brothers handed over his revolver. Both men were long term residents of Austin, and Hill was recently remarried and had only been a deputy game warden for a week or two at the time of the shootout. The two men had a conflict earlier in the morning at the Driskill Hotel where Wilson was the house detective and assaulted Hill in the restroom, kicking and shoving him into the lobby. Hill in turn punched Wilson in the face, and then Wilson struck Hill over the head with the butt of his gun and cocked it before Cal Wilmot stepped in to prevent further violence. Hill was also armed at the time. The two men then ran into each other again in the street. Hill claimed he was attempting to avoid an encounter when Wilson advanced towards him. After shots rang out, Wilson was mortally wounded, and Hill was unharmed. Hill was charged with murder, and details from the trial in March of 1919 relay much the same story as above, and Hill was ultimately found by the jury to be not guilty of murder.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very good with 98% plus replated chrome finish, scratches, and generally minor overall wear. Aside from chips at the toe on the left, the grips are also very fine and have minor wear. Mechanically excellent. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a very attractive inscribed Colt Single Action Army revolver documented to a Texas lawman killed in a dramatic gunfight.

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Factory Engraved 1st Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3191 (Sale Order: 192 of 749)      

Factory Engraved First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Outstanding Gold Embellished Relief Carved Steer Head Grips and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1911. The included factory letter confirms the current .45 Colt caliber, 4 3/4 inch barrel length, nickel finish, grips "not listed," and "Level 3 engraving" when shipped to H & D Folsom Arms Company of New York, New York on December 1st, 1911 as part of a 3 gun shipment. The revolver is factory engraved with floral scrollwork on punch dot background along with zig-zag borders, zig-zag line and dot patterns on the top strap, cylinder, and back strap, and fan patterns on the recoil shield and loading gate. The top of the barrel has a star burst engraving along with the two-line Hartford address. The left side of the barrel is marked “45 COLT” inside a banner. The left side of the frame carries the two-line patent date marking inside a banner followed by an encircled Rampant Colt. The trigger guard has the letter “W” and the Colt factory triangle proof on the left side. The revolver wears a set of Colt medallion grips featuring two Mexican gold coins (Estados Unidos Mexicanos 2 pesos and Dos y Medio Pesos 1918 2 ½ pesos) inlaid on the left side and a relief carved steer head on the right side. The steer head features 10kt gold horns and ring and a red jeweled eye. Matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. 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 gun” in rough circumstances has made them particularly desirable for collectors, and the limited factory engraved guns especially so. It is not hard to imagine this SAA being carried by a wealthy cattle rancher along the southern border.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Fine, retaining most of the period replated nickel finish with minimal handling marks and wear. The extraordinary personalized grips are showing typical age lines, some scattered handling marks, and crisp carving. Mechanically excellent. A factory engraved Colt SAA with South of the border appeal.

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Framed Colt "Patches" Advertising Print

Lot # 3192 (Sale Order: 193 of 749)      

Desirable Framed Colt "Patches" Advertising Print

Produced in the mid to late 1920's, from an oil painting "Tex and His Horse, Patches" by Frank Schoonover, which depicts a western lawman on his horse, Colt SAA with ornate handle visible on his hip, amid desert scenery. The text "Colt's/The Arm of Law and Order" is added to the top. Mounted in a wooden frame measuring 22 inches wide and 27 1/2 inches tall.

Class: Other

Very good, with some minor tears and foxing around the edges, metal band trimmed off of the top and bottom, showing good color and detail. The frame has some light handling marks.

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J.S. Collins Cheyenne, Wyoming Mexican Loop Holster Rig

Lot # 3193 (Sale Order: 194 of 749)      

Highly Desirable J.S. Collins Cheyenne, Wyoming Mexican Loop Holster Rig with Cartridge/Money Belt as Pictured in "Packing Iron" by Rattenbury

Brothers Gilbert H. and John S. Collins first set up their saddle and leather goods making and wholesaling business in Omaha, Nebraska in 1864, but quickly discovered that many of their goods were more popular further west. From 1872 to 1876, John served as the post trader at Fort Laramie, expanding their business to Cheyenne in the Wyoming Territory. This example, bearing the Cheyenne marking, was likely made during that time. This particular example is pictured and described on p. 108 of "Packing Iron: Gunleather of the Frontier West" by Rattenbury. It is made of brown saddle skirt leather in the "Mexican Loop" style with a tooled border and the maker's mark/address stamped on the front in a unique monogram within a shield format. The inside of the holster is lined with buckskin and it has a teardrop toe plug. The top retention loop on the holster is faintly marked "44C", and it appears that the holster will accommodate a Colt Single Action Army with a 5 1/2 inch barrel. The holster is paired with a J.S. Collins marked (marking on the billet) belt with single row of cartridges loops of .44/.45 caliber size and a money pocket near the buckle, which is iron and appears to have once been silvered or blued. The wide belt has the earlier Collins dual mark measures approximately 43 1/2 inches overall.

Class: Other

Very fine, showing generally light to mild wear overall, some scattered very light age related cracking, and all of the stitching appearing to remain tight. This early J.S. Collins holster and money belt rig is a superb example of the iconic Western Frontier gun rig which would be a welcome addition to any collection representing the American West!

Provenance: The John Fox Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Engraved Colt 1877 D.A. Revolver Inscribed Fred L. Seely, Jr.

Lot # 3194 (Sale Order: 195 of 749)      

Exceptional Factory Engraved Etched Panel Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Double Action Revolver with Grip Inscribed to Fred L. Seely, Jr. and Factory Letter

The included factory letter confirms this revolver's current configuration, including the engraving and grip material, when shipped to Simmons Hardware Co. in St. Louis, Missouri, on March 5, 1879, as one of a pair. The inscription on the grip was not mentioned in the letter. The revolver features beautiful factory scroll and floral engraving, a rounded blade front sight, "COLT D.A. 41" in an etched panel surrounded by scrollwork on the left side of the barrel, the two-line address on top, the three-line patent marking on the left side of the frame, "41 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, matching serial numbers, and smooth grips with the left grip panel inscribed with "Fred L. Seely, Jr." in neatly cut lettering at the top. The history of the inscription is not documented. A prior owner reported that it was owned by a cattleman from the Kansas City area but had no documentation. After acquiring the revolver, Greg Lampe and a private researcher he hired could not tie the revolver to anyone living in the West in the period. In our own research, the only candidate fitting the inscription appeared to be Fred Loring Seely Jr. (1916-1991), a veteran of World War II who inherited the Biltmore Industries complex in Asheville, North Carolina, which had been previously run by his father, Fred Loring Seely (1871-1942). Seely, Jr. sold the property in the 1950s to Harry Blomberg. The family home on Sunset Mountain had been donated in 1948 for use as the first campus of the University of North Carolina. Seely, Jr. retired from the U.S. Navy as a rear admiral was also noted as the former vice-mayor of Asheville and as owning hotels in the town as well as in Daytona Beach, Florida, and the president of the realty firm Seely Associates. The family moved to Tryon in 1975.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine with 90% plus untouched original nickel plating, some minor flaking, crisp engraving and etched panel, bright original niter blue on the small parts, and minor overall wear. The grips are very fine and have attractive natural tones and grain, minor age stress lines, and a distinct enameled inscription. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Collins & Morrison "Mexican Loop" Colt Model 1877 Holster

Lot # 3195 (Sale Order: 196 of 749)      

Rare Collins & Morrison, Omaha Nebraska "Mexican Loop" Colt Model 1877 Revolver Holster with Cartridge Belt

Brothers Gilbert H. and John S. Collins first set up their saddle and leather goods making and wholesaling business in Omaha, Nebraska in 1864, but quickly discovered that many of their goods were more popular further west. From 1872 to 1876, John served as the post trader at Fort Laramie, expanding their business to Cheyenne in the Wyoming Territory. In 1880, Gilbert died, leading John to begin downsizing the business, selling the Cheyenne shop in 1886. Not happy in his retirement, John decided to open a shop in Omaha once again, this time in partnership with John Morrison. The business was purchased in 1890 by Alfred Cornish, who had also purchased the Cheyenne location, who continued to sell saddles and other items under the Collins name for many years. Bearing the Collins & Morrison maker's mark, this holster and belt were made c. the late 1800s. The holster has lightly tooled borders and the maker's mark on the front along with "41". It can hold a 4 1/2 inch barreled Colt Model 1877 revolver and is in "cross draw" configuration for a right handed shooter. The belt has a single row of cartridge loops that appear to be for .38 Long Colt cartridges and a nickeled buckle with clipped corners. The billet with the buckle is marked "38/P" while the opposite billet has the maker's mark and "1". It measures 2 3/4 inches wide and approximately 43 3/4 inches long. Holsters made for the Colt Model 1877 revolver are desirable and rare in comparison to those made for the more prominent Single Action Army.

Class: Other

Very fine overall with some mild wear and handling evidence, typical of use, some scattered light age-cracking, and almost all of the stitching remaining tight. This is a rare opportunity to add a matching holster and gun belt to your collection to pair with a Colt Model 1877 revolver!

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Dominion Cartridge Co. Picture Box of .41 Short Centerfire Ammo

Lot # 3196 (Sale Order: 197 of 749)      

Exceptional Dominion Cartridge Co. Picture Box of .41 Short Centerfire Ammunition

The green upper label has an illustration of a sheriff's model Colt Model 1877 Thunderer revolver and reads: "50 METALLIC CARTRIDGES .41 Cal. Short C.F. FOR COLT'S DOUBLE ACTION PISTOL MANUFACTURED BY DOMINION CARTRIDGE CO. LIMITED, MONTREAL CANADA, NA." and also has the beaver trademark. The end labels read "41 SHORT C.F. COLT'S PISTOL," and the side labels read "41 Short Colt's Double Action PISTOL." The labeling is interesting given the .41 Short Colt was designed for Colt's smaller New Line pocket revolvers, but they would also work in revolvers chambered for .41 Long Colt like the Model 1877.

Class: Other

Exceptionally fine with distinct label and markings and minor overall wear including some flaking. The box is sealed in shrink wrap.

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Thomas J. Goree Marked Antique Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3197 (Sale Order: 198 of 749)      

Historic Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Grips Marked "Thomas J. Goree", Tooled Holster, and Factory Letter

The included factory letter indicates this revolver was part of a 50 gun shipment in .45 caliber with a 4 3/4 inch barrel, nickel finish, and rubber grips when shipped to Hartley & Graham in New York City on May 1, 1884. It has a blade front sight, the two-line barrel address, no visible caliber marking on the barrel, the three-line patent marking on the left side of the "black powder" frame, "45 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard at the front, matching serial numbers on the frame and grip straps, and checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt motif embossed at the tops and "THOMAS J." (left) and "GOREE." (right) marked on the butt. The back side of the grips have "VD" (left) and "VICTOR DRAKE" (right). Drake was presumably at one time the owner of the revolver. The included Visalia Stock Saddle Co. of San Francisco floral tooled single loop holster was with the revolver when it was purchased by John R. Eckel Sr. The revolver is accompanied by the book "Longstreet's Aide: The Civil War Letters of Major Thomas J. Goree" edited by Thomas W. Cutrer and additional information on Captain Thomas Jewett "T.J." Goree (1835-1905). Goree was born in Perry County, Alabama, but moved to Texas as a boy. He met Longstreet on the boat from Galveston, Texas, to New Orleans at the beginning of the Civil War. Goree was leaving a successful law practice to join the Confederate Army, and Longstreet had recently resigned from the U.S. Army and was also en route to join the Confederacy. Goree served as Longstreet's trusted aide throughout the war and had many close scrapes but survived the ordeal essentially physically unscathed. He naturally is mentioned often in publications focused on Longstreet. Robert E. Lee is quote as telling him at Appomattox: "Captain, I am going to put my old war horse under your charge. I want you to take good care of him." With the defeat and surrender of the Confederacy, Goree took the old war horse home as instructed and then returned to his family in Texas at the Raven Hill Plantation his mother had purchased from Sam Houston and his wife Margaret in 1858. He resumed his legal career and also became a merchant and was appointed as a member of the board of directors/commissioners of the Texas State Prisons and then superintendent of the prison in Huntsville in 1877 and soon the superintendent of the state prisons. He would have been superintendent when this revolver was manufactured. In 1891, he became the general agent for the Birmingham Iron Company of New Birmingham, Texas. Two years later, he was the assistant general manager of the Texas Land & Loan Company in Galveston. He died of pneumonia on March 5, 1905, a little over a year after Longstreet died. The Galveston Daly News on March 6 indicated his remains were sent to Huntsville for burial and noted: "there were no two men who were bound together with closer ties of friendship than were those old soldiers-Longstreet and Goree."

Class: Antique

Good with traces of original nickel remaining on the cylinder along with traces elsewhere and otherwise gray and brown patina, mild oxidation and pitting, and general moderate overall wear. The heavily worn grips are good and have mostly distinct checkering with some smoothing, aged coloration, and a slight flake at the toe on the left. Mechanically fine. The holster is very good with moderate wear.

Provenance: The John R. Eckel Sr. Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Civil War Era Dufilho New Orleans Bowie Knife with Faceted Grip

Lot # 3198 (Sale Order: 199 of 749)      

Desirable Civil War Era Dufilho New Orleans Bowie Knife with Attractive Faceted Grip and Scabbard

Manufactured c. the mid-19th century, this is a very fine example of a southern-made, American Bowie knife of the Civil War era. While American-made knives during the period were not unheard of, they were certainly heavily overshadowed by their English-produced competitors which flooded the North American market. Bowie knives exploded in popularity during the Civil War, particularly in the South, where this knife was made. Alfred H. Dufilho was born in Paris, France, in 1833 and in 1853 established a cutlery firm along with his brother Louis in New Orleans, Louisiana. From their address at 21 Royal Street (between Custom House and Canal Streets), they produced surgical instruments, swords, knives, and all manner of other cutlery. They had contracts with the Confederate government for surgical instruments and naval cutlasses, as well as producing a variety of other edged weapons for the rebel war effort. Examples of Dufilho Bowie knives documented as carried by Confederate soldiers are pictured on p. 213 of "The Bowie Knife" by Flayderman and on p. 81 of "The Antique Bowie Knife Book" by Adams, Voyles, and Moss. Those two examples share similarities to each other, as well as a simpler design overall compared to this piece. Another Dufilho knife is pictured on p. 26 of "Classic Bowie Knives" by Abels, where it is listed as item No. 34. The knife in this book shows a very similar blade shape to the piece offered here, while the hilt is of a similar "coffin" shape to the previous two mentioned. This example measures 14 1/8 inches overall, with a 8 3/4 inch drop point blade with wide, shallow fullers in each side and the maker's mark "Dufilho NewOrleans" engraved in the spine. The style and location of the maker's mark on this example compared to other documented Dufilho knives suggests that this may have been a presentation or special order piece. The thick iron guard is a plain elliptical shape. The hilt is primarily of German silver with traces of silver plating, a turned/stepped bolster joining the guard and grip, a multi-faceted grip with alternating panels of German silver and what appears to be horn, and a turned bun shaped pommel. The knife is ornate but not overly elaborate, retaining a deadly and practical appearance that would have been very fitting for a wealthy southern gentleman in service of the Confederacy. Includes a leather wrapped sheath with scalloped nickeled fittings and a belt stud.

Class: Other

Fine, the blade is mostly bright with some very light polishing/cleaning evidence and some scattered very light spotting. The iron guard and German silver show an attractively aged patina with some faint traces of silver plating on the hilt and some scattered light dings. The grip facets show some scattered minor handling marks.

Provenance: The David Hayden-Wright Collection

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First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 3199 (Sale Order: 200 of 749)      

First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

.32-20 WCF was a very popular caliber in the first generation SAA line. As author Dan Brown put it, "The .32-20 WCF cartridge had good range and accuracy. It is very easy to shoot, as it does not make the revolver buck as the larger calibers do. It also was used as a companion to the Winchester rifle of the .32-20 WCF caliber" ("The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," page 190). This highly attractive Peacemaker in .32-20 WCF was manufactured in 1938. The barrel has the one-line Colt Hartford address on top and "32 W.C.F." on the left side. The frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. Matching assembly number is on the rear of the frame and loading gate. The matching serial number appears on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and both grip panels. The matching partial serial number "159" is stamped on the cylinder at the rear.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very fine, retaining 95% original blue finish with a couple patches of pitting visible on the ejector rod housing. 90% plus original case colors remain on the frame. The grips are also very fine with a chip near the bottom (right panel), a few minor handling marks, and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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1.178.0.836.d2a4bd2.10.128