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Moving production to the custom shop in 1960 was a huge advantage for Winchester, allowing each and every gun to be custom built to
the specific needs and desires of the client, from an unadorned rock solid field gun to a masterwork covered in fine engraving and gold inlays. There are very few American shotguns that can even begin
to match the Model 21 in both form and function, and, in the latter half of the 20th century, Winchester truly stood alone, with this set
the embodiment of their outstanding quality. This gun is the Grand American grade, the highest of the seven, incorporating exceptional gold inlay work along with the wonderfully cut engraving. Blued Winchester Proof Steel marked barrels with a single red bead sight
on the matted vent rib which is marked “CUSTOM BUILT WINCHESTER SET”, standard barrel markings, 3 inch wedges of floral scroll engraving at either breech, chokes marked “WS-1”/”WS-2”, and 3 inch chambers
with automatic ejectors. The blued boxlock action displays beautiful Grand American pattern engraving consisting of near full coverage floral scrollwork surrounding four gold inlaid game scenes. The left side shows a setter in a field scene, the right has a pointer in a field scene, the underside shows a pair of pheasants in a field scene, and a bust of a pointer on the trigger guard all rendered in highly detailed gold inlay. The lower tang is marked “Grand American 7 of 7” in fine script. The gun features a gold plated single selective trigger and tang mounted automatic safety switch. Beautifully figured, fancy 21-B pattern fleur- de-lis checkered beavertail forend with engraved fittings, rotary latch release, and ebony tip inlay and straight grip stock with matching fleur-de-lis checkering, a Winchester Rider in the inscription oval, and checkered bare butt. Included is a wood and leather takedown case, oiler, and snap caps. Stock measurements: 1 3/8 inch drop at comb; 2 1/4 inch drop at heel; 14 7/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs. 9 oz. CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 99% blue and gold finishes with minor handling marks, and sharp checkering on the stock and forend. The case is excellent. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500