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side of the receiver before spilling onto the triggerguard, both tangs, and the toplever. The gun features gold centerline cocking indicators, double triggers, a right hand rolled triggerguard, and an automatic tang mounted safety with gold inlaid “SAFE” indicator. The gun is mounted with a beautiful highly figured and multi-point checkered forend with engraved fitting, elongated shoe, and an Anson button release as well as a round knob pistol grip stock with teardrop carved drop points, gold inscription oval marked “S.M.B.”, and a checkered bare butt. Included is a second barrel set of 24 inch 28 gauge barrels with 1994 dated proofs, 2 1/2 inch chambers, and numbered “10063” on the barrel flat and “7254” on the underside of the barrel. Also included is a period takedown case with relined interior and room for both barrel sets and a nickel oiler. Barrel measurements for the extra set (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the
breech both proofed at 13.9mm (.547 inches) and measured .550/.549 inches; choke constriction .016/.000 inches; minimum wall thickness .036/.038 inches. Barrel and stock measurements (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .552/.553 inches; choke constriction .014/.006 inches; minimum wall thickness .025/.028 inches; 1 9/16 inch drop at comb; 2 1/8 inch drop at
heel; 14 5/16 inch length of pull; cast-off; weight 4 lbs. 15 oz.
CONDITION: Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue finish, 70% original case colors with some silvering and muting on the receiver, a few small scratches on the stock, overall minor handling evidence, and sharp checkering on the stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good with some storage wear. Extra barrel set is excellent. A rare opportunity to own a scarce small bore gun from one of the all time greats of English gunmaking!
Estimate: 65,000 - 110,000
LOT 1418
Outstanding Masterfully Engraved Pre-War Boss & Co. 28 Gauge Best Quality Sidelock Over/Under Ejector Shotgun with Extra Barrel Set and Case - Serial no. 7254, 28 gauge, 28 inch solid rib bbl., blue/
casehardened finish, walnut stock. Boss & Co. are among the finest builder of fine arms in the world, and have been since the company was established by Thomas Boss in 1812. This gun was built between 1921 and 1925
per the information given on page 238 of Donald Dallas’“Boss & Co.: Makers of Best Guns Only”, right in the heart of the golden age of English gunmaking. This gun is a prime example of the level of quality produced
by Boss & Co. and would be a great addition to any collection of fine sporting arms. Built with blued steel barrels featuring a dual bead sights on the matted flat solid rib, “BOSS & Co.” and “13, DOVER STREET , PICCADILLY,
LONDON. ENGLAND” marked on the right and left of the upper tube receptively, scroll engraving around the breech, London proofs on the flats and right of upper barrel, and 2 1/2 inch chambers with automatic ejectors. The
barrels are fitted to an attractive casehardened sidelock action which displays extensive bouquet and scroll engraving surrounding bright and nitre blue action pins, “BOSS & Co.” signatures in banners on either lockplate, and patent marking on either