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LOT 466
Rare Schwarzlose 1897 Semi-Automatic Pistol with Case
and Accessories - Serial no. 83, 7.63 mm cal., 6 inch part octagon
bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. Developed in the 1890s, the Schwarzlose self-loading pistol uses a
novel pattern of short recoil action, combining a reciprocating barrel with a rotating bolt head assembly
reminiscent of the pattern seen on the Desert Eagle pistol or AR-15 rifle. Produced in limited quantities
(estimated at around 500), the pistol was very advanced for the era but found relatively few takers, with some
believed to have been sent to the Orange Free State and Transvaal for the Boer War and a shipment intended
for Russian Socialists ending up confiscated and repurposed by Imperial Russian authorities; limited numbers
can be found on the American market in any condition. Blade front and 500-meter dial adjustable notch rear
sight, with “crown/crown/U” proofs on the barrel, frame, and bolt, fine straw color on the controls, and sharply
checkered hardwood grips. Matching numbers are present on multiple components, including the bolt, some of the
internals, and the magazine. Includes a fitted custom hardwood display case, barrel rod, ammo box, and English-language manual.
CONDITION: Very fine, with 95% plus professionally restored blue finish, showing some light wear and handling marks overall. The grips
are also very fine, with a few light dings and crisp checkering. Mechanically needs work as the striker does not remain cocked. The
custom case is very good, with mild wear on the accessories. A rare opportunity to acquire a rare early semi-automatic pistol!
Estimate: 9,500 - 16,000
Serial
Number 83