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LOT 1080
Interesting Antique Smoothbore E. Remington & Sons Commercial Model 1871 Army Rolling Block Pistol -
Serial no. 5761, 50 CF cal., 9 1/2 inch round bbl., nickel finish, walnut grips. Originally manufactured c. 1872-1888, this is
a unique example of a smoothbored Remington Model 1871 Army pistol. There are many theories regarding how these
pistols came to be smoothbored, including the Remington factory, a commercial retailer, or even a U.S. arsenal, none of
which are confirmed. It is believed that only around 200 of these Model 1871s ended up with smoothbore barrels. This
example has standard markings and features apart from the barrel being 9 1/2 inches long and the nickel finish. The left
sides of the front and back strap are marked “1535”, with “5761” also marked on the back strap.
CONDITION: Fine, retains 90% of the period, likely retailer, applied nickel plating with some scattered light flaking and
handling marks, and the markings are slightly softened in some areas. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor
dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.
Estimate: 3,500 - 5,500
LOT 1079
Attractive Factory Engraved
Remington Model 1865 Navy Rolling Block Pistol with
Unique Ebony Grip and Forend - Serial no. 2, 50 RF cal., 8 1/2 inch round
bbl., blue/casehardened finish, ebony grips. Manufactured c. 1866 to 1870,
this is one of only approximately 6,500 Remington Model 1865 Navy rolling
block pistols, which were split between a U.S. Navy contract and
the commercial market. This interesting
example appears to have been made for
presentation. This pistol was masterfully
factory engraved on the sides of the frame with
extensive floral scroll within wavy line borders which
continue down the back strap and the sides of the trigger spur. The
standard two-line Remington address and patent dates are surrounded
by scrollwork on the left of the frame. The top of the barrel is marked with the
standard anchor stamp, which was found on both U.S. contract and commercial
pistols alike. The matching assembly number “2” is on the bottom of the barrel in
front of the forend, left side of the back strap under the grip, and handwritten in pencil
inside the grip channel. It is fitted with a pinched blade front sight and a notch rear sight on top of
the breech block. It is mounted with a smooth ebony forend and grip. The combination of factory engraving
and ebony wood on this example is a strong indication that it was manufactured for a high ranking company or
government official, possibly a gift to help secure the contract with the U.S. Navy.
CONDITION: Fine, retains 30% of the original blue finish and 50% of the original case colors with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina, a few scattered
patches of light surface spotting on the barrel, and crisp engraving. 60% of the original straw colors remain on the breechblock and hammer. The wood
is also fine with scattered light handling marks throughout, a minor chip and hairline crack on the lower right, and retaining most of the original varnish.
Mechanically excellent.
Estimate: 6,500 - 9,500
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