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LOT 3479
Scarce V.C. Shilling Model 1896 Number Three Bergmann Semi-
Automatic Pistol with Desirable Westley Richards & Co. Merchant
Marks, Presentation Case and Accessories - Serial no. 1926, 6.5 mm cal.,
4 1/2 inch round bbl., blue finish, hardwood grips. Introduced to the market
in 1895, the Model 1896 was a refinement of Bergmann’s semi-automatic
pistol designs, integrating feedback on earlier models to make one of the
first commercially successful semi-automatic pistols. Blade front and notch
rear sights, with “278” on the left side of the barrel, “crown/crown/U” proofs,
“PATENT/BREVETE/S.G.D.G.” on the left side of the frame, and the Shilling
“mountain man” logo on the right sideplate. Several components have been
individually numbered, indicating their place in the takedown sequence
for the pistol, “WESTLEY RICHARDS & CO” engraved on the left side of the
frame, and “D434”. Straw finished small parts, niter blue safety, and matching
numbered checkered grips. The included case bears a Westley Richards trade
label inside the lid, with spaces for the pistol and the following included
accessories: screwdriver, barrel rod, oil bottle, and two clips, one “pull ring”
style with five inert rounds, one “en-bloc” style with five hollow point rounds.
CONDITION: Very fine, with 85% plus original blue finish, showing minor
pitting concentrated under the grips, minor scattered spotting, bright edge
wear and light handling marks overall. 70% of the original straw colors are
present on the small parts, with the remainder worn bright. Grips are fine as
revarnished, with crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The accessories
are in good order, and the case shows some damage to the interior around
the slot for the clips.
Estimate: 8,500 - 12,000