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LOT 537
Outstanding Master Ken Hunt Signed, Mythical Themed
Relief Engraved, and Gold Inlaid J. Roberts & Son Sidelock
Double Barrel Ejector Shotgun with Case - Serial no. 2230, 12
gauge, 28 inch solid rib bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut stock. Blued steel barrels with single
white bead sight on the matted concave solid rib, “J. Roberts & Son.” and “London. England” inlaid in gold on the right and left
barrels respectively, 1975 dated London Nitro proofs, 2 3/4” chambers with automatic ejectors, interchangeable choke tubes (light
modified/improved modified installed), and a wedge of deep oak leaf engraving at either breech. The casehardened scalloped
sidelock action displays outstanding carving on the fences and deep cut floral engraving interspersed with mythical designs. The
left side has a mask at either end of the lockplate as well as an eagle eating a snake, the right side also shows a mask at either end of
the lockplate and an eagle in flight, and the underside shows a large devilish mask over “J. ROBERTS & SON”. The figures are cut in high
detail and stand out beautifully against the matted background. The engraving extends to the top lever, both tangs, and the trigger guard, which shows another deep cut mask. The gun features bushed firing pins, double triggers, and a tang mounted automatic safety switch with yet another fantastic mask. Trigger plate is signed “K. C. Hunt 76” for world renowned Master Engraver Ken Hunt, one of the finest engravers to ever put graver to steel. Beautifully figured, multi-point checkered splinter forend with fittings engraved to match the action, including the Anson button release. The straight grip stock is of equal quality and features teardrop carved flats, inscription shield marked “HIGHBRIGHTON/RA/GREENE CTY. VA”, and leather wrapped recoil pad. Includes a leather bound takedown case containing cleaning rod, cleaning kit, nickel oiler, two nickel snap caps, and five extra choke tubes (skeet, improved cylinder, improved modified, and two full). Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both proved at .729 inches and measured .733/.735 inches; minimum wall thickness .025/.025 inches; 1 7/16 inch drop at comb; 2 1/16 inch drop at heel; 14 5/8 inch length of pull; weight 6 lbs. 10 oz.
CONDITION: Very fine overall, retaining 98% original blue finish, 40% original case colors mainly in the protected areas and background, minor handling evidence including a few scratches near the right muzzle, a couple minor dings and scratches in the stock, crisp engraving, and sharp checkering on the stock and forend. The case is also very fine as are the accessories. Mechanically excellent.
Estimate: 20,000 - 30,000
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