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This style of engraving was the most basic type of Savage’s pistol engraving patterns and was commonly offered at an additional charge of $12.50 above the $15 price for a non-engraved pistol. The gun is personalized with the inscription “MAJOR G.W. LILLIE” on the left side of the frame just above the grip panel. The accompanying factory letter confirms the factory A engraving and “name engraved on left side of frame” when it was sold to Major G.W. Lillie, accepted on October 28, 1911, and shipped on November 2, 1911. Savage used several celebrity endorsements in its advertising campaign
for the Model 1907. These famous endorsements came from the likes of Wild West showman Buffalo Bill, lawman William ”Bat” Masterson, detective William Pinkerton and detective W.J. Burns who “prefer[ed] the Savage Automatic for its speed and accuracy.”“The unanimous choice of these men may be safely backed against the world,”proclaimed the Savage booklet “It Banishes Fear!” This was after all “the greatest weapon ever invented for the protection of the home.” Using the names of celebrity shooters who endorsed the Model 1907 was part of Savage’s marketing strategy that ramped
up in 1911. Savage often provided the endorser with a free gun(s) and/or payment. Perhaps this pistol was presented by Savage to Pawnee Bill in an attempt to win over his endorsement just as his old friend Buffalo Bill had done. The engraving on Buffalo Bill’s inscribed no. 33177, which was presented to him by the factory in 1911, is very similar to the patterns decorating this Model 1907.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 80% bright original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The engraving is crisp. The grips are excellent with a few minor handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This factory engraved Model 1907 Pistol is a great piece of Savage and Wild West heritage.
Estimate: 30,000 - 50,000
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