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The scrollwork is executed in elaborate entwining patterns typical of
those executed by Gustave Young and even extends onto the slide bars. A comparison should be made to the patterns shown on the bottom of page 144 of “Colt Factory Engravers of the 19th Century” by Houze which shows very similar scroll patterns. Note the use of a ringlet around the scroll design in the center of the pattern, a feature also seen on this shotgun. Houze notes this ringlet “consistently appears in Young’s work.” The “PAT. APR. 1882” marking is engraved amongst the scrollwork on the lower
tang. The skeletonized slide arm is engraved with a zig-zag line pattern. The barrel and magazine tube are Damascus. The multi-point checkered
forearm is hard rubber. The round knob pistol grip stock is nicely figured walnut, has checkering in the grip area, and is fitted with a checkered hard rubber shotgun buttplate. Other Spencer shotguns are also known with simpler scroll patterns more typical of the work of Oscar Young suggesting the Young family worked as engraving contractors for the firm.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine overall. The engraving is crisp throughout. The receiver and trigger guard retain 85% plus bright, original, high polish blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance and a smooth gray patina on the lower tang. The engraving is crisp. The barrel and magazine tube retain 80% of the Damascus pattern and have a smooth brown-gray patina. The original case colors on the slide arm have mostly silvered out. The slide handle is excellent with crisp checkering. The stock is very fine with minor dings and scratches and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.
Estimate: 8,500 - 15,000
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