11. Colt Model 1878 Factory Engraved Grade 8 Double Hammergun
serial #22684, 12 ga., 30" barrels with bright very good bores. This is a very interesting shotgun being one of, and likely the very last ever built. Additionally, it has an interesting shipping address having been shipped to factory engraver Cuno Helfricht in November of 1890. The shotgun later shipped on October 31, 1895 to J.H. Williams with no address given. The engraving consists of lovely relief floral scroll with a dog on point on left lock, two snipe on right lock and a duck in flight on triggerguard bow. The condition of the shotgun is quite nice with the barrels retaining 90% plus evenly thinning original damascus pattern. The action and locks retain about 80% original color case hardened finish which has softened over time but shows nice color around hammers and on bottom of action ahead of triggerguard. The checkered round knob pistol grip buttstock and splinter forend rate excellent with 95% original finish remaining and with just light handling marks. The stock has a 13 3/8" length of pull over its original buttplate. Sutherland's "Colt Firearms" lists the last serial number produced as "22683" in 1889. This gun shipped to Helfricht at the end of 1890 and to a customer in 1895 - five years after production ended. A very interesting and collectible high grade Colt shotgun with factory letter confirming configuration, shipment dates and destinations. (3383-1) {ANTIQUE} (3500/5500) SOLD FOR $5463.00 |
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