3136

SPECTACULAR JOHN ULRICH ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:25,000.00 USD Estimated At:50,000.00 - 75,000.00 USD
SPECTACULAR JOHN ULRICH ENGRAVED AND GOLD INLAID
WINCHESTER MODEL 1910 SELF-LOADING RIFLE. Caliber: 401 Self-Loading. Serial Number: 17646. Winchester's Highly Finished Arms Catalogue presents the following definition of the depth of available work. "The ornamenting of Winchester rifles affords excellent opportunities for displaying both the fine engraving & artistic carving.... We have no arbitrary styles of ornamentation for our guns, and those shown being only suggestive.". This rifle with Number One engraving and "B" carved stocks is one of the finest examples of Winchester's highly finished arms. This rifle is featured on page 176 of "Winchester Engraving" by R. L. Wilson and identified as the work of master engraver John Ulrich. John Ulrich was hired by Winchester in 1868. He became Foreman of the Engraving Department and along with his two brothers Herman and Conrad, engraved Winchester's highly finished arms in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This delightful adaptation of the Number One pattern features flat gold figures in large vignettes on both sides of the receiver. The right side mountain scene depicts a threatening grizzly holding two snarling wolves at bay. The side vignette shows jumping bull, cow and calf elk. Top of the receiver features a portrait of a bull moose. The balance of action areas along w/ the breech and muzzle ends of barrel have fine scroll engraving featuring a shell pattern forward of the magazine. All panels are surrounded by elaborate gold wire borders with heart shaped and curled highlights. Forearm and hard rubber capped pistol grip stock are of fancy American black walnut having striking burl grain. Forearm and wrist of stock have style "B" carving which features a raised floral pattern against stippled backgrounds. Left side of stock has a brass oval presentation plate engraved "W. ALTON JONES". Length of Pull: 13 15/16" over a leather covered solid red pad. The twenty inch round barrel has a integral front sight base with Marbles improved ring front sight having a white top bead. Winchester elevator adjustable flat top rear sight. Weight: eight pounds and twelve ounces. Serial number indicates 1926 manufacture. A previous auction description states that Abercrombie & Fitch records at Griffin & Howe show this rifle as having been consigned by G. W. Hill in 1948 and sold to J. Marion JR. for $195. It was re-consigned by Mr. Marion in 1951 and sold to W. Alton Jones for $500. In 1952 it was sold to C. J. Wicks for $200. MAGAZINES: one detachable four round box. CONDITION:: very fine with restored blue finish showing light edge wear and fading with spots of freckling on forward portions of barrel. Restored wood shows light wear with scattered small marks. Left side of forearm has a grain check extending from the nose cap with a very small chip forward of the action. Recoil pad shows a small area of leather covering loss at the toe. This outstanding rifle shows little signs of use retaining fine mechanics and a strong bright bore. (24-5370/DS). CURIO. $50,000-75,000.