April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2023
Nicknamed the "Zig-Zag" due to its distinctive design, the Mauser 1878 was a unique revolver that is easily recognizable due to its distinctive cylinder camming surface, cylinder locking lever, and cylinder safety latch. Despite its advanced design and high quality, the Model 1878 was rejected by the Germany military due to its complexity, and saw little success in the commercial market. The top of the barrel rib is stamped "GEBR. MAUSER & CIE. OBERNDORF A/N.WURTTEMBERG. 1878." Cylinder is stamped with a double "(Crown) / U" commercial proof, with the left side of the frame bearing an additional double "(Crown)/ U" proof, with the bottom crown being nearly indiscernible. Metal components have been period renickeled, frame is mounted with 2-piece checkered wood grips. All numbers are matching and include the frame, cylinder locking lever, cylinder, extractor, extractor pin, barrel, grips, as well as the grip screw. CONDITION: Very good overall, with metal components retaining the vast majority of their period reapplied nickel finish, exhibiting some minor flaking, tarnishing, as well as some mild surface oxidation in flaked areas. Metal shows scattered dings and marks beneath the finish, but otherwise presents nicely. Bore is bright, exhibiting mild pitting with some areas of more aggressive pitting, while retaining good rifling throughout. Grips show smoothing, as well as some minor impressions from storage and handling, but are otherwise fine and sturdy. A very attractive example of a scarce and highly desirable Mauser Model 1878 "Zig-Zag" revolver.