June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
This extremely rare eight gauge by A. Tonks of Boston, Massachusetts is the only example observed by this cataloger. Alfred Tonks of Boston as a maker of percussion revolvers and double shotguns is listed in Frank Seller's book "American Gunsmiths". It has "Laminated" barrels with a smooth top rib which is inscribed "Lamenated Steel", a small brass front bead, and has a nicely engraved dolls head extension and a small ribbon of engraving at the breech end. The barrels are otherwise unmarked. The frame is nicely scroll engraved with sculpted fences. Hammers are large in size and are nicely scroll engraved and knurled on tops. Both lockplates are engraved "A. Tonks." Bottom of action is scroll engraved and long tang trigger guard is as well. Grip cap is nicely carved in big tops pattern. Buttstock is checkered in two point pattern through the wrist and is of quarter-sawn American walnut with unengraved brass oval near toe and checkered horn buttplate. The forearm is nicely checkered in three point pattern with triangular multi-level button tip. The gun has double triggers and extractors, no safety. Very fine overall and appears mostly as found with great screws throughout. Action retains around 30% original case color, balance having turned silver. Stocks with good checkering show minor scratches and impressions. Bores show some minor pits but are excellent for a gun of this vintage. Mechanics are fine. This is an extremely rare American finished side by side and likely the only example one will ever have to add this maker to your collection.
Barrel Wall Thickness
(L) .044 (R) .051
Choke
(L) IMP. Mod (R) IMP. Mod
Internal Bore Diameter
(L) .870 (R) .872