September 26, 2018 O'Connor's Americana Collection
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/26/2018
In 1967, MGM decided to capitalize on the fame of the movie "Hondo" starring John Wayne, by creating a TV series, "Hondo" reviving the character Hondo Lane that had been played by Wayne. A total of 17 episodes were aired. The series starred Ralph Taeger playing the role of Hondo Lane and also starred Noah Beery, Jr. Includes the DVD of the episode "Hondo and the Apaches". This Marlin rifle was purchased by Mr. O'Connor at the MGM Studios auction in Culver City, California in 1970 which was conducted by David Weisz. Walter was employed to assist in the arrangement for this sale. There was both a Marlin short rifle and a Winchester carbine used as the prop rifle in this series. The rifle itself is an 1894 Marlin short rifle in caliber .44-40 with Serial No. 326843, 20" barrel, full magazine. Barrel and tube are basically grey patina. The studio had it painted it black, some of which remains. Right side of barrel is stamped "MGM 539". Frame has been painted silver, of which approximately 50% remains. Right side of frame is stamped "HO(?)". The wood has been refinished and has an old wrist repair. There is a plaque on both side of the stock; left side reads "AWARDED TO HONDO LANE 1ST PRIZE SHOOTING CONTEST ARIZONA TERRITORY 1867". This is additional evidence of how Hollywood used a weapon in 1867 that wasn't introduced until 1894. Plaque on right side has identical inscription. Bore shows good rifling with some abrasion. Manufactured post-1898 and is fireable. Will need to be shipped to a C&R holder.