GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
EXTREMELY RARE 4-PAGE WINCHESTER BROADSIDE REGARDING THE MODEL 1873 RIFLES AND CARBINES.Known as the Variety of Arms.Purportedly one of only 2 known. This is the first printed catalog and was the formal printed announcement of the Winchester model 1873.Printed on both sides on white paper, single fold with black lettering titled "WINCHESTER REPEATING FIRE ARMS." / "MODEL OF 1873". Pages 1-2 and 3 extol the virtues of the new Model 1873 over the old Model 1866 and lists a long series of improvements which includes the center-fire cartridge, set or hair trigger, the sliding lid (dust cover) and iron frame in place of brass which "increases strength and reduces weight". Page 2 lists 2 other improvements "especially adapted to military arms, to secure safety from accident or premature explosion." One is a retracting firing pin and two is the security of the hammer at full cock to prevent accidental discharge before the cartridge is seated in the chamber. It also lists a "VARIETY OF ARMS" which discusses manufacturing and accuracy. This page also discusses the process of selecting the rifles to be marked "One of One Thousand" and "One of One Hundred". This sheet lists the prices of the One of One Thousand at $80.00 to $100.00, an enormous sum for a rifle of that era. The One of One Hundred rifles were to be priced at $60.00 to $75.00 each. Page 3 has a price list ranging from $40.00 for a carbine and round bbl rifle to $50.00 for an oct rifle with set trigger. Cartridges were $20.00 per 1000. Page 3 also discusses the quality of their cartridges and also has a price list for various sights. Page 4 is a reprint of 2 testimonial letters, one dated Dec 9,1873 and the other dated Dec 20,1873 with both letter writers extolling the virtues of their new 1873 rifles and their great satisfaction with them. One was for SN 24 and the other for SN 6. Undoubtedly this is one of the more rare pieces of Winchester ephemera ever to come to market. This document is nicely framed in double sided glass with tan matting that probably should be re framed to archival, acid free mat paper. SIZE: CONDITION: Document has separated into 4 pieces along crease lines and has been professionally conserved with paper tape. Bottom edges have 3-4 small tears and some slight wrinkling. Top of Page 4 has what appears to be a water stain. Frame is slightly loose in the corners and shows light edge wear and minor nicks & dings. 51434-1 JRL (5,000-10,000)