GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
BROWNING SEMI-AUTOMATIC RIFLE WITH SPECIAL GOLD INLAY AND FINE ENGRAVING BY ANGELO BEE WITH CASE. BROWNING CUSTOM AUTO 8T81038 22LR MODERN Cal. 22 LR. This "one of one", was featured as the Grand Prize in the 4th Browning Gun Collectors Fund Raiser Drawing held at the Browning annual meeting, April 7, 2001 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It features standard 19-1/2" round bbl with usual St. Louis and PQ addresses, along with "MADE IN BELGIUM" on top. Breech section and muzzle are nicely scroll engraved, accented with gold bands. Either side of bbl in front of caliber and patent information, has gold inlaid perched squirrel on left, and prairie dog (?) on right. Coin finished action is engraved with near full coverage superbly cut, open scrolling acanthus with strap work highlights, as often found on "Diana" grade shotguns. This fine scroll surrounds vignettes of small game scenes in nicely detailed backgrounds, the major subjects relief sculpted in gold; pair of squirrels scamper about on a bare branch while another looks on, on left side of action, and a trio of rabbits crouch in grass with mountains in background, on right. Top of action portrays an interesting scene of bobcat swatting at departing quail (?) in woodland background. This interesting work is signed "A Bee" under Bee logo at bottom rear squirrel scene. Superb flame figured crotch American walnut square knob pistol grip buttstock measures 13-7/8" over engraved steel buttplate. Checkering at grip is flanked by relief carved oak leaves and acorns. Forend matches well. Drop at heel: approx 2-5/8", drop at comb: approx 1-5/8". Weight: 5 lbs. 0 oz. LOP: 13-7/8". Gray canvas Browning case with brown leather trim, is lined in blue velvet and has oval brass plaque in lid engraved "BROWNING 22 AUTO". Gun is accompanied by framed copy of the orig advertising for the raffle of this gun, as well as certificate of authenticity signed by Angelo Bee for this gun dated 4/4/2000. PROVENANCE: Framed documents. CONDITION: Excellent, essentially as new, appears unfired since proof, with only the faintest of handling and assembly marks on wood and metal. Case is excellent. Certificates are excellent. A unique opportunity for the Browning collector. 50670-1 MGM310 (10,000-15,000)