GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
MAUSER C96 20 SHOT FLATSIDE WITH MATCHING STOCK IN PRESENTATION CASE. MAUSER C96 CONE HAMMER 43 7.63 MAUSER Cal. 7.63 mm. Mauser made 100 Flatside 20 shot Conehammers in a separate serial range numbered 1-100 whose features depended upon their production sequence. This mid-production pistol has a 5.5" bbl with fixed front sight and a pinned 1-10 rear sight. Early bolt has a long extractor and an independently secured firing pin. Usual chamber marking with Crown/Crown U on left side of bbl extension. Antler proof on the right side. Later frame fitted with thin trigger, has the SN on the back strap just below the locking lever. All external numbers are matching with extended disassembly showing that the gun is matching throughout including the firing pin, 20-shot stock with matching number on upper arm of unique attaching iron having a broadly serrated plunger, on inner surface of wooden body near release latch and on lid under tension spring. Presented in a beautifully aged walnut case whose upper lid has a blank brass plaque and inletted for four burl panel inlays within a highlighted border. Lid lined in faded silk. Purple velvet base bordered with cord and compartmentalized for a pair of stocked 20-shot pistols, spare follower spring and 3 separate compartments that now contain a spare floorplate numbered "1674", 4 stripper clips, a cleaning rod and a key. PROVENANCE: The Friedrich-Wilhelm Dauphin Collection - Germany. CONDITION: Beautifully, but heavily reworked pistol now presents as new with virtually no discernible wear. All surfaces have been professionally freshened with flat planes and sharp edges. The markings on both sides of the bbl extension have been reapplied, as has the SN on the backstrap. The fire blue parts have been carefully reworked in the same manner, most with reapplied numerals, where they too now present as new. Hammer and sub-frame have been freshened, as have all attached small parts, including the locking lever that has been restrawed. The follower spring and both grips are replacements that have been numbered to match in a correct manner. Reproduction stock is of the highest quality and appears equally new with the bright fire blue of the lug and hinge showing no perceptible wear. Presentation case has been suitably aged for an item made over a century ago with chemical fading of the lid and mechanical distressing of the base. Spare floorplate is in good condition, now appearing as a grayed part with etching. Reproduction cleaning rod is as new. An extraordinary and impressive ensemble that can be purchased for just a fraction of the cost of an all original rig. 49828-4 LMA (9,500-16,500)