April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
Someone went through great lengths and expense to upgrade this Model 12 to a Pigeon Grade Trap. It has been masterfully engraved on both sides of the frame with documented Winchester scenes which can be found on page 359 in the book "Winchester Engraving" attributed to George Ulrich. George Ulrich died in 1949 and this shotgun was manufactured in 1950, therefore it is a near exact copy of his work, the quality of which is comparable. The left side of the frame is engraved with four ducks with scroll and punch dot surroundings; right side exhibits the same scroll engraving with pointers and pheasants. Light engraving can be found on top and bottom of frame and takedown ring. Bolt and lifter are jeweled. Tube is stamped with pigeon. The XXX wood is exquisite, as is the Type B carving and checkering with English straight grip stock. Gun features a solid rib, single bead, blued finish, takedown, and a Winchester black composite buttplate. Base is engraved with a pigeon. CONDITION: It remains in near new condition as upgraded inside and out with the only appreciable wear being a few slide marks from the pump handle. Comes with what appears to be an original box with Winchester label on top. Correct Winchester end label that was hand stamped "SPECIAL PIGEON" and hand written "NO. 5 STYLE ENGRAVING S. GRIP B CARVED SOLID RIB" with serial number. Looks as if it was an original unmarked Winchester label and then hand stamped and printed to fill in the specs of this shotgun as it now exists. It is a beautiful shotgun in all respects.