February 17-19, 2020 Field & Range Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/19/2020
According to factory documentation this rare and unique little shotgun was manufactured on October 24, 1908 along with two others, for a total of three. Another three were made on October 31, 1908 and five more during January 1909. They were listed in factory records as "Sample Guns". This example is a field grade 20 gauge with 18-inch fluid steel barrels. The reasoning for the short barrels were to make it easier for the traveling salesman to carry and handle them. The frame has removable, engraved plates attached to each side. The consensus being the salesman would have a variety of plates with different engraving patterns that could attach showing potential customers engraving options. The left side plate reveals a skeleton cutaway view of the trigger mechanism. The left barrel tube is marked "09 Model Ithaca Gun Co.", apparently advertising for the upcoming 1909 season. CONDITION: Near mint overall with no evidence the gun has ever been fired. More than likely it has spent its entire life as a display piece. 95-98% original blue remaining. Bores appear unfired. Wood is nearly mint showing little to no wear. -MKS-
Paperwork
Paperwork on gun