November 18, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/18/2020
Beautifully engraved side by side double rifle made by Gebruder Merkel in Suhl, Germany circa 1905. Gun has blued Krupp Steel barrels with matted rib forming into a ramp front blade type sight and marked "7.7mm" on each barrel underside. Rear sight is stationary notched with long range flip up. Rib is marked "Gerbruder Merkel Suhl" in front of a claw mounting system. Rare case hardened "Kersten" style action similar to a Greener crossbolt but stronger. Action is chisel engraved with floral and game scene engraving and import marked "Simpson LTD G'thburg,Ill.". Action has double triggers with each being a set and cocking indicators with tang safety. European walnut fine checkered round knob pistol grip stock with cheekpiece and horn buttplate. European fine checkered beavertail style forearm with latch release. A great German side by side double rifle. CONDITION: 90% original barrel blue with 40% case colors. 60% original varnish with some light handling marks. Good bores and mechanics with tight lock up. Caliber should be confirmed by a trained gunsmith. DLM
CORRECTION: Title updated. Additionally, according to a letter from Merkel, this rifle appears to be a special order and an early pre-stage of later rifles. Circa 1905.
Paperwork
Letters from Merkel and GGCA