April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/12/2023
Beautiful Lee-Speed rifle with 10 round detachable box magazine made in 1897 by John Rigby and Company of London and Dublin. Blued 24" round tapered barrel with dovetailed bead pedestal front sight on an integral base, 3 leaf express rear sight, British Proofs, and marked for "38 Grains of Rifleite". Blued action marked on bolt shield "JOHN RIGBY & CO 72 St JAMES St LONDON & AT DUBLIN" and finely line engraved on edges of receiver. Blued wrist band marked "LEE-SPEED/PATENTS/B.S.A. & M.Co.", serial numbered 10285, with fine border and floral engraving and 2 non-factory drilled holes (probably for receiver sight). Blued floral engraved trigger guard and magazine box. Fine checkered English walnut 2-piece stock with German silver vanity plate, smooth steel trap door buttplate with initials "R.W.G." engraved on lid (probably original owner), horn forearm cap, and factory mounted hook and eye sling swivels. Comes in fitted blue felt lined leather covered luggage trunk case with maker's label and small accessories. CONDITION: 90% original blue with some light surface discoloration. Action has 90% original blue with light surface and edge wear with bolt handle worn silver. Wood has traces of original varnish with light dings and marks and a small toe wound. Good bore with functioning mechanics.
Manufacturer
John Rigby & Co.