October 25, 2023 The Paul Friedrich Collection of Firearms & Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/25/2023
"Old Reliable" Model 1874 manufactured by the Sharps Rifle Company, Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1878. Blued 30" fully octagonal tapered breech barrel in .45 - 2-7/8"; muzzle measures 1" from flat to flat. Serial number stamped under forearm wood. Knife blade front sight and graduated flip rear sight. Barrel marked with "Old Reliable" logo and Sharps Bridgeport address; caliber marking partially defaced by added sight dovetail and plug. Case hardened double set trigger action, serial numbered horizontally between tang and chamber. Unmarked hammer plate, left side of action marked with "Sharps Rifle Co / Pat Apr. 6, 1869." Special order fancy checkered walnut stocks with checkered steel shotgun style butt and special order platinum plate marked with original owner's name "F.E. Kellogg". According to consignor research, Florentine Erwin Kellogg was originally from New York and came West to mine silver at Pike's Peak and eventually settled in Goleta, California, where he was known as a great hunter and farmer; he was rumored to have killed 75 grizzly bears in his time. Comes with several Sharps Research letters which state this fine rifle was ordered with a supply of accessories (unfortunately not present), confirming configuration and ownership, and some information on Mr. Kellogg. CONDITION: 92% fading barrel blue with edges wearing to silver. 90% fading case colors with discoloration in handling areas. Stock has 90% original varnish with usage marks bruises. Checkering is still pronounced with handling areas starting to flatten. Buttplate is slightly proud of wood, possibly indicating that the butt has been adjusted to fit a previous owner. Length of pull is 12". Great bore with visible rifling and crisp mechanics. A great Western used Sharps!
Paperwork
Factory Letter, Photographs, Information