May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
Per an included factory letter, the serial number was applied to this Model 1897 on December 30, 1918. This example number E705546 falls at the very end of World War I trench gun contract production, the generally accepted production block running from E613000 to E705000. In April 2004 Sigarms took in a large grouping of WWI 1897 trench guns on trade from the Richmond Police Department which, for the most part, had been in storage since WWII and remained in non-rebuilt built original WWI configuration. Richmond PD originally acquired the guns from the Virginia National Guard around 1924, who in turn received them from the Army about 1921. The treasure trove was purchased by Interstate Arms and later sold by Ivanhoe. Although this example is not included among the 74 guns on a list compiled March of 2005 by the owner of Interstate Arms (see Canfield "Complete Guide to United States Military Combat Shotguns" p. 286), it does fall between the last 2 numbers listed. Before the guns were transferred to Ivanhoe, a few were sold directly by Interstate Arms, presumably including this example. Finished in standard blue, this shotgun is fitted with a correct 20" cylinder choked barrel with heat shield. The 6 row perforated heat shield bears early "PAT. APPL. FOR" marking above the bayonet lug. Although of an earlier vintage than the gun, it is known that the Richmond PD swapped some of the heat shields after removing them for a brief stint of use in patrol cars. Solid frame without US markings, as is correct for non-rebuilt WWI trench guns. Buttstock is plain walnut with rear sling swivel and checkered composite WRACO butt plate. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun retains the vast majority of its original factory applied finish with some areas drifting to brown patina including the top of the receiver. Scattered marks and moderate wear present throughout. Stocks retain their original surfaces with some scattered impressions and a few older splits at the wrist. Very good, bright and shiny bore. Smooth mechanics. An excellent WWI era time capsule trench gun.
Paperwork
Factory Letter, Documentation