September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
This lot includes a pair of matching Smith & Wesson K-22 revolvers shipped May 9, 1947 and February 17, 1948 to legendary shooter Ed McGivern in Montana per included Smith & Wesson factory research letters. Born in 1874, Ed McGivern became "the fastest gun in the world" and set numerous longstanding shooting records with the handgun, also developing the iconic McGivern gold bead front sight both of these revolvers are factory equipped with. The revolvers and other associated items in this lot descended from Robert Kaurin, in McGivern's words a "sincere and loyal friend", of Lewistown, Montana. As shipped in 1948, the K-22, serial number K8757, remains features classic polish blued finish, pinned 6" barrel, McGivern front sight, adjustable target rear, and diamond checkered walnut grips inset with S&W medallions. The left side of the frame is engraved "ED McGIVERN / 1948". According to Smith & Wesson historian Don Mundell "The invoice does not mention the engraving; however, I believe Smith & Wesson did the engraving at no charge for their friend, Ed McGivern." Revolver is housed in a period correct 2-piece gold box with tools. The second gun, serial number K958, also remains in the same configuration as shipped in 1947, although is not engraved with McGivern's name. It is also housed in a gold box with tools and shooting card. The revolvers are accompanied by a very attractive floral tooled double gun belt by Victor Ario Saddlery of Great Falls, Montana. McGivern is photographed using a very similar rig, likely by the same local maker. Also included is a signed copy of McGivern's iconic "Fast and Fancy Revolver Shooting" with personal inscription to Robert Kaurin. An original scrapbook from the Kaurin family includes original photographs of McGivern shooting, correspondence with him, and newspaper clippings. Various cleaning rods and brushes associated with the revolvers also accompany this lot. CONDITION: K8757 is near excellent, retaining approximately 95% original blue, with some wear on the ejector rod, muzzle, and high edges, as well as a turn line and scattered handling marks. Strong case colors on the hammer and trigger. Grips are very good with sharp checkering and some light impressions. Bore is crisp and bright. Especially smooth mechanics. Box shows soiling, edgewear, and some minor separation. K958 is in commensurate condition with slightly more wear shown, approximately 90% blue and a few more impressions on the grips. The rig remains very good and supple without major blemish. Signed book and scrapbook have some age related fading and wear but display well with the guns. A truly fantastic set associated with one the finest handgun shooters to ever live.
Accessories
Boxes, Rig, Cleaning Tools
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .22 LR
Manufacturer
(BOTH) Smith & Wesson
Model
(BOTH) K-22 Masterpiece
Paperwork
Factory Letters, Signed Book, Scrap Book, Documentation
Serial Number
(A) K8757 (B) K958