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MODEL 1853 SHARPS FACTORY ENGRAVED OCTAGON BBL SPORTING RIFLE

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
MODEL 1853 SHARPS FACTORY ENGRAVED OCTAGON BBL SPORTING RIFLE
SN 14638. Cal 44. (60 bore) Barrel has been cut back to about 22-1/2" with addition of wedge sight with small brass blade. According to Frank Sellers' definitive text Sharps Firearms originally published in 1978, he states that in 60 bore, as this gun is, about 150 guns with octagonal bbls were engraved. Sharps factory letter written by Dr. RL Moore Aug 26, 1999 states gun was "engraved" and inventoried Dec. 28, 1855. Also a name "Jerome B.M. Gall" is inscribed on pewter nosecap as can be seen in photos who most likely owned this rifle. This gun conforms to other sporting rifles made btwn 1854 & 1859 being iron-mounted and marked "SHARPS RIFLE/MANUFg CO/HARTFORD CONN" on bbl forward of adjustable front sight and on "SHARPS PATENT 1852" on lock & "SHARPS PATENT 1848" on top of tang. Gun is profusely engraved as can be seen in photographs with strong traces of silvered finish over much of the engraved surfaces. This is a beautiful gun that would make a great addition to a custom rifle or Sharps collection. PROVENANCE: ??? CONDITION: This gun is very good to fine overall with traces of finish on bbl & traces of case color in protected areas. Otherwise, metal is smooth & gray with well-defined markings & engraving which can be seen in photos. Stocks are sound & solid with numerous small dings & dents & scratches. The bore is very good with crisp, deep rifling with a fair amount of shine & small scattered areas of pitting. 4-48220 JS69