98

Wilson & Evans San Francisco Percussion Target Rifle

Handsome and finely made Wilson & Evans San Francisco marked percussion target rifle in .45 caliber. A very fine percussion target rifle with false muzzle made by Hugh Harvey Wilson and John R. Evans who arrived together in Sacramento in in 1854, The rifle has an elegant stock with drop butt and checkered wrist, iron mounts including a handsome patch box, pewter forend cap, double-set triggers, and a false muzzle. The rifle has large iron buckhorn sights. The barrel is browned. There is a German silver escutcheon plate on the underside of the butt. Hugh Wilson and John Evans emigrated to the United States from Wales, and started their first gun shop in Sacramento, California in 1854 on K Street, but by 1858 outgrew the space and moved to larger premises on J Street. In 1862 they opened a second shop in San Francisco, on Clay Street, eventually closing their Sacramento location. By this time they were becoming known as California's foremost gun makers and sellers. John Evans retired from the business in in 1874, but High Wilson continued the business until 1880. Size: 50 1/2 inches long overall, with a 33 1/2 inch barrel. Processing and shipping within the continental U.S. $35.00 plus 1.5% replacement cost insurance. Discounts given on combined lot shipping.

Provenance:Shelton Collection

Condition:

Very good plus to excellent, with the stock retaining its original finish, and exceptional quality checkering. The mounts are in very good plus condition, slightly darkened with age, but retaining most of its original brown finish. The action is excellent and crisp. The bore is very good with deep rifling.

Estimate: $1,000 - $2,500
Unsold/Reserve Not Met

 

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Witherell strives to provide as much information and photographs as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Condition statements are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Witherell. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms and Conditions. Methods of payment are cash, check, money orders, or wire transfer for foreign payments. Please note we do not accept credit cards. This auction has a buyer's premium of 15%.