Winchester Model 1892 rifle blows the rest away at antique weaponry auction

The antique Winchester Model 1892 rifle was the star of the show, ahead of a set of Civil War photographs

A rare Winchester Model 1892 rifle with multiple factory options realized $6,750 and a compilation of 61 Civil War stereoviews by famous Civil War photographer Alexander Gardner saw $6,500 in a Pennsylvania Firearms & Militaria auction in December, 2011 for which the results have just been released.

The sale featured 250 plus lots in categories including Antique & Modern Firearms, Collectible & Military Firearms, Edged Weapons and other military items from across the globe.  Over 200 people were in attendance in addition to phone and absentee bidders. 

The auction was held in Harrisburg.  Prices quoted do not include the buyer's premium (10% to 15%).

The highlight of the Edged Weapon category was a US Civil War Confederate foot officer's sword.  Estimated at $1,200 to $1,400, the sword saw spirited bidding before finally hammering down at $5,000 to a local dealer in the room. 

A pair of US Model 1832 pattern foot artillery swords came in at $1,600 a piece. 

The fine, antique Winchester Model 1892 rifle

Another top lot of this sale was a set of 61 stereoviews of graphic 1862 Civil War incidents.  These photographic scenes of the Civil War were by famous Civil War photographers Alexander Gardner, James F. Gibson, and George N. Barnard and marked for Gardner's Gallery in Washington D.C.

Alexander Gardner photographed the battles of Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg and the siege of Petersburg after being appointed to the staff of General George McClellan, the commander of the Army of the Potomac in November 1861. 

The collection drew bidders both online and in the room to the sale with the group opening strongly online at $3,400.  The bidding remained entirely between one internet bidder and one bidder in the room with the floor bidding prevailing at $6,500.

Among a collection of early knight helmets was a 16th century Burgonet helmet with flowered accents estimated at $800 to $1,500.  The helmet garnered much interest online with internet bidders driving the selling price to $2,600.

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Images: Cordier