2020 September Premier, Volume I

BOTH SIDES PICTURED
LOT 447
Very Scarce Bergmann Model 1896 Number 2
Folding Trigger Semi-Automatic Pocket Pistol
- Serial no. 274, 5mm Bergmann cal., 3 inch octagon
bbl., blue/straw finish, walnut grips. This is an exceptional
example of a seldom found Bergmann Model 1896 Number 2 semiautomatic
pistol that was produced by V. Charles Schilling in Suhl. Theodore
Bergman was a pioneer in developing semi-automatic pistols in Europe in the
late 1890s and early 1900s. The magazine is integral to the pistol and is located in
front of the trigger and has a magazine cover that swings down. This early pocket model is actually even more rare in that it has
the early style folding trigger, which was dropped from the later models. The right side of the pistol has an oval shaped logo that
depicts a “mountain man” holding a pick behind his back with sun rays showing from behind his back. The top of the oval is marked
“Gaggenau,” and the lower area is marked “V.C.S./SUHL”. The left side of the barrel/receiver area has a “double crown” proofmark
followed by “611”, and the left side of the frame is marked “PATENT/BREVET/S.G.D.G.” The serial number “274” is stamped on the
right front side of the frame. Fitted with fully checkered grips with a lanyard loop on the butt.
CONDITION: Extremely fine with 85% original blue finish remaining, areas of mild edge wear, scattered surface scratches and
nicks, and 70% original straw colors on the small parts. Grips are also very fine with a barely noticeable small chip absent the top front of the left panel,
mildly worn checkering, and some small dings. Mechanically excellent.
Estimate: 6000 - 9000
BOTH SIDES PICTURED
LOT 448
Bergmann Model 1896 Number 2 Semi-Automatic Pistol with Scarce Westley Richards
Retail Marking - Serial no. 1379, 6.5 mm Bergmann cal., 4 1/4 inch round bbl., blue/straw finish,
walnut grips. Manufactured by the firm of V. Charles Schilling of Suhl, the Bergmann was developed
in the mid 1890s, improved upon by Louis Schmeisser, and was produced in limited numbers. Blade
front and notch rear sights, German “crown/crown/U” proofs, the Schilling “mountain man” logo on
the right side of the frame, and a series of numbers on the individual components to denote order of
disassembly. Fitted with a straw finished trigger and hammer, niter blue safety,
and checkered walnut grips. The left side of the upper assembly is marked
“WESTLEY RICHARDS & Co.” Includes a modern custom fitted hardwood case
with green felt lining.
CONDITION: Very fine with 80% original blue finish, very clear markings, areas
of high point and edge wear, visible marring on most of the screw heads,
scattered scratches and nicks, and mixed brown patina on the grip straps. The
small parts have 30% original straw finish with the balance a mix of dark and
bright patina. The grips are also fine with moderately worn checkering, and
visible dings. Case is very good with exterior dings and scratches.
Estimate: 3500 - 5500
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