^Lot 3508 SHARPS NEW MODEL CARTRIDGE CONVERSION HEAVY BARREL

SINGLE SHOT "BUFFALO RIFLE". Cal. 45 2 7/8". S# 33638. Bbl. 30" octagon of heavy weight measuring 1 1/4" across flats at muzzle. Brass blade front sight with Lawrence patent leaf rear sight. Top flat is marked "Old Reliable" with Bridgeport, Conn. address. Conversion action fitted with double set triggers. Walnut forearm and straight grip stock with steel buttplate. Weight: 15lbs. 6.2oz. Bottom bbl. flat under the forearm is marked "A.J. STAUS/ MISSOULA MT.". UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: a letter from Ron Kudnyk stating "To Whom It May Concern:/ Reference: Sharps contract rifle, Serial No. 33,638/ Marked: A.J. Staus, Mossoula, M.T./ A.J. Staus of Missoula, Montana Territory was a gunsmith and dealer in fire-arms from 1880 to 1885. Note: The Last year for commercial buffalo hunting in the Northern herd was 1883. From Missoula, Staus moved to Spokane, Washington where he Lived out the remainder of his Life./ Ron Kudnyk". CONDITION: metal has faded to mottled brown showing scattered spots of light pitting and corrosion. Wood has worn finish showing numerous scratches, marks, and small dents. Forearm is chipped and cracked along right side. Sound action and functioning double set triggers. Dark lightly pitted bore retains intact rifling. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Norm Greenberg Collection. (01-27761/DS). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.