Morphy’s Firearms & Militaria Auction hits the bull’s-eye at nearly $7M

Circa-1988 Armi Fabbri bespoke over/under shotgun with demi-bloc 27in nitro proof blued steel barrels, serial no. ‘E701,’ Italian proof marks. Flawless example with engraving by Claudio Tomasoni, presented in fitted Fabbri leather case. Sold for $84,000

DENVER, Pa. – Collectors turned out in force for Morphy’s April 11-13 Firearms & Militaria Auction, which surpassed even seasoned experts’ pre-sale expectations as it closed the books at nearly $7 million. Morphy’s president and principal auctioneer Dan Morphy reported an average selling price of $5,600 per lot, a result he attributes to the firearms department’s focus on “quality consignments versus volume” and a lineup of Class 3 and sporting arms that discerning collectors found hard to resist. Absentee and Internet live bidding was facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.

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Morphy’s April 11-13 Firearms & Militaria Auction ‘presents arms’ of exceptional quality, rarity and provenance

Remarkable original .40-caliber percussion Kentucky long rifle made circa 1835 by master gunsmith John Armstrong of Emmitsburg, Md. One of only four known original percussion Armstrong rifles. Magnificently carved stock, brass inlaid plate on barrel signed ‘JOHN ARMSTRONG’ and handmade percussion lock signed in script ‘J A.’ Super condition, Golden Age rifle. Provenance: Joseph Kindig collection. Estimate $70,000-$100,000

DENVER, Pa. – At every level of the antique firearms hobby, savvy collectors are guided by three non-negotiables when considering a purchase: impeccable provenance, genuine rarity and unimpeachable condition. They will find all three qualities in uncompromising abundance at Morphy’s April 11-13 Firearms & Militaria Auction. Bid absentee or live online through LiveAuctioneers.

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