Bat Masterson’s Colt brings $96,000 at auction

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -– Bat Masterson’s 1882 Colt revolver and a photograph signed by Abraham

Lincoln were among hundreds of rare collectibles that hit the auction block during two diverse auctions at J. Levine Auction & Appraisal, 10345 N. Scottsdale Rd., in Scottsdale, Arizona on Thursday, July 30 and Sunday, August 2. Both auctions attracted a total of 15,831 bidders from 62 countries and grossed a total of $634,000.

Art and antique collectors were drawn to J. Levine’s “Summer Catalog Auction” on Thursday, July 30, which featured a signed 19th century carte-de-viste photograph of Abraham Lincoln, several original pastel pieces by famed artist Diego Rivera, an oil painting by French artist Bernard Buffet, bronze sculptures by the late Dave McGary, Asian furniture, historic books, fine jewelry and more.

J. Levine’s auction on Sunday, August 2 attracted bidders interested in historic firearms, vintage hunting items and other collectibles from the estate of Ted Hansen. Among the highlights were an 1861 Remington Old Army Revolver (44 Caliber), a large glass-eyed duck decoy collection, a knife collection, 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle, classic 1970 Triumph car, and more. The star of the auction – not part of Mr. Hansen’s estate -- was Bat Masterson's 1882 Colt Single Action Army Revolver.

“We had tremendous interest in both auctions and we’re very pleased with the results,” Josh Levine, owner of J. Levine Auction & Appraisal, said. “We experienced record online activity – the George Rodrigue Our Moon is Out oil painting alone had 15,000 views – and the auction house had good crowds both days. To sell Bat Masterson’s Colt, Abe Lincoln’s signed photo and other historic items within two days of each other was exhilarating for our entire team.”

Prices realized during the July 30 and August 2 auctions, including Buyer’s Premium, follow:

• Bat Masterson’s 1882 .45 Colt Single Action Army Revolver with 4 ¾ inch barrel, ivory grips and

nickel-plated finish. Revolver came with rare factory documentation commanded $96,000. (Estimated value between $80,000 and $120,000)

• Sheriff Jeff T. Carr’s Manhattan Firearms Navy Percussion Revolver (36 Caliber). The distinguished law man was sheriff of Laramie, Wyoming and is known for being the principal in the posse that chased Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid saw $13,200. (Estimated value between $4,000 and $8,000)

• Gauthier 14K White Gold 3.69 Ct. Solitaire Diamond & Sapphire Pendant realized $51,750. (Estimated value between $40,000 and $60,000).

• Signed 19th Century carte-de-viste photograph of Abraham Lincoln finished at $6,000. (estimated between $10,000 and $20,000)

• George Rodrigue (1944-2013) “Our Moon is Out” Oil Painting rose to $27,000. (Estimated between $10,000 and $20,000).

• “Last Stand Hill” Limited edition bronze sculpture by the late Dave McGary sold for $24,000. (Estimated between $20,000 and $40,000)
There were also several surprises during both auctions, including a:

White House photograph with seven Presidential signatures, including Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, Gerald R. Ford and George W. Bush. Originally estimated between $1,000 and $2,000, it sold during the July 30 sale for $4,500 to a phone bidder in Texas.

• Vassili Grachev (1831-1905) “Farewell” Bronze estimated between $3,000 and $5,000 that sold for $7,800 to a phone bidder in Moscow, Russia.

• Colt Lightning Slide Action Rifle .38-40c that was manufactured pre-1899 and was estimated between $800 and $1,200 and closed up $3,900.

• Fancy Leather, Sterling & U.S. Coin Gun Holster Belt which was estimated on the low-end for $50 and finished at $2,400.

For more information, visit www.jlevines.com or call 480-496-2212.