1960 Browning Pointer Grade 12 ga Superposed by Louis Vrancken
Description:
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SOLD! This special piece has found its new home with another dedicated and discriminating fellow BrowninG collector. None of the guns I've shipped for inspection have been returned and they were sold for the advertised price. Congratulations and Thank You, gentlemen!
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Serial Number: 73616. Engraved by Louis Vrancken (signed on left side). Barrels: 26½" vent rib with 'field' forearm Chokes (as documented): Improved Cylinder/Skeet (.011”/.005”). Dimensions: 1-1/2” x 2-1/4” x 14-1/4” to original Browning butt plate. Wood Condition: 99% as refinished. Blue and ‘gray’ metal Condition: original 95%. Weight: 7lbs – 2 oz. Case: Tolex mint condition 30” overall outside dimension for up to 28” barrels. Price includes the Case which will not be sold separately.
Provenance: This serial number is specifically mentioned in Ned Schwing’s discussion of development of the Pointer pattern on page 190 and is also identified by serial number in the FN archives photos on pages 194-195. This is the actual gun in those photos. If that’s not adequate provenance, a BrowninG letter is available for this serial number. This means exactly what it says. I have a letter but it’s addressed to me – you’ll have to request your own from BrowninG, Ogden, UT. This gun was originally sold to (and originally owned by) Mr. Fred A. Roff, Jr – President of Colt Firearms from 1958 thru 1962. Roff is credited with the famous quote,”guns don't kill people....people kill people,” later adopted by the NRA as their famous pro-gun slogan of the 60's and beyond. You couldn’t possibly hope for better provenance than this for a unique and exceptional early demonstration pattern – or what is commonly known as a ‘pre-selection’ Pointer Grade Superposed.
Each one of these ‘revisions’ or ‘re-submissions’ by the top FN engravers at this time (including Funken, Vrancken, Magis, Legiers, both Watrins, Vandermissen, and Dewil), is unique. I have confirmed 30 Pointer 12 ga serial number examples in the pre-selection style since I began collecting and researching in 2014, trying to approximate how many were produced. When I recognized this serial number, I was fortunate other potential buyers and description writers were either unaware of, or disregarded potential historical significance. Examples like this emphasize that “not all guns of the same grade are alike.” As with anything 'collectible', appeal varies among discriminating connoisseurs of fine art, aesthetics, and history. So, there’s a gun out there for everyone based on one’s understanding and appreciation of these aspects. I conclude, certain guns just ‘find’ those who are most passionate about their details and history. The guns that have found ME over the years, is ample proof. It’s not always about who has enough money to buy anything and everything they want. It’s a combination of knowledge, timing, means, and opportunity - and usually takes years of study of the details to differentiate and appreciate the really exceptional or ‘special’ examples. I think you will agree, this Pointer example also has an unbelievably symmetrical fiddle-back pattern on the butt stock.
Comments:
As a collector & researcher of the Superposed, I understand the importance of verifying as many details as possible. I have attempted to represent my items accurately and price them fairly, given my current knowledge of FN/BrowninG Superposed production history and details, with an eye and appreciation for the ‘factory’ standard of quality. Collectors realize that the actual condition/details can only be confirmed (and either agree or disagree with the sellers’ valuation) via personal inspection – so it is pointless to waste time (buyer’s and seller’s) making a counter-offer or an attempt to negotiate until you’ve reviewed the item in person. If you don't like it, send it back.
Transaction Details:
Once a buyer notifies me and commits to pursue purchase, I will provide an address for mailing of funds and a current copy of the receiving FFL. FFL copy may also be electronically transmitted to my FFL’s e-mail address (provided upon request). FFL-to-FFL shipments only. Buyer pays actual shipping costs (TBD) and insurance costs (UPS Ground) to lower 48. Payment by Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. 7 business-day waiting/clearance period applies to all except Postal Money Orders. No credit cards. Electronic payments considered for convenience and to expedite the process. The receiver of the shipment shall be responsible for inspecting the package for any signs of impact or damage and notifying the carrier before opening and before the carrier leaves FFL's premises. The listed price basically secures a 3-Day non-shooting, non-disassembly inspection, and return privileges. Item does not leave the receiving FFL’s premises until either transferred to the new owner or returned via that FFL. 3 Day = Day 1 is when UPS delivers the package to your FFL. Day 1 or 2, review the item and make a decision. Day 2 or 3, notify me of your intent to keep or return the item. Day 3 (if returning the item), provide a tracking number and confirmation of insurance for the declared value (listed price) and have your FFL get it on UPS ‘pick-up’ before the end of business hours. If you are not satisfied with the item as priced, just notify me and I will provide a return FFL address. Return item in the same condition and as packaged and insured for purchase amount to my FFL holder. I will re-inspect the item and refund the sale price less my FFL’s re-transfer fees if the item's condition is verified 'as-sent'. Feel free to ask questions and request photos of specific views via e-mail feature below. But please read my ad thoroughly and be respectful of my time.
I’m certainly not opposed to one-on-one conversation if you are genuinely interested in this item. I’ll try to provide what you think you need (within reason), to help you make an informed assessment and decision. Some folks want you to actively 'sell' the gun to them. The item speaks for itself. I'm looking for a buyer who knows what he or she wants, knows what they're looking at, and is decisive when something 'special' like this comes along.
Thank you for your interest and serious consideration. Please view my other Superposed and accessories listings.
SOLD