1960 BrowninG Superposed 2-bbl Grade V with Grade IV game scenes by Louis Vrancken
Description:
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SOLD! This item has found its new home with a friend and fellow dedicated and discriminating BrowninG collector I met in Tulsa in April 2019 - Congratulations and Thank You, sir!
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Manufactured 1960 Grade V Superposed Lightning Model 12 Gauge ‘documented’ special order 2-bbl set Serial Number: 74078. Barrel Set #1: 28" ventilated rib w/ 'Field' forearm Chokes: Full/Modified (.036/.014) 7lbs 6oz. Barrel Set #2: 26½" vent rib w/ 'Field' forearm Chokes: Modified/Imp. Cyl. (.017/.011) 7lbs 3oz. Condition: Wood is 97% (as refinished). Checkering is correct (and not ‘got-at’). Blue metal is 95% and ‘Gray’ metal is 97%. Case: Absolutely mint-condition BrowninG Tolex 2-bbl. Dimensions: 1-1/2” x 2-1/4” x 14-1/4” to Browning recoil pad.
Obvious (non- fabricated) Special-order factory features: 1. Special engraving Grade V banner and scroll details with Grade IV game scenes. 2. 2-bbl set.
Provenance: True connoisseurs and dedicated students of the Superposed shiouldn’t need letters to confirm what anyone can clearly see. Also, the wording of letters varies with its authors’ interpretation of the original invoice records. However, a Letter of Provenance is available for this gun from BrowninG – invoice #42369 dated 10/14/60 describes the gun as a Grade V with engraving similar to the Gr IV, originally sold to a sporting goods dealer in Elkhart, IN. By my inspection, the barrel proof date code is τ (tau) for 1960. Formerly in the Herbert Hyatt (CA) collection. I acquired it in August, 2016.
If you don’t make-it through this presentation, you may not be the buyer I’m reaching-out to. Otherwise, I hope others will appreciate and feed off my passion for the artistic, aesthetic, and historical aspects of these guns from an era, gone forever – ‘collecting’ in the truest sense. Perhaps another dedicated student of the Superposed will appreciate and capitalize on this opportunity lest this gun disappear to someone else for the next 8-10 years.
At first, I thought ill of its parentage being a cross between the Gr IV and a Gr V. But upon realization and appreciation of Louis Vrancken’s brilliance in his merger of these 2 iconic patterns, its similarities with the scarce ‘50’s FN D4 grades (subjects of ‘dogs & ‘birds’), and its undeniable uniqueness, it satisfied my collecting criteria and fit several ‘areas of interest’ – largely shaped by Dick Spurzem’s (and others') influence.
This is one of those transition patterns you only hope to find, that gives a collection a sense of individualism - reflcting a collector's passion. Every gun in a collection should make it difficult to decide which one to reach for when you open the safe. This was certainly one of those guns, for me. The Gr IV had been discontinued but this example follows some of the unique Funken Gr V’s with ‘dogs, foxes, and birds’ (including capercaillie) examples that I’ve encountered that makes them more desirable than the standard ‘ducks and pheasants’ subjects.
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 in all aspects. Collectors know the actual condition/details can be confirmed, and can either agree or disagree with the sellers’ valuation, only 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.
The only modification that I was aware of when I bought this gun in 2016 (and must disclose here) is, there was an attempt to address a crack in the tight grain right under the round knob (see photos). If it had been ‘restored’ instead of ‘repaired, it shouldn’t be noticeable. So, while it may not be noticeable to less-discriminating collectors (and truly competent wood specialists who actually take pride in their ‘finish’ work), the price regrettably reflects my knowledge of this condition.
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). Due to recent changes in ATF shipping requirements, FFL-to-FFL shipments only. Buyer pays actual shipping costs (TBD) and insurance costs (UPS Ground) to lower 48. International shipments considered. Payment by Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. 7 business-day waiting/clearance period applies to all except Postal Money Orders. 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 (TBD) 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.
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 need (within reason), to help you make an informed assessment and decision. Thank you for your interest and serious consideration. Please view my other Superposed and accessories listings.
SOLD