Receiver Marked: THEO. D. BARTLEY’S PATENT / OCT. 5. 1880
Dresden, New York (No serial number)
Theodore Bartley rifles are rare and are valued for their craftsmanship and historical link to the Finger Lakes region of New York; specimens occasionally appear at specialized firearms auctions catering to antique single-shot enthusiasts. Bartley’s rifles are often identified by his name and the location (“Theodore Bartley, Dresden, NY”) stamped on the barrel. Bartley held a patent for his design, which typically featured a dropping-block or similar single-shot breech-loading action.
Because Bartley was a custom gunsmith, each rifle may vary significantly in caliber and barrel configuration. This beauty features a crazy action firing from an open breech.
As with most antique firearms, the value is dictated by the condition of the original finish, wood-to-metal fit, condition, and the presence of specialized target sights. This gun has it all! EXTREMELY HIGH CONDITION…including bore with is bright, sharp, and clean – possibly never fired.
Sight: Rare Vintage Lyman Winchester 1886 “N” Tang Peep Sight / PAT. Jan. 28 / 79 – May 6, 1884, remains mounted and in fine operable/original condition.
Item Date: Circa 1880
Measurement: .40-70 Caliber. Overall length: 48.75"; Barrel Length: 32.25"
Material: Outstanding walnut stock, brass and steel
Item Condition: Outstanding original condition; retains 95+% blue; 98+% brown
Literature: The November 27, 1880 “Scientific American” reported: “An improvement in breech loading firearms has been patented by Mr. Theodore D Bartley of Dresden Center NY The invention consists in a novel construction and arrangement of the breech block and the hammer whereby provision is made for depressing the breech block by means of a spring and for elevating it by the motion of the hammer.” See The New York State Firearms Trade by H.J. Swinney – Compiled by Tom Roe, pp. 165 and 166 for additional history.
Price: $5,850
SKU 308-696
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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